Zarraga’s PANTAT Festival Turns 9

A little music, a mess of fish in the fryer, some shade trees, a cool breeze --- that is a great way to spend an afternoon and that is what Ilonggos will enjoy in Zarraga, Iloilo.

Make tracks for Zarraga this week and get your appetites ready. The 9th annual PANTAT Festival takes place from December 16-23, 2012. Come out, join the festivities and have yourself a great time.  Food vendors at the festivity do their best to pay tribute. Fest-goers sample from a variety of catfish dishes. Enjoy the games and activities; there is something for everyone. 

Events get underway with the Opening Program on December 16; all the catfish recipes you can handle and of course, eat some of your favorite catfish recipes on December 17 with their Pantat Cooking Contest; December 18 is for the Search for Lin-ay Sang Pantat: the Pasundayag highlights December 19; Daycare Family Day on December 20; Band Performances on December 21; Disco Derby for December 22; and the much-anticipated Tribal Dance Competition on December 23.

The municipality of Zarraga’s PANTAT Festival had its beginnings in early 2003 when a small group of individuals discussed the possibility of establishing a local event to promote their local produce, pantat (catfish). Many in the town depend on fishing for their livelihood, and catfish is king of their local fishing industry.

The town was long-time experiencing a thriving industry in the field of aquaculture — specifically, farm raised catfish centered in the area. This growing industry presented itself as an excellent theme around which to build a festival. The festival would publicize the industry, but more than that it could be a great instrument to promote Zarraga The potential of such an event had been realized.

The festival promotes the small businesses and local trade within the municipality. The municipal government also works within the local communities to promote this local event and its activities in an effort to drive customers to their peaceful town.

In 2011, the municipality’s Pantat Festival joined the Aliwan Fiesta in Manila and took home the first runner-up spot. The festival is one of the two Ilonggo festivals that competed in Aliwan Fiesta, a competition among the best festivals in the Philippines. It was Iloilo city’s Dinagyang Festival that brought home the grand prize. Pantat Festival is now considered as one of the best of all the country’s festival.

Zarraga’s PANTAT Festival has come a long way since its beginnings. Yet, as the event continues with its 9th annual run, it remains true to its roots — family‐friendly fun, entertainment and delicious, hot, farm‐raised catfish.

Whether you are a proud catfish fisherman, a terrific cook or just love to eat the delectable favorite, Pantat Festival in Zarraga is the place to be.

The municipality of Zarraga is located in the northeastern portion of Iloilo and is composed of 24 barangays. To get to Zarraga, one can take a jeepney at the Northern Central Iloilo Terminal, Inc. popularly known as Tagbak Terminal in Jaro.

BAYLUHAY in San Joaquin: A Re-enactment in the Tradition of Those before Us

Some people are content to learning about their local history in books. While others are naturally drawn back to simpler times and the way life was lived centuries ago with a desire to relive important eras in their local history.

As the historic town of San Joaquin celebrates its local history and the Ilonggos rediscovers its heritage of that era, the re-enactment of Bayluhay continues to move forward.

San Joaquin, known to be one of the oldest municipalities of Iloilo Province, with a very significant historical background is dedicated to keeping our local history alive and in the public eye and to honor our ancestors.

The municipal government of San Joaquin has brought history to life as an educational hobby, providing its community and the public with an authentic, safe time machine to the historic landing of the 10 Bornean Datus, using authentic costumes, and props. Many of the performers create a "persona," or historical character, and develop a backstory for their persona to share with visitors.

The Barter of Panay became the point of origin of San Joaquin’s history and its first common culture. Researches on the Barter of Panay’s history would reveal that it started sometime in 1212 when the 10 Bornean datus, led by Datu Puti, along with their loyal subjects, boarded several baeangays to escaped the tyranny of their Bornean King, Sultan Makatunaw. They landed in the mouth of the Siwaragan River in San Joaquin.

