Daanbantayan is a 1st class municipality of Cebu province as of December 3, 2008. It is situated in the northern-most tip of Cebu Island, approximately 128 kilometers from the Cebu Provincial Capitol.
Under its jurisdiction is the total land area of 10,455 hectares with 20 barangays: 2 islands, 13 are coastal barangays and 5 inland barangays. Alphabetically stated, these barangays are Agujo, Bagay, Bakhawan, Bateria, Bitoon, Calape, Carnaza Island, Dalingding, Lanao, Logon (Malapascua), Malbago, Malingin, Maya, Pajo, Paypay, Poblacion, Talisay, Tapilon, Tinubdan and Tominjao.
The principal economic activities in the region are basically farming and fishing due to agricultural and coastal areas. Common products are corn, sugar cane and coconuts.
How The Town Got Its Name:
It was formerly named Kandaya, after its chief ruler, Datu Daya. After being established as an independent political unit, it was changed into Daanbantayan.
The name was taken from two common Cebuano languages: “Daan” and “Bantayan”. The former means “old” while the latter refers to a look-out station, a watchtower, an effective defense system in thwarting the attacks of the Moro raiders before the Spaniards took control over the land. Hence, the town was called Daanbantayan.
History
Before the Spaniards dominated the island of Cebu, Daanbantayan was once believed to be under the rule of the first Malayan settler Datu Daya, the local chieftain of the land who is recognized for his good deeds and the gallantry of fighting and driving away the Moro raiders who once in awhile attacked the place.
In order to reinforce his defenses, as the leader, he strategically designed watchtowers known as “Bantayan”. These served as a look-out station to spot the incoming attackers and to warn the residents for the assault, giving them time to hide and secure their possessions.
For his accomplishments, he was honored by naming the town Kandaya, a brief name of Kang Daya which means “possession of Daya”. Also, the renowned Haladaya Festival was celebrated in honor of his heroic deeds.
However, the establishment of the town remained uncertain. There are no specific records indicating the exact year of the town’s foundation. In the book “Reseñas Historicas de los Dioceses de Cebu”, it was stated that Rev. Fr. Juan Protacio Gallares has been inspecting the parish periodically.
Daanbantayan became a parish on August 10, 1858 and Sta. Rosa de Lima Parish Church was constructed in 1886. Because the concept of the state and the church was once unified, it was assumed that the establishment of the town was in accord to the date of the inauguration of the parish.
The Japanese forces took control of Daanbantayan in 1942. Three years after, the Battle of Daanbantayan happened where the Philippine Comonwealth Army Troops of the 81st and 82nd Infantry Division were supported by the Cebuano guerillas. The result was a decisive Filipino victory.
From those gloomy past, Daanbantayan is fast recovering and now, known world-wide as the “tourist haven in the north”. It is famous for its pristine white beaches, exciting dive sites complemented with rich marine flora and fauna and serene environment. It is one of the best ways to forget the hustles and bustles of the city, a complete relaxation guaranteed.
How To Get There:
DaanBantayan is 128-kilometer away from Cebu City. Though in the northern-most point of Cebu, it can be reached by all kinds of land transportations. One can utilize private cars, taxis and busses. The estimated travel is about 3 to 4 hours.
Passengers can take busses from the Cebu North Bus Terminal. There are three routes in going to Daanbantayan: Bogo via Kawit-Daanbantayan, Bogo via Bagay-Daanbantayan and the Daanbantayan-Mainline route where most private vehicles and V-hires pass through.
From the town proper, one can tour the entire town by hiring trisikads or habal-habal. Jeepneys are also available but have specified routes to be followed.
For Daanbantayan Attractions, click here.
