SVD Laudato Si’ Farm is one of the newest places to visit in Tagaytay and was opened last January 2021. It is a 5-hectare Agricultural farm and spiritual haven located inside the compound of The Divine Word Seminary Tagaytay. It is operated and maintained by the SVD ( SOCIETAS VERBI DIVINI) priests, brothers, and missionaries. The project was in response to Laudato Si, Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment and human ecology, and also the opportunity brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The purposes of this project are to promote ecological awareness, generate income for the operation of the missionary, and at the same time raise funds for the poor, needy, and marginalized sectors in Tagaytay.
I and my husband were waiting for 5 PM mass at the Pink Sisters Chapel when we discovered SVD Laudato si’ Farm. Since we arrived early for the mass schedule, we decided to walk around and have a cup of coffee before the mass started. I asked the lady at the store for a coffee shop nearby then she pointed toward SVD farm.
Surrounded by expansive lush greenery and towering trees, this place offers a relaxing, quiet ambiance perfect for a brief respite. Everything in this place was made-up simply and humbly, like the tree trunk fence, gravel pathways, and rough lumber huts. The ambiance is very relaxed, peaceful, and quiet as if you are in a secluded and safe place.
THINGS TO DO INSIDE SVD FARM
Enjoy the great outdoors
Enjoy the great outdoors with the cool breezy air and allow yourself to breathe, walk around and reflect. Appreciating nature provides a pleasant feeling and reduces stress which can change our mood.
Nourish your spirituality
Amidst the lush greenery, there is Our Lady of the Poor chapel, a plain and quiet prayer spot wherein you can visit to have a moment with God. It is an open-air style chapel also made from natural materials. The rustic design of the chapel creates a warm, inviting, and relaxing feeling.
Since there was no holy mass when we visited the chapel and only a few persons were inside, I just sat on the wooden bench to pray for a while. The soothing instrumental music played in the background gave me a sense of God’s presence and peace. Visiting the chapel calms my soul and relieves my anxiety.
Mass schedule: Saturday at 10 AM and Sunday at 10:30 AM and 3 PM.
You may also say a prayer or two and light a colored candle on this candle rack beside the chapel. A prayer guide is provided/posted on the wall.
There is also a Hill of Transfiguration and a rock with the Virgin Mary’s painting, allowing you to reflect on the Seven Sorrows of Mary.
Enjoy authentic farm-to-table goodness:
Eating authentic farm-to-table meals alfresco style is one of the few things to enjoy here. They grow their vegetable using organic farming and raise their livestock. The cafe offers delicious Filipino dishes and Mexican finger food. Spaced-out dining table and nipa huts to ensure the safety of everyone. It also allows all visitors to have their private, cozy spot to enjoy the scenic view.
These are the food we tried:
Buy Plants and vegetables
Freshly picked fruits and vegetables and even indoor and outdoor plants are available. Market days are every Saturday and Sunday from 8 AM to 5 PM. The farm encourages visitors to bring their own reusable bags.
Good points:
- Nice, friendly, and accommodating staff.
- Affordable and good-tasting food.
- Fresh and organic food.
- Covid-19 safety protocols are strictly followed.
A friendly reminder of the farm:
- The farm strictly does not allow bringing outside food and drinks.
- Address: Arnoldus Road, Aguinaldo Highway 4120 Tagaytay City
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday (8 AM- 8 PM) Saturday to Sunday (7AM – 7 PM)
- FB page: SVD Laudato Si Farm