BALAY NA BATO | Full Tour and Story

BALAY NA BATO
The Balay na Bato (limestone-carved shelter) is a famous tourist destination in Brgy. Libertad, Esperanza, Masbate, Philippines. The original owner and sculptor was the late Meliton Mulles Santiago. According to one of his grandsons, Meleton Rodrigo Santiago, the carving started way back 1960 to 1995. He started alone, and when his grandchildren were old enough, they helped with the work. He was a livestock owner and planted crops around his home.
He and his wife, Pacita Jimenez Santiago, lived happily in their home until the property was sold to another family, forcing them to move out.
Today, the Balay na Bato is visited by tourists and featured in different channels and local documentaries. It was developed back in 2022 when the quarantine protocols were lifted. Locals and people from different barangays visit there, although it did not last for too long.
The Family Santiago consider the property as their most valued legacy. The stories behind the making of this masterpiece is preserved in their hearts and minds, and it shall be passed on to the next generations of their bloodline.