Swiss National Launches Book about Argao

Cebu gains other milestone in its cultural heritage preservation with the publication of a book written by a foreign national who loves the province

“Argao: A Usable Past” is written by Paul Gerschwiler, a Swiss national who has made Argao his second home since 2002.

At the book launching was Vice Governor Agnes Magpale who thanked Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) for publishing the book through its Culture & Heritage Unit.

In behalf of Gov. Hilario Davide III, Magpale gave RAFI credit for what she described as another good work of the foundation in preserving a town’s rich history. She pointed out that RAFI is also appreciated for helping the Cebu Provincial Government publish 55 volumes of books containing the history of Cebu’s towns.

The vice governor hopes that not just Argawanons but all the Cebuanos will be just as passionate as the man who wrote the book is.

Gerschwiler thanked the help of Cebuano friends for their support in making the book possible . He came to writing it thirty years after retiring from his other passion, which is travelling.

He told guests at the book launching that his work underscored Cebuano hospitality at its finest.

RAFI President Roberto Aboitiz said Gerschwiler’s book fosters a sense of pride in being a Cebuano and urged media to help promote it.

RAFI Vice President Jon Ramon Aboitiz described “Argao: A Usable Past” as more than just a narration of Cebu’s rich history. He said the book will make readers want to know more about Argao.

“Argao: A Usable Past” is designed as user-friendly. It will be made available to Argao’s 45 barangays as well as all other Cebu towns and municipalities. It features “a wealth of photographs” Gerschwiler himself took.

Argao Councilor Annabelle Birondo received a copy of the book in behalf of Mayor Edsel Galeos. (by Fides Palicte)

www.cebu.gov.ph