Last 2022, I took a board examination for teachers, and it was truly nerve wracking to think if we will pass or not. The board examination is an avenue or step to us aspiring licensed teachers to finally have our license. We travelled to Simala Shrine to utter prayers and hope for a positive result of our examination.
In order to go to Cebu, we had to book a ticket for a Fast Craft named Ocean Jet and it costs more than 600 pesos. We stayed first in the waiting area since our borading is at 12:00 midnight. I remember being so excited as it was my first ever travel outside Bohol.
We arrived in Cebu at nearly five in the morning. The mesmerizing sunrise amazes the hearts of people inside the ship.
We went straight to our destination and rode a van going to Simala. From Cebu city, it took us almost 5 hours of travelling by land. The van will lead us straight to Simala shrine and there we have to walk to the staircases since the shrine is located on top of a mountain.
Since it was my first time, I really adore the spot and most people there are bringing candles to be lighted in the shrine.
Many people gather inside and prayed fervently. On top of that is the image of Birhen sa Simala. You can actually go there on top following the stairs inside the hall. However, I wasn't able to take a picture going inside since there are a lot of people waiting in line to touch and see closely the image of the Birhen sa Simala.
This is the view taken outside the shrine. The monks preserve the place and takes care of the plants. It is truly a breathtaking view.
You can actually attend a holy mass inside the church however since we have to go home on the same day, we weren't able to do so.