PHOTO FROM JEAN MANGALUZ
MANILA, Philippines — The Fidel V. Ramos (FVR) Online Presidential Library was launched at the National Museum of the Philippines on Saturday, which will have a repository of resources detailing the former president’s private and public life.
It was launched on the same day as Ramos’ birthday, March 18.
“As we gather in this historic hall to commemorate his 95th birthday anniversary, and witness the launch of a pioneering project which he started in 2016, I believe that he is with us in spirit, beaming with pride and joy watching our friends, partners, and family in lively and meaningful conversation,” said former first lady and Ramos’ wife, Amelita Ramos during the launch.
According to the National Museum’s Director-General Jeremy Barns, Ramos played an integral role in the creation of the museum as people know it now.
“On February 12, 1998, President Ramos approved Republic Act 8492, the ‘National Museum Act of 1998’ in a ceremonial signing at Malacañang, giving the National Museum a special law that served as its charter, established a board of trustees and granted broad powers as well laid down an ambitious road map in support of its mandate, duties and functions as well as an institution of education, culture and science,” said Barns.
Roberto de Ocampo, who was Ramos’ finance secretary and currently the Chair of the FVR Legacy Initiative, said that the website is a “living document” that will remain faithful to Ramos’ life.
“The FVR Presidential Library is a first of its kind in the country and takes place among its international counterparts of former heads of state,” said Ocampo.
The online library will contain a visual timeline of Ramos’ decades-long career, featuring archival photos and videos. Interviews from people who knew him personally will also be released on the FVR Legacy’s YouTube channel.
The website can be accessed here: https://www.fvrlegacy.org
Ramos succeeded former president Corazon Aquino, serving from 1992 to 1998. Ramos passed away on July 31, 2022, at the age of 94.
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