Cebu City is in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is somewhat a small island with not only a rich natural resources but a very vibrant culture. Cebu is arguably the next city to be almost as developed as Manila, the capital of the Philipines. Although the city is modernized, locals remain to be attached with its grassroots and continue to cultivate its rich culture. Just like other Filipino cities in the Philippines, Cebu City is filled with hospitable people who are always willing to give a hand.

Religion also played a huge influence in Cebuanos, the majority of the people is devoted Catholics but are very open and never have been discriminating to other religions. As an evidence of their devotion, the churches such as the Basilica del Sto. Niño, where the famous Magellan’s Cross can be found remains to be one of the most visited tourist spots in Cebu.

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The bustling streets of Cebu only show how it has developed through the years. With the Spanish colonization decades ago who would have thought that this city would come this far. The elders are known to be very meticulous and conservative, which became a huge block for change. As years passed by, modernization hit Cebu without a choice and instantly converted into a major player in the Philippine economy. Malls and business establishments began sprouting like mushrooms and industrialization has never stopped since then.

Cebu like other cities in the Philippines is rich with natural resources from white sand beaches to picturesque mountains. No wonder the Spaniards took hold of the Philippines during those times even other countries were very interested to grab this small island in Asia. As years passed by Cebu went on with the trend realizing that change is the way to prosperity.

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The Yap-Sandiego ancestral house is located at 155-Lopez Jaena corner Mabini Street in Cebu’s Parian, just a few steps away from the Parian Monument. Considered to be one of the oldest, if not the oldest, residential houses in the Philippines, it was built sometime between 1675 and 1700. It was originally owned by Maria, Eleutorio, and Consolacion Yap – early Chinese merchants.

*images are sourced from the Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House page at Facebook.

It was still the home of Doña Maria Yap when she married Parian’s Cabeza de Barangay in the 1880s, Don Mariano Sandiego.

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Filipinos in general are known for being hospitable – consequently are the Cebuanos. While the people of Cebu are not expecting in return for such hospitality, a sociable response for the friendly welcome will be highly appreciated. Much more if you take effort in learning the basic greetings and expressions the locals use.

Here are some common Cebuano greetings that you may want to use when visiting the beautiful islands of Cebu.

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