Tuesday, October 22, 2013

7.2 Magnitude Earthquake and A Fall of Centuries Old Churches in the Philippines

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake with epicenter at Carmen, Bohol, Philippines has destroyed and devastated a total of 10 Heritage Churches, treasures of the Philippine history and culture. This historic churches had stood for over 300 years before quake. They include:

  • Baclayon Church, Bohol
  • Dauis Church, Bohol
  • Dimiao Church, Bohol
  • Loboc Church, Bohol
  • Loon Church, Bohol
  • Loay Church, Bohol
  • Maribojoc Church, Bohol
  • Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino, Cebu
  • Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, Cebu
  • St. Catherine's Church, Carcar, Cebu

According to Atty. Trixie Angeles NCCA legal consultant.

"These are declared National Cultural Treasures which is the highest recognition a country can bestow on cultural properties."

The extent of the damage to the centuries-old churches in Bohol are very bad in the aftermath of the 7.2 Magnitude quake that struck the island of Bohol on Tuesday, October 15, 2013.

A certain Rodel has told the UN volunteer that his son, parents, sister and brother were buried alive, trapped inside their collapsed home for over six hours. He lost four of his family members.

Loboc Chuch
The Church of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Baclayon is considered to be one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. The Baclayon church is one of the best preserved Jesuit-built churches in the region. It was built in 1717 and completed in 1727. While Loboc church is the second oldest church in Bohol, according to an article in Bohol.ph.


Highways and Bridges
Aerial View at Sagbayan Town

Damage Highway/Road




Loon Bridge


Cortes Bridge

City and Municipal Halls

Sagbayan Municipal Hall