Philippines Travel Guide; Getting to Know Dipolog City

The economic boom in Dipolog can be gleamed from the fact that the latest statistics show it is the richest city in Zamboanga, and without question also one of the most prosperous in the country. Long known as the gateway to Mindanao it is now serving as an example of how to become a first class city.

Tourism is one of the strengths of Dipolog City, and there are several attractions that will catch the attention of the tourist. First is the Linabo Peak, where you climb the 3,000 steps to the top. The reward is a breathtaking view of not just Dipolog but also the city of Dapitan. It is also where Catholics undergo the ritual of penitence during the period of Holy Week or Semana Santa.

Cogon Park in Dipolog City is quite simply one of the best forest revere area in the Philippines. It is a sanctuary for varied types of trees, including Rattan, Mahogany, Molave, Acacia, Narra and numerous others. It is also the place where people can mingle with all sorts of wildlife and birds.

The Fountain of Blessing, another popular attraction, was constructed as a testament to the cultural diversity that exists harmoniously in Mindanao, and at the same time is meant as a symbol or shrine for the Lord.

Another widely known tourist hotspot is Sta. Cruz. The chief attraction here is the cross, which was erected in 1905 by the Boholanos. These were the people who had made the perilous journey from Bohol to Dipolog. The cross was meant to be a symbol of thanks and prayer to the Almighty, and to this day Sta. Cruz is the sight of several prayer meetings by the Roman Catholic Church.

As with other provinces in the Philippines, Dipolog is teeming with fiestas and festivals dedicated and consecrated to saints and patrons. The penance of Catholics in Linabo Peak is called the Katkat Sakripisyo; there is also the Feast of Saint Vincent and in October the Feast of the Holy lady of the Rosary. Other festivities include the Sinulog ng Dipolog and the Araw ng Zamboanga.

Today there are several industries and businesses thriving in Dipolog and it is in part due to the effective transport system. Buses, tricycles, cars and the ubiquitous jeepney can take you anywhere in the city. The seaport makes the transport and shipping of goods and products seamless and there are ferries, boats and various shipping lines.

Historical records show that the Spaniards settled in Dipolog in 1834 and became well known for being the center of religious shrines and churches. During the American occupation beginning in 1897, the area underwent several changes, most notably growing in population and began to thrive thanks mostly to immigrants from the nearby provinces.

When the Second World War erupted, Dipolog was occupied the Japanese, and it was only after the American forces returned in 1945 was the municipality freed. In 1969, through a Republic Act by then President Ferdinand Marcos, the municipality became a city.