Experience Heaven on Earth at Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort in Iloilo

 

Do you ever wonder what’s waiting for us after life? As a Christian, I was raised to believe in heaven and hell. That’s what we were taught in church. If you live a righteous life, put your faith in God, and accept Jesus as your Savior, you go to heaven. But if you reject Him and live in sin, you go to hell. It sounds simple when put that way, but life itself is never that simple. In the end, it all comes down to your personal relationship with the Creator.

We all long for heaven because it’s a place of eternal life with no pain, no hunger, and no suffering. And if heaven promises peace, then hell offers the opposite: eternal fire, torment without escape. That thought alone is terrifying. That’s why, as Christians, we strive to live as Christ did, following His example and holding on to the promise of eternal life through Him.

The Bible gives us glimpses of what heaven is like, and throughout history people have tried to capture it in paintings, books, and even movies. Some even claim to have seen heaven themselves in near-death experiences. But in Iloilo, there’s a place where you can actually walk through a representation of this promise, Garin Farm Pilgrimage Resort in San Joaquin. It’s not just a farm, it’s a spiritual journey.

From the moment you enter, you’re invited to walk about a kilometer toward the pilgrimage gate. You can ride one of their shuttles if you prefer, but the walk itself adds to the experience, though be warned, the path is inclined and a bit challenging.

At the pilgrimage entrance, you’re given two options: climb the giant staircase or ride up. The stairs, with their 480 steps, are the more meaningful path. Along the way, you’ll encounter dioramas that bring the Bible to life. The journey begins with creation, Adam and Eve surrounded by the creatures God made. Then comes Noah’s Ark, a reminder of God’s wrath and mercy during the great flood. 

Next is the Exodus, with Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt and receiving the Ten Commandments. The path continues through the life of Jesus, His birth, His ministry with the disciples, the Last Supper, His agony in Gethsemane, and His crucifixion. Each scene reminds you of the depth of God’s love and sacrifice.

At the top, a giant cross marks the entrance to heaven. To get there, you pass through a dark tunnel, symbolizing the struggles of life. At the end of the tunnel, a single light, the figure of Jesus Christ, shines through, reminding us that He is the way out of darkness. Beyond the tunnel is a breathtaking all-white space, filled with statues of angels blowing trumpets, St. Peter at the gate, and biblical figures worshipping at God’s throne.

Of course, it’s just a depiction. We know it’s not the real heaven. But before you leave, there’s a reminder that while we are still alive, we still have the chance to live righteously, so that one day we can enter the true heaven.

For me, the experience was unforgettable. I’ve read these stories in the Bible countless times, but seeing them portrayed this way gave me a fresh perspective. Even if you’re not deeply religious, Garin Farm is worth visiting. The view is stunning, like being on a mountaintop. Families and kids would enjoy it too. It’s part pilgrimage, part theme park, and part nature escape. Just avoid going at noon when the heat can be harsh. Afternoons are much more pleasant.

If you ever find yourself in Iloilo, make sure to include Garin Farm in your itinerary. It’s more than just a tourist spot. It’s a journey that leaves you reflecting not only on life, but on eternity.