SINULOG "CEBU CITY'S FESTIVAL"

PHOTO: COURTESY OF MR. MARK ANTHONY GELIG

SINULOG FESTIVAL

 A must see festival in the City of Cebu. "It's like bringing back the popularity of the song with the lyrics "sinulog ha,tanan magsuolog.sinulog misyagit ug kusog,pit senyor kang nanay kini,pit senyor kang tatay kini,pit senyor kang lola kini".Have you heard that song?inspired by the festival,that song will be heard again around the streets on the first week of January until "Sinulog Festival Day".
Colorful streets with banners and a busy sidewalks with different live bands performing at bar stations here in the city. Live performances participated by the different institutions in Cebu will have their best shot on their scheduled date to be held at Fuente Osmeña Circle.

Sinulog History

Origin of the word Sinulog and the Dance Steps

   The word Sinulog comes from the Cebuano adverb sulog which roughly means "like water current movement;" it describes the forward-backward movement of the Sinulog dance. The dance consists of two steps forward and one step backward, done to the sound of drums. The dance is categorized into Sinulog-base, Free-Interpretation. Candle vendors at the Basilica continue to perform the traditional version of the dance when lighting a candle for the customer, usually accompanied by songs in the native language.

   The Sinulog dance steps are believed to originate from Rajah Humabon's adviser, Baladhay. It was during Humabon's grief when Baladhay was driven sick. Humabon ordered his native tribe to bring Baladhay into a room where the Santo Niño was enthroned, along with the other pagan gods of the native Cebuanos. After a few days passed, Baladhay was heard shouting and was found dancing with utmost alertness. Baladhay was questioned as to why was he awake and shouting. Pointing to the image of the Santo Niño, Baladhay explained that he had found on top of him a small child trying to wake him and tickling him with the midrib of the coconut. Greatly astonished, he scared the child away by shouting. The little child got up and started making fun of Baladhay. In turn, Baladhay danced with the little child and explained that he was dancing the movements of the river. To this day, the two-steps forward, one-step backward movement is still used by Santo Niño devotees who believe that it was the Santo Niño's choice to have Baladhay dance.

   On April 15, 1521, the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived and planted the cross on the shores of Cebu, claiming the territory for Spain. He presented the image of the child Jesus, the Santo Niño, as baptismal gift to Hara Amihan, wife of Rajah Humabon. Hara Amihan was later named, Queen Juana in honor of Juana, mother of Carlos I. Along with the rulers of the island, some 800 natives were also baptized to the Roman Catholic Church. At the moment of receiving the holy image, it was said that Queen Juana danced with joy bearing this image of the child Jesus. With the other natives following her example, this moment was regarded as the first Sinulog.

   This event is frequently used as basis for most Sinulog dances, which dramatize the coming of the Spaniards and the presentation of the Santo Niño to the Queen. A popular theme among Sinulog dances is Queen Juana holding the Santo Niño in her arms and using it to bless her people who are often afflicted by sickness caused by demons and other evil spirits.

   Did you know that, natives of Cebu dance Sinulog to worship their anitos (god) during the past, but now, they dance it to show their reverence to the  Santo Niño.

   The Sinulog is an annual festival held on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City. This is to honor the Santo Niño from being a pagan to accepting the Roman Catholicism in the City.

   The main feature is a street parade with participants in bright coloured costumes dancing to the rhythm of drums, trumpets  and native gongs. Smaller versions of the festival are held in various parts of the province, also to celebrate and honor the Santo Niño. There is also a "Sinulog sa Kabataan" performed by the youths of Cebu a week before the parade. Recently, the festival has been promoted as a tourist attraction, with a contest featuring contingents from various parts of the country. The Sinulog Contest is usually held in the Cebu City Sports Complex.

   It has been said that this festival or event happening in Cebu became Cebu's most benchmark when it comes to festivals. That is why Cebu having this kind of festival already has its town festival,which later being promoted during the activity of the province called "Pasigarbo sa Sugbo" or Festival of Festivals, an annual contest participated by Cebu towns and cities to showcase their local fiestas with dances.

   It is true, that crowd on that day (Sinulog Day) have  such a big crowd to control, that is why, you need to wear your best gear for this. What you have to do are for the girls: wear your best shorts,best slipper (that one that can't easily be worn out), a hat,most comfortable dress or blouse. For the boys: wear your best sando, short and slipper plus a hat (protection against sunlight). You will have a walkathon, but you will surely have fun while walking as you find it a lot of fun to take a glimpse of the looking at the street dancers( participants of the festival performing in the streets).

graceful dance at the street (street dancing)

   A long day indeed, but the experience is worth to be remembered and to have your photos up, that should be expected. Come and visit Cebu.!!!!! GOD BLESS YOUR TRIP!!!!

