While the town of Marilao in Bulacan is often recognized as the home of the National Shrine and Parish of the Divine Mercy, there exists an older, historically rich church that holds deep roots in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the town—St. Michael the Archangel Church, more commonly referred to as Marilao Church.

Originally established in 1795 as a chapel locally known as bisitang matanda, the church began as an annex of the Meycauayan parish, situated in the nearby area of Tawiran. It served as a modest place of worship for the early Catholic faithful of Marilao. Over time, under the supervision of the Franciscan friars, the present structure was completed in 1868, signifying the town’s growing importance as a religious center.

The church witnessed turbulent times, notably suffering severe fire damage during the Philippine Revolution in 1896. In the aftermath of the Philippine-American War, with the expulsion of the regular friars, the church was placed under the care of secular priests by the Archdiocese of Manila. Later in 1961, its administration was officially transferred to the Diocese of Malolos. Reconstruction efforts have been a vital part of preserving the church. Major restorations were carried out in 1922 and again in 1967, ensuring that the church remained a standing testament to faith through generations.

Architecturally, Marilao Church showcases the Philippine barn-style Baroque design. Its façade features two levels and a triangular pediment, maintaining a simplicity that reflects both function and faith. The main portal, now protected by a concrete canopy, is flanked by statues of Saints Peter and Paul, adding a solemn dignity to its entrance. The second level is modestly adorned, with three openings and vertical pilasters that extend into the pediment. These pilasters bear eye-shaped embossed details, heart-shaped reliefs, and the Franciscan seal, tying the design closely to its religious roots.

Atop the pilasters stand statues of the Four Evangelists, replacing traditional finial caps and symbolizing the spread of the Gospel. In the center of the pediment lies a niche with a statue of Saint Michael the Archangel, the church’s patron, while scroll-like designs and a raking cornice frame the edges of the pediment. To the right of the church façade stands an octagonal, two-story bell tower, built behind and rising above one of the two rectangular buttresses. The first level is designed with blind windows and a balustrade, while the upper level features alternating blind and open windows, culminating in a conical roof.