Pagsalingoy traces 75-year journey of Legazpi Diocese

By Rhaydz Barcia

AS the Diocese of Legazpi commemorates its 75th Diocesan Diamond Jubilee this year, the City Government of Legazpi, through the Museo de Legazpi, is showcasing sacred artifacts, historical memorabilia from the once-in-a-lifetime historic visit of St. John Paul II, and valuable photographs documenting the establishment of St. Gregory the Great Cathedral 75 years ago.

The exhibit, locally called “Pagsalingoy,” a Bicol term meaning “looking back,” features the oldest “Manto ni Ina” (the sacred cloak or cape of the Mother), the revered image of Nuestra Señora de Salvación, the heavenly patroness of Albay, along with other relics and sacred artifacts of the Diocese of Legazpi at the Museo de Legazpi here.

This is the first time that the Diocese of Legazpi, led by Bishop Joel “Bong” Z. Baylon, has given the green light for the exhibition of its rich heritage and historic journey, which have shaped the deep-rooted faith, heritage, and religiosity of Albayanos.

Bishop Joel “Bong” Z. Baylon of the Diocese of Legazpi said the exhibit is a gift to the younger generation, allowing them to learn about the lasting legacy and history of the establishment of St. Gregory the Great Cathedral Parish in Legazpi as the Diocese of Legazpi celebrates its 75th Diocesan Diamond Jubilee.

Baylon highlighted the importance of the exhibit in helping people understand the reason behind the Diocese of Legazpi’s celebration of its Diamond Jubilee.

He urged Bicolanos, particularly the younger generation, to discover the story of the province’s local churches through historic photographs, documents, sacred artifacts, and memorabilia—from the beginnings of the Diocese to its parishes, communities, bishops, and clergy.

The prelate underscored the centuries-old devotion to Nuestra Señora de Salvación and the historic visit of St. John Paul II, as well as many other moments that have shaped the life and mission of the local Church.

“Take a journey through 75 years of the Diocese of Legazpi through photographs, historical records, sacred objects, and memorabilia that tell the story of our local Church. The Pagsalingoy Exhibit will remain open for one year,” the church official said.

Legazpi City Mayor Hisham Ismail expressed gratitude to Bishop Baylon for allowing the city government to exhibit the sacred artifacts and memorabilia at the Museo de Legazpi.

“The City Government of Legazpi totally supports this initiative in recognition of the Church’s immense contribution to our city’s culture, faith, and history. Together with Bishop Bong Baylon, Bishop Lilo Quiambao, the entire staff of the Diocese, and Cong. Alfredo ‘Pido’ Garbin of the Ako Bicol Party-list, we invite every Legazpeño and visitor to join us and view this meaningful exhibit,” he said.

“Although the activity is scheduled to run for one year, we are asking Bishop Baylon to lend us the memorabilia so that they may remain at the Museo de Legazpi permanently. This will allow the people of Legazpi and our guests, particularly the younger generation, to learn where and how the Cathedral of Legazpi started, as well as the history of the churches in Legazpi,” Ismail said.

Herbie Aguas, DOT Bicol regional director, said the exhibit jointly mounted by the Diocese of Legazpi and the LGU of Legazpi is a meaningful celebration of faith tourism that could attract tourists to visit the Museo de Legazpi.

“A meaningful celebration of 75 years of grace, guidance, and mission unfolded today, August 26, 2026, at the Museo de Legazpi as they officially launched the Pagsalingoy Exhibit: 75 Taon Nin Biyaya, Pag-antabay, Asin Misyon,” Aguas said.

“The exhibit offers a glimpse into a remarkable journey preserving memories, milestones, stories, and the enduring legacy of a community shaped by faith, service, and mission. Congratulations to the Diocese of Legazpi, City Government of Legazpi, and Museo de Legazpi,” Aguas said.

Darlito Perez, former curator of the Museo de Legazpi, said the exhibit provides valuable knowledge for the new generation.

“We are grateful because Bishop Baylon is hands-on with this exhibit. Thank you, Bishop, for allowing the City Government of Legazpi to exhibit the artifacts from the Diocese of Legazpi in recognition of the 75 years of St. Gregory Cathedral,” Perez said.

The exhibit is open to the public Monday to Friday at the Museo de Legazpi, 2nd Floor, The Gregorian, Legazpi City, except on holidays.