Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Makati City designated cultural treasure
In a ceremony conducted on Thursday, the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) bestowed upon Sts. Peter and Paul Church, the prestigious title of cultural treasure. The 403-year-old church, located in the center of Makati City, the country’s bustling business capital, now ranks among the nation’s most significant cultural properties.
Dr. Mary Jane Louise Bolunia, the NMP’s chief archaeologist, explained that the cathedral received this honor because of its “extraordinary cultural, artistic, and historical significance to the entire nation.” She added that the church’s longevity over the centuries is evidence of Makati’s significance in molding the nation’s history.
Cardinal Jose Advincula of Manila, members of the clergy, and municipal officials were present at the ceremony to commemorate this momentous occasion.
According to the church’s historical marker, it was founded by Franciscan missionaries in 1578. In 1620, the Jesuits assumed control and constructed a church dedicated to St. Peter; they oversaw the church’s administration until 1768.
The church is home to the revered image of Virgin dela Rosa, which was brought from Spain via Mexico by a Jesuit priest in 1718.
In 1639, the church was the battleground of political and military turmoil during the Chinese uprising. Later in 1899, during the Philippine-American War, US troops used the church as their headquarters and hospital.
San Ildefonso Parish in Culi-Culi and Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Guadalupe Viejo were founded as independent congregations from the original San Pedro Church in 1951.
Following the Vatican II in 1965, the church was renamed Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church, with St. Paul added to the title.
Source: https://rcam.org/sts-peter-and-paul-church-in-makati-city-designated-a-c...