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Review: Raya and the Last Dragon, Disney’s First Southeast Asia-Focused Film

For sure, streaming within the confines of our house is the closest we can get with going to the movies nowadays because of the ongoing pandemic.  Recently, Disney+ released Raya and the Last Dragon, of which garnered the expected enthusiasm for the Filipino audience.

Raya and the Last Dragon is Disney’s latest film is worth watching for as it is the first Disney film that focuses on South East Asian history.

Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page
Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page

Set in the fictional kingdom of Kumandra that is currently divided into five nations, Raya embarks on a quest of collecting magical gem pieces with the hopes of fulfilling her father’s last wish, to reunite the bickering nations altogether.

South East Asian Inspirations

Every detail in the movie is heavily South East Asian-inspired. First, the land of Kumandra which is divided into five nations with rivers in between, obviously draws inspiration from how countries in this region is divided.

Second, this Disney flick is unique from most Disney movies as it heavily featured action sequences. Coincidentally, those action sequences showcased the martial arts of muay thai of Thailand, arnis of the Philippines and Indonesia’s pencak silat.

Lastly, South East Asian values such as maintaining a close bond with family, paying respects to tradition and an emphasis to honor are highlighted throughout the movie.

Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page
Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page

Journey to Trust

Like most Disney films, there is always an underlying principle that serves as the main point of the story and for Raya and the Last Dragon, it was trust. The young and naïve Raya back then was betrayed, which shattered her. This act of betrayal also led her to believe that you can’t trust no one, no matter what.

Throughout the film, she slowly overcomes this as she gets along with an ensemble of side characters, who eventually aid her in her quest.

Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page
Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page
Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page

Philippine Nods

Speaking of Philippine nods, one prominent artifact that Raya wore all the time was the salakot, a Philippine headgear traditionally used by farmers to protect them from the rain or sun. Again, the Philippine martial art of arnis is practiced by Raya as shown in the opening sequence.

The rice terraces is also a prominent landscape throughout the movie. Although a widely used rice-planting method, it is a nod to the fact that most of these are iconic South East Asian countries, especially the Philippines.

Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page
Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page

More importantly, one of the tracks featured in the film is a song purely in Filipino titled “Gabay” (which means guide in English) by KZ Tandingan, who is hailed as Asia’s Soul Supreme.

Overall, Raya and the Last Dragon is a treat for those who love Disney films and at the same time are hailing from South East Asia. The representation the movie provided to the younger audience is very important, who at the same time are the generation who grew up with social media and are more in touch with recognizing their identities.

Photo from Raya and the Last Dragon Facebook Page

4 Beach Resorts in San Remigio, Cebu’s longest shoreline

Cebu is gifted with many white sand beaches that cover the majority of its shores such as those found in Alcoy, Mandaue, Malapascua, Bantayan, and many more but none of these span as long as the one nestled in the town of San Remigio.

For years, San Remigio has held the record of having the longest shoreline in all of Cebu. This long stretch of sand is occupied by various private and public beaches that offer different ways to experience the white sands of the town.

Ready your flip-flops as we walk you through some of San Remigio’s public white sand beaches.

1. Lapyahan sa San Remigio

Lapyahan” is a Cebuano word that means seashore or shoreline. Lapyahan sa San Remigio is a public beach that serves a dual-purpose of hosting some of the town’s jovial celebrations and at the same time serving as a splashing spot for locals and visitors during hot days. It also welcomes friends and families who want to spend their vacations having a picnic on their sandy shores.

Photo by Maistrang Laagan

Fees:

  • Entrance fee: FREE
  • Cottage fees: P200-P350 per day

Room rates:

There are many resorts and hotels that offer overnight accommodation around Lapyahan. Here are two which are located very close to the shoreline:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Poblacion, San Remigio, northern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from the city.

BY BUS: Head on to Cebu North Bus Terminal and hop on a bus for San Remigio. Fare is around P150-P200 pesos and travel time is around 2.5-3 hours. Tell the driver that you’re going to get off at the poblacion or town proper. Upon arrival, you can ride a habal-habal to Lapyahan (fare around P10-P20).

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Lapyahan sa San Remigio” in northern Cebu. Parking space is available.

