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| Stations of the Cross at the Ilagan Sanctuary |
Text and photos by SJBP
Embark on a spiritual journey this Holy Week at the Ilagan Sanctuary Serenity Hill Calvary in Brgy. Sta. Victoria, City of Ilagan, Isabela. The city's version of the Calvary hill is a place where you can deepen your connection with God and each other, and engage in various activities that cater to your adventurous side.
A Spritual and Leisure Destination
As the Holy Week approaches, it is time to participate in the timeless tradition of the 14 Stations of the Cross, a sacred pilgrimage that echoes with the weight of Christ’s sacrifice. The Stations of the Cross invite believers to walk alongside Jesus at each station, pausing for reflection on the remarkable moments that He went through. The season of Lent is a time to confess our sins and shortcomings, to heal our hearts, and to care for and share our love and affection with others.
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| Ilagan Sanctuary Serenity Hill Calvary |
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| Stations of the Cross |
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| At the end of the Stations |
The Ilagan Sanctuary is located 15 kilometers away from the city proper. Aside from the religious activities, visitors can engage in a plethora of adventurous activities, including zip-lining, zip-biking, cable car rides, ATV adventures, go-karting, and wall climbing. These activities provide an opportunity for the guests to experience an adrenaline rush while surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the sanctuary.
Families and barkadas can enjoy the sanctuary’s amenities, including the Animal Kingdom, which houses various animals, including tigers, crocodiles, and exotic birds. There are also swimming pools that offer a refreshing dip after a long day of adventure, and picnic grounds with gazebos that provide a perfect spot where one can relax and enjoy a picnic while taking in the sanctuary's breathtaking views.
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| Cable car |
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| Zip bike |
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| Animal Kingdom |
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| Boat rides |
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| Go kart |
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| Beautiful sunset at the Ilagan Sanctuary |
Don’t miss the wonders of natural caves and the 30-minute trek to Pinzal Waterfalls, both highlights of the sanctuary that never fail to impress locals and tourists alike.
READ ALSO: Ilagan City's Giant Butaka
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| Sta. Victoria caves |
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| Pinzal Falls |
Furthermore, the City of Ilagan has other religious, imposing, and historical wonders, such as the St. Ferdinand Church built around 1696–1700 and the delectable binallay, a local rice cake delicacy that is a staple during Lent, delicately made from the barangays of Fugu and Allinguigan. These and other tourist destinations are a must-try when you visit the city.
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| St. Ferdinand Church, Ilagan |
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| Entrance to the Ilagan Sanctuary |
The God-gifted paradise of Ilagan awaits you. Let us walk in the light of faith, being with God in the beauty of nature.
How to Get to Ilagan Sanctuary
From Manila, you can take a bus from Cubao or Sampaloc that goes directly to the City of Ilagan Terminal. The trip usually takes around 10-12 hours.
Once you arrive at the terminal, you can rent a taxi for a 30-minute ride to the entrance of Ilagan Sanctuary. Alternatively, you can get off at Baligatan Public Market and take an e-jeep going to Brgy. Marana 1st. From there, you can hire a tricycle for Php 200, which is a cheaper option than the taxi though more convenient.
Also, when visiting the Ilagan Sanctuary, do not forget to get assistance at the City Tourism Office. You can visit their website at https://tourism.cityofilagan.com for more information.
Rates
Ilagan Sanctuary rates, updated as of March 2024
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| via MyCity PIO Facebook page |
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| via MyCity PIO Facebook page |
