Resort Holiday in Idyllic Damires Hills Tierra Verde

If you are looking for fun, family-friendly rural escape to visit on your Iloilo holiday, there is no name more synonymous with inland resort adventure than Damires Hills Tierra Verde in Janiuay. Enjoy an old-fashioned, affordable resort holiday with an idyllic setting in the Central District of the province known as the prime Agri-tourism destination in Iloilo.

Damires Hills teems with nature making it an ideal venue for adventure. This 45-hectare inland resort is one of the pioneers of such outdoor escape in Iloilo. It is known to serve up a variety of fun activities for the whole clan. The whole family is catered for in a safe, secure environment where the kids can have fun and their parents can also enjoy themselves.

Staying at the resort is a good choice when you are visiting Iloilo. It is strategically located in the best spot for visitors who desire a serene and peaceful getaway, far away from the crowds. Yet, it has a very good location, also near the Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan, which is only 30 minutes away. This resort is very easy to find in Janiuay since it is strategically positioned close to the town’s public facilities. It is located within easy reach of various places of interests in Janiuay for your adventure such as the Ruins of the Japanese Watchtowers, Ruins of the old St. Julian Parish and Janiuay Catholic Cemetery.

But staying at inland resort will also give you a pleasant stay. It has six (6) air-conditioned rooms for a family of eight, and two (2) air-conditioned rooms for a family of six. It also has five (5) air-conditioned rooms for couples. A 20-room hotel is now on under construction to cater to more visitors who want a wonderful accommodation for their family holiday. Presently, it can fully maximize its overnight facilities up to 90 persons daily.

The inland resort offers various entertaining facilities for you and the whole family. It has 18 day time cottages that cater to a small group of eight to a bigger group of 40 persons consumable at very affordable rates.

For company seminars, trainings or special occasions, the inland resort has two (2) fully air-conditioned function rooms that can accommodate a group of 200 persons in their 2nd level and a small group of 80 persons at the groundfloor area.

Have an enjoyable and relaxing day at their adult pool and two kiddie pools, whether you are traveling solo or with your loved ones.

Traverse the treetops on an awesome outdoor adventure on an aerial cable trail. This exciting, non-strenuous adventure lets you and your family glide on a zipline at P200 for sitting and P300for Superman; 10 ATVs; a Canopy Walk of 219 meters in length suspended over 250 feet above the ground. Guided tour of the orchard, as well as the chance to pick a variety of fruits in season is also available upon request.

Visit the charming coffeshop/ pastry shop and souvenir shop that sell local produce from neighboring towns and provinces. Splendid service will make you complain for nothing during your stay at the inland resort. Savor your favorite dishes with special cuisines such as their Damires coolers, Turon de Valenciana and Ginapusan nga manok. Restaurant prices are reasonable.

With all facilities offered, the inland resort is the right place to stay. This is the ideal road trip pit stop! Damires Hills Tierra Verde is one of the most visited places in Iloilo.

For inquiries and reservations, you may call (033) 3968144/ 5316519 or 09390600689/ 09176325901. For city bookings you may inquire at G/F Carmelita Building, Quezon Street, Iloilo City or at Telephone numbers (033) 3369670 or 3373882. You may also email them at damireshills.71@gmail.com or at their facebook account www.damireshills.com.

CPU tourism students pose at the 18th century grad Janiuay Cemetery

Janiuay is approximately 29 kilometers from the city occupying a fertile plain that is bordered by Cabatuan to the south; to the southwestern part by Maasin; to the eastern part, with which it share a border along Mina; Lambunao to the north; and by the Province of Antique to the west. The town is made up of 60 barangays distributed to its 17,910-hectare land area. To get to Janiauy one can take a jeepney at the terminal fronting Christ the King Memorial Park in Jaro, Iloio City.

Know more about Damires Hills Tierra Verde and the town of Janiuay on the 12th TUMANDOK, a Tourism Month celebration on September 22-25 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo organized by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI, the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. and Robinsons Place Iloilo in cooperation with Central Philippine University, Tinukib, Department of Trade and Industry and The Daily Guardian.

Enchanting Dumangas Adventure

CPU tourism students on top of the 18th century lighthouse in Siete Pecados

Dumangas, Iloilo has developed over the years from a small settlement into a beautiful, thriving town. The town is known for its deep historic roots which reveal themselves throughout the town. The surrounding landscape is as picturesque as the town itself, with typical coastal and agricultural scenes of fishing villages, mangrove areas, rice paddies, and seafood restaurants that runs past the town center border from the coastal road.

