REGION VII

GEOGRAPHY
Region

7 also called Central Visayas

Region is composed of the islands of
Cebu, Bohol,Negros Orientaland Siquijor.
Central Visayas region is at the center of
our country.
It is bordered by the Visayan Sea and the
province of Masbate in the north,
Mindanao Sea in the south, Negros
Occidental in the west and the island of
Leyte in the east.

LOCATION
As

a whole, the region is hilly and

mountainous.
The famous Chocolate Hills looks
like mounds of chocolate in the
summer. Mt. Bolinsasayao and
Kanlaon Volcano are but two of
the mountains and volcanoes in
the region.

The

flatlands of the region serve

as the land for farming and other
cottage industries.
The region experiences little or
no rainfall at all because of the
mountains that serve as
protection against the strong
typhoons that other parts of the
country get. But there are times
that the region gets affected by
strong typhoons.

PRODUCTS AND LIVELIHOOD

The land used for farming in the
region is not as big as the other
regions.
Aside from palay, the farmers also
plant corn, sugarcane, abaca,
coconut, tobacco and root crops.
They also subsist on fishing because
most islands are surrounded by
water.
There are also a number of home
industries in the region.

The

people manufacture bags,

fans, placemats and other
household things.

The

food industry is alive and

well in the region; an assortment
of biscuits and bread, chicharon
and other food items that only
the region can produce.

The

mangoes of Cebu are also

famous for its sweetness and
size. Mangoes are harvested all
year round and are exported to
other countries.
One of the largest revenue
sources of Central Visayas is its
abundant mineral resources.
These include silver, manganese,
copper, gold, limestone, clay,
silica and coal.

TOURIST DESTINATION
Tourism plays a big part in the
economic development of Central
Visayas.
Tourists flock in the region to see
the exotic beauty of the
countryside and experience the
hospitality of the Visayans.
Among the popular destinations
in the region are the Shrine of
Magellans Cross in Cebu and the
pride of Bohol which is the

PROVINCES


aptly
is

called "God's Little Paradise

the 10th largest island of the

Philippines.
It is an oval-shaped island province
located in Central Visayas.
It is bounded by Cebu in the east; Bohol
Strait in the west; Camotes Sea in the
north; and Mindanao Sea in the south.
Tourism on this attractive, idyllic and
scenic island has begun to develop.

BRIEF PROFILE
Capital:
Land Area:
Population:
Cities:
Munacipaliti
es:
Barangays:
Districts:

Tagbilaran City
4,117 sq km
1,255,128(2010)
Tagbilaran
47

1,109
1st to 3rd districts of Bohol
Cebuano(Boholano),Tagalog,
Languages:
English

The

world-renowned Chocolate Hills

can be found in the province.

The

Boholanos refer to their island

homeland as the 'Republic of Bohol'
with both conviction and pride.
A narrow strait separates the island
of Cebu and Bohol and both share a
common
language,
but
the
Boholanos
retain
a
conscious
distinction from the Cebuanos.

The

hills dominate the island of

Bohol. Two ranges run roughly
parallel on the northwest and the
southeast.

An

interior plateau is dominated

by limestone hills. In Carmen,
Batuan and Sagbayan, these hills
form near perfect cones in great
numbers and are collectively
referred to as the Chocolate Hills.

Climate of Bohol
The

province falls under the climate type

IV characterized by no very pronounced
maximum rain period and no dry season.

It

is usually warm and dry along the

coast while cold and humid in the
interior. Typhoons are not a frequent
occurrence; maximum precipitation
occurs in June to October. Average
annual temperature is 82 degrees
Fahrenheit.

Commerce and Industry

Agriculture

is the main industry in the province.

Products mostly-generated are rice, coconut
and corn.
Fishing can be found in the northern towns,
particularly those beside the Camotes Sea.
Among the minerals the province produces are
manganese, iron and tin.
Bohol's handicrafts are famous throughout the
country. These include baskets, items woven
with saguran fibers, abaca mats and slippers,
the buntal hats of Talibon, and shellcraft. These
crafts are sold in souvenir-shops all over the
country.

Bohol Historical Tourist Attractions

Blood Compact Site,
Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran
City
A marker that identifies the spot
where Datu Sikatuna, a native
Boholano chieftain, forged a
Blood Compact with Don Miguel
Lopez de Legazpi, representing
the King of Spain, for the
purpose of fostering friendly
relations between the two
countries. The Blood Compact
on March 16, 1565 is considered
as the first Treaty of Friendship
between the brown and white
races.

Anibogan Massacre Site, Catigbian; 73 km.

from Tagbilaran City
A historical place for valor, glory, and heroism, which
symbolizes the lives of the Filipino massacre victims
during the Japanese regime.

Behind the Clouds, Catigbian; 38 km. from

Tagbilaran City
The cradle of the resistance movement during the
Japanese occupation, when a group of courageous
men composed of disbanded and surrendered
soldiers and even civilians started the organization of
the guerilla to liberate the people from oppression.

Camp Verde, Duero; 73 km. from Tagbilaran City

A distinct historical spot of the last bastion of Boholano
insurgents of the World War II.

Dagohoy Marker, Danao; 92 km. from Tagbilaran

City
The Dagohoy marker in Magtangtang, Danao town was
installed by the Philippine Historical Commission to
honor the heroic deeds of Francisco Dagohoy who led
the longest revolt in the country against the Spaniards,
which lasted for 84 years. Magtangtang was Dagohoys
headquarters or hideout during the revolt. Hundreds of
Dagohoys followers preferred death inside the cave
than surrender. Their skeletons still remain in the site.

