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 April 19, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 90 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 365 new recoveries, and 4 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 49,248, while the active cases dropped to 3,272 (from 3,551).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 22,796 (+40 new) – Total recoveries: 21,078 (+131 new) – Total deaths: 826 (+0 new) – Active cases: 892
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 6,033 (+9 new) – Total recoveries: 5,055 (+18 new) – Total deaths: 154 (+0 new) – Active cases: 824
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 6,148 (+18 new) – Total recoveries: 5,388 (+42 new) – Total deaths: 206 (+1 new) – Active cases: 554
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 14,271 (+23 new) – Total recoveries: 12,662 (+174 new) – Total deaths: 607 (+3 new) – Active cases: 1,002
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 3,272
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 49,248 (+90 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 44,183 (+365 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,793 (+4 new*)
A total of 1,347 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.
Unbeknown to many travelers and visitors to the Queen City of the South, the rich history of Cebu City is actually displayed in a certain district and in plain sight.
Standing gloriously in the busy streets of Parian, this amalgamation of Cebu’s most significant and symbolic events, structure, and people retell the story of the Queen City through a tableau of concrete, brass, bronze, and steel statues.
Photo by Oliver Co
It is the proud work of Cebuano artist Eduardo Castrillo and was finished in just 3 years, from July 1997 until its inauguration in December 2000, with the help of the late Senator Marcelo Fernan and pooled donations from private individuals and organizations.
The monument artistically displays key historical figures, events and structures that involve Cebu. Erected at the center of the monument is the famous Magellan’s Cross which marked the acceptance of Roman Catholicism in the country. Other scenes and events depicted in Heritage Monument are the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan and the Spanish colonizers, baptism of Rajah Jumabon, the Battle of Mactan between Lapu-Lapu and Magellan, and a procession of the Sto. Niño.
Photo by Alvem Cominong
Heritage of Cebu Monument (Photo by dhead)
Famous religious structures in Cebu such as the Basilica del Santo Niño, Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, and St. John the Baptist Church present as well. Finally, historical Cebuano figures such as the late president Sergio Osmeña, Sr. and the recently beatified Pedro Calungsod have also been immortalized.
The Cebu Heritage Monument is also located in the historically significant Parian District – home to prominent families of the old Cebu and the center of trade between locals, Chinese, and Spanish Mestizos. It also served as the venue for lavish events organized by wealthy Chinese merchants. “Parian” was derived from the term “pari-pari” meaning “to barter or trade” which made the perfect name for the district. The rich history of the plaza can be seen from the 17th to 19th Century homes that are still standing up to this day.
Photo by Bonjour
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ENTRANCE FEES
There are no entrance fees to the monument but donations for its upkeep are greatly appreciated.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Colon Street, Parian Plaza, Cebu City
BY JEEPNEY: From Colon Street in Downtown, Cebu City, take a jeep bound for SM and Pier. The jeep will pass by the monument. You may remind the driver to drop you off at the Cebu Heritage Monument.
BY TAXI/GRAB: Taxi cabs are quite familiar with the place. You may ride any taxi or book with an app.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to Cebu Heritage Monument. Ask locals for directions if you need help.
The diving industry in the Philippines, especially in the Central Visayas Region, is one of our economic drivers in terms of tourism. In fact, most of the dive spots found in our region were cited among the top picks by both domestic and foreign travelers.
With great pride, the Philippines has been awarded as the Best Overseas Diving Area in the Marine Diving Awards 2020 for the first time. The Philippines has also bagged the award as Asia’s leading Dive Destination 2020 in the 27th World Travel Awards.
In line with the Government’s efforts to further promote the Philippines, specifically the Central Visayas Region as a Dive destination, the Department of Tourism Regional Office VII, is preparing for its first 1st Dive7 Summer Festivals on April – June 2021
Dive7 Summer Festivals is a series of dive events to be held among the top dive destinations in the region — Moalboal, Panglao, Malapascua, Dauin and Mactan. The activity will also include a clean-up activity in SIQUIJOR. Its goal is to boost the region’s dive industry through a series of events geared to entice local/domestic scuba and free divers
These events will be a collaboration between the DOT Regional Office VII, the Local Government Units (LGU’s) of identified dive destinations and the respective Provinces and dive stakeholders. Proposed dates for these events will be between April to June 2021 (3-day event with series of activities), the peak season for diving in the region.
