Cruz Daku in Bohol

When summer hits the country flocks of the faithful trek to a sacred part of Loboc in Bohol to observe the Season of Lent there more solemnly. The place is called “Cruz Daku” which literally means Giant Cross.

Loboc is more than 20 kilometers from the Tagbilaran Airport by land. Travelling southward to Loboc we pass by Albuquerque and Loay towns by the sea. Then we turn left inland to get to this very religious town of Bohol. The Cruz Daku is the highest hill in the loboc area. The 80-foot white cross is perched on this hill which is overlooking Loboc, the adjacent towns and even far away Tagbilaran.

Against a background of verdant scenery the Cruz Daku, a giant white cross, is conspicuous even from a distance. And from this imposing location one can easily view nearby tourist spots which dot the Loboc territory. To name some, we may peek a patch of view of where Loboc River is with its Tigbao Hanging Bridge, or the roof top of the Loboc church, or the Tontonan or Busay Falls.

In summer time Cruz Daku is swarmed by devotees observing the Lent. Cruz Daku becomes closely related to Pana-ad sa Loboc at such time when the faithful perform the station of the cross or way of the cross in groups. This is a special time of leisure walking from station to station until the whole exercise culminates at the top of the hill where Cruz Daku is located.

Loboc used to be a bulwark of Spanish Catholicism in the 17th century. It proved to be an easy entry to the mainland Bohol. Religious traditions like Bolibong Kingking and Pana-ad took root in Loboc as a result. Even today, Bolibong Kingking, a dance ritual to their patron, is still deeply observed. Pana-ad is the vernacular for Holy Week and is more closely linked to Cruz Daku.

It is best to visit Cruz Daku, and Loboc in general, at summer time when more visitors roam the vicinity and the area is a buzz with tourism-oriented activities. The place is also most colorful with lively festivities.

When planning on lodging, the nearest places with excellent lodging amenities for tourists are on Panglao Island, Dauis, or Tagbilaran City. Accommodation rates range from $67 to $130, breakfast, tour, guide, and transfers inclusive. Breakfast may range from $20 to $25.

Cruz Daku in Loboc, Bohol is a perfect setup not just for the religious devotee but also for travelers who just want a nice quiet spot near the heavens.