Archdiocesan Committee on Church Heritage - Pampanga

16/05/2026

Responding to the request and needs of the Parish of Our Lady of the Pillar in San Simon town, the ACCH met today, 16 May 2026, with the Parish Priest, Among Edgar L. Panlilio, together with his PPC Execom and Parish Heritage Committee. Essentially discussed are the immediate "structural" concerns of the centuries-old church. The ACCH promised its assistance by assuring the Parish representation of the assistance and help of its engineering and structural consultants to look into the matter.

In a more emphatic way, the meeting also focused on the more proper and more coordinated consultation and planning regarding the general maintenance and restoration of the church structure. The ACCH proposed the making of the CMP or the Conservation Management Plan that will help secure a long-term plan and structural and guidance maintenance of the church.

Among Garu, the parish priest, underlined the need to have these consultations and planning with the ACCH in view of preparing for any eventuality that the "Big One" might bring, if ever it hits the Archdiocese. Moved by this concern and need, the Parish will launch its funding campaign "Project Big-One."

ACCH in return praised and commended the Parish's effort to be on the right track of Church heritage conservation regarding their parochial structures through the leadership of the Parish Priest, the Parish Pastoral Council and the Parish Heritage Committee.

More meetings and discussions will surely follow in the months to come.

09/04/2026

20/03/2026

RESTORATION... is not a job to be taken lightly. It is not a work that is simply left to anyone or just any craftsman. Old and antique venerated images in churches or chapels need proper handling. For that reason Canon Law has this provision (Canon 1189):

"If they are in need of repair, precious images, that is, those distinguished by age, art, or veneration, which are exhibited in churches or oratories for the reverence of the faithful are never to be restored without the written permission of the ordinary; he is to consult experts before he grants permission."

It is therefore the primary responsibility and duty of every Local Ordinary and Pastor to make sure that this canon is observed and that our churches and the sacred images found therein, are well protected and cared for in the manner proper and according to normative law of the Church.

16/03/2026

A very worthy workshop to participate in and join.

Goodnews fellow crafters and art enthusiasts! Our much awaited annual "palaspas" workshop is finally here! This event is made possible in cooperation with Museo ng Republika 1899 and the Barasoain Church.

Come and celebrate Lenten season with Team PUNIQUE! Let's weave, reflect and immerse ourselves in this meaningful cultural and spiritual experience.🙏🇵🇭

See poster for more details. Register now! Limited slots available💜

02/03/2026

14th Biennial National Convention of Church Cultural Heritage Workers

Day 1

Topic 1: Cagayan de Oro Archdiocesan Church Heritage Programme
by Fr. Jonas A. Awayan

At the conference, Fr. Awayan, a software engineer, shared a powerful insight: preserving memory today means digitizing it.
If we want stories, knowledge, and heritage to endure, they must be stored in the digital world. But digital preservation requires more than technology; it requires initiative.
It starts with outreach—visiting communities, recruiting volunteers, and taking the first step.
The future will remember what we choose to preserve today.

Topic 2: Church as a Living Heritage
by Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo

He reiterated the importance of having a clear Conservation Management Plan (CMP) to guide preservation efforts responsibly.
He also emphasized that heritage work must involve the proper professionals for every task; conservation requires expertise.

Topic 3: Memory, Mission, and Creation: Building Resilient Archives of Faith for the Future
by Fr. Gaspar R. Sigaya, O.P.

Fr. Gaspar Sigaya shared guidance on best current practices in managing archives. He also announced the upcoming National Summit III of Church Archives and Heritage Workers, which will be hosted by the Archdiocese of San Fernando, Pampanga.

The day ended with the celebration of the Holy Mass.

26/02/2026

Churches beware! Not because you have the funds, the back up of supporters and sponsors and the willingness to have your churches repaired, restored or renovated, they are enough. Know and research well of the companies or individuals you hire to execute your plans.

Our churches are sacred spaces. They deserve integrity, dignity, and the highest standards of safety and craftsmanship. Hiring illegal practitioners may look “unworthy to Christ” at first, but the real cost is far greater:

✔️ Hire licensed architects and engineers.
Look for the License number on the PRC Website. They are trained, accountable, and bound by ethical standards.

✔️ Work with professionals who understand liturgy, heritage, and sacred architecture.
This ensures the church is built or restored with theological integrity.

✔️ Follow proper procurement and documentation.
This protects the parish and ensures transparency.

26/02/2026

Some items related to the late Most Rev. Cesar Maria Guerrero, DD, first Bishop of the Archdiocese of San Fernando, and former bishop of Lingayen-Dagupan, which are kept in the Museum of the Archdiocese of San Fernando

15/02/2026

BASILICA MINOR

Understanding Its Meaning and Symbols

A Primer from the Archdiocesan Committee on Church Heritage

A Basilica is a church given a special title by the Pope.
Not all churches are basilicas. Only those recognized for their historical importance, strong devotion, active liturgical life, and significance to the local Church receive this honor.

Being a basilica does not mean a church is “holier” than others.
It means the church has a special bond with the Holy Father and the universal Catholic Church.

⸻

Major Basilica & Minor Basilica

There are only four Major Basilicas in the world, and all are located in Rome.

All other basilicas around the world are called Minor Basilicas.
They are recognized for their importance in faith, history, and devotion.

⸻

Distinctive Symbols of a Basilica Minor

A Basilica Minor is traditionally identified by three important symbols:

Umbraculum (Ombrellino)
A red and gold umbrella displayed inside the church.
It symbolizes readiness to welcome the Pope at any time.

Tintinnabulum
A ceremonial staff with a small bell and papal symbol.
It represents the basilica’s special connection with the Holy Father.

Papal Crossed Keys
The symbol of Saint Peter’s keys.
It signifies unity with the Pope, the successor of Saint Peter.

⸻

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Basilica the same as a Cathedral?
No. A Cathedral is the bishop’s church. A Basilica is a title granted by the Pope.

Does becoming a Basilica change the parish?
No. It remains a parish church.

Does “Minor” mean less important?
No. It simply means it is not one of the four Major Basilicas in Rome.

⸻

In Simple Terms

A Basilica Minor is a church specially recognized by the Vatican.
It is a sign of unity with the Holy Father and a call to excellence in worship and service.

It is not about status —
It is about communion.