The event will have multiple activities starting with a photo contest targeting for a wider number of divers. This is designed to attract underwater photo enthusiasts and their buddies to dive and shoot, and also to include buoyancy competition in the dive destination. A 2nd part of the event is focused on attracting new divers and growing the local and domestic dive market. The event will offer discover scuba diver course for adults and bubble makers for kids. The 3rd part is to promote sustainable tourism by conducting an underwater clean up and create awareness especially in the community on how to take care and preserve our marine resources. Divers and beach go-ers will collect trash to properly dispose it. Ultimately, given the rich marine biodiversity and the need to conserve these resources, these events aim to fully focus to Central Visayas Region as a Dive Destination both locally, domestically and internationally.
Photo by triptophilippines.com
Lastly, there will also be a one-stop-shop by the DOT7, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), MARINA7 and EMB7 to assist our tourism stakeholders for concerns regarding application of permits or accreditations.
With this, we gladly welcome all interested participants who wish to be part of this momentous event. See you and please do to forget to register.
Immerse yourself in nature with the modern bahay kubo of Areca Palm Hut.
Areca Palm Hut is a modern vacation house that takes inspiration from the bahay kubo. It offers to guests a rustic getaway in the relaxing shade of its modern hut and the natural views that surround it.
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo by Tara Daniella Avila
Guests will be able to easily disconnect from the stresses of life and the city and reconnect with nature.
It is a secluded vacation home in the highlands of Catmon that offers a refreshing escape from the dust and noise of the metro. It flaunts the beauty of Catmon’s highlands and allows guests to experience a genuine tropical getaway in its secluded property that’s surrounded by the vibrant green of nature.
Photo from Areca Palm Hut Facebook Page
Photo from Areca Palm Hut Facebook Page
Photo from Areca Palm Hut Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo from John Merin Film Facebook Page
The verdant backgrounds created by the combination of palm trees and ornamental plants are perfect for calming both the mind and the body. Nestled 3 kilometers from the highway, Areca Palm Hut offers a getaway that will surely take you to a peaceful paradise that you can have all to yourself.
Found on the lawn is a swimming pool that has a panoramic view of the entire property. Guests will enjoy having morning dips. A floating breakfast table is available for those who want to enjoy their first meal of the day in the pool. Just beside the pool and under the shade of a mango tree is a table with benches for a lovely meal in the tropics.
Photo from John Merin Film Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo by Tara Daniella Avila
Photo by Tara Daniella Avila
Photo by Tara Daniella Avila
Photo by Tara Daniella Avila
Inside the Hut
Inside the charming hut is a lovely home-away-from-home. Contrary to its native bahay kubo exterior, the interior is actually adorned with modern designs and decorations that make the guests feel relaxed and at home. An ample space that is efficiently used and occupied by varnished wooden floors and white walls. The sala connects to the kitchen which is fully equipped with every cooking utensil that guests need. Under the stairs to the second floor is the kitchen sink with a refrigerator and cabinets to store cooking and dining utensils.
The second floor is a lovely attic converted into a bedroom with a giant big window at the front which lets in the scenic views of Areca Palm Hut. The room comes complete with a mattress on a kawayan bed and a rotating ceiling fan.
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo from Areca Palm Hut Facebook Page
Photo from Areca Palm Hut Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Photo from Areca Palm Hut Facebook Page
Photo from BeardSama Facebook Page
Guests who are looking for a genuine nature getaway will find themselves at home in Areca Palm Hut in Catmon.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
Exclusive overnight use: P5,000 per night, good for 4 persons w/ breakfast
Exclusive for couples: P3,500 per night, good for 2 persons w/ breakfast
Additional Person (0-3 y.o.): Free
Additional Person (4-11 y.o.): P250 per person
Additional Person (12 y.o. and up): P500 per person w/ extra mattress
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Areca Palm Hut” in Catmon. There is a parking lot that can accommodate up to 2 cars. Be sure to contact the owner before going to the place.
On Sunday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of April 18, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 104 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 98 new recoveries, and 3 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 49,158, while the active cases increased to 3,551 (from 3,545).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 22,756 (+39 new) – Total recoveries: 20,947 (+3 new) – Total deaths: 825 (+0 new) – Active cases: 984
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 6,024 (+18 new) – Total recoveries: 5,038 (+46 new) – Total deaths: 153 (+2 new) – Active cases: 833
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 6,130 (+8 new) – Total recoveries: 5,346 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 205 (+0 new) – Active cases: 579
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 14,248 (+39 new) – Total recoveries: 12,489 (+49 new) – Total deaths: 604 (+1 new) – Active cases: 1,155
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 3,551
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 49,158 (+104 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 43,820 (+98 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,787 (+3 new*)
A total of 1,846 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.
