Pisher Outdoor Cebu is not your typical outdoor equipment store. Aside from catering to the outdoor equipment needs of Cebuano adventurists, they also offer activities that will allow you to experience nature. This place truly lives up to its name and is worthy of a visit for nature lovers out there.
Located in Balamban, Cebu, Pisher Outdoor offers a wide array of high-quality outdoor equipment. Items that they sell include kayaks, spearfishing materials such as mask bags, mahogany spearguns, underwater lights, wet suits, diving masks, and a lot more. Their spearguns are locally-made, so buying these products is a way of supporting the locals.
What makes Pisher Outdoor unique is aside from offering this equipment, they offer a Kayak Cruise Experience or a beach experience for those who want some chill time by the beach. This location in Balamban has recently been attracting a lot of locals who want to have some barbecue and beer by the beach or go kayaking in the nearby mangrove area.
Overnight camping is also allowed (just bring your own tents!) They also offer a boating tour from Balamban to Asturias and back. And to complete your typical Pinoy beach getaway, they have a karaoke and a grilling station in the area. Other activities that Pisher Outdoor offer include diving, river fishing, and spearfishing.
For those who are looking for durable outdoor equipments and at the same time, a relaxing nature escape, Pisher Outdoor Cebu should be on top of your list.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Day use:
Entrance fee: None
Cottage fees: P200-P300 per day
Other information:
Opening hours: 10AM to 5PM daily
Other optional fees:
Kayak rental: P200 (big kayak), P150 (small kayak) per hour
Exact location: Langsub Bay, Nangka, Balamban, Cebu
BY BUS: Head on to Cebu South Bus Terminal and ride a Calvo bus bound for Balamban. Fare is around P100-P120, one-way. The bus will stop at the Balamban terminal and from there, ride a tricycle going to Pisher Outdoor in Langsub Bay. Fare is P50 per head one-way.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Pisher Outdoor” in Balamban. Parking space is available. If you’re coming from Cebu south, it’s best to take the Toledo route. If from Cebu City, take the Transcentral Highway and if from Cebu north, take the Tabuelan route.
A new cement facility worth ₱15 billion will replace the current production line at Taiheiyo Cement Philippines, Inc. (TCPI) in San Fernando, Cebu.
This after its mother company in Tokyo, Taiheiyo Cement Corporation (TCC), approved the project that will increase its capacity from 2,500 tons of clinker per day to 6,000 tons, or some three million tons of cement a year by mid-2024.
President Duterte welcomes the deal as he shook the hands of Ichiro Egami, TCC director and managing executive officer, during his visit to Tokyo last Oct. 30, 2017 in the presence of (from left) then Economic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano and other Japanese business leaders.
It was on Oct. 30, 2017 when Shuji Fukuda, then TCC president and now chairman of the board, committed this investment to President Duterte and Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez during a state visit in Japan.
“TCPI will construct a state-of-the-art production facility, incorporating Taiheiyo’s high-level technology and experience to contribute to meeting the strong demand for cement in the Philippines,” its statement said.
Demand for cement in the country, the company estimated, increased by 30 percent from 2015, reaching 32 million tons by the end of 2019, with TCPI contributing seven percent of the demand.
While demand shrunk this year because of the coronavirus pandemic, the October 2020 World Bank East Asia and Pacific Economic Update expected it to rise again with strong gross domestic product (GDP) recovery, estimated to be at +5.3 percent next year.
A recent Taiheiyo investment, what used to be the Electrostatic Precipitator (center with inverted pyramid funnels below) of Taiheiyo Cement Philippines, Inc. has been converted to a Bag Filter Dust Collector that now operates at 99.9 percent efficiency.A view of the current TCPI plantA view of the current TCPI plantThe current TCPI kiln that will be replaced.
Since 2014, the Mandaue City Government has been focusing its attention on rehabilitating the former Umapad Dumpsite which was left derelict and filled with piles of trash.
