Cebu, Island province in central Philippines
Cebu is a province on multiple islands in the central Philippines, extending between the Bohol Sea and Tanon Strait. The main island runs narrow from north to south with forested hills in the interior and flat plains along the east coast.
The arrival of European seafarers in the 16th century permanently changed existing trade routes and local kingdoms in the region. Later, the area developed into a center for shipbuilding and trade between Asia and the Americas over several centuries.
Street vendors sell dried fish and tropical fruit along the coastal roads while fishermen lay out nets on public piers in the mornings. Families gather on Sundays in open beach huts where local meals are prepared with fresh seafood.
Travelers reach the province through the international airport on Mactan Island, which connects to the mainland by two bridges. Ferries operate regularly to smaller islands and neighboring provinces from several ports along the coast.
Individual barangays still use old stone wells from precolonial times, which serve villagers for water and social gatherings. These wells often sit away from main roads in rural areas where traditional wooden houses shape the landscape.
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