KALIBO CATHEDRAL: Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Kalibo, Aklan

Kalibo Cathedral: A Historical and Cultural Landmark in Aklan Province

Kalibo Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, is a Roman Catholic cathedral church located in downtown Kalibo, the capital of Aklan province of the Philippines. It is the seat of the Diocese of Kalibo and is considered one of the oldest cathedrals and buildings of worship in Aklan. The cathedral is situated near the Aklan River, making it a popular landmark and tourist destination in the province.

According to historical records, the cathedral was originally constructed in 1804 in Barrio Laguinbanwa in Numancia. However, it was later moved to its current location in downtown Kalibo. The structure was said to have undergone reconstruction from 1993 to 1997 following the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that hit the province. Today, the cathedral stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of the people of Aklan.

Visitors to the cathedral can marvel at its striking architecture, which features orange-painted pilasters and intricate details on its facade. Inside, the cathedral boasts beautiful stained glass windows and a grand altar. The cathedral is also home to the Parish Rectory Office, which provides various services to the local community.

History of Kalibo Cathedral

Kalibo Cathedral is situated near the Aklan River, about 350 kilometers south of Manila. The cathedral is the oldest edifice of worship in the province of Aklan, with a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

The cathedral was established in 1581, and the first church was built in Barrio Laguinbanwa in Numancia. However, due to frequent attacks by Moro pirates, the church was moved to its present location in Kalibo. The structure was constructed in 1804 and later reconstructed from 1993 to 1997 following the 7.1 earthquake that hit the province.

The cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Kalibo, which was established in 1971 and covers the province of Aklan. The diocese is a suffragan of the Archdiocese of Capiz, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. The cathedral is also the center of the Aklanon Catholic community and is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

The architectural design of Kalibo Cathedral is a mix of Baroque and modern styles, with a façade that features orange-painted pilasters and a bell tower. The cathedral’s interior is adorned with intricate carvings and religious paintings and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Aklanon people. The cathedral has several important religious artifacts, including the Diocesan Shrine of Santo Niño.

Architectural Design

The Kalibo Cathedral is a stunning example of architectural design crafted by the renowned national artist Leandro V. Locsin. The cathedral’s design is a mix of Baroque and modern styles, resulting in a unique and captivating structure that draws visitors worldwide.

The cathedral’s exterior features a symmetrical façade with a large central portal and two bell towers on either side. The towers are topped with domes and crosses, adding to the grandeur of the structure. The façade is decorated with intricate carvings and reliefs, showcasing the skill of the craftsmen who worked on the cathedral.

Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive. The nave is lined with columns and arches, creating a sense of grandeur and space. The altar is the centerpiece of the cathedral, featuring a stunning image of the Santo Niño, in whose honor the annual Ati-atihan is celebrated every January.

Leandro V. Locsin’s architectural design of the Kalibo Cathedral is a testament to his skill and creativity. The mix of Baroque and modern styles creates a unique and captivating structure that draws visitors worldwide. The cathedral is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architectural design or simply looking to experience the grandeur of this stunning structure.

Cultural Significance

Kalibo Cathedral is not only an important religious site but also a significant cultural landmark in the province of Aklan. The cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Kalibo and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist, although its principal patron is Santo Niño. Every 24th of June, a feast is celebrated in honor of St. John the Baptist, drawing many believers to the cathedral.

The cathedral is also home to one of the shrines in Aklan, the Shrine of Santo Niño. The shrine draws a lot of believers every January, wanting to join the celebration in his honor. The annual Ati-atihan festival celebrated every third week of January, is another cultural event associated with the cathedral. The festival is a colorful and lively celebration that involves street dancing, parades, and other cultural activities.

The cathedral’s cultural significance extends beyond Aklan and the Western Visayas region. The Ati-atihan festival is one of the region’s biggest and most popular festivals, attracting tourists from all over the world. It is a celebration of the province’s history and culture and a testament to the resilience and strength of the Aklanon people.

Geographical Location

Kalibo Cathedral is located in downtown Kalibo, the capital of Aklan province in the Philippines. It is situated near the Aklan River, which flows through the city. Kalibo is located approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) south of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. The cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Kalibo, which covers the entire province of Aklan.

The city of Kalibo is located on the northwest coast of Panay Island, part of the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is bounded by the Sibuyan Sea to the north, the municipality of Numancia to the east, the municipality of Banga to the south, and the municipality of Tangalan to the west. Kalibo has a total land area of 50.75 square kilometers (19.60 square miles) and a population of approximately 80,605 people as of 2020.

The city has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from December to May and a rainy season from June to November. The average temperature in Kalibo is around 28°C (82°F), with the hottest months being April and May.

Impact of the 7.1 Earthquake

On June 14, 1990, an intensity 7.1 earthquake hit Panay Island at 3:41 P.M. with the epicenter at Culasi. The Kalibo Cathedral, made of bricks, suffered cracks on its walls. The earthquake caused significant damage to many structures in the area, including the cathedral.

The cathedral was reconstructed from 1993 to 1997 following the earthquake. The reconstruction was done to restore the cathedral to its original state, now considered a beautiful landmark in Kalibo.

The earthquake was a significant event in the history of Kalibo and the surrounding areas. It caused widespread damage to many buildings and structures, including the Kalibo Cathedral. However, the cathedral reconstruction following the earthquake was a testament to the resilience of the people of Kalibo, who worked hard to restore their beloved landmark.

Influence and Legacy

The Kalibo Cathedral has significantly impacted the history and culture of Kalibo, Aklan, and the Philippines. As the oldest edifice of worship in the province of Aklan, it has become a symbol of the region’s rich heritage and religious tradition.

The cathedral’s patron saint, St. John the Baptist, is also an important figure in the Christian faith. According to the Bible, he baptized Jesus Christ in the River Jordan and is considered a prophet and a forerunner of Christ. As such, the cathedral has become a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of St. John the Baptist.

The Santuario Diocesano del Santo Niño, located within the cathedral complex, is also a significant religious site. It houses an image of the Santo Niño, a representation of the infant Jesus, which is believed to be miraculous by many Filipinos. The image is said to have been discovered by Spanish explorers in 1565 and has since become a revered icon in Philippine Catholicism.

The Parroquia Catedral de San Juan el Bautista has also played an important role in the history of Kalibo. It was originally established in 1680 as a parish under the advocacy of St. John the Baptist and has since served as a center of religious and cultural life in the town. The cathedral’s architecture, which features a mix of Spanish colonial and modern styles, is also a testament to the region’s rich architectural heritage.

Kalibo Cathedral Mass Schedule

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Kalibo Cathedral?

The Kalibo Cathedral, also known as the St. John the Baptist Cathedral, is a historical church that dates back to the 17th century. It is the seat of the Diocese of Kalibo, which was established in 1976. The cathedral has undergone several renovations and reconstructions over the years.

When was the Kalibo Cathedral built?

The original structure of the Kalibo Cathedral was finished in 1826, making it the oldest cathedral and building of worship in Aklan. It was constructed after moving from its original location in Barrio Laguinbanwa in Numancia.

What is the hierarchy of the Diocese of Kalibo?

The Diocese of Kalibo is a suffragan of the Archdiocese of Capiz. The diocese’s current bishop is Most Rev. Jose Corazon T. Tala-oc, D.D.