PHILIPPINE HERITAGE

Samal Church (Samal, Bataan)

2011-04-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

"The spiritual ministration of Samal was entrusted to the Dominicans in 1596. The town was attacked by Dutch invaders in April 1647 but the local garrison of Pampanga under the command of Alejo Aguas compelled the Dutch forces to retreat. The church and the convent built by the Rev. Jeromino Belen, O.P. were ruined during the Dutch invasion. In 1896 the church was burned by the Katipuneros to drive out their enemies in the convent. The Rev. Justo Quesada rebuilt the church and convent in 1903."

Pilar Church (Pilar, Bataan)

2011-04-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

Orion Church (Orion, Bataan)

2011-04-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

"The spiritual ministration of Orion belonged formerly to Abucay. Orion became an independent missionary center in 1667. Its first minister was Rev. Domingo Perez. The church and the convent were badly damaged by the earthquake of September in 1856, and were repaired in 1854. The Rev. Ulpiano Herrero constructed the beautiful sacristy and marble altars. In this town Cayetano Arellano, eminent Filipino jurist and statesman and first Filipino chief Justice of the Supreme Court was born on March 2, 1847. Francisco Baltazar (Balagtas), author of Florante at Laura, lived in this town from July 22, 1842 to Feb. 20, 1862."

Balanga Cathedral (Balanga, Bataan)

2011-04-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

The Balanga Cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Balanga in Bataan.

"The spiritual ministration of Balanga formerly belonged to Abucay. Balanga became an independent missionary center in 1739. Rev. Benito Rivas, O.P., strengthened this church by fortifying its wall. Rev. Juan Antonio Vicente, O.P, roofed it with galvanized iron and decorated the interior. Rev. Mariano Ma. Minano, O.P., from 1838-1845 constructed the arch of the choir loft and made the baptismal font out of granite from Mariveles. The parochial ministration under the Filipino clergy started with Rev. Mariano Sarili, June 21, 1898."

Abucay Church (Abucay, Bataan)

2011-04-15T16:47:00.000-07:00

The Abucay Church in Bataan is a National Historical Landmark.

"The spiritual ministration of Abucay was entrusted to the Dominicans in 1588. A fierce battle between the Dutch invaders and the Pampango defenders was fought in this court on June 23, 1647. Nearly two hundred Pampangos were put to death, and forty others, together with Spanish Alcalde mayor and two Dominican priests were taken prisoners to Batavia. The present church was badly damaged by the earthquake of 16 September 1852. One of the earliest printing press in the Philippines was operated in this town, where as early as 1610, Rev. Francisco Blancas de San Jose, O.P, and Don Tomas Pinpin printed several books in Spanish and Tagalog."

Dauis Church Complex (Dauis, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

Libaong Chapel (Panglao, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

Cortes Church (Cortes, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:29:00.000-08:00

Bohol Provincial Capitol (Tagbilaran, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:27:00.000-08:00

Tagbilaran Cathedral (Tagbilaran, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

Alburquerque Church (Alburquerque, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:21:00.001-08:00

Garcia Hernandez Church (Garcia Hernandez, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:20:00.000-08:00

Guindulman Church (Guindulman, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:18:00.000-08:00

Duero Church (Duero, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:16:00.000-08:00

Jagna Church (Jagna, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:14:00.000-08:00

Valencia Church (Valencia, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:12:00.001-08:00

Dimiao Church and Ermita (Dimiao, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:09:00.000-08:00

Lila Church (Lila, Bohol)

2011-02-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

Municipal Hall of Pila, Laguna

2011-01-14T21:43:00.001-08:00

Historic Town of Pila, Laguna

2011-01-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

The Historic Town of Pila, Laguna is a National Historical Landmark. Above is a photo of the old Pila Town Hall. Below is a photo of the Pila Church or the Diocesan Shrine of San Antonio de Padua.