Source: Wikipedia (history of sinulog).

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GLAMOROUS FIREWORKS DISPLAY

   

             CEBU SET THE PACE   
        Considering Cebu as the "Queen City of the South" makes every individual living in it so much proud for the title. This can be justified by so many tourist attractions, and be known in the neighboring countries .Booming economy and industrialization becomes dynamic,every year there's so many things to be thankful for, and that calls for a celebration.There's just this thing that really amaze me,on how Cebuano make a countdown during New Years Eve and it seems that it became a practice on having a fireworks display in the uptown area making it more fun to look at. In addition to this,looking forward to another fireworks display are everyone's wish.Well, why do I am saying this?why do fireworks always reflect or tells us, that there are something to celebrate?
      Let us take a glimpse on the history of fireworks.

The earliest documentation of fireworks dates back to 7th century China, where they were invented. The fireworks were used to accompany many festivities. It is a part of the culture of China and had its origin there; eventually it spread to other cultures and societies. The art and science of firework making has developed into an independent profession. In China, pyrotechnicians were respected for their knowledge of complex techniques in mounting firework displays. (Wikipedia)

       Fireworks are a class of explosive pyrotechnics devices used for aesthetic, cultural, and religious purposes. The most common use of a firework is as part of a fireworks display. A fireworks event (also called a fireworks show or pyrotechnic) is a display of the effects produced by firework devices. Fireworks competitions are also regularly held at a number of places. Fireworks take many forms to produce the four primary effects: noise, light, smoke and floating materials (confetti  for example). They may be designed to burn with flames and sparks of many colors, typically red, orange,yellow, green, blue, purple, and silver. Displays are common throughout the world and are the focal point of many cultural and religious celebration.

       I must say that, spending or making a count down before midnight would be more fun in the uptown area, specifically at Crown Regency Hotel, Marco Polo Hotel or in Ayala Cebu. It's been consistent for let say, more than 2 years to have this count down, which draw so many viewers (it may be a couple, a group of friends, a family)because of its glamour.I remember the song " Cebu City lights"it makes me realize how beautiful Cebu is, with the lights of it,plus the fireworks that makes it more appealing. What's with the color red?the color yellow?the color orange?it is not with the color, but it is for the fact that people enjoyed  watching it, as it brings new hope.With the blessings that the city received there's nothing else to ask for,and the celebration goes to everyone for another year of development and progress  As part of cultural believe, and as Cebu sets the pace, we invite you all to witness this culture, don't miss this chance block your calendar on December 31 to make a count down on New Year's Eve.

     

photos: courtesy of my brother-Mark Anthony Gelig

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NIGHT MARKET IN COLON STREET CEBU

SEASONAL BUT 
PECULIAR NIGHT MARKET 
  IN COLON STREET CEBU

    It's not just the busy people rushing and walking around the streets of old colon street. It is also the busy people viewing for something to buy,and look what I am talking about,no less than the night market itself which makes the street more brighter and alive.This night market will be on the street of old colon (that one going to University of the Visayas)

    So, let's trace back the history of a night market. According to Wikipedia, night market or night bazaars are street markets which operate at night and are generally dedicated to more leisurely strolling, shopping, and eating than more businesslike day markets. They are typically open air markets. So, see how this market is different from any other types of market?In history, Taiwan host the most numerous night markets in each of its major cities. In Malaysia, Indonesia and in Singapore, night markets are commonly known as "Pasar Malam" by the locals which means night market. The word Pasar Malam come from the word "pasar" means market in Malay, and "malam" meaning "night". Some countries too have their own version of it, like in Macau and  in Hong Kong. Not just a gambling destination that can compared to Las Vegas, Macau also has its own and nice night market. In an article written by  Sol Jose Vanzi "10 THINGS TO DO IN MACAU-OTHER THAN GAMBLING", he said in his number 1 list, which talks about shopping that  "there is a popular flea market near ruins of St. Paul's, as well as a night market beside Cinema Alegria on weekends." and that made him loved  the place. When we talk about Hong Kong night market ,the popular tourist attraction is the China Town Night Market ,that stretches 200 stalls over four streets. Philippines also, has its night markets like the night market in Manila, in Baguio,in Makati and in Cebu.
      The mission of this kind of night market is the same, but the purpose would differ, like in Cebu ,I started to get the chance to experience night market moment when I'm in my college days ,that's way back during the administration of Mayor Tomas where in before having this sinulog events in the city of Cebu we have this night markets as a part of the long celebration from Christmas days-new year's day-sinulog day (a feast offered in honor of our patron saint). In the middle of Christmas there is this night market, which made me happy during those times because, I've got to picture things out differently on the image of the streets ,where the market had been held (since our school is near on it). But that market would be gone in January because people are much on the "Sinulog" activities and there is this markets also or stall near the Abellana School for our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters. Since the change of administration from Mayor Tomas to Mayor Mike, I saw changes on the flow of the street events. We were surprise, when at the middle of June-July there is this kind of bazaar. I wonder why because it was not yet December, I came to read the article publish in one of our newspapers that, the mayor which is Mayor Mike wanted to change the image of this certain streets of colon, from the notorious hideouts of snatchers, and other culprits to a new lively street by conducting a night markets. This makes the street lively for once.

