Market to Master: Philippines - Iloilo

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

 

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

Amazing Antique

          First stop is Libertad, the farthest and the last town located in the northernmost part of Antique. One attraction in that town is the Liberty Park in Mt. Agongon. There is a rough, winding road going uphill but on the halfway to the top of Mt. Agongon is a wide, playground-sized plateau where at the center of the scenic park stood a concrete marker indicating the name of the park and its significance to the town of Libertad. Aside from being a historical place, Liberty Park is also used as a camping area by the boy and girl scouts in this municipality. At the edge plateau, one will stand in awe at the breathtaking view below it. The town of Libertad seemed dwarfed by the vast expanse of the blue waters of Cuyo Sea. The soothing highland breeze refresh someone while feasting their eyes on the marvelous scenery.
           Sunken Garden in Punta Pucio, which is about 9 kilometers away from the town proper of Libertad, is another attraction from that town. This man-made wonder is made up of coral rocks and reefs submerged in a lagoon of fresh water covering an area of about 500 square meters. Clinging to the rocks and reefs were greenish moss and seaweeds which served as food to the various species of fish swimming around the tranquil water. 
          Another attraction, the Libertad Reforestation Area in Barangay Inyawan is about eight (8) kilometers away from the town proper. Maanghit Cave is also in Libertad town. Maanghit (foul odor) got its name  from the foul smell of the guano. There is a bush-lined trail leading to the entrance of the cave. There is a huge deposit of guano or bat's waste on cavern floor. The semi-darkness on the cave can give someone an eerie feeling as you go through the damp and humid interior. Since it is not big, it will take just a few minutes for someone to explore around Maanghit Cave.
          Kaniang Resort in Barangay Cubay has several wide, nature-carved basins filled to their stone-lined brims with clear, cool water. The fresh water flowed from a stream up above a nearby hill. . Each crystal-clear basin revealed its clean and hazard-free depth.
          There is a Marble Quarries in Barangay San Roque still in Libertad town. The marbles of 24 colors are quarried from cavernous tunnels. Idiayan Resort is a beach of silken sands where it has clear blue waters, rolling waves and cloudless seascape. Yonder through the horizon, hazy images and shapes of distant islands and islets can be seen.
           There is an old watchtower located at the Osmeña Street of the town. The old watchtower was constructed during the Spanish regime. It used to be crenelated as fortification against invaders. The main purpose of the watchtower was to warn people of the approaching pirates who kept marauding their town. The town plaza has a historical marker with the following inscription: "On this beach, at 02:00 hours, April 30, 1943, were received army supplies and materials brought in by the first U.S. submarine, the USS Cudgeon, thus, establishing contact between the Panay guerillas and General MacArthur's Headquarters in Australia." The plaza was once a beach of Libertad. This place is historically significant because the liberation of Panay really started on this place through the contact stated in this marker.
            The majestic, white-speckled Marble Mountain of the town of Pandan has a large deposit of marble that could last for a thousand years. The marble someone can see is actually multi-colored. There are marbles colored white, gold, gray, black, pink, light gray, red and blue. There is an interplay of colors shown by those multi-colored surface as struck by the shaft of light from the sun. 
            Malumpati Health Spring still in Pandan is another attraction for those who are health conscious. It has a chilling cold water that anyone can enjoy. It is called Health Spring because some people believe it has some therapeutic benefits which could cure some certain ailments.  It is also the site of the Scouting Jamboree sometimes. According to a legend, a Spaniard one time was about to ask a native regarding the name of the place when, all of a sudden, an Aeta (Negrito) scampered from a bush nearby at the sight of a white-skinned Spaniard and bolted out into the open to jump over the river bank possibly out of fright. At such a sight, the native exclaimed in surprise, "Ay, malumpat ang Ati" ( Look, the Aeta will jump!). Since then the place was called "Malumpati"
            Next is the town of Sebaste where the very famous Kamalasag Falls in Barangay Abiera can be found. One can be dumbfounded looking at the jet of water cascading from a height of 100 feet with a booming sound to create an incessant foam below. The towering granite rocks and the lush vegetation around the waterfall added to the aesthetic quality of the environment. Kamalasag Falls is considered to be the most beautiful waterfall in Panay. The fall is also considered as a rich source of hydroelectric power. In fact, if the power of this falls is harnessed for hydroelectricity, it could supply the whole province of Antique with enough electricity without depending on the costly imported oil for fuel. Viewing the Igpasungaw Falls still in Sebaste, at a close range is another exhilarating experience. This waterfall which has a natural basin with crystal clear water is splendid as a natural swimming pool.
            Bugtong Bukid (Only Mountain) is also in Sebaste where the massive towering mountain looming majestically amidst the verdant hills and plains around it. It is so called Bugtong Bukid because it is the only mountain standing aloft and alone in  the midst of the vast plains and hills surrounding the town of Sebaste. The church of Saint Blaise in Sebaste is another place of interest. Every year, countless devotees flocked  in pilgrimage to this church because of reported miracles which were attributed to Saint Blaise, the patron saint of the town. 
            The town of Culasi has something to be proud of - the colossal and imposing Mount Madia-as, the highest mountain peak in Panay. With its towering peak and the verdant virgin forest surrounding it bathed in the golden rays of the mid-afternoon sun, the magnificent mountain looked resplendent in such array.
