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7 Mountain-Top Restaurants with a view in Busay

The mountain top of Busay has always been revered for its majestic view of Cebu City and the comfort that it gives to those who visit. It serves as a sanctuary for the weary and exhausted Cebuanos.

So, it comes as no surprise that many people set up shop along the sides of the mountain to take advantage of the attraction and give people more reason to visit the place. The most common establishments are those that sell food because everybody knows that food and drinks are best paired with the great view and of course some good company.

1. Top of Cebu

Top of Cebu is a two-tiered restaurant that is an extension of the famous Cebu Tops and serves as its dining counterpart.  This is perfect for those looking for something more than just a casual hangout spot.

Its first floor is still perfect for chill get-togethers such as family reunions while the second floor caters more to formal settings. They offer both Filipino and International dishes so everybody has few options to choose from.

Their Zomato rating is 3.9 stars out of 5.

MENU

OTHER INFORMATION

Exact location: Brgy. Busay, Cebu Transcentral Highway, Cebu City – just beside the popular Tops Lookout (20-30 minutes drive from JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City)

Read more: https://sugbo.ph/2018/top-of-cebu-restaurant/

2. Balay sa Busay

Nothing hits closer to home to Filipinos who eat in Balay sa Busay. It has a rustic Filipino-inspired interior and their main dish is a plate of nostalgia for Cebuanos and Filipinos. They mainly serve favorite Cebuano-Filipino dishes which were developed by their specialist with a few of her personal touches. Their foods are reasonably priced which is why it is the best place for tourists to immerse in Filipino culture through their stomachs.

On the first floor, the dining room is connected to an open balcony with a hillside view. The upper floor is an azotea that gives a better view of the hills. There are also function rooms which still has a view of the hillside which is perfect for medium to big groups. Balay sa Busay can accommodate up to 200 people.

Balay sa Busay has a Zomato rating of 3.9 stars out of 5.0

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

BEST SELLERS

  • Paboritong Sisig ni Tatay – P245
  • Pancit-Batil-Batong – P359
  • Pomelo salad – P212
  • Honey Chili Crablets – P185
  • Lechon Tinola ni Lolo – P475

MENU:

OTHER INFORMATION:

  • Opening Hours:               
    • 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday to Thursday
    • 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Friday to Sunday
    • Note: Temporarily closed due to the pandemic
  • Contact Numbers: (032) 354 7169 / 0917-712-9816
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BalaySaBusay/

Exact location: Brgy. Busay, Cebu Transcentral Highway, Cebu City — along the road on the way to the popular Tops Lookout (20-30 minutes drive from JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City)

Read more: https://sugbo.ph/2018/balay-sa-busay/

3. Cabanas

Cabanas is a treehouse hangout spot that’s a combination of a “tambayan” and a restaurant. It is the perfect place for small groups. All of their activities are perfect for casual conversations as well.

They have a chess table, billiard pool, lounge, and even swing sets. The ambiance of the place is just perfect for dates or catching up with close friends.

They still capitalize on the mountain’s city view with tables in an open hillside area. Their dishes are limited to breakfast specials and “silog” meals but they are very light on the pocket and still enough to fill an empty stomach.

Walk-in Guest Fee: P150 / head

MENU:

  • Pork Sisig: P150
  • Pork Barbeque: P25 per stick
  • Chicken Sandwich: P60
  • Tempura: P70
  • Hotdog on a stick: P25
  • Cheeseburger: P60
  • Chicken Pork Adobo: P150
  • Batchoy: P60
  • Lomi: P80
  • ‘Silog’ meals: P50

*Prices are subject to change without prior notice

OTHER INFORMATION:

  • Contact numbers: 0927-150-4286 / 0917-174-6694
  • Facebook Page: N/A

Exact location: 1711 Tops rd, Busay, Cebu City — just beside Balay sa Busay

4. Mr. A Bar and Restaurant

Mr. A Bar and Restaurant has a chill atmosphere for fun nights with close friends and families. It is one of the cheaper restaurants that’s perfect for budget night outs. The dishes they serve are from Italian and Filipino cuisine. The place can accommodate small to big groups of people who are just looking for a low key get-together. Customers will love experiencing candlelit dinners on the hillsides while eating their pizzas and pastas. Aside from a wonderful view of the city, their other selling point is the videoke that Filipinos love so much.

