Liloan is bordered on the northern part of Cebu by the town of Compostela, to the west of Cebu City, and the south of town in Consolacion. It is 18 kilometers from the city of Cebu. Not known to many locals and tourists, there’s a scenic spot that can serve as your tranquil escape and a perfect destination to chill, reflect, and reconnect to nature. A hidden gem away from the busy city and the best place to have a picnic or go camping.
There’s not many articles talking about this underrated space—however, the scenic spot has a YouTube channel that occasionally promotes the place and also a Facebook page that focuses on local travels.
Photo from Fatima C. De Leon
What to do?
Even though this underrated haven isn’t known to many people, there are a lot of activities that you can do in this tranquil escape. Apollo grounds is also a great place to have a picnic with your family and friends since the place offers scenic views of the sea,city lights, and also the mountains. You can relax and smell the fresh breeze by escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Lastly, we can go car camping and try their coffee and pizza at Coffee Madness. This place has many things to offer for a beautiful piece of land.
A year of classic hairdos with an elevated sense of style
Photo from Pixabay
Leave the year 2024 with a new hairdo to update your entire look and birth a new beginning. Luckily, we got you guys covered as hair trends continue to dominate every year, and for 2025, we’re heading to elevated classics:
Ultra Short Bobs
Photo from Pixabay
People are getting bolder this year as they’re leaning into a shorter version of a bob. According to celebrity hairstylist, Jacob Rozenberg, they used to cut other people’s hair just grazing the shoulder but they have also seen other people go big. Bobs have always been a go-to hairdo during the year 2024, but a celebrity inspiration we could go for is the actress Lily Collins, where the bob hits the chin for a cool french girl look.
Side Parts
Millennials rejoice! We got a comeback!
Photo from Pixabay
Many hair experts have said that side parts will be getting a triumphant return. Celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway, is excited for the comeback of side parts and swept away bangs as they are making a comeback. It will also have an added flip over than an actual part for curly and textured styles. For added playfulness, you can always pair a side part with a bombshell blowout.
Fairy Waves
Photo from Pixabay
Long hair is already striking alone but for 2025, we can add fairy waves for more romance and whimsy. For hair inspo, let’s look at Havana Rose Liu for her ethereal waves that cascades down to her waist.
Jane Birkin Bangs
Photo from Pixabay
Bangs have been a trend for a couple of years and we can attest with experimenting our looks with the beloved curtain bangs. However, Jane Birkin bangs will be huge for this year. A modernized version of a fringe as seen on Daisy Edgar-Jones who layered her bangs and parted down the center. Pro-tip: Use a texture spray to create separation, keep it gritty, and have a little texture.
90’s It Girl Blowout
A hair trend that says “Girl, I woke up like this”
Photo from Pixabay
The nineties hair trend has returned and we are not complaining. Celebrity hairstylists can reference our favorite supermodels Cindy Crawford and Kate Moss is a style that many will return to. An effortless and stylish way of styling your hair this year. Nothing can go wrong when opting for this new look. Don’t forget to add a volume spray if you want to add volume.
So, Sugboanons, magpatupi nata, because a new year is always a chance to try something new!
The Philippines is home to many diverse dishes in each region, it is always the highlight of every festival in every city or province as its culinary traditions flourish but there is one festival that stands out for its grandeur and significance—The Sinulog festival in Cebu. This festival is celebrated annually every year and it not only mesmerizes the colorful street dances but also the delicacies that we learn to love and enjoy.
Food is a universal currency that everyone can enjoy and spark a connection with a certain place or person. So, join me in this article as we venture into the world of Cebuano delicacies in the time of the Sinulog. Without further ado, here are the delicacies that are a must-have for everyone to try:
Carbon Market Cebu
How about a journey to the market?
Photo by Canva
Carbon Market is a place for locals to buy a wide selection of fresh produce at a cheap and affordable range. At night, it is packed with people as it has given vendors an opportunity to sell their products including many Cebuano delicacies, Sutukil food, and a variety of food stalls. Have you tried tuslob buwa?
