Tagbilaran may seem like an ordinary coastal town to some, but many things about this city  are worth knowing. As the sole city in the entire province of Bohol, it is the face of culture and urbanization.

Tourists sometimes fail to recognize the quiet beauty of Tagbilaran City and prefer to hop on to popular destinations across the island.

It’s time to absorb the fascinating food, history, and fun facts about Tagbilaran, Bohol. This guide will tell you all you need to know about the City of Friendship.

How to Get To Tagbilaran City via Ferry

Take the Cebu to Tagbilaran route of SuperCat Fast Ferry, which only takes approximately 2 hours. Trips are available daily at the following times:

• Morning: 6:30am, 9:00am, 11:25am, 3:00pm
• Afternoon: 9:00am, 11:25am, 3:00pm, 5:25pm

You can find the updated schedule for Tagbilaran here.

14 Interesting Facts You Didn’t Know About Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Geography and History of Tagbilaran

1. It is the capital of the Bohol province

Tagbilaran is the only city in the entire Province of Bohol. It serves as the gateway to the natural wonders of Bohol and was also named the most competitive component city in the Visayas region in 2024.

2. Approximately 105,000 residents live here

The Philippine Statistics Authority recorded the 2020 population of Tagbilaran City at 104,976. This has grown significantly since the year 2000, when Tagbilaran still had only about 77,700 people.

3. Tagbilaran City has two peaks

The coastal city is marked by two hills. The first is Elly Hill, a 100-meter hill on the north side of the city. At the summit, an old, large cross can be found by visitors. The second is Mount Banat-i, situated on the southern part. It is approximately 145 meters high and frequented by many bikers and hikers.

4. Tagbilaran was derived from ‘Tagubilaan’

It is said that the name ‘Tagbilaran’ came from ‘Tagubilaan’, a combination of two words in the local dialect. Tagu meant ‘to hide’ while bilaan meant ‘Moro’ or pirates of the Muslim group, whom the Spanish colonizers used to clash with. With Panglao Island bordering the city, Tagbilaran was naturally shielded from the attacks of the Moros.

5. This was the site of the first treaty in Philippine history

On March 16, 1565, Captain Miguel Lopez de Legaspi arrived at Tagbilaran, Bohol, and formed a treaty with Datu Sikatuna, the island chieftain. It was done through a blood compact or ‘Sandugo’, where the two leaders slit their wrists to draw blood. This was then mixed into wine, which the two drank together to show unity. It is because of this historic event that Tagbilaran City is called the ‘City of Friendship’.

Facts About Tourist Spots in Tagbilaran, Bohol

6. Tagbilaran is the Main Entry Point to Bohol’s UNESCO Global Geopark 

The island province of Bohol is a paradise of natural wonders, from Philippine tarsiers and the famous Chocolate Hills, to the Danajon Double Barrier Reef, there are many things to explore here. Because of this, UNESCO awarded the Global Geopark title to the province a few years back. 

7. Local ancestral homes in Tagbilaran withstood the test of time

One of the unique things about Tagbilaran City is the number of ancestral houses you can find while walking around. These historic residences include:

 

• Balili House
• Beldia House
• Antonio Rocha House
• Fortrich-Rocha House

 

In recent years, the Balili House’ well-maintained property was transformed into a charming bed and breakfast, while the Antonio Rocha House is undergoing improvements to preserve its heritage.

8. The National Museum – Bohol branch is located in Tagbilaran

In the heart of Tagbilaran City, you can find the Bohol branch of the National Museum of the Philippines. It is located inside the former provincial capitol, a former Spanish prison and tribunal. It features three gallery exhibits: Pagpauli (dedicated to Boholano sculptor Napoleon Abueva), Pagbanhaw (commemorates 2013 Bohol earthquake), and the Natural History Gallery.

9. It’s easy to travel from Tagbilaran to Panglao Island

These two destinations are just right next to each other, connected by two bridges – the Dauis Bridge near St. Joseph Cathedral and the new Borja Bridge. Travelers from Tagbilaran City who are seeking a nearby nature escape can explore the beaches and reefs that Panglao Island is famous for.

There is another bridge to Panglao that is yet to be completed, and it is located next to Tagbilaran City Tourist Port.

Notable Personalities with Tagbilaran Ties

10. Former Philippine President Carlos P. Garcia’s last residence is in Tagbilaran

The 8th President of the Philippines was born in the municipality of Talibon, Bohol on the 4th of November, 1896. Years after his presidential term from 1957 to 1961, Carlos P. Garcia moved back into his residence in Tagbilaran City. His home was declared a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2009.

Besides his heritage home, an avenue in Tagbilaran City was named after Garcia. The CPG park in front of the new provincial capitol also honors his leadership and legacy.

11. Renowned sculptor, Napoleon Abueva, was born in Tagbilaran

The Father of Modern Philippine Sculpture was born on January 26, 1930 in this very city. He was the pride of Tagbilaran City and was recognized for his stunning works, such as the Kiss of Judas (1955), The Transfiguration (1979), Sunburst (1994), and the Sandugo Shrine near the city’s coastline.

Tagbilaran for the Sweet Tooth

12. There is only one bakery left serving ‘tinapay crisp’ in Tagbilaran.

Cecilia’s is a surviving family bakery in Tagbilaran, Bohol. Since the year 1940, this family recipe has become a local delicacy. Their crispy biscuits were part of many Tagbilaran residents’ childhood. Make sure to grab a pack of their Tinapay Crisp and Old-Fashioned Cookies when you visit the city.

13. The ‘OG’ bakery in Tagbilaran is called Lola Lilia’s.

No other bakeries can replace this beloved bakery in Tagbilaran. Lola Lilia’s is known for their high-quality pastries and customer service. Local residents are fond of their ube ensaymada, cakes, cupcakes, and wide variety of bread. They have several branches around Tagbilaran City.

14. Cacao is a thriving industry in Tagbilaran City.

Bohol is also recognized for producing high-value cacao. Several chocolate manufacturers across the province sell their products in the city. You can find local chocolate such as Dalareich, Bohol Chocolate Farm, Balai Cacao, and other upcoming names in supermarkets, souvenir shops, or their physical stores.

Now that you know how much there is to discover in Tagbilaran City, you can make your next visit worthwhile. Beyond the Chocolate Hills and Philippine tarsiers lies the pride of Boholanos – a thriving heritage of peace and friendship.

 

ALSO READ: Your Complete Guide to Scuba Diving in Bohol Philippines

Catch a SuperCat fast craft to Tagbilaran, Bohol today. Our fast craft can take you from Cebu to Tagbilaran in just 2 hours. Travel the Visayan seas in comfortable seats while experiencing high-quality service from our on-board crew. Book with us now via the Chelsea Travel site.