Mr. A’s has a Zomato rating of 3.5 stars out of 5.0

MENU:

OTHER INFORMATION

Exact Location: Lower Busay Heights, Busay, Cebu City

5. La Vie in the Sky

La Vie in the Sky isone of the most elegant restobars in Busay that offers the same “wines and dining” experience as La Vie Parisienne.

It stays true to its name with its glamorous French aesthetic and takes customers on an imaginary trip to Paris – only this time it comes with a view of Cebu City.

It has a Zomato rating of 3.6 stars out of 5.0.

Other information

Exact location: Brgy. Busay, Cebu Transcentral Highway, Cebu City — along the road on the way to the popular Tops Lookout (20-30 minutes drive from JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City)

Read more: https://sugbo.ph/2018/la-vie-in-the-sky-cebu/

6. Delice Recipes

Dates will never go wrong in Delice Recipes. The romantic atmosphere of the place plus the city lights will bring couples closer together. The interior of the restaurant is simple yet elegant which gives couples a luxurious experience.

They mainly serve Mediterranean which is perfect for dates as well. The food here is one of the best in terms of presentation, quality, and reasonable pricing.

Delice Recipes has a Zomato Rating of 4.0 stars out of 5.0.

MENU:

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Contact Number: +63 906 4258799
  • Facebook Page: N/A

Exact Location: Upper Veteran’s Drive, Barangay Busay, Cebu City — beside Balay sa Busay and Cabanas Busay.

7. Busay Green Canopy

The Busay Green Canopy is unique in that it does not have a view deck with tables but instead traces the slope of the mountain which makes it blend with nature especially with the various flora planted in every level.

The terraced design of this restaurant is not meant to stand out but instead immerse visitors in the energy of the mountain that in a way gives the exact feeling of dining in nature.

The preserved form of the mountain combined with the view of Cebu really helps establish the feeling of being away from the city that eases the mind and body.

MENU

OTHER INFORMATION

Exact location: Cebu Transcentral Highway, Busay, Cebu City — a few meters away from the outer corner of Mountain View Nature’s Park.

Read more: https://sugbo.ph/2018/busay-green-canopy/

Soon to rise: New Cebu International Container Port in Consolacion

The New Cebu International Container Port – one of President Duterte’s flagship projects under the Build, Build, Build Infrastructure Program – has commenced in Tayud, Consolacion, Cebu.

The New Cebu International Container Port (NCICP) is a ₱10.1-billion project that will cover 25 hectares of reclaimed land in the town of Consolacion.

₱8.8 billion of the total cost will come from a loan agreement between the Philippine Government and the Export-Import Bank of Korea which was signed in June 2018 and another ₱1.4 billion will be provided by the national government.

It has experienced delays mostly due to lacking clearances and the COVID-19 pandemic but it is set to commence upon completion of the consultancy work according to the head of the Cebu Port Authority.

Render from Oriental Consultants

Long-term solution

The new Cebu International Container Port is seen as a long-term solution to the congestion problems of the current Cebu International Port (CIP). Upon completion of the project, the current CIP will be converted into a domestic port while the NCICP will cater to international cargoes coming in and out of Cebu.

Aside from decongesting the base port, it is also expected to improve the transport infrastructure system for the unimpeded flow of goods and services in the Visayas.

The new port will have a berthing facility with 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, as stated in multiple news articles.

Timeline

June 2018: PH and South Korea’s Export-Import Bank signed an P8.8 billion loan agreement for the project. The Korean bank gave the national government until October 2018 to start the project.

