CEBU CITY – The Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas (OPAV) has assumed the responsibility of the National Quincentennial Commission (NQC) in overseeing quincentennial events in the Visayas amid the rising coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases in the National Capital Region.
OPAV Undersecretary Anthony Gerard “Jonji” Gonzales on Wednesday said beginning last March 20 until April 7, he will represent NQC chairperson Salvador Medialdea and NQC executive director Rene Escalante in the unveilings of historical markers in Eastern Visayas and Cebu province.
Gonzales also represented President Rodrigo Duterte on the 500th anniversary of the Easter Sunday Mass in Limasawa, Southern Leyte on Wednesday.
The event which commemorated the First Easter Sunday Mass in the Island of Limasawa of Southern Leyte, is recognized as the first Catholic mass ever held in the Far East.
The unveiling of a quincentennial historical marker was also held on the island.
OPAV also takes over the quincentennial coverage and documentation of Radio-Television Malacañang.
Gonzales said “OPAV is honored” to take over the functions of NQC.
OPAV, being the adjunct of the Office of the President in the Visayas, has been a regular member of the NQC.
The Visayan leg of the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines (2021 QCP) will last until May 4, 2021. It will mark the 500th anniversary of the Negros Island part in the first circumnavigation of the world, which will be held in Dumaguete City. (PNA)
