If you get tired of the sights in Cebu City, you may hail a cab or a jeepney and head to Naga City to appreciate beautiful scenery without wandering too far. The trip takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic condition. A jeepney ride costs only 14 pesos and it is an exciting way to go around the city.
Naga City got its name from the Philippine’s national tree, narra, which is called “naga” in the Cebuano dialect. Even before the Spanish settled in the area, Naga City (then known as Tinaan and Tuyaan, two separate villages) was already populated by settlers from nearby places such as Bohol. The town’s main livelihood from the olden days up to the present are fishing and agriculture. The coming of the Spanish forces led to the unification of the villages and the foundation of a parish Church, known as the San Francisco de Asis Church. In comparison with the numberous churches built by the Spanish in the province, the San Francisco de Asis Church is much simpler in design and architecture. It is very unique in design as it is a combination of Islamic and Mexican influences. The original construction was led by Fr. Simon Aguirre and was carried out by the parishioners. The beautiful façade of the Naga City Church is the most attractive part of the entire structure. You’ll see handsome angels playing instruments and biblical scriptures underneath a sculpture of Jesus Christ. The belfry, though constructed very late into the 20th century, stands tall and mighty a few feet beside the church.
A trip to Naga City is an invitation to a lazy day. The Bonifacio Park is a good spot to just enjoy the afternoon sun, maybe read a book or just watch time go by. On the other hand, the Naga Baywalk, beautiful as it is during the day, is even more stunning at night once the colorful lights are all lit up. You can enjoy local delicacies as food stalls are erected on the strip.
