In line with efforts to advance heritage conservation, Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U), through its Extension Services Office (ESO), in collaboration with the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), formalized its partnership with the Municipality of Bacolor, Pampanga (LGU Bacolor) through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held in Bacolor, Pampanga, on March 26, 2026.
The agreement establishes Project GUNITA, which focuses on the restoration and preservation of architectural heritage sites in Bacolor.
One of its key components is the reconstruction of the historic Simon de Anda y Salazar Obelisk, which also held its groundbreaking ceremony alongside the MOA signing.
De Anda is a significant historical figure who established his seat of government in Bacolor, making the town the capital of the Philippines from 1762 to 1764.
To ensure the success of this initiative, the Architecture Department of the CEA will provide comprehensive technical design consulting, pre-design services, and information dissemination on heritage conservation and preservation.
Pampanga State U officials present during the ceremonial signing included Property and Supply Management Office Director Arch. Mair S. De Lara; ESO Center Managers Dr. Dean B. Lapuz, Eloisa G. Mendoza, and Ma. Ferdelyn M. Coutinho; and Area Specialist Engr.Jerwin Deysolong.
Meanwhile, LGU Bacolor was represented by Hon. Eduardo “Diman” G. Datu, municipal mayor; Voltaire San Pedro, municipal tourism office head; Police Major (PMAJ) Jessie James M. Domingo, municipal chief of police; Engr. Marietta G. Rodriguez, municipal engineering department head; and Hon. Noli Pineda, barangay captain of Cabambangan.
The partnership will cover a period of three years, reflecting a long-term commitment to revitalizing Bacolor’s cultural identity and protecting its historical landmarks for future generations.
Photo credits: Extension Services Office