Ati chieftain Marikudo and Bornean leader Datu Puti made a peace pact after several cordial gifts from the Borneans, a golden salakot and manangyad (a golden necklace believed to have reached the ground when worn in the neck) for the ati chieftain’s wife, Maniwangtiwang, and other valuables. In exchange, Pinangpangan, wife of Datu Puti with the nine other datus, namely Sumakwel, Dumangsil, Lubay, Balkasua, Bangkaya, Paiburong, Dumangsul, Dumalugdog and Paduhinog, and their respective wives and subordinates, were then allowed to settle in the lowlands. A glorious celebration followed.

The re-enactment of the Bayluhay has been happening annually. It will be celebrated this year on December 14 at 3 p.m. and will be hosted at the municipal grounds. This festival activity spans only for a day.

The re-enactment is a tool to generate interest in the Ilonggo community to spark the desire to learn more about its local history. It is a way for the people of Iloilo to connect, on a live and physical level, with the events of its past that have made us what we are today.  As a society, as a people, we cannot determine where we are going if we do not know where we have been.

If someone in Iloilo walks away from the re-enactment of Bayluhay with a desire to go to their libraries, or to get on the internet and learn more, then the re-enactment has served its purpose ... it educated the Ilonggo to learn more.

To get to San Joaquin, one can take a jeepney at Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary Terminal in Barangay Mohon, Oton, Iloilo. For more information, please contact Mrs. Erlyn Alunan, Municipal Tourism Officer at 09179857804.

SICOGON Island: A Glorious Tropical Experience in Iloilo




Buaya Beach, Barangay Buaya, Sicogon Island, Carles, Iloilo

Many towns in north of Iloilo boast an enviable location on the sea. Some visitors head to southern part for the ancient culture and striking architecture. But after exploring it, there is still plenty of relaxing, island-hopping, snorkeling and scuba-diving to be experienced at the northern area’s exotic beaches. It is essential to check out Iloilo's delights along the northern coast.

The best beaches in Iloilo are scattered in the northernmost part from Ajuy, Concepcion to Carles. Their common denominator is its crystal clear waters and white powdery sands. For family vacations and outing with friends, any of the beaches in the area is ideal. But you would not find anything better than in Carles.



seaweed gatherer at Buaya Beach, Sicogon, Carles, Iloilo

The scenic town of Carles is among the most beautiful in the province. There are many stunningly sandy-white shores in its island barangays, the right place to unwind and spend a relaxing vacation full of sea and sand pleasures. And who can argue with the fact that the exotic island barangays of Carles had remained the best place to find the most idyllic beaches in Iloilo that offers a great assortment of activities to please the most demanding travelers.

The municipality of Carles is 146 kilometers away from the city. It is the last town north of the province with a land area of 11, 204.68 hectares. It is made up of 33 barangays where 18 barangays are scattered in its islands. The most popular is the beautiful and serene island of Sicogon. The island brings together classic charm and modern touches for a unique seaside experience. One will surely enjoy this hideaway with dazzling white sands and clear turquoise sea.

Molopolo Island overlooking Sicogon,Carles, Iloilo

Overlooking Tomaguin Island and Molopolo, the Island of Sicogon measures 489.0514 hectares and is composed of the barangays of San Fernando, Alipata and Buaya. It has a population of 2,154 residents comprising 417 households. The beach of barangay Buaya is reason enough to go to the island. There is enough space and so few visitors that you will probably find a spot just for yourself. The sugary sands of Buaya extend into deep waters far offshore. It is a heaven for snorkelers.

Sicogon has long been a popular spot with foreigners on holiday and had made its mark as a hot spot for travelers from around the globe. The island was once famous among celebrities and royalties all over the world. It was known as one of Asia’s as a top tourist destination prior to its closure in the 1980s. It has tourist-friendly facilities such as its famous cottages and resort clubhouse, swimming pools, sports facilities, a wharf and an airstrip.



powdery white sand beach of Buaya, Sicogon Island, Carles, Iloilo

The beach of barangay Buaya in Sicogon Island remains among the most beautiful even up now. It is for those who are dreaming of a quiet vacation under a warm sun and a constant breeze. The island is still a big potential to welcome many of tourists looking for the best beach in Iloilo. Presently, Sicogon is undergoing rehabilitation and construction for its future 5-star resort and hotel.

