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LOOK: True-to-Life Engagement Photoshoot in Cebu

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A new year means a new beginning.

Save-the-date invites, wedding props, memorable souvenirs, and engagement photos are a great way to convey the love and chemistry you have with your partner.

So you always have to make sure that when you are brainstorming for a prenuptial shoot theme, you have to stick to things that speak a lot about the two of you.

One perfect example is the recent engagement shoot of Angelie Jean and Paul. They wanted to keep their engagement shoot as natural and as authentic as possible hence, this came about.

Their photographer, Gail Geriane unleashed her creative juices and came up with these realistic scenarios in her photos. Photos that clearly depict what it’s like to be married. They are going into marriage eyes open wide.

Yes, marriage life is not easy. But if you’re someone like Anj or Poy who would smile amidst difficulties, what could go wrong?

“Well I guess it’s a new year and a new last name”.- Anj

 They are going to have a new life, but the same old love.

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Laput!

Photos by Gail Geriane Photography

Cool Off at Cambuhawe Spring in Balamban

A new year calls for a new adventure.

Thanks to Balamban’s Best, we can escape the heat of the city and swim in a natural spring pool after only a few hours’ drive.

If you’re someone who is looking for a great escape from the busy life of the city during the Sinulog festivities, visit the Cambuhawe Spring Swimming Pool nestled in Balamban.

With natural flowing water coming from a mountain spring, you can spend your day cooling off in its cold water. Entrance fee is only ₱20 per head.

Moreso, such features an olympic-size swimming pool so you can never really go asking for more space to swim and enjoy.

Though it has already opened previously, the spring has underwent maintenance to be of better service to her visitors on January 4, 2020. Truly, what a great news to start the year! Kudos Balamban LGU for initiating such beautification.

Nonetheless, as advocates of being a responsible laagan, may we remind you to leave with nothing, but footprints.

REMINDERS:

  • The spring is closed every Tuesday and Wednesday for maintenance.
  • Wear proper swimming attire.
  • No food nor drink within the pool premises.
  • Cleanliness and safety should be strictly observed at all times.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

ENTRANCE FEE:

  • DAY USE: 8AM to 5PM daily
  • NIGHT USE: 5PM to 10PM daily
  • MONDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY
    • Children below 7 years old and Senior Citizen: FREE
    • Children below 12 years old: ₱10 per head
    • Adult: ₱30 per head
  • SATURDAY & SUNDAY
    • Children below 7 years old and Senior Citizen: ₱10 per head
    • Children below 12 years old: ₱20 per head
    • Adult: ₱50 per head
  • CLOSED on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Exclusive use:

  • Use of the facilities at night are exclusive for groups with a minimum number of 10 pax
  • Reservation has to be made 2 days prior to the date of visit
  • Exclusive rate per person: ₱100

Other Information:

  • Contact numbers: (032) 254-2172 / (032) 254-8220 local 260
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact Location: Cambuhawe Spring Swimming Pool, Balamban, Cebu — approx. 45-minute drive from JY Square Mall in Cebu City or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral Highway.

PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Gaisano Balamban. From there, ride a tricycle going to the spring.

PRIVATE: Just search for “Cambuhawe Spring” in Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Parking space available.

RENT: Rent a car or avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

Unplug: Overlooking Cafe in Cantipla, Cebu City

Start your year right. Recharge and relax at Unplug.

I know you have probably binge-ate during the holidays and had the best gastronomic experience. However, you were stuck at home.

Why don’t we take it up a notch and dine somewhere relaxing, yet affordable?

Yes, it’s high time we unplug from the bustling city and visit UNPLUG – the restaurant that offers mouthwatering food choices at really affordable rates. More than that, let’s not forget that you get to dine fronting the magnificent panoramic view of Cebu.

Hence, if you’re heading to either Tuburan, Tabuelan, or even Balamban, make sure to pass through the Transcentral Highway because apart from filling in your growling tummy, you can also take good photos for the ‘gram.

OTHER INFORMATION

  • Operating hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 9AM to 8PM
    • Saturday & Sunday: 9AM to 10PM
  • Contact number: 0917-134-4313
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Sitio Cantipla, Brgy. Tabunan, Cebu City – approx. 1 hour away from the city. Located near the Strawberry Farm Cantipla.

