Region
7: Central Visayas ••• Southern Cebu
San
Fernando
San Isidro
Labrador Parish
At one time
a visita of Carcar and Naga, San Fernando was established as an
independent parish on 19 June 1858. The present church, designed
by Domingo Escondrillas, was begun in December 1870 under Fr. Miguel
del Burgo. Between its commencement and 1876, construction was interrupted
probably because of inadequate funds. When Fr. Emiliano Diez assumed
responsibility of the parish only the walls were up. He continued
with the work but on 25 November 1877, half the roof, the sacristy
and convento were damage by
a typhoon. The church was completed and solemnly blessed on 25 October
1886 by the diocesan vicar, with parish priests of Naga and Minglanilla
in attendance. Fr. Constantino Batoctoy renovated the church between
1968 and 1976.
Heritage
features: Gothic
elements decorate what is essentially a simple structure separated
into three bays by shallow pilasters. Lancet windows pierce the
lower floor of the flanking bell towers and rose windows the second
floor. The third story is capped by pinnacles, and the corners are
decorated with spires alluding to its Gothic inspiration. The single
portal of the church uses a lancet arch, flanked by niches. Both
portal and niches are embellished by delicate tracery. The emblem
of the Augustinian order embellishes the triangular pediment.

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