Photo from @rxnkysng / Roxanne Kay Alejandrino via tiktok
Looking for peace or love? Sandira Beach in Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, is calling! With its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and laid-back vibes, this paradise is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply chilling under the sun.
Photo from @rxnkysng / Roxanne Kay Alejandrino via tiktok
What to Do at Sandira Beach
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• Swimming & Snorkeling: The clear, calm waters are perfect for a refreshing dip or exploring marine life near the shore.
• Sunbathing & Relaxing: Stretch out on the soft white sand and enjoy the peaceful vibes.
• Photography: The turquoise waters and scenic surroundings make it a perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy shots.
Photo from Jajs VogueShop
Best Time to Visit
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For fewer crowds and softer sunlight, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, giving you more space to enjoy the beach.
Photo from Jajs VogueShop
How to Get There?
Location: Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Take Cebu North Road to Hagnaya Port (4–5 hours from Cebu City). Park your car at the port and take the ferry to Sta. Fe. Once on the island, you can either drive further or hire a habal-habal to reach the beach. This option is perfect if you plan to explore other beaches and spots around Bantayan Island.
By Commute: From Cebu City, head to the North Bus Terminal and take a bus bound for Hagnaya Port, San Remigio. Tell the driver you’re getting off at Hagnaya. From the port, take a ferry to Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island (1.5–2 hours). Once in Sta. Fe, ride a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Sandira Beach. There’s a small tourist office along the way where you can confirm your visit, though the beach itself is free to enjoy.
For those seeking a short but intense outdoor challenge, Spartan Trail in Cebu City delivers. Stretching 7 kilometers from Banawa to Barangay Pamutan, the trail features steep inclines, technical terrain, dense forests, and river crossings. The reward? A panoramic view of the Cebu skyline that makes the climb worth every step. It’s ideal for seasoned hikers or adventure seekers looking for a quick but demanding trail close to the city.
Photo from Jefferson Tapulado
Jump-Off Point: Paseo Arcenas
Photo from Jefferson Tapulado
The adventure starts at Paseo Arcenas in Banawa. If you’re driving, you can easily park nearby along Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue. For those commuting, take a jeepney bound for Banawa or a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) and walk a few minutes to the jump-off. From here, follow trail markers and local guidance as the path winds into the forest.
Photo from Jefferson Tapulado
Exit Point: Buhisan Road
Photo from Jefferson Tapulado
The trail ends at Buhisan Road in Barangay Pamutan. After navigating the last steep climb and river crossings, you’ll reach the road where habal-habal are available to return to the city or your parked vehicle. This exit makes for a convenient one-way hike without retracing your steps.
Photo from Jefferson Tapulado
How to Get There?
Location: Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By car: Head to Banawa via Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue and park near Paseo Arcenas. Drive safely, some sections are narrow and residential.
By commute: From Cebu City, ride a jeepney to Banawa or take a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) straight to Paseo Arcenas. After hiking, catch habal-habal at Buhisan Road to return to the city center.
Located in barangay of Linao‑Lipata in Minglanilla, Cebu, Sandayong Falls is a retreat for those seeking a nature escape. Locals and visitors describe it as a peaceful haven where you can enjoy cool waters amid green surroundings, ideal for a refreshing dip after a short trek.
Photo from Jay-r de la Calzada
The Vibe: Relaxing Trek + Chill Waters
Photo from Jay-r de la Calzada
Unlike the well‑touristed waterfalls, Sandayong has a more laidback, low‑key atmosphere. The trail to the falls is relatively gentle compared to strenuous hikes, which makes it accessible even for casual visitors. Once there, you’ll be met with a tranquil cascade, a nice reward for a modest walk.
How to Get There?
Location: Linao‑Lipata, Minglanilla, Cebu
By Car: If you’re driving or riding a private vehicle, set your navigation to Sandayong, Minglanilla or Upper Lipata, Minglanilla, these should bring you close to the area. Local maps show Sandayong, Minglanilla as a recognizable location. Once you arrive in Linao‑Lipata / Sandayong, follow the local roads/trails that lead uphill towards Upper Lipata / Sandayong, that’s where the falls is.
By Commute: Since Sandayong Falls is in a barangay quite off the usual tourist loop, there’s no widely published jeepney‑to‑falls route. What works better is to get to Minglanilla town proper first, then from there ride a local tricycle or habal‑habal to Linao‑Lipata / Sandayong and tell the driver you’re headed to “Upper Lipata / Sandayong Falls.” Locals who know the area are your best bet.
Cebu City will now enforce a stricter dress code in public spaces to promote a more respectful and family-friendly environment. The City Council approved the “Public Decency and Attire Ordinance of the City of Cebu” took effect last November 26, 2025. The law targets individuals appearing half-naked or indecently exposed in public areas.
