28/06/2025
Tucked in the quiet town of San Rafael, Bulacan, stands a remarkable piece of our nation’s past — the San Juan de Dios Church. With its timeworn stone walls, serene ambiance, and enduring grace, this Spanish-era church is more than a place of worship — it’s a living monument to Philippine history. ✨
While San Rafael may not always be in the spotlight, it holds stories that shaped our heritage. The church, also known as the Parish Church of San Rafael, was founded in the 18th century and dedicated to Saint John of God, the patron saint of hospitals and the sick. 🕊️
But beyond its spiritual role, this church also bore witness to one of the darkest and most heroic chapters in our history — the Battle of San Rafael in 1896. During the Philippine Revolution, it became a place of refuge, and ultimately, a battleground where many brave Katipuneros laid down their lives for freedom. The old convent, locals say, still echoes with the memory of that fateful day. 🩶
If you’re ever in Bulacan, don’t miss the chance to visit this sacred space — where faith, history, and heroism quietly reside. 📍