Ocean Breeze Visitors Around The Globe

Free counters!

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

All About AKLAN

                                   Aklan Recaptured Paradise



Ati-atihan held every third Saturday and Sunday of January in Kalibo, Aklan




        

          Aklan, the youngest of the four provinces of Panay Island following its separation from the mother province of Capiz on April 25, 1956 by virtue of Republic Act No. 1414, is actually, in point of history, the oldest province in the Philippines organized in 1213 by the Bornean settlers.
        The province is constituted by seventeen (17) municipalities comprising a total of 327 barangays with a projected total population of  in its 1,821.42 sq. kilometers land area (703.25 sq. mi).
        Aklanon have always believed that their forbears came over from Borneo. They are basically industrious, hardworking, independent and peace-loving people, with their own dialect, distinct customs and traditions and local culture. It has come to pass that the Aklanon possess a deep rooted pride and loyalty to their own locality, setting them apart from Capiz.
       There is further validity to the Aklanon's dream as a separate province. As early as 1433, according to Panayan historical records, there was a well-organized government on Aklan soil, under the rule of Datu Bendahara Kalantiaw, the third (3rd) chief of Panay. This Aklan ruler wrote the famous "Kalantiaw Code," regarded as the first and oldest laws in the Philippines, containing eighteen (18) "sugo" (order) which reveals the high degree of civilization the people of Aklan have.


Geography

   The province of Aklan is one of the provinces of Western Visayas constituting 7.14% of land area in the region. It is bounded on the north by the Sibuyan Sea, on the south and east by Capiz and on west by Antique.


Climate

    According to Pag-asa (Philippine Atmospheric Geographical and Astronomical Services Administration), the province of Aklan is characterized by two areas of somewhat different climate. The difference lies mainly in the amount and schedule of rainfall, while temperature differences is very slight.
    The municipality of Buruanga, Malay, Nabas, Madalag and Libacao has a first type climate, meaning two pronounced season which is dry from November to April and wet during the rest of the year. While the municipalities of Ibajay, Tangalan, Makato, Lezo, Numancia, Kalibo, Banga, Batan, Malinao, Balete, Altavas and New Washington belong to third type climate. Season in this area is not very pronouced. It is relatively dry from November to April and wet during the rest of the year.

Population

    The population of the province taken from 2010 Statistics is 535, 725.


History
Early Settlers and Permanent Settlements
          The written history of Aklan may be traced as far back as the middle of the 13th century of the Christian era (A.D.). According to Maragtas, the lowlands of Panay were colonized by the Malayan Datus from Borneo led by Datu Puti.
          According to the written records, the settlers fled their homes to escape the oppressive rule of Makatunaw, Sultan of Brunei. The ten (10) datus together with their families and followers then set sail until they reached the Siwaragan River in what is now a part of the town of San Joaquin, Iloilo. Datu Puti who leads the Malayan settlers, bought the island of Panay from Datu Marikudo, the chieftain of the Atis or the aborigines which are the original settlers of the island, with a golden hat called Salakot and they also give Marikudo's wife, Maniwangtiwan a gift which was a floor length necklace called Manangyad and also other gifts like bolts of cloth and some golden trinkets. The Atis then moved to the mountains for settlement while the Malay settlers made the lowlands their permanent settlement. The datus divided the Panay island among themselves in which Antique went to Datu Sumakwel, Iloilo went to Datu Paiburong and Aklan was given to Datu Bangkaya who was the first ruler of the Aklan province. The Bornean settlers of Aklan carved out a settlement and reaped harvests from the fertile plains, the rich forests and abudant seas. They gave the new land the name AKEAN, meaning PARADISE. Magyanos, which is the present Barangay Marianos of the town of Numancia in Aklan, became its first capital.
         History tells of how Datu Puti purchased the vast valleys and lowlands from the Ati king, Marikudo. A feast was held in celebration of the transaction, with the Borneans and the Atis (aborigines of the Panay Island) having a grand time eating and drinking, dancing and singing. The celebration continued to be held each year during the blooming season of mangoes, which was about the time of the year when the purchase was consumated. Later, after the Atis had withdrawn to the mountains, the settlers choose to perpetuate the celebration, and in the absence of the Atis, some smeared themselves with soot to simulate the darker skinned original residents. This practice has continued during the celebration which, standing the tests of centuries, has come to be known as the present popular "Ati-atihan Festival," a tribal dance festival resembling the Ati or Panay aborigines, the original residents of Panay Island. The famous Ati-atihan Festival is also called "The Grandmother Of All Philippine Festival" because it is the first and oldest Philippine Festival which was started in 1213.

Boracay Island
 

          The world famous Boracay Island which was located at Barangay Caticlan in Malay town, Aklan was named as the world's best beach in 1990 by BMW Tropical Beach Handbook as published by the Fourth Estate of London. Boracay was considered as such for having everything one can possibly desires in tropical beach life. This was made so in a research conducted by Nick Hanna and two researchers to over 200 tropical beaches and islands all over the world.
          It was also declared as the world's best beach by the Travel and Leisure Magazine in 2012.
 Aklan's pride is 67 kilometers northwest of Kalibo, the capital town of the "Hala Bira" country. The island is approximately seven (7) kilometers long, the northwest half of Barangay Yapak facing Carabao Island and Mindoro, is about one (1) kilometer wide; the southeastern half of Barangay Balabag, facing towards Caluya Island and Palawan is about one half (1/2) kilometer wide.
         Once rounded a headland, you'll have a view of the almost 4 kms. long crescent powdered white sand beach on four (4) feet sand covering solid rocks and transparent blue green waters, a masterpiece of nature. Puka shells litter the beaches, coral reefs and a network of caves await exploration. There are hundreds of hotels and resorts there ranging from luxury and 1st class accomodations to mid range and de luxe accomodations as well as dozens of restaurants and shops to dine and be entertained as well as dozens of worthwhile beach and outdoor activities to engaged with.


Ati-atihan Festival

          The popular festival which is the oldest festival in the Philippines which started in 1213 is being held simultaneously annually every January in different towns of Aklan but the biggest one participated in by different tribes wearing colorful indigenous costumes which attracted thousands of local and foreign tourists who party all throughout the whole two day of festivities is in Kalibo which is held every 3rd Sunday of January; Ibajay - last Sunday of January; Batan - simultaneous with Kalibo; Makato - every 14th and 15th of January; Altavas - two days after Kalibo.



                 Points Of Interest In Different Towns Of Aklan
               (Towns are typed in BOLD CAPITAL LETTERS)


BALETE


Agtawagon Hill
     The Agtawagon Hill is Balete's pride. It is located at the southeastern part of Morales, about seven (7) kilometers away from the heart of the town. The hill was the last line of defense of the Filipino patriot's during the Spanish-Filipino conflict. The same hill had served as Camp of the Filipino soldiers and guerillas during the second World War. Foxholes had been built on the summit of the hill seeing the approaching enemies.


BANGA


Manduyog Hill and Aklan Agricultural College
     In Banga nine kilometers southeast of Kalibo stands fair Manduyog. From its base snakes up a feeder road and on the hillside are the fourteen ways of the cross. At its summit is a chapel and from there, one could see in all his eyes the scenery of the countrysides below. Beneath the hill is the Aklan Agricultural College, an Agricultural Institution spread in a verdant plain of 63 hectares. Within the school grounds are many tropical trees such as the durian, rambutan, mangosteen and lanzones, a pasture and ricefields. The school has been, many times, a venue for regional and national conferences, workshops and seminars.


BATAN

Ob-ob Hill
     On the east is Ob-ob Hill, standing like a lighthouse facing the Sibuyan Sea with an altitude of 200 meters. At the foot of this rocky hill is the fine beach of Ob-ob. Thrill going here is incomplete without scaling up a hill just a stone's throw away. Once on top, an admirable scenery awaits adventures, vast seas on one side and towering mountains the other interspersed by green fields.


Tinagong Dagat
    This hidden sea approximately 8 kms. long and 4 kms. wide, is between Altavas and Batan, partly hidden from Batan Bay by two islands. It is fringed with mangroves, thick undergrowth and rock beach elevations. It is a rich fishing ground during the northeast monsoon season when Sibuyan Sea is rough. Ideal for swimming, speedboating and waterskiing.
    Mode of transportation from Kalibo to Dumaguit are jeepneys, private cars, buses, then pumpboat to Batan.


 

Kalantiaw Shrine
    Seat of government of Rajah Bendahura Kalantiaw III, the third chief of Panay Island and promulgator of the famous Code of Kalantiaw, the oldest laws in the Philippines. The marker was erected by the Philippines Historical and Cultural Society. To prove the existence of the province's famous "Code of Kalantiaw" which has been believed to be smuggled out of the province, a replica taken in its original form is on display. A former manuscript of the Code, historical accounts and pictures of great national heroes.


BURUANGA


Tigis Falls
     Three kilometers from Buruanga town proper. Approximately ten minutes ride by means of buses, jeepneys or private cars. A good hideout during summer for its inhibitive location.


Wasak-wasak Falls
     Four kilometers from Buruanga town proper. Its cascading waters and location reminds one in a paradise where nothing is heard except the chirping of birds. Can be reached by buses, jeepneys or private cars.


Ingus-ingus Hill
     Ingus-ingus hill is elevated mass of rocks, bordering the exit of Buruanga River, separating the Poblacion from Barrio Alegria. This hill overviews the sea at three sides. During the Spanish regime, this hill was made a watchtower to guard or spy the approaching vintas of Moro pirates that used to maraud the coastal places.
     Underneath the hill is a cave. According to old tales, this cave was used as a waiting place of English sea pirates, buccaneers, hijackers of Spanish galleons carrying precious cargoes from Mexico.


