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Tigbauan and the Annual Pagdaug-Saludan Festival

March 3, 2016, 1:19 am
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Spend a sweet, welcome to summer weekend in Tigbauan during the 2nd annual Pagdaug-Saludan Festival, March 14- 18, 2016. Both, the abundance the town’s home-grown produce and artisan food products plus the annual celebration of the historic Liberation of Panay are what initiated this free, family-oriented arts and crafts event.

March 14 (Monday) Opening of Agri-Tourism and Trade Fair, Opening Salvo and Street-dancing Competition at 2 p.m.; March 15 (Tuesday) Pagdaug-Saludan Festival Queen 2016 Coronation Night at  the Covered Gym, 7 p.m.; March 16 (Wednesday) PNP Night, Covered gym at 7 p.m.; March17 (Thursday) 23rd Foundation Day of SCFAI-Tigbauan, Covered Gym at 1 p.m.;  March 18 (Friday) Victory Run 2016 (Oton to Parara Landmark) at 5 a.m., Mass at 6:30 a.m., Foot Parade and Floral Offering at the Liberation Landmark at 7:30 a.m., Tribal Dance Competition at 2 p.m., Closing and Awarding Ceremonies at 5 p.m.



Saludan, a Hiligaynon term coined from the word salud, the traditional way of gathering or accumulating a thing for its interest or value such as threshing rice using a basket or catching fingerlings through nets. Fishing and farming had been this town’s way of life.



On its 2nd year, this traditional harvest festivity of Saludan is celebrated alongside Pagdaug, a festival segment commemorating the annual observance of the Liberation of Panay. The festivity has become the symbol of Tigbauans’ esteem not only in terms of its abundant varieties of local produce but also for the honoured Tigbauanons who served and died, and all who supported the World War II effort from this town.

The festival highlight is the tribe performances that illuminate the Japanese experience during the WWII era with personal stories. Symbolic of the defining event are dramatizations of some chilling reminders of its Japanese wartime existence.The presentations will draw on the commemorative experiences of spectators watching by capturing, in the audiences’ own words, their individual reflections on those Tigbauanons who have sacrificed their lives during WWII.




A scenic drive around the town is a perfect historic escapade where its historic structures are completely immersed in the urban fabric, both its past and its future. Visitors are oftentimes forced to re-imagine its past.

It was in 1942 when the Japanese Imperial Armies invaded the Philippines. Outside of Manila, Iloilo was the most devastated. Iloilo was at that time a massive military complex housing in its history of Japanese military. Churches, plazas, schools and colonial houses were used as detention areas for Japanese soldiers. Port San Pedro in the city, used as a Japanese Garrison was heavily damaged. The town of Tigbauan was one of those devastated areas.



The warship shaped mini-memorial marker in Barangay Parara was built in honour of all the Ilonggos who have given their lives in the defense of the Japanese Imperial Army.  It was on the 18th of March, 1945 when the 40th Infantry Division, spearheaded by the 185th Infantry Regiment landed at the shoreline of Barangay Parara in Tigbauan.  Several tanks and infantry with an estimated number of 23,000 guerilla forces headed by Col. Macario Perlta had secured the area.

With today's conveniences, visitors can still enjoy Tigbauan’s historic charm with plenty of historic sites that form part of its tourism system. The best historic experiences here are closer than you think.

Come join us for summer fun in Tigbauan, just 20 minutes or 22.5 kilometers south of Iloilo City. The town is comprised of 52 barangays over its 6,062 hectare land area and is bordered in the northwest by Leon; the northeast by San Miguel; east by Oton; west by Guimbal and the Iloilo Strait in the south.




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A Lenten Fair in Iloilo

March 6, 2016, 11:07 pm
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photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan

Iloilo has its own beautiful traditional Lenten celebration. Throughout Lenten season, many towns have precious and moving traditions played out every year during Holy Week or Semana Santa, part of a tradition celebrated throughout the country. 

Many towns spend all year planning for the spectacle and is home to some of the biggest Lenten traditions. For visitors and tourists here in time for the Lenten spectacle, towns offer plenty of other things to do.


photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan
Church-hopping is a Lenten base for exploring Iloilo. In the Lenten week, churches will be shrouded in gloom throughout the week. All are dolled up in black or violet draperies, the altars covered in darkness and sorrow are decorated with flowers and are well-lighted. The Way of the Cross or Via Crucis is a popular activity among families and friends where they go from one church to the other pausing at each station for quiet meditation and prayer.


photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan

Considered to be the most picturesque of all observances is the dramatic procession that goes around the main streets from the church in the afternoon of Good Friday. The towns of Sta. Barbara, Leganes and Igbaras display century-old masterpieces of realistic figures of main Lenten characters mounted on lavishly decorated and lit platforms. The floats are convoyed by throngs of faithful holding candles and rosaries while uttering laments or singing penitential chants accompanied by lugubrious music.
  
Theatrical dramatization of the Passion of Christ brings to life the death of our Lord. Annually celebrated in the town of Barotac Viejo the Taltal is this town’s way of maintaining devotion and traditions today.


photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan


Annually in Cabatuan, residents along the streets begin preparations weeks and even months in advance creating beautifully intricate life-size Lenten characters of the Stations of the Cross. 


photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan

Along with this is the traditional Filipino ritual involving an uninterrupted chanting-singing of the verses of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  The Pasyon is structured in five-line stanzas, with each line containing eight syllables performed in the local dialect, Kiniray-a as a song a capella or with the accompaniment of a guitar. Many Cabatuananons consider Pasyon and Kapiya as their “panata” or personal pledge during Holy Week. It has evolved into a community activity that allows their community devotees to express their faith.


photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan

Lent is a 40-day religious season observed by Christians all over the world. It starts on Ash Wednesday where the priest dips his thumb into ashes previously blessed and marks a cross to the forehead of the faithful as a public and communal sign of penance; and ends on Easter Sunday. During Lent the faithful perform penance through fasting, giving alms or abstaining from any amusement.


photo courtesy of LGU-Cabatuan

The Lenten season is an opportunity for adults to discuss these annual practices to the younger generation. This practices done in the present time is connected to all other periods of time, those that preceded the present generation and those that will come after. It is during special occasions such as this that our unique cultural traditions have the greatest potential to help especially the present generation for self-definition and to contribute to their well-being. It is of greatest pride to be a part of the transmission of our particular family and ethnic customs. In so doing, we come to realize our immortality by being part of living traditions.









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Pintados de Pasi : Showcasing Culture through the Art of Tattooing

March 7, 2016, 8:42 pm
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Every year in March, the component city of Passi in Iloilo’s Fourth Congressional District comes alive. This is where the annual Pintados de Passi Festival is held – an amazing celebration to preserve and promote its local heritage, celebrated this year on March 12-20.




The special events cater to participants and supporters that represent all walks of life which enhance and promote the festival’s mission to bridge gaps and preserve Passinhon culture. The annual celebration continues to provide an on-going platform to showcase their rich traditions through dance, music and history that affords their community the opportunity for expression, growth and appreciation in a supportive and nurturing environment.



With the theme, “Hirinugyon, Sirinadya, Iririmaw Taton sa Matam-is nga Siyudad ka Passi,” the festivity will open on March 12 Saturday) with a Food Festival; March 14 (Monday) 18th Cityhood Anniversary with Pangpagagda at 2 p.m. and the Search for Bb. Pintados 2016 Talents Night – Passi Social Hall at 7 p.m.; March 15 (Tuesday) Opening Program Parade and Pasundayag at 8 a.m., Golden Hearts Award and Handuraw: Songs and Dances of the World – Passi Social Hall at 7 p.m.; March 16 (Wednesday) Tree Planting at 8 a.m., Pasundayag sang Academia 2016 by Academia de San Guillermo – Plaza Paloma at 7 p.m.; March 17 (Thursday) Montessori Night; March 18 (Friday) Karosa Parada and Carabao Painting Contest at 7 a.m., Grand Pageant Night, Search for Bb. Pintados 2016 – Passi Social Hall at 7 p.m.; March 19 (Saturday) TM Republik Caravan with Sinadya sa Suba at 7 a.m., Pinta Lawas – Plaza Paloma at 7 a.m., All-Star Basketball Tournament – Passi Social Hall at 3 p.m., Search for Ginoong Pintados 2016 – Plaza Paloma at 6 p.m.; March 20 (Sunday) Tribe Competition at 8 a.m., Awarding and Fireworks Display – Plaza Paloma at 5 p.m., Night with the Stars – Plaza Paloma at 7 p.m.



Pintados de Pasi Festival is regarded as one of the region’s most prestigious festivals and is consistently mentioned as a do-not-miss festival in Iloilo. This annual cultural arts event fosters a rich sense of cultural heritage and awareness. It serves as an outreach event that attracts attention locally and nationally. For its people, they want to tell a different story about their place by exploring this dynamic celebration.



Maintaining their cultural integrity is important, Pintados de Pasi Festival honor their tattooed ancestors such that wearing their tattoo design during their dance presentations is their great way to show respect for their traditional culture.

Traditionally, the art of tattooing was part of a ritual and portrayed elements of achievement and status of the person wearing the tattoo.  Tribal tattoos had profound personal attachments to them. It symbolized proof of achievement and protection.

The Pintados in the Visayan culture have a reverence to some of the features in quite a deep and unique way with some wearing some of the symbols as a sign of connection or reminder that the symbol has a special meaning in the life of the wearer.

Commonly done in black ink, the marks are of thick lines with geometric shapes and beautiful pattern work exposed in the male shoulder---often considered the most appropriate place for wearing it. The uniform arrangements of the zigzag lines, curves make the entire tribal tattoo of the Visayan Pintado look spectacular. The more tattoos they have especially on their visible body parts the more it enhances their masculinity especially in attracting their female partner.


Passi City is 50 kilometers away or an hour and twenty-minute drive from Iloilo City. It is located along the Central portion of the province using the Iloilo-Capiz National Highway.  Made up of 51 barangays, it has a land area of 25,068 hectares. Visitors to Passi City can take the bus at Ceres Terminal in Dungon B, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information about the celebration, please contact Mrs. Gina Palmares – Municipal Tourism Officer at (033) 3115087/ 3115947.
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More Fun in Asluman for the 1st Tikab-Tikab Festival

March 8, 2016, 12:05 am
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Tribal Dance Contest, performers use the Tikab as accessory to their costumes,
photo by Al Destacamento

For sure, Ilonggos loves seafood and all the wonderful local restaurants that truly make Iloilo one of the best places for foodies to live or visit. Ilonggos are proud of their blue crabs, squid, shrimp, oysters, and of course, scallops. It seems fitting to host a festival showcasing some of these favourite signature seafood treats. With some refreshing drinks, music, cooking demonstrations, games and more, and you have Barangay Asluman’s Tikab-Tikab Festival – the scallop festival in Gigante Norte, Carles, Iloilo on March 18-20, 2016.


fishing as the main income generating activity of the people of Barangay Asluman, 
Gigante Norte, Carles, photo by Al Destacamento

The Tikab-Tikab Festival was established to recognize the importance of scallop to the people of Carles. Though celebrated last year with a different festival name (Scallops Festival), the festivity hopes to promote the positive social and economic impacts of the scallop industry to the people of Carles. It also aims to educate the public about scallop and its importance to the local economy. Barangay Asluman in Isla Gigante Norte is registered to having one of the highest cases of poverty incidence in Iloilo and almost 80% depend on fishing as their source of livelihood.

photo by Al Destacamento

The festival also hopes to publicize the rich variety of seafood in the area and provide the opportunity for people to enjoy it. Most importantly, the festival is expected to boost tourism and recreation in Gigantes and its neighboring northern islands.

scallop harvest, photo by Al Destacamento

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources or BFAR via Shellfish Advisory No. 7, series of 2016 dated March 5 lifted the banning in collecting shellfish from the coastal waters of Gigantes Islands and is now negative for red-tide toxin. Scallops is now safe for human consumption and the harvesting and marketing of shellfishes in the area are now permitted.

scallops picking, photo by Al Destacamento

Belonging to the group of bi-valve mollusks, scallops have two convexly ridged shells. Inside it is an edible soft fleshy textured meat that tastes mildly sweet. Even those who are not fond shellfish will surely love its delectable taste that contains a variety of nutrients.Usually found at depths between 60 feet and deeper, scallops are harvested mainly by dredge gear but sometimes with trawl nets.

Barangay Captain Montibon trying his hand at scallop picking, photo by Al Destacamento

Known to be the Scallops Capital of Iloilo, Barangay Asluman is 2 hours away by motorized boat from Bancal Port in mainland Carles or 2.5 hour motorized boat trip from the port of Estancia.  It is a small fishing community known for its mounds of discarded multi-colored scallop shells. The Barangay has facilities for overnight stay. Its attractions include the 18th century Lighthouse and a few caves.

A few minutes motorized boat ride fronting the barangay are the islets of Gigantillo, Gigantito and Gigantona. Other popular islets worth exploring include Cabugao Gamay and Dako, Antonia, Balbagon, Bantigue, Balbagon, Bulubadiang, Gakit-Gakit, Pulupandan, and Uay Dahon.

Carles is the last town north of the province of Iloilo. It is 147.6 kilometers away or a 3-hour bus ride from Ceres Terminal in Dungon B, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information about the celebration, please contact Barangay Captain Abelardo Montibon at 09184016994 or Marjorie Gumban – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09198871348.


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A Spectacle that is Bantayan

March 28, 2016, 1:46 am
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Summer has arrived. And if you are planning a trip to the southern coast, timing your holiday on this area to coincide with a historic-religious festival that offers you the chance to experience, the excitement, the local culture and religious traditions that takes place every year in the small yet progressive and peaceful town of Guimbal, Iloilo. Surely you will have a good time and experience something truly Ilonggo.


Bantayan Festival in Guimbal, Iloilo is celebrated with exuberance and high-spirit because it is a festivity full of rich history and cultural significance. Guimbalanons unite as they celebrate Bantayan this year on March 29 till April 3.



For 14 years now, the festival holds series of special events unique to this town starting with its Foundation Day on March 29 (Tuesday) with the opening of Agro Fair and Food Festival, Mass at 2 p.m., Grand Float Parade and Street Dancing Competition at 4 p.m., Opening Program with the Drum Beat Competition at 7 p.m.; March 30 (Wednesday) the Search for Anyag kang Bantayan at 8 p.m.; March 31 (Thursday) Boat Racing Competition, Canvass Painting Contest, Pinta Lawas at 8 a.m. till 12 noon at Bantayan Beach Resort, Re-enactment of the Moro Raids in Bantayan Beach Resort at 2:30 p.m. by Tribu Bunabihan, Champion Bantayan Festival 2015 Tribal Dance Drama Competition,  12th Bantayan Film Festival at 8p.m.;  April 1 (Friday) Motocross at Guimbal River, 8 a.m., Musical Concert with Morisette Amon and Grae Fernandez at 8 p.m.; April 2 (Saturday) Tribal Dance Drama Competition at 2 p.m., Merry-Making in Rizal Street and Awards Night and Fireworks Competition at 9:30 p.m.; April 3 (Sunday) last day of Food Festival and Agro Fair.     
                          

The different historic periods of this town were celebrated with reverence to their religion of Christianity, following the Spanish conquest where new stone churches and watchtowers were built that had marked a religious importance in their lives today. 


Religion is an integral part of the dance-drama presentation and is performed with impressive prop, traditional dress, music and dancing providing a blanket of colourful expressions. The dance-drama performances are always a spectacle. It is colourful. It is a happy event but most performers get to be very emotional when finally entering the arena.


Bantayan Festival celebrates their faith to their patron saint and protector, Sto. Nicholas de Tolentino, local legend of their patron which described several apparitions that took place in the town and how these apparitions saved them from fierce attacks by the Muslim Pirates.


The Bantayan or watchtower along with the Guimba, a drum wrapped in animal skin and was used to warn the people of an incoming Moro raid are the cultural icons of the festival. Both are prominent in every dance-drama presentations.


Guimbal is a southern town 29 kilometers or a 35-minute drive from the city of Iloilo. It shares borders with Tigbauan on the east; on the northeast by Tubungan; Igbaras on the northwest; and west by Miagao. With a land area of 44.61 square kilometers it is politically subdivided into 33 barangays. For more information, please contact Mrs. Karen Gayanilo-Felicio at 09082865480.




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Water for the Environment for 2016 Tampisaw Festival

April 21, 2016, 1:50 am
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Barangay Taloto-an, Concepcion

Tampisaw, a Hiligaynon term “to frolic” or “playfully wade in the water” also known as Concepcion’s Festival, is a three day festivity that coincides with the annual Earth Day Celebration---celebrated in almost 192 countries across the globe, the event is to increase awareness and appreciation of our natural environment.

