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The busy street of Gorordo in Cebu City became even busier when the Cebu City Philippines Temple opened its doors to the public on May 21.

Photo courtesy Philippines Area public affairs

Elder Michael John U. Teh of the Seventy speaks to media representatives during Cebu Philippines Temple open house.

Elder Keith R. Edwards of the Seventy and president of the Philippines Area, along with his counselors, Elder Won Yong Ko and Elder Michael John U. Teh of the Seventy, each escorted a group of media representatives through the temple prior to the public open house. The members of the area presidency were accompanied by their wives: Sister Judith Edwards, Sister Eun Hee Ko and Sister Grace May Teh.

Along with members of the media, the area presidency also guided other VIPs from business, education and government through the temple.

Photo courtesy Philippines Area public affairs

Elder Won Yong Ko of the Seventy speaks to media representatives during the open house of the Cebu Philippines Temple.

Open house tours for the public began with a video presentation on the importance of temples. Visitors were then escorted to the grounds where they were shown the patron housing and the stake center within the temple complex. Volunteer young men and women, who put helped guests put booties over their shoes before they entered the temple, welcomed visitors.

Photo courtesy Philippines Area public affairs

Elder Won Yong Ko of the Seventy leads a group of visitors toward the Cebu Philippines Temple during its open house.

During the first few days of the open house, people from different walks of life took the time to see what was behind the walls of the new architectural landmark here. Feelings of awe and amazement were commonly expressed and skepticism was dispelled.

Bridges were built as people gained a greater understanding on why temples are important to members of the Church.

Many positive responses were received during the open house.

Photo courtesy Philippines Area public affairs

Young men and young women volunteers help visitors put booties over their shoes prior to entering the Cebu Philippines Temple during its open house.

Sister Elnora from the Catholic Religious of the Assumption in the Philippines said, "I am very grateful to have the opportunity to come close to the temple. I used to be curious every time I saw the Manila temple. So when I heard of the Cebu temple open house, I took the opportunity to see it. After going through the tour, the gap has been bridged and I now understand the significance of temples to the members of your Church. I was very impressed with the feeling of sacredness inside the temple and the dedication and care put into building this temple."

The Venerable Miao Chen, Fu Guang Chu Un Temple (Buddhist Master), said, "The temple is a special and holy place. Our favorite part of the temple was the Celestial Room. It felt very comfortable and peaceful."

Artist Celso Pepito Duaza said, "The temple is very holy. I appreciate the fine craftsmanship and beautiful decors."

An average of 2,500 visitors have toured the temple each day of the open house. The temple was open to the public through June 5.