            Mount Madia-as is a natural landmark where anyone can be enthralled with its beautiful scenery, various and rare flora and fauna, a lagoon, a bonsai forest looking neatly trimmed and a rain forest that provides Madia-as  a weather of its own. 
            Kipot Falls in Barangay Buenavista in Culasi is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Antique. From top to bottom, you can find its seven natural basins similar to the Jawili Falls of Aklan. Look at the seemingly dancing cascades that leap from one basin to another and see how they sparkle at the strike of the sun's rays. Look at the frothing basin with its mass of bubbles formed by the tremendous pressure of the pouring cascades. 
             Lipata Bay of Culasi is considered the deepest in Antique. It also has a significant mark in history because it was where the American submarine, the USS Marshall, surfaced in 1944 to unload war cargoes of arms, ammunition, medicine, radio equipment and other supplies needed by the Panay guerrillas. This bay is also strategically located as to be an excellent natural harbor. 
            Mararison (or sometimes Malalison) Island is a beautiful island with white beach is also part of Culasi town. The white sand beach is ideal for picnics, excursions and for tourist visits. This beach is not suitable for swimming because of the presence of sharp coral rocks and reefs which are abound on its seabed. This island has two caves, each with a length of around 100 feet. The waters around this island is suitable for spear fishing while the white sand beach is suited not only for excursion but also for beach combing.
             The nearby island of Batbatan is a unique island shaped into a huge green mound composed mostly of verdant hills and slopes together with the plains covered with lush vegetation. This island boasts of a numerous natural coves and anchorages suitable for shelter and docking of ships which are incidentally caught by typhoon at sea. This island is suitable for the Caribbean island category.  The Tangay tribe is a cultural minority who inhabits the place. They have their own culture, way of life and language different from the main Antique natives. This place is still untainted with the style of living in the modern civilization. Maniguin Island lies farther east of Batbatan. Near the shore are rocks, grasses, shrubs and stunted trees. Following the rocky trail, one can reach a sloping granite promontory located northeast of the island. At the edge of the promontory, is a two-storey, tapering, white washed lighthouse bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. The island is a Naval Reservation Area. This serves as a Naval Station for Coast Guards guarding the western coast of Panay from any possible intrusion or invasion, piracy, smuggling activities and illegal fishing. There is also the island of Caluya and farther towards the island of Semirara which is a part of group of islands of the same name. There is a variety species of birds flying above these group of islands and is a bird sanctuary for it is remote for hunters to harass or exterminate these birds.  
          The nearby island of Sibay is bordered by fine beaches, covered on top by grassy hills and interspersed with thickly grown trees and tall reeds. This island is where the Spanish conquistador Martin de Goite dropped by on his way to conquer Manila in 1570. It was also here that one of the first radar stations in Panay was installed. The neighbor island of Caluya has a white sand beach with various species of rare seashells. The waters around this island of Caluya are considered ideal for scuba diving and deep sea fishing for its depths are full of various coral reefs which are the favorite habitat of various kinds of fish. Robber  or coconut crab clambering on the coconut trees in the island is locally known as Tatus. It is a kind of crab which feeds on the bud of young coconut trees. Its flesh is exceedingly delicious compared to ordinary crabs and is rarely found anywhere in the country such that it commands a very high price in some five-star hotels in the country.
          Next is the town of Tibiao where the Manglamon Cave of Sitio Tiguis can be found. Inside this cave, a bountiful stocks of stalagmites and stalactites could be found. The rim of the cave's gaping mouth was moss-covered while the rocky surface around it was also nearly covered by thick cogon grasses making the cave seems hideous and horrid looking. It is named Manglamon because the cave looks like it will swallow everything that goes into it. The Manglamon beach has a fine, sift shiny sands sparkle like precious gems at the strike of the mid-morning sun. The remarkable calmness of the clear aquamarine blue waters of the beach is occasionally broken only by the soft splashing sound of waves dashing laps against the sloping shore. There is also a famous Bugtong Bato in Tibiao with special feature about cauldron sauna, kawa bath spa and the exciting whitewater kayaking for those who wants adrenaline rush.
          Barbaza is the next town after Tibiao where there is a mountain spring oozing with an abundant flow of crystal clear water in Sitio Hatay-hatay of Barangay Palma. Barbaza is also proud of its Batabat Coral Reef.
It has a one and a half hectare island which has an appraising look of the whole island. It is made up of entirely corals of different colors. Barbaza church is considered as one of the most beautiful churches in Antique because of its modern architectural style.The architect who built the church also designed the Museo Iloilo.
          Estaca Hill is a popular hill in Bugasong town with an elevation of 200 ft. above sea level. The rugged winding path uphill, mostly strewn with gravels bulging rocks was a painstaking experience for the travelers whose clothes were drenched with perspiration when they reached the peak.  Upon reaching the summit, a picturesque scenery will unfold. The sea and the surrounding hills made an analogous combination of blue and green with the white and multi-colored houses and buildings providing the necessary accents to it. It was further lighted by the glinting reflections of the galvanized iron  sheet roof of the houses and buildings. The sea loomed so clearly calm and serene except for the crisscrossing of the multi-colored pumpboats and the occasional disruptive diving and soaring of the sea gulls as they dip their wings at the crest of the surging waves. The hill is historically significant for it was used as a watchtower during the Spanish times to warn the people of the approaching Muslim pirates. The town of Bugasong is also proud of its locally woven "patadyong" or old women's skirt.
