Cebu's Sinulog, Tips For Tourists

We just got back from Cebu after a 5 day trip to celebrate the 2020 Sinulog Festival.

Regarded as the grandest festival of the Philippines, Sinulog is a dance ritual dedicated to the patron Saint of the province the Sto. Nino (Baby Jesus).  Although pagan in origin, it is now a large religious   celebration attracting thousands of tourists both local and foreigners.

In retrospect to our current trip, here are some useful tips should you decide to take part of this annual festival in the future.

1.  Book your flights in advance!  Sinulog is celebrated annually every January with the culmination on the 3rd Sunday which is the Sto. Nino Feast Day.  If you intend to to explore adjacent towns and activities outside the city, allocate more days.  For our trip we dedicated 5 days and 4 nights that started January 16 and leaving January 20.  Booking your flights in advance gives the opportunity to secure cheaper fares.

2.  Book your accommodation within the city centre.  On the day of the parade, the major streets are closed and the side roads are full of people.  It will be more convenient to just walk your way to any of the parade routes.  We opted to stay at Uncle Toms Cabin Hotel.

3.  Rent a car.  Since we're group of 9, we rented a self drive van that picked us up from the airport, up until the night before the grand parade.  It allows us to explore the city at our own phase and customise the destination to our interests.  There's no point in keeping the car on the festival day itself since most of the roads are closed.

Self Drive Car Rental:
Balskey Car Rental

4.  Plan your itinerary in advance.  There are many activities during the festival week, and choose the ones you want to participate in.

Our Itinerary:
Day 1, January 16, 2020
9:20   AM ETA Cebu

• Pick Up Self Drive Van

10:00 AM Early Lunch

• Lapu Lapu Shrine
• Mactan Shrine
• Manna Sutukil Restaurant (Sutukil is shortened SUgba, TUla, and Kilaw.  Sugba is grilled, Tula is boiled, and Kilaw is pickled much like ceviche)

Lapu Lapu Monument

Mactan Shrine

12:00 PM Drive to Uncle Toms Cabin

1:00 PM Check-in and Freshen Up

3:00 PM City Tour

• Magellan's Cross
• Sto. Nino Basilica
• La Fortuna Bakery
• Yap-Sandiego House
• Cebu Heritage Monument

Magellans Cross

Yap-Sandiego House
Their guide takes amazing photos, don't hesitate to approach them!

7:00 PM Lechon Dinner at House of Lechon

10:00 PM Rumour Bar

Day 2, January 17, 2020

6:00 AM Breakfast at the Hotel

7:30 AM Depart for Cordova Roro Port

•  Island Hopping by Ramirez Island Hopping Tour
• Pandanon Island
• Gilotongan Island
• Nalusuan Island

3:00 PM Return to Cordova Port and drive to Hotel

7:00 PM Buffet Dinner at Cebu Parklane

The buffet of everything Cebu is known for comes with non stop entertainment from drum beaters, Sinulog Dancers, Fire Dancer and Acoustic Band.   We got so much more than what we paid for!

9:00 PM Depart for Life Dance Baladhay Rave Party

11:30 PM Arrival at Life Dance

2:00 AM Snacks

Day 3, January 18, 2020

10:00 AM Breakfast at Hotel

2:00 PM Cebu Mountain Tour

• Nerris Selfie Village
• Sirao Flower Farm (optional)
• Temple of Leah (optional)
• Tops

One of the Selfie Area at Nerri's Garden

Our Group at Tops

6:00 PM Dinner at Tops of Cebu

8:00 PM Return to Hotel

10:30 PM  Party at Icon

The Extremely Crowded Icon!

2:00 AM Return to Hotel

Day 4, January 19, 2020

11:30 AM Brunch at Abaca

3:00 PM Watch Parade Along Mango Avenue

6:00 PM Dinner at Larsian

Check the Prices, this came out expensive!

8:00 PM Party at the Hotel

The hotel allowed us to drink by the lobby!

So much that we were dancing already!

