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Black Sand Beach: An Interesting Attraction in Catmon

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This is one of those spots that offers a unique way to experience Cebu.

We all know what mangroves are and what they look like but Black Sand Beach Resort takes mangroves to the next level.

Photo by Charisa Niña Ponce

The main attraction of Black Sand Beach Resort is not their black sand but actually the forest of mangroves that make up the majority of the resort. Aside from a small patch of fine black sand by the beachfront, the entirety of the resort is surrounded by both mangroves, trees, and other flora.

Black Sand Beach Resort is a small, secluded resort within the confines of a small mangrove forest. Unlike the usual mangrove filled with muck and seawater, the place is mostly covered with black sand so guests won’t have to worry about getting wet and uncomfortable.

They also have huts and cottages taking shelter under the shade of the mangrove forest with rooms facing the sea. 

Photo by Charisa Niña Ponce
Photo by Charisa Niña Ponce
Photo by Charisa Niña Ponce
Photo by Charisa Niña Ponce
Photo by Charisa Niña Ponce

The fine black sand and mini-mangrove forest both create an atmosphere that brings the guests closer to nature. For guests who want to experience the blissful seaside views and relaxing natural vibes, then this beach resort in Catmon may just be the place to visit. Guests will wake up to refreshing mornings with the breeze of the sea and the cold morning.

They have rustic benches, chairs, and tables just set up outside where guests can sit and just watch as the waves crash against the shore. The vibrant green of the mangroves and other flora provide a very therapeutic view that makes everyone forget about the stresses of life, giving them the peace of mind they never thought they needed.

Black Sand Beach Resort is a new and unique way to experience the stunning seaside views of Cebu.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

ENTRANCE FEE:

  • Adult (12 years old And above): P30 per person
  • Kids (5-12 years old): P20 per child
  • Overnight Entrance: P100 per head

OTHERS:

  • Big Table: P1,500 per table
  • Round Table: P500 per table, mangrove area
  • Big Umbrella Tent: P500, good for 4 persons
  • Small Umbrella Tent: P300, good for 2 persons
  • Blue Sandiganan: P50
  • Tent Space: P200, bring your own tent
  • Extra Bed: P300

ROOM/COTTAGE RATES:

  • Hendrick’s House: P2,500 per night, good for 4 persons
    • Air conditioned
    • Kitchen with stove, utensils, and kitchenware
    • Comfort Room
    • Dining Area
    • Fits up to 6 people
  • Danielle’s Payag: P1,500 per night, good for 2 persons
    • Fan room
    • Veranda with seaview
    • Fits up to 4 people
  • Extra Person Fees: P100 per person, up to max. capacity of room only

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Sto. Niño, Flores, Catmon, Northern Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from Cebu City.

BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal at SM City Cebu, ride a Ceres bus bound for Catmon. Inform the driver that you’re going to get off near “Naghalin Bridge” in Catmon, Cebu (just along the highway).

BY CAR/PRIVATE VEHICLE: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Naghalin Bridge” in Catmon, Cebu. Ask around for directions going to the resort. Parking is available upon arrival.

Cebu logs 433 new cases on February 24

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On Wednesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of February 24, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 433 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 323 new recoveries, and 12 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 34,145, while the active cases increased to 5,922 (from 5,822).

Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 79.58%.

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 16,904 (+234 new)
– Total recoveries: 13,057 (+263 new)
– Total deaths: 727 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 3,120

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 3,920 (+40 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,070 (+69 new)
– Total deaths: 118 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 720

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 3,932 (+34 new)
– Total recoveries: 2,976 (+17 new)
– Total deaths: 182 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 774

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 9,821 (+76 new)
– Total recoveries: 8,058 (+31 new)
– Total deaths: 455 (+9 new)
– Active cases: 1,308

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 5,922
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 34,145 (+443 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 27,171 (+323 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,484 (+12 new*)

A total of 3,230 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: Parasailing in Mactan

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Parasailing, also known as parascending or parakiting, is a recreational water sport where a person/persons are suspended in the air through a specially-designed parachute called a parasail wing which is towed by a vehicle such as a speedboat.

It is also an activity that is famous among tourists due to its ease and the rush that it provides. Aside from the adrenaline of being suspended in the air, the activity is also perfect for having a bird’s eye-view of the pristine waters of the island.

This fun and exciting activity highlights experiencing the sea from above the waters. It is a simple activity that everybody can do because it doesn’t require any sort of knowledge like surfing or jet skiing does. You only have to sit and relax and let the captain lead the way.

The best thing about it is the refreshing sea breeze that caresses the face as you soar above the turquoise waters. It’s a ride that offers a unique perspective of the nature around you while letting you experience the thrill of flying.

