This newlywed from Lapu-lapu City just wanted a simple wedding reception. After their wedding at Sto. Niño de Cebu Mactan Parish, the couple with their entourage proceeded to their wedding reception – at a nearby local fast food restaurant in the City.
Rian Eran Baynosa and Rhaquesa Vicente Mosende (both originally from Kitcharao, Mindanao) was originally planned to be wed in their hometown last 2020, but due to the pandemic, it forced them to stay, live together, and build a family in Lapu-lapu.
On their wedding day, only their neighbors and friends were able to attend as their immediate family stayed in Mindanao because of the tight budget and pandemic.
According to photographer Babse Dondon, in his 6 years of covering weddings, this is his first time to cover such scenario.
Bisag asa ra jud, basta with you! Another ”sana all” na sad ta aning mga single!
Ever scroll past your Instagram newsfeed once in a while, and stumble on a Siargao photo/video? I know I have – and more often than not I’d imagine myself to the time I once paddled out to the waters of Cloud 9 and rode the crashing waves back as I effortlessly stood on my rented fish board; completely out of thought, but in total control… it’s almost like the ocean and I are connected – of the same mind, body, and soul. Just kidding of course, I can’t even swim.
I, however, can tell you all about traveling from ‘The Queen City of the South’ to the beautiful ‘Surfing Capital of the Philippines’ known as Siargao, as of November 2021!
Photo from Instagram Account of travels_and_escapes
Before I get ahead of myself, one thing you should keep in mind is that due to the country still handling the pandemic – though less demanding of requirements as before, there are still precautionary measures and policies you must comply with, to ensure the continued safety and leisure of travelling for everyone.
From November 1 – 14, the entire province of Surigao del Norte is under GCQ, it is open to domestic tourists from GCQ and MGCQ areas.
The requirements are:
Copy of the saliva RT-PCR test results and negative swabs are still required – released within the 48 hours upon arrival.
Valid identification Card
Confirmed Roundtrip Airline Tickets for tourists
Confirmed reservation DOT accredited accommodation for tourists
To inquire mandatory requirements and information details, check out: app.philippines.travel
Flight Travel!
When it comes to getting around places, one of the most common ways to travel is by plane. Planes are great for faster travel and a much more direct approach, though costly for the trip.
Check out the cheapest Cebu – Del Carmen tickets you can find on Kiwi.com, or in Google Flights. Ticket prices can vary from time/date of departure, or if it’s a round trip – so plan and finance all your funds ahead.
A flight from Mactan – Cebu International Airport is your best bet if you were to travel by Cebgo Airlines, PAL Express, and Philippine Airlines! It only takes about an hour until you arrive at your destination.
Photo from unsplash.com by Pascal Meier
‘Ferry’ Go Round
Taking the Ferry is a great way to travel too, you could save more, though it takes longer to get to Surigao City compared to traveling by plane.
You may travel between these three: Medallion Transport, Cokaliong Shipping Lines, and Starlight Ferry; they are available daily (except on Sundays) and depart @7:00PM from Pier 1.
When you arrive to the port of Surigao, you’ll have to proceed to the terminal’s ticket booth where you’ll buy another ticket for a ferry to Siargao (departs at 5:00AM), depending on which ship you’ve boarded, it usually takes 4 hours, an hour or less when traveling on a fast craft.
Cebu is a province proudly renowned for its bountiful sea and the thriving marine scene. There’s a rich roster of attractions in the island’s waters such as dive destinations, snorkeling spots, and viewing decks.
While exciting excursions await you everywhere in Cebu, the island also has its fair share of quiet corners for a more mellow appreciation of the seascape.
One such destination is Nemrac By The Sea, a new restaurant and resort up north fronting the wide ocean to the east.
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
An escape from the busy city
Carmen is a relatively quiet municipality, and Nemrac by the sea is an even quieter establishment despite being along the national road. The stillness of the surroundings provides a feeling of peace that’s different from life in the busy metro.
The restaurant also doubles as a resort with amenities perfect for relaxing with some quiet time. To make it even better, there’s something to do for everyone of all ages; they have swimming pools, jet skis and kayaks for rent, videoke, and a playground for the kids!
Photo from AR-AR Captures Facebook Page
Photo from AR-AR Captures Facebook Page
Photo from AR-AR Captures Facebook Page
Photo from AR-AR Captures Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Dining and accommodation by the sea
Nemrac by the sea highlights the stunning seascape. From their property, guests get a 180-degree view of the open sea and Camotes Islands on the far horizon. It’s a stunning, yet calming view that is complemented well by the lazy lapping of waves.
Whether you’re splashing idly in their pool or eating a warm meal, you’ll have a clear view of the blue sea. Speaking of food, they have an extensive menu that includes seafood, meats, silogs, and all kinds of staples. Have a look below!
Then, once you’ve finished unwinding, settle down inside their comfortable rooms with an even more appreciable view of the sea. What could be more calming than that?
Nemrac by the sea is a great destination for families, groups, and even company outings. They also have a sizable function room for events and get-togethers.
Photo from AR-AR Captures Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Day use:
Open hours: 7:30AM to 10PM
Entrance Fees:
Weekdays:
Adults: ₱80
Kids (3 to 9 years): ₱40
Weekends:
Adults: ₱100
Kids (3 to 9 years): ₱50
Children 2 years old and below can enter for free.
Water activities:
Kayak: ₱100 per hour
Jetski: ₱300 per 15 minutes
Standard Room day use (8AM to 5PM): ₱1,500, good for 2 persons
Family Room day use (8AM to 5PM): ₱2,500, good for 5 persons
Menu:
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Photo from Nemrac by the Sea Facebook Page
Room rates:
Standard Room: ₱1,800 per night, good for 2 persons; max of 4
Inclusions:
Free breakfast for 2
Air-conditioning
Private bathroom
Private front patio
Family Room: ₱3,500 per night, good for 5 persons; max of 10
Free breakfast for 5
Air-conditioning
Private bathroom
Private front patio
Free Wi-Fi
Extra persons: ₱300 per head with extra bed, up to maximum capacity only
Check-in time is 2PM and check-out time is 11AM
Other Information:
No corkage fees for food and drinks except for alcoholic drinks (for beer: exceeding 1 case)
On Saturday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of November 13, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 28 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 18 new recoveries, and 2 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 103,970, while the active cases increased to 768 (from 759).
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 41,183 (+6 new) – Total recoveries: 39,451 (+8 new) – Total deaths: 1,491 (+0 new) – Active cases: 241
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 13,648 (+4 new) – Total recoveries: 13,103 (+6 new) – Total deaths: 467 (+0 new) – Active cases: 78
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 12,109 (+2 new) – Total recoveries: 11,616 (+3 new) – Total deaths: 441 (+1 new) – Active cases: 52
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 37,030 (+16 new) – Total recoveries: 34,142 (+1 new) – Total deaths: 2,491 (+1 new) – Active cases: 397
SUMMARY OF COVID-19 CASES IN CEBU:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 768 (from 759)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 103,970 (+28 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 98,312 (+18 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 4,890 (+2 new*)
A total of 2,403 laboratory results were released today.
NOTES from DOH-7:
*As per DOH-7, the additional deaths in the report are not due to the overnight spike in deaths but due to more accurate data collection and validating efforts. Not all of those deaths occurred today but occurred more than a week ago.
Reports maybe subject to change as these claims undergo thorough validation by the local healthcare offices and health personnel.
Have you ever been to San Remegio before? Maybe even looking to visit the port on your next Bantayan Island adventure? If so, then you’ve got to check out these sneak peeks of the newly renovated Hagnaya Port!
This is a complete renovation of the structure, with overhauled functions and facilities. It’s a brand-new look and experience the next time you use their service.
Do you remember the last time the waiting area looked in Port Hagnaya? Well, now it looks more spacious and accommodating to every passenger, and even the back offices for the personnel.
Photo from Aldo Nelbert Banaynal Facebook Post
Photo from Aldo Nelbert Banaynal Facebook Post
Photo from Aldo Nelbert Banaynal Facebook Post
Photo from Aldo Nelbert Banaynal Facebook Post
Photo from Aldo Nelbert Banaynal Facebook Post
Photo from Aldo Nelbert Banaynal Facebook Post
The restrooms functions also get their renovation too, it is made to cater for more people to use – and even more sanitize.
