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Exploring Sorsogon made me realize that the province has a lot to offer to any kind of traveler - from the laidback to the adventurous. I allowed myself to get lost this time on the eastern coast of the province, covering three areas that share remnants of its rich Spanish-period past. The similarities may be evident but each of these towns stand with a unique vibe. Welcome to the tri-towns of Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona.  Time to explore three different sides of three Sorsogon towns. The three municipalities lie along the eastern coast of Sorsogon. Prieto Diaz lies along the north eastern coast, Gubat is at the middle, and Barcelona is the southern-most of the three. While each destination has a unique character, the three share a common denominator of having links to its Spanish-period - some still standing while others in ruins. Exploring Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona would bring out the destination’s unique tourism brand while keeping the bind that ties three together. Prieto Diaz: A Rustic Seaside Town  Enjoying the chill sea and mangrove views of the town of Prieto Diaz. Prieto Diaz was originally under the visita of Bacon. It is the youngest municipality in the province after being organized as an independent town when Sorsogon. It was established in 1903 and was named after two Bicolano martyrs - Father Gabriel Prieto and Father Severino Diaz. It owns to having the most laidback vibe among the three that it gives travelers that old Philippine town feel. Sabang Beach Sabang Beach is a laidback public beach on the eastern side of Prieto Diaz facing the Pacific Ocean. This beach spot gives you an amazing view of the mangrove ecopark of the town. Apart from being breeding grounds of fish, these covers also protect the town from the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean.  Prieto Diaz is a laidback town where you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment. A community park was built on the shores of the beach. A Prieto Diaz marker, with the mangrove covers in the backdrop, was installed to give guests the local’s sense of pride for their place. The beach spot is not as grand as the others in the area but the mangroves in the area can be explored and gives you a different perspective of the town. The place exudes calmness so it is not surprising that this beach spot is a favorite early morning or late afternoon spot by locals. Easternmost Point of Luzon Island Just a few minutes-walk from the town center, you will find yourself on the easternmost point of the Luzon mainland. Dotted with mangrove covers, the spot is not easily recognizable as there are no signs that states so. I just saw it in google maps so I walked my way to the eastern edge of Luzon.  That's me, with my big smile, at the easternmost edge of the Luzon Island. A highway runs along the eastern side of the Prieto Diaz. There is a modern lighthouse that stands a few meters from the breakwaters of the town. There are a couple of mangrove covers along its shores that serves as safety anchors of small fishing boats. I walked down close to the edge of the sea wall just to know how it feels to be at the eastern edge of the Luzon landmass. I did not really feel anything special but it did made me smile. I mean you don’t get to stand at the edge of Luzon all the time. That thought alone will give you a smile. Escuela Pia ng Prieto Diaz If there was one attraction that led me to explore Prieto Diaz, it was its Escuela Pia. The Escuela Pia was first built in coral stones in the 19th century under the Spanish government. The one level building served as a school house from the time it was built to the present. This is one of the well-preserved historical structures on this side of Sorsogon.  The Escuela Pia of Prieto Diaz was rehabilitated and still in use today.
The coral stone structure stands out from among the modern structures of the Prieto Diaz Central School. A lot of efforts, headed by private institutions, have been undertaken to preserve the structure especially after it was damaged by Typhoon Reming in 2006. The school house remains to be of use until today. But beyond the efforts to preserve the structure, the Escuela Pia of Prieto Diaz tells how Spanish influence flourished on this eastern coast of the country. Gubat: The Town Where the Sun Rises for Adrenaline Junkies  Enjoying the feel of the morning sun in Gubat, Sorsogon. Established in 1764, the municipality of Gubat is fast becoming a popular spot for surfing because of its friendly waves that suits those who want to start to learn to surf. Its name was derived from the local word “guinobatan” which means “raided” as the town was often times raided by the moros during earlier times. Its present name is a shortened version of the local word. Since Gubat is sandwiched by the other two, it became my nerve center for my exploration. Rizal Beach This is where the adrenaline action is in the province of Sorsogon. The long stretch of black powdery sand is where one heads to for that riding the waves action. The sandy breaks of its coast make it the only beach spot that is beginner-friendly for both locals and visitors. The support given by the local government proved to be beneficial in the putting Gubat in the surfing destinations in the country.  Breathing a much-needed salty sir from the Pacific. But it is not all about riding the waves when you are at Gubat. You can also enjoy a quiet moment in the morning or afternoon as you watch locals and tourists enjoy the beach. This is the beach spot where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon people-watching as you enjoy the breeze and sun on your skin. Serene evenings make you appreciate doing nothing but enjoy a moment of tranquility enveloped by the dark and the night sounds.
