CEBU CITY (Nov. 26, 2009) — The coffeetable book on parish churches in Cebu entitled “Balaanong Bahandi, Sacred Treasures of the Archdiocese of Cebu” was successfully launched a while ago at the Cathedral Museum of Cebu with Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal signing the first ten copies which were distributed to the top sponsors and to the archives of the Cathedral Museum of Cebu, the Archdiocese of Cebu and the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines.

Published by the Cathedral Museum of Cebu, Inc. and the University of San Carlos Press, the book features more than 290 pages of full color photographs of various parish churches in the archdiocese including, but not limited to, tangible treasures of faith such as statues of saints made of ivory or wood, altar retablos, centuries-old bells, among others. Various personalities from all walks of life including Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, a staunch heritage advocate, attended the event.

Those who have reserved copies of the book and have paid for it in advance will be able to claim their copies starting December 1 next week since the publisher is still finalizing the next batch of copies to be released. There are only less than 800 copies of the book that are available. Interested buyers may still be able to order. For inquiries do please send me an email at knightcarl [at] cebuheritage [dot] com.

Below (left to right): Jobers Bersales, the book project director, delivering the opening message during the launching; Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal is shown the first ten copies of the book.

Below: One of the photographers affixing his signature at the copies of the book that were given to the top sponsors.