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A photo that says that it was the tallest waterfall in the province of Cebu piqued my interest in visiting the place. It was just an hour away from the city and, since I had a day to spend, a little adventure would good on a Sunday. With a pinch of adventure, we chased the water trail in Barili. The town of Barili is the midpoint that connects the southwestern side of Cebu to rest of the province. Its landscape rolls from mountains to farmlands to the sea that gives the town a unique collection of attractions. However, most of these attractions fall under the shadows of the high-adrenaline adventures offered by its neighboring towns. It is more popular as a quick midway stop for buses to and from Cebu. Similarly, a quick stop in Barili will surely give you an adventure that will complement the thrilling adventures of Southern Cebu. Mayana Falls Mayana Falls was not in our radar until our habal-habal driver mentioned it to us. The falls is within a private compound that was converted into a resort that offers a peaceful nature escape. Our guide told us that it was also their first time to visit the resort and the falls as they have never been there because it was privately owned. The resort offers cottage accommodation along the downstream flow of the falls. Each cottage has its own spring pool. Mayana Falls is tucked well within the hinter area of the resort. You need to traverse down the resort’s pathways to get to the falls. Water cascades along a huge boulder creating a steady stream on the sides of its rock face into a series of shallow pools. One can enjoy a quick dip in its cold waters and enjoy communing with nature. The falls itself is not as majestic but the overall ambiance of the place makes it a cool place to disconnect from the humdrum of city life. Mayana by Blue Space perfectly created a nature space. Since the place is private, expect to pay an entrance fee to access the waterfalls area. Oh… and don’t forget to interact with their resident monkey. Mantayupan Falls Mantayupan Falls is the tourism icon of Barili. Standing at a height of 98 meters, it is believed to be the highest waterfall in the province. The place was developed by the local government so access to the waterfalls is easy with its walkways and bridge. The hanging bridge form part of the attraction because of the added adrenaline thrill as you trek to the first waterfall. There are two levels that are accessible to the public. The first level of Mantayupan is just a few meters walk from the entrance. Surrounded by dense foliage, three cascades break out from foliage into a shallow pool from a height of 14 meters. The hanging bridge on the left side give the spot that additional flair in pictures. The main cascade of Mantayupan Falls can be accessed by crossing the hanging bridge. Water cascades from a height of 98 meters into a shallow basin. One can enjoy a cold dip in its waters at the designated swimming area. Visitors spends more time here because of the beauty of its cascade surrounded by greens, not to mention that it has more idyllic spot for photos. It was good to see that Mantayupan Falls was developed for tourism. It offers complete facilities for its guests so visiting the falls is easy and convenient. This spot is a great spot to explore when you make a quick stop in Barili. You get to enjoy the beauty of nature in Barili that would complement your south west Cebu adventure. Sayaw Beach From the cascades of Barili’s mountains, we headed to enjoy the seawaters of Barili. Sayaw Beach is one of the popular beach spots in Barili. This beach spot can easily be accessed because it sits along the main highway and it is just a couple of minutes away from the bus stop. The beach sits in a cove and has white sand shoreline. It is a private resort and there are available huts for day trips and cottages for those who want to spend the night in Barili. There is an adjacent beach cove that is connected by a concrete pathway. There is also a small port for small boats to dock on. There is a store in the resort where you can buy snacks and drinks. Sayaw Beach was a peaceful sanctuary if you are looking for a quick beach escape. I enjoyed getting tanned while enjoying the afternoon sun by the shore. Unfortunately, the beach is a bit rocky so you need to wear the right footwear if you intend to swim. There are basic facilities that you can use in the resort. What I liked best is the chill vibe of Sayaw Beach as I enjoyed the afternoon sun and the cool sea breeze. POST TRAVEL NOTES More than just a bus stop for travelers, Barili is a destination that is worth a day or a few hours of visit. The town is also blessed with natural beauty that you can enjoy. These attractions may be under the shadows of the other famous attractions and activities in the area but it can definitely complement your planned adventures. I suggest that you travel early so you can enjoy a couple of hours to discover Barili. There are a lot of pass-through or bus stop destinations in the Philippines that deserve a second look. These “stops”, if seen from a different angle, can give your trip a different vibe that can complement and even enhance your adventure. All we need is to make a stop, explore the area, and enjoy what the place has to offer. I guess, it is time for me to also start checking out these “quick stops”. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: Major local and international airlines have direct flights to Cebu. You can take a cab to the South Bus Terminal where you can take a Ceres bus to Bato via Barili. Tell the bus ticket teller that you will be going down the Poblacion of Barili. You can then hire a habal-habal to explore the waterfalls and the beach spots.
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A Spanish-period church once caught my attention to mark this town on my list. But it took a “dinosaur egg” to finally convince me to take a 2-hour ferry ride from Cebu to Bohol so I could meet an “asindero” who told me how an influencer managed to help revive the tradition of salt-making in Bohol. Yes, may asin pa din ang Alburquerque. Alburquerque, or more commonly referred to as Albur among Bol-anons, is a small town that is about 20 minutes away from Tagbilaran. It was once called Segunto when the parish was separated from Baclayon and was later renamed to Alburquerque in 1861. Although the town has its own attractions, it is often overshadowed by the more popular spots of the province. Let me share with you two heritage destinations that would make Albur a worthy stop when you visit Bohol. Sta. Monica Church and Convent (Simbahan ng Alburquerque) The church majestically catches one’s attention as you breeze through the circumferential highway of the province. Its stands out because it is not the usual look of a Spanish-period church here in the Philippines with its rectangular-shaped facade. It is not a tourist stop because it is often overshadowed by the more popular Baclayon Church in the nearby town. But the church has its own beauty and story to share to those who make a quick visit to the church. Initially established under the parish of Baclayon, it was in 1869 that the Sta. Monica Church was inaugurated under the stewardship of the Augustinian Recollects. The first church was like a shed that was made of wood and bamboo. The construction of the present-day church started in 1885 and the upper walls and tower was completed in the 1920s. The murals on the church were done in 1932. The church stands out differently because of its box-type structure. An overhead bridge connecting the church to the convent is a unique feature that is absent in other Spanish-period churches in Bohol. The impressive structure looks unfinished and the coral foundation behind the grotto may support my observation. The adjacent kumbento is said to be one of the two similar structures built in the area that served as the “Escuela de Ninos”. The interior of the church is grand and beautiful. The first to catch your attention are the painted ceilings of the church that depicts biblical narratives. These paintings were done by Ray Francia. The wood foundations that line the navel are also unique as this is the first time that I have seen this feature. The wooden altar stands elegantly with the image of Sta. Monica as its centerpiece. Two beautiful altar sits adjacent to the main altar. The church was declared as an Important Cultural Property in 2013 and its historical marker was installed in August 27, 2014. It suffered minimal damage during the 2013 Bohol Earthquake making it one of the few intact churches after the tremors. It is worth a quick stop for those who are in Bohol to enjoy its beauty and its history. Asin Tibuok This was a story that brought me to Bohol even for a day. I was lucky enough to have met one of the few Bol-anon “asineros”, Kuya Resindo Datuy, who gladly shared with me how these “dinosaur eggs” are made. From his humble salt factory, we shared how he learned the century-old traditional way of making asin tibuok, why he stopped, and what made him comeback to this art. Asin Tibuok is a product of a heritage tradition in Bohol that started during the Spanish period. The name translates to “unbroken salt” because it is whole piece of salt that resembles a dinosaur egg. This artisan salt is used as a final seasoning by dusting it over food and desserts to give it that added smokey salt taste. Kuya Resindo shares that he likes it over his chocolate and dessert. It is one of the rarest and expensive salts fetching around Php600 a piece in the market. Interestingly, it is a tradition that is being revived by the Bol-anon asineros like Kuya Resindo. The process of making asin tibuok is tedious process that takes around 5-6 months. The first step is to soak coconut husks in saltwater. This is the longest step to process as it takes 4 to 5 months for the husks to be completely soaked. Asineros soak husks by layers to help them produce asin tibuok regularly. The soaked husks are then made into strips, sun-dried, piled, and fired using coconut wood. The furnace is controlled by pouring saltwater into the fire and the end product of the process is a crusted mix of salt and ash called “gasang”. The gasang is then loaded into large funnel-shaped bamboo storage and saltwater is then poured onto the gasang. The process would drain away the “burned” salt creating a brine called “tasik”. The tasik is then collected from underneath the funnels and it is now ready to be cooked. The final step in making Asin Tibuok is cooking the salt over a furnace. Salt clay pots are lined by the furnace and the “tasik” is then slowly poured into these pots. The water evaporates leaving the salt crusted inside it. They continue pouring the “tasik” over the crusted salt until the bottom of the pots break indicating that the salt is already cooked. The final product is a crusted salt taking the shape of the bottom of the pot that resembles a dinosaur egg. The production of this artisan salt runs from December to May when the salinity of sea water is highest. Kuya Resindo shared with me that art of making Asin Tibuok is not for the lazy as cooking the salt takes months of preparation and about 4 to 5 hours just to bake it. He also said that he took a “break” from making this heritage product and only resumed the art after interest on Asin Tibuok picked up, thanks to a feature by Erwan Heussaf. This renewed attention to this artisan salt brought market prices up reviving a livelihood opportunity for the asineros and breathing new life to the century-old tradition of salt making in Bohol. POST TRAVEL NOTES Heritage is not just about century-old structures and cultures. It is also about products produced from century-old practices like the Asin Tibuok of Alburquerque in Bohol. It is a product that gives you a glimpse of the past, not for the product, but the arduous process of making this artisan salt that was and is passed on from generation to generation. Our support to these cottage industries would also mean being able to keep a century-old practice alive that would give our palate that extra flavor to enjoy. Talaga naman na may asin pa ang Alburquerque! It is a destination that would make you appreciate the hardwork and sweat that go with heritage and tradition. The long journey of building the Sta. Monica Church is similar to the long process of making the Asin Tibuok. It takes time and patience but the end product is one that can withstand time and calamities. It will remain strong and standing in the years to come to show us how unique and resilient Filipinos are. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: There are direct flights to Panglao International Airport from Manila and other key cities in the country and Asian cities. In my case, I took an Oceanjet Fastcraft from Cebu City to Tagbilaran Port. The ferry ride takes two hours. From the airport or seaport, you can take a trike to the Tagbilaran City Square where you can find the jeepney terminal to Alburquerque. Travel time from Tagbilaran to Alburquerque is about 30 minutes. There are tricycles that you can rent to get around Alburquerque.
