Talisay City: Your Window to Southern Heritage

Cebu City is known for being the oldest city in the Philippines. It has witnessed important historical events in the country. The coming of the Spaniards and the novel World War II, to name a few.

Along with other cities and municipalities in the province, Talisay City became one of the trustees of local heritages that commemorate the important people and events of the past. Named after the Magtalisay tree, which is abundant in their area, Talisay was founded in 1648 by the Augustinians. Then, in 1849, it was promoted to be a separate municipality. By 2000, the municipality of Talisay was officially pronounced as a city.

While you can easily find Talisay City’s world-class tourist attractions and recreational areas on the internet, the city’s heritage is rarely featured. However, it does not mean that its history is not interesting. It is the opposite, in fact!

So join me as I walk you through Talisay City’s heritage and history!

Archdiocesan Shrine of Sta. Teresa de Avila

As Cebu City became the entry point of Christianity, churches can be found everywhere. One of the pioneering churches is the Sta. Teresa De Avila Parish Church. In 1836, the church’s construction started and was finally completed after twelve years. It was named in honor of St. Teresa of Avila. Like the many churches found in Cebu City, this church is made from local coral stones. Aside from that, it is known for Graeco-Roman architecture. Later in 2007, Sta. Teresa De Avila Parish Church was declared to be an Archdiocesan Shrine, and thus, its name was altered to Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Teresa de Avila.

Halad-Inasal Festival

Talisay City, one of the most promising cities in the South, takes pride in its very own Halad-Inasal Festival. It is celebrated every 15th of October, this annual thanksgiving festivity pays homage to their patron saint, St. Theresa de Avila.

In relation to the city government’s continuous efforts to boost its tourism, the Halad-Inasal Festival is being celebrated every 15th of October. The festival intends to pay tribute and homage to their patron saint, Sta. Teresa de Avila. “Inasal” is a local term for roasted meat and the Talisaynons want to preserve the local feel of their own version of Lechon while making it popular to the public at the same time.

A ritual showdown and a street dancing competition is showcased during the course of the festival showcasing the artistry and talents of Talisaynons. This year, 9 contingents who came from different schools in Talisay City battled out for the ultimate prize. There were five contingents from the elementary category and four from high school.

Since Cebu is considered as a top producer of delectable, superb quality roasted pork or lechon, this served as the inspiration to the people of Talisay City hence, they came up with the Halad-Inasal Festival.

The Halad-Inasal Festival features a parade of Lechons clad in colorful, exquisite costumes while they are transported by elaborately designed floats. The festival, which was initially launched in 2005, four years after Talisay became a city, aims to promote and elevate the Lechon-making industry in the city. This has surely helped to boost the morale of the local Lechon makers and provided a sustainable livelihood to its people.

Museo de Talisay

Museo de Talisay is considered the Soul of the City, mirroring the identity of its locals. It is divided into 10 sections, with each one proudly representing different parts of the city’s history and life. Once you enter, you will be amazed by the rich cultural history that Talisay has preserved for its future generations. Without a doubt, Museo de Talisay promotes Talisay City’s heritage more than anything.

Pagdaong sa Talisay Monument

Another highly recommended landmark to recognize is the Landing Memorial of the 8th US General - General Douglas MacArthur. I bet every Filipino knows that name! The Pagdaong sa Talisay Monument serves as a commemorative mark dedicated to the liberation forces of General MacArthur and the US soldiers during the landings at Talisay Beach in 1945.

Lechon

Lechon has been part of almost all important Filipino celebrations not just in Cebu but also in all parts of the country. But, did you know that the Lechon that we so dearly love originated from Talisay City? If not, then now you know, and the next time you eat one, be thankful for Talisaynon’s for such tasty food on the table. And if by any chance you are in Talisay City on the 15^th of October, then you should not miss the annual Halad-Inasal Festival, a thanksgiving festival for Sta. Teresa de Avila. One highlight of this festival is the colorful parade of lechons dressed in unique outfits that are elaborately designed. This would surely fill not just your tummy but also;

Puso delicacy

One of the best parts of Talisay City and its culture is the food that they celebrate and feast with. Puso or hanging rice is one of the best combinations of Cebuano food favorites like Lechon, dinuguan, barbecue, and chicharon bulaklak. Puso-makers are found all over the City, so there is no reason for you to miss this local delicacy.

Larawan Beach

It is a well-known fact that there are thousands of reason why Talisay wonders highlights the Philippines and beaches are mainly part of it. Larawan Beach coined its name by its literal meaning “imahe”, or “image”. Having this name from the tourists and visitors who find themselves free, relaxed, and having fun. Suitable for numerous number of members to celebrate any events. Its wide view and way witness and walk the beauty of Cebu City.

Talisay Municipal Office

A representation of the administrative department, contributes to the advancing and enhancing the well-being of Talisay. Office building that aids and aims to provide systematic, effectual and productive administration. The Talisay’s voice that also utilizes extensive management and standard for all the movement all over the City. Indeed, Talisay Municipal Office is not just a government building that meets the goals ordinance of the community, but safety and home for everyone.

Talisay City is rich in heritage that every local is really proud of. Aside from those mentioned above, they also have historical beaches, other historical churches, ancestral houses, and festivals. These heritages make Talisay City distinctive from other places in Cebu and a place for native and foreign tourists alike!

Move into a life of bliss. Stay close to what matters most to you. Come home to Almond Drive.