Cordillera Administrative Region
The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in the northern part of the Philippines is home to a rich cultural heritage and boasts several notable historical structures that reflect the region’s unique history and indigenous traditions. The Cordillera region is inhabited by various indigenous peoples, including the Ifugao, Kalinga, Bontoc, and Ibaloi, each with their own distinct architectural styles and building techniques.
Here are some of the significant historical structures in the Cordillera Administrative Region:
- St. Mary the Virgin Church
- Bontoc Museum
- Old Diplomat Hotel
St. Mary the Virgin Church
The St. Mary the Virgin Church in Sagada stands as a testament to the enduring influence of American missionaries and the resilience of local communities in spreading Christianity and preserving cultural heritage in the Philippines. Built in 1896 by American missionaries led by John Staunton, the church initially featured a wooden structure with cogon thatch roofing. However, due to the decaying wood, the church was rebuilt in 1904 using stone, a construction project that lasted until 1921, guided by American missionaries and executed by local craftsmen.
The church was dedicated to St. Mary the Virgin by the American missionaries, symbolizing Mary’s virtue of obedience and faith in God. Its construction process was meticulously organized and supervised by the missionaries, utilizing locally available materials such as stone, wood, and corrugated iron sheets. The architectural design of the church reflects the trends of the early 20th century, incorporating pointed arches, stained glass windows, step roofs, and decorative details.
Throughout its history, St. Mary the Virgin has played a pivotal role in the spiritual and cultural life of the Sagada community. It was the first church established in Sagada and became a parish in 1962. During World War II, the church provided shelter and safety to the residents of Sagada, serving as a sanctuary during turbulent times. Over the years, the church has also served as a venue for various religious ceremonies, including weddings, baptisms, and community gatherings.
Owned by the Episcopal Church in the Philippines, St. Mary the Virgin has a rich legacy and historical significance in the broader context of Philippine culture and religion. It represents a unique blend of traditional beliefs and Christian rituals, reflecting the cultural identity of the Sagada community. Today, the church continues to be a place of worship, spiritual guidance, and cultural preservation for both local communities and visitors alike.
To ensure the preservation of its structure and heritage, St. Mary the Virgin undergoes regular maintenance, including cleaning, inspections, and necessary repairs. As one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in Sagada, the church remains a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural heritage, attracting tourists and pilgrims from around the world.
Located in Poblacion, Sagada, Mountain Province, the St. Mary the Virgin Church stands as a timeless beacon of faith, community, and cultural identity, embodying the enduring spirit and legacy of its founders and the generations of worshippers who have called it home.
Bontoc Museum
The Bontoc Museum, located in Bontoc, Mountain Province, Philippines, serves as a cultural repository and educational institution that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the indigenous peoples of the Cordillera region. Established in 1970, the museum was envisioned as a way to preserve and promote the unique cultural identity of the Bontoc people and neighboring indigenous communities.
The museum’s collection features a diverse array of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that provide insights into the traditional lifestyles, rituals, customs, and beliefs of the indigenous tribes of the Cordillera region. From intricately woven textiles, traditional weaponry, and ceremonial objects to photographs, documents, and archival materials, the Bontoc Museum offers visitors a comprehensive overview of the region’s cultural heritage.
The establishment of the Bontoc Museum was a collaborative effort involving local communities, tribal leaders, and government authorities who recognized the importance of preserving and documenting the cultural heritage of the Cordillera peoples. The museum’s mission extends beyond mere preservation, aiming to foster cultural pride, awareness, and understanding among both local residents and visitors.
Over the years, the Bontoc Museum has become a vital hub for cultural education, research, and community engagement. It has hosted various cultural events, workshops, and educational programs aimed at promoting appreciation for the indigenous cultures of the Cordillera region and encouraging dialogue and exchange between different communities.
Owned and managed by the local government of Bontoc, the Bontoc Museum is dedicated to ensuring the long-term preservation, integrity, and accessibility of its collections. The museum regularly undergoes conservation efforts, cataloging, and documentation to safeguard its valuable artifacts and enhance its educational offerings.
As a cultural landmark and heritage site, the Bontoc Museum plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural legacy of the Cordillera peoples and celebrating the diversity and richness of Philippine indigenous cultures. It serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting generations and inspiring a renewed appreciation for the traditions, values, and artistic expressions of the indigenous communities of the Cordillera region.
Today, the Bontoc Museum continues to fulfill its mandate as a cultural institution, welcoming visitors from around the world and providing a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant tapestry of Cordillera culture. Through its exhibits, programs, and outreach efforts, the museum remains committed to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the cultural heritage of the Bontoc people and the wider indigenous communities of the Cordillera region for generations to come.
Old Diplomat Hotel
The historic Diplomat Hotel in Baguio City, Philippines, was constructed around 1911, in the early twentieth century, as a rest home and retreat for Dominican friars. It was designed by Fr. Roque Ruaño, O.P., he was a Spanish priest-civil engineer. The hotel was built on a 17-hectare hill site purchased from Americans living in Baguio City at the time. Though the exact timeline is not well-documented, the construction of the building began in 1913 and was completed roughly two years later.
Over the decades, the Diplomat Hotel in Baguio City, Philippines has undergone several reconstructions that transformed it from a retreat house to a hotel and later on became a tourist destination and attraction. Despite suffering damages from World War II, the building has retained its historical and architectural significance. The structure likely acquired the name “Diplomat Hotel” when it was converted into a lodging place that became popular to the travelers and tourists.
According to the Diplomat Hotel historical monument, the construction of this structure began in 1913 and was completed in 1915. However, its previous name before becoming “Diplomat Hotel” was a Retreat House and Dominican Hill. Dominican Hill and Retreat Residence in Dominican Hill of Baguio City served as a vacation spot for Dominicans at that time.
The Dominican Retreat House and Residence was converted into a temporary school as the Collegio del Santissimo Rosario School around 1915 to 1918. But it was only for a short time and returned in 1928.
During World War II, Dominican Hill and Retreat House were turned into a Refugee Center by the Dominicans. The building served as a shelter for refugees fleeing the Japanese military.
Later, the Americans attacked the building that was now the Japanese headquarters. The Japanese, on the other hand, committed mass suicides within the area.
If there’s a question lingering on your thoughts like “Where does “Diplomat Hotel” name come from?”I got you! According to Feliz Grace Bueno from Pinoybuilders.ph, it got it as a result of the acquisition by the Diplomat Hotels Corporation. The property turned into a hotel and was renamed as Diplomat Hotel. The hotel was managed by Antonio Agapito “Tony” Agpaoa. Agpaoa was a businessman, spiritual healer, and a psychiatric surgeon. Agpoao passed away from a heart attack and the operations of the hotel have been halted and temporarily closed to the public.
historical structures in the philippines 