On January 20, 2021, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade shared the infrastructure projects of Cebu. This was done during the inauguration of the new LTFRB-7 building.
The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and the Cebu Monorail are some of the major projects in the province expected to partially operate before the year ends.
Proposed Cebu BRT
The BRT’s construction will start in April 2021 to help decongest the traffic in Metro Cebu after the procurement for its construction has been approved for P16.5 billion.
On the other hand, the Cebu Monorail’s P77.57 billion project is also set to partially operate before the year ends.
From Philtram Transportation Consortium Inc.’s study of Metro Cebu’s monorail project
The head of the Cebu Provincial Traffic Management Board, Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, has been focused on addressing the issues to ease the traffic congestion in the Province of Cebu.
The solutions they have implemented are:
No-left turn, no-crossing
Extended truck ban hours
New schedule of releasing cargo from ports
Garcia expressed her gratitude to DOTr and LTFRB 7 for all of the projects and support to Cebu and committed assistance, if needed.
“The only way that I could possibly express my thanks not just in words but in deed so allow me to commit a 101-percent support to the needs of LTFRB-7 in whatever way we can help,”
– Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia
Apart from the aforementioned, Tugade also shared the ongoing construction of a taxiway at the Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA). This is set to be completed by February 2021. Upon completion, DOTr is set to also build a second runway at the airport and is expected to be completed before May 2022.
“Ano po ang kahalagahan ng taxiway and second runway? Ito po ay magpapalawig at magpapabilis ng take-off at landing (ng mga eroplano), madadagdagan yung bilis, in other words, mapapalawig yung biyahe ng turista ng taga Cebu, ng mga Pilipino at kung sinu-sinoman maglalakbay sa Cebu,” he said.
Experience the serenity of the pristine Lambug Beach when staying at the humble Grandeur Beach Resort.
Grandeur Beach Resort is one of the few accommodations lining the fine, sandy shores of Lambug Beach. Experience the beach at your doorstep when staying in Badian and get cradled by the lulling sounds of the sea.
With a cozy abode located exactly on the beach and just a few meters from the sea, taking a dip at the waters of the beach is as easy as walking out of the door, literally.
Grandeur Beach Resort is a typical cozy house that’s built over the sands to accommodate tourists and travelers who want to experience the Boracay of Cebu. Aside from not being too crowded, it also has a stunning view of Negros Oriental on the other side. And best of all, it has easy access to the long stretch of fine, white sand of Lambug Beach.
It has 16 basic rooms that the guests can use for relaxation. It doesn’t have free breakfasts or food service at the resort but they have a kitchen that can be used for free by those who stay in. Usage of the kitchen already includes the use of dining utensils, refrigerator, and cooler.
For groups who want to grill by the beach, there’s an outdoor grill that they can also use. Snacks and drinks are easily available at the sari-sari store located just beside the house.
For a cozy and comfortable stay in Lambug Beach, Grandeur Beach Resort offers a fully equipped accommodation by the beach to suit the needs of every guest.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ROOM RATES
Air Conditioned Rooms
Beachfront Aircon: P2,000-P3,000 per night, depends on rooms size
Standard Aircon: P2,500 per night, good for 6 persons
Family Aircon: P3,000 per night, good for 6-7 persons
Fan Rooms
Standard Fan: P1,500 per night, good for 6 persons
Beachfront Fan: P2,500 per night, good for 7 persons
OTHER INFORMATION:
Corkage fee: Corkage for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from the outside
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. From there, ride a bus that’s bound for Badian. It takes 3 hours to travel by bus from Cebu City to the Badian Town Proper. Upon arrival, you may ask the driver or conductor to drop you off at Badian Public Market or in the crossing to Lambug Beach. There are many tricycles and motorcycles for hire (habal-habal) that can take you to the nearest landmark to the beach.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Grandeur Beach Resort” in Lambug, Badian. For parking needs, inform them ahead of time so that they could reserve a space for you. The parking area is not exactly at the resort but is close enough.
