A Fascinating Philippine Travel Experience

Of the 7,000 islands in the Philippines, the province of Bohol stands out for its rich culture and natural wonders.

My journey began on a Wednesday at 4:00 PM. As I stepped out of the Tagbilaran ferry terminal, I was greeted by the lively energy of local drivers. Eager to dive into the local culture, I skipped the taxis and hopped into a traditional Boholano tricycle.

1. Faith on Wheels in Tagbilaran

A Boholano tricycle is a unique sight—a motorcycle fitted with a passenger sidecar. These vehicles are surprisingly practical, featuring a rear luggage compartment and a canopy to shield both the driver and passengers from the elements.

As we navigated the streets, my driver pointed out a fascinating local rule: by law, every tricycle must display a scripture or biblical quote on its rear panel. The space was once used for commercial ads, but after some controversial campaigns sparked public concern, the local government replaced them with these messages to promote a more wholesome community spirit.

2. Geological Wonders: The Chocolate Hills

The next morning at 7:00 AM, a black sedan picked me up from my accommodation to begin our day. Our first stop was the iconic Chocolate Hills, an extraordinary landscape of thousands of symmetrical, cone-shaped mounds.

Originally called the “Carmen Hills” after the nearby town, the site was later rebranded as the “Chocolate Hills.” The name highlights how the lush green grass turns a rich, brown color during the dry season—a branding move that turned it into a world-famous attraction.

3. Conservation in the Mahogany Forest

Our route took us through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a stunning two-kilometer stretch of densely planted mahogany trees. This project is vital for the local environment:

• Soil Stabilization: The deep root systems help prevent erosion and landslides along the highway.
• Wildlife Sanctuary: The thick canopy offers a safe habitat for local animals.

We made a quick stop to enjoy the cool air, where we were lucky enough to spot a massive 18-centimeter millipede—a clear sign of the forest’s thriving ecosystem.

4. Encountering the Elusive Philippine Tarsier

We passed by vibrant green rice paddies and towering coconut palms before arriving at our final stop: a wildlife sanctuary.

This protected area is home to the Philippine Tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world. They are so tiny that an adult can comfortably fit in the palm of your hand. Beyond their size, their most striking features are their massive, soulful eyes, which give them an uncanny, delightful resemblance to Yoda from Star Wars. Seeing these delicate, nocturnal creatures in their natural home was the perfect end to an unforgettable day.