When we talk about Cebu, we often think of turquoise beaches, vibrant city life, and lechon that’s worth every calorie. But beyond the coastlines lies a raw, untamed Cebu that very few have ventured to explore—and one Cebuano made it his mission to change that.
Photo From Jing Lavilles de Egurrola
Meet Jing Lavilles de Egurrola, a seasoned bushcraft practitioner and founder of theCamp Red Bushcraft and Survival Guild.
In 2017, Jing made history by becoming the first Filipino to complete a thru-hike of the entire Cebu Highlands Trail (CHT)—a rugged, off-the-beaten-path trail that cuts through the spine of Cebu Island from Santander in the south to Daanbantayan in the north.
Photo From Jing Lavilles de Egurrola
A Journey Like No Other
Together with his partner Jonathaniel Apurado, Jing began the journey at Liloan Point in Santander and wrapped it up 26 days later at Bulalaqui Point in Daanbantayan.
The entire trail? A jaw-dropping 408.29 kilometers long. That’s more than just a hike—it’s a full-on odyssey.
The Cebu Highlands Trail isn’t your usual weekend trek. This trail takes you through a diverse range of terrains—remote villages, terraced farmlands, thick forests, jagged ridgelines, refreshing rivers, and hidden waterfalls.
It’s a Cebu that few get to see, but one that Jing wanted the world to know about.
Photo From Jing Lavilles de Egurrola
Cebu: More Than Just Beaches
Jing’s mission wasn’t just personal. He had a greater vision: to showcase Cebu’s untapped landscapes and reposition the island as a prime destination for long-distance hiking and nature immersion.
Through his historic hike and continuous advocacy, he’s proving that adventure tourism in Cebu goes way beyond snorkeling and island hopping.
Photo From Jing Lavilles de Egurrola
Want to Hike the CHT? You’ll Need a Guide
The Cebu Highlands Trail remains largely unmarked and wild—perfect for those seeking real adventure but definitely not for the unprepared.
Fortunately, Jing offers guideship services for those who want to take on the challenge.
With his expertise in bushcraft and survival, you won’t just hike the trail—you’ll experience it the way it was meant to be.
A Legacy in the Making
Jing Lavilles de Egurrola isn’t just a trailblazer—he’s redefining what it means to explore Cebu.
Through his efforts, more locals and travelers are discovering a side of the island that’s rugged, raw, and unbelievably beautiful.
If you’ve been craving a deeper kind of adventure, maybe it’s time to look inland, Sugboanons!
If you’ve stepped inside a Catholic church in Cebu— or anywhere in the Philippines —during the Lenten season, you might have noticed something different.
Statues of saints, crucifixes, and religious images are often covered in purple veils. The once vibrant altars appear solemn and bare.
This isn’t just a random practice— it’s rich with meaning and tradition, especially in the context of the Filipino Catholic faith.
So, why purple? And why cover the saints at all?
The Color of Penitence and Reflection
Photo from The Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral Official Facebook Page
In the Catholic Church, purple (or violet) is the liturgical color associated with penance, preparation, and sacrifice.
It’s the official color of the Lenten season, a 40-day period where Christians are called to reflect, fast, and prepare spiritually for the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday.
In the Philippine setting, Lent is marked by various traditions—from pabasa and Visita Iglesia to processions during Holy Week.
The purple cloth used to cover religious images is a visual reminder of this sacred time, prompting churchgoers to enter a state of deeper prayer and contemplation.
Covering Saints: A Shift in Focus
The practice of veiling saints usually begins on the 5th Sunday of Lent, also known as Passion Sunday, and continues until Good Friday or Easter Vigil.
By covering the statues, the Church invites the faithful to shift their focus from the glory of the saints to the suffering and sacrifice of Christ.
It’s not about forgetting the saints, but rather about creating a spiritual atmosphere where the faithful are not distracted by external beauty, allowing them to meditate more intensely on the passion of Jesus.
In Filipino culture, where religious images are often elaborate and cherished, this temporary absence creates a powerful sense of longing and anticipation for Easter.
A Tradition Rooted in Simplicity and Humility
Photo from Santo Rosario Parish Cebu Official Facebook Page
In a country where faith is deeply woven into daily life, where even small chapels are adorned with saints and flowers, the act of covering these images in somber purple is a symbolic gesture of humility.
It reflects our shared journey with Christ through sorrow, death, and ultimately, resurrection.