Witness the waves break out in the ocean from two of Barangay Buaya’s cottages. For the budget-conscious traveler, the cottage, maximum of four persons would cost as low as P150.00 overnight per person. Experience an authentic island atmosphere and a genuinely gracious staff, Barangay Captain Winifred Gonzales and Merlinda Andrade (09109243074) are dedicated to helping you have a great time in Sicogon.

So, if you are looking for the ultimate tropical paradise, set your sights on Sicogon in Carles. With lesser-known neighboring islands interspersed with picturesque fishing villages where the people live a simple way of life, virtually unchanged in centuries, Sicogon boasts all the white sand beaches without all the crowds, the perfect spot to relax, slow down and get into the groove of the real tropical paradise.

Sicogon Island can be reached through a 25-30 minuter motorized boat ride from Estanca Feeder Port. To get to Estancia, one must take an air-conditioned bus at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro, Iloilo City. Public passenger motorized boats ply from and to the island only once a day, normally at around 1 p.m. Motorized boat good for 54 and 80 persons can be privately arranged. For more information, please contact Joel Decano – Municipal Tourism Officer of Carles at 09184685006 or Joseph Decano – tourguide at 09081796579.

A Grand Watermelon Display for the 7th SANDIYA Festival in Oton

photo by April Gail Valencia

Oton, Iloilo- The “Very Friendly” municipality of Oton offers travelers and residents alike an opportunity to experience their fairs and festivals each year. With the watermelon harvest season running from summer to December at its best, the Sandiya Festival rolls out the welcome mat for visitors and residents alike. The event gives an excellent reason to look forward to as the first smell of December hits the air.

The festival aims at providing the farmers a platform to discuss issues like marketing and promote watermelon cultivation. Though the farmers had a good harvest, marketing the produce was a problem. Oton is the largest producer of watermelon among all the municipalities of Iloilo. Growing watermelons is a big means of income for the people and its surrounding areas. Encouraging the horticulturists and facilitating market for their products is another objective of the festival.

The purpose for establishing the Sandiya Festival was to honor the many watermelon farmers for their outstanding contributions to the community. Secondly, to bring together farmers and visitors from all walks of life to enjoy and participate in watermelon events.

Since 2006, the local government unit of Oton, the Municipal Agriculture and Cooperative Office Oton Watermelon Grower’s Association (OWGA) and East-West Seed Company has hosted the Sandiya Festival, a day dedicated to promoting local watermelon farms that dot the rural town.

photo by April Gail Valencia

This year marks the 7th annual festival to be celebrated on December 6 at 1 p.m.. While only held a day in December, for the people of Oton, the festival is a nearly year round adventure. It is always a lively day of the festival full of watermelons, music, friends and fun will take place on the grounds of Oton Amphitheater Green. Games are provided by the organizers.

The highlight of the festival, the watermelon, play prominently into the festival; for weeks watermelon growers and farmers have been collecting and preparing their best produce known to be the best around.

photo by April Gail Valencia

The roots of the festival have not changed much. Activities were held on the grounds of the municipal plaza, featuring watermelon pie eating contests, watermelon relays, fruit carving and the “Pinaka” or judging watermelon entries for best and heaviest watermelon. In addition to displays of all types of yellow and red watermelons, there are educational displays of watermelon pest management, variety development, and everything you want to know about watermelon. There will also be watermelons for sale.

photo by April Gail Valencia

The celebration put together a festival with local growers and farmers, since they play a large part in the town. The festival was started promote the watermelon growers of Oton. The festival continues to blossom to this year. It is a celebration of the role the agricultural industry plays in their community, which includes watermelon. With a lot of improvements along the way, it has always managed to keep its hometown atmosphere.

The municipality of Oton offers travelers and residents alike an opportunity to experience their fairs and festivals each year. While some Oton fairs and festivals celebrate the culture of the town and help promote local agriculture, such as watermelon, others provide visitors with a look at the unique beauty Oton has to offer.

