As you move 103 kilometers southeast from Cebu City to the quaint town of Boljoon, you’ll notice an incredible change in the Cebuanos’ manner of speaking – the Southern twang captures you, the way all the beautiful sceneries will enchant you. Boljoon is touted as the Cebu Heritage Frontier. It is one of the oldest towns of Cebu, originally a part of the town of Carcar until it was given independence to run on its own. This is one of the very few places where history meets nature. Breathtaking cliffs and luxuriant hills border the coastal plains of Cebu. There are natural forests within tall mountain ranges that are abundant with exotic flora and fauna.
Historical accounts state that Malay settlers first inhabited Boljoon during the Pre-Hispanic period. It was made into an official town in 1598, while the parish was founded in 1599. There are differing records of the establishment of Boljoon’s Parish, with some stating that it was established as far back as 1692. Nevertheless, the Boljoon Church is the oldest original stone Church that has been preserved in Cebu. It is a manifestation of ancient, intricate design that is more Islamic in nature, as attributed by its square structure. Seeing the old bell tower conjures up images of the far yesteryears, the Old Spanish townsfolk lining up to hear Holy Mass.
The most popular landmark in Boljoon is the Watchtower Ruins at Ilihan (Ili Rock), a fortress that was built from coral stones to keep guard against marauders and other forces. It is perched on top of Ili Rock, a natural fortress in itself that seems to protect the little town of Boljoon. Standing atop the Ilihan Rock affords you a stunning view of the sun kissing the waters of the Bohol Sea.
The best time to visit Boljoon is from November to February, when the climate is cool and dry. Temperatures cool down in December to February and warm up in March to May. As with the rest of the Philippines, the rainy season starts in July but Boljoon is hardly affected by typhoons, thanks to its geographical location.
The Boljoon Church of Nuestra Senora de Patrocinio may not be a UN heritage site but its a national treasure as classified by the National Historical Institute.