”These were men of God, not architects, who could only rely on memories of Baroque churches seen in Spain or Latin America when giving instructions to build Philippine churches. Thus, intentionally, these friar-builders and their native craftsmen reinterpreted the European Baroque to establish a peripheral Baroque style, deceptively Western in appearance
but totally Philippine in spirit and context.” In reference to the Filipino and Chinese craftsmen, architects and priests who built the church.

Built during time of chaos and war, these churches were not only designed to withstand attacks during revolts and rebellions, they are also made to withstand tremendous earthquakes since Philippines is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire. Powerful buttresses and foundations gave the churches the support they needed to survive earthquakes intact as well as a fortress image. The unique architectural style became known as Earthquake Baroque.

Church of San Agustin, in Manila

Deisgn of The Church of San Agustin, Manila is derived from Agustinian churches built in Mexico, representing almost an exact copy of Puebla Cathedral in Puebla, Mexico. The Church of San Agustin is the only structure in Intramuros (the southern district of Manila) to survive World War II bombardment.
Photo by Erick Photomurals

Church of La Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion, in Santa Maria Ilocos Sur

The Church of La Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion is located on top of a hill, it served as a citadel during times of crisis, providing the best example of the blend of purposes in the architecture. Two huge columns flank the church façade and what makes the church attractive is the reddish exterior due to the exposed brickwork.
Photo by Karmacamilleeon

Church of San Agustin, in Paoay, Ilocos Norte

Based on the nomination dossier submitted to UNESCO, the Church of San Agustin in Paoay is considered the most outstanding variant of the Earthquake Baroque architectural style. Unlike other bell towers in the country, the Paoay Church’s coral stone belltower is detached from its main building. The church has featured 24 curved buttresses.
Photo by NathanielChoi

Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva, in Miag-ao, Iloilo

The Church of Santo Tomas de Villanueva withstood the occasional attacks from Muslims coming from the south. The church and its watchtowers had been built with thick walls and secret passages to defend the town and its people. The defensive purpose of the Church led to the popular name The Miag-ao Fortress Church.
Photo by Serdenia Arlon

Article Sources

UNESCO World Heritage Center – Baroque Churches of the Philippines
WIKIPEDIA – Baroque Architecture, Earthquake Baroque, Baroque Churches of Philippines