Fierce, Fun and Fabulous Performances for Anilao’s 9th BANAAG Festival

photo by JV Perez (PALI)

Known as the “Festival of Fire,” Anilao’s Banaag Festival is the only one of its kind in the region. Banaag is a Hiligaynon term that refers to the light emitted usually from a torch. It is a modernized theatrical presentation competition among tribes that is highlighted by a spectacular exhibition fire dancing commonly using torches.

With this year’s theme,” Nagabanaag nga Handum: Palibot kag Dunang Manggad Atipanon, “ the 9^th Banaag Festival coincides with the 73^rd Foundation Anniversary celebration of Anilao as an independent town and series of activities are set for everyone starting on October 28, Sunday with the Opening of  Street and Food Fair or “Timo-Timo sa Kalye 2012;” October  29, Monday with the Unveiling of Exhibits and Official Costume of the 8 Competing tribes for Banaag Festival 2012; October 31, Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. for the Opening Program for the  Street Dance Competition and Banaag sa Langit, a Fireworks Festival Display; November  1, Thursday at  9:00 a.m. with a Mass and at 6:00 p.m. with a  Masquerade Ball; and November 2, Friday at 6:00 p.m. with the Dance Drama Competition, Awarding Ceremony and  Merry Making.      

Banaag revisits Anilao's history as it acknowledge the significance of light from the torch that once saved their people’s lives as they fought for freedom against the Muslim pirates.

Muslim pirates explored the Visayas by its seas and rivers through warfare. Although, it has been said that the Moros had raided the Visayan barangays long before the Spanish era. Piratical raids in the area began dramatically in the 16^th till the 18^th century when Muslim pirates destroyed Christian pueblos. Taking their caracoas or outriggered vessels with thirty to forty rowers on each side, the islands in the area, mostly coastal or river-mouth were ravaged by raids.

photo by JV Perez (PALI)

old barangays did not hold much wealth, but the captives taken and were sold in the slave markets in the islands to the south of the archipelago were enough prize. Barangays that were Christianized were said to be a more tempting target. More people are in its pueblos; with churches adorned with gold and silver ornaments and fine altar pieces. It is for the reason that these new pueblos were larger than the old barangays, and therefore offered a richer prize. Churches were burned along with the church treasures such as chalices and images abused, and captives carried away as slaves.  Many were killed.

Due to its coastal location, Iloilo was also constant threat from Moro marauders looking for slaves. It is said that watchtowers were built to protect Christian villages. It was said that piratical attacks were so persistent and were successful that in many of our towns, including Anilao, many inhabitants were killed or enslaved.

And because of this, construction of numerous coastal fortifications or watchtowers in the northern and southern areas were made and form part of a system of communication where every fortifications, placed at intervals along each town’s borders, was in sight of the next in the line. A system of signaling was used between them. For Anilao, they used fire to warn the natives of an incoming raid.

photo by JV Perez (PALI)

The celebration is dedicated to the brave Anilaonons who lost their lives struggling for peace and freedom. Thus, dancing with fire, that often includes visual and stylistic elements, has been a traditional part of culture of Anilao when presenting their festival. During the festival performance night torches were often twirled and swung about by dancers. Performances always involve a flashy demonstration of artful twirling while dancing on fire. Fire dancing is performed to music played on drums that heat up the performers’ hearts, move their bodies, quicken their minds, and lift their spirits.

To get to Anilao, one can take a van or bus at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro. Anilao is located 40 kilometers northeast of Iloilo City. Comprised of 21 barangays It is bounded in the north by the town of San Enrique; the highest mountain of the town in the west; in the south by Barotac Nuevo; and the Guimaras Strait in the east.

Tigkaralag in Pavia, Iloilo: The Ultimate Halloween Experience

photo by Joel Miles Molina

In Pavia, Iloilo, October 30 is celebrated as a Halloween festival locally known as Tigkaralag. Taken from the Hiligaynon root word “kalag” meaning soul, Tigkaralag is this town’s unique way of celebrating All Soul’s Day. It is annually marked by a showdown and dance presentation of various Halloween characters represented by the town’s barangays.

The municipality uses the symbolic and interpretative festival of Halloween through Tigkaralag to each local customs and traditions about this holiday through a celebratory experience enchanting to Ilonggos of all ages.