Mt. Carmel Hill, Balilihan;

24 km. from Tagbilaran
City
Atop Mt. Carmel Hill right in
the heart of Balilihan town is
a historical tower of adobe
and limestone. These
materials were hauled from
the town of Baclayon. The
tower was built at the foot of
a hill to serve as the belfry of
the church. The church was,
however, burned down during
the Philippine revolution. Like
a sentinel, the tower stands
as guard of the whole town.
Concrete stairways lead to
the hill.

Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Park,

Tagbilaran City
Erected as a joint undertaking of Boholanos from
all over the country and abroad in loving memory
of the greatest Boholano, Carlos Polistico Garcia,
the fourth President of the Republic of the
Philippines. It sits on a rolling site with an area of
11 hectares, chosen by the late president himself
in 1939 when he was governor of Bohol. Here,
one can see the exquisite monument of marble
base and a life-size bronze statue of Garcia, also
the first President of the 1971 Constitutional
Convention, by Bohols famous sculptor, National
Artist Napoleon Abueva. In the background is the
provincial capitol.

Ubujan Marker, Tagbilaran City

The marker was erected in memory of another historic
event in the district of Ubuja, which was the battle fought
by the brave guerilla Captain Francisco Salazar and his
men against the superior forces of the Japanese on
October 22, 1942.

The Historic Ermita Ruins, Dimiao; 36.7 km. from

Tagbilaran City
Another Spanish structure in the town, located just across
the street from the Catholic church. According to accounts
of local residents, the structure was allegedly used as a
military fortress, chapel, and final resting place of the
members of the Spanish clergy at the time. Questions
about its mysterious past, however, remained unanswered
that even experts from the National Museum have
recommended its immediate excavation.

Punta Cruz, Maribojoc; 14 km. from

Tagbilaran City
An ancient watchtower built of stones that
served as a lookout point for incoming
pirates. In the slightly indented place
fronting the tower, a wooden cross was
planted. Legend has it that its mysterious
spell had saved many people from the
ravages of the pirates as the cross
extended its mysterious arms straight to
the sea thus preventing marauders. Atop
the tower are windows overlooking the
Cebu, Siquijor, and Mindanao seas.

The Chocolate Hills are

considered one of
Philippine's natural
wonders and Bohol is
often referred to as
theJewel of the
Philippines. They are hills
made of limestone
leftover from coral reefs
during the ice age when
the island was
submerged. They turn
brown during the
summer, hence their
name.

The
LobocRiver
is the most
famous,
running from
the
southeastern
coast to the
center of the
island. It is
famous for its
River Cruise

The Tarsier Trail- is a pathway

from where one may become
acquainted with a wide variety of
local flora and fauna, including the
natural habitat of the Philippine
tarsier, the tiniest primate on

ThePhilippineTarsier,
consideredbysometobe
thesmallestprimates,is
indigenoustotheisland.

The smallest primate in the

world is found in the
province of Bohol. There
are different places in Bohol
where you can get the
chance to see this small
creature calledTarsier.

Baclayon Church
Is a well-preserved edifice that was
declared a national historical treasure in
1995. Its antique dcor and religious relics,
some of which are on display in the church
museum, date back to the 16thcentury.

BOHOL FESTIVALS AND FEAST DAYS

Sandugo Festival
The annual spectacular Bohol festival
featuring an agro-industrial fair, cultural
and historical shows, sports events,
pageants, balls and dances,
entertainment shows and street-dancing
which culminates in the re-enactment of
the blood compact or Sandugo of Datu
Sikatuna and Don Miguel Lopez de
Legazpi. This month-long festival falls on
July and even starts earlier and extends
up to the month of August.

Pandayan Festival
This festival celebrates the
canonical erection or the parochial
anniversary of St. Joseph the Worker
Parish. Activities include a nine-day
novena in honor of the patron saint,
a procession of the image of St.
Joseph the Worker, Carpentry and
Handicrafts Fair, an inter-barangay
basketball tournament and last but
not least, the street dancing
competition.

Ubi Festival
The Ubi Festival is an annual event held every
January to give honor to the lowly Ubi - a much
revered root crop in Bohol. Various activities are
lined up to highlight the affair including the display
of different kinds of Ubi and their by-products.
Bolibongkingking Festival
This is a music and dance festivity depicting the
history, folklore and traditions of the Lobocanons.
Bolibongkingking is a term applied to the drums
and gongs and their rhythm used to accompany
the supplication dance ritual in front of the Image
of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the second Patron of
Loboc. The festival is celebrated by the
Lobocanons every 23rd of May.

Suroy Sa Musikero
This is revelry the Loboc town musicians cover daily
the assigned areas to partake the food serve by the
host and to play music to the tune of Kuradang, Dalaga
sa Baybayon, etc. This is also the period that carollers
render Christmas songs to the families of the host
area. It is celebrated every December 25 to February 2
at the town of Loboc.
Sambat Mascara Y Regatta Festival
Celebrated every 1st Saturday of December. The
festival is celebrated in honor of Loay town's second
Patron Saint, St. Francis Xavier. Colorful activities are
lined up, like agro-industrial fair, group masked street
dancing, drum bugle competition, boat racing along
the river and many more. The event is highlighted by a
fluvial parade of the Image along the river.

CEBU
known

as the Queen City of the South

is located in Central Visayas, which is in
the center of the Philippine archipelago.
It is bounded by the Visayan Sea in the
north; Camotes Sea in the east; Tanon
Strait in the west; and Bohol Strait in
the southeast.
Of the hundreds of small islands some
are uninhabited which make them the
targets of adventure-seeking tourists.

BRIEF PROFILE
Capital:

Cebu City

Land Area:

4,932.79km

Population: 2,646,000
Cities:

Cebu, Danao, LapuLapu,Mandaue and Toledo

Municipaliti
48
es:
Barangays: 1,066

Cebu,

also known as Sugbu,

was already a prosperous
settlement
before
the
Spaniards came in 1521.

