Alegria is a municipality located in the southwestern portion of Cebu Island.

Alegria is a 4th class municipality in the province of Cebu, 117 kilometers away from Cebu City, the province's capital. It was formerly part of the town of Samboan and was called “Tubod,” after a freshwater spring that provided water for drinking and other uses for residents and travelers. The name Alegria came about when Spanish soldiers who happened to witness a festive gathering around the spring had exclaimed, “Que alegre!” In 1857, Alegria became its official name when the place was converted to a municipality. Presently, residents and travelers continue to tap the spring for drinking and washing. The spring, which is found in Sitio Sta. Rosa in Barangay Poblacion, empties directly to the sea.

Alegria boasts of its pristine beaches, scenic and enchanting waterfalls, and unexplored caves among others. The town is also proud of its rich seabed perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Eco-tourism sites of Alegria include the Cambais Falls in Barangay Valencia, Cancalanog and Kanlaob mountain resorts in Barangay Compostela, the white beach in Batong Malunhaw, Quitara river and forest in Guadalupe, and Barangay Lepanto which is described as a “Little Baguio.”

Dolphin and whale-watching tours can also be arranged from the town, which is located along the Tañon Strait.

The Kawayan Festival is celebrated every month of December. “Kawayan” is the vernacular term for bamboo and is the major source of livelihood in Alegria. Local contingents parade the streets in mardi gras-like style and locally produced bamboo products are on display. The street dancing competition is based on the kawayan and is slated during the town’s fiesta in honor of Saint Francis Xavier.

 

Sources:
Wikipedia

Cebu Daily

Cebu Province Official Website

eTravel Pilipinas

Sun Star Cebu