SOUTHERN ILOILO CHURCHES: GUIMBAL CHURCH

The province of Iloilo in Western Visayas has always been a part of Philippine history, one way or another. The Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legaspi even moved his headquarters from Cebu to Oton, Iloilo. Thus as the leading province during this period Iloilo is widely known for its old-world architecture especially the grand Spanish colonial churches, which can be seen in almost all towns of the province.

GUIMBAL CHURCH

The St. Nicholas of Tolentino Parish in Guimbal, Iloilo is one of the oldest church in the country, and it is the first structure that tourists and passersby will see as they are about to enter the town proper. It was constructed in 1773 through forced labor or polo.

Guimbal church is made from yellow adobe (igang) quarried within the town, and coral stones from Guimaras Island.

Read more about Guimbal, Iloilo here.

HOW TO GET THERE

From Iloilo Terminal Market (or commonly called Super) or near Iloilo Supermarket Molo, ride a Miag-ao or Guimbal-bound jeepney and tell the driver to drop you off at the church. The trip would usually last 1hour and the fare is Php30.