Monastery of the Transfiguration in Bukidnon

Known to many as the Bukidnon Monastery, the Monastery of the Transfiguration in the province of Bukidnon is one of the most visited religious communities in the Philippines. It is located on a hill in Barangay San Jose, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. The pyramid structure was made by national artist Architect Leandro Locsin and was dubbed as a “Magnum Opus”, a Latin word which means “Great Work”. Architect Leandro Locsin (1928-1994) is a Negrense known as “The Architect of Space” and the Monastery is one of his famous works and one of his lasts.

The magnificent Monastery of the Transfiguration is a place of peace, guidance and prayer. It is where one enjoys the prosperity and intimacy of nature during prayer and thanksgiving. A picturesque view of the mountains of Bukidnon including the towering Mount Kitanglad and the vast rice fields is experience while you are in the Bukidnon Monastery. Local flowers and trees grow around this wonderful spiritual environment where Benedictine Monks live and pray for the souls of each and every people in the world every day.

The Monastery of the Transfiguration has been visited because of its religious edifices situated inside the compound which includes a Retreat House which has accommodated famous government officials and other influential persons. Notable inside this Bukidnon Monastery is the “Monk’s Blend”. It is a coffee produce, grown and processed by the Benedictine Monks themselves. There is also a giftshop which sells delicacies and religious items.

New Monastery of the Church of Transfiguration

After you reach the main gate of the Monastery of the Transfiguration, you will need to decide where to go first as there is a fork road. The road to the right leads you to the Old Monastery Church of the Transfiguration, Old Monastery – Guest House, Monastery Accounting Office, Monastery Gift Shop and Monastery Farms while the road to the left leads you to the New Monastery Church of the Transfiguration and the New Monastery – Guest House. The road to the left is ideal to take first to avoid losing a lot of your time spending it the Souvenir Shop and the view of the Bukidnon Mountains at the Old Monastery. Take note to wear the proper attire when you are visiting the place. Those who are wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts or anything informal are not allowed to get inside the Monastery because it is a holy place and needs much respect.

The Monastery of the Transfiguration is located about 5 kilometers south from the City Center of Malaybalay. Multicabs and motorcycles can take you there at a negotiable price. Some of the drivers don’t know the direction so just tell them it is near Alma Moreno’s house. From there you won’t miss the corner going to the Bukidnon Monastery.

There are regular masses held in the Monastery especially during Sundays and holy days. If you have the time, attend mass at the Monastery of the Transfiguration and experience the solemn and spiritual presence of the holy.

Bamboo Shelter to be used during gatherings

Be Still and Know that I am God

Holy Child

Inside the Monastery of the Transfiguration

Monastery Souvenir Shop

Inside the Monastery Souvenir Shop

Inside the Old Monastery of the Transfiguration

My House is a House of Prayer

Old Monastery of the Transfiguration

One of the Prayer Rooms of the Monastery

Pointed Leaves

Series of Pillars

View of Mount Kitanglad and Landscape from Bukidnon Monastery

New Monastery of the Transfiguration - Landscape

About the author

Mark Anthony Maranga is an Educator-Parent to his 3 Homeschooling Kids. He sells Ice Cream and Balloons in Mandaue City, Cebu. Exploring the Philippines tourist attractions together with his family is his passion; they are learning without borders.