On Friday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of January 22, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 132 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 18 new recoveries, and 1 new death. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 24,888, while the active cases rose to 1,539 (from 1,426).
Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 88.16%.
Breakdown of cases:
📍 Cebu City – Total confirmed: 11,634 (+54 new) – Total recoveries: 10,234 (+2 new) – Total deaths: 701 (+0 new) – Active cases: 749
📍 Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 2,787 (+7 new) – Total recoveries: 2,541 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 112 (+0 new) – Active cases: 134
📍 Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 2,889 (+31 new) – Total recoveries: 2,529 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 172 (+0 new) – Active cases: 188
📍 Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 7,528 (+40 new) – Total recoveries: 6,638 (+16 new) – Total deaths: 422 (+1 new) – Active cases: 468
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 1,539
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 24,888 (+132 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 21,942 (+18 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,407 (+1 new*)
A total of 3,136 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.
IT Park is the I.T. Capital of Cebu but to most Cebuanos, IT Park serves as one of the most vibrant landmarks in Cebu and hosts some of the best nighttime destinations in Cebu. When asking Cebuanos about nightlife, IT Park will always inevitably be part of the conversation.
Aside from being a hangout spot, IT Park is actually a focal point for I.T. companies and related services and hosts over 70 percent of Cebu’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. Due to this, many Cebuanos actually depend on the growth of business in the park for them to keep their jobs.
The large concentration of working Cebuanos in IT Park is actually the biggest reason that there are many nighttime restaurants in the park since many of them get out after graveyard shifts.
Working or not, IT Park attracts many Cebuanos to its lively nights and is out to give everyone the time of their lives. Get your best outfit on and explore the top 5 destinations in I.T. Park:
1. Sugbo Mercado
Sugbo Mercado attracted many foodies during its opening last September 2015 and today, it still stands as the most popular weekend food market in the city.
With a variety of stalls serving different kinds of food, eating enthusiasts will surely have a blast exploring the many delicacies in the market. There are several stalls to satisfy everyone’s cravings from Filipino and Cebuano food to International cuisines such as Japanese, Thai, Indonesian, and many more.
Sugbo Mercado is the one-stop shop for hungry stomachs and the best place to be during payday.
New normal opening hours: 3PM to 11PM, Wednesdays to Sundays
Exact location: Garden Bloc @ Cebu IT Park
2. Ambiance Bar
Ambiance Bar is definitely one of the places to go to for – you guessed it – the ambiance. It has such a vibrant atmosphere that draws every passerby to its lively lights and music.
It’s a chill hangout spot where friends can gather and have drinks together. It also has the perfect atmosphere for meeting new people and making new friends.
New normal opening hours: 2PM to 11PM daily
Exact location: Garden Row, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City (in line with Coffee bean, Boy Zugba and Sachi restaurant near AyalaMalls Central Bloc and The Walk)
One of the most head-turning features of The Pyramid is its awe-inspiring architecture. It has such a captivating appearance that just looks elegant at every angle.
More than just being a stunning beauty, it is actually a restaurant that serves various favorites such as pizza, pasta, salads, and drinks. The Pyramid is definitely the best place to take loved ones on a date with their luxurious vibes and fusion cuisine.
New normal opening hours: 3PM to 10:45PM daily
Exact location: Garden Bloc, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City (near Sugbo Mercado)
4. Pipeline Bar & Grill
Pipeline Bar & Grill is the life of the night in I.T. Park. It’s a place for party enthusiasts to enjoy and unwind with a selection of various beverages.
Enjoy and drink the night away with your close friends while enjoying the lively atmosphere. For those who prefer having wholesome drinks, they also have non-alcoholic beverages that pair well with scrumptious appetizers.
Whether it’s drinking, partying, or having fun, Pipeline can definitely give it all.