2020 has been a treat to a Filipino Netflix subscriber because of the new stuff being released. Just recently, back in October 29, they released the first animated Netflix exclusive film titled “Hayop Ka!” or “The Nimfa Dimaano Story”, and also recently, they showed us a peek at the graphic novel adaptation of “Trese”, which was announced to be adapted back in 2018. It is said to be released by 2021, although nothing is certain yet as the pandemic is still going on.
Going by the description of the NME, “Trese is an award-winning komik series that follows detective Alexandra Trese, who takes on a criminal underworld in a fictional Manila where mythical creatures live in hiding amid humans.” These mythical creatures are the well-known evil Aswangs. The comic was created by writer Budjette Tan and artist Kajo Baldisimo back in December 2005 and is still ongoing today.
This adaptation is a monumental occasion as this Filipino comic story is about to reach a global audience thanks to Netflix, giving us the chance to show the world what kind of storytelling we have. We can only hope that Netflix does the comic justice in their animation.
If you are unsure on whether you will be watching this show, you must ask yourself some questions. If you like grim, mystery, or action anime such as Ghost in the Shell or Death Note, this might be a good show to watch. If you like to watch stories with a strong female protagonist, then Alexandra Trese will surely captivate your heart.
Photo from Trese Facebook Page
You can also try reading the original black and white comic story as to understand the source of the anime, or you can also walk in to the film’s lore blindly to be amazed and astonished.
Either way, we can only cheer on the team working on Netflix’s Trese to do a great job to keep the creative integrity of the original while having fluid animation.
Finding a good place to stay in Oslob can be a challenge especially that the famous whale shark watching in this town has always been swarmed by many tourists, local or foreign.
Worry not, for Brumini Resorts in Brgy. Tan-awan, Oslob proudly welcomes everyone with a relaxing treat of their amenities and an easy access to the whale shark watching briefing area. It takes a 2-minute shuttle ride for one to reach the briefing spot from the resort. Not just the whale shark watching, other must-see destinations in Oslob are also very accessible from here.
Photo by Abby Gale
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
The resort attracts a lot of travelers every year. It offers many facilities to enrich your stay in Oslob including air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms, hot and cold shower, cabled TV, private verandas and free use of pools. There is also free WiFi access in selected rooms.
Even if the place is near the must-visit spots in town, guests can still enjoy the serenity of the resort. The pebbled walkways and the tall palm trees complement well to the total ambience of the place, creating a calming tropical mood.
Photo by Jym Elixir Timagos
Photo by Gil Timoty
Photo by Brumini Resorts
Photo by Brumini Resorts
Photo by Alry Vediosas
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo by Gil Timoty
Brumini Resort also features a restaurant where luscious dishes are served. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool for those who want a cold dip. Their bar and garden are available for their guests who wish to chill and relax. A continental breakfast is available daily at Brumini Resorts.
If you want a hassle-free whale shark watching, they can arrange one for you. You can also rent a boat going to Sumilon Island – another nearby attraction that boasts pure white sandbars and crystal-clear waters. Other must-visit spots in town include the Tumalog Falls, Oslob Cuartel, and Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion Church.
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo by Brumini Resorts
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo from Brumini Resorts Cebu Facebook Page
Photo by Brumini Resorts
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES:
Standard Room: P2,300 (good for 2 persons)
AC Room, with Cabled TV, Bathroom, Private Veranda, Free breakfast and use of pool
Extra Person Rate: P350/person
Junior Deluxe Room: P2,800 (good for 2 persons)
AC Room, with Cabled TV, Bathroom, Private Veranda, Hot and Cold Shower, Free breakfast and use of pool
Extra Person Rate: P450/person
Deluxe Room
P3,000 good for 2 persons: 2 single sized bed
P3,000 good for 2 persons: 1 queen sized bed
P3,500 good for 3 persons: 1 queen sized bed and 1 single sized bed
P3,800 good for 4 persons: 1 queen sized bed and 1 double deck
Extra person rate – P450/person
Function Hall: P3,000 (first 2 hours); P1,000/hr (succeeding hours)
Exact location: Brgy. Tan-awan, Oslob, Southern Cebu — approx. 4 hours away from the city.
BY BUS: From the South Bus Terminal (near Emall), ride a Ceres bus going to “Bato-Oslob”. Bus fare is ~₱155 /head (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Brumini Beds – few meters away from the main Whale Shark activity site in Oslob.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Brumini Resorts” in Oslob. Parking space is available.
