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San Enrique, Iloilo welcomes everyone to the 2019 Kalamay Festival from July 8 – 14, 2019. With its annual festival theme of “One Vision, One Tradition, One Celebration,” this year’s festival marks four years of celebrating sugar. The entire community of San Enrique headed by their very dynamic Municipal Mayor, Hon. Rosario Mediatrix P. Fernandez extends their heartfelt invitation to everyone to join them in this fun-filled eight-day event honoring their town’s prestigious sugar cane industry.

Kalamay Festival was created to honor the sugar cane producers and processors in recognition of the benefits of the sugar industry and how it affects San Enrique and its contributions of the sugar industry in the entire province.

Sugarcane is one important commercial crop of the province. Many farmers especially in central Iloilo grow and depend on sugarcane for their livelihood. And an equal number of agricultural laborers earn their living by working in sugarcane farms.

The sugar factory in San Enrique and nearby Passi City supports huge economic activities in the area. In addition to improving the economic condition of the farmers and agricultural laborers engaged in sugarcane farming, it also supports several others like transport operators, agro-service agencies, input dealers, petty businessmen and financial institutions. Most of the factory workers are drawn from the surrounding areas. The sugar factories generate rural employment. Although some farmers in the area have moved away from sugarcane farming due to increased opportunities in non-farm activities and also partly due to younger generations moving out of agriculture. Many farmers have moved to growing rice and other crops to meet the food security needs of their family.

Festival Head Jose J. Patubo, PhD. – Head, Municipal Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office works tirelessly for the festival is commended for his efforts in putting together another a great festival year after year, day in and day out, full of exciting events and displays that contribute to the Kalamay Festival being one of the provinces’ unique harvest festivals. With his love for his beloved town, loyalty to the festival and experience in the industry are the reason we can truly say, it’s the sweetest time of the year for San Enrique.

The sounds of live musical performances and the sweet smells of sugar cuisine cooked served up by food vendors fill up the municipal plaza. The festival typically draws to a close on a Sunday with the much-anticipated, highly energetic tribal dance-drama presentations on July 14, a Sunday at 9 a.m.

Held in the town proper, the festival celebrates the cane growers, mill operators and others in the industry with daily schedule of family-friendly activities starting July 7 (Sunday) Lin-ay sang Kalamay Community immersion with the Indigenous People of Barangays Lip-ac and Dacal at 8 a.m.; July 8 (Monday) a Night of Music and Laughter at 7 p.m.; July 9 (Tuesday) Medical-Dental Mission at 8 a.m., Search for Mr. and Miss PWD 2019 at 1 p.m., Search for Modelong Ama at 5 p.m., and Sequencer Band at 8 p.m.; July 10 (Wednesday) Lin-ay sang Kalamay Pre-Pageant at 7 p.m.; July 11 (Thursday) Laro ng Lahi at 7 a.m. and Motorshow at 6 p.m.; July 12 (Friday) Pasalamat (Thanksgiving Mass) at 6:30 a.m., Paghiliusa (Civic Parade) at 7:30 a.m., Handumanan (a Commemorative Program), Panguma (Agro-Trade Fair) at 9:30 a.m., Pag-Ulikid (Quiz Bee on Local History) at 10:30 a.m., Paindis-indis sang Kinaadman (Literary Musical Contest) featuring Binalaybay, Vocal Solo (Ilonggo Folk Song), Pamulong Pulong, Vocal Solo OPM, and Pasidungog (a Night with San Enrique’s Natatanging Pamilya) at 8 p.m.

July 13 (Saturday) Procession at 7 a.m., Thanksgiving Mass (Fiesta de San Enrique) at 8 a.m., Kulinarya (Cooking Contest Using Sugar as Primary Ingredient) with Categories A-Main Dish, B-Fruit Jam and C-Kakanin at 9 a.m., Search for Lin-ay Sang Kalamay at 8p.m.; July 14 (Sunday) Padayaw (Dance-Drama Competition) at 9 a.m., Ist Kalamay Photo Contest, Battle of Mini Sounds at 1 p.m., Kinalipay (Awarding Ceremony) at 7 p.m., Bangis ng Kalye at 8 p.m.

Sugarcane is mainly an industrial crop as the cane is supplied to sugar industries, where various products, from its juice are prepared by using a series of industry. Its products like sugar and fermented products are very important in making and preserving various kind of medicines like syrups, liquids, capsules, etc. Sugarcane provides a juice, which is used for making white sugar, and jaggery (gur) and many by-products like bagasse - used as a fuel, for production of fiber board, papers, plastics and furfural and molasses; and molasses - used in distilleries for the manufacture of ethyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, citric acid etc.

San Enrique in agriculturally rich central Iloilo is 54 kilometers or an hour and thirty-minute drive north central from Iloilo City via the Passi City route. Comprised of 28 barangays, it is bounded in the north by Passi City; in the south by Dingle; the east by Banate and Barotac Viejo and; west by Duenas. For more information, please contact Dr. Jose Patubo, PhD. – Head, Municipal Culture, History, Arts and Tourism Office at (033) 3232300 or email at patubojojo@gmail.com.

Balasan, Iloilo will highlight its culture and gastronomy with the celebration of the annual Lechon Festival with scheduled events from July 5-26, 2019. The event serves as a platform to showcase Balasan lechon as well as generate increase awareness of its lechon makers.

Lechon is a major delicacy of Balasan and has become a symbol of the town’s tradition to serve lechon during celebrations.

The festival, now on its 11^th year highlights the simultaneous roasting of the pigs where visitors can immerse themselves through the entire preparation process of this home-grown favorite and see how it is made from seasoning to roasting at the coal pit on the main street of the town scheduled this year on July 22, a Monday at 8 a.m. followed with a boodle fight and thanksgiving at noontime. Visitors and guests will surely not resist the savory aroma, perfectly crispy skin, and the flavorful tender meat of Balasan’s lechon.

In Filipino food culture, lechon is one of the most popular dishes always present in every grand feast of every household, commonly served during special occasions such as birthdays, fiesta, anniversaries, holidays, and other big celebrations.For lechon leftovers, one of the easiest ways on what to do with it is to add lechon sauce and you will have Lechon Paksiw in an instant or simply deep fry them or using chunks of lechon leftovers in your sinigang soup served in a terracotta pot.

The festival starts on July 5 (Friday) Opening Salvo with Colorful Fun Run and Unity Walk at 5 a.m., Agro-Industrial Fair, Invitational Pigeon Race, Pamukaw kag Hirinugyaw at 7 p.m., Opening Salvo with Represent Band and the Official Launching of Lin-ay sang Balasan 2019 candidates at 8 p.m.; July 13 (Saturday) People’s Day Opening at 8 a.m. with Blood Letting Program, Job’s Fair, LGU Free Services, Advocacies and Activities, Live Band and Stand-up Comedian Atak Arana and Bugoy Carino; July 14 (Sunday) Balasan Got Talent Season 8 Elimination Round at 3 p.m.; July 19 (Friday) Pre-pageant Night of Lin-ay sang Balasan 2019 at 7 p.m.; July 20 (Saturday) Motorshow.

July 21 (Sunday) Opening Parade at 1 p.m., Presentation of the Fiesta Queen 2019 and DXC Exhibition; July 22 (Monday) 11^th Lechon Festival at 8 a.m., Boodle Fight at 12 noon, Basketball Exhibition at 3 p.m., Barangay Night at 7 p.m.; July 23 (Tuesday) 12^th Cara-Gwapa Festival with Cara: Flora Filipina at 7 a.m., LGU Night at 5 p.m. and Foam Party with Live Band at 9 p.m.; July 24 (Wednesday) Balasan Got Talent 2019 Season 8 at 1 p.m. and LGPC Alumni Homecoming at 7 p.m.; July 25 (Thursday) Laro ng Lahi and Lin-ay sang Balasan 2019 Grand Coronation Night at 7 p.m.; July 26 (Friday) SK Street Dancing at 10 a.m. and Coronation Night at 7 p.m.

Balasan is a Fourth-Class municipality situated in the northeastern portion of the province. It is 128 kilometers away or almost a three-hour drive north from Iloilo City and isbordered in the north by Carles; in the south by the town of Batad; in the east by Estancia; and in the west by the town of Pilar in the province of Capiz. It has a total land area of 4,100 hectares that is politically subdivided into 23 barangays.

Balasan is populated by 33, 088 (2015 Census on Population) Balasanhons. Market day is every Thursdays and Sundays. It annually celebrates its Religious Festival every 26^th of June in honor of Sta. Ana.

To get to Balasan, one can take the bus at the New Ceres Terminal in Barangay Camalig in Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Mr. Cecil Crisme – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09177753522.

For many who visit southern Iloilo, it is its amazing historic attractions that intrigues them. And if you are dreaming of visiting one of those picture-perfect towns filled with old-world charm, serene scenic beauty, or perhaps both, the town of Miagao is everything in between. Explore the entire historic circuit around and do not forget to bring your camera as the different attractions around each bend all make for excellent photo opportunities.

Miagao, a town 40.5 kilometers away or an hour and fifteen-minute ride from Iloilo Cityis full of historical sites. This coastal town, once a subject of frequent Muslim raid in the 17^th century has a sprawling bed of ruins that included remains of the earliest watchtowers and bridges. But since there are so many, how do you know which are the more popular and are worth your visit?

