Nestled to the south of Mount Malindang, Bonifacio is a sprawling municipality on the Philippine island of Mindanao. It was established by Don Demetrio Fernan in 1942 in the province of Misamis Occidental, which is the traditional homeland of the Subanon people.
Things to do in Municipality of Bonifacio
On the northern edge of Bonifacio is Mount Malindang Natural Park, which encompasses a volcanic complex of calderas, cinder cones and sulphurous hot springs. Designated as an ASEAN Heritage Park, its dense virgin forests are highly biodiverse and support several rare species of flora and fauna. Follow one of the trails that lead to its four main peaks while keeping your eyes peeled for tarsiers and flying lemurs.
Also within the park is Lake Duminagat, a picturesque crater lake believed to be sacred by the Subanon people. Soak up the tranquility along its shores while looking out across the peaceful waters, which are said by locals to possess healing powers and can wash away sins. As such, Lake Duminagat is a particularly popular destination during the Holy Week celebrations.
Overlooking Panguil Bay to the east of Bonifacio is the Fort of Misamis, a Jesuit-built citadel completed in 1756. Also known as the Fuerte dela Concepcion y del Triunfo, it was constructed using coral stone and served as a Spanish outpost to protect against pirate attacks. Marvel at its four bastions and the beautifully preserved colonial church that enshrines an image of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception.
Getting around Municipality of Bonifacio
Bonifacio is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Pagadian City and 2.5 hours from Dapitan City, which has ferry connections to Dumaguete. Pagadian Airport is just over an hour away and has regular flights to Manila and Cebu. Renting a vehicle is the most convenient way of exploring Bonifacio.