That’s exactly what I experienced during the Cebu Heritage-Food Walk on September 30, 2026, an immersive walking tour that brought together Cebu’s rich heritage, local flavors, and stories.
The activity was part of The Philippines by Foot, a nationwide campaign by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), in collaboration with the Primer Group of Companies and sponsored by Birkenstock Philippines. The campaign encourages people to rediscover destinations by walking, connecting with local communities and culture while embracing movement and wellness along the way.
With the support of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Central Visayas, the Cebu Heritage-Food Walk brought together selected media, influencers, tourism and industry executives, and other guests for a curated afternoon of walking, sightseeing, storytelling, and food.
A Different Way to See Cebu
Our walk started at the Birkenstock store in Ayala Center Cebu, which was also a fitting starting point for a campaign centered on exploring the Philippines one step at a time.
From there, we made our way through some of Cebu City’s well-loved historical and cultural destinations, including Casa Gorordo Museum, the Cebu Heritage Monument, Shamrock, La Fortuna, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Magellan’s Cross, and Puso Village.
What I loved about the itinerary was that it wasn't simply a checklist of tourist attractions. Each stop became part of a bigger story about Cebu.. its history, religion, traditions, food, and the communities that continue to keep these stories alive.
the Cebu Heritage Monument and Casa Gorordo Museum
Rediscovering Places We Thought We Knew
Living in Cebu, it’s easy to take these places for granted.
We pass by them on our way to work, meet-ups, errands, or weekend plans. But when you actually stop and learn more about them, you realize just how much history exists within the city we call home.
Casa Gorordo, for instance, offers a glimpse into Cebuano life during another era, while the Cebu Heritage Monument brings together significant moments from the city's history. The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross, meanwhile, remain deeply connected to Cebu’s religious and cultural identity.
Walking from one landmark to another made the experience feel more intimate. Instead of simply arriving at each destination, we were able to appreciate the streets and surroundings in between.
Casa Gorordo Museum
And Then, There Was the Food
Of course, you can’t talk about experiencing Cebu without talking about food.
The Heritage-Food Walk intentionally combined Cebu’s cultural landmarks with local culinary offerings, making the experience a celebration of both heritage and flavor.
La Fortuna Bakery, Monggo Dice Hopia, walking to Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño
Our walk eventually ended at Puso Village, where we sat down for the famous Tuslob-Buwa. A popular Cebuano street food and interactive dish whose name literally translate to "Dip in bubbles." It is made from savory and frothy minced pig brains and pork liver, sauteed with oil, onions, garlic, chili peppers, soy sauce, and sometimes shrimp paste. Diners pair it with puso or hanging rice, dipping the puso directly into the hot, bubbling mixture. It was my first time and I prefer to have it a bit burnt instead of the gravy consistency.
After an afternoon of walking, exploring, and taking in Cebu's history, sharing a meal was the perfect way to end the experience.
Because really, what better way to experience Cebu than through its stories and its food?
Cebu, One Step at a Time
As someone who has lived in Cebu and continues to discover new corners of the city, I appreciate experiences that remind us to look at home with fresh eyes.
We often think we need to travel somewhere far to experience something new. But sometimes, there are stories waiting to be discovered right in our own backyard.
The Cebu Heritage-Food Walk was a beautiful reminder of that.
It showed how walking can turn a simple city tour into a more immersive experience. One where you don't just visit a destination but actually take the time to see, taste, listen, and connect.
And perhaps that's the beauty of The Philippines by Foot: it invites us to slow down and rediscover the places we thought we already knew.
For Cebu, there will always be another story to hear, another dish to taste, and another corner waiting to be explored.
One step at a time.
