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LRS Moalboal Cebu: A Must-Experience Accommodation in the South

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Moalboal is a lovely place to explore but at the end of the day we still look for the best place that could still call our temporary home.

LRS Moalboal Cebu offers a comfortable space that tourists and visitors would be able to consider as a home in paradise. It is a property in Basdiot, Moalboal that is secluded from the outside world and is surrounded by numerous palm trees that help give it that tropical vibe. It has ample space for small groups and also enough privacy for couples to be able to share intimate moments together.

Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page

LRS Moalboal Cebu provides both the space for vacation as well as a space for comfort to make guests get the best out of their sojourn. The tropical vibes surrounding the resort will make sure that even if guests decide to stay in the property, they would still be able to experience the relaxing atmosphere of Moalboal.

They have a well-maintained pool enclosed by small, lovely gardens on both sides and a built-in water fountain at its center. It has a view of the lanky palm trees growing outside the property – a sure sign of the tropics. For a better and an unobstructed view of the surroundings, guests can climb to the balcony which is also the best place where they can experience the refreshing sea breeze of Moalboal.

Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page

LRS Moalboal Cebu is at the center of many attractions in Moalboal, making it the best place to access the best place in Moalboal while also giving the guests a place to easily retreat to after exploring the municipality’s different wonders. The rooms are fully equipped with everything that guests will need for a comfortable stay such as a refrigerator, tables and chairs, a bed, and other necessities. If they get hungry then guests can just choose from the array of choices that the staff, who are available anytime, could whip up for them in just less than an hour.

Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page
Photo from LRS Moalboal Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

MENU:

ROOM RATES:

  • LRS Apartment w/ Pool: P1,750 per night, good for 2 persons

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Basdiot, Talisay Rd., Moalboal, Southern Cebu — approx. 3 hours away from the city.

BY BUS: From South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Moalboal via Barili or Badian. Then ask to be dropped off at Gaisano Grand Mall Moalboal or Moalboal town proper. Another option would be by van, which is also available at One Citilink Terminal. Travel time is 3 hours depending on traffic conditions. Upon reaching the town of Moalboal, you can hire a tricycle to take you to LRS Moalboal Cebu.

BY PRIVATE VEHICLE: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “LRS Moalboal Cebu” in Basdiot. Parking space is available upon arrival.

Cebu logs 428 new cases on March 16

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 March 16, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 428 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 379 new recoveries, and 14 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 41,826, while the active cases increased to 6,341 (from 6,298).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 20,008 (+206 new)
– Total recoveries: 16,559 (+103 new)
– Total deaths: 773 (+2 new)
– Active cases: 2,676

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,999 (+56 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,848 (+153 new)
– Total deaths: 130 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 1,021

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 5,048 (+56 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,634 (+7 new)
– Total deaths: 192 (+2 new)
– Active cases: 1,222

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 11,771 (+110 new)
– Total recoveries: 9,836 (+116 new)
– Total deaths: 513 (+10 new)
– Active cases: 1,422

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,341
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 41,826 (+428 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 33,877 (+379 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,608 (+14 new*)

A total of 4,102 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.

DOH-7 Full Report (Central Visayas):

Sileo Mountain House: A Perfect Private Escape to Balamban

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We will never run out of options for good places and exciting experiences while in the long stretch of Cebu’s very own transcentral highway.

For everyone who wants solitude and seclusion from the busyness of life, Sileo Mountain House in Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu is worth a try. It is along the highway that has become very famous recently for the magnificent view that it provides to everyone traversing the route.

Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page

“Sileo” is a Latin word which means “to be still.” Living up to its name, this retreat house is truly an escape from the chaos and a spot for tranquility and stillness. This is a 5-bedroom home with a fully equipped kitchen, entertainment room and a swimming pool.

The bedrooms are spacious and are designed to give you first-class comfort, boasting floor to ceiling windows and vast balconies with majestic views of the mountains of Cebu on one side and the Pacific Ocean and Negros island on the other.

Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page

The entertainment and game room is furnished with interactive equipment such as the home theater, surround sound system, and a billiard table to name a few. A dip in their cold swimming pool is something you should not miss because it is so revitalizing you surely won’t want to get out of the waters.

And the best deal: you can have these amenities all for yourself and for your group once you book a reservation.

One thing that this place is proud of is on how it offers its guests with a calm and soothing atmosphere– an isolation from work, pollution, and noise. There are claims that solitude can be beneficial for us since research shows that it helps reduce the intensity of daily life. According to an article, people who spend time on their own and free of distractions have greater control over their emotions.

Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page

These good things about being away from the flock are made ‘lit’ with the breathtaking, unobstructed view of the rolling verdant hills and the feel of the cold and fresh air kissing your face. The place is right at the heart of these hills, making your stay a communion with nature. It’s exactly the right place if we want to revisit ourselves, tap into our strengths, confront our weaknesses, and reevaluate our habits.

Sileo Mountain House is committed to give a safe home away from home during these uncertain and trying times by making sure that the property is cleaned and sanitized thoroughly in between guests. A very important reminder too: make sure to purchase all your food supplies in Cebu City before you travel up to Sileo as it is remote with no shops nearby other than cafes.

Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page
Photo by Ostrovok
Photo from Sileo Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

HOUSE RATE:

  • P20,000 per night (good for 10 persons)
  • Additional P800 per head if more than 10 (max of 15 persons)

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Trans Central Highway, Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters before Florentino’s Eco-Park, approx. 2 hours away from the city.

BY VHIRE: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Inform the driver to drop you off at Sileo. It is near Km. 33 Grill and Belen’s Inato Resto. Taking a taxi is also an option but it can be costly.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Sileo Bed and Breakfast” in Gaas, Balamban. Parking space is available.

Ka Treasure Water Terraces Falls: Explore Argao’s Newest Tourist Attraction

You must have heard about the Philippines’ famous rice terraces in Northern Luzon. If yes, then this new tourist attraction in the Southern part of Cebu will surely pique your interest.

Every nature lover who is looking forward to visit Cebu in the new normal should include Argao’s water terraces. This will not only take your breath away because of its magnificent beauty, but will also give you the enjoyment you deserve after being in lockdown.

Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez

Ka Treasure Water Terraces Falls, in Catang, Argao, is Argao’s newest tourist attraction. It is a series of waterfalls, just like the rice terraces, just that this is water. Ka Treasure is surely a testament of how beautiful things can be when man works with nature.

Though the construction is still expected to be completed by mid-April of 2021, you can still have fun under the sun here. Restrooms and cottages will soon be provided after the construction. We bet you can’t wait hence, visit now!

Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photos from Septimius SeverusBrylle Remonde Ybañez
Photo by Kimberly Villacorte
Photo by Kimberly Villacorte
Photo by Kimberly Villacorte

RATES AND OTHER INFORMATION

Entrance Fee

  • Adults: P100 per head
  • Kids: P50 per head

Note: Bring your own food since no restaurant or store could provide for your needs.

Other Information

  • Operating hours: 8AM to 5PM daily
  • Contact numbers: (032) 346-9372 / 0968-553-9542 / 0936-923-6145
  • Argao LGU Tourism: 0908-359-4026

HOW TO GET THERE

Exact Location: Brgy. Catang, Argao, Southern Cebu — approximately 10-15 minutes from Argao proper (expect a 10-15 min trekking from their parking area)

BY BUS: From Cebu City just ride a bus to Argao then tell the driver to drop you at th Bus stop in Argao. Then after ride a motor heading to Argao Public Market. Then hail a motorcycle heading to Catang. Fare is approximately is 30.00 pesos to 50.00 pesos.

