The Home of Cebu

Tsunami Warning has been Cancelled - Philvolcs February 06,2012 Earthquake

2012-02-06T00:24:00.000-08:00

(UPDATE 2) A tsunami alert has been lifted but vigilance should remain, Phivolcs Director Renato Solidum said.
"As of 2:30 pm, level 2 is canceled. The alert was for the eastern side of Negros and western coast of Cebu. But we will continue to monitor," said Solidum in a phoneinterview with Yahoo! Southeast Asia.Earlier in the day, Phivolcs placed several areas on tsunami alert Level 2, following a 6.9-magnitude quake in Negros and Cebu.

Panic and worry gripped several PH areas while netizens called for calm and prayers as Phivolcs issued the bulletin warning to alert the public for unusual waves.

Phivolcs reported a strong local earthquake with a depth of 10 km occurred offshoreNegros Oriental at 11:49 a.m.

“People are advised to stay away from the shoreline. People should not go to the coast to watch the tsunami. People whose houses are very near coastal areas of Negros and Cebu islands are strongly advised to be watchful,” Phivolcs earlier warned.

According to an ABS-CBN report, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) chief Benito Ramos said the quake has killed one person - a child from Tayasan, Negros Oriental after a wall fell on him.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement that President Benigno Aquino III has already tasked PHIVOLCS to monitor the affected areas for further seismic activity.

Lacierda said Coast Guard Chief Edmund Tan has been instructed to prevent fishermen from going out to sea for the duration of the alert, while Department of Social Welfare and Development personnel are already on standby to lend support and relief to affected citizens.

“While there are no forced evacuations being ordered, we implore the people in affected areas to remain vigilant and take the necessary safety precautions. Let us cooperate with government agencies, allow them to do their work, and remain calm and watchful,” he said.

Strong Earthquake Hits Cebu, Negros - Magnitude 6.8 February 6, 2012

2012-02-06T00:23:00.000-08:00

A 6.8 earthquake struck off the coast of the central Philippines on Monday, killing at least one person and causing panic in cities where buildings shook, authorities said.

The quake hit 70 kilometres (44 miles) north of the city of Dumaguete on Negros Island at 11:49 am (0349 GMT) at a depth of 46 kilometres, the US Geological Survey said.

The Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) measured it as 6.9 at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres, centred off the heavily populated central island province of Negros and Cebu.

"One child was crushed to death by a collapsed wall in Negros," Office of Civil Defence chief Benito Ramos told AFP.

He said the violent shaking of buildings in Cebu city -- roughly 50 kilometres from where the quake struck -- led to broken windows and cracks on the walls, but no high rises were believed to have sustained major damage.

Philippine seismologists and local residents said there was panic in Cebu - the country's second biggest city with 2.3 million people -- but no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.

"I was having lunch when the ground shook. Water spilled from glasses and plates clanked. Some of the diners rushed outside, some of us stayed underneath the tables," Pedro Baldomino, a student in Cebu, told AFP by telephone.

He said he saw many office workers in downtown Cebu leaving their buildings after a public announcement on radio told the public to brace for expected aftershocks.

But Ramos said there was no need to reinforce emergency crews in Negros and Cebu because it appeared the damage was not widespread.

"Windows were broken and one small mall in Negros had cracks on its walls, but it wasn't that destructive," Ramos said, adding that it was felt in varying intensities in both islands.

"We are expecting aftershocks, but we have already advised the public about these," he said.

He also said that, apart from the lone fatality, there were no other immediate reports of injuries or casualties.

The Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no danger of a widespread destructive tsunami.

But Phivolcs raised its tsunami warning to the second of a three-stop alert level for coastal areas in Negros, meaning the public is asked to stay away frombeaches and "be watchful" for any signs of rising tides.

However level two does not warrant any evacuation.

Ramos said the chances of a tsunami or a tidal wave were very slim because the quake's epicentre was located on a narrow strait between two islands.

The Philippines sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" -- a belt around the Pacific Ocean where friction between shifting tectonic plates causes frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Enjoy the Month of Heart in most spectacular Resorts in Cebu

2012-01-31T22:24:00.000-08:00

Just visit resorts and hot spot places cebu.

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Cebu Beach - Alegrea Beach Resort

2012-01-31T22:21:00.000-08:00

Located some 80 km from Cebu and Mactan International Airport (Google Map), Alegre Beach Resort and Spa is set amidst 7 hectares of lush tropical gardens featuring 20 luxurious cabanas with 2 spacious bedrooms, each measuring 60 sqm, with all conveniences one might expect from a five star resort. The pristine white coral sand beaches - the resort boasts of 3 private beach coves - offer privacy in abundance and exclusive luxurious accommodation in Cebu.

For your dining in Cebu, the resort has one main restaurant, “The Pavilion”, beautifully located on top of a cliff with air conditioned and non air conditioned areas, serving international and typical Philippine cuisine, a la carte and / or buffet style, together with a Bar and Lounge. Room service is also served from this area. An attractive outdoor outlet at the Talisay beach, called “The Cliff Seafood BBQ and Bar”, which is open daily from 10 AM until late (depending on weather) where a full menu is available, with special BBQs, Barrio Fiesta and similar functions arranged regularly.

Alegre Beach Resort & Spa offers fully equipped conference and banquet facilities for up to 100 persons allowing your meetings in Cebu a relaxing one. The resort also provides a library room, game room, tennis court, golf practice area, a 47 meter swimming pool and 2 children’s pools and an outdoor basket ball court, with facilities for volleyball and badminton. An optional Alegre cruise gives guests an opportunity to watch dolphins occasionally.

