The sun beat down on St. Jerome Parish Church in Morong, Rizal. It was April 12, 2025. Preparations for a momentous declaration were underway. This Spanish-era church, a stone’s throw from the highway, stood proudly. Suddenly, a loud bang. Shadows fell. A power transformer overloaded, succumbing to the 44°C heat.
The crowd grumbled. Production crew members felt uneasy. Barangay officials panicked. The heat was intense. An hour passed. At 5:11 PM, the power returned. The ceremony could proceed. Everyone celebrated with relief and smiles.
The National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA) declared St. Jerome Parish Church a National Cultural Treasure. It’s one of three churches given this honor, including Sta. Ursula Parish Church in Binangonan. NCCA Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo made the official declaration.
Built in 1615 by Chinese artisans, St. Jerome boasts unique architecture. Stone and mortar formed its distinctive structure, a blend of Chinese-Baroque style. Two Chinese lion sculptures guard its entrance. The octagonal bell tower is a striking feature. Bullet holes mar its walls, silent witnesses to Katipunero-Guardia Civil skirmishes during the Philippine Revolution. Its tower design echoes the Barong Tagalog, a subtle yet powerful blend of Filipino essence within its Spanish heritage.
Under Republic Act No. 11961, a National Cultural Treasure holds “outstanding historical, cultural, artistic, or scientific value.” The NCCA’s declaration officially recognizes St. Jerome’s significance to the nation. The church’s unique history and architectural details solidified its place as a treasured national heritage site.