Tuslob Buwa is a merienda staple and it literally means to dip in bubbles. The ingredients consist of pork brains, liver, and pork broth. It may not sound appetizing but don’t judge until you give it a try. It’s rich and savory flavor with a hint of smokiness and tastes like a liquefied sisig and it is eaten by sopping the stew in puso or hanging rice wrapped in coconut leaves.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
OPENING HOURS
Saturday & Sunday – 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
However, tenants may close early or stay long due to the traffic.
The classic stalls like Zagu, Santino’s and Fruitas are present in the Carbon Market. Meanwhile, new stalls have been added. Here are a few examples:
The Coffee Mobile
Seaside Scramble
Happy Sundae
Nine Tea Mobile
Sutukil Stalls (Sugba, Tuwa, Kilaw)
HOW TO GET THERE?
By Car: Waze and Google can be utilized, just enter Carbon Night Market Parking
A walking distance from Magellan’s park and Freedom Park
From Mactan-Cebu International Airport – You may hop into a taxi; fare is P180
AA Barbeque
A smoky and savory Filipino barbeque is on the list!
Photo by Canva
Have you heard of AA Barbeque? Experience Filipino goodness with a restaurant that serves a variety of short, grilled orders, and pa luto dishes in a casual and family-friendly restaurant. Filipino style barbeque is the creme dela creme where it serves a smoky, savory, and grilled barbeque that many locals and foreigners enjoy.
Filipino style barbeque is pork barbeque in a bamboo skewers that is marinated in a special mixture of spices and seasonings. In the Philippines, we normally grill over wood charcoal and dipped in a tail jar of spicy vinegar before eating.
By Car: Waze and Google Maps can be utilized and set your destination to AA Barbeque Consolacion
Pungko-Pungko sa Fuente
Photo by Ram Mancelita
I am excited to share with you a very popular way of eating in the Queen City of the South. It’s called Pungko-pungko, which means crouch and squat while you eat. Our favorite fried foods are served like fried sausage, lumpia, chicken, longganisa, pork chops and others. There are many pungko-pungko stalls in Cebu and the best ones are in Fuente. Aside from eating at an affordable range, it is also one of the best ways to socialize and eat with your friends while spending and talking about their meals.
The food is best served with vinegar, puso, and soft drinks. Their special vinegar is mixed with a lot of onions and chili. Micro businesses in Cebu are quite lucrative and it is open to a wide variety of people. It’s famous everywhere for workers, students, family, and even for events. Other than being cheap, it’s so good.
Rates & More Information
Price List:
Ginabot (chicharon bulaklak): P15
Fried Pork: P35
Crab Meat: P25
Puso (hanging rice): P4 per piece
Located right across Apple Tree Suites or behind Fuente Circle (near Hi-Precision Fuente), Pungko-pungko sa Fuente is open everyday from 6 AM to 10 PM.
How to get there?
Exact location: 52 A J Llorente Street, Cebu City. Just right across Apple Tree Suites or behind Fuente Circle, near Hi-Precision Fuente.
By Jeepney: Ride any jeepney going to Mango Ave. Drop off at National Book Store – Mango or Caltex Gas station. From there, walk a little further for 5-10 minutes from Century Plaza and then turn left on the first alley (before Century Plaza) and just follow the road until you have reached the place.
By Car: Waze and Google Maps can be utilized. Pin your location to Pungko-pungko sa Fuente. Parking is available.
Siomai sa Tisa
Photo by Canva
Do you like dumplings? Tisa is a city district in Cebu that specializes in making siomai. Siomai in the Philippines is a steamed chinese pork dumplings and one of the few Chinese names that retained their spelling since arriving here. It started out from a fad ten years ago where many people went to Tisa to eat their siomai at roadside eateries.
Though no one can recall who started the siomai fad, siomai sa tisa has evolved into the Cebu standard for street-style pork dumplings. They’re accompanied by limonsito or vinegar, soy sauce, and chile-garlic oil that makes you want even more.
Rates & Other Information
Where:
A humble chain called D’Original Siomai sa Tisa claims to sell the original siomai sa Tisa in a more accessible location. It can be found in the intersection ride of Salinas Drive and Archbishop Reyes Avenue.
When:
This is virtually a 24 hours joint since it’s part of the main rows of eateries servicing IT Park, where there’s a high concentration of call-center offices.
How To Get There?
Exact location: Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City
By Car: Set your destination to Brgy. Tisa, Cebu and pin your location on Waze or Google Maps. Parking is available.
Lechon de Talisay
Going to the Queen City of the South wouldn’t be complete without lechon!
Photo by Canva
Lechon or roasted pig is mostly served during gatherings or events. However, you can get a budget meal of P100 and it is already served with puso, lechon, or dinaguan (pork blood stew). Talisay and Carcar are one of the best places to go in Cebu. Did you know that Cebu is hailed as the Lechon Capital in the Philippines? Our lechon doesn’t need sauce because it is slowly roasted to perfection and marinated with a special blend of spices and seasonings making the roasted pig tender and crispy.
In 2024, the Philippines hosted a new generation cyber sports festival, 1xFest, which transformed traditional perceptions of fan events in esports. The festival featured pubstomps in the Philippines, Myanmar, and Vietnam, strategically aligned with the finals of The International 2024 from September 4th to 15th. In the Philippines, the pubstomp extended over three days, drawing significant attention and participation from fans across the region.
A New Era for Esports Fans
1xFest is more than just an event; it’s a groundbreaking initiative by 1xBet designed to deeply immerse fans into the world of esports. The festival featured a series of Watch Party events timed with the finals of The International 2024. These events allowed fans, thousands of kilometers away from the main tournament in Copenhagen, to fully experience the thrilling moments of the competition.
Interactivity and Active Participation
The festival was highly interactive. Attendees could not only watch the games but also engage in various contests, from cosplay to TikTok dance challenges. The participation of well-known influencers like Eva Elfie, and the raffles of exclusive gaming items via Telegram channels, heightened engagement and interest in the event.
Success Statistics
Over three days, 1xFest attracted significant viewership: 2,112,000 views on Facebook and 3,810,000 views on YouTube. These figures are not just numbers – they reflect the deep interest and engagement of the fans.
Conclusion
1xFest demonstrated that esports events can be more than just spectacles; they can also be venues for community and culture development among fans in the Philippines. The festival strengthened the esports community by creating a new tradition of collective viewing of major tournaments and showed how sports events can unite people, regardless of geographical location.
Keep up with 1xBet news to always be informed about important events.
About 1xBet
With 17 years in the betting and gambling sector, 1xBet is a well-known global entity. Accessible in 70 languages, the platform attracts over three million users each month, offering an extensive range of sports betting and online casino options. 1xBet has established partnerships with prominent sports entities and figures, including FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, basketball sensation Kai Sotto, FIBA, Chris Newsome, and UFC legend José Aldo, underscoring its prestigious status in the international sports betting market.
Celebrate Love with an Evening of Enchanting Serenades
The ultimate Valentine’s experience awaits you as global music sensation Ronan Keating brings his timeless hits to Cebu for an unforgettable Valentine’s Special. Known for chart-topping classics like “When You Say Nothing at All” and “If Tomorrow Never Comes,” Ronan’s heartfelt music has touched fans worldwide, making this a night to remember for lovers and music enthusiasts alike. Celebrate the power of love swaying along to romantic anthems this February 12, 2025 at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
An Embrace of Romance and Nostalgia
Taking place at the heart of Cebu, this one-night-only concert promises to be the perfect prelude to Valentine’s Day. Even when you say nothing at all, Ronan’s soulful voice and captivating stage presence will surely envelop your evening with love, nostalgia, and musical brilliance.
A Cebu-first: Where the heart sings
Always enamored by the support of his Filipino fans, Ronan now brings his romantic ballads to Cebu for the very first time. This rare and special moment undoubtedly reclaims Cebu as the destination “where the heart sings,” its past slogan showcasing Cebuanos’ warm and passionate souls. Visayas and non-Visayas fans can finally witness his legendary serenades differently, in a stunning growing hotspot for international music events.
Last Thing On My Mind is you missing this event
You should not miss out on this intimate moment! Ronan Keating’s Valentine’s Special in Cebu is more than just a concert; it’s a worthwhile journey. Whether you’re looking to surprise a loved one, celebrate with friends, or simply enjoy world-class music, this experience promises to leave lasting memories. Let your hearts be carried away into a nostalgic journey of his extensive discography.
Just like love, seize the ticket once it comes
Tickets will be available via https://ronankeating2025ph.lsquared.live/. Secure your spot to ensure you don’t let this one-of-a-kind Valentine’s celebration slip away.
Check out the ticket details below:
SVIP (with Meet and Greet) – Php 8,500
VIP (with Meet and Greet) – Php 7,500
Patron – Php 5,500
Gold – Php 4,500
Silver – Php 3,500
Balcony – Php 2,500
For Media Inquiries and Partnerships, please contact:
Stay tuned for updates by following L-Squared Productions on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #RonanKeatingCebu.
About Ronan Keating
Ronan Keating, a celebrated artist and former member of the iconic group Boyzone, has enjoyed an illustrious solo career spanning over two decades. With multi-platinum albums and numerous awards to his name, Ronan continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his heartfelt ballads and magnetic performances that truly defined generations.
About L-Squared Productions, Inc.
L-Squared Productions, Inc. is dedicated to bringing world-class entertainment to the Philippines, curating exceptional live events that create unforgettable moments. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, L-Squared Productions, Inc. is a trusted name in the local events industry.
Make this Valentine’s season one to cherish with the Ronan Keating Valentine’s Special in Cebu. Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic—grab your tickets now!
Into the woods, but not too fast or what you wish, you lose at last.
Photo from Theatre Group Asia
The enchanting world of “Into the Woods” is about to come alive on stage in the Philippines, and with a new set of castmembers to look forward to.
Leading the cast is THE Leah Salonga, who will step into the role of the Witch. Joining her is the talented Filipino-American actress Arielle Jacobs, who will portray Cinderella.
Photo from Theatre Group Asia
As the production team gears up for its much-anticipated show, excitement is building among fans of musical theater. The combination of Salonga and Jacobs promises to bring a new energy to the beloved tale at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater this coming August.
Photo from Theatre Group Asia
Lea Returns On Stage After A 6-Year Theater Hiatus
Photo from Playbill
Lea Salonga, one of the most renowned theater actresses in the Philippines, and internationally, shared her excitement over her new role. According to her, it has been awhile since she starred on stage, “The last show I did in Manila was a Stephen Sondheim masterpiece. Now, I’m coming in ‘Into the Woods,’ yet another Sondheim masterpiece! If all I do for the rest of my life is to perform in Sondheim shows, I’ll be very happy.”
Many of us are very familiar with the event of a coronation of religious images. This is called the canonical coronation and these events are done to acknowledge the Marian and Christological images which have significant roles in fostering the faith of many people.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto Nino
As Sinulog weekend has just started, I would like to introduce to you the four canonically-crowned images of the Señor Santo Niño and their backstories. May these stories help you in your journey of faith and foster all that love and devotion to the Child Jesus.
Santo Bambino de Aracoeli
Photo from the Library of Congress Official Website
Provenance: Minor Basilica of Santa Maria Aracoeli, Rome, Italy.
Coronation date: May 2,1987
Pontificate: Pope Leo XIII
This statue of the Infant Jesus dates back from the fifteenth century is a wood carving that was made in Jerusalem by a Franciscan friar through the use of the Gethsemane olive tree. The miraculous image was forcibly thrown in the sea during a storm upon the friar’s return to Rome but miraculously arrived in the port of Livorno.
Photo from the Vatican News
In the Philippines, devotion to the Santo Bambino de Aracoeli began when a replica was enshrined at the Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption in Maragondon, Cavite in 1986. His feast is celebrated every May 2.