IBAJAY

Campo Verde
    It is a Natural Park and ideal place for quite retreats, trekking, and relaxation. The rest of its natural resources are yet to be discovered, developed and promoted.


KALIBO

 

Tigayon Hill
    A solitary mountain of solid rocks standing amidst stretches of flatlands by the Aklan river. At its base is a cave as wide and airy as a dome and on its flat floor are unassorted piles of stalagmites. On one side of the hill inside a cave-like structure with an arched entrance is a rock resembling a table used by priest during mass and on its side are two bench-like structures.


Freedom Shrine
     The town's famous landmark. The place where fierce battle ensued during World War II. A monument was built to typify the heroic stand of Aklanons and on the grass lies a mortar and other fragments of armaments used by them. 


Museo it Akean
     A repository of antiques all digged up in Aklan. Famous works of arts are likewise displayed. This traces the province rich cultural and historical past.


Lambingan Beach
     A fine palm-fringed beach. Some meters along the shoreline spread any cottages of varying sizes where frolickers can take shade after a refreshing swim on its cool water


Bougainvilla Beach
     four kilometers northeast of Kalibo. Its cool water is perfect for swimming.  At sundown the place abounds with promenaders. Can be reached by means of public jeepneys, tricycles, motorcycles, and private cars.


Fatima Hill
     noted for its way of the cross on the hillside.  On top of the hill is a chapel made of marble. Located nine kilometers southwest of Kalibo. Jeepneys, tricycles and private cars are the mode of transportation.


Nineteen Martyrs Marker, Kalibo
     Engraved along the street named so, which enumerate the name of the nineteen Aklanons who gave their lives to free the Filipino from further degradation from the hands of the Spaniards.


LEZO

   The least populated town in Aklan but it is the only municipality that has a man-sized bronze statue of the Filipino national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Lezo is also known for its pot making industry.


LIBACAO


Manimpa Falls
    A fifty feet waterfalls with several basins located in Can-awan is ideal for swimming. Buses, jeepneys, private cars are modes of transportation from Kalibo to Libacao. The falls is accessible by foot from Libacao town proper.


MADALAG


Tindog Falls
     Unique is the word that best describe Tindog Falls. It is unique among other falls for its basin is on top instead of having it below the falls. Stair-like stones are carved where the water cascade down. Can be reached by foot from Madalag.



MALAY


Boracay Island
     Paradise Island of the Philippines. Sixty eight (68) kilometers from northwest of Kalibo, Aklan's capital and 25 minutes pumpboat across a channel from the northwestern tip of Panay. It is famous for its world's finest and loveliest palm fringed white sand beaches, azure waters, coral reefs and rare shells. Its area is 967 hectares consisting of three barangay namely Balabag, Manok-Manok and Yapak.
     The widest and longest white beach stretching about three and a half (3 1/2) kilometers from Sitio Diniwid  to Sitio Angol is between Balabag and Manok-Manok. Water is crystal clear and in fine weather one can see the sea floor. The beach at Manok-Manok is somewhat rocky with occasional patches of white sand. Ocean floor slopes steeply. White peebles of varying sizes are numerous at Yapak and Puka beach. Here, too is the source of puka shells that can be made into elegant necklaces and bracelets.
     Modes of transportation from Kalibo to Caticlan, Malay are buses, L-300 vans and private cars. Approximate travel time is about two hours. Pumpboats, fast crafts, and boats owned by different hotels and establishments in the island transports people from Caticlan port to Boracay Island.
    
    
Agnaga Falls
     Two (2) kilometers away from the town proper of Malay, Aklan. A scenic view awaits the visitors as they can freely swim on its clear waters. It's a perfect hideout especially during summer as its cool water beats the intense heat summer months. Modes of transportation were buses, vans, motorcycles and private cars.


Tigwati-an Island
     Lies northeast of Sitio Tabon, Caticlan, Malay. About five (5) minutes by boat from the mainland and twenty (20) minutes from Boracay Island through the same modes of transportation. Shells of varying sizes and kinds lie on its predominantly white sand beach. On its side is a small cave with nature carved stone at its walls where fresh and salty waters forms a small pool. Another cave can be seen from the top of the hill.



MALINAO

Fatima Hill
    Noted for its way of the cross on the hillside. Atop of the hill is a chapel made of marble.



Mampahon Falls
    A falls with an all year round clear and cool waters. It is about twenty (20) kilometers southwest of Kalibo. The falls a major source of Malinao River has two basins, one is 8 feet deep and the other is six (6) feet deep both good for swimming.



 

NABAS


Basang Cave
     One of the sources of Gibon River is inside Basang Cave with two (2) basins of clear, cool water for swimming. Located at Barangay Laserna, Nabas, Aklan noted for hats and mats made from baliw or pandan.