One thing that I really enjoyed was watching the sun rise in the morning. Since Gubat is on the eastern side, you get front seats to a beautiful sunrise. I really enjoyed the sound of the waves, the morning breeze, and the warmth of morning sun breaking on my skin. It was great watching a new day breaking while on my fave spot - the beach. St. Anthony de Padua Church At the heart of the town of Gubat is the St. Anthony de Padua Church. Local stories passed on from generation to generation shared that the image of St. Anthony de Padua was held up, during a moro raid, while the townsfolk were praying for a miracle. It was believed that the child Jesus, on the arms of the saint, warded off the pirates. It was after this miracle that the town embraced St. Anthony de Padua as their patron saint.  The St. Anthony de Padua Church of Gubat is a Spanish-period church that took 10 years to start construction.
The idea of the building a stone church was conceived in 1768 but it took the locals 10 years to actually start construction because the residents needed to raise the coral stone materials for the structure. They had to oblige the men to donate one cubic meter of coral stone. Although the church has undergone renovations, the foundations of the church remain to be the original stones laid down in 1778. The rectory remains to be one of the two oldest rectories in the Bicol region.  I was amazed by the beauty of its baptistry. You can see the outline of its coral stones. The interior of the church remains simple and yet elegant. The paintings on the ceilings give the church an immaculate vibe. The simple altar, with the Crucifix and the image of St. Anthony de Padua as its highlight, completes the vibe of the sanctuary. What really stood out for me was the church’s baptistry where you could actually see the coral walls of the church complementing the painting of Jesus’ baptism. You can actually see the beauty of the age of the St. Anthony de Padua Church inside this corner. Christ the King Park The faith of the locals of Gubat must be so strong that they immortalized it by installing the Christ the King Park. The park sits adjacent to the church and separated by a town road. I have seen a church with a sprawling compound but this is the first time that I have seen a park dedicated to faith. Usually, towns have community parks but it is commonly dedicated to either a historical figure or named after the town. In the case of Gubat, it is dedicated and designed to signify their faith.  The Christ the King Park is a sprawling open park across the street of the Gubat Church. The sprawling open park is complete with an image of the Risen Christ as its main centerpiece. A three-level platform stands on one side where, I presume, the traditional salubong is celebrated every Easter Sunday. The space can accommodate throngs of people attending the celebration. Each spot gives them a good view of the celebration. Monreal Ruins Just a few minutes-walk from the church and the park, you will find the Monreal School Building Ruins. The school is the only school building in the Philippines that was built from corals and stones. Inaugurated in 1906, the Monreal Building was part of the American promise to provide free primary education in the province of Sorsogon.
The building is now in ruins and has been off limits to the public due to safety reasons. From the street view, you can still admire the beauty of its coral stone foundation. A similar stone structure stands a few meters from the Monreal Ruins which was re-purposed by the Bicol State University. I don’t know whether both structures were built together at the same time or share the same history. But I hope that the LGU of Gubat would take the initiative to rehabilitate and re-purpose the Monreal Ruins to keeps its historical value. Gubat Heritage Center The Gubat Heritage Center serves as a lifestyle museum and office of the town’s Municipal Tourism and Cultural Office. The house was originally owned by Don Juan Escurel and was built in 1918. The Casa Escurel-Sabater was donated by the heirs in 2017 and the LGU took the effort to re-purpose the heritage house to the Gubat Heritage House.  The Gubat Heritage Center is a museum that walks you through the rich past of Gubat. The first floor of the house serves as the receiving area and a gallery area for local artists. Art works of different forms, on display and on sale, will amuse you as you walk towards the lawn area. The open garden serves as a gathering place for cultural activities and shows. You are then treated to a mural that immortalizes the legend of Ginubat.
The second floor is a repository of time-pieces that give you a glimpse of how locals lived in the past. These antique furnitures and old photographs owned by the family froze a period and shares the snapshot to its guests. The museum also features historical events relevant to the town. It also educates visitors of the important livelihood that is unique to Gubat. Barcelona: A Town of Historic Proportions  Barcelona was a town that I fell easily in love with. Among the three towns, Barcelona outrightly shares its rich history. From the church to its ruins, the LGU has significantly banked on the town’s Spanish-period influence to attract tourist to visit the town. Mention the town of Barcelona to any local traveler and they will mention its famous Spanish-period church. Let me say this, the town will NOT disappoint. St. Joseph Parish Church (Barcelona Church) Built in 1874, the St. Joseph Parish Church, more popularly known as the Barcelona Church, is one of the oldest church in the Bicol region. The church is the tourism centerpiece of the town, making it a popular destination for those who want a piece of Spanish-influence in the province. The church looks amazing from the baywalk area with Mount Bulusan in the background.  Barcelona Church is one of the oldest church in the Bicol Region. The church was built in Neo-classical architecture using corals and slabs of sea stones joined together by a mix of egg whites, lime, and tuba (coconut wine). It has undergone restoration under the supervision of the National Historical Commission with the church walls and the bell tower remaining intact from its original structure. An image of Jesus Christ welcomes visitors in the church courtyard. Stone walls that depict the Stations of the Cross line the perimeter of the church’s courtyard. The simple facade is highlighted by a stained-glass window of St. Joseph carrying Baby Jesus.  The Barcelona Church with Mount Bulusan in the background. The interior of the church is a complete contrast to its simple facade. You will be impressed by the intricate and grand design of the church from its ceilings to its floor. I was really impressed by the ceiling paintings depicting different passages from the bible. The tiled floorings lead your eyes to its retablo depicting the Holy Family. The details were simply amazing and will keep you in awe.