If you want to see many of the town’s historical structures, start at Taytay Boni in Barangay Guibongan, a kilometer away from the town proper. The small narrow bridge, now in ruins, is made of yellow coral stone blocks each measuring 12 inches long, six inches wide and three inches thick. It was constructed in 1854 connecting the town to its neighboring barangays. Measuring approximately 43.81 meters long and 6.71 meters wide with walls six meters high and a meter thick, it was named after Boni Neular, the construction foreman and major carpenter. It was still used after World War II but was damaged in the 1948 Lady Kaykay earthquake that resulted to the destruction of its middle part and the crumbling of its walls.

When you get to the town proper, a must-see is the magnificent St. Thomas of Villanova Parish Church. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage Church in the entire Visayas and Mindanao. Already the third structure, the first two structures were a chapel built in 1741 in Sitio Ubos beside Tumagbok River and another built in 1747 were both burned by the Muslim pirates, the latter during a battle in Miagao. Thirty years later, in 1786, the present church was constructed and finished in 1797 in Tacas.Made of huge stone blocks quarried in Sitio Tubog in San Joaquin and in the mountains of Igbaras, it boasts of its native façade, a unique explosion of botanical motif with coconut, banana, papaya and a guava tree. Its centerpiece is San Cristobal in rolled pants carrying the child Jesus. Below it is a niche where the statue of St. Thomas of Villanova stands. The church was strong that it withstood the earthquake in December of 1855 and the powerful “Lady Kaykay” in 1948.In February 16, 1963 a historical marker by the National Historical Institute was placed on the church and was declared a National Shrine through Presidential Decree No. 260, dated August 1, 1973. In 1993 it was included in the World Heritage List.

Baybay Norte, located 4.3 kilometer from the town hall is known for its ruined Spanish fortress converted into a Barangay Multi-Purpose Hall in 1994. The KOTA, made of coral rocks and limestone was believed to have been constructed in 1760 on a higher ground away from the coastline. The site served as the town’s first line of defense against Muslim pirates. It was in May of 1754 when Moros, riding 21 caracoas (pirate fleets) raided the area.

Another point of historical interest in the area is the ruins of a capilla of the Roman Catholic Cemetery made of limestone and red bricks.

A few meters outside the town center is Barangay Bulho where the beautiful Sulu Garden is located. It is a famous attraction where Fine cuisine, Arts, Crafts and Sciences blend perfectly to its scenic garden of Philippine and Japanese landscapes. It is the best place in Miagao to experience dining with venues for art shows and games, offering unique enjoyment like fish ponds, fish foot spa, the must-see miniature architectures, aquaponics, butterfly breeding, collection of paintings, vintage handcrafted chess board, model boats, and bamboo crafts.Sitting hidden on a creek in the shadow of trees is another historic structure known as the Britanico Bridgethat still has a haunting Spanish flavor and a mystical feeling. The roman-arched stone bridgewas believed to have been built in 1873.

Five kilometers west from the town is Barangay Damilisan is a farm lot where the ruined Baluarte, BALUARTE DE DAMILISAN, the site of a strong piratical raid took place in the late 17^th century.

Miagao, with its rich and colorful history is one of the best places to base your heritage tour. This picturesque, storybook town with such tranquil surroundings is a particularly charming place to visit. Visiting the town, you might just feel as if you have been instantly transported to its glorious past. It can be a departure hub for short historic tours to neighboring towns in this side of the province.

It is bounded by the town of Igbaras in the northeast, by Guimbal in the east, by San Joaquin in the west and by the municipality of Sibalom in the province of Antique in the northwest. It has a land area of 13, 286 hectares that is politically subdivided into 119 barangays; 22 from the coastal area and 97 from landlocked areas.

Miagao, a First Class Municipality It is bounded by the town of Igbaras in the northeast, by Guimbal in the east, by San Joaquin in the west and by the municipality of Sibalom in the province of Antique in the northwest. It has a land area of 13, 286 hectares that is politically subdivided into 119 barangays; 22 from the coastal area and 97 from landlocked areas. It is populated by 67, 565 (2015 Census on Population) Miagaowanons. Market day is every Saturday. It annually celebrates its Religious Fiesta every 22^ndof September in honor of St. Thomas of Villanova.

To get to Miagao, one can take a jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary Terminal in Barangay Mohon, Oton, Iloilo or at the Iloilo Terminal Market in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala I, Iloilo City.

Oton, Iloilo is a lovely seaside townlocated just over 10 kilometers off the southern portion of the province. Like most Ilonggo towns it is not without history. The town may be a less well-known historic destination compared to its neighboring municipalities with its highly visible history.

There are a bunch of great historic sites to take in. The main part of its ancient history are pretty small, a walk along the main center links visitors through the First Pueblo in Panay founded by the Spaniards in 1570.

Entering the town, everyone passes the Batiano Bridge, an important landmark with Batiano River as trading site during the Chinese and Spanish era.

Oton became the seat of government of Panay and Negros islands. After the Spaniards had established their convent in Cebu in 1565, they started preaching the Gospel in Oton. The natives were known to be “master shipbuilders” for they had shipyards for building large ships and the women were engaged in weaving as most homes had a loom that produced fine textile materials.

Oton was a major Chinese trading post in the Philippines. A rare Chinese burial gold leaf mask, one of the oldest objects found in Barangay San Antonio, was excavated in the 1970s by Alfredo Evangelista and F. Landa Jocano. Made of finely created gold sheets, the mask covers both eye and a disc that covers the entire nose. The golden mask is part of a burial tradition from a limited group of Filipinos who have had early contacts with Chinese merchants. 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.

The Immaculate Conception Parish Church, the old church of Oton, the second constructed was known as one of the best and the only one of its style in the entire archipelago. It was constructed in 1874 and was finished in 1889 under the supervision of Fr. Nicolas Gallo and was blessed and inaugurated in 1891. It was a good example of a Gothic cathedral of Byzantine, Greek and Gothic architectural designs, patterned after a Greek cross capped by a magnificent dome and light Gothic towers. At the center is the main altar. It was destroyed by a powerful earthquake, Lady Kaykay in January 25, 1948 and was never restored. What was left of the church were the two bells and a few stone stumps, now engulfed by the roots of a humungous tree, used as walls for a grotto found just outside of the present church. The present image of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception on the roof of the church, still from the second church built, looks over the town.

Oton has its share of buildings and houses that spell out the past.The present Municipal Building, though renovated was constructed in 1955.After the American Forces liberated the island of Panay, it was in the years 1952 -1963 when Simplicio C. Carreon became the Municipal Mayor of Oton. With the help of Senator Jose C. Zulueta, the Senate President of 1953, an Ogtonganon himself, built the Municipal Hall which is the present main building.

Oton Central Elementary School was Established sometime 1911-1913. The Americans took over the town of Oton in February of 1900 and with the coming of the Thomasites in the area made education accessible to everyone. It was in the time of Municipal President Epifanio Tiapon when the elementary school was constructed along with the concreting of the Public Market and the construction of the road going to the town of Alimodian.

Oton National High School, formerly known as Oton Regional High School conducted refresher course at the Oton Public Market in March 22 to June of 1945. Regular school year opened in June of 1945 and ended in March 1946 with Mr. Elpidio L. Cabus as the school principal. The establishment of the secondary school was realized when the Planta Family donated 4.6 hectares of land where the first 24-classroom quadrangular-shaped building was constructed through the efforts of their PTA.

Oton Catholic Cemetery was believed to have been built alongside the second church making it the oldest cemetery in the province. Its centerpiece is the circular capilla that is made of stone. It has three entrances. On top of the main entrance are three identical skulls on crossbones; two of which are situated on both ends of the main entrance with two chalices situated a little higher; the other is on the upper center of the capilla.

The First-Class town of Oton is situated south of the province. It is approximately 10.2 kilometers or a 30-minute ride from the city and 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. It has a land area of 8, 456 hectares that is politically subdivided into 37 barangays.

Oton is populated by 89,115 (2015 Census on Population) Ogtonganons. Market day is every Mondays and Saturdays. Its Municipal Fiesta is celebrated every December 8 in honor of our Lady of Immaculate Conception.

Visitors can take a Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miagao or San Joaquin jeepneys 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.

Know more about Oton on the 15^th Tumandok celebration on September 18-22,2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government in cooperation with the Department of Tourism Region VI and Robinsons Place Iloilo. Also brought to you by the College of Hospitality Management of Central Philippine University and the Daily Guardian.

Guimbal, Iloilo is a unique blend of old and new that lends a distinctive charm to its visitors. Despite its bustling main roads, the town offers a calming and peaceful atmosphere boasting a lot of historic treasures.

It has fascinating restored landmark buildings found along the way such as Guimbal National High School along the National Highway of the Poblacion. Established in June of 1946, this huge learning institution measuring eight hectares, occupies the corner lots of Rizal and Magsaysay streets. Its centerpiece is the oldest structure, the first to be constructed in the school premises, its Gabaldon Building. Built during the first decades of American colonial rule, Gabaldon buildings are schoolhouses built from 1907 – 1946. Made of wood, it is situated on an elevated area flanked by two-stairs raised 11-steps from the ground. The building is dominantly painted in white with touches of dark brown and red contrasting nicely with the bright blue sky behind it. Its frontage bears the name “Mataas na Paaralang Nasyonal ng Guimbal.”

