World War II's Resilient Relic: Exploring Balili's Heritage House that Survived the War

Happy Sunday Hivers!

Like many other places in the Philippines, Bohol Island is rich in history. Heritage houses, interesting artifacts, and ancient churches are among the reasons why tourists are fascinated by the idea of coming to visit Bohol. Undoubtedly, the place has so much to offer.

Yesterday, I visited one of the heritage houses in Bohol. I came across this house when I was browsing the internet to find interesting spots to visit in Bohol. Balili's Heritage House appeared in my search results. Since I found it fascinating, I messaged them through their Facebook Page to inquire if the house was still open to the public for tours. Upon receiving their reply that I could visit anytime, I promptly scheduled my visit for the next day.

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If you're coming from Tagbilaran Proper, simply hire a tricycle and ask them to take you to Balili's Heritage House. The house is located in Tagbilaran Proper, so most locals are familiar with the place. The fare is just PHP 15.00.

I arrived very early at Balili's compound. The house is not very visible when you're still in the entrance area.

Although you're in the city, you can still feel the fresh air on your skin because the place has many different plants and trees. You can't really feel the high temperature in the city.

I was astonished when I saw avocado tree branches blocking the pathway. The owner didn't remove them because the tree continuously produces fruits. They simply put up a sign that says 'Notice: Watch your head'.

When I was almost at the heritage house, someone greeted me and informed me that they would be collecting PHP 50.00 as an entrance fee. Actually, I was already informed when I inquired on their Facebook page.

I didn't immediately go inside the house. I just stayed here for a while because I savored the atmosphere here. The atmosphere in this place was refreshingly cool.

One of the workers gave me a tour of the house. I was informed that the house has already been converted into a lodging house.

After 50 years of abandonment, the owner of this house has decided to open this place and convert it into a lodging house. The house was opened to guests and tourists around 2017. The house is also like a museum because there are so many interesting artifacts you can find inside. Are you ready to see what's inside? Join me as I show you around.

Balili's Heritage House was built sometime in the 1920s by Mr. Eladio Balili, according to the employee. If you have noticed, the ceiling, walls, and floor are proof that the materials used were ancient.

According to the history posted in front of the house, this house served as the venue for grand social functions in Tagbilaran, attended by prominent political and social personalities from both local and national levels.

Have you noticed the photos hanging on the wall? It was taken when the former President of the Philippines, Manuel A. Roxas, had a meeting with Philippine Senator Elpidio Quirino and some other important local personalities at Balili's house. The meeting was held on March 9, 1946

And this chair was the one where the former President Manuel A. Roxas sat during the meeting.

In March 1942, World War II reached Bohol, and Tagbilaran was occupied by the Japanese Imperial Army. During the war, this house was used by ranking Japanese officers. Despite the test of time, this house still stands strong up to this day.

The ancient furniture, chandelier, lamp shades, and other ancient ornaments were still there. They were still displayed in the house.

Since this house has already been converted into a lodging house, the guests use this ancient dining table.

I remember during my childhood when I saw this carved wooden board. When we played sungka, we used this board. Sungka is a traditional Filipino game that is often played with a carved wooden board and small shells or stones.

After we toured around the first floor of the house, the employee took me to the ground floor.

As I first laid eyes on the door, it was obvious that it was still the original door in use. Although there are a few new additions in this area, you can still recognize that this is an ancient house, especially by observing the walls.

There are rooms for guests here; some rooms are dormitory-type rooms, and some are single rooms.

After I had toured the ground floor, I thanked the employee for sparing his time with me. He was very accommodating and kind in answering my questions during the tour.

It's so nice to visit heritage houses like this because I can immerse myself in past events. I have learned so much from this tour. I hope you enjoyed your virtual tour too.

Thank you for reading and see you on my next blog. Cheers!

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Watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places.

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