Overview
The San Andres Church is a magnificent reminder of our rich history, its Spanish-era Baroque architecture still steadfast even after the passage of centuries. It can be found in Masiloc, Zambales, the first town established by the Spanish in province in 1607. The name of the town is derived from a plant called jinlocs that was found plentiful in the region by the original inhabitants.
The church sustained serious damage from earthquakes in 1970 and 1999. The townsfolk and other volunteers raised the necessary funds for the reconstruction of the church.
The church is has been named a national culture heritage in 1970. The building was founded by Augustinian Recollects in the 18th century. It is one of the oldest churches in the province and dates back 400 years.
The cathedral was built with coral stone, particularly its façade, which is considered as an architectural breakthrough when it was established. Throughout its history, saint’s niches and icons - San Agustin, San Andres and San Nicholas - were placed at the façade. An archway entrance adorns the façade of the church
The church is decorated by a bell tower on its right side. The bell tower is designed like a round temple with a lantern and a cross on the top of the tower. For practical reasons, the bell tower is used to communicate to the townsfolk by telling the time, giving the sign to pray and is sounded for occasions weddings.
People feel the sense of awe and serenity upon seeing the church's interior illuminated by the soft light coming from the wide stained glass church windows. The mosaic of colorful light reflected from the windows truly lends to the sacredness of this place. Different figures of saints and the statue of the Risen Christ elaborately adorn the church.
The San Andres Church exhudes Baroque architecture and is a showcase of grandeur inside and out. The church remains stunning and steadfast even though it is more than 400 years old.
Accommodations
The following resorts and hotels in Zambales provide excellent service and lodging to the visitor of their province:
- Kamana Sanctuary Resort and Spa
Nabasan Beach Ilanin Forest West District, Subic (Zambales), Philippines
- Wild Orchid Beach Resort
Baloy Long Beach, Barrio Barreto, Subic (Zambales), Philippines
- Subic Holiday Villas
George Dewey Convention Center Complex, Kalayaan Heights, Subic (Zambales), Philippines
- Grand Hoyah Hotel
Lot 5B & 6, Manila Ave.(Interior) cor. Canal Road, Freeport Zone, Subic (Zambales), Philippines 2222
- Subic Park Hotel
Location: Moonbay Marina Waterfront Road, Freeport Zone, Subic (Zambales), Philippines 2209
How to Get There
Zambales is easily accessible by bus, with tourists being able to choose from five different terminals in Manila, situated in Caloocan, Cubao, Kamias, Pasay and Sampaloc. The four terminals have trips to Olongappo and Iba, Zambales except for Kamias terminal. Pasay is the nearest terminal from the airports in Manila. From Pasay, the journey varies from 4 to 5 hours. The fare ranges between 350 to 400 pesos. Visitors can explore the province by jeep or tricycle traveling from one town to another.
The historical and religious heritage of San Andres Church in Masinloc, Zambales awaits you!