The first community of Pakil was organized and founded by Fr. Pedro Bautista (later canonized as a saint, San Pedro Bautista) in 1588 and he designated a place for the church and plaza in Pakil. Back then, Pakil was a visita of Paete until 1676 when Fr. Francisco de Barajas was assigned as permanent minister and helped establish the first church under the patronage of San Pedro de Alcantara.
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San Pedro de Alcantara Church
Pakil, Through the Eyes of a Balikbayan
Note: This was written by the author for a newsletter (?) back in 2001.
Pakil, Laguna is a small provincial town, in a small corner of the Philippines, which is a small island in a small corner of the world. The town is so small, quiet, and unobtrusive that it’d really be quite easy to miss if you’re just passing by on the highway. But to miss Pakil is to miss out on a gem. Besides being the very inspiration for the creation of Pakil East and the former home for so many of us, Pakil is the quintessential Philippine province. From its narrow streets, beautiful antique houses, its ancient church, and up to its lively plaza, Pakil exudes a sense of timelessness and grace. Even as houses change, children grow and people come and go, the small hometown essence of Pakil still remains the same. Continue Reading »
Saint Peter of Alcantara
Peter was born in the town of Alcantara, province of Caceres in Spain in the year 1499. His father was the governor of Alcantara, while his mother was from the Sanabia family which was one of the noble families in Alcantara. Upon completing his course in grammar and philosophy in Alcantara, he went on to study at the University of Salamanca.
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