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. 

Captivating Capiz

Some Attractions in Capiz 

Suhot Cave With Suhotan Springs In Front or At the mouth of the cave. Suhot which means "to crawl inside" in English is in the town of Dumalag. 

Pan-ay Bells in the town of Panay is the largest bell in the Philippines and said to be the largest in Southeast Asia. 

Badiang Cave in Dumarao is rich in Phosphates minerals.     

         The name Capiz was based on a popular legend that when the Spaniards came to Capiz,  it was the time when Datu Bangkaya's wife gave birth to twin daughters. Twin is called "kapid" in local dialect. So the Spaniards  adopted the name Capiz instead kapid as a misspelled and mispronounced communication between them and the natives.
         First stop would be the caves situated on a small grassy plain near the foot of a hill overlooking the poblacion proper of the town of Pilar and Roxas City. The caves can be explored through six entrances but you might get lost in its labyrinth if you explore it by yourself. The cave chambers vary in size - some are small some are as big as a chapel.. There are vines from mountain top reached the caves through its openings. The water from a spring on top of this mountain is continuously dripping to the cave floor of this chamber. In the late 1980s, some people discovered some earthen pots with intricate designs from these caves. It was believed that these caves must have been the burial sites of Pre-Spanish Filipinos. In the Balisong caves, a cannon used by the Filipino revolutionaries during the Philippine Revolution, was found which was displayed in front of the town hall. Thus, it was believed that this cave was the hideout of the artillery of the revolutionary forces during the Philippine revolution.
         Next is the Tucad Reef in the town of Pilar which has a span of four hectares, This famous reef is actually an islet composed of seashells and corals with only a thin layer of sand in it. The corals are beautiful with varying gleaming colors of green, red, blue, saffron, pink and mauve and be thrilled by its aesthetic effect. From that vantage point, mountains of Masbate can be seen from afar. From the Tucad Reef, one can go to the fishing village of Casanayan still in Pilar town with a welcoming surrounding that makes you calm and relax - smoothly curved roads with protective palms of the shady coconut trees along its hazy streets. This village is noted for its home made patis and ginamos (bagoong or shrimp paste). What made this village very much well known was the bizarre if not miraculous phenomenon which happened many years ago but still believed by many people up to now.
         In 1929, a woman named Maria Basanes died of a heart attack at the age of 47. Ten years later, when her body was exhumed, it was found out that it was still intact and preserved. Many people, out of curiosity, flocked to this place just to see for themselves this rare phenomenon. Others came because of religious fanaticism on the belief that by praying before the preserved cadaver or touching any part of it may cure any of their ailments. Still others came on their superstitious believe that even just a pick of the smallest part of the body will serve as an amulet of good luck charm.
         Igang Cave in Barangay Tapulang of the town of Maayon has several entrance carved suitably at different levels. These different entrances, however will ultimately lead to the only one large chamber. Therefore, even if you decide to enter the cave through the entrance down below, at the middle, or at the upper level, you may still arrive at the same chamber with those who opted to enter the cave through the entrance at different levels. This huge chamber is located at the core of this cave. The whole cave including its chamber and tunnel system is as large as around 3 hectares of rice land. Inside the cave, trickles of water were regularly dripping from the source above the ceiling, forming a shallow creek which winds its way into a bigger river a few meters away from the cave's mouth.
         Next is the town of Pan-ay (written as Panay) with its famous church as its local attraction. Pan-ay Church is one of the oldest churches in Capiz if not in the whole island of Panay. In fact this town has the distinction as the only town to challenge Dumangas town (Iloilo) as the first town to receive the Catholic faith. According to history, Father Martin de Rada was said to have  been the first to preach the gospel in 1566 by the banks of the river of the town of Bamban (now Panay) before he proceeded to Dumangas.
          Pan-ay Church belfry is five-storey high with the topmost concealing its treasured relic - a huge antique bell. The belfry nine-foot thick walls is made of white coral blocks taken from the surrounding beaches of Pan-ay as ordered by the Spanish authorities.
