Zambales Mountain and River

The province of Zambales is endowed with tourist attractions that are surely loved by the tourists. They will enjoy visiting and exploring the province. It is one of the best provinces in the Philippines that host many tourist attractions and wonders.

Cultural

• Botolan Resettlement Sites

Botolan, Zambales

A model resettlement village located in Brgys. Baquilan, Loob-bunga and Taugtug. Baquilan offers a hilltop view of the volcano's crater. It is populated by hundreds of Aeta families who were displaced from their native habitat during the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991. An optional visit for tourists who would rather engage in social and cultural exchange with the natives.

Historical

• Camara Ancestral House

Iba, Zambales

Vicente Camara was the first Filipino Governor of Zambales, appointed by Gen. Aguinaldo in 1898. His term ended upon his surrender to the Americans in 1901. The Camara house is one of a kind built from the strongest local hardwoods, such as molave, yakal and narra. Camara himself together with Ginzaburo Hanaki designed the house with materials personally chosen by the former in 1912. Design was based on the need for ventilation, steep roof made of nipa for coolness. Floor-to-ceiling windows added more ventilation to the house. The main staircase and jambs are made of single, unjoined molave hardwood. During the war, it was used as headquarters by the Japanese. Gen. Yamashita visited the house during the war years. In its yard, the first Caimito, Java Mango, and Mangosteen trees in Zambales were planted.

• Capones Island Lighthouse

San Antonio, Zambales

The Faro (Lighthouse) de Punta Capones on the Island of Grand Capon is a significant lighthouse of the first order. Its light guides ships entering and leaving the port of Manila and Subic Bay. The lighthouse also warns navigators of the rocky shores surrounding the Island of Capones. As a warning beacon, it serves together with the lights situated in the islets of Los Frailes, and Los Jabones as a series of warnings due to the dangers of the surrounding seas as well as the islands close proximity to shore, thereby making the seas very treacherous to unseasoned navigators. As a navigation guide, this lighthouse serves the main artery for ships heading towards China, which therefore makes it a very busy and important shipping route.

Responding to the need for better navigation guides throughout the Philippines, the Spanish colonial government initiated a substantial building program of lighthouses and light stations throughout the Philippine archipelago. One of the initial projects to be approved in this significant undertaking was the lighthouse on the Island of Grand Capon or Faro de Punta Capones.

• Fort Paynauen

Botolan, Zambales

This historic fortress whose moss-covered walls still stand on the bank of Bancal River in Barrio Pader in Botolan was once the most formidable Spanish garrison in Central Luzon during the first century of the Spanish regime in the Philippines. Also known as Playa Honda, the fort was constructed on the advice of Spanish Admiral Pedro Duran de Monforte to Governor General Diego de Salcedo whose administration of the islands from 1663 to 1668 had to face the serious problem of the continuous uprising of the inhabitants of the province, also known as the province of Playa Honda. Paynauen is the original name of Iba. In 1617, off the coast of Zambales, the Spaniards led by Juan Ronquillo, destroyed three of the six Dutch ships led by Admiral John Derickson Lamb in the two-day battle. This was part of a series of Dutch attacks on the Philippines in the early part of the 17th century. This is known in history as the second battle of Playa Honda. Fort Paynauen served as a prison not only for the recalcitrant natives of Zambales but also for Spanish officials who angered the Spanish Governor General or Archbishop of Manila. During rhe administration of Governor General Juan de Vargas Hurlado (1678-1684), he and the Archbishop of Manila, Don Felipe Pardo were not in good terms. When Archbishop Pardo became powerful, Vargas' trusted followers were incarcerated in Fort Paynauen.

• Subic Naval Base (now Subic Bay Freeport)

Olongapo City, Zambales

Characterized by its natural deep-sea harbor, with narrow entrance guarded by Grande Island, for the defense of its colonial hold on the Philippines, Spain was the first to build a naval station here in 1885 - only to lose it during the Spanish-American War 13 years later in 1898.It became a major shipyard and repair facility for the U.S. Navy after floating drydock "Dewey" was towed in Subic from Virginia in 1905. It was home to the U.S. 7th Fleet. The administration of Olongapo was later turned over to the Philippine government by the United States on December 7, 1959. The town was converted into a city on June 1, 1966 by virtue of RA No. 4645 sponsored by Congressman Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. The city mayor then was James L. Gordon. Today the former naval station has grown to become the first freeport zone in the country - a sprawling industrial, commercial and tourism estate attracting hundreds of investors and millions of local and foreign tourists.

