he Great Earthquake of 3 June 1863 left a trail of devastation through Intramuros and beyond, causing extensive damage to prominent government structures and churches. Notable casualties included the Santo Domingo Church, Manila Cathedral, Ayuntamiento, and the Palacio del Gobernador, leaving only the San Agustin Church standing, albeit with structural impairments like wall cracks and bell tower damage. The human cost was grim, with around 400 fatalities and 2,000 injuries recorded.

This seismic upheaval's reach extended beyond Intramuros, impacting the Morong District and provinces of Manila, Laguna, and Cavite, resulting in the destruction of numerous churches and private residences. Despite the tragedy, the quake spurred a newfound focus on earthquake-resistant construction methods, influencing the reconstruction of public buildings, churches, and private homes to withstand future seismic events.