Learn about the cultural and religious significance of this intriguing church that overlooks a spacious plaza and a public market.
Our Lady of the Rule Church is an important emblem of the Catholic faith in the Lapu-Lapu region. This cultural icon has long served as a meeting point and activity hub for the local community. Spend an afternoon here to understand what this church means to the inhabitants and devotees.
Admire the colorful mosaic with yellow arches above the wooden portal. Gaze up at the cross in the center of the roof and atop the adjacent bell tower. See the church at night, when it is illuminated in yellow light and the crosses shine bright blue.
Climb the small set of external steps and enter the church through the wide door. Browse the various ecclesiastic trinkets and artifacts that decorate the walls.
The church is called Nuestra Señora Virgen de la Regla in Spanish. Hear of the alleged miracles that took place in this neighborhood of Opon. Stories range from healing diseases and regaining the ability to walk to passing examinations. Prayers here are often on the theme of protecting women and children from violence.
Relax on a bench in the spacious Opon Plaza and walk along the pier near the Cebu-Mactan Ferry Terminal.
The church opens to visitors daily. Enter for free and consider leaving a donation. Holy Mass ceremonies take place in the early morning, at noon and in the evening. The church is particularly busy on Sundays.
Visit the church during its main festival in late November, when the streets of the adjacent public market are filled with stalls and decorations. Watch pilgrims and devotees carrying the statue of the patron saint around the town.
Our Lady of the Rule Church is on the western side of the Opon Plaza on the northern coast of Mactan Island. Ride a bus to one of the many stops in the area. Visit nearby sights, such as NSDR Park, the Lapu-Lapu City Auditorium and the Veterans Federation of the Philippines.