Private Tour Guide Island of Cebu Philippines

M&M Private Retirement Tours Cebu

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Hello I am Charles Harman and I am your Guide and Your Friend  when Traveling around greater Cebu Island area.  Our Company is M&M Retirement Tours Cebu, currently operating under TIN: 225-958-891-000 NV. Bogo Cebu “Cool Zone Internet Cafe and Business Center” Always ask for a receipt after your tour.  My Travel guide Service is available for up to 24 hours per day or $197 per day per person up to 4 people..

I have also added a new Bantayan Island 2 Day, Fun in the Sun Tour, which includes ground transportation around the island and your hotel for 2 days and one night, Food not included (it’s cheap) see this tour here. This tour will also have a boat ride around the island.

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What makes my tours so different?

With the majority of the tours you see on the Internet you get  a 1 to 4 hour tour of a specific list of places around the city. They pick you up at a predetermined location, take you around and drop you off at the end of the tour. If you see something along the way and want to take a closer look, you are out of luck because most tours will not stop to check it out, I will, that’s one big difference. My tours also feature customization, that is is we can modify the tour to suite your needs and desires, you are not stuck with a list of places to see. What makes my tours so different is the fact that I am and will be more like family or your best friend while you are on my tour. I will pick you up at your hotel be at your disposal for the entire day, that’s 24 hours. That means from when you choose to start your tour be it 6:00 am or 10:00 am, I will be there, and throughout the day more like family meeting you and taking you around. I can take you where you want to go or use a list of places to see (below). Interested in seeing first hand how the Expats are living here?  I can take you around to meet and talk to some of them. Therefore my tours are very loosely scheduled and flexible .

Wouldn’t it be nice to have someone waiting for you in the Philippines standing ready at the Mactan International Airport to pick you up and get you settled into your hotel? On your schedule and when you want me there. Hi!, I’m Charles Harman and I am a Private Tour Guide for the island of Cebu Philippines. Just let me know when your flight is scheduled to arrive at Mactan International Airport and I will be there to meet you. I will have a sign with your name on it. waiting for your arrival or look for a pink car (see below, my wife picked the color…). I do all this for only $197 ( per day, Per Person, I can handle up to 4 people in the vehicle at a time.) This way even though you leave the US alone you will have someone here to help you along on your great adventure. This price is good for one day, whenever you want that day to start and end I’m yours for this private tour of Cebu. (After Midnight Cebu Time it begins another day.) (Tour is for the Island of Cebu only)

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Email:
Charles_Harman@rocketmail.com
rocketman5047@yahoo.com
webbuilderspro@gmail.com

Phone:
MagicJack (toll free from USA): 1-571-970-9195
Charles Cell: 0-923-837-8509
PLDT Land Line: 63 32 520-1412

http://retiringphilippines.org/

TIN: 225-958-891-000

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$197 Per Person, Per Day (up to 4 people Corrected from above) Includes Ground Transportation, Tour and Tour Guide, up to 24 hours per day for the island of Cebu.  Does not include Air Fare and food, however food is relatively cheap here. The tours are designed for one person, however I can Handel up to 4 people at a time using a leased vehicle. If the tour goes over a little bit not to worry. Your Wife is half price as are children.

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Bantayan Island Cebu Philippines 2 day tour vehicles and hotel $497

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Sta Fe Beach Resort Bantayan Island, Philippines 2 day tour vehicle and hotel $497

http://retiringphilippines.org/2011/11/24/bantayan-island-tours/

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Pensionering Tours
Pensioen Tours
Tours De Retraite

. Cebu Island Retirement Tour

. Bantayan Island Vacation 2 Day Tour  

. Retiring Cebu Best Places To Live Tour
(central and northern Cebu)

. Missionary, Church, Christian Tour

 (ask me about doing these Christian tours as I am a Christian)

. Group Bus Tours

. Super Mall Tours 

. Costume and Combination Tours

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Description of the Cebu Tour

Cebu City Day Tour – Queen City of the South 

• Visit Fort San Pedro Location: South Osmena Boulevard near port area.
• Magellan’s Cross Location: Magellan Street, across from Cebu City Hall, near port area.
• Casa Gorordo Museum Location: Along Lopez Jaena Street
• Santo Nino Basilica
• Taoist Temple in Hollywood hills area of Cebu City
• Waterfront Hotel and Casino the largest hotel in Cebu City
• Mountain Trek up the mountains near Cebu City with lunch or dinner at Hilltop Hotel Restaurant with a breathtaking view of Cebu City.

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Custom Tour of Cebu

• Custom designed to your tastes and desires
• Drive up the east coast of Cebu for a visit of some of the best places to retire on Cebu.
• Visit Bogo City – a nice quiet community and the location of our home, we tour my home.
• Visit Medellin – Another excellent coastal community home of many expats from all over the world.
• Visit San Remigio- Great retirement community and home of the San Remigio Beach Resort. There is also Warren’s Beach Resort, Virgin Beach Resort near by both owned by Americans.
• Visit Subdivisions – We tour several subdivisions to see how you can live in luxury at an affordable price.
• Visit Beach Resorts – There are many beach resorts on Cebu and in Cebu City area we will spend time at Portofino Beach Resort a reasonable priced yet very nice resort on Mactan Island.

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If interested please join this website by clicking Meta and Register on the left side, make sure your email is good so I can contact you..

Please visit the main website RetiringPhilippines.org here.

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Disclaimer: The agreement between you the guest, and myself the tour guide is as follows. You agree to pay me up front $197 for the day’s tour and for each day of the tour before we head out each day. You have the choice to pay me up front for the entire tour or buy the day. I supply the vehicle and fuel only, and myself as the tour guide. And in some cases will lease a vehicle. I do not pay for or supply you with food or snacks, you pay for all your own food and snacks and any drinks, and I pay for my own food, snacks and drinks.

End of Disclaimer. .

Planning your trip – To travel to the Philippines all you need is an up-to-date Passport, When you arrive here at Mactan International Airport your first stop will be Customs and Immigration’s and this is where they check that you have a return flight and stamp your passport with a 21 day visa. Now you are allowed to travel around the country with this 21 day visa. If you plan to stay longer you can get this updated to a 59 day visa before the 21 days run out or pay a small fine, maybe 500 pesos for letting it lapse. If you plan to stay longer than the 2 month visa just come back into Cebu Immigration’s and get it extended. You can keep extending this up to one year. At this point you need to leave the country for one day and return and start the process all over again. I went to Hong Kong which is only a short flight from the Philippines. If you plan to stay on a permanent basis, you should consider getting permanent residency(13A)  here. Laundry service is cheap here so just drip your clothing off to have it laundered. You are only allowed to bring two 50 pound bags these days. What I recommend doing it get a large size suitcase then one that is a tad smaller and will fit inside the larger bag. The smaller bag is where you pack a weeks worth of clothing. Then when you return home you can pull out the smaller bag and use it for all the stuff you buy here to take home and put your clothing in the larger bag. This way you come in with one bag and return with two. Remember only 50 pounds per bag so don’t get too many gifts. You can also ship items home from here but it is a little costly maybe $50 for an average sized box via DHL or one of the other shippers.

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Hotel Reservations – I suggest staying in Goldberry Suites or Hotel Bella Vista shown below, as they arew very comfortable and close to night life on the island. However if you prefer another hotel I will still take you to and from it. If you choose this hotel I can call and make your reservations for you just let me know when you plan to arrive and for how long. Look down past the Goldberry Suites for the Bella Vista Hotel located across the street.

