Mysterious Dakit Tree Of Toledo City

​Like any other country in the world, the Philippines also has its share of folktales that have caught the attention of the locals. Many of these folktales are associated with the Balete tree, which is locally known as the Dakit tree. It is very tall and features large twisting roots. Cebu has its own stories about this mystical tree with the Dakit tree in Toledo City being the more prominent among all the trees on the island.

Dakit Tree Similar To The One In Toledo City – image source: sunstar.com.ph

Dakit Tree of Toledo City

The Dakit Tree in Toledo City is said to be at least 97 years old since residents first took note of its presence in 1920. But, it is also possible for the tree to be a hundred years old or older. The Dakit Tree of Toledo City is located in Barangay Ilihan and close to the new city hall building of Toledo. 

Toledo City Hall – image source: panoramio.com

Stories Surrounding the Dakit Tree of Toledo City

There are many stories about the Dakit Tree in Toledo City. According to some locals, a passenger bus once stopped close to the tree, but no one got off. There were also some residents who say they see lights at night close to the tree. But, they have no idea as to where the lights came from. Some neighbors also said they would see animals emerging from the tree before disappearing. 

One story was about a lumberjack who attempted to cut down the tree starting with the branches. But, he mysteriously died even though he was healthy and fit. Some said his death was caused by a mysterious illness while others have said that he died since he was trying to cut down the tree.

Dakit Tree Similar To The One In Toledo City – image source: cebu-bluewaters.com.ph

Another story tells of a young man who fell in love with a young woman. The two became lovers and spent most of their time together close to the Dakit Tree. During this time, the young man had no idea where the young woman lived. He kept on insisting on accompanying her as she went home.  After a while, she finally agreed to allow him to accompany her when she goes home. When they got up, they simply turned around and faced the tree. The young woman invited the young man to enter her home. At this point, the young man saw a beautiful house that looked like a palace. When the young man went outside, he looked back and saw that the house had disappeared. Apparently, the young woman was a nymph. 

While these stories about the Dakit Tree of Toledo City can easily catch anyone’s imagination, we should consider the fact that the Philippines is home to many myths and legends. Some of them may even have been influenced by other cultures. We may take these stories with a grain of salt, but they can also teach us about the importance of protecting Mother Nature for the future generations.

Do you know of other stories about the Dakit Tree in Toledo City? Tell us about it on the comments section below.