NHI RESOLUTION NO. 2, S. 2000

DECLARING THE TOWN OF PILA IN LAGUNA AS A NATIONAL HISTORICAL LANDMARK

WHEREAS, the Constitution of the Philippines provides that The State shall promote and popularize the nation’s historical and cultural heritage and resources;

WHEREAS, Presidential Decree No. 260, dated August 1, 1973, specifically vested the National Historical Institute with the power to declare sites and structures as national historical landmarks;

WHEREAS, the town of Pila, an early pre-Hispanic center of culture and trade in Laguna, has been recognized as one of the country's more important archeological sites where clay potteries were discovered in excavations made in Pinagbayanan ni 1967;

WHEREAS, the town of Pila was honored with the name of La Noble Villa de Pila by the Spaniards because of the genteel customs, refined manners and traditions of its people;

WHEREAS, Pila is one of the few existing towns in the Philippines that preserves the Spanish colonial town planning system of the Indies, where the center of the town was the plaza complex with the surrounding church, tribunal, school and large houses;

WHEREAS, the structures of Pila reflect a rich and varied architectural history which remains relatively intact in its town center, from the Philippine-Baroque church of the Spanish period to the charming chalets of the American period;

WHEREAS, the town center of Pila is a living monument and testimony to the residents of Pila who were builders, craftsmen, artists and artisans of such elegant, historic structures;

NOW THEREFORE, the National Historical Institute by the virtue of the powers vested in it by Presidential Decree No. 260, hereby declares the historic town center of Pila in Laguna, bounded by General Luna Street in the north, M. H. del Pilar Street in the east, Mabini Street in the south, and Bonifacio Street in the west, and including the Pila Elementary School, and the Juan Fuentes and Santiago Fernandez houses as a National Historical Landmark.

APPROVED: May 17, 2000

Pakil Church (Pakil, Laguna)

2011-01-14T21:07:00.000-08:00

The Pakil Church or the San Pedro de Alcantara Church in Pakil, Laguna houses the Nuestra Senora de los Dolores de Turumba. The first church made of bamboo and nipa was built in 1676 when Pakil was separated from Paete. Construction for the current stone church and convent began in 1732 and was completed in 1737. The Virgin of Turumba was enshrined in the church in 1788. Parts of the church were destroyed during the fires of 1739 and 1851, and the earthquakes of 1881 and 1937.

Paete Church (Paete, Laguna)

2011-01-14T20:50:00.000-08:00

The Paete Church in Paete, Laguna is a National Historical Landmark.

Lumban Church (Lumban, Laguna)

2011-01-14T20:42:00.000-08:00

The Lumban Church or San Sebastian Church is located in Lumban, Laguna.

Longos Church (Kalayaan, Laguna)

2011-01-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

The Longos Church is located in Brgy. Longos, Kalayaan, Laguna.

Historic Town of Taal, Batangas

2011-01-14T20:28:00.000-08:00

The Historic Town of Taal, Batangas was declared a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute. Within the town are several other National Historical Landmarks including the Leon Apacible Historical Landmark, Marcela Agoncillo Historical Landmark and Taal Church Historical Landmark (Taal Basilica). The Goco House is declared a Heritage House.

Goco House (Taal, Batangas)

2011-01-14T20:21:00.000-08:00

The Goco House in Taal, Batangas was declared a Heritage House by the National Historical Institute.

Caysasay Church (Taal, Batangas)

2011-01-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

The Caysasay Church or Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay is one of two historical churches in Taal, Batangas. The town of Taal is a National Historical Landmark.

Taal Basilica (Taal, Batangas)

2011-01-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

The Taal Basilica or the Minor Basilica of St. Martin of Tours in Taal, Batangas is a National Historical Landmark.

Masinloc Church (Masinloc, Zambales)

2011-01-14T10:45:00.000-08:00

The Masinloc Church or San Andres Church in Masinloc, Zambales was constructed by the Augustinian Recollects in the 18th century and was completed in the 19th century. The choir loft features a carved polychrome portal. It is a National Cultural Treasure.

Ivana Church Ruins (Ivana, Batanes)

2011-01-09T17:19:00.001-08:00

The Ivana Church Ruins are located behind the current Ivana Church in Batanes.

Savidug Village (Sabtang, Batanes)

2011-01-09T11:11:00.000-08:00

Barangay Savidug is in Sabtang Island, Batanes.

Sabtang Church (Sabtang, Batanes)

2011-01-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

The Sabtang Church or Church of San Vicente Ferrer on Sabtang Island, Batanes was constructed in 1844.

