Located between Barangay Banhigan and Barangay Poblacion in Badian, Kansanto Spring offers a cool and relaxing getaway. Its crystal-clear, cold waters are perfect for beating the summer heat, making it a favorite spot for families and barkadas.
Relax, Swim, and Stay
Photo from Juday
Visitors can rent cottages for a day trip or book private rooms for an overnight stay to enjoy the spring at its most peaceful. The best part? You can bring your own food without corkage fees. Drinks and liquors, however, come with a ₱200 charge per kind. Whether you’re dipping in the waters or simply lounging by the poolside, Kansanto Spring delivers a laid-back atmosphere that’s both rustic and refreshing.
Photo from Juday
How to Get There
Location: Between Barangay Banhigan and Barangay Poblacion in Badian, Cebu
By Car: If you’re driving, just search Kansanto Spring, Lower Badian on Google Maps or Waze. The journey from Cebu City takes around 3 hours via the Cebu South Road. Parking spaces are available near the spring, so road-trippers can enjoy a hassle-free visit whether by car or motorbike.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Badian (₱140, approx. 3 hours). Ask the driver to drop you off at Lower Badian. From there, a quick habal-habal ride (motorbike taxi) will take you directly to Kansanto Spring. Friendly locals will gladly guide you along the way.
Cebu isn’t just about beaches and food, it’s also home to some of the most magical sunsets. Whether you’re in the city or up in the mountains, here are four sunset spots worth visiting, plus how to get there.
1. SM Seaside Roof Park
Photo from Joshua Otero
The Sky Park on top of SM Seaside is an urban escape with wide open spaces, gardens, and a panoramic view of the city. Come late afternoon, it becomes one of the easiest yet most rewarding places to catch the sunset without leaving Cebu City.
How to Get There
Location: South Road Properties, Cebu City
By Car: Drive straight to SM Seaside at SRP and head up to the Roof Deck Sky Park (parking available).
By Commute: Take a jeepney or bus bound for SRP or SM Seaside. From the terminal, head up to the roof park.
Photo from Joshua Otero
2. SRP Baywalk
Photo from Ivoh Odevilas
The SRP Baywalk offers an uninterrupted view of the sea and Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway. Locals love coming here for evening jogs, bike rides, or just sitting by the seawall to watch the sky burst into colors.
How to Get There
Location: South Road Properties, near CCLEX Bridge
By Car: From Cebu City, head south via SRP Road. Parking spots are available along the Baywalk.
By Commute: Ride a jeep or bus passing through SRP, then hop off near the Baywalk area. A short walk gets you to the seaside.
3. Busay
Photo from Ram Marcelita
If you want cooler air and a sweeping city view, Busay’s cafés and viewing decks are your go-to. Sip coffee, have dinner, or simply enjoy the sunset as Cebu lights up below you.
How to Get There
Location: Hillside of Cebu City
• By Car: Drive up through Lahug (Transcentral Highway). Follow the road to Tops/Busay, where you’ll find plenty of cafés and lookout spots.
• By Commute: Take a motorcycle-for-hire (habal-habal) from JY Square Lahug straight up to Busay.
4. Osmeña Peak
Photo from Iyah Ann
Cebu’s highest point at 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak gives you a sunset experience like no other, jagged hills, cool winds, and panoramic views stretching to the sea. It’s a bit of a hike, but the payoff is magical.
How to Get There
Location: Dalaguete, Southern Cebu
• By Car: Drive south via Carcar to Dalaguete. Follow signs to Mantalongon Market, then continue to the Osmeña Peak jump-off point.
• By Commute: From Cebu City, ride a bus bound for Dalaguete and drop off at Mantalongon Market. From there, take a motorcycle-for-hire to the peak’s jump-off.
Photo from Honey Lim Satoji
Whether you want a quick city escape or a mountain adventure, Cebu’s sunsets promise the perfect golden-hour view for everyone.
In the glamorous world of love, relationships, and never-ending brunch debates, one theory has been hailing attention since it rolled out of Sex and the City, hence, The Taxi Cab Theory.
It was Miranda Hobbs who first spilled the tea in Season 3, Episode 8 (“The Big Time”), and it’s the kind of line that makes you pause mid–cosmo sip. “Men are like cabs. When they’re available, their light goes on. They awake one day and decide they’re ready to settle down, have babies, whatever, and they turn their light on. Next woman they pick up, boom! That’s the one they’ll marry.”
Ouch. Brutal, but also… kinda true?
