Cebu: Amid ongoing relief and rescue efforts, local officials on Wednesday have been urged to also ensure the protection of national heritage sites damaged by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu province.
According to Philippines News Agency, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) expressed its deepest sympathies and solidarity to the communities affected by the temblor as it joined the nation in mourning the loss of lives. NHCP Chair Regalado Trota Jose Jr. voiced full support for the government’s ongoing priority of saving lives, delivering aid, and ensuring the safety of residents in quake-hit areas.
He noted that several historic sites and structures in the region sustained damage, describing them as enduring symbols of faith, identity, and shared memory of the Cebuanos. “While full attention remains focused on relief and rescue operations, we encourage our local partners to take initial protective measures such as safeguarding movable heritage, retrieving significant fragments, and documenting the extent of the damage for future reference,” he said.
To plan appropriate steps moving forward, he assured the public that NHCP is coordinating with cultural agencies and local stakeholders while maintaining a balance between the immediate needs of affected communities and the preservation of Cebu’s cultural heritage.
Earlier, NHCP’s Materials Research Conservation Division released guidelines for caretakers of historic objects. They were advised to secure premises by protecting entry and exit points with barricades and caution tapes to prevent unauthorized access. They are also urged to assess structural stability before any retrieval, while wearing protective clothing such as hard hats, gloves, and brightly colored clothing.
Additional guidelines include documenting and photographing damaged objects carefully while remaining alert to falling debris, retrieving and protecting artifacts by wrapping them in clean cloth or Japanese tissue, and placing them in sturdy boxes. They should also label broken parts for easier identification during future restoration and retrieve undamaged objects if possible for safekeeping.
Salvaged items should be transported to a secure area identified by heritage administrators, where a detailed inventory and photographs of the damage can be taken. The NHCP advises consulting professionals and skilled artisans for proper restoration work.
The NHCP also reminded caretakers to be cautious in uploading photos on social media, as such information could be exploited by thieves or vandals.
