Manila: The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) on Monday urged caretakers of heritage structures in Eastern Samar and Albay to prioritize personal safety while taking immediate steps to safeguard cultural assets following the 6.1 magnitude earthquake and the recent eruption of Mayon Volcano. The NHCP emphasized that while the preservation of the country's cultural heritage is vital, the safety of caretakers and the public remains the "paramount concern."
According to Philippines News Agency, the advisory was made after a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck San Julian, Eastern Samar, at 2:09 p.m. on Monday, causing potential aftershocks. Simultaneously, Mayon Volcano in Albay remains under Alert Level 3 due to intense pyroclastic flows and thick ash, prompting evacuations and travel warnings. The NHCP warned caretakers against entering damaged structures without prior coordination with local authorities.
"Please do not attempt to enter damaged structures without prior coordination with local authorities and only after confirming that aftershocks have ceased and the area is deemed safe," it said. The NHCP advised the use of barricades and caution ribbons to secure the premises of heritage sites.
Caretakers were also reminded to wear protective gear-including hard hats, gloves, and high-visibility clothing-before conducting any retrieval or salvage operations. The Commission outlined an eight-point guideline for the handling of damaged artifacts:
Documentation: Take detailed photographs of damaged objects and structures before movement. Careful Retrieval: Damaged objects should be retrieved as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration from weather or aftershocks. Handling: Use sturdy boxes and wrap artifacts in Japanese tissue or clean cloth. Label and group broken parts together for easier restoration. Storage: Move retrieved items to a safe, secure location identified by site administrators, away from the compromised structure.
The NHCP also recommended that undamaged moveable objects be moved to safer locations if circumstances permit. Regarding the use of social media, the Commission cautioned the public to be mindful of the photos they upload. "Be careful of the photos that you upload on social media as this can be used as reference for displacers, thieves, and unwanted personages," the NHCP said, noting that unguarded or damaged buildings are prone to vandalism and theft.
Caretakers were encouraged to create a quick inventory of retrieved items, noting measurements, materials, and observed damages, and to consult professionals and skilled artisans for any restoration work.
