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| One of the Chinese Lions of Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral |
About 5 years ago, I wrote an article about Chinese-inspired Fu or Foo dogs guarding the entrances of Catholic Churches in the Philippines. These Fu Dogs are actually Chinese Lions that symbolize protection.
In Cebu, two churches have these Chinese Lions. Both the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral have a pair of these mythical symbols sculpted in granite stone or piedra china securing the front entrances.
I've often wondered why all of these Cebuano Chinese lions are all males. Traditionally, these lions are depicted as male-female pairs since each one brings a different set of meanings. Male lions defend the physical structure, while the female ones safeguard the people inside. How would one know which is which? Usually, the male lion is holding a ball and the female lion is with a cub/s.
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| Chinese Lion holding a ball, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral |
I hope the Archdiocese of Cebu would consider removing the black paint covering their pair since it hides the beauty of the original centuries-old granite stone. Looking closely at these heritage lions, sections of the statues have already peeled off paint. I know there might not be enough time, but it would be nice to see the lions restored to their original state before the Feast Day of St. Vitalis (San Vidal) on April 28.
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| The Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral |
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Additional Readings:
Why Are Chinese Lions Guarding Philippine Catholic Churches?
Echoes of Intramuros Manila: Tombstones on the Streets
A Heritage Visit to San Miguel Arcangel Church in Argao
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