Tagbilaran City, Philippines
Region: Bohol province
Geographic Coordinates: 9.650000, 123.850000
Temperature Range: 24.0°C to 32.0°C (75°F to 90°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet (June to October) and dry (November to May). Average temperature is around 27°C.
Population: 104976
Language: Cebuano
Tagbilaran City is the capital of Bohol province, Located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. It serves as a gateway to many tourist destinations in Bohol, Including Panglao Island and the Chocolate Hills. The city has a rich history dating back to the Spanish colonial era when it was founded in 1742 by Spanish conquistador Don Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. It played an important role during World War II as it served as a base for American troops fighting against Japanese forces.
One of Tagbilaran’s most iconic landmarks is the St. Joseph Cathedral, Built-in 1767 and underwent several renovations throughout its history. The cathedral features intricate stained glass windows and beautiful frescoes on its ceiling. Another must-visit attraction in Tagbilaran is the Blood Compact Shrine, Which commemorates the first treaty of friendship between Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Boholano chieftain Datu Sikatuna. The site offers stunning views of nearby islands and serves as a reminder of Bohol’s rich cultural heritage.
For nature lovers, There are several parks within Tagbilaran that offer respite from city life such as Plaza Rizal with a statue of national hero Jose Rizal; Mansasa Seaside Park where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood while watching boats go by; BQ Mall Park which boasts lush greenery perfect for picnics or strolling around. Tagbilaran also has several museums that showcase its history and culture such as National Museum-Bohol Branch with exhibits on Boholano anthropology, Archaeology, Geology, Biology and zoology while Casa Rocha Museum showcases antique furniture pieces from different parts of Asia. but not leastly – food!
One cannot leave Tagbilaran without trying its local delicacies such as sikwate (hot chocolate drink), Calamay (sticky rice cake), And binagol (taro and coconut dessert). The city is also known for its seafood, Particularly the famous Boholano kinilaw, A dish made of fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, Lime juice, And spices. Tagbilaran City is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Bohol’s rich history and culture. From its iconic landmarks to its beautiful parks and delicious food offerings, There is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
- The tourism industry, offering visitors a chance to explore natural attractions such as the Chocolate Hills and Loboc River
- The agricultural sector, producing crops like rice, corn, vegetables, fruits, and livestock
- The fishing industry, taking advantage of the city’s coastal location
- Shopping malls, markets, and stores catering to both locals and tourists
- The education industry, with several universities, colleges, and schools offering quality education
- Hospitals offering medical services to residents
- Small-scale manufacturing businesses producing various products like handicrafts
- The real estate business, driven by the growing demand for housing facilities
- The arrival of Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi in 1565 marked the beginning of Spanish colonization in the Philippines.
- Tagbilaran was established as a town in 1742 by the Jesuits, who built a church and convent dedicated to Saint Joseph.
- The Battle of Tagbilaran during the Philippine Revolution on September 9, 1898 saw Filipino revolutionaries led by Francisco Dagohoy defeat Spanish forces.
- American General Douglas MacArthur visited Tagbilaran on March 18, 1945 during World War II.
- The Bohol Provincial Capitol building was inaugurated in Tagbilaran City on July 22, 1966.
- Notable people associated with Tagbilaran include:
- Carlos P. Garcia (1896-1971), former President of the Philippines and native of Bohol
- Jose Fadul (1920-2017), former Senator and Congressman from Bohol
- Lino Brocka (1939-1991), renowned Filipino film director who was born and raised in nearby Pilar town
- Napoleon Abueva (1930–2018), National Artist for Sculpture who created several public art installations in Tagbilaran City
- Cesar Montano (born Augusto Cesar Jose Montano Jr., born August 1,1962), a Filipino actor, native from Bohol
- Bohol National Museum showcases the history and culture of Bohol.
- Blood Compact Shrine commemorates the first international treaty of friendship between Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi and Filipino chieftain Datu Sikatuna.
- St. Joseph Cathedral is a beautiful church built in 1767 with intricate carvings and stained glass windows.
- Hinagdanan Cave is a natural wonder with crystal-clear waters and stalactites/stalagmites formations.
- Tagbilaran City Hall is a historic building that served as the seat of government during the American colonial period.
- Plaza Rizal is a public park dedicated to Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal.
- Alburquerque Church & Watchtower is an old church built in 1869 with an adjacent watchtower used during World War II.
