St. Michael the Archangel in Oas, Albay was founded by Franciscan Missionaries in 1605 with Fray Marcos de Lisboa as first curate. The first Oas church was made of wood and cogon grass. In 1825, the bigger church and convent of volcanic rocks and bricks was constructed under the direction of Fray Francisco de Anunciacion O. Peñaranda.

In 1866, the church and the rectory were damaged in a fire. Later that same year, the church was rebuilt under the supervision of Fray Francisco de Aragones. Subsequent damages by earthquake and typhoon was repaired by Fray Manuel de Brihueg in 1884.

Transept of the church was annexed by Fray Santos Herrejon in 1873-1878. Convent remodeled by Fray Carlos Cabido in 1889. Another strong typhoon in 1947 damaged the church and it was restored by M.R.P. Luis Dimadumba in 1948.

The festival

Traditionally, Oas celebrates its town fiesta on May 8, but the parish observes another feast on September 29 according to the church calendar. On this day, the newly established Himoloan festival is held, showcasing the religious traditions of Oas and the spirit of oneness and Alay Kapwa – aid to the neighbor in need.

How to get there

Deep in the heart of Bicol is the Province of Albay. Take the bus or the plane, (or train). The choice is yours.

By Air: Albay can be reached by plane through the Legazpi airport. It is served by Philippine Airlines, Airline Philippines and Cebu Pacific flying daily to Legazpi from Manila or vice versa. The approach to Legazpi airport commands a bird's eye view of the majestic Mayon Volcano-Albay's pride. Take the seat nearest the window on the forward section of the aircraft; the wings can get in the way of your view.

By Land: Several buses leave Manila daily to Legazpi like Cagsawa Travel and Tours, Inc., Philtranco, Peñafrancia, Amihan (AM) Travel and Tours, Isarog, St. Jude Transit and Goldline Tours, Inc. The terminals are located at the Araneta Center in Cubao and in Ermita, Manila near the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Travel durin the day is cool. The lush green scenery is magnificient. Drop by the clean rest areas at the forest reserves of Atimonan in Quezon Province or at the Bicol National Park. The trip is as good as the destination itself.

Getting around

Buses and jeepney’s are generally the main mode of transportation in getting around Albay’s destinations. Pedicabs and tricycles are also available for short distance travels. Taxis and rent-a-cars are also available.

There are also inns, hotels, and accommodations throughout the city where you can stay.

• Vista Al Mayon Pensionne - Washington Drive Legazpi City, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines 4500
• La Roca Veranda Suites & Restaurant - La Kandula Dive, Gogon, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Salvador Manor de Legazpi - 153 Washington Drive, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Mayon View Apartelle and Restaurant Sa Bukid - Narra Drive, Pagasa Rawis, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Corner Place Hometel - Barriada, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Magayon Hotel - Penaranda Street, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Legazpi Airport Hotel - Brgy. 40, Cruzada, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Shell Inn - Purok 7, Arimbay, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Carlo's Hometel Bed and Breakfast - 719 , Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines
• Legazpi Tourist Inn - 3rd Floor V and O Building Quezon Avenue corner Lapu-Lapu Street, Legazpi - Albay, Bicol , Philippines