Parish of Saint Augustine of Hippo (Bantay Church)
Parish of Saint Augustine of Hippo (Bantay Church) things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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A Testament of Faith and Resilience in Bantay It’s unfortunate that I visited after the 2022 earthquake, as the church’s facade is still under restoration. However, stepping inside was a relief—the altar retablo remained largely intact, preserving the sacred beauty of this historic place. At the heart of the altar is the pontifically crowned image of Apo Caridad de Bantay, a beloved devotion of the townsfolk and pilgrims. No doubt, the devastation from the earthquake was deeply felt, as many come here to venerate the miraculous image of Our Blessed Mother. The Gothic-style retablo is truly breathtaking, especially with the Crucifixion of Our Lord placed at its highest point, evoking deep reverence. The design is so striking that it even made me wish for a chapel like this at home—one that inspires the same solemnity and devotion. Despite the damage, the faith and spirit of Bantay remain strong. I look forward to seeing this church fully restored and vibrant once again.
Melvin Canoy
00
Classic Philippine church with an imposing, stunning architecture. The church was occupied though. I think there was an ongoing ceremony that time. But the outdoor chapel ruins near the outdoor restroom at the church grounds was open to tourists. Turn right from the church façade and follow the sign. There's another entrance that says Restroom. Using the clean restroom asks for a courtesy donation of 10 pesos. You can take pictures at the outdoor chapel ruins too as the staff would offer it if you want to. The chapel ruins are free. It's nice and cozy outside, and comes complete with pew chairs, pulpit, cross, and the usual decorative statues. And you can pretend to ring the mini bell there. It's a nice side trip to have come here, quick and easy.
May N
00
Beautiful, newly renovated church. There's still scaffolding surrounding it. People are allowed to go inside now. The altar is modern and majestic. They were able to preserve the main structure of the church. There was a recent earthquake and the walls of the church has cracked. During our visit, these cracks were being fixed. You can the old materials they used to build the church when you get closer to the cracks, a testament that this church has gone through the test of times.
Belle
00
Saint Augustine Parish Church, commonly known as Bantay Church, is a Roman Catholic church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur. The church was dedicated to St. Augustine of Hippo. It is also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity (Shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Caridad) housing the miraculous image of Virgin Mary as Our Lady of Charity, crowned by the Pope as the patroness of Ilocandia on 12 January 1956.
Jansen Castillo
00
One of my most favorite church to visit is the Saint Augustine Parish Church, also known as Bantay Church. It is considered one of the oldest church in the Ilocos region established in 1590. I esp. love it's Spanish architecture and the intricate details of its' interiors. It is also one of the most visited places in Ilocos. Big parking space for private vehicles.
Mari Lyn
00
The Parish of St. Augustine of Hippo a.k.a. Bantay Church with its Bell Tower is a precious relic to visit. Unfortunately, due to the damages sustained during the recent earthquake, the Church and Bell Tower are closed to the public. I think it's best to visit in the afternoon. The lighting would be great for the 'Gram.
Janzo Janzo
00
Nearby Attractions Of Parish of Saint Augustine of Hippo (Bantay Church)
Plaza Salcedo (Luneta Park Musical Dancing Fountain)
Plaza Burgos
Bantay Bell Tower
National Museum of the Philippines Ilocos Regional Complex
Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle
Chapel by the Ruins

Plaza Salcedo (Luneta Park Musical Dancing Fountain)
4.4
(973)
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Plaza Burgos
4.4
(1K)
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Bantay Bell Tower
4.5
(799)
Click for details

National Museum of the Philippines Ilocos Regional Complex
4.5
(242)
Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Parish of Saint Augustine of Hippo (Bantay Church)
Gerry's Vigan (Gerry's Grill)
Cafe Leona
1995 Studio Cafe
Cafe Uno Vigan
Amian Cafe - Vigan
Kusina Felicitas
Lampong's Restaurant
IKAN DAMPA
Cafe Bigaa
Tongson’s Royal Bibingka

Gerry's Vigan (Gerry's Grill)
4.9
(350)
$$
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Cafe Leona
3.7
(402)
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1995 Studio Cafe
4.6
(163)
Click for details

Cafe Uno Vigan
3.9
(162)
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
H9JR+FH4, Bantay, Ilocos Sur, Philippines
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The Saint Augustine Parish Church, commonly known as Bantay Church, is a Roman Catholic church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur in the Philippines. The church was dedicated to Saint Augustine of Hippo. It houses the venerated image of Our Lady of Charity.
attractions: Plaza Salcedo (Luneta Park Musical Dancing Fountain), Plaza Burgos, Bantay Bell Tower, National Museum of the Philippines Ilocos Regional Complex, Metropolitan Cathedral of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, Chapel by the Ruins, restaurants: Gerry's Vigan (Gerry's Grill), Cafe Leona, 1995 Studio Cafe, Cafe Uno Vigan, Amian Cafe - Vigan, Kusina Felicitas, Lampong's Restaurant, IKAN DAMPA, Cafe Bigaa, Tongson’s Royal Bibingka
