via Manila Times, 22 July 2024: The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority has increased the budget for restoring the historic Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church in Sibonga, Cebu, to P100 million. Initially proposed at P15 million, the increase follows a detailed assessment of typhoon damage. Restoration includes structural consolidation, interior refurbishments, and exterior enhancements, ensuring the preservation of this Level 2 Historical Site, established in 1866, for future generations.
The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) has increased its budget for the restoration and rehabilitation of the historic Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church in Sibonga town, southern Cebu to P100 million.
During a meeting earlier this month, Tieza officials briefed Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia on the significant budget increase from the initial P15 million, based on a report by Sugbo News, Capitol’s social media arm.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines originally proposed the budget to address severe damage caused by Typhoon “Odette” in 2021. However, after an onsite assessment led by Tieza Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid in November 2022, the initial budget was deemed inadequate.
