Celebrating Pavia’s Simple and Colorful Carabao-Carroza Festival

Pavia, Iloilo will celebrate its 46th Carabao-Carroza Festival on the 3rd of May. Considered as the longest-running festival in the province of Iloilo since 1973, the whole community of Pavia honors both their hardworking water buffalos and their farmers.

Known to be Beasts of Burden, the Carabaos or water buffalos have been our farmer’s bestfriend for many generations since both work tirelessly together on the rice fields with either plowing the fields in preparation for planting or carrying the harvested rice and other produce. To honor their efforts, the town of Pavia annually celebrate the Carabao Carroza Festival.

Attracting the most attention of the festivity is the grand Carabao-Carroza parade that starts at 6 a.m. and will make its way from its starting point in Barangay Ungka-I, passing through the bridge leading to the town center till it reaches the football ground of Pavia National High School. Eighteen barangays participate with their respective Carabaos given a full make-over. Barangay officials make sure their carrozas or bamboo carriages are adorned with products from their respective barangays.       The barangay’s muse is another attraction of the parade as she competes for the crown as the festival’s fairest on the eve of the opening day.   

  

                                                                   

After the parade, the much-anticipated race takes place on the 110-meter lane of Pavia National High School football ground. The race is of two types: race of Carabao with carrozas and race of carabaos.  There will be elimination rounds before reaching the final race.

TRIVIA

The name carabao is said to have come from the Visayan or Cebuano word karabaw which was apparently from kerbau, the Malaysian and Indonesian local name for the water buffalo.

Written history indicated that it was in the mid-1500 when the carabaos were imported to the Philippines from China where it was domesticated 7, 000 years ago in a province called Chekiang.

Carabaos brought to the Philippines were of two types: the swamp buffalo that is of dark gray color and with horns that extend outward and curl backwards like in semi-circle form and is excellent for its draft usability; and the riverine buffalo that is of black body color and with curled horn and is best for its meat and milk.

Based on study, about 66 percent of the population of the Philippines used the carabao for farm works.

It was said that during World War II, Japanese officials suspected that the carabao was being used by Filipino guerrillas to transport weapons and goods to aid American soldiers. Then an order was made to massacre the carabaos. About two million carabaos were killed.

Situated 9.6 kilometers or a 20-minute drive north of the city is the Agro-Industrial Center of the province, the municipality of Pavia. This Second Class municipality is politically subdivided into 18 barangays over a land area of 2, 703 hectares. The town is bordered by the municipalities of Oton, San Miguel, Sta. Barbara, Leganes and Iloilo City.

For more information, please contact Miss Shiela Hismana – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09983796987.

Glorifying Oton’s Historical, Cultural and Artistic Life Through Katagman Festival

Oton, Iloilo will burst into life for a four-day of partying to celebrate its 447th Foundation Day with the annual Katagman Festival on April 30 – May 3, 2019. It is a lively and unrivalled tribute to the town's history, culture and traditions with music, dancing and lots of food and drink.

April 30 (Tuesday) Opening of Agri-Fair, Garden Show and Plant Sale and FITS Day at 9 a.m., Mass at 2 p.m., Parade at 4 p.m., Opening Program at 6 p.m. and Hiyas Sang Katagman at 7 p.m.; May 1 (Wednesday) Katagman Fun Run and Walk at 5:30 a.m., On-the-Spot Painting Contest at 7:30 a.m., FITS Day at 8 a.m. and Bugal Sang Ogtonganon: Awarding of Outstanding Ogtonganons and Young Achievers, Awarding of Clean and Green Modelong Gulayan, Awarding of Top/ Prompt Business Tax Payers at 5:00 p.m.

May 2 (Thursday) Laro Ng Lahi and Sinadya sa Baybay at 7:30 a.m., Motorboat race and Baroto Race at 7 a.m., Hataw sa Katagman at 4 p.m.; May 3 (Friday) 447th Foundation Day Mass at 2 p.m., Katagman Festival Street Dancing Competition at 4 p.m., Katagman Festival Music, Dance and Theater Competition at 6 p.m.

