Definition
Clarin is a 5th class municipality in the province of Bohol, Philippines. It is one of the 47 municipalities that constitute the province and is situated on the eastern coast of Bohol Island, facing the Bohol Sea.
Overview
Clarin covers an area of approximately 85.70 km² and, according to the 2020 census, has a population of 28,453 residents. The municipality is subdivided into 22 barangays, each serving as the basic local government unit. The local economy is predominately agricultural, with rice, corn, coconut, and banana as principal crops. Livestock raising, particularly poultry and swine, also contributes to livelihood. Small‑scale fisheries support communities along its coastal barangays.
Historically, the area was part of the larger municipality of Tubigon before being established as an independent municipality in 1919 through an executive order during the American colonial period. The municipality celebrates its foundation day annually on July 17, commemorating its separation from Tubigon. Infrastructure includes a municipal hall, health center, several elementary and secondary schools, and a network of rural roads linking the barangays.
Clarin experiences a tropical rainforest climate (Af) with relatively uniform temperatures throughout the year and a pronounced rainy season from June to November. The terrain is a mix of lowland plains near the coast and gently rolling hills inland.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Clarin” is believed to be derived from a Spanish surname, possibly honoring a local political figure or landowner bearing the name Clarin during the Spanish or early American colonial periods. Accurate information about the precise origin of the name is not confirmed.
Characteristics
- Geography: Bordered to the north by the municipality of Tubigon, to the south by the municipality of Loon, and to the east by the Bohol Sea. The municipality includes coastal mangroves, inland forested areas, and agricultural plains.
- Climate: Average annual temperature ranges between 25 °C and 28 °C. Annual rainfall averages about 2,800 mm, with the highest precipitation occurring during the southwest monsoon (habagat).
- Economy: Primarily agrarian with rice and corn as staple crops. Coconut farming supports copra production. Fisheries target reef and pelagic species. Emerging micro‑tourism highlights natural attractions such as Clarin Falls and nearby dive sites.
- Demographics: The majority of residents are Tagalog‑speaking Ilonggo (Cebuano) speakers, with Roman Catholicism as the predominant religion. The municipality has a literacy rate exceeding 96 %.
- Governance: Led by an elected mayor and vice mayor, with a municipal council (Sangguniang Bayan) representing each barangay. It falls under the legislative district of Bohol’s 2nd congressional district.
- Infrastructure: Electrified barangays are serviced by the Bohol Electric Cooperative, while water supply is managed through local water districts. Telecommunications are provided by major Philippine service providers.
Related Topics
- Bohol Province
- Central Visayas (Region VII)
- Municipalities of the Philippines
- Philippine local government units (LGUs)
- Agriculture in the Philippines
- Coastal fisheries of the Bohol Sea
- Tourist attractions in Bohol (e.g., Panglao Island, Chocolate Hills)
Note: All information presented is based on publicly available government statistics and reputable geographic sources as of 2023.