Enjoying the Bounty of Nature in Miagao

TINAGONG DAGAT, photo courtesy of Miagao Tourism Office

Miagao, Iloilo is a historic town known worldwide for its very ornate and unique religious structure. It is a well-preserved municipality where the artistic traditions of its local people were influenced by Spanish culture, and the result is brilliant.

But more than the church, watchtowers and bridges, Miagao is also home to several exciting natural attractions. Nature is very specific and unique in its beauty especially in the upland barangays with stunning cascades, unique rock formations, mysterious caves, a hidden lake and magnificent rice terraces. Though some are already well-known to local tourists but many are waiting for their discovery. Undoubtedly, this miracle of nature is among the most extraordinary natural attractions in Iloilo which is worth the visit.

DANAO SA MIAGAO known to the locals as TINAGONG DAGAT is a hidden lake situated in the forested area of Barangay Ongyod elevated approximately 3,000 feet above sea level. Getting there requires some hiking to be able to see this mysterious lake which is said to be ten times bigger than an ordinary swimming pool.  It is one of the most visited attractions of the town by local tourists especially during the Holy Week.

RICE TERRACES, photo courtesy of Miagao Tourism Office

MIAGAO RICE TERRACES in Barangay Cabalaunan is another attraction that will surely overwhelm sightseers.  Its panoramic terraces over its 500-hectare rice fields were carved in perpendicular of the mountain barangay with minimal equipment. Its mud walls beautifully contouring the slopes protects pond fields that are maintained through an elaborate irrigation scheme.

SINUHUTAN CAVE, photo courtesy of Miagao Tourism Office

SINUHUTAN CAVE In Barangay Onop is a 3-hour mountainous trek. The cave’s name coming from the Hiligaynon term “suhut” or “to walk below,” speaks for itself when entering the site. Tourists can access the cave by passing through its three entrances that leads to three prominent chambers such as the “Jacosi Tab” where a certain species of shrimp is found; the “Female Genital”; and “The Plaza or The Cathedral.” It is said that during the Japanese occupation, the cave became a fortress for the locals living in the area.

BATO LABOG, photo courtesy of Miagao Tourism Office

BATO LABOG in Barangay Olango is a mysterious elongated rock that is buried in the middle of the mountain. It has an estimated length that measures 400 meters with a width of 3-4 meters and a height of approximately 30 meters. The name originates from the local word “labog” which means long.

BUSLUGAN FALLS, photo courtesy of Miagao Tourism Office

BUSLUGAN FALLS in Barangay Dalije is surrounded by virgin forest. Its inviting pond creates a playful ambience irresistible for visitors.  BANOGON FALLS in Barangay Dalije is a cascade that resembles a smooth white hair falling gracefully. The word “banogon” may have come from the fact that the surrounding forest is home to “banog” birds belonging to the eagle family. BUSLOGAN FALLS in Barangay Tigmarabo is very popular during rainy season as its current is so tough that produces a thundering sound that can be heard even from afar. The name comes from the local word “buslog” which means strong current. Other falls found in the area include IRIK-IKAN and PARIGUSAN DIWATA.

Though these attractions have not been strongly promoted yet, the current administration under its very active and hard-working Municipal Mayor Hon. Macario N. Napulan is giving more importance to promoting its upland sceneries. This is one of the reasons Miagao is now giving more priority to developing tours, attractions and routes. It is a way to preserve the local culture and folklore, historical monuments and natural bounties. Go experience Miagao its hospitable warm people, and lovely land and seascapes . Because those are the memories you would want to keep.

Miagao is a peaceful town partly coastal and partly mountainous. The town is one of the seven towns comprising the First District of the Province of Iloilo and is situated 40.5 kilometers southwest from the city.  It is bounded by the town of Igbaras in the northeast, in the east is Guimbal; the town of San Joaquin in the west; and in the northwest by the town of Sibalom, Province of Antique. It has a land area of 13, 286 hectares subdivided into 119 barangays, of which 22 are in the urban area of the town and the rest are rural. Its coastline stretches 16 kilometers and covers 22 barangays. Its town fiesta in honor of St. Thomas de Villanova is annually celebrated every September 22. Market day is every Saturday.

Know more about Miagao and this historic town can offer on the 10th TUMANDOK celebration on September 18-20 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo. For more information, please contact Mr. Arli Nim – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09332124066.