The entire evening becomes a showcase of scary creatures of various sizes and shapes. Can you survive a nightmarish horde of zombies?  There is only one way to find out!

photo by Joel Miles Molina

Experience Tigkaralag as the town’s municipal plaza transforms into a haunted park with scary characters, fully made-up and in classic or more elaborate costumes. This year, on its 21st year, the event has everything under the moon. It will take you on a more sinister persona after dark as horrifying characters come to life. You will run screaming into the arms of the Corpse Bride and beware of the witch stirring her cauldron as she mutters spells and scary sounds. They are all present in that evening along with an incredible array of grim reapers, skeletons, body parts and more.

In the Philippines, the celebration of Halloween is related to the scarier aspects of life such as death, magic, and mythical creatures in the life. It involves activities such as tricks and treating, costume parties, visiting of haunted houses, reading scary stories, ghost tours, and watching horror movies.

But in some towns, Halloween is a festival full of scary, fun, enjoyable moment, decoration, parties and gathering.

Tigkaralag Festival in Pavia, Iloilo has grown to become one of the largest community celebrations in Pavia. Conceptualized in 1991 by former 2nd District Provincial Board Member, Hon. Cecilia H. Capadosa, Tigkaralag annually draws many of horror fans from around Iloilo to this one-of-a-kind event. It has grown in size in terms of audience and participants.

photo by Joel Miles Molina

Tigkarakag will start with a parade by contesting barangays at 6:30 p.m. proceeding to the municipal plaza where the contest proper will be showcased with awards in categories for the Best Arch, Most Horrible and the Most Amusing for both individual and group.

The event promises to be a great Halloween treat for the whole family. For those looking for something extreme during the Halloween, come down and have a great time with Iloilo’s oldest Halloween festival, the ultimate Halloween experience, here in Pavia.

To get to Pavia, one can take a jeepney at Jaro Plaza, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Mrs. Susan P. Jovero-Municipal Tourism Officer at 09173006041.

Celebrating Meaning and Memory for PAGDIHON Festival in Dingle

photo by Joel Miles Molina

Dingle’s Pagdihon Festival which has been held over the past 4 years celebrates the heroism of Visayan general and military strategist, Adriano Hernandez not only to the town of Dingle but throughout Iloilo. A native of Dingle, Hernandez secretly organized a rebel movement in Iloilo against Spain and staged the first armed uprising in the whole province, specifically in Barrio Lincud in October 28, 1898. The event was known as the "Cry of Lincud."

If you ask Ilonggos "What event took place in Dingle, Iloilo in 1898?" you will quickly discover that this important part of our local heritage and history is not so well known or understood. The annual celebration of Pagdihon Festival help us Ilonggos understand the Cry of Lincud, and the role it had to achieve the freedom that we are all enjoying today.

photo by Joel Miles Molina

It is remarkable to know that 144 years ago, the first armed uprising against Spain in Iloilo’s history was organized. Many things change after that, but what does not change is the great Ilonggo spirit of service and sacrifice. Ultimately, the commemoration of the Cry of Lincud 1898 is a salute to all of our ancestors who fought so gallantly against great odds in that conflict.

With more and more arts based activities and attractions drawing together each year to create this event, it also features a weeklong celebration of fun, family-oriented, educational event promoting local food and the preservation of culture and heritage.

The festival acknowledges 144 years of peace with a celebration of art, performance, music, history, community, friendship and family. The week-long festivity starts on October 25, Thursday with the Float Parade, Opening of Agricultural Fair and Jobs Fair; October 26, Friday with Pagdihon Kusinero-Dulcehan and the Search for Miss Pagdihon; October 27, Saturday with the Mountain Bike Race: Cross Country and Circuit Race, Senior Citizens Day and Fireworks Display; October 28, Sunday with the Street Dancing and Dance Drama Competitions; October 29, Monday with the Farmers and Cooperative Day and Dingle Got Talent; October 30, Tuesday with Boy and Girl Scouts Day; Slow Race. Moments with the Mayor and the Little Miss Pagdihon, and; October 31, Wednesday with Laro ng Lahi, Mass Wedding, Trick or Treat, Horror Night and the Awarding Ceremony.

photo by Joel Miles Molina

The celebration of Pagdihon Festival will continue its mission of supporting patriotism and traditional Ilonggo values. The event will continuously honor Ilonggos who have demonstrated their pledge to our nation through their service and sacrifice. It is an event where we remember and honor our true heroes and celebrate our great Ilonggo spirit and traditions. Pagdihon Festival combines meaning and memory into an event that offers something for the entire Ilonggos.

