Danao, Bohol

The Francisco Dagohoy Cave is set amidst the majestic expanse of mountain ranges in the inland municipality of Danao. It is a 5-kilometer walk from Barangay Magtanghoy. Approximately a two-hour drive from Tagbilaran City, about 92 kilometers away, the area is not easily accessible. The cave is noted for its historical and speleological features. The entrance to the cave is a 17 meter drop into a labyrinth of crystal-studded passages with a stream winding through it. An underwater path leads to dry ground. The stream eventually flows out towards the Wahig River which is 100 meters away. The cave is very picturesque inside with stalagmites and stalactites. With lighted lanterns or flashlights, the walls give out a golden hue. Walls seem to sparkle with crystals, which according to the guides, are caused by the droplets of water on the walls. The cave was named after a Boholano patriot, Francisco Dagohoy, who started and led a rebellion against Spain in 1744 when the Philippines was under Spanish rule. Magtangtang, in Sitio Caylagon, was Dagohoy’s headquarters and the cave their hideout during the revolt which lasted for eighty five years. The Philippine Historical Commission eventually installed a monument or Dagohoy Marker in Magtangtang to commemorate the place where Dagohoy and his men fought for freedom. This is an apt tribute to these men who sacrificed their lives for an honorable cause. This historical marker now stands on a plateau overlooking the mountain ranges of Inabanga and Talibon and down the ridges can be found the cave which became Dagohoy’s hideout. Hundreds of Dagohoy’s men preferred death inside the cave rather than surrender. Their skeletons still remain in the site up to this day.

Source:

Bohol Philippines