Chavayan Village (Sabtang, Batanes)

2011-01-07T21:31:00.000-08:00

Magellan's Cross (Cebu City)

2011-01-03T15:59:00.000-08:00

Carcar Dispensary > Carcar Museum (Carcar Cebu)

2011-01-03T15:56:00.000-08:00

Carcar Church (Carcar, Cebu)

2011-01-03T15:53:00.000-08:00

Mercado Mansion (Carcar, Cebu)

2011-01-03T15:51:00.000-08:00

The Mercado Mansion belonged to Don Mariano Mercado, a former mayor of Carcar. It was was inherited by Catalina Mercado, who married Santiago Lucero, judge and later member of the Third Congress. It was declared a Heritage House by the National Historical Institute in 2010.

Silva House (Carcar, Cebu)

2011-01-03T15:47:00.000-08:00

The Silva House originally belonged to a priest who was assigned in Carcar for a long time. Ownership was transferred to Dr. Nemesio S. Silva. It was declared a Heritage House by the National Historical Institute in 2010.

Tanza Church (Tanza, Cavite)

2011-01-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

Tanza Church in Tanza, Cavite played a significant role in Philippine history. It was where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo and Gen. Mariano Trias took their oaths as president and vice president of the Philippine Revolutionary Government on March 23, 1897 after their election at the Tejeros Convention the day before.

Silang Church (Silang, Cavite)

2011-01-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

Silang Church is an example of a colonial church with rococo altars. Silang was established as a parish by the Franciscans on February 3, 1595. The first church got burned on August 30, 1603. A new church was constructed by the Franciscans under the patronage of San Diego de Alcala. In 1611, the parish was transferred to the Jesuits. A stone church was constructed by Fr. Juan de Salazar, S.J. from 1637 to 1639 and dedicated to the Nuestra Senora de Candelaria. It was transferred to the care of secular priests in 1788 after the expulsion of the Jesuits from the Philippines.On March 9, 1849, the parish was transferred to the Augustinian Recollects. It was again transferred to the care of secular priests in 1868. From September 5 to 6, 1896, it served as headquarters and refuge of the Guardia Civil after Filipino forces led by Gen. Vito Belarmino took over Naic.

In 1910, the church was administered by the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM), secular priests in 1913, Columbans in 1936, and again by secular priests in 1978 until the present.

Naic Church (Naic, Cavite)

2011-01-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

The Naic Church or Immaculate Conception Church is located in Naic, Cavite.

Bonifacio Execution Site (Maragondon, Cavite)

2011-01-03T11:09:00.000-08:00

A monument was built in the execution site of Andres Bonifacio and Procopio Bonifacio in Mount Nagpatong, Maragondon, Cavite.

Arch of the Centuries > University of Santo Tomas (Manila)

2010-12-31T11:05:00.000-08:00

The Arch of the Centuries was the main entrance of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Intramuros. When UST transferred to its present location in Sampaloc, the arch was transferred as well. It was declared by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure under the listing Main Building, Central Seminary, Arch of the Centuries and Open Spaces of the University of Sto. Tomas.

Mayoyao Rice Terraces (Mayoyao, Ifugao)

2010-12-31T10:56:00.001-08:00

The Mayoyao Rice Terraces are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List under Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras.

Hungduan Rice Terraces (Hungduan, Ifugao)

2010-12-31T10:55:00.000-08:00

The Hungduan Rice Terraces are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List under Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras. The Hapao and Baang Rice Terraces, just above Hapao village, are three valleys of extensive stone-walled terraces carved into mountainside.

Bacung Rice Terraces (Hungduan, Ifugao)

2010-12-31T10:52:00.001-08:00

The Bacung Rice Terraces are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Hungduan Rice Terraces cluster of the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras. Bacung, known as the spider web terraces, is about a kilometer from Hungduan proper.

Bangaan Rice Terraces (Banaue, Ifugao)

2010-12-31T10:48:00.000-08:00

The Bangaan Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List under Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras.

Batad Rice Terraces (Banaue, Ifugao)

2010-12-31T10:39:00.000-08:00

The Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao are inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List under Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras.