The Food and Beverage team arranges special evenings and programs on a regular basis to showcase the rich culture and history of the Philippines. Being a popular resort for honeymooners, the Resort organizes romantic dinners in either of its gazebo or on the beach. The Resort is becoming more and more popular as a venue for wedding receptions on its large grounds.

The Aqua sports department offers a whole range of water sport activities: jet-skiing, snorkeling, kayaking and island hopping on the resort’s larger banca. At the resort’s Alegre dive station a highly skilled team of diving instructors is on stand by to introduce the novice to the beauty of the underwater world as well as arranging for dive trips to the numerous sites for experienced divers, which are explained in detail to guests at the resort and on the website. PADI courses for all levels are being conducted by the hotel’s own instructors.

A further recent addition is the “Alegre Spa”, with two indoor treatment rooms and one outdoor gazebo with a total of 6 treatment beds, where highly skilled therapists spoil the resort’s guests with a wide choice of massages, treatments, reflexology and the like using the best natural products such as herbs and oils.

Over the years Alegre has bagged numerous awards such as the Kalakbay Resort of the Year, the UCLA Environmental Awareness Award and the Kalakbay Award for Ecotourism – Best Business Practices, which emphasizes the commitment toward highest standards in product and services as well as the preservation of nature and the environment. To this effect, the resort in fact, has created its own marine sanctuary, located on its foreshore to support the growth of numerous varieties of coral and to create a home for fishes since within these borders fishing is off-limits.

Alegre. A beach resort known for its natural beauty and quiet luxury. Simplified refinement and unobtrusive efficiency. Unruffled holidays for a special clientele.

Alegre. A Spanish term for happiness, contentment. In Cebuano it means……having fun!

ALEGRE BEACH RESORT & SPA RESERVATION OFFICE
Calumboyan, Sogod, Island of Cebu, Philippines
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1094, Cebu City Philippines
Tel. Nos. +63 (0) 32 2549800; 2549811; 2549822;
Fax: +63 (0) 32 2549833
Direct Line: +63 (0) 32 2556388
Email address: reserve@alegrebeachresort.com or guest@alegrebeachresort.com

CEBU SALES AND RESERVATION OFFICE
Nivel Hills, Lahug
Cebu City, Philippines 6000
Tel. Nos +63 (0) 32 2311198
Fax no: +63 (0) 32 2337944
Email address: cbusales@alegrebeachresort.com

MANILA SALES & RESERVATION OFFICE
Unit 1502, OMM-Citra Bldg.
San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center
Pasig City, Philippines 1605
Tel. Nos:+63 (0) 2 4779119 to 21
Fax: +63 (0) 2 6361584
Email address: mlasales@alegrebeachresort.com

Discover Best Places in Cebu City

2011-12-04T21:36:00.000-08:00

Earning the moniker "The Queen City of the South", Cebu City is a seductive destination that emanates with rich cultural heritage. This handsome city packed with old colonial churches, polished museums and old fashioned edifices that stood the test of time, is a favourite of most foreign tourists in the Philippines.

Cebu City is considered as the oldest city in the Philippines and most, if not all architectural masterpieces left are bittersweet memories of the long epoch of Spanish colonial rule. Downtown Cebu is an impeccable destination for tracing some pieces of its history as well as charming photo opportunities. Here are some places you can explore around downtown:

FORT SAN PEDRO

Triangular in shape, the smallest and oldest fort in the Philippines sits along the coast of downtown Cebu. Fort San Pedro construction began in 1565 to resist Moro raiders. It is home to the first Spanish settlement in the country -- Villa del Santisimo Nombre de Jesus.

CARBON MARKET

Carbon market is Cebu city's oldest and biggest produce market; a typical Filipino market packed with all kinds of goods like cheap souvenirs, artistic handicrafts, fresh vegetables, fish, live poultry and dried intestines. It was named Carbon market because it served as a depository of mountains of coals that runs the old steam train nearby.

MAGELLAN'S CROSS

Housed inside an octagonal chapel with divinely murals painted on the ceiling depicting the first mass and the planting of the original cross in Cebu's shore is the legendary Magellan's Cross. The cross encased inside the towering wooden cross is believed to be the original cross used by Magellan according to the inscription on the plaque.

BASILICA MINORE DEL SANTO NIÑO

The oldest religious relic in the Philippines -- the image of the Santo Niño (the Holy Child Jesus) is housed in Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño. This was the image that Ferdinand Magellan gave to Queen Juana as a gift during the baptism of King Humabon and his wife Queen Juana in 1521. The wooden image of the Holy Child is the center image that is used in the grandest festival in Cebu called Sinulog Festival.

Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño was burnt down three times and the present church proudly standing was reconstructed in 1735. Be captivated by the lavishly designed interiors, beautiful ceiling murals, and a dreamy courtyard with a lovely vintage fountain, impressive altar manned by various Saints and throngs of Catholic devotees.

Outside the mammoth church, do check out the The Prayer and Candle Court crowded with religious devotees and bonfire of candles. Another must-see is the Pilgrim Center fronting the Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño which was built to accommodate the growing numbers of pilgrims during novena, mass and pilgrimage.