February 2019: In an article, it was reported that DOTr had yet to secure clearances from the Philippine Reclamation Authority and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

January 2020: The Department of Transportation issued the notice of award for the consultancy services of the project to South Korea-based Yooshin Engineering Corporation.

August 2020: Cebu Port Authority (CPA) says new Cebu international container port could start this year.

CPA General Manager Leonilo Miole reported that consultancy works for the project were “currently ongoing”. If deadlines are met, then the construction of the project may start in a few months according to the head of Cebu Port Authority.

Take a trip to Valentin Farm Resort in Consolacion

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From its name, all kinds of love can be spent here at Valentin Farm Resort.

Photo by Cherry Belle Callelero

The most common form of love Eros, which is romantic love, yet it can also be for affectionate love with your barkada, i.e. Philia, or familial love, i.e. Storge.

You can rent the whole place and it is all yours for the day! It has a spacious area fit for large groups of people, so be sure to bring your loved ones over.

Pool & Bar

It has a cool and refreshing infinity pool overlooking the mountains with a maximum depth of 6 ft. and alongside it a poolside bar and gazebo for some drinks and a chill place to hang.

The resort also has its own videoke to sing your hearts out and let the stress float away from your soul through music.

It also has a billiard deck for those who enjoy playing a bit of billiard to calm themselves up.

The resort even has its own kitchen and rooms you can stay in if you choose to stay here overnight.

Indeed, it is a good place to dive in and disconnect from the digital world as the whole place is surrounded by trees and nature. However, be sure to ready yourselves on the fact that there is no signal here to truly become one with Mother Earth.

For children, there is even a playground that they can run around in, but it could also be a playground for you and your team if you ever come here for teambuilding. Yes, it is also a good spot for teambuilding with your officemates and workmates as the lot is spacious enough.

Rates & Other Information

Day Use:

  • Day Use Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Rate: ₱5,000 per day, good for 10 pax

Note:

  • +₱350 per excess adult, +₱150 per excess child between 4-12 years old, +₱100 per excess child 3 years old and below.
  • not inclusive of rooms.

Overnight Use:

  • 1st Package: ₱10,000, 6 pax, 3 rooms (2 pax per room)
  • 2nd Package: ₱10,000, 14 pax, rooms with army bunkers
  • 3rd Package: ₱8,000, 8 pax, entire house with kitchen

Additional fees:

  • +₱650 per excess adult,
  • +₱300 per excess child between 4-12 years old,
  • +₱150 per excess child 3 years old and below.
  • +₱2,000 for unlimited karaoke

Note:

  • Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 12NN the next day
  • ₱1,000 incidental fee is required which is refundable during checkout
  • 50% down payment and a guest list is required
  • The resort does not accept walk-ins. You need to contact them beforehand to reserve the place.
  • Pets are not allowed in the resort

Other Information

How to get there?

Exact location: Sitio Taya, Brgy. Polog, Consolacion, Cebu — approx. 1.5 hour away from Cebu City.

BY JEEPNEY: From SM City Cebu, you can ride a jeepney 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 Valentin Farm. Average fair is around P50-P80 and make sure that you negotiate with the mentioned price.

Note: Riding a public jeepney and/or habal-habal may not be possible under community quarantine. It’s best to go there with your own vehicle.

BY CAR: Navigate with Google Maps or Waze then set the destination to “Valentin Farm Resort” in Consolacion. Parking space is available.

GCash, PayMaya, Banks to charge fund transfer fees starting October

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We will have to pay for convenience starting this October.

While most Filipinos are still coping with the financial crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that started in Wuhan, China, most Philippine banks and e-wallets GCash and PayMaya will start charging online bank transfer fees starting on October 1, 2020.

When these companies announced this news, many netizens expressed dismay as most people have been relying on these platforms for digital transactions, now that ‘cashless’ payments are highly encouraged.

While banks have been charging bank transfer fees pre-COVID times, this is the first time GCash and PayMaya will be charging fees for select digital transactions.

GCash

As of this writing, GCash has not yet disclosed the corresponding fees of online bank transfers. But users can now see the note on the app that says “Starting October 1, 2020, a PHP15 fee will be charged per transaction.

