Manila layover or Cebu overnight for 2nd international trip?

Hi! 23M, 4th-year student. This will be my 2nd time solo flying out of the Philippines. I’m choosing between:

Option 1: CDO → Manila → Hong Kong — saves around ₱10k and time, but I’m nervous because I heard Manila immigration is stricter.

Option 2: CDO → Cebu, stay overnight, then direct Cebu → Hong Kong — more expensive and takes longer, but my first international trip via Cebu (SG/Malaysia) went smoothly, so I feel more confident.

I have around ₱500k savings from my parents’ allowance, and my mom works in real estate. Which would you choose—save money with Manila or pay more for peace of mind in Cebu?