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Showing posts with label Western Visayas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Western Visayas. Show all posts

Located at the eastern coastline of Siquijor, perched beside the highway, stood a coral-stone fortress: Sta. Maria Church is one of the island’s oldest and most mysterious religious landmarks.



Unlike other churches on the island, this one had an eerie charm—strong, silent, and steeped in legend. Inside was not your usual saintly image. There, behind the altar, stood Sta. Rita de Cascia, famously known in Siquijor as the “Black Maria”, dressed in black and holding a skull.

Church main door

The church isn’t as frequently visited as Lazi Church or Siquijor Church, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the trip. It stands out with its dark and dramatic depiction of Sta. Rita, its defensive architecture, and its unique place in the spiritual consciousness of the island. This church is a symbol of both faith and folklore, making it one of the most intriguing religious sites in Siquijor.

This church is as fascinating as it is spiritually powerful—and a must-visit if you’re exploring the lesser-traveled eastern side of Siquijor.

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History and Significance


Official Name: Our Lady of Divine Providence Church

Commonly Known As: Sta. Maria Church / Maria Church

Built: 1880s by Spanish missionaries

Material: Coral stone, thick wooden doors, and red tile roofing

Architecture: Fortress-like with thick stone walls and minimal decoration

Patron Saint: Sta. Rita de Cascia, known as the patroness of impossible causes

Unique Feature: The church’s statue of Sta. Rita (called “The Black Maria”) is depicted in a rare and solemn posture—clad in black, holding a crucifix and a human skull

Image of Sta. Rita de Cascia, the Black Maria

Locals believe Sta. Rita is both a protector and punisher, and some even credit the statue with miraculous events and spiritual intercessions.

Inside, the altar is simple yet imposing, and the entire church evokes a deep sense of reverence. The thick walls, meant to protect against Moro pirate attacks in the 19th century, still stand as testimony to the island's turbulent past.



How to Get There

Maria Church is located in the town of Maria, on the eastern coast of Siquijor Island.

From Siquijor Town: ~27 km / ~40–50 minutes

From Larena: ~24 km / ~40 minutes

From San Juan: ~30 km / ~1 hour

By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day rental

By Tricycle: ₱500–₱700 (round trip or as part of island tour)

It’s along the coastal highway and easy to spot—just before reaching Salagdoong Beach, if you’re coming from the north.


Mass Schedule

Sundays: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM (Check at parish office for updates)

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


Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer people

Visit during May 22, the feast of Sta. Rita de Cascia, to witness local festivities


What to Bring and What to Wear


A water bottle and sun hat if visiting mid-day

Camera (photography is allowed outside and with respect inside)

Donation money if you’d like to help with church maintenance

Modest clothes (no sleeveless tops or short shorts)

Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring nearby areas

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

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:

Travel Tips


Take time to read the plaques and say a quiet prayer or light a candle inside

Ask locals about their stories with “Black Maria”—many are willing to share tales of miracles or discipline

After your visit, continue to Salagdoong Beach just a few kilometers away for a relaxing break by the sea


Maria Church is a hidden treasure, quietly guarding the eastern coast of Siquijor. It’s a place of devotion, mystery, and strength—and one that leaves a lasting impression on both the curious and the faithful.



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:
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.

All You Need to Know About the Santa Maria Church and the Black Maria in Siquijor


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.

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



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:

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:
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.

Lazi Church and Convent: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Siquijor


Located in the quiet town of Maria in Siquijor, Salagdoong isn’t just a beach. It’s an experience. The beach has a resort-like setup but retains its rustic island charm. Its blue waters, coral seabed, and two adrenaline-pumping diving platforms make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.



A decade later, it remains one of Siquijor’s most iconic stops.