BY VAN: From the Ayala Center Cebu PUV Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at ‘UNPLUG’ in Cantipla (near the Strawberry Farm Cantipla). Van fare is ₱120 per head (one-way).

BY CAR: If you’re bringing your own vehicle, just pin your location to “Unplug” in Transcentral Highway. Hailing a cab or Grab is not possible, unless you rent a car.

Sinulog sa SRP: Added Attractions for Sinulog starting on January 17

Sinulog is coming and so much is happening; events, parties and many more. Well, if you feel like you can’t wait for it, we might be adding into your agony but we can guarantee you that this news will make you ecstatic.

Apart from the usual street parties, fluvial parade, and procession that the devotees are looking forward for Sinulog, the organizers have added additional exciting events hoping to attract more spectators.

Sinulog sa SRP 2020 (1)

Sinulog sa SRP events: January 17, 2020

  • Morning: Racing of the small boats / “Baruto”
  • Afternoon: Motorbike racing
  • 7PM: Musical fireworks competition with surprise popular music groups

This one-day grand celebration and we know you’re just as excited as we are. Cebu will lit up the sky, conquer the seas and brave the roads in Sinulog sa SRP.

But, more than being ecstatic for these new events, may we never forget the true essence of why we celebrate Sinulog, to honor Sr. Sto. Niño. Viva Pit Senyor!

[box type=”shadow” align=”” class=”” width=””] CEBU SINULOG 2020:
1. Cebu Sinulog 2020 Schedule of Events & Activities
2. Novena Mass Schedule for Cebu Sinulog 2020
3. What is Cebu’s Sinulog all about?
[/box]

Viral video: Jollibee mascot in Cebu dances ‘Tala’

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The ‘Tala’ dance craze is not yet over… even after almost 5 years upon release.

While we have recently featured a Tala Dance Cover with the beat of Sinulog, here’s another viral video of a Jollibee mascot showing off his dancing skills.

The was taken by JB Fooda from the Jollibee Fooda Consolacion (Cebu) branch.

Top 12 Attractions in Uphill Cebu (Mountain Tour)

It is without a doubt that Cebu has a lot to offer.

From food, malls, events, and of course, must-visit tourist spots. But if there is a must-recommend by your best Sugbo guide, it would be Busay and/or Balamban. These two famous uphill destinations have taken the internet by storm through its picturesque spots.

1. Mt. Manunggal Eco-Adventure Park (Little Baguio)

Fondly tagged as the “Little Baguio of Cebu,” Baguio de Cebu Eco Mountain Adventures offers the same excitement and aura of the Summer Capital of the Philippines.

From Sky Biking, Horseback Riding, Camping, and Trekking, there’s nothing more you could actually ask for. You need not to worry too because you can have your ‘cool’ foodtrip-ing with your family and friends while enjoying the cool breeze.

What to do here?

  • Sky Bike
  • Ziplining
  • Horseback Riding
  • Camping
  • Trekking / Mountain Climbing
  • Food Trip

Fees:

  • Entrance fee: ₱80 per head
  • Skybike: ₱150 per head, back and forth.
  • Horseback Riding: ₱150 per head, per 15 minutes.
  • Camping: ₱50 per person, just bring a tent if you wish to sleep overnight.

You can go camping, trekking, hiking or mountain climbing (choose between Mt. Mauyog, Monkey Mountain or Manunggal Peak). If you opt to have a guide with you, a charge of P400 per 5pax is collected for the guide.

Other information

  • Contact numbers: 0949-487-7781 / 0935-193-2437
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Sunog, Balamban, Cebu — approx. 2.5 hours away from the city. Just about 1.5 kilometers after West 35, right turn to Brgy. Sunog.

BY VAN: Take a v-hire going to Balamban from the Ayala Center Cebu Terminal. Ask the driver to drop you off at the alley of Mt. Manuggal or Cantipla. Fare is P120 per person. 1.5-2 hours travel time.

