This island province of Bohol is the tenth largest island in the Philippines.

This oval-
shaped island has an area of 4,117 sq. km. and is located in the central portion of the
Visayas lying between Cebu to the northwest and Leyte to the northeast.

So why it is Bohol, bakit sya tinawag or saan nanggaling yung salitang “Bohol”

According to the historians the word “Bohol” comes from the word Bo’ol which refers to
the earliest name of Tagbilaran City the capital of Bohol, a place thought of as the site of
where Sikatuna and Legazpi did the Blood Compact. Some sources, however, claim that
it actually comes from the Visayan term “buho” (hole) owing to the abundant caves,
caverns, and holes in the island.

Politically, Bohol was administered as a residencia of Cebu. It became a separate politico-

military province on July 22, 1854 with Siquijor.

The people of Bohol are said to be the descendants of the last group of inhabitants who
settled in the Philippines, called Pintados (the tattooed ones).

The two significant revolts that occurred in Bohol were Tamblot Uprising led by a
Babaylan in 1621 and Dagohoy Rebellion (the longest in Philippine history) from 1744 to
1829. American forces eized the province on march 17, 1900.

The Tamblot Uprising was a 1621–1622 revolt led by Tamblot, a babaylan or native priest,
on the island of Bohol in the Philippines.

The Dagohoy Rebellion was the longest rebellion in the Philippines, lasting for
approximately 85 years.

It was led by Francisco Dagohoy and took place in Bohol, challenging Spanish colonial
rule.

The rebellion was sparked by the refusal of a Jesuit priest to provide a Christian burial for
Dagohoy’s brother.

The rebellion had a lasting impact on the region and shaped Philippine history

FESTIVAL

Sandugo Festival is a cultural and historical festival as well as a founding anniversary

celebration held in the city of Tagbilaran in Bohol, Philippines every July 22 nd. It
commemorates the historical blood compact entered into by Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez
de Legazpi in the 16th century.
Calamay Festival (April 27-28): Jagna, known as Bohol’s Calamay capital, celebrates this
festival. It highlights the town’s iconic pasalubong, Calamay, through cooking demos,
tastings, parades, contests, and beauty pageants.

Sambat Mascara y Regatta Festival (First Saturday of December): Loay celebrates this
festival in honor of St. Francis Xavier. It features activities such as an agro-industrial fair,
group masked street dancing, drum and bugle competition, boat racing, and a fluvial
parade along the river.

Tourist attraction

1. Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills, located in the towns of Carmen, Sagbayan, and Batuan, are
recognized as one of the Philippines’ geological wonders. These cone-shaped hills,
covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season, have been declared a
National Geological Monument. Beyond their striking appearance, they are steeped in
local legends, adding a touch of mystique to their allure. Visitors can enjoy panoramic
views from the Chocolate Hills Complex or Sagbayan Peak.

2. Panglao Island

Famous for Alona Beach, Panglao Island offers powdery white sand, turquoise waters,
and vibrant marine biodiversity. It is also home to several luxury resorts and dive sites
like Balicasag Island and Pamilacan Island, known for their rich coral reefs and diverse
aquatic life. Dolphin-watching tours and island-hopping adventures are popular activities
here, making it a prime destination for both relaxation and exploration.

3. Loboc Bohol River Cruise

The Loboc River Cruise offers more than just scenic views; it provides a cultural
experience with live performances of traditional songs and dances by local communities
along the riverbanks. The cruise serves a buffet of Filipino dishes, and visitors can soak
in the serene surroundings of lush greenery and pristine waters. A visit during the
evening unveils the enchanting sight of fireflies lighting up the riverbanks.

4. Baclayon Church

Built in 1596, Baclayon Church (La Purisima Concepcion de la Virgen Maria Parish) is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site nominee. The church is made from coral stones and egg
whites, showcasing a unique construction method. Its museum houses religious relics,
antique hymnals, and vestments dating back centuries, reflecting the deep Catholic
heritage of the Philippines.

5. Hinagdanan Cave
The Hinagdanan Cave, whose name means “laddered” in Cebuano, derives from its
ladder-like entrance. The cave features a crystal-clear underground lagoon where visitors
can swim, and the natural light filtering through holes in the cave ceiling creates an
otherworldly ambiance. It’s a popular spot for photography and adventure seekers.

6. Blood Compact Shrine

The Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City marks the Sandugo (blood compact)
between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna in 1565. This
symbolic act of friendship is commemorated with a bronze sculpture by renowned artist
Napoleon Abueva, himself a native of Bohol. It serves as a reminder of the island’s role in
Philippine history.

7. Tarsier Sanctuary

The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, located in Corella, Bohol, is a protected area dedicated
to the conservation of the Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. These
nocturnal creatures are known for their large, expressive eyes and their ability to rotate
their heads almost 180 degrees. Visitors can observe the tarsiers in their natural habitat
while learning about their behavior and the efforts to protect them from threats like
habitat loss and poaching. The sanctuary promotes responsible tourism, ensuring
minimal disturbance to the tarsiers while offering an unforgettable experience for nature
lovers.

DELICACIES

Broas (ladyfingers) are a popular sweet biscuit among Filipinos. However, not many know
that some of the tastiest broas can be found in Baclayon.

Calamay is a sticky and sweet delicacy. It is made of glutinous rice, coconut milk, and
palm or brown sugar. Local guides say that the best calamay in Bohol can be found in the
town of Jagna. Calamay is traditionally sold inside smooth coconut shells tied together
with strips of red crepe paper.

Halang-halang means “spicy-spicy” in Bisaya. In Bohol, it is a spicy coconut chicken

soup.

Vicente, a seemingly kind and helpful man, befriended two children by assisting them
with their homework and giving them pencils, which they greatly cherished. However, his
true intentions were revealed when he behaved inappropriately toward the little girl,
leaving her frightened and confused. The mother, sensing her daughter’s distress, acted
swiftly and decisively to confront Vicente, driving him out of their home and ensuring her
children’s safety. The story underscores themes of trust, betrayal, innocence, and a
mother’s fierce love and determination to protect her children.
The poem reflects on the effects of migration, showing how it creates a divide between
those who leave and those left behind. Through humor and nostalgia, it highlights
cultural changes, family connections, and the longing for the simplicity of home

A Jesuit is a member of the Society of Jesus (Societas Iesu), a religious order within the
Catholic Church founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola. Jesuits are known for their
dedication to education, intellectual pursuits, missionary work, and social justice.