By Dionesis Canonigo, Anchor, Brigada News FM Toledo
In the cool highlands of Cebu, just over 30 kilometers from the bustling heart of the Queen City of the South, lies a destination that offers more than just a feast for the eyes. Buwakan ni Alejandra, a sprawling flower garden nestled along the Transcentral Highway in Barangay Gaas, Balamban, is emerging as a peaceful haven for local travelers seeking beauty, mental rejuvenation, and a refreshing escape from city life.
The name “Buwakan” comes from the Visayan word for flower garden, while “Alejandra” honors the mother of the garden’s owners—herself a devoted flower lover. It’s a tribute that now attracts visitors from all over Cebu and beyond, particularly domestic tourists looking for safe, scenic, and meaningful travel experiences close to home.
With Cebu’s roads steadily improving and regular van rentals, taxis, and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) servicing the area, reaching the garden has become easier and more convenient for city dwellers and nearby communities. From downtown Cebu City, a trip to Buwakan takes just over an hour—making it an ideal weekend or day-trip destination.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by rows of vibrant blooms—from vivid hydrangeas to cheerful sunflowers—set against a backdrop of highland mist or clear blue skies, depending on the season. Whether under sunshine or fog, the garden maintains its charm and serenity, drawing in families, groups of friends, couples on prenup shoots, and even solo travelers in need of a mental break.
“I came here after a stressful few weeks at work,” said Celina Gomez, a local tourist from Mandaue. “Just walking among the flowers, breathing in the mountain air, and soaking up the colors helped me feel calm and clear-headed again.”
Mental Health Benefits in Full Bloom
Health experts have long acknowledged the mental health benefits of spending time in nature. Flower gardens, in particular, have been shown to reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and uplift mood. For many visitors to Buwakan ni Alejandra, the experience serves as a gentle reset—a chance to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with something more grounded.
The garden’s layout is well-planned, allowing visitors to explore via guided trails that minimize environmental impact. On-site staff not only maintain the space but also offer friendly photo assistance—especially helpful for solo travelers or couples capturing memorable moments.
Affordable and Accessible
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., the garden charges modest entrance fees: ₱100 for adults and ₱75 for children, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Professional photo shoots are also welcome, with packages ranging from ₱1,250 to ₱2,000 depending on the use of available rooms.
A small restobar on the premises offers refreshments and light meals, while nearby highland cafes and dining spots provide additional choices for travelers looking to extend their stay in the area. The garden is also part of the Cebu Highlands circuit, a developing route that features eco-tourism, family-run food stops, and wellness attractions.
Sustainable Tourism in Practice
Buwakan ni Alejandra is more than a sightseeing spot. It’s also a model for small-scale sustainable tourism. The garden employs local residents as guides, gardeners, and support staff. Many of these workers previously relied on seasonal labor or informal jobs. Today, they benefit from year-round employment and training in hospitality and environmental care.
“Before the garden opened, most of us worked only when construction was available or went to the city for jobs,” said Arnel, a guide who now manages trail safety. “Now, we earn here and protect our home at the same time.”
The garden’s success has also spurred micro-businesses in surrounding areas—such as snack vendors, roadside coffee shops, and plant nurseries—further contributing to the local economy. By following a strict “no picking, no littering” policy and restricting access to off-limits areas, the management ensures that the natural beauty of the area is preserved.
An Invitation to Explore Local First
As more Filipinos consider local travel as a form of self-care and community support, destinations like Buwakan ni Alejandra are worth the spotlight. They represent a kind of tourism that not only soothes the soul but also fosters economic growth, cultural pride, and environmental awareness.
The development of places like this also highlights the role of responsible travel—an approach that emphasizes sustainability, respect for nature, and direct support for local livelihoods. For domestic travelers, it’s an opportunity to rediscover their own regions in new and meaningful ways.
In Balamban’s cool hills, where flowers bloom year-round and fog rolls gently across ridges, a simple walk in the garden offers far more than just a scenic photo. It’s a chance to rest, reset, and reconnect—with nature, with others, and with oneself.
Plan your next weekend trip away from the noise. Let Buwakan ni Alejandra be your gentle reminder that paradise doesn’t always require a plane ticket—sometimes, it’s just a drive away.
