Sumilon Island, Cebu

Sumilon Island Beach


Sumilon Island Clear Water


Aerial view - Sumilon Island


Sumilon Island Beach


The serenity surrounding tiny Sumilon (meaning "take refuge") is a graceful invitation to open air seclusion. The island's breathtaking ocean views, lush tropical environment, and tranquil seas give you the space and peace to unwind. Clear blue waters with varying aquamarine hues, shifting white sands and the popular coral gardens of its marine sanctuary provide that unique ambiance.

The 24-hectare coral island, located on the southeastern tip of Cebu, is home to Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort.

HOW TO GET THERE

CEBU CITY TO SUMILON ISLAND
There are daily flights between Manila and Cebu City. From Cebu City, guests can take a scenic drive through the southern coastal towns of mainland Cebu. The ride offers glimpses of both Filipino urban and rural life, as well as its historical past that help form the local culture. Once outside the city limits, a relaxing trip begins through a tree-canopied highway with breathtaking views of the eastern seashores. The following are towns and places of interest along the way:

Carcar
Location : 46.3 km.South of Cebu City
Town Fiesta : November 25
Patron Saint : St. Catherine of Alexandria
Places of Interest:
-Balay’ng Tisa (Don Ramon Sarmiento’s Manor, built Feb. 2, 1859)
- Spanish Kiosk
-17th century church
-Villadolid Watchtowers
-Monument of Leon Kilat
- Caves in Barangay Mainit

Argao
Location : 66.9 km. South of Cebu City
Town Fiesta : September 28 - 29
Patron Saint Michael Archangel
Places of Interest:
-Beaches (Mahayahay, Mahawak, Kawit,Sunshine, Looc)
-Cave Lantoy (with streams, lake and spring inside it)
-Cave Kahilum (Bats live inside)
-Balay ug Colon Cave

Dalaguete
Location : 85.1 kms.S of Cebu City
Town Fiesta : February 9 - 10
Patron Saint : San Guillermo
Places of Interest:
-Centuries-old church
-Mantalongon Market
-Osmeña Peak
-Beach resorts

Boljoon
Location : 103 km South of Cebu City
Town Fiesta : 2nd Sunday of November
Patron Saint : San Patrocinio de Maria
Places of Interest:
-Centuries old church with separate belfry
-Eli - natural barrier against Moro raids Watchtowers

Oslob
Location : 117 kms. South of Cebu
Town Fiesta : December 8
Patron Saint : Virgen de la Inmaculada Concepcion
Places of Interest:
-Old Spanish cuartel ruins
-1788 church belfry
-Spanish era gazebo
-Nigad tree - centuries old legendary tree
- “Mainit” medicinal hot springs
-Sumilon Island - Marine Sanctuary, ideal for deep sea diving
-St. Joseph Church - Nueva Caceres








Source:

Distributor of food supplements based in Cebu to introduce more products

CEBU CITY — Food supplement distributor Uniherb Corp. plans to introduce 12 more products over the next three years.

Slimming product Slima and male potency supplement Hardman will be launched later this year. Athan, which is for vertigo, was recently launched. Nine more new brands, including a cure-all supplement, are in the pipeline.

Jonathan Guardo, Uniherb president, said the food supplements market has not been affected much by the economic slowdown because more consumers are becoming health-conscious.

The Cebu-based Uniherb, which is owned by the Guardo family, currently markets Arthro to manage arthritis, Diabet for diabetics, anti-cholesterol Heartvit, Kidney Care and Eye Berry.

"We are very confident because the people now prioritize their health. There’s a slowdown but it’s not as prominent as in other sectors. All players are still launching new products," he said.






Source: http://www.bworldonline.com/BW072709/content.php?id=046

University of San Carlos

University of San Carlos logo

University of San Carlos - South campus (formerly Girls High)
Address: Corners J. Alcantara St., P. Del Rosario Ext. and V. Rama Avenue.


University of San Carlos-North campus (formerly Boys High)
Address: Gen. Maxilom Ave., Cebu City


Talamban campus (TC - Technological Center)
Address: Talamban, Cebu City


University of San Carlos-Main Campus
Address: P. del Rosario St., Cebu City


The University of San Carlos is an education institution in Cebu City. It is the oldest school in the Philippines, established by Spanish Jesuits in 1595, and it is a Roman Catholic school of higher learning governed by the Society of the Divine Word since 1935. It offers pre-elementary and basic education as well as undergraduate and graduate courses, and a broad spectrum of academic programs through its eight colleges.

As the business and tourist hub of Southern Philippines, Metro Cebu provides Carolinians (as USC students are called) with a cosmopolitan setting where malls are just a few minutes away from the beaches, heritage towns, or mountain resorts.

With its four campuses housing all levels of educational programs that include eight colleges and 27 departments, USC is truly a “universe-city” in its own right. International linkages now External Affairs and a steady influx of foreign students and visiting professors have made USC a multicultural academic community bonded by the common pursuit for global standards.

Course Offered:

• Doctor in Business Administration
• Doctor of Education
• Doctor of Management
• Master of Arts in Business Administration
• Master of Arts in Education
• Master of Arts in Education in Educational Administration
• Master of Arts in Elementary Education
• Master of Arts in Philosophy
• Master of Arts in Teaching
• Master of Education
• Master of Engineering
• Master of Management
• Master of Science in Information Technology
• Master of Science in Management Engineering
• Bachelor of Arts in English
• Bachelor of Arts in English Language
• Bachelor of Arts in Library Science
• Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
• Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
• Bachelor of Elementary Education
• Bachelor of Elementary Education major in English
• Bachelor of Elementary Education major in Filipino
• Bachelor of Laws
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Science in Accountancy
• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Banking and Finance
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Economics
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Management
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Management Accounting
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Marketing
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Economics
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management
• Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Information Management
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in Office Administration
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Tourism
• Bachelor of Secondary Education
• Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Biology
• Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English
• Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino
• Bachelor of Secondary Education major in History
• Associate in Accounting
• Associate in Computer Office Administration
• Associate in Computer Technology
• Associate in Hotel and Restaurant Management
• Associate in Tourism
• Diploma in Small Business Management

Campuses
Main Campus, Talamban Campus, North Campus, and South Campus.
How to get there

By Land Travel

New students and visitors from outside Cebu coming for the first time may reach USC by every available means of public transportation. Taxicabs available at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and at the Cebu Port area are the easiest and most convenient way to get from those entry points to the Main Campus in downtown Cebu. All taxis in Cebu are air-conditioned and metered. Flag-down rate is P30 and P2.50 for every 300 meters traveled thereafter.