CEBU METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL

A colossal white colonial church with thick walls is the seat of the Archdiocese of Cebu. This dreamy historical church quietly stands a few metres away from the bustling Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño. At the back of the church there is a mausoleum where the remains of the departed Catholic bishops are buried.

CATHEDRAL MUSEUM OF CEBU

This ecclesiastical museum of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cebu is a typical example of an old colonial house. It consist of several galleries which showcases photographs of the rise of Catholicism in Cebu, a collection of statues of different saints, chalices, priest vest among others.

RAJAH HUMABON MONUMENT

Fronting the Cathedral Museum of Cebu is a humble park where the forgotten statue of Rajah Humabon sits. Rajah Humabon is an indigenous chieftain in the Philippines who first embraced Christianity upon the arrival of the Spanish colonizers led by Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer.

Magellan then gave the iconic image of the Santo Niño (the Holy Child Jesus) to Raja Humabon's wife -- Queen Juana. Before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, the indigenous locals of Cebu were involved in the South East Asian maritime trade with East Indian, Siamese and Chinese traders. The Rajah Humabon statue portrays him with a turban, a loin cloth, tribal ornaments and paint on his face and body.

COLON STREET

Also known as the Parian, Colon Street is located a few metres away from Rajah Humabon's monument. It is the oldest street in the Philippines constructed by the Spaniards in 1565 and named after the explorer Cristobal Colon (Christopher Columbus).

Marked by an obelisk, this old commercial hub in Cebu is bustling with old restaurants, some souvenir shops, and movie and shop houses.

HERITAGE OF CEBU MONUMENT

The Heritage of Cebu Monument is an evocative sculpture of national artist Edgardo Castrillo highlighting the rich history of Cebu. This monumental artwork is located in the Old Parian district where the Chinese merchants and Filipino entrepreneurs used to live during the Spanish colonial era.

YAP-SAN DIEGO ANCESTRAL HOUSE

This ancestral house owned by Don Juan Yap, a Chinese merchant and his wife Doña Maria Florida is my personal favourite. I wasn't able to enter though because it seemed like there was no one around at that time, or perhaps they couldn't hear me knocking and calling outside the gate. But I was able to take a peek inside through its open window and was stoked by its extensive collection of antique dinnerware, Chinese jars, glasses, artworks, and old paintings displayed on the first floor.

The house itself is an old colonial house made out of wood, coral stones, capiz window and a roof made out of bricks. It is truly a great heritage masterpiece and I love the way they arranged and displayed the heirlooms here. Yap-San Diego Ancestral House is highly recommended if you're planning to visit Cebu City.

Another must-see old structure in the Old Parian plaza is the Jesuit House of 1730 but I had a hard time locating it.

CASA GORORDO MUSEUM

This lofty home of the first bishop of Cebu -- Juan Gorordo is found along Lopez Jaena Street set in an adorable manicured garden. The house is an epitome of bahay-na-bato where the upper part of the house is made of wood and capiz window while the lower part is built out of stone. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside, unlike in the charming Yap San Diego house. Typical antique furniture, paintings and rooms decorated with heirlooms, reminds me of the house museums I visited before.

Downtown Cebu is just one of the many places that tourists can explore in this pleasant old city. Cebu is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines because of its rich cultural heritage, cool travel adventures and gastronomic delights.

Beach Resorts and Contacts

2011-09-28T21:39:00.001-07:00

AAA CLASS

Alegre Beach Resort
Calumboyan, Sogod, Cebu
Tel. (63-32) 254-9800

Badian Island Resort & Spa
Badian Island, Badian, Cebu
Tel. (63-32) 475-1103

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort
Maribago, Lapu Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 232-5411 to14

Pulchra
Barrio San Isidro, San Fernando
Tel. (63-32) 232-0823

AA CLASS

Cebu Beach Club
Buyong, Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-7994

Cebu White Sands At Maribago Beach
Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-5960 to 63

Cordova Reef Village Resort
Poblacion, cordova
Tel. (63-32) 340-8991

Costabella Tropical Beach Resort
Buyong, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340- 5932

Island & Sun Beach Resort
Hilutungan Island, Cordova
Tel. (63-32) 492-4544

Tambuli Beach Club
Buyong Beach, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 495-7726

A CLASS

Casa Del Mar Resort Hotel
Barangay Bancasan, San Remegio
Tel. (63-32) 344-6181

Cebu Marine Beach Resort
Suba Basbas, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-5727

Pacific Cebu Resort
Suba Basbas, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-5982

SIR (Special Interest Resorts) Class

Belle View Beach Club
Kalubihan, Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-9928

Club Kon-Tiki Resort
Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 495-2434

Caohagan Island Club
Caohagan Island, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63 912-5010313

Estaca Bay Garden
Km.203 Estaca, Compostela
Tel. (63-32) 425-8980

› Dive Camp Beach Resort
Kalubihan, Marigondon,Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-9928

Intosan Resort Hotel & Restaurant
Danao City
Tel. (63-32) 200-3476

Marine Village
Liloan, Santander
Tel. (63-32) 340-9040

Nailon Beach Resort
Nailon, Bogo
Tel. (63-32) 251-2328

Nalusuan Island Resort & Marine Sanctuary
Olango Reef, Cordova
Tel. (63-32) 425-8980

UNCLASSIFIED

El Salvador’s Beach Club
Danao City
Tel. (63-32) 200-3622

Hadsan Cove
Agus, Lapu-Lapu City
Tel. (63-32) 340-5937

Springpark Mountain Resort
Cantabaco, Toledo City
Tel. (63-32) 261-9511

MOALBOAL RESORTS

Eve’s Kiosk
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. +63918-7733730

