The San Agustín Church in Intramuros has always been one of Manila’s top wedding churches. Magnificent with retablos and chandeliers, painted ceiling, and photogenic façade, it’s a perfect backdrop for gorgeous brides, nervous grooms, and elegant guests. It has also been one of Manila’s must-sees, often on the itinerary of Manila visitors. The former monastery has long been a so-so museum. Celebrating their 450th anniversary in the Philippines and 444th in Intramuros, the Augustinians, led by Valladolid’s Fr. Blas de la Sierra, OSA, have refurbished the premises (capiz windows, new flooring), installed LED lighting and air conditioning, expanded exhibits and provided labels and wall text, and produced an audio-visual presentation. It’s comparable with similar museums abroad. Our ancestors were not all like Sisa or Elias nor were friars all like Padres Dámaso and Salvi. The museum presents a more balanced view of how life was during the Spanish regime—our trade, [...]