2023 was a travel year that had a balance of new and old destinations. I was discovering and exploring new spots while revisiting and discovering new attractions in old destinations. I was enjoying the cold wind atop Mount Pulag to swimming with a sea turtle in Tingloy. I was chomping on Carcar lechon to immersing myself into the cold waters of Tumalog Falls. 2023 gave me a wide spectrum of travel experiences that is for the books. As I have done in the past, here are my top three destinations for 2023: Mount Pulag Mount Pulag tops 2023’s list both literally and figuratively. Exploring the highest mountain in Luzon was one for the books. It was physical exhausting and it was REALLY cold. Needless to say, the views, the sunrise, the sea of clouds, and the experience was the best reward after four hours of trekking to 2,928 meters above sea level. If I were to sum up my Mount Pulag in one word, I would say it was REWARDING. We took the easiest trail to the peak - the Ambangeg Trail. We started the hike from the Babalak Ranger Station at 1am. It would take us about 4 hours to get to the peak. We traversed the trail in the cold and pitch black covers through the pine forest, mossy forest, and open grasslands. We were treated with a nice view of light trails of hiker’s lamps along the trail with the stars twinkling in the background. The last stretch proved to be the toughest for me because I burned extra energy when I went off the usual trail. But I am glad that I kept pushing. The view of the early morning light breaking through the horizon was just majestic. The view of a day breaking is different from the usual beach mornings. It was a perfect reward from all the huffing and puffing. The view of the sea of clouds is better seen by the naked eye rather than in pictures. Exploring the “playground of the gods” taught me that pushing your limits can get you further. You can read about my Mount Pulag here: Pulag Sa Katotohanan Or you can also check out my YT travel video here: Carcar City, Cebu I have FINALLY explored the city of Carcar in Cebu. This is the city that I have passed through a lot of times and has piqued my interest because of the old houses that line its main highway. Of course, who would also miss out on the known fact that the city is known for its tasty and juicy lechon or roasted pig. My renewed interest in history and my love for lechon placed this city on my list for quite a while now. A work-related trip gave me the opportunity to finally do a quick tour of this city. Just an hour away from the Queen City of the South, I was totally amazed by its heritage houses from the Spanish and American period that lined its street. The city gives you a glimpse of the town’s colorful and painful past from the hands of colonizers, spanning centuries, and how the community interacted with them. There are only a few towns that has managed to keep these historical structure intact through the years. And then we have the lechon! Hands down to the juiciest lechon that I have ever tasted. Cebu trips was not complete without having a mouthful of lechon but Carcar has redefined this usual itinerary to no trips to the south of Cebu is complete without a quick lechon stop in Carcar. No doubt, I had my mind blown away and tummy stuffed after visiting the heritage town of Cebu. You can read about my Carcar history and food adventure here: Quick Bits and Eats of Carcar Or you can check out my YT Carcar travel video here: Sinulom Falls, Cagayan de Oro A “plan B” trip led to my most REFRESHING discovery in Cagayan de Oro. I consider the city to be my hometown and I have always had CDO as a whitewater rafting destination. But the urban expansion of the city has led to new “discoveries” and one of that destination is Sinulom Falls. The city is now more than just a white water rafting hotspot but a destination that offers a wide range of activity for any kind of traveler. This spot in the hinterlands of the city is popular for two attractions - the Sinulom Falls and the Bolao Cold Spring. The waterfall is unique because it literally lies along the boundaries of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon. The waters cascade along the rock walls of Bukidnon into the Cagayan River but the best view point of Sinulom is on the side of Cagayan de Oro. The falls is a series of cascades over a steep rock wall and vegetation. From the vantage point, it would seem that the mountain is shedding tears into the river. A separate cascade flows down the mountains into a series of pools upstream. This is the Bolao Cold Spring. The resort is a great way to chill down after enjoying the views of Sinulom. I got to enjoy cooling down from the afternoon sun in its cold waters. The “discovery” of Sinulom is an example on how development helps us discover new attractions that was once enjoyed by the locals. You can read about my Sinulom Falls adventure here: The GOLD Tears of the Mountains of De Oro Or you can check out my YT Sinulom travel here: POST TRAVEL NOTES: #RoarIn2024 I am very excited to usher in 2024 with a new set of destinations that I want to explore. I could see that i would having more plane rides this year as my work has also expanded that would allow me to regularly fly to may happy place - Cebu. This year is going to be roaring with the following destinations on my list: Sorsogon - One of the last 14 provinces that I have yet to visit to complete my #GOT82 project. I am thinking of going for a backpack trip so I can enjoy the rush of moving around. Biri, Northern Samar - Rustic and beautiful. I would like to see the rock formations face to face. I have had several attempts, it has got to happen this year. BaSulTa - Stands for Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi, Mindanao is one of the prime destinations in the Philippines. We need to give its natural and cultural beauty more spotlight. The world needs to see it. Aloguinsan, Cebu - I have a new project that puts Cebu on the spot. I am visiting one municipality or city at a time. Aloguinsan is on my list this year. I would like to camp out like a hermit. Jomalig, Quezon - Another destination on my list that I need to cover this year. Time to for gold this summer. I am positive that 2024 is going to rock. I want to get my rhythm back in traveling so I can finally complete the last 14 PH provinces of my #GOT81. This year I going to be exciting and I want to bring you with me to more exciting PH adventures. Welcome to 2024! #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli
This day trip adventure turned out to be one of my funniest adventure this year. What started out as a search for a giant’s cave ended with a dirt trail ride to a closed attraction and a swim in a clear pool to amusement of locals. From a place made popular by the pastry, comes a trip that had us bawling in laughter over the stories and adventures in Argao. Argao is one of the baking towns of Cebu, together with Liloan and Santander, and is THE “Torta Capital of Cebu”. The torta is a local pastry that stems its roots from the town’s Spanish roots. Coming from this gastronomic perspective, the town is rich with stories that give you a preview of its vibrant past. Its outskirts have natural attractions that will give you an opportunity to share a smile and an adventure with its locals. The fusion of its stories and adventures make the town a perfect spot to enjoy, even for just a day. Baluarte de Argao Let me start the our Argao adventure with the Baluarte de Argao. Let me first put some context on the significance of the baluarte. The south side of the Cebu, the coastline facing the Cebu Strait, is lined with baluartes that was commissioned by Fray Julian Bermejo. These watchtowers, that are lined along the coast from Carcar to Santander, are part of an elaborate system that warned locals of an impending Moro attack. Some of these coastal watchtowers are in ruins while some, including that of the Baluarte de Argao, were “rebuilt” for re-use. The Argao Watchtower is located inside a private resort aptly called Baluarte de Argao. The ruins of the baluarte were incorporated into a modern structure that functions as a wet restaurant/cafe. You won’t get to see any semblance of the baluarte in its current state. You would only know that it was once a baluarte from the pictures displayed showing its ruined state prior to the construction. Part of the watchtowers base were incorporated into the new structure. You would get to see part of the ruins when you enter the room on the first floor. As much as we would like to appreciate the attempt to put some value on the baluarte ruins, it has lost its heritage value with how it was re-used by the private owners. Argao lost an opportunity to have it recognized as a national treasure considering how the baluarte is part of an elaborate system of military communication during the Spanish period. This is a solid example on how we need to improve on how we value our history and heritage as Filipinos. Puerta Marina and Puerta del Sur There are two “gates” that lead to the town center. The Puerta Marina is the gate that faces towards the sea. The “puerta” sits within close proximity of the baluarte and, with the width and breadth of the gate, it probably served as a structure for defense of the town against Moro raids. There are two other gates that stand opposite each other in the town center. Both gates leads to the front of the church. These gates probably served as the entry point if you are coming from the adjacent inland towns. The three gates seemed to stand as safe keepers of the church and the local government. The area could have been fortified during that time as most of the heritage structures within the gates have been well-preserved. Capella Murtuario Standing adjacent to the Puerta Marina is a small chapel - the Capella Murtuario. Made from coral stones and lime mortar, the small chapel is believed to be the same age, or even older, as that of the Argao Church. There are two versions as to how the church was used. The first as a mortuary chapel for highlanders hold wakes, even those of criminals, before being laid to rest at the cemetery. The chapel is also believed to be used as a house of prayer for stillborn and unbaptized babies. This belief is