City’s quick assessment of heritage sites lauded

CEBU, Philippines — Within just 48 hours of the recent earthquake, Cebu City completed a full initial assessment of its heritage sites, prompting the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) to adopt the city’s rapid-assessment form and online tally template as a national model for heritage emergency reporting.

The swift response was led by the Cultural and Historical Affairs Office, under division head BrynerLaurito Diaz, and Orland James Romarate, officer-in-charge of the Heritage Preservation and Cultural Properties Registry Section (HPCPRS).

On the morning of October 1, the team convened a rapid coordination meeting to deploy three field groups across the city and activate a live dashboard for real-time monitoring.

“We moved fast but stayed methodical. Three teams, one system, and a live tally that our national partners could see in real time,” Romarate said via the city’s PIO, “the priority was safety; the goal was clarity.”

The Calamba Coral Stone Chapel was among the sites flagged for severe damage, compounding earlier impacts from Typhoon Odette. Thanks to Cebu’s live reporting tools, NHCP was able to immediately coordinate technical support.

NHCP has since requested Cebu City to host a focus group discussion to help craft national rapid assessment guidelines.

Romarate confirmed Cebu was the first LGU to submit a complete initial heritage report post-quake, citing synchronized fieldwork and real-time coordination as key factors.

HPCPRS will continue site validations and work with NHCP on technical recommendations and protective measures for affected heritage properties.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) issued a public advisory assuring that most of Cebu’s tourism infrastructure remains operational.

The cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue, along with Consolacion Town, have declared public areas, accommodations, and tourism sites safe and accessible.

However, DOT advises travelers --especially those heading north-- to remain cautious, follow local guidance, and respect ongoing recovery efforts.

While the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Cebu’s ports are operating normally, visitors are urged to check with accommodations, tour operators, and transport providers for the latest updates.

They should expect possible road closures and scheduled inspections in some areas, follow advisories from local authorities and emergency services, and avoid entering damaged structures or restricted zones.

For assistance, tourists may contact the DOT Tourist Assistance Call Center at 151-TOUR (151-8687), 0954-253-3215, or via email at [email protected]. Live chat is also available on the DOT websitewww.tourism.gov.ph. — (FREEMAN)