The Enigmatic Chocolate Hills of Bohol

• HelloKumusta
  [koo-moo-stah]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pah-ah-lahm]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoHindi
  [hin-dee]
• Please/You're welcomePaki
  [pah-kee]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sah-lah-maht]
• Excuse me/SorryPaumanhin
  [pah-oo-mahn-heen]
• How are you?Kumusta ka?
  [koo-moo-stah kah?]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [mah-boo-tee. ee-kahw?]
• Do you speak English?Nagsasalita ka ba ng Ingles?
  [nag-sah-sah-lee-tah kah bah ng een-glehs?]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-dee koh main-tin-dee-hahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko pong makita ang menu
  [goo-stoh koh pohng mah-kee-tah ahng meh-noo]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-dee ah-koh koo-mah-kah-een ng kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Mabuhay!
  [mah-boo-hai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko pong magbayad
  [goo-stoh koh pohng mahg-bah-yahd]

• Help!Tulong!
  [too-long]
• Go away!Umalis ka!
  [oomah-lees kah]
• Call the Police!Tawagin ang Pulis!
  [tah-wah-geen ahng poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Tawagin ang doktor!
  [tah-wah-geen ahng dok-tohr]
• I'm lostNaliligaw ako
  [nah-lee-lee-gahw ah-koh]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [mahy sah-keet ah-koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [goo-stoh koh boo-mee-lee ng]
• I'm just lookingNagtitignan lang ako
  [nag-tee-teeg-nahn lahng ah-koh]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mahg-kah-noh ee-toh]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal
  [mah-syah-dohng mah-hahl]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede mo bang babaan ang presyo?
  [pweh-deh moh bahng bah-bah-ahn ahng preh-syoh?]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [ah-nohng oh-rahs nah]
• It's one o'clockAlas-uno na
  [ah-lahs-oo-noh nah]
• Half past (10)Alas-diyes y medya
  [ah-lahs-dee-yes ee med-yah]
• MorningUmaga
  [oo-mah-gah]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pohn]
• EveningGabi
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [kah-hah-pon]
• TodayNgayon
  [ngah-yohn]
• TomorrowBukas
  [boo-kahs]
• 1Isa
  [ee-sah]
• 2Dalawa
  [dah-lah-wah]
• 3Tatlo
  [tat-loh]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Anim
  [ah-neem]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Sampu
  [sahm-poo]

• Where's a/the...?Saan ang...?
  [sah-ahn ahng]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [ah-noh ahng address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh moh bah ah-kohng ee-pah-kee-tah sah mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [kah-ee-lahn ahng soo-soo-nod nah bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang ticket (papuntang ....)
  [ee-sahng ticket pah-poon-tahng]

The Chocolate Hills are a geological formation of over 1,200 to 1,800 limestone hills that are spread over an area of more than 50 square kilometers in Bohol, Philippines. They were formed over millions of years through the dissolution of marine limestone and the uplift of coral deposits. Rainwater and erosion further shaped these unique conical hills.

Local folklore offers a more mystical explanation for the formation of the Chocolate Hills. One popular legend tells the story of two feuding giants who threw rocks, boulders, and sand at each other for days. Eventually, they became exhausted and made peace, leaving the mess they had created behind. These rocks and boulders are said to have formed the Chocolate Hills.

During the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, the Chocolate Hills were largely unexplored and remained a mysterious part of the island of Bohol. The Spanish were more focused on the coastal areas and the fertile plains for agriculture. However, the Chocolate Hills were occasionally mentioned in Spanish chronicles as part of the island's unique geography.

During World War II, Bohol, including the area around the Chocolate Hills, became a site of guerrilla activity and conflict between Filipino resistance fighters and Japanese forces. The dense forests and rugged terrain provided a strategic advantage for guerrilla warfare. While the Chocolate Hills did not play a direct role in the conflict, the surrounding area was deeply affected.

In 1988, the Philippine government declared the Chocolate Hills a National Geological Monument in recognition of their unique geological significance and natural beauty. This designation aimed to protect the hills from exploitation and to promote them as a major tourist attraction. The Chocolate Hills have since become one of the most iconic landmarks in the Philippines.

The Chocolate Hills hold cultural significance for the local Boholano people. They are often featured in local festivals, dances, and songs. The hills are not just a natural wonder but also a symbol of Bohol's rich cultural heritage. Various local legends and myths continue to be passed down through generations, adding to the mystique of the Chocolate Hills.

In recent decades, the Chocolate Hills have become a major tourist destination in the Philippines. The government and private sector have developed facilities such as observation decks, information centers, and trails to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Efforts have also been made to balance tourism with conservation to ensure the preservation of this natural wonder for future generations.

The Chocolate Hills are located in the Bohol province of the Philippines. The nearest airport is Bohol-Panglao International Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use shuttle services to reach the Chocolate Hills. Alternatively, you can reach Bohol by ferry from Cebu City, which takes around 2 hours, and then travel by road to the Chocolate Hills, which is another 1.5 to 2-hour journey.

Once you arrive in Bohol, you can use various modes of transportation to explore the Chocolate Hills and surrounding areas. Local buses and jeepneys are budget-friendly options, but they can be crowded and less comfortable. Taxis and tricycles are available for shorter distances and are more convenient. Renting a scooter or a car offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Guided tours are also a popular option, providing transportation and a comprehensive experience of the area.

The official currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting rural areas and smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Tagbilaran City and other major towns, but they may not be readily accessible near the Chocolate Hills, so withdrawing sufficient cash in advance is recommended.

The Chocolate Hills area is generally safe for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. While Bohol is relatively safe, it is best to avoid poorly lit and isolated areas at night. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow local advice. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospitals and medical facilities are in Tagbilaran City, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by road. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in major towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. For any issues, local tourism offices can also provide assistance and guidance.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering homes and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' A slight bow of the head is also 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 Chocolate Hills like a local, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty. Engage with local guides who can provide insightful stories and historical context. Try local dishes such as 'kinilaw' (a type of ceviche) and 'ube' (purple yam) desserts. Visit nearby local markets to buy fresh produce and handicrafts. Don't miss out on nearby attractions like the Tarsier Conservation Area and the Loboc River Cruise for a complete experience of Bohol.