By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has ordered the suspension of restoration works at Bacolod City’s San Sebastian Cathedral.

This comes after the NHCP stated that the project failed to adhere to preservation guidelines for historical structures.

Diocese of Bacolod vicar general, Msgr. Ronald Quijano clarified that the repairs at the cathedral were made to address issues with the structure itself, such as weak roofing and faulty electrical wiring.

Quijano also clarified that the works at the cathedral are not for renovation.

They will cooperate with the NHCP, as they are pleased that ongoing dialogues are now taking place.

They also invited experts to comply with the NHCP’s directives.

Earlier, Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez met with Diocese of Bacolod Bishop Patricio Buzon to discuss the NHCP’s concerns.

Benitez expressed concern about the fire hazards at the cathedral, due to outdated electrical wiring.

He pledged support to address safety concerns, particularly its structural integrity.

San Sebastian Cathedral was constructed in 1825.

The construction of its present appearance, made from Guimaras’ coral stones and Palawan’s hardwood, began in 1876.

Bishop Mariano Cuartero of the Jaro Archdiocese consecrated the cathedral on January 19, 1882, the eve of St. Sebastian’s feast day.

It has become a cultural and religious landmark in Negros Occidental since then./DGB, WDJ