Katagman Festival occurs every year in the last 17 years, to the satisfaction of locals. Visitors are able to learn how beautiful and rich is the town’s historical value highlighted during the Dance and Theater Competition that re-enacts important historical segments such as the trade between the locals and Chinese merchants, the significance of the Chinese porcelains and the gold death mask and how Christianity flourished in the area.

The recovery of many Chinese porcelain ware in some parts of Oton, being an ancient place, could show that the Chinese traded with the locals. The abundance of porcelain ware used as grave goods by our ancestors may indicate that they had been in the area for a long time. Chinese goods abound in the Visayas as they exchanged silk, porcelain, colored glass, beads and iron ware for hemp cloth, tortoise shells, pearls and yellow wax of the locals.

A rare Chinese burial gold leaf mask, one of the oldest objects found in Barangay San Antonio, was excavated in the 1960s by Alfredo Evangelista and F. Landa Jocano. Made of finely created gold sheets, the mask covers both eye and a disc that covers the entire nose. The golden mask is part of a burial tradition from a limited group of Filipinos who have had early contacts with Chinese merchants. The gold death mask discovered was dated sometime late 14th to the early 15th century A.D The gold death mask was declared as a National Cultural Treasures and is known to be one of the 15 Most Intense Archaeological Discoveries of the Philippines.

Oton was established in 1572 by the Augustinian Friars and became the center of Spanish administration in Iloilo. Once known as Ogtong, it was a missionary base for the conversion of the entire region.

The Dance-Drama is an impressive ending to the annual celebration that will surely leave fond memories to many attendees. Attending and witnessing Katagman festival is a perfect way of gaining a better understanding of Oton’s local culture.

Oton is approximately 10.2 kilometers or a 30-minute drive south from the city. This First-Class municipality has a land area of 8, 456 hectares and is politically subdivided into 37 barangays. The town is bordered in the east by the district of Arevalo in Iloilo City; west by the municipality of Tigbauan: north by San Miguel; and the southern portion by a stretch of shoreline of the Sulu Sea.

To get there one can take a jeepney fronting Molo Supermart. For more information about any of the events above, please contact Cheche S. Demo-os – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09778500954.

Cheap Beach Vacations to Take in Iloilo

Summer is here and the days are longer and the breeze is warmer, and if you have been dreaming of the sun, sand and sea, you are certainly not alone. Iloilo’s coastline is lined with scenic beaches. Beach hopping is definitely a great thing to do while in Iloilo. There is no vacation destination quite like the beach, and no experience quite like staying in a beach house.

There is something memorable about setting up tents on a beach. Whether you are on the hunt for a family-friendly getaway or a coastal hot spot for the peace and quiet. The province has plenty of affordable beach resorts that vacationers are just starting to discover.

EVELYN’s Beach Resort in Barangay Cabubugan, Guimbal is recommended if you are looking for a quiet night sleep. Walk out the door and you are right on a scenic beach that seems to stretch forever. The price is extremely resonable with an entrance fee of P20.00 per person. Amenities include an open cottage that can accommodate 12 persons, a closed cottage for ten persons, a pavilion good for 40 persons that can be rented for day and night events, an open air mini bar and store and for those who would want to stay overnight, they have a small rest house good for a maximum of four persons and a main house good for four persons. The resort is 34 kilometers away or a 40-minute drive from the city. For more information, please call 0927 544 3163 or 09995579475 or visit their facebook page at evelyn’sbeachresort.

TALISAYAN Beach Resort in Villa Alfonsa, San Joaquin is just within the poblacion area. It is regarded as one of the best beaches in Iloilo with a tranquil nature which could be an ideal retreat spot. You can enjoy an absolute solitude while walking on the beach, reading a book or lying on open bamboo cottage or just plainly soaking in the sunlight. At the daybreak, a cold bottle of beer or a glass of wine is an ideal way to have a good cheer at the end of the day. The laid-back atmosphere in the area is what makes it one of the most appealing beach destinations in the province. It has seven (7) open cottages and for those who would like to stay overnight, it has five (5) rooms: two (2) air-conditioned rooms and three (3) fan rooms. Entrance fee is P50.00/ person. The resort is around an hour and twenty-minute drive south from the city. For more information, please contact Ramona Nierves at 09778031899 or 09504315842 or email at talisayanbeachresort@gmail.com.

