st isidro labrador parish

I guess this is also called the San Luis Obispo Church. This was such a lovely church. I've been to a lot of churches in the Philippines, all with their Hispanic feel. But this one stands out (probably because it was my name day that I remember this one most especially). You have your antique built, with stones to make up the foundation. You have the very long pathway to the altar. You have your high ceilings, and big windows. You also have your wall and ceiling artistic paintings. You also have your iconic religious statues. The interior was brightly painted, and well-lit. We went last December, so the air was very cool. At the side of the church, there is the iconic Pahiyas decors. Outside the church, they also set up a very big and bright Christmas tree. So again, I was feeling a bit more Christmas-y here than in the metro. Truly, I enjoyed the mass here and felt spritually recharged. It is a nice stop when you're in town.

We love the old and original church, the façade the long isle and plants growing on the outside walls.

It was so hot yet so entertaining.. The neighbors with their lucban longganisa and colorful kiping made the feeling so welcoming.. Make sure to bring cold water while walking the streets or choose to buy on the sidestreet ;)

Travel time from Alabang to Lucban Quezon is 2 to 3 hours. Must travel early to get a good parking slot. Celebrating Feast of St. Isidore the Laborer (saint of farmers) for a good harvest every 15th of May in Lucban, Quezon. It showcases colorful arrangement and decorations of Kiping (rice wafer) hanged in different houses. Must try food - Pancit Habhab, Lucban Longganisa, Yema Cake and Pilipit while for Souvenirs - hats, baskets, wood work abound at affordable prices. It was our first time to witness this well-known Philippine festival and definitely, this was a dream come true. A truly great experience that adds color to our summer!

The focal Church during Pahiyas Festival. Spanish-era architectural design was preserved until today. Religious traditions remained intact and solemn. Well-lit and with working electric fans. Sunday mass schedule: 6am, 8am, 3pm, 5pm and 7pm (as of May 2014).

Upside1) We took a tour package - inclusive of private airconditioned bus + meals2) Houses - beautifully decorated3) San Juan Locals - very friendly and accommodating; allows visitors to enter their homes for picture taking on their 2nd floor4) Pancit Habhab and halo halo - delicious; but refrigeration / sanitary issues not addressed5) Souvenirs - hats, baskets, wood work abound at affordable pricesDownside1) Clean toilets- non existent2) Restaurants - jam packed; seating is cramped3) Traffic along narrow streets - use comfortable shoes

Its worth visiting Lucban Quezon even if its not May15 Fiesta. One can visit the old Catholic Church; eat at the restaurants to try pancit lukban (noodles); buy biscuits (lady fingers); buy langonisa (local sausage) and handicrafts. Enjoy the nice cool weather! Experience the cold waters of Mt Banahaw. Beautiful charming town. Very relaxing.

You! Yes you should visit Lucban for their Pagiyas Festival which happens on May....you'll enjoy walking through the very colorful houses... Try their longanisa and pancit habhab, a must for everyone!!!