As Holy Week approaches, the veils will be lifted. The colors will return. The bells will ring. But until then, the purple cloth remains— quietly reminding us of the depth of Christ’s love, and the spiritual renewal that awaits.
“Through every whip of pain, He whispered forgiveness for all.”
This tradition has deep roots in Filipino Catholicism, particularly through the recitation of the Pasyon—the narrative of Christ’s suffering and His acceptance of His passion.
Cenáculo
Senakulo or cenáculo is a Spanish term that refers to the Upper Room, where Jesus and His disciples gathered for the Last Supper. The Senakulo is a religious play that depicts the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Traditionally performed during Holy Week in the Philippines, it is often staged in the streets or town plazas.
The Importance of Senakulo
The story of Filipino nationhood is deeply entwined with the development of the Senakulo. It serves as a powerful emblem within the historical and cultural identity of the Philippines, reflecting both the lasting influence of colonialism and the resilience of indigenous cultural pride.
Health Hazards in Senakulo
While the Senakulo is a cherished tradition with deep spiritual significance in the Philippines, some health experts have raised concerns about the portrayal of certain scenes—particularly the act of nailing to the cross. Although this act is a strong symbolic element of the play, experts warn that simulating it can lead to puncture wounds, cuts, and trauma. Regardless of whether the nails are sanitized, sharp objects can pierce the skin and potentially cause bacterial infections.
Although there may not be a single, centralized directive specific to the Senakulo, regional health and safety protocols—as well as advisories from local government units and church-backed safety committees—have emphasized the importance of strict safety measures.
This art form, passed down from generation to generation, represents a preserved tradition shaped by colonial influence. It embodies not only a religious narrative but also a source of pride and cultural expression for the Filipino people.
In observance of this year’s holy week, the churches of Cebu announced their activities and scheduled events this Lenten Season. Here is the list of churches along with their schedules. This is the time of deep reflection and spiritual observance. These are the following churches with their holy week activities:
Photo from Hannah Abelgas
Churches Holy Week Schedule
Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus
Photo fromArchdiocesan Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus
Redemptorist Church
Photo from OMPH-Redemptorist Church CebuPhoto from OMPH-Redemptorist Church Cebu
Basilica Minore del Santo Nino de Cebu
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de CebuPhoto from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de CebuPhoto from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Cebu
Photo from The Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Photo from The Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe de CebuPhoto from The Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe de Cebu
San Vicente Ferrer Parish-Franciscans
Photo from San Vicente Ferrer Parish – Franciscans
Saint Joseph the Patriarch Parish
Photo from St. Joseph Parish Church Mabolo
Mother of Perpetual Help Parish (Cebu Archdiocese)
Photo from Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish Babag, Lapu-Lapu City
Blessed Sacrament Parish
Photo from Blessed Sacrament Parish
Sto. Rosario Parish
Photo from Sto. Rosario Parish CEBU
Holy Cross Parish
Photo from Holy Cross Parish
The schedule is filled with opportunities for reflections and prayers as well as the meaningful journey of renewal, most of all the time of reconnecting with the family in this season of introspection.
“Sugar, fruits, crops, and everything sweet and round”
Binignit is a dish believed to have originated in the Visayas region. Often referred to as a “mourning dish,” it’s a go-to meal for those observing the meatless weeks of the Lenten season.
Photo from Usplash
What Is “Binignit” Made Of?
In the beginning—scratch that—in the Binignit, a popular dish said to have originated in the Visayas, specifically on the island of Cebu. This meal is traditionally prepared during the observance of the Lenten season or Holy Week. It’s a meatless dish that serves as a flavorful alternative to protein, thanks to its blend of various fruits, root crops, and coconut milk—ingredients that offer both taste and nutrition.
It is said that Binignit is cooked and served as a symbol of fasting and sacrifice during Lent.
Talking about the history of Binignit is already making me crave it… So, shall we talk about where you can buy it?
Binignitan sa Fuente
Photo from Binignitan Sa Fuente
Binignitan sa Fuente is a food stand where you can grab a hearty tub of Binignit. The stall accepts pre-orders and serves this traditional, delightful comfort food—loved by both locals and visitors alike.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from Binignitan Sa FuentePhoto from Binignitan Sa Fuente
500 ml: Php. 75.00 good for 1 -2 persons
1000 ml: Php. 150.00 good for 2 – 3 persons
OTHER INFORMATION
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday from 09:00 AM- 04:00 PM
Exact Location: 54 Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
By Commute: Take a jeepney heading to Fuente Osmeña Circle. Common routes include 12L or 06B, which pass through Osmeña Boulevard. Once at Fuente, you can walk to Binignitan sa Fuente.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin “Binignitan sa Fuente” as your destination.