Barangay Taloto-an
The people of Concepcion, Iloilo appreciate the uniqueness and rich biodiversity of their town by annually celebrating Tampisaw Festival, aimed at understanding their natural environment and how they should protect everything around it. Tampisaw is also known to be the first home-grown, community based, eco-tourism festival in the region.

This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of water to all forms of life in the planet, “Tubig: Kabuhi, Dapat Tapin-an” outlines the town’s 3-day celebration from April 28-30, 2016. It opens with an Orientation on Mangrove Planting at 7 a.m. proceeding to the Launching of Coral Planting in Botlog and Bulubadiangan and the Covenant Signing in Forging Partnerships with different Partners on April 29 (Thursday) at 9 a.m., Municipal Fishing Port; 10:30 a.m. Fluvial Procession from Municipal Fishing Port to Eco Park; 1:00 p.m. Symposium on Climate Change ESWM/ DRRM; 4:00 p.m. Inter-Agency Games; 7 p.m. Talent’s Night.

Day 2 (April 29 – Friday) Coastal Clean-Up around poblacion area at 6 a.m.; 7:00 a.m. Orientation on Mangrove Planting fronting Municipal Hall; 9:00 a.m. Pinta Lawas (Body Painting) Competition at the Municipal Auditorium; 10:30 a.m. Pumpboat Race at the Municipal Fishing Port; 1:00 p.m. Festival Parade Street Dancing at the Municipal Plaza; 2 p.m.; Festival Dance Presentation at 2 p.m.; 4 p.m. Inter-Agency Games; 7 p.m. Live Band.

Day 3 (April 30 – Saturday) Coastal Clean-Up around poblacion area at 6 a.m.; 8:00 a.m. Triathlon along and El Nino Stakeholders Forum at the Municipal Session Hall; 9 a.m. Laro Ng Lahi; 10:30 Invitational Basketball Game; 1 p.m. Recycled Arts Contest; 4 p.m. Inter-Agency Games; 7 p.m. Search for Perlas Sang Tampisaw 2016.

Agho Island
 Our water resource continually teaches us about the interconnections found in our environment, and of the need for an ecology-based perspective. People have always had a special affinity towards water. Water quantity and quality concerns are basic to society's well-being, and water-related issues continue to be vitally important to every community.

The municipal government headed by their very dynamic municipal mayor, Hon. Milliard Villanueva is committed to the protection and conservation of their many valuable landscapes. The LGU had worked in partnership with other organisations to support community programs which promote conservation. Many actions are being taken to prevent pollution especially at their island beaches, with the local government tackling sources of pollution in a range of ways.

Bulubadiangan Island
Concepcion has 16 satellite islands which offer a real sense of escape to its visitors. There is something about the colors of its sea, white sands with palms perfect for slinging up a hammock.  Swimming galore and you have all the trappings of a great travel destination. The island beaches of Bulubadiangan, Agho, Bagabo, Danao, Bali-gui-an, Tambaliza, Botlog, Igbon, Bago Sipol, Mangalabang, Sombrera are its finest escapes. The reality of these islands is that development has not scarred the beachfronts.

Agho Island

Concepcion is 111.4 kilometers or at least a 2 hour and 20 minute drive north from Iloilo City. It has a land area of 9,702 hectares comprised of 25 barangays of which 16 are component islands. It annually celebrates its patronal fiesta every 8th of December in honor of Immaculada Concepcion. Market day is every Thursday. One can take the bus at the new Ceres Terminal, Barangay Balantang, Jaro Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Engr. John Rey Asturias – Municipal Tourism Officer, Concepcion at 09982168581.
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Expressing the Unique Character of Oton through Katagman Festival

April 24, 2016, 10:41 pm
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Scheduled on April 28 – May 3, 2016 with the theme, “Kasaysayan sang Maskara nga Bulawan Aton Balikan, Masanag nga Buasdamlag aton Maaguman,” visitors to the annual Katagman Festival in Oton, Iloilo can enjoy the many special activities that form part of this towns' heritage. They can shop, eat local foods, listen to music and make friends, all in the same place and at the same time. And while you can do that just about anywhere, Katagman has special events that offer their own flair.


April 28 (Thursday) Opening of Agri Fair and Garden Show at 9 a.m., Mass at 3 p.m., Parade at 4 p.m. and the Search for Hiyas Sang Katagman at 6:30 p.m.; April 29 (Friday) FITS Day and Laro ng Lahi at 8 a.m., Search for Ginoong Erpat and Ginang Ermat at 6:30 p.m.; April 30 (Saturday) Fun Run at 6 a.m., Synchronized Clean-up Day at 6 a.m., Fishing Tournament and Lampirong Diving Contest at 7 a.m. in Fishport; Awarding of Outstanding Ogtonganons and Youth Achievers 2016 and Composo Duet Contest at 7 p.m. May 1 (Sunday) On-the-spot Painting Contest at 7:30 a.m., Porma Baras/ Sinadya sa Baybay at 7 a.m., Motorboat Race at 7 a.m., Awarding of Fishing Tournament at 7:30 a.m., Lampirong Shelling and Eating Contest at 7:30 p.m.; May 2 (Monday) Fun Ride at 6 a.m., Borador sa Katagman at 7 a.m. in Barangay Trapiche; Awarding of Top Business Tax Payers a.m., Sandiya Growers Day at  1p.m., Hataw sa Katagman at 5 p.m.; May 3 (Wednesday) 444th Foundation Day Mass at 2 p.m., Street Dancing Competition at 4 p.m. and Music, Dance and Theater Competition at 6 p.m.


Oton, Iloilo has many historical and cultural sites, such as Barangay San Antonio, the Batiano River, ruins of the old church. But the major cultural attraction of the town is the annual celebration of Katagman Festival.

The cultural icon is the golden mask had been an important part of traditional animist beliefs in many ancient cultures for thousands of years. They play an important role during commemorations of rites.


The gold death mask is one of the many evidences that ancient Ilonggos already had a very rich culture including interesting burial practices before the Spaniards arrived.  In fact, the first gold death mask ever discovered in the Philippines was in Barangay Sa Antonio in Oton discovered in an excavation activity by Landa F. Jocano in 1973.

According to Jesuit Pedro Chirino in his Relaciones de las Islas Filipinas, published in Rome in 1600, the wealthy locals in the Visayas honor their departed loved ones with a golden masks where gold are pounded gold into thin sheets that would make up pieces to cover the eyes, nose, and the mouth. It is believed that when the face of the dead is covered with a gold mask, evil spirits cannot enter the body.

The custom of burying their dead with a golden mask was believed to have originated from southern China when some settled in the area when the town of Oton was once a center for trade route. The Batiano River was considered to be one of the most important Malay Ports in the Viasayas.

The gold death mask discovered was dated sometime late 14th to the early 15th century A.D The gold death mask was declared as a National Cultural Treasures and is known to be one of the 15 Most Intense Archaeological Discoveries of the Philippines.


These masks were an important part of the ancient local culture. They were used during ceremonies and each one was hand crafted. They have a special charm that comes from the significance behind the art; the significance of their way of life.

Almost all presentations in the dance-theater competition for Katagman Festival is accompanied by music, songs and masked dancers. The gold burial mask worn by performers during the dance-drama presentations is seen as part of their ceremonial costume. It is used to represent the spirits of ancestors or to control the good and evil forces in the community. Characters come to life, possessed by their spirit in the performance of the dance, and are enhanced by both the music and atmosphere of the occasion.



The festival of Katagman is one of the more established cultural celebrations in our local festival calendar. Already renowned for its strong cultural ties, Oton tends to pull out all the stops when it comes to its annual celebration. Visitors are immersed in their rich local culture. A simple -day affair is a beautiful expression of its unique character.

Katagman is the old name of Oton under the leadership of Datu Paiburong long before the Spaniards came. Oton is a first class municipality in the province of Iloilo. It is politically subdivided into 37 barangays distributed to its 8, 456 hectare land area. It is 10.2 kilometers or a 20 minute drive south from the city. The town fiesta in honor of the Immaculate Conception is annually celebrated every December 8. Market days are every Mondays and Saturdays. For more information, please contact Miss Irere Otero – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09479954730.





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Sandiya Growers and Financiers Day for Katagman Festival in Oton

April 25, 2016, 1:53 am
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The people of Oton hope you are making plans to join them on May 2, 2016 at the Municipal Grounds, 1 p.m. as the tradition of the Sandiya Festival continues in 2016 with the Sandiya Growers and Financiers Day.  


The event is part of the annual Katagman Festival beginning April 28th(Thursday) till May 3rd (Tuesday). There will be something for everyone in the vendor area and special events and entertainment throughout the day for the children in this very friendly and sweet rural town.

