I hadn’t heard of D’ Bone Collector Museum until a fellow hiker I met during my Mt. Apo climb mentioned it. I went mostly out of curiosity and because I didn’t have anything better planned. A museum full of skeletons sounded like an interesting place to pass the time. I’m glad I said yes. It turned out to be one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left.
The museum itself is unassuming from the outside. You wouldn't guess that inside this modest building lies the largest collection of its kind in the Philippines.
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More Bones Than I Could Name
The first few exhibits were fascinating, showcasing the intricate structures of various insects and animals. But it wasn't until we reached the domestic animal section that I had my first moment of genuine pause. There, among the displays, were the skeletons of a Golden Retriever and a German Shepherd.
I have those dogs at home along with my beloved Aspins. I know their weight when they lean on you, the way their eyes follow you around a room, how their energy fills a space without trying. Seeing their skeletons, laid out so neatly and without life, felt… off. Not upsetting. Just quietly disorienting. Looking at their skeletons, I wouldn’t have known what breed they were if the signs didn’t say so. I’d even say that stripped down, if their bones were laid side by side with any other dog, you wouldn’t see much difference.
It made me think about people who put so much meaning into breeds, what they’re supposed to be like, what they’re good for, how they should behave. But stripped down, none of that is visible. The things that make them special can’t be measured by breed, and they definitely don’t show up on a skeleton.
But the true, breathtaking moment of the visit came when we climbed to the third floor and saw the marine animals section. Dominating the space was this huge skeleton of a 41-foot sperm whale. It was absolutely massive.
It almost took over the entire floor, its immense ribcage and spine stretching out in a breathtaking display of anatomical architecture.
Why These Bones Are Here
The man behind the museum is Dr. Darrell Blatchley. Originally from the U.S., but has been living in Davao for over 30 years. He also speaks fluent Bisaya.
He didn’t just collect bones and display them. He built something that teaches, not just about animals, but about how easily we forget what’s around us until it’s gone. His passion for wildlife and marine biology is evident in every corner of the museum, from the dioramas to the carefully placed mirrors that recreate the habitats of these creatures as they once looked.
The collection is massive, with over 700 specimens, including the 41-foot sperm whale and even a grizzly bear. Most of the bones were salvaged, donated, or recovered with help from government agencies. There’s a clear intention behind everything here.
More than anything, this place is about education and conservation. A lot of the animals here died because of us — plastic, pollution, carelessness. And Dr. Blatchley doesn’t shy away from that. He wants people to see it, feel it, and maybe think twice.
If you want to see the work that they do, I highly recommend checking out this documentary.
If you ever find yourself in Davao City, I highly recommend a visit to D’ Bone Collector Museum, especially if you have children. It’s a place that will make you think, make you feel small in the best way, and ultimately, make you appreciate the fragile, beautiful life that covers all our bones. It's a must-see for anyone looking for a truly unique and meaningful experience in the heart of Mindanao.
How to get there
For anyone inspired to make their own quiet reflection, here are the essential details for visiting the D’ Bone Collector Museum:
- Location: 76-A San Pedro St, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur (near Nograles Park)
- Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Approximately ₱250 per person (subject to change; check their official social media channels for current rates and discounts)
- Getting there: Easily accessible by taxi or ride-app from Davao City center. If you’re coming by jeepney, you can take a route that stops near “San Pedro Street”. Then walk the short distance to 76-A San Pedro St.
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