Sampaguita Beach Resort
Tonggo, Basdiot, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 474-0066

B-B’s Seaview Restaurant
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 344-3361

Cora Palm Court
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal

Club Serena Beach Resort & Dive Shop
White Beach, Seavedra, Moalboal
Telefax (63-32) 232-5907
Website: www.clubserenaresort.com

Cabana Beach Club Resort
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 254-6713

Dis Bar & Restaurant
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal

Hannah’s Place
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 474-0091

Marina Beach Resort
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 474-0047

Saavedra Beach Resort
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 474-0033

Sumisid Lodge/ Sea Quest
Panagsama Beach, Moalboal
Tel. (63-32) 346-9629

MALAPASCUA ISLAND RESORTS

Bantigue Cove Resort & Dive Shop
Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan
Website: www.bantiguecove.com

Blue Water Beach Resort
Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan
Tel. (63-32) 437-1053, 429-9011
Website: www.malapascua-beachresort.com

Cocobana Beach Resort
Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan
Tel. +63918-7752942

Loida’s Beach Club
Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan
Tel. +63918-8920291

BANTAYAN ISLAND RESORTS

Budyong Beach Resort
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island

Kota Beach Resort
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island
Tel. (63-32)254-2726

Maia’s Beach Resort
Bassawon Sulangan, Bantayan Island
Tel. (63-32) 438-0077

Marlin Beach Resort
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island
Tel. (63-32) 438-9093

Ogtong Cave Resort
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island
Tel. (63-32) 438-0031

Sta.Fe Beach Resort
ta. Fe, Batayan Island
Tel. (63-32) 438-0031/ 253-1339

Lechon Festival

2011-09-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Lechon Festival
One year, Talisay hosts a proud festival of its trademark lechon. Stuffed with herbs and spices, the roasted pig of Talisay City has crispy skin and meat so tasty that no sauce is needed except a dip of vinegar and crushed garlic.

Local lechon makes jealously guard their recipes. Savor the mainstay of the Filipino banquet table. Find out why Talisay deserves to be the lechon capital of the Philippines.

GenSan prepares for Shamcey's big night

2011-09-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines - The family and townmates of reigning Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Shamcey Supsup are preparing for the coronation night of the 60th Miss Universe pageant, which will be held in Sao Paulo, Brazil on Tuesday morning (Manila time).
Officials of barangay Katangawan said they will set up projectors so more people can cheer on Supsup as they watch the live airing of the world's biggest beauty pageant via ABS-CBN.
Supsup's father, Timoteo, has opted to stay in General Santos to watch his daughter's biggest night with his family and kababayans. Only his wife, Marcey, got the opportunity to accompany their only daughter to Brazil.
Born on May 16, 1986, Supsup moved to General Santos with her family when she was 3 years old. She grew up with her father since her mother worked as an engineer abroad.
Before studying in Manila, Supsup helped her father in the farm, feeding chickens and goats.
In school, Supsup studied hard and enjoyed reading books. She was a valedictorian of her grade school batch, and was salutatorian of her high school batch at the Makati High School.
She also graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines and topped the 2010 Architect Licensure Examination.

Mango Square Cebu

2011-09-07T18:43:00.001-07:00

When going out to Cebu nightclubs, especially on the weekends, be sure to check out Mango Square.

By day, it is a rather quiet small mall located on Mango Avenue near Fuente Circle and anchored by National Bookstore.

On Friday and Saturday night a complete transformation takes place and the party crowd starts arriving. The music starts up and the mood is relaxed and friendly with a combination of Filipinos, foreigners, and tourists from all over the world hanging out and having a good time.

There are several Cebu Nightclubs that open in the evening at Mango Square. Your time in Cebu would definitely not be complete if you didn't explore the nightclubs of Cebu.

The music played is mainly pop, and if you like a fun and lively atmosphere then the nightlife here won't disappoint you.

The prices of drinks and food are reasonable and you will feel comfortable hanging out and drinking an ice cold beer!

Autoshop Bar, Juliana, and Pump are just a few of the nightclubs at Mango Square to enjoy.

You can have a good time either inside with some booming dance music that gets your body moving, or you can enjoy the cool breeze outside while sipping on an unlimited selection of liqueurs, brandies, exotic spirits or San Miguel beer.

When you are in Cebu, head on over to Mango Square and have some fun in a relaxed and friendly environment and mingle with locals and foreign tourists alike.

Entertainment is one thing that Cebu has a large supply of and the nightlife and nightclubs are no exception. Almost every night is a night to party in Cebu and people like hanging out with their friends or colleagues.

Filipinos are friendly, fun-loving, and they like to sing and dance every chance they get. So, join in, let your hair down and have a good time at some of the Cebu Nightclubs when you are in town!

Cebu City Museum / Rizal Memorial Library

2011-09-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

The Cebu City Museum at Fuente Osmeña, which was opened to the public on March 16, 1992, houses some 100 paintings, 50 sculptures, antique chinaware, furniture, and woodcarvings. There are also a few archaeological finds.
Patricia Perez, Chief of the Cultural and Historical Affairs Committee (CHAC) describes the Cebu City Museum as a place where mixed disciplines of the art converge.
A modern sculpture by Eliseo Pepito meets you at the door beside a mega-size 15th century Chinese vat donated by Fred Labra. As you move around the museum, you run into landscapes, portraits of well-known Cebuano figures and personalities, floral renditions, and murals. Antique chinaware from Carcar from the personal collections of Eva Mesa and Luther Galicano are stacked in a 40-year-old cabinet owned by Matilde Palicte.