The town has largely retained an unspoilt, historic ambiance that lead up to the beautiful church which crowns the town. The Gothic Byzantine architectural style of the present St. Agustine Parish Church remains to be one of the more impressive churches in Iloilo. It was constructed in 1887 under the supervision of Fr. Fernando Llorente and finished in 1896 by Fr. Rafael Murillo. Built using red bricks and coral stones, it measured 72 meters long and 22 meters wide and was considered to be one of the best churches in the province during its time and the most artistic in the Philippines. It was declared by the National Historical Institute as a National Landmark in January 14, 1974. The first church along with its convent said to have been built in 1572 under the supervision of Fr. Martin de Rada OSA was burned in 1628; the second structure finished before 1787 was destroyed by an earthquake.

Under the supervision of Father Juan de Alva OSA, the First Stone Chapel in Panay was built in 1572 in Barangay Ermita formerly called “Araut.” Now in ruins, it is housed on an elevated land where the base made of coral rocks and old wood is exposed. Originally the chapel was made of nipa.

The ruins of a smokestack chimney in Barangay Rosario approximately 6 kilometers away from the town center had been left in much the same condition in which it was found. A huge Balete tree blends into its red brick walls with its old thick roots giving the structure a surreal appearance. The atmospheric combination of trees growing out of the ruins and the surrounding sugarcane farm makes it one of Dumangas’ most popular tourist attractions.

Overlooking the town via its coastal area is the enchantingly beautiful Siete Pecados, a group of seven islets located between the towns of Dumangas, Iloilo and the municipality of Buenavista in Guimaras. Located in the largest islet amongst the seven is an 18th century lighthouse finished in August of 1884 under the supervision of Domingo de Escardillas. With limited space in the islet, the tower was constructed in the middle of its pavilion.

You know what they say about good things in small packages. The coastal barangays of Dumangas has managed to turn the area into an oceanic dining hotspot. These best seafood restaurants in Iloilo serve drool-worthy seafood cuisine and seafood dishes, such as fish and shellfish. Set on tapered-roof back patio for beachside-style dining, these restaurants Uphold and build on such cherished local traditions while making spectacular waves on their own. PIAD’S Seafoods, Joy-Joy’s Seafood Restaurant, River Pearl Seafood Restaurant, Siete Pecados Seafood Restaurant, Tytche Grill and Seafoods Restaurant all have at least one thing in common: they deserve your attention.

one of the islets of Siete Pecados

Dumangas RORO Port in Barangay Sapao- Sitio Nalu-oyan is a seven hectare Port Complex made possible with the assistance from the government of Japan. Daily trips to Bacolod City is serviced by Tri-Star Megalink Corporation every 2 am, 5 am, 7 am, 10 am, 12 noon, 2:30 pm, 4:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 8:30 pm and 11 pm; Montenegro Shipping Line leaves the port at 4 am, 8 am, 12 noon, 4 pm, 8 pm and 12 midnight; Millenium Shipping Company Incorporated departs at 6 am, 11 am and 9:30 pm. Regular Fare is P96.00 with discount upon presentation of I.D. for students, Senior Citizens, People With Disabilities and children ages 3-7.

CPU tourism students pose with Dumangas LGU rescue team before a
motorized boat trip to Siete Pecados

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 or 30 kilometers away from Iloilo City. It 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 Zarraga. One can travel to Dumangas via the Monfort Coast Boulevard. Vans are readily available at Baldoza Transport Terminal in Barangay Baldoza, Lapaz, Iloilo City.

Know more about Dumangas on the 12th TUMANDOK, a Tourism Month celebration on September 22-25 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo organized by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI, the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. and Robinsons Place Iloilo in cooperation with Central Philippine University, Tinukib, Department of Trade and Industry and The Daily Guardian.

