Dumaguete: The centuries-old iconic bell tower in this Negros Oriental capital is ready for turnover following its restoration by the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP). Msgr. Julius Perpetuo Heruela, chair of the Commission on Church Cultural Heritage of the Diocese of Dumaguete, said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday that the restoration of the bell tower and its belfry is about 97 percent complete.

According to Philippines News Agency, the restoration of the structure itself has been completed, but the grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the candle-lighting areas are yet to be finished. The NMP allocated more than PHP15 million for the restoration of the belfry, which is considered one of the most iconic landmarks reflecting the city's history and cultural heritage.

The stone tower, originally constructed to protect residents from attacks by pirates and marauders, stands as a testament to the city's rich past. NMP Board Chair Andoni Aboitiz and other officials visited the site on Monday. Aboitiz emphasized the importance of heritage conservation, highlighting how structures like the belfry connect people to their history.

Heruela mentioned that discussions are underway regarding the management and maintenance of the heritage structure once the NMP hands it over to the diocese and the local government on June 15. The National Museum has declared the Dumaguete belfry as an Important Cultural Property.