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Hotels:

Hotel Bella Vista M. L. Quezon Highway, Lapu-Lapu City 6015, Mactan, Cebu Philippines 24-Hours Contact Numbers: Tel: (632) 910-4203 up to 05 Fax: (632) 910-4206 Toll Free numbers: Call from the USA: 1-877-347-5239; 1-877-387-4852 Call from UK: (44) 800-014-8008

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Restaurant

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Bellla Vista Restaurant

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GoldBerry Suites Lapu-Lapu Location:

M.L. Quezon National Highway, Pusok Lapu-lapu City Philippines 6015 

Phone Number: + (632) 318-5129 

Cell Number: + (63) 917-3204559 

Email Add.: reservation@goldberrysuites.com 

http://www.goldberrysuites.com

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Prices:

Studio: Php 1,870

Standard: Php 2,720

Deluxe: Php 3,717 

Suite: Php 5,100

Penthouse: Php 5,950

 

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Amenities:

•  King/ Queen/ Single Bed
•  Complimentary Two Bottled Water
•  Complimentary Coffee Sets
•  High Speed Internet Connection
•  IDD and NDD Telephone Lines
•  Cabled LCD Television
•  Personalized Air Condition
•  Safety Deposit Box
•  Newspaper on request
•  Mini Bar

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Ground Transportation – You have the option of choosing a 2010 air-conditioned sedan at no extra cost or a nice air-conditioned van for the additional cost of $150 per day (leased). These are nice new Toyota Hi-Ace van and are very comfortable. They are 14 passenger vans so you have plenty of room. (See photo of both below).  The structure of this tour is very loose, pretty much up to you where you want to go as long is it is on the island of Cebu. I will make some suggestions below. I pick you up from the airport, transport you to and from your hotel and around the island of Cebu. At the end of your stay I will take you back to the Airport for your flight home. Please also consider that driving from the Bogo, Medellin area to Cebu City is roughly a 2 hour trip, from there to Car-Car is about 4 hours by van. I believe the Medellin area is the most attractive area for what it offers the retirement community.

Expenses – I will pay for the fuel for the sedan or Van, but all other expenses are expected to be paid by you. Some of these may be food, souvenir shops, water and drinks, beer basically all I pay for is the fuel and the car or van. Email me, let me know your thoughts and and suggestions and  if you are even thinking of coming. Why Come Here? – Because retirement options are very good in the Philippines, you can live cheaper have more fun and enjoy your retirement years right here in the Philippine islands. See my RetiringPhilippines.org Website for more info about why you should consider retiring in the Philippines. . Notes: Currently I have (2) tours scheduled will post them here with dates as they come in. .

NAME	DATE
Rick Ryan	November 15th, 16th 2011 (Completed)
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Retirement Tour #1 November 15th and 16th Completed successfully. Left to right Marianne Harman, Rick Ryan, Charles Harman.

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Retirement Tour #1 November 15th and 16th Completed successfully The Band at Pier One Cebu City

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Travel Insurance -  You should get travel insurance before departing for your trip, because it’s just a good idea. Obtaining insurance means nothing will happen, it’s when you don’t buy it that something could happen, that’s Murphy’s Law… you know.

Photos - See the post Around Cebu for photos of these locations and more.

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Tourist Attractions

Lapu-Lapu City – Statue of Lapu-Lapu, Guitar Factories, City Hall, Market, Housing Subdivisions, maybe see some of the rentals and Shopping in Lapu-Lapu City at Gaisano Island Mall. This would take about half a day. We could also visit a Beach Resort and do R & R and have a few beers on the beach (drinks are your expense).

Cebu City – Cebu City is home to many thousands of Americans and Foreigners from many countries, There are thousands of subdivisions with many apartment and houses for rent. You can buy a home if you are married to a Filipino Citizen, we Americans can’t own here yet except for a Condo. If you have the funds to build one you an own it; Rentals are abundant here. Some of the scenic areas in Cebu are: Kawasan Falls Cebu, Fort San Pedro Cebu, Waterfront Hotel and casino, lots of slot machines and other gambling, Chong Hua Hospital in case you need it, Mall Shopping at Ayala a 5 level mall and SM Cebu City both huge malls lots of gift shops in both malls, Sky Experience Adventure on the top floors of the Crown Regency Hotel (tickets are around Php 500 for the edge coaster ride), you can get some really nice photos from up on the 49th. and 50th. floors, toaist Temple is another good photo taking location and takes about two hours to see it all.

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Cebu City Attractions

MAGELLAN MARKER, Lapu-lapu City about 20 km. from Cebu City Before Magellan could cross the channel to Mactan Island he was killed by the chieftain of the island, Lapu-lapu and his men during the battle for supremacy and freedom on April 27, 1521. The marker was erected in 1866 to mark the spot where Magellan died.

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MAGELLAN’S CROSS, Magallanes St. – On April 14, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan planted a simple cross to mark the spot where the first Christian a Filipino, named Rajah Humabon and Queen Juana and a few followers were baptized by Fr. Pedro Valderama. In 1525 to 1740, the Agustinian priests built and open shrine for the cross, but the natives began to take chips from the cross believing it had miraculous power.So a kosk-like structure was built to protect the cross from total destruction. To protect it further, a hollow cross of tindalo wood was made to encase the original cross which still stands today.

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FORT SAN PEDRO, Pier Area, Cebu City – The smallest, and oldest fort in the country tha served as the center of the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. It has a total inside area of 2,025 sq. meters. The walls are from 8 to 20 feet high, and 8 feet thick, the towers are 30 feet high from the ground level. Work began May 8, 1565. After the battle of Manila Bay, Commodore George Dewey turned the fort over to the local Cebuanos. After this it became an American Warwick Barracks during the American Regime. Later it was converted into classrooms. During World War II, from 1941 to 1945, this fort served as fortification for Japanese soldiers, when the battle for liberation was fought, the fort served as an army camp. In 1950, the Cebu Garden Club took over the fort and fixed the inner court into a miniature garden. For a couple of years it also housed the Cebu City Zoo. In 1978 to August 15, 1993, it housed the offices of the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Tourism Authority. Today it is under the care and administration of the National Museum.

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LAPU-LAPU MONUMENT, Punta Enga̱o, Lapu-lapu City РThis is the site where the battle between Mactan Island Chieftain Lap-ulapu and the foreign aggressor Ferdinand Magellan occurred in April 27, 1521.

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UNIVERSITY OF SAN CARLOS, P. Del Rosario St., Cebu City – The oldest school in the Philippines established 1565 by the Jesuits.

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COLON STREET, Downtown Area, Cebu City – This is also known as Parian District, the oldest street in the Philippines built by the Spaniards during the time of Miguel Lopez de Legaspi. Named after Christopher Columbus, it is the heart of downtown Cebu, a glittering city by night lined with movie houses, restaurants, department stores, and other business establishments.

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CAPITOL BUILDING, Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City – The seat of the Provincial government, is of pre-war vintage and has the undulating mountains of Cebu for its background. Majestic and imposing, its high dome can be seen along Osmeña Boulevard. A replica of the United States’ White House. One of the many beautiful capitol buildings in the country, constructed in 1937 under the administration of Governor Sotero Cabahug. Cultural Attractions

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CASA GORORDO MUSEUM, 35 Lopez Jaena St., Cebu City – Located in Lopez Jaena Street, it is the home of the first Filipino Bishop of Cebu. A tour inside this residence is a brief journey into a Filipino lifestyle in a particular period between 1860 to 1920. The place presently features noted paintings, museum relics, a courtyard, antique household items and furniture. Open from 9:00 am to 12:00 and 1:00pm to 5:30pm,Monday to Saturday.  Admission fee is PHP 15.00 for adults and 5.00 for children.

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FORT SAN PEDRO NATIONAL MUSEUM, Legaspi Ext., Cebu City – Artifacts taken from the old Spanish Galleon known as SAN DIEGO within the deep-sea of Fortune Island off the coast of Nasugbo, Batangas are on display in this centuries-old Fort. The Museum used to house the offices of the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Tourism Authority. The artifacts on display include Ming porcelain pieces of all sizes, coins, lockets, swords fragments, cannons and helmets. Well-kept flower beds, cannons, lush vegetation, and neat walkways align its interiors along with a canteen and a museum. Open from 8AM – 7PM daily. Entrance fee is Php 15 per person.

