Saint Isidro Labrador Church -Lazi Siquijor
Lazi Church-Saint Isidro Labrador
Nestled in the quiet town of Lazi Siquijor Island, the Saint Isidoro Labrador Church stands as a testament to colonial faith, local craftsmanship, and enduring heritage. Officially founded in 1857 when Lazi separated from Siquijor parish, it was the Augustinian Recollect priest Fr. Toribio Sánchez who spearheaded the building of the stone church, with contributions from parishioners supplying labor, materials, and moral support.
Saint Isidro Labrador Lazi Church: Landmark of Siquijor
Completed in 1884, the church’s neoclassical design combines coral stones and woods to produce thick walls, soaring arches, and a majestic presence that still engenders awe. In 1885, a bell tower was added: two octagonal levels topped with a red onion-dome style that distinguishes its profile. Its interior remains richly beautiful wooden floors laid in a herringbone pattern, dual pulpits, and a preserved original retablo (altar backdrop) all evoke an artistry seldom seen in surviving 19th-century structures.
Architecture Saint Isidro Labrador-Lazi Church Siquijor
Beyond mere architecture, the church remains a vibrant center for faith. Every May 15th, the feast of St. Isidore the Worker is celebrated, drawing locals and visitors alike in homage to this patron of farmers. For those who explore Siquijor, Lazi Church is more than a landmark it is a living bridge between past and present.
Lazi Convent – “Bahay na Bato”
Adjacent to the church is the Lazi Convent (completed 1891), a two-storey building in the “Bahay na Bato” style: stone foundations on the lower level, hardwood above, forming a U-shaped structure approximately 42 x 38 m in footprint. Formerly a rest and retreat house for friars, it now houses the Siquijor Heritage Museum, sharing relics, religious artifacts, and stories of the island’s spiritual life.
Recognized as both a National Historical Landmark (1984) and a National Cultural Treasure (2001), Saint Isidoro Labrador Church and its convent are also part of the tentative list of UNESCO’s Baroque Churches of the Philippines extension. In recent years, restoration works particularly on the convent have preserved much of its original character.
To reach Saint Isidoro (San Isidro) Labrador Church in Lazi, Siquijor, here are the directions:
From Siquijor Port (Siquijor town proper):
- Upon arrival at the seaport, you can hire a tricycle, habal-habal (motorbike taxi), or rent a motorbike the most common way to explore the island.
- Head south via the Circumferential Road. You’ll pass by the towns of Enrique Villanueva, Maria, and then reach Lazi.
- The trip covers about 32 kilometers and usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour by tricycle or motorbike.
From Larena Port:
- Take the same Circumferential Road, but head south through Larena, Siquijor town, Maria, and onward to Lazi. Travel time is around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your transport.
Landmarks & Tips:
- The church is located right in the town center of Lazi, across from the historic Lazi Convent.
- The Circumferential Road is straightforward, well-paved, and scenic, with views of the coastline and lush greenery.
- Renting a motorbike (₱300–₱400 per day) is highly recommended if you plan to explore other nearby attractions like Cambugahay Falls (just a few minutes away from the church).
Transport Options:
- Tricycle charter (₱800–₱1,000 for a day trip around Siquijor)
- Habal-habal (₱500–₱700 depending on distance)
- Motorbike rental (₱300–₱400 per day, fuel not included)
Would you like me to create a step-by-step travel guide from Dumaguete City (including ferry rides to Siquijor) going all the way to Lazi Church? That way visitors from outside the island will also have complete directions.