Landmarks

• Ramon Magsaysay Marker

Iba, Zambales

Ramon Magsaysay - Popularly known as the "idol of the masses," loved by by a multitude as the "guy", he was born on 31 august 1907 in Iba, Zambales; finished his BSC at the Jose Rizal College, Mandaluyong, Rizal; highest ranking official of the armed forces in Zambales, 1942; was promoted to Major General by Gen. Douglas MacArthur, 1945; representative, 1946 - 1950; President of the Philippines, 1953 - 1957; was responsible in crushing the Hukbalahap movement (insurgency); was responsible in organizing the President's Action Committee (PCAC), National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Administration (NARRA), National Marketing Corporation (NAMARCO), and the Land Tenure Administration (LTA). He died on March 17, 1957.

• Ulo ng Apo Monument

Olongapo City

Legend has it the name ‘Olongapo’ was derived from the phrase ‘Ulo ng Apo’ or Old Man's Head. The name was derived from the story of a wise, old man who wanted to sow unity among the members of a warring tribe. Disliked by the idea of a tribe having a true and good leader, the wise, old man just disappeared only to be found dead with his head severed from the body. His head was later found resting on the tip of a bamboo pole. Upon seeing this, a young boy run around the village crying “Ulo ng Apo”. The phrase stuck and the place is now known today as Olongapo. A monument in honor of the legendary leader lies at the center of the city.

Local Wonders

• Bacala Guesthouse

San Salvador Island, Masinloc, Zambales

The guesthouse sits astride a sand bar in the middle of the bay. It has the privacy and comfort of a resort plus the pristine white sand and crystal-clear water for swimming and snorkeling.

• Cubi Point Bats

Subic Bay Freeport, Zambales

A horde of fruit bats hanging around tree tops are a must-see in Subic Bay Freport Zone. It is also a thrill to see them as they take off on their early evening hunt.

• Masinloc Boardwalk

Masinloc, Zambales

The site serves as a marine park and at the same time a playground and a favorite site for arts and cultural programs.

• Masinloc Marine Conservation Project

San Salvador Island, Masinloc, Zambales

Considered as the main ecotourism destination in Masinloc, the project was adjudged as the "Best in Local Governance" in 1997 by the Local Government Academy and the Asian Institute of Management under the Galing Pook Award.

• PHILSECO

Subic, Zambales

Subic is the home of the Philippine Shipyard and Engineering Corp., a huge facility that can service all the repair requirements of ships plying routes in this part of the world. Its favorable site protects ships against rough seas and destructive strong winds.

• Subic Bay Lighthouse

Subic, Zambales

This structure stands on a small precipice along the northbound lane of the national highway. It commands a panoramic view of Olongapo City, Subic Bay Freeport Zone and Subic Bay.

• Subic Bay Seaport

Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales

The Subic Port is located Southwest of Luzon Island, Philippines. It is 110 kilometers North of Manila, facing the South China Sea and surrounded by Olongapo City and the towns of Subic and Morong. It is Northwest of the Bataan Peninsula and Southwest of the Zambales Province. Subic Bay Freeport has long been recognized for its strategic location, being at the center of the fastest growing markets in Asia. It is at the hub of the region, and all major cities in Asia are within easy reach either by sea or by air. (3 to 4 days by sea, 2-3 hrs. by air. Aside from its strategic location, SBF has a deepwater seaport that is capable of handling the largest ships ever built, manifested when it once supported the mighty US 7th Fleet. The Subic Seaport serves as a major alternative port for importers and exporters in the Northern and Central Luzon areas of the country to decongest the Manila International Container Terminal. It has a total of 15 operational piers and wharves capable of servicing all kinds of sea vessels. The Subic's seaport and container handling facilities were recently enhanced with the operation of the Subic Bay International Container Terminal Services at the Sattler pier. The Freeport also has two operational port terminals: the fertilizer bulk terminal at the Boton Wharf and the grain bulk terminal at the Leyte Wharf. (Credits: www.sbma.com)

• Zambales Provincial Capitol Building

Iba, Zambales

This building was constructed by the Spanish civil government in the years 1875-1878. The molave and yacal posts were cut in the forest near Dirita. Used as a provincial prison during the Spanish regime, it became the general headquarters of the revolutionary government of Zambales in 1899.

