Established in 1587, Taguig is one of the oldest communities of Metro Manila. In Brgy. Tuktukan is the Simboryo, the city's tangible link to its past.
The Simboryo is an impressive elevated mortuary chapel reached by a wide, flaring staircase and ringed by an elegant balustrade. The large portal is flanked by stately false columns. Crowning it all is a perfect cupola or dome measuring 12 meters in diameter.
But for all its architectural finesse, the structure's history is murky. A Google search result will state that it was built sometime in the 1700s, but that would even make it even older than the present stone church of Taguig, which was only started by 1883. The stone retablo inside the chapel might help give a more accurate dating, as it is done in the neo-Classic style prevalent during the 19th century.
Time has not been kind to the Simboryo. Repairs to damaged sections made in 1980 and 1993 can be found at the entrance, the balustrade, and various parts of the circular wall. The chapel itself is used as a storage area by caretakers, while signs of vandalism--some very prominent--are all over the building.
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