A Journey Through the Dioceses of the Philippines and Their Cathedrals

   The Catholic Church in the Philippines is organized into 87 ecclesiastical jurisdictions. These include 16 archdioceses, 59 dioceses, 7 apostolic vicariates, 4 territorial prelatures, and one military ordinariate.

The ordinary ecclesiastical jurisdiction in the Church is the diocese, which is headed by a diocesan bishop. However, not all territories are immediately established as dioceses. In areas where the Church is still developing, other forms of ecclesiastical jurisdictions are created.

One example is the apostolic vicariate, which is usually established in mission territories. These vicariates fall under the Dicastery for Evangelization, specifically its Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches, whose Pro-Prefect is Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. Apostolic vicariates are often found in areas where the Catholic population is still relatively small and missionary activity remains a priority.

Another form is the territorial prelature, which is likewise established in missionary areas where Catholics are few. Unlike apostolic vicariates, however, territorial prelatures fall under the Dicastery for Bishops, the same dicastery responsible for dioceses.

The Military Ordinariate of the Philippines is unique because it is not defined by territory but by personal jurisdiction. Its faithful are those who serve in uniform, together with their families. In the Philippines, this includes not only the members of the Armed Forces—the Army, Navy, and Air Force—but also the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and even the Veterans Memorial Medical Center. For this reason, the bishop of the military ordinariate shepherds members who are spread throughout the entire country.

The heads of apostolic vicariates and territorial prelatures—the Apostolic Vicar and the Territorial Prelate—are usually ordained bishops and exercise authority similar to that of diocesan bishops in their respective jurisdictions.

Dioceses themselves are grouped together into ecclesiastical or metropolitan provinces. Each province is headed by an archbishop, who presides over an archdiocese, while the other dioceses in the province are known as suffragan dioceses. Although the archbishop holds a position of honor as the metropolitan, he does not exercise ordinary authority over the suffragan dioceses; rather, he is regarded as first among equals, with canon law providing only a few specific situations where he may intervene.

In presenting the cathedrals of the Philippines, I have arranged them according to these ecclesiastical provinces—grouping each archdiocese with its suffragan dioceses—and proceeding geographically from Luzon to Mindanao, beginning with the oldest in terms of their canonical establishment. Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to visit every diocese in the Philippines and each of their cathedrals, making this journey not only an exploration of history and architecture, but also a pilgrimage through the life of the Church in our country.

 

 

DIOCESES IN LUZON

1. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF MANILA

             Manila is the oldest diocese in the Philippines.  It was created on February 6, 1579 and elevated to an archdiocese on August 14, 1595.  It comprises of Makati City, Manila, Pasay City, San Juan and Mandaluyong City. The suffragan dioceses of Manila include Antipolo, Cubao, Imus, Kalookan, Malolos, Novaliches, Parañaque, Pasig, Puerto Princesa, San Pablo, Taytay and the Military Ordinariate. 

   To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of Manila, click  here.  

     

2. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF PUERTO PRINCESA

       Puerto Princesa became an Apostolic Vicariate on April 19, 1910. The Apostolic Vicariate comprises the city of Puerto Princesa and the ten southern municipalities of the province which are the following: Aborlan, Balabac, Bataraza, Brooke’s Point, Cagayancillo, Kalayaan, Narra, Quezon, Rizal and Sofronio Española. I only have visited so far the city of Puerto Princesa.  

To see the other pictures of the Cathedral of Puerto Princesa, click here.  

3. MILITARY ORDINARIATE

      

      The Military ordinariate was created first as a Vicariate on December 8, 1950. Then it was elevated to an Ordinariate on  July 21, 1986.

 

4. DIOCESE OF MALOLOS

              Malolos was created a diocese on November 25, 1960 comprising the entire province of Bulacan which is composed of 20 towns and 4 cities which are the following: Angat, Balagtas, Baliuag City, Bocaue, Bulakan, Bustos, Calumpit, Doña Remedios Trinidad, Guiguinto, Hagonoy Malolos City, Marilao, Meycauayan City, Norzagaray, Obando, Pandi, Paombong, Plaridel, Pulilan, San Ildefonso, San Jose del Monte City, San Miguel, San Rafael and Sta. Maria. The city of Valenzuela which in 1975 became part of Metro Manila still belongs to the Diocese of Malolos. I have visited all the parish churches of the towns and cities of  the province of Laguna.  

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Malolos, click here for Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4.

 

5. DIOCESE OF IMUS

   

     Imus became a diocese on November 25, 1961 comprising the province of Cavite which is composed of 16 towns and 7 cities which are the following: Alfonso, Amadeo, Bacoor City, Carmona, Cavite City, Dasmariñas City, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Gen. Mariano Alvarez (GMA), General Trias City, Imus City, Indang, Kawit, Magallanes, Maragondon, Mendez, Naic, Noveleta, Rosario, Silang, Tagaytay City, Tanza, Ternate and Trece Martires City. I have also visited all the parish churches of the towns and cities of Cavite. 

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Imus, click here and here.

 

6. DIOCESE OF SAN PABLO

         

 The Diocese of San Pablo, Laguna was created a diocese on November 28, 1966 comprising the province of Laguna, which is composed of 24 towns and 6 cities, which are the following: Alaminos, Bay, Biñan City, Cabuyao City, Calamba City, Calauan, Cavinti, Famy, Kalayaan, Liliw Los Baños, Luisiana, Lumban, Mabitac, Magdalena, Majayjay, Nagcarlan, Paete, Pagsanjan, Pakil, Pangil, Pila, Rizal, San Pablo City, San Pedro City, Siniloan, Sta. Cruz, Sta. Maria, Sta. Rosa City and Victoria.   

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of San Pablo, click here,  and here, and here.

 

7. DIOCESE OF ANTIPOLO

The diocese was created on January 28, 1966, comprising the province of Rizal with the following towns and cities: Angono, Antipolo, Baras, Binangonan, Cainta, Cardona, Jalajala, Montalban (Rodriguez), Morong, Pililla, San Mateo, Taytay, Teresa, Tanay and the whole city of Marikina.  The seat of the diocese is the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo. I have visited all the parish churches of the towns and cities of the province of Rizal. 

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Antipolo, click  here, here and here.

8. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF TAYTAY        

 

                     The Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay was carved from the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa. It was created on May 26, 2002 comprising the northern part of Palawan which are the following 13 towns: Taytay, Araceli, Agutaya, Busuanga, San Vicente, El Nido, Coron, Culion, Cuyo, Dumaran, Linapacan, Magsaysay and Roxas. The Cathedral is still under construction. I have been to seven of the 13 towns under Taytay. Although I have not been to the main island of Cuyo but I already got to visit the island of Manamoc which belongs to the municipality of Cuyo.  