strengthened by the relief of St. Michael the Archangel rescuing a baby from the mouth of the devil at the top of the chapel’s facade. The chapel is adorned with intricate reliefs depicting flower arrangements and the purple hue of the altar, depicting innocence, all indicate that the chapel was for the used as a latter. How the chapel was used can still be subject for discussion but what is certain is that it served as a mortuary chapel as shown on the skull with an hourglass relief atop its doors. The chapel was kept hidden for 40 years and was only “revealed” after a hospital structure was demolished. The great things about this discovery is that it did not suffer a similar state of the Baluarte de Argao. The Capella Murtuario was restored to its former glory giving as a glimpse of the beliefs and customs of locals during the Spanish period. Argao Church Complex The heritage block of Argao is composed of two areas - the church complex and the government complex. At the center of the church complex is the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Michael de Archangel. The Argao Church was established in 1733 and a first church was built in 1788. The present stone church and the convent were built from 1803 to 1836. The church structures, made of coral stones, were fortified to serve as a fortress during Moro raids. The facade of the church is adorned by intricate stone carvings of angels with the image of St. Michael as its main centerpiece atop the church’s doors. Three windows openings are located on the second level of the church which I presume served as lookout stations during raids. The belfry, completed on 1830, stands adjacent to the church, dominating the skyline of Argao. The church and the belfry stand majestically facing the sea, as if it was a guardian protecting the quaint town. One thing that really struck me was the beauty of the church’s interior. The church stands out for its beautifully painted ceilings of biblical stories by Cebuano painter, Raymundo Francia, and a Boholano painter. The altar stands in golden hues with images of the archangels. St. Michael Archangel, the church’s patron saint, is the centerpiece of the altar. There are smaller altars on the transepts of the church. The plaza is surrounded by a coral stone fence. There are small altars mounted on three corners of the plaza where one can offer a prayer. One unique feature of the coral fence is the 14 stone relief depicting the Via Crusis. This feature is unique to Argao. Argao Government Complex Just a stone-throw away from the church complex is the well-preserved Argao Complex. The open park fronting the Casa Real is home to a collection of memorabilias from the Spanish period. An old community well once served as the only source of potable water, news, and gossip in town. Old Spanish cannons, that dates back to the 1600, are on display at the park. These cannons were mounted on the protective walls of the pueblo to protect them from Moro attacks. The Casa Real is located on one end of the park. Built in the 1880s, the structure follows a bahay-na-bato architecture where the base and first floor are made of coral stones and the second floor is made from wood. It is the oldest municipal hall in the province and has been under rehabilitation when I visited Argao. The first floor is being utilized as a government offices while a large part of the second floor is under rehabilitation. There are some artifacts on display that showcases the heritage value of Argao. Adjacent to the Casa Real is another heritage structure that now serves as Argao’s Hall of Justice. The structure was built during the last century of the Spanish occupation and was originally used as an “Escuela de Ninos”. It was later used as a barracks during World War 2 where it was damaged. It was repaired after the war to become a school and later the home of the Regional and Municipal Trial Courts in Argao. The well-preserved church and government complex of Argao gives us a snapshot of the town’s colorful past. The arrival of the Spaniards has strengthened its position in the local economy that paved the way for the building of these infrastructures. It is great to see that a large part of its heritage has been kept intact, largely driven by the strong partnership of its community and the local government. Balay sa Agta From the stories of its colorful past, we ventured inland in search of a local folklore where a giant is believed to have once lived in the mountains of Argao. The giant is believed to have homed inside a giant cave along the Argao River. This spot has once become an attraction but was closed by the LGU because of a freak accident that claimed a life. The search for this cave started at the town market where we met a habal-habal driver who was familiar with the place. We had to endure a 40-minute ride through cemented, rough road, and dirt trails to the jump-off point. We then had to do a 15-minute hike through a trail covered by foliage. This is where we found out that this attraction was closed to the public after a hiker died after falling off a steep cliff along the trail. Yes, you need to be extra cautious during the hike and our guides were nice enough to keep us safe along the trail. We were able to get close enough to the huge opening of the cave. The huge opening could fit a giant and that was probably why we had that folklore going around. We were not allowed to venture any further for our safety. Our guides even joked that the giant were no longer welcoming with guests as it had placed snakes at the entrance. Sadly, I hope the LGU would reconsider opening this attraction to give Argao two different stories to enjoy and explore. Bugasok Falls A few minutes away from Balay sa Agta is another attraction - Bugasok Falls. Running along the Argao River, this falls is void of the majestic high water drops or the lush foliage that gives it a dramatic vibe. But its rustic vibe and peaceful surroundings, make it a perfect place to just relax and unwind. We viewed the waterfalls from the top and it gave us a good view of its small cascade. Our guide said that the base of the pool is deep and that they use to jump into it when they were younger. I got to enjoy dipping mg feet into the cold waters upstream. Bugasok Falls may not look majestic or instagrammable but the rustic ambiance is enough to make one enjoy getting close to nature. Tubod Spring Community Pool One thing that really caught my attention when reading about Argao was it has a lot of spring pools. Our guide even shared with us that one of Argao’s attractions was a mountain resort known for its spring pools. I am not a huge fan of “commercial” resorts that I opted to visit a lesser known spring pool that surprised, not us, but the locals. Imagine the shock and amusement of local Argwanons when two “Tagalog” explorers show up in their community pool thinking that it was a tourist attraction. They were doing their usual household chores like taking a bath and doing their laundry when we show up to take pictures and swim into the pool. The look of amusement on their faces as we enjoyed the cold fresh water is one for the books. In no time, locals were slowly streaming in to check on the “tourists”. The Tubod Community Pool is a small pool that is about a size of a badminton court. The sides were cemented for easier access and convenience for locals who use the pool for their everyday chores like bathing and doing their laundry. The headwaters spring from an underwater source and flows through to the sea. It is not an attraction but functions more as a community water source for everyday use. Something that city guy and gals don’t see and experience regularly. Interestingly, there are a lot of these pools in Argao and in the province. These pools serve as community nerve centers where you get to do daily tasks while sharing the latest news and gossips in the community. While the bigger pools have been opened to tourism, the smaller ones are more for communal use of the communities. These community pools, like Tubod, shows us what we are missing in the city and making us realize that the best things in life are indeed free. POST TRAVEL NOTES Argao is one of the largest and oldest municipalities in the province of Cebu. Its existence pre-dates the Spanish occupation so it is not surprising that it has a collection of stories to share, from local tales to historical annotations. It is one of those places that are often passed through but seldom given that highlight as a tourist destination. However, given the chance to be captivated by its beauty, one would agree that it is one destination that is “agaw eksena”! There were two things that I have picked up during my visit in Argao. The first is the possibility for an LGU to work hand in hand with the community in creating local tourism opportunities within its jurisdiction. We can keep the stories, whether historical or folklore, alive that were created in the past for the present and future generations. The second lesson is that the community proves to be a focal point in making these initiatives come into fruition. If the LGU and the community come together, they can create tourism projects that will resound to both local and international tourists. I hope Argao takes on that challenge. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli ***This Cebu City blog series is a personal project that will have me getting around and re-discovering the Queen City of the South. Walking while exploring Cebu City is a great way to sweat it out just before the holiday celebrations. Talking about sweating it out… Anytime Fitness is set to open its next club right at the heart of Cebu City - Anytime Fitness Robinsons Fuente. Check out their social media pages for more information and to get the best membership offers: Getting there: Major local and international airlines have direct flights to Cebu. You can take a cab to the South Bus Terminal where you can take a Ceres bus to Bato via Oslob. Tell the bus ticket teller that you will be going down the Poblacion area of Argao. You can walk or take a trike to the heritage area of Argao. If you are planning to take a trip to the cave and falls, you can hire a habal-habal stationed in the Argao Public Market.