The

province is the home of

Sergio Osmea, successor of
Manuel
L.
Quezon
as
Commonwealth
President
during World War II.

Cebu

is one of the most developed

provinces in the country and the main
center of commerce, trade, education
and industry in the central and
southern parts of the archipelago.

It

has five-star hotels, casinos, white

sand
beaches,
world-class
golf
courses, convention centers, and
shopping
malls.
The
UK-based
Condenast Travellers Magazine named
Cebu the 8th best Asian-Pacific island
destination in 2005, and 7th in 2004.

Commerce and Industry

Cebu

grows coconut, sugercane,

abaca, bananas, tobacco and
rootcrops, but the main agricultural
product grown is corn. The province
is also popular for its grapes,
mangoes, and cut flowers.
The island is rich in mineral
resources. One of the biggest
copper mines in Asia is in Toledo
City. Other deposits include gold,
silver, iron and coal.

Industries

include the production of

cement, fertilizer, paper, coconut oil
and beer. The MEPZ (Mactan
Economic Processing Zone)
industrial park is the site of big
foreign as well as local companies.
Handicrafts made of bamboo, wood,
and shells can also be found.

Outside

Metro Manila, Metro Cebu is

considered as the largest and most
progressive urban center in the
country.

Climate in Cebu
Just

like the rest of the tropical islands in the

country, Cebu has dry and rainy seasons.
From June to October, the days are partly rainy and
cloudy and often considered the typhoon months in
the country. What seems to be the advantage of
Cebu from other islands is its geography. This island
paradise is often spared from the brunt of typhoons
with normal speed.
The travel-friendly days are the sunny ones which
start in November last till May. Eternal summer is
an idea foreigners have for tropical countries like
the Philippines. It can be. But such summer is
actually punctuated with an hour-or-so of rain. With
the incessant climate change, it is expected that
even April and Maythe hottest months in the
islandhave their bouts of rain every now and
then.

Historical Attractions You Must Visit in Cebu Philippines

LAPU-LAPU MONUMENT, Mactan

- Commemorates Lapu- lapu's
victory, regarded as the first by a
Filipino patriot against a
foreignaggressor.

Magellans Cross

While Lapu-Lapus defeat of

Magellan is celebrated
throughout Cebu and all over
the Philippines, he is not the
only person from the Battle of
Mactan to be celebrated as a
hero. Magellan is also honored
for bringing Christianity to the
Philippines in general and for
bringing the symbol of the
Santa Nino (Child Jesus) to the
Philippine islands.
The Magellans Cross and
Magellans Shrine were
erected in Cebu City to honor
him.

Fort San Pedro

About 10 minutes from
Magellans Cross is Fort San
Pedro. Built by theSpaniards
and Cebuanos during
Spanish rule in 1738, the
fort was meant to protect
the city from Muslim raiders.
You can walk around the fort
and see old cannons
throughout the perimeter.
Its a great piece of history
and an interesting view into
thePhilippinesduring
Spanish rule.

Yap Sandiego Ancestral

House
A
wonderfullypreservedhistorical
Filipino
house,
the
Yup
Sandiego Ancestral House is a
great place to see how the
Filipinos of long ago used to
live. The house is full of
antiques and old knick knacks.
Looking at the old furniture, you
can imagine the family sitting
by the window and enjoying the
breeze 100 years ago. The
current members of the family
still maintain the house and
occupy the space once a week.

Cebu Heritage Monument:

Across the street from theYap
Sandiego Ancestral House and at the
end of Colon Street, the shortest
street in the Philippines named after
Christopher Columbus, is the Cebu
Heritage
Monument.
Created
byEdgardo Castrillo, a Philippine
National Artist, the monument depicts
the history of Cebu. Showing scenes
of the city from the time before it was
inhabited by Spaniards to the modernday city, its a great place to take
pictures and see a great piece of art.

Basilica Minor Del Santo

Nio
Thechurch was built by
Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and
Fr. Andres Urdaneta on the
site where the image of Santo
Nio, believed to have been
left by Ferdinand Magellan,
was found in 1565.
Considered as the oldest
religious relic in the
Philippines, the Image of
Santo Nio de Cebu was
given by Magellan to Queen
Juana during the first baptism
on April 14, 1521.
Today, the image is enshrined
at the Basilica del Santo Nio.

Taoist Temple
The temple provides a breathtaking view of the whole City Area
and beyond. There are some 81
steps representing the 81 chapters
of the Taoism scriptures. On
reaching the top you can light joss
sticks and have your fortune read.

Bantayan sa Hari
Bantayan sa Hari is located under
the Mandaue-Opon Bridge. This
Spanish colonial watchtower gave
Mandaue resident a vantage view of
the sea and marauding pirates.

Popular Festivals in CebuPhilippines

SINULOG FESTIVAL
The major and most popular Cebu festival, the
Sinulog festival takes place every third Sunday of
January to celebrate Seor Santo Nio de Cebu
(SirBabyJesus of Cebu).
Also commonly known as Fiesta Seor, the
Sinulog fiesta features highlights that include a
colorful and lively mardi gras parade after an
opening solemn procession.

PASKUHANFESTIVAL
A celebration that takes place during the December
Yuletide season, the Paskuhan Festival is a Christmas
event that boasts of festive song showcases and
lantern-making.
KADAUGAN SA MACTAN
Literally translated into Victory in Mactan, this oneday celebration on April 27 features a one-day reenactment of the historic Battle of Mactan, when
forces of Cebuano chieftain Lapulapu defeated the
far more technologically advanced troops of
Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

KADAUGAN SA
MACTAN

Virgin Queen of the Rule Fiesta

The Virgin of the Rule fiesta celebrates the
Cebuanos' deep religious faith. Held from
November 20-21 in Opon town and Lapu-Lapu City,
this social and religious event is a showcase of the
best that Cebuanos have to offer, including food
fair, a procession with all the pomp and
circumstance expected of theFilipino, and a
coronation of a Fiesta Queen.