The paintings of Professor Julian Jumalon are done with butterfly wings in the Lepido-mosaic style.

Some of the works of Professor Julian Jumalon are exhibited. The paintings are done with butterfly wings in the Lepido-mosaic style.The highlight of the Cebu City Museum is the detailed history of Cebu in 21 canvasses. The museum commissioned the best Cebuano painters to capture the city's history with authentic annotations following the approval of Prof. Resil Mojares, USC-Cebuano Studies Center and Prof. Julian Jumalon, an artist in his own right.
The paintings depict authentic Cebuano customs, costumes, and the lifestyle of Cebu from the 1500s to the Japanese Occupation in 1940s. Mario Vidal's "The Battle of Mactan, 1521," Jesse Rona's "Parian District, 1850," and "The Japanese Occupation, 1942," are some of the notable works on exhibit.

Salvaro

2011-06-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

The salvaro of Cebu are basically coconut crackers that are characterized by being flat and oval in shape. Additionally, these biscuits are indeed very thin (wafer-thin!) and also very crispy. Because of their coconut flavour, they are made to be more unique and distinct from other delicacies and products of Cebu.

The main ingredients of salvaro are the enriched wheat flour, sugar, sodium bicarbonate, shredded coconut, and shortening. It is also known to be a very healthy and nutritious delight for all. There are several famous brands and manufacturers of salvaro you can find here in Cebu, including Gene’s Salvaro de Cebu and Pinky’s Salvaro. You might want to check these out.

It is basically coconut crackers on flat oval and very thin biscuits. It is wafer-thin and very crispy. It has a unique taste due to its coconut flavor.

Casa Gorordo Museum Cebu

2011-06-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

Casa Gorordo Museum is one of the well known museums among the museums in Cebu and it's also known to be a special project of Don Ramon Aboitiz. This museum is located in the mid of the Parian district which is also known to be among the old streets in Cebu. This museum is basically named after Msgr. Juan Gorordo, the owner of the house and the first bishop. The house was turned into a museum only after Don Ramon came to own it in 1980.Don Ramon Abolitz foundation, Inc presently runs the museum and it's constructed purely with tugas (molave), narra, and bayong (mahogany) accessories. This two storey building is a reflection of the 1860 architecture and the specific lifestyle of the owner. The patio on the ground floor is also the waiting room for guests and its furniture is partially made of bamboo but a gallinera stands out more prominently. The basement for food storage is located near the patio. Among the various artifacts one finds the 18th and 19th century implements of agricultural and household origin. The presence of the plow and other cultivable tools reflect the evolution of farming culture. Large basins made of hard wood and called duwang and 4 big palo palo are also to be found among the collections including the clothes wringers, dryers and wooden plantsa for ironing clothes. 80 to 90% of the furniture in the second floor of the house are original fixtures and display intricate art forms like wood carvings dividing the house into function rooms. In the sala you will find rattan sets and Vienna chairs accompanied by cabinets, tables and beds manufactured from narra or molave having delicate carvings done on them. The dinning rooms and kitchen display kubietos or silverware and antique plates and cups or tazas. The 18th century image also finds recognition in the water jars and cooking accessories

MAGELLAN’s MARKER

2011-06-08T23:47:00.000-07:00

MAGELLAN’s MARKER

Location: Punta Engaño Lapulapu City
About 20 kms. From Cebu City. Encouraged by the success of Christianizing the people of Cebu, Magellan crossed the channel to Mactan Island in an effort to spread the faith. Before he reached the shores, he was killed by the chieftain of the island, Lapulapu and his men during the battle for supremacy and freedom on April 27, 1521. Efforts to retrieve the body of Magellan were futile inspite of the offer to trade jewelries and spices for the dead body. This marker was erected in 1866 to mark the spot where the great explorer died.
One of the oldest monuments in the province, the Magellan monument in Barangay Mactan (Lapu-Lapu City) traces its origin to December 4, 1840, when Spanish Governor-General Francisco Alcala approved the plan to construct a monument in Punta Engaño, Mactan, in honor of Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese “discoverer” of the Philippines.
The actual circumstances of its construction, however, are not quite clear. It appears that as of 1858, a Magellan monument had already been erected but this may not be the same monument that exists today. Karl von Scherzer, who visited the Philippines in 1858 as a member of an Austrian naval expedition, wrote that on Mactan island “there was also erected on the promontory of Sugaño (Punta Engaño) a monument to the memory of Magelhaens (Magellan), and the happy idea was entertained of making it also a lighthouse to warn ships of the danger in approaching the immense number of reefs that are found here. “Though it is not clear whether Scherzer himself saw the monument, it can be assumed that the original monument was a monument-cum-lighthouse in a promontory of Punta Engaño.
The monument that now exists in Barangay Mactan – a classic obelisk on a multi-level base – is said to have been built in 1866 during the administration of the Augustinian priest Simon Aguirre, who was cura of Opon (now Lapu-Lapu) in 1857-71.
It is an important landmark that, even today, has not been given the full care and respect it deserves