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UNIVERSITY OF SAN CARLOS MUSEUM, P. del Rosario St., Cebu City – A product of years of research, the collection in view are anthropological and biological. The anthropological section portrays the cultural development and influence into society and its close affinity with the people of Southeast Asia. The biological section presents samples of the flora and fauna of the country in general and Cebu in particular. Admission fee PHP 5.00 per person; open Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 nn and 1:30pm to 5:30pm; Saturday from 8:00am to 12:00nn only.

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THE SOUTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY MUSEUM, Urgello Private Road, Cebu City – It gives a quick look of Cebuano art and lifestyle, from the prehistoric to hispanic times. Also in this room are burial jars, boat coffins, death masks in gold, trade pottery ( from China, Cambodia and Vietnam, including Ming, Celadon and other China trade jars, as well as Ban Chieng and Haripunchai pottery), gold teeth peggings ( the design of the decoration showed where its owner came from, whether from Cebu or Leyte or Bohol, or wherever), excavated trade beads and heirloom jewelry, santoses and church carvings and other church accessories. The Museum is open to the public from 10:00a.m. to 12: noon, and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday while the Filipiniana Research Center is open from Monday to Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00p.m.

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JUMALON’S FAMILY CULTURAL PROJECT, 20 Macopa St., Basak, Pardo, Cebu City – A LEPIDO MOSAIC ART collection, so-called because it utilizes butterfly wings as its medium. Beautiful and intricate samples of these artworks can be seen at PROF. JULIAN JAMALON residence at 20 Macopa Street, Basak, Pardo, Cebu City. No Admission fee.

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RIZAL MUSEUM AND LIBRARY, Osme̱a Blvd., Cebu City РLocated within Cebu City Library along Osme̱a Boulevard showcases a collection of antiques donated by famous and rich Cebuano families. Also on display are a collection of artworks of the Cebuano painters and artists. Its upper floor is utilized as a performing arts hall for concert and theatre productions by Cebu talents. On the ground floor is the Rizal Memorial Library which keeps some important books on Cebuano history and culture.

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AZNAR-ALFONSO ANTIQUE COLLECTION – Owned by Dr. Lydia Aznar-Alfonso, the antique collection is of much younger vintage. Pieces of lovely period furniture, a very wide collection of antique jewelry, ” santoses” as well as authentic “grave goods” from various archaeological diggings in the island of Mactan and Cebu helped enrich Dr. Alfonso’s beautiful collection.

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ARCENAS ANTIQUE COLLECTION – Spanish period furniture and “santoses”, jewelries, pottery, porcelain wares are on display at Dr. and Mrs. Ramon Arcenas residence located at Banawa, Cebu City.

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ROSE ONG ORCHID COLLECTION – So beautiful and varied, the biggest orchid collection in the province.

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PRES. SERGIO OSMEÑA MEMORABILIA – Contains the late president’s historic car, his personal belongings and mementoes.

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RIZALIANA MUSEUM – Contains the memorabilia of Dr. Jose Rizal given by his sister to the University of Southern Philippines Museum.

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SALA PIANO MUSEUM, Gorordo Avenue, Lahug, Cebu City – A unique collection of hundreds of pianos of varying sizes and shapes. Venue to classical concerts and houses a music foundation. Open from 9:00 am to 12:00 nn, afternoons by appointment. Admission fee: PHP 5.00 for adults and PHP 1.00 for children.

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MACTAN ISLAND – A coral island and famous for scuba diving, where beach resorts of international standards are located. Also the site of the Export Processing Zone, with 102 companies in operation, employing 37,118 people. Land area – 150 has.

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MOALBOAL - South of Cebu – Located 89 km. southwest of Cebu City, it offers cheap to moderate rates of room accommodation, white sandy beaches and excellent corals for scuba diving.

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BADIAN ISLAND - South of Cebu – Located 97 km. southwest of Cebu City, famous for beautiful corals and reefs, white sandy beaches excellent for diving. Accommodation is offered by the Badian Beach Resort, a “AAA” class resort.

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MALAPASCUA ISLAND – It was on Christmas day when the Spaniards reached the island. According to townsfolk, it was supposed to be a special day for celebration but unfortunately a storm hit the island and so came the name “MALAPASCUA”, MALAS SA PASKO, which means “Unfortunate Christmas” in English. Malapascua is sometimes referred to as “LOGON”, the main community in the south. “Logon” got its name when the Japanese and Spaniards fought over the island during the World War II. The island is 3 km. long and 1 km. wide, with a population of about 3,000. It has white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters. The west coast is ideal for swimming and snorkelling but one should be careful because of unpredictable weather. A walk or tour on the whole island can be done for about two hours.

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CAMOTES ISLAND – The island is located at the northeast of Cebu province and is composed of 4 towns, namely: Poro (composed of 17 barangays), San Francisco (composed of 15 barangays), Tudela (composed of 8 barangays) and Pilar (composed of 5 barangays). To cross the island, one has to go to Danao City, an hour away from Cebu City or take a fastferry. There are two boats which travel to and from the island and Danao City everyday, one fastcraft which travels twice a day and a regular boat thrice a week . Travel to and from the island is around 2 hours and transportation within the island are motorcycles.

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KAWASAN FALLS – Located in Badian , one can feel the coolness of the surrounding lush greenery of this panoramic waterfalls. Accommodation from cheap to moderate rates are available. NONOC CAVE – Located in Borbon, 83 km. north of Cebu City, very picturesque view, shelter for picnickers and bathers.

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OLANGO WILDLIFE SANCTUARY – Olango Island supports the largest concentration of migratory birds found so far in the country. Migration starts from the breeding places of birds in Siberia, Northern China and Japan. Anticipating the scarcity of food and winter cold, these birds fly as far as Australia and New Zealand from late July until late November. This is usually referred to as the Southward Migration. By late February until May, these birds return to their breeding grounds in the reverse Northward Migration. Based on data gathered so far, the birds use Olango as a major refueling station as well as a wintering ground. At Olango, the birds can replenish their fat reverses by feeding on rich supply of invertebrates in the intertidal mudflats. These fat reserves must fuel the birds on the next lap of their journey which may cover from 3,000 to 15,000 km. of non-stop flight. Land Area – 1,022.6228 has.

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RELIGIOUS IMAGE OF SANTO SANTO NINO - Considered as the oldest religious relic in the Philippines. It was on April 14, 1521 that Magellan gave the image to Queen Juana as a baptismal gift. Forty-four years later, on April 27, 1565 when Miguel Lopez de Legaspi arrived, Fr. Andres de Urdaneta who formally Christianized the Cebuanos, found the natives hostile. Legaspi himself besieged the settlement and set the village on fire. It was on one of the burnt houses that Juan Camus, a soldier, found the image of Sto. Nino unscratched. Since then, the miraculous image has been venerated by the Cebuanos as its Patron Saint. At present , the miraculous image is kept in the Parish Covent, and a replica is adorned with gold and precious stones and enshrined in glass. It is housed in a side altar inside the Basilica Minor del Santo Nino.

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BASILICA MINOR DEL SANTO NINO РThis church was built by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and Fr. Andres Urdaneta on the site where the image of Santo Ni̱o was found in 1565. The first structure of the church was, however, destroyed by fire on November 1, 1568. It was rebuilt in 1602 under the administration of Juan Albaran and was rehabilitated in 1740. On May 1965, the church was conferred the title of Basilica Minor del Santo Nino by Cardinal Antonuitte, Papal Legate during the Fourth Centennial celebration of the Christianization of Cebu.

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TAOIST TEMPLE – Located in the mountains of Beverly Hills, Cebu City. This temple preserves the teachings of Lao-Tse, the 600 B.C. Chinese philosopher. Everyday people climb its 99 steps to light joss sticks and have their fortune read.

