NHCP unveils “Ang mga Agustino Rekoleto sa Pilipinas” marker

CEBU CITY – On the 402nd anniversary since the establishment of the Recollect missionary in Cebu in 1621, the historical marker “Ang Mga Agustino Rekoleto sa Pilipinas” was unveiled at the University of San Jose- Recoletos (USJ-R) main campus.

The unveiling was led by NHCP Chairman Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo and Rev. Fr. Bernard C. Amparado, OAR, Prior Provincial of the Order of the Augustinian Recollects.

Serving as witnesses for the turn-over of the marker are Ms. Carminda R. Arevalo, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Executive Director of the NHCP, and Rev. Fr. Antonio S. Limchaypo, OAR, Vice President for Administration of USJ-R.

Dr. Calairo, Rev. Fr. Amparado, Ms. Arevalo and Rev. Fr. Limchaypo were joined in the unveiling of the marker by Department of Tourism Undersecretary for Legal and Special Concerns Atty. Mae Elaine T. Bathan, Atty. Ronald Guinto who represented Cebu City Mayor Michael Lopez Rama, and Rev. Fr. Eduardo S. Seliz, Jr., OAR, President of USJ-R.

Liturgical Yodelers Recoletos led the doxology and the singing of the National Anthem. Rev. Fr. Antonio S. Limchaypo, Vice President for Administration of USJ-R, gave the opening remarks. Prof. Emmanuel Luis A. Romanillos, historian and OAR Brother-General, gave an inspirational message.

The marker recognizes the contributions of the Order of Augustinian Recollects in the Philippines since their arrival in 1606. These contributions include the missions in the sectors of education, public works and the establishment of towns and communities in the country.

On May 12, the Order will commemorate the 417th anniversary since the arrival of the first Recollect friars in the country. On that day, USJ-R will have its inaugural participation as an official participating site for Gabii sa Kabilin (Night of Heritage).

Source: National Historical Commission of the Philippines (Facebook page); University of San Jose-Recoletos (Facebook page)