An Epic Island Beach Escapade in Concepcion

AGHO Islet, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Concepcion, Iloilo is known as one of the best-kept secrets of the region with a diverse and unique island beaches that you have to see to believe. This is a town located in the northern district of the province which is known for being an excellent place to island hop. Visitors will find an exclusive place where your only worry will be how much sun you decide to take in during the day. What makes its scenic island beaches even more desirable is the fact that getting there requires some serious planning. But once you arrive, you will understand why the long commute is way worth it.

high tide in Tambaliza island, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beach of Tambaliza during high tide, surrounded by green areas with its centrepiece, Mt. Manaphag popularly known as Pan de Azucar rising 1,706 feet. It is ranked 127th highest mountain in the country according to Peakery Data. Presently there are three accommodation establishments in the island. The sunrise and sunsets you will find in this island are incomparable to anything you will see elsewhere in Concepcion.

Lumpatan, photo by Bombette G. Marin

The beautiful small beach of Lumpatan is known for its scenic cliff that looks like a cave that serves as a rest area for visitors. Walled by granite rock formations, Lumpatan has a 300-meter walking trail leading to the populated area of the island. The swimming area though quite rocky is good for a gentle swim.

BAGO SIPOL, photo by Bombette G. Marin

A must-see is the white-sand beach and calm waters of Bago Sipol make this the perfect oasis for anyone who is looking for complete isolation and relaxation. One of the least-visited island beaches in Concepcion, its gorgeous white-sand and crystal clear water make it impossible for visitors not to feel relaxed in a place filled with so much serenity.

AGHO, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Agho is considered one of the most exotic and unique island beaches of Concepcion. This eight hectare privately-owned island is famed for its beautiful multi shades of aqua water with patches of coconut trees, and creamy white sand making it look like a real-life postcard.

There are no accommodation establishments in this island, no electricity and no sari-sari stores available either that is why it is considered as one of the most beautiful and untouched island locations in Concepcion surrounded by spectacular scenery. Quite a distance from the beach is an extensive coral garden accessible by motorized boat. Snorkelling is good for all levels of snorkelling experience.

BULUBADIANGAN Island, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Known to be one of the most-visited and photographed island beaches in the province, Bulubadiangan’s beautiful panoramic view is incomparable. Here you will find the perfect balance of nature and relaxation. The spectacular island beach is a mix of creamy sand, crystal clear waters and the longest sandbar in Concepcion. It is a place you cannot miss if you travel to Iloilo. There is an available accommodation establishment in the island.

BAGO SIPOL Islet, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Visitors has 16 satellite islands to choose for a real sense of escape but the island beaches of Bulubadiangan, Agho, Bagabo, Danao, Bali-gui-an, Tambaliza, Botlog, Igbon, Bago Sipol, Mangalabang, Sombrera are its finest escapes. To those who would like to go island-hopping, there is only 1 regular motorized boat good for 40 persons at P35 boat fare and leaves the mainland for Tambaliza Island every day at 11 in the morning and goes back to the mainland the following day with pick-up time at 7 in the morning in Tambaliza. Private motorized boats are readily available every day for 1 (one) island adventure only at P1500 for small boats with a maximum of 15 passengers: P2,000 for medium boats with maximum of 20 passengers: and P2,500 for big boats with maximum of 25 passengers. An additional P500 is charged for every island stop. For overnight stay P300 additional is charged for every motorized boat. Entrance fee in every island is P25 and Ecological fee is another P25.

a view of Mt. Manaphag of Tambaliza from Agho Island, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Concepcion is 111.4 kilometers or at least a 2 hour and 20 minute drive north from Iloilo City. It has a land area of 9,702 hectares comprised of 25 barangays, 16 of which are satellite islands. To get there, visitors can take can take the bus at the new Ceres Terminal, Barangay Camalig, Jaro Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Engr. John Rey Asturias – Municipal Tourism Officer, Concepcion at 09982168581.

AGHO Island, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Know more about these islands on the 12th TUMANDOK, a Tourism Month celebration on September 22-25 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo organized by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI, the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. and Robinsons Place Iloilo in cooperation with Central Philippine University, Tinukib, Department of Trade and Industry and The Daily Guardian.

Road-tripping in San Joaquin

CPU tourism students enjoy Kuliatan Marine Sanctuary in Barangay Sinogbuhan

From Iloilo City, your tour of San Joaquin begins with a beautiful scenic drive to the southern coast of the province where your first stop is the Neo-Gothic architectural style of San Joaquin Roman Catholic Cemetery where it serves a s a popular landmark for tourism. Built in 1892, this coral stone walled cemetery is considered to be one of the most photographed heritage structures in Iloilo is known for its Camposanto elevated 20-steps from the ground.

