National Museum eyed as custodian of Imelda Marcos paintings

Imelda Marcos INQUIRER PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) has asked the Sandiganbayan to assign the National Museum as the custodian of former first lady Imelda Marcos’ prized artworks believed to be part of the clan’s alleged ill-gotten wealth.

In a comment filed before the antigraft court’s special division, the government through the PCGG told the court the National Museum agreed to be the custodian of the paintings after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said it is not equipped to safekeep the artworks.

“The National Museum is equipped with the appropriate facilities and expertise necessary for the preservation and storage of the subject paintings … The National Museum is ready to assist the Republic by taking possession of the paintings for safekeeping, while they continue to be in custodia legis … or for as long as the Honorable Court deems it proper and appropriate,” the motion read.

In a letter attached to the motion, National Museum director Jeremy Barns said the museum was willing to assist the Sandiganbayan in safekeeping the paintings.

“Should the Sandiganbayan so order, the Museum is ready to assist the Republic by taking possession of the paintings which are the subject of garnishment for safekeeping, while they continue to be in the custody of the law, ” Barns said in the letter.

The BSP said it was not equipped to ensure safekeeping of the paintings, which were turned over to the BSP on Sept. 30 after they were seized by Sandiganbayan court personnel.

Among those confiscated by the court sheriff were three similar “Madonna and Child” paintings by Michelangelo; “Femme Au Chapeau,” “Paysage,” “Jeune Femme En Rouge,” “Coupe De Fleurs,” five “Vase De Fleurs,” “Panier De Fleurs” and “Jeune Femme Shabilant” by Paule Gobillard; and a Picasso replica brass strokes.

The antigraft court’s seizure order is related to the civil forfeiture case filed against Representative Marcos and her heirs.