CDN PHOTO/LITO TECSON
A historical marker of the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral was unveiled on Wednesday, as a testament to how the Church withstood time and natural calamities.
“Considering its long duration, we can imagine what important events happened here,” Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma said.
“Certainly, we know that this stands as a monument to many important historical events that happened in Cebu that affect also the history of our country. It makes the people aware that this is something that we should treasure, for our sake and for the future generation,” he added.
Made of nipa and wood and originally built in 1595, the first Cathedral became the center of the Archdiocese of Cebu after it separated from the Archdiocese of Manila. The unveiling ceremony coincided with the turnover to the Archdiocese of Cebu of the completed restoration project by the National Historical Commission (NHC) of the Capilla Mortuario located inside the Carreta Cemetery.
Dr. Maria Serena Diokno, chair of the NHC, explained that the Capilla Mortuario restoration project was among twelve restoration projects undertaken and completed by the NHC following damages suffered from the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in October 2013.
At present, only four restoration projects have yet to be completed in Cebu – the churches in Carcar, Boljoon, and Bantayan as well as the watchtower in the town of Malabuyoc, located in front of its church.