Bambino Gesu de Arenzano
Photo from Santuario Gesù Bambino di Praga Official Website
Provenance: Minor Basilica of the Child Jesus of Arenzano, Genoa, Italy
Coronation date: February 24, 1924
Pontificate: Pope Pius XI
The image was donated by Marquise Delphina Gavotti of Savona, and was presented in the shrine in 1902, replacing the picture of the Infant Jesus of Prague brought by the Carmelite order on September 25, 1900. The feast of the image is celebrated every September 01 and various miracles have been reported by pilgrims.
Although there are no chapels, oratories, and parishes dedicated to the Bambino Gesu de Arenzano in the Philippines. Some Filipinos are members of the Pious Association of the Bambino Gesu de Arenzano.
Holy Infant of Prague
Photo from https://infantprague.org/
Provenance: Church of the Virgin Mary the Victorious – Shrine of the Child Jesus, Prague, Czech Republic
Coronation: September 6, 1924
Pontificate: Pope Pius XI
The statue of the Holy Infant of Prague was modeled by a pious friar inspired by a vision. It was once owned by the Pernstein family and given to the Carmelite Monastery in Prague by Polyxena of Lobkowicz in 1629. The infant Jesus is said to have appeared to Father Cyril, asking for his hands to be restored, promising blessings in the world.
In the Philippines, the devotion is popular, with notable shrines at the Abbey of Our Lady in Montserrat in Manila and the Chapel-shrine of the Holy Infant in Matina, Davao City.
Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Basilica Minore del Sto Nino
Provenance: Minor Basilica of Santo Niño de Cebu, Cebu
Coronation date: April 28, 1965
Pontificate: Pope St. Paul IV
The first religious figure in the Philippines brought by Ferdinand Magellan, was given to Humaymay (baptized as Queen Juana). Upon receiving the image, Reina Juana reportedly wept. After Magellan’s death in 1521, the image was initially attempted to be destroyed by natives but eventually venerated as a deity.
The Santo Niño de Cebu’s devotion was instrumental in spreading Christianity across the Philippines with replicas venerated in Batangas, Malitbog, Leyte, Biñan, Laguna, and Intramuros, Manila.
Cebu is a true metropolis of a city. A great place for adventure enthusiasts and seekers to enjoy because they can experience what they want in a few hours drive away. Did you know that you can have a fun family weekend in Oslob while surrounded with some wild monkeys? Look no further than the Oslob Macaque Encounter where you can up and close personal with wild long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat.
An Overview of the Monkey Sanctuary
Photos by Freepik
Oslob is a coastal town in Cebu province and also known for its beaches and marine life. There are so many things that you can do in this little town and one of those encounters is the unique experience that the Oslob Macaque Encounter offers their visitors. Here, visitors can observe and interact with wild long-tail macaques, locally known as “Monday,” in their natural habitat.
The sanctuary is managed by the Hagdan Oslob Monkey Protectors and Farmers Association (HOMPFA), is a haven for wild monkeys who are known for their friendly nature. Guided tours in the monkey sanctuary are offered for visitors to observe the wild monkeys up close without any barriers. The monkeys are visible on the national road and that makes everything convenient for tourists. This initiative also aids local farmers by allowing tourists to feed the monkeys and avoiding crop damage.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Operating Hours: Open Daily from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Exact Location: Sitio Bulak, Brgy. Hagdan, Oslob, Cebu City
By Car: if you’re driving, you can take the Southern Cebu Coastal Road and follow the signs to Oslob. It will take you 2-3 hours to drive from Cebu City.
By Public Transportation: for those relying on public transportation, you can take a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal bound for Oslob. Once in Oslob, you can hire a tricycle or a motorbike taxi to reach Oslob Macaque.
To honor the Catholic Church’s Santo Niño de Cebu, Cebuanos celebrate the Sinulog Festival every third Sunday of January. The magnificence of the festival made not only Cebuanos and Filipinos in general but also the Asians refer to it is the “Mother of All Festivals.”
This grand festival is characterized by a long parade with groups from different places across the country in colorful costumes while dancing to the Sinulog beat through the streets. But apart from the colorful and well-made costumes of the dancers, to the beautiful dances and to the music brought by the drums, trumpets, and the native gongs, what is really the real essence of Sinulog?