In the pursuit of environmental sustainability, Mayor Jonas Cortes spearheaded the development and transformation of the Umapad Dumpsite into Mandaue Green Learning Park.
The journey of transformation for the dumpsite began when Engr. Marivic Cabigas, head of the Department of General Services (DGS), was appointed as the landfill manager and was tasked to convert it into a green space where the residents of Mandaue City would be able to gather and enjoy a breath of fresh air. She mentioned that the first year was the hardest when she had to withstand the putrid smell emanating from the dumpsite and dealing with the different pests present in the dumpsite.
The first step to rehabilitation was fencing the perimeter of a 2-hectare area and levelling off the mountains of trash before covering the ground with healthy soil. After cleaning up the area, the replacement soil was planted with seeds of different plants and trees. This continuous effort eventually bore fruit as the once-repulsive land is now thriving with the verdant grasses and trees.
HELPING OUT THE RESIDENTS
The conversion of the dumpsite, although a positive change for Mandaue, was problematic for the residents who relied on scavenging as a source of income. Many of the residents living near the site were outraged when they heard that their only form of livelihood was going to disappear.
Engr. Cabigas said that aside from convincing the residents to find other and better sources of income, she was more worried about the children who weren’t provided with any proper education due to their financial difficulties.
To solve this, Engr. Cabigas tapped the City Social Welfare and Services to build a daycare center in the area. Fortunately, she was also able to find a teacher who, not only was willing to teach the children, but also understood their struggle as she used to be a scavenger as well. Currently, the former dumpsite community was already able to produce five student achievers who are now studying in Cebu’s Major Universities.
After successfully rehabilitating 2 hectares of the 10-hectare dumpsite, the government proceeded with expanding the levelling off of garbage to more than just two meters. This action prompted them to relocate the affected residents with the assistance of some individuals who offered financial aid to bring the residents back to their home provinces.
After the relocation, only 115 houses or around 500 individuals remained to help in the development of the eco-park. Engr. Cabigas mentioned that the remaining residents will be receiving one hectare of the land where they would be able to plant vegetables which can become a new source of income.
CURRENT SITUATION
Currently, the previous 2 hectares of the dumpsite has been transformed into a thriving and habitable community with a daycare center, a chapel for masses, and stone animal figures for children to enjoy.
The responsibility for one-half of the total area was given to San Miguel Corp. (SMC) and the company has been assisting the project by continuously planting trees which is envisioned to become a 5-hectare forest park. Despite locals being skeptical about the cleanliness of the park at first, they eventually gave in and allowed their children to study basic education in the daycare center.
Seeing the success of the eco-learning park, the Mandaue City Government applauded Engr. Cabigas and all who were involved in its development.
“The Mandaue Green Learning Park is a great example of how are dedicated workers and personnel from the General Services Office were able to transform the hills of garbage into a cleaner, greener, and habitable eco-park,” a post from Mandaue Investment Promotions Action Center (MIPAC) stated.
“Environmental sustainability starts with us. Let’s continue to do our part by cleaning our surroundings and practice proper waste management.”
NOTE: As of writing, the Mandaue Green Learning Park is inaccessible to everybody as a precaution due to the pandemic.
A third-class municipality located in northern Cebu, Compostela may seem like a sleepy town at first, but it also boasts of several tourist spots that will surely make your Sugbo trip more worthwhile.
1. Q Park
A 200-hectare park popular to both tourists and religious pilgrims,– The Q Park is famous for its towering 44-feet tall statue of the Virgin Mary situated on top of a hill.
They also have a replica of the house of Mama Mary in Turkey. Other attractions include the Stations of the Cross as well as the nativity scene. There is also a Heroes Hill within the area that pays tribute to fallen soldiers, OFWs, and Filipino Foundation awardees. The Q Park is teeming with tourists even on weekdays, but the number peaks usually during the Lenten season.