To view posts about the churches in the Apostolic Vicariate of Taytay, click here, and here.

 

9. DIOCESE OF NOVALICHES

         

  The Archdiocese of Manila was divided into five dioceses beginning with the Diocese of Novaliches on December 7, 2002.  The Diocese of Novaliches comprises the northern parts of Quezon City and Caloocan City.  

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Novaliches, click here.  

10. DIOCESE OF PARAÑAQUE

Parañaque was created as a diocese together with Novaliches on December 7, 2002 comprising the cities of Parañaque, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Parañaque, click here.

11. DIOCESE OF PASIG       

    The Diocese of Pasig was created on June 26, 2003. The diocese comprises the cities of Pasig and Taguig and the town of Pateros.  

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Pasig, click here.

12. DIOCESE OF CUBAO        

  The diocese was created together with Kalookan on June 28, 2003 comprising the southern part of Quezon City.  

  To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Cubao, click here.

13. DIOCESE OF KALOOKAN

           

   The Diocese of Kalookan was created on June 28, 2003. The territory includes the cities of Malabon and Navotas and only one third of the city of Caloocan  as the rest belongs to the Diocese of Novaliches.   

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Kalookan, click here.

14. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF NUEVA SEGOVIA

 

  Nueva Segovia  was created a diocese on August 14, 1595 together with Cebu and Nueva Caceres in Naga. Nueva Segovia was a flourishing town in Cagayan.  However, because of floods from the mighty Cagayan river, the town slowly was effaced and eventually was merged with the nearby town of Lal-lo. The seat of the diocese was then transferred to Vigan in 1758 while retaining its name. It was elevated into an archdiocese on June 29, 1951. The archdiocese comprises the province of Ilocos Sur which is composed of 32 towns and 2 component cities which are the following: Alilem, Banayoyo, Bantay, Burgos, Cabugao, Candon City, Caoayan, Cervantes, Galimuyod, Gregorio del Pilar, Lidlidda, Magsingal, Nagbukel, Narvacan, Quirino, Salcedo, San Emilio, San Esteban, San Ildefonso, San Juan, San Vicente, Santa, Santa Catalina, Santa Cruz, Santa Lucia, Santa Maria, Santiago, Santo Domingo, Sigay, Sinait, Sugpon, Suyo, Tagudin and Vigan City. 

Its suffragan dioceses are Baguio, Bangued, Bontoc-Lagawe and Laoag. 

To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia, click here,  and here.

15. DIOCESE OF BAGUIO

   

 Baguio was first created as the Apostolic Prelature of the Mountain Provinces (MONTAÑOSA) on July 15, 1932. It was elevated to Apostolic Vicariate on June 10, 1948 and elevated to the status of a diocese on July 10, 2004. It comprises Baguio City and and the 13 towns of the Benguet province which are the following: Ato, Bakun, Bokod, Buguias, Itogon, Kabayan, Kapangan, Kibungan, La Trinidad, Mankayan, Sablan, Tuba and Tublay.  

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Baguio, click here.

16. DIOCESE OF BANGUED

     

   Bangued was created a diocese on June 12, 1955 comprising the entire province of Abra which is composed of 27 towns which are the following: Bangued, Boliney, Bucay, Bucloc, Daguioman, Danglas, Dolores, La Paz, Lacub, Lagangilang, Lagayan, Langiden, Licuan-Baay, Luba, Malibcong, Manabo, Peñarrubia, Pidigan, Pilar, Sallapadan, San Isidro, San Juan, San Quintin, Tayum, Tineg, Tubo and Villaviciosa.  

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Bangued, click here and here.

17. DIOCESE OF LAOAG

             

   The diocese of Laoag was created on June 6, 1961 comprising the entire province of Ilocos Norte which is composed of 21 towns and 2 cities which are the following: Adams, Bacarra, Badoc, Bangui, Banna, Batac City, Burgos, Carasi, Currimao, Dingras, Dumalneg, Laoag City, Marcos, Nueva Era, Pagudpud, Paoay, Pasuquin, Piddig, Pinili, San Nicolas, Sarrat, Solsona and Vintar.  

  To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Laoag, click here.

18. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF BONTOC-LAGAWE

          

The apostolic vicariate was created on August 6, 2002 comprising the civil provinces of the Mountain Province and Ifugao. The Mountain province is composed of 10 towns: Barlig, Bauko, Besao, Bontoc, Natonin, Paracelis, Sabangan, Sadanga, Sagada and Tadian. Ifugao has 11 municipalities: Aguinaldo, Alfonso Lista, Asipulo,Banaue, Hingyon, Hungduan, Kiangan, Lagawe, Lamut, Mayoyao and Tinoc.   

To view posts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe, click here, here and here.

19. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CACERES       

 The Archdiocese of Caceres was created a diocese on August 14, 1595 and elevated into an archdiocese on June 29, 1951. The archdiocese comprises the third, fourth and fifth congressional districts of Camarines Sur of which there are 23 towns and 2 cities, which are the following: Baao, Balatan, Bato, Bombon, Buhi, Bula, Calabanga, Camaligan, Canaman, Caramoan, Garchitorena, Goa, Iriga City, Lagonoy, Magarao, Nabua, Naga City, Ocampo, Pilip, Presentacion, Sagnay, San Jose, Siruma, Tigaon and Tinambac. 

 The suffragan dioceses are Daet, Legazpi, Libmanan, Masbate, Sorsogon and Virac.  

To view posts about  the Archdiocese of Caceres, click here,  here, here and here.

20. DIOCESE OF LEGAZPI

        

  The diocese of Legazpi was created  with Sorsogon on June 29, 1951 at the same time when its  mother diocese of Caceres was elevated to an archdiocese. Legazpi comprises the entire province of Albay which is composed of 15 towns and 3 cities: Bacacay, Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Jovellar, Legazpi, Libon, Ligao, Malilipot, Malinao, Manito, Oas, Pio Duran, Polagui, Rapu-Rapu, Santo Domingo, Tabaco and Tiwi.  

 To view posts about  the Diocese of Legazpi, click here, here, and  here.

