Historic Sibonga Church Restoration to Commence This Year After Typhoon Odette Damage
Repairs will begin this year on the Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church in the town of Sibonga, located in southern Cebu, which suffered significant damage from typhoon Odette in 2021. The restoration of this historic church follows a crucial meeting between Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) General Manager Mark Lapid, marking a pivotal step in preserving the region's cultural heritage.
Funding and Heritage Significance
Tieza has committed P110 million for the restoration of the structure, which is classified as a Level 2 historical site by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. This substantial investment underscores the importance of safeguarding the church's architectural and historical value for future generations.
The church and its convent were severely damaged by the 2021 storm, forcing the parish to hold religious services in a covered court for the past three years. This temporary arrangement has highlighted the urgent need for restoration to restore normalcy and preserve the spiritual and community functions of the site.
Artistic and Preservation Efforts
The church is renowned for its intricate ceiling paintings by artist Raymundo Francia, much of which were damaged when the roof was breached during the typhoon. The Provincial Government has assured that the restoration will strictly adhere to heritage preservation standards to maintain the church’s original character, ensuring that the artistic integrity and historical authenticity are meticulously preserved throughout the repair process.
This restoration project not only aims to repair physical damage but also to revitalize the cultural and tourism appeal of Sibonga, contributing to the broader efforts in Cebu to protect and promote its rich historical landmarks.
