Region Seven -Central Visayas

1. Central Visayas Region Seven

2. Central Visayas • Central Visayas is a region of the Philippines, assigned as Region VII. It is situated in the central part of the Visayas island assemble, and involves three areas: Bohol, Cebu and Siquijor; and three exceptionally urbanized urban communities: Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue. Cebu City is the territorial focus. The district is commanded by the local speakers of Cebuano. The area region of the locale is 10,102 square kilometers (3,900 sq mi), with a populace of 6,041,903 individuals.

3. Central Visayas is strategically located in the heart of the Philippines. It is the gateway for foreign and domestic tourism, lying in the midst of both air and sea traffic. Composed of four provinces namely: Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental and Siquijor. The region is blessed with beautiful beaches, a plethora of sea life, a number of caves and potential areas for mountain trekking. Moreover, the region is steeped in historical significance. Events ranging from the death of Portugese explorer Ferdinand Magellan at the hands of chieftain Lapulapu of the island of Opon (known as Mactan Island) to the blood compact between Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and Datus Sikatuna and Sigala as well as other significance events will make a visit to the region very interesting.

4. Economic Contribution • Central Visayas is one of the eight anchor tourist destinations in the country and one of the supra-regions in the Visayas which strength is tourism • Region 7 is among the most developed and the fourth largest regional economy in the country. Central Visayas hosts many industries, including footwear, ICT & IT enabled services, electronics, wearables, food processing, marine, houseware and furniture, among others.

5. Its physical attractions are both natural and man-made. Its beautiful pristine white beaches with clear blue waters, rich marine life and white corals offer some of the world’s best scuba, snorkeling, and diving sites.

6. Some of the region’s provinces enable visitors a glimpse of a rich history and tradition as well as culture and quite a number of festivals. The region has numerous waterfalls, mountain trails and caves which provide opportunities for mountain trekking, spelunking and other outdoor activities for the more adventurous.

7. Dialects in the Region • Cebuano is the dominant language of the region. Boholano is a dialectal variant of Cebuano spoken in Bohol. In the Camotes Islands, which is part of Cebu, Cebuano language is spoken in the towns of Tudela, Pilar and San Francisco. Except the town of Poro, in which, Porohanon is spoken (a variation or mixture of Cebuano, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) and Masbateño language, with 87% Cebuano vocabulary). Tagalog, English and Spanish are also spoken in this region.

8. Provinces in Region Seven • Cebu Bohol Siquijor Negros Oriental

9. Cebu • Cebu is the center of economic activities in the Visayas and Mindanao areas. It is also the second largest central urban economic center in the country. Cebu is base to over 80% of inter-island shipping capacity in the Philippines. Cebu offers a wide range of world class amenities, such as luxury hotels, beach resorts, first class restaurants and golf courses. The latest in sports and recreational facilities are also available in the province.

10. Cebu • Cebu island’s unique topography that includes a mountain range running north to south, rising to 3,400 feet at its peak and tapering down on both ends, gives tourists easy access to the mountain as well as the sea and provides a variety of nature sites like rivers, waterfalls, springs, and caves.

11. Cebu:Culture • Cebu is a kaleidoscope of varying cultures and lifestyles, a meeting of east and west, a fusion of things traditional and modern This is influenced by the various phases of Cebu: being the spot where Philippine history began, becoming the cradle of Christianity, experiencing American and Japanese occupation, and later on transforming itself into a regional hub of everything from arts and craftsmanship, to business and information technology, all these, plus the convergence of personalities and groups from varying backgrounds give the island a culture and lifestyle that is uniquely Cebu

12. Cebu: Food • Rice is the main staple for Cebuanos. Being an island-province, fish (fresh or dried), crabs, seashells, shrimp and other sea foods are a common sight in most tables. Pork, chicken, and vegetables are equally accessible as well Barbeque and puso (hanging rice or boiled rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves) have become customary. Fast-food abound, although international restaurants — whether European, Korean or something else, are everywhere But what is most interesting in Cebu are the various delicacies native to each town and city comprising the province These local food products are showcased during exhibits and when the caravan of the Provincial Government-initiated Suroy-Suroy Sugbo tourism program stops by in each place Puso Rice Lechon de Cebu