CPU tourism students pose with Erlyn Alunan - Municipal Tourism Officer in front of the church

Next up is the Baroque architectural style of the Roman Catholic Church. Though not the original structure, it stands on the same foundation with first church said to have been finished earlier than 1850. Declared as a Historical Landmark in 1974, the present church is made from gleaming coral stone called “sillar” that were rectangularly shaped into a given dimension was built in 1859 and finished in 1869. It is known to be the most militaristic church in the Philippines with its pediment’s bass relief commemorates the 1859 victory of the Spanish over the forces of Morroco in Tetuan, Africa. The sculpture is so intricate that even the expression of wounded soldiers is visible. Skilled masons and craftsmen, famous sculptors and painters from Spain and Mexico were employed to work for the construction of the church. It was used as a fort during the Muslim raids; burned in January 29, 1943; and, rocked by the 1948 Lady Kaykay earthquake.

Pasungay sa Agosto 

Not to be missed is the most exciting fiesta event of the municipality, the PASUNGAY bullfight. The conduct of bull fight is done every January and August as the people continue this tradition because of its cultural importance and to raise fund for an important municipal project. Lasting only for a day, the fight starts after the mass then people start to flock at the enclosed arena situated at the middle of the San Joaquin Sports Stadium situated at the back of the Municipal Hall overlooking the coastline.  The first pair rears up, bite, spin round and kick with their hind legs as the exciting and absorbing fight arouses cheers from the crowds of spectators kept far away from the fenced area.  If one falls down or runs away, the other one is declared the winner. The fight normally goes on for a few minutes until one or the other collapses or is simply too exhausted to continue.

CPU tourism students snorkel around the sanctuary

Most first-time visitors to Iloilo do not make it far but wandering around the town’s scenic coastline barangays starting from Tiolas down leads to a ribbon of Marine Protected Areas that support a number of beach resorts. These Marine Protected Areas form networks of remarkable sites. Fifteen (15) identified barangays formed the basis for classification and implementation of the MPA Policy set by the town in 2011 namely, Pagang-Guibongan Marine Sanctuary in barangays Tapikan and Manhara; Crossing Dapuyan Turtles Marine Sanctuary; Tambi-Tambi Marine Sanctuary; Talisayan Marine Sanctuary; Baybay Marine Sanctuary; Igbangal Marine Sanctuary in barangay Siwaragan; Masagod Marine Sanctuary, Sta. Rita Marine Sanctuary; Tiolas Marine Sanctuary; Balabago Marine Sanctuary, Basang-Basa Marine Sanctuary in barangay Amboyu-an; Cata-an Marine Sanctuary; Igcundao Marine Sanctuary; Bugnayan Marine Sanctuary in barangays Lawigan and Igcadlum and the most popular, the Kulyatan Marine Sanctuary in Sinogbuhan, the last barangay of the town, 22 kilometers away from the poblacion. Swimming and snorkelling are popular activities in the site. There are four cottages available for overnight stay. To get to this sanctuary, one can take a San Joaquin-Lawigan jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Oton or at the market terminal at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. In San Joaquin proper, one can also take a tricycle ride to the area with a contracted rate of P200.00. For more information, please contact Barangay Captain, Hon. Raymundo Sican at 09186516693 or George Mendoza – sanctuary caretaker at 09212609866.

Assemblage Point Resort and Convention Hub in Barangay Tiolas

If you have time, take a few minutes to relax along the route, soak up some of the scenery and just generally chill the hell out. Check out Assemblage Point Resort and Convention Hub in Barangay Tiolas. It is a perfect hideaway to enjoy privacy and the beauty of the coast. Check out the stunning view from the 18 air-conditioned rooms available, chill at the poolside or enjoy kayaking and swimming at the beach. For more information, please contact (033) 3362147/ 5033477 or 09985414511.

Dove calling in Garinfarm

Finally, if you really want to make your mark in San Joaquin hit up for Garinfarm, an Inland -   Pilgrimage – Agricultural Resort located in Purok 11, Barangay Poblacion developed for outdoor recreation, education and adventure. The resort opens daily from 8 am until 9 pm. Jeepneys from the city bring their passengers direct to the entrance of the resort. For more information, please call May or Bernie at (063-33) 3147555 direct to Garinfarm.