For getting around the city, the cheapest way is the jeepney, the colorful “mobile folk art” first invented when some enterprising guys extended the US Army jeep into a minibus right after World War II. Jeepneys have fixed routes indicated on the sides of the vehicle. Fare ranges between the minimum of P6 and P10.
For example, the route from the Main Campus to Talamban Campus is P10. Jeepneys with code numbers 13B, 13C, 62B, or 62C ply this route. For the minimum fare, O1A jeepneys take you from the Main Campus to the South Campus, and those coded 04C will shuttle you to the North Campus. It’s a must for students skimping on their allowance and foreigners looking for exotic cheap thrills.
back to top


By Air Travel

Students benefit greatly from the recent boom in cheap air travel for both domestic and international routes. As the country’s second largest facility, the MCIA is a busy hub for major international and local airlines. Located in Lapu-lapu City in Mactan Island, the international airport is only 15 kilometers away from Cebu City.

The following is a list of airlines serving the MCIA:

Domestic

* Air Philippines (http://www.airphils.com/)
* Asian Spirit (http://www.asianspirit.com/)
* Cebu Pacific (http://www.cebupacificair.com/)
* Philippine Airlines (http://www.philippineairlines.com/)
* South East Asian Airlines (http://flyseair.com/)

International

* Asiana Airlines (http://us.flyasiana.com/Global/US/en/index)
* Cathay Pacific (www.cathaypacific.com)
* Cebu Pacific (http://www.cebupacificair.com/)
* Korean Air (http://www.koreanair.com/)
* Malaysia Airlines (http://www.malaysiaairlines.com/)
* Mandarin Airlines (http://www.mandarin-airlines.com/)
* Philippine Airlines (http://www.philippineairlines.com/)
* Qatar Airways (http://www.qatarairways.com/)
* Silkair (http://www.silkair.com/)

By Sea Travel

With its fine harbors, Cebu City is also the hub for local and international shipping. A number of ships with a capacity of 2,000 to 4,000 passengers ply the more distant routes such as Manila, Davao, Zamboanga and Cagayan de Oro. They offer slow but cheaper and more luxurious travel, complete with disco, arcades, restaurants, souvenir shops, karaoke and live entertainment on board.

Smaller inter-island ferries and fastcrafts also ply most routes from Cebu to the provinces. Cheap travel by boat delights local students going home to nearby towns and cities, and foreign ones eager for a change of scenery during the sembreak and summer vacations.

Contact Nos.

Main Campus
Connecting All Depts. 253-1000
Academic Affairs-Vice President 254-6694
Fax 253-7989
Administration-Vice President (Telefax) 253-8895
Admissions Office 255-8392
ALF Verbum Design 255-8154
Arts & Sciences, Dean (Telefax) 253-7193
Canteen,Steyler 256-2824
Carolinians Inc. (Telefax) 253-7507
Catholic Trade Cebu, Inc. 254-2884; 253-7867
Center for Religious Education (CREED) 253-9832
Commerce, Dean (Telefax) 253-3166
Credit Union (Telefax) 255-4208
DYDW Radio Station-FM 253-8183
DYRF radio Station-AM 253-8846
Finance-Vice President 253-1012
Purchasing (Telefax) 253-7699
Information Resource Management
IRM-ACS (Telefax) 254-6025
IRM-TNS & HDS 254-6644; Telefax 254-7268
International Linkages Office (Telefax) 253-7183
JPIC/IDC 254-7459; 253-325; Telefax 256-3463
Library System, Director (Telefax) 254-0432
President 254-1006; Fax 255-4341
Registrar (Telefax) 256-3305
Research Office (Telefax) 254-7742
Scholarships Office (Telefax) 253-5495
Testing Center (Telefax) 255-2433

North Campus
Connecting All Depts. (Telefax) 233-3145; 231-4012
Accounting 231-8706
Canteen,Steyler 234-1146
Clinic/Regitrar 233-7703
Elementary PTA 231-0273
Pricipal 232-4095
Steyler Inc.-Accounting 231-1013
Steyler Inc.-manager (Telefax) 231-8723

South Campus
Connecting All Depts. 254-0117; Fax 261-9586
Canteen,Steyler 255-1557
IRM-TNS & HDS 255-1284
Montessori 254-9385
Student Affairs Services-SGS 235-0760

Talamban Campus
Connecting All Depts. 344-3801
Admin TC, Telefax 346-0351
Arts & Sciences (CAS) 419-3004
Bursar 346-7939
Canteen,Steyler 345-1327
Chemical Eng'g., Chair (Telefax) 344-6783
Chemistry, Chair (Telefax) 344-6715
Civil Engineering, Chair (Telefax) 346-4615
EE/ECE, Chair (Telefax) 346-1099
IRM-TNS & HDS 346-7930
Maintenance & Calibration (Fax) 346-7920
Office of the Population Studies (OPS) 346-0102; Fax 346-6050
Physics, Chair (Telefax) 346-4614
Retreat House 419-7520
SMED (Telefax) 344-3512
Water Laboratory 345-3811
Water Resource Center 346-7941; 344-0523; Fax 346-0583




Source: www.usc.edu.ph

Fort San Pedro

Entrance - Fort San Pedro



One of the cannons that lined the battlement of Fort San Pedro


the marker on the wall near the entrance at Fort San Pedro


museum

Fuerza de San Pedro is a military defence structure, built by Spanish and indigenous Cebuano labourers under the command of Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi and the Spanish Government in Cebu. It is located in the area now called Plaza Indepedencia, in the Pier Area of Cebu City, Philippines. The smallest, oldest triangular bastion fort in the country was built in 1738 to repel Muslim raiders. In turn, it served as a stronghold for Filipino revolutionaries near the end of the 19'th Century. This served as the nucleus of the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. The fort is triangular in shape, with two sides facing the sea and the third side fronting the land. The two sides facing the sea were defended with artillery and the front with a strong palisade made of wood. The three bastions were named La Concepcion (SW); Ignacio de Loyola (SE), and San Miguel (NE). It has a total inside area of 2,025 sq. Meters. The walls are 20 feet (6.1 m) high, 8 feet (2.4 m) thick and the towers are 30 feet (9.1 m) high from the ground level. The circumference is 1,248 feet (380 m). The sides are of unequal lengths and the one fronting the city is where one may find entry into the Fort. Fourteen cannons were mounted in their emplacements most of which are still there today. Work first started on May 8, 1565 with Miguel Lopéz de Legazpi breaking ground.


Little was known about the activity of the fort from the time it was built until two centuries later in 1739 when the King of Spain, Philip II desired information regarding the island of Cebu, Governor General Tanon, who was the Spanish ruler of the Islands at the time made the following reports: Fuerza San Pedro, the fort is described as built of stone mortar with a terraplein where guns are mounted. The fort contains the necessary buildings. The largest of these buildings was the "Cuerpo de Guardia" where the personnel that manned the fort lived. Adjacent to it was the "Vivende del Teniente" which was the living quarters of the lieutenant of the Fort. In between the aforementioned buildings is a well. At one corner attached to the walls of the bastion San Miguel (NE) was the "Alamazaros del Rivera" (powder magazine where the fort's supply or arms and gunpowder from Manila were stored).