13. Cebu:Traditions and Fiestas • Famous among a myriad of festivities in the province are • the Siloy Festival of Alcoy, • Mantawi Festival of Mandaue City, • Kadaugan sa Mactan of Mactan Island, • Palawod Festival of Bantayan Island, • Haladaya Festival of Daanbantayan

14. Cebu:Traditions and Fiestas • The Sinulog Festival in honor of Señor Sto Niño de Cebu, which is celebrated every third Sunday of January This was the statue of the baby Jesus that was handed to the Rajah Humabon of Cebu by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. Sinulog Festival

15. Cebu:Traditions and Fiestas • Siloy Festival, celebrated every last Saturday of August, pays tribute to Patron Saint Rose of Lima, It promotes the Mag-abo Forest that shelters the renowned but endangered black shama (siloy)

16. Cebu:Traditions and Fiestas • Mantawi of Mandaue City illustrates the city’s heritage and identity as industrial center through floats, food festival, and trade fairs • ​The Mantawi Festival was first celebrated on the charter day of the city n August 30. But, the date was changed to the last Sunday of August since it overwhelmed the celebration of the charter day of the city. It was eventually moved to May 7 to 8, which is also the same date as the annual fiesta of the city. The annual fiesta of Mandaue City is celebrated in honor of the patron saint of the city, St. Joseph the Worker. 

17. Cebu:Recreation and Tourist Destinations • Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu offers a unique travel experience as it is a place where city and paradise meet. • Being part of a tropical country, Cebu is lined with pristine white sand beaches perfect for weekend and holiday getaways.

18. Oslob • One of the best places to visit in Cebu is Oslob. • People can watch the gentle giants also known as whale sharks or if you’re adventurous enough, you can also swim with them to get a closer encounter.

19. Bantayan Island • One of the most beautiful North Cebu tourist spots is Bantayan Island. It is a place where you can find calmness and serenity in spite of the numerous tourists who travel there every day. • Once you step out of your boat and walk to Bantayan’s fine white sand, you’ll be welcomed by fresh air and crashing waves of its clear blue waters that become a perfect harmony letting you hear the sound of nature. • Because of these, Bantayan is considered as one of the most beautiful places in Cebu.

20. Malapascua Island • Malapascua is a great destination for both divers and non-divers. You won’t get disappointed upon seeing its unspoiled white sand beaches, beautiful coral gardens, and rich marine life. That’s why it has caught the attention of travelers across the world and eventually gained the title of being one of the Philippines’ best diving spots.

21. Kawasan Falls • Kawasan Falls is one of the top Cebu South tourist spots. • It is a three-stage cascade of clear turquoise water from mountain springs of Mantalongon mountain range.

22. Simala Church • Simala Church is a prestigious castle-like structure that tourists flock to. Home to the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, people from all over the world visit this pristine church to witness traditions and religious gatherings.

23. Pescador Island • Pescador Island is in Tañon Strait in the southern part of the province. It is one of the best diving spots in Cebu. Its island reef is a sandy slope covered with soft coral from 5-10 meters. There is a wall covered with hard corals dropping down to about 130 ft. On that wall are tons of different species of colorful sea creatures including sharks. Another main tourist attraction here is the Sardine Run. You can swim with millions of sardines and get amazed at how magnificent the experience is. Make sure to include Pescador Island to your list of Cebu tourist spots to visit.

24. Sirao Flower Garden • Sirao Flower Garden is one of the top Cebu attractions. You can find different kinds of flowers on the farm like Celosia— the most famous of them all.

25. Temple of Leah • Dubbed as Cebu’s version of India’s Taj Mahal, the Temple of Leah has been attracting foreign and local tourists for its Greek-inspired architectural shrine. 