2. Orongan Beach Resort

Orongan Beach Resort has trended on social media a few years ago for its tropical paradise experience that comes at an incredibly affordable entrance fee. Its huts and swings under canopies of coconut trees look so relaxing and inviting that it can surely convince anyone to take a break under their shades.

Orongan Beach Resort Anapog San Remigio (4)
Photo by Debby Maeh Son Sitee
oronganbeachresort-anapog-4
oronganbeachresort-anapog-3
oronganbeachresort-anapog-6

The beachfront is lined with pieces of small nipa cottages that are worthy of a snapshot especially with a clear view of the sea and sky. For those who want to stay overnight, they have the option of staying in their budget-friendly rooms or setting up camp at the sandy shores at night.

No matter how much guests spend in this resort, they will surely spend it with a relaxed mind, body, and budget.

Day Use Rates
  • Entrance fee: ₱150 per adult, ₱100 per child (5 to 12 y/o)
  • Cottage: ₱600 per day (up to 10pax)
  • Tent Rental: ₱1,000 per night
  • Own Tent: ₱100 per tent per night
  • Chairs: ₱20 each
  • Table with 10 Chairs: ₱350 per day
Other information
How to get there?

Exact location: Anapog, San Remigio, Cebu — 3-4 hours away from Cebu City.

BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus going to San Remigio. Tell the driver to drop you off at the school in Brgy. Tambongon. Bus fare is ₱155 (one-way). From there, ride a motorbike (habal-habal) going to the Orongan Beach Resort. Fare is ₱25 per person.

BY CAR: If you’re driving your own car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Orongan Beach Resort” or refer to the map below. Parking space is available.

3. Tomasa Beach Resort

Tomasa Beach Resort is one of those beaches that are perfect for Filipino get-togethers such as family vacations or barkada reunions. The beachfront is filled with medium to big cottages that can host a good number of people and packages that come with very affordable rooms to boot.

Photo by Mary Filden Arquiza Saladaga

They come complete with tables and bamboo benches and there are also grilling stations that are ready for some barbecuing. Groups may stay for only a day if they choose to but they would have to provide their own tables and chairs. The beach comes with showers and comfort rooms so kids can swim away and enjoy the beach.

Exact Location: Brgy. Poblacion, San Remigio, Northern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from Cebu City.

ROOM RATES

  • Air conditioned Room
    • 24-hr stay: P1,500, good for 5-6 persons
    • 12-hr stay: P750, good for 5-6 persons
  • 24-hr stay: P1,500, good for 2-3 persons
    • 12-hr stay: P750, good for 2-3 persons
  • Ordinary Room (w/ Ceiling Fan)
    • 24-hr stay: P100/head, up to 6 persons
    • 24-hr stay: P100/head, up to 8 persons
    • 24-hr stay: P400, up to 6 persons
    • Short Stay (3hrs): P300, up to 2 persons
  • Family Room w/ Cottage: P1,500.00, up to 6 persons

Other Information

  • Contact number: (032) 435-8201
  • Mobile No.: 0922-879-7888/ 0920-910-3904

4. Half Moon Beach Resort

Similar to other beach resorts in San Remigio, Half-moon Beach Resort highlights the long stretch of sand of the town accompanied by clear, blue skies and azure waters. It is also situated at a perfect spot to watch sunsets.

During low tides, the pure and white sand reveals more of its beauty and invites its guests to take a stroll in the morning. Aside from that, this resort has an affordable beach house that is exclusive and can host 3 to 8 people at a time. Their beachfront is also equipped with big and small cottages that can be used for a day or overnight. Whichever the case, Half-moon Beach Resort offers a relaxing experience with its tranquil atmosphere.

Exact Location: Mabini St., San Remigio, Northern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from Cebu City.

Photo from Halfmoon Beach – San Remigio Facbook Page
Photo from Halfmoon Beach – San Remigio Facbook Page
Photo from Halfmoon Beach – San Remigio Facbook Page
Photo by Carl Calderon

ROOM AND COTTAGE RATES

  • Couple: P1,200
  • Group (3-8 people): P2,000
  • Cottages: P350 – P1,200

CONTACT INFORMATION

Maayong Hostel: New, Affordable Tropical Getaway in Moalboal

Get your reggae on and have a tropical blast in Maayong Hostel in Moalboal.