Semana Santa sa Bantayan

Bantayan Island celebratesHolyWeek with a
series of solemn religious rites and local
celebrations. On the second week of April,
this normally quiet island near Cebu comes
alive with tourists and inhabitants' relatives
and friends, who all arrive to enjoy the
presentations they put on, thebeautifulwhite
sandy beaches and clear tropical waters.

Fiesta sa Carcar
The Cebuano town of Carcar is renowned for how
brilliantly the Spanish architecture of its houses stand
out against the quaint Cebuano countryside. On
November 24 and 25, Carcar comes alive with a
celebration in honor of its patron, St. Catherine of
Alexandria. Popular local delicacies are cooked up in
great amounts to supplement lively entertainment.
Sanayon
The Sanayon is a festival held in several towns in the
second district of Cebu about 100 km south from
Cebu City. A month-long agro-tourist activity, the
Sanayon is another attraction that brings tourists out
to thebeautifulCebuano countryside.

Tres de Abril Celebration

Cebu looks forward to this celebration every
April 3 to remember the Cebu natives' victory
under the leadership of Leon Kilat over
Spanish forces. This historic battle resulted in
the illustrious distinction of Cebu towards
being the first major island outside Luzon to
oppose the Spaniards.

Tagbo
festival
To honor the
patron of
Patron Santo
Nio de Poro,
this festival is
observed in
the month of
January.

ChineseMoon Festival
This festival starts from 2nd
October and closes on 7th October
and is observed with great pomp and
vigor. It features dragondances,
parades and a display of fireworks.
Nuestra Senora, De Regla, Fiesta
This event takes place for two
days, that is 24th and 25th
November. It is observed to honor
the Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
(the patron of Carcar).

Dinagat Festival
The main traits of this festival
isdancecompetition based on the
rituals associated with fishing and
streetdancing.

SIQUIJOR

Siquijor,

called Isla Del Fuegos by the

Spanish explorers because of the myriad
fireflies that they found there is an
island made up of sedimentary rock and
fringed coral reefs.
is one of the smallest provinces in the
Philippines.
Siquijor is abouth 30 km southeast of
Negros, south of Cebu, and southwest of
Bohol. It is separated by the Mindanao
Sea from the northern coast of
Mindanao. Until 1971, it was a subprovince of Negros Oriental.

BRIEF PROFILE
Capital:

Siquijor

Land Area:

343.5km

Population: 91,066
Cities:

Munacipaliti
6
es:
Barangays: 134
Districts:

Lone district of Siquijor

Languages: Cebuano,Tagalog, English

Known

as "The Island of the

Black Magic" It is a place where
the witchcrafts are made.
This island is also called The
Island of Medicinal Herbs.
The Siquijor Island will also be
called The Gods Secret
Island and this impression is
being respected in the
Philippines.

A Brief History
Legend

has it that Siquijor rose

from the sea amid thunder and
lightning. To support this, fossils of
clams and other sea creatures can
be found in the interior highlands.
The islands's native name was
Katugasan derived from "tugas",
molave trees that covered the hills.
It was earlier known to the
Spaniards as "Isla del Fuego"
(Island of Fire) because of the

Its

present name is claimed to have been after

King Kihod, its legendary ruler. Another version
says it came from "quipjod", a native term
meaning "the tide was ebbing". In time, the name
"Siquijod" evolved until the "d" was changed to "r"
for Spanish euphony.
From 1683 to the end of the Spanish occupation,
Siquijor was under the ecclesiastical authorities in
Cebu. For some time, it was administered
politically by Bohol. In 1901, it became a subprovince of Negros Oriental and remained as such
until September 17, 1971 when it became a
separate province.
Larena, the ecclesiastical and trading center, was
the capital of the island until 1972. A proclamation
was later made and the capital was transferred to
the town of Siquijor.

Siquijor,

an island believed to have

risen from the ocean in an
immense storm is also considered
the land masked with mysteries
and unusual religious beliefs.
Black art is a famous practice for
most people in the island, where
many of them take pride in their
mystical powers.
During holy week, several rituals
combined with Christian faith are
performed
to
enhance
their
supernatural skills.

Apart

from these unexplained assets

of Siquijor, there is another form of
magic enchanting enough to place
your mind in peaceful paradise.
For travelers who are simply
escaping from the fast urban life, the
island is a perfect laid back getaway.
It is surrounded by uncrowded
beaches,
unexplored
caves,
picturesque sunset and varying
colors of the sea filled with
mysterious sites to discover.

Commerce and Industry

Despite the rugged terrain, agriculture
is still the predominant activity in the
province. Some 13 600 hectares are
under agriculture cultivation and about
18 000 hectares are forest lands.
The rest have been developed for
mining, quarrying, and inland fishery.
The

province has three seaports

strategically located at Larena, Lazi
and Siquijor.

Preparation

takes place on a Black

Saturday where the herbalists
crowded together in a circle and cook
the mixture.
They are also famous to produce love
potions known to charm people and
bring good luck.
During this festival, the provincial
government provides a venue for all
healers in one place where they heal
parishioners who come to them to
seek remedy for their illness.

Major Agricultural Products

Copra, Cassava, Bananas,Corn,
Mangoes, Rice, Livestock and Poultry
Climate
Most part of the province is dry
from January to May and wet the rest
of the year. The southern most part of
the province is dry from November
to April and wet the rest of the year.
Annual rainfall is 1,305 millimeters,
with mean temperature of 27.8oC and
humidity of 78%.