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Areas Covered by the Ordinance
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The ordinance applies to public parks, streets, plazas, markets, terminals, malls, government offices, and other public spaces. It prohibits exposure of the upper torso, wearing underwear in public, or the use of sheer clothing that reveals intimate areas.
Penalties for Violators
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Violators face a progressive penalty system. A first offense results in a verbal warning, mandatory orientation at the local barangay, and a written reprimand. A second offense requires participation in a public decency seminar. A third offense carries a fine of P1,000, while the fourth and subsequent offenses result in a fine of P3,000 and referral for behavioral counseling.
Additional Consequences
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Refusing to attend seminars or counseling may lead to administrative and criminal charges. Maximum penalties include a fine of P5,000 or imprisonment of up to one year. Enforcement is intended to educate as well as correct behavior.
Exemptions and Special Cases
The ordinance does not apply to private areas, religious or cultural performances, official sports events, work-related attire, medical emergencies, breastfeeding, or designated venues like beaches and swimming pools.
Enforcement Agencies
Photo from Cebu City Police Office Facebook Page
The Cebu City Police Office, the Anti-Indecency Board, and deputized barangay teams are responsible for enforcing the law. The City Legal Office will handle disputes and appeals.
Kanlaob Falls in Alegria, Cebu is often overshadowed by its adrenaline-filled neighbor, the Kawasan canyoneering route. But this quiet waterfall offers a completely different vibe, slow, peace, and perfect for anyone who wants to chill rather than chase thrills. It’s easily accessible, local-friendly, and surprisingly peaceful despite being the starting point for one of Cebu’s biggest tourist activities.
The Falls & the Local Scene
Photo from Jackson Purgatorio
Kanlaob Falls is a small waterfall flowing into a shallow, emerald-green pool. During summer, it turns into a gentle trickle, but the clear basin remains a crowd favorite for cooling off. Locals typically lounge on the rocks, chat by the riverside, and take turns playing on the rope swing, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that feels like visiting someone’s backyard paradise.
A Relaxed Experience Without the Usual Restrictions
Photo from Jackson Purgatorio
Unlike many Cebu waterfalls with mandatory guides, Kanlaob Falls keeps things simple. Visitors only pay a small entrance fee before walking down the short trail to the river. There are no required guides, although you may meet a park ranger whose job is to ensure no one accidentally enters the restricted canyoneering path without supervision.
The Upper Pools and Rope Swing
Photo from Jackson Purgatorio
Past the lower basin, the river opens into a wider, shallow pool framed by limestone rock and forest cover. A bamboo ladder leads up into a small cave where a rope swing hangs, an iconic local highlight. Watching locals take confident leaps is often what convinces first-timers to give the swing a try. The spot is calm, refreshing, and ideal for swimming or simply floating on your back as the afternoon light filters through the trees.
How To Get There?
Location: Alegria, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: From Moalboal, drive south along the coastal highway for about an hour until you reach Alegria. Look for the inland road heading toward the canyoneering jump-off area, this route is well-paved and easy to follow. Continue driving uphill for several minutes until you reach the small entry booth where visitors are asked to park and pay the entrance fee. The trail to the falls starts just beyond the booth.
By Commute: From Cebu City, take a bus bound for Bato via Barili at the South Bus Terminal. Inform the conductor you’re getting off in Alegria near the canyoneering jump-off point. From the highway, ride a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Kanlaob Falls. Drivers in the area are familiar with the drop-off and will bring you directly to the entry booth where the short walk to the falls begins.
Cebu City has a new destination that’s making food lovers and culture seekers excited, Puso Village. Located behind the Senior Citizens Park and just a short stroll from the historic Santo Niño Church, this vibrant hub brings together over 100 food and retail stalls, with plans to expand to more than 170.
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
Puso Village offers an open-air, modern food park experience while celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of Cebuano cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to explore local culture, indulge in street food favorites, and enjoy a lively social atmosphere all in one place.
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
How to Get There?
Location: Brgy. Sto. Niño, Cebu City, behind the Senior Citizens Park and near Cebu City Hall.
By car: Navigate via Waze or GoogleMap “Puso Village” There’s a dedicated parking area right inside the village for visitors.
By commute: Jeepneys and taxis heading toward M.L. Quezon Blvd or Carbon Market can drop you within walking distance. From there, a short walk takes you straight to the village.
Food & Retail Highlights
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
Food is the star of Puso Village. Whether you’re craving juicy BBQ, tender lechon, fresh seafood, or local street food like Pungko-Pungko, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite. The variety of flavors ensures there’s something for everyone, from casual snackers to full-on foodies.