      I happened to take a look at the activities in the night markets and I enjoyed it, there's this stall of shakes,fruit stands, food stalls like siomai,chicken and "pungko2x" a Cebuano term which means "to squat" diners squat when they ate. You too would enjoy the bag displays, shoes, the pajamas, clothes and other items that can be used in the household. But certainly it became a tradition, it may be seasonal but you can have an experience on how our night markets are really different. Just come and visit Cebu at  the end of the year and you will see how amazing it is.Tourists who spent their long vacation in order  to witness "Sinulog festival" also liked our night market, they were hooked to it, and promised to be back next year.As suggested by me of course, I am pretty sure you will enjoy your stay here, in the "Queen City of the South" and I am referring to Cebu.Seasonal but peculiar night market. See you in December!!!

 PEANUT STALL (photo courtesy of my brother- Mark Anthony Gelig)

Photo caption: This young man, took a moment in deciding if he will going to buy it.

(photo courtesy of my brother- Mark Anthony Gelig)

Photo caption: Looking for some prospective buyers, as his wife was so busy calculating their sales.

(photo courtesy of my brother- Mark Anthony Gelig)

Photo caption: The vendor was busy in giving change, while his customers were  busy eating the foods that he sold to them.

                              COME AND VISIT CEBU!!!!!
                                               
                                            Proud to be Cebuano!!!
                                       

                

                                       
                                                                                                         

                                                                                                       

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INTRODUCING..... THE HANGING RICE IN CEBU

        Welcome to Cebu my dear netizen friends, I would like to introduce to you this kind of rice which is wrapped in a  woven coconut palm strands it is called "puso"in a Cebuano term, but in English term, it is called hanging rice. It is a boiled rice in a wrapped palm,best paired with barbecue which tourist must try it as we humbly introduce and proud to say that our barbecue here are one of the cities most popular. In some other places in the Philippines they don't give importance to that kind of cooking the rice, but in Cebu we give a detailed and most artistic way of making the wrapper of it. For Cebuanos, making the wrapper is an art,which we emphasize and gives "puso" or introduce it in a different shapes.

          The six designs Inocian identified in his book are binaki, manan-aw, binosa, dumpol or pudol, kinasing and badbaranay.

           So to speak, there are lots of versions coming from other countries, like in Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia it is called "Ketupat" or packed rice it is a type of dumpling but same with the process of cooking that as the rice cooks, the grains expand to fill the pouch of the woven palm, making the rice compress and form according to its shapes and designs.

        

In human dreams, frogs symbolize spiritual and emotional transformation. It reminds human transition or turning points from our ordinary life to another level of life’s challenges. Frogs are always associated to fertility and abundance.

         Where does this term "puso"as what Cebuanos called it, came from?

         In the book entitled " Lukay Art in the Visayas: Cebu's  Cultural Pride of a Unique Ritual Identity", Dr. Reynaldo Inocian the author of the book cited that the Chinese were good in dumplings  and while Cebuanos are trying to imitate the so called "ma-chang" which is delicious, the Cebuanos came proud and showed it to the Chinese, the Chinese did not agree with what Cebuanos had cooked up and said "phu-shr"(which means it isn't)then saying "ma-chang"while pointing on the rice dumplings. The Cebuanos realized that what he made is named "pu-so"a result of wrong pronounciation. That's how "puso" name was born.(source: By Marigold P. Lebumfacil  "PUSO: More than hanging rice.)

