Camotes Island has been crowned as one of the budget-friendly places to visit in Cebu, while still capturing the beauty and essence of Cebu. Relaxing beaches and thrilling waterfalls greet you when you step on the island. However, is this still true under the new normal? Yes, but with extra steps.
How to go from Cebu City to Camotes Island
Thankfully, Camotes Island has formally reopened for tourism activities so travelling there is less of a hassle. However, it is still necessary to wear your face masks and face shields. Remember to not touch unfamiliar objects and your face. Avoid sharing food or drinks with random people, and regularly wash your hands with alcohol.
Now that is out of the way, there are three options to go to Camotes Island.
OPTION 1: OCEANJET FAST CRAFT
Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Cebu Port: Pier 1, Cebu City
Camotes Port: Poro, Camotes
Advantages: Take this option if you want to arrive faster, and you live/stay near Pier 1 or SM City Cebu or you’re from Southern Cebu.
Contact Numbers: (032) 255 7560 / 255 0115 / 0917 638 0000 (Inquiries only / No online or phone bookings)
OPTION 2: JOMALIA RORO/EXPRESS
Travel Time: 2 hours
Cebu Port: Danao City Port
Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
Advantages: Take this option if you want to save 50% on transportation, if you’re willing to travel or you’re from/near Danao City.
Contact Numbers: (032) 346-0421 / 0949 163 0892 / 0995 107 1720 (Inquiries only / No online or phone bookings)
OPTION 3: JOMALIA FAST CRAFT
Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cebu Port: MACTAN WHARF of Island Central Mactan Mall
Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
Advantages: Take this option if you want to arrive faster, and you live/stay near Mactan.
0949-163-0892 / 0995-107-1720 (advance booking is allowed, but should be at least 2 days prior)
Best Destinations in Camotes Island
Santiago Bay Beach
This is also known as the Santiago White Beach, because of the white sand that greets its beachgoers. Its shore line is very wide, making it look like a giant pool during the high tides. Its blue waters will surely wash away the worries that the pandemic has brought in our lives.
Photo by Jessi Ang-Lee
San Francisco
Timubo Cave
A small opening leads you to this cave, which contains cold, fresh water that you can swim in. The water can even go up to 6ft. Even while swimming, be sure to practice social distancing from other people you do not know.
Lake Danao
Also known as the “Lover’s Lake”, this guitar-shaped lake has captivated many of the Cebuano people and even the hearts of foreigners. There are several activities that you can enjoy, although expect lesser capacity compared to before the pandemic.
Photo by Hoven Encontro
Photo by Hoven Encontro
Photo by Annventurey
Tulang Diot Island
This islet with a white sandbar has been unknown for years until just recently, which is a mystery as to why it just became popular. The waters are blue and chilling, making it a perfect spot to swim under the heat of the sun.
Photo by J-Co Samz
Photo by J-Co Samz
Photo by J-Co Samz
Buho Rock
If you love cliff jumping, then you will love visiting Buho Rock Resort. It has a unique ship-shaped rock formation and the place has a great view of the horizon during sunset. Climbing up to the top to then jump down to the welcoming waters will make you feel rejuvenated.
On Wednesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of July 21, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 500 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 151 new recoveries, and 7 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 61,421, while the active cases increased to 4,338 (from 3,996).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 27,760 (+158 new) – Total recoveries: 25,174 (+46 new) – Total deaths: 897 (+5 new) – Active cases: 1,689
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 7,761 (+137 new) – Total recoveries: 6,831 (+3 new) – Total deaths: 177 (+0 new) – Active cases: 753
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 7,511 (+54 new) – Total recoveries: 6,758 (+27 new) – Total deaths: 237 (+0 new) – Active cases: 516
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 18,389 (+151 new) – Total recoveries: 16,213 (+75 new) – Total deaths: 796 (+2 new) – Active cases: 1,380
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 4,338 (from 3,996)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 61,421 (+500 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 54,976 (+151 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 2,107 (+7 new*)
A total of 3,528 laboratory results were released for 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.
