Our 313th entry in our digital diary is our first time visit to Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. This place is just a walking distance from Plaza Cuartel where we also visited during our City Tour in Puerto Princesa. Its full name is Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish, commonly known as Puerto Princesa Cathedral.

The first Mass in Puerto Princesa was celebrated right on this spot on March 10, 1872, just six days after Spanish expedition arrival, by the Augustinian Recollect Fray Ezequiél Moreno (who is now a saint). He also founded the town and its parish under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception.

The original church underwent several reconstructions and finally took its present form, completed in 1961, during the tenure of Most Rev. Gregorio I. Espiga. Notably, this site witnessed the tragic Palawan massacre in World War II (Dec 14, 1944), where approximately 150 American soldiers were killed at the adjacent Plaza Cuartel.

The cathedral features a Neo‑Gothic style, reminiscent of Medieval European ecclesiastical architecture, with pointed arches, twin belfries, and an angular façade. It’s a popular stop in Puerto Princesa city tours, thanks to its historical value and scenic setting. Many visitors describe it as a quiet, reflective sanctuary, perfect for pause and prayer.

We lighted up some candles and prayed for a safe trip as we continue our City Tour in the lovely town of Puerto Princesa. 🙂