CEBU, Philippines - Local travelers mostly think of faraway places to visit during summer. They choose to go as far as they can get. With this attitude, they often miss the interesting destinations nearby.
For Cebuanos, one of the understated destinations is the town of San Remegio. Maybe the town’s tourism office is not so vigorous in their efforts. Or maybe the local people from the other Cebu towns and cities don’t care to know more about the place.
San Remegio was formerly known as “Kanhagas,” after the trees of that name that used to be abundant in the area. The town is blessed with long stretches of nice beaches and clear blue waters. It also has various dive sites fit for beginners and experienced divers. Whale sharks, bamboo sharks, guitarfish and other interesting sea creatures are seen in the local waters.
Other points of interest dot the town.
San Juan Nepomuceno Church. It was constructed on April 12, 1864 by Rev. Fr. Ceferino Montecillo, the first parish priest of the town. The town’s annual fiesta is on May16, which is celebrated with a local festival called the “Lapyahan Festival,” from the Cebuano word for “seashore.”
Century-old Acacia Tree. The tree is said to be a living witness to the growth of the town, having been around for more than a hundred years. It has been recognized by Department of Environment and Natural Resources as one of the oldest trees in Cebu, dating back to the Spanish time.
Pangi Cave. Pangi Cave is a great place for cave adventure. It has an underground spring and quite a history. The parish priest of neighboring Bogo town reportedly took refuge here during World War II. The cave’s spring is presently the source of drinking water for the surrounding barangays.
There are many other nice things to enjoy while in San Remegio. A stroll in the vast coconut groves is something urbanites would relish. It’s rural leisure at its best – with young coconut water readily available to quench the thirst of strollers.
Accommodation is no problem, for there are comfortable hotel rooms available. Matching the luxurious comfort, the best of local cuisine is also served – with an abundance of local fruits.
Those longing to escape to tranquility are sure to find San Remigio to be the place. For those that want some festive action, the town’s Lapyahan Festival, during the town’s fiesta, is the answer. The festival draws quite a crowd, local people and visitors alike, year after year.
Dancing contingents in colorful costumes and impressive props parade the Poblacion’s streets, with choreography depicting things related to the sea, like the movement of the waves or swimming. The festival concludes with the crowning of the festival queen, from candidates representing the different barangays of the town.
From the North Bus Terminal in Mandaue City, it takes a three-hour land trip to get to San Remegio. There is a yellow bus that leaves for the town every 30 minutes. Upon reaching the place, one may seek assistance at the tourism office in the municipal building for places or activities that are good to experience in San Remegio.