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The centuries-old churches of Negros and Iloilo stand as majestic testaments to the Philippines’ rich Spanish colonial history and enduring faith. From the intricate façade of Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the solemn beauty of San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod, these architectural treasures showcase baroque, neoclassical, and Romanesque styles. Built by Filipino artisans and Spanish missionaries, these churches have withstood natural calamities and wars, yet remain deeply rooted in local culture. Walking through their halls, you’ll find not only religious significance but also stories of resilience, artistry, and community. Exploring these sacred landmarks is like traveling back in time to witness centuries of devotion and history.
Miag-Ao Church
Let's start with Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1787 under Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao, and Domingo Libo-on was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797, and it served as a fortress against Muslim Raiders. During the revolution, this church was destroyed, but was rebuilt. Like other heritage churches, it was damaged by fire and earthquake. Restoration work began in 1960 and was completed in 1962.
Jaro Church
Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral is another example of the historical Baroque architecture in the country. Built in 1864 by the order of Mariano Cuartero, who was the first bishop of Jaro. In 1948, this structure was destroyed by an earthquake and was restored in 1956 at the order of the first archbishop Jose Ma. Cuenco. The famous orator, Graciano Lopez Jaena, was baptized in this church. In 1976, this church was proclaimed as a Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute.
Molo Church
Molo Church (St. Anne Parish) is situated in front of the Molo town plaza. Molo is actually one of the seven districts of Iloilo City, which was formerly called Parian (Chinatown) because the residents here were mostly Chinese. Then it was changed into Moro because of the frequent arrival of Muslim pirates from Mindanao, but later evolved into Molo – Wikipedia.com. It was built in 1831 by the Ilonggo artists. This church has Gothic-Renaissance architecture, and it’s the only one outside Manila. It is made from coral stones with egg whites mixed with sand for some parts.
Tigbauan Church
Historians found it difficult to establish the exact year when the Tigbauan Church was originally built or established. It is believed that there had been no parish priest when the church was established, but it could possibly have been 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 earthquakes. The said repaid was led by different people who served as the church leaders.
Guimbal Church
Guimbal Church or St. Nicholas of Tolentino Church doesn’t have any record of when it was erected or established. But, completed between 1769 and 1774 under Friar Juan Campos. In 1893, it was further enlarged but was later destroyed by fire during the Revolution from 1896 to 1898. This church was built from coral stone and yellow limestone through forced labor. The design is more in the Spanish Colonial Style. The columns placed on the facade were added as additional support and have an artistic design.
San Jose Church
The San Jose Church is the first church in the city of Ilo-Ilo, built by the Jesuits around 1607. But, on April 29, 1617, the Augustinians established San Jose, a house of the order. It was saved from being bombed by the Americans during World War II. As the years go by, some renovations were made.
Bacolod Cathedral
The original structure of Bacolod Cathedral was constructed in 1825, which was made of wood and galvanized iron roofing. Similar to other centuries-old structures, this church also faced several calamities. Originally founded by Bishop Mariano Cuartero. O.P. Cornerstone laid on April 27, 1876. Inaugurated on January 20, 1882, under Fray Mauricio Ferrero as the first parish priest. Became a cathedral on June 23, 1933.
San Diego Pro-Cathedral
San Diego Pro-Cathedral, formerly known as San Diego Parish Church or St. Didacus Parish Church, was declared a pro-cathedral in 1994. It is the only church in Silay City that features a dome, which is like St. Peter's in Vatican City. It was established in 1776 using bamboo, cogon grass, and nipa palm. Then it was in 1841 when this parish was constructed using stone and wood, led by Fr. Eusebio Locsin. A grand structure was made in 1925 and replaced the old church. A wealthy sugar baron, Don Jose R. Ledesma from Silay, donated some of the funds for building the new structure.
Visiting the century-old churches of Negros and Iloilo is a spiritual and cultural journey that reveals the soul of Western Visayas. These architectural gems continue to serve as active places of worship while preserving the artistic legacy of generations past. Whether you're a history buff, a devotee, or a curious traveler, these churches offer a peaceful retreat and a profound connection to Filipino heritage. Their enduring presence is a reminder of the deep-rooted faith and craftsmanship of the people. Indeed, they are living symbols of the region’s rich and sacred history.
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