Day 5, January 20, 2020

7:30 AM Buffet Breakfast at Abaca

9:30 AM Depart for Airport

               
5.  Mobile device signals are cut off during most hours of Saturday and Sunday.  Make sure everybody's in synch with the itinerary and know where to go in case you get lost in the crowd.

6.  Make sure you have enough energy to last you the entire Sunday.  The parade starts early in the morning and ends late at night!  Nursing a hangover in the heat of the sun is not a good idea.

7.  Stock on alcohol.  Liquor ban is implemented on certain days, but most people are still allowed to drink.  Finding a store that sell would be the challenge.

8.  Disinfect with alcohol and wipes.  You will get painted, and random hands would definitely touch your skin.  Take the opportunity to disinfect as soon as your away from the crowd or settled at your hotel.

9.  Bring water containers!  The streets are littered with empty water bottles, so please don't add to them by bringing your own.

10.  Enjoy!  Traffic can be bad and establishments crowded, and in most times all you can do is just dance to beat or get lost in the festivities! Pit Senyor!

Photo Credit:
Nesty Cao Lucas

Experience Historic Pasig In A Day

Growing up, I am blessed to be surrounded with the rich history of Manila.  Our first house was located in Tondo, just along the border of Tutuban Train Station, before it became a commercial centre.  While in High School, we moved to Binondo, just a few meters from the church up until I started with my first job.

Career opportunities introduced me to the business district of Makati, Mandaluyong, up until my last job in Pasig.

As I took the 30 day tour guide training by the Department of Tourism, I welcomed the opportunity to explore Pasig in terms of history, culture and other experiential interests.

I approached the output of the fieldwork research to a full day itinerary that would showcase the city.

Overview

Pasig was the among the first town established after Manila by the Spanish Colonisers specifically the Augustinians in 1572.  By 1901, it became part of the newly created province of Rizal and hosted the site of the Provincial Capitol up until 1975 where it was carved out of the province to join Metro Manila.  On July 26, 1994, it officially became a city with the enactment of Republic Act 7829.

Pasig City occupies an area of 34.32 square kilometres, and has 30 Barangays and 2 Legislative districts.  The 2015 census approximates 755,300 of population with a growth rate of 2.31%.

1st District Councillor, Ferdinand Avis (Midde) Albert Villanueva (Right)

Rosendo Benito (Middle) of Museo Ng Pasig

Research Method

I was fortunate to be accommodated by the proud and hardworking Pasiguenos.  They guided me on where to go, what to do and the must try!

Pasig Day Tour Itinerary

8:00 AM Sample Freshly Baked Goodies from Dimas-alang Bakery

Coming from Mandaluyong, going towards the direction of the Government Centre, you will pass by a charming bakery that is believed to be among the oldest establishments in the city.  It is said that operations started in 1919 making the place 100 years old.  The name of the Bakery is Dimas-alang and it comes highly recommended by Councilor Ferdinand Avis.  Not only is the name historical in itself, being the tagalog translation of Jose Rizal's famous novel Noli me Tangere, it's the only place to try the baked goodies called Di Mo Akalain and Bonete.    They also have the regular staples like the Pan de Sal and Ensaymada.

The bakery is owned by the Lozada's.  An artistically gifted family of Pasig.  The current active manager and owner is Manolo Lozada, a painter printmaker and singer and the only brother of famous violinist Carmencita Lozada.  He took over in the 1980's when his mom Teresa passed away.

The bakery retains the traditional baking methods with the addition of very few modern equipment.  It has kept the charming vintage charm of a neighbourhood store catering to generations of Pasiguenos.

9:00 AM Pasig Revolving Tower

Photo: CTTO

This came as an interesting surprise.  I did not know that such a structure exist in Pasig and that it has been in existence since 1974.  I made this my first stop because it gives you a good aerial vantage view of the entire city especially with the addition of the 12th floor view deck and observatory as rehabilitated by former Mayor Bobby Eusebio in 2016.

