Cebu: A priest at the Bantayan Church in northern Cebu has appealed to the public to refrain from taking any debris from the quake-damaged heritage church as souvenirs or 'anting-anting' (charms). 'I would like to remind everyone that taking any portion of the debris as souvenirs or treating it as an 'anting-anting' (charm) is strictly prohibited and considered an act of theft (kawat), a crime under the law,' Fr. Edmar Marcellones of the Parroquia de San Pedro Ap³stol in Bantayan Island said in a statement.

According to Philippines News Agency, at the same time, he urged the people to support the restoration of the church. 'Every fragment of stone and material is part of our sacred heritage and must be preserved. Let us leave the process to the experts and support them in safeguarding our church's legacy,' Marcellones added.

The Bantayan Church was among the places of worship damaged by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu and nearby provinces on Sept. 30. The tremor caused significant damage to the church's pediment and top cross, prompting authorities to restrict entry due to safety concerns.

Marcellones also reported that the church recently underwent a rapid assessment by heritage and conservation experts, which is the start of a 'long, technical, and scientific process' of investigation, preparation, and restoration of earthquake-damaged structures. For now, Holy Masses will continue to be held at the church grounds as the structure remains unsafe for public gatherings.

Marcellones also asked for the parishioners' patience and prayers as experts carry out the restoration work. The priest said the Earthquake Repair Project will accept donations from the public, and to ensure transparency, they will open a dedicated bank account for it.