Tulingon Cave
     Believed to be one of the longest caves in the Philippines. It stretches twenty (20) kilometers from Barangay Libertad, Nabas, Aklan to Barangay Patria, Pandan, Antique. A survey indicated an enormous deposit of guano. Cave entrance is at Barangay Libertad, Nabas, fifty five (55) kilometers northwest of Kalibo. The cave location is fifteen (15) kilometers from the town proper. It is accessible by buses, jeepneys, private cars and tricycles.



NEW WASHINGTON


Floripon Point Beach
    At the eastern tip of New Washington, about twenty (20) kilometers east of Kalibo. Its wide beach fringed coconut trees beckons the visitors to this resort.


New Washington Beach
    A fourteen (14) kilometers beach with the poblacion at midpoint fronting Sibuyan Sea. The place serves as fishing village of the town. Fresh fish, crabs, shrimps and lobsters are sold here. Accessible by public jeepneys, tricycles and private cars.


Old House of Jaime Cardinal Sin
   Contains memorabilias and antique wares that were used in the birthplace of the Philippine cardinal


Pink Sisters Convent
    Everything here is pink from the convent facade, corridors and nuns' habits.


Sampaguita Gardens
    Botanical garden resorts facing the Sibuyan Sea. The resort has an extensive collections of plants, butterflies and fishes, lots of playgrounds and massive collection of dolls and other novelty items for sale.



NUMANCIA


Navitas and Camanci Beach
    Both beaches border the Sibuyan Sea. Its waters are excellent for water skiing and coconut trees are fringed along the shores. Located at Numancia about 4.5 kilometers northwest of Kalibo. Buses, tricycles, and private cars are the mode of transportation.



TANGALAN


Afga Beach
    Twenty two (22) kilometers northwest of Kalibo. Located in Barrio Afga, Tangalan, Aklan. White beach stretches two (2) kilometers. Visitors may either go swimming or boating. Colorful fishing nets are dried at daytime on the shore. Its powdery white sand rivals that of Boracay. Accessible by buses, tricycles, jeepneys and private cars. 


Jawili Falls
     Tops of the list of Aklan's many cascades and is the most beautiful cascades in Western Visayas region. It has seven (7) basins, the highest basin is about 100 feet high arranged in tiers from about 20 feet high. Its seven basins arranged by nature in a series, one basin cascading water down the next. The first basin which is oval-shaped is 40 feet by 60 feet, holding 12 feet deep clear water. The other basins are of similar shapes from 130 square feet to 240 square feet in area and 8-10 feet deep except the sixth basins with a swimming area of 540 square feet. It is 28 kilometers northwest of Kalibo and three (3) kilometers from the poblacion of Tangalan. Travel time is one (1) hour ride from Kalibo and is accessible by jeepneys, buses, private cars and tricycles from the town proper to the site.


Crystal Cove Island (formerly Tigwati-an Island) just few minutes ferry boat ride from the famed Boracay Island





Ingus-ingus Hill in Buruanga




Jawili Falls in Tangalan





Pink Sisters Convent in New Washington





Puka Beach, Boracay Island





Sampaguita Gardens in New Washington 



Photo Source: 

crystalcoveisland.blogspot.com 
Our Awesome Planet 
boyetstour.blogspot.com

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Places Of Interest In Iloilo and Guimaras

                         Other Places Of Interest In Iloilo and Guimaras



Guisi Beach, Guimaras




Iloilo Fort San Pedro




Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Santa Barbara, Iloilo



Sacred and Historical Places

Plaza Libertad - located right at the center of Iloilo City
 - originally called Plaza Alfonso XII
 - where the flag of the First Philippine Republic was raised in triumph after Spain surrendered Iloilo, her last capital in the islands, to the revolutionaries led by General Martin Delgado on December 25, 1898.

La Villa De Arevalo - a district of Iloilo City which is six (6) kilometers southwest of city proper; seat of the Alcaldia of Panay 
 - first Spanish settlement in Panay to be attacked in 1588 by the English privateer Sir Thomas Cavendish, third circumnavigator of the world

Jaro - another district of Iloilo City which is three (3) kilometers from the city proper

- old colonial houses of sugar barons and Hispano-Filipino houses of the elite still stand, antique shops

- the birthplace of the greatest Filipino propagandist and orator, Graciano Lopez-Jaena and Ilongga poetess, Magdalena Jalandoni

- seat of Catholicism in Western Visayas

Jaro Belfry - ruined by the earthquake named Lady Kaykay in 1948

- one of the few belltowers in the Philippines which stands apart from the church

Guimbal Watchtowers - twenty nine (29) kilometers southwest of Iloilo City;

- five (5) stone watchtowers called Bantayan by the natives during the Spanish era to warn the townspeople of marauding pirates

Miag-ao Church - Forty (40) kilometers southwest of Iloilo City
 - a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1786
 - its native facade is a unique explosion of botanical motiff reminiscent of Aztec art
- the church was declared a national landmark in 1973 by Presidential Decree 260.

