Unveiling of the national historical marker for Fr. Francisco Ignacio Alcina in Palapag, Northern Samar

As a tribute to Fr. Francisco Ignacio Alcina for his significant contribution in the preservation of the culture and history of the Bisayan Islands including Northern Samar, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in coordination with the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, the Diocese of Catarman, and the Municipal Government of Palapag, led the ceremonial unveiling of the historical marker "Padre Francisco Ignacio Alcina, SJ" at the ruins of the Old Palapag Church Ruins on July 30, 2024, coinciding his 350th death anniversary and the opening of the History Month in the Philippines.

The ceremony is a commemoration of Fr. Alcina's enduring legacy and deep connection with his "beloved Bisayans", as well as his writings that contributed to the appreciation and understanding of Nortehanon history, culture, language, arts and tradition.

The historical marker is installed at the ruins of the Old Palapag Church where he spent years writing his seminal work, "Historia de las islas e indios de Bisayas", a documentation of the pre-colonial and early colonial period of the 17th Century Visayas.

Graced by NHCP Chairman Regalado Trota Jose, Jr., NHCP Deputy Executive Director for Programs and Projects Alvin R. Alcid, Governor Edwin Ongchuan, Vice Governor Clarence Dato, Palapag Mayor Fawa Batula, Catarman Apostolic Administrator Nolly C. Buco, D.D., and Rev. Fr. Lito C. Jumadiao, parish priest of the Nuestra Señora de Asuncion - Palapag, Board Members Don Abalon, Dexter Galit, Leonida Laodenio, Gina Silvano and Marites Gillamac, historians Professor Rolando Borrinaga and Ian Christopher Alfonzo, other Municipal Mayors and key key figures, the installation of the memorial plaque highlights the provincial government’s commitment to preserving the rich history and culture of Northern Samar and honoring the people driving for the same cause.