(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
PALAPAG, Northern Samar– As a tribute to Fr. Francisco Ignacio Alcina for his significant contributions to preserving the culture and history of the Bisayan Islands, including Northern Samar, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in coordination with the provincial government of Northern Samar, the Diocese of Catarman, and the municipal government of Palapag, led the ceremonial unveiling of the historical marker “Padre Francisco Ignacio Alcina, SJ” at the ruins of the Old Palapag Church on July 30, 2024.
This event coincided with his 350th death anniversary and the opening of History Month in the Philippines.
The ceremony commemorated Fr. Alcina’s enduring legacy and deep connection with his “beloved Bisayans,” as well as his writings that contributed to the appreciation and understanding of Nortehanon history, culture, language, arts, and tradition.
The historical marker is installed at the ruins of the Old Palapag Church, where Fr. Alcina spent years writing his seminal work, “Historia de las islas e indios de Bisayas,” a documentation of the pre-colonial and early colonial period of the 17th-century Visayas.
The event was graced by NHCP chairman Regalado Trota Jose, Jr., NHCP deputy executive director for programs and projects Alvin R. Alcid, Governor Edwin Ongchuan, Vice Governor Clarence Dato, Palapag Mayor Fawa Batula, Catarman Apostolic Administrator Nolly C. Buco, D.D., and Rev. Fr. Lito C. Jumadiao, parish priest of Nuestra Señora de Asuncion – Palapag.
Also present were Board Members Don Abalon, Dexter Galit, Leonida Laodenio, Gina Silvano, and Marites Gillamac, historians Professor Rolando Borrinaga and Ian Christopher Alfonzo, other municipal mayors, and key figures.
The installation of the memorial plaque highlights the provincial government’s commitment to preserving the rich history and culture of Northern Samar and honoring the people dedicated to the same cause.
(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
