Maharlika Highway, Pengue, Tuguegarao City
With
its unique architectural design and structure, the Archdiocesan Shrine
of Divine Mercy or Divine Mercy Parish never fails to catch the
attention of many people who pass by the busy road of Maharlika.
Construction of this church started around 8 - 10 years ago but due to
the alleged theft by someone of donated funds, construction halted. The
roof and walls of the church were then made up of only toldas and
supported by bamboo poles. It was only a few years back that the people
finally realized their dream of having their own church in their own
locality when the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, through the leadership of
Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan, stepped in and helped the church rise to
where it is now. Now, the Archdiocesan Shrine of Divine Mercy stands
proud as one of Tuguegarao's attractions.
SAN JACINTO DE ERMITA PARISH
College Avenue, Tuguegarao City
San
Jacinto de Ermita Parish was constructed during the 1600's and was the
first ever brick structure to be built in the city during the Spanish
colonization. It is said to be one hundred years older than the Saints
Peter's and Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral. It served as headquarters for
the American soldiers during the second World War and underwent
reconstruction after the said war.
TUGUEGARAO CITY HALL
Caggay, Tuguegarao City
At first glance, one would not think that this magnificent structure is a government building. I remember what former Vice President Noli de Castro said during his visit to the city when he first got a look at the city hall, "Anong hotel yan?" Indeed, this city hall, its architecture inspired by the Banaue Rice Terraces, is unique and very unconventional and its something every Tuguegaraoeno could be proud of especially that it is a concrete proof of how far Tuguegarao have developed since its cityhood.
Rizal Street, Tuguegarao City
Saints Peter’s and Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral is the biggest Spanish built church in the entire
Cagayan Valley Region. It perhaps is the most popular and well recognized
places in the city given its impressive size, beautiful architecture and
historical significance. The church used to be the headquarters of both the
American and Filipino forces during the Second World War. It was destroyed a
number of times as a result of the war but was reconstructed during the time of
Bishop Constance Jurgens. A picture of the church could be found at the Pope’s
place at Vatican.
BUNTUN BRIDGE
Buntun, Tuguegarao City
Buntun bridge is considered as
the longest river bridge in the country with a length of slightly more than one
kilometer and offers a clear and unobstructed view of the majestic Cagayan
River. It plays a significant role in the economy of Tuguegarao as it serves as
the connecting line to the western side of the third district of Cagayan and
towns in Isabela and the Cordilleras. Deterioration of the bridge as a result
of age and the elements is quite evident though. Hopefully, government units
and agencies act on it immediately.
HORNO RUINS
Bagumbayan, Tuguegarao City
The horno ruins of Tuguegarao
are the remains of the manufacturing site of bricks used in the construction of
churches, chapels and other structures during the Spanish colonization period.
Many people doesn’t know about this because it is located within a somewhat
rough community and the city government of Tuguegarao isn’t paying any
attention to it to restore its pleasing look.
OUR LADY OF THE CHARTRES CHAPEL
Saint Paul University Philippines, Tuguegarao City
The Our Lady of the Chartres Chapel is the latest of Saint Paul University Philippines' list of impressive infrastructures. The church, which is located within the sprawling campus of SPUP, provides people with a glimpse of how cathedrals in Europe look like. It is also called SPUP Centennial Chapel because its construction coincided with the university's 100 year anniversary.
Rizal Street, Tuguegarao City
There are perhaps over a hundred parks in the country devoted to our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal and Tuguegarao City is lucky to be home to one of those. Though the city's version of the park is not as beautiful compared to that of the others, it still plays a significant role in educating and reminding the Tuguegaraoenos, especially the youth, of our beloved hero. Today, a lot of people still visit the park despite the lack of maintenance in the area.
PAV - VURULUN FESTIVAL
Tuguegarao City
Pav-vurulun is an Ibanag word which means get-together or a sense of belongingness. This patronal fiesta allows the people to celebrate in oneness the culture of the city through dances, songs and music. It usually features "Battle of the Bands", Street dancing competitions, pancit eating contests, concerts, baratillos, trade fairs and a lot more.