21. DIOCESE OF SORSOGON

Created as a diocese of June 29, 1951 comprising the civil province of Sorsogon which is composed of 14 towns and one city: Barcelona, Bulan, Bulusan, Casiguran, Castilla, Donsol, Gubat, Irosin, Juban, Magallanes, Matnog, Pilar, Prieto Diaz, Santa Magdalena and Sorsogon City.  

To view posts about  the Diocese of Sorsogon, click here.

22. DIOCESE OF MASBATE

 The diocese was created on March 23, 1963 comprising the province of Masbate. The province is composed of 20 municipalities and one city: Aroroy, Baleno, Balud, Batuan, Cataingan,Cawayan, Claveria, Dimasalang, Esperanza, Mandaon, Masbate City, Milagros, Mobo, Monreal, Palanas, Pio V. Corpuz, Placer, San Fernando, San Jacinto, San Pascual and Uson.  

To view posts about the Diocese of Masbate, click here, here, and here.

23. DIOCESE OF DAET

         

    The diocese was created together with Virac on May 27, 1974 carved from the Archdiocese of Caceres. It comprises the province of Camarines Norte, which has 12 towns: Basud, Capalonga, Daet, Jose Panganiban, Labo, Mercedes, Paracale, San Lorenzo Ruiz, San Vicente, Santa Elena, Talisay and Vinzons. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Daet, click here, here, and here.

24. DIOCESE OF VIRAC  

  The diocese was created on May 27, 1974 comprising the island province of Catanduanes  and is composed of eleven municipalites: Bagamanoc, Baras, Bato, Caramoran, Gigmoto, Pandan, Panganiban, San Andres, San Miguel, Viga and Virac.

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Virac, click here  and  here.

25. DIOCESE OF LIBMANAN

          

The diocese  was created as a Prelature on December 9, 1989 and was elevated to the status of a diocese on March 25, 2009. It comprises the first and second districts of Camarines Sur of which there are 12 towns: Cabusao, Del Gallego, Gainza, Libmanan, Lupi, Milaor, Minalabac, Pamplona, Pasacao, Ragay, San Fernando and Sipocot.  

  To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Libmanan, click here.

26. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF LINGAYEN-DAGUPAN

         

 Lingayen-Dagupan was created a diocese on May 19, 1928  as the Diocese of Lingayen comprising the whole province of Pangasinan. Because of the destruction of the town of Lingayen during the Second World War, the seat was transferred in 1954 to Dagupan, hence the name of  the diocese as Lingayen-Dagupan. The diocese was elevated into the status of an archdiocese on February 16, 1963. It comprises the capital of the province, two cities and 15 municipalities of the central part of Pangasinan: Dagupan City, San Carlos City, Basista, Bautista, Bayambang, Binmaley, Calasiao, Laoac, Lingayen, Malasiqui, Manaoag, Mangaldan, Mapandan, San Fabian, San Jacinto, Santa Barbara and Urbiztondo. 

          Its suffragan dioceses are Alaminos, Cabanatuan, San Fernando de la Union, San Jose Nueva Ecija and Urdaneta. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan, click here,  here, and  here.

 

27. DIOCESE OF CABANATUAN

The diocese was created on February 16, 1963 comprising the civil province of Nueva Ecija.  

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Cabanatuan, click here. 

28. DIOCESE OF SAN FERNANDO DE  LA UNION

          

 San Fernando, La Union was created a diocese on January 19, 1970 comprising the civil province of La Union. The province of La Union consists of the provincial capital city of San Fernando and adjacent municipalities of Bacnotan, Balaoan, Bangar, Luna, San Gabriel, San Juan, Santol and Sudipen. They compose the first district.  The second district consists of the southern municipalities of Agoo, Aringay, Bagulin, Bauang, Burgos, Caba, Naguilian, Pugo, Rosario, Santo Tomas and Tubao. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of San Fernando de La Union, click here, and here.

29. DIOCESE SAN JOSE, NUEVA ECIJA

                

    Created a diocese on February 16, 1984. It comprises the cities of San Jose and the Science City of Muñoz and 12 other northern towns of Nueva Ecija: Carranglan, Lupao, Pantabangan, Rizal, Llanera, Sto. Domingo, Quezon, Licab, Guimba, Cuyapo, Talugtug, Nampicuan,

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of San Jose, Nueva Ecija, click here and  here.

30. DIOCESE OF ALAMINOS

        

                Created a diocese together with Urdaneta on January 12, 1985. Both dioceses were carved out from the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan of the province of Pangasinan. Alaminos comprises 14 towns in the western part of Pangasinan: Alaminos City, Agno, Anda, Bani, Bolinao, Burgos, Dasol, Infanta, Mabini, Mangatarem, Aguilar, Bugallon, Labrador and Sual.

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Alaminos, click here,  here, and here.

31. DIOCESE OF URDANETA

          

 Urdaneta was created a diocese on January 12, 1985 comprising of 17 towns in the eastern part of Pangasinan: Urdaneta City, Umingan, San Nicolas, San Manuel, Rosales, Asingan, Binalonan, Pozorrubio, Sison, Villasis, Alcala, Santo Tomas, Balungao, Santa Maria, Tayug, San Quintin, Natividad 

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Urdaneta, click  here.

 

32. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF LIPA    

 Lipa was created a diocese on April 10, 1910 and elevated to an archdiocese of June 20, 1972 comprising the province of Batangas.  The province is composed of three cities and 31 municipalities: Agoncillo, Alitagtag, Balayan, Balete, Batangas City, Bauan, Calaca, Calatagan, Cuenca, Ibaan, Laurel, Lemery, Lian, Lipa City, Lobo, Mabini, Malvar, Mataas Na Kahoy, Nasugbu, Padre Garcia, Rosario, San Jose, San Juan, San Luis, San Nicolas, San Pascual, Santa Teresita, Santo Tomas, Taal, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Tingloy and Tuy. 

                The suffragan dioceses include Boac, Calapan, Gumaca, Lucena, Infanta and San Jose Occidental Mindoro.  

 To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of Lipa, click here, here, here, and here.

33. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF CALAPAN

        

 The Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan in Oriental Mindoro was first created as a Prelature  on July 2, 1936 and then as an Apostolic Vicariate on July 12, 1951. The Apostolic Vicariate comprises all the 14 municipalities of Oriental Mindoro:  Baco, Bansud, Bongabong, Bulalacao, Gloria, Mansalay, Naujan, Pinamalayan, Pola, Puerto Galera, Roxas, San Teodoro, Socorro, Victoria. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan, click here, here, and  here.

