Discover Cebu
When Cebu was "discovered" by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it was truly a discovery, for it opened the eyes of the world to what it did not expect to see. It has been a bustling trading post in Asia, long before the first of his ships landed, positioned right in the middle of what was to become the Philippine archipelago.
The island, with its natural port, was a logical destination, and its people, so steeped in the ways of trade and commerce, were its greatest natural resource. Fast-forward 484 years, and Cebu remains a discovery. It remains that one bright spot, situated right at the geographic center of this archipelago. It is the fastest growing economy in the country, with an average growth rate significantly higher than that of the entire nation, and any other province.
The Province leads 78 other provinces in gross assets, equity and total income. It has been frequently been asked: Why Cebu? Because there is a reason why Cebu is number one. There is a reason why this small island leads the entire country in exports of furniture, fashion accessories, carageenan, gifts, toys, and houseware.
There is a reason why Cebu consistently gets the biggest chunk of tourist arrivals yearly, and has become the tourism gateway to Central and Southern Philippines. There is a reason why Cebu is fast becoming the IT and call center capital of the country.
Why Cebu? Perhaps because the island is naturally situated to become the center of all this action. It is a natural port. More than 80% of inter-island shipping capacity is based here, on this small island. It is the most accessible place to and from all points in the country, with more domestic air and sea linkages than even Manila. It is naturally safe. It does not lie within any earthquake zone or typhoon belt. There are no volcanoes on the island.
It has the necessary, well-balanced infrastructure to remain competitive, and to sustain development. And yet, within minutes from its cosmopolitan quarters, you are immediately transported to resort settings and natural wonders.
Why Cebu?
Most of all, because of its PEOPLE. An independent, self-reliant, entrepreneurial culture pervades the island, which makes its people eminently positioned to seize the opportunities that nature presented it. Cebu has a highly educated workforce geared towards non-agricultural lines, the reason why Cebu has become the center of global attention for services and information technology. Being the education capital of Central and Southern Philippines, Cebu is a natural melting pot, the breeding ground for the best minds and hands in this part of the country.
Cebu is naturally peaceful. Cebu has the lowest crime rates, and the best peace and order records of all cities and provinces in the Philippines.
Why Cebu?
The island. Its people. Cebu has had four centuries of being discovered by the world. And we invite you to discover today - this island, this people.