Here stands the National Shrine of St Michael and the Archangels also known as San Miguel Church. This Roman Catholic church is not just another place of worship. It is a landmark steeped in history and Filipino resilience.
The story of the Chapel of the Archangels begins in 1603. The Jesuits first built San Miguel Church in stone. It was located in Paco Manila then known as Dilao. In the 17th and 18th centuries many Japanese people moved into the area. They established a community. In 1611 the Jesuits and Filipino Catholics welcomed Japanese Christian refugees. These refugees were running from persecution by the Tokugawa Shogunate.
San Miguel Church has faced many trials. The Luzon earthquake of 1645 damaged the church. The British occupation of Manila during the Seven Years War also took its toll. The church was rebuilt in 1913. This was made possible by the generosity of Doña Margarita Roxas de Ayala.
From 1946 to 1958 the church served as the pro cathedral of the Archdiocese of Manila. This was while Manila Cathedral was being rebuilt after World War II. In 1986 it was elevated to the rank of National Shrine.
San Miguel Church also has connections to the Philippine Presidency. It is near Malacañang Palace. This is the official residence of the President. Presidents such as Carlos P Garcia Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Fidel V Ramos have all worshipped here. The shrine is sometimes called Malacañang Church because of its location.
One notable event took place here. In 1954 Ferdinand Marcos married Imelda Romuáldez in the shrine. At the time it was still Manila’s pro cathedral. The wedding was a major event. President Ramon Magsaysay was a principal sponsor.
The church is also the final resting place of notable figures. Archbishop Gabriel M Reyes was buried here. He was the first native Filipino ordinary of the archdiocese. Don Domingo Roxas patriarch of the Zóbel de Ayala Roxas Soriano clans is also buried in the church.
The church follows European Baroque architecture. It features twin bell towers. In the churchyard stands a statue of Saint Michael fighting the Devil. The statue was donated by Antonio L Cabangon. It was created by Filipino sculptor Florante Boy Caedo.
One of the most known miracles of San Miguel in Manila was when Governor General Sebastian Hurtado de Concuera’s campaign to battle against the Moros during an expedition in Mindanao in 1631 was a success. It was attributed to San Miguel Arcangel. He vowed to build a chapel in honor of San Miguel.
During the Battle of Manila 1945 fires threatened the church. The parish priest Fr Vicente Reyes fetched the image of San Miguel Arcangel. He put the image on the patio facing the flames. Suddenly the fire reversed direction saving the church.
Mondays are dedicated to St Michael and the Archangels. Novenas are performed on this day. The fiesta is celebrated every September 29. It is the Liturgical Feast of Archangels Michael Gabriel and Raphael. The celebration often takes place on the Sunday after the feast day.
The people of Manila are grateful for the protection that St Michael gave to Manila. This is evident in the historical documents that state such miracles and protection.
As you leave the Chapel of the Archangels remember its story. It is a story of faith resilience and the enduring spirit of Manila.