How to get there

The easiest way to get there if you’re taking public transport is by riding a taxi. All cab drivers know where it is. From the uptown area, it’s a 70 pesos taxi ride. If youu’re taking the cab from Lapu-Lapu City, the ride may cost you 180 pesos.

If you want to go there Pinoy style, take the Philippine icon of mass transportation, the jeepney. Several jeepneys have routes that pass the place. Look for jeepneys with Pier 2 or Plaza signboards in their windshields.

Magellan's Cross

The Magellan kiosk that houses the cross


A plague below the Magellan's Cross


The Magellan's Cross


Magellan's Cross is a Christian cross planted by Portuguese, and Spanish explorers as ordered by Ferdinand Magellan upon arriving in Cebu in the Philippines on April 21, 1521.

This cross is housed in a chapel next to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño on Magallanes Street (Magallanes being the Spanish name of Magellan), just in front of the city hall of Cebu City. A sign below the cross describes the original cross is encased inside the wooden cross that is found in the center of the chapel. This is to protect the original cross from people who chipped away parts of the cross for souvenir purposes or in the belief that the cross possesses miraculous powers.Some people, however, believe that the original cross had been destroyed or had disappeared after Magellan's death, and the cross is a replica that was planted there by the Spaniards after they successfully colonized the Philippines.

Magellan's Cross is a symbol of Cebu, and the chapel's image can be found in its city seal. It is also seen as the symbol of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines.

How to get there

Shell and woodcraft vendors outside Magellan's CrossMagellan’s Cross is right in front of the old Cebu City Hall building, which is now being renovated as a legislative building, in downtown Cebu near the port area. The easiest way to go to the area is to take a taxi, all drivers know where it is. If you’re from the uptown area, the taxi ride may cost you around P60. If you’re coming from Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan Island, the taxi fare may be around P200.

If you feel adventurous and you want to tour Cebu City via public transport, you can take one of the many public utility jeepneys with routes passing near the area. Just check the jeepney’s signboard, usually on the windshield, if it says City Hall or Basilica (for the Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino, which is right next to Magellan’s Cross).

Source

Camotes Islands

Camotes Islands Beaches & Resorts



Camotes Island Beach


The Camotes Islands are a group of islands that form part of the province of Cebu, in the Philippines. The island group is located east of Cebu Island, southwest of Leyte Island, and north of Bohol Island.

The Camotes is composed of the following five islands and municipalities:

* Poro: the municipalities of Poro
* Tudela.
* Pacijan: the sole municipality of San Francisco.
* Ponson: the sole municipality of Pilar.
* Tulang: part of the barangay of Esperanza, which is part of San Francisco.

The islands of Pacijan and Poro are connected by a paved road. Ponson is separated by the Camotes Sea, lying about four kilometers northeast of Poro. Tulang is located off the northern tip of Pacijan.

The Camotes are low-lying islands. There is only one hill on Pacijan and another hill on Poro. These hills are used by a telecommunications company for relay stations. Pacijan has a fresh-water lake around two kilometers in length. Palm trees are the dominant plant on the islands. There are also numerous native varieties of fruit trees and other plants.

Origin

The word camotes is Mexican for sweet potatoes.

Languages

Porohanon or Camotes Visayan is spoken in the town of Poro only. The dialect is very similar to the dialect of Cebuano which is spoken in the rest of Camotes Islands and throughout the province of Cebu, Northern Mindanao and other parts of the Visayas. Porohanon is distinguished by the way the locals substitute the /y/ sound for /z/. Example: Maayong buntag (good morning) in Cebuano would be changed to Maazong buntag in Porohanon. Na-a diha (in cebuano), Ara dira ( in porohanon )

Camotes Island Transportation
Access to the island is by boat. There are daily boats from mainland Cebu to Camotes Island.

E.B. Aznar Shipping:
The travel time is a leisurely 4 hours on a clean and comfortable large boat. The boat docks at Poro Island port. You can board on this boat at Pier 2 in Cebu.

The Aznar boat leaves daily at 9:00pm from Cebu and arrives in Camotes Island at 1:00am. From Camotes Island, the boat leaves at 11:00am and arrives in Cebu City at 3:00pm.
Fares from Cebu to Camotes Island and vice versa:
Tourist: P280.00 pesos
Economy: P220.00

However, if you miss this boat, you will have to travel north of Cebu to Danao City, which is about an hours' drive north of Cebu. There are other smaller outrigger boats, which takes you to the island, in 2.5 or 3 hours depending on the sea's temperament. This is not the most comfortable ride, but i can sure you, a very interesting one. You will have an opportunity to sit next to chickens, cows, and pigs,, and people retching out of nausea, and motionsickness !

Camotes Island Pumpboats to Camotes Island:
From Ouano Wharf, Mandaue City daily at 1:00pm/
Fare: P200.00
From Danao City to Camotes Island/
Fare: P 180.00

From Ormoc, Leyte to Tudela, Camotes Island:
Pumpboats departs at 09:00AM and 01:00PM
Travel Time - 3 hrs.

Camotes Island light and water
The two major sources of lighting is power and kerosene which are utilized by 43.9% and 55.5% of the sample house holds, respectively. Common source of water on the island is the community water system consisting of public faucets and individual (private faucets), at 40.6% and 23.8% respectively. Around 16.1% indicate tube/pipe well as a source of water; a 0.3% dug wells; and 5.2% spring. A 220V. The power depends on Camotes Electric Cooperative (CELCO) that energizes the mainland Camotes spring water by gravity. Jetmatic and deepwell pumps are great source of water. Some parts of the island, don't have water supply. They keep big water container jars and collect rain water during the rainy season.
camotes rain

Camotes Island communication
A postal service office and telecommunication offices provide communication services. Otherwise, a cellular phone is accessible in all parts of the island. Landlines are also available for business and residential purposes which is powered by Globelines communication.

Since there are landlines like globelines, a dial up service is available. Smart offers WIFI in Camotes, but they need to come up with more customers before they can offer the service to the island. Not many people in camotes owns a computer so it may take a while for SMART to offer this service.PLDT(Philippines Long Distance Telephone) offers a wireless internet connection that would be applicable to all the islands all over the Philippines.

Mactan Island

Shangrila Hotel & Resort


Shangrila Hotel & Resort


Resort in Mactan Island


Aerial view - Mactan Island

Mactan is an island located a few kilometers off Cebu, in the Philippine Islands. The island is part of the Province of Cebu, and is divided into Lapu-Lapu City, and the municipality of Cordova. The island is connected to Cebu by the two bridges one of which is the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, and the Mactan Bridge.

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the country's second busiest airport, is located on Mactan Island.

The only aquarium attraction in the Visayas is also located on the island.