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
But the village isn’t just about food. Retail stalls offer everything from souvenirs and gadgets to furniture and handmade crafts, including popular shops like Island Souvenirs. It’s a one-stop spot to eat, shop, and experience Cebuano culture.
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
What to Expect
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
Puso Village combines modern food park vibes with Cebuano heritage. The open-air setup creates a lively, social environment that’s perfect for families, friends, and even solo food adventurers. During the evenings, the village truly comes alive as locals and tourists gather to enjoy food, music, and a bustling community atmosphere.
Visitors can also expect a blend of old and new,traditional Cebuano foods and crafts alongside modern conveniences, making it a unique destination where history and contemporary culture meet. It’s casual, colorful, and full of energy, capturing the essence of Cebu City’s vibrant spirit.
Photo from Josh F. Almonte
Tips for Visiting
Follow the “Clean as You Go” (CLAYGO) policy to help keep the space tidy.
Visit in the evenings for the full lively experience.
Explore both food and retail stalls to enjoy the full Cebuano experience.
Bring cash, as some stalls may not accept cards.
Wear comfortable shoes, the village is best explored on foot.
Pair your visit with a stop at nearby landmarks like Santo Niño Church or Carbon Market to make the most of your trip.
Puso Village isn’t just a food park, it’s a cultural experience. With its mix of flavors, vibrant atmosphere, and convenient location, it’s shaping up to be one of Cebu City’s must-visit destinations. Whether you’re after a casual dinner, a weekend outing, or a chance to immerse yourself in Cebuano culture, Puso Village has it all.
Kabang Falls, also known as Budlaan Falls, is one of Cebu City’s most underrated natural attractions. Located inside Barangay Budlaan, this seven-level waterfall system showcases emerald-green pools, cold mountain water, and rock formations that challenge both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Rising up to 15 meters high, its tallest cascade hides a small cave behind the main drop, adding mystery to the already enchanting scenery.
The Trails Leading to Sirao Peak
Photo grab from Google Maps
Kabang Falls forms part of the popular Budlaan–Sirao Trail, a favorite route among hikers heading to Sirao Peak. The trail features river crossings, boulder sections, and forest paths, making it one of Cebu’s more thrilling hikes. Along the way, you can visit Kandumay Falls and Mukpok Falls, both accessible on the same route. Water stations or sibul springs can also be found along the trail, perfect for quick refills. However, newcomers should hire a local guide from the barangay to avoid getting lost, as the trail network can become confusing.
What to Expect at Kabang Falls
Photo grab from Google Maps
The water at Kabang Falls often appears emerald green due to natural minerals, though it may grow mossy during the dry months. The area is rocky, and the trail becomes slippery after rain, so sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are a must. For the best experience, avoid visiting during heavy rains or typhoons, as the terrain can quickly turn dangerous.
How to Get There?
Location: Brgy. Budlaan, Talamban, Cebu City, Philippines
By Car: Drivers can head toward Budlaan Road from either Talamban or Lahug. From the Budlaan–Buslot junction, continue until reaching Sitio Baugon, where limited roadside parking is available. Roads are narrow but passable for cars or motorcycles. After parking, proceed on foot toward the start of the established trail leading to the waterfalls.
By Commute: From Talamban, ride a motorcycle (habal-habal) to Sitio Baugon, the main jump-off to the trail. If coming from JY Square, head to Crossing Buslot, then walk or hire a motorcycle to Sitio Baugon, though fares are usually slightly higher from this route. From Sitio Baugon, the trek begins and typically takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on pace and stops.
Casino Peak, locally known as Lugsangan Peak, is one of Cebu’s most surreal mountain viewpoints, offering a limestone landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy film. Just a short drive from Moalboal or Oslob, this underrated paradise sits quietly behind the more famous Osmeña Peak, but many hikers swear its panoramic ridges are far more dramatic and far less crowded.
A Short but Thrilling Hike
Photo grab from Google Maps
The trail to Casino Peak is steep, rocky, and completely exhilarating, taking most hikers only 10–20 minutes to reach the summit. Near the top, you’ll need to scramble with your hands as the limestone formations rise sharply, but the climb is manageable for beginners with basic fitness. The peak does have exposed drop-offs, so hikers with fear of heights should take it slowly.
What Awaits at the Summit
Photo from Klent Avanzado
Reaching the top rewards you with 360-degree scenery, rolling green hills, rugged limestone spikes, and glimpses of Cebu’s coastline on clear days. Compared to the sometimes-crowded Osmeña Peak, Casino Peak offers a quieter, more intimate connection with nature.
