On Thursday 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 18, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 539 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 198 new recoveries, and 5 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 32,071, while the active cases surged to 5,124 (from 4,786).
Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 79.48%.
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 15,590 (+282 new) – Total recoveries: 12,007 (+86 new) – Total deaths: 719 (+1 new) – Active cases: 2,864
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 3,572 (+54 new) – Total recoveries: 2,977 (+41 new) – Total deaths: 116 (+0 new) – Active cases: 479
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 3,678 (+60 new) – Total recoveries: 2,839 (+22 new) – Total deaths: 180 (+2 new) – Active cases: 659
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 9,231 (+143 new) – Total recoveries: 7,666 (+49 new) – Total deaths: 443 (+2 new) – Active cases: 1,122
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 5,124
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 32,071 (+539 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 25,489 (+198 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,458 (+5 new*)
A total of 3,771 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.
The impressive economic growth that Cebu has shown over the past few years can’t only just be attributed to the massive property and urban development initiatives made by private companies in the metro. It’s also a direct impact of the great government projects that have helped ease the lives of every Cebuanos.
But the trend of progress isn’t coming to a halt yet; it won’t. With the on-going projects that are soon to take forms in Cebu, we are bound to soar towards greater heights.
Check out these four (4) mega infrastructure projects in Cebu that Cebuanos should be excited for.
1. METRO CEBU EXPRESSWAY
This project is a 73.75 km stretch of highway with 2 km tunnel. Pegged at P28.1B for its cost, Metro Cebu Expressway is aimed to meet Metro Cebu’s existing and future traffic demand, significantly addressing the traffic congestion within the metro especially its urban core and Central Business Districts.
The project will serve as another north-south backbone highway providing a seamless traffic flow from Naga City up to Danao City. It will traverse along the slopes of the mountain range of Cebu Province. Also, the project is divided into three segments: Talisay-Cebu City-Mandaue (Segment 1), Consolacion-Liloan-Compostela-Danao (Segment 2), and Naga-Minglanilla (Segment 3).
It is to be noted that Segment 3 is funded by the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways especially in acquisitions of lots and structures for road right-of-way, while segments 1 and 2 will be financed through foreign funding, according to Neda 7 Director Efren Carreon.
Target completion date of this project is 2022.
Project Status/Updates:
An online market sounding activity was conducted last November 23, 2020.
The preparation of pre-FS report by JICA consultant as part of updating of the HSH Masterplan Phase 2 is ongoing. Submission of draft final report to DPWH is targeted by JICA by the end of January 2021.
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will undertake capacity building activities for the DPWH, including preparation of the pertinent documents /analysis for the development and packaging of the Project.
Ongoing implementation of Segment 3
For business case/ feasibility study
2. CEBU BUS RAPID TRANSIT
The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is a component of the planned Integrated Intermodal Transportation System (IITS) in the province of Cebu. It has an objective to improve the over-all performance of the urban passenger transport system in Cebu City in terms of the quality and level of service, safety, and environmental efficiency.
Estimated at P16.3 B for the cost, this project is funded by the World Bank and Agence Francaise de Development and its project implementation is spearheaded by the DOTr and NEDA.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has promised the Cebu City Council that the implementation of the the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in the city will start on 2021. Target completion date for phase 1 (SRP to Capitol route) is first quarter of 2022.
Project Status/Updates:
There was a realignment of the BRT route to include SRP. From the original plan with routes which should have begun at Barangay Bulacao, the BRT line will now begin at the corner of F. Vestil Street and the South Road Property (SRP) road where the depot of the buses will be located.
Currently, package 1 of the Cebu BRT which covers a 2.6-kilometer busway, with 4 stations, is now in the procurement stage.
There are challenges that lie in the Right of Way (ROW) acquisition especially that the major thoroughfares are near commercial properties and many owners are hesitant to let go of the property.
3. CEBU-MACTAN BRIDGE AND COASTAL ROAD
This 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge and Coastal Road Project aims to improve the capacity of the existing road network in Cebu and facilitate faster movement of trade, people, and convenience in Metro Cebu.
The entire project for the bridge and the coastal road will cost around P79.5 billion and it has 119.2 billion Yen (P55.8 billion) of the loan set aside for it with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as its lead agency.
The project involves the construction of a 3.3-km bridge with an elevated viaduct of 3.385-km, with two lanes in each direction. It also includes the construction of a 4.9-km four-lane coastal road with a 4.751-km elevated viaduct. Interchanges will be constructed at the linkage between the two projects in Mandaue City.