Mactan Geography
Location: South East Asia
Archipelago: Visayas
Major islands Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, Masbate, Negros, Panay, Samar
Country: Philippines island.
Largest city Lapu-Lapu (217,019)
Demographics
Population: 251,051 (as of 2000)
Ethnic groups: Visayan (Cebuano)

San Miguel Corporation

San Miguel Brewery Plant-Mandaue City

San Miguel Brewery, Incorporated, now San Miguel Corporation established its first soft drink plant outside Manila in Cebu City. The Cebu Royal Plant was established in 1940 and it became operational on November of 1941 under the management of Mr. J.B. Preysler. Main product of this plant was soft drinks – Coca-Cola and Royal and distributor of beer in Visayas and Mindanao.

When World War II came, it fell to the hands of the Japanese Military Government. A new line of soft drink was bottled, using vinegar extract for carbonation and a new management was formed under Mr. Jose Corrales.

The rehabilitation of the Cebu Plant was effected after the liberation in 1945 and reopened in 1946. In 1949, it bought the franchise for ice production and distribution and named it the Visayan Ice and Cold Storage Plant besides the old Cebu Royal Plant along Martires Street. It did not last long because Magnolia sales office was opened in 1954 and produced ice cream, frozen delights and Anchor butter. Due to the economic growth at that time and increase of demand of their products, San Miguel expanded its operations still in Cebu due to its center of economic activities in Central and Southern Philippines. Mandaue was then selected as the site of the new modern complex. The year 1964 was the start of the construction and eventually inaugurated in February 8, 1968. From that year on, SMC became a landmark, not only in Mandaue but in the entire province. The industrial complex, about 27.1 hectares was like a village of its own. It is self-supporting. It occupies of what use to be farmlands in Tipolo. It has its own automotive repairs and maintenance shop and training center, warehouses for materials and ingredients used in the products of the different plants, glass plant, engineering building, a fire station and security office, sports facilities such as pelota, basketball and tennis courts, training center for the physical and intellectual upliftment of its 3,000 or so employees, staff houses for key official who are on call, a water treatment plant, a fuel treatment plant, gasoline station, LPG tank farm, fuel tanks, paint vault and storage building, BMD sales office and bodega, industrial gas storage shed, a cullet crushing shed, a GSD central stores, medical clinic, guest house, a metal closure plant, plastic case plant, power plant and a wharf which is about 2.5 kilometers from the complex.




source: http://www.mandauecity.gov.ph/festival/otherlandmarks.htm

SM City Cebu inlcuding its North wing, Cyberzone, and IMAX Theaters

SM City Cebu logo


SM City Cebu's Northwing facade


SM City Cebu is a large shopping mall in Cebu City, Philippines. It is the 4th largest shopping mall owned and operated by SM Prime Holdings, the country's largest mall operator, and it is the company's first shopping mall outside of Metro Manila. It has a land area of 11.8 hectares and a gross floor area of 268,611 m² (2,891,305 sq. ft.), becoming part of the world's 15 largest shopping malls and making it the 11th largest shopping mall in the world in 2009.

On an average day, more than 100,000 people visit SM City Cebu, with the figure increasing to 140,000 to 150,000 on weekends.[6] Due to Cebu City's position as a transshipment point for the Visayas and Mindanao, and SM City Cebu's location close to the city's port area, the mall attracts a significant number of transient shoppers.

The mall first opened in November 1993, and is seen as catering to the broad middle class of shoppers, in contrast to its upscale competitor Ayala Center Cebu which opened a few months later. An expansion wing particularly targeting upper class customers was added in 2007.

Facts and statistics
Location: Cebu City
Address: North Reclamation Area, Mabolo, Cebu City
Opening date: November 1993
Developer: SM Prime Holdings
Owner: SM Prime Holdings
No. of stores and services: 700+[1]
Total retail floor area: 268,611 m² (2,891,305 sq. ft.)
No. of floors: 4
Website: SM Prime Holdings


The Northwing

Construction on SM City Cebu's expansion building, dubbed the Northwing, began in March 2006.[8] The expansion, which was developed at a cost of P1.3 billion (US$30.5 million), was built on the parking lot to the north of the existing building, temporarily decreasing the number of parking spaces by more than 30%.The Northwing was started in April 2007, and opened in November 2007, featuring spacious hallways catering to the leisure market and upper class customers, while the previously existing mall, redubbed the Southwing, is targeted to those who "love the hustle and bustle".[9] It increased the total gross floor area of SM City Cebu by 107,049 m², for a total of 268,611 m².

Cyberzone

SM Cebu is no longer holding back on giving us the best shopping experience. With their latest addition of the North Wing, shoppers have become more excited and eager to go to one of Cebu’s premier malls. Just recently, SM City Cebu Cyberzone located on the 2nd level of the North Wing was opened to bring all IT enthusiasts all in one place to have a chance to choose a wide variety of the latest gadgets and other IT related stuffs. Cebu is fortunate enough to have the biggest Cyberzone in Mindanao and Visayas.

SM City Cebu Cyberzone

Now you can enjoy a one-stop Information Technology related mainstream and high-end products all in one area of the mall. At around 4,127 square meters, it is more than enough to accommodate a whole lot of IT shops. Here you can stay up to date with technology and its enhancements. From cellular phones to the famous iPods you can find it at the Cyberzone.

SM City Cebu Cyberzone Retailers

SM City Cebu Cyberzone

Shops like Aerophone, AirTouch, Junrex and a lot more will help you get the best deals on Cellular phones. After a great time shopping, have a sip of good coffee at Chaikofi just located at the same floor. Now there’s no reason not to visit SM Cebu.

IMAX THEATERS

SM to open 3D theater in Cebu before yearend

BELIEVING the Cebu market is ready to pay more for digital films, SM Cinemas will open a 500-seater IMAX Theater in SM City Cebu in the fourth quarter of the year.

Digital theater system developer IMAX and SM Cinemas will convert SM’s Cinema 4 into an IMAX theater, equipped with 3D projection technology, laser-aligned digital sound system and a customized way of maximizing a movie-goer’s field of view. When it opens in November or December, it will be the first IMAX Theater outside Metro Manila.

Since they need to choose a good film for the launch, SM Cinema senior vice president Edgar Tejerero said the IMAX-SM partnership are looking Walt Disney’s A Christmas Carol, which is due for release in November, and James Camerons’ Avatar, which Twentieth Century Fox announced will be available in 3D format on Dec. 18.

Tejerero believes movie goers in Cebu will patronize the technology once it is available here.

“The market is very ready,” he told Sun.Star Cebu in an interview at the launch of SM Cinema’s second IMAX Theater in the country at the SM City North Edsa
Wednesday.

An IMAX movie costs from P250 to P400.

SM North Edsa’s IMAX Theater, which has 472 seats, opened with the showing of “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” yesterday.

