The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) officially declared the 225-year-old Santa Ursula Church in Binangonan, Rizal, a National Cultural Treasure (NCT) on March 2, 2025.
A holy mass and a ceremony were held to commemorate the historical heritage declaration, attended notable personas including NCCA Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, Deputy Executive Director for Administration Marichu Tellano, Former NCCA Chair Felipe De Leon, Subcommission on the Arts Commissioner Arvin Villalon, Rizal Governor Ricci Ynares, and Binangonan Mayor Caesar Ynares.
Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos of the Diocese of Antipolo led the holy mass. During his homily, he stated, “Dumating sa atin ang karangalan (Honor is with us)…Sa ating Diocese ng Antipolo, naroon kaakibat ang karangalan, kabayanihan, at kabanalan (In our Diocese of Antipolo there is an accompanying honor, heroism and holiness)”, emphasizing the Lord’s kindness and the significance of the NCCA’s recognition in the Province of Rizal.
The declaration ceremony commenced with a festive rendition of “Awit kay Santa Ursula” by Banda Central No. Inc., followed by a welcome address from Rev. Fr. Aguedo A. Gula, Santa Ursula’s parish priest, who described the declaration as a blessing to the people of Binangonan. Additionally, Dr. Loida Gacson, head of the evangelization ministry, read the church’s annotation.
Chairman Manalo personally proclaimed the site’s NCT status and discussed the significance of Santa Ursula Church’s architecture, artifacts, and history in the Philippines.
“Nagpapamalas kung paanong naghahalo-halo at nagkaroon ng interaksyon ang mga tradisyon ng sining mula sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng daigdig (The mixed reactions and interactions about arts from many parts of the world are being expressed),” he said, explaining why the church merits its recognition as an NCT.
Founded in 1612, this historic Baroque-style church still retains its original altarpiece, paintings and retablo from the 17th to 19th centuries. Chairman Manalo also noted that the church’s wooden ceiling logs are a unique feature which may no longer be reproduced or recreated to date, further proving their antiquity and authenticity.
Furthermore, a Missa Cantata featuring the musical composition of National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab was performed by the Coro Buenviaje under the direction of conductor Jose “Joey” Soliman Jr.
The NCT designation is one of the highest recognitions in the country for cultural heritage. It is awarded to unique objects or properties that possess outstanding historical, cultural, artistic, and/or scientific value significant to the nation.