  • GCash Send to Bank (Bank Transfer): ₱15 per transaction
  • Bank cash-in: None for partnered banks
  • GCash to GCash: None

PayMaya

Here’s the updated list of charges and fees on PayMaya transactions starting on October 1.

SEND MONEY

TRANSACTIONCHARGES AND FEES
Send Money
PayMaya to PayMaya
Free
Send Money
PayMaya to Smart Money (v.v)
1.5%
(Sender pays)
Bank transfer via the PayMaya appPhp 10.00*
*Effective October 1, 2020
Send to bank account via ATM ( IBFT via ATM)Php 15.00*
*Effective August 1, 2020

ADD MONEY

TRANSACTIONCHARGES AND FEES
Add Money via over the Counter (OTC) Channels(Add Money Channel is not mentioned below will remain free of charge until further notice.)Convenience Stores7- Eleven (Convenience fee will be paid upon add money)Ministop (Waived fees until further notice)Self-service KiosksTouchPayeTapPay & Go

Mall / Supermarket / Department StoresRobinsons Department Store Business CentersSM Store Business CentersGaisano CapitalRemittanceTambuntingRD PawnshopPalawan ExpressPera HubOther PartnersLBC ExpressECPayBayad CenterPos!bleDigipayiBayadSmart Stores
1%*
*Effective October 1, 2020.
Fee shall only apply once you have exceeded Php 10,000 Add Money threshold within the month.
Add Money via Smart Padala Centers A service fee worth Php15.00 will be changed for Add Money transactions up to Php1,000.00.Additional Php7.50 will be charged for every additional amount up to Php500.00.
Add Money via Bank – BDO Over-the-CounterFree until further notice
Add Money via Bank AccountFree until further notice
Add Money via Instapay / PESONetFees vary depending on sending bank / financial institution

ATM WITHDRAWAL AND BALANCE INQUIRY

TRANSACTIONCHARGES AND FEES
ATM Witrawal
Bancnet
Php 15.00*
*Additional fees may apply depending on the bank ATM
ATM Witrawal
Landbank
Php 5.00
ATM Witrawal
International
USD 2.00 – USD 5.00*
*Additional fees may apply depending on the bank ATM
ATM Balance InquiryPhp 2.50

BILLS PAYMENT

TRANSACTIONCHARGES AND FEES
Bills PaymentPhp 0.00 – Php 20.00*
*Varies per biller. Exact biller fee is shown and applied during transaction confirmation

MAINTAINING BALANCE

TRANSACTIONCHARGES AND FEES
Maintaining BalanceNo Fees

PH BANKS

LIST OF BANKS TO CHARGE FEES ON OCTOBER 1

These banks will now charge for online transactions made through InstaPay, PESONet, etc.

  • BDO Unibank, Inc.
  • Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company
  • Bank of the Philippine Islands
  • Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation
  • China Banking Corporation
  • Bank of Commerce
  • Robinsons Bank Corporation
  • Philippine Savings Bank
  • PayMaya Philippines, Inc.
  • G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI)
  • China Bank Savings, Inc.
  • Philippine Bank of Communications (extending its P1.00 fee due to system constraints)
  • Equicom Savings Bank, Inc.

LIST OF BANKS WAIVING FEES UNTIL DECEMBER 31

Below are the banks that extended the waived fees until December 2020.

  • Union Bank of the Philippines
  • Asia United Bank Corporation
  • Land Bank of the Philippines
  • Development Bank of the Philippines
  • Security Bank Corporation
  • Sterling Bank of Asia, Inc.
  • Standard Chartered Bank
  • East West Banking Corporation
  • United Coconut Planters Bank
  • Maybank Philippines, Inc.
  • Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (waived for retail; for corporate – reduced from P150.00 to P50.00 from July 1, 2020)

Until further notice:

  • Philippine National bank
  • MUFG Bank, Ltd.
  • CTBC Bank (Philippines) Corporation
  • Bank of China Limited – Manila Branch

Expree: Cebu’s Newest Homegrown Delivery App Designed for Startups

Searching for the best gastronomic experience has never been easier. Satisfy your cravings for Cebu food with just a few taps on your phone through this new yet reliable homegrown food delivery app, Expree.

