The word Garing is our local word which means Ivory. Our country took a stand to make a clear point that we do not tolerate illegal trading for Ivory and indiscriminate killing of wildlife. This gallery exhibits a collection of Ivory which was confiscated while being smuggled in the country. The exhibit is for educational purposes and to raise awareness of the illegal trade that we stand against.
Garing
Tons of Ivory which was recovered has been destroyed to bring a message to the world that we are against this illegal trade. Around seven tons was recovered and cost approximately more the $6 million. To much disappointment a lot of the ivory mysteriously disappeared while already in the possession of customs.
These tusks were recovered from the Lena Shoal wreck in Palawan. Considered as historical artifacts which dates back around 1490 which tells us about the Chinese trade of Ivory in the Ming Dynasty. Chinese Junk traveled to our country trading good during this early time. The shipwreck also contains ceramic, bronze, copper, spices and even guns.
These are some of the confiscated Ivory that was tried to be smuggled inside the country. As told the ivory are made into religious statues which are then exported to other countries. News has it that there was also a priest involved in the illegal trade in bringing in the ivory inside the country.
Also included in the collection are Chinese statues and necklaces made from Ivory.
There are also substitutes for ivory which are made from shells and bone. This is to promote that other materials that can be used to replace ivory. No need for indiscriminate killing of the elephants. Chopsticks, letter openers and jewelry can be crafted from alternative materials.
This is a wooden statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary and according to the description instead of ivory, bone material was used on the face. This statue has been crafted by an unknown artist.
This is another wooden sculpture and on the description bone material was also used on the face.
I am proud how my country stands against illegal wildlife trade and this has been an on going fight. Not only here but in other countries as well. Making a stand to preserve our endangered species for our future generations. What would our world be like of most of our animals can only be seen in books a videos. The gallery promotes awareness and educates the people to protect our wildlife.
Thanks for joining me again today. See you again.