Drivers who have not committed any traffic violation will soon have the luxury of a 10-year validity of their driver’s licenses.
The chief of the Land Transportation Office, Edgar Galvante, said that they will be rolling out the 10-year validity of driver’s licenses starting on October 2021. These licenses, however, will only be given to drivers with no traffic violation.
This will serve as an incentive for those who have not incurred any violation.
A “demerit” system will also be implemented every time a motorist violates a traffic law.
Under the demerit system, Galvante said violations are classified depending on its gravity:
Grave – 5 points
Less grave – 3 points
Light – 1 point
Grave violations include driving a vehicle used in a crime, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and driving colorum vehicles. However, the less grave offenses could become a grave offense when it is repeated.
Violations or demerit points are recorded in the LTO’s system and drivers’ will be notified of the demerit points they have accumulated once they renew their licenses.
If you’re visiting Cebu, you should never miss going to Cebu Safari & Adventure Park, the famed haven for hundreds of different species of plants and animals!
A lot of the animals in the safari are endangered species, and the property creates a safe space for these animals in its impressive 170 hectares of developed mountain terrain. Aside from observing thousands of animals from 120 different species, you can stay overnight in their luxurious Safari Camp, or go on a wild adventure in the safari’s very own Adventure Park, with one of the longest and highest ziplines in the country – 1.3 kms. long and 671 m. above sea level!
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo by Joshua Padillo
Photo by Gigi Olavo
Photo by Ram Mancelita
Photo by Gigi Olavo
PARK SCHEDULE:
Wednesday to Sunday
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Last entry/ticket selling is 2:00pm
ENTRANCE FEE:
Adult: ₱800.00 with one set lunch meal (NO more set lunch included)
For convenience, it’s recommended to bring your own vehicle or rent a van/car. You may just simply navigate via Waze or Google Maps and search for “Cebu Safari and Adventure Park”. Cebu Safari is located approx. 8km away from the highway. The landmark is the Carmen National High School — if you’re coming from Cebu City, make a left turn before this school. There are signages along the road to guide you.
If you are to commute, you may ride a north-bound bus at the Cebu North Bus Terminal in Mandaue City. Ask the driver to drop you off at Carmen Public Market. From there, you may ride a habal-habal to Cebu Safari.
2. Cebu Ocean Park – SM Seaside
Another attraction filled with natural wonder is Cebu Ocean Park, the Philippines’ largest oceanarium.
From many colorful and characteristic fishes to snakes, sharks, rays, and even birds, there are hundreds of animals to discover in Cebu Ocean Park. Its highlight is a 360-degree viewing tunnel in the oceanarium. The Park also features a Jungle Trek, Creepy Critters, and a Bird Show with intelligent macaws and cockatoos. The Ocean Park also is right across SM City Seaside, Cebu’s grandest mall destination with 241,600 square meters of shopping and dining space!
Exact location: SM Seaside Complex, South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City — beside the San Pedro Calungsod Chapel, at the back of SM Seaside City Cebu; 15 minutes away from Fuente Osmeña Circle, 30 minutes away from Ayala Center Cebu.
BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena. Or ride any MyBus from Mactan Airport, SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall. Check the routes & schedules here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/cebu-mybus-guide/
BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Cebu Ocean Park”. Parking is P30 per entry.
3. Cebu IT Park
No Cebuano is a stranger to IT Park, the city center for hustling, bustling, living, and dining!
The 27-hectare business park is a hub for international and local software research and development companies, BPOs, and contact centers. At the same time, a big chunk of the area is dedicated to dining, shopping, and leisure facilities. Here you can find countless restaurants, numerous bars, the fully-decked Ayala Central Bloc mall, the spacious and grassy Garden Bloc, and the famous Sugbo Mercado. With all of these, Cebu IT Park has become a lifestyle destination for locals and visitors alike!
Photo by Michael Audrey Jacobe Sagonoy
HOW TO GET TO CEBU IT PARK?
