The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has officially declared the Binangonan Church, also known as the Parokya ng Santa Ursula, a “National Cultural Treasure” on March 2, 2025—a historic recognition for the people of Binangonan, Rizal.
Founded in 1621, the parish was originally managed by the Jesuits in 1679, followed by the Augustinians in 1697, and later returned to the Franciscans in 1737. The church itself was constructed between 1792 and 1800, underwent renovations in 1853, and saw the addition of a convent under Fr. Francisco de Paula Gomez.
According to Jhestern Juan, Social Communications Ministry Head of the Parokya ng Santa Ursula, the church was recognized for its unique design, particularly its two retablos (altarpieces).
“‘Yung ating main retablo na 19th century or 1900s, samantalang ang ating side retablo na tinayo pa noong 1800s pa. Iilan lamang sa Pilipinas ang makikitaan ng inverted ang pagkakagawa (ng columns sa retablo). Ang usual ‘retablo’ ay parang bubong ng bahay na pababa, pero yoon, may parte doon sa apat na columns ay pataas,” Juan explained.
The church also features intricate carvings believed to have been created by Chinese artisans or local craftsmen trained by Chinese artists, depicting native floral and fruit motifs like the makopa. Its ceiling is made entirely of logs without nails, while galvanized steel panels feature painted depictions of Maria Dolorosa, San Juan Evangelista, Santa Maria Magdalena, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a masterpiece by Juan Senson (1846-1947).
Adding to its religious significance, the church houses a relic of Saint Ursula, as Juan noted: “Swerte din ang simbahan ng Binangonan dahil narito ang bahagi ng buto ni Sta. Ursula naka lagak sa loob ng simbahan.”
For many residents, including Juan, the church holds deep personal and spiritual significance. “Kinalakihan ko na ang pagsamba dito at ilang taon naninilbihan sa pagiging service volunteer… Naging buo ako bilang isang tao, naging buo ako bilang isang Kristyano.”
With this new recognition, the Binangonan Church is now among the most treasured historical and religious sites in the Philippines. Visitors are encouraged to experience its beauty, appreciate its historical value, and feel the presence of the Lord.
“Inaanyayahan po namin ang lahat na bumisita sa Simbahan ng Binangonan, Parokya nang Sta. Ursula at tignan ang ating ‘natural cultural treasure’ at damhin ang presensya ng Panginoon.”