SOS: National heritage faces destruction

Unknown to many, including Taalenyos, the Taal Basilica in Taal, Batangas, is a protected monument. Declared a National Heritage landmark in 1974 by the National Historical Institute (NHI) by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 375, it is covered by Republic Act No. 10066 or the National Heritage Act of 2009.

Built in 1857, it has been preserved through the centuries and is considered the largest basilica in Asia. Nestled atop the hill overlooking Balayan Bay, it imposes an awesome and majestic presence, evoking quiet strength and elegance. Its unique artistic character makes more notable its architectural and historical significance and has given it recognition as a “cultural property.”

Section 20 of RA 10066 prohibits anyone to deface or otherwise change in a manner that would destroy the basilica’s “dignity and authenticity.” Therefore, any change or construction of additional features that would compromise or diminish its historical and cultural value would constitute a violation of the law.

But where to raise the red flag and seek immediate redress when a cultural property is being destroyed? Under Section 28 of the law, the local government unit that has jurisdiction over the site of the cultural property must report the same to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP, formerly NHI) immediately upon its discovery and promptly adopt measures to secure the integrity of that property.

But what if a local government unit chooses to remain quiet and docile? How would the NHCP exercise its mandate?

Section 31 states: The NHCP can deputize the PNP, NBI, AFP and other local or national law enforcement agencies to execute the provisions of RA 10066. Failure to follow deputization order shall be penalized in accordance with Section 49 (Penal Provisions). Upon conviction, the offender shall be fined no less than P200,000 or imprisoned for 10 years, or both, upon the court’s discretion.

But then, what if the cultural property is being destroyed by natural causes? Which among the following must take precedence in the management of our heritage infrastructures? Building new structures, restoration activities, or retrofitting?

Made of adobe and coral blocks held together by lime and egg whites typical of Spanish colonial era structures, the Taal Basilica has borne major cracks for decades. The recent earthquake that left in ruins Bohol’s heritage churches, which were made of similar materials, should serve as an alarm bell for the “immediate retrofitting” of the basilica. Nature has given us a warning. Under Section 20 of RA 10066, we are obliged “to save and preserve the basilica from destruction due to natural causes.” Or we will have to answer inexcusable gross negligence.

After all, the basilica is a tourism landmark of our town, even a national patrimony, indeed a national treasure in which Taalenyos take great pride. Like any other heritage, once it is lost, we will be left to imagining a past, if ever the next generation would have a memory of it.

—NORMA G. ATIENZA,

Concerned Taalenyos

for Heritage Preservation

and Patrimony, [email protected]