Simala Shrine (Monastery of the Holy Eucharist)

High on a hill in Sibonga, about 55 km south of Cebu City, stands one of the most visited places of faith in the Philippines. The Simala Shrine, officially the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, looks more like a European castle than a church, with white towers, arches, gardens and long staircases. Pilgrims come from all over the country to pray, light candles and give thanks. Visitors who are not religious also come to see the building and feel the calm.

Why go to Simala

• A unique, castle-like shrine with towers, arches, gardens and ponds.
• A deeply felt place of pilgrimage, especially for devotees of the Virgin Mary.
• Halls filled with letters and testimonies from people who say their prayers were answered.
• An easy day trip from Cebu City, and simple to combine with Carcar.

A short history

The shrine was built by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, who settled in barangay Lindogon in the late 1990s. It became famous after reports in 1998 that the image of the Virgin Mary shed tears during a dengue outbreak in the area. Many devotees believe prayers made here have brought healing and help, and the shrine has kept growing over the years with new wings, statues and gardens. Building work is still going on in some parts.

What to see and do

Inside, walk slowly through the main church, the chapels and the long galleries. Look out for the many images of the Virgin Mary from different countries, and the displays of testimonies: letters, photos, medical papers and even crutches left behind by people who give thanks. Outside, the terraces look over gardens, a pond with a small pavilion and the green hills of Sibonga.

Many pilgrims light coloured candles at the candle area, where each colour stands for a different intention, such as peace, health or family. You can also write a petition and leave it in the boxes provided. If you would like to attend Mass, check the current schedule at the shrine, since it changes on special days.

Dress code and respectful behaviour

Simala is an active place of prayer, and the rules are strictly enforced. Guards at the entrance will turn people away if they are not dressed properly.

• No shorts, mini skirts, sleeveless tops, tube tops or see-through clothes. Men should wear long pants.
• Cover your shoulders and knees. A shawl or sarong is handy, and wraps are sometimes available at the entrance.
• Keep your voice low and switch your phone to silent.
• Photos are not allowed in some areas. Follow the signs and the staff.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke inside the shrine.
• Be patient in queues and give way to elderly visitors and people praying.

How to get to Simala from Cebu City

1. Go to the Cebu South Bus Terminal.
2. Take a bus heading south along the east coast (for example to Oslob) and ask the conductor to drop you at the Simala stop in Lindogon, Sibonga. The ride takes about 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
3. From the highway, take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorbike taxi) up the hill to the shrine entrance.

Fares are low but change, so check them on the day. If you are travelling as a group, hiring a car or van for the day lets you visit Simala and Carcar together at your own pace. Entry to the shrine is usually free, and donations are welcome.

Where to eat and stay

There are simple food stalls and small eateries near the shrine and along the road, but most visitors come as a day trip and go back to Cebu City or stop for lunch in Carcar, known for its lechon and chicharon. If you want to stay longer in the south, there are more places to stay in Carcar, Argao and the towns further down the coast.

When to go

Simala is open all year. Weekday mornings are the calmest. Weekends, public holidays, Holy Week and the 13th of each month (a special day for devotees) can be very busy, with long queues for parking and entry. The dry season, from about December to May, is easier for travel, but bring an umbrella at any time of year.

Tips for a good visit

• Arrive before 10 am to beat the crowds and the midday heat.
• Dress for the rules before you leave, so you are not turned away after a long bus ride.
• Wear comfortable shoes. There are many stairs and long walkways.
• Keep your bag and phone close in busy areas.
• Bring small bills for candles, snacks, tricycles and donations.
• Bring water, a hat and sunscreen for the open terraces.

Make it a full day in the south: after Simala, stop at the heritage town of Carcar for lunch, or continue down the coast to Argao and its old stone church.

Photo gallery

Tap a photo to see it full size. Gallery photos come from Wikimedia Commons; each photographer's credit shows when you open the photo.

Watch before you go

Photo: "Simala Shrine - Simala1836" by lumoplank, via Wikimedia Commons, released into the public domain (CC0).

Last updated October 16, 2026