The bishop of Dumaguete welcomed a statement made by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines opposing the construction of a Masonic obelisk in front of the city’s Catholic cathedral.
Bishop Julito Cortes quoted a letter from the commission saying that all Spanish and American colonial period plazas and public squares in the country are “national historical sites.”
In the same letter, the commission said it intends to “save and preserve public places” and provide the public with enough space where they can congregate and hold public programs.
It said the Board of Commissioners “are not in favor of the plan” of the city government of Dumaguete to construct a 18-story Masonic obelisk anywhere “within the public plaza.”
“[The commission] is not against the project per se but it should be constructed in an alternative site with a zoning classification that is more appropriate for the intended project,” read the letter.
Bishop Cortes said in a statement that he “acknowledges with great joy and gratitude” the decision of the commission “to disfavor the plan.”
“This is truly a wonderful Christmas gift to all of us,” said the bishop.
“May we continue to pursue the path of dialogue and unity, always open to the invitations of the Spirit of God and ready to reach out in solidarity and respect,” he added.
In November, the city of Dumaguete broke ground for the “Dumaguete Tower,” a Masonic obelisk funded by a private donor who is a known freemason.
The Parish Pastoral Council of the Catholic cathedral later sent an appeal to the historical commission to intervene on the obelisk’s proposed construction.
