More than the white sand, hot springs, cold spring, and gigantic falls, Camiguin has a very interesting background. The history of Camiguin is enormous, opposite to its small size and population.
Below are the exciting facts about the history of Camiguin:
#1 The name “Camiguin” came from a tree called “kamagong”, this is from the Ebony family that widely grows near Lake Mainit.
#2 Out of 81 provinces, Camiguin Island is the second smallest province in the Philippines in terms of population and land area, just next to Batanes. The land area of Camiguin island is 241.44 sq kms only. And it is divided into 5 municipalities: Mambajao (capital), Mahinog, Guinsiliban, Sagay, and Catarman.
#3 In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer working for Spain, landed in Camiguin along with his men. Magellan tried to spread Christianity in the Philippines, and he also died during the Battle of Mactan. While Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, a Basque-Spanish navigator and governor, landed in 1565. Legazpi became the first ever governor of the Philippines.
#4 One of the five municipalities in Camiguin called Guinsiliban actually means “to look out for pirates from a watchtower”. It was around 1598 when the first Spanish settlement took place on the island.
#5 Camiguin is also famous for being called “born of fire”. Because despite its small land area, it is a home for 7 volcanoes: Mount Vulcan Daan, Mount Mambajao, Mount Karling, Mount Uhay, Guinisiliban Peak, Tres Marias Mountain, and Mount Hibok-Hibok. Imagine it has more volcanoes than municipalities!
#6 In 1871, Mt. Vulcan erupted which affected the whole island of Camiguin and even sunk a cemetery under the sea. Unfortunately, the volcano erupted again in 1948 which made the area sunk deeper. Fast forward today, the Sunken Cemetery became one of the most popular destinations in Camiguin. You will see a stunning huge cross that seemed floating across the sea.
#7 American soldiers reached Camiguin in 1901 and they assume political control over the island. When the American soldiers arrived, a group of Camiguingnons did not easily surrender their independence. They actually fought for it during a short battle in Catarman.
#8 In 1942, Japanese army landed in Camiguin. They created a government in Mambajao (now the capital of Camiguin).
#9 In 1945, the battle of Camiguin happened. During this year, the Philippine Commonwealth army fought with Japanese Imperial forces to liberate the island. While the whole country celebrated independence from the United States on July 4, 1946, and the Republic of the Philippines was established.
#10 In 1968, Camiguin officially became a province apart from Misamis Oriental.
#11 Camiguin celebrates the Lanzones festival every October. It’s a four-day grand celebration to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. This celebration includes street dance competition, trade fairs, pageants, and cultural shows.
The history of Camiguin is best enjoyed first hand. If you are curious about this amazing island, then get a reservation now at the best place in Camiguin: Bintana sa Paraiso!
Experience Camiguin now!