This article was initially featured in Inquirer.net on August 8, 2026 by Tessa Prieto.
There are work trips, and then there are Cebu work trips. Mine came with a gorgeous showroom to explore, a pristine stretch of beach in Mactan Island, a quiet moment at the historic Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and—can you believe it—a taste of Cebu’s famed lechon!
Staying in Mactan
I flew in on a Saturday to visit the beautiful show suite of Shang Bauhinia Residences in Cebu City. But before I even arrived, Cebu was already giving me plenty to think about.
You see, when I visit a residential project, I am always curious about what happens beyond the property line. Where do you go for lunch? What does a weekend look like beyond your front door? Are there parks? Is it easy to go to the beach? All those things say a lot about what it might actually feel like to live in a place. Turns out, I didn’t have to wonder too long.
We naturally stayed at Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu, and it’s still beautiful—the grounds were immaculate, with lush greenery at every turn. And from the lobby, you get to see the glistening waters of Mactan stretching out ahead, all bright blue and sparkling under the sun.
Together with our gracious hosts Jayme Roberts and Kristine Ferriols from Shang Properties, we had lunch at Tea of Spring, where contemporary Cantonese dishes took care of our appetite. I got to squeeze in a few swings at the six-hole Golf Park before heading to Cebu City for dinner at Maya, a lively Mexican restaurant that made it to the 2026 Michelin Guide.
From laidback to bustling
Sunday started early because I wanted a little more time by the beach.
What I loved was how quickly the day changed pace. It only took us an hour to go from the relaxed shores of Mactan to the bustling streets of Cebu City, where we made our way to the historic Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu to hear Mass.
Lunch was at Abaseria Deli & Cafe, a warm, family-run restaurant that feels more like someone has welcomed you into a Cebuano home. Local crafts filled the space, while the food is authentic and comforting. It also happens to be a 2026 Michelin Bib Gourmand, one of only six in Cebu.
A first look at Shang Bauhinia Residences
After a sumptuous lunch, we headed to the show suite at Cebu Business Park for a closer look at Shang Bauhinia Residences, Shang Properties’ first residential venture outside Metro Manila.
Rising along Gov. Cuenco Avenue corner Bauhinia Drive, this 52-story architectural gem offers views of Cebu Country Club and the city. I learned that it has a little over 1,000 residences, designed for a range of lifestyles and preferences.
Interestingly, Shang Bauhinia Residences introduces Shang Properties’ first dual residence concept. The main Shang Bauhinia Residences collection offers studio, one- and two-bedroom residences, with access to podium amenities, while the Shang Bauhinia Signature units occupy the higher floors with larger two- and three-bedroom cuts, and exclusive access to the Signature amenities.
In other words, you can choose a home that matches your needs for space and privacy, all within the same development.
And there is quite a bit happening outside the units too. About 3,800 sqm of the podium level is dedicated to amenities like a tropical-style pool, gardens, wellness areas, co-working spaces and private dining rooms. Residents of Signature units get another level of privacy at the sky pool and deck, and private lounges.
An address that makes sense
Then, there’s the location. Shang Bauhinia sits in a tree-lined neighborhood only minutes from Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park. Schools, hospitals, restaurants, shops and other everyday essentials are already part of the surrounding city, making it ideal for those looking for a home and others looking at a long-term investment.
My Sunday pretty much explained Cebu’s appeal. That morning I was enjoying the beach in Mactan. An hour later, I was hearing Mass at a centuries-old basilica. Meals were exquisite and, by the afternoon, I was walking through the show suite of one of Cebu’s most exciting luxury residences.
Of course, no trip in Cebu is complete without a little indulgence: a tiny slice of crisp skin at House of Lechon, also a Michelin-selected restaurant.
I came to Cebu to see a glimpse of Shang Bauhinia Residences, but spending the weekend here gave me a better sense of the life around it.
That makes this up and coming Shang Properties development so interesting. A beautiful home is wonderful. But a city that gives you plenty to enjoy once you step outside it is even better.