Due to its fame among tourists, parasailing has become one of the most prominent water sport activities and Mactan is home to many resorts and agencies that offer different packages.

With Mactan’s amazing beaches and clear water, there’s no better way to experience it than through the sky. Here are a few that offer this exciting activity:

1. CebuTours PH

RATES

  • 1 person: P4,600 per head
  • 2-10 persons: P2,300 per head
  • Inclusive:
    • Gears
    • Boat Captain w/ Assistant
    • Entrance Fees
    • Government Tax
    • 15-minute parasailing

CONTACT INFORMATION

2. Rakso Travel Cebu via Klook

RATES

  • Parasailing: P2,600 per person
  • Must be a minimum of 2 people per ride

CONTACT INFORMATION

3. Island Trek Tours

RATES

  • 150 feet: P2,000 per person, minimum of 2 persons
  • 250 feet: P3,200 per person, minimum of 2 persons
  • 300 feet: P3,800 per person, minimum of 2 persons

All rides are 15 minutes long.

CONTACT INFORMATION

4. Scotty’s Action Sports Network

parasailing sunset at our watersports center
parasailing tow at our watersports center

RATES

  • Standard Flight (150 meters): P3,640 per person, lasts 10 minutes
  • Deluxe Flight (250 meters): P4,200 per person, lasts 10 minutes
  • Magnum Flight (350 meters): P4,760 per person, lasts 10 minutes
  • Picnic while Parasailing (150 meters): P5,600 per person, lasts 15 minutes

PARASAILING PHOTOS

  • 30 Photos: P560 per package
  • Additional Photos (30 pcs): P392

CONTACT INFORMATION

5. NTJ Watersports Cebu

PARASAILING

  • As low as P2,000 per person
  • 15-minute parasailing experience
  • Choose 3 or 4 other water activities depending on the package chosen

NOTE

  • Children under 8 years old, pregnant women, and those with mobility impairments are not allowed to parasail

CONTACT INFORMATION

Kawasan French Paradise Resort: Serene Beach Vacation in Alegria

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Alegria is a treasure trove of adventure and wonder in Cebu and this resort is giving us more reasons to visit the beautiful town.

Kawasan French Paradise Resort is a forthcoming resort in Alegria that brings out the best of the town’s seaside views. With their pristine beachfront and their impressive beachside sceneries, the guests will be enjoying taking in the views and having a relaxing time with friends and loved ones.

Truly a paradise, Kawasan French Paradise has this vast front lawn where everyone can do virtually anything that they could think of. It has a wide space where kids could run around and play with one another while still leaving ample space for lovely picnics. Just a tier below the grass are beautiful sands to leave footprints in while walking along the shore.

This up-and-coming beach destination wants guests to experience the best life while being at the beach and Kawasan French Paradise Resort exactly provides their guests with the best tropical experience. With a variety of native nipa hut cottages and cozy rooms to complement the refreshing seaside breeze and views, guests will be having the time of their lives.

They have both beach side and non-beach side accommodations that provide both comfort and security to every guest. Their rustic beachside huts and cottages provide a taste of Alegria’s tropical paradise as well as a lovely space to rest at the end of the day. 

Another thing to experience and enjoy in French Paradise Resort is the refreshing blue of the waters. Aside from possessing beautiful turquoise waters, it also hosts a number of vibrant corals and other underwater life just a few meters from the shore which free divers and enthusiasts will be able to appreciate and what’s more, these majestic underwater wonders just hiding below the surface of the sea are easily accessible to the guests of the resort.

Explore Alegria and treat yourself to a night of relaxation in Kawasan French Paradise Resort.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE ENTRANCE:

  • Adults: P100 per adult
  • Kids: P50 per child

COTTAGE RENTAL:

  • Medium Cottage: ₱700 per day, good for 4-7 persons
  • Big Cottage: ₱1,000 per day, good for 8-10 persons

TABLE AND CHAIRS:

  • Standard Table with chairs: P550 per set
  • Long Table with chairs: P850 per set

OVERNIGHT STAY:

Non-Aircon w/ shared bathrooms

  • Hut for 4: P2,500 per night
  • Hut for 5-6: P3,000 per night
  • Extra Person: P500 per person

Aircon w/ Bathroom

  • Standard Room: P2,000 per night
  • Family Room: P3,500 per night, good for 4 persons

NOTE: Walk-ins are not allowed as of the moment. Reservation is a must!

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Kawasan, Alegria, Southern Cebu — 5 minutes from Kawasan Falls; approx. 4 hours away from Cebu City.