COLON STREET

2011-05-03T18:07:00.000-07:00

COLON STREET

Known as the oldest street in the Philippines, Colon Street was built by the Spaniards during the time of Miguel Lopez de Legaspi. Named after Cristobal Colon (Christopher Columbus), it is the heart of downtown Cebu, a glittering area by night lined with movie houses, restaurants, department stores, and other business establishments.
Developed by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, the place became the center for commercial activities in downtown Cebu. Through the years, Colon remained the lifeline of trade and commerce in colonial Cebu. It was in Colon where the first business establishments and offices where built and flourished in Cebu. It was also the place where most happenings took place such as social and cultural events. The street similarly has become a witness to the rise and fall of Cebu’s economic and political competence over the years.
Labeled as the center of commerce and trade, many universities were built near or along Colon Street such as University of Cebu, University of the Visayas, University of San Carlos, and University of San Jose-Recoletos.
Colon Street is now lined with many big commercial establishments. Investors believe that profit is halfway achieved once they invest in Colon. Jeepneys, taxis and buses as well have replaced the calesas (horse-drawn carriage) of long ago as the means of public transportation that move in and out of this street.
In 1990’s, the malling culture of America arrived in Cebu. Malls of various sizes began to sprout almost simultaneously all over the metro, leaving businesses in Colon threatened. Businessmen then observed an evident decrease of customers and shoppers in Colon. A number of business establishments were even closed then. Shoppers preferred an air-conditioned and more relaxing ambiance of a mall. However, in recent years, a surge of shoppers has been noticed. The main draw obviously is the cheap merchandise and reasonable price of goods from the many bargain stores. People from different walks of life visit this place in search of low-priced and economical goods. Business owners coming from nearby provinces of Cebu consider Colon as an ‘easy on the pocket’ spot for shopping.
Colon never lost its position as the bargain hunters’ paradise. Most old stores and even the newer shops on Colon offer much cheaper prices compared to their counterparts in the malls, making them the primary choice for most shoppers. Colon shops are a one-stop shop where you can buy everything with price tags assuredly lesser than other places in Cebu.
An annual tiange (open-air market) has been held since the year 2000. It is one of the main attractions of this street where
shoppers are said to double in number. The activity has been patronized mostly by the common people of Cebu. It’s like revisiting an old street, and re-visioning it. It takes people back on a journey to that time when it was the main commercial street in all its grandeur, a locality of its own, and yes, with an overwhelming character.
When Christmas draws near, Colon is the perfect location to visit. Shoppers congest Colon Street as they search for good value for their money. It’s a one-stop shopping street where you can buy everything you want and need. It’s a place where leisure and commodities are combined. Fashion jewelry, Ready-to-Wear, shoes, bags, among others. After a tiresome day of shopping, Colon treats you with the movie houses located along the street. Fast Food and commonplace restaurants are also there catering to your appetite. Pamper yourself with the luxury of shopping in temperature-controlled department stores. Indulge your worn-out legs with convenient taxis and colorful Jeepneys dashing all over the street willing to serve you with the best service they could give. Colon guarantees quality service to all customers, the only place where shopping is made even more exciting and pleasurable.
So if you think paying less and buying more is impossible, think again, as business owners in Colon make that happen. Experience the magnetism of Colon Street!

Plaza Independencia

2011-05-03T18:04:00.000-07:00

Plaza Independencia

Plaza Independencia is strategically located between Fort San Pedro and the building that used to be the Gobierno Provincial in the downtown area of Cebu. The plaza is a popular hangout for many living or working around the area. It is one huge garden filled with trees, ornamental plants and flowers. There is also a public skating rink and a kiosk at the center of the circular skating rink. An obelisk dedicated to the memory of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi ,the first Spanish governor-general of the Philippines, is planted at the very heart of the plaza.
Plaza Independencia is the most historically significant plaza in Cebu. Its land and age-old acacia trees are witness to the many phases and stories of Cebu’s rich history.
In the early 1600s, it was called Plaza de Armas. When it was widened later on and expanded to reach nearby properties of the Cathedral of Cebu, it was called Plaza Mayor. Later in the Spanish rule, it was further landscaped and developed and was christened Plaza Maria Cristina, in honor of the queen regent. During the American colonial period, its name was changed to Plaza Libertad, as the Americans asserted how they liberated Cebuanos from the Spanish rule. Later on it finally became known as Plaza Independencia.
In a road tunnel construction project in 2006 that touched a part of the plaza and nearby areas, pre-Hispanic human bones and some earthenware were uncovered. In 2008, some artifacts were unearthed which included gold death masks, a pair of gold earrings, a Thai bluish-green “guan” celadon, jars and other earthenware. Plaza Independencia and some strategic parts of the downtown area of Cebu is a rich archaeological field due to its history as a prehispanic settlement and trading port. Indeed, there are many secrets and stories from Plaza Independencia.

Crocolandia

2011-04-28T22:19:00.000-07:00

Crocolandia

Crocolandia is another must-visit destination in the province of Cebu. The mini-zoo/park, which is the first of its kind in the region, is located in Biasong, Talisay City.
It was founded in 2001, by The Crocolandia Foundation Inc., which is a non-profit, non-stock private organization focused on nature and wildlife conservation.
The park provides a habitat for endangered and endemic animals. It is now home to varieties of mammals, birds and reptiles. A huge majority of its animal population is made up of different species of crocodiles, which obviously accounts for its name. In fact, the park’s most famous resident is a six-meter long saltwater crocodile named after our very own hero, Lapu-Lapu.
Crocolandia, in its mission to educate, also features a museum and a library. For further amusement, the park also has several gardens and fishponds, a souvenir shop, and a playground. You can also dine at the Crocolandia Grill whenever you feel the need to replenish lost calories from touring the place.
So plan a day out with the kids and let them have fun while learning more about nature, wildlife, and biodiversity. Don’t worry; the Crocolandia experience is easy on the pocket with a reasonable entrance fee of P80 for adults and P40 for children 11 years old and below.