PARTNER’S PARADISE Beach Resort in Sitio Magurampao, Barangay Cataan, San Joaquin remains a secluded haven, it attracts different visitor groups such as families, couples, and friends, due to the convenient amenities it offers. Upon your arrival to the resort, you won’t be able to resist the urge to bath in the warm sunlight while contemplating the alluring charm of the beach. If what you are looking for is a tranquil experience, it is the resort to be. The resort has nine (9) air-conditioned rooms. This fascinating coastal area is also home to an array of resorts where you don’t need to look any further for an ultimate beach vacation. The resort is about an hour and forty-minute drive south from the city. For more information, please contact Rachel Catedrilla at 09994553700 or email at nicocatedrilla@yahoo.com.

LHETZ SNORKEL and Dive Camp in Barangay Cata-an, San Joaquin is set in an area surrounded by coconut trees that visitors will surely find a friendly relaxed atmosphere. The resort promises a pleasant outing with safe swimming conditions ideal for swimming, scuba diving and snorkeling. The cove has a beautiful marine garden which interests dive enthusiasts. The resort has been an excellent choice for those who prefer to enjoy peace and quiet time with family and friends. It has nine (9) very affordable rooms where guests can enjoy spectacular sea views from your cottages. It has air-conditioned single and duplex rooms and fan rooms. These comfortable cottages are located amidst beautiful coconut trees. Guests can come for the day for P30.00 as entrance fee and P50.00 for those staying overnight. Guests can also pitch a tent for P150.00. For those who wish to avail of its scuba instruction and services, please contact Mr. Abdon Santocildes at 09186033946/ 09167656146 or 09164938633.

CRCI Beach Resort in Barangay Aglacaygan, Banate situated just an hour and forty-minute drive north from the city is one of the few scenic beaches that can provide the utmost relaxing and sensual atmosphere to its visitors. It is also perfect for those who are fond of a lively ambience, beach sports, and unique local delicacies. If you ever miss the taste of the sea after playing in the sand, the resort’s gastronomic delights will make you never want to leave the beach again. The resort offers four (4) air-conditioned rooms for those who would want to stay overnight. It has spacious parking area. For more information, please contact Igliedo Cabangal Jr. at 09455730627 or 09103901100.

ALTA MARR Beach Resort in Ajuy sits on a pristine beach with water that is calm, warm and shallow. Room options include an air-conditioned bamboo house with two rooms good for four persons each room and are just steps from the beach. There is also an air-conditioned bamboo room/ dining area that can accommodate 15 persons. The resort has eight open cottages that can accommodate 10 persons per cottage; 14 closed cottages; two pavilions that can accommodate 30 persons; an event hall that can accommodate 100 persons and a mini store. Aside from swimming and playing beach volleyball, the resort has a motorized boat that can accommodate 13 persons for a nearby island adventure in Gin-asyan Dako Islet. For more information about Alta Marr Beach Resort, please contact 09275035471/ 09485835793/ 09487655888 or at 09063558127.

There are so many things that make Iloilo Province special. Whether it is the endless destinations to see, tasting a unique mix of flavors, year-round festival celebration, or the friendly locals.

Iloilo is receiving the recognition it deserves as one of the best beach destinations in this part of the region. And there is definitely no shortage of them. So, what are you waiting for?

Uncovering Tubungan Through Tubong-Tubong Festival

Tubungan, Iloilo will celebrate its 18^th Tubong-Tubong Festival on April 26 – May 1, 2019. This year’s festival celebration will be held under the theme, “Tubong Tubungan, Ipadayon ang Kauswagan” with the main objective of promoting municipal socio-cultural integration through arts and culture. Tubong-Tubong provides the town a platform to showcase its local culture. The festival is held on an annual basis and is expected to bring its municipal barangays together.

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Derived from the Hiligaynon word “tubong” or “to contribution or chip-in,” Tubong-Tubong is based on the local tradition of Filipinos called “Bayanihan.” Tubungan became an independent town in May 1, 1938 via Executive Order No. 143 under President Manuel L. Quezon as residents from neighboring towns of Guimbal, Leon, Igbaras and Tigbauan settled peacefully in the area, thus, the local word "tubong," was in reference to these communities that settled permanently.