Santa Barbara Church - sixteen (16) kilometers north of Iloilo City; a neo classical church where General Martin Delgado of the Visayan revolutionary government convened the junta that raised the first cry of revolution against Spain in Iloilo.

Santa Barbara Golf and Country Club - 18-hole, 37 hectages of golf course

- the oldest golf and country club in the Philippines and the entire Southeast Asia

- built in 1907 and opened to the public in 1913

San Joaquin Church - Fifty-three (53) kilometers southwest of Iloilo City

- the only church in the Philippines sporting bas relief of historic battle between Christians of Spain and Moors of Morocco in Tetuan in 1859.

Tigbauan Church - Twenty-two (22) kilometers southwest of Iloilo City with Baroque facade

- behind the rectory was the first Jesuit school for boys in the Philippines established in 1592.

Panay Liberation Marker - located in Tigbauan, Iloilo

- commemorates the American liberation of Panay from the Japanese in 1945

Buenavista Wharf - Twenty (20) minutes by pumpboat from Iloilo City; built by the young Lieutenant Douglas MacArthur in 1903 while on duty with the United States Corps of Engineers

Heritage Buildings at the Calle Real - Downtown Iloilo City or J.M. Basa St. (Jose Maria Basa St.) formerly called Calle Real boasts of buildings that dates back during the Spanish and American colonial period.

Hoskyn's Department Store or Hoskyn's Compound - located in downtown Iloilo City or Calle Real is the first and oldest existing department store in the Philippines established in 1877 by the British, Henry Hoskyns of Hoskyns and Company. Henry Hoskyns is the nephew of Nicholas Loney, the first British vice-consul in Iloilo. Hoskyn's Department Store predates the first department store in the United States which

Muelle Loney - Port of Iloilo named after the first British vice-consul of Iloilo, Nicholas Loney, Father of the Sugar Industry of Panay and Negros. Considered one of the safest harbors because of Guimaras Island that protect it from drastic winds. It was first opened to world trade in 1855. The iconic Iloilo Customs House is situated here.

Molo - one of the districts of Iloilo called Parian during the colonial period. It was the Chinese quarters of La Villa de Arevalo. It is also called the Athens of the Philippines not just because of the plaza that resembles the old temples, domes and architecture of Athens with Greek goddesses but more so of well preserved old buildings and architecture in the area. The place also produced many intellectual and political leaders.

Spanish Bailiwick, Brgy. Carmelo - Three hundred (300) meters from Banate town proper; a historical landmark known as the hiding place of the Spanish authorities from the Moros.

Balaan Bukid (Holy Mountain) in Guimaras Province - 30 minute walk from Jordan Wharf, Guimaras; it sits atop Bundulan Point; with a giant cross and chapel; pilgrimage site of the Catholics especially during the Holy Week, offers a commanding view of Iloilo City across Iloilo Strait.

Japanese Fortification, Cabatuan - Concrete structure during the Japanese occupation. Built on a hill twenty (20) feet high with a diameter of nine (9) feet. Used as a lookout by the Japanese soldiers guarding the road and the path to the airfield in Tiring, Cabatuan.

Agony Hill - a long winding hill in the town of Alimodian, approximately twenty-four (24) kilometers from the city proper. The very popular Agony Hill among pilgrims during the Holy Week, was established in 1970s to relive and reflect the last few hours of the sufferings and passion of Christ before his crucifixion and death through Way of the Cross. All Fourteen (14) Stations of the Cross consists of life-size statues and small altars depicting the important scenes in the Stations of the Cross. The famous Agony Hill serves as a Mount Calvary on Golgotha for pilgrims and devotees in their act of penance and reflection. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists flock on this hill every year mostly during the Holy Week.

Guimbal Church - Yellow sandstone church built by Father Campos; Spanish-Filipino vintage towers and stone walled cemetery built by Father Agustin Llorente.

Janiuay Church - Ruins of the beautiful church at the town's plaza where it had been built. Bells of JD Reyna foundry in Iloilo in 1871 and 1898 are still in use.

Janiuay Cemetery - famous Hispano-Filipino cemetery built in 1875 of cut stone and fossil rock sprawling on a hilltop with three (3) imposing stairways and two (2) Gothic doors;  thirty-two (32) kilometers from Iloilo City

Concrete Pillboxes, Janiuay - built by the Japanese forces during the war rise on both ends of Janiuay bridge on the way to Lambunao. One is about twenty-five (25) feet tall with a diameter of nine (9) feet. Both pillboxes are still intact.

