JARO, Iloilo City: Shrine of Our Lady of Candles

On my second day in the island of Panay, I insisted to at least step on the nearby province of Iloilo, which is adjacent to Capiz. My attempt of visiting Miag-ao failed due to time constraint. Nevertheless, I decided to stay in Jaro instead. First on the list: The Jaro Cathedral, also known as the Shrine of Our lady of Candles. The church is originally under the patronage of St. Elizabeth of Hungary. 

In front of the church is a stair that leads to an enclosed image of Our lady of Candles. Many devotees come here and forget not to offer a prayer for their personal intentions

Right across the cathedral is its belfry. Unusual it is for me to see a church with its bell tower not adjacent to it. It was my first time to see such architecture in person and at first I wondered if it was another structure not akin to the church.

ROXAS CITY, Capiz: Roxas Metropolitan Cathedral

     Standing in the bustling city capital of Capiz is the Roxas Metropolitan Cathedral under the titular of the Immaculate Conception. Previously painted in blue that embodies its patroness, the cathedral now shows a different hue.

PANITAN, Capiz: St. Lawrence the Deacon Parish

     Located near the banks of Tabuc River stands the town church of Panitan, the hometown of my mother. 

The main altar of the church shows a simplicity, with its patron St. Lawrence the Deacon.

PANAY, Capiz: Sta. Monica Parish Church

     Upon setting foot on the land where my mother was born, my ever supportive nanay asked his sister where the church of Panay is. Good thing she knows and we decided to go there first after fetching us at the Roxas airport. 

     The church is probably the one of oldest churches in the island of Panay and of the Philippines. It is under the patronage of Sta. Monica, mother of St. Agustine of Hippo. 

     The belfry houses the pride of Panay, the largest church bell in Philippines and in Asia. It is made up of  around 70 sacks of coins which is said to be donated by the townsmen. Going up to the bell is open to the public but don't forget to ask permission from the curators of the church.

     The main altar shows antiquity, signifying its ages of splendor in the island.