New normal opening hours: 2PM to 11PM daily
Exact location: Garden Bloc, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City (near Sugbo Mercado & The Pyramid)
Photo by Michael Audrey Jacobe SagonoyPhoto by Michael Audrey Jacobe SagonoyPhoto by Michael Audrey Jacobe SagonoyPhoto by Michael Audrey Jacobe Sagonoy
5. Ayala Malls Central Bloc
Ayala Malls Central Bloc is home to many of the most famous I.T. Park destinations including the ones mentioned above.
Aside from serving as a host to various top-of-the-line restaurants and bars, the Central Bloc is also an expansive garden enclave with a relaxing and energizing space not only for the office workers but for anyone looking for a place to take a break.
The verdant and charming gardens surrounding spread over the park is a great place to take someone for a date. After visiting the various restaurants and jumping from bar to bar, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to take a leisurely walk on the stone footpaths.
New normal opening hours: 10AM to 9PM daily
Exact location: Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu IT Park, Cebu City (across Sugbo Mercado)
HOW TO GET TO CEBU IT PARK?
Exact location: Cebu I.T. Park, Lahug, Cebu City — 15-20 minutes away from Ayala Center Cebu, 30-45 minutes away from SM City Cebu.
BY TAXI/BUS: If you’re already in Cebu City, just hail a taxi cab or ride a bus that’s going to IT park. IT Park is quite big and easy to get lost in so it would be best to know your destination before going out.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “I.T. Park” in Cebu City. Multiple parking spaces are available within the park.
Barrio Uno is a rustic roadside bar in Tabogon that makes long drives to the municipality bearable. It’s the perfect spot to stretch and re-energize with their various choices of food and drinks.
The design of this unique pitstop is a Bahay-Kubo-inspired architecture with an open space dining that highlights the lush and thriving flora of Tabogon.
With Tabogon being kilometers away from the bustling city, its typical probinsya vibes with numerous trees occupying the side of the streets than houses makes it the ideal place to set up an open-area dining that blends easily with the natural surroundings. Be one with nature with their distinct native furniture and exterior that feels 100% pinoy in every angle.
The food they serve are also Cebuano-and Filipino-inspired which makes local visitors feel very much at home. It is also a welcome and satisfying food trip experience to tourists who want to familiarize themselves with the Filipino culture.
They have certain Filipino favorites such as humba and the Cebuano special, Siomai sa Tisa. A hot, sunny day wouldn’t be a problem with a quick fix of their refreshing smoothie bowls that gives the right acidity to balance the heavy main dishes.
Visitors and passers-by will leave with more than just a full belly as they experience the authentic Filipino and Cebuano culture through their mouth and soul.
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu North Bus Terminal. Ride any bus bound for Bogo, Daanbantayan, or any north-bound Ceres Bus and tell the driver to drop you off at Ilihan, Tabogon.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Barrio Uno” in Tabogon. Roadside parking is available upon arrival.
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 January 21, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 126 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 60 new recoveries, and 1 new death. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 24,757, while the active cases rose to 1,426 (from 1,361).
Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 88.56%.
Breakdown of cases:
📍 Cebu City – Total confirmed: 11,635 (+60 new) – Total recoveries: 10,232 (+47 new) – Total deaths: 701 (+0 new) – Active cases: 702
📍 Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 2,778 (+13 new) – Total recoveries: 2,541 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 112 (+0 new) – Active cases: 125
📍 Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 2,857 (+12 new) – Total recoveries: 2,529 (+4 new) – Total deaths: 172 (+0 new) – Active cases: 156
📍 Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 7,487 (+41 new) – Total recoveries: 6,623 (+9 new) – Total deaths: 421 (+1 new) – Active cases: 443
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 1,426
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 24,757 (+126 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 21,925 (+60 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,406 (+1 new*)
A total of 3,031 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.
