CHERRYBER URDANETA

BILAR’S MAN-MADE FOREST

The Man-made forest in Bilar is a sight to behold. It is composed of mahogany trees that
stretch for more than two kilometers from the town of Loboc to Bilar. When you enter this
parallel tunnel of trees, it would feel like entering another realm or a different dimension. It
feels like being transported to the world of Harry Potter or Gandalf’s reality. You will notice that
the temperature has dropped drastically because the canopy above almost completely cuts out
the sun. It would seem that you are driving through a portal to parallel universe.

You will notice the windy road that goes all the way through the man-made forest in
Bohol and it acts as an enchanting pathway that cuts through the natural-ached tunnel of large
mahogany trees. You will being hypnotized and gadded in awe, and you will completely forget
that you are walking on a national highway where vehicles pass by. Just be careful.
There is no designated parking space, no bathrooms, no resorts and no restaurants. It is
the pure magnificence of nature, at its best and brightest. The shade, the cool breeze, and even
the roots of the trees are a marvel to look at. The roots of the trees protrude from the ground
and crawl over boulders and contour of the land. The height of the trees are uniform, like a
platoon of highly disciplined and trained soldiers guarding the secrets of the forest.

The rainforest is about 20 kilometers from Tagbilaran City. Plying the interior road from
the capital, travelers pass the town of Loboc and a long stretch of winding road up the
mountain of Loboc going towards Bilar, which Boholanos call the “Chicken Intestine.” Truly, you
can say that there is nothing like it.

HOW TO GET THERE?

The best way would be to hire a van with a driver and enjoy a guided tour. This is the
most convenient and informational way. The Bilar Man-made Forest is usually part of any tour
package. This will normally cost you around Php3,000 to Php4,000.
 It is hard to commute going here since you need to stop, disembark and take pictures.
The bus will not wait for you. You have to wait for the next bus before you can proceed, and
this may take at least an hour for the next bus to arrive. This may become more stressful and
time-consuming.
If you drive your own car or motorcycle, it would also be difficult since you are not
familiar with terrain and the windiness of the road. It is much safer to leave the driving to the
locals. Although, this could be an option.

SERVICES OFFERED:
As mentioned, there is no designated parking space, no bathrooms, no resorts and no
restaurants. It is the pure magnificence of nature, at its best and brightest. Nothing more.