Photo from Unsplash
The Green Light of Commitment
Photo from Unsplash
According to the theory, men don’t necessarily marry the “best” or “most perfect” woman they date, they marry the woman who happens to be in the cab when their metaphorical light is on. Think about it, we’ve all seen Mr. Bachelor suddenly tie the knot with someone he’s known for six months, while his ex of five years is left wondering what went wrong.
The Messy Part
Photo from Unsplash
For women, the Taxi Cab Theory can feel like a slap in the face. It suggests that timing trumps chemistry, passion, and compatibility. You could be “the love of his life,” but if his meter’s not running, you’re just another fare he drops off at the next corner. Painful, right?
Love may not be entirely about destiny, it might just be about timing. If his light isn’t on, no amount of chasing, waiting, or wishful thinking will change that. But when it is? Well, buckle up, because you might just be the lucky passenger.
Photo from Unsplash
Next time you’re sipping wine with your besties and dissecting your dating lives, don’t forget Miranda’s wisdom. The cab you’re waiting for might not be yours to flag down… but when it is, you’ll know.
Over 20 youth organizations came together for Treebyouth for Kalikopan Greeneration 4, a tree planting initiative aimed at raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainable community action in Cebu City.
The activity, spearheaded by the Cebu City Youth Development Office (CCYDO) in collaboration with the Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) and the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO), was held on August 30, at the South Road Properties (SRP) Backroad, Pilipinas Water Resources.
Around 125 youth volunteers representing schools, barangays, and civic groups planted more than 1,000 mangrove seedlings, reinforcing Cebu’s coastal defenses and fostering biodiversity.
𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
According to Abdul Khamal Manonggiring, Project Head of Treebyouth for Kalikopan, the activity highlighted the critical role of young people in addressing climate challenges.
“Mangrove tree planting is important as it serves as a barrier for coastal communities in Cebu against natural disasters such as typhoons,” Manonggiring said.
He also added that Mangrove trees improve the air quality in the city.
𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐲𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐬
The SRP planting site, spanning 1.67 square kilometers, is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.
“A thriving ecosystem exists here because of the mangroves. We are planting species that are endemic and naturally adaptable to the area,” explained John Joeffrey D. Dabatos, Jr., Project Head of 256 K-Trees.
He added that the site also provides habitat for wildlife, especially bird species. Among these is the Philippine Brahminy Kite, locally known as Banog, a bird commonly found in wetlands.
“We want to preserve this habitat for them despite rapid urban advancements,” Dabatos emphasized.
According to the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Philippines is among the world’s 18 mega-biodiverse countries, hosting two-thirds of the earth’s biodiversity and between 70% and 80% of the world’s plant and animal species.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚
The event also highlighted how digital platforms enable young people to engage in civic action.
Hazel Hope Hyacinth Dolorito, Chief Operating Officer of Cebu Youth Ambassadors, said that social media has transformed the way information spreads among the youth sector.
“Digital tools connect different groups and young leaders across Cebu. By breaking barriers of distance and time, they make volunteering, forums, and community projects more accessible. They also empower the youth to stay informed, speak up, and collaborate,” Dolorito explained.
Through Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms, organizers were able to reach and mobilize different youth organizations, boosting participation.
“Because of social media, more people became aware of the tree planting activity and were encouraged to join,” Manongirring said.
More environmental activities are planned for the rest of the year. They encouraged the youth to continue supporting sustainable programs and to take an active role in protecting Cebu’s natural environment.
Down in the southern side of Cebu, where life moves at a gentler pace, lies a spring that feels like a secret waiting to be shared, Aransana Natural Spring in Malabuyoc. Its waters are icy-cool and sparkling clear, flowing endlessly through the river that the locals have called a source of life for generations. But beyond its purpose, the spring is a sanctuary, simple, quiet, and refreshing. For travelers, it’s not just a stop, but a chance to slip away from the noise, dip into nature’s embrace, and discover a piece of Cebu that still feels untouched.
A Natural Gift from the Mountains
Photo from Nesirie Baylomo
The Aransana Spring is more than just a pretty sight, it’s a lifeline. Flowing straight from the mountain, its water stays clear and crisp, feeding the river and providing locals with drinking water and a place to wash clothes. The spring is easy to spot; along the river, you’ll notice sections where the water is colder, cleaner, and shimmering against the stones. It’s nature’s way of reminding us of its quiet generosity.
Pools Carved by the Locals
Photo from Nesirie Baylomo
Instead of modern resorts and fancy pools, what you’ll find here are tiny basins built by the locals themselves, creating natural dipping spots where visitors can sit back and enjoy the refreshing water. The best part? It’s unspoiled, raw, rustic, and full of character. No loud crowds, no heavy concrete, just the soothing sound of water and the gentle shade of trees overhead.