34. DIOCESE OF LUCENA

           Lucena was created a diocese on March 28, 1950 comprising the central towns of the province of Quezon which are the following 16 towns and cities: Lucena, Tayabas City, Sariaya, Candelaria, Tiaong, San Antonio, Dolores, Lucban, Sampaloc, Mauban, Pagbilao, Atimonan, Plaridel, Unisan, Agdangan and Padre Burgos. 

  To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Lucena, click here, here, and here.

35. PRELATURE OF INFANTA

       Infanta was created as a territorial prelature on April 25, 1950. It comprises eight towns of the northern part of the Quezon province which are the following: Infanta, Gen. Nakar, Real and the islands of  Polillo, Burdeos, Panukulan, Patnanungan and Jomalig. It also includes the eight towns of the Aurora province: Baler, San Luis, Maria Aurora, Dipaculao, Dingalan, Casiguran, Dinalungan and Dilasag. 

To view posts about the Prelature of Infanta, click here,  here, here, here,    here, and here.

 

36. DIOCESE OF BOAC 

 Boac was created a diocese on April 2, 1977 comprising the island province of Marinduque composed of six municipalities:  Boac, Mogpog, Santa Cruz, Buenavista, Torrijos and Gasan.  

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Boac, click here and here.

 

37. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF SAN JOSE, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO

        

  The Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro was created on January 27, 1983 separating it from the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan and comprising the province of Occidental Mindoro with the following eleven municipalities: Abra de Ilog, Calintaan, Looc, Lubang, Magsaysay, Mamburao (capital), Paluan, Rizal, Sablayan, San Jose and Sta. Cruz.

 

To view posts about the Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, click here, here, here, and here.

 

38. DIOCESE OF GUMACA          

       Gumaca was created a diocese on April 9, 1984 and comprises the eastern part of Quezon province which are the following 17 municipalities: Gumaca, Lopez, Buenavista, Tagkawayan, Guinayangan, Calauag, Perez, Alabat, Quezon, Macalelon, General Luna, Pitogo, Catanauan, Mulanay, San Francisco, San Andres and  San Narciso. 

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Gumaca, click here,  here, here and here.

39. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF TUGUEGARAO

Tuguegarao was created a diocese on April 19, 1910 and elevated into an archdiocese on September 21, 1974. It comprises the province  of Cagayan including the islands of Fuga, Calayan, Camiguin, Dalupiri and Babuyan Claro. The province has 28 towns and one component city: Tuguegarao City,  Lal-lo, Alcala, Aparri, Baggao, Buguey, Camalaniugan, Gattaran, Gonzaga, Santa Ana,  Santa Teresita,  Abulug, Allacapan, Ballesteros, Calayan, Claveria, Lasam, Pamplona, Piat, Rizal, Sanchez-Mira, Santa Praxedes,  Santo Niño, Amulung, Enrile, Iguig, Peñablanca, Solana, and Tuao.

 Its suffragan dioceses are Bayombong, Ilagan, Batanes and Tabuk.  

To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, click here.   

40. PRELATURE OF BATANES

Batanes was first established as the Territorial Prelature of Batanes and Babuyanes on November 30, 1950. In February 6, 2002 the Prelature was reduced to comprise only the province of Batanes. There are only six towns in the province: Basco, Itbayat, Ivana, Mahatao, Sabtang and Uyugan.  

To view posts about the churches in the Prelature of Batanes, click here and here.

41. DIOCESE OF BAYOMBONG

Bayombong was first established as a Prelature  on November 7, 1966 and elevated into a diocese on November 15, 1982 comprising the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino. Nueva Vizcaya is composed of 15 municipalities: Alfonso Castañeda, Ambaguio, Aritao, Bagabag, Bambang, Bayombong, Diadi, Dupax del Norte, Dupax del Sur, Kasibu, Kayapa, Quezon, Santa Fe, Solano, Villaverde. Quirino province is composed of 6 towns: Cabarroguis, Diffun, Aglipay, Maddela, Nagtipunan, and Saguday.  

 To view posts about the churches in the  Diocese of Bayombong, click here, here, and  here.

42. DIOCESE OF ILAGAN

The diocese was created on January 30, 1966 and comprises the entire province of Isabela composed of six districts. The first district is now composed of the City of Ilagan and the towns of Cabagan, Delfin Albano, Divilacan, Maconacon, Tumauini, San Pablo, Sta. Maria and Sto. Tomas. The second district is comprised of Benito Soliven, Palanan, Naguilian, Reina Mercedes, San Mariano and Gamu; while the third district is made up of Alicia, Cabatuan, San Mateo, Ramon and Angadanan. Santiago City, Cordon, Dinapigue, San Agustin and Jones make up the fourth district. The fifth district is composed of Aurora, Burgos, Luna, Mallig, Quezon, Quirino, Roxas, and San Manuel;  while Cauayan City, Echague, San Guillermo, and San Isidro comprise the sixth legislative districts. 

 To view posts about the churches in the  Diocese of Ilagan, click here, here, here, and here.

43. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF TABUK

          Tabuk was created as an Apostolic Vicariate on July 6, 1992 and comprises the provinces of Kalinga and Apayao. Kalinga is composed of 8 municipalities namely, Balbalan, Lubuagan, Pasil, Pinukpuk, Rizal, Tabuk, Tanudan and Tinglayan. The province of Apayao is geographically subdivided into Upper Apayao (composed of the upland municipalities: Calanasan, Conner and Kabugao) and Lower Apayao (the lowland municipalities: Luna, Pudtol, Flora and Sta. Marcela. 

To view posts about the churches in the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk, click here and here.

44. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF SAN FERNANDO

San Fernando, Pampanga was created a diocese on December 11, 1948 and elevated into an archdiocese on March 17, 1975 comprising the civil province of Pampanga. Pampanga comprises 19 municipalities and three cities (one highly urbanized and two component).            The province is divided into three parts. The western portion includes the municipalities of Porac and Floridablanca, the component city of Mabalacat, and the highly urbanized city of Angeles. The central part consists of the municipalities of Magalang, Arayat, Mexico, Santa Ana, Bacolor, Santa Rita, Guagua, Lubao, Sasmuan, and the highly urbanized city of San Fernando. The eastern half is composed of the municipalities of Candaba, San Luis, Santo Tomas, San Simon, Minalin, Apalit, Macabebe, and Masantol. 

 It includes the dioceses of Balanga, Iba and Tarlac as its suffragan dioceses.  

To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of San Fernando, Pampanga, click  here, here and here.

45. DIOCESE OF IBA

Iba was established as a diocese on June 12, 1955 comprising the civil province of Zambales. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Iba, click here, here and  here.