         Patnongon is the next town where it is proud of it San Agustin High School that was remodeled from an old Spanish convent located near the site of the ruins of the century-old Spanish church. The next town is Belison then Sibalom. Sibalom has a beautiful Santa Rita church where there is a supine statue of St. Rita. This regal statue was allegedly given as a gift to the people of Sibalom by the Augustinian Sisters in Cascia, Italy according to the sacristan of the church. Sibalom also has the Sibalom Dam as a source of water supply for irrigation.
          San Remegio is next with the famous Bato Cueva and there is a panoramic view of the surrounding areas uphill, the towns of Sibalom, San Jose and the majestic Mount Madia-as, the highest peak in Panay. They also have the Pula waterfalls where its blood-tinted water could not easily be found anywhere else in the country.  
           The next town is San Jose, the capital city Antique. There is a concrete monument erected at the center of the town plaza. The monument is inscribed in bold, engraved letters with the name EVELIO B. JAVIER FREEDOM PARK. On its base is a historical marker stating that it is the spot where the late Governor, Evelio B. Javier was shot on February 11, 1986 by the Marcos regime. He was one of the political victims of Martial Law. The bronze marker states:
            "As a fitting tribute to a man who has done so much not only for the people of Antique but for the entire Filipino nation, in pursuit of justice, freedom, dignity, democracy and peace."
           Standing on an elevated concrete platform above this marker is a statue of the late Governor Evelio B. Javier. 
           La Granja Hill still in San Jose has a vast plateau at the top of the hill  where one can see an extensive sports complex with its vast playing field for track and field events and ball games. This hill serves as the venue of provincial and regional athletic meets as well as the Binirayan Festival which is being held yearly here in Antique. The playing field also serves as a venue for cultural presentations during the festival."
           On the coastal side of San Jose, there is a secluded beach concealed by a mini-forest of tall narra, mahogany, and different fruit trees. This place is called Camp Autajay but local people sometimes called it Piña Beach because the orchard of this camp produce pineapples abundantly. This 10 hectare lot is located along the fine sandy beach which serves both as rest camp and a beach suitable for excursions and picnics.
            Next town is Hamtic where the historically significant Malandog Elementary School. On its front lawn stands at its center a concrete monument with a bronze historical marker on it. It was on this place that the first Malayan settlement was established in the Philippines The inscription on the marker reads: "Landing site of the first Malayan settlers 1200 A.D." The marker also marks the landing site of the earliest Malayan settlers. Next to San Jose are the southern towns of Tobias Fornier and Anini-y where the famous Nogas Island can be found. Nogas Island is a twenty-six hectare island full of white smooth shells and corals. The island is actually a government naval reservation used as supply and docking station for our Coast Guards and naval ships patrolling the southern coast of Panay for foreign intrusion, piracy or smuggling activities. Few meters into the beach shore stands a tapered shape of a white washed concrete lighthouse. It has 72 spiral stairway going up the tower. Reaching the balcony of the tower, one can have a sweepingly-look at the seascape below which fully revealed its naked beauty to the sightseers. Many uttered a sigh of admiration as they viewed the serene waters of the vast sea which distinctly outlined the misty shape of the islands ahead and clearly marked the shoreline of the mainland behind them. The colorful sailboats sailing to and from in the middle of the sea gave colors to the dominantly bluish background.
            Anini-y is also famous for its Hispano-Filipino church which is made up of white corals carefully selected, expertly fitted and securely fastened together which made it possible to survive many earthquakes and ravages of time. As the only existing Spanish church in Antique, this was constructed by the Augustinian friars sometime in 1875-1880. As such, it is one of the oldest landmarks in Antique. Sira-an Hot Spring is just few kilometers away from the poblacion, which it reached through a narrow, sandy, access road just a few meters away from the national highway. There is a jet of streaming water squirting out of a crevice on its top and flowing down freely below into the natural receptacle which formed into a pool. Sira-an Hot Springs is flocked by people who were mostly ill and believed that the sulphur water of the spring could cure their illness. The natural basin which collects the spring water can accommodate a maximum of two persons who like to take a dip into its mineral water. But the water coming out of the fissure from the basin is flammable; hence, it is dangerous  for the smoking visitors to stand near it. Though this spring is situated in Sitio Dapog, yet, Barangay Sira-an was most benefited by the economic development brought about by the flock of local and foreign tourists who frequented this place. Hurao-hurao Island in Anini-y town is also another popular island beach resort where a popular hill with a good vantage point view of the rocky mountain Cresta de Gallo can be found. Cresta de Gallo is a mountain made up of solid rock and has been denuded and depressed in two points forming two deep gulleys between three peaks which, at a distance, looks like a cock's comb. It is so called Cresta de Gallo because of its shape that resembles a cock's comb. It is believed that within the area of this mountain a rich reserve of mineral deposits could be found. This place is called as "Punta Nasog" by the natives and is one of the famous tourist attractions of Anini-y.