Exact location: Cebu I.T. Park, Lahug, Cebu City — 15-20 minutes away from Ayala Center Cebu, 30-45 minutes away from SM City Cebu.
BY TAXI/BUS: If you’re already in Cebu City, just hail a taxi cab or ride a bus that’s going to IT park. IT Park is quite big and easy to get lost in so it would be best to know your destination before going out.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “I.T. Park” in Cebu City. Multiple parking spaces are available within the park.
4. Buwakan ni Alejandra
While Cebu is known for its white sand beaches and mesmerizing waterfalls, you might be surprised to discover its other attractions.
One such hidden gem is something that garnered attention only in the recent years: Buwakan ni Alejandra, or in English, Alejandra’s flower garden. Buwakan ni Alejandra is an oasis of vivid hues and explosive color amidst the mountain forests of Balamban. The garden showcases a big variety of flowers and colorful plants that just pop in the sun and in front of the green backdrop of the mountains of Cebu. Just as long as you’re responsible and careful of the flowers, you can take as many pictures as you like – and believe me, you’ll want to take lots!
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Buwakan ni Alejandra.
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Buwakan ni Alejandra” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Buwakan ni Alejandra is just few meters away from Adventure Cafe.
5. Top of Cebu
You’re already here on the mountains of Cebu, why not stay a bit longer for dinner? A scrumptious dinner, at that.
Enjoy great food at top-rated restaurant, Top of Cebu! The restaurant cooks up delicious Filipino and Cebuano favorites, as well as delectable dishes with their own twists. Take for example their Pancit de Cebu with spicy pancit canton and crispy noodles served with seafood, meats, and Cebu’s chicharon. Then you have their Salted Egg Calamares and the Sizzling Bangus with spicy coconut cream. With dishes like these cooked to perfection, you’re set to have a memorable meal with a lovely view of the metro.
Pancit de Cebu
Salted Egg Calamares
Sizzling Bangus
Food Menu
OTHER INFORMATION
Operating hours: 11AM to 11PM, Mondays to Sundays
Contact number: (032) 515-0718
Social:Facebook Page – Open for reservations / bookings for exclusive events or private parties.
How to get there?
Exact location: Brgy. Busay, Cebu Transcentral Highway, Cebu City – just beside the popular Tops Lookout (20-30 minutes drive from JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City)
BY CAR: (Best option) Spacious parking space available. Just search for ‘Top of Cebu’ or ‘Tops Lookout’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps. ‘Tops of Cebu’ restaurant is located just beside the popular Tops Lookout.
BY MOTORBIKE: Hire a habal-habal driver (Motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at the said restaurant or at Tops Lookout. Estimated fare is P50 per person (max of 2).
BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there.
6. Simala Church
Every now and then, it’s nice to break away from the city and the crowds. Sometimes we need a good trip to refresh not just our minds, but also our spirit.
The Cebu Simala Church is a popular destination for locals and visitors. Whether on a pilgrimage or just visiting for a day, many people visit to pray or even just to witness the “miraculous” Birhen sa Simala. The Virgin Mary is believed to have cried tears of blood on her birthday, September 8, hence why people see her as miraculous. Seeing her up close is an experience that is one of a kind, and even if you don’t get inside, the castle church is a majestic sight to behold.
Jhen Leonen Borce
Details:
Opening hours: 6AM to 6PM daily
Mass schedule:
12PM to 1PM daily;
12PM to 1PM & 3:30PM to 4:30PM on Sundays
How to get there?
Exact location: Sibonga, Southern Cebu — 2-3 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Oslob or Liloan/Santander. Tell the conductor you will get off at Simala to go to Simala Church. Fare is ₱85 (one-way). Alight at Simala near 7Eleven. Then ride a habal-habal (motorcycle) to take you to Simala Church. Fare is about ₱20 per person.
BY CAR: If you’re bringing your own car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your destination to “Simala Church”. Very spacious parking space is available with a fee of ₱20 per vehicle.
