List of Famous Mosques in the Philippines
The Philippines, a predominantly Christian country, is also home to a significant Muslim population, primarily in Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. As a result, several stunning mosques have been built across the country, each with its own cultural and historical significance. Here is a list of some of the most famous mosques in the Philippines:
1. Grand Mosque of Cotabato (Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque)
Located in Cotabato City, this is the largest mosque in the Philippines. It was funded by the Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and features grand golden domes, towering minarets, and intricate Islamic architecture. It serves as a major place of worship for Muslims in Mindanao and attracts tourists for its architectural beauty.
2. Sheikh Karimul Makhdum Mosque
As the oldest mosque in the Philippines, the Sheikh Karimul Makhdum Mosque is a historical landmark located in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi. It was built in 1380 by the Arab missionary Sheikh Karimul Makhdum and stands as a symbol of the early spread of Islam in the country. The mosque has been declared a National Historical Landmark.
3. Taluksangay Mosque
Situated in Zamboanga City, Taluksangay Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the region. Built in 1885 by Hadji Abdullah Maas Nuno, it played a significant role in the spread of Islam in Western Mindanao. Its vibrant red domes and coastal location make it a visually striking landmark.
4. Dimaukom Mosque (Pink Mosque)
The Dimaukom Mosque, located in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao, is famous for its pink color, symbolizing peace and love. Built by Mayor Samsudin Dimaukom, the mosque was constructed by both Muslim and Christian workers as a gesture of unity and harmony among different religious groups in the community.
5. Masjid Al-Nasser Abpi
Located in Barangay Tubig Indangan on Simunul Island, this mosque is known for its historical and cultural importance in Tawi-Tawi. It is a place of pilgrimage for many Filipino Muslims and serves as a key center for Islamic teachings in the region.
6. White Mosque of Marawi
Marawi City is home to many mosques, but the White Mosque stands out due to its pristine white façade and central role in the spiritual life of local Muslims. It was one of the structures affected by the Marawi Siege in 2017 but has since been restored.
7. Masjid Tulay (Tulay Central Mosque)
Located in Jolo, Sulu, this mosque is one of the largest in the province and serves as a primary place of worship for Tausug Muslims. It is an important religious and cultural landmark in the region.
These mosques reflect the rich Islamic heritage of the Philippines, serving as places of worship, historical landmarks, and cultural symbols. They continue to be integral to the spiritual lives of Filipino Muslims while also attracting visitors interested in their architectural and historical significance.
References
Baytalfann. (n.d.). Mosques in the Philippines. Baytalfann. Retrieved April 2, 2025, from http://baytalfann.com/post/mosques-in-the-philippines
Bangsamoro Government. (2023, December 27). The heart of Jolo: Masjid Tulay’s legacy of faith and resilience. Bangsamoro Government. Retrieved April 2, 2025, from https://bangsamoro.gov.ph/news/feature-story/the-heart-of-jolo-masjid-tulays-legacy-of-faith-and-resilience/