Cebu City

Selden map

Magellan's Cross inside front (Cebu City; 09-07-2022)

Cebu escondrillas

Philippine Island - Cebu - NARA - 68155922

Aduana Sugbo 1910

Cebu City, officially known as the City of Cebu (Dakbayan sa Sugbu in Cebuano), is a highly urbanized city in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It is the capital city of the province of Cebu and is a significant center of commerce, trade, and education in the Visayas. Often referred to as the "Queen City of the South," Cebu City is the oldest city in the Philippines, having been the first Spanish settlement and the country's capital before Manila.

History

Cebu City has a rich history that dates back to before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. It was a thriving trading post for merchants from China, Malaysia, and other parts of Asia. The arrival of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 marked the beginning of Spanish colonization. Magellan planted a cross in Cebu, claiming the territory for Spain, but was later killed in the Battle of Mactan. Miguel López de Legazpi then arrived in 1565 and established a settlement, making Cebu the first Spanish city in the Philippines.

Geography

Cebu City is located on the eastern shore of Cebu Island and is bordered by the cities of Mandaue, Consolacion, and Talisay. It faces the Camotes Sea to the east and is part of the Cebu Metropolitan Area. The city's topography is characterized by its coastal plains, rolling hills, and rugged mountain areas, providing a scenic backdrop to the urban landscape.

Economy

The economy of Cebu City is diverse, with major industries including shipping, manufacturing, and information technology. The city is home to the Cebu International Port, one of the Philippines' largest ports, and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the second busiest airport in the country. Cebu City is also a hub for business process outsourcing (BPO) companies, attracting global firms to set up operations in the city.

Culture

Cebu City is known for its cultural heritage and festivities. The most notable event is the Sinulog Festival, a religious and cultural festival held every third Sunday of January in honor of the Santo Niño (Holy Child). The festival features colorful parades, street dancing, and religious processions. Cebuano cuisine, music, and dances are integral parts of the city's cultural identity, with lechon (roasted pig) being the most famous local dish.

Education

As an educational center in the Visayas, Cebu City hosts several universities and colleges. The University of San Carlos, founded in 1595, is the oldest school in the country and one of the top universities in the Philippines. Other notable institutions include Cebu Normal University and Cebu Technological University.

Transportation

Cebu City has a comprehensive transportation network that includes roads, sea, and air travel. The South Road Properties (SRP) is a major development project that aims to ease traffic congestion and promote economic growth. Public transportation within the city is mainly through jeepneys, buses, and taxis, with plans for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to improve urban mobility.

Tourism

Tourism is a vital part of Cebu City's economy, with historical landmarks, religious sites, and natural attractions drawing visitors from around the world. Key attractions include the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Magellan's Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Taoist Temple. The city also serves as a gateway to the beautiful beaches and dive sites of the surrounding islands.