Cebu’s Freedom Park

Dec. 8, 2012 by OC Team

Cebu City boats of its historical landmarks that date back from the Spanish colonial era up to the American occupation period. For instance, there's the Basilica del Sto. Nino which was built in the 16th century by the Spaniards, the Provincial Capitol which was constructed during the American colonial period, then there's Freedom Park.

History

Little is known about the history of Freedom Park except that it used to be called Plaza Washington. The Plaza was a military training ground used for marching drills and troop inspection during the American colonization. It also served as a venue where people congregate and socialize.

Location

Freedom Park is a sprawling area in the heart of busy Carbon Market. It is bounded on the north by E. Labucay Bldg. on Calderon Street, on the south by Cebu Bionic Builders Supply Bldg. on Escano Street, on the west by Carmel Parish Church and San Jose Recoletos University on Magallanes Street, and El Filibusterismo St. on the south.

About the Park

The Park consists of a series of wooden stalls that look like it had seen better days. However, this is the right place to buy Philippine handicrafts like hand-woven baskets and bags, sleeping mats, hammocks, baby's crib, wooden furniture at bargain prices. You can also find souvenir items for parties and weddings, and other items like lampshades made of capiz shells at much lower price compared to other big shopping centers. The Park is actually a smorgasbord of small businesses. Eateries are aplenty serving simple homemade food. There are sari-sari stores (variety stores), agricultural store, and stalls displaying household wares and garments. It may no longer be a place where people can take a stroll or relax and while away the time, but it is teeming with commerce.

But what makes the Park popular are the stalls that sell a variety of flowers. In fact, it is considered the flower trade center in Cebu. Here, you can buy different blooms like roses (Php 80-100 /dozen) chrysanthemums (Php 40-60/dozen), anthuriums (Php 30-70/dozen), gerberas (Php 50.00/dozen) among others. You can also find flower arrangements for weddings, graduations, birthdays, and other special occasions; and open 24/7. Prices of flowers are not fixed so If you know how to haggle, chances are you would walk away with a big smile knowing that you got a good buy at a best price.

Getting There

If you take a private car, it can be a problem as parking area is almost non-existent and to look for a parking space along the street can test your patience. A taxi would be most convenient. However, these are the number code of jeepneys you can take that pass right in front of Freedom Park: