Boac is one of six (6) municipalities comprising the province of Marinduque in the Mimaropa Region. It serves as the capital and seat of the provincial government, and the center of culture, commerce, and education in the province.
The town is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial heritage, highlighted by the iconic Boac Cathedral, and often referred to as “Montserrat de Marinduque” or “Vigan of Marinduque” due to its heritage district, which reflects its historical significance and architectural charm.
Boac is also the main venue for the Moriones Festival, an annual Lenten celebration depicting the story of Longinus and the passion of Christ.
Boac charmingly merges its vibrant traditions with stunning natural scenery. Below lists the town’s main sights and activities, grouped by interest.
Cultural Landmarks
- Boac Cathedral (Immaculate Conception Cathedral): Built in the 18th century, this Spanish-era church stands on a hill overlooking the town. It is recognized as a National Cultural Treasure and symbolizes the faith and resilience of Marinduque’s people.
- Heritage District: The town center is lined with ancestral houses that showcase Spanish and American colonial architecture. Walking through this area offers a glimpse into the past, as if stepping back in time.
- National Museum Marinduque-Romblon Area: Housed in a former Spanish school building, the museum displays exhibits on local history, shipwrecks, and the Moriones Festival tradition.
- Moriones Festival: This vibrant week-long Lenten celebration features locals dressed as Roman soldiers (Morions) reenacting the story of Longinus in colorful street performances.
- Bulating: A unique Holy Week tradition, particularly in Barangay Malbog, where devotees cover themselves in mud as a form of personal repentance.
Natural Attractions
- Marinduque Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected nature reserve nestled within the island’s lush hills and forests, dedicated to preserving its diverse flora and fauna. This sanctuary is an ecological treasure, offering a haven for various wildlife species and a tranquil environment for nature enthusiasts, located about 10 kilometers from the town center.
- Boac River: A picturesque spot for picnics and relaxation, the river also holds historical significance as as the site of battles during the Philippine Revolution.
- Talamban Cave: A notable spelunking destination featuring two caverns with historical significance and varying levels of adventure for visitors. The larger cave offers a more challenging route ideal for experienced spelunkers and can be navigated using rappel ropes, while the smaller cave is suitable for beginners and casual explorers.
- Duyay Cave: This geological marvel captivates visitors with its stunning rock formations that form an otherworldly landscape. The surrounding area is distinguished by lush greenery and rugged terrain that serves as a sanctuary for various flora and fauna.
- Ginaras Falls: A majestic 100-meter-high waterfall, surrounded by six smaller adjacent waterfalls in a lush mountainous area, offering an enchanting nature experience.
- Kabugsakan Falls: Surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful natural setting ideal for picnics, leisure walks, and nature-based activities.
- Hinulugan Falls: A scenic waterfall known for its natural beauty and a small rock cave by the side of the cascade. The waterfall flows into a clear pool at the bottom, offering opportunities for swimming. Located within a forested area, providing a natural and secluded environment for visitors.
Boac embodies the cultural essence of Marinduque. With its heritage homes, the majestic Boac Cathedral, and the lively Moriones Festival, the town offers visitors a profound connection to local traditions and history.
The local cuisine, deeply rooted in coconut-based dishes, seafood specialties, and traditional treats like bibingkang Boac and arrowroot cookies, reflects the island’s natural bounty. Accommodation options range from a mix of boutique hotels, heritage-style stays, and beachfront resorts that cater to every kind of traveler, all praised for their comfort, prime locations, and warm hospitality.
What makes Boac truly memorable is the way it harmonizes history, culture, and a welcoming spirit. It is a place where ancestral homes coexist with lively cafés, where festival masks mingle with everyday smiles, and where the river and sea continue to influence the rhythm of life. For anyone exploring Marinduque, Boac offers a vivid window into the island’s identity.