The Guimbal Central Elementary School situated fronting the National High School has also its own share of Gabaldon Building. Facing the main entrance, it is situated on the left side of the main building. The Gabaldon Building is dominantly painted in green with yellow and white patches and is raised 9-steps from the ground. It has five front pillars and attached to the middle pillar is a brass plate with the seal of America and the text, “Rebuilt with the Aid of the People of the United States of America Under the Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946.” On top of the brass plate is the name of the school with an old Philippine seal.

The picturesque St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish Church is the most popular attraction for visitors of this town. The Baroque architectural style of the present church is a reconstruction of the first church built in 1774. Its outside walls are of yellow sandstone. However, it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1787. More reconstructions came in 1893 to 1896 but was again destroyed during the Second World War and the 1948 Lady Kaykay earthquake.

Still a big draw for visitors are the 17^thcentury Bantayans found in the Barangays of Rizal Tuguisan, C. Colon and Pescadores. These are just a few of the oldest remnants of the original Spanish settlement in Guimbal. Once commanded the town’s calm southern shore, it will remind those who lay eyes upon it of its original function of securing the area for defense and to protect its peaceful community from constant piratical attacks.The Moros depopulated many of our Christianized coastal towns through their merciless constant attack.On their piratical fleet, Moros swept the coasts were they ravaged everything. Towns looted and burned, and their inhabitants carried off as slaves. Some areas were almost completely abandoned by their inhabitants, discouraging settlement. The structures are still impressively intact and definitely worth seeing.

The Guimbal Steel Bridge measuring 348 meters long and almost 11 meters wide is considered as the Longest Steel Bridge in Western Visayas. It connects Barangay Bagumbayan to Barangay Bongol. It is made of Pittsburgh Steel from Virginia, USA and was finished in 1932.

Getting around Guimbal is not a problem even if you do not have a car as there are tricycle services throughout the town.

The town is open to everyone eager to explore its rich culture and history. Also known quiet beaches, not to mention many accommodation establishments to choose from, Guimbal clearly has a lot to offer visitors.

Guimbal is a Fourth-Class municipality located 29 kilometers south from the city. The town shares borders with Tigbauan in the east; in the northeast by Tubungan; Igbaras in the northwest; and west by Miagao. It has a land area of 4, 448 hectares politically subdivided into 33 barangays and populated by 33, 820 inhabitants based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

To get to the town, one can take a Guimbal jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or at the Iloilo Terminal Market in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala I or fronting Arevalo Plaza, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Karen Felicio – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09177222477.

Know more what do when in Guimbal during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

Sta. Barbara, Iloilo is a unique blend of Spanish, American and Filipino architecture, culture and spirit. Situated 15. 6 kilometers from the city, it is fortunately just a short drive and a great short day trip. It remains to be one of Iloilo’s true hidden gems, but is now more popular than ever.

Sta. Barbara is a colorful, romantic town with rich history and culture. Visitors should check out its historic center, the town’s most eye-catching architecture, the Baroque-Renaissance architectural style of the Sta. Barbara Parish Church and Convent. Reconstructed in 1849 and finished in 1878. The convent was built the same time as the church. Materials used in the construction of the church and convent were of adobe and coral stones quarried from Alimodian and red bricks used for the flooring, walls and posts. Materials were transported to the town through carts drawn by carabaos.

Connected to the side door of the church is its L-shaped convent of Antillan architectural style. The church served as the headquarters for the Ilonggo Revolutionary Forces in Western Visayas under General Martin Delgado in 1898. It was untouched during World War II and had withstood the 1948 earthquake. It was declared as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute in 2013.

The town is also the birthplace of Iloilo’s hero, Gen. Martin T. Delgado, popularly known as Tan Martin. He was the Revolutionary General in the Visayas and Mindanaowho launched the campaign to liberate the whole province from Spain. He raised the Philippine flag sent by General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first time that the Filipino national flag was hoisted outside of Luzon Island. He was the First Governor of Iloilo province in 1901, the following year elected governor of Panay and served until 1904. After his term, he returned to Santa Barbara and served for eight years as superintendent of a leprosy sanitarium. He spent his last years as superintendent of the leper colony on the island of Culion where he died on November 12, 1918 at the age of 60. A bronze statue was erected in the Victory Plaza in his honor in 1998.

The Victory Plaza is also famous for its 1925 octagonal-shaped Bandstand and the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal and the Propagandist.

If Baroque architectural design where to churches during the Spanish regime, the Gabaldon for Public schools were to the American Colonial Period. The Heritage School Building of Sta. Barbara Central Elementary School along Roosevelt, Poblacion was built in 1913. When most rural public elementary school built during American Colonial Period are abandoned, left to deteriorate and rendered obsolete, the Gabaldon structure of the elementary school of wood and concrete base is still be recycled for modern academic use. Its presence in the area makes history come alive for teachers and students alike making them aware of the heritage of their academic institution.

Another interesting site within the premises is its historic “Poso.” Looking similarly to an ice tea drink is the town’s unique drinking water popularly known as “Poso.” It is said that the town has five sources of Poso. The one located within the premises of the school does not stop from flowing even during the hottest season of the year. So, get ready to drink.

If you find yourself there but for an unforgettable experience, visit Denila Farms in Barangay Lanag, just a 10-minute tricycle ride from the town plaza. The farm is a 2.7-hectare orchard planted mostly with rows of Brazilian-variety grapes. Trellis line both sides of the farm where grapevines grow straight up. To know if the grapes ready to for harvest, taste the fruit near the tip of each bunch and if it tastes sweet, the whole cluster is ready for picking. Harvest by hand with the aid of the sharp shear early in the morning. Grape growing is not new in Iloilo, in fact it started in Arevalo in the 1950s. Grapes grow best in areas with warm and dry climate and where sufficient irrigation is available and Sta. Barbara is just a perfect venue for commercial vineyards. The farm also grows other fruits such as Guapple, vegetables and flowering plants.

CPU tourism students with Irene Magallon - Municipal Tourism Officer

So, if you are looking for a destination that is easy to navigate and with locals that are friendly and welcoming, and a laid-back vibe, Sta. Barbara is for you.

Santa Barbara is a Second-Class town with a land area of 7, 748 hectares politically subdivided into 60 barangays and populated by 60, 215 inhabitants based on the 2015 Census on Population data. For more information, please contact Miss Irene Magallon – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09209697130.

Know where else to go when in Sta. Barbara during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

Tigbauan, Iloilo is a picturesque town where every corner has a unique offering that you will love. Visitors will find plenty to see and do here, away from the hustle and bustle of its more touristy neighboring towns.

It is not only a bustling beach town but also boasts a combination of friendly small-town culture, farmer’s delights and old world charm. It is a wonderful place to visit Here are some favorites to give you some inspiration for your great Tigbauan getaway.

Included among its many charms are its historic attractions. Consider visiting its historic icon, the St. John of Sahagun Parish Church. The present church built in 1867 is of Mexican plateresque architectural style where surface ornamentation especially stone carvings are lavishly piled-up. In 1975, a historical marker from the National Historical Institute was erected on its churchyard identifying the site where the first Jesuit boarding school for boys in the Philippines was established. In 1994, under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Eleuterio Rojo Carton, the interior of the church was renovated with a wide array of carefully laden tile mosaics. The church is considered to be the oldest existing church in the entire province.

Going to the ruins of the First Azucarera in southern Iloilo in Barangay Namocon is like stepping back in time to the early 1900’s. This place used to be a thriving sugar-producing area that was once amongst the center of town life, because so many local people were employed here.

Originally owned by the Rivas’ but was later acquired by Don Jose Zulueta and Maria Zayco, the estate, almost 60 hectares were planted with sugarcane.

Its relative isolation and its “Old World” feel really come together with its unique attraction, its ruined Muscovado Chimney set in a very pretty grove of large, century-old Acacia trees on a lot presently owned by Hector “Boy” Zayco. The area offers amazing photo opportunities at every corner.

The Gabaldon buildings in Barangays Bagumbayan, Napnapan Sur, Buyu-an and the Central School have become a part of the history and culture of Tigbauan. Aside from being a venue for education, these historically-significant school buildings built from 1907 to 1946, form part of the life of its residences.

The South East Asian Fishery Development Center (SEAFDEC) in Barangay Buyuan was established in 1967. It is an inter-governmental organization that promotes sustainable fisheries development in the region. This 40-hectare complex includes various research laboratories, hatcheries, and brood stock tanks and caters to the information and technical services on bangus and prawn culture, with complete amenities and facilities thru their physical plant and sub-stations.

WW II Panay Landing Memorial in Barangay Parara marks spot where American troops from the 40th Infantry Division, spearheaded by the 185th Infantry Regiment landed on March 18, 1945 on the beaches of Parara to begin the liberation of Panay Island. A marker from the National Historical Commission was installed along with the busts of Gen. M Peralta Jr., Ge. D. McArthur and Col. J. Chaves at the center of the site. The local government unit of Tigbauan maintains this site and annually celebrates Panay Liberation Day on March 8th every year with a wreath-laying ceremony.

Since this is a historic town, there are also lots of colonial houses and antique homes here. However, it is not just the history that brings the visitors to this town. You can also enjoy the scenery. One thing you will definitely not be doing here is being bored.

Tigbauan is a Second-Class town 22.5 kilometers south from the city. It is bordered by Leon in the north; San Miguel in the northwest; in the east by Oton; the Iloilo Strait in the south; and, west by Guimbal. It has a land area measuring 6, 062 hectares politically sub-divided into 52 barangays and populated by 62, 706 based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

Visitors can take a Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miagao or San Joaquin jeepneys at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or at the Iloilo Terminal Market in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala I, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Linda Fe Camina – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09173283997.

