In compliance with Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) Resolution Nos. 90 and 91, all passengers arriving from the following countries with reported new variant of SARS-CoV-2 shall be prohibited from entering the Philippines through Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) effective 00:01 of December 30, 2020 until January 15, 2021:
Australia
Canada
Denmark
France
Germany
Hong Kong, SAR
Iceland
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Lebanon
Singapore
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
The Netherlands
United Kingdom
Filipino citizens coming from or who had visited any of the above countries are allowed entry to the Philippines but shall be required to undergo a stricter 14-day quarantine period regardless of negative RT-PCR test result upon arrival.
Passengers already in transit and those who have been to the aforementioned countries within 14 days from entry into the Philippines and who arrived before 00:01 of December 30, 2020, shall be required to undergo stricter 14-day quarantine and testing protocols regardless of negative RT-PCR swab test result upon arrival. All passengers are advised to follow health and safety protocols to ensure the health and well-being of all passengers and airport staff.
Oslob is one of the most naturally gifted municipalities in Cebu. It boasts not only some of the most grand beaches but also majestic waterfalls such as Kawasan and Aguinid Falls.
Another stunningly beautiful waterfall that’s worth the visit is the gentle and serene Tumalog Falls.
Photo by @sandywadingan via IG
Unlike Kawasan and Aguinid Falls, the beauty of Tumalog Falls is quite seasonal but be that as it may, its beauty still holds a candle to the other famous waterfalls in the Philippines.
The safest time to visit Tumalog Falls is during the months of January to June, the dry seasons, but drought and other seasonal factors may also make the falls look quite underwhelming. To experience the beauty of the waterfalls at its fullest, it may be wise to visit between the early weeks of the rainy season to have a sufficient amount of waterfall that is safe and properly showcases the beauty of Tumalog.
Von Edward Morningstar
Von Edward Morningstar
Von Edward Morningstar
Von Edward Morningstar
What makes Tumalog Falls stand-out from other waterfalls in Oslob is its sheer size. It stands at approximately 80 to 100 meters in height. Moreover, as the water falls from the top, it hits many rock formations that jut out and creates multiple cascades of water that just looks breathtaking.
The curtains of water are so diaphanous that it easily lets light pass through which makes the falls look like silk over the rocks. The image that it gives when looking from below makes it look so serene and almost holy as it bends the light.
Photo by @joydinio
Photo by @joydinio
Of course the waterfalls aren’t just for display. Like all waterfalls, Tumalog falls create a pool of turquoise waters at the bottom that visitors will find irresistible. It has the perfect depth that’s deep enough to submerge the body but also shallow enough to keep everybody safe. The breathtaking beauty of nature and the splashing sounds made by the waterfall are so hypnotizing and very therapeutic for the mind and the body.
The waterfalls also don’t have many unnatural structures around it except for the road that leads to the falls for the reason that these may destroy the natural beauty of the falls. In this way, visitors are able to witness the untouched and raw beauty of Tumalog Falls.
Before visiting, make sure to check https://discover.cebu.gov.ph or call the Oslob Tourism Office if the falls are already open to the public. As of December 2020, the waterfall has been closed as a precaution to COVID-19.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Fees:
Entrance fee: P20 per person
Opening Hours: 6:00AM – 5:00PM
NOTES:
Bring waterproof bags to protect your gadgets and other electronic devices from getting wet.
The best time to visit the falls during the day is in the morning – less people and good amount of sunlight
Don’t forget to bring necessities such as snacks and water because there are no stores in the vicinity.
Wear water shoes or other non-slip shoes as the ground to the falls are quite slippery.
Pack light.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Corkage fee: None
Oslob Tourism Office: 0922-250-4860
Before visiting, make sure to check https://discover.cebu.gov.ph or call the Oslob Tourism Office if the falls are already open to the public. As of December 2020, the waterfall has been closed as a precaution to COVID-19.
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. From there, ride a bus bound for Bato via Oslob and alight in Brgy. Luka, Oslob at the crossing of Tumalog Falls. Ask the locals where you can ride habal-habal or motorcycle taxis. A one-way trip to the falls costs around P30 and P50 for a round trip.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Tumalog Falls” in Oslob. There is a space for parking near the falls but you will still need to walk for about 15 minutes to reach the falls area.
Today, December 29, the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) will start accepting patients.
In the evening of December 28, the Cebu City Government led the inauguration of the first three floors of the new CCMC building and the lighting of its new logo. The city officials also announced that starting 8AM of December 29, the hospital’s Out-Patient Department (OPD) will be operational.
Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella said that in order to decongest the patients in the old CCMC, they will be opening the OPD first.
“We will be doing it (the hospital’s operations) gradually. Within a few weeks, hopefully our emergency, other wings and departments (can operate). The important thing is we have started,”
– Cebu City Mayor Edgar Labella
Yvonna Cania, CCMC administrator, said the OPD in the new CCMC, located just across the old CCMC could accommodate around 250 to 300 people.
The CCMC construction started in 2015 with 10 storeys after it was demolished in 2014 following the declaration of it being condemned in 2013 when a 7.2-magnitude earthquake drastically affected the islands of Cebu and Bohol.
Cebuano beaches are already enchanting but tying a myth or legend to the majestic views makes visiting them much more magical. One of these beaches can be found in Dalaguete’s Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort.
Visit the Southern town of Dalaguete and be filled with wonder as you visit a famous destination from the stories-of-old: Dakong Bato.
Known as the docking place of Maria Cacao’s ship of gold from old stories and myths, Dakong Bato now serves as the landmark that marks the entrance to the municipality of Dalaguete and to the Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort as well.
Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort is a multi-tiered resort seemingly carved onto the cliffside roads of the southern town with each level of the resort presenting a different perspective of the ocean’s beauty.
Enhancing these beautiful views are refreshing spring water pools that will surely offer total relaxation. One of the pools comes with a slide that kids will enjoy and a Jacuzzi for a therapeutic dip for the adults.
The beachfront is also open to those who prefer swimming in seawater. There are various cottages facing the sea that offer shade and protection from the sun plus tables and chairs for a dine-by-the-sea experience but guests can also whet their appetites by visiting the Big Rock Cafe.
Other features of the resort include a karaoke bar, spacious gazebos, and a restaurant that serves a variety of dishes to complement the tropical atmosphere. There are also function halls that can accommodate up to 50 to 100 persons and are perfect for meetings, seminars, trainings, and the like.
Other than that, the resort has multiple picture-perfect spots for those Insta-worthy snaps such as viewing decks overlooking the ocean and swings for feeling the breeze.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
ENTRANCE FEE:
Adults: P100 per head
Kids (3-12 y.o.): P75 per head
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, additional fee of P25 if beyond hours
COTTAGE RATES:
Large Cottage: P500, good for 25 persons
Small Cottage: P300-P400 depending on the location, good for 12 persons
North Gazebo: P2,500, w/ videoke and good for 50 persons
South Gazebo: P1,500, good for 30 persons
CORKAGE FEES:
Adult: P50 per head
Kids: P25 per head
Whole Lechon: P500 per lechon
Imported Liquor: P100 per bottle
ROOM RATES:
Seaview Barkada Type Room w/ Veranda: P5,390, good for 8 persons
Seaview Room with Balcony (King Beds): P3,300, good for 2 persons
Seaview Family Room: P5,390, good for 8 persons
Family Room w/ Loft: P4,840, good for 8 persons
Quad Room: P3,300, good for 4 persons
Triple Room w/ Veranda: P3,300, good for 2 persons
Seaview Room w/ Terrace: P1,980, good for 2 persons
Seaview Room w/ Balcony (Queen Beds): P3,300, good for 4 persons
Seaview Air-Conditioned Room w/ Balcony (3 Queens): P3,850, good for 6 persons
Seaview Air-Conditioned Room (Queen): P2,420, good for 2 persons
Seaview Room w/ Balcony: P3,300, good for 2 persons
Seaview Air-Conditioned Room w/ Balcony (1 Queen): P2,970, good for 2 persons
Seaview Air-Conditioned Room w/ Balcony (2 Queens): P3,850, good for 4 persons
Seaview Air-Conditioned Room w/ Veranda: P4,180, good for 3 persons
Seaview Air-Conditioned Room w/ Large Balcony: P4,950, good for 6 persons
Air-Conditioned Roomfor 2: P2,970, good for 2 persons
Air-Conditioned Room for 10: P6,050, good for 10 persons
Sea View Air-Conditioned Room (King): P3,300, good for 2 persons
NOTE: Rates may vary depending on the season and may change without prior notice. It’s best to contact the resort directly for bookings.
NOTE: Outside food not allowed for checked-in guests
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. From there, ride a bus bound for Dalaguete or will pass by the municipality. Ask the driver to drop you off at Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort. The resort is just by the road so it is easy to spot.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Dakong Bato Beach and Leisure Resort” in Dalaguete. Parking space is available upon arrival.