With IMAX’s 2D and 3D conversion technology, 12 minutes of the movie’s opening sequence is in 3D, SM Cinema’s press release said.

“IMAX is able to create a 3D experience like no other,” said Don Savant, senior vice president and managing director of IMAX Corp., during the launch.

IMAX plans to produce more titles next year, including Alice in Wonderland, Shrek Goes Fourth and Inception from director Chris Nolan of the Dark Knight.

Despite the ticket price, the company’s first IMAX Theater at the SM City Mall of Asia (MOA), which opened in 2006, “is earning well” and has an occupancy rate of about
70 percent, Tejerero said.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen even enjoyed a 96 percent to 100 percent occupancy rate, he added.

MOA’s IMAX Theater features 10 Hollywood films and five educational films or documentaries a year.

Regular theaters, Teje-rero said, only have an average occupancy rate of less than 20 percent.

“Sixty percent of those who watch in regular theaters watch it again in IMAX,” he told reporters in an interview.

An IMAX Theater has a screen with a height of 14 to 24 meters. Regular cinemas only have about eight to 10 meters.

Despite the financial crisis, Tejerero said SM cinemas enjoyed a three to four percent increase in movie goers in the first half of the year compared to figures in 2008.

SM cinemas’ nationwide gross sales from tickets sold in its 206 theaters, which seats 127,000, reached P2.5 billion last year.

Although its investments in an IMAX Theater is seven times more that of a regular one, Tejerero said the company abides by the vision of SM founder Henry Sy Sr., which is to expand the conglomerate’s reach in the country and to bring to the Filipinos the latest technology.

The next IMAX Theater will open in Taguig, with the opening of a new mall there.

click here for more information

Mandaue City

Mandue City official logo


Skyline view of Mandaue City

The City of Mandaue (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Mandawe; Tagalog: Lungsod ng Mandaue) is a 1st class city in the province of Cebu, Philippines. It is one of the three highly urbanized cities in the Province of Cebu and form the core of the Metropolitan Cebu area.

Mandaue lies right across Mactan Island where Lapu-Lapu City is located. Mandaue is connected to Mactan Island via two bridges: the Mactan-Cebu Bridge and the relatively new Marcelo Fernan Bridge.

Based on the August 2007 census, Mandaue City has a total population of 318,575 people. This figure is up by 58,847 from 259,728 persons recorded in the May 2000 census, giving an annual growth rate of 2.86% during the 7-year period--significantly higher than the national average of 2.04%. If this growth rate were maintained, Mandaue would double its population in 24 years

Mandaue is known as the “Furniture Capital of the Philippines.” Mandaue has a long history of commerce. It was once a busy port where merchants traded and conducted business. Today it is a modern metropolis wherein about 40 percent of Cebu’s export companies are located.

Mandaue City is politically subdivided into 27 barangays.Of the city's twenty-seven barangays, Banilad has the biggest land area at 281.57 hectares.

* Alang-alang
* Bakilid
* Banilad
* Basak
* Cabancalan
* Cambaro
* Canduman
* Casili
* Casuntingan
* Centro (Pob.)
* Cubacub
* Guizo
* Ibabao-Estancia
* Jagobiao
* Labogon
* Looc (Mandaue)
* Maguikay
* Mantuyong
* Opao
* Pakna-an
* Pagsabungan
* Subangdaku
* Tabok
* Tawason
* Tingub
* Tipolo
* Umapad



click here for more info

cebu city

Cebu City official seal/logo


Skyline - Cebu City


Cebu Heritage Shrine

The City of Cebu (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo; Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu; Spanish: Ciudad de Cebú), is the capital city of Cebu and the second city in the Philippines, the second most significant metropolitan center in the Philippine Islands, and known as the oldest city in the country.

The city is located on the eastern shore of Cebu, and is the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. Cebu is the Philippines' main domestic shipping port, and is home to more than 80% of the country's domestic shipping companies. Cebu also holds the second largest international flights in the Philippine Islands, and is a significant center of commerce, trade, and industry in the Visayas, and Mindanao region. According to the 2007 Philippine census, the city has a population of 798,809 people.

Cebu City is the center of a metropolitan area called Metro Cebu, which includes the cities of Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay. Metro Cebu has a total population of about 2 million people. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located in Lapu-Lapu City is only a twenty-minute drive away from Cebu City. To the northeast of the city are Mandaue City, and the town of Consolacion, to the west are Toledo City, the towns of Balamban, and Asturias, to the south are Talisay City, and the town of Minglanilla. Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island where Lapu-Lapu City and an aquarium attraction are located.

List of Barangays:

North District

* Adlaon
* Agsungot
* Apas
* Bacayan
* Banilad
* Binaliw
* Budla-an
* Busay
* Cambinocot
* Capitol Site
* Carreta
* Cogon Ramos
* Day-as
* Ermitakjhjkl
* Guba
* Hipodromo
* Kalubihan
* Kamagayan
* Kamputhaw (Camputhaw)
* Kasambagan
* Lahug
* Lorega San Miguel
* Lusaran
* Luz
* Mabini
* Mabolo Proper
* Malubog
* Pahina Central
* Parian
* Paril
* Pit-os
* Pulangbato
* Sambag I
* Sambag II
* San Antonio
* San Jose
* San Roque
* Sirao
* Santa Cruz
* Santo Niño
* T. Padilla
* Talamban
* Taptap
* Tejero
* Tinago
* Zapatera


South District

* Babag
* Basak-Pardo
* Basak San Nicolas
* Bonbon
* Buhisan
* Bulacao Pardo
* Buot-Taup
* Calamba
* Cogon Pardo
* Duljo-Fatima
* Guadalupe
* Inayawan
* Kalunasan
* Kinasang-an
* Labangon
* Mambaling
* Pahina San Nicolas
* Pamutan
* Pasil
* Poblacion Pardo - Pardo Proper
* Pung-ol Sibugay
* Punta Princesa
* Quiot Pardo
* San Nicolas Proper
* Sapangdako
* Sawang Calero
* Sinsin
* Suba
* Sudlon I
* Sudlon II
* Tabunan
* Tagba-O
* Tisa
* Toong

The city is politically subdivided into 80 barrios or barangays. These are grouped into two congressional districts, with 46 barrios or barangays in the northern district, and 34 barrios or barangays in the southern district.

Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino

Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino

Basic information
Location Cebu City, Philippines
Religious affiliation Roman Catholic
Year consecrated 1565
Ecclesiastical status Basilica Minore
Functional status active
Architectural description
Architectural type Church
Architectural style Mixed baroque and Neo-classical
Specifications
Materials coral stones

The Basilica of Santo Niño, also called Basilica del Santo Niño, Basílica Minore del Santo Niño and formerly known as the San Agustin Church prior to its elevation as a Basilica Minore, is a 16th century church in the heart of Cebu City, Philippines. It is purportedly built on the exact spot where the image of the Santo Niño, a sculpture depicting Jesus as a black Holy Child, was found by Spanish conquistadors in 1565 preserved in a burned wooden box which was left behind during the 1521 Magellan expedition.