      How was that?well, this "puso"became a part of Cebuanos culture,in so many occassions it has to be in preferences whether to serve the rice in a simple way or have it in a "puso" way?But nevertheless,we prefer something for you,how about "puso" and lechon,"puso"and babecue,"puso" and siomai, "puso" and fried chicken?these are some of the combinations mostly suggested and preferred by most of the locals. The most popular combination is "puso"and barbecue.However in some countries where it is called "ketupat"they served it with stews.
    
     You will enjoy eating your meal with this food if you get along with the "larsian community".Cebuanos will be ver happy to see you around. "Puso";Cebuanos culture,Cebuanos tradition.

HAVE A NICE DAY,ENJOY............

           

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A "BEE-AUTIFUL" DINING EXPERIENCE

A  "BEE-AUTIFUL" DINING EXPERIENCE 
                              AT  THE HEART OF CEBU                                                                                            DOWNTOWN AREA

       What makes this bee buzzing around the busy streets in downtown area?Oh,well here's the thing you want to know about this restaurant located at colon area. This store was built on the 90's, where it is considered the 120 stores built in the Philippines. With the growing population of this brand in restaurant business. A new 'bee" store was born and up to  present buzzing around inviting more customers, local and foreign customers. Things you have to know about this "bee"store:

       First, the location itself. One thing that makes this store to have achieve the highest transaction count,that must be considered one of the highest is the location. It is located at  Juan Luna corner P. Gullas Street Cebu City where the famous neighbor Gaisano Metro is also located just beside of it,where most of the diners are coming from the shoppers.Factors also that must be considered are the schools and universities near the area, namely: University of San Jose Recoletos, University of Cebu, Pasil Elementary School. A little bit nearer to University of the Visayas,few steps from the famous Basilica del Sto.Niño and the well known Magellan's Cross.With the fast pace of the schools for Koreans around, it also added the highlights in the location.

     Second, the place is so adorable. With the highest capacity of seats more than 400 sits from the ground floor to third floor,somewhat all of the visitors coming in will be accommodated by the comfortable tables and chairs waiting for such delightful customers. With the designs that are simply made to suit your preferences as to like a cafeteria, a coffee shop style, a fine dine style the store offers a nice seats for you.

    Third,the presence of a playland makes it more advantage for those family bonding  and for those kids who like to play after school. Simply the best treat that a mother,a father,or a parents can offer for their children who got perfect score in an exam. A treat for a play and a spaghetti. Perfect bonding also for those siblings who wanted to play after such an hour of just bullying each other,they will appreciate each other through their bonding time at this store.

     Fourth, the ambiance of the place. As it offers, a cool dining experience with the stores newly and re-conditioned air condition units from every corner of it. Plus the fact that store's cleanliness are well maintained, a place where you can have a clean environment while eating. Food safety is at it's best.

(a captin of a baby who is very happy when he is in jollibee, a family bonding indeed,as he express it with a big smile on his face). Family can enjoy their weekend here by treating their children with a bucket of chicken for as low as 335 pesos with 6pcs.on it, a spaghetti,and a delightful desserts of chocolate sundae and a vanilla ice cone twirl for as low as 10.00 pesos.

Looks like this spacious dining area are waiting for you.

                  Fifth, are the friendly staffs of it. Want to know this store? It is one of the largest stores in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao when it comes to it's brand. Brand dominance is evident as I am talking about Jollibee. Yes  I am talking about Jollibee Cebu Metro Colon. The staffs are accommodating to their customers and they are able to anticipate customers need, giving and serving with an extraordinary service. 

      Six, is the service. The cashiers move their lines as fast as they could with the help of twelve Point of Sales(POS) that will be open if needed. With the availability of P.O.S, transacting business made easy and customers turnover are fast so to satisfy the kind of service that the customer expected when in a rush and are hungry. Orders complete and accurate.

Looking for someone to transact business with.

        Seven, the food. Foods are tastier, yummier, and deliciously hot and crispy. It adds to the "bee"-autiful experience are the foods.To cite a few of your favorite foods are fried chicken, spaghetti, burger, fries,ice cream and desserts such as pies. A BEE-AUTIFUL  dining experience that you will surely love and would always look forward to, when you stay in Cebu.

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Authentic Cebu Dishes

                                       SUTUKIL or S.T.K

                                                                                  A. "SUGBA"

Culinary says that "complexity” of ingredient creates a unique flavor for a dish but for Cebuano cuisine, simplicity of dish makes a big difference. As we know that, cuisine in every particular place was influenced from our traditions and cultures. Also influences from neighboring places or countries contribute a   lot.                                                                                                    

Su-tu-kil is one of the famous compound cuisines of Cebuanos. SU- stands for sugba, ihaw in talalog and grill in English. Tu- from "tuwa" a slang word comes from tinola, clear soup in english. KIL- is from kinilaw, kilawin in tagalog and sashimi in Japanese.

