Catanduanes : St. John the Baptist Church

Soon after our short visit to the PAG-ASA weather station, 

we halted in the oldest church in Bato, Catanduanes, the St. John the Baptist Church, or commonly

known as Bato Church. 

The church was established in the 1500's and was initially made of wood.  

It was reconstructed during the 1800's under the polo system of forced labor for more than 50 years using mortal and coral stones. 

Dubbed as the second largest church in Bicol region, the church is a perfect example of mid-colonization Filipino-Spanish architecture. 

The church also has survived wars, typhoon, fires and other ravages of time. 

And the bell tower which was used as a warning sign during the WWII against the Japanese guerillas still

stood at its tower. 

The magnificent primitive church overlooks the Bato River when you stand outside the church. 

Taken from the side of the highway near the Bato River. 

Now, we're off to Maribina Falls.