Digital historical markers unveiled at Cebu Basilica

MANILA, Philippines — The Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño recently partnered with PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications and InnoPub Media to install these interactive markers at the church and its museum, and at the famous landmark across from it.

The markers contain QR codes and NFC chips that mobile users can scan using their phones to access important details on the heritage of the sites. 

The initiative is part of a Smart-backed digital tourism and catechism program and is in line with the upcoming celebration of 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines in 2021.

The program harnesses technology to deliver cultural, historical, and travel information through the creation of apps, mobile guides, and interactive materials, that give travelers comprehensive and localized information about various destinations in the country.

The digital tourism program features key religious and heritage sites, notable churches, and travel destinations such as nature parks and historic cities.

As part of the program leading to the 2021 celebrations, Smart also recently unveiled interactive tourism markers at Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church in Bantayan, Cebu.

The digital tourism program has also been implemented at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral and in heritage churches in Argao, Boljoon, Carcar, Dalaguete, Samboan, Santander, and Sibonga, among other municipalities in the province.

Smart aims to contribute to heritage conservation efforts by disseminating information and promoting awareness of the historic, cultural, and symbolic significance of distinguished churches all over the Philippines.