To be specific, this is located approx. 1.5km km from West 35 if your route is through Lahug-Busay-Transentral Highway. You will see a tarp on the right side of the road saying “BAGUIO DE CEBU ECO PARK” (turn right) and from there it’s almost 2km to the Mountain. The journey going there is an adventure already. You will be passing a thrilling drive of a 3.0m max wide undeveloped road with sometimes a cliff on both sides of the road.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “BAGUIO DE CEBU ECO-MOUNTAIN PARK ADVENTURE”. Parking space is available. Hailing a taxi or GrabCar is not possible.

RENT A CAR/VAN: For a hassle-free trip, rent a van at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

2. Adventure Cafe

For the travel junkies and thrill seekers, Adventure Cafe and Zipline should be on your bucket list when in Cebu. More so, they claim to be the first resto-adventure in the Philippines.

Aptly named as such, the aforementioned offers thrilling adventures like Zip Lining, Stress Wall’s Plate Smashing, Caving, and the like.

EXCITING ADVENTURES THAT YOU CAN DO

ZIP LINE

Conquer your fear and fly over the sky!

zipline in cebu
Photo by chasingpotatoes.com

The zip line is 256m long (one line); you take two lines. Fee is only P150 per person.

RAPPELLING / WALL CLIMBING

Climb high and test your strength and endurance.

rappelling wall climbing

FEE: P100 per person

STRESS WALL

To thy suppressing world, shout out your unexpressed feelings.

stress wall cebu

FEE: P25 per plate

GUIDED TOURS

A quick getaway from the hustles and bustles of the city.

adventure cafe caving
gaas falls balamban

RATES OVERVIEW:

  • Zip Line – ₱150 per person
  • Plate smashing at the stress wall – ₱25 per plate
  • Climb/Rappel – ₱100 per person
  • Caving – ₱250 per person (minimum of 5 people per group)
  • Waterfalls – ₱650 per person (minimum of 5 people per group)
OTHER DETAILS:
  • Operating hours: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, daily
  • Contact details: 0999 681 2339
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

• Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).

  • PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Adventure Cafe.
  • PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Adventure Cafe ” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps.
  • RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

3. BUWAKAN NI ALEJANDRA

Be fascinated by Cebu even more with this vibrant flower garden, Buwakan ni Alejandra.

Flowers of different kinds and of different colors made this flower garden exceptional and trending. If you’re up for the ‘gram game, this is perfect!

  • Entrance Fee: ₱75 per adult, ₱50 per head for Kids, PWD & Senior Citizen
  • Operating hours: 7AM to 6PM, Mondays to Sundays – but if there’s a storm, they will close the premises to protect the flower garden.
Buwakan ni Alejandra - Sugbo.ph
Photo by John Ray Aligato

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).

  • PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Buwakan ni Alejandra.
  • PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Buwakan ni Alejandra” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Buwakan ni Alejandra is just few meters away from Adventure Cafe.
  • RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

4. D’ Village Antique House

Chill and dine, day and night with your friends and loved ones at D’Village Antique House.

Get the chance to also savour Cebu’s famous dishes at really affordable prices. So, after all the hustle and bustle of your travel, don’t forget to drop here and chill.

  • Entrance fee: None
  • Operating hours: 7AM to 10PM (lights off)
  • Location: Brg. Gaas, Balamban Cebu
  • Contact no: 0906-299-0215

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Buwakan ni Alejandra (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).

  • PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at D’Village Antique House.
  • PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “D’Village Antique House” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. D’Village Antique House is just few meters away from Buwakan ni Alejandra .
  • RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

5. Florentino’s Eco Park (Little Tagaytay)

Pegged as the Little Tagaytay of Cebu, Florentino’s Eco Park will surely please you with its chill and cozy outdoor ambiance, and the breathtaking view and the foggy weather.

  • Entrance Fee: ₱100 per person (₱50 is consumable)
  • Operating hours: 6AM to 7PM, Mondays to Sundays (Best time to go: 6-7AM & 4-6PM)
  • Corkage fee: None for now, you may bring your own food and drinks. ButBE RESPONSIBLE of your trashes. Leave no trace.
  • Contact details: 0932-876-4019 / Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – across Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway)

  • PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Adventure Cafe (Florentino’s is just right across).
  • PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Florentino’s” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Florentino’s is just across Adventure Cafe.
  • RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

6. FORESSA TRAILS

To someone who enjoys walking, what is better than a refreshing walk with nature? Nothing, unless you’re walking with good company.