   

Whitewater Kayaking in Tibiao, Antique 

Kawa Bath Spa, Tibiao, Antique 

Bugtong Bato Falls, Tibiao, Antique 

Kamalasag Falls in Sebaste, Antique 

Mount Madia-as, the highest mountain in Panay Island 

    

Rafflesia, the smelliest and the biggest flower in the world can also be found in Antique 

Photo Source: 

Antique North: Visayas Extreme Adventure Getaway - http://metropolitanculasi.webs.com 

www.ironwulf.net            

Governors Of ILOILO Province

 

General Martin Delgado - The First Civil Governor of Iloilo during the American colonial period

 

Raymundo Melliza - The Second Civil Governor of Iloilo during the American Occupation

  

Tomas Confesor - Governor Of Iloilo Resistance Government During World War II 

 

Niel Tupas, Sr. - Governor From 2001 - 2010

  

Arthur Defensor, Sr. - One of the longest serving governor Of Iloilo 

These are the Alcalde Mayor (now Provincial Governor) of Iloilo province during the Spanish colonial government: 

1634 - 1636 - Diego de la Correa
1637 - 1639 - Pedro Alarcon
1640 - 1642 - Pedro de Leon
1643 - 1646 - Felipe Casiano
1647 - 1649 - Juan Mendoza
1650 - 1653 - Felipe Peñalosa 
1654 - 1657 - Jose Cordero
1658 - 1661 - Pedro Bobaella
1662 - 1664 - Pedro Velasco
1665 - 1666 - Jose Briones
1667 - 1668 - Sebastian de Villas
1669 - 1670 - Jose de Robles
1671 - 1672 - Francisco Surrilla
1673 - 1674 - Miguel Rendon
1675 - 1676 - Alonzo Piralba
1677 - 1678 - Nicolas de Pamplona 
1679 - 1680 - Miguel Rindon Livar 
1681 - 1682 - Juan de Moreno
1683 - 1684 - Martin Gonzales
1685 - 1686 - Manuel Sarmiento
1687 - 1688 - Nicolas Perez
1689 - 1690 - Diego Quiñonez
1691            - Sebastian de Via
1691 - 1692 - Diego Vargas
1694 - 1696 - Luis Camacho
1697 - 1698 - Juan Carion
1699 - 1700 - Juan Maldonado
1701 - 1702 - Juan Parado
1703 - 1704 - Antonio Tarosa
1705 - 1706 - Juan Esquera
1707            - Pedro Avendano 
1708 - 1709 - Nicolas de Colina
1710 - 1711 - Juan Jurado
1712 - 1713 - Gaspar Sanches
1714 - 1715 - Atancio de Gubgura
1716 - 1717 - Pedro Lucena
1718 - 1719 - Felipe Arevalo
1727            - Pedro Basadas Perez
1728 - 1730 - Andres Melenday 
1731 - 1733 - Francisco Sanguines
1734 - 1737 - Luis de la Torre
1738 - 1739 - Felipe Espino
1740 - 1741 - Manuel de Dozal
1742 - 1745 - Francisco Valladores
1746 - 1748 - Francisco Oscotes
1749 - 1751 - Ignacio Marquez
1752 - 1754 - Antonio de Arguelles
1770 - 1771 - Jose de Ocampo 
1772 - 1773 - Manuel de Mendio 
1775 - 1776 - Santiago Salavaria
1777 - 1779 - Felipe Almoranas
1780 - 1782 - Francisco Viera
1783 - 1786 - Santiago Salavaria
1787            - Juan Suarez
1788 - 1795 - Francisco Bayot
1796 - 1801 - Jose Mijares
1802 - 1804 - Damian Novales
1805 - 1808 - Froilan Aguerre
1818 - 1819 - Manuel Canay 
1820 - 1822 - Miguel Calderon 
1823 - 1825 - Joaquin Cemina 
1826 - 1828 - Manuel Rodriguez
1829 - 1834 - Manuel Guillen 
1835 - 1841 - Ambrosio del Callo
1846 - 1852 - Felipe Combe 
1853 - 1855 - Pedro Zarraga
1856 - 1860 - Miguel Arila
1861            - Emilio Carles
1862 - 1867 - Jose Maria Carles
1868            - Anastacio de la Peña
1868 - 1869 - Manuel Iznart
1870            - Eduardo Caballero
1871            - Fernando Rojas
1872 - 1879 - Enrique Fajardo
1880 - 1881 - Camilo Millan 
1882 - 1883 - Miguel Aguilar
1884            - Luis Zariaga
1885            - Luis Pratt
1889            - Pedro Montero
1890            - Miguel Blanco
1891            - Nicolas Jaramillo
1892            - Jose Gramaren 
1892 - 1896 - Francisco de Castilla 
1896 - 1898 - Salvador Viana
1898            - Ricardo Monet


Here is the list of governors of Iloilo province starting from the American Civil Government up to the present: 

