In 2007, I last visited the Saint John the Baptist Parish Church in Liliw, Laguna, after completing the field practice for my Master’s studies. Now, 17 years later, I revisited it as part of our annual Visita Iglesia.

Liliw Church, established in 1605 by Father Miguel de San Lucas, initially constructed from wood, was later rebuilt with rocks from 1643 to 1646. Partially damaged by a severe earthquake in 1880, it was reconstructed once more in 1885.

The present church, designed in the Baroque architectural style, features a blend of bright red bricks and traditional adobe in its construction. Adorning the wooden door entrance is a white sculpted depiction of the Baptism of Jesus by St. John the Baptist.

The church boasts three retablos or altars adorned in gold leaf. The central retablo, known as the retablo mayor or main altar, features thirteen niches across four levels, housing statues of saints. The tabernacle is positioned at the center of the lowest level. Flanking the main altar are two minor retablos, each with four niches for saints.