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Manila Cathedral reopens after two years of reconstruction work


Workers apply finishing touches on religious mosaic art inside the historic Manila Cathedral on April 1. The cathedral, which has been closed for repairs for the last two years, reopened on Wednesday, April 9. Danny Pata

After two years of rehabilitation, including the reinforcing of its centuries-old foundations, the Manila Cathedral has finally again opened its doors to the public, reported GMA News' "24 Oras" Wednesday.

The thanksgiving Mass for the re-opening of the Cathedral was officiated by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle who, in his homily, thanked the generosity and expertise of those who helped rebuild the cathedral.

"Ngayon ay araw ng pagsasaya at pasasalamat sa Panginoon. Ninais daw niya talagang matapos ang pagsasaayos sa simbahan bago mag-Semana Santa," Tagle said.

Costing P70 million, the reconstruction fixed structural hazards such as cracks in the walls, and refurbished both the exterior and interior facade of the cathedral. The plumbing, electrical wiring, sound system, and lights were also repaired, and CCTV cameras were also installed throughout the structure,

President Benigno Aquino III and his family attended the Mass, which included a candle-lighting ceremony symbolizing the Catholic faith. Prior to this, a video showing the restoration work done on the basilica was shown, and a cultural program was held at Plaza de Roma. — Rie Takumi/BM, GMA News
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