Here are some spiritual sanctuaries you can visit this Holy Week via SCTEX

For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the metro to drop by some spiritual sanctuaries for their Visita Iglesia trip, here are some churches to check out that can certainly help with one’s annual devotion and cure the itch for a much-needed road trip.

Luckily, these houses of worship — which are located in Zambales and Bataan — can conveniently be reached via the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).

So, without further ado, here are the churches to visit in Central Luzon this Lenten break.

Diocesan Shrine and Cathedral Parish of Saint (St.) Joseph

Located in Balanga City, Bataan, the Diocesan Shrine and Cathedral Parish of St. Joseph boast both beauty and historical significance. The cathedral has survived the Second World War and offers visitors a serene interior for peaceful reflection and prayer.

Access to the church is via the SCTEX Dinalupihan exit.

Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

Bagac, Battan’s Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Saint Catherine of Alexandria offers old-world charm and architectural details that provide a serene location for prayer and reflection.

It can be reached via the SCTEX Dinalupihan exit.

San Sebastian Parish Church

The San Sebastian Parish Church sits in San Narciso, Zambales.

Its simplicity makes it stand out and reflects the locals’ enduring faith. That said, it is ideal for those who seek solemnity instead of churches that look “Instagram worthy.”

You can reach this via the SCTEX Tipo exit, then continue north along the Olongapo-Bugallon Road towards San Narciso.

St. Augustine Cathedral Parish

Nestled in the heart of Iba, Zambales is the St. Augustine Cathedral Parish.

The church has a long history intertwined with the development of the province. Like the aforementioned San Sebastian Parish Church, the St. Augustine Cathedral Parish has a simple yet elegant facade and a tranquil interior that offers devotees an atmosphere conducive to contemplation.

Reach it via the Tipo exit of SCTEX, then take a scenic drive along the Olongapo-Bugallon Road.

Diocesan Shrine and Parish of San Andres

Access to the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of San Andres is possible via the SCTEX Tipo exit. Motorists are to continue north along the Olongapo-Bugallon Road towards Masinloc.

The shrine dedicated to San Andres offers a place of quiet reflection as well as a peaceful and welcoming environment.

St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church

The St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church is located in Santa Cruz, Zambales.

It stands as a spiritual landmark, which reflects the devotion of its parishioners. The church, which is dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, offers pilgrims a meditative sanctuary.

Those on Visita Iglesia can visit it via the Tipo exit of SCTEX, then continue north along the Olongapo-Bugallon Road towards Santa Cruz.

“This Holy Week, as you go on a journey of spiritual discovery, rely on SCTEX for fast, safe, and convenient travel to these Central Luzon destinations. These churches, with their rich histories and serene atmospheres, offer a chance to step away from the everyday and reconnect with your faith,” SCTEX wrote in a press release.

Also read:

Chevrolet PH to deploy 'Road Care' stops for Holy Week

ACMobility ensures EV charging station ops during Holy Week

Toyota PH revives free pre-Holy Week vehicle safety checks