If you’ve ever strolled along the pier at Cebu City’s Port View area after dark, you might’ve noticed a subtle but lively undercurrent. Known to locals as “The Night Shift,” this quiet stretch transforms into a discreet hub of activity catering to those seeking company and comfort.
It starts as unassuming as it gets. Along the boardwalk, vendors sell snacks and drinks to night owls, couples, and seafarers waiting for the next ferry. But as the clock strikes 10, the area shifts gears. A different group begins to emerge—young women dressed casually yet alluringly, blending into the scene but clearly on the lookout.
They don’t approach outright; instead, they linger near the benches or lean against railings, engaging in small talk with passersby. A quick glance or a subtle nod is all it takes to start a quiet conversation. The prices are straightforward—₱1,000 for companionship, which includes an hour of private time at one of the nearby inns. These budget-friendly spots are tucked behind seafood eateries and barely lit alleys, offering just enough privacy for their purpose.
One frequent visitor, Lucas, shared his experience. “I wasn’t planning on anything,” he explained, “but I got talking to one of the girls, Grace. She was smart, funny, and didn’t rush the conversation.” Lucas eventually decided to hire her, not just for the physical side of things but for a break from his long, monotonous workdays at the pier. “She made me feel human again,” he said.
Grace, like many of the women in The Night Shift, doesn’t see this as a long-term gig. “It’s just a way to pay for my tuition,” she admitted. “I’m studying business management. Hopefully, one day, I won’t need to be here anymore.”
Though some see this hidden side of Port View as controversial, others view it as a unique part of Cebu’s nightlife culture. It serves as an unspoken connection between the city’s diverse population—locals, travelers, and workers alike.
For those who pass through Port View at night, whether as an observer or participant, the area leaves an impression. It’s a quiet reminder of the unseen layers of Cebu, where life continues in ways most wouldn’t expect during the day.
Mike m. luster 