26. Fort San Pedro • Fort San Pedro is one of the most visited Cebu City tourist spots. Similar to Manila’s Fort Santiago, Fort San Pedro served as a military defense structure during the 17th century.  • At Fort San Pedro, you’ll discover the history of Cebu, the Spanish government, and well-preserved Spanish artifacts. About 14 cannons can still be found in what has become a leisure park today.

27. Magellan’s Cross • You can find the famous Magellan’s Cross. While Filipinos consider Ferdinand Magellan a villain in Philippine history, this landmark is considered as one of the most important historical markers in Cebu City. That’s because it was established upon Magellan’s order to mark his arrival in the country. • This also serves as a reminder of the birth of Christianity in the Philippines.

28. Cebu Taoist Temple • The temple was built to preserve the teachings of a Chinese philosopher, Lao-Tse. While it wasn’t built for tourism purposes, it became one of the most famous Cebu tourist spots because of its beautiful architecture. Visitors will get an overlooking view of the city from a balcony. The temple’s entrance even looks like the Great Wall of China. 

29. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu • the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño where you can see the revered flemish statuette of the Santo Niño. The image of the Santo Niño has remarkable value, especially to Catholics, as it was a baptismal gift by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan to Rajah Humabon and Queen Juana, who were the first locals to be baptized on the island. 

30. Religion • The most celebrated patron saint in Cebu is the Señor Sto Niño de Cebu, the Holy Child Jesus • The original statue is housed in the Basilica Minore del Sto Niño, near the famous cross erected by the Spaniards • Spanish-era churches are dotting the coasts of Cebu province • One of the oldest churches in Central Visayas is the one in Boljoon, Cebu, which is more than 400 years old and is currently undergoing renovation

31. Bohol • Neighboring Cebu is Bohol, the closest province and the 10th largest island in the country. Bohol is taking-off to become the region’s prime eco-cultural tourist destination and agro-industrial center. Investment areas in the identified Special Economic Zone are focused on eco-tourism, light industries and agro-industrial development.

32. Bohol • The province of Bohol is a first-class province divided into 3 congressional districts, comprising 1 component city and 47 municipalities. It has 1,109 barangays.

33. Bohol: Language, Religion, Culture and Traditions • The echoes of history resound in Bohol. Bohol is also a land of history, a land of heroes. • Language/DialectThe majority speak the native dialect which is distinctively Boholano.  Cebuano, Tagalog and English are also spoken and understood. • ReligionOver 90% of the population are Christian and over 80% are Roman Catholic. The religous practices are heavily influenced by more than 300 years of Spanish colonization. Other religions in Bohol are Protestants, Iglesia ni Kristo, Mormons, Islam and others

34. Sandugo Festival • The Blood Compact between Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, the Longest Revolt against Spanish Colonialism led by Francisco Dagohoy – these are just but two important historical chapters in Philippine history, contributing to the shaping of Filipino nationhood through the courage, patriotism, creativity, sense of brotherhood, and commitment of our Boholano heroes and statesmen. The most festive of all is the SANDUGO FESTIVAL SEASON, celebrated every July.

35. Dimiao Children’s Rondalla Loboc Children’s Choir • Be enthralled with the angelic voices of the famous Children’s Choir from Loboc, twice National Champion in the NAMCYA Competition for Children’s Choirs. Listen in awe and rapture to the haunting melodies played by the CHILDREN’S RONDALLA from Dimiao, the current national champion in the NAMCYA Competition for Children’s Rondallas.

36. Teatro Bol-anon • Be magnetized by the dramatic power of Teatro Bol-anon, the first repertory theater company in Bohol. • Loay Pipe Organ • The Province of Bohol boasts of 10 pipe organs. Of late, only one has been fully restored, that of the Loay parish church. A successful inaugural concert was held last May 30 with the Benedictine monk, Fr. Benildus Ma. Maramba performing.