Siwaragan River, San Joaquin - According to a popular legend, the ten (10) Bornean datus landed here in the middle of the thirteenth (13th) century and bought the island of Panay with a beaten gold hat called Salakot and a very long necklace that touches the ground called Manangyad from the Negrito chieftain, Marikudo long before the Indians sold Manhattan to European settlers. With the barter of Panay, the Negritos decided to live in the mountains while the Malays occupied the lowlands.

Cabatuan Church - Neo-classical built in the early 1880s; everyside is a facade in itself; walls are overlaid with brick.

Fort San Pedro -  built by the Spaniards in the early 1600s; attacked by Dutch, British, American and Japanese forces; birthplace of the first Filipino commercial air transportation, the Iloilo-Negros Air Express CO., founded by the Lopez brothers on February 3, 1933.

- this is also the original place of the first Iloilo airstrip built in 1938 and considered one of the first airports in the Philippines

Molo Church - three (3) kilometers from the city proper; Gothic Renaissance church of coral rock; completed in the 1800s, it was a unique female church because of the two rows of female saints line both sides of the church. The church was visited by the national hero, Jose Rizal in 1886 on his visit to Iloilo.

Jaro Cathedral - seat of Jaro Archbishopric embracing Western Visayas; it is also home of the  miraculous Nuestra Señora De La Candelaria (Our Lady Of Candles), patroness of Western Visayas region.

Nuestra Señora De La Candelaria (Our Lady Of Candles - the miraculous Marian image was crowned and declared Patroness of Western Visayas region by Pope John Paul II on his visit to Iloilo in 1981.

- was said to be miraculous because it grows by at least a few centimeters every year and sometimes found to be bathing her child near a fountain inside the Jaro plaza

Asilo De Molo - Three point five (3.5) kilometers south of Iloilo City proper; an orphanage where princely vestments worn by church dignitaries are made, designed and hand embroidered by little orphan girls under the tutelage of the nuns.

Pavia Church - Thirteen (13) kilometers northwest of Iloilo City; red brick church of Byzantine style built by Spanish Augustinians  and used as garrison by the Japanese who drew guerilla raids that pockmarked the walls.

San Joaquin Cemetery - 53 kms, southwest of Iloilo City; built in 1892 of coral rock; a hexagonal chapel crowns a 20 step staircase flanked by stone balustrades; rose windows at the main entrance.

Alimodian Church - built in 1851 and made from corals and limestones. It was first built in 1787 from simple nipa hut and cogon grass but was destroyed by a fire. The church was partly destroyed during the earthquake of 1948 which buried half of its belfry and toppled down all of the churchbells. Only one of the original seven (7) church bells exists today which was said to be one of the loudest church bells in Iloilo.


Cultural

Museo Iloilo - a repository of Iloilo's cultural heritage: exhibits include scientifically dated fossils, shells and rocks indicating the age of Panay Island. Stone age flake tools; native pottery; ornamented teeth; jewelry excavated from pre-Spanish burial sites and trade pottery from China, Annam and Siam; secondary burial coffins found in forbidden cave; rare pictures, memorabilias and relics of wars: relics from a British sunken ship; Spanish period Filipino sculpture: and modern art by Ilonggo artists.

Magdalena Jalandoni Heritage House - the birthplace of the popular Ilongga poetess, Magdalena Jalandoni which houses vast collections of her work and mediums, antique collections of the things or tools her family used during the colonial Spanish and American period.


Antique Collections - collection of Philippine colonial sculpture, wood, stone and ivory saints. Chinese porcelain wares  and other artifacts.

Lourdes Dellota
E. Lopez St.
Jaro, Iloilo City
Tel. Nos. 320-6686

Letecia Jesena
59 Commission Civil St.
Jaro, Iloilo City


Art Galleries:

Museo Iloilo
Bonifacio Drive
Iloilo City


Natural

Sicogon Island - a 1.104 hectare white sand palm-fringed island gradually sloping down to some 350 feet beyond the shoreline; five (5) kms. from the town proper of Estancia and one hundred thirty-seven (137) northeast of Iloilo City. It was where the film "Pinakamagandang Hayop Sa Balat Lupa" (The Most Beautiful Animal In The Land) was taped which was starred by Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz.

Isla De Gigantes - the iconic island paradise which was featured in several pictures and medium was where the 15th century burial caves have been found.  One cave has a stone elephant and a giant natural swimming pool which shapes like a giant cauldron covered or encircled by giant rock formations. It is twelve (12) kilometers east of Estancia.

