Waited for 3 years for this!
Last 2011, I attempted to visit Paete to attend the town's fiesta. Unfortunately, I was bound to leave for Dipolog to attend the Kinabayo Festival in Dapitan City. In 2012, I thought that I will be able to make it, but work interfered and I have to cancel the trip. This year, I finally nailed it! I wasn't feeling that well, but I pushed myself up and take the first bus ride to Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
I arrived around 5am and waited for half an hour before riding the jeep going to Paete. I've been to Paete Church several times already, but this was my first time to see the church well-lit. The church was magnificent! The chandeliers illuminate the wooden interiors of the church. I was stunned! I made a separate post of the church.
It was still early so I took my time walking around. What I saw next took my breath away. Finally, lo and behold, the antique, ivory image of Sr. Santiago de Matamoros (St. James the Moor Slayer)! I've been wanting to see this image which is hidden and only brought out during fiestas. There are also fascinating images like the mythical St. Christopher, the Virgen del Pilar, and the centuries-old Sento Entierro.
I was so happy to finally meet Santiago de Matamoros!
Last 2011, I attempted to visit Paete to attend the town's fiesta. Unfortunately, I was bound to leave for Dipolog to attend the Kinabayo Festival in Dapitan City. In 2012, I thought that I will be able to make it, but work interfered and I have to cancel the trip. This year, I finally nailed it! I wasn't feeling that well, but I pushed myself up and take the first bus ride to Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
I arrived around 5am and waited for half an hour before riding the jeep going to Paete. I've been to Paete Church several times already, but this was my first time to see the church well-lit. The church was magnificent! The chandeliers illuminate the wooden interiors of the church. I was stunned! I made a separate post of the church.
It was still early so I took my time walking around. What I saw next took my breath away. Finally, lo and behold, the antique, ivory image of Sr. Santiago de Matamoros (St. James the Moor Slayer)! I've been wanting to see this image which is hidden and only brought out during fiestas. There are also fascinating images like the mythical St. Christopher, the Virgen del Pilar, and the centuries-old Sento Entierro.
I was so happy to finally meet Santiago de Matamoros!