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Cebu City

About Cebu City

Cebu is a province of the Philippines, located in the Central Visayas region. One main island and 167 surrounding islands and islets jointly form Cebu. The capital of Cebu is Cebu City, also known as the Queen City of the South. It is a highly urbanized old city and the first capital of the Philippines.  
Seven neighbouring cities (Cebu City, Carcar City, Danao City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, Naga City, and Talisay City) and 6 municipalities (Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Liloan, Minglanilla, and San Fernando) come together to form Metro Cebu (Cebu Metropolitan Area).
After Metro Manila, Metro Cebu is the second-largest metropolitan area in the Philippines and Cebu City for being the main centre of commerce, trade, industry and education in the Visayas region. In the last decade, Cebu has come up as a global hub for tourism, shipping, furniture-making, business processing services, and heavy industry.
Mactan–Cebu International Airport, the second busiest airport in the Philippines is located on Mactan Island.

Cebu Island

History of Cebu

The name "Cebu" has been derived from the old Cebuano word Sibu or Sibo (trade), which is a short form of Sinibuayng Hingpit (the place for trading). The harbours of Cebu were known by different names Sebu, Sibuy, Zubu and Zebu for international trade, even before the 13th century. The kingdom of Cebu was founded by Sri Lumay known as Rajamuda Lumaya, who was a Tamil prince of the Chola dynasty. The Maharaja of Chola deputed him to establish a base for different army expeditions for conquering the local kingdoms. But Sri Lumay rebelled and established an independent kingdom known as Rajahnate of Cebu. 
In the early 16th century, the Portuguese started exploring the area, which marked the beginning of the Spanish colonization in this region. In the year 1521, five Spanish Vessels led by Magellan with a total group of 250 people and Enrique of Malacca, who was their translator, reached the Philippines circumnavigating the world via the Americas and finally sailed to Cebu. The Enrique of Malacca befriended the King of Cebu, Rajah Humabon and convinced him to accept Charles-I of Spain as King and become his ally. Rajah Humabon and his wife were baptized and given Christian names Carlos and Juana. As a symbol of peace and friendship between the Spanish and Cebuano, Santo Niño was presented to Carlos and the native queen of Cebu. A large wooden cross was erected on the shores of Cebu and more than 700 natives were baptized simultaneously. 
In his megalomania of capturing nearby islands, Magellan attacked Mactan Island ruled by Lapu-Lapu but Spanish forces faced defeat and Magellan was killed. The survivors of the Magellan expedition sailed back to Spain via America with tales of East Indies. Later, several expeditions were sent to the islands but none succeeded. Finally in 1564, sailing from Mexico, Spanish explorers led by Miguel López de Legazpi arrived at Cebu in 1565. They established a colony and defeated King Rajah Tupas in a brief battle and occupied his territories. The trade flourished under their regime and they renamed the island to "Villa del Santísimo Nombre de Jesús" (Town of the Most Holy Name of Jesus). Thus, Cebu became the first European settlement in East settled by the Spanish. 
After the Spanish-American War in the year 1901, Cebu was ceded to the United States, which governed it for a brief period. Finally, on 24th February 1937, Cebu became a charter province and came under the independent governance of Filipino politicians.
During the 2nd world war, the Japanese occupied Cebu and used it as their Military Base. But the Philippines Army retaliated and started anti-Japanese military operations. They continued fighting for three years, and with the help of Cebuano guerrillas and American forces, reoccupied the island. In the year 1946, the colonial rule came to an end and the island achieved independence. 
In the years 2012 and 2013, Cebu was hit by 6.7 and 7.2 magnitude earthquakes. The latter left more than 100 dead and many structures were totally destroyed. Just 3 weeks after the quake, Super Typhoon Yolanda struck the region and disrupted the relief efforts. All Government agencies including The National Commission for Culture and the Arts, National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces, Department of Health, Department of Foreign Affairs and many more social organizations jointly started the rehabilitation work immediately after the tremors. International aid also started pouring in, and within one year, Cebu was ready to welcome the outside world with all its glory once again.