 Maayong Hostel is an accommodation that welcomes every type of traveler and provides them with affordable means of comfort and retreat when exploring the different wonders of Moalboal. A hostel is a form of low-cost and short-term shared lodging where guests can rent a bed and use shared facilities such as a lounge or kitchen. It has the space that encourages strangers to mingle with one another and get to know their unique stories.

Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page

Maayong Hostel was designed to properly compliment the tropical landscape of Moalboal. A huge part of the hostel is made of native materials such as wood, bamboo, and nipa roofs. These elements are masterfully combined to deliver the best tropical experience to the guests through comfortable rooms and an extremely relaxing atmosphere to ease the mind and body.

They have uniquely designed bungalow which are basically arches of nipa hut roofs extended to create spacious rooms and covered in both ends with wooden walls. On the outside, these rooms look very tropical and very pleasing to the eyes with its creative look and unique design.

It has a porch where guests can stay while appreciating the views or they can sleep in during the afternoons in the hammocks. The inside has a spacious room where guests could relax with the nipa roofs making sure that the temperature inside stays cool and refreshing.

Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page

The shared rooms are just as equally eye-catching with their rustic bunk beds and other similar designs. Guests are still able to enjoy privacy during their sleep with a sliding curtain that can fully cover the beds. The comfort rooms have a unique aesthetic as well with pebbles on the floor and bamboo walls enclosing the space instead of concrete and tiles. It has open roofs which allow the guests to connect with the tropical atmosphere but still enough cover to provide privacy.

The shared lounge is also adorned with unique native designs that bring out the best of the tropical atmosphere. Native baskets hang under the roofs and contribute to the aesthetics of the lounge. Numerou beanbags, tables, and chairs fill the space in the lounge and create a very welcoming atmosphere that invites every person for every walk of life to just sit down and chill.

Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page

Maayong Hostel will surely bring a unique way to enjoy the tropic of Moalboal.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Menu:

ROOM RATES:

  • Shared Dormitory: P500 per person/night, can accommodate 12 persons max
  • Bungalows: ₱1,200 per night, good for 2 persons
  • Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM daily
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page
Photo from Hotels.com
Photo from Maayong Hostel Facebook Page

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Southern Cebu — 3-4 hours away from the city.

BY BUS: Find your way to Cebu South Bus Terminal . From the bus terminal, ride a bus bound for Bato-Barili. Travel time takes about 2.5 – 4 hours depending on the traffic in the city.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Panagsama Beach Resort” in Moalboal, Cebu. Parking space is available upon arrival

A taste of paradise at Lava Mountain River Farm in Cebu City

Only 45 minutes away from Cebu City, this resort seems so close and yet you will feel like you have been transported to a completely different place! It’s the perfect place for family gatherings, team buildings, or friends’ escapade.

Lava Mountain River Farm Cebu City (1)

The Lava Mountain River Farm is an eco-resort which offers peace, traquility, and most importantly exclusivity.

Situated beside the Mananga River in the mountains of Busay, the 4-hectare property is surrounded by trees and beautiful nature which brings an abundance of fresh air and soothing ambience. The infinity pool is fed by constant running water keeping it fresh and rejuvenating, a truly unique experience!

Lava Mountain River Farm Cebu City (3)
Lava Mountain River Farm Cebu City (7)
Lava Mountain River Farm Cebu City (2)

 

The Bali Hut

 

 

The Day Use House

 

Lava Mountain Farm Resort - Day Use House (1)
Lava Mountain Farm Resort – Day Use House (2)
Lava Mountain Farm Resort - Day Use House (4)

 

The Stone House

 

Lava Mountain Farm Resort – Stone House (1)

 

Himbabawud Falls

 

Feeling adventurous? The Himbabawud Falls is only a 1-hour river trek away from the Farm. Take the road less travelled as this waterfall is a hidden gem which only a few have explored.

Himbabawud Falls (3)

 

Rates & Other Information

 

Exclusive resort, bookings on reservation basis only. No walk-ins.

DAY USE EXPERIENCE

  • Rate: P500 per person per day, minimum of 5pax
  • Check-in: 9AM / Check-out 6PM (same day)

Inclusions:

  • Use of Day Use Villa, Day Use Lounge, pool, and grilling area.
  • No use of Swimming Pool unless there is no other overnight group reserved in the farm.
  • Additional P1,000 (per group) for swimming pool use.
  • Swimming by the river beside the farm is free and open to all guests.
  • Purified drinking water provided.
  • Free use of plates and utensils.
  • NO corkage fees.
  • Prior reservation is required.

