Fiber Fashion: Exhibiting Ilonggos Cultural Image to the World

A new breed of young Ilonggo fashion designers is taking their claim on the local stage. Using our traditional handwoven textiles, these designers from the different municipalities of the province will experiment and create beautiful design to push the boundaries even further. They will be out in force for the 12^th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair taking place from 24 to 30 August 2019 at the SM City Northpoint wing. Here are the five Ilonggo fashion designers to watch out for.

ANNIE CAÑONASO. Clean, subtle and quietly powerful. That is how people describe her aesthetics.  The future looks bright for this young designer who graduated in ISAT University with the degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising. Literally. For this show she will lean toward subdued color which she prefers to contrast the brightness of our handwoven fabrics, chic comfort and color. Covered yet sexy, fabulous and simply classy.

PEACH GARDE. Elegant. Expertly-crafted and directional pieces ever since. His palette for this show is of bold and bright, designs with a tinged of Italian sensuality all in hablon fabric. No doubt the clean craftsmanship of his designs is owed, at least in part, to his mentor, John Montinola, Lexter Badana, Hello Hello and Don Protasio. This Fashion and Design Merchandising graduate of ISAT University believes that a certain 'slowness' is essential if you want to create something long-lasting and of quality.

JO NIÑO DAMASCO. Modern silhouettes in classic colorways.  Classic but not boring. Wearable and a whole lot of fun. Also a graduate of ISAT University with the degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising, the designer will showcase his hablon in black and white checks in collections with a feel of relaxed elegance—clean, fresh, and pared back in a modern way when wearing his clothes.

EDWARD SALES. Minimalist. Curve-hugging but not clingy. sexy but not see-through.  This show, the graduate of Fashion Design and Merchandising of ISAT University is pushing his minimalist silhouettes in bold red hablon fabrics cut slightly closer to the body, a bit more sensual and perhaps a little bit more sophisticated. He is steadily rising up the ranks in the local fashion world.

JET TORRENTO. Raw. Gritty city-vibe-inspired. Ambisexual approach to everyday dressing. A graduate of Business Administration major in Marketing Management at the University of San Agustin, our designer is finally getting his fashion moment. His designs exude confidence embracing the concept of luxury, in short, ultra-stylish, and gender neutral. His clothes have been worn by celebrities such as Yeng Constantino and Sara Geronimo. So it is no wonder it is catching on after debuting just a very few years ago.

The Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair is an appropriate forum to showcase our world-class craft traditions and culture boosting further our local tourism campaign. Our local arts, heritage, culture and tourism are highlighted in this prestigious event attended by upscale consumers, press, trade buyers and VIPs as well as pre and post promotions extended through press and internet coverage.

The Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, the organizer of this annual event sees the opportunity as the beginning of a new marketing thrust for the new designs, colors and textures of our traditional handwoven textiles that can hit the global market and gains will be more for our weaving communities.

The 12 Indigenous Fiber Fashion Week is organized by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI and SM City Iloilo in cooperation with the municipalities of Miagao, Oton, Duenas and Badiangan, IMG and The Daily Guardian. Hair and make-up for the daily fashion shows is by John Montinola.

LEON: Integrating History and Exploring Nature

Leon, Iloilo is brimming with beauty at every turn. From historic structures to pine-clad spots, this stunning quiet town is alive with culture and color.

Set among the striking verdant mountains of central Iloilo, Bucari, covering 500 hectares of Leon’s forestlands was declared as the Summer Capital of Iloilo. It is a rural gem situated 21 kilometers from the town proper. It is one of the provinces’ main and remote tourist destinations. Getting here can be a little challenge with tourists often unaware of the enchantment which lies beyond its mighty mountain range. It predominantly serves as a base from which to explore the natural wonders of the adjacent mountains. The campsite commands a wondrous view of 773 meters above sea level, tourists are drawn to the area’s all –year round to experience the panoramic vistas especially at the Mansiga Viewing Deck elevated 863 meters above sea level. There are cottages for those who wanted to stay overnight with camp areas and many walking and cycling trails to give visitors a further excuse to stay longer.

Points of historical interest will also make more sense, like what was known to be the biggest stone edifice in Panay during its time, the Doric and Byzantine architectural style church of St. Catherine of Alexandria measured 100 feet high and 300 feet long almost covering two streets of the town. The stones used were quarried from the hills and were shaped into parallelogram slabs measuring of 1 x 2 feet. The present church was constructed around 1876 after the original town site in Camando was transferred to its present site in 1863. The convent was constructed in 1885. The church was burned during World War II and was transformed into a garrison for the Japanese Imperial Forces. It was rehabilitated by the Mill Hill Fathers after the war. The church is the most popular stop for many visitors. 