Come see watermelon activities that will surely provide plenty of entertainment, laughter and fun for everyone. Do not forget the old fashioned watermelon weighing, catching, eating and carving contests for all ages. Enjoy reminiscing about yesteryear in this old-fashioned special event during the festival in the heart of Oton.

Sandiya or Watermelon, also known as “pakwan” in Filipino had long been a calling card for Oton. The Festival itself dates back nine years ago by LGU Oton through its Municipal Agriculture’s Office in partnership with Oton Watermelon Grower’s Association (OWGA) and East-West Seed Company Incorporated staged a one-day festivity each year.


Watermelon is grown commercially in lowland areas after rice harvest. The fruit differ in shapes, colors and sizes and are often grouped according to these characteristics.


In Oton complementary growing season at three times a year provide the people in the area ample supply of watermelon. Thanks to East-West Seed Company that distributes high-quality watermelon seeds and continues to give farmers better seeds for better yields.


Considered to be one of the most powerful, body-healing fruits, watermelon has amazing health benefits covering everything from our brain all the way to the cells in our feet:

1.   Watermelons have lycopene that is very important for our cardiovascular 
          health and an important factor in promoting bone health.

2.   Watermelons have citrulline shown to reduce the accumulation of fat in 
          our fat cells.

    3.   Watermelons have anti-inflamatory and anti-oxidant support elements 
      through its rich iphenolic compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and 
      triterpenoids.

4.   Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but 
          does not strain our kidneys.

    5.   Watermelon is rich in potassium that helps regulate the action of nerves             and muscles in our body.

    6.   When fully riped, watermelons have an alkaline-forming and  eating lots 
      of alkaline-forming foods can help reduce your risk of developing disease 
      and illness caused by a high-acid diet.

7.   Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene when converted in 
          the body becomes vitamin A that helps produce the pigments in the retina 
          of our eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well 
          as prevents night blindness.

8.   Watermelons have very high vitamin C content.


There is something for all ages with this year’s Sandiya Growers and Financiers Day for the 2016 Katagman Festival, so come join us for a little taste of summertime fun.

Oton is a First Class municipality. Approximately 10.2 kilometers or a 25 minute drive away south from Iloilo City. The town is bordered in the east by the district of Arevalo in Iloilo City; west by the municipality of Tigbauan: north by San Miguel; and the southern portion by a stretch of shoreline of the Sulu Sea. Made up of 37 barangays, the town has a total land area of 8,456 hectares. For more information, please contact Miss Irene Otero – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09479954730 or at (033) 3351014.


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Tubong-Tubong: 15 Years of Free and Family-Friendly Festival

April 26, 2016, 11:29 pm
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Tubong-Tubong Festival in Tubungan, Iloilo began in 2002.  Now, 15 years later, this event continues to bring the town together to celebrate summer with entertainment and events. With this year’s festival theme,”Tubong Tubunganon, Kadalag-an Padayunon,” the festival of Tubong-Tubong of Tubungan will run on April 27 – May 1, 2016. The highlight is the dance drama competition scheduled on May 1 at 9 a.m. at the Municipal Open Field.


The term Tubong-Tubong is derived from the Hiligaynon word 'tubong.' In gambling or in games, it means 'to add,''to contribute' or 'to chip-in' to the original bet.

The Spanish Laws of the Indies requires a considerable number of people in order for a town to become a full-pledge independent municipality. Tubungan was an arrabal of Guimbal and was not spared from piratical attacks in the area. It had remained an arrabal of Guimbal until March 15, 1938 when former President Manuel L. Quezon issued Executive Order No.143 and proclaimed Tubungan as an independent municipality in May 1, 1938.


The highlight of presentations is the dramatization on the tragic death of the Augustinian parish priest assigned to the town, Padre Isidro Badrena. Historical accounts noted that a great number of locals were believers of non-human entities such as animals, plants, and inanimate objects that they possess a spiritual essence.


Despite heavy influence of Catholicism in the area, Tubungan, specifically in Balabago, situated 5 kilometers from the poblacion was considered a sacred place of the Babaylanes or persons known to be intermediaries between the physical world and supernatural world. A sacred well-spring is found where once in every seven years, a congregation of Babaylanes believed to be more than a thousand Babaylanes coming from the different places in the region would come together to the sacred well to perform rituals and celebrate in extravagant rites. On the 8th day of April, 1874, the Spanish priest together with Don Lucas Tamara – tubungan’s head, Don Camilo Tamonan and various local residents went to Balabago to peacefully dissuade the Babaylanes of their unholy practices. Unfortunately, Padre Badrena was killed by one of the Babaylanes. In honor of his death, a cross was erected in Balabago which has now become a historical landmark in the area.


Belonging to the First Congressional District, Tubungan is a fourth-class municipality located 41.1 kilometers or an hour away southwest from the city. It is bounded on the north by the municipality of Leon, on the south by the municipality of Guimbal, on the east by the municipality of Tigbauan and on the west by the municipality of Igbaras. The town is politically subdivided into 48 barangays distributed to its 8,518 hectare land area.


Organized by the local government of the town headed by their dynamic municipal mayor, Hon. Vicente T. Gargaritano, Jr. and supported by businesses and individuals in the community, this event brings Tubunganons together to celebrate their appreciation to their community’s history.  Come and join the fun.

To get to the town, one can take a Tubungan jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or when in the city, at the market situated at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. For more information, please contact Mrs. Marlyn Tagudar at 09152893395 or at 3960754.












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42 and Still Counting for Pavia's Carabao-Carroza Festival

May 1, 2016, 8:47 am
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Pavia, Iloilo annually celebrates their friendship with carabaos (Asian water buffalo) every May 3rd. 


Beginning in 1973, this festival has an obvious cultural significance. The people of Pavia welcome their guests and visitors to the celebration with a grand carroza parade from Barangay Ungka-I to Pavia National High School.


Eighteen barangays are well-represented, each with gaily-decorated carrozas filled with the barangay’s farm produce or main backyard industry. The barangay muse in a typical baro’t-saya serves as the carroza’s centrepiece and competes for the festivals fairest, the Festival Queen Search on the eve of the parade day. It was in May 3, 1975 that the festival had their queen, Lourdes Golez de Asis.

the first Carabao-Carroza Festival Queen, Lourdes Golez de Asis, my aunt

During the annual parade, some carabaos don creative costumes or colourfully painted all over. The event is highlighted by the friendly carabao race.


The carabao has been every farmers’ constant companion and it has taken a great role in shaping our local history. Popularly known as the national animal of the Philippines, carabaos symbolizes, strength, power, efficiency, perseverance and most of all, hard-work.  They are the alternative to a tractor or to a machine-powered plow that is why they are considered the farmer’s bestfriend.


The Agro-iIdustrial town of Pavia is located 9.6 kilometers or a 25-minute drive north of Iloilo City. The town is politically subdivided into 18 barangays and is known to be the smallest in the whole province in terms of land area. Pavia is bordered by the municipalities of Oton, San Miguel, Sta. Barbara, Leganes and Iloilo City. For more information, please contact, Mrs. Susan Jovero – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09173006041.













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Exploring Exciting San Joaquin

May 14, 2016, 6:45 am
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Offering up beautiful landscapes, unique culture, fun-filled festival and adrenaline pumping activities, it’s not a question of what to see and do in San Joaquin, rather, it is a question of knowing which sights and experiences simply cannot be missed.


The Roman Catholic Church of San Joaquin  is made of gleaming coral stone called “sillar,” shaped in rectangulars of a given dimension was constructed in 1859 and finished in 1869 is considered as the most militaristic church in the Philippines. Its unique bas relief sculpture entitled “Rendicion de Tetuan” which reveals the cavalry and infantry led by St. James, the Moor-slayer, breaking the Moorish defenses under a minaret tower against a landscape of date palms. The sculpture is so intricate that even the expression of wounded soldiers is visible. Skilled masons, famous sculptors and celebrated painters and craftsmen from Spain and Mexico were employed for the construction of the church. Father Tomas Santaren, a Spanish priest, built the church with himself as master architect, assisted by a layman engineer, Don Felipe Diaz, and with an array of skilled masons, famous sculpture, celebrated painters and craftsmen from Spain and Mexico. On February 4, 1896, Father Santaren died and was buried right under the altar of the church. In 1974, the church was declared a national shrine. In 1982, reconstruction and restoration of the church was initiated by the National Historical Committee.