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HEAVENLY TEMPLE OF CHARITY – Located at Peace Valley, Lahug, Cebu City. It is a temple built on top of a sacred hill. Beneath the hills, the sacred waters from a natural spring is believed to have curative people of all sorts of aliments.

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PHU-SIAN TEMPLE – A Buddhist Temple, the third Chinese temple on Beverly Hills, is located at the right side of the road to the Taoist Temple.

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CHAPEL OF THE LAST SUPPER – Life-sized carvings of the Lord Jesus and his 12 apostles seated at a long table for the Last Supper. This is the only one of its kind in the country. This treasured relic is found in the Church of Mandaue City that dates back to 1601.

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CELESTIAL GARDEN – Located in Banawa Hills, Cebu City. Owned and managed by the Tanchan Foundation. A 12-hectare of Rolling Hills where life-size statuses depicting the drama of the stations of the cross were built.

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MANDAUE-MACTAN BRIDGE – Built in 1972 at a cost of Php 65 million. This 864-meter bridge connects the islands of Mactan and Cebu. TOPS – Situated high on top of cool Busay Hills, an excellent sight-seeing spot which offers a breathtaking view of Metro Cebu and the islands of Mactan and Olango. Cottages are available for daytime picnics and instant evening parties.

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BEVERLY HILLS – A scenic subdivision on Lahug Hills commands a breathtaking view of the entire city.

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LILOAN LIGHTHOUSE – Found in the municipality of Liloan, around 18 km. north of Cebu City. Built by the American in 1904.

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THE NEW CEBU COLISEUM РA sports center located at Sanciangco Street where concert and ball games are usually held. YMCA РAlong Osme̱a Blvd. is a sports complex equipped with body building equipment, swimming pool, bowling lanes and ball game courts. Accommodation is also available.

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CEBU CITY YOUTH AND SPORTS COMPLEX – Located at Abellana National School grounds, was constructed for the Palarong Pambansa 1994. The sports complex is considered the country’s best today. It boasts of the following facilities: 2 grandstands which can accommodate 15,000 people, Olympic size swimming pool, rubberized oval, baseball field, and quarters for athletes and officials.

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CEBU GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB – An 18-hole golf course located in Banilad, Cebu City.

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ALTA VISTA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB – An exclusive membership club located in the rolling mountain ranges of Pardo, Cebu City. It commands a breathtaking view of the islands of Mactan and Bohol against the backdrop of the city straits. With a world-class golf course of 60 hectares, par 72, 18 hole course covering 5,670 meters.

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FUENTE OSMEA – A lovely circular park with a beautiful fountain in the middle. Named after Cebu’s Grand Old Man, the late president Sergio Osmea, Sr.

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SPECIAL INTERESTS FIRING RANGE – A tourist come-on, located in Barangay Pusok, Lapu-lapu City, for pistol-shooting enthusiasts.

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GUITAR FACTORIES, Maribago District, Lapu-lapu City – One can actually see how guitars are made. It is amazing, however, to note that while the occupation of the people is in that Mactan District, the raw materials used have to be shipped from Mindanao and nowhere on the island can be found such materials.

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CEBU BOTANICAL GARDEN, Camp Marina, Capitol Hills – Plant hobbyists can see a collection of greenery.

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R&M PRESERVES, V. Rama Avenue, Guadalupe – A plant processing for fruit preserves like mango, orange, papaya, jackfruits, etc. Fiestas and Festivals SINULOG – Celebrated every 3rd Sunday of January, is Cebu’s biggest and most popular festival. The feast is in honor of the Holy Image of Senyor Santo Niño de Cebu. Fiesta Senyor, as it is widely known , is the most celebrated among Cebu’s festival where people converge along the routes of a grand solemn procession and partake in the gaiety amidst a mardi gras parade immersed in wild colors and the constant beating of drums.

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TRES DE ABRIL CELEBRATION – Celebrated every 3rd of April in commemoration of the Spanish resistance in the south.

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SANAYON – Agro-tourism festival in the southern towns of the second district about 100 km. from the city. A month-long activity to spread tourism.

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PASKUHAN - Cebu City/Province, a Christmas celebration of songs and lantern making.

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KADAUGAN SA MACTAN - A one-day reenactment celebrated every 27th. of April in Lapu-lapu City to commemorate the historic battle of Mactan.

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SEMANA SANTA SA BANTAYAN - A unique mixture of solemn religious rites and local celebration highlighting the Holy Week in Bantayan Island  activities in Bantayan Island.

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TAGBO - Poro, Camotes Is., Cebu – Celebrated every January.

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CASSAVA FESTIVAL - Camotes Island, Cebu – Held to make us aware of the different uses and economic opportunities offered by cultivating cassava.

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CARCAR FIESTA - Carcar, Cebu – Celebrated on November 24-25 in honor of the town’s patron, St. Catherine of Alexandria. Carcar is in southern Cebu.

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NUESTRA SENORA DE REGLA FIESTA - Lapu-lapu City – Held to honor the patroness of Opon November 20-21, the Fiesta Queen highlight the festivity.

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DANAO CITY - I would do this on a trip up to northern Cebu as it is a much smaller city but retirees do live there.

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Medellin – One of the best places on Cebu to live is home to many American and foreigner retirees. Medellin is a quiet west coast of Cebu location with several nice beach resorts and a free beach nearby. This area has a very low crime rate and is usually very quiet. I personally know a few people living in this area. And my brother-in-law has a house in the Medellin area.  I recommend taking a tour of this area. The Koreans are currently investing in this area and are building two condos and a gulf course right on the ocean in Medellin. Marianne and I have land in this area that will be converted from agricultural to a subdivision with lots of Apartments and lots for sale.

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San Remigio – This is another west coast of Cebu area that sits right on the beach, lots of nice properties in this area and many are for rent.

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Property in the Philippines – Remember, only a Filipino citizen can own a home in the Philippines unless they enact a law to change this. So if you are a single guy get attached to a Filipino choose carefully so she does not end up running away and taking that nice home with her, believe me it happens. Age is not a problem here also, many men both Filipino and Foreign are married to women may years younger than they are. My wife is 27 and I am 65 and we have been married 7 years and have 3 children. In the US this would be considered taboo. We met a couple in Bogo both Filipino he was 74 she was 29 so it happens that way also. Most Filipina girls seem to prefer older men to younger men they call boys, preferring the more mature older men. Our Marriage has been great we get along very well in spite of the age difference. And it’s nice being taken care of by here. If I cut my finger she runs to grab the alcohol and cleans it up for me. We do not argue, rarely do we even disagree on things. However she is very intelligent and business oriented, A marriage made in heaven.

Waterfront Hotel and Casino

Mountain Trek and Hilltop Restaurant

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Contact:

32-520-1412 (PLDT Cebu Philippines) 0-932-525-3136 (Cell Philippines) 0-923-837-8509  571-970-9195 (USA FREE CALL) Charles_Harman@rocketmail.com .

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This is what the van will look like usually white or silver in color and is an additional charge of $150 per day as I will lease it for our tours by the day.

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This is the sedan we have and will use for the tours and is included in the $197 price. Small cars are better here to get around the narrow Philippine roads. This one is very economical and has a 3 cylinder 1000cc engine, yet runs very well even on the mountain pass and hills. If you ever decide to retire here this is a good choice for a family vehicle, runs around $12,000 or Php 599,000.

