Argao: A Humble Paradise

                                          A Brief History Of Argao

Location : 66.9 km.

Town Fiesta : September 28 - 29
Patron Saint : Michael Archangel

When Argao was still a wilderness with only few people living far from each other,  a certain kind of tree called “sali-argaw” grew abundantly along its coasts. They  became landmarks  for fishermen on their fishing expeditions and serves as a  haven on stormy days. These trees were so towering they could be seen while  yet on the strait of Bohol. The town was named after these trees. Argao is described as one of the most interesting places in  the province for its  public stone buildings roofed with tiles and for its ovens used for the baking of  bricks and tiles. Many of these Argao-made bricks and tiles found their way to  Cebu City where they were used in elite houses. It is one of the few towns that  still manages to keep alive the old Spanish flavor. This is evident not only from its  old church, but also from its venerable houses made of tisa. The town and parish were founded in 1806 under the patronage of San Miguel.  It was a rich pueblo. As described, it was a town comparable to a village in Spain,  with its public buildings made of stone and tiled roofs. It had a famous and large  wharf. As protection and defense, the town was surrounded by bastions of stones,  arranged proportionally. The natives of Argao were dedicated to agricultural pursuits.  The women applied themselves to dyeing and weaving: two industries that provided  a notable trade with the natives of Argao. According to church records, the church of Argao was founded on October 16,  1733. Another source says that Argao began as an encomienda, and that Argao  parish was founded on May 17, 1734. It places Ignacio Olalde, OSA, as its first  parish priest. The church tower or belfry was built upon the orders of Bishop  Santos Gomez de Marañon (Bishop of Cebu 1829 - 1840). Its church is a beautiful  rococo-baroque with unusual ceilings of canvass painted all over with religious  motifs. J.T. Newman writes about the edifice in her visits to churches in Southern  Cebu towns:

                                                Town's Masterpieces

Argao Church

The Church of Argao possesses one of the remaining 14 Spanish era pipe organs,and is one of the three in the whole province of Cebu. Estimated to have been built in the 17th to the 19th century by Spanish pipe organ makers.

On the ceiling are murals done by two of the best church muralist during that time (early 20th century).The first portion por-traying biblical manifes-tations of angels was done by the famous artist Canuto Avila. The other portion by the altar was done by Reynaldo Franciaand depicts the victory of St. Michael over Lucifer

Walled Pueblo
This imposing archway is called the Ganghaan sa Hari or Puerta Real. It serves as entrance to the walled pueblo in Argao built by Spanish colonizers in the 1600’s.

Central to the pueblo is the plaza, where Argawanons and guests can surf the Internet through wi-fi (wireless fidelity) connectivity.

Casa Real
Argao’s Casa Real is the oldest structure still used as a “munisipyo” (municipal hall). The sign on the building reads “Bahay Lungsod sa Argao, 1608.” The upper floor of the two-storey building has been turned into a museum that displays old photographs, clothes, and home implements, among others.

Cannons
Also on display in the plaza are Spanish cannons that “were used to defend the pueblo from Moro raiders,” according to a sign engraved in stone below them.

Decorative Well
A decorative well built over the old one that used to be the only source of water for Argawanons.

Nature Park

For adventure and pleasure, have fun enjoying in Argao’s must-see Nature Park. A nature lover, environmentalist or adventurist is so much welcome to visit their nature park and walk under the big trees, be amazed with the beauty of delicate nature and the birds, sit on their lagoon area, and/or enjoy the fun activities of wall climbing, zip lining, and boat riding.

Riverstone Castle

The pride of Argao’s Riverstone Castle made up of the nearby river stones.

