San Fernando Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral, located in front of the City Hall of the town, is considered as one of the most influential of all places in the City of San Fernando. The church measures 70 meters long, 13 meters wide and 11 meters high. So, it can hold hundreds of people when a mass is held. Inside, we could see a big dome. And the touch of Roman and Greek influence is really evident.

The Metropolitan Cathedral was built in 1755. The church’s structure was made of wood and thatch on its site by Augustinian Friars. They were under the patronage of San Fernando III the king of Castile. Its first cura parroco is Fr. Fray Sebastian Moreno. On October 17, 1757, townsfolk petitioned the governor – general from exemptions from tribute to enable them to build the church and the convent. It was transferred to the care of secular priests in 1788. The construction of the present church starting during the same year under the supervision of Fr. Manuel Canlas, its first secular cura parroco, and a committee composed of the principales of the town. They were led by Gobernadorcillo Bernabe Pamintuan. Construction was completed in 1808. The church was rededicated to the assumption of our lady.

Annual religious events are held here like Misa De Gallo, time of Lenten Season, processions, and others. Even historical events were done in the Cathedral just like when Former President Emilio F. Aguinaldo and his cabinet viewed the Philippine Revolutionary Army from the windows of the convent on October 9, 1898. On orders of Gen. Antonio Luna, the Philippine Revolutionary Army burned the church and the convent on May 4, 1899. It was destroyed by far again in 1939, and later restored by architect Fernando H. Ocampo. It was erected on June 25, 1975.

In 1948 the church was elevated to Cathedral when it became the seat of Diocese of San Fernando, canonically created by Pope Pius XII. In 1975, the diocese was elevated by Pope Paul XVI, to Archdiocese of San Fernando. Its first bishop was Monsignor Cesar Ma. Guerrero, D.D. he was followed by the Most Reverend Emilio A. Cinese, D.D., who became its first archbishop. He was succeeded by the Most Reverend Oscar V. Cruz, D.D. in 1978. The third and current archbishop of San Fernando is the Most Reverend Paciano B. Aniceto, D.D.

The church holds masses every day. Its doors are always open, open for good and God - centered visitors like you.

By:       Ezeckiel Herrera