Cebu logs 181 new cases on March 15

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 March 15, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 181 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 270 new recoveries, and 5 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 41,400, while the active cases decreased to 6,298 (from 6,391).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 19,803 (+63 new)
– Total recoveries: 16,456 (+134 new)
– Total deaths: 771 (+3 new)
– Active cases: 2,576

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,944 (+19 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,701 (+17 new)
– Total deaths: 130 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 1,113

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,992 (+30 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,627 (+10 new)
– Total deaths: 190 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 1,175

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 11,661 (+69 new)
– Total recoveries: 9,724 (+109 new)
– Total deaths: 503 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 1,434

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,298
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 41,400 (+181 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 33,508 (+270 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,594 (+5 new*)

A total of 1,125 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.

DOH-7 Full Report (Central Visayas):

Ridge Camp: Unlimited Sugba by the Mountains in Camp 8

The relaxing mountainside views of Camp 8 in Toledo have been attracting many people to its scenic views and relaxing atmosphere. Multiple food establishments have started opening in the mountainside to take advantage of the wonderful location and surely foodies will love the place even more with the opening of Ridge Camp.

Ridge Camp is another foodie destination nestled at the scenic mountainside of Camp 8. What was once a slope filled dirt, trees, and insects is now home to a few food establishments serving various mouth-watering dishes to those who pass by the placid town.

Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo by Jennica Rose Tjones Escorial
Photo by Jennica Rose Tjones Escorial
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page

Just like its neighboring restaurants, Ridge Camp has a simple and rustic design composed of wood and bamboo fences nailed together to create a charming restaurant that blends well with the natural atmosphere. What sets it apart from its neighbors is its heavyweight meals that would satisfy the cravings of every meat lover with their well-seasoned platters and fresh ingredients.

These meaty plates don’t just come in a plate or two but as many plates as the customer can digest. The seasoned and marinated meat are served uncooked and customers would choose which they want to cook. These are then brought back into the tables where customers cook them on the portable stoves in the table ala Samgyupsal. There’s no better way to experience Samgyupsal than in the relaxing atmosphere of Camp 8’s mountain road.

Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page

Those who pass by will surely be drawn to the smell of meat sizzling in a pan. Make your stomach happy and treat it to the unlimited sugba in Ridge Camp.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Menu:

Photo from Ridge Camp Facebook Page
  • Add-on Shrimp: P80 per 100 grams
  • 50% off for 4-6 y.o., 3 y.o. Below are FREE

Other Information:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Camp 8, Toledo City, Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from Cebu City.

BY PRIVATE VEHICLE: Drive going to the Man-Made Forest in Camp 7. Ask for directions from the locals around the area and ask the location of Ridge Camp. Just drive straight along the road passing the Man-Made Forest and you will encounter a group of makeshift eateries by the side of the road.

Pyramid Ocean View: Unique, Affordable Stay in Punta Engaño

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Getaways – whether it’s with friends, family, or just on your own – are a vital part of taking care of ourselves and ensuring that we take care of our mental health. Pyramid Ocean View offers an affordable way to enjoy vacations without ever having to sacrifice too much just to take a break.

Pyramid Ocean View is a new destination in Punta Engaño with a novel way of enjoying the seaside views in Lapu-Lapu City. The thing that makes them most unique are their Pyramid Cabins. The name of this resort is inspired from these small, affordable cabins that are facing the sea while providing just the right amount of space where the family can rest.

Photo by Jessie James Agan
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page

These pyramid cabins are made of wood and are makeshift tents but are much more comfortable and secure than actual tents. With the pyramid cabins, guests will be able to relax while still experiencing the refreshing sea breeze of the ocean and the lulling sounds of the waves crashing on the shore.

Aside from the pyramid cabins, guests are also allowed to bring actual tents if they want an authentic seaside camping experience. There is ample space close to the sea where they can set up their tents and they can still have the same experience as those in the pyramid cabins. For those who prioritize their comfort, there are also air-conditioned rooms available in the resort.

Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page

Pyramid Ocean View is the perfect resort for big groups of families who want an affordable camping experience by the sea. They have an ocean view cottage which could fit the entire group as well as tables and chairs that are ready if they want to have a feast. Charcoal grills and stoves are free to use anytime they need it so guests wouldn’t have to worry about their food as long as they have the ingredients to cook. Filipino guests will surely love the unlimited karaoke that comes with the package deals.

Pyramid Ocean View is fully equipped with everything to make a get-together fun and memorable.

Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page
Photo from Pyramid Ocean View Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Exclusive Package Deal:

  • Day Use: P3,700, from 9AM to 5PM
  • Night Use: P3,700, from 6PM to 8AM
  • Overnight: P4,500, from 9AM to 8AM

Inclusions:

  • Good for 20 persons, P20 per additional person
  • 4 Mini Pyramid Cabin, good for 2-3 persons including children
  • 2 Comfort Rooms
  • Open Conference Room
  • Ocean View Cottage
  • Private Room
  • Unlimited Karaoke
  • 5 Tables
  • Free use of Charcoal Grill
  • Free use of Charcoal Stove

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Sitio Santa Lucia, Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu — approx. 25 minutes away from the Mactan-Cebu International Ariport.

BY CAR/PRIVATE VEHICLE: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Emerald Resort” in Punta Engaño, Lapu-lapu. This is the closest landmark to Pyramid Ocean View. Before the turn going to Pyramid Ocean View, there is Victory Chapel Christian Center which is immediately followed by the sign “Ronie’s Pyramid Beach”. Enter this road and drive straight to the beach.

Be sure to contact the owner of the resort beforehand before going to Lapu-lapu. If you are unsure where you are going, contact the owner again to help you find your way to the resort.

Cebu logs 256 new cases on March 14

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 March 14, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 256 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 113 new recoveries, and 0 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 41,219, while the active cases increased to 6,391 (from 6,248).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 19,740 (+91 new)
– Total recoveries: 16,322 (+2 new)
– Total deaths: 768 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 2,650

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,925 (+41 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,684 (+0 new)
– Total deaths: 129 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 1,112

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,962 (+50 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,617 (+61 new)
– Total deaths: 190 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 1,155

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 11,592 (+74 new)
– Total recoveries: 9,616 (+50 new)
– Total deaths: 502 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 1,474

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,391
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 41,219 (+256 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 33,239 (+113 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,589 (+0 new*)

A total of 1,766 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.

DOH-7 Full Report (Central Visayas):

CCLEX’s iconic crosses to be lit up to mark 500 Years of Christianity

Timed with the epic celebration of 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines, eight 40-meter-high crosses are rising 100 meters over the Mactan Channel and most of Cebu City in April this year.

The observance harks back to that memorable event when Christianity was first introduced to Cebu by the planting of a cross and the baptism of its people by Spaniards led by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan. It happened a few weeks after they arrived in the Philippines in March 1521.

The Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) through its subsidiary Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corporation (CCLEC), builder of the 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), has already began building eight structures in the shape of a cross, inspired by the 500-year-old Magellan’s Cross and symbolizes Cebu being the cradle of Christianity in the region.

THE CROSS AT NIGHT. The eight crosses on top of the CCLEX pylons will be illuminated by hundreds of LED strip lights.

The installation of eight crosses on top of the CCLEX pylons will be completed and illuminated by hundreds of LED strip lights before the historic commemoration.

CCLEX will be part of the quincentennial commemorative celebrations in April 2021, with its eight 40-meter high crosses on all four sides of each of the twin towers. These will be lit at night, dramatically proclaiming once again Christianity’s influence in the Asia’s first Christian nation.

In the evening of April 15, 2021, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma will lead the blessing of the CCLEX’s crosses as part of the Archdiocese of Cebu’s 500 Year of Christianity celebration. This comes a day after the reenactment of the first baptism mass at the Magellan’s Cross.