History

The church of Santo Niño de Cebu was founded by an Augustinian priest, Andrés de Urdaneta on April 28, 1565. The first church structure was built out of earth, hard wood and nipa in 1566 ordered by Fr. Diego de Herrera. In 1735, Fernando Valdés y Tamon, the Governor of Cebu, ordered the church to be constructed of hard stone, which was built in the same spot were the previous church stood. Construction was completed in 1739. In 1965, during the fourth centenary of the Christianization of the Philippines, Pope Paul VI elevated the church to the rank of minor basilica.

The Basilica remains under the care of the Order of St. Augustine.

Museum

A small museum inside the Basilica showcases the rich history of Christianity in Cebu. Antique objects are on display, including century-old furniture, priestly vestments and the Santo Nino's old cloaks donated by individuals over the centuries. Religious articles such as statues and relics are also displayed and other items of daily life from the adjacent convento. Several toys may also be seen; these are said to be presents to the Child Jesus, as well as a large Santo Niño rosary composed of 15 beads.

More Tsino tourists expected in Cebu

Cebu is opening its doors to more Chinese tourists with the inaugural flight of China Southern Airlines from Guangzhou city last June 9.

This development marks another step for the further growth of Cebu's tourism industry as well as its neighboring province of Bohol, said Department of Tourism undersecretary Phineas Alburo.

“When you have these number of tourists coming in to Cebu every week, how much will this contribute to the local economy? This is truly positive for us and we hope to establish more partnerships with other cities in the future,” he said.

DOT hosted the welcome luncheon for the first 130 Chinese tourists at the Laguna Garden Cafe in Ayala Center on Friday.

DOT has partnered with GZL International Travel Services, a Guangzhou-based travel agency, in carrying out the chartered flight agreement.

The agreement will run until December 2009, after which, Alburo said they will be looking into the possibility of opening chartered flights with other cities or renew the agreement.

There will be two weekly flights going to Cebu every Monday and Thursday. Return flights to Guangzhou are scheduled every Tuesday and Friday.

“We are expecting 300 tourists to come every week with these chartered flights,” he told Cebu Daily News in interview.

Alburo said the direct flight from Guangzhou to Cebu is less than four hours with no stopovers.

Sarah Choi Siu Ha, DOT market representative and assistant project manager for Hong Kong, Macau and South China, said these tourists have heard about Cebu's beaches and rich natural resources and are interested to experience the “sand, sea and sun” of the province.

“Philippines as a tourism destination is included in the top ten hit countries among browsers of the leading Chinese internet portal, Baidu,” the DOT said in a statement furnished to CDN.

Guangzhou is the capital city of Guangdong province with about the same population as the Philippines at nearly 90 million.

While there are beaches in Guangdong, she said, Guangzhou is a landlocked city so residents are “excited to experience island-hopping and snorkeling” in Cebu and Bohol.

The 130 tourists are billeted at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel in the next five days. Most of these tourists are first-time travelers to the Philippines.

Alburo said these tourists travel with families with the head of the family working in a top position for a manufacturing company or an information and communication technology firm.

More than 65 of these tourists left for Bohol yesterday for a two-day tour and will be back in Cebu on Monday before leaving for Guangzhou next week, said Choi Siu Ha.

Alburo said DOT is engaged in a joint promotion program with GZL Travel Services. This enabled DOT to penetrate Guangzhou, which has 10 to 12 million population.

“It's a win-win agreement because if you partner with a big travel agency like this they will really go out of their way to do business with the department.”

“We give them the materials and some funds and they push the promotion of our destinations in their brochures and leaflets,” added Alburo.

source: www.inquirer.net

Top Mindanao Gym Relocates to Cebu

The Digos-City based American Boxing Academy owned and operated by American Ken Smith and his Filipino brother in-law John Glen Salazar, has just announced the decision to team up with Cebu's SGG Promotions and the Philippines #1 boxing promoter Sammy Gello-ani.

Smith and Gello-ani have agreed to bring the upstart ABA to Cebu after discussions in Atlantic City between the two just this past month.

"Sammy offered that he and I could team up in Cebu and make American Boxing Academy the Philippines' no. 1 pro boxing gym," Smith said. The ABA has been based at Smith's compound on the island of Mindanoa in the southern Philippines. Over the past 2 years ABA has promoted some 10 shows all in Digos City along the way co-promoting several others all around Mindanao.

Smith said "At the same time that I am excited and motivated about American Boxing Academys partnership in Cebu with Sammy G. I also cherish the memories of what we did in Digos. This was a very difficult enviroment to operate in. I am proud of what we all did on Mindanao, ABA brought good boxing, and entertainment to the people of Digos, and they always appreciated us". It was an exciting time for the American and his brother in-law as they built the program from the ground up [literaly building a gym and apartelle for ABA fighters. Smith and Salazar combed the Island for fighters to first promote and then eventually to manage, sometimes having to avoid military vs rebel conflicts along the way, even just missing being bombed out of mayor JoJo Lopez Maasim office at city hall where they all slept just the night before the MILF, and Abu Syaff attacked city hall ].

American Boxing Academy quickly built a solid stable of Filipino fighters that today includes world rated Ramie Laput among other hopefuls. SGG Promotions run by Cebu promoter Sammy Gello-ani who is regarded by top American promoters as the #1 promoter in the Philippines has agreed to partner with Smith in opening the new American Boxing Academy in Cebu. Smith noted that SGG promotions regular schedule of events all around the Philippines, along with SGG's international contacts will best assure American Boxing Academy a world champion. Smith said. "I have spoken with a top executive at a major American boxing company and he told me that SGG promoted fighters will be fighting on their future cards in the USA."

American Boxing Academys re-location to Cebu should bring along with it a world class gym and fighter philosophy. American Boxing Academy has already attracted other international fighters to its training camp, most notably world rated jr middleweight Charles Whittaker.

Smith said "Sammy and I will open our gym soon in Cebu, the new American Boxing Academy, and it will be modeled after other world class American boxing gyms like Wild Card in LA. and Gleasons in New York, and yes we will have American fighters come train here." Hopefully some more Filipino boxing stars can be born out of this union."


source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-25701.html

Central Visayas still most desirable place to live, work, engage in business

Cebu, Philippines (13 July) -- The PNP-Regional Office (PRO-7) here declares that Central Visayas is still the "most desirable place to live, work and do business in" despite the crime volume.

Senior Supt. Melvin Buenafe of the PRO-7 Intelligence Division said this during the 2nd quarter meeting of the Regional Peace & Order Council at the Capitol recently.

