Isabela 1st District Rep. Antonio “Tonypet” Albano has sought the passage of a bill seeking to declare the San Pablo Church  in his home province as  a tourism destination. 

The House leader noted that the San Pablo Church, which was built in 1624 during the Spanish regime,  is the oldest church in the province of Isabela. 

“In many ways, the San Pablo Church is a historic, architectural, artistic, cultural edifice that is jewel in the trove of our country’s national heritage sites. In this light, San Pablo Church deserves to be declared as a national tourist destination,” he said in pushing for the approval of House Bill No. 7552.

Albano, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Legislative Franchises, said the 396-year old Church is famous for its tall bell tower that has six levels including the circular apex made of adobe. 

“Its campanario or bell tower is the tallest in the Cagayan Valley, he cited.  

“The Church was heavily damaged during the last World War and was restored to its original design. The restoration did not diminish its original beauty and only added to its overall aesthetic value. Pilgrims and tourists from the neighbouring provinces come to visit the San Pablo Church not only to hear mass, but also to marvel at the beauty of the Church.”

“National government assistance is essential to ensure the development of the church as a tourist destination. Towards this end, the declaration of the Church as a national tourism destination is imperative,” Albano said. 

HB No. 7552 seeks to declare San Pablo Church, which is located in San Pablo, Isabela province, and its environs as a tourist destination. 

The bill  mandates the Department of Tourism (DOT), in coordination with the local government of San Pablo, to prioritize the development of the Church as a tourist destination, subject to the rules and regulations governing the development of tourist destinations. 

Within one year after the approval of the proposed Act, the DOT, in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other concerned government agencies, shall formulate a tourism development plan involving the construction, installation, and/or maintenance of appropriate facilities and infrastructure that shall improve the overall features of the area surrounding the San Pablo Church to ensure its accessibility and the security of the pilgrims and tourists.

"The development plan shall ensure the preservation and conservation of the historical significance of the area,” the bill provides.

HB 7522 mandates the Secretary of the DOT and DPWH to include in their agencies’ programs the implementation of the proposed Act, the funding of which shall be included in the annual General Appropriation Act and internally generated funds of the DOT and DPWH.

Under the bill, the DOT, in consultation with the local government units of San Pablo, Isabela is tasked to promulgate the implementing rules and regulations of the proposed Act within 60 days from its effectivity.