Proudly a Cebuano brand, Expree is the newest online food and grocery delivery app that aims to give you the best service in rates that slide right into our budget.

You can now place orders at local restaurants, fast food chains and supermarkets via the Expree mobile app on iOS and Android devices whenever and wherever you are.

Here’s a list of its key features that would make you click install in no time.

HOMEGROWN RESTAURANTS

Nothing beats our homegrown food when it comes to our cravings. Cebu’s roster of orgasmic food is growing every day. Expree even helps you keep up with the food trend and allows you to support and buy local food.

With over 550 Cebu brands available on Express (and new ones are added everyday), you’ll never go hungry and run out of choices.

USER-FRIENDLY

Expree boasts a simple and very user-friendly interface. It only takes four (4) steps from downloading the app to registering an account and ordering your favorite food.

For a start, simply download the ‘Expree’ app on the App Store or Google Play and the app will just guide you with the rest!

LOW DELIVERY FEE

The standard delivery fee of Expree is only P49 for the first 4km radius and just P10 per km or a fraction thereof after 4km.

Good news! From September 25 to October 31, 2020, Expree offers an introductory delivery fee of P10 only!

MORE ACCURATE LOCATION READING

“Asa dapit inyo mam/sir?” Sounds familiar? One frustrating downside of deliveries in general is the geo-location which causes drivers to call you and ask for more specific directions. Expree tries to address this pesky problem with its unique, integrated five-map GPS system that allows users to get more accurate location readings. They also secured seasoned professional drivers who know the in and out of Cebu.

FASTER ACCEPTANCE OF BOOKINGS

Having more than 200 available drivers certainly gives you the security that your food will be booked as soon as you click, and delivered fast and safe.

The Expree drivers are also trained to give you the best customer experience.

BECOME A PARTNER MERCHANT

Whether you are an established restaurant or a new food startup, Expree will help you reach more people online. They have easy merchant registration and an amazing dashboard to help you get started.

The better news is, they have no registration fee, no exclusivity contracts, and no commissions! Register now at www.expree.ph.

For updates and special promos, make sure to follow Expree on Facebook and Instagram.

Basta express food delivery, EXPREE! Ato ni!

Project update: Cebu BRT to partially operate by end 2021

The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, a P16.3 billion project, is set to start its first phase and partial operations by December 2021. The technical working group for the said project only has this month (September) to finalize its study and design.

The said project is a component of the planned Integrated Intermodal Transportation System (IITS) in the province of Cebu. Initiated by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), this project seeks to integrate a monorail system, a cable car system, and the BRT to provide efficient transportation and answer the worsening traffic in the province of Cebu.

This project is funded by the World Bank and Agence Francaise de Development and its project implementation is spearheaded by the DOTr and NEDA.

Project Phase

The BRT project has 2 phases. The first phase will span from N. Bacalso Avenue (located near the South Bus Terminal) up to the Provincial Capitol through the Osmena Boulevard. Whereas the second phase of the project, which traverses Bulacao, Talisay City (southern part of Cebu) to Talamban. (Northern part), is targeted to be fully operational by March 2022.

Photo from InfoCebu
Photo from InfoCebu
Photo from InfoCebu

Project delays

The Cebu BRT has already seen delays in the actual project implementation. Originally, the first phase was supposed to start last October 2016, only to be reset to December 2017, and eventually to January 2020.

Now, it seems that the project will be further delayed to December 2021.

With this, Congressman Raul del Mar of the Cebu City North District has recently made an appeal to the DOTr and NEDA to hasten the badly needed BRT project. He said that it seemed like the project has been stuck in the very slow bureaucratic process, with the said project already failing twice to meet its targeted deadlines.