“The crosses above CCLEX is a symbol of celebration. The crosses, having no corpus or body, is ecumenical (universal, all-embracing),”

– Fr. Mhar Balili, secretary general of the Archdiocese of Cebu’s 500 Year of Christianity celebration

“With the cross-shaped structures lit up above the twin pylon of CCLEX, we are honored to become part of the commemorations of a historical chapter in the lives of our countrymen,”

– MPTC President Rodrigo E. Franco
40-METER HIGH. The crosses mark Cebu’s important role as cradle of Christianity.

CCLEC President and General Manager Allan G. Alfon said “Despite the constructional challenges because of the health and safety protocols being observed due to Covid-19, our team is doing their best to complete this most anticipated infrastructure project in Cebu and the rest of the Visayas region as soon as possible.”

“From the beginning, we have always known the socio-economic impact of CCLEX to the entire Visayan region,”

– MPTC Chairman Manuel “Manny” V. Pangilinan

The CCLEX, being built at a project cost of P30 billion, spans the Mactan Channel, linking mainland Cebu from Cebu City with the town across the famed channel, notably Cordova in Mactan island.

As of January 2021, the overall Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract of CCLEX is at 68.21 percent while construction progress alone is at 59.68 percent.

The project’s concrete pylons on the side of Cebu City and Cordova have been completed and reached their full structural height of 145 meters over Mactan Channel. With continuing dismantling of the self-climbing formworks, the crosses on top of the pylons are now visible.

CCLEX is being implemented by CCLEC under a joint venture agreement with the local governments of Cebu City and Municipality of Cordova.

BLESSING. Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma will lead the blessing of CCLEX’s crosses as part of the Archdiocese of Cebu’s 500 Years of Christianity celebration.

Set to be a new landmark in the country, CCLEX will have two lanes in each direction that will provide a safe, quick and scenic passage to an estimated 50,000 vehicles daily, easing the traffic in the existing Marcelo Fernan Bridge and the Mandaue-Mactan Bridge.

CCLEX has a design speed of 80 kilometers per hour (kph) and a navigational clearance or height of 51 meters to allow large vessels to pass underneath the bridge.

CCLEC is a subsidiary company of MPTC, the toll road arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), which is a publicly listed infrastructure holding company, and a member of the MVP Group of Companies.

MPTC is the largest toll road concessionaire and operator in the Philippines, whose expansion goals include establishing toll operations in the Visayas, other parts of the Philippines, and in neighboring countries notably Vietnam and Indonesia.

Also read:

2021 Guide: How to Get Your Passport in Cebu

The Philippine passport has seen big improvements and progress over the years. In fact, as of 2020, passport holders can visit 67 destinations visa-free.

According to the latest Henley & Partners Passport Index, this makes our country’s passport the 76th most powerful passport in the world out of 199 countries. The passport also serves as a valid identification in various ways that need a valid ID such as getting a driver’s license.

Photo by AnNa Garcia

However, many people still do not have a passport for themselves, perhaps because of ignorance of the procedure. Thus, here is a step-by-step guide on getting your very own passport.

1. Prepare Your Requirements

Before everything else, make sure you have the necessary requirements so that you will not have any trouble when applying for your passport. One of these requirements is your Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Authenticated Birth Certificate, both original and photocopied.

Photo by Janeth Jatico

You must also make sure to bring with you a valid ID, along with a photocopy of it, deemed acceptable by the DFA. Here is a list of acceptable IDs as of 2020.

  • Social Security System (SSS) Card
  • Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Card
  • Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) Card
  • Land Transportation Office (LTO) Driver’s License. Student Permit may be accepted if in card format.
  • Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) ID
  • Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) E-Card
  • Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Voter’s ID or Voter’s Certificate issued from COMELEC main office in Intramuros, Manila (Certificates issued in COMELEC’s regional offices may require further verification. Applicants are requested to present NBI or police clearance along with the Voter’s Certificate).
  • Philippine National Police (PNP) Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence
  • Senior Citizen ID
  • Airman License (issued August 2016 onwards)
  • Philippine Postal ID (issued November 2016 onwards)
  • Seafarer’s Record Book (SRB) (*must be issued Feb 2020 onwards) issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)
  • Valid or Latest Passport (For Renewal of Passport)
  • For minor applicants, School ID OR Certificate of Enrolment with photo of minor and dry seal of school may be presented

In cases where you cannot avail a birth certificate due to circumstances, you may view the list of supporting documents here [https://consular.dfa.gov.ph/passport/10-passport/61-passport-requirements-new-adult].

