Barili is a 3rd class municipality situated in the southwestern coast of the province of Cebu and is about 61 kilometers from Cebu City. The word Barili comes from the name of a local grass called “balili.” The municipality was founded in 1632, though the parish of Barili was established in 1614. A cross was planted by Spaniards led by Captain Juan Juarado at their arrival at 1602, and still exists today.

Barili’s Mantayupan Falls in Baranggay Campangga is a major tourist attraction. Considered as one of the tallest waterfalls in Cebu, it has a height of around 200 feet with a minor waterfall at 90 feet. The sight and the sound of its splashing water and the misty feel of the cool breeze gives one a refreshing and relaxing experience.

Aside from Mantayupan Falls, the town of Barili is also known for Boloc-boloc Springs. Boloc-Boloc is frequented by locals and tourists due to its clear waters and comforting ambiance, making it a great tourist destination to cool-off during hot days.

The church of Barili used to be the biggest parish in the southern part of the province. It is also one of the two secular parishes outside of Cebu City. The construction of the Sta. Ana Shrine began in 1887. The present state of the church is a little different from what it was before. The detached bell tower was gone and new tower is now attached to the church. One could still see the old stone layers at its base made of coral stones gathered by the parishioners, and even schoolchildren, from the ruins and remnants of the old church.

Another landmark in the town is the Hospicio de San Jose Barili. It is a facility for the aged poor, founded by business-lawyer Don Pedro Cui and his sister, Doña Benignas. Built in 1924, it has a 100-bed capacity having separate quarters for males and females. It also has a clinic, a building for those who need special medical care, a guesthouse and administration office, and a refectory.

Other exciting places to visit in Barili are the Candugay and Sayaw Beaches, nestled beside unexplored caves and ideal for water sports adventures such as skimboarding and snorkeling; the Cebu Barili Golf Course; and the Paradise Valley Mountain Resort, which is located in Brgy. Paril.

Sources:

Cebu Daily

Heritage of Cebu

Cebu Provincial Tourism and Heritage Council