Archives: Places

St. Thomas Aquinas Parish Church

It is known as the pilgrimage site where most of its devotees are students who pay tribute to St. Thomas Aquinas, the patron saint of knowledge. The church is one of the oldest in Pangasinan as it existed for around 420 years. Renovations have been kept to a minimum throughout the years so that visitors will see the church’s structure as it was centuries ago. The church also showcases century-old hand-drawn artworks of the 13 Stations of the Cross preserved and hung across the inner church walls.

Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag

Known as the great church in the north to have been granted the title Minor Basilica by Pope Francis in 2015, the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is a globally recognized pilgrimage site where thousands of visitors stop by every year. It houses a museum which exhibits several religious memorabilia such as a replica of the Virgin Mother as well as the dresses she would wear on different special occasions. The site’s holiness and miracles can never be described in words. It will only be understood upon setting foot on the holy site.

Agro-Technical Assistance and Livelihood Opportunities in the North (AGTALON), Inc. | Manaoag Organic Hub

Located along the National Highway to Urdaneta City, visitors may stop by at the Manaoag Organic Hub which is a globally recognized non-governmental organization that advocates sustainable agriculture and development. It has a store where anyone can buy organic produce harvested straight from the farms across Northern Luzon. An area behind the main building has been developed into a pick-and-pay farm and a new extension in the form of a restaurant was made for visitors who wish to settle down and snack on the organic meals provided.

Lorezco Bricks

Brick houses are still very “in vogue” in Sta. Barbara, with local brick makers still actively molding the material since 1983. The process of brick-making is quite intricate in that, a right combination of certain mixtures must be achieved and then subsequently mashed together with the help of a carabao stepping on the concoction. Visitors may arrange an appointment to visit the site with the local Tourism Office

DOREVI Industries

Alfredo Reyes Vicente founded the DOREVI Industries in 1988. With the use of bamboo, DOREVI Industries create picture frames, cabinets, stools, furniture, and other knickknacks and trinkets. Beginning in 1995, DOREVI Industries began to supply bamboo souvenirs in local malls so that visitors may take home a piece of this unique artistry. For educational tours, visitors can stop by at the factory site where staff members can readily exhibit and demonstrate the craftsmanship.

Minor Basilica of St. Dominic

Dominican friars began evangelization in Binalatongan (now San Carlos City) in 1587. Years later, in 1773, the current brick church was completed and was once recognized as the biggest church in the Philippines. As of 2023, the church has been standing for 250 years.

Pope Francis bestowed the title of “minor basilica” to the St. Dominic Parish Church last July 26, 2022. It was formally declared as Minor Basilica of St. Dominic at a ceremony held last January 14, 2023. The Minor Basilica of St. Dominic is now known as the first and only minor basilica in the patronage of St. Dominic in Asia, likewise becoming the fifth in the world.

St. Joseph Parish Church

Distinguishable by arch top-shaped shelves framed against its outer pillars and occupied by beautifully sculpted statues of Biblical characters, the St. Joseph the Patriarch Church is a fairly modern structure located near Mapandan’s town plaza. It is a few kilometers away from Manaoag, which makes it one the first churches people visit along their way to Manaoag.

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church

Deemed as a national cultural treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA), the Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church is the second oldest church in Pangasinan, having been built between the 17th and 19th centuries by the Dominicans. Its structure is reminiscent of Baroque designs and it features original retablos (devotional paintings) within. A preserved bell tower is also a point of interest, as well as the intricate paintings across the ceilings.

Señor Divino Tesoro Shrine

Unlike most churches, entering the Señor Divino Tesoro Shrine requires visitors to climb a short flight of stairs but reaching the top will all be worth it as the church is known to grant prayers and wishes when you touch the statue of Jesus Christ located at the altar. This pilgrimage site is located at the center of town, attached to the same building as Calasiao’s Municipal Hall.

Bayambang Municipal Plaza

It is known as the site where Philippine’s first president, Emilio F. Aguinaldo, declared Bayambang as the fifth capital of the Philippine Revolutionary Republic. The municipal hall itself has stood for a century, preserving its rich history within its passages. Visitors may also want to stop by at the public plaza across the municipal hall where along its path leading to the park, a mini gallery can be found.

St. Raymond of Peñafort Parish Church

Named after the Dominican priest who later became the patron saint of canon lawyers and lawyers in general, the St. Raymond of Peñafort Parish Church was built in 1835 and is mainly distinguishable for its dome-like roof. Its façade has been preserved although there were minor constructions to help maintain the structure. From its big windows and doors, unfiltered sunlight naturally seeps into the church and make the history left upon the pillars and walls glow solemnly.

Our Farm Republic

Concerned with health issues and prevalent maladies like diabetes and cancer? It seems only natural for people to turn to a healthier lifestyle and this is where Our Farm Republic comes in. Our Farm Republic produces high quality herbs, spices, fruits, vegetables and even livestock and fertilizer. Our Farm Republic is also an agricultural tourism site, hosting educational tours and seminars, as well as overnight stays for those who want to participate and learn more about organic farming.