Often called the "Maldives of the Philippines" for its white sand and stilt houses. Talabong Mangrove Park
"Matahom nga Dakbayan sa Bais" is more than just a title or a tune; it is the heartbeat of a community. By formalizing this hymn, Bais City ensures that the values of faith, resilience, and pride in their natural and cultural heritage are passed down to future generations. For visitors, it is an invitation to discover the charm of this coastal gem in Negros Oriental.
Led by a proactive administration, the city harmoniously bridges its deep agrarian heritage with environmental preservation. This article explores the history, ecological wonders, and administrative progress of Bais City. The Origins and Meaning of "Matahom"
, "Matahom Nga Dakbayan Sa Bais" was officially adopted as the city's hymn on November 7, 2024. : Rolin C. Obina and Oyvin Thon C. Valencia. Requirement Matahom nga Dakbayan sa Bais - Bais City Offici...
: The nearest airport is the Sibulan Airport (DGT) in Dumaguete City . There are daily flights from Manila (via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia) and Cebu (via Cebu Pacific). From the airport, you can take a tricycle to the Dumaguete Ceres Bus Terminal.
The city's name is derived from "Bais," a local freshwater eel. Spanish Influence:
Matahom nga Dakbayan sa Bais! 🌅✨
: The city’s most famous attraction allows visitors to see spinning dolphins in their natural habitat within Bais Bay. Manjuyod White Sandbar
According to local tradition, the name "Bais" originated from a misunderstanding between Spanish colonizers and local fishermen. When asked the name of the place, the fishermen, thinking the Spaniards were asking about their catch, replied " ba-is "—the Cebuano word for the brackish-water eel native to the area.
Mandated by local law to be performed at official city functions and schools. Core Themes Often called the "Maldives of the Philippines" for
Bais City, located in the province of Negros Oriental, Philippines, is officially promoted under the local tourism slogan “Matahom nga Dakbayan sa Bais” (Beautiful City of Bais). This paper examines the city’s geographical assets, economic significance, and ecological treasures—particularly its renowned dolphin and whale watching activities in the Tañon Strait. It also discusses the city’s official status, cultural festivals, and conservation efforts, presenting Bais as a model for sustainable coastal tourism.
Bais City is widely recognized as the . Its economic progress was historically driven by the Central Azucarera de Bais (CAB) , established by the Real Compañía-General de Tabacos de Filipinas , which was the country's pioneer in the sugar industry. The city officially earned its charter on September 9, 1968, under its first mayor, Genaro Goñi. The Gateway to Marine Wonders
Matahom nga Dakbayan sa Bais: Discovering the Sweet and Scenic Heart of Bais City For visitors, it is an invitation to discover
The adoption of the hymn reflects a strong sense of community and civic duty. As of June 2026, the city government, led by its officials, continues to emphasize that the identity of the city is rooted in its people—the .
Bais City serves as the primary gateway to the . This marine sanctuary is home to large populations of spinner dolphins, pantropical spotted dolphins, and melon-headed whales. Boat tours operate directly from the Capiñahan Wharf to offer strictly regulated, eco-conscious wildlife encounters. The Manjuyod Sandbar