Argao is a go-to destination in Cebu when it comes to beaches and getaways. It has many attractions that are perfect for exciting activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities.
Baluarte de Argao Beach Resort serves as one of Argao’s greatest assets because aside from stunning seaside views and relaxing beach escapades, it is also home to a portion of the history of Argao. Its historical significance is already evident in the Spanish-style structure that greets the guests as they enter the resort.
Photo by Rio Oyangoren
Aside from its structure, there are also surrounding buildings such as the Saint Michael the Archangel Church which was established around October 16, 1733 – one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. The historical scenery of Baluarte de Argao is definitely something that fits the tranquil atmosphere of Argao.
The historical structure of Baluarte de Argao also serves as a quaint background in the front lawn especially during events. They host various events such as wedding receptions, birthday parties, reunions, and more so event planners can include Baluarte de Argao in their list. Outside of events, Baluarte de Argao is just a regular seaside accommodation with a little twist from the past.
Baluarte de Argao Beach Resort wouldn’t be much of a beach resort if it wasn’t beside the sea. The beach is easily accessible from the rooms and guests could go back and forth without any problems. The rooms are just beside the actual Baluarte de Argao.
Its lower floor has been converted into a restaurant that gives a unique dining-in-the-past experience for the guests as it is surrounded by antiques and old decors.
A few steps away from the rooms is also a garden complete with chairs and tables where everyone can spend a relaxing time just enjoying the view of the beach and the ocean breeze.
Photo by Abbee Sungahid
For a relaxing getaway and little piece of the past, Baluarte de Argao Beach Resort is definitely the place to be.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
DAY USE:
Entrance fee: ₱100 per person, w/ cottage use
Swimming fee: P50 per person
No corkage fee
ROOM RATES:
Air conditioned Room: ₱1,700 per night, good for 2 persons
Non-air conditioned Room: ₱1,000 per night, good for 2 persons
Family Room: ₱3,500 per night, good for 4 persons
Additional Persons: ₱250 per person
EVENTS:
Rental: ₱3,500 for 50 persons
Electricity: ₱2,500
Additional Persons: ₱50 per person, 6 years old and above
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. From the terminal, ride a bus bound for Bato via Oslob or any bus going to the south and will pass by Argao. Ask the driver to drop you off at Suba, Poblacion in Argao and ask the locals for directions going to the resort.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Baluarte de Argao Beach Resort” in Argao. Parking space is available upon arrival.
One water sport that is steadily gaining popularity now is freediving. It’s slowly taking over the gram and our feed. So what exactly is freediving?
Freediving is a water sport that uses a person’s ability to dive and explore the underwater world using a single breath without the use of a breathing apparatus. Instead, it relies solely on the use of proper breathing and equalization techniques that will allow the diver to safely go deeper over time.
Diving in vibrant coral forests like those in Moalboal, Alegria, Santander, and Mactan will give you a different kind of peace and escape. I know, it’s quite tempting to head on to the beach now and dive but the proper and safe way to doing this would be to enroll in an introductory class on freediving.
Photo by Niccolo Stevens
Bohé Freediving 101 Class
“I always tell my students to focus on getting the technique right first; Depth will always follow,” – Jojo Tajanlangit II, Bohé Founder and Head Freediving Instructor
Bohé which means water in “Badjao” language is a homegrown freediving brand that emphasizes safety above all else. Beginners must invest in a proper Freediving 101 class especially if you’re planning to dive to depths under -10 meters.
Experiencing freediving myself | Editor Marel BaluyosPhoto by Wii Lauron
This water activity is not without its dangers. Without proper training or if you’re simply relying on “Youtube University” to learn, a diver can succumb to blackouts or loss of motor control reflex (LMC) , while in water.
Bohé creates a safe and controlled environment that focuses on proper freediving technique above all else.
