You may be thinking why I feature the Chocolate Hills. Well, even if this beautiful spot is far from Misamis Oriental, I cannot deny the fact we love this place. Some people may not have the chance to glimpse the stunning view of the Chocolate Hills and its geological formation in the Bohol province of the Philippines. As such, this feature article takes you to the Chocolate Hills and its historical narrative and geologic formation.
Well, the Chocolate Hills has been the celebrated tourist attraction of Bohol and in the Philippines. These hills are even highlighted in the regional flag and seal to signify the lavishness of natural attractions in the province. As the Philippine Tourism Authority submits a list of tourist destinations in the Philippines, it includes the Chocolate Hills because of its wonder. The Chocolate Hills as pointed out becomes the third National Geological Monument, and the country proposes for addition in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In other words, the Chocolate Hills become the third National Geological Monument by the National Committee on Geological Sciences on June 18, 1988, in respect of its unusual features, scientific significance, distinctiveness, and extraordinary picturesque value.
Additionally, tourists may ask us how many hills in the place. Most likely, there have been at least 1,776 hills in the area in which tourists can enjoy hiking and walking. These hills that spread over an expanse of more than 50 square kilometers can be the best place to sightsee and witness the splendor of the venue. Well, we can see tarsier in Bohol. These tarsiers are from the family of Tarsiidae, any of six or more species of small leaping primates found only on various islands of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. Tourists will discover and know that tarsiers are in-between in form between lemurs and monkeys. Surprisingly, these primates measure only about 9–16 centimeters or 3.5–6 inches long. Of course, we do not include the tails in the measurement of about twice that length. These hills called chocolate hills since they become chocolate-brown during the dry season. During the rainy season, green grass covers the hills.
Moreover, rumors of legends spread like wildfire. According to legends, the chocolate hills come into existence due to the two disagreeing titans who tossed boulders, rocks, and sand at each other. Legends continue that these hills become Chocolate Hills. When the fight between these two giants is over, the huge mess of hills becomes the Chocolate Hills.
Finally, if we are from Cagayan de Oro City, we just need to go to Cagayan de Oro Port. We then book a ticket for only ₱700.00 plus or minus and then take a ferry from Cagayan de Oro to Jagna Port. From Jagna, Bohol, we can go directly to Tubigon via Carmen City to the Chocolate Hills. Perhaps, we can take a bus to Carmen at the Tubigon bus terminal. As well, we can find the bus terminal 1 kilometer away from Tubigon Port. Additionally, the road takes 1-2 hours and costs ₱30 – 80 pesos.
