San Nicolas Center for Arts and CultureSan Nicolas Center for Arts and Culture is a Registered Property, Municipality of San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte located at San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, Region I.
The water pump was named “Artesiano.” Since it drew water from a deep level, the piston and cylinder of the pump had to be lowered some thirty feet below the surface of the ground to enable it to suck the water. As a person was pumping his body had to bend and move up and down with his buttocks swaying back and forth. In Ilocano this body motion is called “agbuabo-buabo.” Passersby then from adjoining towns named the place and the pump together as “buabo-buabo.”
In the year 2009, to preserve this historical landmark, the Local Chief Executive envisioned that the Artesiano (Buabo-Buabo) be converted into a center for Arts and culture, pursuant to Municipal Ordinance No. 1, series 2005. This learning center is aimed at generating historical and cultural awareness in the community. It showcases the San Nicoleños artistry, originality, creativity and craftsmanship as far back as can be recorded, thus, giving visual form to San Nicolas history.
This vision was realized through the relentless efforts of the municipal government and the generous support of Dr. Marina Badua, a renowned San Nicoleño, whose kindness and undying affection to her native town, earned her the coveted San Nicolense – International 2008 award.
It now houses the Museo San Nicoleño (Buabobuabo) which exhibits the history and culture of the municipality.