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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Solon hoping for UNESCO recognition of more Manila churches as heritage sites

Solon hoping for UNESCO recognition of more Manila churches as heritage sites

Published Feb 1, 2024 11:38 am

Manila Third District Congressman Joel Chua is hoping that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) would recognize more churches in Manila as heritage sites.

Following the official declaration of Quiapo Church as a national shrine on Jan. 29, Chua said he wants to see other high-profile churches in the city to also receive rightful recognition such as the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian at Plaza del Carmen in Quiapo.

The only all-metal church in the country, San Sebastian Church was built in 1891. It was designated as a National Historical Landmark in 1973 and a National Cultural Treasure in 2011.

Its is an example of Gothic Revival architecture in the Philippines.

Chua wants it to be acknowledged as a heritage site so it can be saved and restored to its original state, noting that the church is an important part of Quiapo, especially to its residents who hold special occasions such as baptism and wedding rites. 

“Kinakalawang na ang mga bakal at ang dami na ring bukbok sa loob. ‘Yung altar umaatras na (The irons are rusting, and there are also many cracks inside the church),” he said. 

Chua fears that if an earthquake happens, it might also collapse like the other historical churches in the country.

He said that it is really important for the church to be recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in order to get enough funding for its full restoration. 

 

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