Cebu’s unforgettable Tops

Who hasn’t been to Cebu’s Tops? That promontory with a wide open area, hexagonal cement slabs fringed with bermuda grass and benches to get a good, no, great view of Cebu City especially at night? Where temperatures get nippy and, at some nights, the wind can be strong, prompting lovers to go close and embrace?

Situated at 2,000 feet above sea level in the cool hills of Busay, Cebu City, Tops has been there as far as I can remember. It’s the perfect place to just view the city and surrounding islands of Olango and, even Bohol on a clear day.

At night, the unfolding panorama of the citylights become an attraction in itself with locals trying to figure out buildings, structures and places within the city.

A series of strong street lights marks Osmena Blvd; a glowing blue structure, Harold’s Hotel; and of course, who can miss the beautifully lighted structure of Waterfront? At the far end, the twin bridges connecting Mactan to Cebu is evident while the cool light beams of Crown Regency with its multicolored top easily seen.

For many Cebuanos, Tops is one of the top and reliable tourist attraction. For many of us, it holds many beautiful memories: visits with school friends, of family and visitors, or romantic rendezvous where a trip at night can guarantee a warming embrace or a kiss… or more than that.

Its a no frills area where you just go there to watch or drink at the covered structure tastefully done where the pathway is through a series of circular openings. To talk or just reminisce. Getting there is also an adventure and, for the driver, a challenge.

Tops is accessed through Transcentral Highway that goes up from near JY Square in Lahug and is situated in Busay Hills. There are no existing signage but the forking road to the place is just around a hundred meters from the ascent to Mountain View. Do ask around for directions. Entrance fee as of this writing is P100.