Manila: Thirty-three Catholic churches and chapels in the province of La Union are all set to welcome visitors for the Visita Iglesia, a cherished Catholic tradition of visiting churches during the Holy Week.
According to Philippine News Agency, among the most frequented churches is the St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish, also known as Namacpacan Church in Luna. This church is renowned for housing the Shrine of the Miraculous Lady of Namacpacan, affectionately known to devotees as Apo Baket. Apo Baket is credited with miraculous acts, such as enabling a disabled woman to walk, appearing in a dream to Pope Pius XII, and calling infidel families from the mountains. The church, which features a healing well, was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2001.
The Holy Guardian Angel Parish in Santo Tomas is another prominent Marian Church, home to the miraculous image of Nuestra Se±ora del Mar Cautiva. The sacred image was introduced to the parish on July 19, 1845, and has since been associated with numerous miracles, conversions, healings, and safe childbirths.
Meanwhile, the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity in Agoo town, founded in 1578 by Franciscan Friars, was consecrated as a Marian Shrine in 1978 and later elevated to Basilica Minore status by Pope John Paul II in 1982. St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Bacnotan, established in 1599, retains its original baroque and neoclassical fa§ade.
Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Bauang, completed in 1587, is notable for the San Pedro Bell, returned after 115 years in American possession. The St. William the Hermit Cathedral in San Fernando was originally built in Pindangan and later relocated to the city proper. St. John the Baptist Parish in San Juan, founded in 1707, underwent restoration post the Spanish-American War under Rev. Fr. Mariano Gaerlan.
Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David warmly welcomed pilgrims and visitors, encouraging reflection and appreciation of the local religious heritage. La Union Provincial Tourism Officer-in-Charge Julius Manabat highlighted the churches not only as places of prayer but as cultural landmarks representing faith, history, and tradition. Governor David assured visitors of safety and security through coordinated efforts by the provincial government and law enforcement agencies.
In a related directive, David reminded residents and tourists of Provincial Ordinance 148-2018, which prohibits concerts, discos, videokes, and other loud activities on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. The ordinance aims to maintain solemnity out of respect for the Catholic residents. Violators of this ordinance face fines or imprisonment.