The establishment of a colony in Cebu marked that start of the colonization of the Philippines under Spanish rule. Cebu City was the first to be colonized. In no time, business and commerce got stronger in the first established Spanish-period city. The buzz created a bustling business community in Cebu - the Parian. The Parian District of Cebu was once the business center of the city. Its streets were often busy with day-to-day trading. The grand homes of the affluent families once stood side by side showcasing the lavish lifestyles of the rich. Although business activities have slowly expanded in different areas of Metro Cebu, the district has maintained its business temperature, similar to that of Manila’s Quiapo and Sta. Cruz, and a historical core that gives you a glimpse of the district’s glorious past. Cebu Cathedral The Parian District once had three churches sitting at close distance - The Minore Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu, the Cebu Cathedral, and the Parian Church. Only the first two churches remain standing today while the third church was demolished to avoid further conflict within the parian community. Established in 1595, the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is also known as the Parish of St. Vitalis and of the Immaculate Conception. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Cebu and is the center of the Catholic faith in the region. The church stands in all its grandeur just a block away from the Minore Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu. Its white-washed facade stands prominently along the Parian district giving us a full look of the Cebuano’s faith through the years. The interior of the church gives it a sanctuary vibe. The high ceiling and the solid wall creates a sense of security inside the church. One will also be amazed by the grand beauty of its altar that radiates in gold. The church is a silent witness to the birth of Christianity in the Philippines making it one structure that is significant in both religion and history. Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu Just right beside the Cebu Cathedral is a heritage structure that serves as the repository of religious artifacts of the archdiocese. It is an ecclesiastical museum that features the architecture and artifacts of the region. It gives its guests a glimpse of the rich past of the region when it comes to the growth of the Catholic faith in the Visayas. The museum is housed in the former rectory of the church that was built in the mid-1800s. It is one of the few Spanish-period structures that was spared from the devastation World War 2. The structure was built under the bahay-na-bato architecture with a huge courtyard. Officially opened in 2006, it aims to be an instrument to spread and strengthen the faith in the region. The first floor houses a chapel, a patio, and the courtyard. The chapel features religious artifacts collection from some of the old churches in the region. Its main draw is the chapel that features the relics of saints on display where you can also offer your prayers. The patio, with a small fountain at the center, opens to the courtyard of the museum. The old surviving bells of the cathedral are also on display at the courtyard of the museum. The second floor of the museum features exhibits artifacts on the humble beginnings of Christianity in Cebu. It also gives a detailed description and analysis of architectures of churches and cemeteries that highlight the influences of these designs, from cemetery chapels to church courtyards. Personal effects of former church leaders are also on display giving you a glimpse of how they lived humbly during their terms. The exhibit gives you a brief on the lives of religious leaders as they lived in their times. The Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu is a great way to look into the roots of Christianity in the country. It gives you a better understanding of the Catholic faith that should strengthen your faith to the Lord. In the end, the objective of the museum is to strengthen one’s faith through its exhibits. It is meant to make its guest realize how one’s faith can and will surpass time. Colon Street A five-minute walk from the Cebu Cathedral brings you to the oldest street in the Philippines - Colon Street. The “Dalan Colon” traces its beginnings when the Spanish Conquistador, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, established a colony in the 16th century. Colon was built in 1565 and was named after Christopher Columbus. The 1.17-kilometer street connects the Parian District to the Spanish colony complex during its early years. This historical street was later developed as a business and commerce district of the old Cebu. As the city developed and expanded, it has been run down and is now referred to as downtown. We could say that, at present, its is similar to the Quiapo and Binondo area of Manila where old businesses still thrive. An Obelisk now stands on the end of the street where a historical marker and a old photograph of the street was installed to indicate its historical significance in the development of the city and the country. Heritage of Cebu Monument Located at the heart of the Parian District, the Heritage of Cebu Monument stands as a majestic representation of Cebu’s historical significance. It is a tableau of the significant points of history that older the city and the country - from the Battle of Mactan to the Cebuano’s faith to the Santo Nino to the inauguration of the first Cebuano President, Sergio Osmena, to the canonization of Pedro Calungsod. The monument is the Cebuano’s story in one huge artwork. The monument historically stands close to the site where the third Parian Church, St. John the Baptist Church, once stood. The monument was made from concrete, bronze, brass, and steel. It was a collaborative work by sculptor Eduardo Castillo, Architect Heradio Espanol, and Architect Ildefonso Santos. The Heritage of Cebu is the centerpiece of the Parian Park and serves as a welcome icon to the city’s Parian District. 1730 Jesuit House I have visited and explored the city of Cebu numerous times BUT the 1730 Jesuit House was my BIGGEST discovery in this trip. Who would have thought that hidden behind an unassuming warehouse is the oldest Jesuit House in the country. I accidentally stumbled on this gem after seeing it on google map while in the area and, after checking it out, got me VERY interested. The old soul in me had giddy to explore the house. As shared by the guide, the house was part of the property that was bought in the 1960s to serve as a warehouse and office of the Sy-owned business. There were indications that the house was old, including an engraved medallion bearing the year 1730, however it was only in the 70s where the family found out its religious and historical significance. This marked the beginning of the restoration process of the oldest known Jesuit House in the country. It has now become a repository of historical artifacts and personal effects of the family passed on from generation to generation. There are two buildings in the compound. As you enter Building A, you will be walked through a brief history of the house where you will be given a brief on the house’s significance and discovery. Historical artifacts, excavated during its restoration, are also on display, indicating how the structure aged very well. There have been some renovations done in the house but a large part of the house, foundations and flooring, remain in its original state. The upper floors have become a repository of personal effects of the Sy family giving you a glimpse of their life in different periods. These personal effects include furnitures, old photographs, and fixtures that were in use during their time. What is interesting is how these stories are weaved into the house’s history. You literally walk through different time periods inside the house. Of course, there are also paranormal stories that were shared that usually forms part of the colorful history of heritage structures. Building B is believed to be the old house’s balcony which has been converted into an office and residential area. The old house was also believed to have a watch tower when it was under the Jesuits. It was great to see that the Sy owners were quick to keep the house intact even when they could have torn it down for business. They kept it close to its original design thus keeping its heritage and cultural value. The 1730 Jesuit House, despite hidden from plain site, gives us centuries of stories that helps us understand how our history was molded - from the Spanish period to the present. Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House Another popular ancestral house to visit in Cebu is the Yap-Sandiego House just a block away from the 1730 Jesuit House. It is one of the oldest houses in the Parian district and is believed to have been built in the 1700s by Chinese merchant, Don Juan Yap. The bahay-na-bato house was built from coral stones and wood giving you a glimpse of the parian architecture during that period. It is often referred to as the “Balay nga Bato ug Kahoy” by locals. The ancestral house has been converted into a museum by the present Yap generation. It has served as the repository of family heirlooms and guests can view these period pieces that gives you a glimpse of the lifestyle of the Yap family spanning 8 generations. From antique furnitures to glasswares to religious images, the collections will overwhelm you with its beauty and history. The house also features traditional dance presentations on special days at the garden area. The wide collection of artifacts and heirlooms of the Yap-Sandiego House can be overwhelming since it is tightly displayed in a limited space. It is also still in use by the present owners and is also the venue of an annual dance celebration. It is one of the oldest houses in the Parian District and worth visiting to give you a feel of how the old Cebu looks and feels like. Casa Gorordo Built in the 1850s, Casa Gorordo Museum was once the home of the Gorordo clan who were originally from Spain. The house has been the home of the Gorordo’s since 1863 and has also once been the home of the first Filipino Bishop of Cebu, Father Juan Gorordo. The house has survived two revolutions and World War 2. The house have undergone some changes brought by the changes in time and beliefs and yet it has managed to keep its identity as an example of Cebuano architecture. The house was designed under the bahay-na-bato architecture with a huge lawn and azotea. The design and its size are a strong indication of the power and wealth of the Gorordo’s of Cebu. The heritage structure was turned into a museum that features the colorful cultures and practices of the parian district and the lifestyle of the families like Gorordo’s during that period. The first floor walked us through the Parian district’s life during its heydays. From its humble beginnings to the way of living to the religious practices, each section gives you an overview of how it was to live during that period. The second floor gives us a preview of the lifestyle of the Gorordo family. Each room was curated to show visitors how each room was utilized. From the receiving areas to the prayer room to the dining area, it showcased the beliefs and practices during that time. How each item at home is weaved into the story of the house. I was amazed at finding out that the banga that lined the windows at the azotea served as a coolant to the wind that blew over from the sea. The Casa Gorordo is the most updated museum among the galleries that I have visited in Cebu. You can opt to choose to have a guided tour or a tablet-guided tour. It gives you a complete experience that immerses you in the story visually and auditory. I recommend that you take the time to really understand the narration to get a better understanding of the Parian District of Cebu. POST TRAVEL NOTES: The Parian District of Cebu outlines the role of the Chinese and Meztizo in the development of Cebu to what it is today. It was once center of business and commerce and has been the home of prominent and rich families of Sugbo. It is amazing how the remaining structures give us a glimpse of how life was for these families during that period. The mirage of cultures and traditions that we try to recreate at present is just a nip on how grand life was back then. There will always be one destination that we will never get tired of visiting again and again. We don’t get tired exploring the old and, in the process, discovering something new that will make you fall in love more with the place. Cebu has this appeal that strikes me. I guess the old soul in me gravitates towards this city because of its old town charm and its natural beauty while I get to still enjoy living in a fast-paced environment. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli ***This Cebu City blog series is a personal project that will have me getting around and re-discovering the Queen City of the South. Walking while exploring Cebu City is a great way to sweat it out just before the holiday celebrations. Talking about sweating it out… Anytime Fitness is set to open its next club right at the heart of Cebu City - Anytime Fitness Robinsons Fuente. Pre-sales is set to start on September 15, 2023! Check out their social media pages for more information and to get the best pre-sales membership offers: Facebook: AF Robinsons Fuente Instagram: AF Robinsons Fuente #ChangeGetsYouMoving #GetFit4Life #BleedPurple Getting there: Major local and international airlines have direct flights to Cebu.