By Car: If you’re driving a car from Cebu City, head south via the Cebu South Road toward Dalaguete. Once you reach Mantalongon Market, follow the uphill road leading to the highlands until you see signs directing you toward Lugsangan/Casino Peak. The drive takes 2.5–3 hours, with steep mountain roads but generally manageable terrain. Parking is available near the trailhead.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a bus bound for Dalaguete or Oslob. Ask to be dropped off at Mantalongon Market. From there, hop on a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to Casino Peak. The ride takes only 15 minutes and brings you directly to the start of the trail.
Sumilon Island, located at the southeastern tip of Cebu, is a small yet stunning tropical haven. Known for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and the ever-changing sandbar, this island is Cebu’s first marine protected area, established in 1974. Its pristine landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Marine Sanctuary and Wildlife
Photo grab from Google Maps
As Cebu’s first marine protected area, Sumilon Island is home to an abundance of marine life. Snorkelers and divers can encounter colorful corals, tropical fish, and occasionally blacktip sharks or whale sharks. The island also supports a variety of bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching. Beyond the water, visitors can explore a lagoon with mangroves, a historic lighthouse, natural caves, and even a small freshwater lake.
The Shifting Sandbar
Photo grab from Google Maps
One of Sumilon Island’s most iconic features is its sandbar. This stretch of white sand continuously shifts in shape and location depending on the tide and season, offering a new experience with every visit. Surrounded by turquoise waters, it’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling. The sandbar’s unique beauty draws photographers and travelers from all over the world.
BlueWater Sumilon Island Resort
Photo grab from Google Maps
The island hosts a single resort, the BlueWater Sumilon Island Resort, which offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, and island hiking. For those not staying overnight, the resort also offers a day pass that includes access to the pool, sandbar, and boat transfers, making it convenient for day-trippers.
Photo grab from Google Maps
How to Get There?
Location: Oslob, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive south to Bancogon Port. Ride a boat to Sumilon Island.
By Commute: From Cebu City, drive or take a bus to the South Bus Terminal in Cebu. From there, ride a bus to Oslob and ask to be dropped off at Bancogon Port. The boat ride to Sumilon Island takes about 7–10 minutes. Shared boats or “banka” rides are cost-effective options. From Dumaguete: Passengers can take a private or shared boat from Dumaguete to Sumilon Island. It’s also common to combine a visit with a trip to Oslob to swim with whale sharks.
Photo grab from Google Maps
The ideal time to visit Sumilon Island is during the dry season, from January to April, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. Avoid the typhoon season (July to September), while moderate rain occurs from October to December. Planning your trip during the dry months ensures smooth boat rides and clearer waters for snorkeling and diving.
Christmas in the Philippines is legendary, long, colorful, and heartwarming. From carolers in malls to families gathering for Noche Buena, Filipinos spare no effort to celebrate. But in a world where prices rise every year, one question keeps surfacing: how much should you ideally spend to have a joyful, stress-free Christmas?
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Understanding the Numbers
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Recent studies provide a snapshot of Filipino holiday spending:
On average, households spend ₱37,106 during the Christmas season, covering gifts, food, and décor (BWorld, 2021).
About 45% goes to meals like Noche Buena, while 48% is spent on gifts.
A more modest estimate shows some families spend around ₱13,400, though this figure is likely outdated due to rising inflation (Picodi.com).
Clearly, holiday spending can be a heavy financial burden for many families.
What the “Ideal Budget” Looks Like
Photo from Pip Limpios
The ideal budget varies depending on your household, priorities, and lifestyle. Here’s a practical guide:
Basic (₱10,000–₱15,000) – Covers a simple Noche Buena, minimal gifts, and basic decorations. Perfect for small households or those on a tight budget.
Comfortable (₱20,000–₱25,000) – Allows a decent meal, a few thoughtful gifts, and small festive touches. Suitable for young adults or small families wanting a meaningful but not extravagant celebration.
Middle-Class / Moderate (₱30,000–₱40,000) – Provides a proper festive meal, gifts for relatives and friends, and some decorations to make the home feel merry. Reflects the average spending of Filipino households.
For most working adults seeking a balance between joy and financial prudence, ₱25,000–₱35,000 is a realistic target.
Why This Budget Makes Sense
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Several factors make this range practical:
Inflation and rising food costs – Prices of basic goods have increased, making older estimates insufficient for a comfortable holiday.
Cultural priorities – Filipinos spend heavily on meals and gift-giving, including for relatives, godchildren, and even officemates.
Flexibility – This budget allows households to scale up or down depending on needs, without falling into financial stress.
By focusing on essentials like food and a few meaningful gifts, you can celebrate Christmas fully while staying financially responsible.
Christmas is about warmth, togetherness, and celebration, not how much you spend. With a thoughtful budget, every Filipino household can enjoy the season without financial stress.