Nadsadjan Falls - In Igbaras, thirty-nine (39) kilometers southwest of Iloilo City; a 50 foot high falls dropping on  a giant cauldron-like natural swimming pool



Iloilo Plaza Libertad




Molo Plaza



Museo Iloilo 




Sicogon Island, Carles 



Photo Sources:

agboi.blogspot.com 
Simply Iloilo 
www.backpackboy.com 
Pinoy Travel Freak.com

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Gorgeous Negros



The famed Masskara Festival of Bacolod City, capital of Negros Occidental is held every third Sunday of October


 


The dormant Mount Kanlaon is the only known volcano in Western Visayas 





Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol


 


Punta Bulata Beach Resort and Spa


 


Bacolod City Plaza


 

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Pristine Guimaras


Raymen Beach Resort, Alubihod Beach, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras 



 
 
Guimaras Island Hopping Locations







Guimaras Island Guide



 

Siete Pecados or Seven Isles of Sin in Buenavista, Guimaras





Tatlong Pulo or Three Isles in Barangay Sinapsapan, Jordan, Guimaras





Guimaras Guisi Lighthouse Guisi Point in Barangay Dolores, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras





Guisi Beach, Barangay Dolores, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras





Nagarao Island, Barangay San Isidro, Sibunag, Guimaras




           
          Daliran Cave, Old Poblacion, Buenavista, Guimaras    


       
          The island province of Guimaras is an exotic place blessed with the unspoiled beauty of nature so pristine that is rarely found in other places. This natural beauty is mostly made up of picturesque beaches, springs, falls and offshore islets which attract both foreign and local tourists. Guimaras, formerly known as Himal-us, was a sub-province of Iloilo until it was made an independent province on May 22, 1992. It has a total land area of approximately 604.57 sq. km. comprising five municipalities, namely: Buenavista, Jordan, Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo and Sibunag. Jordan, its capital town, has 14 barangays, Buenavista has 36 barangays, Nueva Valencia has 22, San Lorenzo has 12 and Sibunag has 14. Regarding population based on the 2010 census, Buenavista is the most thickly populated with a total population of 46, 703, followed by Nueva Valencia with 37, 852, Jordan with 34, 791, San Lorenzo with 24, 032 and lastly, Sibunag with 19, 565. The total population for the whole island is 162, 943.
          The most prominent structure atop the mountain in the island signals the people that they are approaching Guimaras is a giant cross that rest atop the famous Balaan Bukid (Holy Mountain), the center of pilgrimage during the Holy Week and the First of May. It is situated atop Bondulan Point at Barangay Hoskyn, Jordan which offer pilgrims a commanding, scenic view of Iloilo City across Iloilo Strait.
           First stop is the capital Jordan and Macopo Falls will be passed by before reaching the provincial capitol. Macopo Falls is just one kilometer from the provincial capitol.  It is also called "Bather's Paradise" because people who shied away from the crowded beach resorts during weekends, Sundays and holidays could go there and find that place is really suited for them and one can feel the piercing coolness of the place. The water in Macopo Falls is so clear and cool since its source came from the mountain springs. It contains two pools which are ideal for swimming. There is also an ancient burial cave in the town of Jordan intruded only by the persistent guano collectors. This place is a favorite site of the Boy Scouts for camping and bivouac. It's natural beauty has been unspoiled by men instead maintained its pristine environment.
            Standing on the summit of the famed Balaan Bukid (Holy Mountain), we can see the panoramic view of the whole city of Iloilo since this is situated on a high terrain. Traveling ocean vessels always keep distance while approaching this place called Bondulan Point in order to avert accident. Balaan Bukid is famous for being a pilgrimage sites for devotees, faithfuls and other tourists during the Lenten Season. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Panay Island. Another reason that Balaan Bukid attracts a lot of tourists is because of its Pagtaltal sa Guimaras (Crucifixion In Guimaras) held every Good Friday in Balaan Bukid. Pagtaltal sa Guimaras is an actual reenactment of the last hour of Jesus Christ until his crucifixion and death on the cross. The organizers choose a devotee to act as Jesus Christ - someone who has a made a deep pledge of reform and penance of crucifying himself on the cross if his wish or wants will be fulfilled. The actor will be crucified to the cross using real nails piercing his hands and feet for a specific time period under excruciating and scorching heat of the sun. Balaan Bukid is also home to the Trappist Monk Monastery, the only Trappist monk monastery in the Philippines. Naburot Island is considered to be a refuge of people from pollution and hustles of city life.
            Naburot Island is just a few minutes away from Tatlong Pulo (Three Isles). It's clear and calm waters are inviting for swimmers, boaters and scuba divers. Buringot Beach which is ten minutes boat ride from Naburot Island is suited for writers, poets and lovers. The waters of this place is so calm that it is ideal for windsurfing and sailing. The famed Alubihod Beach is very popular among beach goers, tourists and travelers who frequented Guimaras Island. It is a white sand beach named because of its white sand looking like a "bihod" or  fish eggs. This beach boasts of white sand, varied-shape corals and nature carved rocks. The water here is crystal clear fitted to be an ideal place for scuba diving.Nagarao Islands is also one of the islets in Guimaras and there is a cave called Catillaran cave there. It is situated in a half hidden forest clearing thickly encircled by the verdant forest trees and shrubs. One can find hardened, weird looking stalactites there as well as pointed piles of stalagmites rising in rows on the damp ground of the cave.
