Bohol: An Island Paradise of Natural Wonders

• HelloKumusta
  [koo-moo-stah]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoDili
  [dee-lee]
• Please/You're welcomePalihug
  [pah-lee-hoog]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sah-lah-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasayloa ko
  [pah-sigh-loh-ah koh]
• How are you?Kumusta ka?
  [koo-moo-stah kah]
• Fine. And you?Maayo. Ikaw?
  [mah-ah-yoh. ee-kahw]
• Do you speak English?Kahibalo ka og Iningles?
  [kah-hee-bah-loh kah ohg een-eeng-glehs]
• I don't understandDili ko kasabot
  [dee-lee koh kah-sah-boht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, palihug
  [goo-stoh koh mah-kee-tah ahng meh-noo, pah-lee-hoog]
• I don't eat meatDili ko kaon ug karne
  [dee-lee koh kah-ohn oog kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Mabuhi!
  [mah-boo-hee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko mobayad, palihug
  [goo-stoh koh moh-bah-yahd, pah-lee-hoog]

• Help!Tabang!
  [tah-bahng]
• Go away!Ig-awas!
  [ee-gah-wahs]
• Call the Police!Tawga ang pulis!
  [tahwgah ahng poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Tawga ug doctor!
  [tahwgah oog dahk-tohr]
• I'm lostNawala ko
  [nah-wah-lah koh]
• I'm illSakit ko
  [sah-keet koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko molit-ag...
  [goo-stoh koh moh-lee-tahg]
• I'm just lookingNagtan-aw lang ko
  [nahg-tahn-ahw lahng koh]
• How much is it?Tagpila ni?
  [tahg-pee-lah nee]
• That's too expensiveMahal kaayo
  [mah-hahl kah-ah-yoh]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede magbarat?
  [pweh-deh mahg-bah-raht]

• What time is it?Unsa oras na?
  [oon-sah oh-rahs nah]
• It's one o'clockAlas uno na
  [ah-lahs oo-noh nah]
• Half past (10)Alas diyes y medya
  [ah-lahs deeh-yes ee mehd-yah]
• MorningBuntag
  [boon-tahg]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pohn]
• EveningGabii
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [kah-hah-pohn]
• TodayKaron
  [kah-rohn]
• TomorrowUgma
  [oog-mah]
• 1Usa
  [oo-sah]
• 2Duha
  [doo-hah]
• 3Tulo
  [too-loh]
• 4Upat
  [oo-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Unom
  [oo-nom]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Napulo
  [nah-poo-loh]

• Where's a/the...?Asa ang...?
  [ah-sah ahng]
• What's the address?Unsa ang address?
  [oon-sah ahng ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ipakita nako (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh moh ee-pah-kee-tah nah-koh sah mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kanus-a ang sunod (bus)?
  [kah-noo-sah ahng soo-nohd]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilhete (paingon sa ....)
  [beel-hey-teh pah-ee-ngohn sah]

Before the arrival of the Spanish, Bohol was inhabited by the indigenous people known as the Eskaya. They had their own language and script, which were unique to the island. The island was also part of the expansive trade network in Southeast Asia, engaging in commerce with neighboring islands and countries.

One of the most significant historical events in Bohol is the Blood Compact or Sandugo between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, the chieftain of Bohol, on March 16, 1565. This event is considered the first treaty of friendship between Spaniards and Filipinos, symbolizing the establishment of amicable relations.

During the Spanish colonial period, Bohol was incorporated into the Spanish East Indies and became a part of the province of Cebu until 1854, when it was established as a separate politico-military province. The Spanish influence is evident in the architecture of several old churches, including the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines.

The Dagohoy Rebellion, led by Francisco Dagohoy, is the longest revolt in Philippine history, lasting from 1744 to 1829. The rebellion was a reaction to Spanish oppression, particularly the forced labor and excessive tribute. Dagohoy's followers established a free community in the mountains of Bohol that resisted Spanish rule for 85 years.

After the Spanish-American War, Bohol came under American rule in 1898. The Americans introduced a new public school system and improved infrastructure. Despite these advancements, Boholanos continued to resist foreign rule, leading to the establishment of the Boholano resistance movement against American forces.

During World War II, Bohol was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 until 1945. The island was a site of numerous guerrilla activities, with the local resistance playing a significant role in sabotaging Japanese operations. The province was liberated by combined Filipino and American troops in April 1945.

In 1946, shortly after the Philippines gained independence from the United States, Bohol was officially recognized as an independent province. Since then, it has developed its own local government and has grown both economically and culturally, evolving into a popular tourist destination.

The Chocolate Hills are one of Bohol’s most iconic natural landmarks. These geological formations consist of at least 1,260 hills spread over an area of more than 50 square kilometers. During the dry season, the grass covering these hills turns brown, resembling chocolate mounds, hence the name. The hills have become a symbol of the island and attract numerous tourists annually.

The Philippine tarsier, one of the world's smallest primates, finds refuge in Bohol's Tarsier Sanctuary. This conservation area aims to protect the endangered species and educate the public about its significance. The tarsier has become a beloved symbol of Bohol’s rich biodiversity.

Bohol is accessible via air and sea. The main airport is Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which offers flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities. From Cebu, ferries run regularly to Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol, as well as to other ports like Tubigon. Fast crafts and regular ferries are available, with travel times ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours.

Getting around Bohol is relatively easy. Tricycles and motorbikes are common for short distances. For longer trips, you can hire a car or van with a driver. Public buses and jeepneys connect major towns and tourist spots. Renting a scooter is also a popular option for those wanting more freedom to explore.

The official currency in Bohol is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Tagbilaran City and major tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to more remote locations.

Bohol is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded places. While crime rates are low, it's best to stay vigilant. Areas like Tagbilaran City and Panglao are safe but always be cautious in less populated areas after dark. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist spots, so keep an eye on your belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in Tagbilaran City and other major towns. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widespread, and over-the-counter medications can be easily purchased. For police assistance, look for the nearest police station or tourist police.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering churches or homes. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a friendly 'hello.' A slight bow of the head is a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.

To experience Bohol like a local, visit the local markets in Tagbilaran City and other towns. Engage with the locals, who are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Don't miss the chance to see the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River Cruise. For a unique experience, visit during the Sandugo Festival in July, which commemorates the blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Miguel López de Legazpi.