Honoring and preserving the rich tapestry of Filipino culture right inside his home The Philippines is filled with rich cultural heritage, and it’s no secret that some are keen to collect – and even decorate their homes with – amazing artworks made by artisans from all over the country. In the lovely city of Zamboanga, you will find the home of Marvin Sicat, a passionate collector of Filipino artifacts. His residence, adorned with relics from various periods and regions, serves not only as his sanctuary but also as a living museum showcasing the diverse and vibrant history of the archipelago.
Marvin Sicat’s journey into the world of artifact collection began 20 years ago. Born in Taguig City, Metro Manila, he moved to Zamboanga City in 2004, where he met his wife and pursued tailoring. Starting with just a gunong (Mindanao dagger), his fascination grew alongside his collection, turning his interest into a lifelong passion.
This passion drives him to collect pieces that capture the essence of Filipino history. “Every time I see something that looks good, it’s like it’s talking to me, telling me to bring it home – I’m hypnotized by the beauty of the artifacts,” Sicat says. “I also want to help some artisans in communities like the Maranao, Tausug, and Yakan, whose livelihoods depend on making drums, brass gongs, and weaving.
Some of the things I purchase are not all antiques; some I keep, and others I help sell.” Walking into his home is like stepping in.
