Bohol is one of 7,100 majestic islands of the Philippines. It has an area of 3,864 sq km (1,492 sq mi), generally mountainous and surrounded by reefs in its western and northern coasts. Basically, Bohol’s unique geological feature, the Chocolate Hills and other spots such as their famous white beaches and historical cathedrals and churches attracts tourists which made them as one of the hot tourists spot in the Philippines. But not only foreigners are tempted on its beauty. That’s why; we the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Kiwalan decided to have our official trip at the wonderful place of Bohol. Here’s how we uncover the hidden secrets of the place.
January 07, we arrived at Tagbilaran pier around 8:00 in the morning through TransAsia Shipping. I noticed that their pier was so clean; you can’t find any trash and waste in any of its corner. Unlike here in Iligan, their pier was cleaner and more organized.
As we made our way to our “temporary home” namely the Ladaga’s Inn and Restaurant, I also noticed their clean and neat streets. I couldn’t help but compare this place to Iligan. Though Iligan is one of the most progressive cities in Mindanao (before), I think Bohol is much greater in terms of cleanliness and orderliness. Not talking the tourists’ rate that it has. Boholanons (Bol-anons) are great. They are hospitable and kind. They treat their visitors well; they’re friendly, welcoming, and generous to their guests. Examples are the staffs of the Inn.
We will stay there for almost three days. I think it was too short to witness the treasures of Bohol.
Around 10:30 in the morning, after we arrived at the inn and get prepared, we went to the province’ Department of Interior and Local Government and Bohol’s Provincial Hall for the issuance of Certificate of Appearance which is necessary especially for us having this official trip. Like the staffs in the inn, the people of these government offices are also welcoming. After such, we went to the next stop --- the WHITE BEACH at PANGLAO!
We spent half of the day at the beach with its sand’s white fine loose particles. It’s been a pleasurable day for us. We did not expect that moment after the very tiring and stressful trip. We played “dakpanay” and “bihag-bihag” at its clear and enchanting water. Through the help of Kapitan Jun and his wife Maam Lor, it became one of my unforgettable moments.
At night, after we took our dinner we had our Planning for the year 2009. There, we expressed our emotions and disappointments to each other. We also listed and organized the activities and projects that we will be doing this year. Anyway, we will leave all of those eye-tearing memories in Bohol. I think that’s the time we’ve become open to each other.
Second day, the most awaited day! Our hearts were full of excitement because that’s the day we were going to see the entire kingdom of Bohol, its famous spots and places (particularly the fabulous Chocolate Hills).
I think that’s the most enjoyable day for us. Just imagine five (5) spots at one day! Though stress was along our way, we still continue our sight-seeing.
First, we went to the Blood Compact Shrine, the exact location where Magellan and his comrades with the ruler (whom I forgot!) of Bohol made their blood compact or “Sanduguan” in Filipino. Another is the Church which is built centuries ago through the efforts of Boholanons. According to the legends, they used the limestones and egg white for building the entire church! Imagine? Until now, it is still a question on how they built such wonderful architectural piece. Next stop is the tarsier-encounter along Loboc River. As we all know, tarsier is known as the world’s smallest monkey which can only be found in Bohol. We couldn’t help but stare and take pictures on those big-eyed little monkeys which captured our interests.
After the tarsier-encounter, we decided to rent a boat (I really don’t think it’s a boat but anyway, never mind) to visit the small waterfalls along Loboc River. The place was great. Clean water, greeny forest and friendly companions. After such, we went to Prony --- the famous largest python in the world according to the Guinness World Book of Records. Gosh, the snake was really huge. It can almost eat a live human! But the good thing is it was asleep when we arrived there. Thank God! Her name actually is opposite from her appearance.
At last! After the heart-pounding and face-sweating animal we arrived at the Chocolate Hills which has hundreds of cone-shaped hills with vegetation that turns brown during summer. Though the day was so hot, we couldn’t believe but stare and be amaze of what we are seeing, of the marvellous place. One thing I could say is “it’s truly amazing!”.
You can find not only those captivating hot spots but also those warm and friendly Boholanons who really made Bohol a right place to go!
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