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Go here for photos of Cebu Philippines and more Places to Visit

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Go here for photos of Cebu Philippines and more Places to Visit

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7 Reasons Why Retiring in the Philippines is Your Best Choice

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Like glittering emeralds in a sapphire sea, the 7,107 islands of the alluring archipelago of the Philippines sparkle with attractions to entrance both overseas travelers and residents in search of spectacular natural wonders and a unique cultural heritage. Lofty mountain peaks, glowing volcanoes, lush, pristine rainforests,  peaceful, azure bays and an iridescent underwater world combine to create a multi hued canvas of breath-taking beauty. Asian, Spanish and American influences, together with the special qualities and customs of indigenous groups, have created a culture that defies comparison and is unmatched for warmth, hospitality and sheer enjoyment of life. Did you know you can retire here in the Philippines and bring your wife and family if you have one? I mean move here lock, stock and barrel! Just sell or liquidate and get rid of all that junk you have been storing all these years. Yes you can ship some of the things you really want here by using what is called a balikbayan box (6.0 cu/ft – 24″x18″x24″). You can put just about anything in them (except perishable foods) and the price is only about $100 for unlimited weight. I have shipped printers, bottles of juice, canned foods, clothing even a stage ready bass amplifier. these boxes come direct from the US to your new location, they do not go through customs either. and if you have no place to mail it to just send it to me and I will hold it here for you. look for a Filipino supplier in your location who can ship, this should not take more than 2 months to get here via container ship. Did you know that a retiree with an average social security check can easily afford a maid, they only cost about $50.00 a month, and they do everything for you, cook, laundry, by hand, clean and baby sit if you have children. A friend lives on a $700 pension and he has a nice home and a maid… Also remember the Philippines is a 220V 60hz country this means your appliances will only work on a conversion transformer obtainable here in a variety of sizes. I brought some of my better kitchen appliances and and that bass amp and just plug them into my little 100watt 220 to 110 transformer, works fine. You can even get all your dental work done here, for instance a crown will cost you around $100, $7 to clean you teeth. My wife had a baby here the hospital costs were under $200 and that was in a private hospital. You can buy a economical car here for around $13,000 or P599,000 and that’s new. Live your retirement and live like a king… Read on there’s more…

Hi! my name is Charles Harman my wife and I along with our two children moved to the Philippines from Texas last February. Life here is like living a vacation every single day, the weather is great and we are surrounded by some of the greatest beach resorts in the world. My kids just love going to the beach and playing in the sand or water. This is an excellent place to bring your whole family and live for a fraction of what it costs in the US. This is also a great place for a missionary family to come and minister to the people. The missionary visa is for a longer period of time, something like three years, more on this later. You have everything you need right here and since English is spoken by just about everyone it makes this your top choice.

1. COST OF LIVING: The number one reason to retire in the Philippines is cost of living. I know a retired California police officer living on only $700.00 a month and he is making it just fine and that includes his rent, utilities, food and transportation. If he can do it, any one can. I rent a two story 2 bedroom townhouse for only $160.00 to $175 a month depending on the Dollar/Peso exchange rate. And this is not a bamboo building rather a Concrete and steel structure. Look at the following image taken from a spreadsheet titled “What things cost in the Philippines”, you can download it on the downloads page. The blue numbers are Pesos and the Green US Dollars. I think one of the nicest places to live is right here on Mactan island, situated just off the east coast Cebu with two bridges coming over from Mandaue City. There are plenty of fine gated neighborhoods all across Mactan island most of them are vary western looking, see photo insert. We planto buy here some day soon ourselves, already looking at a few really nice homes here and they are affordable. Homes in the subdivision in the photo to the left run from around P1.2 Million to around P15 million. You can get info on most of the newer subdivisions at any of the SMs or malls here just look for a Realtor handing out pamphlets. By the way, my 2000 square foot house in northern Cebu is for sale for P 3.5 Million or around $70,000 depending on the exchange rate. It is near the city of Bogo in northern Cebu in a pretty quiet neighborhood (see the post about it below).

2. LANGUAGE: The Philippines is the only Asian country that speaks English, it is even taught in school as a second language from elementary school all the way to graduation. Most Filipinos can speak some English which makes it easier when shopping. The Official language of the Philippine Government is English. Street signs are in English and you drive on the right side of the street just like in the United States. Check out some of my other posts about this, and look at the photos below thinking about, “What if I were doing the Driving”.

3. TRANSPORTATION: You do not need a car here as public transportation is plentiful and very cheap. Although we are currently buying a small car so we can travel when and where we want, when we want, but it is not a necessity here like it is in the US. Transportation is so cheap here and you have so many different types of transportation and they are available just about everywhere in the Philippines. Here are a few examples: A taxi ride across Cebu City is around $3.00 a ride. A Jeepney another method of transportation is around P7.00 or 25 cants. By the way a Jeepney is a vehicle that resembles a stretched jeep with long bench seats on either side, kind of a bus or van which is open air. Watch your head though, the roof is very low and there’s the danger of knocking your head as you step up to get on I know, Ive done it. Another method of transportation is a van sometimes called V-Hire these are mostly used intercity but are not too expensive maybe P200 per person. And of course the main mode of transportation is the little 100cc motorcycles you see everywhere. I think just about every Filipino has one, I have three of them. Another type is what is known as a multicab or multivan they run around $3,500 have a 3 cylinder 660 cc engine under the seat and are very economical and very popular vehicles here, they even come in 4×4 models.

4. YOUR INCOME: You can still get your Social Security benefits here as I am. If you are married you can get additional benefits for your wife and kids. You can also start a business, we started an internet cafe however they do not make a lot of money, you need to diversify some by including an internet business center. Ours in Bogo makes around P 25,000 (Philippine pesos) or $600 to $700 a month on a good month. Enough to live on for 2 people. Another real good business is a piggery, Marianne’s is dong very well, she is selling pigs now and will make around P45,000.00 or around $1,000.00 for this sale, this number can vary greatly, depending on how may pigs you have and how many you are selling.See my FAQ for more information.

5. YOUR MEDICINE: Are your medical expenses too high? Are you having to buy medical supplies with a credit card.? Did you know in the Philippines you can purchase most medicines over the counter and without a doctors prescription. Marianne buys Amoxicillin for me when I need it and all she does is go to the local pharmacy. High blood pressure medicines can be purchased over the counter without a doctor involved as can many others. I use the doctor to recommend a medication then I can just buy it. Or if I am sick and don’t know what ‘s wrong or what to get for it. A typical Doctors office visit will coast you around P 400 or about $10.00. Yes that is not a typo, ten dollars per office visit, Cat scans for P 5,000 or around $110. Dental work is equally cheap here. Get your teeth cleaned for $7.00 or a crown for $100.

6. R&R – REST AND RELAXATION: There are many fine beach resorts in the Philippines, most are very inexpensive. An average week long stay will usually run you under $300.00 and that’s including all you food and board. There are also some of the best diving spots in the world right here in the Philippines, beautiful orange corals and colorful fish. Mactan Island is the one exception to that rule they seem to be on the high end I quoted one recently for about $30 per person just to get in. See some of my other posts abut beach resorts and the cost.

7. THE PEOPLE: The Filipino is one of the friendliest people in the world, always a smile on their faces, and they love to have their pictures taken. Often going out or their way go get you to take their photo of them. Most Filipinos welcome the Americans openly however you will occasionally run into a Filipino that does not like Americans but I believe this situation is very rare or they just keep it to themselves.

Around Cebu Philippines

Island of Cebu Philippines

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Cebu (Cebuano: Sugbo) is a province in the Philippines, consisting of Cebu Island and 167 surrounding islands. It is located to the east of Negros, to the west of Leyte and Bohol islands. Cebu is a long narrow island stretching 225 kilometers from north to south, surrounded by 167 neighbouring, smaller islands, which include Mactan, Bantayan, Malapascua, Olango and the Camotes Islands. Cebu has narrow coastlines, limestone plateaus and coastal plains. It also has rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges traversing the northern and southern lengths of the island. Cebu’s highest mountains are over 1000 meters high. Flat tracts of land can be found in the towns of Bogo, San Remigio, Medellin and Daanbantayan at the northern region of the province. Its capital is Cebu City, the oldest city in the Philippines, which forms part of the Cebu Metropolitan Area together with four neighboring cities which include Danao City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City and Talisay City and eight other municipalities. Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located in Mactan island, is the second busiest airport in the Philippines.