7. Sumilon Sandbar
Now, who doesn’t love fine white sand and crystal-clear waters together?
Get the best of both when you come to Sumilon Sandbar! You can find it on Sumilon Island, just 20 minutes away from Oslob. The sandbar is a wide stretch of powdery white sand surrounded by clear turquoise waters. There are no rocks in sight, and the sandbar slopes gently into the sea. It’s the perfect place to marvel at the sea and watch the sunset, and if you came to Cebu to get a feel of its beaches, you can’t miss out on Sumilon Sandbar.
Photo by Aligato John Ray of The Island Nomad in partnership with Sugbo.ph – Cebu, Philippines
Photo by @thomito12
Photo from Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort Facebook Page
Photo by Aligato John Ray of The Island Nomad in partnership with Sugbo.ph – Cebu, Philippines
Photo by Aligato John Ray of The Island Nomad in partnership with Sugbo.ph – Cebu, Philippines
RATES:
Sumilon Island Boat Transfer Fee – P1,500 per boat
Environmental Fee – P50
Sumilon Island Day-Pass – $30 or P1,440 based on Klook
Exact Location: Sumilon Island, Oslob, Southern Cebu — approx. 3-4 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal (near Emall), ride a Ceres bus going to “Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort”. All buses bound for Oslob operate 24/7. Bus fare is ~P155 /head (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at the main Whale Shark activity site or to the resort you’re heading.
BY CAR: Road trips are fun, especially if you’re going south. Make sure to navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort”.
8. Solea Mactan Cebu Resort
Are you looking to experience the sea a little closer to the city?
Solea Mactan Cebu Resort is an upscale resort at Mactan, just within an hour from Cebu City. The vast resort features a wide array of amenities to give you a truly relaxing experience with the best value for your money. Here you’ll find an immense garden, multiple inviting freshwater swimming pools, and pristine beaches with panoramic views of the sea. Treat yourself to a mix of activities accommodated by Solea and its very own Nouveau spa. Whether it’s for a holiday, a day trip, or a weekend stay, Solea offers you a relaxing time.
Exact location: Wahing Street, Barangay Alegria, Cordova, Cebu — 45 minutes away from the city proper, and 30 minutes from Mactan Airport.
BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Solea Mactan Cebu Resort”.
BY COMMUTE: From SM City Cebu, ride a v-hire going to Gaisano Cordova (last stop). From there, ride a tricycle going to Solea Mactan Resort.
9. WaterWorld Cebu
From waterfalls to springs and beaches, you will never run out of destinations to enjoy water here in Cebu.
Even inland, in the bustling city of Mandaue, WaterWorld opens its doors for fun times in the water for everyone! WaterWorld Cebu is the biggest water park in Central Visayas, boasting 3 hectares of slides, rides, and aqua fun. The huge water park comes with over 30 slides, a giant 1,500 square meter wave pool, a waterhouse for kids, and a 400-meter-long flowing river. The water park is completed with its food outlets offering snacks and refreshments after you splash in the cool waters.
Operating hours:
Saturdays & Sundays: 9AM to 5PM (starting April 4, 2021)
April 2021 Promo:
Day Use: P500 per head (Buy 10 tickets, Get 1 FREE)
Multiple entry in one day per ticket
Entrance fee:
₱400 per head (weekdays) for both kids & adults
₱500 per head (weekends) for both kids & adults
Kids 3 feet below are FREE OF CHARGE.
Table rentals: ₱400 per day, good for 8pax
Locker rentals: ₱100 per locker (same group may share one locker)
Aqua Suites: ₱2,500 (Day Use only)
Air-condition function rooms are also available for rent.
*Strictly NO outside food & drinks allowed. There are several food outlets inside the resort.
Where to buy the tickets?
You can only avail the tickets onsite or at the ticket counter of WaterWorld Cebu in Mandaue City.
Location:
It is located at Barangay Umapad, Mandaue City, Cebu — near the tip of Marcelo Fernan Bridge in Mandaue City side.