According to del Mar, had the project only followed the original timelines, it would have been fully operational already on the first quarter of this year, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

A recent report from the DOTr claimed that the BRT project is still undergoing review of its engineering design. Afterwards, only then can the DOTr proceed with the procurement process. The Commission on Audit (COA) has likewise flagged the project for delays in implementation.

In COA’s 2019 consolidated report last September 8, 2020, the BRT project has already incurred a P29.48 million of commitment fees dating back from 2015 to 2019 due to the delays.

BRT Stations renders

Check out these artist renders of the proposed Cebu BRT stations by a famous Cebuano furniture designer, Kenneth Cobonpue.

BRT to partially operate by end 2021

Despite all these delays, Cebuanos are still very hopeful for the successful project implementation in order to address the worsening traffic not only Cebu City, but in the neighbouring cities and towns as well.

Cebu BRT will focus its operations initially in the south of Cebu and will be operating buses that will serve in preparation for the BRT’s operation.

The first phase of Cebu BRT is scheduled for completion by end 2021.

7 Amazing Projects in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu’s Growing Bud

Cebu has been doing well recently in the industrial world as it pushes more and more innovations for all to experience, and indeed many of them became successful. One of its growing buds is the projects along the South Road Properties (SRP) as it welcomes locals and foreigners alike with new and exciting ventures.

Let’s take a step back and look at all the wonders that have been built as well as the future plans and projects of the SRP.

1. SM Seaside, Cebu’s biggest mall

With its majestic tower peeking through the clouds and its wavy design pattern of its windows, SM Seaside truly captivates the hearts of the Cebuano people. Constructed back in 2015, the mall now holds the record of the third largest mall in the Philippines and the ninth largest mall in the whole world. The mall contains 700+ shops within, making it one of the best shopping experiences.

2. Pedro Calungsod Church with an iconic design

an Pedro Calungsod, who was officially canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012, has been adored by many Filipino catholics for his nobility and his dedication to his faith. To honor him, a church constructed back in 2012 was named after the saint near SM Seaside. Now, it attracts many churchgoers to SRP.

The church can comfortably sit 803 people. It has a Baptistry, an Adoration Chapel, a Multi-Purpose Area for various activities and meetings of the parishioners as well as a Children’s Room where children can stay while the mass is ongoing.

This beautiful church is SM’s gift to the Filipinos in honor of our first Cebuano saint, San Pedro Calungsod.

3. Cebu Ocean Park: VisMin’s first Oceanarium

Cebu has just recently been honored to have the largest aquarium in the Philippines: Cebu Ocean Park. Full of a variety of different-colored fishes and menacing-looking sharks, it is an underwater adventure worth taking. It is expected to host more and more fine specimens in their aquarium, so don’t miss it!

Rates:

  •  Journey Experience
    • ₱600 per head on weekdays
    • ₱800 per head on weekends per head for adults and kids.
    • Children below 2ft are free of charge.
  • Sea Trek – ₱1,200
  • Crocodile Cage – ₱2,000
  • Fish spa – ₱100 per 20 mins.
  • Swim w/ the Sting ray – ₱1,000

Other Information

4. Il Corso: Cebu’s Resort-style Mall

ilcorso-lifestylemall-cebu
Photo by Caloy Ramirez

Filinvest’s Il Corso brands itself as a lifestyle mall that will cater to your lifestyle needs. The mall has just opened recently and thus does not contain much just yet, but it will indeed provide more services in the near future. Right now, there are restaurants available so drop by and feel the luxurious lifestyle.

  • Regular mall hours: 7AM to 10PM daily
  • Contact number: (032) 232-0085

5. Seaside Arena: Cebu’s largest indoor arena

Official render

Back around 2017, there were talks of making an arena in SRP but was foiled by politics. Now, Mayor Edgar Labella has brought back once again the idea of an arena back in October during his 100 Days of Service speech, to which he calls it the Seaside Arena.

It will have a seating capacity of 16,000 and is expected to be completed by 2025.