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Cebu is one of the most developed provinces in the Philippines, with Cebu City as the main center of commerce, trade, education and industry in the Visayas. Condé Nast Traveler Magazine named Cebu the seventh best island destination in the Indian Ocean-Asia region in 2007,[1] eighth best Asian-Pacific island destination in 2005, seventh in 2004 and in 2009.

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Cebu, The long skinny Island in the middle.

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The population of Cebu in 2007 is 2,440,120, with its largest city accounting for 799,762 people, or more than a third of the entire provincial population. Visayan is the official language spoken in Cebu and it is also spoken in most areas of the Visayas, including Bohol, western Leyte, Negros Oriental and some provinces of Mindanao (Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao City, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin, Compostela Valley, and Sarangani. The population of Central Visayas is predominantly young with about 37 percent of its population below 10 years old. This is very evident in the very broad base of the population pyramid in the region which has prevailed since 1970 but at a declining rate. A decline of 2.29 percentage points in the proportion of household population below 15 years old was noted from 1980 to 1995. Conversely, an increase of 3.06 percentage points was observed in the 15-64 age group during the same period. The population of the region is evenly distributed between male and female. However, the male population in the region has been increasing at a faster rate compared to the female population.
Source:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cebu

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Lapu-Lapu City – Central Cebu

 

The City of Lapu-Lapu is a first class highly urbanized city in the province of Cebu in the Philippines. The city occupies most of Mactan Island, a few kilometer off the main island of Cebu and also covers the area of Olango Island further to the southeast region, plus a few other islands. It is part of the Cebu Metropolitan Area which is located in Cebu City. According to the 2007 census, it has a population of about 292,530 people. The city is linked to Mandaue City on mainland Cebu by the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge and Marcelo Fernan Bridge. Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the second busiest airport in the Philippines, is located in Lapu-Lapu City. The only aquarium attraction in the Visayas is also located in Lapu-lapu City.In the 16th century Mactan Island was colonized by Spain. Augustinians friars founded the town of Opon in 1730 and became a city in 1961 and was renamed after Datu Lapu-Lapu, the Island’s chieftain who defeated Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. This battle is commemorated at the Lapu-Lapu shrine in Barangay Mactan.

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Lapu-Lapu City My home is near where you see that white rectangle by itself, that is Gaisano Mactan. Notice how close I am to the Airport lower left corner.

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LapuLapu, the Island's chieftain who defeated Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521

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Lapulapu Squalluto

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Politician Manuel A. Zosa, the representative of the Sixth District of Cebu, sponsored the Bill converting the former municipality of Opon into the present day City of Lapu-Lapu. This was the Republic Act 3134, known as the City Charter of Lapu-Lapu which was signed on June 17, 1961 by former Philippine President Carlos P. Garcia.From 1907 until 1972, Cebu Province was divided into seven congressional districts that included Cebu City as part of its representation. From 1978 to 1984, it was part of the representation of Region VII, and from 1984 to 1986, it elected 6 assemblymen at-large.

Lapu-Lapu City was part of the Second District of Cebu since the First Philippine Legislature in 1907 until the Seventh Congress in 1972 when it was effectively dissolved with the declaration of martial law on September 23, 1972 by President Ferdinand Marcos. Marcos then exercised legislative powers. In 1976, Congress was replaced by the Batasang Bayan as the Philippines’ legislative body until 1978, when it was replaced by the Batasang Pambansa.

Source: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapu-Lapu,_Philippines

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Guitar Factories of Lapu-Lapu City

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Guitar factory Lapu-Lapu City

 

 Many fine high quality guitars here, from Php 5,00 to php 9,000

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Old bridge from Mandaue City next to Cebu City to Mactan Island at low tide.

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Mactan side after crossing the old bridge Fuel offloading and Fuel tanks

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Goldberry Suites Lapu-Lapu City, I recommend this hotel best in the city

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Gold Berry Suites Deluxe room

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Gold Berry Suites Deluxe room

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Goldberry Suites Restaurant, you get a coupon for a free breakfast here.

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Cebu City – Central Cebu

The tall building center is the Crown Regency Hotel, you can go up to the top and ride the coaster or get some photos.

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Cebu City

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Cebu Panorama

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The City of Cebu (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa SugboFilipino: Lungsod ng Cebu) is the capital city of Cebu and is the second largest city in the Philippines, the second most significant metropolitan centre in the Philippines and known as the oldest settlement established by the Spaniards in the country.The city is located on the eastern shore of Cebu and was the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. Cebu is the Philippines’ main domestic shipping port and is home to about 80% of the country’s domestic shipping companies.

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Cebu Kawasan Falls Cebu

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Fort San Pedro Cebu #1

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Fort San Pedro Cebu #2

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Mactan International Airport

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Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Mactan-Cebu, Cebuano: Tugpahanang Pangkalibutanon sa Mactan-Sugbo) (IATA: CEB, ICAO: RPVM) is a major international airport in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is located in Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Metro Cebu and is the country’s second primary gateway. The airport is managed by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority.

The airport has a large apron, a single 3,300 meter runway, and a taxiway. The terminal building incorporates both domestic and international wings with a combined capacity for 4.5 million passengers. The airport covers an area of 797 hectares.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport is a major trade center in the south for both domestic and international traffic. Its traffic is continually increasing and is now serving 602 commercial flights weekly transporting 10,223 passengers daily. Narrow-body aircraft such as: A319s, A320s, A321s as well as wide-body aircraft such: A330s, A340s, B777s and B747s fly to the airport on a scheduled basis.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport reported recently an average of 161 daily aircraft operations (landings and take-offs). About 54% of the flight operations at Mactan-Cebu International Airport are commercial carriers while the remaining 46% are military aircraft and general aviation operations.

Over the last fifteen (15) years, Mactan-Cebu International Airport’s passenger traffic has grown at an annual average of 21% for International while the domestic grew at an annual average of 5%. Mactan-Cebu International Airport is currently served by thirteen (13) passenger airlines and five (5) cargo airlines.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport is one of the major cargo airports in the Philippines. Air cargo volume in 2007 is 53,472,924 kg. International cargo volume increased at an average growth rate of 47% annually while the domestic cargo grew at an average of 4% per annum.

There was a healthy growth rate of air transport movement for the year 2007, an increase of 31% for international and 8% for domestic compared the other year.
The airport handled 5.7 million passengers on both domestic and international routes in 2010.

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Mactan Cebu International Airport, This is whare you arive at Cebu for my tours.

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Philippine Airlines landing at Mactan International Airport

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Mactan International Airport 1

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Mactan International Airport 2

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Cebu also holds the second largest international flights in the Philippines and is a significant centre of commerce, trade and industry in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. According to the 2009 LGPMS census, the city has a population of about 822,628 people.Cebu City is the centre of a metropolitan area called Metro Cebu, which includes the cities of Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu and Talisay. Metro Cebu has a total population of about 2 million people. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located in Lapu-Lapu City is only a twenty-minute drive away from Cebu City. To the northeast of the city are Mandaue City and the town of Consolacion, to the west are Toledo City, the towns of Balamban and Asturias, to the south are Talisay City and the town of Minglanilla. Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island where Lapu-Lapu City and an aquarium attraction are located.On April 7, 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan landed in Cebu. He was welcomed by Rajah Humabon, the king of Cebu, who together with his wife and about 700 native islanders, were converted into Catholicism on April 14, 1521. Magellan, however, was killed in the Battle of Mactan, and the remaining members of his expedition left Cebu soon after several of them were treacherously poisoned by Humabon.

