A Side Trip to Cuartel - The Ruins of Oslob

A good friend of mine came to visit Cebu to take an examination. Since he was here for awhile, we still had time to go on a mini road trip down south. Cebu has a lot of places to offer, so it was hard to decide where we'd actually go. Finally, we all agreed to visit Oslob to try out whale shark watching, the main tourist attraction in the town. Afterwards, visit Sumilon Island, another site in the area frequented by tourists.

After a day of frolicking under the sun, we were on our way back. We had a bit of time to waste so we made a little side trip to the Cuartel, a lesser known attraction in Oslob. 

When we arrived, we were alone. We honestly can't believe that this place was not flocked by tourists. I mean, it's so photogenic, but sadly it is overshadowed by other more famous destinations nearby. But hey, yey for us!

The word "Cuartel" is the spanish term for "barracks", which is what this structure was intended for. Oslob's Cuartel was built to serve as a barracks for the Spanish armies through the efforts of El Gran Maestro Don Marcos Sabandal to defend the town from Moro invaders. However, it never came into completion. Construction was halted after the arrival of the Americans in 1899. For those who did not know, the Philippines was under Spanish rule for 333 years before the Americans arrived.

The Cuartel is made of coral stones which were remnants of the collapsed floor of the church bell tower of the Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepcion. This beautiful church is just a ball's throw away from the structure. 

The Oslob Museum,  located just behind the Cuartel, showcases antiques contributed by the people of Oslob. The museum itself is small but the items displayed inside are really interesting. If you ever get a chance to come here, do take a peak inside the museum. The entrance is free, however, photography is not allowed.

The Cuartel is part of Oslob's Heritage Park, continue walking to appreciate the rest of the park and enjoy a lovely view of Oslob's treasured waters. 

How to Get There?

From Cebu City: 

Go to Cebu South Bus Terminal (N. Bacalso Avenue, near Elizabeth Mall). Ride a bus going to Bato via Sibonga. One way fare is P160 for an air-conditioned bus, prices vary between P100-200 depending  on the bus company. Non-airconditioned buses are also available at a cheaper price.

The travel time from Cebu City to Oslob is 3-4 hours, depending on speed and traffic. Tell the driver or conductor to drop you off at Oslob Public Market.

The Cuartel, as well as Oslob's heritage park, is just walking distance from the market. You may ask around, the locals will be more than helpful to guide you.

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