3. Cebu: A Place Where You Can Experience the Philippines While Living Safely
The Philippines is still a developing country within Southeast Asia.
It remains in the middle stage of economic growth, and in terms of infrastructure and urban development, there are still areas that are considered developing.
Because of this, some people have concerns about safety. In particular, parts of Metro Manila are known to carry higher risks, which leads some students to avoid the capital.
So what about Cebu?
I have lived in Cebu City for over 10 years, and I have never experienced any serious trouble.
The biggest incident I can recall was having my phone stolen once out of the few times I rode a jeepney — something I rarely use. It happened during a crowded time, and I simply let my guard down.
In other words:
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Pay attention to location and time of day
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Maintain basic security awareness
With just these precautions, it is entirely possible to live comfortably in Cebu.
The Well-Balanced Environment of Cebu
One of Cebu’s greatest strengths is its balance.
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Beach resorts in Mactan Island are nearby
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Multiple large shopping malls in Cebu City
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Ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available
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Living costs are significantly lower than in Japan
You can experience both modern convenience and the authentic atmosphere of Southeast Asia.
As a business owner, I am naturally quite frugal. I rarely spend money on myself, and I’m not even a big fan of air conditioning.
Even from someone like me, Cebu offers:
Affordable living with a strong sense of safety.
The same applies to students.
Because living costs are low,
students can minimize unnecessary expenses and focus on their studies.
At the same time, Cebu offers more stimulation than Japan — without being excessively dangerous.
For overseas beginners, I can confidently say that Cebu is one of the most well-balanced first destinations.
4. A Fully Developing “English + Alpha” Learning Environment
This is the area I am most focused on in 2026.
Until now, 3D ACADEMY has been, for better or worse, a traditional ESL school.
However, we are evolving into:
A school that offers more than just English.
Launch of Medical English Programs
Around June 2026, we plan to introduce:
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An ESL option that includes one Medical English class per day
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A full-scale Medical English course
These programs will be offered to a multinational audience.
For healthcare professionals and students planning to enter medical fields, “English + specialization” is extremely important. There are still very few schools in Cebu that can properly provide this combination.
Pre-MBA and Business English Programs
We are also currently working on:
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An online Pre-MBA English course for Chinese students preparing for MBA programs
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A customized Business English + ESL program for a government-affiliated organization in Southeast Asia
These programs differ significantly from traditional short-term language study.
They are designed for students with clear career objectives.
As a result, the overall academic level of the school is naturally elevated.
Education Major OJT & Volunteer Study Programs
Additionally, we have implemented:
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An OJT program (now in its third year) where Japanese education-major university students teach English at local schools
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The official launch of volunteer study programs
This allows students to gain:
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Teaching experience
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Direct engagement with the local community
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Practical, output-focused learning
By the first half of 2026, I believe we will be able to clearly state:
The strength of 3D ACADEMY is “English + Alpha.”
5. The Strength of Japanese-Style Management
Currently, I also serve as the head of another English school located in Mactan Island.
Precisely because of that, I say this deliberately:
If 3D ACADEMY is Japanese-managed, we must fully demonstrate the strengths of Japanese management.
Yes, we currently face the challenge of aging facilities.
That is why we place special emphasis on:
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Quick response to room-related issues
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Fast equipment repairs
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Careful and sincere complaint handling
When you operate overseas, the strengths of Japanese culture become even more visible:
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Diligence
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Sincerity
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Keeping promises
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Attention to detail
These qualities are not universal standards abroad.
In particular, sincerity is extremely important in an international environment.
Ultimately, I believe a school’s true competitiveness lies not in price or facilities, but in the quality of its operations.
That is why I intentionally placed Japanese-style management as the final reason.
Summary
As of 2026, 3D ACADEMY offers:
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One of the best cost-performance ratios in Cebu
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An ideal nationality balance
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A safe and well-balanced Cebu environment
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Evolution toward “English + Alpha”
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High-quality operations through Japanese-style management
And after the relocation in October 2026, I am confident the school will rise to an even higher level.
It is no longer just “an affordable school.”
It is becoming a school that balances:
Cost-performance × Multinational environment × Practical programs × Sincere management
If you are considering studying English in the Philippines or Cebu, we encourage you to start by reaching out for an inquiry.
We look forward to supporting your journey.