FOOD TRIP

LECHON

One cannot visit Cebu and not eat the famous lechon. Everyone goes after the crispy, flavorful skin, but some Cebuanos suggest going after the belly meat. They say all the flavors converge on that often ignored area.

Where to go: House of Lechon and Rico’s Lechon What to try: Lechon (Rico’s offers a spicy variety)

CHICHARON

For crispy, mouthwatering chicharon, head over to Carcar City, which is an hour away from Cebu City. You can eat the chicharon by itself or dip it in vinegar or pinakurat. If you’re planning to ship it home, make sure to request for a vacuum-sealed bag so that the chicharon stays extra crispy.

Where to go: Carcar City, Cebu What to try: Mat-Mat Chicharon

PUSO RICE

More popularly known as “hanging rice,” puso is rice wrapped in coconut leaves and then boiled. Easy to eat especially if you’re on- the-go, the coconut leaves wrapping the rice give it a mild aroma and flavor. Puso rice can be eaten alongside lechon, barbequed meats/ street foods, and other viands.

Where to go: Anywhere in Cebu What to try: Puso Rice

WATER ADVENTURES

MALAPASCUA ISLAND

Stretches of white sand, crystal clear waters, and calming blue skies—heaven, indeed, is a place on Earth. Located on the northernmost tip of Cebu, Malapascua rose to fame in the early ‘90s as a dive destination. Tourists can relax on the beach, go scuba diving, or try shark watching.

MOALBOAL

The Sardine Run in Moalboal, Cebu is better than the Antarctic. Yes! Because what can possiblybe better than seeing millions of sardines? Sardines are filter feeders; they stay close to the surface which allows you to swim and snorkel with them just a few meters from the shores of Panagsama Beach.

ALOGUINSAN

As with Cebu’s other breathtaking beaches, Hermit’s Cove in Aloguinsan boasts pristine, blue waters and white, powdery sand. However, before jumping into the waters, make sure to visit the Bojo River. The river cruise is relaxing and informative; guides will explain the various trees, mangroves, and even birds found along the river.

OSLOB

Tourists can swim near thewhale sharks or butandings. Before swimming, guests are briefed on how to safely behave around the whale sharks. Everyone is advised to keep a safe distance and not touch, ride, or chase the sharks. Swimmers should also enter the water gently and not create a splash. Wearing sunscreen is also prohibited. The rules are easy enough to follow and the whale sharks are magnificent up close.

HISTORY SEEKER

BOLJOON

More than 400 years old, the Church of Patrocinio de Maria in the Municipality of Boljoon is a national treasure. Looking up, the ceilings have intricate paintings and ahead, the towering retablo behind the altar holds seven statues of saints. However, the church pastor, Monsignor Arturo Navales, reveals that all of the statues are already replicas—some of the statues were stolen, while the other original statues are hidden from public view.

The centuries-old church boastsa pseudo-baroque-rococo styleand was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines. It was also declared as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and is also under consideration to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Aside from the church, Boljoon is home to many other historical artifacts, structures, and markers.

FORT SAN PEDRO

The oldest triangular bastionfort in the Philippines was saidto have been built in 1565 while some structures date back to 1738. It covers an area of 2,025 square meters and has stood the test of time which includes multiple wars and battles.

In 1968, plans to restore thefort began. The grueling, labor- intensive work was completed by architect Leonardo Concepcion (who completed his MA in Building Restoration in Madrid, Spain).It was funded by the Board of Travel Industry (currently the Department of Tourism), Cebu City Government, and the Cebu Zonta Club.

MACTAN SHRINE

Everyone knows that Mactan Chieftain Lapu-Lapu defeated Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, in the Battle of Mactan. In honor of the Philippines’ first hero, a statue of Lapu-Lapu was erected on Punta Engaño, Mactan Island. Every April, a Kadaugan sa Mactan, or an annual reenactment of the battle, is held in the area.

EXTREME THRILLS

OSMEÑA PEAK

One of the highest points in Cebu, Osmeña Peak is also one of the easiest spots to trek. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of cliffs, oceans, and maybe even the sunset.

ALEGRIA AND BADIAN

Are you a thrill-seeker looking for a real, heart-stopping adventure? The towns of Alegria and Badian in Cebu have cliffs famous for canyoneering. This activity will put your courage to the test as you jump off 30-foot high cliffs in Alegria into its cool waters, swim and rappel through Badian, and end up with a spectacular view of the Kawasan Falls.

MOUNT KAPAYAS OR LANTAWAN

Located in Catmon, this peak is the second highest in Cebu. To reach the top, adventurers will have to trek and rock climb.This is much more challenging than other trekking spots in the province. But the awe-inspiring view is sure to make up for all the sweat. Hikers are advised to start the trail early in the day to avoid extreme heat.

DAO FALLS

In order to reach the majesticfalls, tourists have to wade through crystal blue waters for around half an hour. During this trek, youare surrounded by boulders and beautiful green flora. After wading through blue waters, walking on man-made staircases and walkways, you arrive at Dao Waterfalls. Around 40-50 meters high, the waterfalls pour down into a pool. Swimming in the pool after the trek is the best way to end the afternoon.