Although not open to the general public, the place and the revolving floor is a popular events venue for the locals and coordinated visits are welcome.

9:30 AM Mutya ng Pasig Public Market

Pasig City claims to have the biggest public market in floor area with approximately 19,475 square meters.  Its gaining popularity not only to the locals but also to neighbouring city residents as it has elevated the public market experience with efficiently laid out sections of stalls.  The wet section in the ground level and the dry goods on the upper level with a weekend temporary stalls on the 3rd level.  This was the intention of former Mayor Bobby Eusebio who's background in Architecture ensured proper planning for the building.  Buying goods is made more convenient with the addition of a 4 storey parking building and its adjacency to transport terminals.

10:00 AM City Hall Complex

Connected to the Rest of public buildings by a network of covered elevated walkways, one can transfer from the public market to the City Hall Main Building.  There was a time when the City Hall Building was considered the most modern of its kind, with libraries, galleries and lounges all created for the taxpaying citizens of the city.

Coming from the Public Market, one will not miss the Tanghalang Pasigueno that has become a favourite to National and International events, Pageants and Awards Night.

The elevated walkway continues to the Church and Old Plaza, but before continuing with the tour, a noodle stop as morning snack would come highly recommended.

10:30 AM Ado's Panciteria

Established in 1952 by the late Librado (Ado) Castillo, Ado's Panciteria is now considered a landmark and treasure of Pasig City.

What started as a Barber Shop eventually evolved into a Panciteria (Noodle Shop), with their own unique preparation.  It is considered by many as the original Pansit (Noodles) with Chicharron. Now, you can choose the type of noodles, and the preparation.  You may opt for the standard guisado (stir fry) or with a broth much like a noodle soup consistency.

It is best paired with bread or a stick or two of their barbecue.

11:00 AM Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral

According to the Pasig City website, the church was initially dedicated to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1573 but the church was founded in 1572 making it the first Marian Parish in the country.  The title of Immaculate Concepcion was conferred on April 25, 1587.

The present stone church was built in the 18th century and has undergone a few improvements in 2003 with the most recent reinforcement of the bell tower and addition of ceiling murals.

11:15 Museo Ng Pasig

Also known as the Concepcion Mansion, it used to be owned by Don Fortunato Cabrera Concepcion a former Mayor of the city from 1918 to 1921.

The style of the house is Neo Castillian, and was used by the Japanese as a headquarters and detention facility during world War 2.  Its right on the balcony that the American Flag was raised signalling the liberation of Pasig.

11:30 Bahay Na Tisa

The Bahay na Tisa built in 1850 is believed to be the oldest house in Pasig.  Its a typical Bahay na Bato with Capiz (translucent shells) Windows and Ventanillas on the upper level.  The Tisa refers to the clay tiles that used to be the original roofing material of the house.

11:00 Pasig Heritage Houses

On the same street where the Bahay na Tisa is located are heritage houses reflecting the architecture of the period.

11:45 Plaza Rizal and Nagtagpuan Monument

The Plaza plays a significant role in history back in the days when the estuaries were still prominent.  The early days of the Katipunan is attributed to this spot.

12:00 PM Lunch at Gerry's Jeepney

A Jeepney Themed Restaurant, where you can try eating boodle style.  Boodle Fight is where all the food is placed on the centre to be shared by everyone.  Traditionally done without utensils and traces its origin to the Army encouraging camaraderie and the value of sharing.

1:00 PM Relax at Ace Water Spa

Should you get tired, a perfect way to relax is a stop at Ace Water Spa and soak on their temperature regulated pool.  One area is a complex of massage jets targeting specific body parts and another section is a scented heated pool.

7:00 PM Dinner at Cafe Juanita

Cafe Juanita, is an eclectic restaurant that serves traditional Filipino with a good mix of International dishes.  Apart from the food, the interiors makes it unique with mix matched furniture and antique pieces collected by the owner.

