Cebu City: The Queen City of the South

• HelloKumusta
  [koo-moo-sta]
• GoodbyeSige, bye
  [see-geh, bye]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoDili
  [dee-lee]
• Please/You're welcomePalihug
  [pah-lee-hoog]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasayloa ko
  [pah-sa-yloa-ko]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [kah-moo-stah-kah]
• Fine. And you?Maayo. Ikaw?
  [mah-yoh. ee-kaw]
• Do you speak English?Kahibaw ka og English?
  [kah-hee-bao-kah-ohg-English]
• I don't understandDili ko kasabot
  [dee-lee-koh-kah-sa-bot]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makakita sa menu, palihug
  [goo-stoh-koh-mah-kah-kee-tah-sah-meh-noo-pah-lee-hoog]
• I don't eat meatDili ko kaon ug karne
  [dee-lee-koh-kah-ohn-oog-kar-neh]
• Cheers!Tagay!
  [tah-gai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto nako magbayad, palihug
  [goo-stoh-nah-koh-mahg-bah-yad-pah-lee-hoog]

• Help!Tabang!
  [tah-bahng]
• Go away!Lakaw!
  [lah-kahw]
• Call the Police!Tawagi ang Police!
  [tah-wah-gee-ah-ng-poh-lee-say]
• Call a doctor!Tawagi og doctor!
  [tah-wah-gee-ohg-dohk-tor]
• I'm lostNalimot ko
  [nah-lee-moht-koh]
• I'm illSakit ko
  [sah-keet-koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko molit-ag...
  [goo-stoh-koh-moh-lee-tahg]
• I'm just lookingNagtan-aw ra ko
  [nag-tan-ow-rah-koh]
• How much is it?Tagpila ni?
  [tahg-pee-lah-nee]
• That's too expensiveMahal kaayo
  [mah-hahl-kah-ah-yo]
• Can you lower the price?Maayo ka ba magpaubos sa presyo?
  [mah-yoh-kah-bah-mahg-pah-oo-bohs-sah-preh-syoh]

• What time is it?Unsa orasa na?
  [oon-sah-oh-rah-sah-nah]
• It's one o'clockAlas uno na
  [ah-lahs-oo-noh-nah]
• Half past (10)Kalahati sa (napulo)
  [kah-lah-hah-tee-sah-nah-poo-loh]
• MorningBuntag
  [boon-tahg]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pohn]
• EveningGabii
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKagahapon
  [kah-gah-hah-pohn]
• TodayKaron
  [kah-ron]
• TomorrowUgma
  [oog-mah]
• 1Usa
  [oo-sah]
• 2Duha
  [doo-hah]
• 3Tulo
  [too-loh]
• 4Upat
  [oo-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Unom
  [oo-nom]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Napulo
  [nah-poo-loh]

• Where's a/the...?Asa ang...?
  [ah-sah ahng]
• What's the address?Unsa ang address?
  [oon-sah ahng ah-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Maoy ka ba makapakita nako (sa mapa)?
  [mah-yoh-kah-bah-mah-kah-pah-kee-tah-nah-koh-sah-mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kanus-a ang sunod (bus)?
  [kah-noo-sah ahng soo-nod bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilhete (paingon sa ....)
  [beel-heh-teh pah-een-gohn sa]

Before the arrival of Spanish colonizers, Cebu was already a thriving settlement known for its strategic location and bustling trade. It was an important hub for trade routes between various islands in the Philippines and neighboring regions in Asia, with goods like spices, gold, and silk being exchanged. The local rulers, known as Datus, played significant roles in these trade networks.

In 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in Cebu under the Spanish flag. He was greeted by Rajah Humabon, the local chieftain, who, along with his wife and subjects, converted to Christianity. This event marked the beginning of Spanish influence in the Philippines. Magellan's arrival is commemorated by the iconic Magellan's Cross, a significant landmark in Cebu City today.

Shortly after his arrival, Magellan met his demise in the Battle of Mactan. On April 27, 1521, he and his forces clashed with the warriors of Lapu-Lapu, the chieftain of Mactan Island, who resisted Spanish colonization. The battle is a celebrated event in Philippine history, symbolizing the resistance against foreign invaders. Lapu-Lapu is honored as a national hero.

In 1565, Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi arrived in Cebu and established the first Spanish settlement in the Philippines. This marked the start of over three centuries of Spanish colonial rule. Fort San Pedro, the oldest tri-bastion fort in the country, was built to protect the settlement and remains a historical landmark in Cebu City.

During the Spanish colonial period, Cebu played a crucial role in the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade. This trade route connected the Philippines with Mexico, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas between the East and the West. Cebu's port became an essential stopover point for galleons, further boosting its economic and cultural significance.

Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Philippines came under American rule. Cebu City saw significant infrastructural development during this period, including the establishment of schools, hospitals, and public utilities. The Americans introduced a new educational system, which profoundly impacted the socio-cultural landscape of Cebu.

Cebu was not spared during World War II. In 1942, Japanese forces occupied the city, leading to a period of hardship and resistance. The local guerrilla movement played a vital role in the eventual liberation of Cebu, which was achieved in March 1945. The war left a lasting impact on the city, with numerous historical sites commemorating the bravery and sacrifices of its people.

After World War II, Cebu City embarked on a journey of rebuilding and modernization. The city's economy diversified, with significant developments in trade, industry, and tourism. Cebu became known as the 'Queen City of the South,' reflecting its importance as a major urban center in the Philippines. Modern landmarks like the Cebu IT Park and Ayala Center Cebu symbolize this era of growth.

One of the most vibrant cultural events in Cebu City is the Sinulog Festival, held annually on the third Sunday of January. It honors the Santo Niño, or the Child Jesus, whose image was given to Rajah Humabon by Magellan. The festival features a grand parade with participants in colorful costumes dancing to rhythmic drumbeats, attracting millions of visitors from around the world.

Cebu City is well-connected both domestically and internationally. Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is the main gateway, with direct flights from major cities in Asia, the Middle East, and Australia. The airport is located on Mactan Island, about 15 kilometers from Cebu City. From the airport, you can take a taxi, ride-hailing service, or airport shuttle to reach the city center. Ferries and fast crafts also connect Cebu City with other islands in the Philippines, such as Bohol, Leyte, and Negros.

Getting around Cebu City is convenient with various transportation options. Jeepneys are the most popular and affordable mode of transport, covering most parts of the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available and offer more comfort. For a unique experience, try riding a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) for short distances. Car rentals are also available if you prefer driving. Be mindful of traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.

The official currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments, markets, and transportation. ATMs are plentiful in Cebu City, but be aware of potential service fees for international cards. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and authorized money changers.

Cebu City is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Areas such as Colon Street and Carbon Market have higher crime rates, so it's best to stay vigilant or avoid these areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation options.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, medical, or fire assistance. Cebu City has several hospitals with emergency services, such as Cebu Doctors' University Hospital and Chong Hua Hospital. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For consular assistance, contact your country's embassy or consulate in the Philippines.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering churches or temples. Public Transport: Do be patient and courteous in crowded jeepneys and buses. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Filipinos appreciate polite and friendly interactions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Cebu City like a local, visit the Carbon Market for fresh produce and local delicacies. Spend a morning at a local coffee shop or 'sari-sari' store to engage with friendly locals. Don't miss the chance to try street food such as 'puso' (hanging rice) and 'lechon' (roast pig). For a unique cultural experience, watch a Sinulog dance performance or join the Sinulog Festival in January. Explore hidden gems like the Sirao Flower Farm and the Temple of Leah for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.