Cavz
Home to the local treats of Leyte and Samar, Cavz now also offers freshly cooked, hot Binignit. The store features a variety of delicacies, such as Chocolate Moron, Chocolate Bud/Magsaysay, and Mangobud—perfect for those who enjoy sticky rice cakes.
Exact Location: Sitio Baca Brgy. Apas, Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: From Cebu City proper, head to a jeepney terminal and look for routes heading to Barangay Apas. Common jeepney routes include those labeled “Lahug” or “IT Park,” as these pass near Apas. Ask the driver to drop you off at a point closest to Sitio Baca. From there, you might need to walk or take a motorcycle (habal-habal) to reach Cavz.
By Car: Navigate using a map app like Google Maps. Search for “Cavz, Sitio Baca, Barangay Apas,” and follow the suggested route. Barangay Apas is accessible via major roads like Salinas Drive or Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue.
Cebu La Fortuna
Another home of the best Cebuano snacks and pastries. Cebu La Fortuna serves the hot freshly cooked binignit, available every Friday they serve this hot comfort food and they also serve it on the holy week.
Exact Location: Legaspi Street, (Inside Cathedral Church complex) , Cebu City, Philippines
By Commute: Take a jeepney heading to Colon Street or the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral. Once you reach the Cathedral, you’ll find La Fortuna Bakery within the church complex.
By Car: Navigate via Waze or Google Maps and pin Cebu La Fortuna Bakery as your destination. Once you’re near the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral on Legaspi Street, you’ll find the bakery beside the same church.
Binignit, a cherished Filipino delicacy, is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition that binds families and communities, especially during Holy Week.
“In the quietest corners of life, miracles unfold—not to dazzle the eyes, but to awaken the heart to possibilities unseen.”
In today’s modern world, do we still believe in miracles? In a century ruled by science—where most things can be logically explained—has our belief in the unexplainable faded? Science can answer so much now. And yet, we still ask: Do you still believe in miracles?
What is a Miracle?
A miracle refers to an extraordinary event that defies natural explanation and is often believed to be the result of divine intervention. The word “miracle” comes from the Latin term miraculum, meaning “something wonderful or marvelous.” It is also derived from mirari, which means “to wonder” or “to be astonished.”
The Miracle Inside Us
In this modern age, many things that were once considered unexplainable now have scientific explanations. Yet, despite the growing reach of logic and science, many people across the world still believe in miracles. In some countries, stories of miracles continue to inspire and change lives.
Nanay Remy and the Miracle of Sto. Niño
At the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, we met a local vendor named Nanay Remy. A devoted follower of the Child Savior, she considers the image of Sto. Niño she owns to be a miracle in itself.
According to Nanay Remy, she once had a dream where she was scrubbing the Sto. Niño image because it was very dirty. That same image had been given to her by a friend who sells candles. After the dream, she noticed something unusual: the figurine began to grow in size every year. She would regularly change its attire, but at one point, she placed it inside a glass case to stop it from expanding. Even then, the figure continued to grow—so much so that it eventually outgrew the glass and left a crack in it.
This experience deepened Nanay Remy’s faith. She said the miracle brought her peace and clarity in life. Now, she dedicates herself to a life of devotion and positivity. She even shared her spiritual routine with us, including her daily novenas and the Masses she faithfully attends.
“Motoo gyud kog milagro, tungod ani adunay kahusay sa among pagpuyo.”
Whether grand or subtle, miracles offer a glimpse into the unknown—a reminder that life still holds moments of wonder, even in the most ordinary times.
On this historic mission, Blue Origin’s spacecraft NS-31 launched an all-female crew into space — the first all-women mission since 1963. That earlier mission also featured an exclusively female crew.
Photo from the Blue Origin
Katy Perry in Space
Yes, you read that right — Katy Perry joined Blue Origin’s historic 2025 spaceflight. The mission launched on Monday from West Texas. Perry was joined by a group of prominent women: Lauren Sánchez, Gayle King, former NASA scientist Aisha Bowe, Kerianne Flynn, and Amanda Nguyen. All were part of the groundbreaking journey.
After the 10-minute flight, Katy Perry exited the spacecraft and kissed the ground in celebration of a successful landing.