10. Prime Mactan Resorts
Finally, while you’re staying in Cebu, make sure to visit its world-class resorts in the island of Mactan!
The 16.5-hectare 5-star JPark Island Resort & Waterpark, the 11-hectare tropical paradise Plantation Bay Resort & Spa, and the 6-hectare luxury Crimson Resort & Spa. Whichever of these top-class, high-end resorts you decide to go to, you’re sure to be attentively taken care of and pampered to the fullest. These resorts showcase the beauty of Mactan shores and extend the world-famous Philippine hospitality. Which one’s the best? They’re all great, even we can’t decide!
Photo from Plantation Bay Resort & Spa Facebook Page
Photo from Plantation Bay Resort & Spa Facebook Page
Photo from Plantation Bay Resort & Spa Facebook Page
Photo from Plantation Bay Resort & Spa Facebook Page
Photo from Plantation Bay Resort & Spa Facebook Page
Photo from Plantation Bay Resort & Spa Facebook Page
To get the best rates for the best resorts in Mactan, click here.
Whether you love sunsets, beach resorts, some tropical tranquility, or all of the above, you’re sure to fall in love with Les Maisons D’Itac!
Les Maisons D’Itac is an intimate resort along the west coast of the Cebu Island. It’s situated in quiet Ronda in a remote area, guaranteeing you your privacy, peace, and quiet. Thanks to its location, the resort boasts a clear view of striking sunsets that other resorts can only be envious of!
Let the beach resort romance you with its fusion of rustic and tropical themes across all of its amenities and accommodations. All across the property, and particularly in the housing, you’ll find native materials and Filipino elements blended into contemporary architecture – giving you maximum comfort and pampering as you relax. The resort staff is always ready to tend to your requests and to keep your vacation worry-free.
The resort grounds are in a true harmony with nature. Across all villas and common grounds, all spaces are carpeted with a mix of green grass and fine white sand, dotted with palm and tropical trees. You’ll find fresh air and lush greenery in every corner.
Les Maisons D’Itac also features a private beach just a few paces from the premises. The beach is a modest, yet lovely, strip of white sand that slopes into the untamed waters of Tañon Strait. On one end is a rocky patch of mangrove trees and saplings which add to the seclusion of the private beach.
Let yourself be serenaded by the waves, caressed by the breeze, and embraced by nature in the romantic setting of Les Maisons D’Itac.
Accommodation and Activities
Les Maisons D’Itac offers guests a selection of stunning rooms perfect for couples, families, and even big groups. These Filipino-inspired houses just say comfort and hospitality with their welcoming facades and beautifully decorated interiors. They come with air-conditioning, private areas, and their own bathrooms.
Their villa comes with its own private swimming pool, while there is also a common swimming pool within the premises. The allure of the sea and the charm of the waters will make it very difficult to get out!
The resort also has their own restaurant, bar, and garden – all private and exclusive for guests to enjoy.
For guests who are up for some adventure and discovery, Les Maisons can also arrange a few tropical island activities. Guests can choose to go diving in Moalboal or Oslob, chase waterfalls in Barili or Badian, go island hopping and snorkeling, or stay and discover the local Ronda Marine Sanctuary. All of these activities can be arranged with the resort staff.
The next time you find yourself sunset chasing, resort hunting, or just simply craving some peace and quiet, consider visiting Les Maisons D’Itac in Ronda!
Exact location: Patricks Road, Barangay Santa Cruz, Ronda, Southern Cebu – 2 hours and 30 minutes from Cebu City
BY SERVICE: Pick-up from Cebu City or from Mactan-Cebu International Airport for groups can be arranged. Service costs ₱2,700 for 1 to 4 people one way and ₱4,000 for 4 to 8 people one way. Travel takes 2 to 3 hours.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Les Maisons D’Itac” in Cebu. Private parking is available for guests.
On Tuesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of July 20, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 448 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 248 new recoveries, and 4 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 60,921, while the active cases increased to 3,996 (from 3,801).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 27,602 (+181 new) – Total recoveries: 25,129 (+81 new) – Total deaths: 892 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,581
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 7,624 (+46 new) – Total recoveries: 6,828 (+33 new) – Total deaths: 177 (+1 new) – Active cases: 619
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 7,456 (+43 new) – Total recoveries: 6,730 (+12 new) – Total deaths: 237 (+1 new) – Active cases: 489
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 18,239 (+178 new) – Total recoveries: 16,138 (+122 new) – Total deaths: 794 (+2 new) – Active cases: 1,307
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 3,996 (from 3,801)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 60,921 (+448 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 54,825 (+248 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 2,100 (+4 new*)
A total of 4,107 laboratory results were released for 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.
Since its opening in 2018, Cebu Safari & Adventure Park has made its name as one of the must-go-to destinations in Cebu. Not only is it famous in Cebu, the park also frequently accommodates visitors from all over the country.
There’s no wondering how they’ve kept their reputation with their values of Stewardship for animal care, Engagement for people’s enjoyment, and Conservation for animals and the environment. Their onsite service is also unquestionably warm and welcoming.
Photo by Gigi Olavo
So, while Cebu Safari has definitely established their service and presence in Cebu, those of us who have already been there might be left thinking, “Is there more?” The answer is a resounding “Yes!”
Aside from the thrilling adventure rides and the steadily growing attractions, here’s a list of:
WHAT’S NEW IN THE WILD?
Safari Camp
First up is Cebu Safari Camp’s Summer Weekday Adventures. The package includes a guided river trek and a cave exploration. Guests will also have access to the Safari Camp amenities such as the Bonfire pits, Infinity Pool, and their Outdoor Jacuzzi. These activities are just perfect for a bit of a break with a mix of adventure! Afterwards, guests will be accommodated in an overnight stay in first-class cabins, plus a complimentary breakfast at Serengeti Bar.
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Day Adventures
If you’re planning a daytrip, or you simply prefer to explore the natural attractions without staying overnight, you can choose between the Safari River Trek or the Lapos-Lapos Cave Exploration. You can either stroll down a scenic trail and bathe in beautiful waterfalls along the way, or discover the fascinating cave networks of Lapos-Lapos cave – it’s all up to you!
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Baby Giraffe
A little bit tamer than the adventure packages, but nonetheless great news! Lola, Cebu Safari’s crowd-favorite giraffe, is pregnant! Soon within 2021, or early in 2022, guests can expect a little baby giraffe. How cute is that?
Photo from Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Facebook Page
Meanwhile outside the wild, Rep. Duke Frasco filed House Bill 7848 seeking to officially declare the park as a tourist destination in the Philippines. If this bill is enacted into law, the development of support facilities and the access roads leading to the park will be one of the priorities of the Department of Tourism. This means that Cebu Safari, as well as Carmen, will get a significant boost to its accessibility and economic opportunities as infrastructure and other facilities roll in to strengthen tourism in the area.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Day use:
Open hours:
Thursdays to Sundays and holidays only: 8AM to 5PM
Packages:
Weekday Adventure with overnight stay:
2-Bedroom cabin: ₱15,600 per night, good for 8 persons
3-Bedroom cabin: ₱19,500 per night, good for 10 persons
All inclusions in the Summer Weekday Adventures
Safari River Trek: ₱1,350
Inclusions: All Safari attractions + African Savanna + Bird Show + White Lion Safari + River Trek
Lapos-Lapos Cave Exploration: ₱1,350
Inclusions: All Safari attractions + African Savanna + Bird Show + White Lion Safari + Cave Exploration
Other Information:
The Safari River Trek and the Lapos-Lapos Cave Exploration both have a minimum age requirement of 16 years old. Guests must NOT have underlying health problems to be admitted, and this policy is strictly enforced.
