Capitancillo Island

Capitancillo Island, a small coral island about 600 hectares in size, boasts a rich history intertwined with legend and maritime significance. Located near Bogo City, Cebu, Philippines, the island is now a protected marine sanctuary, offering stunning dive sites, a pristine beach, and a towering lighthouse.

Origins and Naming:

The island's name holds two possible origins:

• Spanish Captain: One story suggests it was named after a Spanish captain, Capitan Basillo, who anchored his ship near the island in the 1800s.

• American Navy Captain: Another tale attributes the name to American Navy Captain Cillo, whose ship ran aground on the island during World War II.

Local Legend:

Adding a touch of folklore, a local legend claims the island was once a galleon cursed by a datu (chieftain) named Bugtopasan. The story goes that Captain Basilio, sailing his trading vessel, insulted the datu, who in turn used magic to transform the ship into the island we see today.

The Lighthouse:

Capitancillo Island's most prominent landmark is its iconic lighthouse. The original lighthouse, built in 1905, was listed as one of the 27 major lighthouses of the Philippines during the Spanish era. The current white steel tower, dating from the 1950s, stands 25 meters tall and flashes three white lights every ten seconds, guiding ships through the Visayan Sea.

Capitancillo Island Lighthouse in Bogo City

Transformation into a Marine Sanctuary:

Recognizing the island's ecological value, the Bogo City government established a marine sanctuary in 1998. This move aimed to protect the island's rich biodiversity, including coral reefs, diverse fish species, and marine turtles.

Tourism and Future:

Today, Capitancillo Island is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, historical significance, and diving opportunities. The island's transformation into a marine sanctuary has also contributed to the restoration of its coral reefs and marine life, making it a haven for underwater exploration.

As Bogo City continues to develop its tourism industry, Capitancillo Island is poised to play a vital role in attracting visitors and showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.