This weekend, Renacimiento Manila is set to lead an engaging heritage walk through some of the most iconic basilicas in Manila, offering participants a deeper understanding of the Philippines' rich history.
Bea Dolores, co-founder and president of Renacimiento Manila, emphasized the importance of visiting these significant structures to enhance awareness of the country's cultural heritage.
Ang ating heritage walks ay nagdadala mismo sa mga kababayan natin sa ating mga makasaysayang lugar para mas mabigyan pa natin ng lalim ang ating pag-unawa at kaalaman po sa mga pinupuntahan natin.
Bea Dolores, Co-founder and President, Renacimiento Manila
The walk will cover five basilicas, each recognized for their historical and cultural significance:
- San Sebastian Church: The only all-steel church in Asia and the first minor basilica in the Philippines, recognized in 1890.
- Quiapo Church: Known as the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, it houses the revered image of the Black Nazarene.
- Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar: Also called Santa Cruz Church, it is a key shrine dedicated to the devotion to Our Lady of the Pillar.
- Binondo Church: Notable for being the wedding site of Andres Bonifacio and Gregoria de Jesus before the Philippine Revolution.
- Manila Cathedral: Elevated to minor basilica status by Pope John Paul II in 1981, it serves as the mother church of the Philippines.
Diego Gabriel Torres, the heritage walk coordinator, noted that a basilica is designated by the papacy due to its significance to the Catholic faith.
Attendees like Mark Wong find the experience both educational and enlightening, highlighting the cultural landscape of Manila.
I find it very educational and enlightening showcasing the heritage sites of Manila.
Mark Wong, Participant
Torres also stressed the necessity of recognizing these structures as they embody the living history of Christian communities in the Philippines.
As the nation observes National Heritage Month in May, this initiative aligns with efforts to promote appreciation for Filipino culture and history, as outlined in Presidential Proclamation No. 439.
Historian Melanie Turingan-Marcos from the University of Santo Tomas noted that local government units can launch activities to celebrate heritage, whether online or on-site.