Carcar Rotunda (Carcar, Cebu)

2010-09-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

Boljoon Church (Boljoon, Cebu)

2010-09-29T12:54:00.000-07:00

Bantayan Church (Bantayan, Cebu)

2010-09-29T12:52:00.001-07:00

Argao Church (Argao, Cebu)

2010-09-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

Batangas Provincial Capitol (Batangas, Batangas)

2010-09-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

Hizon-Singian House (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T10:12:00.000-07:00

The Hizon-Singian House (A. Consunji Street, Barangay Santo Rosario) was built in 1870 by the couple Don Anacleto Hizon, gobernadorcillo of San Fernando from 1877-1879 and 1886-1887, and Victoria Singian de Miranda y de Ocampo. Inherited by their daughter Victoria Hizon y Singian who was married to Godofredo Rodriguez y Yabut from Bacolor. It was occupied during the 1896 revolution by Spanish General Antonio Ruiz Serralde, appropriated by the Japanese Imperial Army to serve as a military hospital and barracks from 1943 to 1944, and served as headquarters of American General Walter Krueger of the 6th American Army during the liberation period until the end of 1945. Inherited by their son, the late Gerry Catalino Rodriguez Y Hizon, former president of the Pampanga Sugar Development Company (PASUDECO), who was married to Aurora Angeles.

This bahay na bato of the Spanish colonial period was declared a Heritage House by the National Historical Institute on 27 January 2003 by virtue of Resolution No. 4, S. 2003.

Santos-Hizon House (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

The Santos-Hizon House (A. Consunji Street, Barangay Santo Rosario) is a turn-of-the-century Victorian-style house was built by the couple Teodoro Santos and Africa Ventura, it was later purchased by Maria Salome Hizon, a volunteer of the Red Cross during the Philippine Revolution. The property was acquired by her brother Ramon Hizon and is currently owned by the heirs of his son Augusto Hizon.

Hizon-Ocampo House (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Hizon-Ocampo House (A. Consunji Street, Barangay Santo Rosario) was the first residence of Anacleto Hizon and Victoria Singian de Miranda, it has inherited by their daughter Leoncia Hizon who was married to Basilio Ocampo, gobernadorcillo of San Fernando. Among their children was renowned architect Fernando H. Ocampo.

Consunji House (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

The Consunji House (A. Consunji Street, Barangay Santo Rosario) was the residence of Don Antonio Consunji y Espina, the presidente municipal of San Fernando during the Philippine Revolution.

Pampanga Provincial Capitol (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T10:04:00.001-07:00

The Pampanga Provincial Capitol (Capitol Boulevard, Barangay Santo Niño) is the seat of government of the Province of Pampanga, the original building was constructed shortly after the provincial capital of Pampanga was transferred from Bacolor to San Fernando in 1904. Annexes were added before the war. It was the site of a major battle between guerilla forces and the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II.

San Fernando Train Station (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

The San Fernando Train Station (Barangay Santo Niño) was inaugurated by Governor-General Eulogio Despujol and Bernardino Nozaleda, Archbishop of Manila, on February 23, 1892. Jose P. Rizal debarked from the station on June 27, 1892 and again the next day en route to Bacolor. During the Death March in April 1942, it was the ending point of the 102-km Bataan Death March, from which Filipino and American prisoners-of-war were carted to Capas, Tarlac en route to their final destination, Camp O’Donnell.

Gen. Maximino Hizon Monument > Pampanga Provincial Capitol (San Fernando, Pampanga)

2010-09-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Bonifacio Trial House (Maragondon, Cavite)

2010-09-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

The Bonifacio Trial House in Maragondon, Cavite is a National Historical Landmark. The house was built for Teodorico Reyes in 1889. In May 1897, Andres Bonifacio, together with his brother Procopio, were tried by a court-martial headed by Brigadier General Mariano Noriel. For more on Cavite, read Around historic Cavite.

Kawit Church (Kawit, Cavite)

2010-09-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

The Santa Maria Magdalena Church in Kawit, Cavite was placed under the care of the Jesuits in 1624. The first church made of wood was constructed in 1638 with the help of six families from Silang and Maragondon. The cornerstone of the current church was laid on 1737. In 1768, control of the Kawit Church was transferred to secular priests, and later to the Augustinian Recollects in 1849. It was in this church that President Emilio F. Aguinaldo was baptized in 1869. For more on Cavite, read Around historic Cavite.