Artist’s perspective from skyscrapercity.com
Its target completion date is January 2028.
Project Status/Updates:
Its feasibility study was approved by the NEDA board last 2019.
4. NEW CEBU INTERNATIONAL CONTAINER PORT
The New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP) is a P10.1-billion project that will cover 25 hectares of reclaimed land in Consolacion, Cebu. It is aimed to free up the existing seaport in the province and provide a more efficient and reliable transport infrastructure for the unimpeded flow of goods and services in the Visayas.
This multi-billion project will include the following:
a 500-meter quay wall length that can simultaneously accommodate two 2,000 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) vessels
operating facilities and structures for containers such as a freight station and inspection shed
an access road and bridge
and a dredged waterway and turning basin
The new container port is seen as a long-term solution for the already congested current Cebu International Port. Once done, the latter will be converted into a domestic port while the former will cater to international cargoes coming in and out of Cebu.
Updates:
The consultancy works on the port project and the procurement for civil works have commenced last year.
Revel in the peace and serenity of Mactan by spending a night or two in Crimson Resort and Spa, now made more affordable for locals for as low as P4,500 per night.
Crimson Resort and Spa provides various luxuries that will give guests an enchanting experience in the rich nature and stunning seaside sceneries surrounding the resort. Although extravagant, Crimson Resort and Spa provides top-tier services and facilities that provide optimized comfort to give guests the best getaway.
The staff are especially well-trained to attend to every need of the guests. Everything from the service to the facilities in Crimson Resort and Spa is definitely one of the resorts that’s a sure bang for the buck.
Considered as one of the best resorts in Mactan, this 6-hectare beach features 40 private bungalows and 250 low rise residential suites nestled amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.
It flaunts the beauty of Mactan’s seaside sceneries with stunning views of the Hilutungan Channel displayed in front of the infinity pool, the pristine white sand beach, or simply just outside their rooms.
The beach area also features a floating wharf with access to the azure sea for those who find it too irresistible to just stare at. It is open not only for swimming but for snorkeling as well – a diving activity that will surely thrill lovers of the deep blue.
The facilities of Crimson Resort and Spa is definitely the best place to spend a lazy day with their luxurious rooms and villas. Their rooms are adorned with charming designs and a rustic ambiance that makes guests – apart from the kids – excited for bedtime.
Their accommodations include simple rooms complete with necessities and they also have lavish villas complete with all the luxuries to make vacations unforgettable.
Deluxe RoomDeluxe Garden Room – BedPrivate Pool VillaOcean Front Private Pool Villa – BedroomOcean Front Private Pool Villa
Experience the best of Mactan and be enchanted by the beauty of Crimson Resort and Spa.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES:
Deluxe Room – P5,000 on weekdays, P5,500 on weekends
Garden Room – P5,500 on weekdays,P6,000 on weekends
Pool Villa – P12,000 on weekdays, P14,000 on weekends
Beach Casita – P13,000 on weekdays, P15,000 on weekends
Ocean or Beach Villa – P15,000 on weekdays, P19,000 on weekends
Inclusions: Rooms include breakfast for 2 adults and 2 kids below 12 years old plus 20% off on all food and beverages. Villa guests have an extra P1,000 credits for food and beverage as well.
NOTE: Rates may change from time to time (without prior notice).
Exact location: Seascapes Resort Town, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City — 10 minutes from the Lapu-Lapu Shrine
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan” in Mactan. Parking space is available upon arrival.
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 17, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 521 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 354 new recoveries, and 5 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 31,532, while the active cases surged to 4,786 (from 4,626).
Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 80.21%.
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 15,308 (+245 new) – Total recoveries: 11,922 (+158 new) – Total deaths: 718 (+1 new) – Active cases: 2,668
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 3,518 (+93 new) – Total recoveries: 2,936 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 116 (+0 new) – Active cases: 466
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 3,618 (+70 new) – Total recoveries: 2,817 (+55 new) – Total deaths: 178 (+1 new) – Active cases: 623
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 9,088 (+113 new) – Total recoveries: 7,618 (+141 new) – Total deaths: 441 (+3 new) – Active cases: 1,029
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 4,786
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 31,532 (+521 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 25,293 (+354 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,453 (+5 new*)
A total of 3,982 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.
The reclamation projects that have helped Cebu City reach its level of economic stability is about to also happen in its neighboring towns – this time, in Consolacion.