1901 - 1904 - Martin Delgado
1904 - 1906 - Raymundo Melliza
1906 - 1908 - Benito Lopez
1908 - 1912 - Ruperto Montinola
1912 - 1913 - Adriano Hernandez
1914 - 1916 - Amando Avanceña
1917 - 1922 - Gregorio Yulo 
1922 - 1925 - Ruperto Montinola
1925 - 1927 - Jose Ledesma
1927 - 1928 - Jose Lopez-Vito (Appointed) 1
1928 - 1929 - Mariano Arroyo
1929 - 1931 - Alejo Aquino 1
1931 - 1934 - Jose Yulo Regalado
1934 - 1937 - Timoteo Y. Consing, Sr. (Appointed)
1938 - 1941 - Tomas Confesor
1941 -  1942 - Oscar Ledesma
1942 - 1944 - Fermin Caram (Japanese Sponsored Government)
1942 - 1945 - Tomas Confesor (Resistance Government)
1945            - Patricio Confesor 
1945            - Jose Ledesma
1946 - 1948 - Tomas Vargas
1948 - 1959 -  Mariano Peñaflorida
1960 - 1963 - Jose Zulueta
1964 - 1969 - Rafael Palmares
1970 - 1986 - Conrado Norada
1986 - 1987 - Licurgo Tirador (Appointed)
1987 - 1992 - Simplicio Griño
1992 - 2001 - Arthur Defensor, Sr.
1992            - Feliciano Marañon *
2001 - 2010 - Niel D.Tupas, Sr.
2010 - 2019 - Arthur Defensor, Sr.
2019 - 2022 - Arthur Defensor, Jr. 

*Feliciano Marañon, former ex-officio member of Iloilo provincial board representing the Liga ng mga Barangay, assumed briefly as governor by succession after the filing of certificates of candidacy during 1992 elections left vacant elective position in the provincial government. 

1 Lopez Vito and Aquino were not mentioned in the History of Panay book but they were listed in the 1937 Panay Directory and Souvenir Book




Sources:

Regalado, Felix and Quintin, Franco, History of Panay, Iloilo City: Central Philippine University, 1973

David, Manuel and Ramon Campos, Panay Directory and Souvenir Book,  Manila: Ramon Roces Publications, Inc. 1937

