"Sad state" of landmarks blamed on absence of lists

CEBU, Philippines - The absence of master list of the markers and other historical landmarks in Cebu City is said to be the primary reason why a lot of them are in a sad state of neglect.

This prompted Cebu City Councilor Margarita Osmeña to propose guidelines in the installation and placement of markers in the city.

Through a proposed ordinance, Osmeña wants that all recommendations and applications including requests from private person or institution to install markers shall have the approval of the barangay where it is intended to be placed and shall be endorsed by the Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission.

Osmeña likewise proposes that all landmarks shall only be for the heroes, martyrs, historical events and places involving admirable acts and patriotic endeavors that invoke pride in culture and heritage.

Prior to the installation a research must be done by the appropriate agency to ensure that the person or event where the marker is intended is worthy of the honor.

If the marker is intended to honor a dead person whose deeds or attributes are worthy of respect and emulation such installation can only be done at least five years after the death.

Osmeña also gives the obligation to preserve and maintain the marker to the person or institution responsible for its installation.

The proposed ordinance is also in preparation for the profiling of all historical landmarks in the city. (FREEMAN)