Sirao Flower Garden

How To Reach Cebu

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Cebu is by air. The Mactan International Airport has almost daily direct flights from Malaysia, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea.
If one prefers sea voyage, daily ferry or boats are also available to and from Cebu, Manila, Negros, Ozamis, Davao, Bohol and Leyte and many more. Ferry tickets can be booked online or through local agents. 

How to get to Cebu City from Manila

Cebu is just one hour away by flight from Manila. Philippines Airlines offers regular flights to and from Cebu. Or alternatively, one can choose to travel by sea route. Regular ferries are available. It is a 24-hour ride.

Cebu City Bus Terminals

Cebu has two major bus terminals - Cebu North Bus terminal and Cebu South Bus Terminal.
The North Bus Terminal is at Subangdaku, Mandaue City of Cebu. Various modes of transport like bus, minibus, and V-hire (van-for-hire) originate from this terminal for almost every destination of northern Cebu Province. With large signboards put up in front of the bus, you can easily spot the bus going to your desired destination. About 40 minibuses also operate from here to different destinations. It is quite a large station and can accommodate more than 100 buses at a time.
The Cebu South Bus terminal is an ultra-modern public facility in the province. The terminal seems like an airport with a large capacity for passengers and vehicles as well. Given below are the few facilities that make this terminal special:

  • An air-conditioned waiting lounge
  • Small stores and food/snack outlets
  • Souvenir shops
  • Flat-screen TVs in waiting places
  • Restrooms or toilets (washrooms)
  • Arrival and departure announcement system
  • Organized boarding gates

You can get buses for almost all destinations in South province. But specifically, there are two main routes for the buses from South Terminal - East Coast Destinations and West Coast Destinations.
The buses bound for East Coast destinations take you to Alcoy Municipality, Argao Municipality, Boljoon Municipality, Carcar City, Dalaguete Municipality, Oslob Municipality, Talisay City, Minglanilla Municipality, Naga City, San Fernando, Sibonga Municipality, and Santander Municipality.
In the West Coast destinations, you can find Alcantara, Aloguinsan Municipality, Badian, Alegria, Barili, Dumanjug, Toledo City, Pinamungahan Municipality, Ronda, Moalboal, Malabuyoc, Ginatilan, Samboan, and Santander.
Most of the towns mentioned above are located near the sea line. Therefore, wherever you go by bus, you can always experience the fascinating views of the sea throughout the journey.

Trains

For about 30 years from 1911 to 1942, a rail line was operated in Cebu by The Philippine Railway Company from Argao in the south all the way up to Danao in the north. But due to the Japanese occupation in 1942, the operations ceased. Some train stations were badly damaged during the earthquake of 2013. The damage and destruction were so extensive that the authorities decided to shut the rail route forever. Presently, only four stations remain, amongst which, the Cebu Train Station is being used as a restaurant whereas the Sab-ang Sibonga is the Simala Elementary School Library, and the Siargao Train Station is currently being used as the fire station.

Rental Vehicles

In Cebu, for local commuting, public transport is not the only option available. You can easily rent a scooter, motorcycle or car locally and explore the great historic place on your own.
For commuting short distances within Cebu, taxis, tricycles, Jeepneys, and Tuktuk are also available.

Where To Eat In Cebu

Cebu is not only rich in tourist attractions and culture but is also home to a wide variety of Filipino delicacies that will make your stay in Cebu more memorable and satisfying. A number of restaurants and food joints that offer freshly prepared food are present throughout the city. But if you are not hesitant to try street food, you can relish Filipino dishes at various food stalls that you can find everywhere. 

Must-see Attractions In Cebu City

While going through the history of Cebu, it is quite evident that a lot of attractions, historical sites, beaches, Spanish monuments and much more can be found at this Southeast Asian hub having a grand rich cultural heritage. 
The major attractions in Cebu are:

heritage monument in Cebu

Heritage of Cebu Monument

Built with dark stone and bricks, Heritage of Cebu Monument is a must-see place in Cebu. It reflects the history and tales of centuries of invasions, battles, revolutions, etc. It is a sculpture of ships, churches, crosses and thought-provoking historical figures. Hire a guide who will take you for a walk through the time while explaining the rich history of this beautiful monument.