Just like every other Cebu municipality, Compostela also has a resort that is avidly patronized by locals and tourists alike. Paradise Hills Mountain Resort boasts of a hilly landscape with a scenic mountain view. It is located near Q Park so you can drop by Paradise Hills afterwards to soothe your tired soles.
Photo by Jean Angel
Photo by Jean Angel
Photo by Jean Angel
Photo by Jean Angel
Photo by Jean Angel
Exact location: Barangay Buluang, Compostela
Entrance fee: P100 (adults); P50 (children)
Cottage fees:
Kubo type: P500/day
Tent: P1,500/day (includes 2 tables and 10 chairs)
Table with umbrella: P300 (with 4 chairs)
Other information:
Open: 8AM-6PM (additional charges apply from 6PM-10PM)
A spring resort with 2 large pools and equipped with slides, Gatubod Spring Resort is another attraction in Compostela. Popular for its cool waters coming from natural spring water, Gatubod is just 20-25 minute-ride from the Compostela market.
Jadess Lorraine Z. Fusio
Jadess Lorraine Z. Fusio
Jadess Lorraine Z. Fusio
Jadess Lorraine Z. Fusio
Exact location: Barangay Basak, Compostela
Entrance fee: P60 (adults), P30 (below 10 years old)
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.
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)
Popular for its stunning sunset view, Estaca Resort is also popular for its wide pool and a beachfront view. They also have rooms that can be booked for those who want to stay overnight. Other amenities include a kiddie pool, a karaoke machine, and a conference room. They also accept large group events such as weddings and birthday parties.
Exact location: Barangay Estaca, Compostela
Entrance fee: P50
Room rates:
Deluxe room: P1,500/night
Barkadahan room: P500/person (minimum of 4 persons)
Residents of Lapu-Lapu City can now visit a new SKY Zone branch for their SKY subscription applications, payments, and customer service inquiries for their cable TV and home broadband services.
Since the city remains under General Community Quarantine, the new SKY Zone branch will continue to implement safety measures for its employees and visitors.
The SKY Zone Lapu-Lapu branch is located at the 2nd floor of Gaisano Grand Mall in Mactan, Corner Basak, Agus Road, Lapu Lapu City, Cebu, and it operates from 10 am to 6 pm daily.
For the complete list of SKY Zones and SKY Business Centers, visit: mysky.com.ph/skyzone.
On November 15, Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia announced that no changes in border controls between cities and towns in Cebu Province will be implemented. This is in lieu to the decision of the Cebu City Government to implement a much stricter border control.
To address the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in Cebu City, vehicles are now rerouted to the Cebu South Bus Coastal Road as cops continue to man the border checkpoint in Brgy. Bulacao in Talisay City.
“If the city chooses to institute that border control, well, I thanked them for that kay (because) by doing that, they will in fact save us from trouble and by so doing, will protect the Province from, as what the Mayor said, the rising number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the city,” Governor Garcia told Cebu Daily News.
Until November 30, both Cebu Province and Cebu City are placed under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) status.
But when asked if she has any plans to implement changes in cross-boundary travels among the province’s towns and cities, Garcia said there would be none.
“As far as the province is concerned, we are moving on. We are moving forward. We realize that COVID-19, like so many other diseases, will always be there,” she explained.
On the other hand, on November 14, Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella announced that they have revived a much stricter border control. This is including, but not limited to not allowing non-essential trips to the province’s capital.
Furthermore, Labella said they will be re-implementing the number of number-coding scheme among Cebuanos who have QR passes.
From November 10, for 5 consecutive days, Cebu City has logged double-digit increases in its new confirmed COVID-19 cases, daily.
As of November 15, the whole island of Cebu’s total confirmed cases rose to 22,202, while the active cases have jumped to 803 (from 730).
Fun doesn’t always have to be costly. There’s a good place in Danao where relaxation, family get-together, and celebration of important life events are met with budget-friendly space and amenities. Sounds interesting, right?