The Calm of Malabuyoc
Photo from Nesirie Baylomo
Unlike busier destinations, Aransana has no rush and no frills. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, where the laughter of children playing in the water mixes with the rustle of leaves, and where you can simply sit by the banks with your feet in the spring. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best escapes are the simplest ones.
How to Get There
Location: Malabuyoc, Cebu
By Car: If you’re driving from Cebu City, take the Cebu South Road passing Carcar, Barili, Dumanjug, Ronda, Alcantara, and Alegria until you reach Malabuyoc. From the town proper, head toward Barangay Aranzana, where the spring is located. The ride usually takes about 4–5 hours, but the journey itself is rewarding, with seaside and mountain views guiding you along the way.
By Commute: From Cebu City’s South Bus Terminal, hop on a bus bound for Bato via Barili or Malabuyoc. The trip usually takes 5–6 hours. Ask the conductor to drop you off at Malabuyoc town proper. From there, you can take a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) going to Barangay Aranzana. After a short ride and a quick walk, you’ll find yourself welcomed by the cool, clear waters of the spring.
Photo from Nesirie Baylomo
Aransana Natural Spring is sinking into cool waters, hearing nothing but the flow of the river, and leaving with a calm you didn’t know you needed. For those who want to see the real southern Cebu, this spring is a paradise worth discovering.
Forget the beach for a while, Alegria’s Libo Hills Viewing Point offers a different kind of escape. Located in the highlands of Barangay Lepanto, this spot is slowly carving its name as one of Cebu’s most promising eco-tourism destinations.
A Balcony Above the Sea
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
Unlike your usual mountain stopover, Libo Hills feels like a natural balcony, overlooking the Tañon Strait with Negros Island right across. Whether drenched in sunshine or cloaked in fog, the view is always dramatic. Sunrise paints the skies with warm hues, while late afternoons are best for quiet reflection as the mountain breeze rolls in.
Where Farming Meets Tourism
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
What makes Libo Hills unique is how it ties the simple lives of locals with tourism. Known for its vegetable farms thriving in the cold climate, the area offers a taste of rural Alegria, fresh produce straight from the ground, friendly locals tending to their crops, and the refreshing smell of pine-like trees that line the highland roads. It’s no wonder people call it the “Little Baguio of Alegria.”
A Stop Worth the Climb
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
For road trippers, bikers, and weekend wanderers, Libo Hills is a natural rest stop. Visitors can take a breather here, enjoy snacks while wrapped in cool winds, or set up camp to fully soak in the mountain vibe. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, reminding you to pause and appreciate Cebu’s quieter gems.
The Future of Libo Hills
Photo from Nate Daichi Kaizen Yamashita
As more travelers discover this spot, locals are slowly introducing eco-friendly initiatives, from camping areas to guided trails. It’s poised to become a highlight in Alegria’s lineup of natural attractions, alongside caves, waterfalls, and springs.
By Car: From Cebu City, take the Cebu South Road heading to Alegria via Barili or Oslob. The drive takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, offering scenic coastal views before you ascend to Barangay Lepanto where Libo Hills is located. Private cars or motorbikes are the most convenient options, especially if you plan to bring camping gear.
By Commute: From the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City, ride a bus bound for Bato via Barili and ask to be dropped off in Alegria. Travel time is about 3 to 4 hours. From the town proper, hire a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to take you up to Libo Hills Viewing Point in Barangay Lepanto.
In the quiet town of Alcantara, Cebu, you’ll find a bamboo boardwalk stretching over swamps and along the coastline. It’s meant to be a peaceful seaside walk, and at the very end, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view of the coast, calm waters, mangroves, and a horizon that feels endless. For this view alone, the walk is worth it.
The Scenic Reward
Photo from Jaime Espina Jr.
The end of the Boardwalk offers the best part of the trip. It’s peaceful, quiet, and scenic, perfect for photos or simply soaking in Alcantara’s coastal charm. Many visitors say they’d gladly pay just to reach this part of the walk.
The Problems Along the Way
Photo from Jaime Espina Jr.
But the walk itself tells another story. The bamboo sections are old and many have rotted, making parts of the boardwalk unsafe. Some areas are closed off because of broken planks, and walking across can feel risky.
What’s even more troubling is the sight of animals kept in small bamboo cages in poor conditions. It’s an issue that takes away from the beauty of the place, leaving visitors with mixed feelings.