Optional:

  • Snacks (Puto Sikwate or Pinaypay Saging): ₱50 /head (minimum 10 pax order; advance notice required)
  • Boodle Fight ₱280 /head or Buffet ₱350 /head (minimum 10 pax for both; advance notice required)
  • Wild Boar Lechon: ₱4,500
  • River trekking is P100/trekker
  • Kitchen Use: ₱1,000 if below 20 pax; ₱500 extra charge per 10pax increment

Mountain Hut (Overnight)

  • Rate: ₱11,000 per night, good for up to 12 pax only
  • Check In: 12NN, Check Out: 9:00AM
  • Additional ₱700/head above 12 pax, up to 20 pax
  • SATURDAY AND HOLIDAY: Minimum of 15 pax must book.

Riverside Hut (Overnight)

  • Rate: ₱7,500 per night, good for up to 8 pax only
  • Check In: 12NN, Check Out: 9:00AM
  • Additional ₱600/head above 8 pax, up to 10 pax

Mahogany Hut (Overnight)

  • Rate: ₱2,500 per night, good for up to 2 pax with breakfast
  • Check In: 12NN, Check Out: 11:00AM
  • Additional ₱700/head above 2 pax, up to 3 pax (also with breakfast)

OVERNIGHT STAY (Exclusive)

  • ₱24,500 per night, good for 25 persons
  • Additional ₱600/head above 25 pax. Up to 38 pax.
  • Check In: 2:00PM, Check Out: 11:00AM (the following day)
  • Strictly by reservations only.

Inclusions:

  • Use of pool, cottages and sleeping areas, and lounge in overnight area.
  • Purified drinking water and 2 bags of ice.
  • Free use of plates and utensils.
  • NO corkage fees.

Optional:

  • Breakfast: ₱100 /head
  • Boodle Fight ₱280 /head or Buffet ₱350 /head (minimum 10 pax for both)
  • Wild Boar Lechon: ₱4,000 to ₱4,500
    – All food orders require at least 2 days advance notice
  • Kitchen Use: ₱1,000 if below 20 pax; ₱500 extra charge per 10 pax increment
  • Exclusive booking (no Day Use group): at least 30 guests booking

CONTACT INFORMATION

How to get there?

Exact location: Biasong, Brgy. BonBon, Cebu City — going uphill, 3 km away from main road and will pass through not-so-concrete roads. 45 minutes to 1 hour away from the city.

There is no public vehicle that can take you directly to the resort. These are your options:

BY CAR: You may need a private vehicle to get to the place. Then navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Lava Mountain River Farm”. Ample parking space is available.

BY MOTORBIKE: You may also opt to ride a habal-habal from JY Square. It will cost around ₱150-200 per person; each motorbike can accommodate up to 2pax. Make sure to negotiate first before riding.

RENT A VAN: For a hassle-free trip, rent a van at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

Cebu logs 310 new cases on March 8

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 8, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 310 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 452 new recoveries, and 1 new death. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 38,902, while the active cases dropped to 6,580 (from 6,725).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 18,747 (+132 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,725 (+232 new)
– Total deaths: 759 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 3,263

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,592 (+25 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,469 (+17 new)
– Total deaths: 125 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 998

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,613 (+51 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,392 (+45 new)
– Total deaths: 187 (+10new)
– Active cases: 1,034

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 10,950 (+102 new)
– Total recoveries: 9,181 (+158 new)
– Total deaths: 484 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 1,285

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,580
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 38,902 (+310 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 30,767 (+452 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,555 (+1 new*)

A total of 1,762 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):

2021 Guide: Cebu South Bus Trips & Schedule

In case you missed it, Cebu Province has officially opened its borders for tourists from anywhere in the Philippines.

We’ve already created a guide for Cebu North Bus trips, but if you wish to travel to Cebu south by bus, here’s the latest guide on Ceres bus schedule for southern destinations.