Parks are essential to a town’s happiness. It serves as an aesthetic element to the community.  It is a popular venue when we need to be around other people. It is used for recreation, relaxation, sports, and holding activities. Our parks played a major role in shaping our towns’ social, political, cultural and even religious identity. In Leon, many have rediscovered the meaning and significance of its monuments and other structures constructed in the different areas of the park in their local history. The two roaring lions guarding both sides of the parks’ main entrance. Park benches with lion carvings found at the tip of every arm rests. The Rizal monument, with his right arm pointing upwards was constructed October 22, 1936.

The heritage school building of Leon Central Elementary School built in 1942 is an inherent part of Leon’s heritage resources. Elevated eight steps from the main ground, it was in the rooms and libraries of the Gabaldon building that Filipino educators helped unlock the potentials of students, many of them poor. The Jose Rizal monument situated in front of the main building was erected by the Parent-Teacher Association of school year 1957-1958.

Not known to many but one of the more prominent historical buildings of the town is the Municipal Hall constructed in July 1, 1955 when Benito Tabiana was Municipal Mayor. This two-storey building dominated by American aesthetics is currently occupied as the Municipal Police Station with DSWD, PESO and COA.

Leon is still among the picturesque and intriguing places to visit in Iloilo. The town is far removed from the madding town crowd. In fact, it is sought after by many for its multiple gems.

Leon is a Second-Class municipality located 28.2 kilometers west-southwest from the city. It is bounded in the north by Alimodian; west by San Remegio, Antique; south by Tigbauan and Tubungan; and east by San Miguel. It has a total land area 14,005 hectares politically subdivided by 85 barangays populated by 49, 875   based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

To get to Leon, jeepneys and air-conditioned vans at the Aleosan Transport Terminal in El 98 Street, Mandurriao, Iloilo City or at the Aleosan Transport Terminal in Barangay HIbao-an, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. To get to Bucari campsite, one can take a motorcycle (single) at Barangay Poblacion, Sitio Buntalan starting at 6 a.m. for first trip till 5 p.m. for last trip. For jeepneys, first trip leaves at 9 a.m. and last trip is at 3 p.m.

For more information, please contact Miss Rose Lea Kilayko – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09393426040. Know more about Leon on the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

CALINOG: Iloilo’s Underrated Historic Gem

Calinog, Iloilo is an underrated gem, and as you will see there is always something new to discover. The town boasts a wealth of exciting destinations. Clean townscapes and natural wonders, architectural highlights and lovely man-made attractions, there is something for everyone to discover here.

The town center is a historic streetscape and a walk through its streets is a must when visiting Calinog. History is there to see, touch and experience, practically everywhere in the area. Walking along the main streets, or exploring other areas around, you will encounter a variety of historic sites from different eras, each one adding an individual piece to a historical mosaic that spans the centuries.

The Calinog Municipal Building in Quezon street was completed in 1937 under the leadership of Municipal President Geronimo Celo and Javier Celo as Vice President. It is the only municipal building in the entire province designed with a watchtower.

The historic sunken plaza complex was built during the Spanish time serves as a venue for many of the town’s historic monuments. The centerpiece is its candy-colored octagonal bandstand built in May 19, 1930 under the terms of Geronimo Celo as town President and Restituto Celeste as its Vice President. The bandstand served as a venue for talented Calinognon performers willing to showcase their talent especially in singing and playing musical instruments during special occasions. 

The Jose Rizal monument was built in May 10, 1929. The full-body Rizal statue that faces the Catholic church stands with its right arm raised and its left arm carrying a book is elevated on a two-level triangular base. The upper base is decorated with three stars and a sun, while the second and lower base has Spanish writings. Joining our National Hero is a bust of another historical icon from Jaro, Iloilo, Graciano Lopez Jaena. 

The Andres Bonifacio monument popularly known to the locals as “Bato” or “Bugtong Bato” was erected in 1930 and the statue stands on a huge mound made of stones of different size and color. 

The Ramon Magsaysay monument holding a steering wheel of a ship was built in 1956 till 1959. Behind the statue of former President Magsaysay is a farmer. The monument was donated by the Association of Barrio Tenientes League of the town to honor the late president. It was constructed during the time of Mayor Severino C. Fernandez and Vice Mayor Victor Plagata.

The Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Parish Church in Rizal Street, Poblacion Ilaya is of Baroque architectural style. The church was reconstructed in 1874 and was inaugurated on September 27, 1883. It measures 76 meters in length and 17 meters in width. A grotto built by the delos Reyes Family in 1948 to commemorate the centennial celebration of the first apparition of the Blessed Mother in France is located on the left corner of the church complex.

The Gabaldon building, the first structure of Calinog Central Elementary School in Delgado Extension street was built in 1915. Sitting on a small lot from the total area of 32, 304 square meters, it is elevated 10 steps from the main ground. It is home to 1, 761 students from kindergarten to grade six, 62 teaching staffs. Another attraction of the school is its sundial. It served as a Japanese Garrison during WWII. Until now, this Gabaldon building is still intact and pupils and teachers are still using it. It had become a part of the history and culture of Calinog residents and many professionals have graduated from this school.

In Barangay Libot, the Hacienda Jaycon (Jayme – Concepcion) is proud of its ruined Muscovado Sugar Chimney that was built in May 6, 1965. It was constructed by the owners of the hacienda, Don Jose Jayme and Dona Lourdes Concepcion.

Land-locked Calinog remains one of the lesser-explored municipalities of the province, leaving it to feel otherworldly and far-removed from anywhere you have visited before. Venture over its area and the reward will be a compelling insight into a town full of surprises.

Calinog is a First-Class municipality situated 59.3 kilometers central from Iloilo City. It is bounded in the north by Tapaz, Capiz; northeast by Bingawan; northeast by San Remegio, Antique; south by Lambunao; southeast by Dueńas, and; southwest by Valderama, Antique. It has a total land area of 23, 280 hectares politically subdivided into 59 barangays and populated by 60, 413 inhabitants based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

To get to the town, one can take a van at the Ungka Transport Terminal (fronting Christ the King Memorial Park) in Barangay Ungka-II, Pavia, Iloilo. For more information, please contact Ma. Angela Forro – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09562757412.

Know more about Calinog during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

TIGBAUAN: A Historic Beauty On All Sides

Tigbauan, Iloilo is a picturesque town where every corner has a unique offering that you will love. Visitors will find plenty to see and do here, away from the hustle and bustle of its more touristy neighboring towns.

It is not only a bustling beach town but also boasts a combination of friendly small-town culture, farmer’s delights and old world charm. It is a wonderful place to visit Here are some favorites to give you some inspiration for your great Tigbauan getaway.

Included among its many charms are its historic attractions. Consider visiting its historic icon, the St. John of Sahagun Parish Church. The present church built in 1867 is of Mexican plateresque architectural style where surface ornamentation especially stone carvings are lavishly piled-up. In 1975, a historical marker from the National Historical Institute was erected on its churchyard identifying the site where the first Jesuit boarding school for boys in the Philippines was established. In 1994, under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Eleuterio Rojo Carton, the interior of the church was renovated with a wide array of carefully laden tile mosaics. The church is considered to be the oldest existing church in the entire province.

Going to the ruins of the First Azucarera in southern Iloilo in Barangay Namocon is like stepping back in time to the early 1900’s. This place used to be a thriving sugar-producing area that was once amongst the center of town life, because so many local people were employed here. 

Originally owned by the Rivas’ but was later acquired by Don Jose Zulueta and Maria Zayco, the estate, almost 60 hectares were planted with sugarcane. 

Its relative isolation and its “Old World” feel really come together with its unique attraction, its ruined Muscovado Chimney set in a very pretty grove of large, century-old Acacia trees on a lot presently owned by Hector “Boy” Zayco. The area offers amazing photo opportunities at every corner.

The Gabaldon buildings in Barangays Bagumbayan, Napnapan Sur, Buyu-an and the Central School have become a part of the history and culture of Tigbauan. Aside from being a venue for education, these historically-significant school buildings built from 1907 to 1946, form part of the life of its residences. 

The South East Asian Fishery Development Center (SEAFDEC) in Barangay Buyuan was established in 1967. It is an inter-governmental organization that promotes sustainable fisheries development in the region. This 40-hectare complex includes various research laboratories, hatcheries, and brood stock tanks and caters to the information and technical services on bangus and prawn culture, with complete amenities and facilities thru their physical plant and sub-stations.

