Berge Bulk, a Singapore-based company, has emerged as a key sponsor of the new maritime museum in the Philippines, known as Museo del Galeon. As part of this partnership, the company has donated a model of the Berge Olympus, touted as the world’s most powerful sailing cargo ship, to the museum. This initiative highlights the historical significance of Manila, which served as a crucial port in the galleon trade for 250 years, facilitating the transport of silver from Acapulco, Mexico, to Spanish colonies in the Philippines.
The museum, set to open next year, aims to celebrate this rich maritime history. Berge Bulk expressed its excitement at being involved, having participated in a pre-opening tour of the museum’s main halls. The model of the Berge Olympus will be featured alongside other exhibits, representing a blend of maritime heritage and innovation.
In addition to the model, the museum will include a full-scale representation of a galleon, a project that has been in the works since 2010. Collaboration with Mexico led to the establishment of the Museo de Galleon Foundation, with contributions from notable figures like Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, who has pledged artifacts for display. The museum will encompass 8,000 square meters of exhibition space, showcasing five permanent galleries and temporary exhibits featuring items from 42 countries involved in the galleon trade.