Seafront City, a project that is still in the works, will surely push the people of Consolacion become more optimistic of their town’s progress in the future. It is a 235.80-hectare reclamation project situated in Barangay Tayud, Municipality of Consolacion, Cebu.
Seafront City, a Public Partnership Project with developer La Consolacion Seafront Development Corporation (LCSDC), will consist of two reclamation types. The first one is an island type with an area of 160.56 hectares while the second type is a foreshore-based type with area of 75.24 hectares.
The lots are separated by a 50-meter waterway to serve as storm drainage outlet of the mainland and provide pathway for small boats to access the sea. Five bridges will be constructed to connect the two lots.
The project is aimed to become a smart city estate. A smart city is a place where traditional networks and services are made more flexible, efficient, and sustainable with the use of information, digital and telecommunication technologies, to improve its operations for the benefit of its inhabitants. It aims for a more efficient use of infrastructure, more informed decision making, more engaged population, and more resilient cities.
Several amenities to be expected include roadways, relocation, mangrove parks, coastal easement, and spaces for utilities. There will also be spaces for industrial, mixed-use commercial, tourist and entrepreneur, mixed-use residential, and institutional use. The institutional area will house government buildings, auditoriums, assembly halls, schools, churches hospitals, civic centers, cultural facilities, and other related sociocultural and institutional uses.
TAKING CONSOLACION TO GREATER HEIGHTS
Traffic congestion has been a long-time dilemma for most people travelling to this part of Cebu. The development of this project will help address these challenges for mobility in the area. Also, it is expected to help increase the internal revenue budget for Barangay Tayud, contribute to the LGU’s economy and that of the province’s too.
Seafront City is anticipated to generate employment to 57,000 to 60,000 and augment government revenue by an average of Php 600million per year.
Furthermore, this project aspires to transform foreshore, offshore and seas within the municipal territorial limits into an international investment, tourism, commercial, residential and economic hub. Given the development changes in Metro Cebu and Consolacion’s close proximity to the 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge Project, full occupancy of Mactan Export Processing Zone (MEPZ), and the alignment of the proposed Mandaue-Consolacion-Liloan Bypass Road, Seafront City is indeed a sure way to boost local tourism and drive economic growth.
PROJECT OPPOSED BY SHIPYARD OPERATORS
At least 10 shipyard operators are opposing the proposed project that would “dislocate dry docks where more than 300 vessels get maintenance and repairs and put at risk their seaworthiness.”
According to Shipyard Association of Consolacion Cebu (SACC) in a letter addressed to Director William Cuñado of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), if the project continues, this means more than 300 vessels will have to look for other places or have to wait for months every year for their vessel to be certified as seaworthy.
“Not only will this greatly affect the shipping industry but will also compromise the safety of the traveling public,” the group added. About 70 percent of the repair and maintenance of the vessels were being done in shipyards in Tayud.
However, Consolacion Vice Mayor Teresa Alegado claimed that only the shipyard operators opposed the project which she insisted would benefit the residents of Consolacion.
Barangay Tayud has a population of 25,000 and at least 25 percent of the people have jobs in the shipyards.
There’s no doubt that Consolacion is the next big thing in the province, alongside other towns of Cebu that are slowly gaining the spotlight not just for natural attractions but also for property and urban development. And while there are still those in opposition for the proposed project, Seafront City is still hoped to bring a better, more progressive Lacion in the years to come.
Photos and renders from La Consolacion Seafront Development Corporation (LCSDC) and Tobes Environmental Consulting.
Lady N, the Cebuana owned clothing brand that celebrities have worn, is known for its authentic and unique staples. From blazers to casual dresses, Lady N aims to go higher and higher in the coming years.
Now, let’s get to know the owner Geraldine Villaver-Salvane as she shares how she first started with her brand, and it is truly an inspiring story!
Q: How did you start Lady N?
A: I started the Lady N journey of 2011 (I was a high school student). In the early stages, I did it for the love of fashion and to be able to buy the things that I want from my pocket. I was a third-year high school and 14 years old back then, and my goal was to earn money and buy many clothes. I started with a capital of 2,000 pesos and first began with pre-order garments to make sure they’re already sold when it arrives. Then, it expanded throughout our place, and during that time, online buying wasn’t very famous, so I had no competition. I sell mainly on Facebook, and my online shop was not Lady N yet, but it was “YoursTruly Geraldine.” I was so understanding and kind to my customers, that is why- many will recommend me to their friends or relatives. (Remember: Customer Service is vital when doing a business- big or small.)