The Roman Catholic Cemetery is known for its Camposanto, a grandiose hexagonal mortuary chapel elevated on a 20-step stairway flanked a stone balustrade on both sides. This coral stone walled cemetery with an iron gate is located along the highway leading to the town center.  Before you enter the cemetery and go beyond its gate intricate design, welcomes you with its catchy phrase attached to the arched iron grill above the main gate saying “What you are I was. What I am, you will be.” The two pillars supporting the decorative archway were ornately carved with flowers and tendrils showing the influence of Gothic architecture.


The town is an important ecotourism destination for a quality diving, swimming, snorkelling and aquatic study activities. Due to its array of fish varieties and species of invertebrates, plants and micro-organisms, the town has identified networks of  Marine Protected Areas places along its coasts that protect its municipal’s incredible variety of marine life and help sustain its communities. As an important maritime area, San Joaquin has a special responsibility for the conservation and management of its marine and coastal environment and its resources. In order to establish a representative network of marine protected areas, San Joaquin’s marine environment has been classified and a range of habitats and ecosystems were represented.

Of the 15 Marine Protected Areas that spans from it first Barangay nearing the border of the neighboring province of Antique, the Kulyatan Marine Sanctuary in barangay Sinogbuhan and the Bugnayan Point Marine Sanctuary and Park in the bordering Barangays of Lawigan and Igcadlum are two of the more popular and frequently visited MPAs of this town.


The scenic viewing decks of Kulyatan can be reached through bamboo bridges suspended in between huge coral rocks connecting it from the main areas. The site has a floating cottage, cottages for overnight stay, mini pavilion, refreshment huts and tourist information center. An environmental fee of P50.00 in charged upon entrance. Life vests and snorkeling gears are also for rent.  The Bugnayan Point Marine Sanctuary and Park’s most recognizable landmark is its rock formations. The rock formations are placed in such close proximity in a land area of 2,000 square meters. A few well-constructed steps will take you straight to the park. The rock formations do not only add aesthetics to the landscape but also provide excellent vantage points from which to better view the coastline.


Garinfarm is an inland resort that has all the adventure you need on agriculture, leisure and pilgrimage.  It offers extensive farm attractions open to the public. These inland resort offer unique experiences to see, feel, and taste agriculture at its source. It has a lot of activities and is great for friends and families especially the children. Enjoy gorgeous mountain views while hiking up to and down from its 480-step viewing deck at the base of its 100-feet Blazing Cross. On your way to the steps from the main base, you will see nine life-sizes religious scenes from Creation until the Ascension of Christ. Visitors can also avail of golf carts on their way to and from the viewing deck. It is situated in Purok 11, poblacion and opens daily from 8 am until 9 pm. Jeepneys from the city bring their passengers direct to the entrance of the resort


Bandi is the perfect sweet snack is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. Bandi, is a delicious candy made of peanuts with caramelized brown sugar topped with sesame seeds.  Peanuts make a classic brittle. The traditional way of making it is by heating a big saucepan then put-in sugar, water, and a little salt. Stir and bring to a boil till it caramelizes. Add the peanuts (toasted) then stir using a wooden spoon. Immediately remove the pan from the heat.  Quickly spoon out bite-size pieces onto the layers of banana leaves that serve as its tray.  Then allow to cool during which they solidify. They are crunchy, sweet, aromatic, with loads of peanuts and sinfully decadent and addictive. This popular livelihood endeavour is ideal in the provinces’ peanut producing areas. Barangay Qui-anan in is the home of Bandi, banana chips and bucayo

San Joaquin is a 2nd Class municipality and is 85 kilometers south from Iloilo City. It is the last town south of the province. It has a land area of 23,135 hectares subdivided into 85 barangays. It annually celebrates its patronal fiesta every January 3 in honour of San Joaquin. Market days are every Wednesdays and Fridays.

To get to the town, one can take a San Joaquin jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or when in the city, take any bus at the Antique Terminal in Molo or at the market situated at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. For more information, please contact Erlyn Alunan – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09176619120.



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Lagaw Ta Western Visayas for the 14th Fiestas in the City

May 20, 2016, 10:24 am
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Get ready to be entertained at this happy fiesta celebrating the charm and beauty of the Western Visayas Region. Immerse in the festive atmosphere of local culture, food and celebration in this year’s Fiestas in the City organized by the Department of Tourism Regional Office and SM City Iloilo on May 23-29, 2016 at the SM City Event Center.

a celebration of water from River Tangyan of Igbaras by Tangyan Festival, Igbaras, Iloilo

Now on its 14th year and with this year’s event theme, “Lagaw ‘Ta Western Visayas!,” Fiestas in the City opens on May 23 (Monday) Opening Program and Opening of Travel and Trade Fair with performances featuring the Claravall-Gonzalez School of Classical Ballet and Rock Opong of the Voice Kids Philippines at 3 p.m., SM City Event Center;  May 25 (Wednesday) Sandiyahan sa Oton, a watermelon fun day with lectures, watermelon carving competition and watermelon eating and freebies courtesy of East-West Seed Philippines and the Local Government of Oton  at 4 p.m., SM City Event Center.

watermelon carving for Sandiyahan sa Oton by East-West Seed Philippines

May 26 (Thursday) The Awarding of Operation Water F’All Heroes by the Department of Tourism Regional Office with the special performance of Tangyan Festival of Igbaras, Iloilo at 10:30 a.m., SM City Event Center and Cooking Demo by Ilonggo Chefs Tibong Jardeleza of Rafael’s La Cocina del Sur, Chef Miguel Cordova and Andrea Gorriceta at 3:00 p.m., SM City Event Center; May 27 (Friday) The Western Visayas Map Food Display featuring the iconic local delicacies of every provinces in Western Visayas at 3:00 p.m., SM City Event Center; May 28 (Saturday) A Grand Festival Parade from Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival of Aklan, Pontevedra Guyum-Guyuman Festival of Capiz, Manggahan Festival of Guimaras, Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City and, Bacolod MassKara Festival of Negros Occidental at 2 p.m., SM City Event Center;  May 29 (Sunday) is the celebration highlight with a parade of beauties for the 2016 Sagala of Festival Queens, 3 p.m. at the SM City Event Center.

Bandi of San Joaquin , Iloilo featured on display

From the MassKara Festival in Bacolod City to the Carabao race in Pavia, Iloilo, Western Visayas is renowned for its festivals and fiestas. But there is so much more on offer than these well-established celebrations as every single city, town and barangay in the region celebrates local festivities at some point every the year.

Our fiestas and festivals symbolises the very essence of our region. They are colourful, vibrant, usually extremely noisy but always great fun.

The nature of each fiesta and festival depends on its origin. Many lie in religious feasts, often honouring a community’s patron saint that may involve serious religious processions with marching bands. There are those that have deep historical meaning to the locals. However, almost all celebrations are accompanied by street parties, firework displays, local games, pageants and much general merrymaking. Spanish domination in the past made a major impact on our culture, cuisine and traditions of our fiestas.

The 14th Fiestas in the City is an annual Heritage Month activity celebrated every May. The celebration is also brought to you by the province of Iloilo, Aklan, Capiz, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Antique and the cities of Iloilo, Bacolod and Roxas, East_west Seed Philippines, the municipalities of Oton and Igbaras.



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Developing and Transforming Iloilo’s Backyard Industries

June 3, 2016, 8:24 am
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weaving in Barangay Indag-an, Miagao, Iloilo

Small Scale Industries may sound small but actually plays a very important part in the overall growth of an economy. Our Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises or MSME sector has emerged as a highly vibrant and dynamic sector of our local economy. It provides large employment opportunities assuring more equitable distribution of local income and wealth thereby contributing enormously to the socio-economic development of our country.

In the Ilonggo economy, where many communities are characterized by serious unemployment problem, small-scale and cottage industries are emphasized. Cottage industry is one which is carried on wholly or primarily with the help of the members of the family, while small-scale industry employs hired labour.