Buenafe told the council that domestic and foreign arrivals in the region continues to increase at 952,969 for the January-May 2009 period compared to the 895,185 tourists arrival in the same period in 2008.

Cebu has the highest tourist arrival at 703,465 or 73.82% from that same period in 2008 at 681,148 with Koreans, Japanese, Americans, Taiwanese and Chinese as the top five tourists.

The PNP here said, to sustain such tourists preference, the police continues to implement police visibility, intensify intelligence monitoring and closer coordination with business establishments on security matters.

Finally, the PRO-7 in its assessment of the region's peace & order situation reported that there is a remarkable reduction of crimes in Central Visayas despite the increase of its population and economic activities.

It also highlighted the accessibility of people to firearms as a significant crime factor.

The PNP also said the AFP-PNP have relentlessly intensified the ISO efforts coupled with joint legal offensives that resulted to the demise of the insurgency movement in the area.

Buenafe went on that street protests by militant groups continued but did not have significant participation which indicates unpopularity of the movement.

"The continuous arrivals of foreign and domestic tourists indicate a favorable perception of peace and order in the region," the PNP concluded. (PIA-7)


click here for more news.

Kawasan Falls

second falls.


my friends in the second falls.


on the way to the falls...


kawasan falls

A brief trip brings you to the famous Kawasan Waterfalls, a three tiered cascade of crystal clear mountain springs. Enjoy the picnic to lush scenery, tropical forest, and a cool swim. A very unique experience.

How to get there

Some 98 km (or 2,5 -3 hours drive) south-west of Cebu you'll find Kawasan Falls. From the parking area you'll have to walk more or less 15 to 30 minutes along a very rocky and narrow path, but even though it is a bit humbling bumbling it is worth it, just take it easy and enjoy the walk along the beautiful river. Look at all the different kind of tropical plants -it is not every day you'll have that many beautiful impressions.

You'll have to cross 3 small bridges before reaching the falls, even though you might feel for passing them very fast, try to stop at the middle of number 3 and look upstream, your camera will jump for pleasure if you allow it to take a few shots and you will have a forever lasting picture of what might have been, or- is Paradise.

What is it?

Kawasan Falls are where a river falls steeply down the hills above the town of Matutinao, just south of Badian (Pls. note that Matutinao is part of Badian). It is actually a hierarchy of waterfalls, of which the first is the biggest, however the scenery gets wilder and more impressive the further up you go.

The area is very pretty and offers (cold!) fresh water bathing, a Tarzan swing and the opportunity to climb up beside the waterfall and imitate the high divers of Acapulco! The higher up the river valley, the prettier it gets, with places where you must swim up a gorge and clamber over rocks. Good fun!

Malapascua Island

Cocobana Resort in Malapascua Island


Malapascua is known for diving and underwater adventures

the long shore of beach with an amazing white sands and a crystal clear water

Malapascua is a beautiful, sleepy island, as yet unspoiled by tourism with white sandy beaches, lush green palm trees and surrounded by clear blue waters.

There are no cars on the island and most buildings are only one floor high. The locals are friendly and like to say hello and chat. They may even invite you to their homes for dinner, or at least to sit down, join them singing songs and playing guitar, and toast each other with a rum and coke.

Bounty Beach and Thresher Shark Divers is located on the south of the island, on the bottom side of the map above.

Local events

Fiestas: There are many fiestas throughout the year with beauty pageants, discos, booths, food and drink. Westerners are always welcome.
Basketball is the national obsession and games are played at courts all over the island. You may even be here at the right time to cheer on the Thresher Shark Divers team.
Cockfighting comes second after basketball, and you will see the proud birds (and prouder owners) all over the island. For the less squeamish among you, you can find a fight most Sundays. You will be welcome to watch, especially if you want to place a bet!

Malapascua is suitable for families, with a swimming pool at Kuan Ba as well as the beautiful beaches. If this is not enough to completely relax you, the massage ladies will soothe away any remaining stress, with a coconut oil massage for less than the price of a Western beer.

As for sightseeing, the island is so small, the main attractions are the beaches, the snorkeling and the diving. Many people enjoy walking around the island to see the local villages, and the local children will clamor for you to take their photos. There is a lighthouse open to the public, and the cemetery is worth a visit. It has a certain interest, despite the skulls and bones that can sometimes be seen!

Find out more about recreational activities on Malapascua

Resorts

We use several resorts on the island, each with different facilities and its own charm. Find out more about Malapascua's resorts.

Dining

Malapascua has some excellent restaurants. Many are Western owned and run and they have set a high standard for the island. The food is of excellent quality, and is generally a mix of Filipino and European dishes. German, English and Italian cuisines rank high in the ratings. There are also some excellent curries and even Mexican food! And if you are a meat or fish lover, the Philippines is really the place for you.

"Oscar's" is the island's newest restaurant and our favorite. It is a new concept in dining on Malapascua with an ever-changing menu serving a mix of international dishes made from the freshest ingredients.

Bars

Malapascua has several different bars and you are sure to find one you like. Our favorite is the Pub Upstairs, an open air bar, right above Thresher Shark Divers in the palm trees with a view over the sea. With a wide selection of imported liquor as well as several imported beers and an extensive cocktail list, you are sure to find a tipple to suit you. It is a popular choice for divers' decompression time, comparing how many sharks they saw that morning. Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm. Come around 7pm to see our newly certified divers get their free Shark Bite shot.

The Weather in Malapascua

We are very fortunate with the weather on Malapascua. The Philippines in general has two seasons: "rainy season" (July-November) and "dry season" (December to June). Luckily, this doesn't mean that it always rains in rainy season - in fact we can go for months in rainy season with very little rain. As Malapascua is away from the mountains, we experience much less rainfall that Cebu City. We are rarely affected by typhoons, which tend to pass near to Luzon in the north of the Philippines.

Diving and the weather: We lose very few days diving out of every year. There is almost always a protected area on the island that we can dive. It is very difficult for us to say how the weather will be at a certain time of year and of course the weather is hard to predict far in advance. The few storms we have are spread out fairly evenly through the year with a few more in November and December. This can change from year to year.

So when should you come?

This very much depends on the kind of holiday you want and the marine life you want to see. Our personal favorite time to dive here is September. Mantas are usually at their peak, and there are usually many thresher sharks. The weather is generally sunny but not too hot, and there are not many tourists. This means fewer divers in the water, fewer people on the beach, and faster service in the restaurants.

A few points to think about when making your decision:

• High season (December to April) means less chance of rain, but also more people and with some things higher prices. Hottest time is from March - May. If you want to meet lots of people and have a livelier social life this is the best time.
• We get mild typhoons year round, but more so in low season (Jul-Dec). However, they do not usually hit us hard and we can almost always dive. It is hard to predict year to year. It can go 1-2 months with barely a day of rain.
• Water temperature varies from 27-30 degrees for most of the year. From December - February it is 24-26 degrees.
• Your chance of seeing sharks is not as good during major holidays as there are always many divers around. These holidays include Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, Easter and May 1. It is best if you can avoid these times if possible.

comments and suggerstions are always welcome. feel free to post them.