Class Itinerary
1.5-hour lecture
Freediving introduction
Breathing techniques
Equalization techniques
Freediving gears
Safety signals
Two-hour open water regulated line dive
Apply and understand the basic physiology and techniques of freediving
Feet first and Head first line dives
Note: Advanced courses and training sessions available for those who want to go deeper, or compete.
Dive with a Tribe
“Safety in community.”
Bohé has also established a Freediving Community that can assist those interested in freediving into the sport easily as well. In the community, you can connect with previous Bohé students, discuss technique and challenges, trade gear, and schedule fun dives.
Finding and joining a freediving community is essential in ensuring your personal safety. Diving with a buddy or buddies ensure that you have someone who can potentially rescue you during water emergencies.
Freediving Gears
Bohé Freediving offers custom gear, weekend freediving classes in Mactan, and certification courses for those curious about or deeply interested in freediving.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES:
RegularRate: P2,000 per person
February 2021 Promo Rate: (15% discount):P1,700 per person, minimum of 4 persons (rate includes BOHE active dry shirt)
Exact location: Kontiki Beach, Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu — approx. 45-60 minutes away from Cebu City.
BY CAR: Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Kontiki Marina” in Lapu-Lapu City. Parking space is available.
BY VAN/JEEPNEY: – From SM City, ride a 01K jeep (across APM Mall or near Sun Gold) going to Parkmall. Or ride 01K jeep from Emall. – From Parkmall, ride a jeep heading to MEPZ 1. From there, ride another jeepney going to Soong/Maribago. Drop off near Bluewater Maribago Resort where you can find tricycles. From there, ride a tricycle that will bring you to Kontiki Dive. *There are also jeepneys going to Soong from Mandaue City highway at Caltex, across San Miguel. *You can also ride a v-hire from Ayala Center Cebu or SM City Cebu going to Mactan Cebu.
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 January 20, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 124 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 37 new recoveries, and no new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 24,631, while the active cases have surged to 1,361 (from 1,273).
Cebu’s recovery rate is now at 88.77%.
Breakdown of cases:
📍 Cebu City – Total confirmed: 11,575 (+60 new) – Total recoveries: 10,185 (+21 new) – Total deaths: 701 (+0 new) – Active cases: 689
📍 Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 2,765 (+7 new) – Total recoveries: 2,541 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 112 (+0 new) – Active cases: 112
📍 Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 2,845 (+16 new) – Total recoveries: 2,525 (+0 new) – Total deaths: 172 (+0 new) – Active cases: 148
📍 Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 7,446 (+41 new) – Total recoveries: 6,614 (+16 new) – Total deaths: 420 (+0 new) – Active cases: 412
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 1,361
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 24,631 (+124 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 21,865 (+37 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 1,405 (+0 new*)
A total of 2,615 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.
On Sunday, January 10, the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corporation (CCLEC) confirmed their intention to extend their bridge project to Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA).
“Yes, our company would like to pursue this project to extend CCLEX up to the airport,” said CCLEC President and General Manager Allan Go Alfon told Daily Tribune.
He added that “The skyway roughly is 7 kilometers but all are still for refinement on alignments, costs included. We’re most confident of getting support from Mayor Ahong (Chan) of Lapu-Lapu City as we look forward to collaborate with him and his team closely.”
On the other hand, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan has also mentioned that a skyway will be built to link Cordova and MCIA.
“Imagine, from SM seaside at the South Road Properties (SRP) in Cebu City to Mactan airport, you would travel in just 15 minutes,” Chan said of the skyway’s benefit.
“Timeline to start hopefully in 2 or 3 years, once all government legal and documentary requirements met,” Alfon revealed.
Once built, this bridge will help in decongesting the traffic situation of Sergio “Serging” Osmeña Jr. and Marcelo Fernan going to and from the MCIA.
Currently building the 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Exchange (CCLEX), CCLEC is a member of the MVP Group of Companies and is a subsidiary of the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC).
As of October 2020, the bridge is 63.43% close to being fully-built and completed.