Know what else to do when in Tigbauan during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

Calinog, Iloilo is an underrated gem, and as you will see there is always something new to discover. The town boasts a wealth of exciting destinations. Clean townscapes and natural wonders, architectural highlights and lovely man-made attractions, there is something for everyone to discover here.

The town center is a historic streetscape and a walk through its streets is a must when visiting Calinog. History is there to see, touch and experience, practically everywhere in the area. Walking along the main streets, or exploring other areas around, you will encounter a variety of historic sites from different eras, each one adding an individual piece to a historical mosaic that spans the centuries.

The Calinog Municipal Building in Quezon street was completed in 1937 under the leadership of Municipal President Geronimo Celo and Javier Celo as Vice President. It is the only municipal building in the entire province designed with a watchtower.

The historic sunken plaza complex was built during the Spanish time serves as a venue for many of the town’s historic monuments. The centerpiece is its candy-colored octagonal bandstand built in May 19, 1930 under the terms of Geronimo Celo as town President and Restituto Celeste as its Vice President. The bandstand served as a venue for talented Calinognon performers willing to showcase their talent especially in singing and playing musical instruments during special occasions.

The Jose Rizal monument was built in May 10, 1929. The full-body Rizal statue that faces the Catholic church stands with its right arm raised and its left arm carrying a book is elevated on a two-level triangular base. The upper base is decorated with three stars and a sun, while the second and lower base has Spanish writings. Joining our National Hero is a bust of another historical icon from Jaro, Iloilo, Graciano Lopez Jaena.

The Andres Bonifacio monument popularly known to the locals as “Bato” or “Bugtong Bato” was erected in 1930 and the statue stands on a huge mound made of stones of different size and color.

The Ramon Magsaysay monument holding a steering wheel of a ship was built in 1956 till 1959. Behind the statue of former President Magsaysay is a farmer. The monument was donated by the Association of Barrio Tenientes League of the town to honor the late president. It was constructed during the time of Mayor Severino C. Fernandez and Vice Mayor Victor Plagata.

The Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Parish Church in Rizal Street, Poblacion Ilaya is of Baroque architectural style. The church was reconstructed in 1874 and was inaugurated on September 27, 1883. It measures 76 meters in length and 17 meters in width. A grotto built by the delos Reyes Family in 1948 to commemorate the centennial celebration of the first apparition of the Blessed Mother in France is located on the left corner of the church complex.

The Gabaldon building, the first structure of Calinog Central Elementary School in Delgado Extension street was built in 1915. Sitting on a small lot from the total area of 32, 304 square meters, it is elevated 10 steps from the main ground. It is home to 1, 761 students from kindergarten to grade six, 62 teaching staffs. Another attraction of the school is its sundial. It served as a Japanese Garrison during WWII. Until now, this Gabaldon building is still intact and pupils and teachers are still using it. It had become a part of the history and culture of Calinog residents and many professionals have graduated from this school.

In Barangay Libot, the Hacienda Jaycon (Jayme – Concepcion) is proud of its ruined Muscovado Sugar Chimney that was built in May 6, 1965. It was constructed by the owners of the hacienda, Don Jose Jayme and Dona Lourdes Concepcion.

Land-locked Calinog remains one of the lesser-explored municipalities of the province, leaving it to feel otherworldly and far-removed from anywhere you have visited before. Venture over its area and the reward will be a compelling insight into a town full of surprises.

Calinog is a First-Class municipality situated 59.3 kilometers central from Iloilo City. It is bounded in the north by Tapaz, Capiz; northeast by Bingawan; northeast by San Remegio, Antique; south by Lambunao; southeast by Dueńas, and; southwest by Valderama, Antique. It has a total land area of 23, 280 hectares politically subdivided into 59 barangays and populated by 60, 413 inhabitants based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

To get to the town, one can take a van at the Ungka Transport Terminal (fronting Christ the King Memorial Park) in Barangay Ungka-II, Pavia, Iloilo. For more information, please contact Ma. Angela Forro – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09562757412.

Know more about Calinog during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

Leon, Iloilo is brimming with beauty at every turn. From historic structures to pine-clad spots, this stunning quiet town is alive with culture and color.

Set among the striking verdant mountains of central Iloilo, Bucari, covering 500 hectares of Leon’s forestlands was declared as the Summer Capital of Iloilo. It is a rural gem situated 21 kilometers from the town proper. It is one of the provinces’ main and remote tourist destinations. Getting here can be a little challenge with tourists often unaware of the enchantment which lies beyond its mighty mountain range. It predominantly serves as a base from which to explore the natural wonders of the adjacent mountains. The campsite commands a wondrous view of 773 meters above sea level, tourists are drawn to the area’s all –year round to experience the panoramic vistas especially at the Mansiga Viewing Deck elevated 863 meters above sea level. There are cottages for those who wanted to stay overnight with camp areas and many walking and cycling trails to give visitors a further excuse to stay longer.

Points of historical interest will also make more sense, like what was known to be the biggest stone edifice in Panay during its time, the Doric and Byzantine architectural style church of St. Catherine of Alexandriameasured 100 feet high and 300 feet long almost covering two streets of the town. The stones used were quarried from the hills and were shaped into parallelogram slabs measuring of 1 x 2 feet.The present church was constructed around 1876 after the original town site in Camando was transferred to its present site in 1863. The convent was constructed in 1885. The church was burned during World War II and was transformed into a garrison for the Japanese Imperial Forces. It was rehabilitated by the Mill Hill Fathers after the war. The church is the most popular stop for many visitors.

Parks are essential to a town’s happiness. It serves as an aesthetic element to the community. It is a popular venue when we need to be around other people. It is used for recreation, relaxation, sports, and holding activities.Our parks played a major role in shaping our towns’ social, political, cultural and even religious identity. In Leon, many have rediscovered the meaning and significance of its monuments and other structures constructed in the different areas of the park in their local history. The two roaring lions guarding both sides of the parks’ main entrance. Park benches with lion carvings found at the tip of every arm rests. The Rizal monument, with his right arm pointing upwards was constructed October 22, 1936.

The heritage school building of Leon Central Elementary School built in 1942 is an inherent part of Leon’s heritage resources. Elevated eight steps from the main ground, it was in the rooms and libraries of the Gabaldon building that Filipino educators helped unlock the potentials of students, many of them poor. The Jose Rizal monument situated in front of the main building was erected by the Parent-Teacher Association of school year 1957-1958.

Not known to many but one of the more prominent historical buildings of the town is the Municipal Hall constructed in July 1, 1955 when Benito Tabiana was Municipal Mayor. This two-storey building dominated by American aestheticsis currently occupied as the Municipal Police Station with DSWD, PESO and COA.

Leon is still among the picturesque and intriguing places to visit in Iloilo. The town isfar removed from the madding town crowd. In fact, it is sought after by many for its multiple gems.

Leon is a Second-Class municipality located 28.2 kilometers west-southwest from the city. It is bounded in the north by Alimodian; west by San Remegio, Antique; south by Tigbauan and Tubungan; and east by San Miguel. It has a total land area 14,005 hectares politically subdivided by 85 barangays populated by 49, 875 based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

To get to Leon, jeepneys and air-conditioned vans at the Aleosan Transport Terminal in El 98 Street, Mandurriao, Iloilo City or at the Aleosan Transport Terminal in Barangay HIbao-an, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. To get to Bucari campsite, one can take a motorcycle (single) at Barangay Poblacion, Sitio Buntalan starting at 6 a.m. for first trip till 5 p.m. for last trip. For jeepneys, first trip leaves at 9 a.m. and last trip is at 3 p.m.

For more information, please contact Miss Rose Lea Kilayko – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09393426040. Know more about Leon on the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

A new breed of young Ilonggo fashion designers is taking their claim on the local stage. Using our traditional handwoven textiles, these designers from the different municipalities of the province will experiment and create beautiful design to push the boundaries even further. They will be out in force for the 12^th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair taking place from 24 to 30 August 2019 at the SM City Northpoint wing. Here are the five Ilonggo fashion designers to watch out for.

ANNIE CAÑONASO. Clean, subtle and quietly powerful. That is how people describe her aesthetics. The future looks bright for this young designer who graduated in ISAT University with the degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising. Literally. For this show she will lean toward subdued color which she prefers to contrast the brightness of our handwoven fabrics, chic comfort and color. Covered yet sexy, fabulous and simply classy.

PEACH GARDE. Elegant. Expertly-crafted and directional pieces ever since. His palette for this show is of bold and bright, designs with a tinged of Italian sensuality all in hablon fabric. No doubt the clean craftsmanship of his designs is owed, at least in part, to his mentor, John Montinola, Lexter Badana, Hello Hello and Don Protasio.This Fashion and Design Merchandising graduate of ISAT University believes that a certain 'slowness' is essential if you want to create something long-lasting and of quality.

JO NIÑO DAMASCO.Modern silhouettes in classic colorways. Classic but not boring. Wearable and a whole lot of fun. Also a graduate of ISAT University with the degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising, the designer will showcase his hablon in black and white checks in collections with a feel of relaxed elegance—clean, fresh, and pared back in a modern way when wearing his clothes.

EDWARD SALES.Minimalist. Curve-hugging but not clingy. sexy but not see-through. This show, the graduate of Fashion Design and Merchandising of ISAT University is pushing his minimalist silhouettes in bold red hablon fabrics cut slightly closer to the body, a bit more sensual and perhaps a little bit more sophisticated. He is steadily rising up the ranks in the local fashion world.