When Cebu City is mentioned in a conversation, the first things that come to my mind are the Santo Nino, Magellan’s Cross, the Cebu-Cordova bridge, Fort San Pedro, the Sinulog, and its amazing cityscape. I love the city because it fuses the rustic rural vibe and city rush perfectly. It is like I am in the city but not in the city kind-of-feel. Most of its visitors enjoy being part of its cityscape but little is known on the mountains that serves as its backdrop. From the usual attractions of Tops, Temple of Leah, and Taoist Temple, the mountains of the city remain untouched by most tourists. It is safe to say that a large part of its mountains have become the locals sweet and quick escape from hustle of the city, without the usual tourist fanfare. Let’s explore the mountains of Sugbo in a day. Celestial Garden / Starbuks Let’s start the day early with a quick hike along a trail that has become popular among locals - the Celestial Garden Trails. The trail starts at Paseo Arcenas where hikers walk along the paved main road passing through the villages and subdivisions. The trail would eventually lead into a dirt trail that snakes through the mountain side where the controversial Monterrazas de Cebu will soon be located. The view of the city landscape gets better as you get higher. I recommend that you start very early so you can catch a great view of the sunrise with the urban landscape of the city in the foreground. The Celestial Garden is located along this trail. This memorial garden stands out for the statues and “amphitheater” that were installed in the vast open area along the hills giving it a cool and unique vibe. It does not send off an eerie vibe that is usually associated with cemeteries. It actually seems more of a park with an amazing view of Cebu City. The sprawling open space and the amazing views of the city makes it a perfect spot to relax and catch your breath before continuing your hike. The views of the urban landscape become more commandingly beautiful as you get higher through the trail. The trail becomes narrower and steeper but the 180-degree view of the city of Cebu and the fresh air blowing from the sea is enough reward for the hike. At the top of the trail is a series of small coffee shops that imitate branded coffee shops - Starbucks and Kofi Ben. This early morning hike was a great way to start a day of exploring the mountains in Cebu. It was a good way to exercise that gave a rewarding view of the city that you can only see from this side of the Queen City. This was a side that only locals know and it was great to experience it first hand. Sirao Flower Farm Our next destinations would be along the usual tourist trail along the mountains of this city. We hopped on a habal-habal to explore the usual tourist spots. Let's start with the Sirao Flower Farm is one of the popular spots on this side of the city. Tucked along the hillside of Sirao, this barangay is popular for its flower production so it was not a surprise that flower gardens have become one its tourist draws. The Sirao Flower Farm is probably the most famous attraction as it gives you a localized version of Amsterdam. The garden is picturesque from any angle. The flower plots are neatly arranged to surround and impress its guests. It gives you that mood uplift while being surrounded by different variety of flowers. It is a visual sensory overload of colors. Structures were built in different spots of the garden to give the garden a more IG-worthy feel. The aesthetics of the garden complements the amazing mountain views that surround the garden. The beauty of the Sirao Flower Farm has made it to the list as one of the attractions to visit on this side of Cebu. It has managed to create an attraction from nature’s bounty and infuse a shot of creativity. Its appeal transcends across all ages. Temple of Leah Commissioned by Teodorico Adarna, this “temple” was built in honor of his late wife - Leah Albino-Adarna. The “temple” symbolized his undying love and devotion to his wife. It was a declaration of 5 decades of fruitful marriage. The structure started its construction in 2012. It was designed in Greek architecture and has 24 chambers. The chambers were designed to house an art gallery, a library, and a museum but these chambers remain inaccessible to the public still. You can take a peek from windows on how these rooms look like. A 10-foot statue of “Queen Leah” stand as the centerpiece of the temple’s receiving hall. The queenly image has been an attraction among its guests. The attraction sits along the hillside of Busay and gives a panoramic view of Cebu City and the Mactan Island. I personally think that the panoramic view of the metro is the biggest pull of this attraction. I enjoyed getting lucky with the view of a plane landing in Mactan with the Metro Cebu in the foreground. Cebu Taoist Temple Located inside a posh village in the city, the Cebu Taoist Temple is an attraction that has become part of its city mountain tours. This attraction is popular for its peaceful and serene vibe within the urban setting of Cebu. Beyond being a place of worship, the temple is more than just an attraction but a symbolic structure of Chinese influence in the Cebu. The Cebu Taoist Temple proudly displays Chinese architecture as you climb up the stairs to its main temple. The lawns are perfectly manicured that complements the serene mood of the temple. There are smaller chapels where you can light up incense and offer a short prayer. There are wishing pools where you can toss a coin to make a wish. The main temple is a beautiful centerpiece of the Cebu Taoist Temple. Please respect that taking pictures of the interiors of the temple and chapels are not allowed. The temple does offer a quick refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city while giving you a mild taste of China. You get to enjoy a panoramic view of Cebu City while enjoying the serenity of the place. I think that the best time to visit it is in the late afternoon to get that different glow of the city with the late afternoon sun. Just be mindful of the noise and those who are there to offer their prayers because, at the end of the day, the place remains to be a temple. A perfect spot to end the day with gratitude for a great time of safely exploring the mountains of Sugbo. POST TRAVEL NOTESThe mountains of Cebu is one of the less travelled destinations in Cebu City. Apart from the usual tourist routes, there are still a lot of off-beat attractions that remain hidden from tourists but enjoyed by the locals. I have heard that there are hiking trails that allow you to traverse through the mountain side of Cebu that gives you access to amazing city views and waterfalls. This is going to be my future travel endeavor - exploring the mountains of Sugbo! Locals are known to offer information on great spots in their community that are not along the popular tourist trail. More often than not, these are enjoyed by locals because it does not have the usual crowd and remains untouched by commercialization. I enjoy these spots because you get to see how locals see it before it hits mainstream tourist. I guess that is a badge that I would like to wear for most of my travels. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli ***This Cebu City blog series is a personal project that will have me getting around and re-discovering the Queen City of the South. Walking while exploring Cebu City is a great way to sweat it out just before the holiday celebrations. Talking about sweating it out… Anytime Fitness is set to open its next club right at the heart of Cebu City - Anytime Fitness Robinsons Fuente. Pre-sales is set to start on September 15, 2023! Check out their social media pages for more information and to get the best pre-sales membership offers: Getting there: Major airlines and ferries have regular trips to Mactan International Airport, Cebu City’s gateway. You can take a cab to Paseo Arenas, the jump off point to the trail to Celestial Garden and Starbuks. For the more popular mountain attractions in Cebu, you can take a habal-habal from Robinsons Fuente or at JY Square Mall for a half-day trip.
