Heya! This is Stella. I’m glad once again to share with you one of my unforgettable experiences as an ESL teacher when I had the opportunity to join my Japanese students from Suzuka High School in their city tour as one of their guides. It was their first time visiting Cebu, in the Philippines, so they're not familiar with the city yet. But, with the Academy's well-organized accommodation and the ESL teachers' attentive and congenial company, the students' experience in the city turned into a vibrant exploration.
The Howdy English Academy held its summer camp last July-September, 2024, at Maayo Hotel, Mandaue City, Cebu. Among the Japanese schools that joined it is Suzuka High School from Mie. During their weekend, a city tour was done for them to have some fun time roaming while also learning new things about Cebu.
Gathering at Maayo Hotel in Mandaue City
The assembly time was 9 AM in the lobby of the hotel located on the 7th floor. While staying at the lobby, there are several displays and objects that are locally inspired and designed to share a hint of Cebu's artistry, such as a weaving basket, a sculpture of the kalesa, paintings by local artists, and souvenirs of many local styles that visitors can buy. A dining restaurant and the grand ballroom are also located on the same floor.
Finally, it was time to depart, so everyone went inside the bus. Traveling from Maayo Hotel in Mandaue City by bus really took us almost an hour to reach our destination, Basilica del Santo Niño in Cebu City. Still, I'm glad we arrived earlier than expected. This is because the duration can vary depending on the traffic conditions. I think usually, it takes 1.5 hours to arrive at the said destination.
At , the bus made its stop, and as I looked out the window, we were at the front of the BPI Museum. This is where our Japanese students took their first photo of the City Tour together!
Magellan's Cross
Just a few steps from the BPI Museum, we saw the famous Magellan's Cross. As a Cebuano, I've learned that this is a significant landmark in Cebu as it reveals an important part of history, particularly when Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, planted this Christian cross when he arrived in Cebu in 1521. This is the time when Christianity began spreading in the Philippines.
When the students began roaming inside the small octagonal chapel, they were fascinated by the history behind the landmark. They didn’t forget to take several photos as well while minimizing their voices at the same time.
Plaza Sugbo
When we were finished looking around the Magellan's Cross, we went to continue our tour by entering the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu. Firstly, we all gathered outside at the Pilgrim Center (Plaza Sugbo), where all the students took another photo. The Plaza Sugbo is where large Masses are often held, especially during the Sinulog Festival. There is also a candle lighting and prayer area located on the right side.
It's important to note that the Church is a sacred place for Catholic Christians. Nevertheless, whatever one's religion is, everyone is welcome to enter as long as one respects the place. Everyone who enters it is required to behave accordingly and dress modestly. The students politely adhered to this, as the academy reminded them on the day before the city tour.
Inside the Basilica
The students stayed together in their groups while being guided by the ESL teacher assigned to them. Students explored inside and around the Basilica. Inside, the basilica features a stunning main altar. The altar holds the image of Santo Niño, which devotees line up to see and touch.
Close to the veranda is the serene courtyard surrounded by gardens and religious statues; it’s a beautiful spot if you're looking for a quiet place to reflect. The students definitely had a wonderful time wandering around the Basilica, as seen on their curious and smiling faces.
Island Souvenirs
Near the Basilica is also a souvenir shop that displays different kinds of products that highlight the uniqueness of the Philippines, especially in Cebu. Students had their fun choosing keychains, t-shirts, bags, and delicacies that symbolize the rich beauty in Cebu unlike any other. They also made sure they bought enough for themselves and for their families and friends when they go back to Japan.
All the ESL teachers had a busy time endorsing a lot of local products to our students that it looked like we just replaced the salespersons in their jobs, hahaha. And we couldn't help it; there was a lot of excitement going around to support amazing and authentic souvenirs from Cebu. I must say, we did a great job on it, because our students did buy several of the things we suggested. The shop must be really happy about it, no doubt.
Our first stop on the City Tour sends an important theme about “unity in diversity” for everyone that reads this blog. Cliché it may be, it is moments like this that remind us how our differences in traditions and beliefs don’t hinder our appreciation towards other nationalities. Everyone can still come together with respect and open hearts. As we wandered together to one of Cebu’s most significant cultural foundations, my Japanese students experienced the significance of its religious heritage; it’s not just because of the historic church that still stands today, but also through the Cebuanos they've encountered whose faith and devotion continue to grow.
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