Workers Discover Suspected Human Bones 300-Year-Old Church in Ilocos Norte During Excavation Works
Several suspected human bones were discovered during excavation work at a 300-year-old church in Ilocos Norte.
The bones discovered inside the historic Sta. Monica Catholic Church in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, raises questions about their possible origin and age.
The discovery was made while workers were digging as part of ongoing renovation, restoration, and construction activities in a section of the church. The excavation reportedly began in the middle of August as part of efforts to improve and preserve parts of the historic structure.
On Thursday (September 3, 2026), workers uncovered several pieces of what appeared to be skeletal remains buried about 10 feet below the ground. The bones were found in two separate areas inside the church, although authorities have yet to determine whether they came from the same individual or from different people.
The exact number of remains has not been established. Authorities also have yet to identify who the bones belonged to, how old they are, or why they were buried in the area.
The Ilocos Norte police have already turned over the recovered bones to the Ilocos Norte Provincial Forensic Unit for examination. The forensic assessment is expected to help determine whether the remains are indeed human and provide more information about their possible age and origin.
Because Sta. Monica Church is a historic structure believed to be around 300 years old, authorities may also seek the help of historians and archaeological experts. Their findings could help determine whether the remains are connected to the church’s early history or an older burial practice.
While the investigation is still underway, officials are expected to handle the remains carefully and respectfully. Once the examination and investigation are completed, the church plans to give the remains a proper burial.
Authorities and church officials are also expected to wait for the results of the examination before making conclusions about the identity and history of the bones.
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