Hizon-Singian House, Heritage House in San Fernando, Philippines
The Hizon-Singian House is a heritage residence in San Fernando featuring traditional Philippine architecture with stone foundations, wooden upper levels, and deep verandas that encircle the structure. The building comprises multiple stories organized around these broad outdoor spaces, which served as extensions of the living areas.
The house was built in 1870 by Don Anacleto Hizon and later served as a command center for successive military forces occupying the region. Spanish, Japanese, and American authorities each used it as their headquarters during different phases of occupation.
The residence displays the Bahay na Bato style, which merges Spanish colonial design with local building methods and remains visible in stone foundations paired with timber construction. Visitors notice how these elements reflect the cultural exchange that shaped Philippine architecture over centuries.
The residence remains privately occupied and is maintained by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, which may limit public access. Check ahead about visiting arrangements or consider joining a community tour that might include the site among other regional landmarks.
During World War II, the building functioned as a military hospital treating wounded and sick soldiers before becoming an administrative base for the 6th American Army until the war's end. This dual role as both medical facility and command center made it central to wartime operations in the region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
