If you’re planning your next outdoor adventure, head to these five eco-friendly destinations that offer not only an adventure of a lifetime, but also the opportunity to commune with nature, engage in sustainable tourism activities and a chance to immerse with the locals.

Masungi Georeserve

Baras, Rizal

A popular destination for day tours and hikers, Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area and rustic rock garden tucked in the rainforest of Rizal. Its name is derived from the word “masungki”, which translates to “spiked”, an apt description for the sprawling limestone landscape found within it.

As the Philippines’ first-ever nature conservation project, Masungi Georeserve has been globally recognised for its efforts in protecting the forest from quarrying, land trafficking and timber poaching.

Explore its unique forest trails, and hike through karst terrain, hanging rope bridges and high peaks to soak up panoramic views of the Sierra Madre and Laguna de Bay.

Pamilacan Island

Baclayon, Bohol

Nestled in the heart of Bohol Sea, the small island of Pamilacan is known for its dolphin and whale watching tours, white sand beaches and magnificent dive sites.

A haven to a diverse species of marine life, the waters off Pamilacan used to be a prime fishing site for whale hunters. Thanks to marine preservation laws, community education and sustainable tourism activities, these majestic sea creatures were saved from commercial fishing.

From being whale hunters, the locals were trained to be the best whale guides who advocate marine conversation practices. They are ready to help you discover a myriad of sea creatures in the crystal-clear waters around Pamilacan.

Bojo River

Aloguinsan, Cebu

Embark on a motor-free boat ride adventure through the pristine waters of Bojo River and enjoy a scenic river experience. Locals who were former fishermen engaged in dynamite fishing were trained to provide educational tours of the river for environmental protection and sustainable livelihood.

A multi-award-wining model of sustainable tourism, the Bojo River Cruise made it to the list of UNWTO’s (World Tourism Organization) Best Tourism Villages and was recognised among the Top 100 Global Sustainable Destinations from 2016 to 2018.

Ulot River

Paranas, Samar

Navigate the wild waters of Samar’s Ulot River through a torpedo boat managed by the Tenani Boat Operators for River Protection and Environmental Development Organization (TORPEDO).

Get set for an exhilarating ride along the rapids of the Ulot River and the opportunity to see the raw and rugged beauty of Samar’s rainforests.

Let the local guardians of Ulot River, who were once illegal loggers and poachers, take you on a thrilling water adventure like no other!

Lake Sebu

South Cotabato

Perched in the highlands of South Cotabato, Lake Sebu is made for both laid-back and thrill-seeking activities including lake cruises, bird watching, spelunking and ziplining.

Must-visit attractions include T’daan Kini Spring Waters and Seven Falls, a magnificent network of seven interconnected waterfalls, each with a character of its own.

As Lake Sebu is home to the indigenous T’bolis and Ubo tribes who are renowned for their traditional skills in weaving and making handicrafts, you’ll get to bring home T’boli souvenirs like t’nalak textile, beadworks, headpieces, embroidered tops, woodcarvings and brassware.

Article edited and adapted from Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

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Widely regarded as one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, Cebu attracts millions of tourists who are allured by its pristine beaches. With its multiple islands, sandy beaches and rich history, it’s no wonder why the city has become a popular destination among holidaymakers, backpackers and island hoppers.

Not sure what to do in the city? Our first-time visitor’s guide will fill you in on the essential info.

1. Check out the old, the sacred, the natural

The most visited tourist attraction in Cebu City is the 16th century Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, a national landmark that contains a jewel-studded statue of the Santo Nino (Holy Child).

Love immersing yourself in the magic of museums? The nearby pint-sized Fort San Pedro marks the colonial outpost with a museum that includes the treasures from the San Diego galleon. While sightseeing around the area, enjoy the peaceful grounds and sea views.

A unique sight is the gleaming 20m-high Lapu-Lapu Shrine of the local chieftain who fatally wounded Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan during the Mactan Landing in 1521. Pay your respects to this early traveller by visiting Magellan’s Cross in the mural-covered building near the Basilica.

You’ll also find interesting Filipino history at Museo Sugbo, which is about 2km away from Fort San Pedro. It has four permanent galleries and special exhibits in a former jail. Just a 10-minute walk away from this Cebu Provincial Museum, you can also take in the Cebu Heritage Monument, which portrays local history in a series of brass, steel, bronze and concrete artworks.

For more fun activities, enjoy the best views of Cebu City while participating in adrenaline-pumping activities at Mountain View Nature’s Park.

