Ilihan: Viewing Hill of Dapitan City

Ilihan Hill or simply known as Ilihan to locals in Dapitan has an estimated height of 60 meters. The foot Ilihan was an ancient burial ground of the Pre-Hispanic Dapitanons. In 1762, Ilihan was established as “Fort de Dapitan” by the Spanish government to protect Dapitan from foreign and pirate invasions. A  stone  wall  was constructed  along  its  slopes  and a  guard  house with mounted cannons. Relics of this ancient military fortress are still visible today. The stone walls and the two cannons are now placed at the City Plaza where the Relief Map of Mindanao is located nearby. During the 2004 Christmas season, Ilihan was spruced up with lights and decors. Then it was developed further, beautified and is now another major tourist destination of Dapitan especially during Christmas.

The entrance of Ilihan can be found in Barangay Potol, Dapitan, Philippines. The concrete stairs was developed by the local government but due to lack of funds, maintenance is only done during Christmas season. Above Ilihan, one can have a perfect 360 degree view of the urban areas of Dapitan City. A small water reservoir is visible and it is used in case the water supply of Dapitan decreases. Ilihan has a dense forest with Mahoganies as the more prominent trees.

Stairs going to Ilihan Hill

Sometimes airsoft players make Ilihan as the battleground. They play with airsoft players from other towns, practice their shooting skills and hide in the mahogany trees and grasses. When going to the top be sure to listen to the sound of airsoft guns so you will know if someone is playing. Every 10 minutes, they usually pause and talk about how they play the game for about 10-15 minutes which gives you time to walk around Ilihan and take some pictures of the fish pond, houses and streets of Dapitan City.

Entrance of Ilihan

Fish Pond: View from top of Ilihan

About the author

Mark Anthony Maranga is an Educator-Parent to his 3 Homeschooling Kids. He sells Ice Cream and Balloons in Mandaue City, Cebu. Exploring the Philippines tourist attractions together with his family is his passion; they are learning without borders.