Photo from Jaime Espina Jr.
How to Get There
Location: Barangay Poblacion, Alcantara, Cebu
By Car: From Cebu City, drive south via the Cebu South Road. Alcantara is about 3–4 hours away. Once in town, ask locals for directions to the Boardwalk, it’s a known spot. Parking is usually available nearby.
By Commute: From Cebu City’s South Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Alcantara or further south (Barili/Moalboal route). Tell the conductor you’re stopping in Alcantara. From the highway, you can take a short tricycle ride to the Boardwalk.
Photo from Jaime Espina Jr.
The Boardwalk has potential to be one of Alcantara’s best attractions. With proper care, repairs, and compassion for animals, it could become a safe and eco-friendly spot for both locals and tourists.
If you’ve ever longed for the crisp air and breathtaking views of Tops Cebu but don’t feel like heading to Busay, Mount Magdook Lookout in Naga, Cebu is a refreshing alternative. This quiet spot delivers that same sense of peace and panorama, without the crowds and long drive.
Photo from Armon Abrinica
Scenic Trail and City Views
Photo from Norena Gabriel
Located in the City of Naga, Mount Magdook is a lookout point that feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. While there are no camping facilities, the short and scenic trail makes it a laid-back escape that doesn’t require a full day’s hike. The view from the top is striking, offering an astonishing overlook of the city skyline and mountains beyond.
Photo from Norena Gabriel
Best Time to Visit
Photo from Rhea Luna Sabal Silogan
For the full experience, visit between 4 PM and 11 PM. This is when food stalls start setting up, offering snacks and drinks that are perfect after the quick trail walk. The lighting during sunset and the evening breeze add to the relaxing vibe, making this spot ideal for unwinding after a busy day.
Weekdays are the best time to go if you prefer fewer people and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Photo from Rhea Luna Sabal Silogan
How To Get There?
Location: Mount Magdook, City of Naga
By Car: Navigate Mount Magdook Lookout via Waze or Google map
B Commute: Start by taking a jeepney bound for Tungkop, Minglanilla. Once you arrive, hire a habal-habal to take you to Sitio Pangilatan. Mount Magdook may not be widely known by name, so be ready to ask locals for directions to the lookout or the trail area. Most drivers and residents will recognize what you’re referring to.
Photo from Norena Gabriel
Mount Magdook Lookout may not have the amenities of other popular mountain destinations, but it offers something just as valuable, peace, perspective, and a place to pause. It’s a quick escape that proves you don’t need to travel far to find something beautiful.
Whether on a solo ride, hanging out with friends, or looking for a quiet date spot, this hidden lookout in Naga is worth the trip.
When most people think of crocodiles, they picture them as people benefiting from Filipinos’ money and flaunting their sports cars, but scientifically, crocodiles are not limited to the ground. They can climb trees.
Photo from Unsplash
The Study Behind the Claim
Photo from Unsplash
In 2014, Vladimir Dinets and colleagues published observations in Herpetology Notes documenting four crocodilian species climbing onto trees and shrubs. These included the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus), the Australian freshwater crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni), and the Central African slender-snouted crocodile (Mecistops cataphractus).
The reptiles were observed resting on branches at heights ranging from just above the water to as high as four meters. Most of the climbing took place in younger or smaller individuals, though larger crocodiles were also recorded hauling themselves onto low trunks.
Why Crocodiles Climb
Photo from Unsplash
Researchers suggest that crocodiles climb primarily for three reasons:
• Thermoregulation: basking in the sun on tree branches helps them warm up more efficiently.
• Observation: climbing gives them a better vantage point to scan their environment for threats or prey.
• Safety: smaller crocodiles may climb to avoid predators, including larger crocodiles.
Interestingly, the behavior was most often seen in areas with little human disturbance, suggesting crocodiles may be more adaptable than previously thought.
Rethinking Assumptions
Photo from Unsplash
The finding challenges long-held assumptions about crocodilians as strictly water- or ground-bound animals. Instead, they display surprising agility and behavioral flexibility. While they cannot climb trees with thin branches like lizards or primates, their ability to scale trunks and rest several meters above ground demonstrates remarkable adaptability for such large reptiles.
Crocodiles are often portrayed as primitive survivors, unchanged for millions of years. But this discovery shows that even the most ancient-looking species still hold surprises. The next time you’re near crocodile habitat, don’t just look at the water, remember to glance up.
From VR stadiums to AI-powered match analysis, discover how technology is changing the way fans watch and engage with football – and why the Philippines is part of the game’s digital future.