46. DIOCESE OF TARLAC

Tarlac was created a diocese on February 16, 1963 comprising the civil province of Tarlac. It is composed of the city of Tarlace and 17 municipalities:  Anao, Bamban, Camiling, Capas, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada, Paniqui, Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Jose, San Manuel, Santa Ignacia, and Victoria.

  To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Tarlac, click here.

47. DIOCESE OF BALANGA

      

 The diocese was created on March 17, 1975 comprising the civil province of Bataan.  The province of Bataan is composed only of eleven towns and one component city of Balanga which serves as the capital of the province. The towns,  if one enters from Pampanga going south and rounding up the peninsula to the west, are Dinalupihan, Hermosa, Orani, Samal, Abucay, Balanga City, Pilar, Orion Limay, Mariveles, Bagac and Morong. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Balanga, click here and here.

 

DIOCESES IN THE VISAYAS

48. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CEBU

                   

   Cebu was created a diocese on August 14, 1595 at the same time that Manila,  the first diocese in the Philippines was erected as an archdiocese. Cebu was elevated as an archdiocese on April 28, 1934. It comprises the civil province of Cebu. The province of Cebu is composed of 9 cities: Cebu, Lapu-lapu, Mandaue, Talisay, Naga, Carcar, Toledo, Bogo, and Danao and forty-four (44) municipalities: Minglanilla, San Fernando, Sibonga, Alcoy, Argao, Boljoon, Dalaguete, Oslob, Samboan, Santander, Aloguinsan, Asturias, Balamban, Barili, Pinamungajan, Tuburan, Bantayan, Daanbantayan, Madridejos, Medellin, San Remigio, Santa Fe, Tabogon and Tabuelan, Consolacion, Cordova,  Alcantara, Alegria, Badian, Dumanjug, Ginatilan, Malabuyoc, Moalboal and Ronda. The town in Camotes Islands: Borbon, Carmen, Catmon, Compostela, Liloan, Pilar, Poro, San Francisco, Sogod and Tudela. 

 The suffragan dioceses include Dumaguete, Maasin, Tagbilaran and Talibon.  

To view posts about the Archdiocese of Cebu, click Bantayan, Carnaza, Western Cebu, Guadalupe et al, Camotes, Moalboal, Boljoon, Bantayan 2006, San Remegio, Camotes 2006.

49. DIOCESE OF TAGBILARAN

        

 The diocese was created on November 8, 1941 comprising the southern half of the province of Bohol composed of one city and 26 towns: Tagbilaran,  Alburquerque, Antequera, Baclayon, Balilihan, Calape, Catigbian, Corella, Cortes, Dauis, Loon, Maribojoc, Panglao, Sikatuna, Tubigon, Clarin, Batuan, Bilar,  Sagbayan, San Isidro, Dimiao,  Lila, Loay, Loboc, Sevilla, Valencia, Garcia Hernandez. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Tagbilaran, click here,  here, here, here, and here.

50. DIOCESE OF DUMAGUETE

 

               Dumaguete was created a diocese on April 5, 1955 comprising the civil provinces of Siquijor and Negros Oriental excluding four municipalities in the north of the province. The Diocese of Dumaguete include the following 20 towns of Negros Oriental:  Dumaguete City, Bacong, Sibulan, San Jose, Amlan, Tanjay City, Pamplona, Bais City, Mabinay, Manjuyod, Bindoy, Ayungon, Tayasan, Valencia, Dauin, Zamboanguita, Siaton, Sta. Catalina, Bayawan and Basay. And the 6 towns of the Province of Siquijor: Siquijor,  Larena, Enrique Villanueva, Maria, Lazi and  San Juan. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Dumaguete, click here and here, Apo Island, Dauin, Antulang Beach Resort,

51. DIOCESE OF MAASIN

                 

 Maasin in Southern Leyte was created a diocese of March 23, 1968 comprising the province of Southern Leyte with one city and 18 towns: Maasin, Sogod, Libagon, Liloan, San Francisco, Pintuyan, San Ricardo, Saint Bernard, Anahawan, San Juan, Hinunangan, Hinundayan,  Silago, Malitbog, Macrohon, Padre Burgos, Pintuyan, Tomas Oppus and Limasawa,  and six towns from the province of Leyte: Baybay, Inopacan, Hindang, Hilongos, Bato and Matalom. 

 To view posts about the Diocese of Maasin, click here,  Canigao, Napantao, Limasawa, Tangkaan,

52. DIOCESE OF TALIBON

Talibon was established as a diocese on January 9, 1986 comprising the northern half of the province of Bohol composed of 21 towns: Alicia, Anda, Bien Unido, Buenavista, Candijay, Carmen, Dagohoy, Danao, Duero, Getafe, Guindulman, Inabanga, Jagna, Mabini, Pilar, President Carlos P. Garcia, San Miguel, Sierra Bullones, Talibon, Trinidad, Ubay. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Talibon, click here,  here,  here, here.

53. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF JARO

      

       Jaro was created a diocese on May 27, 1865 and elevated to an archdiocese in June 29, 1951 comprising the provinces of Guimaras and Iloilo. The province of Iloilo consists of two cities and 42 municipalities: Iloilo,  Guimbal, Igbaras, Miagao, Oton, San Joaquin, Tigbauan, Tubungan,  Alimodian, Leganes, Leon, New Lucena, Pavia, San Miguel, Santa Barbara, Zarraga,  Badiangan, Bingawan, Cabatuan, Calinog, Janiuay, Lambunao, Maasin, Mina,  Pototan, Passi, Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dueñas, Dumangas,  San Enrique, Ajuy, Balasan, Barotac Viejo, Batad, Carles, Concepcion, Estancia, Lemery, San Dionisio, San Rafael and Sara. The Province of Guimaras is composed of five municipalities namely: Buenavista, Jordan, Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo and Sibunag. 

  The suffragan dioceses are Bacolod, Kabankalan, San Carlos and San Jose de Antique. 

 To view posts about the Archdiocese of Jaro, click here, here, here, and here.

