A Heartfelt Pilgrimage to Cebu After 28 Years
After nearly three decades, I finally embarked on a deeply personal journey to visit my Lola Small at her final resting place in Cebu. Her serene hilltop grave in Minglanilla offers breathtaking views of the town on one side and majestic mountains on the other—a fittingly beautiful spot for such a remarkable lady. This solo trip felt divinely orchestrated, with unplanned timing, unexpected encounters with family members, and serendipitous experiences that made me believe Lola Regina was smiling down on us all.
Rediscovering Cebu's Cultural and Culinary Treasures
My adventure began at iconic landmarks like Sto. Niño and Magellan’s Cross, which are more than just tourist sites—they hold nostalgic connections to my father’s favorite Filipino delicacies sold nearby. The drive to Lola’s place evoked vivid childhood memories of visiting her home with my parents. I could still picture her petite frame in her exotic garden, wearing a duster, with a cigarette in one hand and mahjong tiles in the other, her infectious laughter echoing in my mind.
With only one day for sightseeing, I prioritized culinary delights, starting with CnT Lechon. Every strip of lechon was incredibly flavorsome, and the trademark sound of chopping made my taste buds dance with each bite. A visit to the Taoist Temple followed, a historic gem nestled within an elite subdivision, where locals send wishes to the god Kiu Quong Quong. Next, the Temple of Leah impressed with its extravagant artifacts, though understanding its romantic backstory—akin to a K-drama plot—enhances the experience, making it worth the entrance fee and perfect for photos.
The day concluded joyfully with Cebu’s famous halo-halo shared with family, capping off a perfect first day that felt like a lifetime in the making.
Adventures in Oslob and Badian: Nature's Wonders
An early 2 a.m. wake-up call launched our next adventure to Oslob, over 100 kilometers from Cebu City. The drive was pleasantly smooth with minimal traffic, setting the stage for an unforgettable day. A motorcycle ride down the mountain led to a refreshing morning swim under Tumalog Falls, where lying back in the water, the sounds of tourists faded into silence, replaced by the wonder of the mountain canopy and playful Maya birds.
Badian Canyoneering Adventure was our next highlight—a thrilling 7-kilometer trail of hiking and canyoneering culminating at the famous Kawasan Falls. Filled with adrenaline and mountain air, we jumped off waterfalls and swam through crystal-clear freshwater, even enjoying Filipino barbecue smoke along the way. The immersive experience left lasting leg aches, a gentle reminder of chasing waterfalls. Exhausted but exhilarated, we snorkeled in Moalboal, swimming with schools of sardines and greeting 100-year-old turtles that seemed to smile for photos, washing away all fatigue.
As tropical rain arrived on cue, we headed back, ending the day with a sense of fulfillment.
Spiritual Closure and Gratitude in Cebu
No visit to Cebu would be complete without attending Mass at the Carmelite Monastery. I felt blessed to leave a prayer of thanksgiving and hear the sisters’ uplifting songs after the service, providing a spiritual closure to the journey. This third and final day encapsulated the magic and warmth of Cebu, leaving me with heartfelt memories and a deep sense of connection.
Salamat po! for an experience that blended heritage, adventure, and family in a truly unforgettable way.
