Been There – Cebu 2 – Summer Edition 2023
Starbucks Been There Cebu 2 Summer Edition 2023 is the third mug from last summer’s batch release. Similar to others it has the design of the regular mug outlined in black. Do you see how the Starbucks reusable cup is not red? This tells us that the mug is not a Christmas edition, but rather something else.
Cebu, the bustling province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, is a vibrant tapestry of history and culture. It holds a significant place in Philippine history as the site of Ferdinand Magellan’s arrival in 1521, marking the beginning of Spanish colonization in the archipelago. The iconic Magellan’s Cross, planted by Magellan himself, stands as a testament to this historical event in downtown Cebu City. Beyond its colonial past, Cebu is renowned for its lively festivals, including the Sinulog Festival, which honors the Santo Niño (Holy Child). The province is also celebrated for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving sites, drawing visitors from far and wide to its shores. With a rich blend of heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Cebu continues to captivate travelers with its charm and allure.
Here are some more symbols and landmarks of Cebu as seen on the mug:
– The front of the mug showcases the Cebu Provincial Capitol, an architectural masterpiece located in Cebu City. It serves as the seat of government for the province of Cebu. Designed by Juan M. Arellano, the neoclassical-style building features a central dome adorned with a bronze statue of Sergio Osmeña Sr., a former Philippine President and native of Cebu.
– Fort San Pedro: Built by the Spanish in the 16th century, this triangular-shaped fort served as a defensive structure against Muslim raiders. Today, it stands as a well-preserved historical landmark and houses a museum showcasing Cebu’s history.
– The Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is a vital infrastructure project connecting the island of Cebu to the municipality of Cordova. Spanning a length of 5.5 miles and being the longest and tallest bridge in the Philippines, it provides a seamless transportation link, easing traffic congestion and enhancing connectivity between Cebu City and Mactan Island.
– The two guitars that we can see in the design of the Cebu mug is a reference to Mactan Island. It is renowned for its thriving guitar-making industry, with numerous local craftsmen and workshops dedicated to the art of guitar construction. These guitars, often referred to as “Cebu guitars” or “Mactan guitars,” are prized for their quality craftsmanship, rich tones, and exquisite designs. The industry has deep roots in the community, providing employment opportunities and sustaining local livelihoods for generations. Visitors to Cebu often seek out these guitars as souvenirs or musical instruments due to their reputation for excellence and the unique cultural heritage they represent.
– Cebu is famous for its succulent and flavorful lechon, which is a whole roasted pig. The dish involves marinating the pig with a blend of spices and seasonings, then slow-roasting it over an open flame until the skin turns crispy and golden brown, while the meat inside remains tender and juicy. Lechon is often the centerpiece of festive occasions and celebrations in Cebu