Entrance Fees and Activity Rates (As of 2025)

To enjoy Salagdoong Beach, here’s what you’ll need to pay:

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Entrance Fee: ₱30 per person

Parking Fee: ₱20 (motorcycle), ₱40 (car)

Environmental Fee: ₱10 (sometimes collected at the municipal checkpoint)


Optional Activities


Cliff Diving: Free (included in entrance fee, but dive at your own risk)

Kayak or Float Rental: ₱150–₱250 per hour (rates may vary)

Room/Resort Use:
  • Rooms start at ₱1,000+ (depending on availability)

Day cottage rental: ₱300–₱500

Note: The Salagdoong Beach Resort has seen periods of partial closure/renovation in recent years, so some amenities may not be available depending on your visit.



How to Get to Salagdoong Beach

Salagdoong Beach is about 10 km from Lazi and 30 km from Siquijor town. It’s located within the Salagdoong Forest Reserve, known for its lush canopy and scenic drive.


From Siquijor Town or Larena


By Scooter:
  • Travel Time: 45–60 minutes
  • Rental: ₱300–₱400/day

By Tricycle:
  • Rate: ₱300–₱600 one-way, depending on distance and negotiation

Via Organized Tour:
  • Can be part of a coastal loop that includes Cambugahay Falls, Lazi Church, and more

From Lazi: Just a 15–20 minute ride east on the main road.

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: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily

Best Time:

  • Morning to early afternoon for calmer waves and fewer crowds

  • Dry season (November–May) is best for water activities

Visit before noon if you plan to cliff dive—tides are usually higher and safer


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:

What to Bring & What to Wear



Essentials to Pack:


Recommended Outfit:


Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

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:

Travel Tips


Cliff diving is safe if done at high tide—check first before jumping.

The beach can get rocky—bring footwear you can swim in.

Take a moment to enjoy the scenic drive through Salagdoong Forest—it’s underrated!

Combine this stop with Cambugahay Falls and Lazi Church for a perfect southern Siquijor day tour.



Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a beach bum, Salagdoong Beach delivers. I still remember the rush of my first dive and the salty breeze from the forest ride in. If you’re heading to Siquijor, don’t leave this place off your list—it’s got all the makings of a trip highlight.


Explore Siquijor!

This is part of my exploration in Siquijor Island in 2014. Here are the places I visited in the Isla del Fuego:
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.

Salagdoong Beach Guide: Cliff Dives, Clear Waters, and Coral Shores in Siquijor


When I first visited Siquijor in 2014, the Old Enchanted Balete Tree was one of those places that instantly gave me goosebumps—not out of fear, but awe.



Campalanas Enchanted Balete Tree

Towering over the roadside like a timeless guardian, the tree had roots that twisted like veins, growing from an ancient soul. Locals say it’s over 400 years old, and many believe it's home to spirits and mysterious energies. But right beneath it, something surprising happens: you can dip your feet into a natural spring pool filled with tiny fish that nibble away at your dead skin. Yep—a fish spa, courtesy of nature.


In the middle of a mystical island known for magic and folklore, this living relic gives you both a sense of wonder and a free foot massage.

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Entrance Fees and Activity Rates (As of 2025)


Entrance Fee: ₱20 per person

Environmental Fee: ₱10 (sometimes paid at the municipal checkpoint)

Parking Fee: ₱10 (motorcycle), ₱20 (car)

Fish Spa: Included in entrance; tip jar available for local caretakers



You’ll also find small souvenir shops around the tree, selling local products like coconut oil, herbal wine, and enchanted amulets.



How to Get to the Enchanted Balete Tree

Located in Campalanas, Lazi, the tree is right beside the main highway—super easy to spot and a quick stop on any Siquijor itinerary.