2. Enjoy wet and wild fun in the sun

Free sandy beaches near Cebu City include the grey-sand beach at Talisay and the golden beach at Consolacion. For stunning white sand, venture to the nearby island of Mactan. One of the world’s most beautiful places, it is only a 30-minute taxi or bus ride away.

You can pay a daily rate to access private resort beaches such as the Shangri-La for parasailing, snorkelling and sunbathing. Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu offers sea sports activities that will take your family holiday to the next level.

For the perfect getaway, take a day trip to Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary, 15 minutes by boat from Cebu. Enjoy jet skis, banana boats, kayaking, snorkelling and diving on the Olango Reef, or chill with a beach massage. Alternatively, join a Mactan Island Hopping Shared Tour and indulge in some island-hopping adventures with other thrill-seekers.

3. Spend your pesos here

Sprawling Carbon Market is a jam-packed farmers’ market selling everything from baskets to beachwear. Over 100 years old, the market took its name from the coal and cinder heaps stored here by the Cebu Railroad.

Always on the hunt for red hot deals? Shop for perfumes, sportswear and books, or treat yourself to a pedicure at SM City Cebu Mall, a Filipino SuperMall (SM) in Cebu Port Centre. As one of the largest shopping malls in the Philippines, it comes as no surprise that it boasts over 700 retail, F&B and service stores. Some of mall’s food outlets include Hotdog on Sticks and Ayers Lechon.

If you’re homesick for Orchard Road, the upscale Ayala Center Cebu in Downtown Cebu is the perfect antidote. This premier mall averages over 85,000 visitors per day. It’s the perfect place to shop and relax, so take your time to explore all its offerings, housed within a masterfully-designed space.

4. Feast on Filipino specialities

No trip to Cebu would be complete without enjoying some lechon (roasted suckling pig), which many consider as the national dish of the Philippines. Dubbed “Lechon capital” of the Philippines, Cebu prides itself in having perfected the art of roasting pigs that boast crispy skins and deep flavours. Sink your teeth into melt-in-your-mouth lechon at hot favourites like Rico’s Lechon, House of Lechon, Zubuchon, Ayer’s Lechon and Eli’s Lechon Cebu.

For a sampling of dishes from the different regions of the Philippines, head for Café Laguna. Tuck into bestsellers like Kare-kare with Bagoong, Crispy Pata, Lumpiang Sariwa, Crispy Tadyang and Pandan Chicken.

5. Hunt down the best places for selfies

One of Cebu’s most photo-worthy spots is The Ruins in Talisay, the shell of a once-glorious Italianate mansion. Gutted by fire, the skeletal remains and fountains are a magnificent backdrop for a selfie on your smartphone.

Another Insta-worthy place is the romantic Temple of Leah which offers wonderful city views. Pose on the Impressive Angel Staircase before heading out to the terrace to soak up the panoramic city views.

Yet another popular selfie location is Tumalog Falls, well worth the 137km road trip to capture this gushing umbrella-shaped cascade tumbling through the tropical greenery.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cebu is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. Summer months can be hot and humid, but that’s a good reason to head for the hotel pool, or the waterfalls and the turquoise waters bordering Cebu’s white sandy beaches. For a cultural treat, visit in the third week of January to attend the Sinulog celebrations at the Basilica.

Transportation

Getting around Cebu City using colourful local jeepneys (buses) is part of the fun. All the main historic attractions are within easy walking distance of the Basilica del Santo Nino. A horse-drawn carriage ride (tartanilla) is a traditional form of local transport operating in the downtown and market areas. Taxis and buses are cheap and plentiful, and a boat trip is a must-do.

Currency

Philippine peso (PHP). Malls and major hotels will accept credit cards, but you will need cash for smaller shops, admission to local attractions, street vendors and local transport. ATMs are available at the airport and banks. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up a taxi fare or restaurant bill is appreciated.

Photos courtesy of Changi Airport Group

This article is edited and adapted from Now Boarding by Changi Airport’s “The first-time visitor’s guide to experiencing Cebu”

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Abaca basket/coaster/placemat/napkin

Abanico

Hand-held fan

Antique wooden figurines of saints

ARTWORK T-shirts

Bamboo chest/baul

Banig products

Bag, mat, placemat

Barong Tagalog

Hand-embroidered shirt for men traditionally made from pineapple leaf fibres

A good gift for guys is the Barong Tagalog which typically features intricate embroidery
Photo: aodaodaodaod/Shutterstock