The terminal also opened its own Mart, where you can buy your snacks, water, and other traveling necessities.
If that excites you, don’t worry – there are more updates to follow!
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: San Remigio, Northern Cebu — approx. 4 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From Cebu North Bus Terminal – Take a Ceres bus to Hagnaya Port, the trips approx. take about 4 hours, and the fare costs around ₱180 – ₱200BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Port of Hagnaya” in San Remegio. Overnight parking in Hagnaya Port for cars is ₱100 per night (this is if you opt to leave your cars in the mainland).
Hey! I have another getaway weekend spot for you, this time, it’s a private resort. That’s right! private! Like the whole place is entirely for you and your family/friends only, spend quality time with your loved ones here in Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa in Toledo City, Cebu.
The villa is nestled in a beautiful seaside view, facing towards the horizon where the sunrise greets you in the morning and the ocean breeze that gently blows through the window sills in the evening.
Out on the front porch, is an alfresco patio for outdoor dining and picnics, the freshly mowed lawn is great for all the outdoor activities for all the kids to play with enough space to move around, and even during the evening where you can gather around a bonfire.
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
The outdoor area has well-maintained foliage to shrubs to plants; the palm trees that almost tower over the villa brings out the character to the overall atmospheric nature of the resort.
And beneath the palm trees is a lovely cabana where you can enjoy a nice view of the ocean while relaxing in their freshly cleaned sheets and cushion.
Though this resort doesn’t have a shore where you can walk on sand, it does have a pretty surreal diving spot where you can enjoy diving into the sea floor and seeing its natural underwater corals.
The staffs were accommodating and attentive to your concerns, they talk with you and guests to make you feel like home and it’s nice that it makes everyone feel comfortable with each other.
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
Photo from Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
BOOKING RATES: ₱7000 for exclusive use, good for 10 persons (with 4 bedrooms)
Exact location: Bato, Toledo City, Cebu. The villa is placed only 0.8 miles from Bato Cemetery and around 2.2 miles away from Lebumfacil. This property is 21 miles from the center of Cebu.
BY BUS: From South Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Toledo City – approx. 2 hours from Cebu City, and ask a habal-habal driver to take you to Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Sam Xander’s Stone Beach Villa” in Toledo. Parking space is available.
Complementing the big hit, Blue Space Resort, in Barili is another rising attraction in Barili.
If you’re feeling blue and down in today’s current situation, go on a quick trip to revitalize yourself at the mountain resort counterpart of the seaside resort: Blue Space Mountain.
Shake off your stresses and soak in the healing properties of nature in this absolutely cozy retreat in the mountains.
Ambiance, Sounds, and Sights
Blue Space Mountain welcomes guests to a stay filled with silent serenity in the mountain. Immerse in a peaceful atmosphere of Zen amidst the forest where nature sings you a healing melody all day long.
A stark contrast from the horns and engines of the city, here you’ll be serenaded by the slow swaying of trees, the trickling of the waterfall, and the river’s steady current. It’s nature’s own hum of peace and gentle lullaby.
Rich, green vistas await you as the forest encroaches on the resort. Tall trees sit idly beneath the mountain contours, emulating an image of the welcoming embrace of mother earth. Cleanse your eyes of the dull colors of concrete and rejuvenate with the natural palette of the forest!
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Accommodation and amenities
Blue Space Mountain offers modest stays in the mountain setting. These huts and cabins are constructed with bamboo and wood, making them cozy in a totally exotic and natural way.
The resort has rooms with private pools as well, so you can get your private personal, undisturbed quality relaxation. You may also use a sauna to sweat out your toxins along with your worries.
If you prefer to take your healing and relaxation to the natural waterforms, a waterfall cascades down into a natural pool, and a river cuts through the resort as well.
Blue Space Mountain offers a refreshing healing experience amidst the lush, verdant vegetation and alongside the soothing freshwater.