Imus Town Plaza (Imus, Cavite)

2010-09-04T00:08:00.000-07:00

This is the Imus Town Plaza in Imus, Cavite. For more on Cavite, read Around historic Cavite.

General Trias Church (Gen. Trias, Cavite)

2010-09-03T23:56:00.000-07:00

The Church of San Francisco de Malabon in Gen. Trias, Cavite began as a chapel made of light materials was constructed by Franciscan missionaries in 1611 when it was still a visita of Kawit. It was transferred to the Jesuit mission of Cavite Puerto in 1624 and became an independent parish on September 9, 1753. A stone church was constructed in 1769 under the leadership of Dona Maria Josepha de Yrizzari y Ursula, Condesa de Lizarraga. It was in this church that the Banda Matanda practiced the Marcha Filipina before it was played at the declaration of Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898. For more on Cavite, read Around historic Cavite.

Cuenca House (Bacoor, Cavite)

2010-09-03T23:25:00.000-07:00

It was in the residence of Juan Cuenca and Candida Chaves in Bacoor, Cavite that President Emilio Aguinaldo transferred the seat of the revolutionary government on July 15, 1898 from the town of Cavite, as they closed in on the Spanish Army in Manila. The government remained in the house until it transferred to Malolos on September 10, 1898. For more on Cavite, read Around historic Cavite.

Cagsawa Ruins (Daraga, Albay)

2010-09-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

The ruins of the Cagsawa Church are located in Daraga, Albay.

Mirador Jesuit Villa (Baguio City)

2010-09-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Mirador in Baguio City, had four stages in its life; it began as a branch of the Manila Observatory, then became a villa house where Jesuits of the Ateneo de Manila took a break during the hot summers. When the Communists expelled the Jesuits in China, it became a house of studies for the Jesuit of the Far East Province (1952-67). Beginning in 1967, the house was opened for retreats and as a meeting center for Church groups.

Although the present house designed by Architect Gines Rivera dates to 1952, the house is the third residence built by the Jesuits in Baguio. The history of Mirador begins in 1876, when Don Manuel Scheidnagel, governor politico-militar of Baguio named the hill El Mirador, meaning lookout or vantage point, because the hill offered a panorama of Lingayen Gulf, La Union and the South China Sea. In 1890, Fr. Miguel Roces, Rector of the Ateneo Municipal de Manila suggested acquiring a piece of property in the Province of Benguet to build a sanatorium for Jesuits. The belief then was that the temperate climate of the mountains could restore the strength and health of Jesuits zapped by the humidity and heat of Manila and the lowlands. In 1894, a request was made to purchase El Mirador but the request was not acted on immediately and the Philippine Revolution caught the Jesuits in the middle of this turbulent time.

In 1900, under the Americans, the Jesuits were able to establish a meteorological and seismic station at Mirador. In 1906, the Jesuits bought Mirador at public auction conducted under the auspices of the Philippine Commission in May of that year. The following year, 1907, the Jesuits build the first of three residences at Baguio. This three-bedroom house of pine boards and cogon roof was built as a staging point for the construction of a more permanent structure of stone and mortar. From 18 March to 5 June, several Fathers took their vacation in this house and also began administering the sacraments in Baguio and La Trinidad. The year 1907 is marked as the official beginning of Mirador as a Jesuit house.

In 1908, the Jesuits built a road to the summit of Mirador, and on it constructed a building of stone and mortar. During the summer of that year a large contingent from Manila spent their time enjoying the coolness of Baguio.

The Lourdes Grotto, a very familiar and much photographed spot, was constructed in 1913 at the initiative of Fr. José Algue, S.J., the director of the Manila Observatory. Five years later, the stairway from the grotto to the foot of the hills was completed.

During the War (1941-44), the Jesuits were forced to abandon their house because Japanese soldiers occupied it. In 1945, the house was completely destroyed during the retaking of Baguio by Allied Forces decided to relocate in Baguio. Meanwhile, the mission superior, Fr. Leo Cullum, S.J. decides to rebuild the villa and improve the Observatory’s plant. He designated MIT graduate, Gines Rivera, as the master planner. Rivera planned three parallel wings, attached by a corridor. He opted to build using pinewood and galvanized iron sheets because a stone building was too damp, especially during the rainy season that lasted for more than half a year. He left the summit of the hill free to allow residents of the villa an open space for exercise and sports. In 1952, the Manila Observatory decided to relocate its whole operation from Manila to Baguio. At this time, the Ateneo had decided to leave its premises in Intramuros and Malate and transfer to Quezon City. This decision must have precipitated the Observatory’s decision to relocate. The Observatory remained in Mirador in 1962, when it transferred yet again to the Ateneo campus in Loyola Heights Quezon City.