Dried Mangoes

2011-04-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

Dried Mangoes

From the name itself, it is mango that is sun dried and ripe. But, well, Cebu’s dried mango is not your usual and ordinary dried mango. Cebu’s dried mango is most famous for its distinctive taste that will surely leave you craving for more. Cebu’s mangoes have a sweet yet sour taste. The ripe dried mangoes are also packed perfect for snacks.

Dried mangoes are excellent fat-free alternatives to sugary snacks. With its sweet and non-acidic zest, this dried fruit product is rich in vitamins and made from the best handpicked mangoes of Cebu. Each bite is guaranteed to be tasty, chewy and full of flavor.

These fruit snacks are perfect for every occasion. You can serve them as appetizers or desserts in dinners. You can even bring them to outdoor excursions and outings. These chewy nibbles are perfect whether you are at work, at play, or simply at home.

Bibingka

2011-04-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

Bibingka

The bibingka is a rice cake popular in the Philippines and made of basic ingredients consisting of rice flour, sugar, butter and coconut milk. Cooking bibingka involves placing burning coals on top of and under the bibingka mold while placed on a clay pot.
The bibingka has a spreading of butter or margarine, topped with sprinkled sugar and grated coconut. Young banana leaves heated over a small flame would wrap or line the bottom of the bibingka when sold to customers.

Although a popular street food, it is usually in demand with locals and even tourists during the Christmas season when it is one of the delicacies sold by vendors outside the churches after the traditional night mass or Simbang Gabi held from December 16 to 24.

There are many versions of bibingka in Cebu but the most famous is the bibingka of Mandaue City because this type uses manually pounded rice instead of the commercially available rice flour.

The Mandaue bibingka consists of pounded rice, coconut milk, white or brown sugar and either yeast or tuba. The tuba is the country’s local version of the coconut wine and is sometimes used in place of yeast in order to increase the size of the rice cake. Only a few bakers in Mandaue City offer this type of bibingka.
Another type of bibingka in Cebu is the roadside bibingka offered by vendors who are stationed beside the major highways or roads in Cebu especially the thoroughfares leading to the province’s tourist destinations.

The roadside bibingka is smaller than the regular bibingka and cooked using makeshift stoves made of galvanized corrugated iron sheets. This type uses burning coconut husks above the stove and some hot embers of husks under the stove.
The most common type of bibingka is the one offered by vendors outside the churches at the end of the dawn masses during the Christmas season. The vendors selling this type of bibingka are seasonal vendors who want to earn extra income during the holiday season. Therefore, they would just use the cheapest ingredients and not use the most expensive brands of ingredients.

Ampao

2011-04-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

Ampao

Carcar, Cebu is known for a lot of things from having the most gifted artists in the nation, along with having the best delicacies ever to reach your taste buds. You may know it for its amazing chicarons (pork rines) but it is also known for its sweet, sweet ampao. Of course, I bet Rachael Ray would choke into guessing as to how this delicacy is made.

Ampao is the Philippine version of the rice crispies. It began in the early 1900s and became popular in the 1940s. It is just basically cooked rice that is dried out in the sun so that it becomes crispy. Along with this sweet, white treat, you can find a piece of peanut or two. The emphasis of the peanut is to bring out that natural ampao flavor, and helps make it a treat that everyone loves.

It would take time to make sweet ampao and is very much unlikely compared to a 15-minute meal by Rachael Ray. Nonetheless, the ampao gives us a more direct taste and also a bit of nostalgic moments that will bring us back a few years ago when we first tasted this delicacy.

Ampao can also be found in different colors to attract the younger market. They can vary from green to pink to yellow colors. Children love its colorful and distinct taste and texture. They may also enjoy the lasting after effects of eating colored ampao because it stains your lips and teeth.

Ampao is an amazing little treat that you can add to other desserts for a more enjoyable meal. You can put them in your ice cream or on cake. You can make them into little square bars or mix into a batch of cookies. And for true Filipinos, what is halo halo without ampao? No matter how old you are or what dessert you are eating, sweet ampao is a great way to go.

Rosquillos

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The rosquillos are cookies that originated from the Municipality of Liloan, Cebu. The cookies are circular in shape with flower-like edges and a ring shaped hole in the center. The rosquillos is a distinctive snack unique to Cebu and is a favorite snack of local Cebuanos and expatriate Cebuanos in the United States. The late Philippine president Sergio Osmeña Sr. reputedly gave the name of rosquillos from the Spanish word rosca, meaning ringlet.

Margarita “Titay” T. Frasco created the rosquillos in 1907 in the town of Liloan. She later founded Titay’s Liloan Rosquillos and Delicacies Inc., the pioneer and premier company producing delicious and fine quality rosquillos in Cebu. Descendants of her family presently run the company which also produces other native snacks. Titay’s Rosquillos supplies and delivers its products to supermarkets in Cebu City and has several retail outlets in the city.
The packaging of the rosquillos states that the cookies are made of flour, eggs, shortening, sugar and baking powder, with no preservatives and artificial colorings. However, descendants of the Frasco family claim that the recipe for the rosquillos is a patented family recipe passed on to succeeding generations of the family.

