Thursday, May 14, 2015

Wonderful Sights and Castle Church in Sibonga, Cebu

Thanks to Jigme Dorji who took this picture inside the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist
located in Marian Hills, Lindogon, Barangay Simala, Sibonga, Cebu.
Simala Church ceiling
Cebu is known for historical places and old structures. However, not all structures are old. I visited the famous castle church in barangay Simala, town of Sibonga. Since I stayed in Carcar City, where my hotel was located, I hitched aback of a single motor cycle called habal habal by the locals.

Heritage church (Our Lady of the Pillar) and building opposite of  the municipal hall
Risky and amazing. Risky because the driver and I were not even wearing helmet. I do not know why they are not used to wearing helmet when the roads belong to national highways. Amazing - because I enjoyed joy riding. It was too hot then, under scourging heat of the sun and yet riding was fun. When on our way back to Carcar City, the four habal habals which we rented were stopped at police checkpoint in Sibonga. I was surprised to know that the motor registration of all the four habal habals were expired or were pending to be released after filing renewal with the Land Transportation Office. I could say that in that part of this country, maybe in other parts too, habal habals are not being regulated. They are just being allowed to travel without making sure that all necessary requirements are met. Had we met an accident then I will not be able to claim insurances - I have plenty of life insurances.

Jose Rizal Monument
Anyway, Sibonga is a small town after Carcar City. The view of the sea at the back of the municipal hall is so amazing. The town hall as well as its park is neat and clean while the opposite church is historical dating back to Hispanic period. 

Sibonga Municipal Hall
When we reached Simala, I saw a lot of cars going down from the upland. These cars, mostly private and tourists, visited the Catholic church in the barangay. When we reached the area, it is like fiesta. Amid the sunlight, people do not cease to come and line up for the visit up. Souvenir items, plentiful of them. Shorts and sleeveless shirts and so sexy attire are not allowed inside the church. The security guard strictly implements the dress code among visitors.

Well of Nazareth
The church is a huge complex and some of its parts are still undergoing continuous construction. The design on the front is so beautiful that it resembles that of the European castles I saw in magazines and postcards before. 

Religious items are for sale outside including rosaries, books and novenas. One can enter the church and pray as well and visit the altar while observing queuing properly.

Sibonga Pier
How to reach Sibonga: Ride a bus going to Sibonga at South Bus Terminal in Cebu City or rent a taxi from Cebu City.

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