The National Historical Commission of the Philippines formally transferred the newly restored Cariño Ancestral House to the city government of Candon in Ilocos Sur Thursday.
NHCP chair Dr. Rene Escalante together with Architect Reynaldo S. Lita led the turn over ceremony which was also attended by Mayor Ericson G. Singson and former Deputy House Speaker Eric D. Singson
The Cariño Ancestral House, now known as the Candon City Museum, was constructed in the early 1700s and is considered one of the important Spanish colonial structures in the city. It was also one of the 20 old houses in Candon City that survived during World War II.
The house is owned by Don Miguel Cariño, who was the grandfather of revolutionary leader Gabriela Silang.
It underwent conservation works from 2018 to 2020 under the supervision of NHCP. The Commission spent at least P20 million for the full restoration of the ancestral house.
The project includes the restoration and stabilization of the masonry walls, rehabilitation of all wooden components, restoration of the wall and ceiling paintings, and upgrading of its electrical system.