Historical Places in Siquijor

St. Isidore Labradore Church and Convent(Lazi)
Constructed by the Spaniards in 1884, it is reputed to
be the biggest and one of the oldestconventsin whole
Asia.
Declared a historical landmark by the Philippine
Historical Commission, it is believed to have been the
vacation house for the Dioceses priest at that time.
Also, one of the countrys oldest and largest spiritual
structures.

Our Lady of Divine Providence

Bell Tower(Maria) - with its
hexagonal bell tower

St. Francis ofAssisiChurch, Bell

Tower & Convent(Siquijor)
The church is made of stone,
cruciform and had a nipa roof. The
adjoiningconventowas likewise
made of stone rubble. The bell tower
stands independently from the
church in the middle of the plaza.
This arrangement suggests that the
tower also served as a defensive
structure- a watchtower to warn the
people of approaching danger.

Cantabon Cave
Is a subterranean cave measuring about 300 meters long
and reaches up to 10 meters wide. Remarkable formations
of stalactites and stalagmites can be found there which by
some geologists believed it to be important to study
because of the lands age. It was discovered in 1985 which
by then became one of Siquijors major attractions that
draw cavers, adventure travellers and the like. The caving
adventure is not too hard for an intermediate caver.

Cambugahay Falls
Is a small cascading multi-layered
waterfall located 2KM north of the
town Lazi. It offers very clean, warm
water coming from natural springs,
small rainforests, and watersheds. A
refreshing dip and enjoyable swim
there will be an added experience.

Mt. Bandilaan National Park

This is situated at the center of the
province. Rising about 557 feet at
its highest point and 244 hectare
man-made forest covers the former
Reforestation Project and offers a
breathtaking view of the land below.
You can find here the butterfly
sanctuary where one of the biggest
butterflies in Asia found here. This is
the best place for mountain hiking
and trekking adventure.

Enchanted Balete
Tree
Because of its eerie
outline created by
hundreds of roots
and vines hanging
down, a 400 year
old tree is believed
to be enchanted. An
enchanting tree is
not only a site to
behold but also
provides water to its
residents.

Capilay Spring Park a natural

spring converted into a swimming
pool. It is located at the heart town
of San Juan. This is open and has
free use to the public.

Guiwanon Spring
Park A resort of
wooden bridges
and nestling nipa
huts above the
ripples of shallow
waters that feed
the fertile ground
of mangroves.
Equally it is a
sanctuary of
various marine
habitats.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

considered as the oldest existing
sanctuary in the province.
Abundant species of fish, corals
and other underwater life are
found here.

FESTIVALS IN SIQUIJOR

Healing Festival, Black Saturday

(Cantabon and San Antonio, Siquijor)
This

is a time when Siquijorian healers

and herbalists as well as those from
Visayas and Mindanao joined together in
the preparation of concoctions made from
a variety of tree barks, roots, herbs,
insects and other ingredients known to
have effective healing powers which were
gathered every Friday of the Lenten
season from the forests, caves and
cemeteries.

Canoan Festival, Last Week of April (Larena)

Remembering the humble beginning of a
progressive municipality joyfully expressed by
the festivities of food and drinks, depicting the
place which was once called kan-anan by
traders from other places and dances in honor
of the patron saint St. Vincent Ferrer who has
served as the bastion of the people of Larena,
their archangel patriarch to progress.

Saging Festival, 2nd week of May (Lazi)

Recognizing the importance of saging (banana) in
the lives of the people with its many uses, the
story of how this plant came to exist is being
depicted in dances during the towns fiesta on
May 15. The Saging festival is also done to
showcase the variety of bananas and a way of
praising for the abundance of the harvest.

Lubi Festival, 22ndof May (Maria)

A joyful expression of
thanksgiving in honor of the patron
saint Our Lady of the Divine
Providence for a bountiful harvest
and blessings received from the
tree of life locally known as Lubi
(coconut). Held every 21st of May,
the dance contest portraying the
festival is one of the highlights of
towns fiesta celebration.

Pamukadd Festival, 14th day of

July (Enrique Villanueva)
Expressing greatness, joy and
thanksgiving of the bountiful catch
of fish through the intercession of
the Divine power, the Pamukad
demonstrated the different fishing
routines and rituals of the fisher
folks. The festival is held couple of
days before July 16 every year which
is the towns fiesta celebration.

Bugwas Festival, 26thof August (San

Juan)
In honor of their patron saint, St.
Augustine, the festival is San Juans way
of celebrating an abundant harvest.
Bugwas means a spurt of water
coming from an underground source
which flows freely in the open ground.
San Juan is blessed with bountiful spring
waters which caused the farmers

Pasiugdang Sikihudnon
Festival,September 17 (Provincial Capitol)
Cultural event during the islands
independence day celebration called Araw ng
Siquijor. The event is a festival of all festivals
showcasing the respective festivals of the six
(6) municipalities, including the presentation of
theSolili festivaldance which depicts the
marriage ritual practiced by the Siquijor people
since before. Solili dance for years had been
presented to the different tourism showcases
in the country.

Dilaab Festival, 1st day of

October (Siquijor)
Dilaab means flaming,
depicting from the once
known name of the island as
Isla de Fuego or Island of
Fire. The festival suggests
the distinct hospitality that
the Siquijor people are
popularly known to be. It
also gives due recognition to
the natural assets of Siquijor
and gives honor to the
towns patron saint, St.
Francis of Assisi who was
known to be lover of nature.

NEGROS ORIENTAL
The

other side of the Sugarland.

Occupies

the southeastern
portion of the Negros Island in
the Visayas. It is bounded on the
north and west by the of province
Negros Occidental, on the east by
Tanon Strait, and on the south by
the Sulu sea.

