Guv Gwen chides NMP, mulls legal charges over stolen pulpit panels

Local

CEBU Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia is considering taking legal action against the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP), led by Director Jeremy Barns, for its prolonged retention of four stolen pulpit panels originally from the Patrocinio de Maria Santisima Parish in Boljoon, Cebu.

In a press conference on January 3, Garcia expressed frustration over the delayed return of the 19th-century wooden panels, which depict Saint Augustine of Hippo.

She emphasized that the panels remain sacred, as they were not deconsecrated, and described the NMP’s retention of the artifacts as an act of sacrilege.

She also cited Presidential Decree 1612, the Anti-Fencing Law, stating that it applies to those in possession of stolen items.

The governor plans to meet with Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma to discuss legal options and unify their stance. She hoped that Palma would attend the meeting, as she wanted to hear his insights directly before deciding on the next steps.

“We will call that meeting with the Archdiocese. I hope Archbishop Palma will be available. I’d like to hear it directly from him,” Garcia said.

The panels, stolen in the late 1980s, resurfaced on February 14, 2024, as part of the NMP's collection. The Archdiocese of Cebu maintains that the panels should be immediately returned to Boljoon parish, asserting that they remain sacred religious items.

On May 8, 2024, the NMP’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved the panels' return, provided a formal agreement with the Archdiocese is finalized. Despite this, no significant progress has been made to date.

In August 2024, NMP officials assured the public that the panels would be restored and repatriated within 12 weeks.

However, Garcia criticized the apparent lack of urgency, questioning the NMP's respect for cultural heritage. She further criticized the agency's leadership for failing to fulfill its commitment to the artifact's restoration and return.

Garcia invoked Section 16 of the Local Government Code, emphasizing that protecting Cebu’s heritage and culture is part of her mandate. She described the panels as more than just religious artifacts, pointing out their integral role in the province's history.

"More than a religious icon, that is also part of our heritage," she said.

The NMP, which has requested a P30-million budget for the panels’ restoration, has promised a “grand homecoming” once the process is complete.

Garcia remains skeptical of these promises and called for immediate action to resolve the issue.

The Boljoon community and the Archdiocese of Cebu continue to demand the panels' return, insisting they rightfully belong in their sacred, original home rather than in a museum collection.(MyTVCebu)