Cebu Philippines Cities and Municipalities

Cebu is subdivided into 6 cities, and 47 municipalities. In 2007 the towns of Bogo, Carcar and Naga, respectively became cities. Bogo, Carcar and Naga, along with 13 other cities in the Philippines, were demoted back to townhood the next year by the Supreme Court citing that the 16 cities did not pass the requirements of cityhood.

City
* Cebu
* Danao
* Lapu-Lapu
* Mandaue
* Talisay
* Toledo

Municipality
* Alcántara
* Alcoy
* Alegria
* Aloguinsan
* Argao
* Asturias
* Badian
* Balamban
* Bantayan
* Barili
* Bogo
* Boljoon
* Borbon
* Carcar
* Carmen
* Catmon
* Compostela
* Consolacion
* Cordova
* Daanbantayan
* Dalaguete
* Dumanjug
* Ginatilan
* Liloan
* Madridejos
* Malabuyoc
* Medellin
* Minglanilla
* Moalboal
* Naga
* Oslob
* Pilar
* Pinamungahan
* Poro
* Ronda
* Samboan
* San Fernando
* San Francisco
* San Remigio
* Santa Fe
* Santander
* Sibonga
* Sogod
* Tabogon
* Tabuelan
* Tuburan
* Tudela

i love to hear comments, suggestions and everything. feel free to write yours below.

want more information? click here.

Bantayan Island

my friends enjoying the white sand, blue and refreshing water of Bantayan Island


a shot from one of the resorts here


Bantayan Island (can you ask for more?)


Bantayan island, the shining tropical paradise in Asia is commonly known as an island paradise in Philippines. Tourists as far as Europe fall in love with its fine white sand and crystal clear blue waters. Many of these foreigners even settled down on the island to spend the rest of their lives. They build single-cottage beach houses along the shore but as time went by, construct a couple of new cottages instead to accommodate the growing number of tourists who seeks safe haven on the splendid island paradise. Two of the main attraction of the island is its crystal-clear waters and it's long stretch of powdery white sand. The stunning sunset will really spice those romantic walks on the beach. One of the reasons the island is famous is its peacefulness, the way a resort should be. Unsaturated beauty and a combination of sweet smiling natives made the island as it is now.

When you get to cool, crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, pleasant town folk and delicious sea foods ... you're in the island of Bantayan. Coming to Bantayan is like coming out of a time machine. It's like entering the time and place when life was simple and quiet.

The island, which is composed of three municipalities, specifically Bantayan, Madridejos & Santa Fe is also generally known as the “Egg Basket” in the neighboring regions because it has been generating over one and a half million eggs a day to supply the growing demand of eggs for mainland Cebu, Negros, Panay and even Leyte.

The people in Bantayan island is mostly Christian, aside from the fact that it has the oldest church in the Visayas and Mindanao, it is also named as the Lenten capital of the Visayas. Many people from Cebu and as far as Manila go to Bantayan not only for a swim and relaxation but also to witness the holy week procession and to observe the most solemn practice of faith. Because of this, almost all resorts double their rates at this time of year.

During holy week, on Maunday Thursday and Good Friday, both locals and visitors get together by the thousands at the town center of Bantayan to be part of the Lenten procession of religious symbols and images symbolizing the Passion of Christ. Such religiosity only reflects the Bantayanon's unquestioned faith in Christ therefore making the island one of the safest place in the country.

Bantayan considered as the town proper of the island has 25 barangays and the basic infrastructure. The town is known for its mouth-watering dried fish and squid. Aside from fishing, the people are also into rock phosphate and limestone mining.

If the other two towns are busy with their income projects, Sta. Fe is busier during the Lenten Season with hundreds of people who gather to its white sandy beaches. Reservations to Bantayan's beach resorts for the Lenten Season should be done six months to one year earlier. As early as February this year, the resorts have already been fully booked.

With regards to the food in Bantayan, a combination of cuisine is served on the island with a taste of restaurants serving Filipino, Thai, and Japanese to European menus. A massive selection of sea foods fresh from the day's catch is very well dished up since most of the people of the island are fishermen that cast their nets on the abundant Visayan seas. One can even visit the wet market to see fishermen unpack their precious catch from the sea. Fresh live fish from groupers to blue marlin's are just two of the many surprises. Shrimps, crabs and lobsters are displayed in large quantity in the market. After a full meal one can choose a selection of fresh fruit shakes with choices from mango to choco banana.

Your stay in Bantayan would be a dream come true.

HOW TO GET THERE

You can go to Bantayan island by plane from Cebu or by Bus and Vans for Hire from the North Cebu Bus Terminal.

From Cebu City
Take a bus ride at the North Cebu Bus Terminal which will take you about 3 hours to Hagnaya from which one desires to take the Island Express Ferry Boat for the 1 hour ride to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. Flying time to Bantayan Island is about 25 minutes or less. Recently, there is already a Ro-Ro boat going from Hagnaya to Santa Fe, you can take your car or SUV from Cebu all the way to Santa Fe for a fantastic island getaway!

Vans, Buses, Ferries and Planes
(subject to change without notice)

Vans
From the airport or seaport to Hagnaya.
Good for 6-7 persons.
Non-stop trip
CHARGE: 3,500 pesos to 4,000.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 2 hours to 2 and half hours

V-Hire
From White Gold Terminal to Hagnaya.
Very crampy ride.
Must be there earlier so you can have the best seat on the van.
Van leaves every hour or when the van is full.
CHARGE: 100.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 2 and a half hours

Buses (Phil-Cebu Bus Liners, Rough Riders)
From the City North Bus Terminal to Hagnaya,
4:30 AM and every 30 minutes thereafter until 3:00 PM daily
CHARGE: 60.00 pesos to 70.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 3 - 4 hours

Ferries (Island Express Shipping)
From Hagnaya to the port of Santa Fe and vice versa daily.
CHARGE: 60.00 pesos to 70.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 1 and a half hour (maximum)

Fastcraft(Aznar Fastcraft)
From Hagnaya to the port of Santa Fe and vice versa daily.
CHARGE: 100.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 30 minutes (maximum)

Ro-Ro Boats (Shuttle Ferry Service)
From Hagnaya to the port of Santa Fe

Boats (Don Martin, Palacio Shipping Lines)
From the city to the port of Santa Fe
CHARGE: 150.00 pesos - 200.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 6 to 7 hours

Boats (Lapu-lapu Shipping Lines)
From the city to the port of Santa Fe
CHARGE: 150.00 pesos - 200.00 pesos
TRAVEL DURATION: 6 to 7 hours


i love to hear comments, suggestions and everything. feel free to write yours below.