BRIEF PROFILE
Capital:
Dumaguete City
Land Area: 5,402.30km
Population: 1,286,666(2010)
Bais, Bayawan, Canlaon,
Cities:
Dumaguete, Guihulngan,
Tanjay
Munacipaliti
20
es:
Barangays: 557
1st to 3rd district of
Districts:
Dumaguete
Cebuano,English, Hiligaynon,
Languages:

Dumaguete

is known as The
City of Gentle People.
Its easy to see why this is
a serene university town filled
with genteel locals, and its
atmosphere is conducive to
artistic and scholarly pursuits.

A Brief History
Negros

Island was originally called "Buglas".

The Spaniards changed this to Negros
because of the dark-skinned Negritos that
live there.
The province was administered from Cebu
until 1734, when it was made a military
district of its own. In 1890, Negros Island
was divided into two politico-military
provinces, Occidental and Oriental.
Negros Oriental officially became a province
under the American civil government on
March 10, 1917.

Commerce and Industry

Like

most people in the country, people in

Negros Oriental are involved in the agriculture
industry. The principal products grown are
sugarcane, corn, coconut and rice.
The province has extensive marine resources,
making fishing the main source of livelihood in
the coastal areas. It also has cattle ranches and
fish ponds, as well as a logging industry.
Metallic minerals found in the province include
gold, silver, and copper.
Among the popular cottage industries are
woodcraft, ceramics, shellcraft and matweaving.

Negros

Orientals major industry

is agriculture because of its vast
fertile land resources.
The primary crops are sugarcane,
corn, coconut and rice.
Fishing is the main source of
income in the coastal area. People
are also involved in cattle ranches,
fish ponds and logging.
The province is also rich in mineral
deposits like gold, silver and
copper.

CLIMATE
Negros

Oriental has a tropical climate.

The province is sheltered from the full impact
of typhoons originating from the southwest
because of the mountain range running from
the north to the south. It also has two climatic
regions because of the mountain range.
The eastern part of the province is
characterized by unpronounced rainfall with a
short dry season lasting from one to three
months. The western half of the province is
characterized by a distinct wet and dry
season.

Historical Places in Negros Oriental

Balatong Point (Basay)

Also called Punta Tambungon by the
locals, with rocks and large corals
used as navigation landmarks. The
biggest shipment of WWII
ammunition for the Negros guerilla
movement is said to have been
unloaded here, now the favored
divesite of many scuba enthusiasts.

Baldwin Locomotive (Bais City)

The Baldwin Locomotive, a popular
subject of photographs, rests on
memories of its heyday as the dean
of the hacienda workhorses. It was
integral in stimulating the growth of
Negros Oriental sugar industry.

Cata-al
Memorabilia
(Valencia)
Relics of the WWII
encounter in Negros
Oriental include
American and
Japanese materials
and personal effects,
preserved as part of
the personal
collection of the Cataal family in Valencia

Central Azucarera de Bais(Bais

City)
Established in 1918 by the
Compania General de Tabacos de
Filipinas SA, or Tabacalera, as its
first sugar mill in the Philippines.
Central Azucarera de Bais (CAB)
stimulated the growth of the sugar
industry of Negros Oriental.
In 1941, the first integrated pulp
and per factory in the world was set
up at CAB by the Compania
Cellulosa de Filipinas, using the

Dumaguete City Hall(Dumaguete City)

Built in 1907, it houses the offices of the
mayor, vice mayor, Sangguniang Panglunsod
and its session hall and various other
government units. Renovation has expanded
its spaces and added a new and striking
faade. Fronting the old main entrance is
Quezon Park that features monuments and a
newly expanded childrens playground.

Fil-Am Jap Amity Shrine(Valencia)

At the Sagbang hilltop, a three-sided
pillar soars above a viewing deck where
Filipino and American soldiers clashed
with the Japanese soldiers forces in a
fierce encounter during WWII.
Unveiled on April 2, 1977 by veterans
and descendants of the war casualties,
the shrine overlooks the panoramic
sprawl of Dumaguete City, Sibulan and
Bacong towns and the neighboring
islands of Cebu and Siquijor.

Looc Memorial Shrine(Sibulan)

The Looc Memorial shrine marks
the site of the first encounter of WWII
in Negros Oriental on October 11,
1942 when independent partisan
guerilla groups joined forces. The
Sibulan municipal government
commemorates this event yearly
with a re-enactment.

Provincial Capitol of Negros

Oriental(Dumaguete City)
Constructed in 1924 and inaugurated by
Governor Enrique Villanueva on 25 February
1925, the edifice is Grecian in character defined
by Ionic columns.
The first provincial governor center was an old
residence near the Dumaguete waterfront.
The present capitol houses the offices of the
governor, vice-governor, the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan, session hall and other important
departments. This imposing faade faces Aquino
Freedom Park , a formal garden with promenades
shaded by old trees, with a musical fountain and
a stage for live outdoor performances.

Saint Paul College Dumaguete(Dumaguete City)

Established in 1904 and known as the first St. Paul de
Chartres institution in the Philippines. A marker on Rizal
Boulevard commemorates the landing of the seven
Belgian nuns who founded the school in the old parish
convent beside the Cathedral.

Silliman University
(Dumaguete City\)
Founded in 1901, its 35 hectare campus is adjacent to
downtown Dumaguete. Declared a bird sanctuary and
noted for its century-old trees, cottage residences and
major buildings such as Guy Hall, Channon Hall, Oriental
and Occidental Halls which Japanese occupation forces
used for administrative and penal activities during WWII.

Silliman Hall(Dumaguete City)

Originally a New York USA theater building,
reassembled in Dumaguete City in 1903 to
cradle the fledgling Silliman Institute founded
in 1901, the first Protestant university in the
Philipines. The structure is architecturally
distinctive as early Americana.
It now houses the Assembly Hall on the
ground floor and the Silliman University
Ethno-Anthro Museum on the second floor.