To fulfill this fantasy, visit Foressa Trails with your peers. Bike or hike around this spacious little town and be one with nature while fulfilling your own adventure.

• The Trails Package
– Inclusive of hiking, biking, and camping
– P500 per person

• Hike and Bike trails
– Day use only
– P150 per person

• Viewing only
– Day use
– Entrance fee: P60 per person

Separate fees for use of the camping grounds, tent and cottage rentals. Exclusive events can also be arranged upon request.

How to get there?

Exact location: Foressa Mountain Town, Cansomoroy, Balamban, Cebu (approx. 90-minute trip from Ayala Center Cebu) — approx. 2.5 hours away from the city. Just about 1.5 kilometers after West 35.

BY VAN: Take a v-hire going to Balamban from the Ayala Center Cebu Terminal. Ask the driver to drop you off at Foressa. Fare is P120 per person.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for “Foressa Trails”. Parking space is available. Hailing a taxi or GrabCar is not possible.

RENT A CAR/VAN: For a hassle-free trip, rent a van at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

7. Terrazas de Flores

Claimed to be the country’s only flower terraces botanical garden, Terrazas de Flores Botanical Garde allows you to enjoy nature, art, poetry, and music all at once.

Get the chance to walk and dine while being one with nature while feasting your eyes with at least 127 species of plants and flowers.

  • Opening hours: 8AM to 12MN daily
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100 per head
  • Contact number: 0917 653 4227

How to get there?

Exact Location: Malubog, Cebu City (20 minutes away from JY Square and approximately 1km from the La Tegola / Tops Lookout – Busay road). Its garden gate is just right across Malubog Integrated School.

  • It’s still best to bring your own vehicle so you won’t have a hard time going back to the city. Parking spaces are available.
  • You can ride a v-hire or van going to Balamban from Ayala Cebu Terminal.
  • RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

8. Tops Lookout

It is always best to end your day with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city lights. Where better way to spend it? Tops Lookout.

Get the chance to experience the cold night breeze of Cebu City while enjoying the glittering lights of the Queen City. You can chill with a beer on hand and just savor the moment with friends and loved ones.

  • Operating hours: 10AM to 2AM daily
  • Entrance fee: ₱100 per person
  • Cottage fee: None
  • Corkage Fee: None
  • Allow walk-ins? Yes
  • Contact: 0909-890-5357

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: Cebu Tops Road, Busay, Cebu City, Cebu — 20 minutes away from the main road (from JY Square).

BY JITNEY: Ride any jeepney going to Busay such as 04L or 04H and tell the driver to drop you off to JY Square. From there, ride a habal-habal (motorbike) and tell the driver to drop you off to Tops Lookout, approximate time of travel is about 30 – 40 mins. Fare is ₱100 per person (one-way).

BY CAR: If you’re driving your own car, just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Tops Lookout” or refer to the map below. Parking space is available.

BY CAR / VAN FOR RENT: For van or car rentals, or to book an uphill tour (9 destinations in 1 day for only ₱999 per person), book with our trusted travel partner SquadPH Tours and Travels.

9. Don Emilio Botanical Garden

One quick escape you can go to in Cebu City, that is only 20-30 minutes away from the city proper, is this new garden located in the uphill side of Cebu. Dr. Emilio Osmeña Botanical Garden has finally opened its doors to the public.

It is the perfect place for your Instagram photos, or you can simply enjoy and appreciate the beauty of the flower blooms and the cool breeze. 

  • Operating hours: 24/7 – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
  • Entrance fee: ₱100 per head (24 hours)
  • Pyramid Sheds: ₱200 good for 2-3pax, but no fan and foam
  • Tables / Cottage: FREE for now
  • Corkage fee: FREE for now

How to get there?

Exact location: Tops Rd., Busay, Cebu City — steep road of Busay, in between Balay sa Busay restaurant and La Vie in the Sky / Tops Lookout.

