⛪ Baclayon Church: How It Looks Today After the 7.2 Magnitude Earthquake

In 2013, the province of Bohol and its surrounding areas were struck by a devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake, leaving many buildings, including the historic Baclayon Church, severely damaged. The oldest church in Bohol, known for its rich history and cultural significance, was hit hard by continuous aftershocks.

It had been nearly five years since the earthquake when I had the chance to revisit Baclayon Church. The last time I had visited was in 2010, right after I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree. Three years later, in 2013, the destructive earthquake struck, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Baclayon Church, a key tourist spot in Bohol and an important symbol of the Boholano people’s faith and history, was no exception.

However, in 2018, on May 26, I made my way back to my home province of Bohol. Accompanied by my friend William Pombo, we set out for Baclayon after enjoying the white sands of Panglao Island. Arriving at 8:30 AM, we found the church bustling with tourists both inside and out.

Standing outside, I was amazed to see that the church had been beautifully restored. The marks of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake were nearly gone, with the bell tower looking as impressive as ever. The green algae and plants that once adorned the walls of the church were no longer there, but that didn’t take away from the charm and character of this historical landmark.

Inside, I was reminded of why Baclayon Church is so special. Its unique design still stands out, a clear testament to its significance in Bohol’s history. This church helped elevate Bohol into the tourism spotlight and continues to be a source of pride for Boholanos.

My visit to Baclayon Church in 2018 was a powerful reminder of how Boholanos have rebuilt and recovered from the destruction caused by the earthquake. This visit truly highlighted the resilience of the people and the enduring beauty of their cultural heritage.