MAKATI CITY — Tucked along D.M. Rivera Street in Barangay Poblacion, the Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church, also known as San Pedro Macati Church or simply Makati Church, stands as one of the oldest religious structures in the Philippines, with its parish roots established by Franciscan missionaries in 1578 and its stone sanctuary completed under Jesuit administration in 1620. Built on Buenavista Hill overlooking the Pasig River, this Baroque-style church has witnessed over four centuries of Philippine history, from the Chinese uprising of 1639 to the Philippine-American War in 1899, when American troops used it as their headquarters and hospital. Today, it offers a serene historical escape from the bustling nightlife and modern energy that Poblacion is famous for, serving as a quiet reminder of the area's deep spiritual and cultural roots.
A Testament to Faith and Resilience
The church's history is marked by resilience and transformation. Originally dedicated to St. Peter, it was rededicated in 1796 after a facade reconstruction and underwent a formal re-dedication ceremony on January 30, 2015, officiated by the Archbishop of Manila following extensive restorations. Following the Second Vatican Council in 1965, St. Paul was added as a co-patron, officially renaming the parish as Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church. The National Museum of the Philippines declared the 403-year-old church an Important Cultural Property, recognizing its "exceptional cultural, artistic and historical significance to the entire country". The church also enshrines the revered image of the Virgen de la Rosa, a religious icon brought from Spain via Mexico in 1718.
Plan Your Visit
Saints Peter and Paul Parish is located at 5539 D.M. Rivera Street, Barangay Poblacion, Makati City. The church remains an active parish, welcoming visitors for prayer, heritage tours, and quiet reflection. For inquiries, contact the parish office at 8890-3842 or 8899-3285. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a traveler looking to experience Makati's timeless charm, this historic church offers a profound glimpse into the city's colonial past and enduring faith.
