Funding Increased for Campanario de Dumaguete’s Restoration by National Museum of the Philippines

The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) has allocated additional funds exceeding US$105,000 for the second phase of the restoration and site development of the historic Campanario de Dumaguete, located in its namesake province. This project aims to restore the bell tower to its original state.

Monsignor Julius Perpetuo S Heruela, head of the Committee on Church Cultural Heritage, expressed gratitude towards the NMP for their commitment to the restoration, highlighting the effort required to accurately preserve the structure. He stated: “The diocese, led by Bishop Julito Cortes, is thankful to director Jeremy Barnes of the National Museum for their meticulous research in sourcing photographs and information necessary for a precise restoration.”

The project covers a duration of 180 days and will include extensive restoration efforts. The initiative marks its second phase after an initial funding of nearly US$1.5 million was designated last year.

The significance of the bell tower extends beyond its architectural style; it represents the cultural heritage and faith of the local community. A meeting was held on August 7 for updates on the restoration progress, with attendance from members of the heritage committee and local government representatives.

During a virtual briefing, Benjamin Empleo Concepcion, the project-in-charge, reported that the restoration project is currently 91.4 percent complete. He noted that recent discoveries necessitated changes to the original restoration plan, resulting in further research.

Established in the 1800s, the Dumaguete bell tower was recognized as an Important Cultural Property by the NMP prior to the pandemic.