Our Lady of Mt. Matutum Trappistine Monastery — Attraction in Polomolok

As a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect when I joined our CETE spiritual retreat last March 8–9, 2025, at Our Lady of Mt. Matutum Trappistine Monastery in Landan, Polomolok. But the moment I arrived, I was genuinely moved by the peaceful and sacred atmosphere of the place.

Surrounded by nature and the cool breeze of Mt. Matutum, the monastery felt like a different world quiet, calm, and perfect for slowing down and reflecting. Even though we come from different faiths, I really appreciated the simplicity and solemn way of life that the Trappistine Sisters maintain. It’s the kind of space that welcomes anyone, regardless of religion, to pause, breathe, and reconnect with their inner self.

The peaceful gardens, the silent chapel, and just the stillness of the place gave a sense of calm that’s hard to find in our usual daily routines. It was a much needed break, not just spiritually, but mentally and emotionally too.

Whether you’re Catholic, INC, or from another belief, this monastery is worth visiting. It’s not just about religion it’s about finding peace, appreciating the beauty around you, and giving your spirit time...

A solemn place where monks sing with angelic voices during prayers and masses.Holiness envelope the serenity of the place. Its a perfect place for reflection and prayers. It is wheelchair accessible. However, the cemented road and path follow the slope of the mountain thus wheelchair bound persons should not be left alone by themselves for the danger of falling down the road or the mountain side. The rooms for retreatants are clean and have individual clean bathrooms. Wheelchairs do not fit inside the toilets/bathroom. There are steep ramps going to the souvenir shop and reflectory room. The souvenir shop sells delicious pastries that were prayed over while being baked by the monks. It is highly recommended to buy the cookies. Religious icons and prayer books are also sold there. The public toilet is clean but it has no cubicle for...

One of the most beautiful and pristine retreat houses in South Central Mindanao, nestled near the foot of Mt. Matutum, this is run by the Trappistines or the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. Their centerpiece is a stunning stone chapel with a high ceiling that was built mainly from donations from Eugenio Lopez & his family who owns ABS-CBN, the country's largest media conglomerate. Masses are open to the public at 10am on Sundays. Afterwards, visitors can wander into the mini-park, take selfies in the picturesque landscapes offered from their viewing deck at the Adoration Chapel. There is souvenir shop selling various religious articles and a bakeshop that sells buns, breads, cookies, pastries etc baked and processed by the cloistered nuns themselves. Special retreats for groups may be arranged with them. Accessibility ♿...