  • Groundbreaking date: January 29, 2020
  • Target completion date: 2025
  • Location: Near SM Seaside City Cebu

6. Isla dela Victoria: Cebu’s integrated casino-resort

Isla dela Victoria is a world-class development under construction on Kawit Island. It has been invested 25 billion pesos and is already approved by Mayor Edgar Labella. It will include restaurants, malls, casinos, parks, and more. Right now, it is the biggest project in SRP and will surely be an amazing sight to see.

  • Location: South Road Properties, Cebu City (near IL Corso)
  • Groundbreaking date: August 21, 2018
  • Target completion date: Q4, 2021

7. CCLEX: Cebu’s longest bridge

CCLEX CSCR on ramp & off ramp
CCLEX CSCR on ramp & off ramp

The P30-billion project which will beef up Cebu’s road network to provide motorists safe and comfortable travel experience, is also expected to help spur economic growth and boost investments not just in Cebu City and Cordova Municipality, but also in the entire Cebu Province and Visayas region.

Among the iconic features of CCLEX, which is envisioned to be among the landmarks in Cebu when finished in 2021, is a lighted cross on all four sides on top of the two 145-meter tall main pylons.

As of August 2020, the construction of the 8.5-kilometer Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is halfway through for its 2021 completion target date.

  • Location: South Road Properties, Cebu City (near SM Seaside)
  • Groundbreaking date: January 8, 2018
  • Target completion date: Q4, 2021

Cascades Nature Park: Lush green paradise in Compostela

Make way for Compostela’s newest attraction!

Cascades Nature Park is a perfect mix of scenic natural landscapes and high-end amenities. Taking pride as Compostela’s largest outdoor venue for practically any event you can think of, Cascades Nature Park sure is gonna give your dream event a green touch.

They just had their soft opening last September 15, 2020, and while some of their amenities are still being finished, their pool and lake are already available for use.

Cascades Nature Park can cater to any large event – garden-themed weddings and reception, team buildings, concerts, debuts, and photoshoots – you name it! Over 6 hectares in size, Cascades Nature Park has a lot of amenities.

This includes an islet located in the center of a lake (perfect spot for exchanging of vows). You can go fishing in the lake or rent out a kayak, paddle board, canoe, or a pedal boat. They also have a 600-square meter swimming pool (one of the largest in Cebu) for pool lovers.

Amenities:

  • Huge swimming pool
  • Water Activities
    • Kayaks
    • Paddle Boards
    • 3-person canoe
    • Pedal Boat
  • Unique Island
    • Island in the middle of our Lake
    • Perfect stage for weddings, concerts, or performances
    • Seating surrounding the outside of the lake with a perfect view of the island
  • Large Open Fields
  • Bar and Grill
  • Games
    • Boche Ball
    • Volleyball (coming soon)
    • Soccer
    • Playing Cards
  • Big Lake with Fishing
    • Walking Path – 285 Meters around the Lake
    • Casitas and Cabanas
    • Central Island – The perfect stage for any event!
    • Water Activities
    • Fish include: Tilapia
  • Private Cabanas
    • Up to 10 People per Cabana. Good for Day use only; not valid for overnight stay.
  • Covered Facilities

Cascades Nature Park can be booked for exclusive events but non-exclusive reservations are accepted too.

Day passes are available for those who want to enjoy the amenities for a day. Take note that interested guests must make a reservation first before going to Cascades Nature Park. For now, they are limiting visitors to 150 at a time. Same-day reservations for daytime passes are also allowed.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE:

  • Adults: P200 per head
  • Children: P160 per head (for children ages 3-12, seniors, PWDs)
  • 2 years old and below: FREE
  • Day pass entrance fees are inclusive of parking fee, tables and chairs, and use of all public facilities including the swimming pool and lake

COTTAGE FEES:

  • Casita (poolside or lakeside): P500 (good for 6 people; day use only)
  • Cabana: P1,000 (good for 10 people)
  • Shade tent: P250 (only for use in open field or lawn)

