Statement of the Naga City Arts and Culture Coalition (NCACC) on the Intent to Delist the Old Provincial Jail Buildings as an Important Cultural Property
We Stand for Historical and Cultural Significance
The desire to preserve the edifices of the Old Provincial Jail extends beyond their former role as the Carcel Provincial of Camarines Sur; it also encompasses their historical significance as the site of the Administraccion de Correo and, especially, the Obras Pias which used the buildings for charity works. These structures, constructed during the Spanish period, hold great importance in the local heritage of Naga City and Camarines Sur as a whole. The proposed demolition of these buildings would entail the loss of several crucial elements:
- Preservation of Local Culture. These edifices play a pivotal role in preserving the narrative of the lifestyle and culture of the Nagueños and the people of Camarines Sur, whose communication heavily relied on snail mail during a bygone era.
- Historical Evidence. They serve as tangible historical evidence of correctional administration in the Philippines, giving insights into the nation’s penal system’s evolution.
- Architectural and Engineering Lessons. These colonial-era structures offer valuable lessons in engineering and architecture, reflecting the craftsmanship of the time.
In a letter from Mayor Nelson Legacion to National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) OIC Carminda Arevalo dated August 9, 2023, he highlights the opposing views regarding the preservation of these structures. Some argue for preservation based on their historical and cultural significance as a former Provincial Jail from the Spanish colonial period, while others contend that these edifices lack cultural or historical importance because they housed criminals.
Had this been the primary justification, it is essential then to consider that the Philippine Government has successfully repurposed former correctional facilities into sites of historical significance. Examples include the National Museum of the Philippines in Ilocos, the Museo Sugbo in Cebu City, the National Museum of the Philippines Western Visayas in Iloilo City, and the Sorsogon Provincial Jail in Sorsogon City. These institutions have transformed former jails into cultural and historical landmarks, emphasizing the potential of adaptive reuse.
The argument that these edifices lack cultural or historical significance due to their association with criminal confinement is refutable. Fort Santiago served as a correctional facility and remains a pertinent component in the discourse around Spanish colonial history. Correctional facilities are historical testaments to the evolving philosophy and the development of the criminal justice system. This is pertinent not just to historians, but also to lawyers, and to society in general–particularly because the concept of justice remains a core area of reflection even in this day and in these times.
But far more than the question of the value of jailhouses, these buildings, constructed in 1826, are witnesses to a significant part of Philippine history, particularly the Philippine revolution. It must be noted that the Guardia Civil were confined in these buildings during the uprising of September 1898 in which Felix Plazo and Elias Angeles figured significantly. Whatever remains of this old structure is tied to real events that happened in history.
From an architectural and heritage conservation perspective, the structure in question is the only one that has a civic and secular importance in Naga City. We must note that the other Spanish-era edifices are churches. The conservation and restoration of the old jail opens new opportunities for archival research so that we can further explore the civic, administrative, judicial, and governance-oriented historical landscape.
Studies and commentaries on the importance of the structure have been put forward by historians, heritage conservation advocates, cultural commentators, Bikolistas, and architects. In his book (2019), Jose Fernando Obias–renowned educator, editor-columnist, and local historian–commented on the historical and social importance of the structure. He commented that the structure evolved in use and function in line with the changing times, housing charitable initiatives supporting hospitals, missions, and schools during its early stages. It was then repurposed towards the end of the 19th century as a prison facility for natives who refused and rebelled against the Spanish colonial enterprise.
It has to be noted that the creative and cultural community of Naga City, particularly groups and institutions aligned with heritage conservation, are not antagonistic to the commercial potential of the site on which the remains of the old jail is located. The proposal is for the adaptive reuse of these structures to meet the needs of commerce and modernity. Notable is the research and recommendation in “What’s Next Naga: How Built Heritage and New Developments Can Co-exist” (Priela, Bongcayao, de Villa, and Bandales, 2023) which was presented at the 2023 National Convention of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP). While Naga is rapidly expanding in terms of commerce, we must not lose sight of the fact that it is a city deeply rooted in history. Ciudad de Nueva Caceres (Naga City) is one of the four Spanish royal cities, along with Cebu, Manila, Vigan (Fernandina). We must consider this as a crucial narrative in crafting the identity and the brand of the city.
Mayor Legacion has emphasized the fact that they were built during the Spanish era and that this fact should serve as a strong rationale for their protection and preservation. Instead of demolishing them due to structural deterioration over a century, renovation and retrofitting can extend their lifespan. In other countries, much older edifices are preserved, renovated, and even made stronger to withstand the test of time. We believe we can also do the same with the buildings in question.
These stone buildings are tangible heritage, offering a tangible link to the rich history of our city. Their historical significance and architectural beauty encapsulate our identity and reflect our community’s roots. They have witnessed the passage of time and the evolution of our city, making their demolition an irreparable loss to our culture.
Preserving these structures presents numerous advantages, both culturally and economically. They have the potential to become museums or tourist attractions, showcasing our past, attracting visitors, and generating revenue for the community. The income generated can be reinvested in the conservation of more historical landmarks, infrastructural improvements, and job creation.
Furthermore, retaining these stone buildings demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of heritage and modern development. We need not sacrifice our history for progress; preserving our heritage can enhance our city’s appeal and competitiveness. The blend of historical buildings with contemporary amenities and infrastructure creates a unique and attractive environment that draws people from all around.
Stating all these, the Naga City Arts and Culture Coalition—with its members, both individuals and organizations—implores our local authorities to reconsider the proposal to demolish these two-century-old stone buildings. These structures are more than just bricks and stones; they symbolize our cultural heritage and offer significant potential for community development. By preserving them and allowing them to evolve into museums or tourist attractions, we can celebrate our past while building a brighter future for our city. Heritage and progress can coexist seamlessly, and it is our responsibility to ensure this for the benefit of present and future generations.