Heritage Features: Gines Rivera designed the villa house following the type of construction used by the colonial government for houses in Camp John Hay, Teachers’ Camp and the summer homes of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal justices. This is a house raised on stilts, away from the damp earth of Baguio. Structural beams and posts, floor boards and walls are all of wood, usually pinewood. The exterior may be covered by galvanized iron sheets, especially where the wood would be exposed to the elements. The houses were generally whitewashed but had a deep green roof and deep green window and door trim.

Mirador Villa has three fireplaces faced with pinewood and rough limestone, quarried from the present site of City Camp. Its chapel all of wood was decorated by a Jesuit brother from Hungary, who inlaid designs on the pews, pedestals and altar of the chapel.

The Grotto, which has been an integral adjunct of the villa, was built in slow stages by Jesuit scholastics (seminarians), brothers and fathers over five years, usually during the summer when Jesuits from the lowland would augment the community’s population. The image of Our Lady of Lourdes is of polychromed molave. It was carved by Isabelo Tampingco, whose name is inscribed at the back of the statue. The inscription behind reads “I. Tampingco Manila 1913.” (Fr. Rene Javellana, SJ)

Dominican Hill (Baguio City)

2010-09-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Originally constructed as a vacation house for the Dominicans from 1913 to 1915, Dominican Hill in Baguio City served various purposes. A school called Collegio del Santissimo Rosario was opened in June 1915 but closed two years later. It reverted to being a vacation house for the Dominicans.

During WWII, Dominican Hill suffered extensive damages. Reconstruction was done in 1947. Diplomat Hotel acquired ownership in 1973 and converted it into a 33-bedroom hotel that closed in 1987.

Roxas Hall > Teachers' Camp (Baguio City)

2010-09-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Teachers' Camp (Baguio City)

2010-09-02T12:02:00.000-07:00

Teachers Camp, founded in 1908 by the US colonial government as a mountain retreat for the first group of American teachers, the Thomasites, needing a respite from lowland tropical heat, has a unique heritage. Since its early Thomasite days, generations of Filipino teachers and students have gone to Teachers Camp for educational training, conferences and seminars.

It is a place intrinsic to the history of the Department of Education and has become part of the educational ethos of many Filipinos. It is a nationally recognized teaching facility, also one of the nationally recognized Baguio City icons along with Session Road, Burnham Park, Mansion House, Wright Park and Camp John Hay. It is the last of the large, open, undeveloped parcels of government-owned land remaining in Baguio. The other large parcel, Camp John Hay, is now privatized as a mixed-use real-estate development.

Founded as a rest and recreation facility for teachers and also as a venue for summer training programs for teachers, education is the primary legacy of Teachers Camp. Its secondary legacy is that it is one of the few surviving Baguio environments today, a wide-open area still relatively forested with pine trees and landscaped in the typical but vanishing flowered Baguio garden style, where original green-and-white wooden architecture, once a Baguio City hallmark, still survives. (Augusto F. Villalon)

Baler Church (Baler, Aurora)

2010-09-02T11:51:00.000-07:00

The Baler Church in Baler, Aurora is a National Historical Landmark.

Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine (Kawit, Cavite)

2010-09-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, the site of the declaration of Philippine independence, is declared a National Shrine.

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery (Nagcarlan, Laguna)

2010-09-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery in Nagcarlan, Laguna is a National Historical Landmark.

According to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, "The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery Historical Landmark is a fine example of Spanish colonial architecture. Built by the Franciscan Friar Vicente Velloc in 1845, its octagonal grounds are enclosed by a wall decorated with wrought-iron grills and stonework meant to look like drapery.

"An arched gate leads to the chapel built into the cemetery's inner wall. Wings radiate from the sides of the chapel, forming an arc where the aboveground niches are found.