I had the chance to get up to the choir loft to admire the church navel from a different perspective. I got to touch and feel the coral stones that was meticulously put together by its workers. I am not Catholic but I am amazed by the faith and the story of early Filipinos through these Spanish-structures that remain standing to this day. The Barcelona Church is one of the well-preserved church’s in the country that gives us a glimpse of the past. It is part of Sorsogon’s collection of Important Cultural Properties. Barcelona Ruins Park Just right across the Barcelona Church is a park that also gives you a glimpse of Barcelona’s rich history. The Barcelona Ruins Park offers was developed to highlight two significant Spanish-period ruins while giving you an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. This is where you will also find the Barcelona, Sorsogon sign for that iconic “I was here” photo.  Enjoying a full view of the La Presidencia Ruins of Barcelona. The La Presidencia Ruins is one of the three remaining Spanish-period structures in the town of Barcelona. It used to be the seat of the Spanish-government in the area. It is said that the structure had tunnels underneath to serve as added protection against moro raiders. It is also believed that the tunnels also lead to the church. The structure served as a garrison during the Japanese occupation and the seat of the municipal government after the war before succumbing to the forces of nature.
At the other side of the park is the Escuela Pia Ruins of Barcelona. Built by the Spaniards to serve as a school to the children of the illustrados, the structure remained true to its purpose even during the American-period. It was later called the Stone Building that offered primary education, only this time, for everyone. It was later abandoned due to safety reasons but a large part of its foundation remain intact to this day.
The three Spanish-period structures are enough to give you a complete Barcelona history experience. You get to see it in one place just how the Spaniards build towns. Everything is within reach at the poblacion, in this case, within an arms reach of each structure. Too bad though that the town was only able to preserve the church intact. It would have been more interesting if all three were preserved for everyone to see a typical Spanish-period town in Bicol. Barcelona Baywalk and Boulevard Just behind the Barcelona Ruins Park is a boardwalk that connects to the Barcelona Boulevard. From here, you get to see a full view of the old town’s layout on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other side. The 180-degree view of the Pacific Ocean was a relaxing breather after walking around the area. The baywalk and the boulevard is a favorite spot for locals to unwind in the early mornings and late afternoons. Small businesses have sprung up to offer guests refreshments during their visit. You get to enjoy the laidback charm of Barcelona as you feel the sea breeze on your skin while feasting on the sea view of Barcelona. The spot got me thinking that this place would be a perfect place to catch the sunrise. Vintage Bridge Just a short ride away from the Poblacion is a small park called Vintage Bridge. Built in 1939, the only remaining part of the structure is the foundation of the bridge that remains rooted on its riverbed and its parapet on both ends. The actual bridge itself offers an amazing view of the river and the estuary.
The park was added as part of the town’s historical attraction. They have water sports that will give you the opportunity to explore the river and its surrounding palm covers. For those who just want to enjoy a quiet moment, you can take a sit in one of the park benches and enjoy the calm vibe of the park. POST TRAVEL NOTES Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona are three Sorsogon town that share the common Spanish influence and yet have a uniquely distinct town vibe. This makes you wonder how these influences managed to come through on the eastern side of Sorsogon, unlike other provinces on the eastern side of the country. The answer lies on the Galleon Trade between Mexico and the Philippines. Since the ships traverse the Pacific Ocean, the Spanish rule needed to guide ships into the San Bernandino Strait to get to Manila Bay. Hence, Spanish settlements need to established along the eastern coast of Sorsogon for this purpose. Galeng, di ba?  Ohhh... we are not yet done with Sorsogon! We still have one spot coming up. Guess where? It is interesting how “developments” can happen because of the presence of trade in an area. This goes to show if LGUs provide opportunities for economic growth in their areas, it will give their locals opportunities to stay and become part of future developments. However we should also not forget that in the midst of these developments, we should not lose the vibe that makes our towns unique and our very own. Watch out for the release of my solo adventure in Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona on my Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: There are regular flights from major airport hubs in the Philippines to the most scenic international airport in the Philippines, Daraga in Albay. You can then take a van from the airport to SM Legazpi where you can take another van to SM City Sorsogon. You can then take an aircon bus going to Prieto Diaz or Gubat. Traveling between the towns of Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona can be done via mini-aircon buses or jeeps. Where to Stay: You can stay at Sayong Eco-SurFarm in Gubat, Sorsogon to enjoy the back-to-basic and laidback vibe of Gubat. You can also arrange for surfing classes if you want to ride the waves of Gubat. You can check out their Facebook page: Lola Sayongs Eco-SurFarm Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels.
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. 
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