 

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Map of Cebu Philippines

On February 13, 1565, Spanish conquistadors led by Miguel López de Legazpi (together with Augustinian friar Andrés de Urdaneta) arrived in Cebu, but left after clashing with hostile natives. After visits to Mazaua, Leyte, and Bohol the Spanish returned to Cebu on April 15, 1565. They then attempted to parley with the local ruler, Rajah Tupas, but found that he and the local population had abandoned the town. Thus bereft, the conquistadors sacked the town and seized the island for Spain. Rajah Tupas presented himself at their camp on May 8, and the Treaty of Cebu was formalized on July 3, 1565. López de Legazpi’s party named their new colony “Villa de San Miguel” (later renamed “Villa del Santísimo Nombre de Jesús).” In 1567 their numbers were reinforced by the arrival of 2,100 Spaniards and Mexicans. The growing colony was then fortified with the Fuerza de San Pedro.By 1569 the Spanish settlement in Cebu had become important as a safe port for ships from Mexico and as a jumping-off point for further exploration of the archipelago. Small expeditions led by Juan de Salcedo went to Mindoro and Luzon, where he and Martín de Goiti played a leading role in the subjugation of the Kingdoms of Tundun and Seludong in 1570. One year later, López de Legazpi departed Cebu to discuss a peace pact with the defeated Rajahs. An agreement between the conquistadors and the Rajahs to form a city council paved the way for the establishment of a new settlement and the construction of the walled city of Intramuros on the razed remains of Seludong.

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Waterfront Hotel, also home of the US consulate.

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Waterfront Hotel Loby area Cebu City

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On August 14, 1595, Pope Clement VIII created the diocese of Cebu as a suffragan to the Archdiocese of Manila.

On April 3, 1898, local revolutionaries led by the Negrense Leon Kilat rose up against the Spanish colonial authorities and took control of the urban center after three days of fighting[citation needed]. The uprising was only ended by the treacherous murder of Leon Kilat and the arrival of soldiers from Iloilo.

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Lowaii Cebu Resort

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The signing of the Treaty of Paris at the end of the Spanish-American War provided for the cession of Cebu along with the rest of the Philippine islands to the United States of America. On February 21, 1899 the USS Petrel (PG-2) deployed a landing party of 45 men on the shores of Cebu; the Cebuanos surrendered almost immediately. Cebu’s surrender to the Americans was signed by Luis Flores, although others, most notably, Gen. Arcadio Maxilom and Juan Climaco, offered resistance until 1901[citation needed].

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Chong Hua Hospital Cebu City

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Cebu only became a chartered city in February 24, 1937, during the Commonwealth Era (1935-1946). Many Philippine cities such as Dansalan (now Marawi), Iloilo City, and Bacolod City were only incorporated as such at that time (see Cities of the Philippines). Until then, Cebu City had never been more than a town since its original founding in 1565.

Cebu City Jeepneys:

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Air Conditioned Jeepney Manila

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The city, along with the rest of the country came under Japanese occupation during WWII. The Japanese encountered some opposition there from guerrillas led by Col. James Cushing and the Cebu Area Command. It was finally liberated on March 1945.Cebu City is a significant cultural centre in the Philippines. The imprint of Spanish and Roman Catholic culture is evident. The city’s most famous landmark is Magellan’s Cross. This cross, now housed in a chapel, is reputed to have been planted by Ferdinand Magellan (Fernão Magalhães) when he arrived in the Philippines in 1521. It was encased in hollow tindalo wood in 1835 upon the order of the Augustinian Bishop Santos Gómez Marañon to prevent devotees from taking it home chip by chip. The same bishop restored the present template or kiosk, located at the present Magallanes street between the City Hall and Colegio del Santo Niño. Revered by Filipinos, the Magellan’s Cross is a symbol of Christianity in the Philippines.A few steps away from the Magellan’s Cross is the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño (Church of the Holy Child). This is an Augustinian church elevated to the rank of Basilica in 1965 during the 400th year celebrations of Christianity in the Philippines, held in Cebu. The church, which was the first to be established in the islands, is built of hewn stone and features the country’s oldest relic, the figure of the Santo Niño de Cebu (Holy Child of Cebu).This religious event is celebrated during the island’s cultural festivities known as the Sinulog festival. Held every third Sunday of January, it celebrates the festival of the Santo Niño, who was formerly considered to be the patron saint of Cebu. (This patronage was later changed to that of Our Lady of Guadalupe after it was realised that the St. Nino could not be a patron saint because he was an image of the Christ and not a saint.) The Sinulog is a dance ritual of pre-Hispanic indigenous origin. The dancer moves two steps forward and one step backward to the rhythmic sound of drums. This movement resembles somewhat the current (sulog) of the river. Thus, the Cebuanos called it Sinulog.When the Spaniards arrived in Cebu, the Italian chronicler, Antonio Pigafetta, sailing under convoy with the Magellan expedition, offered a baptismal gift to Hara Amihan, wife of Rajah Humabon. She was later named Juana, the figure of the Santo Niño. The natives also honored the Santo Niño de Cebu in their indigenous Sinulog ritual[citation needed]. The Sinulog ritual was preserved but limited to honoring the Santo Niño. Once the Santo Niño church was built in the 16th century, the Christian Malay people started performing the Sinulog ritual in front of the church, the devotees offering candles and indigenous dancers shouting “Viva Pit Señor!”[citation needed].In the 1980s and 2000s, the city authorities of Cebu added the religious feast of Santo Niño de Cebú during the Sinulog Festival to its cultural event.Cebu City is an independent and chartered city. Registered voters of the city cannot vote for provincial candidates unlike its nearby counterparts (Mandaue and Talisay cities) that form part of Metro Cebu. It is the capital of the province mainly because the provincial capitol is located in it. There were proposals however during the time of Governor Emilio Mario Osmeña to establish an “administrative district” that would be independent from Cebu City. This would literally mean carving out Cebu City’s Barangay Capitol where the provincial capitol and other provincial offices are located. The plan however didn’t push through and was even followed by other proposals like the transfer of the capital to Balamban.Cebu City is governed mainly by a city hall, composed of one mayor, one vice-mayor and sixteen councilors (eight representing the northern and eight representing the southern region). Each official is elected publicly to a three year term. The chief of the Association of Barangay Captains and the President of the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation also managed in the city council. The day to day administration of the city is handled by a city administrator.
Source: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cebu_City
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SM Mall in Cebu City 4 Levels and a new wing added with parking, plenty of souvenirs to be found here.

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More Photos here

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.Cebu City from the top of the Crown Regency Hotel in Cebu City.
A great place to get some cool photos. 

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Ayala Cebu

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New Ayala Mall "The Terraces" Cebu

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Ayala "The Terraces"

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Ayala 5 level Mall Cebu Cebu's Finest Malls Recently renovated and added "The Terraces"

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Ayala Mall Cebu Cebu's Finest 5 levels of shopping called "The Terraces" #2

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Ayala Mall "The Terraces" Cebu grounds and park

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Ayala "The Terraces" 39

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Ayala "The Terraces" 40 The Most Beautiful Mall in the Philippines next to Mall of Asia in Manila

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Toaist Temple – Cebu City
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Toaist Temple Main Gate

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Toaist Temple Dragon

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Danao City 

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Danao City is a 3rd class city in the province of Cebu, Philippines. According to the 2007 census, it has a population of 109,534 people.

In 2005, Metro Cebu’s definition was to let Danao City the leader in industry of GUNS in the north and the municipalities of San Fernando and Carcar down south.

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Danao City 1

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Danao City 2

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Danao City is well-known for its gun industry. The industry started around 1905-1906. When World War II came, the Danao gunsmiths went underground, joined the guerrilla movement or were inducted into the USAFFE. Their main task was to re-chamber the Japanese Arisaka rifles to fit the US .30 caliber round or to keep the original Japanese rifle in good service. The industry went on, still underground. In the 1960s, the term paltik was given to the homemade (and illegal) guns.[citation needed] In the early 1990s the industry was legalized by the government, with the creation of two organizations of local gunsmiths. The organization now left with proper permit is Workers League of Danao Multi-purpose Cooperative (World MPC), in Dungguan, Danao City.

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Elsalvador Beach Resort Danao City

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Thanks to Catadman Lodge, Downtown Danao City Looking towards the mountians

 Source: 
http://jadecebu2.brinkster.net/seagate_index.html

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Danao City Catadman Lodge

Click here for the Lodge

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San Remigio Northern Cebu.

San Remigio was formerly known as “Kanghagas”, a kind of tree that grew abundant in the place. When the Spanish conquistadores came, they identified a town site by clearing the Kanghagas trees through self-help labor. It was governed by a captain or gobernadorcillo.Kanghagas was a barangay unit of Punta, a part of the municipality of Bogo. Sometimes in the early 1800, Punta was renamed Punta Isabel, in honor of Queen Isabela II of Spain. This marked the beginning of its social and educational advancement because people from the scattered area learned to settle in a common place.About the later part of the 1820s, the Spaniards converted Punta Isabel into a town headed by its first Gobernadorcillo, Capitan Juan Goopio, through a representative election participated in by the Cabezas de Barangay of the six original barangays, namely: Hagnaya, Punta, Bangtad (Lambusan}, Victoria, Kanghagas and Mano.When the marauding Moro pirates swept through the shores of northern Cebu, the townfolks organized themselves into homeguards through ronda system under the command of a Spanish sentinel, by the name of Remigio Multon. His bravery and heroism during the fight against the pirates gained himself distinction as he was honored by prefixing the word “San” to his name–to lend religious dignity to his name. In addition to his honor, Kanghagas was later renamed as San Remigio which later on became the seat of the local government. As a sign of gratitude to him the residents named the town in his honor and endowed him with saintly assets. Eventually, San Remigio became the name of the town as this replaces Punta Isabel.San Remigio boasts of having Cebu’s longest shoreline. Beaches there are described as ‘naturally extraordinaire’. Resorts includes, Lingay Beach Resort, San Remigio Beach Club, Victoria Hard Rock Beach Resort and Fishing Village, Warren’s Beach Resort, and Verdimar Resort. Additionally, public beaches still in a long stretch of white sand are also available for any locals and tourists. Today, San Remigio has become a new diving destination. There are a few marine sanctuaries and new dive sites being discovered on a regular basis. A PADI dive shop in San Remigio Beach Club caters to beginner and experienced divers who want to enjoy San Remigio’s marine life. In the water, you can see shark rays(guitarfish), white tip reef sharks, bamboo sharks, nurse sharks, schools of Barracuda, Whale sharks, turtles, Manta rays and a lot more..

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San Remigio Beach Club northern Cebu. This area is home to many Americans and Foreigners.
It offers a relaxed quiet place to call home. Of all the places on Cebu I like this area best almost no crime here.

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Google Earth Photo of San Remigio area, notice the beaches. One of the best places to live on Cebu.

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San Remigio Beach Club Cebu Beach area never crowded always peaceful.

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.Huge pool at San Remigio Beach Clut.

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San Remigio Beach Club Cebu Beach area never crowded always peaceful.

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 San Remigio Beach Club Cebu Restaurant

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Medellin

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Medellin – Another excellent area to live if you want a peaceful quiet life style. Plenty of houses  and Apartments for rent.

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Medellin Boat Dock Mayor's Project

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Medellin Free Beach West coast of Cebu

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Larry Haydon resident of Bantayan Island poses with Medellin Mayor Ricardo Ramirez Photo by Charles Harman 2011

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Medellin Town Square Many Americans and Foreigners call this area home, they like it because it is quiet and has a low crime rate. rate

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The Hideaway Medellin Another project of Medellin Mayor Ricardo Ramirez.

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Smiling Kids from the Medellin Area

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Daan Bantayan

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The name Daanbantayan was derived from two words: the word “Daan” (which means “old” in the Cebuano language, and the word “Bantayan” which refers to a place that served as a “look-out-station” for Moro raiders before the Spaniards obtained control of the Philippines. The original site of the town might have been located at an elevated vantage point near Punta which is situated in Tapilon. Some older maps and publications use both words independently from one another, as “Daan Bantayan”.

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Daanbantayan Far Northern Tip of Cebu

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In 1942, the Japanese Imperial forces occupied in the town of Daanbantayan, Cebu.

In 1945, the Philippine Commonwealth Army troops of the 8th, 81st, 82nd, 83rd, 85th and 86th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army entered the town of Daanbantayan, supported by the Cebuano guerrillas, and were attacked by the Japanese forces in the Battle of Daanbantayan during World War II.

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Bogo City

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The plebiscite for the cityhood of Bogo was held on 16 June 2007. After few hours of canvassing, 97.82% of voters of Bogo voted for “yes” for cityhood. Former representative Clavel Asas-Matinez announced that the cityhood of Bogo has been ratified. It became the sixth component city of Cebu province.

On 19 November 2008, the City of Bogo was demoted along with 2 other cities in Cebu and 13 other cities in the Philippines. The Supreme Court ruled out that the 16 cities did not pass the requirements for cityhood..

On December 10, 2008, Bogo and the other 15 cities affected filed a motion for reconsideration with the Supreme Court. More than a year later, on December 22, 2009, acting on said appeal, the Court reversed its earlier ruling as it ruled that “at the end of the day, the passage of the amendatory law (regarding the criteria for cityhood as set by Congress) is no different from the enactment of a law, i.e., the cityhood laws specifically exempting a particular political subdivision from the criteria earlier mentioned. Congress, in enacting the exempting law/s, effectively decreased the already codified indicators. SC reverses self, upholds creation of 16 cities As such, the cityhood status of Bogo is effectively restored.

Bogo City, The market is upper right rectangular area Main Down Town center.

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On August 27, 2010, Bogo City in Cebu is now plain old Bogo again. It shares the fate of 15 other cities, after the Supreme Court reinstated a 2008 decision declaring as “unconstitutional” the cityhood laws converting 16 municipalities into cities.

A previous law required towns aspiring to become cities to earn at least P100 million annually, which none of the 16 did. Voting 7-6, with two justices not taking part, the SC reinstated its Nov. 18, 2008 decision declaring as unconstitutional the Republic Acts (RAs) converting 16 municipalities into cities.

On February 15, 2011, the supreme court upheld for the 3rd time the cityhood of Bogo and 15 other towns in the Philippines.

As of June 2011, an Entry of Judgement which states that Bogo City and 15 other LGUs’ cityhood laws are all constitutional. This entry of judgement ended the cityhood battle of Bogo.

Pintos Festival Is an annual festival in the northern city of Bogo that showcases their delicious delicacy the pintos. Barangays all around Bogo City jive up together to form 5 cluster tribes. ‘Kuyayang’ is a courtship dance of the Bogohanons that is staged before the community during fiestas. This street mardi gras as a cultural tourism festival of Bogo manifests the cultural heritage of the town and serves as an avenue for cultural conservancy of the city.

The Official Pintos Festival Jingle was composed by Mr. Dante J. Mayor with the assistance of Christian Yurango. The composition was finalized with the musical guidance of Mr. Slavsky Ybañez. The lyrics was originally written by Mr. Gremer Chan Reyes and was edited by Dante J. Mayor and Rev. Fr. Eligio M. Suico.

The latest version of the Bogo Pintos Festival Jingle was rearranged by Elvis Somosot and was recorded at his own studio at Musikinesis, beside Plaza Independencia, Cebu City. It was recorded last July 22, 2011 by the selected Bogo City Employees under the baton of Mr. Slavsky Ybañez.

Source: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bogo,_Cebu

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Bogo City Down Town

 

Bogo City Town Square

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An older 2004 photo of the Town square

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Pier Bogo City

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Another view of the Pier in Bogo City

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Bogo New Market situated on the west coast, has a huge fish market.

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.Car-Car City – Southern Cebu

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Car-Car City Museum

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Church in Car-Car City, there are several famous churches.

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Car-Car Simala Church

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Dentist Available in Lapu-Lapu City

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Retchie C. Martinez Dentist

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Dentist room

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Retchie C. Martinez Dentist

.. Email Charles_Harman@rocketmail.com for Price List.

 

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