This year’s celebration will have special events daily to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Tubunganons. April 26 (Friday) Pintawo at 1 p.m., Civic Parade at 4:30 p.m., Opening Program at 5 p.m. alongside the Opening of Agri-Trade Fair Food Kiosk and, LGU and GBI-TBBG (Guinobatan Chapter) presents Banda sa Plaza featuring Binhi Band at 7 p.m.; April 27 (Saturday) LIGA Day Celebration at 8 a.m., LGU and LIGA Night: Gabi ng Parangal – Awarding of Top Performing Barangays and Search for Mutya ng Liga 2019 at 7 p.m.

April 28 (Sunday) Diskubre Igtuble, Mountain Bike Trek Race and Fun Ride at 6 a.m., Tubungan Amateur Boxing Match at 1 p.m., Search for Miss Tubong-Tubong Festival 2019 at 6 p.m.; April 29 (Monday) ZumkaBataan at 6 a.m., Amazing Race Level Up at 9 a.m., Mess and Messterious at 6 p.m.; April 30 (Tuesday) 5^th Tubong-Tubong Football Festival at 7 a.m., TNHS Pasidungog Night at 6 p.m.; May 1 (Wednesday) Diana at 4:30 a.m., Thanksgiving Mass at 7 a.m., Tubong Dance-Drama Special Presentation and Inter-Agency Stylized Dance Presentation at 8 a.m., Street Dancing Competition at 6 p.m. and Awards Night and Fireworks Display at 9 p.m.

The centerpiece of the festival is the tribal dance presentation that normally depicts the spirit of cooperation infused with local stories that feature pagan rituals performed by local Babaylans.

A remote agricultural town with a mountainous location, Tubungan offers a taste of pre-tourist-boom life. Situated in the southwestern portion of the province, it offers captivating landscapes dominated by luxuriant mountains where locals and visitors can spend the day wandering on elevated trails.

Situated 41.1 kilometers or an hour drive southwest from Iloilo City, Tubungan is politically subdivided into 48 barangays over a land area of 3, 460 hectares. The town and is bounded in the north by the municipality of Leon; in the south by the municipality of Guimbal; in the east by the municipality of Tigbauan, and; in the west by the municipality of Igbaras.

Visitors can take a jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or when in the city, at the market situated at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. For more information, please contact Marlyn Tagudar – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09152893395 or at 3960754.

Unforgettable Hiking Destinations

The province of Iloilo is home to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery for hiking, historic towns to explore, beaches to walk upon and local delicacies to taste. It is home to many jaw-dropping mountain landscapes that are popular to travelers and visitors to Iloilo.

What more can you ask for. Lace-up your hiking boots and head to the country roads. If you are interested in hiking in around the province, consider travelling to these destinations. Using a local tour guide can greatly enhance your experience.

MIAGAO. It is an old town in the southern portion of the province that is famous for hand-loom weaving. The town is filled with history and it has scenic landscapes that are just one of the reasons why it is a must-visit destination when in the province. Situated in the southern portion of the province, it is 40.5 kilometers away or an hour drive from the city. Not everyone knows but the town has extraordinary natural attractions. You will see terraced rice farms growing up mountainsides, lush greenery, and picturesque villages. Ongyod a highland barangay characterized by hills with open meadows offers hikers a dramatic experience on trekking routes with occasional climbing. It has a pine tree reserve that offers wide shades of thick pine trees where visitors can take a rest before proceeding to the next attraction that includes Gi-ub ni Tidoy, a dome-like coral rock formation situated in the middle of a rice field. This rock formation is as big as a 3-storey building where visitors can climb to the top and enjoy the scenic view around the area. The Sinuhotan Cave situated further in Unop is another attraction not to be missed.

LEON. If you want a unique nature experience, then this town is a must-see. Situated in the southwestern portion of the province, it is 28.2 kilometers away or an hour drive from the city. It prides itself as the home of the “Summer Capital of Iloilo,” Bucari, located 21 kilometers or another hour drive away from the town center. Bucari, with terrains ranging from hilly to mountainous covers 500 hectares of the town’s forestlands. It is made up of three barangays namely, Bucari, Camandag and Danao. Its ecotourism area, the Bucari Campsite elevated 773 meters above sea level has an appealing scenery with an explosion of greens saturated by Benguet pine trees that covers the entire area. Bucari offers a plethora of activities to its visitors that include a trek to Mansiga Viewing Deck situated 863 meters above sea level, swimming in Imoy Falls, ATV rides, Horseback riding, rock climbing, camping, marketing organic fruits and vegetables and tasting its local cuisine, Linagpang nga Manok. It has cottages for overnight stay as well.

