Cebu Archdiocese ties up with Smart, InnoPub for historic exhibit
A CHRONICLE of the richness of the Archdiocese of Cebu’s historical patrimony, the “Panaw sa Pagtuo: The Journey of Faith at 500 Years of Christianity” Traveling Exhibit is set to be launched on April 11, 2021 at the SM City Cebu Northwing.
One of the major activities in Cebu to celebrate the fifth centenary of Christianity in the Philippines, the exhibit will run for a year and move through several of the island’s oldest parishes.
It is made possible through a collaboration between the Archdiocese of Cebu through its Commission for the Cultural Heritage of the Church, and PLDT wireless arm Smart Communications Inc. with its technology partner InnoPub Media.
“Smart is one with the Archdiocese of Cebu in commemorating a very important milestone in our country’s history. This exhibit is part of our sustaining efforts under the Digital Catechism Program to help protect these churches and to promote their significance especially to the younger generation through technology,” says Atty. Maria Jane Paredes, assistant vice president/center head for Smart Group Corporate Communications-VisMin.
Physical, virtual exhibit
Not your typical display, “Panaw sa Pagtuo” takes the form of a Spanish period church replica and makes use of such digital tools as quick response codes and virtual reality (VR) devices to allow visitors to experience Cebu’s religious treasures in one setting.
It highlights the many expressions of art created in the service of the Catholic Church mission, from the gift of the Sto. Niño image during the first baptism into the faith of Cebuano chieftain Rajah Humabon, his wife and their followers to the images, paintings and carvings that decorate Cebu’s houses of worship.
The QR codes provide depth and context to the exhibit with rich multimedia content while virtual reality videos transport guests to Cebu’s grand stone churches.
“The Traveling Exhibit provides theological background and meaning to the church’s artistic aspect using Sacred Art (Ars Sacra) as a tool for catechism, and uplifts the soul and mind to the encounter of beauty Himself,” says Rev. Fr. Brian Brigoli, chairman of the Cebu Archdiocesan Commission for the Cultural Heritage of the Church.
Exhibit venue, hours
“Panaw sa Pagtuo: The Journey of Faith at 500 Years of Christianity” is open to the public during SM City Cebu mall hours up to May 2, 2021, after which it will be transferred to a new venue.
Guests will need to follow strict safety protocol while at the exhibit. Hand sanitizers will also be provided.
Panaw sa Pagtuo comes with an application of the same name that is available for download at the Apple App Store, Google App Store and Huawei App Gallery. The mobile app contains all exhibit materials that can be accessed at the venue and also functions as guests’ exhibit guide and companion.
“This project is a product of an inspiring collaborative effort. This offers both enjoyment and in-depth understanding of the artistic patrimony of the Catholic Church aided with digital solutions anchored towards the goal of fortifying faith and evangelization,” added Brigoli.