Diocese of Malolos Bishop Dennis Villarojo has expressed his gratitude to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) for the recognition given to the historic Immaculate Conception Parish Cathedral & Minor Basilica, more popularly known as the Malolos Cathedral in Malolos, Bulacan.
“We would like to thank the NHCP for the recognition given to the Malolos Cathedral which stood as a witness to many important events in the country’s history serving as the residence and office of Emilio Aguinaldo who served as the president of the first Philippine Republic,” said Bishop Villarojo during the recent unveiling of the national historical marker.
“It is with deep gratitude that we accept wholeheartedly the recognition given to this historical edifice,” the Church leader said.
The recognition given by the NHCP, the bishop said, is a reminder that the cathedral is a place of worship, prayer, and unity among the faithful that is rooted in its contribution to the country’s rich history and culture.
“We shall continue to strengthen the mission of the Malolos Cathedral to spread and deepen the spiritual life of the faithful while reminding them of its rich history,” the prelate said.
Written on the national historical marker are the words “Malolos: Landas ng Pagkabansang Pilipino 1898-1899” in recognition of Malolos, Bulacan as the site of the establishment of the Philippines as the first republic in Asia.