Our small-scale and cottage industries occupy an important place because it provides sustainable employment especially to our rural artisans and our local Government has taken a number of steps to promote them. It has been observed that various communities have gone long strides in this field.


bolo-making in Barangay Bingawan, Badiangan, Iloilo

Pagpamanday or bolo-making continues to remain a relevant symbol of the people In the remote barangay of Bingawan in Badiangan, Iloilo.  It is the town’s most popular backyard industry and several kinds of bolo along with its specific uses are produced, namely: (1) Binakuko for chopping wood; (2) Sinuwak for carpentry and cutting shrubs and smaller trees; (3) Ginunting having the same function as the Sinuwak; Pinuti for slicing meat; (4) Tangkap for kitchen use; (5) Linamay, Surot, and Balintawak are used in gardening; (6) Kayog is used to harvest rice; and (7) Wasay used to chop lumber and bigger trees. Bolos are made by hand with blades made from recycled steel. The handle is usually made from hard wood found in the area. A day is spent in producing a single bolo. The men are doing all the hard labour such as the forming of the metal, while the women are the ones doing the hasiwas or the pumping of bamboo implements inserted to the metal pipes to produce the air needed to continuously heat to the coal that is used to shape the metal.

loom-weaving in Barangay Indag-an, Miagao, Iloilo

Panghabol or weaving has been a part of the culture of Miagao, Iloilo. It is one of the most important crafts handed down from generation.  It is a livelihood program where the ancient craft of hand-weaving, along with hand-spinning, remains a popular in many barangays up to this day. The town has a small industrial sector, dominated by artisan production and small home-based businesses specifically in hand-loomed fabrics such as Patadyong, Polyabaca and Hablon. These fabrics are mostly of cotton with relatively small quantities of rayon, and polyester cotton. And these hand-made textiles have been able to compete successfully with machine made fabrics. Weaving is done using two sets of threads interlaced; the warp which is run lengthways, and the weft that runs across one end to the other. The fabric is woven on a wooden loom, a device that holds the warp threads in place while filling threads are woven through them.

nito weaving in Sitio Ngpana, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo

Nito-weaving in Sitio Nagpana, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo is a popular backyard industry where viitors to the area can gain a better understanding and appreciation of its Aboriginal culture. Nito is a type of vine that grows clinging on trees and rocks. To use the vine, it must be gathered and then expose to sunlight to dry. As an art material, it does not need to be treated by soaking, scraping or hacking processes to enhance its natural beauty and color. The elements are mostly flat flexible strips popular for in matting. The weavers of Nagpana uses nito to produce beautiful baskets, hats, bags, coin purses, coasters, placemats, bracelets and even rings. Nito weaving is this community’s primary means of increasing their income. In fact, they organized themselves as The Nagpana Nito Weavers Group that was established in 2005.

shell-craft making in Barangay Cagbang, Oton, Iloilo

Barangay Cagbang in Oton, Iloilo is a center for the producing quality shell craft products that will make that perfect holiday souvenir. Visitors can choose from a wide range of hand-crafted shell fashion accessories, curtains, jewelry boxes, lamp shades, candle holder, picture frames, table decors and many other items all handcrafted and made of natural shell component and materials. Oton’s shell-craft industry has metamorphosed into one of Iloilo’s top pasalubong items. 

traditional pottery in Barangays Jibao-an and Pandac in Pavia, Iloilo

Pik – Pik Koron, the century-old style of pottery is still being practised in Barangays Pandac and Jibao-an in Pavia, Iloilo.  Pottery makers made pots or coron, firewood-fired stoves or sig-ang, drinking jars or banga and water containers or tadyaw using the open pit firing method. The soil sub-stratum in the barangays mentioned is best suited for pottery-making thus, pottery-making became the livelihood of many in the area.

Small Scale Industries act as an essential medium for the efficient utilization of such skills as well as resources available locally. These small scale Industries have helped the various sections of the Ilonggo society especially our local artisans to hone their skills to continue the tradition. Though the art of making these local products has changed over the years, and the process has been modernized in some ways, things have remained constant down the generations: the passion of local artisans showing for their craft and the hard work they commit to it.









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Sara Celebrates San Juan with Masskara sa Sulay-Basya Festival

June 13, 2016, 10:08 pm
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People who go to the town of Sara, Iloilo on June 24 cannot stay dry as the whole community of devotees perform their annual rites by dousing one another with water or sprinkle water on guests to honour their Patron Saint, John the Baptist.

The Sulay-Basya Festival now on its 14th year highlights the annual rites with series of special events from June 19-24, 2016.


With the theme, “Pagpasag-uli, Pagpanibag-o, Pagkinasadya: Arangka Sara!,” the celebration opens on June 19 (Sunday) Opening of Food Festival with Live Band in the evening;  June 20 (Monday) Parade at 7 a.m. and Opening Program , the Sulay Basya Got Talent sponsored by NIPSCV-VSC is at the evening; June 21 (Tuesday) Pintados de Walkaton at 5:30 a.m., Laro Ng Lahi at 9:30 a.m., Boodle Fight at noontime, Basketball Championship Game, Mass Dance Competition at 3 p.m., Showcase of Talents with guest DJ courtesy of Globe Telecom in the evening; June 22 (Wednesday) Hashtag Luke and Showtime Dancers with MKF Production Artists in the evening; June 23 (Thursday) Taebo in the morning, Talent Showdown with Search for Little Miss DepEd in the evening; June 24 (Friday) Tribe Competition at 9 a.m. followed by the Basyahanay Parade, Coronation Night in the evening with Guest Artist.


Both coined from Hiligaynon words, “Sulay” is a term for “to get wet” and “Basya” is “to douse with water,” the festival, celebrated as Masskara sa Sulay Basya features performing groups in masks.

Masks are the order of the day at the tribal dance competition as brightly-costumed performers dance to the samba beat, considered as the dance of celebration and joy with lively and rhythmical movements. The dancer’s painted masks and elaborate costumes, all vying for prizes in judging that will be held in the morning.


Our local custom is the most appropriate way of the feast day of St. John the Baptist, the precursor who prepared people for the coming of Jesus Christ. St. John baptized the people with water. To remind one of one's baptism, people in the community use a tabo or water dipper, others have water guns to douse everyone with water. By allowing oneself to get wet, devotees hope to receive blessings and the community have bountiful harvest in their farming.


Celebrate Sara’s culture at Masskara sa Sulay Basya led by the rhythmic beat of Samba. Guests are guaranteed to see a dazzling array of beautiful samba dances, surely making the festival a one- of- a-kind festival in Iloilo.


The municipality of Sara is a 2nd-class municipality belonging to the 5th Congressional District of the province of Iloilo. It is 97 kilometers northeast from the city and is politically subdivided into 42 barangays. Its land area measures 18, 300 hectares and is bounded on the north by the province of Capiz, on the east by the towns of San Dionisio and Concepcion, on the south by Ajuy, and on the west by Lemery. It annually celebrates its patronal Fiesta every 24th of June in honor of San Juan de Bautista. Market day is every Mondays and Saturdays.

























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Pandayan sa Badiangan

June 14, 2016, 12:55 am
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One of the major festivals of Iloilo, Pandayan of Badiangan, the like of which is one-of-a-kind seen in the province of Iloilo will take place on June 17-24, 2016.

The event annually showcases and celebrates the best of Blacksmithing in Badiangan, the tribes who participate in this ancient but essential craft, its historic roots and its relevance and place in today’s society. Open to the public, this important event include demonstrations on how bolo is made. It also features other important backyard industries of the town such as weaving and taho-making.



The festival is a meeting place for professionals as well as the general public where people of all ages and all walks of life have a good time. Music, dancing and dining are part of the event starting on June 17 (Friday) Opening Salvo with a parade and presentation of muses in the morning and Pasidungog, an evening with Talalupangdon nga mga Badianganons; June 18 (Saturday) Farmers Day and in the evening the Honoring Retired Teachers; June 19 (Sunday) Sinadya sang Banwa and LIGA Night; June 20 (Monday) MSWDO Day and Night; June 21 (Tuesday) Tribal Dance Competition of Pandayan Festival at 9 a.m. and Search for Bb. Pandayan in the evening; June 22 (Wednesday) Oath Taking Ceremony of Newly Elected Municipal Officials and Cooperative Day in the morning and MAC and PNP Badiangan Night in the evening; June 23 (Thursday) High School Day and Night; June 24 (Friday) Mass and Procession in the morning, Sports League Championship and Coronation Night in the evening.




Badiangan, Iloilo has long been known for its taho or ginger ale, hablon and patadyong, banana chips and bolos.

A major Badiangan backyard industry is bolo making. A number of Bingawanons are engaged as blacksmiths or “panday” and have experts of the trade using manual and improvised equipment. The Barangay of Bingawan in Badiangan is the most popular source of fine crafted bolos in Iloilo. Men and women are in the barangay are becoming active in the manual production of bolos. And this backyard industry is fast gaining a lucrative reputation among its people.



