In 2014, I stepped into Lazi, a quiet town that feels frozen in time. My feet led me to the grand stone steps of San Isidro Labrador Parish Church—better known as Lazi Church—and I instantly felt transported.
Across it stood the equally awe-inspiring Lazi Convent, an enormous wooden structure exuding strength, serenity, and centuries of stories.
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| Lazi Convent |
This isn’t just a church and convent—it’s one of Siquijor’s most treasured historical landmarks and one of the most important religious structures in the entire Philippines.
History and Heritage
Lazi Church and Convent aren’t just tourist stops—they’re sacred, storied, and central to Siquijor’s identity. They represent the fusion of Filipino craftsmanship and Spanish colonial heritage, spiritual devotion, and community resilience.
For the people of Siquijor, these buildings are not only places of worship but also symbols of their enduring faith, culture, and pride.
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Lazi Church (San Isidro Labrador Parish Church)
Built: 1884 by Filipino artisans under Spanish Augustinian Recollects
Material: Coral stones and hardwood
Architecture: Neo-classical design with Romanesque touches
Named After: San Isidro Labrador, patron saint of farmers
Declared as: National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines
Proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The church remains largely untouched, retaining its original wooden floors, choir loft, and a grand central nave flanked by antique altars. The structure’s simplicity reflects the island’s humble rural character, while its sheer size and detail tell of a deep devotion rooted in its people’s identity.
Lazi Convent
Built: 1887, just three years after the church
Claim to Fame: One of the largest and oldest convents in the Philippines
Structure: A two-story building with a coral stone lower floor and a wide hardwood upper floor made from molave, narra, and other local timber
Use: Originally a residence for priests and a religious school; now houses a small ecclesiastical museum
The convent's second floor is expansive, once used for spiritual retreats, education, and storage of religious artifacts. Walking its wide wooden halls is like stepping into a time capsule.
Entrance Fees and Museum Access (As of 2024)
Church Entrance: Free
Convent Museum Fee: ₱20–₱50 (depending on season; voluntary donation encouraged)
Photography: Allowed; be respectful during mass or prayer hours
How to Get There
Located in Lazi, southern Siquijor, it’s about halfway between Cambugahay Falls and Salagdoong Beach—making it a perfect cultural stop in a day tour.
From Siquijor Town or Larena:
- Distance: 30–35 km (about 45 minutes to 1 hour)
- By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day
- By Tricycle: ₱300–₱600 (round trip or as part of a tour)
- Tour Loop: Often included in coastal tours along with Cambugahay Falls and the Enchanted Balete Tree
For hassle-free experience, you can book a full-day tour on Klook. Get up to 5% discount when you use JUANKLOOK on your next booking!
Best Time to Visit
Opening Hours:
- Church: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Convent Museum: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Best Time:
- Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful natural lighting
- Weekdays are quieter; weekends may have services and events
What to Bring & What to Wear
What to Bring:
- Camera for capturing the interior woodwork and altars
- Water bottle (no food or drinks inside buildings)
- Some cash for the museum donation or local guide tip
What to Wear:
- Respectful attire (no sleeveless tops or short shorts—bring a shawl or cover-up if needed)
- Light, breathable clothes and sandals for walking
Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:
- Stylish face mask
- Water container/tumbler to rehydrate
- Sunscreen for skin protection
- Goggles for swimming or snorkeling
- Stylish Swimsuit
- Travel backpack / luggage
- Reusable vacuum storage packs
- Selfie stick
- Waterproof phone case
- Acion cam
- Camping tent
- WiFi kit
- Power bank
Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:
Visiting Tips
Take time to walk the grounds—look up at the wooden ceiling, run your fingers over coral stone walls, and reflect in the peaceful courtyard.
Don’t rush this stop. There’s something powerful in the silence of the convent and the timelessness of the church bells.
Pair this visit with nearby Cambugahay Falls, Enchanted Balete Tree, and a quick local meal in Lazi for a well-rounded experience.
Lazi Church and Convent remain one of my favorite memories from Siquijor. There’s beauty in their age, warmth in their worn floors, and grace in their presence—proof that faith and history continue to live and breathe in this mystical island.
Compare Prices on Other Travel Apps
To make sure you are getting the best deals, always compare prices with other booking apps. Here are some of the top travel apps that I use frequently:
Explore Siquijor!
This is part of my exploration in Siquijor Island in 2014. Here are the places I visited in the Isla del Fuego:
- Cambugahay Falls (Lazi)
- Enchanted Balete Tree (Campalanas, Lazi)
- Lazi Church and Convent (Lazi)
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (Enrique Villanueva)
- Salagdoong Beach (Maria)
- Santa Maria Church (Maria)
- St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church (Siquijor)
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| North Haven Lodge in Larena |
Where to Stay in Siquijor
Here are some recommended accommodations:
- Coco Grove Beach Resort – A luxurious beachfront resort in San Juan.
- White Villas Resort – A mid-range resort with excellent amenities.
- U Story Guesthouse – A charming, budget-friendly option with a relaxing vibe.
- Infinity Heights Resort – Offers stunning hilltop views.
- North Haven Lodge – Affordable lodging near Larena Port.
See more Hotels and Resorts in Siquijor!
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