It’s absurd to have reached Tawi-tawi, a Province in the Southwestern most part of the Philippines, but not [Tops] a renowned destination in the mountain barangay of Cebu. It recently changed as I finally paid a visit. If I am not mistaken, Tops re-opened with its amazing facilities last quarter of 2024. Cebuanos flock to this place like ants attacking a piece of cake. I read stories online of how crowded the place was during the first few months after it re-opened to the public. I hate finding myself in the middle of crowded places; I think it comes with age as I can clearly recall enjoying festivities and joining big celebrations. But not anymore. It’s for the same reason that despite numerous attempts to visit my boyfriend initiated, I didn’t give in. I always find reason not to go and never bothered to bring up the idea.
But before 2024 ended, Tops pulled me and I was not in a position to say no. My boyfriend’s cousin, Emmalie and her boyfriend, Stefan, spent a few days in Cebu during their long backpacking across SEA. After much thought, my boyfriend’s family decided to bring Emmalie and Stefan up Cebu’s mountainside. There were three things on mind Buwakan ni Alejandra, which I will talk in another post, Temple of Lea and Tops; these are all located in the mountain barangay of Busay in Cebu City.
I have nothing to compare the current Tops with but according to friends, it has been revamped. Even before its renovation, Topshas been a favorite spot for those wanting to escape the city’s hustle and bustle while still being in the City. It offers one of the best viewing deck of Cebu’s majestic city lights at night, too. At Tops, you’ll see almost the entire expanse of Cebu City.
During our visit, Tops was filled with people. In fact, if you're looking for peace and quiet, you might not find it here on a holiday or weekend. Nonetheless, it was a great experience with family.