CALLING FOR HELP!!! In the serene City of Ilagan, Isabela Province, Region 2, Philippines nestled amidst lush landscapes and bustling streets, stood the beloved St. Ferdinand Parish Proto-Cathedral. Its towering bell tower, a symbol of steadfast faith and community unity, watched over parishioners who found solace within its sacred walls. On a scorching April day in 2024, tragedy struck. Workers, on their lunch break amidst the intense heat, had temporarily paused their duties on the church roof. They were in the process of installing trusses generously donated for a new ventilation system to enhance comfort during services. Despite the heat, a lingering spark from previous welding work ignited the temporary "tolda" roofing, quickly engulfing it in flames. The fire spread swiftly, fueled by the dry conditions and the blistering heat of the day. Nearby residents and emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite their valiant efforts, the flames consumed much of the church's interior. The nave and altar area, once a place of reverence and prayer, were left charred and damaged. Father Ric Zeus Excellecy E. Angobung, the parish priest, was away in Sta. Ana, Cagayan, conducting blessings at a newly opened resort when he received the devastating news. Shock and concern gripped him as he hurried back to Ilagan, his heart heavy with worry for his parishioners and the sacred space now in ruins. The community responded with swift solidarity. Messages of support poured in from across the city and beyond, offering prayers and pledges of assistance. Mayor Josemarie Diaz, Former Mayor Evelyn Diaz and family and whole officialdom of the City of Ilagan, recognizing the urgent need, swiftly mobilized efforts to erect a temporary chapel for parishioners within just three days. This makeshift sanctuary became a beacon of hope amidst the ashes, providing a place for worship and solace as the community grappled with the devastation. Despite these initial efforts, the parish faced a daunting road to recovery. It had been over two months since the fire, and while the community had rallied together, not a single step had been taken towards constructing a new and bigger St. Ferdinand Parish. The stained glass windows, though damaged by the heat, awaited repair. The interior, once engulfed in flames, remained untouched, a poignant reminder of the task ahead. The technical working group, comprising dedicated parishioners and skilled professionals, met diligently to lay the groundwork for the construction of a new sanctuary. Each meeting brought clearer direction and renewed hope, as plans for a grander church began to take shape. The vision was ambitious yet essential-a sanctuary that would not only restore the parish's spiritual heart but also stand as a testament to the community's resilience and unity. As Father Angobung and his parishioners looked towards the future, their hearts were filled with determination. They envisioned a new St. Ferdinand Parish Proto-Cathedral, larger and more beautiful than before, designed to serve generations to come with faith and fellowship. The parish remained steadfast in their appeal to all generous souls, near and far, to join them in this monumental endeavor. With each donation, each prayer, and each act of kindness, they moved closer to turning their vision into reality-a beacon of hope rising from the ashes, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of St. Ferdinand Parish and its enduring commitment to faith, community, and love.

Magnífico vídeo y una magnífica y espectacular restauración. Ejemplo de lo mejor de nuestros historiadores, arquitectos, técnicos. Ahora La Giralda luce espléndida