BY CAR: (Best option) Just navigate with Waze or Google Maps and search for ‘Balay sa Busay’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway. The garden is located few meters after ‘Balay sa Busay’ restaurant and before Tops Lookout. Parking space is available.

BY COMMUTE: Hire a habal-habal driver (Motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at the said garden. Estimated fare is ₱75-100 per person (max of 2).

BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there.

BY CAR / VAN FOR RENT: For van or car rentals, or to book an uphill tour (9 destinations in 1 day for only ₱999 per person), book with our trusted travel partner SquadPH Tours and Travels.

10. La Vie in the Sky

The company behind the “Little Paris” restaurant in Lahug, Cebu City is taking the French dining experience to a higher level (literally) via La Vie in the Sky, the newest mountain-top restaurant and winery located at the steep roads of Busay, Cebu City.

If you loved the truly unique aesthetics of La Vie Parisienne, you will love this even more. It’s one of the most elegant restobars we’ve seen in Cebu with so many Instagram-worthy spots in and outside the restaurant. You can really feel the classic and posh “Little Paris” (French) ambiance while you can enjoy the beautiful skyline of Cebu City. 

  • Entrance fee: ₱100 per head (all consumable for food & drinks)
  • Operating hours: 7AM to 2AM daily (Mondays to Sundays)
  • Contact numbers: (032) 260-4388 / (032) 505-0274
  • Social: Facebook Page
  • Nearby Hotel in Cebu City: link

How to get there?

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)

BY CAR: (Best option) Parking space available. Just search for ‘La Vie in the Sky’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps. ‘La Vie in the Sky’ restaurant is located near Tops Lookout Viewing Deck.

BY HABAL-HABAL: Hire a habal-habal driver (Motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at the said restaurant or at
Tops Lookout Viewing Deck. Estimated fare is P100 per person (max of 2).

BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there.

11. Temple of Leah

The “Taj Mahal” of Cebu, Temple of Leah is a grand gesture of love from a husband to his late wife.

Most lovers visit this place because they say this symbolizes love. However, regardless of one’s status, you should visit the place to also show yourself some love because we all deserve it.

  • Visiting hours: 7AM to 6PM daily
  • Entrance fee: ₱50 per person
  • Parking fee: ₱100 if inside the premises; free if outside but limited slots only
  • Other fees: ₱2,500 for professional photography for events
  • Contact number: (032) 233-5032

How to get there?

Exact location: Landon Heights Roosevelt, Busay, Cebu City — few meters away from Temple of Leah and Mountain View Nature’s Park, and 15-20 minutes away from JY Square or city proper.

BY HABAL-HABAL: Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike), near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only ₱100 per head per way – ₱150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city.

BY TAXI/GRAB: T\Max of 4 persons only per car. Some drivers might be okay with it, some are not. Some might ask for more, so be understanding and negotiate well since the road is a bit steep. Estimated cost is ₱200-250 per way from the city (Ayala Center).

BY CAR: This is the best option, if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. The road is concrete and well-maintained, but a bit steep so it’s safe to bring your own car. Parking space is also available. Just navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Temple of Leah”.

BY CAR RENTAL: You can rent a car or book an uphill tour with our trusted travel partner, SquadPH Tours and Travels.

12. Sirao Flower Gardens

Dubbed to be Cebu’s ‘Little Amsterdam,’ Sirao Flower Garden and Farm became infamous because of the visitors’ irresponsibilities. The visitors became uncontrollable.

Nonetheless, Sira Flower Garden and Farm never lost its beauty. With a vast expanse of beautiful and colorful flowers, this is definitely a must-visit too for the ‘gram!

NOTE: For the information of everyone, there are TWO (2) gardens in Sirao. Both gardens are located just beside each other.

1. Original Sirao Flower Garden – Little Amsterdam of Cebu

  • Entrance fee₱100 per head
  • Operating hours: 6AM to 6:30PM
  • Contact details: 0943 706 3437

2. Sirao Pictorial Garden and Camping Site (PGCS)

  • Entrance feeP50 per head
  • Operating hours: 6AM to 6:30PM for all visitors; 6:30PM to 6:30AM for campers
  • Contact details: 0946 937 7891

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Sirao, Cebu City. Going there in your own vehicle can save you from the hassle of transferring between vehicles and can save you from spending for the fare. Your landmark would be Ayala Heights, take a right turn to Sirao Flower Farm.

