DAGUPAN CITY - A team of experts from the National Historical Institute (NHI), one of the country’s leading government agency, arrived in Dagupan City on September 1 to gain new insights and perspectives about the city by visiting its seven historical landmarks.

The NHI group headed by supervisor for history research architect Lorelei Devianna and history researcher architect Maria Luisa Valerio surveyed seven historical places in the city recommended by the Dagupan Heritage Commission and Metro Dagupan Culture and Arts Council (MDCAC).

Priority in their list of landmarks is the Home Economics Building at the West Central Elementary School where General Douglas Mac Arthur stayed after landing at the Lingayen Gulf, fulfilling his “I shall return” promise during World War II. Next ontheir priority list is the Gabaldon Schoolhouse, also found at West Central.

According to Nora Siapno, MDCAC chairman, the history experts were amazed upon seeing the century-old building still standing erect and has even surviveda the devastating earthquakes 16 years ago.

“This is a major boost in our tourism landscape, Dagupan will surely benefit from the institute’s much needed expertise - assisting the city executives educate its citizenry and stakeholders on heritage conservatrion and preservation,” Lim said during the group’s courtesy call.

Other landmarks they toured are the City Hall, PNR site, Spanish and American stations, Ancestral house of the De Venecias in Tambac and the landing site of General MacArthur.

“We should follow great cities of the world where preservation, conservation and restoration of old structures is a law. Tourism has earned these cities enormous amounts of money,” stressed Carmen Prieto of the Heritage Commission.

Before departing, the NHI group thanked the city governmetn for their warm receptiion and hospitality. (CIO/Leziel T. Cayabyab)