Department of Interior and Local Government 

Alluring Aklan

Places of Interest in Aklan 

Sampaguita Gardens, New Washington, Aklan 

New Washington, Aklan 

Ibajay, Aklan 

Jawili Falls, Tangalan 

Ignito Cave, Buruanga, Aklan 

Ariel Point, Buruanga, Aklan         

          The road to Aklan is a long winding series of ups and downs, zigzag and turns making it one of the bumpy and exciting places to visit. The first town in Aklan upon entering the province from Capiz is Altavas.
          Traversing through a rough sandy-clay road, one can reach Batan a small coastan town northwest of Altavas. Trekking towards a winding upward trail, one can reach a breath-taking panorama overlooking a wide, silvery-white lake. This the "tinagong dagat" (hidden sea) of Batan, a hidden sea of around 8 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, lying between Altavas and Batan and partly hidden from Batan Bay by two small islands. This beautiful sea-lake is protected from the destructive instinct and indiscriminate intrusion of man by a fringe of mangrove, thick undergrowth and rocky cliffs. This unique sea-lake is an ideal place for swimming, boating, and water skiing, especially during summer, if one prefers to have privacy and pleasure. This is also a rich fishing ground especially during the northeast monsoon when the Sibuyan Sea is rough. 
           There is an old school converted into a museum in Batan where a marker stood in front of the building with the following inscription: "This marks the place where the seat of government of Rajah Bendahara Kalantiaw III, the third chief of Panay, famous lawgiver and author of the famous Code of Kalantiaw, was established." Inside the museum, is a well-arranged display of various antiques. In one corner is a glass-encased shelf which contained the original copy of the manuscript on which is written the Code of Kalantiaw. In the opposite corner is another shelf with pictures and biographies of our great national heroes. Barangay Songcolan, which is four kilometers east of Batan, is where the famous Ob-ob Hill is found. One can trek the hundred-meter length of shady, climbing trail until you reach the hilltop consisting mostly of rocks some with moss and young vines. This is Ob-ob Hill of Batan with a lighthouse. It stands like an unmanned, unlighted lighthouse facing the Sibuyan Sea welcoming the lost and tempest-ridden seafarers. Ob-ob Beach is around 200 meters below this hill. 
          The next town is Balete. There is a winding trail to reach a beautiful hill - the famous Agtawagon Hill, the pride of Balete. It is seven kilometers away from the poblacion or town proper and located at the southeastern part of Barangay Morales. One can notice some dugouts and small pits on the hilltop. Those are the foxholes of our soldiers during the Second World War. During the Philippine Revolution of 1896, this hill was used by our Filipino patriots as their last line of defense against the Spanish soldiers. During the Second World War, this was the operation camp of the Filipino soldiers and guerillas.
          Next is the town of Madalag. Large and tall Balete trees alternated by bamboo and coconuts shaded the concrete road towards the town proper. Following a narrow, not graveled barangay road sheltered occasionally by the thick foliage of the tall mahogany and wild cherry trees grown along the sides of the road until one can reach a rock-strewn river bank where a crystal-clear rushing water edged its way over big and small boulders. Pushing you way forward following the river bank, one can be awed at the sight to behold -Tindog Falls which continuously flows to the main river below. You can sit among the smooth boulders jutting out of the thick shrubs alongside the waterfalls. Tindog Falls of Madalag is a unique waterfall noted for having its basins at the top rather than at the bottom. Observe the row of gradually ascending, nature-carved stones. They were nature-carved into stair-like shapes by the cascades from the top of this fall. Just take a look also at the play of colors formed into an iridescent rainbow by the straight shaft of sunlight.
           The town of Libacao has their own famous Manimpa Falls. Walking through a grassy surface atop a verdant slope and northward on a limestone path slightly covered with a thin moss until one can reach the 50-foot Manimpa Falls whose cascades crashed with tremendous force down its rocky walls. Manimpa Falls, which is a part of Barangay Caa-awan is the pride of Libacao. This waterfall has its basins located both at the top and at the bottom through which the waters of this falls pour in. The clear, silvery-white water is unceasingly pouring and spraying against the rocks to the main river below. 
            After Libacao, the next town is Banga where the Aklan State College of Agriculture is located. The school has a total land area of 69 hectares but only 6 hectares are occupied by school buildings and its other facilities. The school has an orchard planted with durian, mangosteen, rambutan and lanzones among so other fruits. Some other parts of the 69 hectare areas are rice fields while the rest are pasture or grazing land located over the famous Manduyog Hill. Manduyog Hill is a 500 foot high hill with life size images and statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross erected beside the ascending stairway. Upon reaching the summit, one can see a nicely built concrete chapel where anyone can find comfort and solace for few minutes. The hill was named after Datu Manduyog, the successor of Datu Kalantiaw III, the famous lawmaker. This is a religious place at the same time a tourist attraction for pilgrims and other tourists.
           Kalibo, the capital of the province of Aklan, is just 9 kilometers northwest of Banga. One interesting place in Kalibo worth mentioning is the famed Tigayon Hill. The path to Tigayon Hill is one dampy, pebbled trail, partly shaded by tall acacia tree lined along the way until one can reach a cavern. One can enter the dark cave with a lamp or any lighting equipment and notice that the cave is wide and airy with its dome-shaped ceiling. While on the floor, one can see a stockpile of stalagmites. Although the wall were not as grotesque-looking as they should be, still it was eerie due to the pervading darkness, coldness and humid atmosphere of the cave. Outside the cave, there is a cave-like grotto with a nature-carved arched entrance. Inside the grotto, there is a smooth, flat-top rock which looked like a table at the center. The table-like rock is used by the priest when holding a mass here. At the side, two rocks are used as benches by the people attending the said mass, or by any visitor who wishes to rest. One can wander through the hill until you reach a winding rocky steps going uphill to its plane but rocky treeless summit overlooking the vast stretch of plains consisting of rice fields and other croplands. The wide plains are irrigated by the waters of Aklan River, Aklan's largest river, which you can clearly see from that vantage point. Somewhere in Kalibo, travel across a sandy access road to a scenic beach fringed with shady palm trees called Lambingan beach with cottages of various sizes while you enjoy the soft fine sand beach. Another one is Bougainvillea beach another popular beach of Kalibo. It has shady coconut trees and icy cold water and is a spectacular sight during sunset.
           Next is the antique-laden Museo It Akean or the Aklan Museum where one can find rich collections of various antiques, relics and artifacts taken allegedly from the various diggings in Aklan.There also artistic display of various works of arts by the famous artists of Aklan. The articles and pictures are modestly arranged and carefully chosen, thus, giving a real atmosphere of arts and culture.