Tuburan Sur Mountain Resort in Brgy. Tuburan Sur, Danao City, Cebu is a place you can include in your options when choosing a place for a weekend retreat with your family and friends or when choosing a place for special occasions and gathering.
Photo by Joe Almerez
Photo by Joe Almerez
A fun and relaxing day awaits everyone who wish to soak in its pools brimming with cold water. The resort is an ideal place for your family to enjoy.
Don’t worry about your kids because aside from adult pools, there are also kiddie pools furnished with a slide and umbrella fountain. It’s also packed with sprinklers so the kids would surely be amazed all day.
Photo by Andy Lee Berdin
This 8,000-sqm resort is adorned with 25 artistically designed cottages. The overlooking view of the city of Danao, Carmen, and the islands of Camotes, Bohol and Leyte will surely leave you in awe.
Here, you’ll get a view of the dark to bright green vegetation surrounding the place. The air is guaranteed fresh and cold since the place is located on high elevation. It’s best enjoyed while sipping your favorite cold beverages with your friends or family.
Grill all you want? No problem. The place doesn’t charge corkage fees so you can still feast on your favorite food while spending time here.
Tuburan Sur Mountain Resort also holds gatherings and special occasions – birthdays, graduation, wedding receptions, conferences, team building activities – name it, the place got your back.
The resort has two big function halls that can accommodate parties and events with a maximum of 300 visitors including outside the hall. The first one is located on the part of the mountain facing the ocean, while the second one is near the gate entrance.
Either you plan to unwind with friends and family or plan to celebrate your life’s achievements, Tuburan Sur Mountain Resort gives the best value for your money.
Exact location: Brgy. Tuburan Sur, Danao City, Cebu — approx. 1.5 hour from Cebu City.
BY VAN: Ride a van bound for Danao from SM City Cebu. Alight at the Danao Terminal. Then from there, you can take a habal-habal ride to the resort.
BY BUS: From Cebu North Bus Terminal, get on a bus bound for Carmen or Sogod. Alight at the Danao Terminal. Then from there, you can take a habal-habal ride to the resort.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Tuburan Mountain Resort” in Danao. Parking space is available.
The sacred exchanging of vows is an event in one’s life that should be well-planned and celebrated. Most of us get to say “I do” only once, and if you want to say that out loud without the stifling feels of an enclosed space, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 10 outdoor wedding venues in Cebu which will make this momentous occasion more magical and memorable.
1. CHATEAU DE BUSAY
An overlooking view of Cebu City with lush green mountains as its backdrop, Chateau de Busay is one of the most sought after wedding venues in Cebu City. It’s located on top of a hill therefore gives your wedding a more private and intimate touch. They have both al fresco and covered party venues you can choose from, all of which offer breathtaking views.
Exact location: Barangay Buot, Punta Engano, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
By taxi or grab car: The location is accessible with a taxi or grab car if from Cebu City. Fare is around P150-P200.
By private car: You can navigate through Waze or Google and just input “Chateau by the Sea” as the location.
3. THE WOODLANDS CLUBHOUSE
Offering an astounding view of Liloan, The Woodlands Clubhouse is another in-demand wedding venue. It’s wide pool, well-maintained green lawns and a neat-white building offers a refreshing and simple yet classy touch to your wedding.
By jeep: From SM City Cebu, you can ride a 25 or 27 jeep bound for Liloan. Fare is around P15-P20 one-way. Get off at the Yati intersection and you can ride a tricycle going to Woodlands (P40-P50 fare)
By private car: You can navigate through Waze or Google. Enter “The Woodlands Clubhouse” as the location.
4. VICTORIA’S RECEPTION GARDEN
Perfect for garden weddings, Victoria’s Reception Garden boasts of wide green grassy lawns with thick green trees. The ambiance and cool breeze will make your dream garden wedding a reality.