          Pan-ay church floors are made of colored marbles taken from the far mountains of Romblon. The whole interior of the church is shaped like a cross with all the walls and crevices, especially in the side and central altars, richly decorated with silver decors and trinkets while the sculptured statues of the saints were aesthetically dressed in the richly woven fabric adorned with various jewels. The altar platforms and panels were all made of hardwood. There is an arched door leading to the winding stairways to the top. On the belfry, a massive antique bell is hanging on a thick, sturdy truss made of hardwood being held tightly to it by a coil of big, strong and compact steel rope. This old, gigantic bell was made in the 18th century from the 76 sacks of coins donated by the cooperative people of Panay. This bell measures 7 feet in diameter and weighs around 10, 400 kilogram. It is believed to be the biggest bell in the Philippines and many considered it to be the largest bell in Asia! Around it are eight smaller bells which were hanged on smaller hardwood by the same kind of steel rope.
          Another popular attraction in Panay town is Bontod beach which is one of the cleanest beach in Capiz due to the fact that it is situated in the unpopulated area of the town.  All year round this beach is free from any jellyfish which is quite unusual for most beaches. Naptis Island is popular for its crystal-clear and chillingly cold waters giving one a spine-tingling sensation aside from its white sand beach. The island is immaculately clean and not a speck of debris, animal or human waste, nor a glimpse of  the dangerous jellyfish or sea urchin could be found floating on the waters surrounding the island. On the white sand beach one can see an abundant supply of small empty white shells which are excellent materials for making beautiful shell necklaces. On top of the island one can see the breath taking view of Roxas City, the capital of Capiz and Panay town. Opposite the island is a small cave which is another tourist hot spot waiting to be explored. It is a dark, cold and damp cave teeming with some exotic cave dwelling animals makes an eerie feeling for someone. On the outskirts of the Panay town, is a barangay called Culasi, a coastal community which is already a part of Roxas City. Its port serves both as a docking facility and as a commercial port of Roxas City. Direct trade and commerce between Capiz and other provinces or cities are carried out here. The port boast not only as a docking facility but also as a tourist spot with its breath-taking view of the surrounding islands including the hazy image of the mountains of Romblon.
           Olotayan Island near Roxas City is another popular destination which tiny, smooth, white and shiny crusted shells locals called "cascaho." These shells have great commercial value as they are excellent material for a shell craft industry. They could be made into necklaces, lampshades, chandeliers, wall and table decors which foreign and local tourists are fond of. The nature-carved rocks which seemed to hang precariously over the northern shore are formed and exquisitely carved by the combined forces of nature stood like mute sentinels over the clear blue waters of the islands.
           A Spanish colonial mansion located at Zamora Street in Roxas City is the birthplace of the 5th President of the Philippines, last President of the Commonwealth Period and 1st President of the Third Republic, Manuel A. Roxas. There is a bronze historical marker by the National Historical Commission in front of the house to make it easy for other people to recognize. The house was recognized as a national shrine as indicated by the marker. Inside shows the lifestyle of the early Filipino ilustrado and inteligentias as shown by the decorative balustrade of stylish design which served as the railing of a wide staircase leading to the second floor. The reception room was composed of furniture which were mostly carved. The interior walls and partitions were all decorated with elaborate lace-like carvings which matched with the other panelings. On a corner of the sala was a large portrait of President Roxas placed on a low narra shelf close to a framed biographical sketch about him. On the opposite side was a picture of him and his family, placed on a larger frame. There is a large library - study room where one could easily notice a ten foot high book  shelf filled up with the rows of books - mostly law books and memorabilia of the former President. Through this room, one could get out to the second floor balcony with overhanging railings made of intricately carved balusters. From this veranda one could relax even for a brief moment while taking a breath of fresh air and viewing the scene below.
           Next town outside Roxas City is Ivisan another coastal town. Entering the town is a half-torn, old stone structure that measures around seven foot square wide and ten feet high. It is a stone fortress called "Moro Tower." It was built in 1814 by the Spanish authorities as a watch tower to protect the towns and villages from the deliberate attacks of the marauding Moro pirates and the pillaging Portuguese invaders. This ruined structure is but a mute testimony to our living past. 