           There is also a Freedom Shrine in Kalibo which display a war monument,  mortars, and other armament of World War II, signifying the heroic stand of the Aklanons. There is also a 19 Martyrs Marker erected on a street intersection named after it. The historical marker marks a significant event in Philippine History enumerating the names of the nineteen (19) Aklanons who gave up their lives to set free the Filipinos from the enslavement of the Spanish regime.
           Next to Kalibo is New Washington, a coastal town east of Kalibo, is a fishing village as shown by the flurry of customers and vendors buying and selling fresh fish, crabs, shrimps and lobsters on the makeshift stalls placed under the shady coconut trees. Pink Sisters Convent in New Washington is also another place of interest. The main building and everything around it were painted in pink - the convent facade, the concrete wall fence, the convent walls, and the study benches under the shady mahogany and acacia trees. Even the nun's habits were pink. The wild flower garden were planted with pink roses and lined with potted pink-flowered plants using pink flower pots placed in pink pot-holders. The chapel has pink pews, pink altar decors and pink walls. All were pink except the images of the crucified Christ and some saints. Even the clothes of the Blessed Virgin and other saints were all pink. Floripon Point Beach is another spectacular attraction in New Washington. Anyone can be dazzled by its expansive, fine sandy beach  and clear blue waters from Sibuyan Sea. Beyond the horizon, the misty shapes of distant islands could be seen occasionally obstructed from view by the crisscrossing sailboats, ferry boats and pump boats. Cottages of various sizes and shapes dotted the verdant lawns under the rows of coconut trees.
          New Washington has a notable place of interest which can be distinctively recognized as a popular New Washington destination - Sampaguita Gardens. Sampaguita Gardens is  14 hectare resort with Christmas and children as its theme. It is built for everyone's enjoyment especially for children and child like people and especially during Christmas when everything in this resort is well lighted and well decorated to have a holiday feel. There are lots of attractions in this resort and park garden. Among the attractions are the Butterfly Garden where several species of butterfly happily roaming around the plants, Children's museum, Adoration Chapel, a Spa, Aquariums, Children's playground, two swimming pools one for kids and another for adults and The Toy House which is the most prominent building of all contains lots of dolls, toys and collectibles items all for sale and a spectacular view of the Sibuyan Sea most especially during the sunset. One travel to New Washington is not complete without visiting Sampaguita Gardens.
          After New Washington, the next town is Numancia. The twin beaches of Navitas and Camanci are located four (4) kilometers from the poblacion of Numancia. This twin beach resort is excellent for picnics and excursions for there are stores and food stalls to cater to the needs of the picnickers and excursionists. The beach is also excellent for water skiing, boating and other sports. p.
         The next town is Lezo, known for pottery making. One can notice an attractive display of potwares and earthen wares of various shapes and sizes along the road and streets of Lezo. There is a life size bronze statue of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal incredibly erected in a small town like Lezo and it was marvelous and costly at those times. Another town is Malinao where you can travel to a rough, dusty road to an ascending and winding trail leading to Fatima Hill. Fatima Hill is located at Barangay Bulabod in Malinao. Its peak can be reached through a one kilometer flight of rocky stairways. Fourteen (14) Stations of the Cross are constructed beside each step towards the step . This area is used by pilgrims for prayers, meditation and reflection during the Holy Week. At the peak is a marvelous marble chapel entirely made up of marbles. It is so astonishing to look at the smooth shiny gloss marble walls and floors at the immaculately clean chapel at the top of the hill. Even statues and images of the saints in the chapel were all made of marble. The chapel can accommodate at least 100 to 200 persons. It has a high, whitewashed ceiling with a half-closed and half-open sacristy behind the altar. In front of the chapel, one can see the breath-taking view of the scenery before them. The soft mountain breeze and the scenery helped much to relieve someones exhaustion and fatigue caused by the long climb. 
         Barangay Tigpalas still in Malinao is proud of its Mampahon Falls. It can be reached through a rough, dusty road shaded by tall narra and lawa-an trees and with a narrow winding trail beneath the rocky bank of a river. Mampahon Falls is forty (40) feet high and has an eight (8) feet deep basin on top and 6-foot deep basin below. Its waters remain crystal clear and cool whole year round. A significant giant cross was erected in Sition Agbunsud in Barangay San Dimas, Malinao by the former parish priest of Malinao. It also marked the boundary between the towns of Malinao and Lezo. During the Philippine Revolution, the Filipino revolutionarios mounted their cannons on the hill in Sitio Agbunsud. 
          Next is the town of Tangalan after passing the town of Makato. Following the half-forested rocky trail, one can reach the marvelous Jawili Falls. Jawili Falls is the pride of Tangalan being the most beautiful waterfall in Aklan. It has seven basins arranged in series by nature, one basin cascading its waters down the next until it reaches the last one at the bottom. Each basin is a veritable swimming pool from 130 square feet to 540 square feet. The first basin is 40 x 60 feet in size, holding a 12-foot deep clear water. The other basins vary in sizes from 130 to 240 square feet. with 8 - 10 feet deep of clear water. The sixth basin, however, is the largest, with a swimming area of 540 square feet. All the seven basins have oval shapes and arranged in tiers at a regular distance of at least  20 feet high from each other. The highest basin has a height of 100 feet. There are small rest houses around reserve for visitors who wants to refresh themselves and stay for awhile while enjoying the falls. You can feast your eyes on the sparkling, dancing cascades crystal clear waters glinting at the strike of the rays of the sun. The huge, smooth boulders seems to be naturally arranged. The verdant background, accentuated by varied ferns and vines clinging to the moss-covered trunks of trees beneath the falls whose lower branches bow so low as to almost touch the rushing waters of the cascades, complete the final touch of the picturesque scenery.
          Afga Beach in Tangalan is a 2-kilometer stretch of soft white sand that could rival those of Boracay. The cool sea breeze brought here by the vast, open Sibuyan Sea could make a soothing effect on your tired muscle. The clear, dark blue, serene waters make the place for swimming, boating or water skiing. The regularly spaced rows of tall coconut trees giving shade to many cottages add to the pervading coolness of the place. The reforestation area of Campo Verde, which borders the towns of Tangalan and Ibajay around 28 kilometers west of Kalibo, is a mountainous area with a total altitude of 3,700 feet high above sea level. The numerous and varied trees planted and conserved in this camp contributed much to the preservation of the ecosystem in its environment.
