Tabaco Church - Albay

Although found in the Bicol Region, Tabaco Church features a design reminiscent of the churches found in the Ilocos Region. To help you discern this characteristic, take a closer look at the image above. If you're still uncertain, allow me to clarify. Much like many northern churches, the bell tower of this church stands several meters apart from the main structure. This architectural choice serves as a safeguard, ensuring that should the church ever topple, the bell tower remains unharmed. Tabaco Church is situated along the National Highway in Tabaco City, Albay, Philippines.

Tabaco Church

Tabaco Church Details

Tabaco Church is also known as St. John the Baptist Church, named after the city's patron saint. The first church structure was built in 1616 under the guidance of Fr. Pedro De Alcareso. The present church, on the other hand, was built to replace the old one in 1864 and was completed in 1879. They say the church is unique among other churches in the Philippines because the stones used to build the church bear the distinct marks of the Masons.

Tabaco Church - Tabaco City, Albay

Tabaco Church as seen from the road

The family poses at the monument in front of the church

Tabaco Church facade

Tabaco Church belfry

Like most towns in Albay, Tabaco was also frequently raided by the Moslem pirates or Moros. Aside from that, the town and the church experienced a number of other disasters in the past century. The well-known disasters that struck Tabaco City are; the 1811 typhoon, the 1814 eruption of Mayon Volcano, typhoon Trix in 1952, the Commercial Center Fire of 1964, and typhoon Sining in 1970.

Tabaco Church interior

Despite these calamities, the town and its people moved on guided by their faith.

Like most churches in Albay, I visited Tabaco Church or St. John the Baptist Parish Church during the Albay Road trip that I had with the Family.

The cemetery beside the Tabaco Church

What I like about Tabaco Church is its unique design. You would also find that they bury prominent townspeople inside and beside the church. Just a tip, be very mindful about respecting the sacredness of the church. During my visit there, I noticed several kids playing inside the church while their parents were chatting with some friends.

UPDATE 2020:

Tabaco Church was badly damaged by Typhoon Ulysses last November 1,2020.

Tabaco Church Admission Fee:

It's FREE to enter and explore Tabaco Church grounds.

Tabaco Church Mass Schedule:

Tabaco Church Mass Schedule 2020

Getting to Tabaco Church:

Ride a bus going to Tabaco City. There are several bus companies that travel directly from Manila to Tabaco City.

bus fare: P600

Ratings:

Pilgrims

Cleanliness

Overall rating