54. DIOCESE OF BACOLOD

           

Bacolod was created a diocese on July 15, 1932.  The diocese comprises the central territory of the province of Negros Occidental.  It includes the following towns and cities of the province of Negros Occidental:  Bacolod City, Talisay City, Silay City, E.B. Magalona, Victorias City, Bago City, Valladolid, Pulupandan, Hinigaran, Pontevedra, San Enrique, La Carlota City and Murcia. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Bacolod, click here and  here,

 

55. DIOCESE OF SAN JOSE DE ANTIQUE

San Jose de Antique was first created as a Prelature on March 24, 1962 and elevated to a diocese on November 15, 1982 comprising the province of Antique. Antique is composed of 18 towns: Anini-y, Barbaza, Belison, Bugasong, Caluya, Culasi, Hamtic, Laua-an, Libertad, Pandan, Patnongon, San Jose de Buenavista, San Remigio, Sebaste, Sibalom, Tibiao, Tobias Fornier and Valderrama. 

To view posts about the Diocese of San Jose de Antique, click here,  here, here, here, here.

56. DIOCESE OF KABANKALAN

          

 The diocese of Kabankalan was created at the same time as San Carlos on March 30, 1987. It comprises the southern part of the province of Negros Occidental which includes the following towns and cities:   Kabankalan City,   Binalbagan,   Himamaylan City,  Isabela,  Moises Padilla (Magallon),   La Castellana,    Ilog,    Cauayan,  Sipalay City,  Hinoba-an.  

 To view posts about the Diocese of  Kabankalan, click here,

 

57. DIOCESE OF SAN CARLOS

        

    San Carlos was created a diocese on March 30, 1987. It comprises the towns of La Libertad, Guihulngan, Vallehermoso and the City of Canlaon in Negros Oriental and the towns of Manapla, Toboso, Calatrava, Don Salvador, Benedicto, Escalante, Cadiz and Sagay in Negros Occidental.  

 To view posts about the Diocese of San Carlos, click here.

58. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PALO

Palo was created a diocese on November 28, 1937 and elevated to an archdiocese on November 15, 1982. It comprises the civil province of Leyte except for six towns in the southwest which was given to the Diocese of Maasin and four towns in the northwest which was ceded to the Diocese of Naval.  Of the 40 towns and 3 cities of the province of Leyte, 31 towns and 2 cities belong to the Archdiocese of Palo: Tacloban,  Alangalang, Babatngon, Palo, San Miguel, Santa Fe, Tanauan, Tolosa, Barugo, Burauen, Capoocan, Carigara, Dagami, Dulag, Jaro, Julita, La Paz, MacArthur, Mayorga, Abuyog, Javier, Mahaplag, Pastrana, Tabontabon, Tunga, Villaba,  Ormoc, Albuera, Isabel, Kananga, Matag-ob, Merida and Palompon

The suffragan dioceses are Borongan, Calbayog, Catarman and Naval. 

 To view posts about the churches in the Archdiocese of Palo, click here, here, Western district, Tacloban - Carigara vicariates, Dawahon island, Malaguicay falls, Monbon beach

59. DIOCESE OF CALBAYOG

              Calbayog was created a diocese on April 10, 1910 and is the mother diocese of the dioceses of Eastern Visayas composing the islands of Samar and Leyte. The diocese now comprises the civil province of Western Samar. It consists of two cities and 24 municipalities: Calbayog, Catbalogan, Almagro, Basey, Calbiga, Daram, Gandara, Hinabangan, Jiabong, Marabut, Matuguinao, Motiong, Pagsanghan, Paranas, Pinabacdao, San Jorge, San Jose de Buan, San Sebastian, Santa Margarita, Santa Rita, Santo Niño, Tagapul-an, Talalora, Tarangnan, Villareal and Zumarraga.

 To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Calbayog, click here,  here, and  here.

60. DIOCESE OF BORONGAN

              Borongan was created a diocese on October 22, 1960 comprising the civil province of Eastern Samar composed of one city and 22 municipalities: Borongan, Arteche, Balangiga, Balangkayan, Can-avid, Dolores, General MacArthur, Giporlos, Guiuan, Hernani, Jipapad, Lawaan, Llorente, Maslog, Maydolong, Mercedes, Oras, Quinapondan, Salcedo, San Julian, San Policarpo, Sulat and Taft.

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Borongan, click here, here, here and here.

61. DIOCESE OF CATARMAN

This diocese was created on December 5, 1974 comprising the civil province of Northern Samar composed of 24 municipalities: Allen, Biri, Bobon, Capul, Catarman, Catubig, Gamay, Laoang, Lapinig, Las Navas, Lavezares, Lope de Vega, Mapanas, Mondragon, Palapag, Pambujan, Rosario, San Antonio, San Isidro, San Jose, San Roque, San Vicente, Silvino Lobos, Victoria

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Catarman, click here,  here,  Batag island, San Vicente, San Antonio - Capul

62. DIOCESE OF NAVAL

Naval was created a diocese on November 29, 1988 comprising the island province of Biliran and four towns from  the north-western part of Leyte. Biliran has 8 towns: Almeria, Biliran, Cabucgayan, Caibiran, Culaba, Kawayan, Maripipi, Naval and the fours towns from Leyte are: Leyte, Leyte, San Isidro, Calubian and Tabango. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Naval, click here,  here, Higatangan island, Kawayan, Cabucgayan, Maripipi, Calubian.

63. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CAPIZ

                Capiz was created a diocese on January 27, 1951 and elevated to an archdiocese on January 17, 1976 comprising the civil province of Capiz. It is composed of 16 towns and one city: Roxas,  Maayon, Panay, Panitan, Pilar, Pontevedra, President Roxas, Cuartero, Dao, Dumalag, Dumarao, Ivisan, Jamindan, Mambusao, Sapian, Sigma and Tapaz . Kalibo and Romblon are its suffragan dioceses. 

 To view posts about the Archdiocese of Capiz, click here and  here.

64. DIOCESE OF ROMBLON

        The diocese of Romblon was created on December 19, 1974 comprising the civil province of Romblon composed of 17 municipalities. Its main components include Romblon, an archipelagic municipality of the same name that also serves as the provincial capital; Tablas, the largest island, covering nine municipalities:  Alcantara,  Calatrava, Ferrol, Imelda, Looc,  Odiongan, San Agustin, San Andres and  Sta. Fe; Sibuyan with its three towns: Cajidiocan, San Fernando, Magdiwang; as well as the smaller island municipalities of Corcuera, Banton, Concepcion, and San Jose.

 To view posts about the Diocese of Romblon, click here,  here, here, here, here, Banton, Cobrador island,

65. DIOCESE OF KALIBO

                Kalibo was created a diocese on January 17, 1976 comprising the civil province of Aklan composed of 17 municipalities: Altavas, Balete, Banga, Batan, Buruanga, Ibajay, Kalibo, Lezo, Libacao, Madalag, Makato, Malay, Malinao, Nabas, New Washington, Numancia and  Tangalan.

