The Freeman ProgreCEBU: The growth of Mango Avenue

CEBU, Philippines — Over the years, Cebu City has been waking up to its progress, becoming a thriving metropolis celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and modern developments. A curious glance around reveals the city’s progress’ most evident along one of its busiest streets, the Mango Avenue.

As mundane as the place can be, Mango Avenue offers a significant reminder of simpler times, highlighting the transformation it has acquired into its current state.

Unknown to many, Mango Avenue was constructed during the American administration of Cebu. The street before was hedged, with huge mango trees neatly lined on both sides of the road providing shade for passersby.  Officially, it was renamed General Maxilom Avenue before World War II, in honor of General Arcadio Maxilom y Molero, the first Cebuano governor of Cebu and the last general to surrender to the Americans in the Philippine-American War.

Over the past decades, General Maxilom Ave. has evolved into a major and busy thoroughfare, playing a big role in boosting the city's local businesses. It is flanked by Sergio Osmeña Boulevard on one end and connects with Gorordo Avenue on the other.

Today, although it is still commonly known as Mango Avenue, this roughly mile-long stretch encompasses schools, banks, churches, and condominiums, and has become a favorite hangout and entertainment spot for Cebuanos due to the increasing number of restaurants, malls, and restobars. — Jhelia  Mae Baring