Church in Siquijor declared nat'l treasure

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines — The National Museum of the Philippines has formally presented the Certificate of Declaration of the San Isidro Labrador Church in Lazi town of Siquijor province as National Cultural Treasure.

Cecilio Salcedo, director of the National Museum, handed the declaration to Bishop Emeritus of Capiz Most Rev. Onesimo Gordoncillo and Lazi parish priest Rev. Fr. Leonardo Tan during the con-celebrated mass.

The restoration of the Retablo Mayor and two Pulpits of the church was implemented by the National Museum of the Philippines with the financial assistance from the US Embassy worth $15,000. 

The US Embassy cultural affairs officer Alan Holst thanked the Siquijor Heritage Foundation, Inc. and to Fr. Tan for successfully restoring the historic Lazi church.

Salcedo emphasized the importance of preservation, protection and conservation of the antique structures and designs of the church after it is being declared as national treasure. Parishioners should always be reminded to preserve its antique value, he said.

Salcedo said any plans of renovation or restoration to any part of the church and the convent should have the approval from the National Museum, because improper restoration of the structure will alter the historical value of the church.

The San Isidro Labrador Church is one of the old churches in the country built during the 19th century by the Augustinian Recollects, he said adding that it is one of the best well-preserved church complex, occupying two blocks in Siquijor.

Also, the magnificent wooden floor of the church is among the best in the country, and the convent across it is by far the largest in the Visayas. (FREEMAN)