San Joaquin is a 2nd Class municipality and is 85 kilometers south from Iloilo City. It is the last town south of the province. It has a land area of 23,135 hectares subdivided into 85 barangays. To get to the town, one can take a San Joaquin jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or when in the city, take any bus at the Antique Terminal in Molo or at the market situated at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. For more information, please contact Erlyn Alunan – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09176619120.

Know more about San Joaquin on the 12th TUMANDOK, a Tourism Month celebration on September 22-25 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo organized by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI, the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. and Robinsons Place Iloilo in cooperation with Central Philippine University, Tinukib, Department of Trade and Industry and The Daily Guardian.

Unmissable Gigantes in Carles

Cabugao Gamay, Barangay Gabi, Gigante Sur, Carles, Iloilo

The Gigante Group of Islands, located 21 kilometers northeast from Bancal Port in Carles, Iloilo, are among the most scenic and unique of all the islands of the province. This famous island group is a major tourist destination consisting of Gigante Norte (the islands of Bolobadiang, Uaydajun, Gigantona and Giganteleo) and Gigante Sur (the islands of Antonia Point, Bantigue, Cabugao Dako, Cabugao Gamay, Polopandan, Balbagun and Tangke).

Each of the Gigante Group has its own distinct appeal for travellers. Some portions feature white sandy beaches, others isolated coves and picturesque fishing villages, and still others with many scenic cliffs, remnants of the century old watchtower, and a number of caves. Several of the Gigante Group had become favourite holiday destination itineraries for travellers both local and foreign.

When you are looking for inviting beaches bathed by year-round sun, Antonia Point, and the islands of Cabugao Gamay and Bantigue  in Barangay Gabi, Gigante Sur awaits.

 Antonia Point, Barangay Gabi, Gigante Sur, Carles, Iloilo, photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes 

Antonia Point is one of the most beautiful island beaches of Gigante Sur with coconut palms and enhanced by the 365 days a year of sun. Although the island has no accommodation establishment for visitors who would want to stay overnight, visitors are sure to find a quiet spot for their sunbathing or casual stroll and little more activity at one of the more popular beachfront areas. 

Gigante Water Sport in Antonia Point. photo by Chelsi Eroy 

Gigante Water Sport offers lessons in Jetski for two persons at P2,500 for 30 minutes or P3,500 for an hour, for more information  please contact 09988841396. They also rent out Banana Boats good for eight persons at P1,600 and Kayak good for two persons at P150 per hour. The island also offers rentals for tents good for 10 at P200 per person and snorkelling gears. 

scallops in Antonia Point, photo by Chelsi Eroy

And the best way to enjoy eating in the island is to try their main local food mix up your packed meals. Steamed scallops sold at P1.00 a piece with a minimum order of 100 pieces and Wasay-Wasay at P200 per order. Environmental fee to this island is at P40 per person. For more information, please contact Danilo dela Cruz at 09473884070.

back beach portion of Cabugao Gamay

The Maruja’s Floras Island paradise popularly known as Cabugao Gamay in Barangay Gabi is Gigante Sur’s most popular and pristine island beaches. If you want a quieter, more relaxing experience, this picturesque island is an ideal location. It has a beautiful beach great for swimming with a quiet strip of white sand in an island requiring a short motorized boat ride, around 10 minutes off Antonia Point. Known as the “Selfie Island” among tourists coming from Manila because of its rock formation where visitors can climb all the way to the top, the best spot for viewing the whole islet and a selfie shot. For visitors who would want to stay overnight, they have air-conditioned and fan rooms with individual bathrooms good for two till a group of 15-20 persons. The island is generator-operated which starts from six in the evening to six in the morning. Tents for 10-15 persons are also for rent at P300 per person. They serve the best sugba nga baboy (pork) and manok (chicken) as well as serve a variety of fish and shell foods either grilled or as soup base. Environmental Fee is at P50 per person. For more information, please contact 09399212456.

Bantigue Island Sandbar

Bantigue Island Sandbar is another charming islet, a popular stopover because of its picturesque golden brown sandbar lapped by its emerald green and azure waters where visitors can enjoy swimming.

for their Tumandok fieldwork, CPU Tourism students 

pose with Miss Marjorie Gumben - Municipal Tourism Officer, Carles

Everyone paying a visit to Gigante Group of Islands must depart from Bancal Port in Carles. Passenger boats leave daily for Gigantes Group only at 10 in the morning. A lovely breezy journey to Gigante Group takes 1.5 hour via motorized boat ride. Presently, there are 79 registered motorized boats for hire for day trips to the islands for a group of 10 maximum at P3,500, 15persons maximum at P5,000, 20 persons maximum at P6,000 and 25 persons maximum at P8,000. An environmental fee of P75 per person is charged and 20% discount is given to all government employees, student, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

Carles is the last town north of the province of Iloilo. It is 147.6 kilometers away or a 3-hour bus ride from the new Ceres Terminal in Barangay Camalig, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Marjorie Gumban – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09101249946.