• Zambales Rocks

Iba, Zambales

Zambales Rocks or Zambrox manufactures serpentine stone, novelty items such as desk accessories, corporate gifts, table fountains, and volcanic ash fall products such as figurines. The biggest sellers, here and abroad, are the corporate gifts such as clocks, penholders and candle holders.

Museums

• Bishop Deogracias Iniguez Museum

Iba, Zambales

Located on the ground floor of the Bishop Byrne Diocesan Pastoral Center, the museum serves as not only as a permanent repository of religious art of the Diocesan Commission on Archives and Museum , but also as a venue for seasonal exhibits showcasing the religious and cultural heritage of the region. It features some interesting pieces such as the primitive renditions of San Pedro y Pablo in coral stone which probably date back to the 17th century. There is also an interesting vintage photograph of the Flores de Mayo participants inside the church , circa 1929. The museum was designed by Rei Gana Nicolas who used simple lines and dignivifed colors to shape and utilize every nook and cranny of the museum facility. Also the branchild of Vice Mayor Benjamin Farin, Jr.

• Magsaysay Ancestral House and Museum

Castillejos, Zambales

This is the same house where the late President Ramon Magsaysay, popularly known as "The Guy", grew up. At present, it is a a museum that contains his memorabilla. Born in 1907, Iba, Zambales, Magsaysay was the third president of the third Philippine Republic (December 31, 1953 - March 17, 1957). As secretary of national defense in 1950, he was instrumental in breaking the backbone of the Hukbalahap movement in Central Luzon. He died in a plane crash on March 17, 1957 at Mt. Manunggal in the province of Cebu after presiding over three graduation exercises as guest speaker the day before.

• Olongapo City Museum

Olongapo City Convention Center , Old Hospital Rd., East Tapinac Olongapo City

The museum showcases the rich historical and cultural heritage of Olongapo City, chronicling its various stages of transformation over the years, from the city's humble beginnings as a small fishing village inhabited by native Aetas, to a Navy town, to a successful military base conversion and economic independence after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991, and its subsequent growth and development from an ordinary municipality into a vibrant city and a progressive community. The museum also features 2 exhibit halls, a conference/multi-purpose room, a patio and parking space.

Natural

• Alwasan Lanum Cave

Sta. Cruz, Zambales

Alwasan Lanum is Zambal which means "water outflow" suggesting a concave fissure on the side of a mountain endowed with rich natural formations, the most unique of which is the sound of cascading waters coming out with cool breeze from the dark recesses of the cavern. The cave features a miniature waterfall gushing from a narrow 2-feet opening some 15 feet above the water level below. Water plunges down to a pool about 12-ft deep with a floor area of some 20 square meters. The stream flowing down the mouth of the cave teems with shrimps, biya, "tabios", eel and assorted array of small fish.

• Anawangin Cove

San Antonio, Zambales

An undeveloped paradise tucked into the Zambales mountains, some five kms away from Capones Island in San Antonio, Anawangin beach is a popular camping site among outdoor and mountaineering groups. The unusual presence of pine trees on the beach instead of the expected palm trees makes the place a photographer’s choice. Its cascading yet refreshing crystal clear stream outlined by tall pine trees provides a respite to the intrepid traveler. Its near white sand courtesy of Mt. Pinatubo is a setting for a wonderful playground for beach lovers.

• Apaan Cave

Sta. Cruz, Zambales

Of the many caverns in Central Luzon, only the bats of the Apaan Cave can rival the millions of bats that dwell in the Bahay-Paniki Cave. Thick guano deposits cover almost all the floor area of the cave. Entering the cave is difficult though due to a narrow opening at the entrance - at 2 feet only. Trekking east from the national highway after Uacon Bridge to the foot of the Zambales mountain range takes about two hours. The cave can be reached by passing through thick Anos bamboo species and

 

molave-type forests at Sitio Matalahib, Brgy. Lucapon, south of Sta. Cruz. It is about 4 kms from the national highway.

• Baloc-Baloc Cave

Sta. Cruz, Zambales

After a brief but arduous trek thru rocky path, one is rewarded with a magnificent spectacle: a waterfall right inside the cave. From a height of about 10 meters, natural cool spring water oozes out of the cavernous ceiling and on to the caves grotesque rocky walls. Down under, a nature-formed swimming pond awaits the exhausted trekker.

• Balon Falls

Subic, Zambales

These falls have clean, clear water and is surrounded by gigantic boulders. Situated in an area of lush greeneries, the falls provide a cool, tranquil retreat for nature lovers.

