Nestled along the quiet shores of Barcelona, Sorsogon, the St. Joseph Parish Church stands as one of the Bicol region’s most enduring symbols of faith and heritage. Built in 1874 by Franciscan friars, the church was crafted from coral stones and river rocks, bound together using a traditional mixture of lime, egg whites, and local “tuba”—a testament to the resourcefulness and artistry of its builders. Its thick walls, original façade, and coastal vantage point allowed it to survive centuries of