CEBU - The Cebu provincial government has turned over P2 million worth of financial assistance for the renovation of the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral in line with its effort to protect the province’s historical sites and relics.
The renovation is part of the cathedral’s 75th anniversary celebration next year.
Governor Gwendolyn Garcia said that it has always been a part of her administration to support the preservation of the heritage of Cebu.
“We have been consistently helping cities and municipalities preserve their historical sites, structures and relics,” Garcia said.
The cathedral is set to be declared a basilica, a title that is given to a certain important churches. When a church is declared a basilica, it enjoys particular privileges and a degree of honor.
Recently, the provincial government extended help in the preservation of the centuries-old Boljoon Church and the restoration of the Altar de Sacrificio in Argao, a chaplet for the unbaptized and unborn children.
Garcia also said that with Cebu being the first beacon of Christianity in the country, it could not be denied that its history is also intertwined with its faith.
“The separation of church and state does not hold water as far as the restoration of churches is concerned,” she said.
The restoration of the CMC and its colonial churches was validated by virtue of National Historical Institute (NHI) Board Resolution No. 3.
Garcia, together with Vice Governor Greg Sanchez, turned over the check to Monsignor Boy Alesna. — Garry B. Lao/LPM (THE FREEMAN)