The Parish Church of Santa Maria, Laguna

         The town and parish of Santa Maria turned out to be the last in the province of Laguna that I was able to visit. Situated at the northern edge of the province and already bordering Rizal province, it is not a place one simply passes through. Since it lies away from the main highway, getting there requires a deliberate effort—and, given the traffic conditions in Rizal, a fair amount of patience.

         The opportunity came during a trip to Real, Quezon, on our way to Polillo Island. On the return journey, we made a detour to Santa Maria. At the church façade, I noticed a historical marker indicating that it was founded as early as 1602. Although the church has been rebuilt several times due to earthquakes and an uprising, traces of its earlier structure remain visible—particularly in its thick and simple façade and belfry, which quietly preserve its past.

        Just before the welcome arch stands another marker identifying Santa Maria as the rice granary of Laguna, a fitting introduction to a town whose character is shaped as much by its history as by its agricultural life.

The Welcome arch upon entering the town embedded with the Marilag Festival of Santa Maria

Our Lady of the Angels Parish Church, Santa Maria, Laguna

The parish convent