ILOILO City – The newly restored century-old Campanario de Jaro (Jaro Belfry) just cross the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral is the newest attraction at Jaro Plaza.
The historical landmark was officially turned over by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) to the Iloilo City government and the Archdiocese of Jaro.
Restoration took one year to complete and its carillon bells were once again heard during the turnover on Sunday, Nov. 27 – 74 years after the belfry was destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1948.
Built in 1744, has served both as a religious structure and as a military watchtower during the Spanish colonial period.
The turnover document was signed by NHCP OIC-executive director Carminda Arevalo, former senator Franklin Drilon, NHCP chairperson Rene Escalante, Jaro Archbishop Jose Romeo Lazo, Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas, and Jaro parish priest Monsignor Joemarie Delgado.
“The Archdiocese of Jaro gladly accepts the newly restored Jaro Belfry. This is a shared heritage of the church, the local government of Iloilo City and the Filipino nation as a whole,” said Lazo.
Campanario de Jaro is one of the few belfries in the country built separate from their churches where they are usually incorporated to. The three-storey tower, which stands roughly 29 meters high, is made of irregular and massive fire bricks, limestone and coral blocks.
“This restoration will only reach its full circle when this edifice becomes dedicated to the glory of God… Every time we see this beautiful belfry, may we remember God, the Master Builder of Creation. And every time we hear its melodies, may we be reminded to sanctify our time and unite in prayer,” said Archbishop Lazo.
The Jaro Belfry is a testament to the Ilonggos’ strong Catholic faith. The four statues on its four corners symbolize the cardinal virtues of fortitude, justice, prudence, and temperance as taught by the Church.
Through time, the campanario suffered damages from earthquakes and other natural calamities that struck Panay Island.
The turning over of the belfry is an attestation of the line, “Iloilo City: where past is always present”, said Mayor Treñas.
Among others, he thanked Senator Drilon for being instrumental in the realization of the restoration.
Treñas said the belfry’s restoration and all other rehabilitation and developmental efforts in the city give Ilonggos a sense of pride.
Drilon, for his part, said the edifice is not only a symbol of the Ilonggos’ Catholic faith but also of their culture.
Drilon was also instrumental in the redevelopment of Molo plaza and Molo Church and brought significant projects to the city, such as the Iloilo Esplanade and the bike lanes, among others.
Aside from the belfry, the newly restored Jaro bandstand and the monument to Ilonggo heroine, Patrocinio Gamboa, also at Jaro Plaza, were also unveiled on Nov. 27./PN
