A COMMITTEE hearing to be presided by the 21st City Council’s tourism committee is being pursued to discuss the preservation of the Southeast Asia Rural Social Leadership Institute (Searsolin) building located within Xavier University’s Manresa campus in uptown Cagayan de Oro City.
In her special report during Monday afternoon’s (May 11) regular City Council session, Councilor and tourism committee chairperson Joyleen Mercedes ‘Girlie’ Balaba cited opposition by some alumni to the ongoing ‘Campus of the Future’ project by developer Cebu Landmasters Inc.
Those opposing the project said the Searsolin building is a significant site that deserves preservation because of its historical, educational and social value. Balaba said the building holds a strong social heritage and legacy.
Built in 1964, Searsolin played a vital role in shaping rural development leaders across Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Balaba said the institution represents the legacy of Fr. William Masterson, SJ, whose mission focused on rural development.
Balaba called on the City Council to determine whether the structure should undergo preservation, conservation, adaptive reuse, or demolition amid the ongoing development in Manresa. She said the ‘National Historical Commission of the Philippines’ cited recognition of XU’s historical significance.
Councilor Balaba said the tourism committee will hold the hearing with the Committee on Agriculture chaired by Councilor Juancho Pascual and will invite representatives of Cebu Landmasters and Xavier University to discuss the issue. (MDS/CIO/Photo The Gavel)