WW II Panay Landing Memorial in Barangay Parara marks spot where American troops from the 40th Infantry Division, spearheaded by the 185th Infantry Regiment landed on March 18, 1945 on the beaches of Parara to begin the liberation of Panay Island. A marker from the National Historical Commission was installed along with the busts of Gen. M Peralta Jr., Ge. D. McArthur and Col. J. Chaves at the center of the site. The local government unit of Tigbauan maintains this site and annually celebrates Panay Liberation Day on March 8th every year with a wreath-laying ceremony.

Since this is a historic town, there are also lots of colonial houses and antique homes here. However, it is not just the history that brings the visitors to this town. You can also enjoy the scenery. One thing you will definitely not be doing here is being bored.

Tigbauan is a Second-Class town 22.5 kilometers south from the city. It is bordered by Leon in the north; San Miguel in the northwest; in the east by Oton; the Iloilo Strait in the south; and, west by Guimbal. It has a land area measuring 6, 062 hectares politically sub-divided into 52 barangays and populated by 62, 706 based on the 2015 Census on Population data.

Visitors can take a Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miagao or San Joaquin jeepneys at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or at the Iloilo Terminal Market in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala I, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Linda Fe Camina – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09173283997.

Know what else to do when in Tigbauan during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

STA. BARBARA: No Shortage of History, Culture and Activities to Enjoy

Sta. Barbara, Iloilo is a unique blend of Spanish, American and Filipino architecture, culture and spirit. Situated 15. 6 kilometers from the city, it is fortunately just a short drive and a great short day trip. It remains to be one of Iloilo’s true hidden gems, but is now more popular than ever.

Sta. Barbara is a colorful, romantic town with rich history and culture. Visitors should check out its historic center, the town’s most eye-catching architecture, the Baroque-Renaissance architectural style of the Sta. Barbara Parish Church and Convent. Reconstructed in 1849 and finished in 1878. The convent was built the same time as the church. Materials used in the construction of the church and convent were of adobe and coral stones quarried from Alimodian and red bricks used for the flooring, walls and posts. Materials were transported to the town through carts drawn by carabaos. 

Connected to the side door of the church is its L-shaped convent of Antillan architectural style. The church served as the headquarters for the Ilonggo Revolutionary Forces in Western Visayas under General Martin Delgado in 1898. It was untouched during World War II and had withstood the 1948 earthquake. It was declared as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute in 2013.

The town is also the birthplace of Iloilo’s hero, Gen. Martin T. Delgado, popularly known as Tan Martin. He was the Revolutionary General in the Visayas and Mindanao who launched the campaign to liberate the whole province from Spain. He raised the Philippine flag sent by General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first time that the Filipino national flag was hoisted outside of Luzon Island. He was the First Governor of Iloilo province in 1901, the following year elected governor of Panay and served until 1904. After his term, he returned to Santa Barbara and served for eight years as superintendent of a leprosy sanitarium. He spent his last years as superintendent of the leper colony on the island of Culion where he died on November 12, 1918 at the age of 60. A bronze statue was erected in the Victory Plaza in his honor in 1998. 

The Victory Plaza is also famous for its 1925 octagonal-shaped Bandstand and the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal and the Propagandist.

If Baroque architectural design where to churches during the Spanish regime, the Gabaldon for Public schools were to the American Colonial Period. The Heritage School Building of Sta. Barbara Central Elementary School along Roosevelt, Poblacion was built in 1913. When most rural public elementary school built during American Colonial Period are abandoned, left to deteriorate and rendered obsolete, the Gabaldon structure of the elementary school of wood and concrete base is still be recycled for modern academic use. Its presence in the area makes history come alive for teachers and students alike making them aware of the heritage of their academic institution. 

Another interesting site within the premises is its historic “Poso.” Looking similarly to an ice tea drink is the town’s unique drinking water popularly known as “Poso.” It is said that the town has five sources of Poso. The one located within the premises of the school does not stop from flowing even during the hottest season of the year. So, get ready to drink.

If you find yourself there but for an unforgettable experience, visit Denila Farms in Barangay Lanag, just a 10-minute tricycle ride from the town plaza.  The farm is a 2.7-hectare orchard planted mostly with rows of Brazilian-variety grapes. Trellis line both sides of the farm where grapevines grow straight up. To know if the grapes ready to for harvest, taste the fruit near the tip of each bunch and if it tastes sweet, the whole cluster is ready for picking. Harvest by hand with the aid of the sharp shear early in the morning. Grape growing is not new in Iloilo, in fact it started in Arevalo in the 1950s. Grapes grow best in areas with warm and dry climate and where sufficient irrigation is available and Sta. Barbara is just a perfect venue for commercial vineyards. The farm also grows other fruits such as Guapple, vegetables and flowering plants.