            The town of Ivisan has a famous cove in Balaring, a barangay or village in Ivisan. The white sand beach of Balaring cove was made up of  clear, dark blue waters with its waves gently lapping the white sand beach on the shore. Some hovering seagulls deftly touching their wings to the swaying waves added a gentle touch to a romantic atmosphere.  
            Across the cove is a small island of Baslao. It is as beautiful as Balaring with the same clear, dark blue waters and white sand beach as that of Balaring. The 250-meter long stretch of the white sand beach is noted for being spotlessly clean with no signs of debris, sharp rocks, dangerous sea urchins or jellyfish  to despoil its pristine environment. The white sand beach of the cove also has plenty of stone sculptures intricately carved into strange forms and shapes by the incessant forces of nature abounds in different nooks and corners of the island. The crystal clear water revealed the multi-colored fish swimming in the shallow waters of the cove. On a partly secluded beach by the eastern portion of the cove, a thick carpet of tiny white, shiny seashells of varied shapes and sizes covered the whole stretch of the beach. The beautiful scenery, the cleanliness of the place, the calmness of the waters and its environs, and the gentle sea breeze swaying the shady coconut trees of the cove all contributed to make the place for enjoyment and relaxation.
           After Ivisan town is Dao en route to Cuartero. There is a famous lake in Cuartero called Agpayao Lake but before that here is a small background history of Cuartero.
            The town of Cuartero has had several names. First, it was named as Binudhian, the place where the natives were robbed and treacherously killed by strange people. But the name has bad connotations, thus it was changed to Mapanag, a creek which once was one of its natural boundaries. But the name did not last long when an influential businessman from Dumarao who became a permanent resident of the place conferred with the local leaders and agreed to change its name to Fonda. The present name of the town was adopted in honor of His Excellency Mariano Cuartero, Bishop of Jaro, who during his pastoral visit, officiated the first mass in the town during the inauguration of its church in 1880.  
           Travelers can be astounded by the beautiful sight of a lake before them with its shiny, clear sky-blue waters which looked so peaceful, quiet and calm like a sleeping lady in the midst of her sweetest dream. This is Agpayao Lake, the pride of Cuartero town. This lake embraces around seven hectares in land area. This lake is formed by many rivulets, creeks and other tributaries upstream somewhere in the mountains and hills of Cuartero. The waters of the lake maintained its depth and cleanliness because the place is uninhabited. The area surrounding it is covered with thick foliage of the large shady tree, and the mountain springs, being the main source of the waters of the lake, are protectively covered with enough virgin forests.
           The lake boasts not only of its beautiful scenery but also of its water teeming with fish. The lake could adequately support the people of the town a supply of fresh-water fish for a long time. The lake, however, is not suitable for swimming especially for those wanna be swimmers because it is thirty feet deep at its deepest depth. 
            Dumalag town has a unique cemetery because it is uniquely located on both sides of the road facing each other. The one at the right side has a chapel with a circular-shaped wall while that at the left has a rectangular-shaped wall. The chapel with a circular shape is 40 meters in diameter while the one with a rectangular shape is no longer in use for it was built in the 1880s yet. The mountain of Dumalag is famous for its Suhot Cave (Suhot in English means crawl inside). There is a pool of water at the entrance of the cave. That's a swimming hole formed by the water gushing out from an underground stream found inside the cave. Try dipping your feet on it and you will feel that it's icy cold. The inner chamber of the cave has some water dripping from the dark ceiling of the cave. The waters forming from the underground stream inside this cave and flowing out to the swimming hole outside actually originates from the Panhira-on Mountain comprising this cave and the Badiang Cave in the town of Dumarao, Capiz. These waters flowed from the mountain springs then through the subterranean passage until it emptied through the small opening found at various points on top of this cave. The source of these waters are mineral springs. Thus, swimming on these waters has both a relaxing and a curative effect. The cave also has many small and huge chambers branching out into different directions. In one of those cavernous chambers, they found curtains of stalactites and stockpiles of stalagmites shaped like grotesque forms of human figures and objects. These rock formation dropping from the ceiling are called stalactites while those rising from the ground are stalagmites.