Signed by officers of NCACC, November 6, 2023:
Victor Dennis T. Nierva, President, NCACC, Representative - Cultural Dissemination
Dennis B. Gonzaga, Internal Vice President, Representative - Literature
Roger Palacio II, External Vice President, Representative - Music
Isbel Borja, Secretary, Representative - Theatre
Jenn Romano, Treasurer, Representative - Film
Arch. Gianpaolo Priela, Auditor, Representative - Architecture & Allied Designs
Junar Narzolis, Board Member, Representative - Dance
Boom Pili, Board Member, Representative - Cultural Dissemination
Junie Linsoco, Board Member, Representative - Visual Art
Jojie Gonzales, Board Member, Representative - Cultural Heritage
Tobias Oliva, Board Member, Representative - New Arts
Ron Albis, Board Member, Representative - Cultural Heritage
NCACC MEMBERS: Maryanne Moll, Eilyn L. Nidea, Rome Candaza, Karl Ramirez, Kristine Andrea Hidalgo, Teresita F. Santiago-Rey, Khryss Arañas, Ruben Jeffrey Asuncion, Javier Leonardo Rugeria, Jawaid Banaag, Ron Albis, Mark Anthony Glorioso – NCMA & NHCP JMR Museum, Catherine Fornoles, UNC Arki, Christian Bala, GKI, Patch Cunanan, UNC Arki, Christian Bala, CCC, Elmer T. Sto. Domingo Jr., Lou Lobis Tagubhang, Raymond Roldan, Abegael Arnante, April Macawile, Brian Borja, Melody Ramos, Georgie Marano, Princess Serapio, Andy Belmonte, JoMariza Belmonte, Romulo Prado Jr., Aljames Capillan, Dibhie Azuela, John Patrick Cunanan, John Angelo Tipones, Kenneth Isaiah Ibasco Abante, Alaine Fornoles, Fr. Francis A. Tordilla, Gene Kervin S. Borja II,Seth Trinidad, Augustus Cezar Abad, Lemuel Ubante, Lemuel Amaro, Amante Ama, Jimarie C. Lagos, Luis Ruben M. General, Marjun A. Sedeño, Biboy Davila, Ar. Ian Kenneth L. Orasa, UAP Cam Sur, Eden Elizan-Velarde, Paz Verdades-Santos, Judge Soliman M. Santos Jr. (Ret.), Stephanie Mira, Edward Vincent Verzosa Ico, Michael Lopez, Patricia Yangco, Jusan Misolas, Ann Ojeda, Kaye Nacario, Chingkay Alfonso, Danilo Ludovice, Sieglinde Borromeo, Mila Raquid-Arroyo, Rhandy V. Salvani, Deceree Joy Lipa, Herman Cledera, Joy Cledera, Leilani Guinto, Elsie Albis, Marc Felix, Joannah Ramores, Ar. Dino Amiel Bongcayao, UNC. Ann Padin, Nonna Mikhaila Casillan,Luis Nicanor Aguirre, Asendo Belmonte, Chingkee Claro, Marissa R. Redburn, Helga Andrea Casillan, Karlo Andrew Casillan, Fr. Chito Valenciano, Jose Blas David III, Ruvi Jean Cariño, Josefina Valencia, Maritess Linsoco, Glad Belmin, Niña Ruizo, Fabie Arejola
Recent Developments
Dateline Ibalon is monitoring developments on this issue. According to Leo Paulo Imperial, President, Nueva Caceres Heritage Movement, as of March 8, 2024, the proponents are still waiting for primary sources from the national archives to support the historical value of the old Post Office. We will update our readers as new information is obtained. Currently, these are the calls for support from Naga City civic and cultural leaders on social media:
IRVIN PARCO (Chairman, Parasurat Bikolnon), FB page, February 14, 2024
History is repeating itself. In 2014, Naga City Mayor John Bongat vetoed the resolution passed by the Sangguniang Panlunsod which was presided by then city councilor now Representative (Camarines Sur, 3rd District) Gabriel Hidalgo Bordado. Jr. protecting the Spanish ruins along Penafrañcia Avenue which served as the provincial jail and post office based on the collective memory of Naguenos and Bicolanos.
Exactly a decade since the SP Resolution 2014-038 was passed, the current city council headed by Vice Mayor Cecilia Veluz-De Asis, unanimously passed Resolution 2024-054, a similar resolution protecting the two remaining Spanish colonial structures, even older than the Republic by decades!
The said Resolution has not been signed by current Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion for there are some clarifications that needed to be addressed. In his note, the good mayor Son is looking for factual basis and proofs of the arguments found in the unanimously approved resolution of the Sangguniang Panlunsod.
As one of the signatories and multi-sectoral groups who push for the preservation and conservation of these important cultural properties (click the weblink to the updated petition below), I believe that we have done our part, even risking our privacy and security, and that, I would leave the decision to the good mayor.
VICTOR DENNIS T. NIERVA (President, NCACC), FB page, March 5, 2024
If there’s no ‘hard’ evidence that Elias Angeles and Felix Plazo did not stay in those old provincial jail buildings, so what?
How about the year of construction (1826), the purposes for which they were created, the subsequent natures of use, the engineering and architecture of the structure, the local history that these edifices have witnessed, the fact that that these are, perhaps, the only remaining early 19th-century edifices in Naga related to civic history? Aren’t these merits for the building’s preservation?
The National Museum in Ilocos, the Museo Sugbo in Cebu, the National Museum in Iloilo City, and the Provincial Jail in Sorsogon City. These former jailhouses are now landmarks.
What evidence do we still need? Should we deprive our children a window, a small window, to our civic past? This alone should move us.