• Bucao River

Botolan, Zambales

Now covered with lahar and volcanic materials, this serves as the trekking area towards the foot of Mt. Pinatubo when it is dry.

• Calanga Reef

Iba, Zambales

It is a peanutshell-shaped shoal approximately less than one (1) nautical mile off Brgy. San Agustin and has an area covering 40 hectares. The first station is located at the core area of a shoal. The reef flat has a depth of 30 ft. gradually descending to 50 ft. of sandy substratum. The reef flat is barren and composed of massive types of dead corals with algae covering, fungiids (fungia and herpolita sp). New growth of branching corals (Acropora sp) was also recorded. The estimated average live coral cover of this station is 48.99 percent.

• Capones Island

San Antonio, Zambales

An island with a figure of a man’s face on its side, white sand and green clear waters compose one of the hidden treasures of Zambales. It is also known for an old lighthouse built around the year 1890 during the Spanish era. It is located exactly as part of Barangay Pundaquit in San Antonio, Zambales. From the shore of Pundaquit, it’s a 15 minute boat ride before reaching the island’s beachfront. It rises high over the cliffs like a cinematic picture right from the movies and lures people to marvel both at the structure and the enchanting panorama of the sea and the sky. There are neither resorts nor inhabitants on the island, so tourists can enjoy it for themselves. Boats can be arranged to take you to the island from the mainland resorts of Pundakit. Tourists are permitted to stay overnight provided that you bring all

your gear and a boat ride has been pre-arranged to fetch you back. Source: www.zambalesnow.com

• Coto Mines Mountain Resort

Masinloc, Zambales

Coto Mines Mountain Resort is nestled within a mountainous terrain of primary and secondary growth forest of relatively unspoiled and pristine quality. The mountain forest has diverse varieties of hardwood trees and wild flowering plants, a natural habitat for birds and butterflies, and fertile hunting ground for wild boars, deers and eels. The resort is accessible from the town's national highway through a 40-minute drive along a 27-km winding road. Facilities include 16 guestrooms, family cottages, conference room for 20 - 50 persons, bowling, basketball, volleyball courts, medical clinic, canteen, videoke bar,, wet market, convenience store and kids' pool.

• Grande Island

Subic Bay Freeport, Zambales

The former R & R center for most of the American Navy personnel stationed in Subic, now an island paradise of international standards under management by Grande Island Resort. Enjoy the fine beaches of the island amidst aquatic resources. Take a trek along the wilderness trail system.

• Hermana Mayor Island

Sta. Cruz, Zambales

An ideal place for diving, swimming, and recreation, it is the venue where the candidates of the 1979 Miss Universe Beauty Pageant posed for photograph. It has standard facilities for beach combing and water sports activities.

• Masinloc Ecotourism Wonders

San Salvador Island, Masinloc, Zambales

Description: Come and join the Masinloc Ecotour Program in San Salvador Island (named as the Best in Local Governance in 1997 under the Galing Pook Award). Participate in the Marine Ecology Learning Program that includes: trip to the Mangrove Island, marine protected areas and Giant Taklobo Farm. Explore the natural beauty of underwater scenery thru scuba diving and snorkeling. Enjoy the sumptuous food (seafood, vegetable and fruits, and seaweeds) that will surely delight the visitors. Have fun while learning the environmental development program.

• Masinloc Oyon Bay

Masinloc, Zambales

The combination of the sunset and cool breeze from the sea provides an excellent environment for nature lovers of all ages. You never get tired going there early in the morning to inhale the fresh sea breeze and in the afternoon to view the envigorating sight of the sunset. The Taclobo (Clam) Farm & Coral Reef Transplantation Project contributes to the improvement of the condition of Philippine coral reefs thru coral transplantation and reseeding of giant clams. The continued production of giant clams has resulted in numerous cohorts at the grow-out phase, now ready for restocking. Masinloc Oyon Bay, with its crystal clear water, white sand and biological life forms, is perfect for snorkeling and diving, particularly Bacala diving site.

• Mt. Mabanban

San Antonio, Zambales

Ideal for camping and mountaineering, this place offers a magnificent view of Subic Bay.

• Mt. Pinatubo Botolan, Zambales

Mt. Pinatubo is an active volcano located on the island of Luzon at the intersection of the borders of the provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga. The volcano’s eruption in June 1991 came after 500 years of dormancy, and produced one of the largest and most violent eruptions of the 20th century. Before 1991, the mountain was inconspicuous and heavily eroded. It was covered in dense forest which supported a population of several thousand indigenous people called Aetas, who fled to the mountains from the lowlands when the Spain conquered the Philippines in 1565.