My family was supportive even though there were times that they’re worried that it might affect my studies. I still graduated as a Class Valedictorian, though despite my busy business life (sideline). My high school teachers even became my customers, and it became a routine until I reached college and studied in Cebu. Keep in mind that the people surrounding you are also a significant factor for your dreams’ success.
When I explored a particular mall in Cebu, and got amazed by the boutiques in the place. From there, my dreams and goals changed—- I knew I wanted to have my boutique.
Q: What were the challenges you encountered for Lady N?
A: It was when I reached college. I realized that it was hard balancing out my time. Juggling my studies, projects, and side-hustle was not ideal. From Monday to Friday, I had classes, and on Saturday, I had to go back home to my hometown from Cebu every week – to pack orders and do meet-ups. I realized, yes, I had income, but my body was not happy anymore. I had to travel and fill orders on Saturday at 8–10 am, and by 11–1 pm, I had to do meet-ups. There were times that customers would be late, and I had to wait until 6 pm. When I arrived home, I just slept, and on the early morning of a Sunday, I travel back to Cebu. Unfortunately, I had to stop Lady N for seven (7) months. But I was very thankful because my customers were still there, they were very loyal. It even expanded from Qatar, Singapore, Canada, Jordan, and many other countries. That was the time I was able to ship internationally. I was able to save around 80k in one year. I did not ask for money anymore from my mother for my dormitory expenses and school allowance. Then came another challenge where I had to stop Lady N again because I had to do my on-the-job training in northern part of Cebu, but luckily my mother decided to help. She did my meet-ups for a year, and my sister managed my Facebook account.
Q: From Yourstruly Geraldine, how did it become Lady N?
A: Back in my high school days, it was in my social studies class, and we were talking about Japanese culture and stuff. My teacher explained that the word Nirvana in Japan is “perfect happiness,” so that became the N on Lady N. Lady N embodies a woman of perfect happiness. So that becomes Lady N’s vision, to give women the happiness they deserve and confidence when wearing our products.
Q: What are other moments with Lady N that you want to share?
A: When I became a teacher and started working, I still pursued my online business. My co-teachers also became my customers. Before, I would slip the order to their office table because it was prohibited to conduct business inside the workplace. So, what we did was I would put her order under her table and inform her via text message that her order is already there. After, she would just place the payment on my table.
Q: When was the time you decided to make Lady N a registered business and a brand?
A: Due to my loyal international and local customers and I got a well-paid job, I had saved up money as a capital to work with for Lady N. By 2019, I expanded my dream for Lady N. I applied for a trademark, and it was approved. I could say that the brand name is really for me. It’s meant for me. Also, my husband helps me with my decisions about Lady N.
Geraldine Villaver-Salvane and Jonathan Aaron Salvane
Q: When was the turning point for Lady N?
A: I decided to customize my brand and play with prints and the trends, from casual work outfits to corporate blazers and wide-leg pants.
Q: When did celebrities wear your pieces?
A: It was when a celebrity stylist noticed our brand and reached out. The rest is history.
Kim Chiu
Sarah Geronimo
Gazini Ganados
Alex Gonzaga
Q: What is your message to young entrepreneurs?
A: Remember that the challenges that will come to your life have reasons and purposes. Because those years that I was unable to pursue Lady N – I gained a lot of experiences and moral lessons. It is true that the beginning will always be the hardest. What is important is never to lose sight of your goal and keep hold of what you love. Always level up your dreams. Let my story be an inspiration and a source of motivation for those who doubt themselves. What will make you successful is your burning passion, hard work, and dedication.
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 16, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 261 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 382 new recoveries, and 4 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 31,013, while the active cases dropped to 4,626 (from 4,751).
Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 80.41%.
Breakdown of cases:
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 15,081 (+156 new) – Total recoveries: 11,765 (+155 new) – Total deaths: 717 (+3 new) – Active cases: 2,599
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 3,426 (+23 new) – Total recoveries: 2,762 (+66 new) – Total deaths: 116 (+1 new) – Active cases: 374
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 3,549 (+17 new) – Total recoveries: 2,936 (+45 new) – Total deaths: 177 (+0 new) – Active cases: 610
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 8,957 (+65 new) – Total recoveries: 7,476 (+116 new) – Total deaths: 438 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,043
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 4,626
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 31,013 (+261 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 24,939 (+382 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,448 (+4 new*)
A total of 2,276 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.
Valentine’s Day may have passed, but love is still in the air. Why not? You can always make every day as Valentine’s Day, right?
