Old town of Sta. Rosa, Laguna

I am proud of living in Sta. Rosa, Laguna for 18 years. I often passed antique houses going to the church. I admired their beauty and last strength. I wish I could live in old houses and experience something about the past.

Casa de Tantionco

Ruins along Zavalla

Old pueblo of Sta. Rosa

These are antique houses near the church. They were built between 1700s and 1800s.

Sta Rosa de Lima Parish

This church is Sta Rosa de Lima Parish where I attend every Saturday and Sunday. It is very old, 221 years old. It was built in 1792 and one of the most beautiful churches I have ever visited.

This arc structure is a beautiful landmark in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Col. Basilio Gonzales' house

This old house is one of the oldest in town. It is one of the town's landmarks. It is own by one Col. Basilio Gonzales. It is a beautiful house that I like most.

I wanted to enter there but there is no one there. I think somebody takes care of it and I hope it will be protected forever.

Monument in Sta. Rosa

Col. Basilio Barroma Gonzales (1868-1946)

Organizer of the Original Katipunero Magdalo Faction of Sta. Rosa, Laguna group that fought in Cavite sector 1896-1897 under General Emilio Aguinaldo against the Spanish Forces and their indigenous allies and the final battle for the liberation of this town that led to the establishment on 28 May 1898 of the town of Sta. Rosa, Laguna. And a monument in his honor was built in the town plaza.

I found out about the monument of Col. Basilio Gonzales near Mercury drug store. It is located in the middle of many stores so it is not easily noticed.

I was disappointed because many people do not know him. Honestly me and my family also don not know him. We never heard about him. We know only about Jose Rizal.

Now I am aware of Col. Basilio Gonzales’s life through our history class. I admire him for his bravery in fighting for our freedom against the Spaniards. He is an inspiration.