JET TORRENTO. Raw. Gritty city-vibe-inspired. Ambisexual approach to everyday dressing. A graduate of Business Administration major in Marketing Management at the University of San Agustin, our designer is finally getting his fashion moment. His designs exude confidence embracing the concept of luxury, in short, ultra-stylish, and gender neutral. His clothes have been worn by celebrities such as Yeng Constantino and Sara Geronimo. So it is no wonder it is catching on after debuting just a very few years ago.

The Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair is an appropriate forum to showcase our world-class craft traditions and culture boosting further our local tourism campaign.Our local arts, heritage, culture and tourism are highlighted in this prestigious event attended by upscale consumers, press, trade buyers and VIPs as well as pre and post promotions extended through press and internet coverage.

The Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, the organizer of this annual event sees the opportunity as the beginning of a new marketing thrust for the new designs, colors and textures of our traditional handwoven textiles that can hit the global market and gains will be more for our weaving communities.

The 12 Indigenous Fiber Fashion Week is organized by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI and SM City Iloilo in cooperation with the municipalities of Miagao, Oton, Duenas and Badiangan, IMG and The Daily Guardian. Hair and make-up for the daily fashion shows is by John Montinola.

Heading off to Dingle, Iloilo on an unforgettable adventure this semestral vacation is reason enough to celebrate, it would be wise to add its festival to your itinerary if you want to inject some cultural pizzazz to this journey.

Pagdihon Festival is one of the provinces’ most inspiring cultural festivals taking place between October 25-31, 2019. The festival,the highlight of the Dingle’s cultural is about celebrating life. It offers its visitors a glimpse into the heart and soul of the historic town.It provides an interesting look at how Dingleanons embrace its colonial past in a celebratory way.

Adriano Hernandez, a native of Dingle is a Visayan general and military strategistwhosecretly organized a rebel movement in Iloilo against Spain and staged the first armed uprising in the whole province in Barrio Lincud in October 28, 1898. The General is the most revered local historical icon and the Pagdihon Festival honors him, the most elaborate event in the town’s local calendar with parades, music, dancing, and costumes are at the forefront of its week-long festivity, with an abundance of food and drinks.

With this year’s theme, “Kulturang Dingleanon sa Pagdihon Aton Handurawon,” the festival, now on its 11^thyear general revelry accompany the celebration with a series of events starting on October 25 (Friday) with One Dance One Music, Float Parade and Competition, Opening Program, Agricultural Fair, Miss Pagdihon and Foam Party; October 26 (Saturday) Street Dancing and Dance-Drama Competition, Invitational Sepak Takraw, Alcoholics Night; October 27 (Sunday) Fin Ride, Mountain Bike Competition, Senior Citizens Day, Invitational Sepak Takraw, Championship Basketball, Search for Miss Cosmetica.

October 28 (Monday) Cry of Lincud, Pagdihon Preggy Summit, Fireworks Display, Teacher’s Night, Live Band. October 29 (Tuesday) Farmers Coop Day, Laro ng Lahi, Cultural Show with the WVSU College of PESCAR, Live Band; October 30 (Wednesday) Mass Church Wedding, Moments with the Mayor, Live Band; October 31 (Thursday) Boy and Girl Scouts Day, Trick or Treat/ Parade of Costumes, Environmental Day Recognition of Stakeholders and Awardees, Horror Night Competition, Awarding, DJ Foam Party and Live Band.

Pagdihon Festival draws people from all over Iloilo to take in the beauty and culture of Dingle. Getting there is an excellent way to immerse yourself in nature and taking in local history. The town offers a plethora of cultural and historic ways to spend your time. Take one of the numerous trails for a hike through its national park before heading into the exciting historic attractions.

Dingle belongs to the Fourth Congressional District of the province and is politically subdivided into 33 barangays over a land area of 7, 750 hectares. It is 37 kilometers away or an hour drive from Iloilo City and is bounded on the northeast by Anilao; northwest by San Enrique; southeast by Pototan and Barotac Nuevo; and southwest by Duenas.

For more information, please contact, Dane Dizon – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09983091262.

Dumangas, Iloilo has one of the largest concentration of production fishpond areas in the province. Popularly cultured in brackish-water fishponds include bangus or milkfish. Dumangas is both a producing and consuming town of milkfish that is why it is known to be the Bangus capital of the province. And it is not surprising that Dumangas celebrate its amazing bangus or milkfish industry and showcase the abundance of other fresh seafood through Haw-as Festival.

Haw-as Festival, an off-shoot of Pahaw-as Festival launched in 2002 was conceptualized in 2008 during the first term of Mayor Ronaldo Golez. A municipal declaration was made every October 25-31 as Municipal Culture and History Week giving importance to Dumangas’ culture including Haw-as Festival and honoring local hero Col. Quintin Salas.

The competing Gubans, made up of 4-6 barangays for each Guban, nine (9) district Gubans will be competing this year on its festival highlight on October 31 at 2 p.m.

Most of the performances are choreographed featuring episodes of abundant fishpond harvest as dancers, in their fishpond harvest traditional costumes, re-enact the harvest activities of these workers who are the backbone of the town’s economy. Other performers wear bangus costumes embellished with customary bright silvery sequences.

Scenes feature families or neighbors help in gathering the bangus using a seine net. Since Haw-as is annually observed as an expression of gratitude to God. It is an occasion to give thanks to God for nature’s bounty. Guaranteed a good harvest, dancers would gather together to pray. Lastly, scenes of a celebration where there are dancing and singing.

The Haw-as Festival experience would not be complete without a plethora of specialty foods, live entertainment and lots more. Come celebrate Dumangas’ culture in the week-long Haw-as Festival on October 26-31, 2019. The Opening Day (Saturday) is set for a motorcade at 9 a.m., AVAC Exhibit, Haw-as Festival Grand Opening at 2 p.m., Street Dancing Competition at 3 p.m., Sugbahanay sa Plaza at 6:30 p.m., Awarding Ceremony of Street Dancing Competition at 8 p.m. and Nightly Band and Food Festival at 7:00 p.m.; October 27 (Sunday) opens with a Farmers and Fisherfolks Forum and Opening Exhibit of OTOP with Bangus Extravaganza – Cooking Contest at 8 a.m., WAFACON (Writers, Artists, Filmmakers, Artisans Convention at 1 p.m., 4th Sikpanay-actual Haw-as sa Punong at 3 p.m. and Nightly Band and Food Festival at 7 p.m.

October 28 (Monday) The Liberation of Dumangas – 119th Cry for Freedom and Liberty at 9 a.m., Col. Quintin Salas Composo and Binalybay Contests at 10 a.m., Golez-Biron Autoshow at 7 p.m., Haw-as Festival Queen Pre Pageant Night at 6 p.m. and Nightly Live Band and Food Festival at 7 p.m.; October 29 (Tuesday) Jobs Fair at 9 a.m., Concert at 7 p.m., Nightly Live Band and Food Festival at 7 p.m.; October 30 (Wednesday) features Laro Ng Lahi and Educator’s Day in the morning and Haw-as Festival Queen Pageant Night at 7 p.m. alongside Live Band and Food Festival; October 31 (Thursday) Run for Col. Quintin Salas Marathon at 5 a.m., Commemoration Program for the 149th Birth Anniversary of Col. Quintin Salas at 8 a.m., Haw-as Festival Guban Competition at 2 p.m., Awarding of Prizes and Closing Program with Live Band and Food Festival at 7 p.m.

The bangus or milkfish has a bright silvery sheen, a small toothless mouth that can grow to over a meter long. The ones found in markets are generally small. It is an important aquaculture and commercial fish species vital in Dumangas’ economy as it provides food security and livelihood to many fisherfolks in the area.

Bring yourself to one of the most interesting celebrations in the Fourth Congressional District, Haw-as Festival and make it one memorable experience.

Dumangas is a 1st class municipality of the province situated in the northeastern side, 30 kilometers or an hour land trip from Iloilo city. It has a total land area of 11, 677 hectares politically subdivided into 45 barangays. The town is bounded on the north by Barotac Nuevo, on the south and east by Guimaras Strait; and on the west by the Pototan and Zarraga.

To get to Dumangas, one can travel taking the Monfort Coastal Boulevard route via an air-conditioned van at Tikod Terminal in Barangay Baldoza, La Paz, Iloilo City or please contact, Mr. Leonardo Quiatchon – Municipal Tourism Officer at telephone number (33) 3612400 or fax number (33) 3612884.

New Lucena, Iloilo has a historic spot that will let you relive some of the provinces’ most important Historical scenes.Pay homage to the valiant heroes who fought for our freedom by visiting Jelicuon on October 25 as the town commemorates the First Cry of Independence outside of Luzon through the re-enactment of the historic Cry of Jelicuon at 5 p.m. at the Municipal Auditorium.

The silent undertaking led by General Martin Delgado and his company of voluntarios swore the price of their lives to revolt against the Spanish government.

The Spanish colonial policy was designed not only to keep the Philippine archipelago under control but also to exploit her rich natural resources. The onerous system of taxation where Filipinos pay a tribute in recognition to the Spanish sovereignty; the arbitrary and unjust forced labor were all men, healthy and physically able and within the ages 16-60 to render service for forty days, and the monopolistic Galleon Trade and the stringent trade and agricultural policies brought a distorted and unbalanced Philippine economy.

With cruelties and injustices brought about by colonizers, series of revolts took place in different parts of the country.