The most important bolo type manufactured by the Badiangan blacksmiths are (1) Binakuko for chopping wood; (2) Sinuwak for carpentry and cutting shrubs and smaller trees; (3) Ginunting having the same function as the Sinuwak; Pinuti for slicing meat; (4) Tangkap for kitchen use; (5) Linamay, Surot, and Balintawak are used in gardening; (6) Kayog is used to harvest rice; and (7) Wasay used to chop lumber and bigger trees. Bolos are made by hand with blades made from recycled steel.



Belonging to the 3rd Congressional District of the province of Iloilo, Badiangan is a Fourth Class Municipality subdivided into 31 barangays spreading over an area of 7,750 hectares. It is located in the northwest central portion of Iloilo Province, 39 kilometers away from the city or an hour land trip. The town borders on the north by the municipality of Dueñas; on the northwest by the municipality of Lambunao; the municipality of Pototan on the east; on the southwest by municipality of Janiuay; and the municipality of Mina on the southeast.



Visitors can take the jeepney at the terminal Fronting Christ the King Memorial Park. For more information, please contact Miss Fe Martinez – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09182809023.












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Leganes Celebrates Fun Coastal Races Through Biray Paraw

June 15, 2016, 9:54 am
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Now on its 10th year, Biray Paraw festival in Leganes, Iloilo continues to offer lots of fun activities for everyone. Throughout its 5-day activity from June 22-26, 2016, the whole family will spend time having fun around its coastal. These days will be all about enjoying as we bid goodbye to summer and making lifelong friendships.

June 22 (Wednesday) Grand Launching and Seaside Party at Sea Garden Resort, 5 p.m.; June 23 (Thursday) Tourism Orientation Caravan; June 24 (Friday) Motorboat Race and Beach Volleyball at 9 a.m., Rianne’s Beach Resort; June 25 (Saturday) Eco Walk and Coastal Clean-up at 7 a.m., Sina-ot sa Hunasan, Palumba Paraw, Biray-Biray, Becah Volleyball and Fun Games at 9 a.m.; June 26 (Sunday) Biray-Biray sa Jaen’s and Rianne’s Beach Resort and Closing Program at Sea Garden Resort.



Sailing is one of the traditional and fastest growing recreational activities of the Ilonggos. It allows one to become part of the action rather than solely a spectator. Everyone has the opportunity to take part. The annual Biray Paraw festival provides a sailing environment for the benefit of community and visitors. The festival is to satisfy their social and recreational needs while fostering a spirit of camaraderie.

Leganes has a strong agenda for sailing. Sailors from this town had been winning the annual Iloilo Paraw Regatta race and with an annual festivity program anchored on it.



A paraw is a double outrigger sailboat traditional to the Visayas region. Visitors to the festival will experience biray-biray  (recreational sailing) where the riggers will take everyone for a ride.

Biray-biray offers the perfect platform for enthusiast to create a level playing field, allowing one to display competitive qualities. Amateurs can test their skills and experience the atmosphere and the excitement it gives.
  


The peaceful town Leganes is only about 11 kilometers from Iloilo City and about 13 kilometers from the Iloilo Airport via the provincial access road and can be reached from the city via the National Highway to the North or the Coastal Highway leading to the town of Dumangas. The town is one of the 19 coastal towns of the province. Being the only coastal municipality that shares a common border with the city, it is adjacent to Pavia in the southeast; west by Sta. Barbara; and in the North by Zarraga.

To get there, one can take a jeepney at Jaro Plaza, Iloilo City. For more information, please call the Municipal Tourism Officer of Leganes, Jerry Anas at (033) 3296622 or at 09166030635.










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Sustaining Hand-loom Weaving in Iloilo

July 6, 2016, 4:47 am
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weaver in Barangay Cagbang, Oton, Iloilo

In the small weaving barangays of Miagao, Igbaras, Oton, Badiangan and Duenas in Iloilo, there are plenty of awe-inspiring histories of loom-weaving that is so important to preserve and help pass on this knowledge of the skill.

weaver in Barangay Sta. Barbara, Igbaras, Iloilo
Weaving is a tedious process that requires a great deal of concentration from the weaver. It is very labour intensive craft that starts with careful planning of colour matching, warping, beaming, hedding, reeding, tie-in, spooling then the weaving process.  Our weavers have learnt their weaving skills from their more experienced elders.

There is a scarcity of weavers today.  Most young women, whose predecessors had hand-weave for a living, are no longer interested in weaving as it is thought to be time-consuming and boring. Some have stopped because they moved to other places hoping to land a better job.

weaver in Barangay Cabayugan, Badiangan, Iloilo

The art of hand-weaving may one day diminish if our younger generation is no longer interested in it. It is crucial to find ways of educating especially the younger generation and to innovate the process of weaving from traditional patterns and colours to contemporary ones so that more interesting products can be produced to cater for today’s market.

weaver in Barangay Indag-an, Miagao, Iloilo

In order to address and solve the issues and challenges faced by the current local weaving industry, it is important to think of various approaches to value-add and innovate our local fabrics to broaden its usage to cater for today’s local and international market demand. In view of these problems, the Provincial Tourism Office with SM City Iloilo has chosen to direct its efforts on hand-loom weaving as its local heritage to preserve and promote aside from improve the livelihood of local weavers through an annual project, the Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair. 

weaver in Barangay Indag-an, Miagao, Iloilo

The event decided to focus on producing contemporary hand-woven textiles to cater for a broader market. Unlike the old days where hand-loomed fabrics were considered prized possessions and were only worn by the elite and their families. Today, it is mostly worn as evening pieces for festive occasions and formal functions. Our local fabrics the Patadyong, Hablon and Polyabaca have been transformed into apparel, fashion accessories such as handbags as well as home products such as place mats, cushions, table runners and gift items such as shawls.

daily selling of hand-loomed fabrics from weaving communities in Iloilo
Organized in 2008, the Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair is aimed at giving a voice to the traditional, hand-loomed fabrics of Iloilo. The annual event has given our women weavers the opportunity to show their strength, talent and pride in ways they never thought possible. The event started working with women artisans from the weaving towns of Miagao, Oton, Badiangan, Duenas and Igbaras who hand-make beautiful textiles and allows them to take their wares to the mall so they can be sold sustainably.

hablon, patadyong, polyabaca textiles are sold daily during the event

Sustainability is our primary objective.  Since 2008, the event had supported the local weaving communities in Iloilo. Wooden looms and threads had been handed out to beneficiaries to help them develop more economic opportunities, specifically for women who are entirely dependent on their partners’ income.

shawls, bags, etc. made from handwoven textiles on sale

The Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair believes in the importance of preserving and promoting our local culture and heritage through improving the livelihoods of artisans, raising awareness on Ilonggo heritage and its artisans, making heritage relevant and contemporary through design and innovation, and developing new markets via new ways of branding and marketing Ilonggo heritage products.

wooden loom with daily weaving demonstration on display

The Provincial Tourism Office and SM City Iloilo with the municipalities of Miagao, Oton, Badiangan, Duenas and Igbaras, ISAT University, DTI and the Daily Guardian will celebrate the 9th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair on August 3-7, 2016 at the event center of SM City Iloilo.

The annual Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair ensures that this tradition will continue to be practiced for generations to come. For more information, please contact the Provincial Tourism Office at (033) 3384910.






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9th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair

July 7, 2016, 10:36 pm
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curtain call for the man of the hour, designer Sidney Eculla, photo by Al Destacamento


The Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair (IFFF) a trade fair, demonstration and fashion show will once again bring its wonderful designs to the catwalk at the event center of SM City Iloilo on August 3-7, 2016.

hablon gown by JM Escullar
The annual event established in 2008 had brought together some of the best clothing designers in Iloilo, Aklan and Bacolod to create unique and one-of-a-kind clothing made from local hand-woven fabrics. This year’s show will do the same, with more designs, colours, and catwalk struts than ever before.

The daily fashion show will showcase contemporary collections from talented local fashion designers and will feature diversity in terms of designs and inspiration. It is also their way of sharing their creativity, innovation, and expertise in using our local hand-loomed textiles.

