Holy Places

The Philippines distinguishes itself as the only Christian nation in South East Asia. Together with this self-acclaimed distinction are living proofs found in structures around the country. Here are some of them which I was blessed to see.

The National Shrine of Our Lady of Penafrancia, Naga City, Bicol. A flock of devotees come to Naga to pay homage to the Blessed Virgin every third Sunday of September. Many faithful find refuge in times of hopelessness in this sanctuary. Local townsfolk also give accounts of miraculous stories that they encounter.

Batulao is a place for finding space and time with the Divine. It is a "hub" for retreat places. This is the Chapel found in the Caleruega compound in Batulao. Caleruega is a retreat house with many function places for religious activities. It is named after the birthplace of St. Dominic De Guzman. It is owned and operated by the Dominicans (Order of Preachers).

When I went to Bicol in 2008, I was fortunate to see the Cagsaua Ruins. The Cagsaua Ruins is known as the church which was swallowed by the flowing lava when Mayon Volcano erupted in 1814. All 1,200 people who sought refuge in the church during the said eruption perished. The bell tower of the church is what remains and is a silent reminder of the devastations brought about by the disaster.

In the background you can see the sleeping Mayon Volcano. It is such a pity that I was unable to see the perfect cone-shaped vocano because of the clouds.

Another historical marker in Pilippine history. The Barosoain Church in Malolos Bulacan. It is where the First Philippine Government, headed by President Emilio Euinaldo, convened Congress to draft the very first constitution of the Philippines, and ultimately the first constitution in South East Asia.