In Iloilo, unknown to Spanish authorities, a secret group of Voluntarios coming from the different towns swore the price of their lives to revolt against the Spanish government. They were preparing to revolt under the leadership of General Martin Delgado, a native of Sta. Barbara. The general along with his voluntaries headed to Barrio Hilicuon situated at the boundary of the towns of Santa Barbara, Cabatuan and Lucena, where they gathered in an open field, took out their cedulas and with intense emotion tore them and tossed them to the air while uttering a thunderous “Long live independence!”

Historical re-enactments such as the Cry of Jelicuon provide an incredible window into how men and women lived in historical times, providing the community and sometimes the public, a glimpse into what life was like during the conflicts that shaped the town’s local history.

If you want to experience a beautiful piece of history in the town, do not forget that New Lucena also has a serene spot where you can escape the frenzy and stress of your daily city life, like Mila’s Hill Inland Resort.

The Fourth-Class municipality of New Lucena is a 45-minute jeepney ride from Ungka Transport Terminal (fronting Christ the King Memorial Park) in Barangay Ungka-II, Pavia, Iloilo.It has a land area of 4, 412 hectares that are politically subdivided into 21 barangays with a population of 23, 240 (2015 Census on Population).

The town shares border on the northeast with the municipality of Pototan; on the southeast with the municipality of Zarraga; on the southwest with the municipality of Sta. Barbara; and on the northwest with the municipality of Cabatuan and a little portion of the town of Mina.

The town proper of New Lucena could be traversed by land either way via Dawis-Zarraga or via Sta. Barbara. It is 9.8 kilometers away from Sta. Barbara, 15 kilometers away from Cabatuan, 6 kilometers away from Pototan, 6.6 kilometers away from Zarraga and 11 kilometers away from Mina. New Lucena is crisscrossed by the roads from the north to south and east to west thus providing roads for easy means of transportation.

For more information, please contact Kenneth Sobremisana – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09197856167.

Pavia, Iloilo has its own unique way of marking the spookiest of Halloween by annually celebrating the most important Halloween festival in Iloilo every 30th of October, Tigkaralag.

Tigkaralag is a “karay-a” or local dialect word that translates to season or time of souls specifically referring to the observance of the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

A firm fixture on the Ilonggo festival calendar, Tigkaralag is on its 29th year this year. The event was started in 1991 by then Pavia municipal councilor and later 2nd District Board Member Cecilia H. Capadosa.

Pavia transforms itself as the spookiest and most haunted municipality giving everyone shivers with its annual dance-drama competition, the highlight of the celebration. The frightfully fantastic dance-drama competition following the opening program at 7 p.m. is a frightful sight that gives spectators chills up their spine.

The performances showcase scary stories either based on personal experiences or passed on from generations through word of mouth. Of course, these stories would not be complete without supernatural beings. Some of them may be a myth, but some may be true. Only one thing is for sure: they make the performances totally exciting.

Most popular Halloween characters in the dance-drama presentations are the Aswangs, known to be a vampire and a witch and are cannibals and can transform into an animal; Manananggal, a winged creature that separates its torso from its body and use the upper half to fly on top of thatched houses and prey on fetuses of pregnant women; White Lady, a wandering spirit of a woman who died of injustice and seeks revenge for closure; Kapre depicted as a tall, dark, filthy giant who hides atop large trees and smoke a roll of tobacco and the Mangkukulam or a Bad Witch who possess supernatural powers and have the ability to cast evil spells to their enemies.

Tigkaralag is a celebration where families and relatives gather for a brief reunion to pray and honor the souls of their deceased relatives and includes offering flowers, lighting candles, leaving food and drinks or other offerings on their loved ones’ graves. The holiday is celebrated three days each year from October 31st for Halloween, November 1 for All Saints Day, and November 2 for All Souls Day or the Day of the Dead.

Invite your friends, family, and neighbors and have a ghoulishly good time celebrating Tigkaralag in Pavia and have the spookiest holiday of the year. Happy haunting!

The Agro-Industrial town of Pavia is situated 9.6 kilometers or a 25-minute drive north from the city. This Second-Class municipality is politically subdivided into 18 barangays occupying a land area of 3, 502 hectares. Pavia is bordered by the municipality of Oton on the south; San Miguel on the east; Sta. Barbara on the north; Leganes on the west and Iloilo City.

Pavia is populated by 55, 603 Pavianhons (2015 Census on Population). Market day is every Wednesday. It annually celebrates its Religious Festival every 4th of May in honor is Sta. Monica. To get to Pavia, one can take a jeepney at Jaro Plaza, Iloilo City.

Lambunao, Iloilo has its own distinctive personality when it comes to festival. It should, therefore, come as no surprise that Binanog, celebrated this year on December 10-19 reflects the culture and interests of the community and is one of the biggest annual festival celebration of the arts in the province of Iloilo that consists of dance and music.

The Local Government of Lambunao in the last 16 years makes effort to promote the indigenous culture of their Panay Bukidnon group especially through their dance and music enhanced by colorful costumes where the male typically wears black or red pants with black or red top with embroidered (tubok) patterns although optional, and a bandana tied around their heads. The women, although optional wear a “pudong” or a headpiece made of old coins. A “biningkit” or adornment of old coins for the neck. Their tops are in kimono with a patadyong draped as a skirt and a piece of cloth wrap around their waists.

The Binanog dance performed every tribal presentation is their most highly developed art performed through a celebration known as the Inagong Sayaw-Sayaw and a courtship dance or Dinagmay.

The Binanugan, a movement depicting the flapping of wings of Banog bird is represented by both male and female dancers interact with one another. The legs are stomping creating a unique beat as the male dancer observes his female counterpart as if pursuing her by following her steps. The climax of the Binanugan is recognized with the swinging of the shawl from the female dancer that is used to capture her male counterpart.

There can be several formations that the dancers perform. The steps are fast and mostly with stamping movements. The man follows the woman throughout the majority of the movement and the man is typically very happy and celebratory by nature.

The entire province celebrates Binanog Festival that focuses on the traditions, culture and background of the Panay Bukidnon. It is a celebration of their heritage and for both native and non-native cultures to unite so the many aspects of native culture can be shared.

The 16th Binanog Festival opens with Convergence Day by DSWD at 7 a.m., Mass for Binanog Tribe at 2 p.m., Pamukaw with the opening of the IP Village. Kinaadman Seis, Opening of Food Festival and Agri Exhibit at 3 p.m., Street Dance Competition at 4 p.m., Opening Salvo Program at 5 p.m., Grand Switching on of Lights and Fireworks and Binhi Band Entertainment at 8 p.m. on December 10 (Tuesday); Acoustic Band featuring Emman Abatayo at 8 p.m. on December 11 (Wednesday); Fourth of July Band at 8 p.m. on December 12 (Thursday); 108th Lambunao Day with Motorshow at 4 p.m. and Mr. and Mrs. Smith Band at 8 p.m. on December 13 (Friday).

December 14 (Saturday) opens with Padyak sa Binanog 2019 at 7 a.m., Search for LBFQ 2019 at 7 p.m., Fair Play Band at 10 p.m.; December 15 (Sunday) Invitational Friendship Basketball Game and Reverb Band at 7 p.m.; December 16 (Monday) Indigenous People’s Day with Educator’s Night at 7 p.m. and Full Purse Band at 8 p.m.; December 17 (Tuesday) Angel A Band at 7 p.m.; December 18 (Wednesday) Mr. and Mrs. Smith Band at 8 p.m.; December 19 (Thursday) Binanog Highlights and Patadyong Day with Mass at 6 a.m., Opening Program at 7 a.m., Tribe Competition with Saut Ka Banog interpretative Dance (Elementary Level)at 8 a.m., Merry Making at 6 p.m., Awarding, and Fireworks at 7 p.m. with Souled Out Band at 9:30 p.m.

The progressive town of Lambunao is a 48-kilometer or an hour land trip from Iloilo City. A 2nd class municipality in the Third Congressional District of the province, the town is politically subdivided into 73 barangays. For more information, please contact Miss Jennifer Osorio- Municipal Tourism Officer at 09199950593.

Leganes, Iloilo will celebrate their patron saint San Vicente Ferrer with a festivity taking place in the week leading up to the biggest day of the festival on January 31st.Saad was previously celebrated in April to commemorate the saint’s death but recently was moved to January to remember his birth.

Saad, a Hiligaynon term for “vow,” displays is a celebration defining the presence of God through the intercession of their patron saint in every Leganesnon’s life.

The heart of the celebration is the Saad Festival cultural dance parade and competition scheduled at 4 p.m. on the 31st of January this year. It offers a repertory of folk dances and musical expressions originating from the blend of various local traditions. Groups of dancers, actors, singers, and instrumentalists delight crowds with theatrical and musical performances.

There will be something happening week-long to mark the 16th year religious celebration of the festivity.

January 24 (Friday) Mass at 2 p.m., Opening Salvo Parade at 3 p.m., Launching Program at the Saad Park, and Miaa Leganes Saad Festival Talent’s Night at the Leganes Gym at 8 p.m.; January 25 (Saturday) “Leganesnon Ang Kabataan Aton Tatapon LAKAT Fun Run Activity at 5 a.m.; January 27 (Monday) Little Miss Saad 2020 at 5:30 p.m., Ill Pride at 8:30 p.m., the Duke’s Band at 10:30 p.m.; January 28 (Tuesday) Super Nanay 2020 at 6p.m., Miss Leganes Saad Festival Grand Coronation Night at the Leganes Gym at 8 p.m., Totong Villaruz and his band at 8:30 p.m., Sativa Reggae Band at 11 p.m.

