Sinulog Foundation gives P5M for renovation of Rizal Library

A significant portion of the Rizal Memorial Library and Museum will undergo renovation after the Sinulog Foundation, Inc. donated P5 million "to be used and devoted to the improvement, preservation and promotion of Cebu's history, heritage and culture."

Mayor Tomas Osmeña yesterday received the check from Vice Mayor and Sinulog Foundation, Inc. chairman Michael Rama.

The building, built in 1930, houses not only the Cebu City Library and Museum, but also the offices of the Cebu Historical Affairs Commission and the Cebu City Tourism Commission. The library is located at the first floor while the museum is on the second floor.

Jaime Picornell, one of the commissioners of CHAC, said that the third floor of the building will be improved to hold an amphitheater. He said that it can also be used for social functions, state occasions and cultural presentations.

Picornell explained that although the building is already suffering some damages, it still is structurally stable.

Under the three-page Memorandum of Agreement, the city government will be authorized and allowed the introduction of improvements and repairs. The Cultural Historical Affairs Commission will constitute and organize a building committee that will be tasked to oversee and supervise the renovation.

The city government will also allow the Sinulog Foundation, Inc. to make use of a portion of the building as an office space. - Garry B. Lao