Vigan City, situated along the northwestern coastline of the Philippines, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
Celebrated for its unique Spanish colonial heritage in Asia and its remarkably well-preserved Spanish-era monumental buildings dating back to the 16th century. However, on 27 July 2022, the city was struck by a devastating magnitude 7.0 earthquake, which caused widespread damage to its historic buildings and churches, including the iconic Vigan Cathedral. While most structures sustained only minor damage, several were pushed to the brink of collapse.
In response to this disaster, and as part of its commitment to social responsibility, risk reduction, and the preservation of historical sites, CECOPHIL mobilised a specialised team to conduct post-earthquake damage assessments. Their mission included evaluating the city’s ancestral houses, government facilities, and other critical infrastructure to guide restoration efforts and ensure the safeguarding of Vigan’s cultural and historical treasures.
This project deserves recognition for its critical emphasis on reducing disaster risks at World Heritage Sites. The loss or deterioration of these culturally significant properties would have profound impacts on local and national communities, not only due to their historical importance but also their socio-economic value as key drivers of tourism and cultural identity.
Through the collaboration of multi-disciplinary teams, the project successfully conducted rapid assessments, ensuring the safety of both individuals and properties within the city before operations resumed. This proactive approach highlights the importance of swift, coordinated efforts in disaster recovery to protect both lives and heritage.
Moreover, the project exemplifies how companies can play a pivotal role in community recovery through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. By leveraging their resources and expertise, companies can significantly enhance local resilience and facilitate timely and effective disaster recovery efforts. This project stands as a model for how CSR activities can make meaningful contributions to preserving cultural heritage while supporting the well-being of affected communities.
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AMH Philippines, Inc.
ESCA Incorporated
SRDP Consulting, Inc.
Vigan City Local Government Unit