January 29 (Wednesday) Zumba Fest at the Leganes Fiesta Pavillion at 6 p.m., Basta Driver, Sweet Lover Singing Contest at 6:30 p.m., First Edition Band at 9p.m., Soundtrack Trio at 11 p.m.; January 30 (Thursday) Mass at 2 p.m., Sinadsad Parade and Dance Competition at 3 p.m., Ember at 6:30 p.m., Kreonz Band at 9 p.m., DJ Young at 11 p.m.; January 31 (Friday) Mass at 3 p.m., Cultural Dance Parade and Competition at 4 p.m., DJ Mark Tio at 7:30 p.m., Awarding Ceremony at 8:30 p.m., Hashtag Jimboy at 9:30 p.m., Rains Band at 10:30 p.m., DJ CJ Tanoy at 12 midnight.

The celebration of Saad plays a very important role in the culture of Leganesnons. It is customary to have the annual festival and engage the community in recreational activities like parades and services held to honor the saint. In addition, there is a devotional aspect to it. There are novenas that lead up to its feast day.

The heart of the celebration is the Saad Festival cultural dance parade and competition scheduled at 4 p.m. on the 31st of January this year.Saad was previously celebrated in April to commemorate the saint’s death but recently was moved to January to remember his birth.

To see Leganes during Saad Festival is a great privilege, and being able to share this celebration makes for a very special trip to the town.

The municipality of Leganes has many other places to see during your visit.

San Vicente Ferrer Parish Church is among the most visited in the province because people would come to pay homage to San Vicente Ferrer and display their acts of faith with hopes that the desires of their hearts might be fulfilled.The façade of the church is an elaborate example of the usual baroque church common in the Philippines. It shares a lot of similarities to the Church of Saint Theresa in Lithuania.

Katunggan Mangrove Protected Area in Barangays Gua-an and Nabitasan, is a 15-hectare man-made mangrove forest. What used to be an abandoned, underutilized and unproductive fishpond is now thickly–covered with mangroves attracting birds, a variety of spawning fish species, mud crabs and other marine wildlife.In March 2011, a bamboo hut was constructed, which serves as a reception and rest area for volunteers. The park now has 230 meters of elevated pathway made of wood and mostly bamboo materials. Visitors can now view the entire mangrove forest park from atop a viewing deck.

Sea Garden Resort in Barangay Camangay is an inland resort offering beachfront smoke-free accommodations overlooking the island province of Guimaras. It has various facilities, such as cottages, a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. It has an adult pool and two children’s pools with one having a playground at the center. The area also provides guests with a children's playground. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast.

This Fourth Class town is located along the Guimaras Strait, opposite the town of Buenavista in Guimaras. It is adjacent to the City of Iloilo in the south; bounded by Pavia in the southeast; Sta. Barbara in the west; and Zarraga in the north. It has a total land area of 3, 216 hectares politically subdivided into 18 barangays.

Leganes is populated by 32, 480 (2015 Census on Population) Leganesnons. The market day is every Sunday. It annually celebrates its religious fiesta every 5th of April in honor of St. Vincent Ferrer.

To get to Leganes, one can take a 20-minute jeepney ride from Jaro Plaza. For more information, please contact Jerry Anas – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09127721033.

Calinog, Iloilo will be holding one of the most unique and authentic festivals in the province as it celebrates its local identity and roots as part of the annual Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival that started on January 24 (Friday) and will end on February 2 (Sunday).

The presentation if of two portions, a combination of the pre-Hispanic celebration of the Sulodnons or Panay Bukidnons, and the Catholic tradition of Sr. Sto. Nino. It opens with the Suguidanon segment and ends in Hirinugyaw.

The unique community of the Panay Bukidnons of Calinog seeks to promote and honor their culture and heritage highlighted in the celebration of Iloilo’s most inspiring indigenous festival in this segment performed and displayed in sections from the chosen chapter of the epic ballad Hinilawod, a vibrant celebration brimming with historic costumes, folkloric dances and the re-enactment of several legendary folkloric characters. The segment also showcases unique costumes, music, dance, and cultures that make-up Calinog’s diverse heritage.

Prepare to be swept away by the rhythm of the drums, battle cries, and pounding feet as dance troupes simultaneously perform an array of traditional and contemporary choreographies for the second segment, the Hirinugyaw segment. Intricate hand-crafted headdresses and hand props come together in a sensory burst of color to celebrate Sr. Sto. Nino.

With the theme “Kulturang Calinognon nga may Himpit nga Pagtuo kay Senior Sto. Nino, Dalan sa Pag-uswag ka Banwa kag Turismo,” the highlight of the festivity is the annual tribe competition on February 2 (Sunday) at 7:30 a.m. Series of special events have been calendared that started on January 24 (Friday) the Opening Salvo with a Holy Mass at 3 p.m., Opening Program at 4:30 p.m., Lighted Sto. Nino at 5:30 p.m., Torched Parade at 6:30 p.m., and Jalaudnon Attire and Talents Night Presentation of Search for Linghoron Kag Hamtong nga Lin-ay kag Ulitao 2020 at 8:3 p.m.; January 25 (Saturday) Presentations and Cultural Show with a Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., District of Calinog II at 6:30 p.m.; January 26 (Sunday) Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., District of Calinog I Teachers and Pupils at 5:00 p.m.; January 27 (Monday) Linabugan Festival with a Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., 6th Linabugan Festival with Linabugan Dishes and Appetizer Presentation, Actual Cook-Off Challenge at 7 p.m. January 28 (Tuesday) Car Show with a Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., Car Show at 5 p.m., 1st Hugyaw Mobile Legends Tournament.

January 29 (Wednesday) Presentations and Cultural Show with a Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., Brain Quest at 6:30 p.m., the Duke’s Band at 9 p.m.; January 30 (Thursday) Coronation Night with a Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., Coronation Night of Linghuron nga Lin-ay kag Ulitao at 7:30 p.m.; January 31 (Friday) Coronation Night with a Holy Mass at 5:30 a.m., Coronation Night of Hamtong nga Lin-ay kag Ulitao at 7:30 p.m.; February 1 (Saturday) Holy Mass at 6:30 a.m., Procession of Live Sto. Nino at 7:30 a.m., Agape at 9 a.m., Battle of Mini Sounds at 1 p.m., Tumandok: A Fashion Show of Local Designer at 7 p.m., Live Band at 9 p.m.; February 2 (Sunday) Holy Mass at 6 a.m., Tribe Competition at 7:30 a.m., Live Band at 5 p.m., Announcement of Winners at 7:00 p.m., Fireworks Display at 8 p.m., Live Band.

Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival is one of the largest indigenous celebrations in Iloilo Province, and it has quickly become a sought-after experience by festival lovers from all over the country. It is the perfect opportunity to explore the intricate cultural threads that weave Calinog’s past, present, and future together.

The First-Class municipality of Calinog is situated at the central portion of the province and is 59.3 kilometers away from Iloilo City. It is bounded in the north by the municipality of Tapaz, Capiz; northeast by the municipality of Bingawan, Iloilo; northeast by the municipality of San Remegio, Antique; south by the town of Lambunao, Iloilo; southeast by the municipality of Dueńas, Iloilo and; southwest by the town of Valderama, Antique. It has a total land area of 23, 280 hectares and politically subdivided into 59 barangays.

Calinog is populated by 60, 413 (2015 Census on Population) Calinognons. Market day is every Tuesday. It annually celebrates its Religious Fiesta every 8th of December in honor of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.

To get to the town, one can take a van at the Ungka Transport Terminal (fronting Christ the King Memorial Park) or CBL bus liner at Robinsons Place Pavia Terminal in Barangay Ungka-II, Pavia, Iloilo.

Miagao, Iloilo will celebrate its 304th Foundation Anniversary highlighted by the 22nd Salakayan Festival on February 3-9, 2020. Basically, it is a story about the entire community rebelling against the cruel and tyrannic Moros, now transformed into a festival that attracts thousands of spectators every year.

Salakayan, from the Hiligaynon word “Salakay” or “to attack” is a weekend adventure back in time with the early conquest of Spanish missionaries and the town’s involvement in the Moro Wars, as they bring to life those turbulent days. It is an annual commemoration of the historic battle that happened in May 7, 1754 and interpreted as the central theme of their annual dance-drama competition.

To further Christian missionary efforts and the occupation of the islands, Spain created an implacable enemy---the Muslims of the south. The Spaniards considered conversion through baptism to be a symbol of allegiance to their authority which the Moros resisted.

Spanish chroniclers have recorded major slave-raiding of Christians by Muslim pirates. Quickly and silently spreading out, pirates divided up and waited along the shoreline. At a given signal, firebrands to torch churches and houses, launching a simultaneous attack on the sleeping inhabitants.

Miagaowanons consider Salakayan to be an important part of their culture and like to describe this re-enactment festival as a “liberating” event. Salakayan Festival is definitely one you will remember.