37. Bohol Delicacies

38. Peanut Kisses • Bohol’s most popular delicacy, Peanut Kisses are hill-shaped cookies that promise nutty goodness in every bite. The cookies are made from peanuts and egg whites, baked to crunchy perfection. This snack is offered by most department stores and souvenir shops around Bohol. 

39. Broas • More commonly known as ladyfingers, broas are sweet treats that originate from the town of Baclayon, the pastry capital of Bohol. This baked snack uses all-natural ingredients such as flour, eggs, and sugar, and is free from trans-fat and other preservatives.

40. Kalamay • This sweet and sticky snack is another must-try Boholano delicacy. One of the most popular Bohol pasalubongs, Kalamay is made from glutinous rice, brown sugar, and coconut milk. There is also another variation of Kalamay which has peanuts. • These snacks are usually stored in coconut shells sealed with red bands, but some are also sold in plastic containers. Kalamay can be eaten on its own, as a topping for kakanin snacks, or as a sweet spread for bread and pastries.

41. Ube Kinampay Polvoron • Being one of the largest producers of ube (or ubi) in the Philippines, Bohol’s delicious special ube kinampay polvoron takes it up a notch by incorporating this delicious purple yam to add both sweetness and flavor.

42. Tablea • Tablea are discs shaped out of pure roasted ground cocoa beans. What makes Bohol’s tablea so special is that they’re much sweeter compared to other variations from other places in the Philippines that are more bitter. This is why many people stock up on Bohol tablea when they visit the island.

43. Tourist Attractions in Bohol

44. BLOOD COMPACT SITE, Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran City  • A historical marker which marks the location of where Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain, forged a blood compact with Don Miguel Lopez de Legazpi representing the King of Spain, for the purpose of fostering friendly relations between the two nations. • The Blood Compact on March 16, 1565 is considered the first "Treaty of Friendship" between Europe and Asia.

45. PRESIDENT CARLOS P. GARCIA MEMORIAL PARK, Tagbilaran City • A joint undertaking of Boholanos from all over the country and abroad have erected a park in loving memory of the greatest Boholano -- Carlos Polestico Garcia, the fourth President of the Republic of the Philippines. It sits on a rolling site with an area of 11 hectares chosen by Pres. Carlos P. Garcia himself in 1939 when he was still the governor of Bohol. 

46. MT. CARMEL HILL, Balilihan • Located 24 km from Tagbilaran City. Atop the Mt. Carmel Hill, right in the heart of Balilihan town, is a historical tower of adobe and limestone. These materials were hauled from the town of Baclayon

47. BEHIND THE CLOUDS, Catigbian • This is the cradle of the resistance movement in Bohol during the Japanese occupation when a group of courageous men composed of disbanded soldiers and ordinary citizens started guerilla operations to liberate the island.The encampment nestles in a deep ravine hidden from the enemy. When opposition headquarters were transferred to Carmen, the encampment was used to hold enemy prisoners. 

48. DAGOHOY MARKER, Danao • The Dagohoy historical marker in Magtangtang, Danao was installed by the Philippine Historical Comission to commemorate the heroic deeds of Francisco Dagohoy who led the longest revolt in the country against the Spaniards which lasted for 84 years. • Magtangtang was Dagohoy's headquarters or hideout during the revolt. Hundreds of Dagohoy's followers preferred death inside the cave than surrender. Their skeletal remains still exist today.

49. PUNTA CRUZ, Maribojoc • The Punta Cruz is an ancient stone watchtower built by the townspeople as a lookout for incoming pirates. On a rock lip that juts out into the sea, fronting the tower, stands a wooden cross. Legend has it that by extending a mysterious spell over the sea, the cross has saved many people from the ravages of pirates and marauders.

50. Panglao Island • Known for its white-sand beaches, islands, and diving sites, the province never disappoints its visitors especially if we’re talking about the Panglao Island—Bohol’s very own piece of Boracay. Aside from the stunning beaches, its marine life makes it a great snorkeling and diving spot as well.