The Tech That’s Changing How We Experience Football
Technology has transformed almost every aspect of our lives, and sports are no exception. Football, the world’s most popular game, has embraced digital innovation in ways that have reshaped how fans watch, analyze, and engage with the sport.
From smart stadiums to real-time analytics, emerging tech is enhancing the experience for players, coaches, and spectators alike. And in the Philippines, where football is steadily gaining popularity, technology is bridging the gap between local fans and the global football scene.
Streaming: Breaking Down Borders
Gone are the days when watching football meant relying on a local broadcaster to air select matches. Today, high-definition streaming platforms bring live coverage of the Premier League, La Liga, and the Champions League directly to your smartphone or smart TV.
This convenience also opens new opportunities for interactive engagement. Many fans don’t just watch passively anymore – they follow live stats, join fan discussions, and, for some, monitor sports betting odds like https://parimatch-thailand.com/ in real time to add an extra layer of excitement to the match.
Data-Driven Football
Advanced analytics are no longer reserved for coaching staff. Thanks to wearable devices, AI-powered platforms, and tracking systems, detailed player stats are now widely available. Fans can access data on passing accuracy, sprint speed, shot maps, and even fatigue levels.
For sports bettors, these insights can be invaluable. Instead of relying solely on intuition, they can make predictions based on historical trends, performance metrics, and real-time data. This approach is transforming sports betting from a guessing game into a strategic, information-driven process.
VAR and Goal-Line Technology
One of the most debated tech innovations in football is the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. It uses multiple camera angles and high-speed replays to ensure more accurate officiating decisions. Similarly, goal-line technology eliminates doubt by instantly confirming whether the ball has crossed the line.
These systems not only improve fairness but also influence betting dynamics. A decision overturned by VAR can change the outcome of a bet, making it essential for bettors to understand how such technology can impact match results.
Virtual and Augmented Reality Experiences
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are redefining how fans experience football. VR headsets can place you in the middle of a stadium thousands of miles away, while AR apps overlay live stats and player profiles onto your match view.
In the Philippines, where international travel for matches can be costly, these technologies allow fans to immerse themselves in the game without leaving home. Some betting platforms are even integrating VR match viewing with live odds, creating a highly interactive environment for those who enjoy both watching and predicting outcomes.
Mobile Apps and Fan Engagement
Football-related apps have become central hubs for fans. From official club apps to global football communities, they offer live scores, exclusive interviews, match highlights, and fan forums.
For sports bettors, these apps often feature integrated odds comparison tools, match previews, and betting tips. This seamless blend of entertainment and strategic insight means fans can engage with the sport on multiple levels, all from the palm of their hand.
Esports and Football’s Digital Twin
The rise of football-themed esports, such as EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA), has expanded the sport’s digital footprint. Professional esports tournaments draw millions of viewers worldwide, and football clubs are now signing esports players to represent them virtually.
Interestingly, some betting markets now include esports football matches, blurring the lines between traditional sports betting and gaming. This crossover appeals to younger, tech-savvy fans who are just as comfortable watching a virtual match as a real one.
Smart Stadiums and 5G Connectivity
Stadiums around the world are becoming smarter, equipped with 5G networks, contactless payments, and app-based seat services. Fans can order food, replay match highlights, or even see live tactical stats from their seats.
For live betting enthusiasts, faster mobile connectivity ensures they can place wagers in real time without delays. As Philippine stadium infrastructure modernizes, similar experiences may soon become standard for local matches.
AI in Football Commentary and Predictions
Artificial intelligence is making its mark on football broadcasting. AI-generated commentary, predictive match outcomes, and automated highlight reels are becoming more common.
Sports betting platforms are also leveraging AI to analyze vast datasets and provide users with tailored betting suggestions. While human intuition still plays a role, AI is helping fans make more calculated predictions.
The Future of Football Tech
As technology continues to evolve, so will football. Expect more integration of biometric data, personalized VR match feeds, and AI-driven tactical insights. For fans, this means a more immersive, data-rich experience.
And for those who enjoy betting, the future promises even more precise tools for analyzing teams, players, and match conditions – making every prediction an informed decision rather than a gamble.
Final Whistle
Technology has made football more connected, interactive, and data-driven than ever before. Whether you’re a casual fan watching highlights on your phone, an analyst studying player metrics, or someone adding extra thrill through sports betting, there’s no denying that tech has transformed the way we experience the beautiful game.
In the Philippines and beyond, this digital evolution ensures that football will remain not just a sport, but a constantly evolving entertainment experience for generations to come.
