Dapitan named as the country's first heritage zone

DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte  ,Philippines – The city of Dapitan, where Dr. Jose Rizal spent four years in exile before his martyrdom at Bagumbayan, has been declared a heritage zone – the country’s first – by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).

Dapitan City Vice Mayor Patri Bajamunde-Chan said the new status is expected to boost tourism in the city as well as promote awareness of its role in the life of the national hero.

As heritage zone, the city will be entitled to state funding and other support for the upkeep of its landmarks and heritage sites.

The declaration, issued on May 27, was part of the series of activities held in the run up to the 150th anniversary of Rizal’s birth on June 19.

Bajamunde-Chan represented Mayor Dominador Jalosjos Jr. during ceremonies declaring Dapitan City a heritage zone.

NHCP deputy executive director Emelita Almosara, National Library director Antonio Santos, National Museum director Jeremy Barns and lawyer Rose Angeles of the National Committee on Monuments and Sites attended the event.

Bajamunde-Chan said a statement from presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda spoke of how Rizal’s vision “continues to serve as an inspiration and challenge to all Filipinos who work to fight corruption and make inroads against poverty in our society.”

“Every generation seeks and finds new meaning in the life and example of Rizal,” Bajamunde-Chan said quoting Lacierda.

Dapitan is one of the oldest settlements in Mindanao originally inhabited by Subanen tribesmen.

Historical landmarks in Dapitan include Casa Real, Rizal’s residence the Old Town Plaza, Rizal’s monument, the relief map of Mindanao made by Rizal himself, the centuries-old Dapitan municipio, the Punto del Desembarco de Rizal, and the Saint James church.

Bajamunde-Chan said that while Dapitan does not have the “usual amenities” seen in big cities, it showcases the “glory of our past” as well as the richness of nature.

“Our residents look at the coastal city as the backdrop of simplicity and laidback lifestyle,” she said.

Dapitan became a chartered city on June 22,1963 through Republic Act 3811 signed by then President Diosdado Macapagal.