I visited the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Saint Jerome in Morong, Rizal during Palm Sunday. The church was filled with parishioners carrying woven palms, adding a living layer of tradition to the centuries-old structure. Morong Church was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts on April 12, 2025. On March 15, 2026, the parish was elevated as a diocesan shrine. The present structure dates to the Spanish period and was built using local materials such as stones from Kay Ngaya, lime from Kay Maputi, and sand and gravel from the Morong River.
Month: March 2026
Second Time Birdwatching at Tagalag
One of the first notable sightings was the Pink-necked Green Pigeon, perched discreetly among dense foliage. Its green plumage blended almost perfectly with the leaves, but careful observation revealed the subtle pinkish tone on the neck and pale bluish hues on the wings.
Speleothems of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River
Inside, the environment becomes cooler and more humid. The cave is part of a well-developed limestone karst system shaped by the interaction of water and rock over long periods. The underground river extends for about 4.3 kilometers, though only a portion is accessible during the tour. It is part of a mountain-to-sea ecosystem that connects forest, cave, and coastal environments, and it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Polo Church
San Diego de Alcalá Parish Church, commonly known as Polo Church, is one of the oldest historical landmarks in Valenzuela City, located about 15.5 kilometers north of Manila. It is under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Malolos. The original church was completed in 1632, following the establishment of Polo as an independent settlement in 1623. Historical records note that local residents were required to render labor during its construction under the Spanish colonial system.
Amoj In Wanderland 