Stretching along the coastline of the City of Gentle People is a scenic Rizal Boulevard, a historical and social heart of the Oriental Negros province.
Named after the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, this 780-meter stretch of paved walkway is framed by iconic acacia trees and the calm waters of the Tañon Strait.
The boulevard’s historical significance is anchored in September 31, 1892. Based on local historical records and the memoirs of Dr. Jose Rizal, the hero made a brief stopover in Dumaguete City while en route to his exile in Dapitan.
Rizal was purportedly charmed by the city’s beauty and the hospitality of its people and thus, described Dumaguete as a “City of Gentle People.” Since then, this moniker remains the city’s official slogan to date.
Later on, the boulevard was constructed and named in Rizal’s honor to memorialize his visit.
Architectural and Cultural Landmarks
As you stroll down Rizal Boulevard, you will encounter several landmarks that define the city’s identity. Among the most notable sites include the Silliman University, The “I Love Dumaguete” Sign and The Sugar Houses.
The Sugar Houses, also known as “Fil-Hispanic” ancestral houses dominate the inland side of the boulevard. These were historically the homes of wealthy sugar barons or hacienderos during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In the northern end of the boulevard borders the campus of Silliman University. Founded in 1901, this school is deemed as the first American Protestant university in the Philippines and Asia.
The most modern landmark of Rizal Boulevard is the “I Love Dumaguete” sign. It’s located near the pier and serves as a popular photo spot for tourists.
Rizal Boulevard At Present
In the present days, Rizal Boulevard serves as a multi-functional public space, a hub for joggers and students from the nearby university town institutions.
At night, the area transforms into a vibrant culinary destination. During these hours, dozens of vendors set up plastic tables and chairs, where locals and tourists gather to eat tempura and balut under the stars, while enjoying the cool breeze of fresh air from the seawater.
To accommodate the growing tourism industry and offer better coastal protection, the local government recently completed a Boulevard Expansion Project. This adds more open spaces, better lighting, and reclaimed areas intended for recreational activities and festivities such as the Sandurot Festival, when the city celebrates its diverse cultural roots.
Rizal Boulevard Dumaguete Travel Tips
The best way to get around is to take a “pedicab” (the local tricycle). It’s the primary mode of transport within the city and it’s very affordable. But if you have your own car or other means of transport, it’s better.
You also need to stay hydrated. It gets humid, so be sure to keep a bottle of water handy, though there are plenty of convenience stores nearby.
More importantly, respect the space. The boulevard is a pride of the locals, so ensure you dispose of your trash in the designated bins to help keep the waterfront clean.
Enjoy your stay in the City of Gentle People!
