After Miag-ao and Guimbal, around 6 PM, we passed by the Tigbauan Church in Tigbauan, Ilo-Ilo. I already paid my fare to Ilo-Ilo City but I was amazed by the facade of the church, so I immediately got off the jeepney and had a very short visit in Tigbauan Church. In front is an open plaza and is just a few meters away from Tigbauan Municipal Hall.
Historian found it difficult to establish the exact year when Tigbauan Church was originally built or established. It is believe that there had been no parish priest when the church was established, but it could be possibly between 1575 to 1580 when F. Luis de Montoya was assigned as Prior. This church underwent a lot of repairs because of the natural disasters like earthquake. The said repaid was lead by different people who served as the church leaders.
Tigbauan Church is considered a classic example of a Spanish Churriqueresque style. In building the facade, they used local reddish coral stone and limestone quarried nearby. The carvings were done by the selected and famous Chinese/Filipino artist of their time. I didn't enter this church because there was a mass on going.
WHERE TO STAY IN TIGBAUAN, ILO-ILO:
I haven't found any hotel or pension houses in Guimbal, Ilo-Ilo, the nearest would be in Tigbauan. Best option is to stay at any hotels in Ilo-Ilo City. I stayed at Ong Bun Pension House for only 350 pesos per night for a fan room.
HOW TO GET TO TIGBAUAN, ILO-ILO:
From Manila, Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines has a direct flight to Ilo-Ilo Airport. From the airport take a cab to Super. Then, ride a jeepney with "Miag-Ao" or "San Joaquin" sign board and alight in Tigbauan. On the left, you will see Tigbauan Church and Guimbal Church while Miag-ao Church is on the right. Available public transportation to Ilo-Ilo City are jeepney or UV Express van.