Senator Manuel “Lito” Lapid has called on his colleagues to expedite the passage of the measure that seeks to declare Quiapo in Manila as a national historical cultural heritage zone.

Lapid said he will pursue the approval of the measure at the resumption of Congress’ session on January 13, Monday.

In filing Senate Bill No. 1471, Lapid stressed that Quiapo played a big part in shaping and cultivating Philippine history, tradition, art, culture, tourism, religion and economy.

“Since we recognize the importance of Quiapo in our culture and history, and its unforgivable contribution to national development, the government should only show its appreciation by designating the District of Quiapo as a Historical and Cultural Heritage Zone,” said Lapid.

Lapid is chairman of the Senate Committee on Tourism. According to the senator, Quiapo contributed to the country’s tourism, religious beliefs, tradition and culture.

It has been the center of trade before the arrival of foreign invaders, such as the Spaniards, Japanese and Americans.

Quiapo, Lapid said, is derived from “Kiapo”, a type of water lily that resembles a cabbage that was commonly seen in the Manila estuary before the Spanish conquered the Philippines.

When the Franciscan missionaries arrived in Manila, they established the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene where the statue of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno is placed that devotees go to every January 9 and celebrate its feast.

It is also in Quiapo where the Globo de Oro or the first mosque, Masjid Al-Dahab of the Islamic brothers was established.

Quiapo also served as a witness to history, including the Plaza Miranda bombing that injured several senatorial candidates on August 23, 1971, Lapid pointed out.

Lapid said SB No. 1471 aims to revive Quiapo as an economic center, creating new recreational facilities, and other adventure opportunities, while protecting and preserving the heritage and cultural integrity of the district.