It is never too late to show your love and affection for you significant other. You can still surprise him/her. Are you still on the lookout for places to dine and chill that won’t hurt your pocket? We got you covered!
Spend an unforgettable day at The TreeHouse. With good food, romantic ambiance, and a live band, you surely can never go wrong.
The Treehouse by Manna Grill in Medellin is the newest food haven in the North. Relive that childhood dream of having your own treehouse while feasting over a gastronomic experience with your significant other, or just yourself.
So, if you’ve failed to celebrate a romantic evening on February 14, it’s not yet too late to hatch up a dinner date. Sweep your significant other off their feet and treat them without breaking your bank. After all, showing your love doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be true.
BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal, ride any bus or v-hire going to Antipolo, Medellin. Bus fare is P180 per person, v-hire is P170 per person. Land travel is 3-4 hours. Ask to be dropped off at the town proper. Once in town, you may hail a tricycle on your way to Balay Kahayag Compound.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Balay Kahayag Inc.” in Medellin. Parking space is available.
BDO clients can now make card-less, QR Code-based withdrawals from select BDO ATMs.
BDO clients can enjoy faster and more convenient transactions, and most importantly, limit the risk of catching COVID-19 since they will touch the ATM surface a lot less.
The new service, he added, will benefit those who are encouraged to stay home for their health and safety.
How to do QR Code withdrawals
To generate a QR Code, login your BDO Digital Banking App. Click on “More” from the options. Select “Withdraw” then “Via QR.” Pick the account, input the amount, and save the QR Code.
Each QR Code is unique to each withdrawal transaction. It is valid for only 24 hours upon generation to protect your account. BDO clarifies though that a Withdrawal QR Code is different from the Account QR Code used to Send Money.
To withdraw, tap “QR Code Transaction” on the ATM screen and allow the machine to scan your QR Code. Pick if you would like a receipt or not, then wait for the machine to dispense your cash.
Currently, there are over 100 QR-enabled ATMs in Makati City. This year, the bank is looking at installing more of these upgraded machines nationwide.
Transcentral Highway is the gateway to reach the deepest, and arguably the best, parts of Cebu Island. It has provided access to both locals and tourists to be able to fully experience all that Cebu has to offer to them. Due to the various benefits that the Transcentral Highway offers to everyone, it is regarded as one of the most revolutionary transportation innovations Cebu has ever made. Through this mountain highway, land trips to a lot of places in Cebu’s central and northwestern parts are faster and easier.
Aside from an efficient travel option, the Transcentral Highway has one of the best mountainside views that travelers can testify to. Long and quiet drives become bearable with the various sights that motorists and drivers will pass through. As a result of the highway attracting many motorists, travelers, and drivers to the tranquil road, many have taken advantage of the charming views which has given travelers to pass by it more often.
Here are 6 new and famous hangout spots with charming views that are worth the long drives.
1. Charlie’s Cup
Charlie’s Cup is a roadside nature cafe hanging by the cliffs of Balamban. It perfectly combines the elements of wood, metal, and glass to give it a refreshing and charming look that makes it blend well with its natural backgrounds.
Have a cup of coffee and experience the simple and rustic vibe that is both pleasant and comforting to the soul. More than just being a chill tambayan, Charlie’s Cup welcomes with wide and open arms fur parents who want to take their fur babies on a trip with them.
Photo by Aligato John Ray of The Island NomadPhoto by Aligato John Ray of The Island NomadPhoto by Aligato John Ray of The Island NomadPhoto by Aligato John Ray of The Island NomadPhoto by Aligato John Ray of The Island Nomad
Exact location: Brgy. Tabunan, Cebu City — just before the “Welcome to Balamban” sign, approx. 1 hour away from the city. It is located along the highway going to Balamban and just a few meters from “21 Kilometers Coffee”.
BY VHIRE: From the Ayala Center Cebu PUV Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at Charlie’s Cup in Brgy. Tabunan. Van fare is around P120 per head (one-way).
2. The Grove by Serenity
A quarantine project of the Tan family that turned into a trendy spot for nature lovers, The Grove is an enchanting Bamboo Park decorated with dazzling lights that complement the relaxing atmosphere which makes the night more magical.
Get ready to experience the magic of the mountains as the sun sets and lights in The Grove start to dance with the swaying bamboos.
MENU:
RATES:
Entrance fee: P200 per person (P100 is consumable for food and drinks)
Movie Nights (Mon – Wed): P250 per person, with buttered popcorn
Exact location: Sitio Tiguib, Brgy. Malubog, Busay, Cebu — approx. 20-30 minutes away from the main road.