The start of the Philippines as a nation started when one voyager unintentionally landed his fleet in the one of the islands in Samar. The series of “island hops” eventually led to the conversion of locals to Christianity which gave birth to one of the grandest Philippine celebrations - the Sinulog. This trip will walk us through how the evolution of the Philippines as a nation from its humble beginnings in Cebu City Sugbu or Sugbo was the ancient name of the Queen City of the South. It was a major trading port long before the arrival of Magellan. It is believed that its present name “Cebu” was derived from the old Cebuano word “sibo” which roughly translates to “trade”. But, it was the arrival of Magellan in 1521 that placed the city in the map of colonizers and it took decades before another expedition was able to establish a colony. This colony, established in 1565 by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, would be called “Villa de San Miguel de Cebu”. Raja Humabon Monument Let’s start our history walk by honoring Raja Humabon - the first Filipino leader who embraced Christianity. His warm reception of Magellan’s fleet led to his baptism, together with his wife and 800 locals. This marked the start of colonization of the Philippines through religion. He was given the Christian name Carlos while his wife was named Juana. As a symbol of their conversion, an image of the Child Jesus was presented to them as a gift and this marked the start of the Sinulog story of the Cebuanos. A small park tucked between the road fork of P. Burgos Street in Cebu’s downtown honors this Cebuano leader. A monument depicting the strong leader and a NHI historical marker is its main draw. A smaller pylon monument honoring the leader stands at one end of the park. As mentioned, two of Cebu’s icons served as the pact of friendship between Humabon and Magellan - the Sto. Nino de Cebu and the Magellan’s Cross. Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu At the heart of the Cebuano’s Catholic faith is the Holy Child of Cebu. The whole province dances in celebration every 3rd Sunday to celebrate their faith to the Senor Santo Nino. The image was a gift to the wife of Raja Humabon, baptized as Juana, as a symbol of their conversion to Christianity. It has become an iconic symbol of the city. The Senor Santo Nino is housed in the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu. It is located two blocks away from the Raja Humabon Monument (not the church adjacent to it) and is one of the three original churches in the downtown or parian area. The present stone church was completed in 1740 and was built on the spot where the image of the Sto. Nino was found after colonizers, headed by Legazpi, burned down the village. The church is nearly 500 years old and it is the center of the celebration every 3rd Sunday of January. The church and convent stand majestically with its simple facade made from coral stones. An image of the Santo Nino was carved atop its arched doors. Its belfry stands adjacent to the church. An iron-cast bell with the inscription “Santo Nino del Zebu” is on display at the base of the belfry. The basilica’s gold altar is one of the grandest that I have ever seen. The four-tier retablo looked magnificent with the saints lined up on the upper tiers. The image of the Santo Nino and the Crucified Christ stands as its centerpiece. A smaller altar adjacent to the main altar bears the original image of the Senor Santo Nino. Pilgrims and visitors can get an upclose look at the image. Most pilgrims pray their petitions to the image. Interestingly, devotees of the Santo Nino wave at the image, like a child waving, as a form of respect to the revered image. The church complex houses the convent, a pilgrimage center, a museum, and a library. It is one of the most visited church in the province for its history and for its faith expression. The Senor Santo Nino is symbolic in both history and religion as it signaled the start of the country’s nation building and the spread of the Christian faith in the Philippines. Magellan’s Cross Just a stone-throw away from the Minor Basilica is another symbol of faith and colonization - Magellan’s Cross. The story of Magellan’s voyage more than 500 years ago is a common story in our history classes. The wooden cross was planted by Magellan along the shores of Cebu during the mass where Raja Humabon was converted to Christianity. The cross is a symbol of Christianity’s beginnings in the Philippines. Magellan’s Cross is housed in a small chapel just a few steps from one of the gates of the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu. The location is the exact area where Magellan planted the wooden cross. The Tindalo wooden cross that we see today encloses the original cross. The paintings on the ceilings of the small chapel outlines the story of what happened during that fateful day. Devotees and tourists flock to this tourist attraction that has become one of the icons of this city. Fort San Pedro and Plaza Independencia The arrival of Magellan was the first recorded contact of “Filipinos” with colonizers from the west. However, it was 4 decades after Magellan’s death that the Spanish colonizers was able to establish a colony in the Philippines. It was Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established the colony and was called Villa de San Miguel de Cebu. This marked the start of the development of the oldest city in the Philippines - Cebu City. Unlike Magellan’s voyage, Legazpi and his crew were met with hostilities among the locals. This was the reason behind the construction of one of the oldest forts in the country, Fort San Pedro. This small triangular fort was intended to protect the colonizers from night-time attacks coming from the sea. This is the reason why two sides of the fort face the sea while one side faces land. We don’t get to see that beach side of the fort nowadays because of the reclamations done in the area. The fort is the smallest Spanish fortress in the country. It was built using stone mortars and has 3 bastions - La Concepcion, Ignacio de Loyola, and San Miguel. The entrance to the fort stands on the side that faces the city. The fortress was the nucleus of the first Spanish colony in the Philippines. Fort San Pedro and Plaza Independencia is now a sprawling park in the city. The fort has its own museum and a courtyard that can be used for events. Plaza Independencia is a Spanish-period public space that has been developed and also recognized for its historical value. The plaza also has a monument honoring the Spanish Navigator and the first Governor-General of the Philippines - Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. National Museum - Cebu The recently inaugurated National Museum Cebu Component makes its home in the historic structure of the Old Custom House of the Cebu Port Authority. It was under the leadership of Former President Rodrigo Duterte that the heritage structure, designed by William Parsons and constructed in 1910, got the support for its re-use to showcase Visayan history and culture. The first floor of the National Museum has three galleries. The first gallery showcases the natural resources and wonders of Cebu and the Visayas. The second gallery walks you through the early days of Cebu City, giving you a preview of its rich pre-colonial past. The third gallery features the existing culture and way of life in the region. The three galleries give you a deeper understanding of the rich history and heritage of Cebu and the Visayas. The second floor is a gallery of creativity. You get to marvel at contemporary art pieces, from 2D to 3D, by local artists in the region. The gallery opens with a huge painting of the “Battle of Mactan”. On exhibit are art works that would test your own brand of creativity. The component museum is a good start to know about the history, culture, and creativity of Cebuanos and the Visayans. The move to create this learning institution in the city, where our story as a nation began, was a good one as it brings both locals and tourists into the heart of the action. It makes us understand the stories behind the sights and sounds of the city’s attraction. POST TRAVEL NOTES Cebu is my happy place. It has a unique and homey vibe that fuses urban and provincial life in a perfect blend. It is a city that I would never get tired visiting over and over again. With the opportunity to revisit the city’s rich culture and history again, it gives me more time to discover something new and appreciate the uniqueness of the city that has long charmed its way to my heart. This is just the start. History is a good way to start understanding our present. Understanding how it started gives us a clearer picture of the whys. In the same way, we need to go back and see how we started as a nation. How it all began. Knowing the past can give us a deeper learning on how we can be better Filipinos. Next up… Cebu City’s Parian District. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli ***This Cebu City blog series is a personal project that will have me getting around and re-discovering the Queen City of the South. Walking while exploring Cebu City is a great way to sweat it out just before the holiday celebrations. Talking about sweating it out… Anytime Fitness is set to open its next club right at the heart of Cebu City - Anytime Fitness Robinsons Fuente. Pre-sales is set to start on September 15, 2023! Check out their social media pages for more information and to get the best pre-sales membership offers: Getting there: Major local and international airlines have direct flights to Cebu.
When you have got a free day in Cebu, where do you go? You can choose to go around the city or choose to explore the nearby destinations to enjoy the sights and sounds of the province. In my case, I decided to head south to explore a town that has become a tourism icon for its animal interaction. Only this time, I am exploring the town for a quick shower, walk through its history, and a quick saltwater swim. This is Oslob! Just a 4-hour bus ride away from the Queen City of the South, Oslob is a small coastal municipality facing the Bohol Sea. This destination is known as the home of one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country and for its collection of historical structures. However, it was the controversial “taming” of the whale sharks that eventually paved the way for this small town to become a tourism icon of Cebu. This blog will not feature “tamed” sea creatures but it is about going back to what Oslob has long been known for. Tumalog Falls Tucked along the mountains of Oslob is one of the most beautiful waterfalls that I have ever visited and seen - Tumalog Falls. Getting there is quite easy as you can hire a “habal-habal” to get to the jump-off point from the main highway. At the jump-off point, you can go for a 15-minute downhill leisure walk or ride another “habal-habal” to get to the entrance of the park. We chose to go for the faster and more thrilling ride downhill. The nature park has basic facilities like a restroom and picnic huts for its guests. A Php50 entrance fee is charged by the LGU at the gate. Dirt trails lead up to the base of the falls. There are a lot of good vantage points to see the full beauty of Tumalog. Of course, there’s the popular view spot that you have seen on socmed but you need to line up (a really long one) and give a tip for that human drone shot. In my case, I chose to own my view point rather than go for the usual, giving me more time to enjoy the view and the waters. Two things that will immediately catch your attention when you come face-to-face with Tumalog Falls are the shower-like cascade and its turquoise waters. What makes Tumalog unique is its shower cascade unlike others that have a strong single cascade. You can literally stand at the base and enjoy a very cold shower as its spring waters cascade along its umbrella-like rock formations. It is like taking a quick shower under a strong rain. It shocks your body with very cold water while giving you a hard and soothing shoulder and back massage. The waters of Tumalog Falls cascade from a height of about 80 meters into a small and shallow basin. One can swim and enjoy the waist-deep turquoise waters of the falls while enjoying the views of its surrounding forests. Word of caution, though, because of Oslob’s popularity, this nature destination can draw a crowd on a weekend so make sure that you bring a lot of patience when visiting Tumalog Falls during the peak days. Habal-Habal Rate: Php150 per head roundtrip from main highway to Tumalog Falls Jump-off to Cangcua-ay Private Beach Resort. Make sure to arrange the time you want to be picked up at the jump-off. Tumalog Jump off Habal-Habal Rate: Php50 per head roundtrip. Tumalog Falls Entrance Fee: Php50 per head. You can rent out a cabana at Php300 if you plan to stay longer than usual. Beach Spot: Cangcua-ay Private Beach With the exception of Sumilon Island’s white sandbar, Oslob’s coastline is composed of a mix of rocky cliffs and sandy beaches. It does not have a a long beach strip where beach bums like me can just relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. The beach strip that they have does not allow swimming as its “tamed” whale sharks are just a few meters away from the shore. In fact, my habal-habal driver cannot recommend any beach spots when I asked him where we can swim and enjoy beach bumming. BUT… the beach person in me wouldn’t go home without getting tanned and salty so, from a suggestion of a traveler friend, we discovered and explored the Cangcua-ay Private Beach in Barangay Tan-awan. Expect to walk down the 254 steps from the entrance to the private beach enclave. You get to enjoy the views of the Bohol Sea, Sumilon Island, and Siquijor as you traverse down the steep steps to the beach. Cancua-ay is a perfect spot to beach chill. We got to enjoy the waters of Oslob without the crowd even if it was a Sunday. It was rocky cove with portions of white sand shores that gave me a much-needed beach break. You can enjoy lazing around on the hammock while immersed in saltwater, go for a quick swim, or challenge your fear of heights by jumping off the platform. The entrance fee of Php150 allows you a day trip access to the beach where you can us the cabanas without extra charge. You just have to make sure that you have everything with you when you go down as you don’t want to tire yourself up traversing the steps. I must agree Cancau-ay is a perfect spot for beacb day trip to disconnect and recharge your mind and body. Entrance fee: Php150 per head for a day trip Daanglungsod Baluarte Ruins Baranggay Daanglungsod holds a historical treasure that is often overlooked by visitors of Oslob. Reading through the town’s history, the present-day location of the town center was not the first location. In fact, it was at Daanglungsod where the first community was established hence the name of the barangay that roughly translates to “old town/city”. This location stands about a kilometer south of the present-day town center. Just like any old Spanish town, watch towers or “baluartes” were built to protect and warn the town and its people from attacks of Moro pirates. The ruins of a huge baluarte stands as the only mute witness to the original community of Oslob. It hides conspicuously behind trees, vegetations, and modern structures along the highway. If you are not aware of its existence, you would probably miss out on it. I just hope that the LGU would also give ample attention to its preservation for its historical value. Church of the Immaculate Conception Completed in 1847, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, or more popularly known as Oslob Church, is one of the heritage structures around the towns historical core. The church is made coral stones and reinforced by lime cement. A 30-meter bell tower stands adjacent to the church that was built in 1858 under Father Apolinar Alvarez. Natural and man-made disasters have damaged the church but the faith of the locals of Oslob would always rise above to rebuild and restore their beloved church. The Oslob Church is a dominant structure in town. The simple and yet imposing facade exude a vibe of protection over the town of Oslob. The interior of the church exudes the same simplicity with only the image of the Immaculate Conception as the centerpiece of its altar. The church is simple and elegant as if telling us that faith need not be complicated. All it takes is for us to simply believe. The church complex is home to a number of historical structures. The church wall and gates are being re-constructed to complement the church. The walls served as the church’s protection from pirates. A small coral chapel stands just right across church while an old Spanish well can also be found within the church grounds. Trike fare from Cancua-ay Beach: Php50 per head Calle Aragones Running along the left side of the church is the oldest street in Oslob - Calle Aragones. The street served as the main processional route of the church. A historical marker was mounted by the LGU that recognizes the historical value of the street. It still serves as a vital link of the main highway to the adjacent streets and the businesses in the area. This is where you would find the Oslob Municipal Hall and its community center. It still serves as the main access to the town’s historical attractions from the national highway. Cuartel Ruins The Cuartel Ruins stands at the end of Calle Aragones. The construction of the cuartel or barracks started in the 1860s and were suppose to be the residence of Spanish troops. However, the arrival of the Americans halted the construction of the cuartel leaving it at its current state. The cuartel is made up of thick coral stones from the ruins of the bell tower. The foundations were built strong that it has withstood time and natural calamities. It is the most photographed historical structure in Oslob. The structure is dramatic and walking along the corridors of the Spanish ruins challenges your creativity as you try to capture the drama the unfinished Spanish structure in your photos. Cuartel Beach and Baluarte Ruins Cuartel Beach is the “baywalk” area of the town. Located at the back of the Cuartel Ruins, this reclaimed area was converted into a sprawling open park that gives one a calm view of the Bohol Sea. What makes this bay park really unique is the clear and clean waters of its beach which makes it quite tempting to jump into. You can even enjoy watching schools of fish lounge around its breakwaters. You can also find the ruins of a Baluarte or watch tower on one end of the park. The Baluarte is one of the 12 watch towers built in Oslob to protect the town from pirates. A monument honors Father Julian Bermejo who spearheaded the construction of these baluartes which totaled to 40 and ran the length from Carcar to Santander. His biggest contribution was the construction of the Oslob Church which he completed in 1847. The park is a perfect way to slow you down after a day of exploring nature and history in Oslob. You can take a seat in one of the benches and just breathe in the view of the sea and enjoy the breeze. I seldom get this kind of views in metro so I really took it in. It was calming and recharging. Oslob was perfect in its simple state. POST TRAVEL NOTES My day trip to Oslob was definitely a much needed pause and recharge for me. It gave me a cold freshwater shower and a quick saltwater dip. It gave me the opportunity to commune with nature while appreciating history. It was like getting the best of two worlds at the same time. It was refreshing and recharging. Oslob, at its basic, is OsLove! Exploring a place, for what it is, is an exciting adventure. You get to see the real beauty of the destination and not what it is trying to adopt. It makes you fall in love for what it truly is. Destinations need not re-invent its wheel to gain tourism traction. All it needs to do is to look within and uncover what they have to offer that they can truly say is uniquely their own. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: Major local and international airlines have direct flights to Cebu. You can take a cab from the airport to the Cebu South Bus Terminal where you can take a bus to Bato via Oslob. You just tell the ticket seller and the bus conductor to drop you off at the stop going to Tumalog Falls or at the Oslob town proper.
Mention the word “Elyu” and the first thing that comes into people’s mind are the swells of San Juan. After all, it is the hippiest and the hottest place to be, on this side of Luzon with its waves, food, and festive nightlife. It is the province’s tourism draw at this time after having stayed in the sidelines for quite a while. But beyond the beers and cheers, we discovered a more subdued nature spot tucked along the hills of Pugo - Balay Mamboo. Nestled along the slopes of the hills on the more rugged side of Elyu, Balay Mamboo is a homey enclave that is perfect for those looking for a tranquil spot to relax. It is about 3 hours away from Manila and about an hour away from San Juan or Baguio. This quaint resort can accommodate a maximum of 15 persons and has complete amenities - bedrooms, veranda, kitchen, a bonfire place, and a dipping pool for kids and adults. It is a great place where you can enjoy a slow weekend with good company. Urban Detox Spot Balay Mamboo is in the quaint town of Pugo so you can expect to enjoy a provincial kind of living. Apart from your internet connectivity, it is very far from the usual humdrum of the city. There is nothing much to do so you get to enjoy your me time or sharing stories with your family and/or friends. You get to watch the whole day pass and you get to choose what you want to do and when you want to do it. You can go for a walk around town and enjoy the hustle of their market. You can choose to walk around and explore the area around Balay Mamboo. You can also choose to just take the time off and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the place. Bottomline, Balay Mamboo and Pugo slows you down. It gives you that needed break from the “noise”. You learn to appreciate a more laidback kind of living that you won’t get in the city. Nature Escape Balay Mamboo was designed as a modern nipa hut. The second floor is a large living room/bedroom area that is open so air freely flows through the structure. The first floor is where you would find the kitchen and dining area. Adjacent to it are the veranda, the dipping pools, and the bonfire area. The best part of it is that the place is surrounded by lush greens which gives the place a tranquil vibe. The place gives you the opportunity to commune and get re-energized by nature. You get to be serenaded to sleep by the nature’s evening sounds and you wake up to the lively chirping of birds. The fresh air and spring water pool gives you a refreshing break from the usual chlorinated water and musky air of the city. You get to enjoy the sun with nature surrounding you. You get to feel, see, hear, and breathe in nature’s beauty and bounty at Balay Mamboo. Chill Down Balay Mamboo gives off a homey vibe. The design of the house opens opportunities to interact with your family and friends. You get to cook together, share meals, and even sleep together. You get to spend time chilling with your companions in a comfortable and relaxed ambiance. You can also enjoy sharing stories while toasting marshmallows or enjoy a quick dip at the pool under the canopies. Since the place is tucked along the hills, you can enjoy laughing your hearts out or singing to your favorite songs from sundown to sun-up. You can share drinks while enjoying a round of games. Balay Mamboo is a great venue to make relationships stronger in a fun and relaxed vibe. POST TRAVEL NOTES Social media has been pivotal in bringing forward destinations that are interesting and worth exploring. This has been my case when I first came across Balay Mamboo in Pugo. It was a simple a tiktok post that I turned into a venue of a birthday celebration. It was a perfect spot that describes me in general - exploring, nature lover, chill, and loves to have fun. Let me be clear, this is not a paid partnership. It is an honest review and part of my advocacy to promote destinations and spots that deserve to be highlighted. As a local traveler, it is not just about locations. It is also about small businesses that leave a smile on our faces. This was the first time that I celebrated my birthday out of the usual and Balay Mamboo gave me exactly what I was looking for - a fun and tranquil enclave away from home. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli Getting there: You can contact Balay Mamboo through their Facebook page: Balay-Mamboo. The enclave is located along the national highway in Pugo La Union. You can go down at Brgy, Ambangonan at the road leading to the Ambangonan Elementary School where you can walk to Balay Mamboo. Alternatively, you can go down at the junction in Pugo and take a trike to Balay Mamboo. If you are bringing a car, you can use Waze for the direction.