Barrel man doll

Baskets made from bamboo, rattan, nipa

Bottle craft

Brassware

Capiz shell products

Choc-Nut spread and candy

Coconut snacks

Cloud 9 candy

Clutch made from pandan/buntal/snakeskin

Dried mangoes

Festive mask

Kubing

Traditional musical instrument – jaw harp made from bamboo

Lambanog

Coconut wine

Pastillas de Leche

Swee creamy milk candy

Pearls and pearl jewellery

Philippine coffee

Barako, Alamid or civet coffee

Philippine tea tree/Fukien tea tree/carmona retusa tea

Piaya

Flat unleavened bread filled with muscovado sugar or flavours like purple yam, mango and rum

Pili nuts

Pina cloth

Polvoron

Filipino-style crumbly shortbread

Pottery

Salakot

Woven conical hats

Seashells and shell crafts

Sungka board & shells

Traditional count and capture game played on a solid wooden block with two rows of seven circular holes and two large holes at both ends

Tanduay rum

Tikog slippers

Toy/mini jeepney

Ube jam

Purple yam jam

Wooden items

Cutlery, plates, bowls, trays, figurines, sculptures

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Angeles City

• Jenra Mall
• MarQuee Mall
• Nepo Mall Angeles
• Robinsons Angeles
• SM City Clark

Bacolod City

• Ayala Capitol Central
• CityMall Goldenfields
• CityMall Mandalagan
• Robinsons Place Bacolod
• SM City Bacolod Northwing

Bohol

• Alturas Mall (Tagbilaran City)
• Bohol Quality Mall (Tagbilaran City)
• Island City Mall (Tagbilaran City)
• Lite Port Center Mall (Tagbilaran City)
• Plaza Marcela (Tagbilaran City)

Boracay

• CityMall Boracay
• D’ Mall Boracay
• E Mall

Cebu

• Ayala Center Cebu (Cebu City)
• CityMall Consolacion (Consolacion)
• CityMall Danao (Danao City)
• Gaisano Country Mall (Cebu City)
• J Centre Mall (Mandaue City)
• JY Square Mall (Cebu City)
• Northdrive Mall (Mandaue City)
• Robinsons Galleria Cebu (Cebu City)
• SM City Cebu (Cebu City)
• SM Seaside City (Cebu City)
• Super Metro Mandaue (Mandaue City)

Davao del Sur

• Abreeza Mall (Davao City)

Laguna

• Ayala Malls Solenad (Santa Rosa)
• Central Mall (Binan)
• Checkpoint Mall (Calamba)
• Robinsons Santa Rosa (Santa Rosa)
• Robinsons Town Mall Los Banos (Los Banos)
• SM City San Pablo (San Pablo City)
• Southwoods Mall (Binan)
• SunStar Mall (Santa Cruz)
• Vista Mall Santa Rosa (Santa Rosa)

Metro Manila

• Alabang Town Center (Muntinlupa)
• Ayala Malls Cloverleaf (Quezon City)
• Ayala Malls South Park (Muntinlupa)
• Ayala Malls The 30th (Pasig)
• Ayala Malls Vertis North (Quezon City)
• Bonifacio High Street (Taguig City)
• Gateway Mall (Quezon City)
• Glorietta (Makati)
• Greenbelt (Makati)
• Greenhills Mall (San Juan)
• Robinsons Galleria (Quezon City)
• Robinsons Place Manila (Ermita)
• Shangri-La Plaza (Mandaluyong)
• SM Aura Premier (Taguig City)
• SM City North EDSA (Quezon City)
• SM Mall of Asia (Pasay)
• SM Megamall (Mandaluyong)
• TriNoma (Quezon City)

Tagaytay City

• Ayala Malls Serin
• Fora Mall
• Summit Ridge Promenade

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Angeles City

• Apo Flea Market Angeles City

Benguet

• Baguio City Public Market

Cebu City

• Cebu Farmers Market
• Taboan Public Market
• Tinda Locale Cebu Street Market

Laguna

• Greenfield City Weekend Market (Santa Rosa)

Metro Manila

• Baclaran Market (Paranaque City)
• Binondo (Chinatown)

• Cartimar Market (Pasay City)
• Dangwa Flower Market (Sampaloc)
• Divisoria Market (San Nicolas)
• Escolta Street Flea Market (Binondo)
• Farmers Market (Quezon City)
• Katipunan Weekend Market (locations vary)
• Quiapo Market (Quiapo)
• Quinta Market & Fishport (Quiapo)
• The BF Saturday Market (Paranaque)
• Tutuban Night Market (Tondo)

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