Cordova, the municipality situated below Lapu-Lapu City, has been one of the beautiful places to visit in Cebu. Along its seas is a rich and diverse marine ecosystem, and now, we are progressing our way to access this island easier through the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).
Cebu has always aimed to be better and aim further, envisioning a brighter future for its people. This bridge is one step to fulfilling such a wish.
The CCLEX that will connect the municipality of Cordova with Cebu City is implemented by the Local Government of Cebu City together with the Municipality of Cordova. It costs approximately 27 Billion pesos. The project began last July 5, 2018 and it is still under construction, but it has made astounding progress as the bored piles for the foundation have been completed.
Project Brief:
Cable-stayed main span: 390 m
Total Length: 8.5 km
Number of lanes: 2 x 2 (total of 4 lanes)
Height of bridge: 51m (nav. clearance); 145m (tower height)
Concession Period: 35 years
Design Speed: 60 kph (at Approcahes) 80kph (at Main Bridge and Causeway)
The new bridge will give Cordova direct access to Cebu City and is envisioned to decongest the traffic in the two existing bridges and provide faster link between Mactan island and mainland Cebu. The facility has a design speed of 60 to 80 kilometers per hour (kph).
The project is right on schedule and is expected to be completed by August 2021. It is said to help boost the economy of the entire Visayas region as well as reduce the traffic between the main bridges connecting Lapu-Lapu and the mainland.
This will surely help bring not just the Cebuanos but the whole Visayas closer. Let us all cheer on this ambitious project.
UPDATES
As of January 18, 2021
TOWER 2 COMPLETED. The Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) Tower 2 has reached its final height. CCLEX has finished concreting the CCLEX pylon on the Cordova side. The completed pylon stands 145 meters.
As of January 6, 2021
CCLEX PEDESTRIAN FOOTBRIDGE. Pedestrians will have access to the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) through a pedestrian footbridge. The photo below shows ongoing construction of the almost 200-meter pedestrian footbridge beside the Cebu South Coastal Road (CSCR). The footbridge will start near the U-turn slot of the South Road Properties’ welcome tower and will connect to the on ramp sidewalk of the CCLEX. Sidewalks will be provided in the entire stretch of the 8.5-kilometer toll facility.
As of December 23, 2020
Just before the year ends, CCLEX finished all the piling works in the entire stretch of our 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) project through sub-contractor Trevi Foundations Philippines Inc. They have driven 494 piles. Trevi, a worldwide leader in the field of soil engineering, is responsible for the installation of deep foundations in the different segments of CCLEX.
As of November 27, 2020
CCLEX CROSS. CCLEX started the installation of the cross on top of the pylons of the CCLEX’s main bridge. The cross, one of the iconic features of Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway, will be 40 meters tall and lighted on all four sides at night. It symbolizes Cebu’s significant role as cradle of Christianity.
As of July 2020
CCLEX: “Our team is currently concreting the portal frame at the Cebu South Coastal Road (CSCR) connection. It is the white structure that is encircled in the engineering render that comes with this post. The concreting of the frame is the reason why we needed to close the area to traffic. We will reopen it tonight (July 19) after we are done with this needed construction work.”
As of December 2019
The construction of the 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is now at 47.32 percent, almost halfway through for its 2021 completion target date.
In the north of Cebu is a perfect destination that defines what it means to take a pit stop in life.
Aside from the fact that it is just beside the road, Grotto at KM49 is a serene seaside resort that provides a relaxing retreat to guests who stopover.
They have facilities for brief, day-use stopovers and they also have accommodations for longer stays. Whichever the guests choose, they will definitely find the experience to their liking.
The general area of the resort is covered in the green of various plants both present in and out of the resort. It contributes greatly to the relaxing atmosphere and natural ambiance that guests look for in resorts.
The resort has both a grassy patch and a sandy beach plus the small portion where the grass and sand meet. The ocean isn’t directly accessible and is barricaded with a raised ledge that separates the resort from the water during high tides.
On top of some of the ledges are native cottages that possess a magnificent view of the ocean and some parts of the island of Cebu where the shore extends. It is the perfect place to rest on a bright sunny day after taking a refreshing swim in the sea.
The inside of the resort is also fully equipped with basic facilities such as shower areas, fully functioning comfort rooms, an outdoor kitchen, as well as a clothesline where guests may hang their wet clothes for drying.