"Under the chapel, two flights down, is the crypt. This underground section of the cemetery played an important role in our history. Throughout the Revolution of 1896 and the Filipino-American War, our fighting patriots used the crypt as a secret hideout, gathering here to plan their moves or to seek shelter. Similarly, it became a safehouse for guerillas during the World War II.

"The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery Historical Landmark is located in Nagcarlan a mountainside town of Laguna. The landmark is open for public viewing from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. For inquiries please contact the NHI central office at telephone number +63 2 5249952."

Magdalena Church (Magdalena, Laguna)

2010-09-02T05:17:00.000-07:00

The Santa Maria Magdalena Church in Magdalena, Laguna still has the blood stains of revolutionary hero Emilio Jacinto in its convento. He was mortally-wounded in battle and died in the convento.

Crisologo Street (Vigan, Ilocos Sur)

2010-09-02T02:12:00.000-07:00

Crisologo Street is located in the Historic Center of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Mestizo Section of Vigan is also a National Cultural Treasure.

Paoay Church (Paoay, Ilocos Norte)

2010-09-02T02:01:00.000-07:00

The San Agustin Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Cultural Treasure

Santa Maria Church (Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur)

2010-09-01T03:25:00.000-07:00

The Santa Maria Church in Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historical Landmark

Romblon Municipal Hall (Romblon, Romblon)

2008-07-15T04:28:00.000-07:00

This is the Municipal Hall of Romblon, Romblon. For more information on Romblon heritage, read Romblon, Romblon is a heritage town

Capiz Provincial Capitol (Roxas City, Capiz)

2008-07-15T04:25:00.002-07:00

For more information on Capiz, read Seafood binge in Capiz

Old Jaro City Hall (Jaro, Iloilo City)

2008-07-15T04:25:00.001-07:00

This was the City Hall of Jaro when it was still a separate city. It now serves as the Philippine National Police (PNP) Station in Jaro District. For more information on Jaro District, Iloilo City, read Walking tour of old Jaro

Antique Provincial Capitol (San Jose, Antique)

2008-07-15T04:23:00.001-07:00

For more information on Antique, read Church overload in Iloilo and Antique

HCS 2008 Calendar: Heritage Recycled

2007-09-25T03:23:00.000-07:00

The HCS will be featuring fine examples of built heritage structures transformed into commercially-sustainable business projects. You will find elegant family residences that have been recycled into boutique hotels and banks; a century-old train terminal (Tutuban) became a shopping mall and the first international airport of Manila (Nielson Tower) was restored and recycled into a library and bookstore.

All these are compiled into the 2008 Heritage Calendar/Postcard Collection called HERITAGE RECYCLED. These unique calendars are excellent Christmas gifts to your friends and business associates. You can also have your company and/or personal logo printed on the standee.

As you know, the HCS is a non-profit group. One of our main objectives is to show how the restoration of heritage structures can enhance the value of real estate development projects, urban planning, and tourism.

By ordering, you will be contributing to this worthwhile advocacy. (P200/copy; 10% discount for members and bulk orders of 100pcs++)

Thank you for your valued support. E-mail us at info@heritage.org.ph

* * *

HERITAGE RECYCLED
Adaptive re-use is a creative mode of conservation that gives heritage structures new and alternative functions other than the original ones that may no longer be required.

Adaptive re-use is applicable to most heritage structures. These need not be as grandiose as the vintage Department of Finance, now the National Museum. HCS did not include it to show that ancestral homes of modest proportions, obscure town halls, colonial watchtowers and bridges, warehouses and train stations can also be recycled into sustainable projects.

Most often than not, built heritage resources are found on premium real estate property so developers are in a hurry to demolish rather than restore and recycle. Today, there is a growing awareness that adaptive re-use can enhance property value.

In many countries, like Australia for example, demolition of heritage structures is considered wasteful. Heritage resources are given adaptive re-use because it is good for the environment. Recycling a valued heritage place makes adaptive re-use of historic buildings an essential component of sustainable development. The United States of America abounds with examples of creative (and remunerative) re-use of heritage. Old warehouses in Manhattan's meat-packing areas have been transformed into fashionable and expensive lofts. Elegant mansions in "Gone with the Wind" country were transformed into boutique hotels.

