I dropped by Good Shepherd in Banawa one late afternoon, with no real agenda other than to slow down and just enjoy the view. It’s one of those places that doesn’t ask for much, really. You just sit, breathe, and let the surroundings sink in. In addition, the air is always lighter up there, and the greenery, despite the many years that have passed, is still very much alive.
While Good Shepherd generally remains ‘the same’, I can say that so much has actually changed over the years. I’ve been coming here on and off for a long time, and every return feels slightly different. I’ve been returning for the past couple of weeks for some quick treks, and some changes are indeed noticeable.
The view of Metro Cebu from Good Shepherd, however, remains breathtaking!
The truth is, new communities have sprouted at the foot (and nearby areas) of this ‘sanctuary’. And, as a matter of fact, another massive one is currently in development. That only means that more changes are definitely expected to come in the coming years. And with more people coming to this area, what happens next could be anyone’s guess.
Visitors come here especially in the late afternoon when it’s cooler, and the view becomes even more beautiful.
Despite this (and the fact that the statues and structures looked like they could have used more attention), there are still several quiet corners that remind you why this place has always been special.
If you’ve seen my old post from 2008, I took several photos of kids playing on top of the statues of this station. This is what it looked like today.
Fortunately, the trees and shrubs remain, and the open spaces still invite you to pause. In addition, the view of Cebu stretching out below never really gets old.
There is no ‘perfect time’ to visit. As a matter of fact, you can practically visit the place any time you like. But I tell you, the late-afternoon light adds a certain calm to everything. The greens look deeper, the breeze cooler, and the whole place carries a more peaceful and reflective mood.
A store can be seen in the area. Here, visitors can buy quick bites and drinks.
Here is a view of the development, which was very much talked about on social media the past year.
Trekking has grown very popular in Cebu in recent years. In fact, hundreds of visitors come to the area, especially on weekends, to trek.
Motorcycles are allowed in the area. As a matter of fact, I saw several of them during my visit. However, getting there can be quite difficult. So, please make sure that your motorcycle can handle loose gravel and steep ascents.
Here is a portion of Celestial Garden, a memorial development right next to Good Shepherd. I’m not very familiar with the history of this place, but I’m guessing that the ‘Stations of the Cross’ of the Good Shepherd were built as a feature of the memorial development.
Visits like this make you realize how places grow with you. It’s been seventeen years since I first posted about this spot. Indeed, things change and time passes. But some views (and the feeling they give) stay with you long after you leave.