9:00 PM Evening Cocktails at Vu's

If you're still up to it, the rooftop bar at Marco Polo offers an amazing panoramic view of the city.  They also offer a Sinigang inspired drink which is worth trying.  Just the perfect way to end the day!

How To Get An Occupational/Individual Mayors Permit in Mandaluyong City

As of the moment, I'm in the process of securing a Department of Tourism - National Capital Region Tour Guide Accreditation.  Among the requirements for the ID would be a valid Mayor's Permit, a valid Health Certificate and a valid NBI Clearance.

Having moved from different cities in NCR, this would the first time I will secure one in Mandaluyong City.

I passed by one afternoon to check on the requirements, and the challenge started in finding a parking spot.  With the recent clean up efforts of the local government, parking within Circle Perimeter of Maysilo is now prohibited.  I ended up finding a spot, about 500 meters away on one of the side streets.

Requirements for Mayor's Permit

1. Health Certificate 50 pesos

2. Stool / Fecalysis 40 pesos

3. Urinalysis 40 pesos

4. X-Ray 150 pesos

5. Police Clearance 125 Pesos

6. Mayor's Permit 50 pesos

This was the initial list given by the information desk, but for the Health Certificate, you are required to attend a video lecture either at 10:30 in the morning or 12:30 in the afternoon.  The only exemptions would be Senior Citizens and PWD's.

I came a few days after to actually secure the permit.  I was fortunate this time to be allowed to park within the City Hall Grounds just beside the Blue Building.  

The first item I was asked to secure was a Community Tax Certificate or a CEDULA which costs 24 pesos.  I then secured a number to the automated payment queuing system which was surprisingly fast.  From there I was given 4 receipts representing each item i need to secure.

Since I came in late, I proceeded to join the afternoon health seminar. 

It is important to arrive early.   The receipts will be collected and marked for those who attended.  

The seminar is an audio video presentation and the facilitator is only present at the beginning until 15 minutes after the scheduled time.  No one is guarding the entrance, and you would not want to waste time to sit in the lecture room not getting a certificate by the end of the day.  Make sure you're able able to give this to the facilitator.  

The stamped receipts will be returned after the AVP.  You can now proceed to do the laboratory and X-Ray.

Fecalysis and Urine are placed on the same plastic container and costs 10 pesos.  I got my specimen from one of the comfort rooms of the restaurants across the laboratory building.  

I then transferred to get an X ray just beside the laboratory.  

X-Ray results are released starting 3PM while Lab results at 4:30 PM.  While waiting, I went on to the other building to get the Police Clearance which you can get almost instantly.   

Lines are surprisingly fast and the process uncomplicated.  Its just the release of the results that would affect your timing.  

Around 3:30 PM, X Ray results were being distributed including mine which I had to retake because of something suspicious on the first one.  I ended up paying another 90 pesos, but the result was immediate.  The 2nd one turned out normal, and I then got the lab results for Urine and Stool.

You would then need to gather all your results and receipts and bring them to the 3rd Floor of the Blue Building for the release of the Health Certificate.  They will ask for a 1x1 photo to attach to the Health Certificate Card.

Once signed, you will now go back to the ground floor for the Mayor's permit which will be the last of the process.  A notarial fee of 30 pesos will be collected on the first window.  The second window will issue a form you need to fill up and surrender a copy on the third window which will give you the notarised copy.

From the initial requirement, I have summarised the actual requirement so you can prepare the right amount of cash.

• Community Tax Certificate 24 pesos

1. Health Certificate 50 pesos

• Required to attend a seminar  at 10:30AM or 12:30PM
• Make sure to arrive early or on time and your receipt marked as attended.
• Make sure you have a 1x1 ID photo for the Card

2. Stool / Fecalysis 40 pesos

• Additional 10 pesos for container and stick

3. Urinalysis 40 pesos

4. X-Ray 150 pesos

• Additional 90 pesos in case they find something with the first x ray one.

5. Police Clearance 125 Pesos

6. Mayor's Permit 50 pesos

• Notarial Fee 30 pesos

I ended up spending 154 pesos more than what was initially stated.  It could be more if not for the spare 1x1 photo in my wallet.