"Sugba" or "grill" is famous anywhere in the world, like in any places; in Cebu it has its own way of preparing and cooking the sinugba or grilling. Traditional way of preparing a "sinugba" is just simply toss with salt and marinate for 15-30 minutes then start grilling very close to charcoal. After the meat cooked, then time to cut into regular slices (fish no need to cut) ;mix  with soy sauce and vinegar, some Cebuanos put fresh native chili (kulikot nga sili) to give a bit of spice that give additional dimension of flavor to it.

"Tuwa" or "Tinola" is a very simple dish, which you can find from small restaurant or even in big hotel in Cebu. It is a very traditional cuisine, since Cebuano's are naturally simple, this culture influenced the simplicity of this dish. Cooking “Tuwang “isda or karne ( fish or meat clear soup ) you just need a piece of tomato, regular size of onion, one piece of green onion, lemon grass, water and bring to boil. Then put the slices of fish or meat, cook it for about 10 to 20 mins ( it depends how tender is your meat, extend cooking time if needed to tenderized the meat)  touch of salt and pepper and garnish with long chili, serve while its hot. See how simple this dish is.

"Kinilaw" in Cebu, Sahimi in Japan. “Kinilaw” dish is a very traditional dish, because we inherit this from our great  grandparents. If the sashimi from Japanese cuisine needs a careful and complex preparation, “Kinilaw” from Cebu is very simple. Cebuano use only fresh catch  fish  fillet(fresh catch from the sea) ,cut into cubes, rinse with running water, pinch of salt and drop of calamansi juice, then squeeze little bit, and set aside.  Cut r regular size of onion thinly sliced, minced of ginger, fresh tomato, half teaspoon of salt, and then vinegar. Mix everything in a bowl and garnish with onion chive and chili

Optional: If you love fresh coconut milk then 1/4 cup of vinegar mix into grated coconut then squeeze to get the milk and mix it... wow so it’s so yummy that is authentic Cebuano” Kinilaw”.


                        

                 

    


                                                                                 

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Vegetable Basket of the South, Mantalongon, Dalaguete, Cebu.

Dalaguete, Cebu, Philippines

Vegetable Market of the South and Music Capital of the Island

According to Wikipedia: The Municipality of Dalaguete, Cebu celebrates its annual town fiesta in honor of its patron saint, San Guillermo every 9th and 10th of February. One of the highlights of the celebration is the street dancing and showdown competition called "Utanon Festival".

Utanon Festival is also a form of thanksgiving for all the blessings and graces the Dalaguetnons have received from San Guillermo and for giving them a place so rich in agriculture and music.

Utanon Festival is a celebration of good harvest through dance and music. Through music because Dalaguete is not only the Vegetable Basket of the Province of Cebu but also the Music Capital of the island as well.

Mantolongon summer capital of Island

As of 2012, Mantalongon had 967 households with a total population of 6,128. The area comprises 9.17 square kilometres (3.54 sq mi). The Barangay borders to Ablayan in the North, Tabon and Langkas in the South, Dumalan and Obo in the East and the Badian municipality in the West.^{[1] (Source: wikipedia )} 

It is called the Summer Capital of Cebu, because of its cold temperature ranging between 18-25 degree selsius in the month of November to middle of January. Due to its cold temperatures the main livelihood of the people in Mantalongon is farming, growing different kinds of vegetables.

Vegetable Farming In Mantalongon, Dalaguete (Source: wikipedia )

It is called the Vegetable Basket of Cebu because it is one of the major vegetable supplier to the other towns in Cebu province. Everyday, tons of vegetables are delivered to Carbon Market which is the biggest Public Market in Cebu City. (Source: wikipedia )

Ocean Bay Beach Resort, Dalaguete

Welcome to Ocean Bay Beach Resort, a holiday destination were you can find the relaxing feeling of the province.

See the sun rising over the island of Bohol, enjoy the view of the ocean, relax along the pool side or have an early swim.

	You may also want to stroll along to the local market, experience the friendliness of the local population and pass the time away doing as little or as much as you like.

for more details pls. visit www.oceanbaybeachresort.com

contact information... OCEAN BAY BEACH RESORT Guiwanon, Poblacion, Dalaguete, Cebu, Philippines 6022 Tele Fax: + 63 32 4848 003 Email (inquiries): info@oceanbaybeachresort.com Email (reservation): reservation@oceanbaybeachresort.com

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