Spanish Fortress(Ayungon)
Site of the Spanish fortress during the
invasion of the Philippines. Located in the
shoreline of Tampocon II, Ayungon.

Spanish Fountain(Valencia)
Devised by an Agustinian friar to spout
water channeled from a highland spring
the fountain, a relic of the towns
colorful historical past, it is now the
centerpiece of the distinctive sunken
Valencia Municipal plaza.
Bonbonon Point
During WW II on February 7, 1942,
the PC Coastal Patrol suffered its first
casualty when their patrol was shelled
and sunk by a Japanese destroyer in
these deep waters.

If
you
want
a
more
adventurous
vacation,
discover the underwater
assets of Apo Island- a
marine conservation park of
beautiful coral gardens and
spectacular marine species,
which is 45 minutes boat
ride from Malatapay pier in
Approaching
Zamboanguita.
A
trip
Apo Island
ranging from snorkeling,
from the
town of
swimming and diving can be
Zamboanguit
a in Oriental
worth-spending during a
Negros
dull day. There are various
cottages made of bamboo
and nipa around the island
overnight stays and
Aerial view of Apo Island for

Whale & Dolphin Watching at

Bais City every summer time

Caving inside the Odloman

System- reputedly the 2nd
longest cave system in the
country

Manjuhod Sandbar
It is basically an island towards the North
Bais Bay in the Taon Strait that emerges
only during low tides. On the island you can
find native wooden houses built on stilts
and which, during high tide, appears to be
floating on the water. These cottages could
be rented for overnight stays and can be
booked at the Bais City Tourism Office.

Lake Balananis a lake situatedSiaton,

Negros OrientalPhilippines.
It is a freshwater lake in the forested
mountains of the southern portion of the
island of Negros, with a shape resembling
a figure of eight, the narrowest point
between the two main portions of the lake
being only 90 metres wide.

Festivals in Negros Oriental

Hambalalud Festival(January
13)Jimalalud, Negros Oriental
The towns name derives from the stately
and revered trees, thehambabalud, which
thrive in a forest with cool waters and
colorful flowers. The guardian of this
enchanted realm was believed to be the
mountain nymph, Diwata, who saves the
town from calamities.
Thehambabaludbecomes the symbol of
Gods natural gifts which the townsfolk
protect and celebrate through the festival.

Buglasan festival is celebrated annually in the province of Negros Oriental every October
since 2002. Though this is a province-wide event (sponsored by the provincial government),
the activities are mostly centered in the province capital, Dumaguete City. Like Aliwan
Festival of the cities of Pasay and Manila, Buglasan is dubbed as festival of festivals wherein
every constituent towns and cities have their own representative and will be presenting their
best. There are also representatives from neighboring provinces like Cebu, Siquijor, etc in the
street demonstration.
Buglasan Festival does not only showcase Negros Oriental talents and beauties but also its
festive delicacies, ingenious craftsmanship, and enthralling tourists spots.

Langub Festival(January
24)Mabinay, Negros Oriental
Mabinay town sits on hundreds of
caves of various sizes and features to
justify its claim as Cave Town of the
Philippines. The townsfolk have stories
about the caves (langub) and
creatures of fact and legend that
inhabit it. The festival is meant to
promote awareness of and protection
for the caves and the entire Mabinay
environment as distinctive, unique, and
proud-making tourism assets.

Tawo Tawo Festival(February

17)Bayawan City, Negros Oriental-
Farmers of a hacienda in this traditionally
rice-growing town celebrated their
bountiful harvest by parading
representations of farm denizens such as
the carabao and maya. The festival was
eventually adopted as Bayawan Citys
primary cultural and tourism event. The
elaborate street dances honor the
centerpiece icon, the scarecrow (tawotawo), as guardian of the rice fields and
sentinels of Bayawans prosperity.

Tingkapaw Festival(March
16),Basay, Negros Oriental
Tingkapawis the period of an overabundant harvest of fish, usually
celebrated with merry-making leading
to the feast day of the patron who has
endowed Basay with its principal
source of livelihood as the fishing
capital of the Province. The festival
tucks in the advocacy of marine
conservation as an underlying motif.

Pasayaw Festival(March 19),Canlaon

City, Negros Oriental
Derived from Pasalamat Pinaagi saSayaw,
or thanksgiving through dance, Canlaon City
is the Provinces major producer of rice and
vegetables.Pasayawexpresses joy and
jubilation for the abundant harvest that
gives it reason to dance in the streets. The
merrymaking is dedicated to St. Joseph the
Worker.

Libo-Sayaw Festival, (April 4),Bindoy,

Negros Oriental
Libod is to make the rounds, sayaw is to
dance. The festival thus involves street dancing
around the town center, moving pageantry with
choreography based on Philippine folk dances
and dedicated to an advocacy. The recent motif
is the towns Mantalip Reef, celebrating
Bindoys rich natural beauty and thanking the
patron, St. Vincent Ferrer.

Pakol(April 25),Sta. Catalina, Negros

Oriental
Old folks tell of monkeys that prefer a
variety of bananas with many seeds, the
pakol. The monkeys taught them that
where thepakolthrived the soil was fertile,
and it was there that the townsfolk planted
the crops that made the town prosperous.
The festival gives thanks to the patron St.
Catherine for her providence and protection.

Yagyag(Last Sunday of April),Brngy.

Cangmating, Sibulan, Negros Oriental
In the last quarter of every year, thousands of land
crabs such as thekagang(cardisoma carniflex)
andalalasan(episesarma singaparense) come out of
their habitats at night to mate and spawn along the
shorelines and riverbanks of Cangmating. The
spawning process is locally referred to aspagyagyag.This provides additional livelihood income as
the barrio folks can barter the crabs for goods or take
it home for meals. The festival streetdance and field
presentation imitates the movements of the crabs
during courtship, mating and spawning.