From Siquijor Town or Larena


Distance: Around 30–35 km (45 mins–1 hour)

By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day

By Tricycle: ₱300–₱500 depending on your point of origin

Via Tour Loop: Often bundled with Cambugahay Falls, Salagdoong Beach, and Lazi Church

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: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Best Time:

  • Morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer people

  • Avoid noon to 2 PM when it’s the hottest



What to Bring & What to Wear


Bring These Essentials:

  • Water and light snacks (small stores nearby)

  • Camera or phone for photos

  • Hand towel or wipes for drying your feet

  • Cash (souvenir stalls don’t accept cards)


What to Wear:

  • Comfortable travel clothes

  • Easy-to-remove sandals or slippers for the fish spa

  • Light cover-up or hat for shade


Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

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:

Travel Tips


The fish spa might tickle at first, but it’s a unique experience—give it a try!

Ask locals about the tree’s folklore stories; they’re happy to share Siquijor’s mystical tales.

Take a moment to observe the spring—it flows from beneath the tree and never dries up.

Support the small vendors who maintain the area—it keeps this magical place alive for future visitors.


If you're exploring Siquijor, don’t skip the Enchanted Balete Tree. It’s a quick stop, but one that leaves a deep impression. My 2014 visit felt like meeting a wise, old friend rooted in island legend—and getting a free spa treatment while at it.


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:
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.

Enchanted Balete Tree: Mystical Roots and Fish Spa Experience in Siquijor


Siquijor Church, officially known as the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church, is urrounded by waving palms and set against the backdrop of the coast, the church felt like the island’s gentle greeting—quiet, welcoming, and full of soul.

It’s not just a religious building. It’s a historic landmark that silently tells stories of Spanish rule, Filipino resilience, and the enduring faith of the people of Siquijor - Siquijodnons.



Fun Facts


The church is located near the welcome signage of Siquijor.

The freestanding bell tower across the road offers a picturesque frame for photos and a reminder of the island’s coastal defenses during Spanish rule.

Its location makes it a peaceful stop as you begin or end your Siquijor trip.

The church is often used for town events, religious processions, and festivals, especially during St. Francis of Assisi's feast day every October 4.


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A Brief History and Cultural Importance


Built: Originally in 1795 by secular clergy, then expanded by the Augustinian Recollects

Patron Saint: St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility and love for nature

Architecture: Typical Spanish colonial design made from coral stones and hardwood, with a detached bell tower (belfry) nearby

Belfry: Used historically as a watchtower against pirates—now a symbol of the town

Declared as: One of the oldest churches in Siquijor, and a cultural landmark in the province


This church has withstood earthquakes, storms, and time itself. Its thick coral walls, exposed wooden beams, and antique altars preserve centuries of religious and community life on the island.

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How to Get There

Located just a few steps from the Siquijor Port, the church is hard to miss.


From Siquijor Port: Less than 5 minutes by foot

From Larena: ~14 km or 20–30 minutes by tricycle/scooter

From San Juan: ~17 km or 30–40 minutes

By Tricycle: ₱300–₱500 round trip, depending on origin

By Scooter: ₱300–₱400/day

Perfect for your first or last stop on the island, especially if you’re arriving or departing via Siquijor Town.

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!


Mass Schedule


Sundays: 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 5:00 PM

(Check locally or on signage for updated schedules)



Best Time to Visit


Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Best Time:

  • Early morning or before sunset for peaceful ambiance and beautiful lighting

  • Try to time your visit with a Mass to experience the local community


What to Bring and What to Wear


Water (shops nearby for snacks or refreshments)

Camera or phone (but be respectful during Mass)

A shawl or wrap if entering during service hours

Modest, respectful attire

Light clothes and comfy footwear (stone paths can be uneven)



Visiting Tips


Take a moment to sit inside and absorb the silence—it’s wonderfully meditative.

Walk around the area; you’ll find welcome signage, coastal views, and souvenir shops.

Pair your visit with a meal in one of the local eateries near the port before heading to or from your next adventure.


Siquijor Church is more than a religious site—it’s the heartbeat of the town. It stands quietly as a spiritual guardian to those coming ashore and a steady reminder of the island’s faith, culture, and deep connection to its history.


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:
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.

SIQUIJOR CHURCH: Guide to St. Francis of Assisi Parish (History and Mass Schedule)

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