Colon Street

A great place to buy some souvenirs and enjoy local street food, this street offers a beautiful walk with markets selling jewellery, backpacks, shoes, and clothing. The smiling vendors are friendly and you can take a photo selfie with them.

1730 Jesuit House

The 1730 Jesuit House is an ancient house that has survived foreign invasions, earthquakes, and typhoons and still stands to tell the tales of Cebu’s glorious history. Stepping inside will make you feel as if you have stepped a century back through history. Beautifully preserved artefacts and antiques will mesmerize you while your guide takes you through an hour-long journey of this historic wonder.

Swimming with Whale Sharks

World’s largest fish, the Whale Shark is found in abundance off the coast of the Philippines. Cebu is one of the two locations in the Philippines where these gentle giants of the sea can be found. The whale sharks here have become friendly with local fishermen who feed them regularly. That’s the reason these beasts do not migrate to warmer waters for colder parts of the year and the controversial yet wonderful experience of swimming with this mammoth fish is available throughout the year.

SM Mall Cebu

SM Mall is one of the most popular shopping malls in Cebu. It is fully air-conditioned with a lot of fun activities for adults and kids. There is an ice skating rink, children’s playground, and an arcade. The mall is located along the coast and offers a mesmerizing, unrestricted view of the sea. This property is so huge and captivating that one tends to forget the time while roaming around this place and hours fly away like minutes.

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral

If you are interested in history, then this is one of the must-visit places. Cathedral depicts the tale of how Christianity was able to plant such deep roots in a territory whose previous religion had deeper roots entangled in Hinduism and Buddhism for centuries. 

Mountain View Nature Park

Mountain View Nature Park

Mountain View Nature Park is a great place to visit with family as it offers something for everyone. For kids, there is a shallow pool water ground where they can enjoy the slides and stairs. A lush green piece of land there is being used as a playground.
For adults, the breathtaking beauty of rolling hilltop covered with miles and miles of greenery keeps one awestruck. The property has a restaurant, public restrooms, café, and some hotel rooms also. 

Taoist Temple

A beautiful Taoist Temple 300 meters above the sea level is situated in the Beverly Hills subdivision of Cebu. A tiring winding path with a number of stairs takes you to the temple. But once you reach the temple, you will be greeted with a mesmerizing view of the island.
As per the ritual, you have to enter the temple, carrying two blocks of wood and drop them in front of God. If the blocks fall facing upwards, that means you have God’s permission to make a wish, if not, then it is not a proper time for your wish to come true. 

Yap-SanDiego Ancestral House

Built in 1675, Yap-SanDiego Ancestral House is one of the oldest and best-preserved houses of Cebu. The lower part including walls, stairs, floors, and ceilings are made of coral stone, whereas Chinese bricks, also called terracotta tiles have been used to make the roof. The house fascinates you with its 350 years of standing with original integrity. The house preserves paintings, furniture, and antiques of 16th to 19th centuries.

Casa Gorordo Museum

The culture and history of Cebuano as a whole are carefully preserved in this museum. Every step inside immerses you in the past as the tour guide comprehensively narrates and shares all the necessary information.

Rajah Humabon Monument

A beautiful monument depicting Rajah Humabon in a sitting posture has been erected across Cebu Cathedral Museum.

Sirao Peak-Flower Garden

Sirao Peak-Flower Garden

A very popular beautiful garden full of hundreds of species of flowers, beautifully arranged and very picturesque, is a place equally favourite of locals and outsiders. 

The other major attractions and activities in Cebu are cliff jumping, scuba diving, a stroll of downtown Cebu, and visit to the Catholic Church, etc. 

Nightlife in Cebu

Cebu offers a very active and lively nightlife. You will find a number of casinos, discos, night clubs, bikini bars, late opening restaurants, and live music venues operating all through the night.