Parish of Sta. Monica (Hamtic, Antique)

The Augustinian friars founded the church of Hamtic in 1581. The parish church was buikt and chose Sta. Monica as their patron saint. It became a visita of Ibahay, Aklan. The Augustinian friars left it in 1596.

It became a parish once more in the early 1700s. Later on it became a vista once again, this time to Bugasong, Antique and became the headquarters for evangelization.

Hamtic became the first parish in Antique in 1581, the patron saint was San Guillermo. The old church was believed to be built at Maybato North and was used as fortress. It is said to be found near the Malandog tidal river which is ideal and a very much used harbor.

In the 17th century, pirates invaded Hamtic with destructive consequences. The old church was destroyed but the ruins remained.

In 1644 until 1690, the parish was under Guimbal until Fr. Hipolito Casiano, OSA refounded and constructed a new church at what is now Hamtic town with Sta. Monica as its patron saint.

what is believed to be the ruins of the old church of Hamtic inside the cemetery

Sta. Monica Parish (Pavia, Iloilo)

This Romanesque-Byzantine church is the only red stone in the region and was dedicated to Sta. Monica whose relics can be found inside and exposed for the kissing of the faithful during her feast day on the 4^th day of May each year. Read more