After a ban on cremation was lifted by the Vatican in the 1960s, Catholics became more open to the practice of cremation. Columbaria are continuously gaining acceptance as an alternative to expensive and space-consuming memorial plots. These are places where cinerary urns of our dearly departed are kept; they are usually located next to a church.

Situated on the 13.5 hectare land of Regina Rica in Tanay, Rizal, the Pahuwayan sa Rica Columbary and Ossuary is owned, administered and conceptualized by the Dominican Sisters of Regina Rosarii.

The new circular edifice, which occupies 4,000 sq m, including the garden, is nestled in the mountainside between the 71-foot statue of Our Lady Regina Rosarii and the Regina Rosarii Chapel. Eight mystic women saints beloved by the sisters and carved and composed by resident artist and sculptor, Jojo Barcena, surround the place.

At the end of the outer path, a passageway leads to a viewing deck where you can take in the sight of the Lihim Waterfalls to your right. To your left are views of Sunset Hill, Regina Rosarii Chapel, and the statue of St. Joseph waving to Our Lady Regina Rosarii. Depending on the time of your visit, you can even observe the flock of grazing sheep and be entertained by the sounds of the Guinea fowl.

Features

Pahuwayan sa Rica Columbary and Ossuary features seven lanes of niches and 1,350 burial niches. The niches are made of Class A concrete cast with reinforced steel coated with waterproofing inside and out.

Meanwhile, the interior of the niches is finished with premium gold aluminum cladding.

All bolts and nuts are stainless steel and welded inside the concrete for durable strength and security. For aesthetics and security, a double nut lock with umbrella cap is used to close the niche.

Each niche has its own wall and is self-contained to prohibit unauthorized access. All niches are sized to accommodate 4-6 family members’ standard-sized urns, and are at prime locations with either a mountain or altar view.

Donors can avail themselves of the vaults with a one-time donation or monthly donations. The Pre-Operation Donation is still being offered, where you can save 30 percent of the total cost.

Call 4012036, 0919-9607031.