A Monument Reborn: National Museum Turns Over Restored 17th-Century Dumaguete Bell Tower
DUMAGUETE CITY — In a landmark celebration of heritage preservation, the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) officially turned over the newly restored Campanario de Dumaguete (Dumaguete Bell Tower) to the Diocese of Dumaguete. The formal turnover ceremony took place on June 15, 2026 , marking the culmination of nearly two years of meticulous structural and site restoration. The event was highlighted by the unveiling of a permanent bronze marker designating the iconic 18th-century structure as an Important Cultural Property (ICP) , ensuring its elevated status in the nation's historical inventory. A PHP 15-Million Investment in History The extensive rehabilitation project was fully backed by a PHP 15-million allocation from the NMP. Far more than a simple facelift, the funding covered: The comprehensive structural restoration of the historic coral-stone tower. The beautification and development of the surrounding site on which the Spanish-era landmark is situated. The r...