The cultural and professional scene in Cebu is vibrant this January, marked by a significant architectural milestone, a charitable art display, culinary accolades, and the opening of a new dining concept.
UAP Cebu Chapter Launches Golden Anniversary Celebrations
The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Cebu Chapter, recognized as the organization's pioneer chapter, has officially commenced its golden anniversary festivities. Themed "Golden Legacy: Time Honored, Future Ready," the celebrations commemorate five decades of shaping the Visayan landscape.
During a recent media launch, chapter leaders, including Likha Gold Medal awardee and past president Architect Jose Mari Cañizares, outlined a series of events. The schedule kicks off with a Thanksgiving Anniversary Mass on January 20. This will be followed by a Public Architectural Exhibit at G Mall on the 23rd, a UAP Cebu Family Day on the 24th, and culminates in a Golden Legacy Gala night on January 25 at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.
The launch was attended by key figures such as current chapter president Architect Zianne Nicah Amarga, past presidents Melva Java and Jehanne Frances Dy Cruz, who chairs the Golden Anniversary committee.
Art Exhibit for a Cause: Supporting Northern Cebu Churches
In a separate but equally meaningful event, an art exhibit titled "Mugna Sa Pagtuo Ug Kalig-on" opened on January 13 at the lobby of Seda Ayala Center Cebu. The showcase combines the paintings of Doodz Iligan with a photographic series called "Lens of Faith" by the Archdiocese of Cebu, which documents churches in Northern Cebu damaged by past disasters.
A portion of the sales from the exhibit will be dedicated to the rehabilitation of these churches, as confirmed by Seda Cluster general manager Ron Manalang. The exhibit, which runs daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., will be open to the public until January 19.
Culinary Highlights: Michelin Recognition and a New Healthy Concept
Cebu's dining scene continues to earn prestigious nods. Enye at Crimson Resort in Mactan has been included in the Michelin Selected list, a validation of its Spanish cuisine curated by renowned Chef Chele Gonzalez.
To celebrate this honor, Chroma Hospitality Country General Manager James Montenegro hosted a lunch at Enye for enthusiasts of Spanish food. The event featured signature dishes like Ensalada de Burrata and Paella de Cordero y Setas. Key team members present included Area Director for Marketing & Communications Mia Sy, acting GM Mabel Roman, and Chef de Cuisine Javier Garcia Amador.
Meanwhile, SM City Cebu's new wing welcomes Herbs & Cellar, a restaurant conceptualized by Chef Jin Ho Yoo. The establishment emphasizes healthy eating, utilizing fresh herbs grown in the chef's own farm, paired with a selection of wines. During a lunch with guests, standout dishes included a Garden Salad with a unique yogurt dressing and innovative creations like Bruschetta and Ebi Roll enhanced with crispy prawn.
From architectural legacy and community support to gastronomic excellence, Cebu demonstrates a dynamic blend of tradition and contemporary growth this season.