Balay Sa Agta (Giant’s Cave)

The Giant’s Cave (Balay sa Agta), the northern entrance of Mt. Lantoy, Argao’s highest peak. From there you see hundreds to thousands of bats and birds. From Poblacion of Argao, ride a 4-wheel vehicle or the local’s motorcycle (habal-habal) to reach the location, Barangay Conalum. However, a need of climbing skills, no fear of heights, guts and good condition are needed to successfully reach the cave. the Giant’s Cave (Balay sa Agta), the northern entrance of Mt. Lantoy, Argao’s highest peak. From there you see hundreds to thousands of bats and birds. From Poblacion of Argao, ride a 4-wheel vehicle or the local’s motorcycle (habal-habal) to reach the location, Barangay Conalum. However, a need of climbing skills, no fear of heights, gut and good condition are needed to successfully reach the cave.

Bugasok Falls

Hidden far deep in Argao’s mountain barangay called Conalum is the town’s majestic Bugasok Falls. This trail upriver to the falls is an enchanted walk along forested cliffs and solid rockboulders. An added bonus is the unique plants and birds that visitors can see along the way.is trail upriver to the falls is an enchanted walk along forested cliffs and solid rockboulders.

Mahayahay Beach 

A romantic and quiet place with clean and clear blue water as well as fresh air that means Mahayahay Beach.

It is a good place to relax from the daily stress. The Mahayahay Beach is a nice sand beach and even at low tide no corrals will hurt the feet.

                                             Argao's Native

Tuba 

Tuba is local wine made from fermented coconut juice. Claudio Mamac, whose family has been into the business of tuba making since when it all began—and that was before the Spaniards came, said stories from the old folks told of how tuba was served during the time of the datus, ancient tribal chieftains who ruled the islands in pre-Hispanic time.

There are different classes of tuba based on the age of fermentation: dawat (new wine), bahal (a day or to a few weeks old), bahalina (a month to a year old), tinuig (more than a year old).

Torta

Argao has been famous for its well-loved torta; a delicacy from a mixture of several ingredients such as tuba (fermented coconut juice), pork lard, egg, and more secret components. This is equivalent to a homemade cake or a pastry, but of high-quality as compared to other locally produced home goodies. Since there are several Argawanons who have made torta-making their means of livelihood, you can find a number of variations for this delicacy.

Podrida


Same with suncake, this is a type of pastry, but with sweet fillings embedded at the center. Its filling varies according to the preference of the maker; however, the most common is the coconut jam (the likes of macapuno). The sweetness compliments well with the cookie that is baked with just enough tang.

                                                                      Bibingka

Suncake


This is a kind of cookie that is formed into various shapes like star, flower, or triangle. These are freshly baked that have consistent crispness and texture. This cookie is also considered as a staple food in every Argawanon's home, which is best when dipped into a hot choco drink.










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                                                Getting to Argao, Cebu, Philippines
Argao is approximately 2 hours travel south of Cebu.

From Cebu city, there are travel options to Argao. Bus, Taxi or V-hire and for the adventurous, hire a car. It is also possible to hire a car with driver.

Bus
All buses run from the southern bus terminal in Bacalso. Buses are the most common form of transport and quite economical. We recommend you only catch a CERES Liner or Sunray bus, although there are many others. Ceres and Sunray buses are the most comfortable, if you sit in the centre or towards the front of the bus. You will regret sitting at the back! These buses often have very poor suspension, although the newer Ceres liners are good. Be prepared for an exciting ride. You will find most commonly that you will be sharing seats built for 2 with 3 people.

Taxi
Taxi is the easy option. Choose a driver you like, perhaps one who has taken you places around the city. Many in Cebu city understand and speak reasonable English. Be prepared to put fuel in the taxi if you pick a driver at random. Most taxis run on empty here. Be sure to get an agreement with the driver that the fuel cost will be deducted from the agreed fare. If you want, we can arrange a reliable driver to pick you up and bring you to Argao.

V-Hire
V-Hire is a minibus which transports about 10 people. The drivers generally own their own vehicle, so tend to take less risks on the road. The cost of this service is approximately twice the bus fare. Travel time is less and comfort is greater with these vehicles. This service operates from the southern bus terminal.