Magellan's Cross Park is unveiled after rehab

The Magellan's Cross Park was full last night as Cebuanos witnessed the ribbon-cutting ceremony and blessing of the rehabilitated Magellan's Cross kiosk.

The Embassy of Portugal, through the Gulbenkian Foundation, pledged over P92,000 for the beautification and rehabilitation of the kiosk where the historical Magellan's Cross is displayed.

Therese Gonzales, project director of the Parks and Playground Commission, said the Portuguese government supported the rehabilitation of the kiosk because Cebu City is the only city in the Philippines paying tribute to their hero.

Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese sailor who came to the Philippines in 1521, planted a cross to start the propagation of the Roman Catholic faith in what is now Cebu.

Joao Caetano da Silva, Portuguese ambassador to the Philippines, said he was pleased to witness the unveiling and rehabilitation of the Magellan's Cross.

"Our participation is historical celebration with Philippines and Portugal. It is also a celebration of Magellan who discovered the Philippines," Da Silva said.

When Magellan landed in Cebu on April 7, 1521, its ruler Rajah Humabon gladly welcomed him and he and his queen, Juana, were converted to Christianity. Four hundred other subjects followed. Magellan planted the cross and gave Queen Juana a statue of the Santo Niño to commemorate the event.

The Magellan's cross is now displayed infront of the City Hall, along Magallanes Street, which is named in honor of Magellan.

Magellan was killed in battle in nearby Mactan Island when he confronted the local chief, Lapu-Lapu. - Garry B. Lao