           Trappist Monastery is also another attraction. It has a spacious praying hall so tranquil and serene that it is really suited for reflection and meditation. At the simple altar stood a huge lighted candle which is kept perpetually lighted throughout the days of the year and from year to year. The area enclosed by the compound is quite extensive enough for the monks to have their citrus plantation on it. 
           Good Shepherd's Fold Orphanage in Buenavista is an institution built in 1946 by Philip Trabon which offers a high school course with a vocational training on the practical arts and the science. One can see the vast area which encloses the facilities of a laboratory and workshop rooms for young orphans.
            Daliran Springs and Cave in Buenavista is a mountain spring that has a fresh, cold water that comes from a crevice of a natural rock formation which flows freely to the densely forested nook down below. Tributaries from several mountain springs met together to form a wide pool which is as large and enjoyable as an ordinary swimming pool. Below the pool are some granite rocks similar to what can found in the ceilings and walls of the adjoining cave. Next stop is the Tinadtaran Buenavista Target Range at Barangay Tinadtaran, Buenavista.
            Tinadtaran Buenavista Target Range at Barangay Tinadtaran, Buenavista is the place where the young Douglas MacArthur  developed his shooting skills during the period from 1903 - 1904. He was 23 years old then and a Second Lieutenant fresh from the West Point Academy in the United States, when he was assigned in Iloilo as a Company Commander of an Army Corps of Engineers. In fact, the roads from Arroyo Street to Compania Maritima Building and the wharf along Muelle Loney were constructed by his Army Engineers. The Tinadtaran Target Range is among the enduring proofs of General Douglas MacArthur's stay in the island.
            Barangay Supang still in the town of Buenavista is also full of history. Camp Jossman in Barangay Supang in Buenavista town is the place where a military installation was put up  by the United States Army in 1903. The road in the area which is still visible up to this day is also one of the evidences of General MacArthur's stay there.  p. 254
            Roca Encantada is famous for its mansion perched on top of the island. This mansion perched on top of a small rocky island was built in 1910 by a lady who at the age of 22 became a widow. Because of loneliness, she decided to leave the elegant city life in Iloilo and stayed there in the mansion by the rock for the remaining years of her life. Before she died, she left word to her sons never to sell the place for anything in this world. The lady was no other than the late Doña Presentacion Hofileña Lopez, the mother of the illustrious Lopez brothers - Don Eugenio H. Lopez and former Vice President of the Philippines, Fernando H. Lopez. The place is occasionally used as a venue for seminars and retreats and a favorite stopover for some excursions and field trips. To reach the top, one must ascend the rocky steps toward the island mansion. Once you reach the top, you will have a breath taking view of the surrounding areas while being refreshed by the flurry of the cold, fresh sea breeze. One can delightfully discover that the place offers a panoramic view of the whole northern portion of Guimaras Island and upon turning the gaze towards the middle portion of the sea, one can see a clearer view of the seven islets known as the "Siete Pecados" or the "Isles of Seven Sins." Known literally as the "Enchanted Rocks," Roca Encantada portrays an atmosphere of complete serenity and tranquility which reflects the owner's desire and personality. It is really an ideal place for one who wants seclusion and reflection. Many people believed that the place serves as a lasting symbol of the late landlady's love of nature.
          Guimaras is only a small province but it is endowed with a natural beauty exemplified by its numerous white sand beaches, spotless roaring cascades and significant historical sites, very few of which were man-made. Most of those natural beauty attractions remained pristine and unspoiled which made them so attractive and tempting to local and foreign tourists. 



 

Roca Encantada, Buenavista



  

Roca Encantada, Buenavista



  

Roca Encantada, Buenavista



  

Roca Encantada, Buenavista



  

Balaan Bukid or Sacred Mountain in Hoskyn, Jordan, Guimaras



  

Balaan Bukid or Sacred Mountain in Hoskyn, Jordan, Guimaras



 

Isla Naburot or Naburot Island in Barangay Sinapsapan, Jordan, Guimaras 



 

Isla Naburot or Naburot Island in Barangay Sinapsapan, Jordan, Guimaras 



 

Isla Naburot or Naburot Island in Barangay Sinapsapan, Jordan, Guimaras 




 

The smallest plaza in the Philippines can be found in Jordan, Guimaras 


Photo Source: 

www.vigattintourism.com 
www.ceajan.com 
www.alienscream.wordpress.com 
www.morefuninpinas.com 
http://theislandexplorer.blogspot.com 
http://neilshots.wordpress.com 
http://ilonggos.net 
http://flavoursofiloilo.blogspot.com 
www.iloilo-travel-guide.blogspot.com 
www.escapemanila.com
www.pinoytravelfreak.com