Exact location: Barangay Corte, Toril, Carmen, Northern Cebu, Philippines – 2 hours from Cebu City
BY COMMUTE: From Cebu North Bus Terminal, take any north-bound bus that passes through Carmen. Alight at Carmen Plaza and look for vans to the Safari. These vans are available from 8AM to 1PM, and cost ₱100 per person, one way.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Cebu Safari and Adventure Park” in Carmen, Cebu. Plenty of parking space is available.
On Monday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of July 19, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 257 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 113 new recoveries, and 7 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 60,473, while the active cases dropped to 3,801 (from 4,463).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 27,424 (+120 new) – Total recoveries: 25,049 (+76 new) – Total deaths: 891 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,484
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 7,578 (+38 new) – Total recoveries: 6,797 (+5 new) – Total deaths: 175 (+0 new) – Active cases: 606
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 7,413 (+31 new) – Total recoveries: 6,718 (+20 new) – Total deaths: 234 (+0 new) – Active cases: 461
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 18,058 (+68 new) – Total recoveries: 16,016 (+12 new) – Total deaths: 792 (+7 new) – Active cases: 1,250
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 3,801 (from 4,463)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 60,473 (+257 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 54,580 (+113 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 2,092 (+7 new*)
A total of 2,152 laboratory results were released for 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.
As the back-to-school season is coming, here is some good news for all the students.
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is now accepting applications for CHED Scholarship Programs (CSPs) for the school year 2021-2022.
Photo from Commission on Higher Education(CHED) Facebook Page
It is common knowledge that a lot of Philippine students are scholars may it be by the government or private sectors. And CHED have been doing this program for quite a long time and have helped students each year to increase their research efforts and achieve higher goals of educational life.
A scholarship that would provide assistance to students who are deserving but are financially incapable to meet the demands of school dues and expenses.
The application for eligible students is from 1st July 2020 to 15st August 2021. Here are the requirements and details according to CHED:
Qualifications
Filipino citizenship and attain 85% marks to get qualified for it.
The net income of guardian should not cross P400,000
Otherwise (1) he/she must provide medical certificate (if any illness); (2) the school certificate of two or more dependents.
Certifications or identity cards issued by their respective offices – for special applicants (disable persons, solo parents, or with more dependents)
Requirements
Verified birth certificate
Report card of last school education (freshmen are preferred)
Any single income or financial proof document
Responsibilities
Full scholars- Maintain educational performance percentage of 85%
Half scholars- Maintain educational performance percentage of 80%
Carry on regular courses or research loads as provided by Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
Complete the degree within the mentioned time frame
Scholar must have written proof of respective CHEDRO in case of any transfer to the other HEIs
Monetary Support
Private Universities
Full scholars- P60,000/ year (P40,000 stipend and P20,000 tuition)
Half scholars- P30,000/ year (P20,000 stipend and P10,000 tuition)
Government Universities
Full scholars- P40,000/ year
Half scholars- P20,000/ year
For the CHED Scholarship 2021 complete guide, your eligibility, other requirements and application procedure, you can visit their official website.
A dish associated to Christmas, bibingka is definitely a food that you can have all-year-round.
Bibingka, as known to many, is a soft, sweet rice cake with salted egg on top or cheese, slathered with butter, and sprinkled with coconut and a bit of sugar.
Since we are already half-way through the year, SugboPH did a poll on Facebook, asking netizens where their best bibingka experience was and we’ve got various answers from them.
From Owak in Asturias to Mandaue, they have made a buzz in the comments section. Cafe Laguna’s also made it there. I’m not sure, but have you tried Catmon’s, too? Because my friends have shared that Dalaguete’s is their favorite.
Photo by Lmar Solamo
Photo by Regine Cañete Villamejor
Photo by Lmar Solamo
Photo by Lmar Solamo
Photo by Lmar Solamo
Nevertheless, this only goes to prove that wherever you may be in Cebu, whether you be in the North or the South, you’ll get to taste your own best version of bibingka. At the end of the day, we all have different taste and preference. What might work for you might not work for others. What is important is we learn to share our thoughts so others can also try.
