“Monte Cueva” literally means ‘mountain cave’. But it’s not just an ordinary kind of cave up in the mountain in Brgy. Rizal, Maasin, Southern Leyte. Inside the cave is the shrine of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus and Our Lady of the Assumption.
This place was donated by Odong and Loring Chung to the Diocese of Maasin and was then developed to have a quaint chapel inside the natural cave and it has been drawing pilgrims over the years especially during the lenten season. The first mass was held way back in 1999 but the big statue of Mama Mary on this site was built in 1992.
To this date, masses are held at these schedules:
Wednesday: 6:00 pm
Friday : 6:00 pm
Saturday : 10:00 am
Sunday : 10:00 am
Just to set proper expectations, this place is not for people who fear heights and has wobbly feet.
Elevated at 172 meters above sea level, you need to conquer 550 steep zigzag stairway to reach the hidden treasure.
The exit way is easier though, at only 300 steps. Good thing this place is abundant with trees, at least you’re assured of fresh air and shade even when the sun is up and shining. To make your climb more worthwhile, you can meditate on the stations of the cross or offer your sacrifice for a particular intention.
I was gasping for breath as i went on but all tiredness paid off when i reached the peak. It was all worth it.
And what a bonus… God actually gave me the chance to spend time alone in such a holy place. No photobombers. Nice! I had this place all for myself for some moments.
The steep stairway leading to the shrine. Part of the 550 steps.
The entrance to the hidden treasure.
The Holy Doors
Welcome to the shrine of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus.
The open stage outside the shrine is where masses are held during big occasions.
The statue of our Lady of Assumption
Overlooking the city of Maasin.
The 300 steps going down the mountain.
How to get there:
From Tacloban City, there are shuttle services/v-hire going to Maasin City (e.g. Duptours in Sto. Niño st, Van Vans in Salazar st). The fare is at Php 220.00 and the travel time is approximately 4 hours.
From Maasin City terminal, ride a tricycle to Brgy. Rizal (just around 10 minutes travel time). Tell the drivel to drop you off at Monte Cueva. The fare is at 10 pesos but you’ll make the driver very happy if you give him some tip.hehe.
If you decide to stay for the night to see other sites here, Maasin City has a number lodging houses to choose from.
RestlessSole 
Thank you.
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