BY MOTORBIKE: From J.Y. Square Mall, take a habal-habal that will take you directly to Sirao Flower Farm for ₱400 roundtrip, good for 2 persons already. The driver may ask you for additional waiting fee of ₱100-200 per hour depending on your haggling talent. The ride will take 30-45 minutes to get there.

BY VAN: From the Ayala Cebu PUV Terminal, you can ride a v-hire going to Sirao for ₱50 /head (one-way). Ask the driver to drop you off near Sirao Flower Garden. From there, ride a habal-habal going to the flower garden but it may take time to find one from this point, fare is ~₱20-30 /head.

BY OWN CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and pin your location to “Sirao Flower Garden”. Parking fee is ₱20.

BY CAR / VAN FOR RENT: For van or car rentals, or to book an uphill tour (9 destinations in 1 day for only 999 pesos per person), book with our trusted travel partner SquadPH Tours and Travels.

LOOK: The new Toledo City Sports Center / Megadome

Cebu has been growing not only in tourism and business but also in the sports and athletics department.

This megadome, with an area of more than 12,000 square meters, is a proof that the Local Government Unit (LGU) is starting to notice the importance of sports in the community especially to the youth.

Located in Toledo City, the new Toledo City Sports Center houses two (2) FIFA-standard size playing facilities:

  • Outdoor playing field
  • Indoor gymnasium, and dedicated facilities such as
  • Rooms for teams, clubs, and sporting organizations
  • Rooms for seminars and workshops or discuss trainings.
  • Shower rooms
  • Lockers for players

Cebu has always had competent athletes representing Cebu in National Competitions and being the pride of the Country during the International ones.

With the success of the Cebuano athletes who have competed in the SEA GAMES 2019, it is only right to support our athletes and help them in any way we can.

Official opening of the megadome is on January 6, 2020, which also falls on the celebration of the 60th charter day of Toledo City. It is also said to be the venue for the first SOCA state of the city address of Mayor Joie Piczon-Perales.

  • Location: M. A. Barba Sports Complex, Toledo-Barili Rd, Poblacion, Toledo City, Cebu — beside CEBECO, between Toledo cable and gasoline station.
  • Capacity: 5,000++
  • Facility: Centralized aircon

Viral video: ‘Tala!’ sa Sinulog

When Sinulog is fast approaching but you still can’t get over the dance craze “Tala”, you get a remix of the two or should I say a collaboration?

Tala was the hottest dance challenge during the holidays but we all know the holidays isn’t over in Cebu, in fact, it’s just starting.

Prititit! can already be heard loud and clear and it is getting the people all kinds of excited. And by all kinds I mean, like incorporating the dance challenge “Tala” into the music of Sinulog.

Who says the Cebuanos aren’t that creative and fun? Jelvin Judilla from Mandaue City, Cebu entertains the netizens with Tala: The Sinulog version.

It made quite a buzz for the distinct beat of Sinulog fits perfectly with the easy and upbeat choreography of Tala. The Sinulog dance is known to have many interpretations along with its ritual-like actions and swift graceful movements.

Well this one’s for sure, there will be a lot of covers to come and expect to see the Tala dance craze on the streets of Cebu this coming January 19, 2020 for the Sinulog Mardi Gras.

As of 12:46AM on January 4, 2019, the viral video garnered 47,000 reactions and 40,000 shares.

Buwakan ni Alejandra, Balamban’s gorgeous flower garden

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John Ray Aligato

 Brace yourselves, Sugboanons. After Florentino’s – the “Little Tagaytay of Cebu” that captured the attention of thousands of Cebuanos, a new attraction in Balamban is about to steal the spotlight. Introducing Buwakan ni Alejandra, Cebu’s newest pride featuring a vibrant flower garden.

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John Ray Aligato
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John Ray Aligato
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John Ray Aligato

Surprisingly, Buwakan ni Alejandra (which is a Bisaya translation of “Alejandra’s flower garden”) had its soft opening since May 2017 but did not much get attention (until this post was published) probably because of “lack of social awareness” and the rising popularity of its neighboring attractions such as Adventure Cafe and Florentino’s.