BY BUS: Find your way to Cebu South Bus Terminal. Ride a bus going to Bato via Barili. You can tell the driver to drop you off in Kawasan Falls because the resort is just 5 minutes away from Kawasan Falls. If he’s familiar with French Paradise Resort, then it would be better if he can drop you there.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Kawasan French Paradise Resort” in Kawasan. Parking space is available upon arrival.

Cebu logs 423 new cases, 389 recoveries on February 23

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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 February 23, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 423 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 389 new recoveries, and 4 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 34,145, while the active cases increased to 5,822 (from 5,794).

Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 78.64%.

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 16,672 (+210 new)
– Total recoveries: 12,795 (+231 new)
– Total deaths: 726 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 3,151

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 3,832 (+40 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,070 (+69 new)
– Total deaths: 118 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 644

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 3,897 (+45 new)
– Total recoveries: 2,959 (+21 new)
– Total deaths: 181 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 757

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 9,744 (+128 new)
– Total recoveries: 8,028 (+68 new)
– Total deaths: 446 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 1,270

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 5,822
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 34,145 (+423 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 26,852 (+389 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,471 (+4 new*)

A total of 3,260 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):

Divine View Resto Cafe: Mountain-top Stopover in Consolacion

When scaling the steep roads of Consolacion’s mountain barangays, don’t forget to stop by Divine View Resto Cafe.

Photo by Harmtzy Moon

Catching up with the trend of mountain views in Cebu, Brgy. Garing has set up their own cafe with a view in Consolacion which has an extremely refreshing mountain breeze and a pleasing view of the thriving flora in Cebu Island.

Divine View Resto Cafe brings to locals and visitors a refreshing way to experience the vibrant views of Cebu. It has 3 tiers with equally magnificent sceneries that will surely calm your soul. It not only has an overlooking view of Consolacion but also the stunning verdant views of Cebu’s low-rolling terrains and a glimpse of Cebu City in the distance.

Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde
Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde
Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde

At night or during cloudy days, the temperature drops and fog sometimes surrounds the resto cafe, showing a mystical yet still relaxing atmosphere of the place. The cold mountain breeze can easily be countered with warm and lovely cups of chocolate or coffee.

Their divine cups of chocolate are not only for the cold times but also for warm moments spent with friends and family. Pair these drinks along with their sumptuous snacks or have a heavy meal and you’ll be set to have a great day.

Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde
Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde
Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde

Bikers, trekkers, and hikers will find it much more motivating to climb the steep roads of Brgy. Garing with Divine View Resto Cafe waiting for them at the end. You don’t have to be physically active to be able to enjoy the place. You only have to be excited for the good food and great views to be able to appreciate the beauty of the resto cafe.

All of their 3 floors are spacious decks with chairs and tables to accommodate both big and small groups. Couples will especially love having dates at the top floor and enjoy spending their intimate moments in the peaceful atmosphere of the cafe.

Photo by Lee Pilapil Conde

Divine View Resto Cafe is still relatively new so it may be a great place to enjoy mountain views without too much crowd.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Menu:

Other Information:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Brgy. Garing, Consolacion, Northern Cebu – approx. 700m ahead of New Sr. San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, 1.5 hours away from Cebu City.

BY PUJ: From SM City Cebu, you can ride a PUJ going to Consolacion. If you’re from the Talamban/Pit-os area, there are also jeepneys that go to Consolacion.  You can drop off at Fooda Consolacion where afterwards you can ride a habal-habal  to take you to Divine View Resto Farm but the ride may be quite expensive. It would be best to go there on a private vehicle.

BY CAR/MOTORCYCLE: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “New Sr. San Isidro Labrador Parish Church.” Divine View Resto Cafe is just a few hundred meters from here so you may ask around for directions to the place. 

Biking 101: Why It’s Good For You & What Bike Essentials To Buy

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Biking has gained quite the fame since the pandemic. It has become a popular sport and hobby among Cebuanos, young and elder ones alike. With Cebu’s mesmerizing landscapes and mountain top views, it’s the best reward for the long ride. 

No pressure though because you can bike as a mode of transport, a hobby, a workout, or do it on a competitive level and still reap the benefits of having it as a routine activity – a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you’re old or new to biking, you need to be all geared up for safety.
Stay hydrated, too!

If you have been wanting to try biking but unsure of what to do or what to have, don’t fret. Here’s a list of the biking essentials you can find from different stores at SM Seaside City Cebu. 

1. SAFETY VEST

Aside from lights, wearing a reflective vest can keep you visible while on the road.

2. BIKE GLOVES

Gloves are a great protection for your hands in case of a bike crash and will provide cushion to help lessen the soreness for longer rides.

3. BICYCLE LED TORCH

Lights can also be as important to your safety as a helmet. It helps in alerting cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists.

4. WATER JUG

Drinking water helps you hydrated throughout your long ride.