With this year’s theme,” Panawagan sa Kultura sang Dayalogo Padulong sa Paghidait,” series of week-long special events were prepared to entertain the community and its guests. February 3 (Monday) opens with a Pamukaw at 5:00 a.m., Transport Sector Caravan at 6:00 a.m., Salakayan Mass at 8:30 a.m., Opening of Agro and Industrial Fair at 9:30 a.m., Opening Salvo at 2 p.m., Opening Program and Raising of Barangay Banners at 5 p.m., Opening of Food Fair at 6 p.m., Mga Pinili nga Lanton Naton by UPV Miagao Campus at 6:30 p.m., Miss Salakayan Talent’s Night at 7:30 p.m.; February 4 (Tuesday) Laro ng Lahi at 9 a.m., LIGA Night at 6 p.m., Zumbathon at 6 p.m.; February 5 (Wednesday) Pottery (Banga) Painting Contest (Kararaw, Banig, and Salakot) at 9 a.m., Cavalcade of Dances at 2 p.m, Balikbanwa Night at 7 p.m.

February 6 (Thursday) Mountain Bike/ Fun Ride/ Race at 7 a.m., Miss Salakayan Pageant Night at 7 p.m.; February 7 (Friday) Mass and Fluvial Parade at 8 a.m., Salakayan Re-enactment at 10 a.m., Games at Sea at 10:30 a.m., Transport Sectors Night at 7 p.m.; February 8 (Saturday) Tribes Contest at 8 a.m., Float Parade at 2 p.m., Tribes Night at 7 p.m.; February 9 (Sunday) Thanksgiving Mass at 7:30 a.m., Motocross at 8 a.m., and the Coronation of the Queen of Miagao at 7 p.m.

Visitors will get a unique street-level experience at this charming festival, vibrating with the atmosphere of a time gone by. Yes, this is Salakayan Festival of Miagao and it presents an organized event steeped in history.

The historical town of Miagao is 40.5 kilometers or an hour land trip south from Iloilo City. Composed of 199 barangays with a land area of 13,286 hectares, Miagao is bordered by the towns of Igbaras to its northeast; Guimbal to its east, San Joaquin to its west; and the municipality of Sibalom, Antique Province to its northwest. To get there, one can take a jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary Terminal in Barangay Mohon, Oton, Iloilo or at the market at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. Metered taxis are also available at the terminal.

Barangay Bitas, Tigbauan, Iloilo will celebrate the 10th Burihan Festival with the theme, “Maghugpong kag Pasanyugon: Burihan Pride kang Bitasnonon,” on February 11, 2020 highlighted by the annual tribe competition at 3 p.m. Burihan Festival aims to promote the buri industry. Buri weaving has been a traditional industry in the barangay.

Burihan Festival is tipped to be another cracker event. The event officially started in 2011 honoring the barangay’s main industry and to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the barangays patron saint. It is a thanksgiving jubilee for Evelyn Tupino-Igana, mother of Burihan Festival who was able to send her children to school because of her buri business.

Clad in buri-inspired costumes, from hats to slippers and even trinkets, performers from Tribu Likyad, Luknit, Sasa, Hilo, Karatel will make a joyous celebration in the middle of a vacant farm lot at the back of their Barangay Hall. The annual festival presentation is a symbol of the community’s undying love for the cottage industry that they proudly call their own.

Also known as century plant, the buri is a palm that grows straight and erect reaching a height of 20 to 40 meters and its trunk with a diameter of one to 1.5 meters. There are three kinds of fibers obtained from the tree, namely buri, raffia, and buntal. The buri palm has large fan-shaped leaves that ranges from two to three meters in length. when mature is used for covering tobacco bales or as thatch for houses, while the ribs used for making brooms. The leaf also produces a fiber quite similar to raffia and used in making cloth or strings, and other decorative items. The fiber from the ribs of the palm’s unopened leaves is used in making hats, mats, and baskets.

Major sponsor M/V Rainbow Crew and Officers through Captain Aladin TInambunan and Chemical Engineer Cyril Untalasco, Elsa Tirado, Mr. and Mrs. Jose Tubiano, Engineer Bimboy Terania, Arcega Marketing owned by Bong and Romelia Alinsasaguin, and Engineer Ma. Anita dela Cruz.

The peaceful barangay of Bitas is a 20-minute tricycle ride from the town proper of Tigbauan. The town Tigbauan is a 30-minute drive or 22. 5 kilometers away south of Iloilo City. The town is comprised of 52 barangays squatting on a 6,062-hectare land area. It 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.

Mangroves are a highly valued resource in the province of Iloilo. They are found along much of Iloilo’s coastline. The most extensive mangroves are found in the northern district with the town of Ajuy having one of the most luxuriant mangrove covers.

Ajuy is home to a diversity of marine organisms. One of the most valuable features of its biodiversity is the presence of a mangrove ecosystem. The town is an ecotourism excursion destination that visitors should include in their itineraries when making plans to explore Iloilo.

Barangay Silagon, situated 10 kilometers from the town proper, is a destination you can consider as an itinerary if you have enough time visit to Ajuy. The area offers lush mangrove forests worth visiting with family and friends who seek a unique experience. The barangay

Opened last December 23, 2019, the Silagon Mangrove Eco-Park is a 240-meter bamboo boardwalk extends beyond the existing mangroves and has become a special feature for visitors to the barangay.

Take a leisurely stroll along this coastal boardwalk, while enjoying the different views of the area’s expansive waters, its lush greenery. During high tide, the boardwalk will bring you half close to the water surface where schools of fishes can be sighted; while at low tide, you can also spot different species of crustaceans found on the extensive mudflat, which is a habitat that supports a wide variety of marine organisms.

The exploratory trail has an elevated pavilion with scenic views of the neighboring islands. It has a series of lookouts with shaded nooks to enjoy the view. Each decorated nook represents the Sitios of Silagon. Future plans to include educational installations and interpretive signages, launching facility for motorized and non-motorized crafts.

The Eco-Park provides visitors with a wide variety of habitats to explore – mudflat, mangroves, coastal forest, and rocky shore. There is a myriad of experiences that will definitely thrill and enrich every visitor’s senses as they embark on this tour. This tranquil nature spot is an oasis of calm for visitors amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

The people of Barangay Silagon are the key actors who play crucial roles in both maintaining the beauty of the surroundings and the conservation of mangroves in the area. They are working hard to protect, manage and restore priority mangrove habitats in the area.

Each household contributed bamboo poles that were used in building the 240-meter bamboo trail, information center, function hall, and the viewing deck. Without the participation of the community, successful conservation is considered to be impossible. Their participation in the management of mangrove forests will eventually bring sustainable environmental, social and economic benefits.

Key people from the municipal and barangay levels were also involved in the conservation of mangroves in Silagon Mangrove Eco-Park. This included Ajuy Municipal Engineer Nilo Hinojales and Municipal Tourism Officer Romina Capalla and the Barangay officials headed by Barangay Captain Ruben Rojas Jalando-on.

Several recommendations were discussed. Among them is the need to formulate specific policies that support the development and protection of mangroves in the barangay and such policies should provide ample room for participation of local communities in mangrove forest management. Furthermore, to ensure the implementation of such policies, there is a need to develop a specific organization responsible for managing the mangroves. The success of the project is the participation and involvement of the local community. Lastly, the need to raise local awareness of the mangroves and to ensure frequent communication needs to be in place as it will help to increase participation in mangrove forest management.

Mangroves are recognized as one of the richest ecosystems in the world that serves as habitats for the majority of aquatic animals as well as overall and terrestrial animals. There are 54 species of mangroves in the world. The Philippines has 44 recorded species. Unfortunately, mangroves are becoming vulnerable to loss and degradation as numerous tracts of mangrove have been converted to other uses.

To get to Silagon Mangrove Eco-Park in Barangay Silagon, one must take the route in Puente Bunglas going to Concepcion from Ajuy. Tricycles at P200.00 one-way and single motor at P100.00 one-way operates in the area. For those with vehicles, there is limited parking space in the park. The entrance fee is P30.00 for non-residents and P15.00 for residents, students, and PWDs.

The scenic town of Ajuy has a land area of 19,346 hectares subdivided into 34 barangays. It is 91.9 kilometers or a two-hour drive away north from Iloilo City. It is bounded in the north by Sara; south by Ajuy Bay; and the west by Barotac Viejo.

To get to Ajuy, busses are available daily at the new Ceres Bus Terminal in Barangay Camalig, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact, Miss Romina Capalla-, Municipal Tourism Officer at 09771126958.

Kalamay Festival: The Sweetest Day for San Enrique

Balasan and the 11th Lechon Festival

Miagao: The Pulse of Heritage in Iloilo

OTON: A Historical Town to Match

Guimbal: Modern Amenities and Classic Historic Charm

STA. BARBARA: No Shortage of History, Culture and Activities to Enjoy

TIGBAUAN: A Historic Beauty On All Sides

CALINOG: Iloilo’s Underrated Historic Gem

LEON: Integrating History and Exploring Nature

Fiber Fashion: Exhibiting Ilonggos Cultural Image to the World

Celebrating Dingle’s Pagdihon: A Cultural and Historical Road Trip

Haw-as Festival: Sharing and Enjoying a Grand Feast in Dumangas

Cry of Jelicuon: An Enjoyable Way to Experience History First Hand

Tigkaralag of Pavia: An Ultimate Fright Night Celebration

Cultural Spotlight: Binanog Festival of Lambunao

Blending Religion with Tradition with SAAD Festival of Leganes

Hirinugyaw-Suguidanonay Festival: A Joyous Display of Cultural Pride and Legacy of Calinog

Salakayan: Celebrating Miagao’s Living History

Barangay Bitas and the 10th Burihan Festival

Silagon Mangrove Eco-Park: A Green Escape to Ajuy