Other fees:

  • Kayak: P150/hour
  • Paddle board: P150/hour
  • Canoe: P200/hour
  • Fishing: P200/kilo (black tilapia); P450/kilo (orange tilapia); bring your own fishing poles.
  • Fish feeding: P10/bag

Note:

  • Outside food is allowed. But the management requires the visitors to take home and dispose their garbage properly. Guests are encouraged to bring their own trash bag.
  • Alcohol from outside are not allowed. You can buy at their bar.
  • Loud music in the pool or lake area is not allowed.
  • To make a reservation for weddings, corporate events, team buildings, concerts, and other celebrations, contact them with the links below.

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: St.Francis Subdiviision, Barangay Magay, Compostela, Northern Cebu — approx. 1.5 hours away from Cebu City.

BY COMMUTE: From SM City Cebu, you can ride:
– Vhire going to Danao ETT: 1 hour and 10 minutes Fare: ₱50
– Or jeep going to Danao (27 = Jeep Number) Fare: ₱20-25
…just tell the driver to drop you off at “Skina Buluang”.

From there, there are motorbikes or halal-habal and tricycles at the skina, tell them that you’re going to “Cascades Nature Park”. Fare is ₱10-20 per head.

BY CAR: Head on to Compostela and stop at Magay Elementary School. Right across the school is the St. Francis Subdivision. Enter the subdivision and drive straight through the pawn shop. Upon arriving at the pawn shop, make a left turn and you will see Cascades Nature Park.

LOOK: New premium black taxis in Cebu

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Have you seen those sleek black taxis roaming around Cebu?

Yes, you’ve heard it right. Taxis. Premium taxi service that are part of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

These premium taxis have started operating in Cebu to answer the need of riding in a safe, comfortable, and reliable public transport service. This program aims to provide a reasonably priced option with high-end safety and comfort features.

Black Taxis with Silver and Gold markings

Premium taxis are classified into two types: silver and gold. The color classification is determined by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in consideration to displacement or power rating, leg room, luggage compartment and many more.

Silver markings

Flagdown Rate: P50

Passengers:

  • 4 passengers for Sedan;
  • 6 passengers for Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPV); and
  • 7 passengers for Utility Vans (UV)

Gold markings

Flagdown Rate: P60

Passengers:

  • 4 passengers for both Sedan and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV)
  • 7 passengers with pilot seats for the Utility Vans (Premium)

Modern Taxi Features

  • Free internet access for passengers,
  • Closed circuit television (CCTV)
  • On-board navigation system (GPS) or Global Mobile Satellite System (GMSS).
  • A ride-hailing service app (Grab, MiCab, Hirna, and Hype)
  • Dashboard and occupancy cameras with continuous recording of the past 24 hours of operation.

Score items for P199 at this Forever 21 branch in Cebu City

Now that more people are allowed to go out and more workers have reported back to the office, we may need new clothes or outfits to wear for different occasions. But with the pandemic going on, you might also be looking to shop for new stuff without spending too much.

Good news! SM City Cebu announced on its Facebook Page that Forever 21 – SM City Cebu is on End-of-Season sale where you can score fashion items for as low as P199.

Here are some photos posted from SM City Cebu FB Page:

Forever 21 at SM City Cebu is open from Mondays to Sundays, 10AM to 8PM, at the 2nd Level, The Northwing.

When going out, make sure to observe the following:

  • Quarantine pass or Certificate of Employment (COE) is required to enter the mall.
  • Must wear a face mask and face shield at all times.
  • Observe physical distancing.

Also don’t forget to wash your hands frequently and disinfect thoroughly as soon as you get home.

For orders and inquiries, you can contact them at (032) 520-2969 or 0936-106-9571. You can also order via SM City Cebu’s Pabili service: gosm.link/SMCC_PS_YourCityShopper

For updates, you can follow the official Facebook Page of SM City Cebu (Official).

https://www.facebook.com/smcitycebuofficial/posts/4753483954676597