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 April 17, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 148 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 453 new recoveries, and 3 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 49,054, while the active cases dropped to 3,545 (from 3,850).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 22,717 (+54 new) – Total recoveries: 20,945 (+299 new) – Total deaths: 825 (+0 new) – Active cases: 947
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 6,006 (+10 new) – Total recoveries: 4,994 (+1 new) – Total deaths: 151 (+0 new) – Active cases: 861
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 6,122 (+25 new) – Total recoveries: 5,346 (+73 new) – Total deaths: 205 (+0 new) – Active cases: 571
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 14,209 (+59 new) – Total recoveries: 12,440 (+80 new) – Total deaths: 603 (+3 new) – Active cases: 1,166
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 3,545
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 49,054 (+148 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 43,725 (+453 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,784 (+3 new*)
A total of 2,251 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.
Everyone’s not getting any younger – that’s a fact. Hence, we should never deprive ourselves of things that will make us happy and contented every day.
Matahom Paradise Villas in Brgy. Kawit in Medellin, Cebu the newest destination for the beach lovers who want an exclusive stay with family and friends. Guests who have been to the place said they felt like they were in Bali without needing to travel far and break banks.
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo by Nova Souley Auxtero
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Matahom is a Cebuano term for ‘beautiful’. True to its name, this place doesn’t fall short of the finest and grand things you can experience for a beach staycation. Everyone can pamper all day by dipping into their cold swimming pool. While soaking in the pool, you will be treated with a wide expanse of a panoramic sea view and the horizon.
The whole villa is picture-perfect. You will never run out of spots where you can pose for a camera shot. Bali is known for IG-worthy pictures and this place, inspired by the said famous international tourist attraction, can also give you shots with stunning backgrounds.
Photo by Nova Souley Auxtero
Photo by Nova Souley Auxtero
Photo by Nova Souley Auxtero
Photo by Nova Souley Auxtero
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
And yes, Matahom Paradise Villas is also adorned with white sand beachfront where you and your group can hold exciting beach activities. Medellin is a town in the northern parts of Cebu that is also known for white sand beaches and clear waters and in this villa, you will get the taste of how it feels to be in Medellin. The palm trees that surround the place will elevate the tropical experience.
RELAXING ACCOMMODATION
Once you book the place, you can be certain that the entire space is all yours, giving you a private spot for an intimate get-together with your friends or your family. Their front villa will let you wake up to the scenic view of their infinity pool and the beach. They also have standard rooms complete with free breakfast.
Got the energy for glamping? Use it here at Matahom Paradise Villas. They have glamping tents to suit those who wish to experience this trending style of camping. Just a reminder though that their glamping tents and regular room accommodations only become available for rental once you book their exclusive use packages. Day use is not available.
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo by Nova Souley Auxtero
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Don’t worry too about your gastronomic cravings since this place serves delicious meals. Thanks to Matahom Paradise Villas, you get to feel the ambiance of a paradise and the taste of delectable dishes.
WATER SPORTS ACTIVITIES
To complete the fun, Matahom Paradise Villas offers water sports activities that will dare the daredevil in you. Engaging into adrenaline-pumping rides or even just a simple sailing through the waves of the vast sea can be a form of releasing tension too.
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
Photo from Matahom Paradise Villas Facebook Page
The resort has variety of options, to wit: kayak, jet ski, flyfish, diablo and speedboat. These are must-try’s and you should never let your day here pass by without trying these exciting and refreshing thrills while beating the heat of summer.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES:
Chada Package: P12,000
good for 7 persons (front villa + 2 rooms)
free breakfastand use of resort amenities
free use of 1 kayak for 30 minutes
Maganda Package: P8,500
good for 2-3 persons (front villa only)
free breakfastand use of resort amenities
Regular Room: P1,800
good for 2 persons
with breakfast
is only available for rent if you will book either their ‘Chada’ or ‘Maganda’ Package
BY BUS: From Cebu North Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Kawit, Medellin. Instruct the driver that you’re dropping off at Villa Edar Beach Resort. Matahom Paradise Villas is before Villa Edar and a tarpaulin can be seen along the road.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Villa Edar Beach Resort” in Kawit, Medellin. Parking space is available.
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 April 16, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 221 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 59 new recoveries, and 3 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 48,904, while the active cases increased to 3,850 (from 3,692).
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 22,662 (+82 new) – Total recoveries: 20,646 (+1 new) – Total deaths: 825 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,191
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 5,996 (+36 new) – Total recoveries: 4,993 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 151 (+1 new) – Active cases: 852
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 6,097 (+29 new) – Total recoveries: 5,273 (+47 new) – Total deaths: 205 (+0 new) – Active cases: 619
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 14,149 (+74 new) – Total recoveries: 12,361 (+11 new) – Total deaths: 600 (+2 new) – Active cases: 1,188
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 3,850
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 48,904 (+221 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 43,273 (+59 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,781 (+3 new*)
A total of 3,542 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.