Here is a list of the Fast Facts on Cebu’s Sinulog:
Photo by Anthony Weeg
Cebu marks the birth of Christianity in the Philippines. The original statue of Santo Nino was given in April 1521 by Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese, to Hara Amihan (Queen Juana) as baptismal gift. It was a similar statue to the Infant Jesus of Prague.
Photo by Anthony Weeg
The Sinulog dance steps are believed to have originated from Rajah Humabon’s adviser, Baladhay. It was during Humabon’s grief when Baladhay fell sick and Humabon ordered his native tribe to bring Baladhay into a room where the Santo Niño was enthroned, along with the other pagan gods of the native Cebuanos. After a few days, Baladhay was heard shouting and was found dancing with utmost alertness.
Photo by Anthony Weeg
The first Sinulog parade was held in 1980, organized by Dávid Odilao, then Regional Director of the Ministry of Sports, and Youth Development. The parade was composed of students dressed in Knitted Filipiniana costumes, dancing the Sinulog to the beating of drums.
Photo by Anthony Weeg
The Cebuano greeting“Pit Senyor!” is short for “Panangpit sa Senyor!” which means a plea to the Lord, the Señor Santo Niño (Holy Child), whose feast is observed during Sinulog.
Photo by Anthony Weeg
The word Sinulog comes from the Cebuano adverb sulog which roughly means “like water current movement;” it describes the forward-backward movement of the Sinulog dance. The dance consists of two steps forward and one step backward, done to the sound of drums.
Photo by Migs Rizzari
The Santo Nino de Cebu was brought to the Philippines by Magellan as a gift to Rajah Humabon and his wife for their baptism. Since it arrived in Cebu on April 7, 1521, it is considered as the oldest Christian religious relic in the whole country. It is stored inside a bulletproof glass box at the Basilica Menore de Santo Niño.
Photo by Jay Labra
From being a small gathering of Cebuano residents to celebrate its rich history, Sinulog has become one of the most famous festivals in the country that draws people from different places not just in the Philippines but also around the world. The number of people flocking to the Queen City of the South for Sinulog have reached over a million in recent years.
Photo by Aying Salupan
On the feast day of Sinulog, a Pontifical Mass is celebrated at the Basilica by the Cardinal, assisted by several Cebu-based bishops. A lot of Cebuanos and tourists alike would flock to the Basilica to attend the mass before heading out to the streets to watch the Parade.
Photo by Chang Euldan
The first procession of the image of Santo Niño happened in 1565 at the Tupas Village. The image was identified by the Legazpi expedition, the same image given by Ferdinand Magellan to the Cebuanos and their queen, Juana, in 1521 when the first Spanish expedition of the world found Cebu.
Photo from etc
Along with the solemn mass held
to honor the image of the Child Jesus, Sinulog is also known for the various
street parties held in the country’s second-biggest metropolitan area. However,
some residents and devotees are worried that the parties may affect the
tradition of Sinulog. In 2015, incidents concerning the public celebrations
were reported and circulated in social media.
With the rich history of Cebu and its grandes festival, these rowdy street parties are labeled to just be the “dark side of the moon” of the country’s “biggest and grandest cultural festival.”
The Sinulog festival, which embodies the joyous Cebuano culture, is a veritable feast for the senses, featuring everything from pulsating tribal music and multicolored attire to wild bar parties. Sinulog, a vibrant and electrifying extravaganza that is billed as a must-see spectacle, ought to be on every Juan’s bucket list!
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
The issue is that it won’t be easy to enjoy the biggest and grandest party in the Philippines, particularly if the mobile signal goes out. For those who are traveling to Cebu to witness the nation’s most enthralling festival, here is a no-signal Sinulog survival guide that will help you get through and still enjoy the event, just in case there’d be interference.
1. Plan in advance.
Photo from Unsplash
Before cell phones were invented, people connected and came together with exquisite planning; they managed, and it’s not impossible! You can do this by deciding on a certain time and meeting location, then moving forward. This is a fantastic chance to avoid using “Filipino time,” so that no one will be left behind!