With a few more provinces to explore to complete my #GOTPH81 project, it got me thinking on what PH destinations I would love to re-visit. The Philippines has a thousand reasons to make you fall in love with it but there will be destinations that will live an imprint on you. This are not the usual destinations that you frequently visit but these spots have charmed their way enough that makes you want to return and explore it again and/or discover more. In short, you got captivated and you want to see more. In my case, eto yung mga lugar na tumatak sa akin as I went around getting lost around the Philippines. I have only been on these destinations once but I was captivated that I want to visit and explore it again, even if it has been years since I visited these spots. A common denominator among these PH destinations is having me fall in love with its laidback and rustic vibe, far from my usual day. These spots slowed me down and gave me a different understanding of the phrase “the best things in life are free”. Sagada Sagada is totally a different world. It is rustic and ethereal where its culture and natural beauty perfectly blends homogeneously. Tucked in the rugged mountains of the Cordillera, Sagada got its reputation as a destination for those who are soul searching. The place is laidback where time seem to standstill. You get to be surrounded by the beauty of nature while getting immersed in their culture. Sagada slows you down and gets you grounded on yourself and nature. What I loved about Sagada was its laidback community vibe. Visitors are treated like family and adjusts to the ways of the community. Locals were able to preserve their way of life and imbibes the same respect to its visitors towards their way of life. Its natural attractions are simply breathtaking. Whether you are an outdoor kind of guy or a food geek, there is always a corner for you in Sagada. Sagada is developing and there are more attractions catching the attention of travelers. I would like to catch the sunrise at Kiltepan Point and then marvel at the beauty of its blue soil. I would like to delve my hand on Sagada culture. I would try my hand on pottery and then find my own corner in Sagada to enjoy the peace and quiet on this side of the Philippines. You can read about my Sagada travel here: #GOT81MountainProvince: Sagada In Its True Form Marinduque Marinduque is the geographical heart of the Philippines. With that said, it is also interesting to note that the island is also shaped like a heart. It is an island province that was made popular by its Moriones Festival - a Holy Week celebration where locals go around town in their Morion outfit as part of their “panata” or faith promise. Part of the celebration includes the re-enactment of the suffering of Jesus Christ. But beyond this popular festival is an island that is proud of its history and natural beauty. Exploring the eastern side of Marinduque on two separate occasions have given me a glimpse of its natural beauty, from its white sand beaches to a sandbar to an amazing rock formation. There is no doubt that it is a beautiful island that nature blessed and its laidback vibe complements its natural beauty. I guess it is safe to say that it is an island where you can choose to chill down in its beach spots as you enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. There is more to this island that I want to experience. I would like to explore Boac and its collection of old houses. I would like to enjoy the beaches and the islands on the west side of the island. I would like to go face-to-face with one of its Morions and join in with the colorful celebrations of Marinduque. You can read about my Marinduque travel here: The Unexpected Twist, Roadblock, and Detour of Marinduque and Natanaw Din Ang Summer Sa Catanauan Romblon This group of islands is more than just its renowned marbles. From the high peaks of Guiting-Guiting to the clean spring waters of Catingas to the white sands of Cresta de Gallo, Romblon has something to offer to any type of traveler. This is destination where you get to enjoy the old town vibe as you immerse in its history and natural beauty. Romblon is a no frills destination. It is a place where you get to enjoy the small town community vibe where everyone knows each other and everyone knows you are a “dayo” or visitor. You get to explore the town like a local and you get to eat like a local. If you feel like hitting the beach, you can just take a quick trike ride to Bonbon Beach. If you are up for a history and a view, you can go check out Fort San Andres that offers a panoramic view of the town and its waters. Don’t forget to swing by Cresta de Gallo where the island defines how getting marooned on an island can be fun. I would like to see the different facets of Romblon. I want to explore their own version of Boracay and take the plunge by its cliff. I would like to enjoy a no frills trip where I get to experience the simple town life where you get to interact comfortably with locals. One where you can enjoy a really quiet evening. I would like to also to head back to Cresta de Gallo and once again enjoy the sunset on one side and the sunrise on the other side of the island. You can read about my Romblon travel here: #LaBoRomblon Guiuan Among all the PH destinations that I have been to, Guiuan is turning out to be my favorite. This Eastern Samar destination perfectly blends my love for history, nature, and adventure. I think it is a place that I can always enjoy chilling down. It is a no-frills destination with a lot of beach spots to visit - from crashing waves to still waters. Guiuan is an unassuming destination with a lot of activities that you can enjoy. You can choose a tame adventure of beach and/or historical church hopping to a more adrenaline-pumping activity like jumping off a bridge or sliding under it. These activities are just within reach from its laidback town center. It shouldn’t be a surprise that these activities seem to be a normal day-to-day life of locals. I would like to visit Homonhon Island one day and immerse in its history. I would like to see what Magellan saw. It would also be nice to try riding the waves on this side of the Philippines. I would like to stay here for at least a week and enjoy living like a local and enjoying the place like a local. Guiuan locked me in its charm with its laidback and rustic vibe. This is the kind of place where you get to chill and enjoy the best and simple things in life for free. You can read about my Guiuan travel here: #GOT65EasternSamar: Guiuan And Only and #GOT65EasternSamar: Guiuan And Only Pa Din or you can check out my YT travel channel here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Guiuan Siquijor This island is on fire! Siquijor exudes a different kind of appeal with its charm and its mysticism. Blessed with the beauty of nature, it is this same nature that fueled the fire of its local folklore - the mambabarangs. This destination was once feared but was weirdly interesting for me because of these beliefs and stories. My visit to Siquijor was a quick one. You can enjoy the island in a day by tricycle or motorbike where you get to see the island’s highlights. I enjoyed swinging into Cambugahay Falls but conked out in Salagdoong cliff jump. I loved the history of Lazi Church and the mystery that surrounds the church in Maria. I love its chill beach vibe while swinging on a makeshift swing made from a used rubber tire. Siquijor is a real beauty shrouded in “mystery”. Dark tourism is something that really interests me. This is the reason why Siquijor has indulged my curiosity. I would like to visit this island again and come face-to-face with a mambabarang, not to ask for charms or potions but to get an understanding of this unique island culture and belief. I mean, Siquijor is an island that is really beautiful and the mysticism that surround it makes it more appealing. You can read about my Siquijor travel here: De-mystifying Siquijor Siargao Siargao was a birthday treat and the trip did turn out to be a treat. Located on the eastern side of the country, this teardrop-shaped island initially gained popularity as a surfing destination. But beyond its rolling waves is a collection of natural attractions that will sweep you off your feet. It did not come as a surprise that, once these photos and videos hit social media, Siargao will be on almost everyone’s bucket list. One thing that I loved about Siargao is being a one-stop shop for its guests. It is an all-in-one destination for adventure, nature, party, and food. Yet, it still manages to keep everything “under the sheet” to maintain its rustic and laidback vibe. This is a place where you can walk barefoot along the road to your favorite restaurant or party the night away, in hidden in plain sight. You can face your fear of heights at Sugba Lagoon or enjoy a nice dip with the jelly fish. You can watch surfers catch the waves or be one of those catching the wave. Better yet, you can choose your own solitary spot to just enjoy the laidback vibe. More than just a treat, Siargao is a place that teaches you that there is a proper time for everything. There is a time for work, for your family or friends, and for yourself. It is a place where you can stay within your comfort zone or get out of it. It also teaches you to be nice to others because you would need the others to find out where tonight’s party will be. You can read about my Siargao travel here: #SiargaoNaNgaAngHinahanapNgPuso (Part 1) #SiargaoNaNgaAngHinahanapngPuso (Part 2) or you can check out my YT travel channel here: #ByahengOffTheGrid Siargao (Part 1) #ByahengOffTheGrid Siargao (Part 2) Hinatuan My trip to Hinatuan would always be well-remembered as this was where I received the news of the country’s COVID19 lockdown. The announcement cut short a trip that was suppose to take me across the eastern side of Mindanao. Hinatuan was the last destination that I visited pre-pandemic lockdown. I vividly remember having to stay out at a 711 store at 8pm as I toned down on the news. Why 711? It was the only store open at that time. That’s how provincial the vibe was of the place. The “entities” of Hinatuan must have blessed the place so much that its natural beauty continues to enchant its visitors. Its river, where fresh water meets sea waters, amazes you with its blue hues as you enjoy a quick dip in its cold waters. Further out to the sea, you can also enjoy interacting with stingrays at the Sibadan Fish Cage. You can also choose to just enjoy a day by the beach in one of the islands that dot the Hinatuan Bay. Although my trip was cut short, it gave me a glimpse of the rustic town of Hinatuan and its surrounding areas. There’s much to see and enjoy in this place. It would be good to one day go beyond the usual and enjoy the lesser known attractions in the area. You can read about my Guiuan travel here: Suri-WOW-ed or you can check out my YT travel channel here: #ByahengOffTheGrid CARAGA POST TRAVEL NOTES These are 7 destinations that gives you a glimpse of why I #LoveThePhilippines and the destinations of my preference. These places are just 0.09% of the total spots that you can explore in the Philippines. Our country has cities and provinces that cater to any kind of traveler, whether local or foreigners. You just need an eye for appreciation and a sense of Filipino pride. You can find your own reason to #LoveThePhilippines and you can always start in your home city or provinces. Do not be afraid to go out and explore the areas around you. Travel should start from your “home” because that is where you get to appreciate spots that on a regular day looks just the usual. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #SamaSamangBabangonMuli
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. Archives
February 2024
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