Routes:

  • Cebu City to Bato via Oslob and vice versa
  • Cebu City to Bato via Barili and vice versa
  • Cebu City to Moalboal and vice versa
  • Cebu City to Argao and vice versa
  • Cebu City to Alcoy and vice versa

Trips / Schedule:

Cebu South Bus Terminal:

The Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) is located along N. Bacalso Avenue, Cebu City, near Elizabeth Mall (E-Mall).

Travel Requirements:

The Cebu Provincial Government eases the travel requirements, but they advise travelers to secure a prior appointment or booking to their desired resort or destination.

It’s also important to observe the minimum health requirements such as:

  • Must always wear face mask & face shield
  • Must always observe social distancing

There’s also no age limit in Cebu Province areas. Note, the Cebu Province only covers the towns and municipalities in Cebu outside Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City and Mandaue City.

CEBU TOURISM CONTACTS

In case you have specific questions or concerns when traveling, it’s best to contact directly the local government unit’s Tourism Department of your destination.

Below is the latest list of Tourism Contacts per LGU in Cebu:

LGUContact NumberEmail Address
Alcantara9085220632[email protected]
Alcoy9436899062[email protected] / [email protected]
Alegria9562335753[email protected]
Aloguinsan09199067172 / 09773213301[email protected]
Argao9083594026[email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]
Asturias0923-160-7074[email protected]
Badian0966-5569-065[email protected]
Balamban9989894363[email protected]
Bantayan9087672264[email protected]
Barili9323448645[email protected] / [email protected]
Bogo City0927-222-8063 / 9201354727[email protected]
Boljoon9422185110[email protected]
Borbon9455512304 / 09084344768[email protected]
Carcar City9270392761[email protected][email protected]
Carmen9982672067[email protected]
Catmon9154135763[email protected] / [email protected]
Cebu City+63 943 702 4607[email protected]
Cebu Province9178437984[email protected]
Compostela0949-658-8046[email protected]
Consolacion9176771852[email protected]
Cordova9491317457 / 09434401981[email protected]
Daanbantayan9167771157[email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]
Dalaguete9477076048[email protected]
Danao City9228055957[email protected]/[email protected][email protected] / [email protected]
Dumanjug9276587113[email protected]
Ginatilan0917-327-7555[email protected]
Lapu-lapu City9162174220[email protected]
Liloan9224323166[email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]
Madridejos9471460372[email protected]
Malabuyoc9055632886[email protected]
Mandaue City09322665767 / 09177701134[email protected]
Medellin9173076656[email protected]
Minglanilla9566026422[email protected]
Moalboal9276151287[email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected]
Naga City9176555533[email protected] / [email protected]
Oslob9222504860[email protected] / [email protected]
Pilar9489378965[email protected] / [email protected]
Pinamungajan0917-319-4414[email protected] / [email protected]
Poro0939-910-4598[email protected] / [email protected]
Ronda9054022960[email protected] / [email protected]
Samboan0925-506-1879 / 09173254808[email protected] / [email protected]
San Fernando9567144502[email protected]
San Francisco9334195684/ 9176347776 / 09123337726[email protected] / [email protected]
San Remigo0910-880-2172[email protected]
Santa Fe0928 616 5391[email protected] / [email protected]
Santander0926-678-6981/09293569943[email protected] / [email protected]
Sibonga9054332706[email protected]
Sogod09985597247/ 09179646429[email protected] / [email protected]
Tabogon09325200711 / 09993795808[email protected]
Tabuelan9482774680[email protected]
Talisay City9674024735[email protected]
Toledo City9569075008[email protected] / [email protected]
Tuburan9193194612[email protected]
Tudela9072327676[email protected] / [email protected]

Also read:

6 Must-Visit Destinations in Daanbantayan

When it rained stunning islands jeweled with long stretches of powdery white sand shorelines in the Philippines, Daanbantayan town in Cebu certainly got a good catch.

Located in the northern part of Cebu, Daanbantayan has become a renowned tropical getaway among local and foreign travelers. It is famous for its attractive beaches and breathtaking dive spots. Few parts of the town are best locations for snorkeling with rich marine life and diverse coral reefs.

It’s time to get salty and sandy. Here’s a list of the six tourist destinations that you should include in your itinerary when travelling to Daanbantayan.

