From Cebu to Dipolog

On Feb. 13, we had a long layover in Cebu on our trip to Dipolog and were greeted by local Rotarians who took us on a tour of the City. We visited Magellan's Cross where Ferdinand Magellan planted a cross in the soil in 1521, claiming the Philippines for Spain. We just missed another GSE team from New Hampshire that passed through a few days earlier.

(Picture by Shelley: Magellan's Cross.)

After Cebu, we were on to Dipolog where we visited a hospital, a college, and a local newspaper. Dipolog Medical Center College was very interesting, combining traditional classes with hands-on experience. For example, there was a complete hotel suite, reception area, restaurant kitchen, and bar for students studying hotel management.

My favorite experience was caving in Manukan. Sporting headlamps and helmets, we crawled through a half-mile maze of stalagmites and stalactites. On the return hike, we shared fresh coconut with the locals-- a sweet reward. The drive to the cave was the first time we got a glimpse of the Philippine countryside; it is breathtaking. There are expansive rice patties, 60-foot palm trees, and rolling hills as far as you can see. Snorkeling and rock climbing at Dakak Beach Park & Resort are next!

(Picture by Shelley: DMC nursing students preparing an herbal remedy for Dengue fever.)