The History

Legaspi's fleet first landed in Cebu on February 13, 1565 but it did not stay long because the natives were hostile. In search for food, the fleet sailed to Samar, Leyte, Limasawa and Camiguin islands. But it was unable to secure food. Then, the fleet headed for Mindanao but was met by bad weather. When it reached the coast of Bo-ol, it abandoned its plan for Mindanao and took shelter in a small bay in the Bo-ol area.

The Bo-ol natives were first observed to be hostile also to legaspi and his men. It was so because of the sad experience of the natives with the Portuguese who had earlier visited Bohol from Moluccas on large praus and committed outrageous acts against them posing as Castilians.

While the Spaniards were initiating friendly relations with the natives, Legaspi sent out emissaries to the chieftain, Rajah Sikatuna, who was the only chieftain contacted at that time, but he was reluctant at the outset to meet the Spanish general believing that he was Portuguese. But the historic moment did come to be Legaspi, representing the king of Spain, and Sikatuna, who represented the natives made historic "Blood Compact". A sharp dagger was used in cutting slightly both the arms of Legaspi and Siaktuna, then having their blood mixed in a cup of wine. From this cup both men drank to become blood brothers in eternal friendship. The act has come down in history as promise of brotherhood and friendship.