Visiting Bohol: Baclayon, Chocolate Hills, and Tarsiers

Sadly, on October 15, 2013, a massive 7.2‑magnitude earthquake struck Bohol. Among the historic sites damaged was the coral‑stone Baclayon Church, a National Cultural Treasure, and a UNESCO Tentative Heritage site. 

Baclayon Church: A Memory Before the Quake

I consider myself fortunate to have visited Baclayon Church before it was shaken. 

Walking inside its ancient walls, built in 1727 using coral stones and cemented with countless egg whites, was almost eerie. The atmosphere reflected its historical role, including its use as a dungeon.

Just like in any sacred place, you have to cover your arms and legs to go inside Baclayon Church.

When the earthquake struck, the church’s portico and bell tower collapsed, leaving centuries of history in ruins.

 

Chocolate Hills & Man‑Made Forest

On the road to Carmen, a 2‑km man-made forest of mahogany trees, planted in the 1960s, greets travelers. It’s a lush prelude to the geological wonder that awaits.

The Chocolate Hills, numbering between 1,260 and 1,776 cone-shaped limestone mounds, are covered in green grass that turns brown each dry season. Hence, their name. Declared the Philippines’ 3rd National Geological Monument in 1988 and proposed for UNESCO status, the site is a must-see.

At the foot of the 200+ steps to the viewing platform.

Reaching the view deck in Carmen requires climbing over 200 steps, but the breathtaking panorama is well worth the effort. 

The Chocolate Hills.

Wildlife & River Life

No Bohol trip is complete without meeting the tiny, owl-like Philippine tarsier, a nocturnal primate you’ll spot only at dawn or dusk. Its giant eyes, unforgettable.

"My twin"  - The Philippine Tarsier.

On the Loboc River cruise, I enjoyed a buffet while drifting along gentle waters, serenaded by a boat band. The highlight was the performance of the traditional tinikling dance.

Historic Connections and Human Stories

On our way back to the Tagbilaran Port, we stopped by the Blood Compact Shrine, the shrine marking the 1565 pact between Spanish explorer Legazpi and Bohol chieftain Sikatuna. It was a small but symbolic stop.

A quick stop at the Blood Compact Shrine.

But perhaps the most heartwarming moment was meeting a Boholana friend. Our bond was sparked by a simple phone credit transfer error. That spontaneous connection topped every landmark visit.

Finally meeting in flesh my Boholana friend who happens to work at the Tagbilaran Port.

Final Thoughts

Bohol is a place of contrasts: fragile yet resilient history, serene nature and vibrant culture, chance encounters, and planned travels. I left envisioning Danao Adventure Park. Next time, the plunge is on my bucket list!