CELEBRATION OF CULTURE AND THE ARTS
A CELEBRATION OF FAITH, GRACE, AND THANKSGIVING
The Jubilee festivities did not only fill the spiritual pangs of the diocesan community; it satiated
their hunger for the aesthetic, artistic, and cultural.
The Cultural Committee, led by Fr. Max Pangilinan, made sure that the richness of these elements
were flaunted and celebrated through their meticulous planning and making of the decorations,
tokens, souvenirs, and physical arrangements, specifically of the altar.
Each item given to key persons and groups were creatively thought of such as the souvenirs designed
for the bishops which featured the façade of the Imus Cathedral. This was made of clay done in
Cornerstone in Silang, custom-made with a bamboo-base done in Maragondon.
Aside from this, a souvenir chalice was given to priests who attended the event. The tinsmith
commissioned to do this was asked to put the façade of the Diocese with the Image of the Virgin of
Del Pilar, which was framed (called pukpok, gold-plated).
The grandiosity of Cavite’s cultural heritage was promoted; this is why materials for these items
were sourced out locally. Featured also were Cavite products such as coffee and jacobina among
others.
The seven Jubilee churches were also promoted as well as Jubilee crosses and candle-holders made
from Maragondon.
Preparations for the coronation involved the construction of a sturdy, safe, and huge winding stairs
and stage to achieve an apparition-like ambience. During the canonical celebration, the original
crown of the Virgin was used and adorned with semi-precious stones to highlight the Image of Senora
Del Pilar.
The committee wanted to achieve quality…and not to settle for anything less.
What the Diocese achieved for 50 years was highlighted in their work including what should be done
and what the Diocese could hope for in the future.