• Mt. Tapulao

Palauig, Zambales

Mt. Tapulao, standing at a height of 6,683 feet (2,037m) above sea level with temperature cooler than Baguio at 12 - 16 Celsius (53.6 - 60.8 Farenheit), is veritably a garden of nature abundant with century-old pines, locally known as Tapulao, hence, the name of the mountain. It plays host to species of orchids, ferns, mossy forest and a secret garden of Bonsai trees, wild strawberry farm, home to monkeys, wild deers, birds, wild boars, upland horses, cattles, wild cats and lizards. Truly, a perfect paradise for nature lovers. It is located at the rolling terrain of Mt. Salaza, Palauig, Zambales. Ideal for biking, driving, trekking, camping and kayaking at the Wild Water River.

• Pinatubo Lake

Botolan, Zambales

The existence of this large body of water was caused by the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991. Buried in this lake were some 600 houses and establishments. The place is now considered a potential tourist destination.

• Potipot Island

Candelaria, Zambales

About 60 kms. off the coast, the town of Candelaria in Brgy Uacon is the jump off point to Potipot Island, an idyllic South Sea setting with fringes of white-sand beaches and a beautiful snorkeling reef

• Sagrada Familia Caves

Sta. Cruz, Zambales

Found along the cliffside of the Zambales mountain ranges, the Sagrada Familia caves are typical of others except that a mysterious image of the Holy Family was caused by a continuous dripping from the apex of the cavern. Evidences of coral fragments along the cliffside point to the fact that the area was millions of years ago part of an ocean bed.

• San Salvador Island and Marine Sanctuary

Masinloc, Zambales

San Salvador Island, located in the western side of Masinloc, Zambales, is about 2.5 kilometers away from the mainland, or a 30-minute pump boat ride from the coast.

The reefs in the northeastern part of the island are fringing, characterized by a vast reef flat with sudden drop-offs in the crest. Spur and groove formation is common along the reef crest, particularly in the area facing the South China Sea. Divers would certainly love feasting their eyes on seeing the largest Manta Rays in the country, each measuring about 10 feet in diameter. The island is rich in fruit- bearing trees like mangoes. Clear water, smooth beaches coupled with powdery white sand and cool sea breeze. The island is host to the only fish sanctuary in Luzon whose reef is made up of used tires to substantially increase fish production. The Giant Clam Farm (Tridacna Gigas) provides enjoyment to nature enthusiasts with perfect underwater sceneries.

• Silanguin Bay

San Antonio, Zambales

Endowed with abundant marine resources, this place is ideal for scuba diving, and is one of the five coves to be developed into a fish sanctuary. Naturally an ideal place to visit for scuba diving adventures.

• Sta. Barbara Falls

Iba, Zambales

Sta. Barbara falls, a newly discovered wonder of nature, is located in Brgy. Sta. Barbara, Iba, Zambales. From the barangay hall, it is a 30-minute car ride and 30-minute trek by the river to reach the twin falls. It has now become one of the tourist attractions of Iba.

• Sto. Nino Cave

Candelaria, Zambales

Sto. Nino Cave is a fissure on the earth's crust in one of the hills of Barangay Babangcal, northeast of of the town of Candelaria in Zambales. It is accessible by any type of transportation and can be reached from the town proper in about 20 minutes. The cave measures about 50 by 75 meters and at the central wall sits an altar with the images of the Holy Family. The weired cross in the background is a makeshift human femur bones. The place is actually a shrine built in honor of an unsung hero, who during the last world war provided a company of Japanese soldiers with a meal of wild, boiled but poisonous cassava roots that "wiped them out without a single shot being fired." Another unique charm of the cave is the presence of a petrified giant clam (taklobo), measuring almost two feet in diameter, imbedded in the rocky stratum of the cave's ceiling.

• Subic Bay

Subic Bay, Zambales

Subic Bay has the country's only remaining three-layered virgin canopy rainforest teeming with wildlife and foliage. The bay offers ocean-going vessels a natural, deep-water port facilities and sheltered harbor. It contains a wealth of historical wrecks many of which lie in quite shallow waters below 130 feet. Of the dozen known vessels that were sunk during the last world war, seven are now dive sites. Of the seven vessels, three are from the American Navy, one is from the Japanese, one is from the Spanish, and the rest are barges and landing crafts. The significant vessels fom the American Naval Forces are the El

Capitana, the Catalina Patrol Aircraft, and the USS new York, the flagship of the North Atlantic Squadron. The Japanese Oryoku Maru, christened as "Hell Ship," was even a luxury liner. It was actually carrying more than a thousand Americans and Allied Prisoners when the Americans made the deadly mistake of attacking it, thus sending their own people and allies to a watery grave. The USS New York, which was scuttled by the US Navy in 1941 at the approach of the Japanese, is now the home of multitudes of marine life species. To swim past the barrels of those massive cannons while schools of talakitok dart overhead in this eerie environment is never to be forgotten. La Gallega, a scaled-down faithful reconstruction of an authentic Spanish galleon used to be commissioned for one's cruising trip along the bay. It is host to the sprawling Subic Bay

Freeport Zone - now an industrial and tourism estate. Needless to say, the opportunities for excellent underwater photography including scuba diving and snorkeling are endless. (Credit: Blue Rock Resort)

• Tumutugol Cave

Masinloc, Zambales

The cave features a large dome glistening with stalactites and supported by a broad white column. The floor of the cave is lain in a 45-degree diagonal position which is about 150 meters down to a deadend. It is characterized by both big and small boulders and a thick mixture of guano and alluvial soil in the lower portion. Water dripping (every two seconds) from the tips of three newly formed 2-inch long baby stalactites are noted on the low-lying ceiling in the lower portion of the cave. Bats are the only form of animals found.

Parks

• Friendship Park

Subic, Zambales

This long and narrow park, adjacent to Subic Bay Freeport main gate, stretches along the Perimeter Road and offers visitors to the area a children's park. Also located in this area is the Sisterhood Marker.

• Marikit Park

Olongapo City, Zambales

Located at the heart of the City of Olongapo, Marikit Park is a favorite place for children with its playground equipment and facilities for family activities.

• Masinloc Economic Zone

Masinloc, Zambales

Non-pollutant, light to medium industries with high value added and high technology features Total Land Area: 1,500 hectares.

 

• Subic Bay Freeport Zone

Subic Bay Freeport, Zambales

ICT/IT-related (software development, tourism-related, manufacturing, shipping)Managed by: Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Total Land Area: 13,600.80 hectares.

• Subic Bay Industrial Park

Subic Bay Freeport, Zambales

Electronics, electrical, high-value added products Total Land Area: 300 hectares.

• Summit Park

Olongapo City, Zambales

Located at Upper Cubi, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Summit Park is known for its outdoor facilities like a hanging bridge, tree house and a children's playground. An entrance fee  more or less P20 is charged for every guest.

• Tappan Park

Olongapo City, Zambales

Named after Capt. Benjamin Tappan, commandant of the Navy Yard from 1914 to 1915, it is the oldest park in Olongapo City. This triangular park, located near the city hall, is a frequent site of various programs and significant activities. Its numerous shady trees and benches make this place ideal for public gatherings.

Churches

• St. Agustine Parish Church

Iba, Zambales

The faith first came to the territory of the diocese in 1607 through the efforts of the missionaris of the Order of the Recollects of St. Augustine. They settled in Subic, Masinloc, Sta. Cruz, Iba, and Cabangan where they established the first centers of the faith. The administration of the faith in the province changed hands when the territory was transferred to the care of the Columban Fathers in 1951. The prelature of Iba was erected on October 18, 1955 as suffrage of the Archdiocese of Manila. The Most Rev. Henry Byrne was appointed the first prelate ordinary and he took ecumenical possession of concentrating on their work. On November 15, 1982, Iba was elevated to diocese. Upon the death of Bishop Byrne, the Most Rev. Paciano B. Aniceto, then auxiliary bishop of Tuguegarao, was appointed second bishop of Iba. On January 31, 1989, he was appointed Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga. The Most Rev. Deogracias Yniguez Jr. succeeded him on December 27, 1989.

• San Andres Parish Church

Masiloc, Zambales

The Augustinian Recollects began construction on this church in the 18th century. It was completed in the 19th century, and has stood mostly intact until recently, when a strong earthquake inflicted extensive damage to the structure. The choir loft features a distinctively carved polychromed portal (Credit: NCCA). The church is made of adobe and was declared as a national cultural treasure by the National Museum in 2001.