Although there have been other bakeshops creating and selling their own rosquillos, many people still swear that they prefer the original Titay’s Rosquillos because of its unique and delicious taste.

Moalboal

2011-04-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

Moalboal

Located in the southwest of Cebu city with a couple of hours drive. Moalboal have numerous magnificent diving sites to offer. These dive site offers sea adventurers the opportunity to have a good view to the variety of coral life and marine life. Dive sites here are ideal for photography. Fan corals and gorgonians are everywhere as are sponges, crinoids and shells. Divers will also encounter Reef fishes like sweetlips, tangs, gobies and lionfish. You will also encounter large pelagics including shark, barracuda, tuna, manta rays and groupers.
Dive sites in MoalBoal also have superb drop-offs overhangs all around. Some of the spectacular and enchanting dive sites in Moalboal are Ronda Bay, Tuble Reef, Tongo Point, Lambug, Pescador Island and etc.

Cebu's Lechon

2011-04-28T22:07:00.000-07:00

Cebu’s Lechon

If it’s all about food we’re going to talk about, then Cebu is a no-stranger when it comes to that topic. Cebu is not only famous for its stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes and great people perfectly blended by the modernization, but also for food uniqueness; the lechon, or roast. There are actually three kinds of lechon: the lechon baboy (roasted pig), lechon manok (chicken) and the quite rare lechon baka (roasted cow). The lechon baka is relatively rare since, rather than the whole cow, the hind leg/s is the only part available.
In Cebu, and in some parts of the Philippines, the default name of “lechon” is branded on the whole-roasted pig since it is mostly the first choice to be order in several major occasions like weddings, feasts and birthdays. Today, the places of Carcar and Talisay are considered the most prominent lechon producers. Even parties handled by wealthy people in Manila are bound to make orders in Cebu just to get the most delicious and scrumptious lechon.

Puto and Sikwate

2011-04-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

Before bread, pancakes, and even cereal invaded the Cebu and Visayan breakfast tables, there was puto and sikwate.

Puto in Cebu is steamed sticky rice which is gradually mixed with coconut milk while being cooked. To taste, sugar, small amounts of salt, and ginger are added. Sikwate, on the other hand, is hot choco drink from chocolate tablets called tabliya made of dried and pulverized cacao seeds. Sometimes, the puto was occasionally paired with ripe mango which is also a very abundant fruit in Cebu (one of the popular local delicacies are dried mangoes).

Now don’t be confused, puto may also be referred as puto maya wrapped in banana leaves because in some other parts in the Philippines, puto can be steamed ground rice or puto mamon which does not include rice.

Puto and sikwate is not very common nowadays in Cebu homes anymore. However, there are still a handful few who remain to be patrons of the traditional breakfast.

In the Visayas they often call the hot treat painit or to get warm for the cold dawn or daybreak. A whole and heavier morning meal may follow moments after the painit. Innovations like 3-in-1 instant tabliya are already available in the market which means you would just need to add hot water and you already have tasty sikwate. Then again, the original tablets melted in boiling water to make the chocolate drink are still preferred for its unique taste and pleasing aroma.

Biko

2011-04-28T22:04:00.000-07:00

Biko served on banana leaves

The Cebuano biko is a sticky rice cake made from sweetened coconut milk, sugar and bits of ginger topped with caramelized coconut cream. “Latik” is the local term for the curdled coconut cream.

The caramelized latik gives the brown color for the biko and is either served on a plate or wrapped in banana leaves.
Some Cebuano versions of the biko have calamansi rind in it. The cool and soothing effect of the ginger in the biko neutralizes its sweet taste. Since the biko is very sticky, I have to eat it slowly so I can savor every bite of its delicious taste.

Binignit

2011-04-28T22:01:00.000-07:00

The ginataan is one of popular Filipino desserts or snacks served during birthdays and other special events in the country. However, they are especially cooked and eaten during the Holy Week in Cebu and other Visayan islands on Good Friday, when most of the locals are fasting or abstaining from eating any meat.
I have eaten both the binignit and biko several times already and I can definitely recommend both of them for people who want to eat their dessert slowly just like me.

The binignit is the Cebuano version of the Filipino soup dessert of ginataan. The ginataan is a soup consisting of a thick mixture of tubers such as taro, purple yam, sweet potato, as well as bananas, jack fruit, sago, tapioca pearls and sugar, cooked in coconut milk and thickened with milled glutinous rice.

The binignit is served and eaten hot especially during the cold, rainy season. But it is also served cold and chilled during the hot summer season. The Cebuano binignit is a soup traditionally made with slices of bananas, taro, and sweet potato. Cooked together with the vegetables, fruits and pearl sago is a mixture of water, coconut milk and the landang, which is a local variety of the sago.

When served hot, I would eat the binignit slowly like a hot soup and take small bites of the cuttings of the fruits and vegetables in the dessert. Even when I have eaten all the ingredients, the binignit’s sweet taste is still a treat and I would slowly sip it with my spoon as if I would be sipping a soup.

Binignit served cold and chilled is popular during the hot summer days since its ingredients are almost similar popular to another popular Filipino dessert during the summer, the halo-halo.