Bacong: Efforts are underway to finalize a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the St. Augustine of Hippo Parish Church in Bacong, Negros Oriental, the only government-declared National Cultural Treasure on Negros Island. Msgr. Julius Perpetuo Heruela, head of the Commission on Church Cultural Heritage of the Diocese of Dumaguete, stated that the CMP will guide the protection and preservation of the historic church built in 1865.

According to Philippines News Agency, Heruela emphasized that the plan aims to ensure that scientific and historical standards direct the conservation efforts. His remarks came during the unveiling of a bronze marker led by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) at the church. One of the immediate priorities is raising funds for the restoration of the church's aging roof, trusses, and ceilings.

Heruela noted that while the National Cultural Treasure designation is a significant honor, preserving the structure requires ongoing support from the Church, government agencies, local officials, and the community. He stressed that a title alone cannot protect a structure from the effects of time and nature, urging the faithful and other stakeholders to actively support conservation efforts.

In his message during the marker unveiling, NCCA Deputy Executive Director Bernan Joseph Corpuz vowed to continuously support efforts for the protection and preservation of the St. Augustine of Hippo Church, highlighting the history, heritage, faith, and pride that the church represents.

The unveiling event was attended by officials from the NCCA, the National Museum, the Diocese of Dumaguete led by Bishop Julito Cortes, and Bacong officials headed by Mayor Lenin Alviola.