1. Carnaza Island

It looks like a turtle-shaped island from an aerial view. While it’s true that its distance and accessibility are among the factors why there’s not much tourism in the area, the island is still worth the travel. It is a paradise of crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscape. This is not just a place for swimming and snorkeling, the place is also a home of unexplored caves and thick forest vegetation. Although when travelling, make sure that you bring with you enough sources of battery supplies (powerbanks) since the island has limited power supply.

John Ray Aligato / The Island Nomad
Photo by Mary Jane Cabrera
Photo by Mary Jane Cabrera
John Ray Aligato / The Island Nomad

Exact Location: Northernmost distance from the shore of Daanbantayan Northern Cebu and at the North of Malapascua Island — approx. 4 hours away from the city.

Tent Rates:

  • Regular Season – P100 (tents offered by the staff of Carnaza Eco Park)
  • Peak Season – P300 (tents offered by the non-staff of Carnaza Eco Park

How To Get There: Head on to Cebu North Bus Terminal and ride the bus bound for Maya-Bagay or you can simply ask and conductor around the bus terminal and tell them that you’re going to Tapilon Port. Travel time is around 4 hours and fare is P212 (airconditioned bus).

Once you arrive at Tapilon Port, ride a boat going to Carnaza Island (P150 per way). First trip is at 7am-10am but it would actually depend on the condition of the sea. Alternatively, you can rent a pump boat for P7000 roundtrip it can carry around 25-30 people. Tapilon Port to Carnaza Island travel time is 2 hours.

2. Malapascua Island

Malapascua island is a must-visit for beach staycation. Here, you won’t just frolic on its white sand beach but you can also snorkel in the shallows. There are also bars and restaurants scattered around Bounty Beach, the island’s main beach.  You can chill around, take a stroll, get some light snacks, and eventually dip in the cool waters surrounding the place.

malapascua island cebu
Photo by @omglennys 
Photo by Thomas Dietz

Exact Location: Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan, Northern Cebu — 4 hours away from Cebu City, and 30 minutes away from Maya Port.

Where to Stay:

How To Get There: Head to Cebu City North Bus Terminal. Ride a van or Ceres bus bound for New Maya Port (around P210 fare, 4 hours travel time). Walk to the port or take a motorcycle for P20/head. Take the boat to Malapascua with P100/person fare (45 mins travel time). If it’s low tide, the boat can’t dock near the shore so you will be transferred by a small boat. Fare is P20/person. You may also charter a boat for P1500 good for 15 passengers. Alternatively, you can also drive to New Maya Port using your vehicle, but you’ll have to park it near Maya Port. Parking fee is P100/day.

3. Gato Island

Gato Island is a rocky island located in between Malapascua and Carnaza Island. Bamboo sharks, white tip sharks and cat sharks are known to be dwelling here. It holds a huge diversity of marine life such as banded sea snakes, stingrays, tuna, snappers, seahorses, cuttlefishes and a lot more, making it a good spot for diving.

Gato Island also boasts interesting underwater rock formations and corals. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a huge cave that shelters many animals serving essential roles in the island’s ecosystem.

Joemar Revelo the Pinoy Islander
Joemar Revelo the Pinoy Islander
Joemar Revelo the Pinoy Islander
Joemar Revelo the Pinoy Islander

How To Get There?

Gato Island is usually included in island hopping tours alongside Kalanggaman Island, La Manok, and Malapascua Island.

For a hassle-free trip, it’s better to book a trip and hire an island hopping service agency in advance. You may contact ECebu Finest Island Hopping Tour Partners at 0916-557-7118.

DO-IT-YOURSELF (DIY): From Cebu North Bus Terminal, take a ride to a bus bound to Daanbantayan, specifically in Maya Port. The trip is roughly around 4-5 hours. Upon arrival to the port, register to take a boat ride going to Malapascua Island. The first trip departs at 7 AM while the last trip is at 5 PM, though the locals will still consider faring beyond that time depending on the number of passengers. The boat ride is roughly around 30-45 minutes and upon arrival, the locals can be asked for further directions on how to get to Gato Island.

Fare Rates:

  • Bus Fare from Cebu to Daanbantayan: P160
  • Fare from Port to Daanbantayan Proper: P10
  • Fare from Daanbantayan to Maya Port: P10
  • Fare from Maya Port to Malapascua: P100

The island is indeed a sight to behold and through the locals’ efforts, the island is preserved and hopefully would stay that way for many generations to come.

