Retablo for first baptism re-enactment costs P2.5 million

CEBU, Philippines —  What did it take to put up the grand retablo for today’s reenactment of the first baptism to commemorate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines?

At least 25 people worked day in and day out for at least three months to build the backdrop, according to Glenn Johnson Mendiola, general manager of Glenmend Stained Glass and Retablo Fabrication Services.

Visual arts, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts said, is a part of church history. Today’s reenactment of the first baptism and the Pontifical Mass that will follow at Plaza Sugbo near the Magellan’s Cross will happen in front of the retablo that is valued at up to P2.5 million.

A retablo is the frame or shelf enclosing decorated panels or revered objects like saints above and behind an altar.

Neither the Archdiocese of Cebu nor the Cebu City government spent anything for the retablo as it has been duly sponsored by Glenmend.

Mendiola told The FREEMAN this is the company’s offering to God, especially to the Sr. Sto. Niño.

The retablo features a baroque design, embellished with shells, pearls, and flowers. Solid wood was used to build the frame.

“Ang design ani is baroque, subay sa kinaraan. Sa iyang detalye naay mga shells, pearls and flowers to show the culture of Cebu as an island,” said Mendiola.

Mendiola said it took the team at least three months to build the retablo.

“This is a work of art. We have skilled artists, special painter, special carvers and carpenters,” he said.

“The cost maybe be around P2 to P2.5 million, but it’s all worth it. Nalipay mi nga mo-showcase mi sa among talent para sa Ginoo,” he added.

After today’s reenactment, the retablo will be dismantled. However, Mendiola said nothing will go to waste as they will transfer it to a private chapel after.

Meanwhile, aside from the retablo, guests at today’s reenactment will also get to see a glimpse of the winning pieces in the National Quincentennial Committee’s Quincentennial Art Competition themed “Legacy” printed in huge tarpaulins and installed near the Magellan’s Cross. — Decemay P. Padilla, JMD (FREEMAN)