03 November 2015 - Philippine Ambassador to Qatar Wilfredo C. Santos paid a courtesy call last October 26 on Mr. Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mahmoud, Acting CEO of the Qatar Museums Authority. Mr. Al Mahmoud also serves as the Adviser of Sheikha Al-Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, sister of the Emir and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Qatar Museums Authority.
Ambassador Santos was joined by Deputy Head of Mission Gonaranao B. Musor and Cultural Attaché John Danilo G. Jiao during the call.
Both sides agreed to explore the possibility of showcasing Bangsamoro art and culture at the Museum of Islamic Arts (MIA).
MIA showcases Islamic art from three continents spanning 1,400 years from the 7th to the 19th century. These cultural masterpieces come from both the secular and religious aspects of diverse civilizations all connected by their profession of Islam but many of which are non-religious in nature. MIA also stands out as an architectural gem having been designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei who drew inspiration from ancient Islamic architecture.
If this proposed exhibit pushes through, this will be the first time that Philippine Muslim culture and heritage will be showcased in MIA and Qatar. This project also aims to highlight Qatar’s religious commonality with the Philippines through the unique Muslim heritage of the Bangsamoro. END