By jeep: From SM City Cebu, ride a 25 or 27 jeep for Liloan. Fare is around P15-P20 one-way. Get off at the Yati intersection and ride a tricycle going to Victoria’s Garden (P40-P50 fare)
By private car: You can navigate through Waze or Google. Enter “Victoria’s Reception Garden” as the location.
5. PARADISE GARDEN EVENTS PAVILION
Located in Mandaue City, Paradise Garden Events Pavilion is a perfect blend of modern minimalistic design and a green touch with its indoor and outdoor plants arranged in a beautiful landscape. Adding to the sophisticated design is an open-air lobby with a water fountain at the center.
By taxi or grab car: From Cebu City, you can easily hail a taxi or grab car. Fare is around P100-P150 only.
By private car: You can use Waze or Google and just type in “Paradise Garden Events Pavilion” as the location.
6. CASCADES NATURE PARK
Scenic natural landscapes with high-end amenities, Cascades Nature Park is a newly opened attraction in Compostela. It’s the biggest outdoor venue in Compostela, with wide green fields, swimming pool, and a lake with an islet at its center.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION:
Venue: The entire property can be rented exclusively for weddings and other events.
Weekend (Fri-Sun) or holiday
Half day: P30,000 (6 hours)
Full day: P50,000 (10 hours)
Weekdays
Half day: P25,000
Whole day: P40,000
Exclusive reservations already include:
Access to all public areas and use of open facilities
Exact location: St. Francis Subdivision, Barangay Magay, Compostela
By Vhire: From Cebu city, hop on a Vhire bound for Danao. Travel time is around an hour and fare is P50.
By private car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and input “St.Francis Subdivision” in Compostela. Upon arriving at the subdivision, you can enter and drive straight through the pawn shop, then make a left turn. You will then see Cascades Nature Park.
7. FORT SAN PEDRO
Considered to be the oldest and smallest fort in the country, Fort San Pedro is also a popular and affordable wedding venue. It is sure to give your wedding a historical touch especially with the old but classy concrete columns and arcs of the old buildings.
Exact location: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City (inside Plaza Independencia and close to Cebu City’s Pier 1)
By taxi or grabcar: From Cebu city, hire a taxi and instruct driver to drop you off at Plaza Independencia. Fare is around P100-P130.
By private car: Navigate using Waze or Google and input “Fort San Pedro” as the location.
8. CIRCA 1900
A colonial house that has been transformed into one of the most in-demand restaurants, piano bar, and wedding venues in Cebu City, Circa 1900 deserves a spot on this list.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION:
Package: P795 per head (inclusive of food and venue)
Exact location: Sanjercasvil Road, Gorordo Avenue, Cebu City
By taxi or grabcar: From Cebu city, hire a taxi and instruct driver to drop you off at Circa 1900. Fare is around P100-P150.
By private car: Navigate using Waze or Google and input “Circa 1900” as the location.
9. SOLEA MACTAN
Surrounded by pristine beaches, undeniably good architecture and interior design, plus their infinity pool – Solea Mactan is also another perfect wedding venue in Cebu.
Photo by @marlonbaylon
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION:
Solea Mactan customizes different wedding packages that fits the budget of the couple. You can contact them on the details provided below.
By Vhire: You can ride a Vhire at SM City Cebu bound for Gaisano Cordova. Upon getting there, you can ride a tricycle to Solea.
By private car: Navigate using Waze or Google Maps and input “Solea Mactan” as the destination.
10. SHANGRI LA’S MACTAN RESORT AND SPA
Indulge in a luxurious wedding ceremony and reception at Shangri La Mactan. This resort is the perfect venue if you want a tropical paradise-themed wedding. The oceanfront view, infinity pools, and stunning design and architectures of the resort combine perfectly to give your wedding a grandiose touch.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION:
Shangri La customizes different wedding packages that fits the budget of the couple. You can contact them on the details provided below.
