The Department of Tourism (DOT) has expressed optimism that the return of four antique pulpit panels to the centuries-old Boljoon Church in Cebu will renew cultural pride and boost heritage-driven tourism in the province.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco led the ceremonial handover of the 19th-century artifacts on Mar. 13 at the Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu, accompanied by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and officials from the Archdiocese of Cebu.

The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) authenticated the panels, which were originally part of the pulpit of the Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio de Maria Parish Church in Boljoon, a recognized National Cultural Treasure.

Frasco hailed the recovery as a milestone in heritage conservation and cultural revitalization, underscoring the importance of preserving historical artifacts for future generations and for visitors seeking meaningful travel experiences.

Constructed in the late 18th century, Boljoon Church is regarded as one of the oldest surviving stone churches in the country and continues to attract pilgrims and heritage tourists with its unique blend of architecture, history, and faith.

Garcia said the return of the panels not only restored the physical integrity of the church but also reaffirmed the cultural dignity of the Boljoon community, calling the artifacts “sacred symbols” of Cebu’s heritage.

The DOT noted that the recovery aligns with Republic Act No. 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, which mandates the protection, preservation, and return of significant cultural properties.

Frasco emphasized that cultural heritage is a key pillar of the DOT’s tourism development strategy, noting that safeguarding historical assets fosters community pride, education, and economic opportunities at the local level.

The DOT also reaffirmed its support for inter-agency collaboration and community engagement in recovering lost or stolen cultural items and promoting awareness of heritage conservation as a vital element of nation-building.