Virgen de la Regla National Shrine — Attraction in Lapu-Lapu

In Opon, Lapu-Lapu City, stands the National Shrine of Nuestra Señora Virgen de la Regla (Our Lady of the Rule)—a place where faith has remained unshaken for nearly three centuries. Though the original Spanish-era church was damaged during World War II and later torn down in the 1960s, a new concrete church was built, and the devotion to the Virgin has never faltered. Since 1735, countless devotees have sought her intercession here, and in 2025 the shrine is honored as a Jubilee Pilgrim Church.

Lighting a candle here feels especially meaningful. There are two sacred spots for this act of devotion: one near the entrance of a small shrine beside the church, and another inside a chapel where another revered image of Our Lady is enshrined. In that chapel, candles are offered into a tall, chimney-like structure, symbolizing prayers rising heavenward. Whether at the shrine or the chapel, each flame carries with it the same plea of faith and thanksgiving to the Blessed Mother.

The church itself may be modern in design, but its soul is timeless. The atmosphere is prayerful, the grounds are clean and well cared for, and even the facilities are maintained with reverence. During Mass, the most moving moment comes at the end—when parishioners draw near the sanctuary, lifting their hands in prayer. It is a powerful expression of faith that uplifts the spirit and reminds you of the enduring love of Our Lady for her children.

For pilgrims visiting Cebu, especially Mactan, this shrine is more than just a destination—it is a place of encounter with God through the Virgin of the Rule. The ferry boats from Cebu dock nearby, making it easy for travelers to include a visit. Whether you come with petitions or with gratitude, the Birhen sa Regla welcomes all with a...

When visiting Lapu-Lapu City or Cebu, I HIGHLY suggest you visit Virgen Dela Regla also known as Our Lady of the Rule. It has always been known to be miraculous; that whatever you ask in prayer and faith, trust that it will be given to you.

Birhen sa Regla as what we locals call her celebrates her feast day every November 20-21. Birhen sa Regla has always been flocked by a lot of pilgrims and devotees not only during her feast day because of her miraculous answers to her devotees and I am one of them.

My father was confined and I just knew that he had a heart attack at dawn. I was so confused and so scared to lose my father that I went to Our Birhen sa Regla and venerated at her image. I was praying until I cannot even help myself but cry. I was asking of Our Bihen sa Regla’s intercession to help and heal my father. You know that feeling when you don’t even know what to say anymore that you just cry your heart out? That’s exactly what I felt. I felt so helpless but I know that Mama Mary has never failed to answer any request from anyone who trusts and has faith in her. The next day, my father went to a heart stent and after 20 minutes the procedure was successful all glory and thanks to Our Lord Jesus Christ and to Our Birhen sa Regla!

Try and experience...

I recently attended a service at nuestra señora de regla parish national shrineand was impressed by the welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The congregation was diverse and inclusive, and the church staff was warm and inviting.

The service itself was well-organized and engaging. The music was uplifting and the sermon was thought-provoking and relevant to everyday life. I appreciated the emphasis on community and serving others, and the church's outreach programs were inspiring.

The building itself was beautiful and well-maintained, with plenty of seating and ample parking. The Sunday School program for children was well-organized and provided a safe and fun learning environment.

The only downside was that the church is quite large, and it could be easy to get lost in the crowd. However, the church staff made an effort to make everyone feel welcome and included.

Overall, I would highly recommend nuestra señora de regla parish national shrine to anyone looking for a welcoming and inclusive place of worship. The service was engaging and inspiring, the staff was friendly and welcoming, and the building was beautiful and well-maintained. It's a great place to connect with others and grow...