2. Secure an online appointment

The first step in acquiring your passport after you have secured your requirements is to secure an online appointment through the DFA’s website [https://www.passport.gov.ph/appointment]. Here, you can choose your preferred site location and time of appointment.

Follow through the instructions and fill in the necessary fields marked by a red asterisk to go through the process. You also need a working email address that you can access because you will provide an email address for the system to send automated messages regarding the process. The online appointment is a first-come, first-serve basis and you should be quick to secure a schedule especially if your area is populated, such as the case for Cebu.

You can choose between starting an individual appointment or a group appointment. An individual appointment is recommended if you are the only one applying for a passport. If you have friends or a group with you, start a group appointment.

3. Pay the passport fee

Photo by John Dy

During your online appointment, you are to choose a payment method for your passport fee. It will show you a list of available authorized payment centers or channels where you can pay it, along with the necessary total amount of the fee. Choose whichever is most convenient for you. You can also pay via a debit or credit card.

Most importantly, make sure to pay the passport fee within 48 hours of a successful online appointment. An email will be sent to your email address with a reference number. Present this number to your selected payment center and pay the fee.

The list of payment channels supported by the DFA include:

  • Bayad Center
  • EcPay
  • Pera Hub
  • Robinsons Business Center and Department Stores
  • Waltermart Department Store
  • 7-Eleven
  • USCC (Western Union)
  • Villarica Pawnshop
  • Credit/Debit card

After paying, keep the receipt. You will be sent another email message confirming your payment along with attached documents that you will need to print and present. Follow the instructions inside the email message.

4. Proceed to your selected site on your selected date and time

Photo by Garry James Agum

Proceed to your selected appointment location on your selected date and time. Ensure that you will arrive on time as being late will not get you to your appointment and you will not get accommodated. To be safe, make sure to arrive 30 minutes or so before your appointed time.

Make sure to wear appropriate attire as you will have your picture taken during the process. Remember to wear a face mask and face shield and observe social distancing. Minors need to be accompanied by an adult companion. Do not forget to bring with you the necessary documents that you have printed to present to the DFA. Do not forget to bring the requirements as well mentioned in Step 1.

5. Present your documents and get your picture taken

Photo by Collado Hplar

Once it is your time, a DFA representative will ask for the needed documents such as receipts, valid IDs, passport form, etc. Once they are confirmed and verified, you will proceed to get your picture along with your fingerprint taken.

Follow through the instructions of the DFA during the process and do not hesitate to ask questions if you are confused about the process or if you do not know where to go next.

6. Claim your passport

Photo by Abaquita Fuentes Rhealy

Once you are done with the process, the DFA will instruct you on how to get your passport. There are two ways to claim your passport.

  1. The DFA office will give you a claim stub or official receipt with a date on when to claim your passport. During said date, you can claim it at the Passport Releasing section. If you’re not available to personally claim your passport, you can ask a representative to do it on your behalf, provided that you execute a Special Power of Attorney in a new tab. containing the reason/s why you aren’t able to claim it yourself.
  2. Via courier service: wait for your passport to be delivered to your mailing address approximately 1 to 2 weeks after your application. In case you won’t be available to receive it personally, a representative must show the claim stub/Official receipt, an authorization letter with your signature, and valid IDs of both you and the said representative.

Rates & Other Information

Necessary Fees:

  • Passport Fee: The passport fee is P1200, but may increase or decrease depending on the DFA.
  • Courier Service (Optional): P150

Other Information: