SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna – The local government of San Pablo City has strongly condemned the recent defacement of the historic “hagdang bato,” a concrete stairway dating back to the American colonial period, located near Sampaloc Lake.
In a statement released through the City Information Office, authorities confirmed that portions of the structure were damaged by still unidentified individuals. The city government said an investigation is ongoing to determine those responsible, while efforts are being prepared to restore the affected sections of the landmark.
Constructed in 1915, the “hagdang bato” serves as a key access point connecting the lakeside promenade to surrounding areas. It has long been regarded as a cultural and historical icon of the city, reflecting the urban development of San Pablo during the American era and its identity as the “City of Seven Lakes.”
Historical records show that the structure has endured damage in the past, including during World War II, before undergoing rehabilitation in 1965. Over the decades, it has remained a prominent public space and a recognizable symbol for residents and visitors alike.
Local officials emphasized that the recent act of vandalism not only damaged public property but also violated national heritage protection laws. The city government reminded the public that such actions fall under Republic Act No. 10066, which safeguards cultural properties, as amended by Republic Act No. 11961.
Under these laws, the destruction or defacement of cultural and historical sites may carry penalties, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the extent of damage and the classification of the heritage structure.
Initial reports circulating online also indicated that aside from the stairs, a marker within the site may have been damaged, further raising concern among heritage advocates and residents.
The city government called on the public to help protect local heritage sites and report any information that may assist in the investigation. Officials also reiterated the importance of preserving historical landmarks, especially those that form part of San Pablo’s heritage zone, which includes structures from both the Spanish and American periods.
Restoration work is expected to begin once assessments are completed, as authorities aim to return the structure to its original condition while reinforcing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
