Retrofitting of Historic Churches Backed

The Catholic church supports Wong Chu King Foundation's move to aid in the retrofitting of historic churches in Philippine provinces following the earthquake that damaged historical and religious structures in Bohol and Cebu last October 2013.

Retrofitting of Historic Churches Backed

Wong Chu King Foundation has so far extended assistance in the renovation of the roofs and ceiling of the historic Diocesan Shrine of Immaculate Conception church in Naic, Cavite and the renovation of the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat Church in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.

Rev. Ricardo Baccay, Auxiliary Bishop of Tuguegarao City, described Wong Chu King Foundation’s work as “a step in the right direction.”

"My diocese, like all dioceses, have serious concerns. If WCK is out to help, retrofitting historic churches is one of the best forms of help it can give.” Baccay said in a statement released by the foundation.

“The devastation brought about by the recent Visayas earthquake has firmed up our advocacy to build more churches and strengthen the Filipino faith.” said Wong Chu King Foundation General Manager James Vincent Navarette.

“However, we also understand that this is not enough. We have to make sure that the design and structure of these buildings, particularly the old and existing ones, are safe and resistant to calamities such as earthquakes.”Navarette said.

Seismic retrofitting is the process of remodeling structures to make them more resistant to damage brought about by earthquakes and other seismic activities. Retrofitting aims to design, build, and maintain structures to comply with building codes and withstand seismic effects while sustaining an acceptable level of damage.