Know more about the Gigante Group of Islands of Carles on the 12th TUMANDOK, a Tourism Month celebration on September 22-25 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo organized by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government, the Department of Tourism Region VI, the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. and Robinsons Place Iloilo in cooperation with Central Philippine University, Tinukib, Department of Trade and Industry and The Daily Guardian.

Passi: Sweet City and More

pineapple plantations in Barangay Bita-ogan, Passi City

Passi, the only component city of Iloilo was originally an area of refuge for Malay migrants long before the arrival of the Spaniards. In 1766, it was organized as a pueblo. It became a component city in January 30, 1998 through Republic Act 8469 signed by former President Fidel V. Ramos.

sugarcane chimney in Barangay Sto. Tomas

Passi City prides itself as the “Sweet City at the Heart of Panay” because of its vast plantations of sugarcane and pineapple.  Not known to many, the title rests on the foundation of a rich cultural heritage.

Sugar farming was so profitable that plantations grew everywhere in Passi and its neighboring towns. Sugar Cane was a highly profitable and prosperous activity and was known to be the backbone of our economy. The surrounding plantations provide livelihoods for many of its residents. The town's surrounding attractions showcase the area's intimate relationship with this crop. Many sugar estates, as a prestige symbol, raised sugar mill chimneys. The sugarcane fields were flourishing and sugar were produced in the grounds of these chimneys. With time, however, there was a decline in sugarcane production because of low demand. 

Chinese chimney in Barangay Imbang Grande

These chimneys were operating in full force during the agricultural heyday. The old red brick chimney areas became overgrown and structures deteriorated rapidly. These ruins are a familiar sight to all driving along sugarcane plantations in the area.The existing Passi Sugar Central II in Barangay Man-it reminds visitors of an industry still dominating the area.

CPU tourism students for their Tumandok field work posing in front of the Balete tree

Along the sugarcane plantations in Barangay Imbang Grande stands a historic Balete tree  said to be the biggest of its kind in Passi, because of its gigantic structure it would take around 20-25 men to encircle its huge trunk. Though people believe that it is a dwelling place of a supernatural being, it has become an attraction for many who are drawn to its massive root system. It had become a popular spot to take souvenir photos and had served as a wonderful shade for everyone passing by the barangay.

Passi Presidencia, old Municipal Hall finished in 1930

The Passi Presidencia also known as the old Municipal Hall was completed in 1930 under Former Mayor Jose Paloma. This 2-storey white building with wooden floors houses the Passi City Gallery where it showcases old photos, coins and info about historic Passi. The gallery is joined by the Special Project Office of the City Mayor and the Population Commission. The ground-floor is occupied by the Post Office, Commission on Elections, Parole, City Registrar and Department of Agrarian Reform.

CPU tourism students exploring Bita-ogan cave

Get your daily dose of adrenalin by exploring the city's most important feature --- its caves. It is home to Tinay and Bitas caves situated in Barangay Imbang Grande; Cueva ni Musyo in Barangay Bayan; Erimnat Maya, Cuadrado and Suhoton caves found in Barangay Agtambo; Irimnan It Maya Spring cave, Santos, Baboy-baboy, Amorotik and Tubigon caves in Barangay Magdungao; Cabugon cave in Barangay Imbang Grande; Ninfa and Kweba ni Wening caves in Barangay Aglalana; Ibajay Cave in Barangay Bacuranan and Bita-ogan cave in Barangay Bita-ogan.

Iloilo is a beautiful province that attracts local and foreign visitors each year. There are too many less popular travel destinations in Iloilo that are often underrated and overlooked and Passi City is one of them.

chimney in Barangay Quinagaringan Pequeno

The component city of Passi is 50 kilometers away or an hour and twenty-five  minutes away from Iloilo City. It is located along the Central portion of the province using the Iloilo-Capiz National Highway.  Made up of 51 barangays over a land area of 25,068 hectares, it annually celebrates its cultural festival every March and Religious Festival every February in honour of San Guillermo.