CPU tourism students with Irene Magallon - Municipal Tourism Officer

So, if you are looking for a destination that is easy to navigate and with locals that are friendly and welcoming, and a laid-back vibe, Sta. Barbara is for you. 

Santa Barbara is a Second-Class town with a land area of 7, 748 hectares politically subdivided into 60 barangays and populated by 60, 215 inhabitants based on the 2015 Census on Population data. For more information, please contact Miss Irene Magallon – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09209697130.

Know where else to go when in Sta. Barbara during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.

Guimbal: Modern Amenities and Classic Historic Charm

Guimbal, Iloilo is a unique blend of old and new that lends a distinctive charm to its visitors. Despite its bustling main roads, the town offers a calming and peaceful atmosphere boasting a lot of historic treasures.

It has fascinating restored landmark buildings found along the way such as Guimbal National High School along the National Highway of the Poblacion. Established in June of 1946, this huge learning institution measuring eight hectares, occupies the corner lots of Rizal and Magsaysay streets. Its centerpiece is the oldest structure, the first to be constructed in the school premises, its Gabaldon Building. Built during the first decades of American colonial rule, Gabaldon buildings are schoolhouses built from 1907 – 1946. Made of wood, it is situated on an elevated area flanked by two-stairs raised 11-steps from the ground. The building is dominantly painted in white with touches of dark brown and red contrasting nicely with the bright blue sky behind it. Its frontage bears the name “Mataas na Paaralang Nasyonal ng Guimbal.”

The Guimbal Central Elementary School situated fronting the National High School has also its own share of Gabaldon Building. Facing the main entrance, it is situated on the left side of the main building. The Gabaldon Building is dominantly painted in green with yellow and white patches and is raised 9-steps from the ground. It has five front pillars and attached to the middle pillar is a brass plate with the seal of America and the text, “Rebuilt with the Aid of the People of the United States of America Under the Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946.” On top of the brass plate is the name of the school with an old Philippine seal.

 

The picturesque St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish Church is the most popular attraction for visitors of this town. The Baroque architectural style of the present church is a reconstruction of the first church built in 1774. Its outside walls are of yellow sandstone. However, it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1787. More reconstructions came in 1893 to 1896 but was again destroyed during the Second World War and the 1948 Lady Kaykay earthquake.

Still a big draw for visitors are the 17^th century Bantayans found in the Barangays of Rizal Tuguisan, C. Colon and Pescadores. These are just a few of the oldest remnants of the original Spanish settlement in Guimbal. Once commanded the town’s calm southern shore, it will remind those who lay eyes upon it of its original function of securing the area for defense and to protect its peaceful community from constant piratical attacks. The Moros depopulated many of our Christianized coastal towns through their merciless constant attack. On their piratical fleet, Moros swept the coasts were they ravaged everything. Towns looted and burned, and their inhabitants carried off as slaves. Some areas were almost completely abandoned by their inhabitants, discouraging settlement. The structures are still impressively intact and definitely worth seeing.

The Guimbal Steel Bridge measuring 348 meters long and almost 11 meters wide is considered as the Longest Steel Bridge in Western Visayas. It connects Barangay Bagumbayan to Barangay Bongol. It is made of Pittsburgh Steel from Virginia, USA and was finished in 1932.

Getting around Guimbal is not a problem even if you do not have a car as there are tricycle services throughout the town.

The town is open to everyone eager to explore its rich culture and history. Also known quiet beaches, not to mention many accommodation establishments to choose from, Guimbal clearly has a lot to offer visitors.

Guimbal is a Fourth-Class municipality located 29 kilometers south from the city. The town shares borders with Tigbauan in the east; in the northeast by Tubungan; Igbaras in the northwest; and west by Miagao. It has a land area of 4, 448 hectares politically subdivided into 33 barangays and populated by 33, 820 inhabitants based on the 2015 Census on Population data. 

To get to the town, one can take a Guimbal jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or at the Iloilo Terminal Market in Barangay Rizal Pala-Pala I or fronting Arevalo Plaza, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Karen Felicio – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09177222477.

Know more what do when in Guimbal during the 15^th Tumandok Celebration in celebration of Tourism Month on September 18-22, 2019 at the event center, fountain area of Robinsons Iloilo main mall. The event is brought to you by the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, DOT-VI, Robinsons Place Iloilo and the Daily Guardian.