- BQ Mall & Island City Mall are two popular shopping centers in Tagbilaran City.
- Dauis Church & Our Lady of Assumption Shrine are another historic church located on Panglao Island.
- Panglao Island Nature Resort is a luxurious beachfront resort with stunning views, water sports activities, and spa services.
Sports in Tagbilaran City, Philippines
Unfortunately, I do not have access to current information and updates. However, based on my research, Tagbilaran City in the Philippines does not have any professional sports teams with notable histories. The city is known for its love of basketball and has several amateur leagues and tournaments throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the annual Mayor’s Cup Basketball Tournament which attracts teams from all over Bohol province.
Amateur Sports in Tagbilaran City
- Basketball leagues
- Tournaments
Annual Event
Mayor’s Cup Basketball Tournament
Attracts teams from all over Bohol province
- Sandugo Festival is a historical event that commemorates the blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in 1565.
- Ubi Festival celebrates the locally grown root crop, ubi, which is used in various dishes and desserts.
- Tagbilaran City Fiesta is an annual celebration honoring the patron saint of Tagbilaran City, St. Joseph.
- Bolibongkingking Festival showcases traditional dances and music of Bohol as part of a cultural festival.
- Haladaya Festival is a Thanksgiving festival that celebrates the bountiful harvests of Bohol’s farmers.
- Sinulog sa Tagbilaran is a religious festival honoring the Santo Niño de Cebu with street dances and processions.
- Bokag-Kawayan Festival promotes bamboo as an alternative material for construction and handicrafts through an eco-cultural event.
- Kalamay Festival features kalamay, a sweet delicacy made from glutinous rice flour and coconut milk at its food festival.
- Tarsier Conservation Month Celebration raises awareness about conservation efforts for one of Bohol’s iconic animals- tarsier through this annual event.
- Bahandi sa Sugbohanon Trade Fair showcases different products from different towns in Cebu including home decors, furniture accessories etc.
- Bohol Bee Farm is renowned for its organic and healthy meals that feature local ingredients such as salads, sandwiches, and ice cream.
- Gerarda’s Place is a restaurant that serves traditional Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare.
- JJ’s Seafood Village specializes in fresh seafood cooked in various ways such as grilled, fried or steamed.
- Payag Restaurant offers a wide range of Filipino food including lechon kawali (crispy pork belly), sisig (sizzling pork dish), and seafood dishes.
- The Buzzz Cafe offers coffee drinks and light meals that incorporate locally sourced ingredients like honey from the Bohol Bee Farm.
- Pearl Restaurant at Henann Resort Alona Beach serves international cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients like fresh seafood from the nearby waters of Panglao Island.
- Garden Cafe at Dao Diamond Hotel features international cuisine with a focus on healthy options including vegetarian dishes made with locally grown produce.
- L’Elephant Bleu Creperie & Restaurant specializes in French crepes but also serves other European-inspired dishes using local ingredients.
- Shaka Bohol is a vegan restaurant that offers smoothie bowls, vegan burgers and wraps made from locally sourced fruits and vegetables.
- Balay sa Busay is a rooftop restaurant located in Tagbilaran City where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city while dining on their popular Filipino delicacies like Sizzling Sinigang or Grilled Pork Belly.
- Plaza Rizal is a public park situated in the center of Tagbilaran City, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors.
- Island City Mall is a shopping complex that offers various recreational activities, including bowling, arcade games, and movie theaters.
- Tagbilaran City Baywalk is a waterfront promenade that presents breathtaking views of the sea and serves as an ideal location for jogging or walking.
- Bohol Quality Mall is another shopping mall with an indoor playground for children, cinema halls, and other leisure activities.
- Dao Integrated Bus Terminal Park is positioned near the bus terminal where tourists can enjoy outdoor pursuits such as biking or playing sports.
- Bohol Cultural Center hosts cultural events and performances showcasing traditional Filipino dances and music.
- BQ Mall Food Court provides different local delicacies to satisfy your appetite while spending time at BQ mall.
- Provincial Capitol Complex features open spaces where you can unwind while admiring the building’s architectural design.
- Tagbilaran Port Area provides boat ride tours to nearby islands like Panglao Island known for its stunning white sand beaches.
- Tagbilaran Public Market offers fresh produce along with souvenir stalls selling items like keychains or shirts perfect for bringing home after exploring Tagbilaran’s attractions.