Ayuquitan(May 8),San Jose, Negros

Oriental
Conquistadores newly-arrived came upon
a group of natives near a pile of husks and
fruit peels, inokitan, left by birds. When
asked the name of the place the natives,
thinking the Spanish referred to the pile,
replied inokitan, which the strangers
pronounced ayuquitan thereby giving
the settlement a name until it became a
town that was renamed San Jose. The
festival consists of the usual street
dances, pageants, and cultural contests.

Baulan(May 12),Zamboanguita, Negros

Oriental
The farm lot, or baul, is life and
livelihood in Zamboanguita. The main
festival presentation depicts rural culture
in the face of adversity and abundance
that fosters unity and camaraderie. An
important part of the celebration is a lively
snippet of leisure activity when townsfolk
gathered for a round of coconut toddy and,
slightly inebriated, broke into a dance that
evolved into the Polka Biana, thus
enlarging the inventory of Philippine folk
dances.

Santacruzan(Last Saturday of
May)Dumaguete CIty, Negros Oriental
Although it kept the traditional parade
ofsagalasand Reyna Elema, the Dumaguete
Santacruzan celebrates the virtues and
attributes of the Virgin Mary, interpreted in
music and dance during friendly competitions
in streetdancing and the grand festival
showdown. Through all the color and
spectacle, the festival is solemn and religious
as it honors the Blessed Virgin.

Guihulugan Festival(May 24)Guihulngan,

Negros Oriental
Long, long ago, moro pirates periodically
plundered the coastal towns of the north.The
people of Guihulngan installed a big bell by
the shore which was rung to warn the town of
approaching pirates. During one raid, the
moro stole the bell and dropped it (gihulog)
into the deep Taon Strait. In the days leading
to the fiesta, the festivals mardi gras recalls
the memory of the bell, Street bazaars, agrifairs, beauty pageants, town concerts and
fireworks are regular features of the festival.

Saulog sa Tanjay(July 24), Tanjay City, Negros

Oriental
TheSinulog de Tanjay, re-invented as a celebration
(saulog) to distinguish it from other sinulogs in the
region. Field presentations followed by street dances
recreate the old battles between Christians and
invadingmoros. Focal point is the iconic patron Seor
Santiago, St. James the Greater, astride a white horse,
whose intercession resolves the conflict and
establishes peace and progress in Negros Orientals
oldest settlement and first parish. Held on July 24, eve
of the patrons feast and Tanjay City fiesta.

Sipong sa Bais(September 7)Bais

City, Negros Oriental
More than sugar cane, which made Bais
the cradle of Negros Orientals sugar
industry, the city has several other land
and marine resources that, in various
seasons, bring on the sipong, or
bountiiful harvests, for which the
Baisanons give thanks through dancing
and merrymaking. Elaborate street
dances with majestic floats characterize
the festival, along with pageants, fairs,
and various performance competitions.

Kinaiyahan Festival(September
10),Dauin, Negros Oriental
Dauin is better known as the town
where most of the finest resorts in
Negros Oriental are found. The
variety of natures abundance is
depicted in Kinaiyahan (nature)
along with the towns advocacy of
environmental conservation and
protection. Street dances and field
presentations are spectacular as well
as educational.

Sandurot Festival(Weekend before the

Nov. 24 fiesta),Dumaguete City, Negros
Oriental
The traditional practice of pakig-sandurot,
or to extend hospitality and friendship,
lends its name to the festival depicting the
warm reception given to the multicultural
influx that enriched Dumaguetes character.
A beach front welcome is staged, featuring
costumed representatives of regional and
international strains that came to the city.

Hugyawan
Dalansayaw(December 3)Negros
Oriental State University
(NORSU), Dumaguete City
Hugyawan to make joyful noises.
Dalan, street and sayaw to
dance add up to festive dancing in
the street. Recently established by
NORSU as its Founders Day highlight
and Negros Orientals 2ndcampusbased festival.

Inagta Festival(December 4) Siaton,

Negros Oriental
The aboriginal settlers of Siaton,
theagt, perform an animistic ritual
dance which imitates the movements
of certain animals. It is performed
exclusively by men in black paint, first
before the altar of the town patron St.
Nicolas de Bari, whose feast falls on the
following day, before the contingent
moves out to dance from house to
house. Evolved into a festival depicting
legends about its jungle origins.

Kasadyaan Festival( 2nd 3rd week of

December)Dumaguete City, Negros
Oriental
Derived from the Cebuano for
merrymaking, the festival was born as
the Foundation University Mardi Gras,
instituted by the founder, Dr. Vicente G.
Sinco, to lend color and festivities to the
schools Christmas season. Pageants and
cultural competitions are capped by
Negros Orientals longest costumed
parade. At over 50 years old, this is the
Provinces oldest and first campus-based
festival.

Bodbos sa Tanjay(December
16)Tanjay City, Negros Oriental
Glutinous rice rolled in banana
leaves and cooked in coconut milk
issumanto many Filipinos, but
prepared in a certain way it becomes
the popularpasalubongbodbod sa
Tanjay, which gave birth to a
popular song and eventually a
festival, replete with streetdance and
field presentation, richly costumed
and full of pride and joy.

Lingganay Festival(December 16
-January 2)Mabinay, Negros Oriental
Although lingganay refers to the
pealing of bells, the festivals main
feature is a unique assembly of
Christmas trees many stories high,
lighted and decorated to spread the
seasons cheer and message of
fellowship and shared blessings. Festival
h ighlights are pageants and cultural
competitions.