To view posts about the Diocese of Kalibo, click here,  here, Boracay.

DIOCESES IN MINDANAO

66. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF ZAMBOANGA

Zamboanga was created as a diocese on April 19, 1910 and elevated as an archdiocese on May 19, 1958 and comprises the city of Zamboanga.   It is the mother diocese of all the dioceses in Mindanao. Its suffragan are Ipil, Isabela de Basilan and Jolo. 

To view posts on the Archdiocese of Zamboanga, click here, and  here,

67.  DIOCESE OF IPIL

Ipil was created as a Prelature on December 24, 1979 and elevated to a diocese on May 1, 2010. It comprises the province of Zamboanga Sibugay with 16 municipalities: Alicia, Buug, Diplahan, Imelda, Ipil, Kabasalan, Mabuhay, Malangas, Naga, Olutanga, Payao, Roseller Lim, Siay, Talusan, Titay, Tungawan;  and three municipalities of Zamboanga del Sur: Bayog, Kumalarang, Lake Wood.

To view posts about the Diocese of Ipil, click here and  here.

68. PRELATURE OF ISABELA DE BASILAN

This prelature was created on October 12, 1963 comprising the whole province of Basilan. The province comprises of 11 municipalities: Akbar, Al-Barka, Hadji Mohammad Ajul, Hadji Muhtamad, Isabela City, Lamitan City, Lantawan, Maluso, Sumisip, Tabuan-Lasa, Tipo-Tipo, Tuburan, Ungkaya Pukan. Since Catholics comprise only about 27 percent of the total population who are mostly Muslims, there are only 10 parishes, 6 of them are found in Isabela and Lamitan. Only in Maluso is there a parish church in the town itself. In Sumisip, the parish is found in the barangay of Tumahubong. There are two parishes in Lantawan but not in the town proper itself but in two barangays. 

 To view posts about the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan, click here, here, and here.

69. APOSTOLIC VICARIATE OF JOLO

Jolo was erected as an Apostolic Prefecture on October 28, 1953 and elevated to an Apostolic Vicariate on July 12, 1958 comprising the provinces of Sulu and Tawi-tawi with its 464 islands and islets. There are 19 municipalities of Sulu and 11 in Tawi-tawi. But there are only 4 parishes, one sub parish and about 6 other mission stations. 

To view posts about the Apostolic Vicariate of Jolo, click here,  here, here,

70. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CAGAYAN DE ORO

Cagayan de Oro was created a diocese on January 20, 1933 and elevated as an archdiocese on June 29, 1951. It comprises the civil provinces of Misamis Oriental and Camiguin. Misamis Oriental comprises of 2 cities and 23 munipalities: Cagayan de Oro City, El Salvador City, Alubijid, Balingasag, Balingoan, Binuangan, Claveria, Gitagum, Initao, Jasaan, Kinoguitan, Lagonglong, Laguindingan, Libertad, Lugait, Magsaysay, Manticao, Medina, Naawan, Opol, Salay, Sugbongcogon, Tagoloan, Talisayan and Villanueva. Camiguin is composed of 5 towns: Catarman, Guinsiliban, Mahinog, Mambajao, and Sagay.

Its suffragan dioceses are Butuan, Malaybalay, Surigao and Tandag. 

To view posts about the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, click here,  Camiguin,  Whitewater rafting.

71. DIOCESE OF SURIGAO

Surigao was created a diocese on June 3, 1939 comprising the civil provinces of Surigao del Norte and Dinagat Islands. Surigao del Norte has one city and 20 towns: Surigao City, Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen,  General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Santa Monica (Sapao), Socorro, Alegria, Bacuag, Claver, Gigaquit, Mainit, Malimono, Placer, San Francisco (Anao-Aon), Sison, Tagana-an and Tubod. Dinagat islands has 7 towns: Dinagat (Mother Municipality), Loreto, Cagdianao, Libjo, Basilisa, Tubajon, and San Jose.

To view posts about the Diocese of Surigao, click here,  here, Bucas Grande, Sohoton Cove, Siargao, Dinagat.

72. DIOCESE OF BUTUAN

Butuan became a diocese on March 20, 1967 comprising the civil province of Agusan del Norte.  The province has 2 cities and 10 municipalities: Buenavista, Butuan City, Cabadbaran City, Carmen, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Las Nieves, Magallanes, Nasipit, Remedios T. Romualdez, Santiago and  Tubay. 

To view post about the Diocese of Butuan, click here. 

73. DIOCESE OF MALAYBALAY

                    Malaybalay was created first as a prelature on April 25, 1969 and elevated to become a diocese on November 15, 1982. It is composed of the province of Bukidnon with 20 towns and 2 cities: Bukidnon City, Valencia City,  Baungon, Cabanglasan, Damulog, Dangcagan, Don Carlos, Impasugong, Kadingilan, Kalilangan, Kibawe, Kitaotao, Lantapan, Libona, Malitbog, Manolo Fortich, Maramag ,Pangantucan, Quezon, San Fernando, Sumilao and Talakag,  except the town of Malitbog which belong to the Archdiocese of Cagayand de Oro. Malaybalay diocese includes the town of Wao from Lanao del Sur and one barangay, Buda  from the city of Davao. 

To view post about the Diocese of Malaybalay, click here.  

74. DIOCESE OF TANDAG

Tandag became a diocese on June 16, 1978 comprising the whole province of Surigao del Sur. Surigao del Sur is composed of 19 municipalities namely: Barobo, Bayabas, Bislig, Cagwait, Cantilan, Carmen, Carrascal, Cortes, Hinatuan, Lanuza, Lianga, Lingig, Madrid, Marihatag, San Agustin, san Miguel, Tagbina, Tago and Tandag.

To view posts about the Diocese of Tandag, click here. 

75. DIOCESE OF PROSPERIDAD

The Diocese of Prosperidad is the newest diocese in the Philippines.  It was established on October 15, 2024 and the canonical installation of its first bishop in the person of the Most Rev. Ruben Labajo, the former Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu done on January 28, 2025.  The territory comprises the civil province of Agusan del Sur which formerly belonged to the Diocese of Butuan.  Agusan del Sur is composed of 13 municipalities that are divided into two districts. District 1 comprises six municipalities: Bayugan City, Esperanza, Prosperidad, San Luis, Sibagat, and Talacogon. Meanwhile, District 2 is composed of eight municipalities, including Bunawan, La Paz, Loreto, Rosario, San Francisco,  Sta. Josefa, Trento, and Veruela.

