The Cebu Heritage Monument

CEBU, Philippines -  For sure, any resident Cebuano is familiar with the Parian district of the city. But, maybe, not so many know or have heard of the Cebu Heritage Monument that proudly stands in the area. The commanding structure has been attracting tourists and visitors to the city and it is sad, indeed, that those who are just from the neighborhood are missing out on it.

The Cebu Heritage Monument depicts the history and culture of this old city. It is the work of award-winning sculptor Eduardo Castrillo. The cost of construction is reportedly around 30 million pesos, at the time of its completion in the year 2000.

The late Senator and Chief Justice Marcelo Fernan spearheaded efforts to raise funds for the project. He was able to rally a good number of moneyed Cebuanos to support it. Construction began in 1997. 

Key historical and cultural events of Cebu are featured in the Monument, from the April 21, 1521 battle at Mactan to the way of life in the recent past. It is located right where the old Plaza Parian used to be. No other site could have been better, as Parian was once the center of city life. It is also very close to the northern tip of Colon Street, the oldest street in the Philippines.