          Tulingon Cave of Barangay Libertad in the town of Nabas is another interesting place to visit to adventure seekers and not just spelunkers. The entrance of the cave resembles the mouth of a whale shark. It is partly covered by tall grasses and reeds together with the thick, long vines creeping over its rocky mouth's edge. This cave is said to be one of the longest caves in the Philippines with a dark tunnel that stretches up to 20 kilometers to its exit in Barangay Patria of Pandan, Antique. Inside the cave, caverns of various sizes can be seen and the inner portion was blocked by stockpiles of stalagmites while the whole ceiling of a huge cavern was studded with a cluster of hanging stalactites. The whole floor of a mammoth cavern is fully covered by an enormous deposit of guano.p. 180
          The trail to Basang Cave was a little bit shorter and easier that it only take a short time for someone to reach it. The cave's entrance is less frightening because it's wider and faintly covered by short grasses and ferns. The attraction here is the flowing stream coming out of the cave's mouth with its crystal clear, cold water.  Taking a rock-strewn path beside the cave's wall, one should carefully plod on to the interior of the cave until one can reach a cavernous hall slightly lighted with sunlight coming through a tiny hole of the cave's wall. You will be astonished to see a wide,  round shaped natural basin full of cold, clear water which flowed out of the cave winding its way through canals until it went through the mouth of the cave. Going further, you will see another natural basin of bigger size but similarly shaped whose similarly cold and clear water followed a different course but finally joined the other stream at a portion near the mouth of the cave and came out as one bigger stream flowing into the main body of Gibon River below. These two basins inside Basang Cave can be used for swimming.
           Caticlan is a barangay or coastal community which is a part of the town of Malay. Here in the coastal barangay of Caticlan where pump boats, ferry boats and other sea crafts anchored and wait for the passengers going to Boracay or any other island off the waters of Malay. One can ride a pump boat to reach the Tigwati-an Island (now Laurel Island and more popularly called Crystal Cove) where one can see a breath taking view of the islands. Tigwati-an Island,  a nearby island of the famed Boracay Island, is a small island lying northeast of Sitio Tabon, a part of Caticlan. The white sand beach of Tigwati-an Island is thinly covered with tiny pieces of white and colored shells of varying sizes and shapes. There is a small, round cave on the rocky cliff off the island's eastern shore. Inside is a slightly lighted grotto like cavern, one will be astonished to find along its walls some slick stones nature-carved into varied shapes and forms of humans and animals.
            Boracay, dubbed as the "Paradise Island," is one of the top tourist destination in the country where over 2 million visitors from around the world flock annually to relax and have a vacation on this clay soft white sand beach regarded by many as the softest beach in the world while some others stay permanently because they fell in love by the beauty of the island. It has been named the best beach in the world by Travel and Leisure Magazine recently. It has lots of amenities, facilities, activities, establishments and businesses and commerce in the area that is why it has attracted a lot of tourists. It has roughly the shape of a dumb-bell with 7 kilometers long and almost 1 kilometer wide at its narrowest portion. As a barangay belonging to the the municipality of Malay, it has its own three barangays or community, Yapak in the north, Balabag in the center, and Manok-manok in the south. Yapak is noted for its various white pebbles and white shiny Puka shells which are fashioned into jewelry. It is where the name Puka Beach came from. The best known beach in the Philippines, some tourists claimed it to be the best in Asia, is White Beach or Long Beach for the natives, which is situated between the villages of Balabag and Angol. Manok-Manok has two beautiful sand beaches with tourist facilities, the Manok-manok and Cagban Beach. You will find some more interesting things about Boracay when you visit the place. By the way, the island paradise have its electricity starting in 1991. Diniwid beach is a white sand beach part of Boracay where its hills are nestled with luxurious mansions and resorts for tourists to stay. The tiny Balinghai beach is enclosed by steep rocky walls with some luxurious resort hotels and apartments cradle over its hills. Puka Beach, the farthest northernmost part of Boracay, is a long stretch of beach thickly covered with white sand equally mixed with glittering mantle of white and shiny puka shells of varied shapes and sizes. 
          Across Boracay and going back to Caticlan where you can find Agnaga Falls, another breath taking sight to behold. The falls has a crystal clear, chilly waters in the stream and one can dive into the basin's foaming water and enjoy its surging rapids.
          Nabaoy Reforestation Area in Malay is another place of interest where the verdant landscape is lined with tall trees. It is several hundred feet above sea level which has caused the chilling coldness of the air and pollution free atmosphere. 
           The last town after Malay is Buruanga, the farthest town in Aklan located in the northwest of the province. The far town of Buruanga will not be the last in showcasing their wonderful town and can proud of its Wasak-wasak Falls, Tigis Falls, and Ingus-Ingus Hill. The bulging and elevated mass of rocks of Ingus-ingus Hill is only two kilometers from the town proper or poblacion of Buruanga. This hill serves as a natural border making the exits of the Buruanga River which separates Barangay Alegria from the poblacion of Buruanga. Overlooking the hill, you can see the view of the sea on three sides. This hill was used as a watchtower to guard or spy on the approaching vintas of the Moro pirates who use to maraud this place during the Spanish times. Underneath this hill is a cave which was used as a hiding place or rendezvous of English pirates or buccaneers who used to prey on Spanish Galleons loaded with precious cargoes from Mexico. While the place gives a panoramic view of the lands, the edge of the hill also serves as an ideal roosting place for brigands, bandits and other criminals in hatching their evil plans to whatever took their fancy in their nefarious activities during the colonial period.
             Tigis Falls has a cascade whose clear water is comparable to any beautiful waterfalls in Aklan. Due to its remote location, there is an abundance of different species of birds flying around now and then. The thickly grown tall trees surrounding the waterfall added stillness and serenity to the place. The falls would be an ideal place for swimmers who prefer privacy during the hot summer months.
              Wasak-wasak Falls is a majestic fall revealing a huge column of roaring cascade which dropped with bubbling intensity at the huge receiving basin below. One can truly admire the scenery that only the poets could aptly describe and artists could clearly paint.

Attractions In or Near Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan 

Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan 

White Beach, Boracay 

Puka Beach, Boracay 

Puka Beach, Boracay 

Tigwati-an Island now called Laurel Island or popularly called Crystal Cove is just few minutes away southwest of Boracay and already near the main islands of the Aklan province. Tigwati-an Islands and Boracay Island is separated from the main Panay Island by Sibuyan Sea on northwest and Sulu Sea on the southeast. Regular island hopping is offered by local tours provided by Boracay, Malay Tourism council and other tour groups. You can search for the map of Boracay and Crystal Cove online. 

Crystal Cove also known as Laurel Island and formerly called Tigwati-an Islands. It is called formerly Tigwati-an Island because there was an abundance of the local bird called Tigwati in the islands before.