            Another  place of interest in Dumalag town is Miss Ford's Museum. Doña Maria Ford, as Mrs. Maria Garcia Ford was fondly called  by most Dumalag local residents, has an only daughter named Miss Mary Ford who died single. Miss Ford was noted for her humanitarian, philanthropic and charitable deeds, one of which is the founding of this museum which everybody in Dumalag could be proud of. Now her museum stands as a living legacy she has bequeathed to the fortunate people of Dumalag. The museum was formerly a Spanish-American mansion, formerly the residence of Miss Ford and now a museum. The second floor of the building houses rich collection of antiques which dated as far back as the Ming Dynasty period. On a corner, in a glass-encased shelf, lies a neatly piled manuscripts of Pre-Spanish times attesting to the existence of the ancient civilization in Panay long before the Spaniards came. On the other corner is a high rectangular-shaped glass encasement filled with priceless assortment of collector's items as swords, alabaster, wood statues, antique jewelry, stuffed animals and various artifacts like crude tools and implements of the Mastodonic Era taken out of the archeological diggings. In one of the rooms stood an eight foot high book shelf with rows of neatly piled books dealing with topics from politics to horticulture, archeology and anthropology. p. 159
           The town of Jamindan is an inland town northwest of Dumalag. It could be reached, more or less, in two hours from Roxas City and precisely within the same time period from this town going back to Roxas City.  Jamindan boasts of tourist attractions comparable with if not surpassing those found in other places in the country. One of those widely known is the Suhot Cave which is similar to if not the same cave found in Dumalag tunneling through the same mountain range separating the municipalities of Jamindan and Dumalag. This Suhot Cave (Suhoton in some articles) is located in the forested hill of Barangay Agcagay, the barangay or village known as the "home of the vegetables," in Jamindan, Capiz. This cave, which is approximately two to three kilometers away from the poblacion or town proper of Jamindan, consists of 40 other chambers of different sizes where stalactites and stalagmites marvel visitors with their grotesque human-like formation. The sound of nocturnal bats "kabugs" makes the cool, dark caves even more eerie but its ton of guano dung are useful as fertilizers by farmers not only of the said municipality but also of other municipalities of the province. Outside the cave different kinds of bird could be found.
           There are two waterfalls also found in Jamindan. These waterfalls are located in Barangay Lucero. These falls are called Lucero Falls and Cabalalan Lerong Falls.  
           Dumarao, on the other hand, is proud of its Badiang Cave as its tourist attraction. During the pre-war days, phosphate was extracted from this cave. However, because of the Second World War, the mining operations were stopped and until now the operations never resumed although phosphate deposits are still plenty there. Badiang Cave is believed to have a connecting tunnel to Suhot Cave of Dumalag because both are found at the opposite sides of the same mountain. Badiang Cave's elevation is higher than that of Suhot. The entrance of the cave is hidden by big trees, undergrowth and vine thus giving the place a jungle like atmosphere so invitingly cool. Near the cave are streams of crystal-clear water spurting from the ground under the cool shade of the trees. Near those streams is a small crack in the rocks where sulfuric water gushes out.
           Another town with an interesting tourist attraction is Mambusao with its Quipot cave as its main tourist hotspot. Before one can enter the cave, one has to cross the small stream in front of its entrance. This cave, like any other caves, has many chambers at different levels. There are numerous chambers inside in varied sizes. In a certain portion, one has to crawl because the space between the ceiling and the floor is just two to three feet. There are also portions which look like dead ends except for a small hole where only one person can fit in. This leads to a larger chamber as big as a ballroom of a hotel. The atmosphere inside the cave is very cool and just like any other cave, it has also plenty of stalactites and stalagmites. As one go further through these labyrinths of caverns and chambers, one can went out to the other side of the cave where one can see wild birds and wild ducks soaring over the sky.   

   

Other Places of Interest In Capiz 

Olotayan Island near Roxas City 

Basiao Cove in the town of Ivisan 

Ancestral Home of Manuel A. Roxas, 5th President of the Philippines, also his birthplace was made as a national shrine by the National Historical Institute.