La Loma Chapel conservation program launched by diocese of Kalookan, ETFFI

The Diocese of Kalookan, in partnership with the Escuela Taller de Filipinas Foundation, Inc (ETTFI), has officially launched the conservation program for the La Loma Chapel.

According to a press release, the project will begin with the restoration of the facade where plants, including root systems, will be removed.

ETTFI’s head of conservation team Arch. Jeffrey Cobilla said the facade work is expected to finish within eight months. He estimates the whole site will take years to finish.

Director of the Diocesan Commission on Cultural Heritage Fr. Paul Woo said they aim to restore the chapel so it can, once again, serve as a “center for worship.”

“The value that comes from every artifact is a gentle reminder for all of us to appreciate the richness of history, culture, and heritage that come from within,” he said.

Fr. Woo added that he sees this time as a great opportunity to “educate” people and the community on giving “importance to structures.”

“Find meaning in it and develop a sense of appreciation as each artifact turn back time for all of us such that we can also pass it on to the next generation,” he said.

Apart from the physical conservation, the Diocese of Kalookan and ETFFI have also been drafting a Conservation Management Plan for the community.

This is to “inform and guide the Diocese and the community on how to manage and care for the chapel regularly and sustainably” even after the restoration.

The Old La Loma Cemetery Chapel, formerly known as Binondo Cemetery, is a National Cultural Treasure and is considered the oldest active cemetery in Manila. — LA, GMA News