2. Book accommodation early.
Photo from Unsplash
Looking for accommodations in Cebu during the Sinulog Festival? The parade and procession routes can be seen on the Sinulog route maps we shared online. To make things simpler for you, you could reserve a hotel close to the Sinulog routes.
We firmly advise that you book accommodations close to SM City Cebu, Lahug, Ayala, or Fuente, the metro’s commercial hubs and locations are conveniently close to the main events.
3. Bring company!
Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Vea Victoria Manayon
Photo from Vea Victoria Manayon
Yes, going on a solo expedition can be liberating and transformative, but how about instead of flying solo, you’ll get your besties together and keep an eye on each other while enjoying the energized atmosphere of the Sinulog Festival? That way you’ll definitely have a blast and someone else to lean on when you’re exhausted while cruising through the busy streets of Cebu.
4. Keep your friends and company close.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
If you’re going to the festival with a large group, it’s a good idea to assign important individuals specific duties. The default group guide should be the friend with the most Sinulog experience. Put two or three of the folks who are most likely to disappear—or get extremely wasted—in the care of your responsible buddies.
5. Get a good night’s sleep before the grand parade.
Photo from Unsplash
Keep in mind that you are not Captain America, Iron Man, or Superman. To get to the closest jeepney lines or the location where you left your car, you’ll have to walk more than two miles through Cebu’s streets, which are literally littered with stalls and revelers. You will need to conserve a lot of energy if you want to make it through Cebu’s biggest and most thrilling day.
6. Find some good ground.
Photo from Unsplash
If you want to view the festival’s centerpiece, research the street parade route. You can find the Grand Parade route on the Sinulog Foundation’s official social media pages. Along the festival route, hotels and other businesses sponsor viewing decks, where you can buy tickets to watch the procession.
7. Have fun with the locals!
Nothing beats stopping by a friendly “Bisaya” amigo’s place for a beer and some renowned lechon from Cebu. They’ll probably also have broadband Internet or a landline phone, both of which can help you with communication this weekend.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Photo from Vea Victoria Manayon
Photo from Merx Mercado
Photo from Merx Mercado
Photo from Merx Mercado
Your local acquaintances might take you for a nighttime stroll through the heart of the city, where Fuente Osmea is located, and of course to some of Cebu’s pubs and clubs. You might get included on the guest list, who knows!
8. Complete your Sto. Niño pilgrimage.
Remember that the celebration is primarily about Senior Santo Niño before rushing to the street procession and entertainment. Visit Basilica Del Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross, partake in the rituals, light a few candles, and express your gratitude to the almighty for everything.
Photo from Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
To receive your wishes fulfilled—and to take part in a true Sinulog tradition—do the Pit Señor Dance as well!
9. Eat, eat, eat!
Photo from Sugbo Mercado Facebook Page
Photo from Sugbo Mercado Facebook Page
Photo from Sugbo Mercado Facebook Page
Photo from Sugbo Mercado Facebook Page
Photo from Sugbo Mercado Facebook Page
Being offline has certain advantages, like giving you more time to focus on one of the best Cebuano past times: eating! What’s the purpose of visiting Cebu if you don’t indulge in some delectable Cebuano food? More than that, this is important to ensure that you have enough energy for the rest of the day.
10. Don’t get too drunk.
Photo from Unsplash
Parties can be seen almost everywhere during the vibrant Sinulog festival, from streets to hip clubs. Even while having a few shots is acceptable, constantly remind yourself to maintain control. You don’t want to make Facebook news the next day, do you?
11. Go with the flow!
Be happy, smile, and laugh heartily! Avoid being a downer, make friends with strangers, and be open to the idea that anything can happen during the festival.
Photo from Merx Mercado
Photo from Vea Victoria Manayon
Photo from Vea Victoria Manayon
Photo from Merx Mercado
Photo from Merx Mercado
Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to survive the rowdy festival while still enjoying. Have fun and Pit Senyor!