We are what we are now because of the brave Ilonggo people that served over the last 144 years, something that Ilonggos can be very grateful has not changed over the past 144 years.

Let us join with the people of Dingle, Iloilo and celebrate our true spirit that defines this special day. For more information, please contact Mr. Dane Dizon-Municipal Tourism Officer at 09477424341 or 09276123708. To get to Dingle, take a jeepney or van at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro, Iloilo City.

Dumangas 5th Haw-as Festival Promises Festivities and Fun

photo by Jose de Luna

Haw-as Festival is always the biggest event of the year in Dumangas, and the people of this historic town look forward to it all year long. It is an annual festival dedicated to community and the arts of its people.

photo by Jose de Luna

Get ready for a bountiful celebration with loads of fun, food, bands, community activities and a street dance parade and the grand tribal presentation. Haw-as Festival brings out the community and folks from the entire town. It reminds Dumangasanons of all the good things that God has given them. This makes them want to share their joy through fun-filled activities with others.

The highlight of the celebration is the dance presentation known as “Haw-as Guban,” where participating tribes depict and interpret the haw-as or fish harvest. This grand competition is scheduled on October 31 at 1 in the afternoon.

photo by Jose de Luna

Fishing has played an integral role in the life of the people of Dumangas since the earliest of times. First, it was for reasons of survival. Then, the abundant stocks shellfish in the area became a way of life. Fishing has always been one of the foundations of this town’s economy, and is its oldest organized industry. Among the fishery products are bangus, crabs, prawn and shrimps. The municipality is also rich in agricultural produce. Major agricultural products are palay, salt, sugarcane, fruits and crops.

The festival dance presentation is a simple dance and is performed to express joy. The dance is extremely simple with minimum or a repetition of steps or movement with linear formations. The dance burst with verve and vitality where men and women, dressed as fishermen or farmers perform and in some occasion, the dancers sing, while being accompanied by an instrument. Segments of the presentation have a specific costume. Other presentations bear religious overtones. Dancers carry the image of their patron saint, St. Agustin while swinging their arms and continue to dance till carried away by their devotion. At times, as the rhythm quickens, they indulge in acrobatics and even form human pyramids. While the dance presentations are constantly being improved, the choreography is evolving still to include a variety of steps and patterns. The skill and the imagination of the dances influence the performance.

photo by Jose de Luna

The multi-hued Haw-ad dance is all energy and youthfulness. On the occasion, the spirited performers representing their Gubans swarm the streets in colorful group, waving various hand props, inspiring and inviting one and all to imbibe the festive spirit.  Alongside the festival is the celebration is the 142nd Birth Anniversary of Col. Quintin Salas, this town’s local hero.

Haw-as Festival is a, occasion where you can stroll and be happy, where you can listen to music, catch up with old friends and enjoy the weeklong festival activities prepared by the organizers. The focus of the celebration is to promote unity and celebrating the talents and diversity of its community.

Dumangas is a 1st class municipality in the province of Iloilo. Politically subdivided into 45 barangays, it has a land area of 11, 677 hectares. The town is located northeast and is 30 kilometers away from Iloilo City. Almost an hour drive, Dumangas is bounded in the north by the Municipality of Barotac Nuevo, on the south and east by the Guimaras Strait and on the west by the Municipalities of Pototan and Zaraga.

To get to Dumangas, one can take an air-conditioned van at Tikod Terminal in Lapaz, or a jeepney at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Mr. Benny Derequito- Municipal Tourism Officer at 09477900562.