In London, a power plant along the River Thames became the elegant Tate Gallery of Modern Art. In Mexico City, the Cemento Azteca plant is now an environment-friendly children's museum-- El Papalote. Singapore has salvaged a cluster of decrepit shop houses, turning Boat Quay and Clarke Quay into an eclectic mix of high-end restaurants, al fresco dining, dazzling bars and pubs.

We are not too far behind in the Philippines that is why the HCS has chosen "Heritage Recycled" as its theme for 2008. Until now, you may not have noticed these twelve amazing projects of sustainable, adaptive re-use. Take a good look around you and find more incredible examples of how Filipinos have so creatively recycled heritage.

However, in the Philippine scene, recycling heritage and adaptive re-use are still polemical issues. Should heritage conservation be done strictly "in situ"? Should heritage structures be transferred to different sites and settings, when that is the only way to save them? Is adaptive re-use intrusive? Or, should heritage conservation be a priority at all? Let the debate begin. After which we, conservation advocates, can make policies suitable to our own needs and vision.

Register now for the Philippine Towns and Cities Seminar (9 November 2007)

2007-09-24T03:36:00.000-07:00

The main objective of this seminar series is to enhance civic engagement with local governments units so the Heritage Conservation Society (HCS) can inform and guide them on the proper care and utilization of a valuable asset — built heritage resources. The first seminar was held last 8 November 2006, at the Development Academy of the Philippines, Pasig City.

In our towns and cities, wanton real estate speculation and over-construction are often mistaken for modernization when in fact these exert devastating pressure on the historic and cultural core of many of our human settlements. As a result, a valuable economic resource – built heritage — is left to deteriorate or is thoughtlessly demolished in the name of progress. Concerted effort is imperative to protect heritage resources because these are revenue and job-generating assets that can spark economic revitalization, as the case of Vigan clearly shows.

However, there is a general lack of awareness at the local government level, which is precisely where policies should be formulated and ordinances passed to declare heritage districts and protect these as the town's or city's prime assets. Built heritage resources should be the core of any master plan for urban development and inner town/city revitalization. Livelihood opportunities are generated by adaptive re-use, the revival of traditional crafts for restoration work and an increase in tourism receipts.

Significantly, communities begin to feel a "pride of place".

The "Philippine Towns and Cities" seminar series is a communications campaign to influence policy makers at the local government level. Through the "Mayors' Forum", best practices are shared. Other stakeholders in the Executive branch, the private sector and the academe are invited to participate because heritage conservation is a multi-disciplinary concern.

In a second seminar, the Heritage Conservation Society will take this awareness and education campaign to the local governments of the Vizayas, where built heritage resources abound in the cities of Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Tagbilaran, and many others.

"PHILIPPINE TOWNS & CITIES:
Reflections of the Past, Lessons for the Future"
9 November 2007, Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center, 101 General Luna Street, Iloilo City

REGISTRATION DETAILS:
Seminar Fee
Private Sector: P2,500
Government Sector: P1,500
Student (with valid ID): P500

Check payable to: Heritage Conservation Society
PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 31 October 2007, Wednesday
Deposit to: Heritage Conservation Society
BPI C/A # 8105-8153-61, M.H. Del Pilar Branch, Ermita

Contact Persons
Ms. Dorie Soriano (HCS)
Tel.: 521-2239
Fax: 522-2497
Email: info@heritage.org.ph

Ms. Len Diño (UPF)
Tel.: 895-1812 / 896-1902
Fax: 890-2480
Email: annalynn.upf@gmail.com

Ms. Vivian (Iloilo City)
Tel.: (033) 3372172
Email: benitojimena@yahoo.com

Seminar Organizers:
HERITAGE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (HCS)
THE ILOILO CITY GOVERNMENT
THE URBAN PARTNERSHIPS FOUNDATION (UPF)
PHILIPPINE INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNERS (PIEP)

2007 HCS Calendar

2006-09-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

The 2007 HCS Calendar featuring heritage provincial capitols, city halls and municipios, is now on sale. For more information, contact:

Heritage Conservation Society
G/F Museo Pambata Building
Roxas Boulevard, Ermita
Manila, Philippines
Tel. +632 521 2239
Fax. +632 522 2497

For a closer look, you can download a pdf file here.