Traveling A-Z: Iloilo

By Vince G. Lopez

 Known as the gateway to Western Visayas, the province of Iloilo is famous for its old churches, historical sites and colorful celebrations. Pristine beaches and verdant forests as well as other natural wonders can also be found in Iloilo as it is located in one of the most naturally blessed regions in the country.

While such architectural and natural wonders abound in Iloilo, it’s the local delicacies that always leave a lasting impression on tourists. These delicacies are usually tried by tourists during their visit for the famous Dinagyang Festival.

Dinagyang, which is one of the most famous festivals in the country, is a celebration of the arrival of Malay settlers in the island. The said festivity is also the Ilonggos' way of showing their devotion to the Sto. Niño. The colorful celebration also shows the unity among the number of tribes within the province since the arrival of other native settlers.

As one of the highly urbanized provinces of the Philippines, getting around the towns of Iloilo is very easy. Seeing the majestic old churches and architectures of cultural importance is easy with the province’s transport system. But beyond the urbanized province is the warmth of locals willing to show the way to their beloved tourist attractions.

Fast facts

Local Dialect: Hiligaynon

Festivals:

• Dinagyang Festival – The province’s largest celebration which is held every 4th weekend of January.

Must See:

• Miagao Church - One of Iloilo’s most famous landmarks which was built in 1786. This icon of Iloilo is also recognized as a UNESCO World heritage site.

• Molo Church - The 16 images of female saints inside the church, as well as its awe-inspiring gothic-renaissance architecture, make it one of the most interesting churches in the province.

• Iloilo Riverside Boulevard – The perfect place for a leisurely stroll in the city which features a great view of Iloilo River.

• San Juaquin Beach – Famous for its pebbled shore, the beach is a great diving spot with its diverse marine life beneath its crystal blue waters.

• Mariit Conservation Park – Located in brgy Jayubo, the park is home to endangered animals native to the province including the endemic Hornbills and the Visayan Spotted Deer.

• Bulabog Putian National Park – The 30 caves within the park plays an important role in Philippines history as it became the revolutionaries' dwelling place during the war.

• Agho Island – A small parcel of paradise in the province of Iloilo as it contains extensive white sand beaches and coral gardens.

How to get there:

The province of Iloilo has an International airport where local and international flights going into the province touch base on a regular basis. Traveling by sea is also possible through Iloilo’s Port as well as another port located in Panay Island
.