Lapu-Lapu Shrine - Cebu Day Tour 1st Spot

March 09, 2012. We arrived at Mactan National Airport at around 9:45 in the morning. And our 1st destination for our Cebu day tour escapade is at none other than, the famous The Mactan Shrine also referred to as Lapu-Lapu Shrine, a 20 meter bronze statue located in Punta Engaño, Mactan Island, a few minutes ride from Cebu airport.

After our cam-whoring session inside the airport, my friends and I guide ourselves to the main road outside the airport complex to get us a ride going to our first destination. Honestly, I really didn’t plan much regarding with the transportation for the first spot of our adventure-as there aren’t any blogs that gives specific instruction on how to get to the Lapu-Lapu Shrine you see. Well, fortunately we spotted a street sweeper nearby and I asked her how to get there and she merrily instructed us. I tell you, Cebu people are accommodating and friendly. ^_^

Ok so from there, we rode a jeepney going to our first destination. And then get an another one which just passes by the shrine. After 20 minutes or so of scenic travel inside the jeepney, we arrived safely to our first destination. There’s no entrance fee to be paid, but the Shrine management have this little brown box to encourage visitors to give donations for maintenance. Even though they are not asking for any entrance fees, please, do give my friends. A few of your extra coins or a little more than that could help a lot. Sharing is caring! ^_^

Alright, as we walk onwards inside the shrine park-with our traveling bags on our shoulders and Mr. Sun shining happily above us-oh! It's scorching heat on that day! *sweats* Hahaha =))
 

   At long last, we finally meet Rajah Lapu-Lapu! 

The statue was built to honor Datu Lapu-Lapu, a native leader who boldly defeated the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his Spanish soldiers during the historic Battle of Mactan in the year 1521. Thus, making our daring and dashing Rajah "the first Filipino to have repelled European aggression." 

 

Also within the park, which is just a few steps away from Lapu-Lapu Shrine is the Magellan Monument.

 Even though Ferdinand Magellan was considered an enemy,  this 30 meters high memorial tower was built in 1866, to honor him for his introduction of Christianity into the Philippines, and it is built to where have been believed Magellan was killed in 1521. 

 
As we move along, my friends and I were suddenly greeted by this soothing breeze of the sea and the gorgeous scenery of the Mactan Bay. And the mangroves which adds to the beauty of the surroundings partially covered the area.

Datu Lapu Lapu Statue over look this bay. Guarding the seas of Mactan against invaders.

  
For the love of nature, the sea is so tempting! Haha my friends and I could have even jumped in right away!… Well, if we are in our proper swimming gears that day, LOL! Perhaps we could even have our very own version” of “Kadaugan sa Mactan” a re-enactment of the epic Battle of Mactan, as this place was said to be the actual place where the battle had happened-on these very shore Lapu-Lapu defeated Ferdinand Magellan.

Our first destination satisfies our eyes, and guys! You should also be there cause its one of the historic places that will bring you to embrace the history of the Philippines.