To view posts about the Diocese of Prosperidad, click here,  here, and here.

St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral
Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur

76. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF DAVAO

Davao was created first as a Prelature on December 17, 1949 and later became a diocese on July 11, 1966 and finally was elevated as an archdiocese on June 29, 1970. It comprises the city of Davao and islands of Samal and Talicud of the province of Davao del Norte. Digos, Mati and Tagum are its suffragan dioceses. 

To view posts about the Archdiocese of Davao, click here.

77. DIOCESE OF TAGUM

The diocese of Tagum was first erected as a Prelature on January 13, 1962 and elevated to a diocese on October 11, 1980. It comprises the province of Davao del Norte with the following 13 municipalities: Asuncion, Babak, Compostela, Kapalong, Mabini, Mawab, Monkayo, Nabunturan, Panabo, Pantukan, Sto. Tomas and Tagum,  except Samal Island; and the province of Compostela Valley now called Davao de Oro with the following 11 municipalities: Compostela, Laak, Mabini, Maco, Maragusan, Mawab, Monkayo, Montevista, Nabunturan, New Bataan, Pantukan

To view posts about the Diocese of Tagum, click here, and here.

78. DIOCESE OF DIGOS

        Digos was established as a diocese on November 5, 1979. Its territory comprises the provinces of Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Banate, a barangay of Malungon in Sarangani Province.

Davao del Sur consists of one city and nine municipalities, namely: Digos City, Bansalan, Hagonoy, Kiblawan, Magsaysay, Malalag, Matanao, Padada, Santa Cruz, and Sulop.

Davao Occidental is composed of five municipalities: Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, Malita, Santa Maria, and Sarangani.

To view posts about the Diocese of Digos, click here, and here.

79. DIOCESE OF MATI

Mati was created a diocese of February 16, 1984. It comprises the civil province of Davao Oriental. Davao Oriental has 10 municipalities: Baganga, Banaybanay, Boston, Caraga, Cateel, Governor Generoso, Lupon, Manay, San Isidro, and Tarragona. The province also includes one component city, Mati, which is the provincial capital. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Mati, click here.

80. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF COTABATO

Cotabato was created as a Prelature on August 11, 1950 and became a diocese on June 12, 1976 and finally was elevated as an archdiocese on November 5, 1979. It comprises parts of the province of Cotabato and the whole province of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and Cotabato City. Marbel and Kidapawan are its suffragan dioceses. 

To view posts about the Archdiocese of Cotabato, click here, and here.

81. DIOCESE OF MARBEL

Marbel was created a Prelature on December 17, 1960 and elevated to a diocese on November 15, 1982. It comprises the provinces of South Cotabato and Sarangani, city of General Santos and some parts of Sultan Kudarat. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Marbel, click here, here, here, and here.

82. DIOCESE OF KIDAPAWAN

Kidapawan became a Prelature on June 12, 1976 and was elevated to a diocese on November 15, 1982. It comprises 11 towns of the province of Cotabato, 3 towns of the province of Maguindanao and one town of the province of Sultan Kudarat. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Kidapawan, click here and here.

83. THE ARCHDIOCESE OF OZAMIS

The ecclesiastical jurisdiction of Ozamis has undergone several stages of development. It was first established as the Prelature of Ozamis on January 27, 1951. As the local Church continued to grow, it was elevated to the Diocese of Ozamis on February 17, 1971. A further milestone came on January 24, 1983, when it was raised to the dignity of a Metropolitan Archdiocese.

The Archdiocese comprises the cities of Ozamiz, Oroquieta, and Tangub, as well as 14 municipalities, constituting the entire province of Misamis Occidental. As a metropolitan see, it has the dioceses of Dipolog, Iligan, Pagadian, and Marawi as its suffragans.

An interesting peculiarity is found in the spelling of the name: the Archdiocese retains the older form “Ozamis,” spelled with an s, while the city is spelled “Ozamiz,” with a z. This distinction has been maintained in official ecclesiastical usage.

To view posts about the Archdiocese of Ozamis, click here and  here, 

84. DIOCESE OF DIPOLOG

Dipolog was created a diocese on July 31, 1967. It comprises the province of Zamboanga del Norte and the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan. 

To view posts about the Diocese of Dipolog, click here.

85. DIOCESE OF ILIGAN

   Iligan was created a Prelature on February 17, 1971 and elevated to a diocese on November 15, 1982 comprising Iligan City and part of the province of Lanao del Norte. The province of Lanao del Norte, Philippines, has 22 municipalities and one independent component city, Iligan City. The following are the municipalities under the Diocese of Iligan: Bacolod,  Baroy, Kapatagan, Kauswagan, Kolambugan, Lala, Linamon, Magsaysay, Maigo, Matungao, Munai, Nunungan, Pantao Ragat, Pantar, Poona Piagapo, Salvador, Sapad,  Tagoloan, Tangcal, Tubod. The towns of Balo-I and  Sultan Naga Dimaporo belong to the Prelature of Marawi. 

          To view posts about the Diocese of Iligan, click here, and    here.      

Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel 
Iligan City

86. DIOCESE OF PAGADIAN

                       The diocese was created on November 12, 1971 comprising the city of Pagadian and twenty-six municipalities in the northern and eastern parts of the province of Zamboanga del Sur: Aurora, Dimataling, Dinas, Dumalinao, Dumingag, Guipos, Josefina, Labangan, Lapuyan, Mahayag, Margosatubig, Midsalip, Molave, Pitogo, Ramon Magsaysay, San Miguel, San Pablo, Sominot, Tabina, Tambulig, Tigbao, Tukuran, and Vincenzo A. Sagun. Three towns of Zamboanga del Sur belong to the Diocese of Ipil: Bayog, Kumalarang and Lakewood. 

To view posts about the churches in the Diocese of Pagadian, click here, and here.

Santo Niño Cathedral
Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur

87. PRELATURE OF MARAWI

Marawi was created on November 20, 1976 comprising the City of Marawi, the civil province of Lanao del Sur and part of the province of Lanao del Norte. In May 2017, the city of Marawi was besieged by the Maute group, an armed group affiliated with Islamic State (ISIS). The siege lasted for six months and left much of the city devastated, including the St. Mary’s Cathedral of Marawi, which was reduced to ruins.

To view posts about the Prelature of Marawi, click here, and here.

The ruins of the Cathedra. Picture taken on March 2024.

The ruins of the Cathedral.