Steeped in folklore, the roots of Bokod trace back to an era when the village stood as a dense forest, untouched by colonization. According to local tales, the name "Bokod" emerged from the agricultural endeavors of a visionary named Ebokot (or Ekbot). This pioneering figure introduced agricultural practices that shaped the landscape and etched his name into the annals of the village. As the Spanish Regime took hold, Ebokot's influence persisted, and the village was formally recognized as a pueblo.
American Period: Township Status Amidst Transformative Governance
The winds of change swept through Bokod during the American Rule, marking it as one of the 19 townships under the jurisdiction of Benguet. The establishment of Bokod as a township was solidified through the enactment of Act No. 48 on November 22, 1900. However, the evolution did not stop there.
In a pivotal moment on August 13, 1908, Benguet underwent a restructuring as it became a sub-province within the newly formed Mountain Province (Act No. 1876). Bokod found itself absorbing the territories of abolished townships, including Ambuklao and Daclan.
Post-War Era: Ambuklao Dam and Municipal Maturation
Following the tumultuous years of war, Bokod witnessed the rise of a landmark infrastructure – the Ambuklao Dam. Its construction commenced in 1950 and culminated in its inauguration in 1956. Serving as a cornerstone of Luzon's hydroelectric network, the dam underscored Bokod's growing significance in regional development.
The post-war era heralded administrative changes, as President Diosdado Macapagal, on June 25, 1963, issued Executive Order No. 42. This directive elevated eight of Benguet's thirteen municipal districts into regular municipalities, including Bokod.
Continuing the wave of transformation, the sub-province of Benguet achieved autonomy on June 18, 1966, becoming a distinct province separate from the Mountain Province. Throughout these shifts, Bokod retained its status as a vital component municipality, embodying resilience and progress within the ever-evolving tapestry of Philippine governance.
Article updated: November 24, 2023