Or maybe, some explorers chose not to expose this hidden gem. Remember the Sirao Flower Farm? It went viral on social media, and the management had lost control over the irresponsible crowd on the first few weeks, leaving the farm damaged and in negative condition. Some people were just reckless and lacked consideration, just to get the perfect picture. Many were outraged, and that was the time when responsible tourism once again came to light.

SUGBO REMINDER: We strongly encourage all Sugbo.ph followers or readers to be responsible laagans. Make sure you follow and respect the garden’s rules. Protect and help protect the flowers by also reminding fellow tourists, especially when you see someone already stepping on the flowers. Be responsible of your own trash, and leave no trace behind.

Rates & Other Information

  • Entrance Fee: ₱75 per adult, ₱50 per head for Kids, PWD & Senior Citizen
  • Opening hours: 7AM to 6PM, Mondays to Sundays — if there’s a storm, they will close the premises to protect the flower garden.
  • Contact number: 0908-768-9379
  • Social: Facebook Page

How to get there?

Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters away from Adventure Cafe (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).

  • PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Buwakan ni Alejandra.
  • PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Buwakan ni Alejandra” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps. Buwakan ni Alejandra is just few meters away from Adventure Cafe.
  • RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.

Temple of Leah: The Taj Mahal of Cebu

Love conquers all. No buts, no don’ts. Simply giving, not bothering for what you can’t take back. Find out the story behind Cebu’s newest tourist attraction.

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As for Teodorico Adarna, owner of Temple of Leah and grandfather of Filipino actress Ellen Adarna, this huge edifice of Roman Architecture design is his way of showing how strong his love and his ceaseless devotion to his wife, Leah. Yes, this is a temple of love from an inspired imagination.

In the Queen City of the South, a palace of Teodoro Adarna’s Queen Leah Villa Albino-Adarna was made and replicated with a big statue in the middle. After a few years of waiting, the Philippine version of Taj Mahal has finally opened to welcome visitors.

The temple has an art gallery, museum, and a library where all of the favorite things her wife owned are placed. At the top, there’s a spectacular view of the city and more exceptional scenery as you walk through the temple. In this Greek methodology-inspired 7-story mansion, there are gigantic lions lying on each side of the stairs that will guide you to the door step of another jaw-dropping view. You can see a grand staircase with angels made up of brass and the Queen of the Temple in a 10-ft statue with crown and flower.

Booking a flight to Rome and visiting Roman temple will surely cost you a lot of money. If you don’t have a budget yet, why not just pay a visit to Temple of Leah?

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Photo from the wires
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The Sugbo Ambassadors with Mr. Teodorico Adarna, owner of Temple of Leah

Rates & Other Information

  • Visiting hours: 7AM to 6PM daily
  • Entrance fee: ₱100 per person (10 years old and below are free)
  • Parking fee: ₱100 if inside the premises; free if outside but limited slots only
  • Other fees: ₱2,500 for professional photography for events
  • Contact number: (032) 233-5032

How to get there?

Exact location: Landon Heights Roosevelt, Busay, Cebu City — few meters away from Temple of Leah and Mountain View Nature’s Park, and 15-20 minutes away from JY Square or city proper.

BY HABAL-HABAL: Ride a motorbike (max of 2 persons per bike), near or surrounding from JY Square Mall in Lahug. It would cost only ₱100 per head per way – ₱150 for 2 people. You may need to pay more and schedule ahead if you want a ride back from the city.

BY TAXI/GRAB: T\Max of 4 persons only per car. Some drivers might be okay with it, some are not. Some might ask for more, so be understanding and negotiate well since the road is a bit steep. Estimated cost is ₱200-250 per way from the city (Ayala Center).

BY CAR: This is the best option, if you want to have peace of mind and not worry about your way back home. The road is concrete and well-maintained, but a bit steep so it’s safe to bring your own car. Parking space is also available. Just navigate via Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Temple of Leah”.

BY CAR RENTAL: You can rent a car or book an uphill tour with our trusted travel partner, SquadPH Tours and Travels.