2004, back when I was nine years young, and back when one could still feel the essence of the provinciality of Moalboal. Back then, one still had to endure the rough three-hour ride to reach to the city just to taste a chicken joy at Jollibee, or enjoy the chilly atmosphere of a mall. Back then, 7eleven was still an alien word to a Moalboalanon folk. The old public market was then made out of wood, there was no public park, just a narrow Rizal Park and a wide plaza that's oh so dull! I remember, it was 2004 when an earthquake struck and damaged the old San Juan Nepomuceno Parish that made Moalboalanons decide they needed a new church.

The facade of the old church.
Photo by: Paul Bucy

The old bell tower that have been very significant to Moalboalanons.
Fortunately, the old bell can still be used until now.
Photo by: Paul Bucy

        Things changed ten years after. The new church is now fully furnished, standing gracefully at the heart of the town. A sea-park was built, perfect for friends and family bonding. Establishments have been constructed over the years, and these establishments have been very beneficial to the lives of every Moalboalanon.

The new San Juan Nepomuceno Parish, now fully furnished, standing gracefully at the heart of the town. All thanks to the generous folks who donated money for its construction.
Photo by: Paul Bucy

Moalboal Sea-Park, perfect for get-together, friend gatherings and bonding time.
Photo by: Paul Bucy

A stunning view of the park at a slightly high tide.
Photo by: Paul Bucy

Few of the establishments that fuels the town's economy.
Photos by: Jeorge Baga

7-Eleven, an international chain of convenience store, has opened their branch in Moalboal last February 26, 2014.
Photo by: Moalboal Cebu

        And this year, 2014, is a special year, since it marked the start of a new era, as big companies such as Gaisano and White Gold have entered our once-a-small-town Moalboal. Last February, the famous 24/7 store, 7eleven had started business right across Moalboal Central Elementary School. Gaisano Grand Mall is set to open before August ends, which, surely folks are much awaiting. Following this is the construction of another Gaisano Mall in Lucbon, and White Gold Club in Poblacion West. Not to mention the fast food lanes such as Jollibee, McDonalds, Shawarma stalls, and many more that are about to open their branches too!

Gaisano Grand Moalboal to open on the 27th of August.
Photo by: Jeorge Baga

      Change and progress really are inevitable. With all these establishments sprouting and growing in our town, i'm pretty sure that what all these would bring is progress. But since we are getting nearer and nearer to cosmopolitanism (in terms of business), let me share what I learned from my economics teacher. Our economics teacher once taught us the difference between a mall and a public market. In a mall, the price is fixed while in a public market, the price is negotiable. The mall is selling for their name. A vendor in a public market is selling for their food.

      While I am happy and proud that our town has edged a great distance in terms of progress, I hope that every one of our people could cope up with the changes. And I pray that these changes would only not bring benefit but also convenience.





Photo Credits:
Paul Bucy 
Jeorge Baga
Moalboal Cebu