As a response to the surge of new COVID-19 cases recorded in the city this week, Cebu City Mayor Edgar Labella announced today that the city will re-implement the strict border control and Quarantine Pass (Q-Pass) coding starting Monday, November 16 at 5:01AM.
Only the following people are allowed to cross the border:
Legitimate concerns
Living and working in Cebu City
Authorized Persons Outside Residence (APOR)
Mayor Labella assured that the Cebu City is still placed under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) but these restrictions will be revived to prevent the surge of COVID-19 cases in the city.
“Dili na kita buot nga mobalik sa enhanced community quarantine mao kinahanglan nga magmatngon gihapon kita samtang anaa pa ang virus.Importanti alang kanako nga luwas ang tanan batok COVID-19 mao nga akong gihangyo ang tanan nga tabangan ang City Government pinaagi sa pag-cooperate.”
— Mayor Edgar Labella
On November 14, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 158 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 6 new recoveries, and no new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 22,127, while the active cases have jumped to 730 (from 577).
Executive Order No. 105:
The City Government will continue to require only a valid ID and certificate of employment from those who work in Cebu City but live in other areas of Cebu.
The city will also honor the travel clearances of people outside Cebu arriving in the city before the effectivity on November 20, 2020 of EO 105 with its corresponding amendments.
Cebu is blessed with so many beautiful islands that going to all of them is an ultimate flex and badge of honor. From the dazzling islands of the North to the exciting and adventurous islands of the South, Cebu has tourist destinations wherever you go in every corner. Cebu has also been recognized by many organizations and even the country itself as a tourist destination because of its rich island life and rich culture and history.
However, due to the pandemic, travelling has been put to a halt and the country has put itself into a travelling ban. Travelling can only be done when the purpose of visit is due to work-related reasons if the person is going home to their province, or some other types of urgent matters. Travelling for leisure is not yet possible and should not be as well. Banning travelling is the right thing to do as to not spread the virus and to bend the curve. We can only reminiscent fondly of the memories we have made in the past and put our travel plans aside.
1. Banatayan Island
Bantayan Island in the northern part of Cebu is well known for its white sandy beaches and shimmering blue waters.
The island in itself has many tourist destinations such as Camp Sawi, which is a resort that was largely featured (actually the location of the shooting) in the film Camp Sawi (2016).
Bantayan Island is also a beautiful island to watch the sunset and sunrise over the horizon as you sit on the white sandy beaches. There are even daily rental motorcycles available for a cheap price so that you can go anywhere you go in the island whenever you want.
Photo by Big Dodzy on Unsplash
Bantayan Island | Photo by Tina Bartolome Talita
How to get there
Buses that will bring you to Bantayan Island are found at the North Bus Terminal. Take the bus going to Hagnaya. Travel time is approximately 3 hours. From Hagnaya take the Express Ferry Boat to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. Travel time is approximately 1-hour ride to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island. A Ro-Ro vessel from Hagnaya to Santa Fe is also available.
Malapascua Island is another island in the north of Cebu that has white sand beaches and sparkling blue waters. The island is near to Bantayan Island too.
This island is a very special one because this is the only island in the entire world where you can swim along with thresher sharks on a daily basis. It is a diver’s heaven because it has lots of colorful fishes aside from the sharks.
The locals are very friendly and the island also has other points of interest such as a nearby ship wreckage.
Photo by Thomas Dietz
Photo from Ocean Vida Beach & Dive Resort
Photo from Ocean Vida Beach & Dive Resort
How to get there
Exact Location: Bounty Beach, Malapascua Island, Daanbantayan, Cebu — 4 hours away from Cebu City, and 30 minutes away from Maya Port.
BY BUS AND FERRY: From the Cebu North Bus Terminal, ride a bus going to Maya/Bagay. It will drop you off at Maya Port. Bus fare is around ₱150 per head, travel time is 3-4 hours. From the port, ride a ferry boat going to Malapascua Island. Boat fare is ₱100 per head, travel time is around 45 minutes. Boats ply every 30 minutes from 6:30AM to 4:30PM only.
PARKING: If you’re bringing your own car, you have to leave it in the mainland near Maya Port. Look for ‘Sugbo Maya’ or any private property where you can park for ₱100-150 per day.
Carnaza Island is another island in the north that is worth a visit. It is a turtle-shaped island with white sand beaches and blue waters just like the rest of the islands of the north.
One of the main attractions of the island is the Carnaza Eco Park which has fancy wooden tents good for two people with a white sandy beach nearby, making it a perfect date with your partner.
Photo by Dave Jan
John Ray Aligato / The Island Nomad
John Ray Aligato / The Island Nomad
John Ray Aligato / The Island Nomad
Photo by Dave Dequito
How to get there
Head on to Cebu North Bus Terminal and ride the bus bound for Maya-Bagay or you can simply ask and conductor around the bus terminal and tell them that you’re going to Tapilon Port. Travel time is around 4 hours and fare is ₱212 (airconditioned bus). Take the first trip if you’ll be only doing day tour in Carnaza Island.
Once you arrive at Tapilon Port, ride a boat going to Carnaza Island (₱150 per way). First trip is at 7am-10am but it would actually depend on the condition of the sea. When we got there its low-tide, so the first trip will be at 10am and departs by 1pm. So we rented a pump boat instead (since were only doing a day tour) for ₱7,000 roundtrip it can carry around 25-30 people. Tapilon Port to Carnaza Island travel time is 2 hours.
Olango Island is a hidden treasure among the islands of the Philippines as not many tourists go here.
Olango Island is home to its prestigious bird sanctuary with a long pathway composed of stepping stones surrounded by the cold waters. It also has the Marine Sanctuary which has a long wooden bridge going to the middle of the sea which you can dive in to see vivid colorful fishes.
How to get there
Exact Location: Sitio Sabang, Barangay Asinan, Olango Island, Lapu-Lapu City — approx. 2 hours away from the city.
BY JEEPNEY: Ride any jeepney to SM City Cebu. From there, you can ride a 01K jeepney (near Sun Gold) going to Parkmall or if you are from Cebu City, you can ride 01K jeepney from Emall. When you get to Parkmall, ride a jeepney heading to Soong and drop off at Angasil port beside Movenpick Hotel. Fare is around ₱20 per person. Upon arrival, look for a boat towards Olango Island. Boat Fare is around ₱15 for a one-way trip.
Known as the “Lost Horizon of the South”, the Camotes Islands are a group of islands found in the Camotes Sea. The islands also have white sandy beaches and clear blue seas perfect for taking a leisurely swim.
The islands also pride itself in being budget-friendly. The islands have many points of interests composed of the beaty of nature such as naturally formed caves, falls, and lakes.
Bukilat Cave
San Francisco
Tulang Diot
Photo by J-Co Samz
Photo by Jessi Ang-Lee
How to get there
You have three (3) options going to/from Camotes Islands:
OPTION 1: OCEANJET FAST CRAFT
– Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
– Cebu Port: Pier 1, Cebu City
– Camotes Port: Poro, Camotes
– Advantages: Take this option if you want to arrive faster, and you live/stay near Pier 1 or SM City Cebu or you’re from Southern Cebu.
OPTION 2: JOMALIA RORO/EXPRESS
– Travel Time: 2 hours
– Cebu Port: Danao City Port
– Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
– Advantages: Take this option if you want to save 50% on transportation, if you’re willing to travel or you’re from/near Danao City.
OPTION 3: JOMALIA FAST CRAFT
– Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
– Cebu Port: MACTAN WHARF of Island Central Mactan Mall
– Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
– Advantages: Take this option if you want to arrive faster, and you live/stay near Mactan.
