I’m always in awe whenever I’m in the minor basilica of San Sebastian in Manila. The all steel church has one of the most fascinating architecture in the country. During a photo documentation of the interior, yesterday, a children’s choir was practicing for their presentation a few month from now. These are just some of the few I took.

I’m thankful to Nomadic Pinoy who sent me a scanned page of his May 2010 National Geographic Magazine where my photo of a flagellant trying on his tukarol or hood for fit and balance was published. It is the editor’s choice for the issue.

The image is part of a photo story that I did in 2009.

Check A Ritual of Faith

Prior and after the Earth Day Run 2010 yesterday, I was shooting around the grounds, and was photographed too by my friend, Ryan. I was looking for portraits and these were one of those that I found. Check out yesterday’s photos.

This is my first organized run for a newbie like me and I still managed to take some images before and after the race. The Earth Day Run was sponsored by the NatGeo Channel and benefits Design Against the Elements (DAtE). More at FitandRun.Info.

The Minor Basilica of San Sebastian in Manila, especially declared attached to the Vatican, is considered the only all-steel church in Asia and for the past 109 years, it has endured the test of time and natural disasters. While the exterior seems to be okay, the paint hides a dirty little secret: the edifice is in bad condition and it’s steel parts, imported from Belgium, is deteriorating. Oxidation or rust has taken its toll and this can be seen in the dark corners of the interior.

Tina Paterno, a New York based conservator has offered her time to spearhead the seeming impossible task of restoring this impressive structure that has been the legacy of the Augustinian Recollects, smarting from the destruction that affected the previous stone church in the aftermath of the 1880 earthquake,  experimented with a new construction material as Spanish colonization is in its twilight.

On my part, I have helped her document this basilica before the restoration will commence as well as have something that I will use once I will start my San Sebastian series in simbahan.net. This is no easy task. There are too many details to cover and now we’re still at our second day, I’ve only done less than half of the interior.

Seeing the walls up close, I’m also alarmed at the current state. There really is a need to do something, the sooner, the better, before it’s too late or we will forever lose this unique treasure. When our support is needed for it’s restoration, please, let’s give our share in preserving this architectural wonder.