4. Monad Shoal

Swimming underneath the waters with towering corals, playful turtles, and a wide variety of fishes, can be fun and exciting. But swimming with sharks? Monad Shoal gives you that thrill.

This place is widely known for being one of the world’s sites that attract thresher sharks. Thresher sharks are easily recognized by the long upper lobe of the caudal fin (top half of the tail). They are considered mostly harmless to humans.

These sharks can be seen before sunrise in the region.  The sea mount acts as cleaning area for them to remove the parasites from their skin, mouth and gills. There are also devil, eagle and manta rays, including occasional hammerhead sharks, swimming in the area.

Photo by Erwin Verweij
Photo by Lewis Lexter Yap
Photo by Lewis Lexter Yap
Photo by Lewis Lexter Yap

Exact Location: 7.8 kilometers from Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan, Northern Cebu.

How To Get There: First, you need to get to Malapascua Island by following the instructions above on how to get there.

5. Golden Sands Destinations Resort

Swimming, island-hopping, diving, and snorkeling can be exhausting. Daanbantayan just can’t let you go without a little royalty pamper.

Golden Sans Destination Resort located in Daanbantayan, Cebu offers you a stay that is bathed with endless picturesque and world-class properties and amenities, thirst-quenching concoctions, and if there’s enough energy left, activities that you should never miss.

You can go paddle boarding, kayaking, and biking.  Their “Boogie’s Restaurant and Bar” is also a must-try as it offers a fusion of local and international delectable dishes.

Photo from Golden Sands Destination Resorts Facebook Page
Golden Sands Destination Resorts Daanbantayan Cebu (2)
Photo from Golden Sands Destination Resorts Facebook Page
Photo from Golden Sands Destination Resorts Facebook Page

Exact Location: Sitio Suba, Brgy. Maya, Daanbantayan, Northern Cebu

Room Rates:

  • Garden Villas: P8400/night good for 2 pax with breakfast 
  • Lagoon Villas: P12200/night good for 2 pax with breakfast
  •  Family Villas: P18300/night good for 2 pax with breakfast

How To Get There: Head to Cebu City North Bus Terminal. Ride a van or Ceres bus bound for New Maya Port (around P210 fare, 4 hours travel time). Tell the driver to drop you off at Maya Public Market in Daanbantayan. From there, ride a habal-habal or tricycle going to Golden Sands Destination Resorts (formerly Sandoval Beach Resort). Fare is P20-30 per person.

6. Kandaya Resort

Kandaya Resort is also Daanbantayan’s flagship bearer when it comes to idyllic, luxury destination in the heart of the historic Daanbantayan. It is named in homage to Datu Daya, an ancient brave tribal chieftain who once stood as protector of old Bantayan. The resort offers a serene environment mixed with adventure, relaxation and tradition to reinvigorate the body. The resort offers Asian and Western cuisines.  They also have a spa that would certainly rejuvenate your senses to a state of balance and well-being.  However, Kandaya Resort is temporarily close until further notice. They are looking forward to open by mid-December.

Kandaya Resort Daanbantayan Cebu (2)
Kandaya Luxury Resort Daanbantayan Cebu
Kandaya Resort Daanbantayan Cebu (1)

Exact Location: Agujo, Daanbantayan, Cebu, Philippines

Standard Room Rates:

  • Deluxe Room: P11610 per night  
  • Premier Room: P15500 per night
  • Ocean View Suite: P21500 per night
  • Garden Villa: P15500 per night
  • Garden Pool Villa: P21500 per night
  • Beach Pool Villa: P29500 per night

How To Get There: Go to Cebu North Bus Terminal and tell the conductor that you’re heading to Kandaya Resort in Agujo Daanbantayan. Fare is P200. Also, you can just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Kandaya Resort”. Ample parking space is available.

We are blessed with so much of nature’s generosity and it just blends well with the creativity and dexterity of the human race. Let’s strive our best to become better stewards so that treasures and places like these in Daanbantayan will last through ages.

Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex: Cebu City’s World-Class Football Turf

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Sports action in Cebu is about to get more exciting with the addition of a world-class football turf and sports complex along the south coastal road of the already jam-packed SRP in the metro.

