Checking on the Cathedral

A week ago today, three architects who are connected with Escuela Taller came to Calbayog upon the invitation of Bishop Isabelo Abarquez. They were on hand to do an ocular inspection of the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral and to make the appropriate recommendation on the "Landscaping" project at the said cathedral. It has been a week since the work on the said project was ordered stopped by the Bishop. What will be done next will be dictated by the recommendations of the three architects namely Professor Eric Zerrudo, Professor Tina Silao - Bulaong and Architect Rino Fernandez.

Here are some of the pictures I managed to take as the group checked on all areas of the cathedral before the meeting at the Bishop's Residence.

Professor Tina Silao-Bulaong as she explained some initial findings at one of the buttresses the plaster of which has been stripped off.

Professor Eric Zerrudo with Fr. Noel Labendia.

Professor Bulaong and Professor Rino Fernandez as they checked on some vintage photos of the Cathedral.

The group checking on the facade of the cathedral.

The group as they took a close look at the retablo.

The three architects / professors at the area between the cathedral and the Diocesan Pastoral Center where one will see figures / objects / ornaments (photos of which I have attached below) that will give clues on the history of the cathedral.

The image which tells us that the cathedral was constructed in the 1800s. As to exactly which year, we have no idea (at least from the picture) because the last two digits were chipped off, thanks to the opening which was put in place for a beam or something.

(as of the moment I have no caption for this picture and the one below. I misplaced the notes where I wrote the terms given to me by Architect Fernandez.)

Architect Rino Fernandez with Fr. Noel Labendia

The oculus which can be seen at the right side of the retablo. How do you find it? The next time you attend mass (especially the 8:00 am mass), try to look for the two "holes" on which sunlight enters on top of the retablo.

Architect Fernandez giving some explanation on his findings. Please note the coral limestone AND the plaster (palitada made of/from apog). It is one proof that the cathedral walls had plaster finish all over.

And yes, Professors Zerrudo and Fernandez climbed all the way to the ceiling where they found 12x12 and 8x8 molave trusses, rafter and the traditional lock system which support the roof structure. According to them, these are still in good condition. However, it's a different story for the ceiling and the ceiling joists. These need attention.