A Nostalgic Trip for Her Daughter
As she stepped out of the capsule, Perry was seen still holding a daisy — a symbolic gesture. She later explained that she participated in the mission for her daughter. I brought a daisy because I have so much love for my daughter Daisy,” she said and shared how the Earth is a beautiful place, and just like a daisy, it is incredibly resilient.
Credit: AFP
Blue Origin: NS-31
Blue Origin is a private aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos in 2000, headquartered in Kent, Washington. The company envisions a future where millions of people live and work in space. Over the years, Blue Origin has built its reputation by prioritizing safety, reusability, and innovation in spaceflight technology. Its mission is to drastically reduce the cost of space access by developing fully reusable rockets.
Photo from the Blue Origin
The NS-31 spacecraft carried the crew beyond the Kármán line — the internationally recognized boundary of space at 100 kilometers above Earth. The mission lasted approximately 10 minutes. During the flight, the detachable crew capsule separated from the booster mid-flight, then safely re-entered Earth’s atmosphere with the help of parachutes and retro rockets.
Katy Perry has been candid about how meaningful the experience was. She said that if someone had told her as a child she’d be part of the first all-female crew in space, she would’ve believed it — because nothing was beyond her imagination.
Looking for your Holy Week haven with a side of espresso?
Photo from Canva
The Holy Week is the perfect time for a reflective solo retreat, planning a quiet catch-up with friends, and a dose of caffeine to survive the family drama. God is on your side because Cebu’s coffee scene has got you.
While most places are taking a well-deserved break this Holy Week, these cafes are staying open—ready to serve good coffee, great ambiance, and a dash of peace and quiet.
So, if your idea of penance includes a strong cold brew and a corner to journal in, we got you covered.
The Not Today Cafe
This dreamy, K-Drama-inspired cafe is known for its clean aesthetic, hanging lights, and picture-perfect coffee cups.
Photo from The Not Today Cafe
It’s ideal for quiet reading, journaling, or simply catching up with a small group during the Lenten break.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from The Not Today CafePhoto from The Not Today CafePhoto from The Not Today Cafe
Top Suggestions:
Spanish Latte: Php 170
Vanilla Latte: Php 165
Croffle with Ice Cream: Php 180
OTHER INFORMATION
Holy Week Hours: Open from April 13 to 17 (10 AM to 10 PM); Closed on April 18 to 19
ExactLocation: Unit 3, The Greenery, Pope John Paul II Ave, Mabolo, Cebu City
By Commute: Ride any jeepney or MyBus heading to SM City Cebu or Ayala Center Cebu. From either stop, take a short cab or Angkas ride to The Greenery, just along Pope John Paul II Avenue near Landers and Sykes.
By Car: Search for The Greenery, Mabolo on Waze or Google Maps. The café is inside the commercial compound, with available street parking and limited private parking slots inside.
Swirl.Ph
Swirl.Ph is a hidden dessert & coffee sanctuary perfect for late-night Holy Week reflections.
Photo from Swirl Creamery + Coffee
Their specialty lattes and curated gelato flavors make it a favorite among North Cebu folks.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from Swirl Creamery + Coffee Photo from Swirl Creamery + Coffee
Top Suggestions:
Sea Salt Latte: Php 160
Iced White Mocha: Php 170
Gelato Scoop: Php 120
Affogato: Php 160
OTHER INFORMATION
Holy Week Hours: Closed on March 28 and 29, 2025; Open all other days from 10 AM to 12 MN
ExactLocation: 3rd Floor, Streetscape, Maria Luisa Road, Banilad, Cebu City
By Commute: From Ayala or IT Park, ride a 13C jeepney or any going to Talamban. Ask the driver to drop you at Streetscape Banilad. Take the elevator to the 3rd floor.
By Car: Enter Streetscape Mall via Maria Luisa Road. Free basement parking is available.
Third Wave Coffee Cebu
This modern-industrial coffee shop serves single-origin beans and signature drinks.
Photo from Third Wave Coffee Cebu
The café’s atmosphere is calm and minimal—perfect for Holy Week journaling or solo reflection time.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from Third Wave Coffee CebuPhoto from Third Wave Coffee Cebu
Top Suggestions:
Matcha Espresso Fusion: Php 180
Dirty White: Php 160
Honey Cold Brew: Php 170
OTHER INFORMATION
Holy Week Hours: Closed on April 18 and 19; Open all other days
ExactLocation: MJ Cuenco Ave., Mabolo, Cebu City (near Sykes and Landers)
By Commute: Take any jeepney bound for Mabolo or SM City Cebu. Walk towards MJ Cuenco Avenue, a short walk from Sykes Mabolo.