SeaSalt Cafe
SeaSalt Cafe is the latest addition to Grotto at KM49 and is designed for passers-by who want to take a moment to appreciate the magnificent views of glistening waters and blue skies. They serve food that properly complements the gentle sea breeze and improves the seaside experience.
The interior is purely made of wood with simple designs that don’t steal the spotlight from the views but are still pleasing enough to look at. Seasalt Cafe just adds more reason for Catmon visitors to pass and stop by KM49.
Photo by Rice Dayalin
Photo by Rice Dayalin
Photo by Rice Dayalin
Photo by Rice Dayalin
Photo by Rice Dayalin
Photo by Rice Dayalin
Photo by Rice Dayalin
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
SEASALT CAFE MENU:
Fresh Fruit Shakes
Iced Juices and Teas
Coffees and Teas
Rice Meals
Beer and other drinks
DAY USE:
Entrance fee: None as of writing
Business Hours: 6:00AM – 4:00PM everyday
SeaSalt Cafe Hours: 6:00AM – 7:00PM Wed-Sunday, Half-day on Mondays and closed on Tuesdays
COTTAGES AND OTHER FEES
Round Table: P300, good for 2 persons
4 persons: P500 per day
6 persons: P1,000 per day
8 persons: P1,000 per day, w/ extra table
Videoke Use: Free, just bring your own microphone
NOTE: Air Conditioned Rooms are temporarily closed as a precaution to COVID-19
Exact location: KM49, Catmondaan, Catmon, Northern Cebu — approx. 2 hours away from the city and just located beside the road.
BY BUS: Take a bus going to Catmon and let the driver/conductor know that you’re dropping off at ‘Grotto at KM49’ in Catmon, few meters away ahead of Turtle Beach Resort.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Grotto @ KM49” in Catmon. Parking space is available upon arrival.
A heart-warming Christmas story has unfolded in a small barangay in Sibonga, South of Cebu.
A stray black dog guided a stranger to a dumpsite to help save a newborn baby boy’s life.
Junrell Fuentes Revilla was driving his motorcycle in the mountain barangay of Magkagong on Christmas when the said dog followed him, barking, trying to get his attention. Sensing that the dog was trying to tell him something, Revilla stopped his motorcycle and followed the dog to a grassy area of a dumpsite.
There he found the baby boy wrapped in a brown towel, his umbilical cord still hanging from his navel with the placenta placed on a black plastic.
Police Master Sergeant Venus Tampos of the Sibonga Police Women and Children Protection Desk said the dog is among five stray dogs that frequent the dump site.
The baby is safe and now under the care of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office while authorities are still searching for the mother of the child.
They are calling on the public to report to the police if they know anyone who may have delivered a child but does not have a baby with her.
This incident gives light to the importance to communicate and educate the youth about teenage pregnancy and how to avoid it.
Cebu is lined with many pristine sand beaches at its hem but with so much beaches to explore, some people start looking for something new.
Villa Priscilla is a great relaxation destination that can serve as an alternative when sandy beaches aren’t doing the trick anymore. It is a private resort in Barili that gives guests a private space to hang out together and to be able to enjoy the beach resort fully to themselves.
This private resort’s general atmosphere is a combination of calm and soothing. There is an ample amount of flora present within the vicinity for that subtle touch of nature and of course, a scenic view of the ocean. On the way to the bamboo cottages are pebbly grounds that provide a different kind of beach experience to the guests.
The cottages are situated just a few steps from the beachfront and have the standard bench and table for meals after a fun dip at the salt waters. The beachfront has an unobstructed view of the sea that extends up to the horizon. At times when the tides are low, the resort has a swimming pool that offers the same picturesque views.
The resort also lights up quite brightly at night with a series of small lanterns hung on the branches of the surrounding trees for an enchanting effect. It contrasts quite nicely with the pitch black ocean and brings life to the entire resort. The pebble grounds sometimes become the event center for celebrations and other occasions. There’s even a stage that’s ready to accommodate the performers.
Their accommodations are meant to be occupied by groups or small families which encourages everybody to bond with one another when not swimming or ambling around the resort. There is also an outdoor kitchen where the guests can prepare their ingredients and cook meals.