August 3 (Wednesday) at 5 p.m. will feature LGU-DUENAS with HABOL DUENASANON and at 6 p.m. DARYL AMAR for HABLON MODA; August 4 (Thursday) at 5 p.m. will showcase LGU-OTON on Spotlight and 6 p.m. will feature MARGRET ESTELLE BLAS for ANYAG; August 5 (Friday) at 5 p.m. will make way for the graduating students of the Fashion Design and Merchandising Department of ISAT University featuring JEFFY TICAO, JO NINO DAMASCO, ELON DELGADO, JOHN EDWARD SALES, JOHN ASDOLO, MELVIN ARANGA and JOHN LARLAR and 6 p.m. will feature LEXTER BADANA for PRECIOSA; 

hablon top by Francis Ian Chua
August 6 (Saturday) at 5 p.m. will spotlight LGU-MIAGAO on Centerstage and 6 p.m. will have International Lifestyle Designer PJ ARANADOR for PATADYONG ACCESORIOS; August 7 (Sunday) at 5 p.m. will present the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc.on the Ramp and 6 p.m. will be highlighted by the Iloilo Fashion Designers Council  featuring JOHN MONTINOLA, IAN JORDA, HELLO HELLO, JUN-G CANDELARIO, PAUL CONTE, LEXTER BADANA, BINKY PITOGO and AUDREY ROSE ALBASON.

The runway presentations will showcase the different handloom textiles such as Hablon, Patadyong and Polyabaca from weaving towns of Miagao, Oton, Badiangan and Duenas.

hablon top by Ram Silva
Ilonggos have woven fabric using pineapple, banana and maguey for centuries. Using simple spindles and looms they create a unique and colourful fabrics and clothing. Weaving was a family tradition and activity, the women, mothers and daughters do the knotting and designing, while the men, husbands and sons harvest and strip the fibers, and knot when they have free time.

The annual Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair celebrates the humanity of the handmade and empowers local communities by giving them the opportunity to showcase their art and earn from their art.
The annual Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair is organized the Provincial Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government and SM City Iloilo in partnership with LGU-Miagao, LGU-Oton, LGU-Duenas, LGU-Badiangan, Tinukib, DTI and the Daily Guardian.



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Weaving Iloilo for the Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair

July 14, 2016, 3:33 am
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Loom weaving is popular home-based tradition in the rural area in the Philippines, especially in the Visayas. It has graduated into a firm level production in some parts of the island. The provinces of Aklan, Antique and Iloilo were known for it.

History would tell us that even before Iloilo became known as the “Textile Capital of the Philippines” in the 18th century, women had been weaving using materials that were bartered with the Chinese. It was said that the Chinese had traded amicably along the Philippine coasts for several centuries before the coming of the Spaniards. Popular products bartered by the locals were pearls, shells, medicinal nuts in exchange for porcelain, fine crystals, glass beads, silk threads and iron needles.

Our local weavers had been providing the world with world-class hand-woven textiles such as Pina (pineapple fiber), Sinamay (pineapple and silk fibers) and Jusi (Banana fiber). In fact, Iloilo had been ranked as the top producer of hand-loomed textiles of the country and hand-loomed textiles had been the top export in the 18th century. Looms were said to have scattered by the thousands in the towns of Miagao, Tigbauan, Sta. Barbara and Janiuay.

Weaving these textiles is a slow and tedious process mostly done by hand. It starts with harvesting crops where the fiber to be used for weaving will be stripped, knotted and tied. For coloring, natural dyeing method is applied using leaves, barks and roots from trees. Months are consumed before producing the fabric.

Our loom-weaving industry had failed to pick up in the 1980’s with the introduction machine=woven textiles that were less labor-intensive. And because of that, the numbers of weavers declined. Many opted for better opportunities outside of their communities, and the younger generation lack interest to the trade.

However, effort had made to revive the interests in loom-weaving. The Department of Trade and Industry with the town of Miagao advocated for the craft not only for domestic consumption but as an important household entrepreneurial activity, particularly in the barangays of Indag-an and Valencia where a cooperative and several groups of women had been engaged in weaving for quite sometime now.

Presently, the towns of Miagao, Badiangan, Oton, Igbaras and Duenas in Iloilo considered its loom-weaving industry as a major contributor to their economy and had become a major provider of family income.

Hablon is a Hiligaynon word for habol or the weaving process itself. But it is now popularly identified as a textile. In the past, abaca fibers were popularly used as materials in weaving Hablon and Patadyong. But due to the decline in the supply of its natural fiber along with its long production time, Hablon is woven using polyester thread, a much cheaper and readily available thread with a small percentage of cotton fiber. It takes approximately 4-5 meters of patadyong or hablon fabrics a day to finish.

Patadyong and Hablon are popular Ilonggo fabrics. Both also boast of a rich, ancient craft. As a textile used in garments, people wear it with pride and dignity. Surely, one is wearing a legacy. How it has become Iloilo’s pride and how it evolved from the simple wrap around dress or as table runners to an elaborate handicraft that it is now is what had been annually featured during the Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair help every August at the Event Center of SM City Iloilo.


Among the key players of this annual event is the Provincial Tourism Office of Iloilo along with the Regional Office of the Department of Tourism and the Department of Trade and Industry which had been donating wooden looms and threads to weaving communities.



The Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair (IFFF) a trade fair, demonstration and fashion show in one will be celebrating its 9th year on August 3-7, 2016. August 3 (Wednesday) at 5 p.m. will feature LGU-DUENAS with HABOL DUENASANON and 6 p.m. will have DARYL AMAR for HABLON MODA; August 4 (Thursday) at 5 p.m. will showcase LGU-OTON on Spotlight and 6 p.m. will feature MARGRET ESTELLE BLAS for ANYAG; August 5 (Friday) at 5 p.m. will make way for the graduating students of the Fashion Design and Merchandising Department of ISAT University featuring JEFFY TICAO, JO NINO DAMASCO, ELON DELGADO, JOHN EDWARD SALES, JOHN ASDOLO, MELVIN ARANGA, MARIA ERICKA CELIZ, CLOE ANN SERUE and JOHN LARLAR and 6 p.m. will feature LEXTER BADANA for PRECIOSA; August 6 (Saturday) at 5 p.m. will spotlight LGU-MIAGAO on Centerstage and 6 p.m. will have International Lifestyle Designer PJ ARANADOR for PATADYONG ACCESORIOS; August 7 (Sunday) at 5 p.m. will present the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. on the Ramp and 6 p.m. will be highlighted by the ILOILO FASHION DESIGNERS COUNCIL featuring JOHN MONTINOLA, IAN JORDA, HELLO HELLO, JUN-G CANDELARIO, PAUL CONTE, LEXTER BADANA, BINKY PITOGO and AUDREY ROSE ALBASON.



The event is organized the Provincial Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government and SM City Iloilo in partnership with the Department or Trade and Industry, the Department of Tourism Regional Office, LGU-Miagao, LGU-Oton, LGU-Duenas, LGU-Badiangan, Tinukib and the Daily Guardian.






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Balasan’s Savory Lechon Festival Turns 8

July 17, 2016, 7:16 pm
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Balasan, Iloilo will celebrate its 8th Lechon Festival on July 22, 2016 as an opening salvo for their annual Religious and Municipal Fiesta. The festival is considered to be one of the provinces’ ultimate fiesta experiences that one should not miss.



Early in the morning, the atmosphere in the poblacion streets are already filled with delight as passers-by can smell the tangy aroma from the suckling pig being roasted.  They line one after the other as its bright orange dip sauce with a sweet and sour taste is applied regularly. 



When Balasanons want a really special treat for their festival they go for the fun and exciting Boodle Fight during lunch. The entire community with their guests and visitors look forward to the annual Boodle fight, a military style of eating where long tables are prepared and arranged outside the poblacion street where the centrepiece, the lechon is placed on top of the banana leaves bordered with rice and ready to eat using your bare hands, jugs of water are prepared on the side to wash hands before the "eating combat" which symbolizes camaraderie, brotherhood and equality. The municipal mayor then signals to start the boodle fight as everyone aims for his or her position.



For the people of Balasan, roasting a suckling pig is more than just cooking a meal, it is an event. Stuffed with a combination of lemongrass, garlic, onions, tamarind leaves and local herbs, it is roasted over open low hot fire over a charcoal for hours. Balasan’s lechon is best known for its tasty, tender meat and crispy skin, probably among the best and most delicious in the entire province



Considered to be our national dish, roasted suckling pig popularly known as lechon is of Spanish origin.  And for former colonies of Spain it is a celebratory dish, a star in the table prepared especially on important occasions such as grand family events, birthdays and fiestas.



In the province of Iloilo, Balasan’s lechon is hailed as the best. That is why its Lechon Festival has grown to be an annual homecoming and celebration of what has made the Balasan bountiful. It had become not only an annual attraction, but a place where friends can gather for safe and fun visiting.

Balasan is a fourth class municipality in the province of Iloilo situated 134 kilometers north-east from City. It is politically subdivided into 23 barangays over a land area of 4,100 hectares. To get there is a two-hour and a half bus from the new Ceres Terminal in Barangay Lawa-an, Jaro, Iloilo City.


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