By Car: Head toward MJ Cuenco Ave using Waze. Street parking is available but limited, especially during business hours.
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – Bloc 11 (IT Park)
Need a round-the-clock coffee fix this Holy Week?
Photo from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines)
This 24/7 branch in IT Park is a cozy and reliable spot, complete with comfortable couches, fast Wi-Fi, and premium teas and coffee. A solid choice for early birds or night owls.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Photo from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines)Photo from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines)
On April 7, 2025, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport announced the launch of a new direct flight route from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City, operated by the Cebu Pacific Airlines fleet. The Chief Executive Officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC), the operator of MCIA, confirmed that the airline will be joining the airport’s growing list of international carriers.
Photo from Pexels
Fly to Vietnam Three Times A Week!
Cebu Pacific will operate flights on this new route three times a week—every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. To celebrate the launch, the airline is offering promotional fares, including its popular Piso Sale, making travel more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.
Photo from Pexels
The Cebu Pacific fleet, designated as 5J, will use its A320 and A321 aircraft for these direct flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City. Both Philippine Airlines (PAL) and Cebu Pacific will be operational on this route starting May 2, 2025.
Both Cebu and Ho Chi Minh—also known as Saigon—are key economic and cultural centers in their respective countries.
As Holy Week 2025 approaches, major malls in Cebu have adjusted their operating hours in observance of the solemn occasion.
So, if you’re planning to shop or unwind during the long weekend, here’s a guide to the different operating hours of malls around Cebu! Make sure to schedule your week properly.
SM City Cebu
One of the largest shopping destinations in Cebu, SM City Cebu boasts over 700 retail outlets, a wide selection of restaurants, and several cinemas.
It’s a go-to mall for both locals and tourists, known for its accessibility and variety of options. For the Holy Week, your family and friends can enjoy a simple treat at one of the cafes open.
Holy Week Schedule:
Maundy Thursday (April 17): Closed
Good Friday (April 18): Closed
Black Saturday (April 19): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Easter Sunday (April 20): 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
SM Seaside City Cebu
As one of the largest malls in the Philippines, SM Seaside City offers a stunning view of the coast, a Sky Park, an ice skating rink, and a wide array of shops and dining spots.
It’s perfect for a weekend family day this Holy Week–you can even bring your other relatives along.
Holy Week Schedule:
Maundy Thursday (April 17): Closed
Good Friday (April 18): Closed
Black Saturday (April 19): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Easter Sunday (April 20): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Ayala Center Cebu
Ayala Center Cebu is an upscale shopping destination known for its lush terraces, al fresco dining, and proximity to hotels.
For those traveling outside of Cebu, you might want to book your accommodations near Ayala Center Cebu! You will surely enjoy the experience this mall has to offer after your rest.
Holy Week Schedule:
Maundy Thursday (April 17): Closed
Good Friday (April 18): Closed
Black Saturday (April 19): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Easter Sunday (April 20): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Robinsons Galleria Cebu
Robinsons Galleria is a mid-sized but modern mall with a cozy feel for the Holy Week. It houses a mix of retail brands, cafes, restaurants, and a supermarket, plus direct access to Summit Galleria Hotel—making it convenient for tourists.
Holy Week Schedule:
Maundy Thursday (April 17): Closed
Good Friday (April 18): Closed
Black Saturday (April 19): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Easter Sunday (April 20): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Robinsons Cybergate Cebu
Known for its convenience and central location, Robinsons Cybergate is popular among students and office workers.
It offers a supermarket, basic retail, salons, and food choices perfect for quick stops or casual hangouts.
Holy Week Schedule:
Maundy Thursday (April 17): Closed
Good Friday (April 18): Closed
Black Saturday (April 19): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Easter Sunday (April 20): 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Tips for Holy Week Shoppers!
After choosing your ideal mall of choice, make sure to unite your family with your plans. For a more personalized experience, you might want to listen to these tips:
Plan your errands ahead of the long weekend to avoid last-minute rushes.
Expect large crowds on Black Saturday and Easter Sunday, especially in restaurants.
Double-check specific store hours as some may operate on modified schedules.
Wishing you a meaningful and peaceful Holy Week, Sugboanons!