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
Photo from Marvin Leyson ANG Lakwatsero Facebook Page
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Room rates:
Small Hut: ₱1,000
Good for 2 to 3 persons
Private room with treehouse view
Common comfort room
Hut with pool: ₱2,000
Good for 2 to 3 persons
Treehouse view
Private comfort room
Exclusive pool
Toiletries
Cooking equipment
Cabin 1: ₱4,000
Good for 2 to 4 persons
River, falls, and forest views
Private comfort room
Exclusive swimming pool
Cooking equipment
Fridge and Rice cooker
Free Wi-Fi
Cabin 2: ₱7,000
Good for 2 to 6 persons
River, falls, and forest views
Private comfort room
Exclusive freshwater pool
Cooking equipment
Fridge and Rice cooker
Free Wi-Fi
Other Information:
Bluespace Mountain Resort is on their soft opening with promo rates.
In case you missed it, face shields are no longer mandatory in Cebu City. Right after Metro Manila, Iloilo, and Davao – it’s about time for Cebu to also lift its face shield policy.
On Wednesday, in a press conference, acting mayor Mike Rama announced that residents of Cebu City are no longer required to wear face shields, according to the new directive, with the exception of wearing them in medical facilities and public transportations.
You no longer have to wear face shields when commuting in public transportation such as the jeepney as it is well-ventilated and in the open air.
Establishments are required to look into vaccine cards for customers/guests. In regards to the ones who haven’t been vaccinated yet, you may still walk into stores or restaurants, though it depends on the establishment if they require it.
Oh, and children may now go enter malls to spend the weekends’ mall activities with their family. How fun! As long as there are supervised by a full vaccinated adult – but please do look out for them as we’re still trying to keep them safe.
Mayor Rama also shared his thoughts that the mask didn’t serve much of a purpose, but rather, it is only a mere “compliance purpose.”
Although the Department of Health (DOH) has yet to confer with the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for further statement towards the lifting of face shield policy among local governments.
On Friday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of November 12, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 34 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 121 new recoveries, and 1 new death. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 103,943, while the active cases dropped to 759 (from 844).
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 41,177 (+15 new) – Total recoveries: 39,443 (+20 new) – Total deaths: 1,491 (+0 new) – Active cases: 243
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 13,644 (+4 new) – Total recoveries: 13,097 (+1 new) – Total deaths: 467 (+0 new) – Active cases: 80
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 12,108 (+3 new) – Total recoveries: 11,615 (+3 new) – Total deaths: 440 (+0 new) – Active cases: 53
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 37,014 (+12 new) – Total recoveries: 34,141 (+97 new) – Total deaths: 2,490 (+1 new) – Active cases: 383
SUMMARY OF COVID-19 CASES IN CEBU:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 759 (from 844)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 103,943 (+34 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 98,296 (+121 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 4,888 (+1 new*)
A total of 2,329 laboratory results were released today.
NOTES from DOH-7:
*As per DOH-7, the additional deaths in the report are not due to the overnight spike in deaths but due to more accurate data collection and validating efforts. Not all of those deaths occurred today but occurred more than a week ago.
Reports maybe subject to change as these claims undergo thorough validation by the local healthcare offices and health personnel.
I’m sure you’ve already caught wind of this, but famous Filipino actor James Reid was spotted visiting Cebu with his friends during the holidays.
Sources and photos say he was out with friends at a few Halloween parties during the 31st of October and dined restaurants in Cebu. I don’t know, but I can only assume he’s here on his dime, visiting friends and places like any folks outside Cebu would do!
Though he hasn’t discussed his experiences publicly, he must’ve had a blast, and I sure would be glad if he did.
Photos from vismin.ph Facebook Page
Photos from vismin.ph Facebook Page
Photos from vismin.ph Facebook Page
Photos from vismin.ph Facebook Page
Cebu is a beautiful place to visit, despite the unforgiving heat that’s constantly beating down on us, it has its charm that captures like no other! In James’ case – I often think: was it the friends he made? Or the delicious food he ate? Or was it the beaches he got to visit? Or maybe all three. I can’t say.
Whatever the case – I am glad to know folks from around the world can share their Cebu experiences online to remind us of the beautiful moments that we create.
I guess I really don’t have a point to prove in this article, aside from stating the obvious. But rather, we can try and learn something from our friend, Mr. Reid; that our time here is precious, mga Sugboanons, so let’s spend the rest of it with the people that matter to us.
Check out some of the best places to visit in Cebu:
