Magellan’s Cross by Cleo Ven Salutan, Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House, Lazi Convent by Paul Gotiong

Take a journey back in time and see the Philippines of old. As one of the melting pots of Philippine History, Central Visayas is witness to many key historical events including the arrival of the Spaniards in the Philippines, the birth of the first Philippine National Hero, the start of the Spanish Colonization and spreading of Christianity, the first treaty of friendship between the white and brown race in the country, the longest revolt in Philippine History, the coming and influence of the Thomasites and the rise of the American Government.

Baclayon Church, Silliman Musuem by Paul Gotiong, Blood Compact Memorial Site

Immerse yourself and take a glimpse of the Philippines’ past by visiting the numerous Centuries-Old Churches and Houses throughout the region, the shrines and monuments dedicated to the national heroes who have helped built and shape what the Philippines is today, the rural countryside where aside from its rustic charm old customs and traditions are still being practiced and landmarks which stood as a testament to time and as a spectator to the Philippines’ growth.

St.Francis of Assisi Church by Dexter Bongo, Museo Sugbu, Rizal Boulevard

Notable places to visit would include the Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore Del Sto. Niño, Fort San Pedro, Parian District, Colon Street, Mactan Shrine, Nuestra Señora Patrocinio de Maria Church, Kota Park, Carcar City, Blood Compact Shrine, Dagohoy Monument (Danao, Bohol), Baclayon Church, Silliman University, Rizal Boulevard, Central Azucarera de Bais, Lazi Church & Convent and St. Francis of Assisi Church (Siquijor).

Sample Tours:

• Southern Heritage Coast (Cebu) – Enjoy a day of excursion down Southern Cebu passing by centuries-old Spanish Churches, colorful markets and religious shrines. Highlights are visits to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Minglanilla, Saint Francis of Assisi Church (Naga), the Theotokos Shrine at Perelos and St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Carcar – a town alive in a blend of Spanish architecture in heritage homes or churches, and local artistry in crafts like shoemaking, basket weaving and delicacy cooking.

• Via Crusis (Bohol) – Immerse in a spiritual and historical journey by visiting four centuries-old churches declared by the National Historical Institute as National Historical Landmarks. Known for their well-preserved structure, emblems and altars, these national treasures showcases the Spanish artistry and history of Christian missionary in the Province of Bohol. The day would start early with a visit to the Nuestra Señora De La Luz Church in Loon and the Santa Cruz Church in Maribojoc. The journey would then take you to the southeastern part of the province to the picturesque Baclayon Church and Loboc Church, ending with a hearty lunch while cruising down the Loboc Riv