Inside the San Sebastian Church (Photo from San Sebastian Conservation and Development Foundation, Inc.)
While some of the heritage buildings in the country are being refurbished and gaining new attention, one of which is the Metropolitan Theater in Manila City, the same cannot be said for San Sebastian Basilica. The historic church launched an online petition last January to stop the construction of a 31-story condominium behind it that, according to the church, poses danger to its site and community.
Faith and design
Built in 1891 by architect Genaro Palacios, the San Sebastian Basilica is among the buildings in the country that present a neo-gothic style. Owned and run by the Order of the Augustinian Recollects, the church is known for being built by a team of mixed nationalities, each adding their own flavor into its design and making it a one of a kind church in the country and the world.