What to do in Iloilo

By Alberto Quintero

Iloilo has been called the Philippines’ “Heritage Haven of Panay” and lives up to the name. It gained this name for the popularity of its gentry living that is shown in its stately and colonial mansions and churches that are scattered all over the stunning landscape. The province is nestled in the lush surroundings of Batiano Iloilo rivers that form the shape of a nose. Iloilo is from the word Ilong-Ilong, meaning “nose-like” and this thus how Iloilo gained its name.

Iloilo City is a living monument to the wealth of cultural heritage of the province. The most popular landmarks in the city are sure draws to the visitor: Fort San Pedro, Jaro, Arevalo, Plaza Libertad, Museo Iloilo, and Muelle Loney. In Arevalo is the home of several 19th century mansions, flower nurseries, and looms that weave the popular piña and jusi. The rich and influential have continued to retain their luxurious ancestral homes in Jaro, the province’s influential residential center.

Every town along Iloilo City’s west coast lays claim to churches that have with stood the test of centuries of time. San Joaquin brags on its white coral, the Baroque façade is the pride of Tigbauan, and the yellow sandstone makes Guimbal shine brilliantly. The most inspiring of all would be the Miag-ao Church, which is on the World Heritage List. In the towns to the east of Iloilo are lead by Estancia, from here the visitor can travel to the gorgeous cluster of islands off the northeast Panay.