The Masjid Dimaukom stood out in all its rosy glory under the bright sun, as if it was made to shine just for this special day.
Dimaukom Mosque aka the Pink Mosque, is located at Datu Saudi Ampatuan, province of Maguindanao.
What’s an adventure in Mindanao without a splash of vibrant pink? Saturday, December 28, 2024, marked Day 3 of our SOCCSKGEN + Maguindanao Mindanao Madness—a whirlwind four-day escapade that tested our endurance, teased our taste for adventure, and left us in awe of Mindanao’s beauty. After an epic day hike at Mount Matutum and a soul-refreshing Lake Sebu tour, we went for another monumental stop: the Masjid Dimaukom, better known as the Pink Mosque.
It was all worth it.
The Cast and the Journey
Our little adventure squad consisted of Kat, Tim, Tita Zen, PJ, and yours truly. By this point, we were a well-oiled team, running on adrenaline and an unspoken love for spontaneous detours. Coming straight from a morning of zip-lining over waterfalls (tagged as optional but totally irresistible) and feasting on a fantastic lunch at Dreamweavers Hill in Lake Sebu, we drove toward the heart of Maguindanao for what would become a standout moment of our trip.
Our guide and driver, Kuya Jorie—who has been traversing the province for almost two decades—made the journey seamless. Local commute is an option here, but having the van to ourselves was a blessing. With the AC blasting and our playlists rolling, it felt like a road trip straight out of a movie.
The Pink Mosque: A Glimpse of Harmony
The Masjid Dimaukom, located in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, surely was an eye candy, but it’s also a powerful symbol of peace and unity. It was commissioned by the late Mayor Samsudin Dimaukom, where the pink exterior represents love, harmony, and acceptance among people of different faiths.
Against a backdrop of sunny skies, the mosque felt surreal. Its pink domes and intricately designed walls seemed to glow, creating a stunning contrast with my black abaya—a story in itself.
My Abaya Chronicles
Visitors to the mosque were required to dress modestly, so we headed to a nearby shop for abaya rentals. When my turn came, I approached the lady with a very specific request:
“Ate, bata lang po ako ah! Charot!” (“Miss, please make sure I still look young!”)
She chuckled, worked her magic, and handed me the perfect abaya. But she didn’t stop there. She even crafted a unique hijab style for me, ensuring my outfit wasn’t just culturally appropriate but also Instagram-ready. Who knew modest fashion could be this chic?
Sure, the 30°C weather made me feel like I was wrapped in a personal sauna, but stepping out of that shop, I felt regal. The mukhang yayamanin look was an understatement.
The Warmth of the Mosque
As we approached the mosque, we were greeted by the most unexpected companions: a group of local kids. They acted as unofficial guides and photographers, showing us all the best angles and picture-perfect spots. The excitement on their faces seeing tourists and showing their most adorable faces screaming a Meredith Grey moment ‘Pick me, choose me’ to be your one-day paparazzi was truly unforgettable.
Their kindness and enthusiasm added an extra layer of magic to the experience. Just give them your camera phones, and they’ll take charge like seasoned pros!
Why the Pink Mosque Is a Must-Visit
Here’s what makes it worth your while:
- Accessibility: It’s right along the highway, making it easy to include in your itinerary.
- No Set Fees: Abaya rentals are donation-based. Feel free to give what you can—and don’t hesitate to make styling requests.
- Best Timing: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun. Bring sunscreen—it’s non-negotiable.
- Tips for Visiting:
- Hydrate—it’s essential.
- Don’t rush. Every corner offers a unique perspective and photo opportunity.
- Be respectful—this is a place of worship.
Mindanao Madness Itinerary: The Bigger Picture
Here’s how our 4-day journey unfolded:
- Day 1 (Dec 26, 2024): Arrival in General Santos City + City Tour
- Day 2 (Dec 27, 2024): Day hike at Mount Matutum
- Day 3 (Dec 28, 2024): Lake Sebu Tour + Mosques Tour
- Day 4 (Dec 29–30, 2024): Lake Holon Trek and Camp
- Day 5 (Dec 31, 2024): Early flight back to Manila
The Masjid Dimaukom isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience, a symbol of unity, and a testament to Mindanao’s cultural harmony.
Stay Tuned for More Madness!
This was just one stop in our Mindanao Madness adventure. I’ll be sharing more about our exhilarating hike at Mount Matutum, the peaceful allure of Lake Sebu, and our unforgettable trek to Lake Holon in upcoming blogs.
Follow along for insider tips, crazy mishaps, and breathtaking moments!
