St. John the Baptist Church also known as the ‘Bato Church‘ is one of the renowned tourist destination in the province of Catanduanes. It was built in the Spanish era and considered as the oldest church in the province. The church is situated at the town of Bato, a small town located at the south-eastern portion of Catanduanes, beside the highway facing the extensive Bato River.
Bato Church took fifty-three (53) years and under six (6) parish administrations to build, from 1830 to 1883. It has a massive structure that was built with mortar and coral limestone designed to withstand the strong typhoons that batters the province every year. And despite the church’s over the hill facade, it’s ceiling and altar are already renovated.
Today, the century old church of St. John the Baptist or Bato Church continues to withstand the test of time and endures the frequent typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural calamities that bothers the province.
Generally, Bato Church is one of the attractions that you should include on your itinerary when visiting Catanduanes.
HOW TO GET TO BATO CHURCH:
From Virac, Catanduanes, you may take a public jeepney or a tricycle bound for Bato town proper. Travel time takes around 15-20 minutes. You may also hire a tricycle for your convenience and you may also include other nearby destinations such as Maribina Falls and PAGASA Weather Radar Station.
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I would love to visit this church too. Great to see that most of the original structures were preserved well. This one’s definitely for the bucket list!
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