Blood Compact Monument
The basics
While historians continue to debate the details, the Blood Compact was a key turning point in the history not only of Bohol but the whole Philippine archipelago: Many believe it was the first pact signed between Filipinos and the invading Spaniards. The two warriors cut their wrists, dripped blood into a cup, and drank their mingled blood, perhaps with wine—in Abueva’s composition, the two men have a tankard each. Many Bohol sightseeing tours include a stop at the Blood Compact site.
Things to know before you go
- The Blood Compact Monument is a good choice for history buffs and art lovers alike.
- Unsightly modern signage makes the sculpture tricky to photograph.
- There’s no charge to visit the Blood Compact Monument.
- The Blood Compact Monument area is wheelchair-accessible.
How to get there
The Blood Compact Monument sits about 3 miles (5 kilometers) east of Tagbilaran City Port on the main coast road towards Baclayon Church. Pick up a jeepney from the coast road or the Dau Integrated Terminal—or stop by on an organized tour.
When to get there
The monument is accessible year-round and is illuminated at night, so any time is a good time to visit. It’s easy to stop by when traveling the coast road.
The Sandugo Festival
The Blood Compact is key to Boholano identity. Even though the pact was made in March, the island celebrates it with a month-long Sandugo Festival each July, centered on Tagbilaran City. Enjoy folklore performances, street dancing competitions, and that Philippine favorite, the beauty contest. Events normally peak on Bohol Day, 22 July, which celebrates the island’s political independence from its larger neighbor, Cebu, in 1854.