/PNA
DUMAGUETE CITY – The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) is set to declare the Dumaguete Presidencia as an Important Cultural Property.
The Dumaguete Presidencia is the old city hall of Dumaguete, restoration of which was commenced last year to house a museum.
City Tourism Officer Jacqueline Veloso Antonio on Monday explained that only the original building that housed the old city hall, and not including the current and existing extension of various offices, will be covered by the Public Declaration.
She said the Presidencia was able to meet certain parameters for having cultural and historical significance to qualify for the declaration.
The original city hall or Presidencia was built in 1937 by the well-known Architect Juan Arellano, which gives the structure its historical significance and value, Antonio said.
Last year, the city government, headed by Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo, embarked on a PHP50-million restoration of the old city hall with an initial announcement that it would be converted into a regional museum.
However, City Tourism Antonio said it is now to be called The National Museum in Dumaguete City, quoting the NMP.
One of the benefits of the Dumaguete Presidencia being declared an Important Cultural Property is that “we can now receive national funding for maintenance, restoration, and anything that needs fixing”, Antonio pointed out.
National Museum officials will lead the public declaration on Wednesday, she said.
