History in Cebu City

Cebu City is considered the oldest city in the Philippines. The second-largest city in the country, Cebu City's history is long and colorful. The city has had a mix of Hindu, Muslim, Animist, Spanish, American and even Japanese influences. Its name has also changed multiple times: Cebu, Sugbu, Zebu, San Miguel and others.

Although Cebu City history began much earlier, less is known about the area until the arrival of the Spanish. The Spanish maintained records which have documented the area's more recent history.

Ferdinand Magellan, the Spanish explorer, arrived in Cebu City in 1524. One of the city's most notable sights is a cross said to have been brought by Magellan when he arrived.

In the mid-16th century, the Spanish successfully settled in the city after several failed attempts. Several other areas were settled after Cebu City. Shortly thereafter, Cebu City (named Villa del Santísimo Nombre de Jesús by the Spanish) served as the capital of the Spanish East Indies. The city already had trade connections to Asia, so it was a fitting capital.

The Spanish brought Christianity to Cebu City and built the first Christian (Augustinian) church in the Philippines, The Church of the Holy Child. Magellan's Cross symbolizes the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines, and the church is celebrated for its religious significance in the region.

Cebu City residents began rising up against Spanish rule in 1896, and the city was relinquished to the United States in 1898 as part of the Spanish-American War peace treaty. The Philippine government did not accept the terms of the treaty, and the Philippine-American war began shortly thereafter.

Cebu City was only briefly governed by the Americans. Although it was still under foreign control, Cebu City became a charter city on February 24, 1937. Charter Day is still an important Cebu holiday today.

The location and size of Cebu City made it an ideal location for the Japanese during World War II beginning in 1942. In 1945, however, U.S. and Filipino forces regained control of the island from the Japanese.

Cebu City gained its independence from all foreign rule in 1946 under the Philippine Civil Affairs Act.

Today, the port handles nearly 80 percent of the domestic shipments for the Philippines. Cebu City's history began as a small fishing village and trade center and grew into a coastal port of significance.