Hi everyone. I’m Penny.

The Philippines is one, if not the only Christian nation in Asia with majority of it’s population a Roman Catholic. It’s actually one of the places you can visit for a day trip when you are visiting Cebu.

The Simala Shrine was built in 1998 by Marian Monks who serve as the guardian of this sacred site. It used to be just an ordinary church until the incident of miraculous events.

One of which is the shedding of tears of the mother Mary’s image.

It paved the way for the shrine’s popularity with devotees constantly flocking the area. There are various reasons why people come to visit the Simala Shrine. The mean reason why they visit the place is for them to offer their devotion prayers and petitions to the Virgin Mary with a hope that each petitions and devotion will be answered. Another reason is for healing of physical and spiritual illness.

Aside from the beautiful structures, spacious and green environment, you’ll find various religious things inside and outside the church.

For example, you can see a huge statue of Virgin Mary, sculptures or statues of various saints various images and statues of the Virgin Mary from various cultural background, such as the Virgin of Guadalupe or the Virgin wearing a kimono.

Second, you can see a replica of the Nazareth Well where people throw in coins while wishing for something silently in their hearts.

The church is very particular about the guests clothing. There’s dress code that everyone should follow.

For men: You must wear long pants and a decent shirt.

For women: The hem of your skirt or dress should be lower than the knee. Wearing of sleeveless is not allowed. But, if you are comfortable wearing one bring a cardigan or a scarf to cover your shoulders.

‘’Dagkutanan’’ means a place for candle lighting. In this church, there are many ‘’dagkutanan’’ areas. What makes candle lighting unique in this church Is the different colors of the candles, Colored candles are available for sale (Php35, each) if you would like to pray a specific purpose.

Each color has its meaning:

White-for purity

Black-praying for a loved one who passed way

Green- for success

Gold- for healing

Pink-for blessing

Yellow-for peace

Red-for love

Gray-for deliverance

Brown-for vocation

Blue-for perseverance

How to get there?

Simala church is located in the southern region of Cebu province. To get there, you can ride either a van or bus at the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City. Fare is P95 per head.(one way)

You may simply ask the bus ticketing officer to drop you off there. Once you’re in the crossing, simply hire a tricycle or a motorcycle to take you to the church. Fare is Php25 per head(one-way).