Repository of the national treasures hidden for countless years! Priceless archaeological finds dug-up after a thousand years hiding below the earth surface. The discovery of different artifacts some dated 400 AD making Butuan as the center of trade and commerce in the Philippines in the Southeast Asia’s neighboring countries before the Spanish colonizers came to the Philippines.

Butuan National Museum is located in barangay Doongan, Butuan City, the capital of Caraga Region. It was established after the accidental discovery of archaeological materials by the City Engineering Office of Butuan City in 1974 while draining the water confined inside a man-made river system. Succeeding excavations conducted by the National Museum, yielded tremendous archaeological finds of collectors value. The most significant find were the prehistoric Balanghai or Butuan boats that date from 4th to 13th centuries A.D., just five kilometers from the city proper. The National Museum conducted a scientific research, sending its archaeologists and researchers at Ambangan, Libertad.

The now improve Butuan National Museum can compete world class haven when visited by many tourists either local or foreign visitors. The discovery of the 9 Butuan boats or known as balanghai boats, with about 50 thousands archaeological relics and cultural materials (numerous porcelain jars, pots, plates, golds, etc.) excavated in Libertad, became the best evidence to prove that Butuan established trading relations in Asian countries, and even reaching beyond uncharted seas around the globe. These some pieces of history are now house in Butuan National Museum.

The establishment of the museum was facilitated through the support of the Butuan Museum Foundation, Inc., which was organized to assist the National Museum safeguard and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Location: Butuan City, capital of Caraga Region

How to get there: From Butuan City proper by tricycle or Multicab en route to barangay Doongan where Butuan National Museum is located.

Distance: It will take for estimated 15 minutes by tricycle or multicab to reach the museum since it is accessible by any means of transportation as its perfect location is in the heart of the City.