The Sunico Foundry: Another Case of Neglected Heritage?

Conrado Bugayong
30 Aug 2020

After reading the statement of the National Museum (click here) and the counter statement from a member of the Sunico family (click here) with regards to Hilario Sunico’s foundry and office at San Nicolas district, Manila, it is quite surprising that it was not officially declared as an important cultural or historical property to warrant protection from demolition or translocation. I have always thought that the cut-off date for RA 10066 was to afford a general blanket of protection and a high level of consideration for structures that would fall under such category.

Having three government agencies overseeing the country’s cultural and historical patrimony, I was expecting that these would enhance and bolster support for what is left in Metro Manila. Having one of the agencies waive its jurisdiction over this issue weakens the cause for heritage.

How much of Metro Manila would fall under the classification of a declared heritage zone? Can an independent structure be protected by its own merit and quality? Given its historical (even if not declared) and aesthetic qualities? Such was the Sunico foundry. A bahay-na-bato built as   an industrial facility with its own office. How many of these examples are left in our city? Are there still extant examples of such structures left?

I also find it surprising and incredulous for Condition 2 as stated in the NM’s letter of reply. In that the owner/developer will be the one to provide for an “archeological” assessment by a 3^rd party. This would be self-serving on the part of the developer. Why would they supply the burden of proof for such a study wherein it would be counter to their business interest. In addition, is there a guarantee that what would be unearthed would be turned over to the NM for proper study or will it be more of a treasure hunt to whomever is contracted to do the archeological assesment given that the developer is responsible for contracting the services.

Heritage is the tangible aspect of history. Unfortunately, such is the case for heritage conservation. It is a case of Bagac to building a façade even if the original is still extant. It seems a replica is superior and more acceptable than the original. Despite pointing the blame to WWII, districts like San Nicolas survived its ravages. But due to “attrition”, only pockets of built heritage can be seen and experience. Given as to what was lost these recent few years, even those that are left in our lifetime are very endangered and possibly on its way to extinction.

Hoping that it will not be necessary to travel outside of Metro Manila to see our beloved metropolis heritage located somewhere else.