BY CAR: (Best option) Parking space available. Just search for ‘The Grove by Serenity’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps.
3. Liel’s Kitchen
Dine outdoors and chill at a restaurant where you can literally hang on a net suspended above the mountains.
Another charming hangout spot by Serenity Farm and Resort, Liel’s Kitchen offers a variety of modern Japanese dishes with a unique way to experience its flavors. As you partake in the refreshing flavors of Japanese cuisine, you can also treat yourself with the panoramic views of the mountains in front and below you.
Photo by Chaste Egay-San Pablo
Photo by Chaste Egay-San Pablo
MENU:
OTHER INFORMATION:
Entrance fee: P100 per head (consumable for food and drinks)
Exact location: Within Liel’s Kitchen by Serenity Farm and Resort, Malubog Busay, Cebu (along Transcentral Highway) — approx. 30 minutes away from the city proper or JY Square Mall.
BY CAR: (Best option) Parking space available. Just search for ‘Serenity Farm and Resort’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps.
4. Chixboy Busay
It’s an undeniable fact that Cebuanos love to eat and Cebuanos are one of those who dominate the food scene in the country. From tasty kwek-kweks on the streetside to fancy dining in restaurants, the Cebuano palate is ready to take in anything that stimulates the taste buds.
For an al fresco dining experience, Chixboy in Busay offers a barbecue dining experience to its customers. Experience eating your barbecue favorites in the presence of stunning views and refreshing backgrounds. There’s no better way to feed a hungry stomach and a soul longing for a relaxing time.
Exact Location: Busay, Cebu City (near Temple of Leah) — 15-20 minutes away from JY Square or the main road
BY HABAL-HABAL: Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike), near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only P100 per head per way – P150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city. Inform the driver to drop you off at the new Chixboy Restaurant (few meters away from Temple of Leah, or show him the map below).
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps, and search for “Chixboy” in Busay. Parking space is available. This is the best option, if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. The road is concrete and well-maintained, but a bit steep so it’s safe to bring your own car.
5. EVO Nature Camp
Nature-lovers will find themselves falling deeper in love with the many wonders of Cebu as they connect and bask themselves in the rejuvenating energy of nature in EVO Nature Camp.
It is a 4.5 hectare adventure camp found in the refreshing lands of the municipality of Balamban. Explore and immerse yourself in the calming beauty of 40,000 bright and vibrant flowering plants and 2,509 pine trees, giant ferns, and mountains of green.
MENU:
RATES:
Entrance fee: P75 per head (with Environmental Fee); FREE for kids 5 years old and below
Includes free use of Board Games: sungka, chessboard, jenga, snake and ladder, etc.
Use of Gazebo: P100 per hour (includes use of hammocks)
Camping:
Own tent: P300 per head
Tent rental: P300 (for 2 pax); P500 (for 4pax); P700 (for 6pax) — rental comes with inflatable beds
Note: Bring your own beddings
Corkage fee applies for food brought
Trekking: P2,500 (for 1-5 pax); P500/excess
Glamping:
Glamping tents are fully air-conditioned and furnished like hotel rooms.
Weekdays: P4,000 per night, good for 4pax with breakfast
Weekends: P5,000 per night, good for 4pax with breakfast
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters before Adventure Cafe; approx. 1 hour drive away from JY Square Mall or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral Highway.
BY VAN: From the Ayala Center Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is ₱120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at EVO Nature Camp in Brgy. Gaas.
BY CAR: Parking space available. Just search for “EVO Nature Camp” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps.
RENT A CAR / TOUR: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
6. Happy Buddha
Cebuanos love dimsum. Cebuanos also love refreshing mountain views. In Happy Buddha, Cebuanos get the best of both worlds with their tasty Dimsum dishes. There’s no better way to experience the mountains of Busay than by having a warm bowl of Dimsum and a refreshing breeze from the mountains.
Exact location: Cantipla, Cebu Transcentral Highway, Busay, Cebu City — approx. 1 hour away from the main road.
BY VAN: From the PUV terminal at Ayala Center Cebu, take a VHire to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at Happy Buddha in Cantipla (near the Strawberry Farm Cantipla). Van fare is ₱120 per head.
BY CAR: If you’re bringing your own vehicle, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Unplug” in Transcentral Highway. Hailing a cab or Grab is not possible, unless you rent a car.