For sightseeing, Passi has guided tours that explore nature, culture and adventure. You can visit the City Tourism Office under Miss Gina Palmares – City Tourism Officer at (033) 3115087/ 3116072. Visitors to Passi City can take the bus at the new Ceres Terminal in Barangay Kamalig, Jaro, Iloilo City. 

chimney in Barangay Agtambo

Know more about Passi and its offerings on the 12^th TUMANDOK, a Tourism Month celebration on September 22-25, 2016 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo. The event is organized by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government in partnership with the Department of Tourism Region VI, the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. and Robinsons Place Iloilo. The event is also brought to you by  Central Philippine University - College of Hospitality Management, Tinukib, Department of Trade and Industry and The Daily Guardian.

Tourism and the Arts for the Annual Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair

Jerry Anas , Tourism Officer, Leganes, Iloilo 

in Hablon top

Iloilo is a beneficiary of a richly diverse artistic heritage. Many traditional arts have continued to be useful in contemporary life still flourish because it had shaped the economic landscape of many communities.

Touristic appetites for aesthetically interesting traditional art such as hand-loom weaving have encouraged local governments to create programs and activities to help revive a traditional craft stimulated by the tourist market.

Iloilo is known for its incredible weavers. The towns of Miagao, Oton, Igbaras, Badiangan, Duenas and the District of Arevalo create unique textiles that are exquisitely hand-woven. Their striking color combinations and geometric patterns are examples of skilful traditional design and craftsmanship. There have been artistic innovations but have drawn upon traditional roots. Women blend traditional knowledge of weaving with new patterns to make eye-catching handicrafts, ranging from clothing to household items.

Jennifer Osorio, Tourism Officer, Lambunao, Iloilo 

in hablon gown

Tourism has stimulated the small-scale crafts production of these weaving communities. It has helped market our municipalities as a travel destination as well. 

The annual Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair serves as a drawing card for the Fiber Month   celebration of the Provincial Tourism Office. For the last nine years, it had helped weaving be more profitable and because tourism is central to the provinces’ economic vitality, it had increased tourist traffic in weaving centers throughout the years.

The Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Incorporated is a collaborative tourism association in the Province of Iloilo delivering one voice focused on tourism marketing and promotion. The association believes in responsible tourism and ensures that every program implemented benefits the people and places they visit.

Susan Pacheo, a weaver herself, Tourism Officer, 

Duenas, Iloilo in hablon dress

To show their support to this inspiring project, Municipal Tourism Officers and SB Members on Committee for Tourism will once again take centerstage as they showcase their hand-woven attires in Hablon and Patadyong on August 7 (Sunday) at 5 p.m., SM City Event Center for the 9th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair.

The Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Incorporated will be joined by other designers on August 5 (Friday) at 5 p.m. will make way for the graduating students of the Fashion Design and Merchandising Department of ISAT University featuring JEFFY TICAO, JO NINO DAMASCO, ELON DELGADO, JOHN EDWARD SALES, JOHN ASDOLO, MELVIN ARANGA, MARIA ERICKA CELIZ, CLOE ANN SERUE and JOHN LARLAR and 6 p.m. will feature LEXTER BADANA for PRECIOSA; August 6 (Saturday) at 5 p.m. will spotlight LGU-MIAGAO on Centerstage and 6 p.m. will have International Lifestyle Designer PJ ARANADOR for PATADYONG ACCESORIOS; 

Hon. Norlene Cabangal, SB Member Committee 

on Tourism, Banate,Iloilo in hablon dress

August 7 (Sunday) at 5 p.m. will present the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, Inc. on the Ramp and 6 p.m. will be highlighted by the ILOILO FASHION DESIGNERS COUNCIL featuring JOHN MONTINOLA, IAN JORDA, HELLO HELLO, JUN-G CANDELARIO, PAUL CONTE, LEXTER BADANA, BINKY PITOGO and AUDREY ROSE ALBASON.

The 9th Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair on August 3-7, 2016 is brought to you by the Provincial Tourism Office of the Iloilo Provincial Government and SM City Iloilo in partnership with the Department or Trade and Industry, the Department of Tourism Regional Office, LGU-Miagao, LGU-Oton, LGU-Duenas, LGU-Badiangan, Tinukib and the Daily Guardian.