Developed by the Dynamic Herb Sports Inc., the Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex is an artificial contemporary multi-sport complex spanning a gross land area of 1.2 hectare in the South Road Properties.

It will feature an outdoor multi-purpose turf playing field and complete indoor gymnasium that can accommodate a wide range of field sports including football, futsal, rugby, frisbee, flag football or American football as well as other Filipino favorites like basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, handball and more.

Photo by Justin Judilla
Photo by Justin Judilla
Photo by Justin Judilla

The football field is complete with facilities such as comfort rooms, canteen, shower rooms, locker rooms and bleachers that can accommodate about 500 persons by proper seating.

A running pathway will also be built for joggers and fitness buffs. On top of that, the place is set to accommodate national and international events as well as house a sports academy and seminars in the facility.

Photo by Justin Judilla
Photo by Astrid Mae Pacifico Erasga

Ugur Tasci, owner and managing director of Dynamic Herb Sports Inc. said, “This is my first project and I was thinking everything would be easy, but I didn’t know that it is very complicated. Building the football turf took us a lot of big work. I thought it was easy, but we realized it was very complicated to put it up, it was a big challenge.”

The said facility is deemed to be the first of its kind in Cebu.

Photo by Astrid Mae Pacifico Erasga
Photo from Dynamic Herb Sports Inc. Facebook Page

“I want to give what Cebu deserves and I want to give justice to what a football field should be,’’ he further added.

The Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex was supposed to host the PhilamLife Vitality Kampeon Cup last March 13 to March 15 but because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was rescheduled to a later date for the safety of all the people involved in the event.

Photo by Justin Judilla

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Cebu South Road Properties, Antuwanga, Cebu City – few meters from Gaisano Capital

BY COMMUTE: You can book a Grab/taxi ride and inform the driver that you’re heading to Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex” in SRP Cebu. Parking space is available.

Cebu logs 332 new cases on March 7

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 7, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 332 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 410 new recoveries, and 1 new death. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 38,595, while the active cases decreased to 6,725 (from 6,804).

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 18,617 (+154 new)
– Total recoveries: 14,494 (+354 new)
– Total deaths: 759 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 3,364

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 4,567 (+69 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,452 (+37 new)
– Total deaths: 125 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 990

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 4,562 (+45 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,347 (+0 new)
– Total deaths: 187 (+10new)
– Active cases: 1,028

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 10,849 (+64 new)
– Total recoveries: 9,023 (+19 new)
– Total deaths: 483 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 1,343

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 6,725
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 38,595 (+332 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 30,316 (+410 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,554 (+1 new*)

A total of 2,789 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):

DITO offers unli data, SMS, and calls promo for only P199

While DITO has been buzzing about their internet speed, this new telco has also recently announced their new offering. Starting on March 8, for only P199, DITO Telecommunity could provide you with unlimited data, SMS, and calls.

DITO’s P199 Welcome Offer comes with:

  • Unlimited DITO-to-DITO SMS for 30 days upon activation of the promo.
  • Unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls for 30 days upon activation of the promo.
  • Unlimited data for 30 days upon activation of the promo

Note: This promo is only available from March 8 – 31, 2021.

How to Avail?

  1. You must have a valid and working DITO prepaid sim card.
  2. Must have an installed and working DITO app in your device.
  3. Once installed, log-in to your DITO app.
  4. Go to the App Home Page then click the buy promo “WELCOME OFFER” button.
  5. If successful, you will receive a text confirmation

This promo is available in the following cities and/or municipalities:

  • Cebu City
  • Carcar
  • Consolacion
  • Danao
  • Liloan
  • Mandaue
  • Minglanilla
  • Naga
  • San Fernando
  • Talisay
  • Panabo, Davao
  • Tagum, Davao
  • Carmen, Davao
  • Davao City
  • Digos

Where to buy the DITO SIM cards in Cebu?

You can buy DITO SIM cards at any of these official outlets in Cebu:

  • SM City Cebu
  • SM City Consolacion
  • SM Seaside City Cebu
  • Robinsons Galleria Cebu
  • Robinsons Cybergate

Should you wish to buy your own DITO prepaid sim card, check the list of their outlets here: https://www.dito.ph