My advise is to arrive before lunch and catch the afternoon seminar schedule.  If you manage to join the afternoon batch, you'll get your Mayor's permit within the day.

La Playa At The Strand Sunset

We were blessed with this amazing sunset view while at the beach of La Playa at the Strand.  The perfectly round sun made an appearance for just a few minutes before finally sinking into the horizon!

Valedictory Address DOT-NCR Tour Guide Training Batch 12

On the last day of the submission of our project papers, I was asked by Hazel, the training coordinator to prepare a Student Response to the DOT Tour Guide Training Graduation, scheduled just days after.

I remember seeing the program up to that point that included a Valedictory Address, and since I wasn't the one asked to create the speech, I gave up the thought its going to be me.

Admittedly, I came in to the class eager to do best, and ultimately to be the top, but I don't want to expect because I don't want to feel disappointed if not.

So when it was announced that I was the class Valedictorian, it took a while for me settle from shock and extreme gratefulness.

But nevertheless, please allow me share the speech I created initially entitled Students Response, but is now changed to Valedictory Address for the DOT NCR Tour Guide Training Batch 12. 

To our distinguished DOT Undersecretary, Usec. Arturo Boncato Jr.
DOT Assistant Secretary, Asec. Ma. Rica Bueno
DOT NCR Regional Director, Woodrow Maquiling Jr.
Chief TOO, NCR Tourism Regulation Division, Ms. Victoria Margarita Paje
Project Director and Father of Tour Guides, Mr. Bienvenido Claraval
Trainers and Mentors
DOT NCR Tourism Regulation Team
Mabuhay!

I can still remember vividly months ago when I received a message from Ms. Hazel inviting me for the preliminary examination, which was followed by the interview a few weeks after and the start of the class a little more than 30 days ago.

It was on that day that we realized how fortunate we are, that from hundreds who applied, 16 of us made it.

We came from different backgrounds, an architect, a retired grandfather, a returning OFW, educational tour facilitators, businessmen, newly grads, we were just diverse.  But if asked what's common in all of us, is our love for travel, history, culture and our pride of NCR and our Country, which is the Philippines.

The 30 day training period wasn't easy, and at some point extremely challenging.  In that short span of time, we need to transition to become a repository of information and the best representation of our beloved region and the Philippines.

We were bombarded with information, skills, techniques, best practices which to an ageing individual like myself, and some of my colleagues was difficult. 

It was the words of Fred DeVito; the helps motivate me, and enable us to help each other.  “If it doesn’t challenge you, it wouldn’t change you!”

Admittedly, coming in to the class, I did not know that there is a science to Tour Guiding and that it can be a profession.  Now, my biggest regret is not undergoing the training when I was younger.

I’m sure that my colleagues would agree to the positive improvements the training has given us. Now we are naturally observant and inquisitive.  I am more appreciative of architecture because it’s now rooted on history and culture rather than appearance and theories.  We will forever remember Sinigang, Mehan Garden, PICC, Paco Park, and passing by Roxas Boulevard and EDSA will never be the same again.  

But my biggest take away from this experience, is that it is never too late to learn or re-learn, and learning is a lifetime process. Knowledge knows no age.  The more knowledgeable we are, the better person and tour guide we can be.

In behalf of the Batch 12 of the DOT Tour Guide Training, we would like to thank all our speakers, but most especially, Sir Bien, Sir Rey, Ms. Yael, Ms. Joanna, our panelists, Ms. Dolly, Sir Boy and Ms., Bamba for their generosity and patience.

Thank you to my group mates (West), Aimee, Massi, and Eric for exerting your best to every task.  To my batch mates for the learnings and the friendship.

We acknowledge that this is just the beginning, and the true test of our learning is through our actual guiding.

Rest assured, that Batch 12 is committed on being if not pursuing to be best representation of NCR and the Philippines.

Thank you.

Arch. Omar Palero

Photos: CTTO