Doesn’t this PE Building look majestic? The Cebu Provincial Capitol stands as a testament to Cebu’s rich history and resilience.
Let’s dive into the story of this iconic landmark. The Cebu Provincial Capitol is the seat of the provincial government. It stands proudly at the north end of Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City.
Back in 1910, the idea for the capitol was born. Sergio Osmeña, then Speaker of the Philippine Assembly, played a key role. He showed Governor-General William Cameron Forbes the future site near Fuente Osmeña.
Construction finally began in 1937. Governor Sotero Cabahug championed the project. The architecture firm of Pedro Siochi and Company oversaw the construction. President Manuel L Quezon approved a bond to finance it. Public subscriptions also helped.
However, not everyone supported the project. Vicente Sotto criticized it as a waste of public funds. He even wanted to turn it into a hospital. Despite initial skepticism from some allies, Quezon backed its construction.
The Cebu Provincial Capitol was completed in 1938. Governor Buenaventura Rodriguez was in office at the time. On June 14, 1938, President Manuel L Quezon led the inauguration. Cebu Archbishop Gabriel Reyes blessed the building. The wife of Governor Rodriguez broke a champagne bottle at the main balcony.
World War II caused significant damage to the Capitol. Fortunately, the Tydings War Damage Act of 1946 allowed for its rehabilitation.
Architect Juan M Arellano designed the Cebu Provincial Capitol. He is famous for the Manila Metropolitan Theater, the Legislative Building, and the Manila Central Post Office. William E Parsons conceived the grand perspective of Osmeña Boulevard.
The building follows an H-shaped plan. The main block has three stories. Two secondary wings flank it. These wings embrace a rectangular courtyard. An inscription on the façade reads “The authority of the government emanates from the people Erected A.D. MCMXXXVII.”
Inside, the art deco rotunda is striking. It opens to the main balcony facing Osmeña Boulevard. To the north is the ballroom. Crystal and capiz shell chandeliers light the grand space.
The Cebu Provincial Capitol’s architectural style is neoclassical. However, its simplification hints at Arellano’s shift toward art deco.
In 2008, the National Historical Commission declared it a National Historical Landmark. The Cebu Provincial Capitol stands as one of the oldest structures of its kind in the Philippines.
Outside the building, you’ll see statues of Lapulapu and Sergio Osmeña Sr. Lapulapu was the first Filipino hero. Osmeña Sr was the fourth President of the Philippines.
The Capitol has a wide ceremonial courtyard. Two grand staircases lead to the second floor. The Governor’s Office, the Gallery, the Dignitaries Hall, and the Social Hall are all located here. The chapel is on the third floor.
The Cebu Provincial Capitol has hosted many local and international events. Today, it is a must-see destination for tourists. In Balamban, a replica of the Cebu Provincial Capitol Building is being built.
The new Capitol building will mirror the original. It will include modern amenities on an elevated 2.3-hectare lot. The project aims to bring government services closer to the people. It signifies Cebu’s ongoing growth. The Cebu Provincial Capitol remains a symbol of Cebu’s past, present, and future.