Villa Priscilla is equipped with everything that can be expected in a typical resort plus their pebbly grounds that provide a different kind of charm to the guests.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Fees:
Swimming Pool Access: P300 per person, for checked-in guests only
Bahay Kubo: P2,000 (day use)
Pavilion: P3,500
Outdoor Kitchen: P500
Private Boat: P1,000
Room rates:
Barkada Room: P3,500 per night, good for 4-6 persons
Family Room: P5,000 per night, good for 4-6 persons
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. From there, take a bus that’s bound for Barili, Cebu. Travel takes around 2-3 hours so be sure to prepare enough food and snacks for the ride. There’s signage just by the side of the road for the resort so keep your eyes peeled once the bus is in Barili. You may also ask the driver to drop you off at VIlla Priscilla Private Resort or Tujan Beach if he is familiar with the place.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Villa Priscilla Private Resort” in Barili. Parking space is available upon arrival.
Nature trips are often solo travels that people do in order for some soul-searching or ruminating.
Although nature trips are something that is only commonly done alone, Eskapo Verde has made it possible for big groups of up to 40 to be able to experience basking in nature.
Eskapo Verde is a secluded getaway in Badian, Cebu hidden that offers a relaxing escape from the bustling city. It is the perfect destination for company outings, seminar-trainings, or just simple getaways due to the spacious accommodations and facilities available in this hidden paradise.
At first glance, no one would expect a paradise such as this to exist in the midst of thick and abundant mangroves. Although camouflaged as well as surrounded by the verdant ocean trees, Eskapo Verde makes sure that their establishment does not interfere with existing ecosystems in the area and even uses it as a way to promote its protection.
Ironic in a way that the protection of the natural surroundings is done through the erection of an establishment but it serves its purpose by letting the guests experience and appreciate its beauty. Furthermore, a portion of the profit goes into developments and projects that help in the preservation of the existing marine biodiversity.
Behind the verdant thickets of mangroves is an unexpected collection of buildings made from native materials such as wood, bamboo, and nipa roofs. This seaside accommodation boasts of seaside views and plentiful amounts of ocean plants that both create a space of peace and relaxation.
The accommodations available are 4 rooms with each capable of hosting 10 people as well as private rooms for couples. There is also an open-air restaurant that lets guests dine in the presence of nature while feasting on variety of Filipino and Asian dishes.
Moreover, if guests feel like getting much more closer to nature, they have water activities such as Paddle Boarding and Kayaks that allow guests to explore a little bit of the mangrove maze.
Eskapo Verde not only offers the best way to get in touch with nature as a group but also allows guests to contribute to the protection of the surroundings through their bookings.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
No entrance fee. There is a restaurant and accommodation facilities inside the property.
ROOM RATES:
Mixed Dormitories: P650 per person per night (maximum of 10 persons)
Private Cottage: P3200 per night, good for 2 persons
Family Cottage: P3800 per night, good for 2 adults and 2 children
BY BUS: Find your way to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Take a bus that’s bound for Badian and ask the conductor to drop you off at Eskapo Verde or at PD Road in Brgy. Bugas. There is a signpost indicating the location of Eskapo Verde. Follow the signs to find the place.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Eskapo Verde” in Badian. Parking space is available upon arrival.
Let me tell you; whether or not you have found a soulmate, it won’t hurt to find what the next year has in store for everyone’s relationship.
Love’s importance in our day to day life is something we should never under-estimate. It is the universal language spoken by everyone, with immense emotions and sentiments. Hence, learning about what the future has in store for us is vital.
While everyone is so eager to get away from 2020 because of all the mishaps, 2021 is not too different, especially when it comes to relationships.
2021 is the Year of the Metal Ox and is predicted to be the year of break-ups for those who are in a relationship.
“It could bring a lot of misunderstanding and miscommunication, especially in couples,” said Marites Allen, dubbed to be the ‘Queen of Feng Shui’.
“The South-Southwest direction has the number 3 argumentative star, while the northwest has the number 7 star, which means there will be difficulties with the patriarch,” she added.
“The bottom-line is that 2021 may perhaps see the separations of couples,” Marites stressed.
However, apart from this prediction, there is also something that we should look forward to – 2021 is the “year of vaccines.”
“It’s a ‘metal’ year, so it’s a year of vaccination because of the metal element. The metal aspect is the needle,” said Marites.
Furthermore, these are the zodiac signs she has seen to have a good 2021:
Rabbit
Ox
Tiger
Horse
Rooster
On the other hand, these zodiac signs would need to prepare for a challenging year ahead:
Rat
Boar
Sheep
Dog
Dragon
Snake
However, the Queen of Feng Shui has said that they are not fortune tellers, “We are just offering them guides on what the general atmosphere may bring,” she ended.
