Cultural Renaissance, Legarda’s Priority for Antique Development

Recognizing the historical significance of the Old Capitol Building, Deputy Speaker and Lone District of Antique Representative Loren Legarda has spearheaded efforts to restore the Old Capitol Building, located in San Jose de Buenavista, the capital town of Antique.

Being a foremost advocate of arts and culture preservation, and a dangal ng haraya awardee of the ncca, Legarda envisioned the adaptive reuse and restoration of the said building.

“The Old Capitol Building was considered a presidencia, a colonial building that was refurbished, renovated and reconstructed during the American Colonial Period. Most colonial buildings were destroyed during World War II, but the Old Capitol stood the test of time and is one of the remaining few presidencias that is still structurally sound,” Legarda said.

“Its restoration will bring more appreciation to the young generation of Antiqueños, knowing that their province has a significant role in Philippine history and has a vibrant culture to offer, ” Legarda added.

The Old Capitol Building will be envisioned as a haven for Antique’s rich culture and heritage that will house a textile gallery, archival materials and a library.

With the housing of its archival and historical materials, Legarda envisions Antiqueños to be more knowledgeable of their own province and promote them proudly to the world.

Legarda hopes that with its restoration, Antiqueños will have a more in-depth understanding of its rich culture and tradition, and will appreciate the importance of preserving heritage structures.

“The complete restoration of the Old Capitol Building is a dream come true. It is the epitome of how historically rich my province of Antique is, and through its preservation, we are able to ensure that our present and future generations will have something to be proud of,” Legarda concluded. She also supported the restoration of the only remaining Balai nga Bato or “stone house” which will be unveiled soon through the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.