5. MULTI TOOL KIT

A versatile tool is every cyclist’s best friend! A multi tool kit helps adjust about any bolt and screw on your bike.

6. BIKE STEEL CABLE LOCK

Keep your bikes safe with a keyed or combination lock.

7. BIKE SHORTS

A good pair of bike shorts with a supportive muscle compression and built-in padding can add comfort to your ride.

8. ALL-AROUND BAG

Pack all your bike essentials in a bag and you are good to go!

9. WATER REPELLENT JACKET

Waterproof, lightweight jackets are all made from a special fabric that keeps you dry and cool no matter how long your ride is.

10. EYEWEAR

  • OAKLEY
  • Second Floor, City Wing @ SM Seaside

A fashionable but essential choice to every cyclist who wants to protect their eyes from the harmful UV rays.

11. Helmet

  • R.O.X. Playgrnd
  • Second Floor, City Wing @ SM Seaside

Safety first. A helmet can save your life, even in the smallest crashes.

With biking, you will have a healthier heart and lungs, have control on your weight management, build muscles, destress, and meet new friends.

From wellness to creating new friendships, this new trend on the new normal is worth the ride.

For more details, follow SM Seaside City Cebu (Official) on their official Facebook and Instagram pages to get the latest updates on exclusive deals and more.

Cebu logs 380 new cases on February 22

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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 February 22, 2021.

Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 380 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 299 new recoveries, and 6 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 33,725, while the active cases increased to 5,794 (from 5,717).

Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 78.47%.

Breakdown of cases:

Cebu City
– Total confirmed: 16,466 (+184 new)
– Total recoveries: 12,565 (+147 new)
– Total deaths: 725 (+3 new)
– Active cases: 3,176

Lapu-Lapu City
– Total confirmed: 3,791 (+60 new)
– Total recoveries: 3,001 (+0 new)
– Total deaths: 117 (+1 new)
– Active cases: 673

Mandaue City
– Total confirmed: 3,852 (+38 new)
– Total recoveries: 2,938 (+51 new)
– Total deaths: 180 (+0 new)
– Active cases: 734

Cebu Province
– Total confirmed: 9,616 (+98 new)
– Total recoveries: 7,960 (+101 new)
– Total deaths: 445 (+2 new)
– Active cases: 1,211

Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:

  • Total Active Cases in Cebu: 5,794
  • Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 33,725 (+380 new)
  • Total Recoveries in Cebu: 26,464 (+299 new)
  • Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,467 (+6 new*)

A total of 2,295 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):

Cebu Province now accepts tourists from anywhere in PH

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Traveling to Cebu province from anywhere in the Philippines is now allowed. 

Now, people from wherever in the country won’t have to just dream about the many incredible sights and places Cebu has to offer because they  are now welcome.

With emphasis on getting the local tourism and economy back up and at the same time answering the growing concern of joblessness in the province, the Cebu Provincial Tourism Task Force met up with Cebu province’s Governor Gwendolyn Garcia on Thursday, February 11.

“Interzonal movement of persons not authorized outside of residences or non-APOR between areas placed under GCQ and MGCQ for any purpose shall be permitted subject to reasonable regulations imposed by the LGU concerned, if any,”

– Cebu Gov. Garcia said, quoting Section 7 (3) of the new guideline

Allowed purpose of travel:

  • Visit relatives
  • Business
  • Tourism

Visitors requirements: 

  • Pre-booked reservations (resorts & hotels)
  • Registration at the Capitol’s booking portal (different tourism activities)

Opening the gates of Cebu so to say will greatly help tourism especially with the province being the main hub of tourism, education, information technology (IT), and a major economic player in the region as the richest province in 2019.

Executive No. 12:

Source: SugboNews, the official news outlet of the Cebu Provincial Government

Also read:

https://sugbo.ph/2019/budget-sta-fe-bantayan-island/

2021 Guide: Cebu North Bus Trips & Schedule

Since the pandemic, travel from Cebu City to the provincial municipalities has been limited.

However, Cebu is now slowly recovering the mobility of its residents and adjust to the new normal. There were also transportation changes like the Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT) being transferred to its new location at SM City Cebu last October 14, 2020, and now managed by the Cebu Provincial Government, which made definite changes to its route schedules.

Rest assured though you will be kept informed on any updates/changes as soon as it is available to ease your travel for work, vacation, or just your way home.

Route Destinations:

  • Bantayan island
  •  Hagnaya
  • Lambusan
  • Tuburan
  • Tabogon
  • Maya via Bagay
  • Daanbantayan via Kawit
  • Danao

Schedule:

Here is the updated route schedule for 2021.

New location:

Exact location: Open parking lot, SM City Cebu in Cebu City — beside the MyBus station, right across Bayfront Hotel.