Restoration of "Bantayan" sought

CEBU, Philippines – The National Commission on Culture and the Arts will urge Mandaue City to restore the Bantayan sa Hari, historical site.

Fr. Harold Rentoria, who is a director of the NCCA, said more than 300 youth delegates from all over the country visisted the Bantayan sa Hari last Sunday as part of the one week celebration of the "Dia del Galeon" or "Day of the Galleon."

Rentoria said the Bantayan sa Hari played an important role in the voyages of the galleons from 1565 to 1815 from Mexico to Manila, Cebu, and then back to Mexico.

The Bantayan sa Hari served as a watchtower that led the galleons away from pirates.

He said it is important to bring back the Bantayan sa Hari to its original condition. He said its present appearance is in a sorry state."

Under the heritage law, all historical landmarks which are 50 years old and above should be protected and preserved.

Rentoria said the NCCA which is the lead agency tasked to implement the law is willing to assist the city government in the restoration.

It can even allocate funds for it, he added.

What it only wants is a formal request from the city government.

However, Rentoria was impressed by the hospitality of Mandaue. He expressed his willingness to help promote the "bibingka," which he said is delicious.

The UNESCO during its conference held in Paris last year approved a resolution declaring every October 8 of every year as "Dia del Galeon."

The Galleon will arrive in Cebu this week.

In Cebu, NCCA's local partner is the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (FREEMAN)