Kalibo Cathedral

Kalibo Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Parish of Saint John the Baptist, is the Roman Catholic cathedral in central Kalibo, capital of Aklan Province on Panay Island. Located beside Pastrana Park, it serves as the seat of the Diocese of Kalibo. Originally established as a parish in 1581, the present post-World War II structure was rebuilt in 1947 and elevated to cathedral in 1976. It is notable for its association with the Ati-Atihan Festival and devotion to the Santo Niño.

Visitors can expect a large post-war cathedral with a simple facade, twin bell towers, stained-glass windows, and a spacious nave with an altar dedicated to St. John the Baptist and the Santo Niño. The interior includes pews, religious statues, and Stations of the Cross. The cathedral is set in the town center facing Pastrana Park, surrounded by streets, shops, and municipal buildings. Visitors can explore the main hall, attend Mass, light candles, and view religious images associated with the Ati-Atihan Festival.

Established as a parish by the Augustinians in 1581, it is the oldest parish in Aklan. The original church was destroyed during World War II and the present structure was rebuilt in 1947. On 17 January 1976, with the creation of the Diocese of Kalibo, the church was elevated to cathedral status.

Serves as the spiritual center of Kalibo and focal point for devotion to St. John the Baptist and the Santo Niño. It plays a central role in the annual Ati-Atihan Festival, one of the oldest festivals in the Philippines held every January in honor of the Santo Niño, drawing pilgrims and visitors to the cathedral for Masses and processions.