IGBARAS. The town has one of the best long-distance hiking trails in the province. Situated in the southwestern portion of the province, the town is 40 kilometers away or an hour drive from the city. It is characterized by trails criss-crossing all over its upland barangays with adventurous routes for hikers seeking something different. Located 14 kilometers away from the poblacion though getting can be access by motorcycle, a downhill trek is needed from the visitor center in the area to Igaabugao Falls, the smallest in Igbaras with rock formations enveloping the cool and clear waters coming Igbolo Creek. Not far is the Igcabugao Cave is a spelunkers favorite where they will surely enjoy the vastness and richness of its underground basins that houses a number of cave creatures, splendid formation of stalagmites and stalactites that sparkle like crystals. The cave is a downhill walk on a rocky track where tremendous rock formations frame its way. Igcabugao is also a popular campground for local tourists because it has some of Iloilo’s richest series of exceptionally beautiful forested mountains, from lowlands to highlands, large enough to preserve the integrity of the town’s ecosystem. It is home to the world’s largest individual flower, the Rafflesia. There is plenty still left to discover in Igcabugao, especially if you are willing to go off the beaten track on two feet.

ALIMODIAN. The trails are breathtaking, unforgettable, one of the most beautiful hikes in Iloilo. Trekking here presents a spectacular setting of verdant hills and luxuriant vegetation in all shades of green that produces high yielding crops such as cauliflower, carrots, broccoli and even strawberries. The town is situated in the south-central portion of the province, 24.6 kilometers away or a forty-minute drive from the city. Getting to Seven Cities on steep hills form an enchanting destination of cool weather. It has a surprisingly diverse and inspiring terrain getting to the seven barangays or villages located in its upland barangays are linked to the Bucari mountain range of Leon. The area has thick rainforest, diverse wildlife and plants with attractions like caves, steep cliffs, waterfalls, various rock formations and rice terraces. It is a great place to get lost and enjoy some of the local culture.

TUBUNGAN. An isolated agricultural town with a mountainous location and offers a taste of pre-tourist-boom life, connecting itself with the rest of the towns in the First District of the Province. It is situated in the southwestern portion of the province, 41.1 kilometers away or an hour and twenty-minute drive from the city. Charming sceneries dominated by verdant mountains where locals and visitors can spend the day wandering on elevated trails. Approximately 11.1 kilometers away from the town center, passing through seven barangays is the scenic and peaceful upland barangay of Igtuble, a boundary barangay of the towns of Igbaras, Tubungan and Leon. The area takes pride of their rich organic produce such as corn, banana, coconut, sweet potato, carrots, peanuts and papaya. But the real charm of this barangay is its cave, rock formations and waterfalls. Most visited is the Bato-Sumpit Falls, a 45-minute medium hike trail to get there.

For Iloilo, respect for nature is a priority and we offer travelers an unforgettable experience. Discover exceptional landscapes and untouched nature and treat yourself to unforgettable moments.

Summertime is Pool-Hopping Time in lloilo

Summer is the "high season" in Iloilo. Although locals and travelers alike visit Iloilo all year round - Summer is the most popular travel time. ​

Inland resorts are a perfect summer getaway. Dipping into the pool might just be the most local thing to do during summer. The venue includes a pool for adults, a pool for kids with swimming venues located between the sea and the mountain that offers spectacular views. Others have an enclosed water park, playground and picnic area and other facilities on the premises, offering a wide range of activities for all. There are also changing rooms, showers and a kiosk for snacks and drinks with facilities for an overnight stay for the whole family included.

Ever wondered just how many pools exist outside of Iloilo City? To celebrate the summer, we have a put together a short list of some of the provinces’ swimming locations. Dive into our list of public swimming pools around Iloilo Province and keep swimming.  

Sheridan Boutique Inland Resort in Oton

The most popular are the ones in Sheridan Boutique Resort and Adhara Eco-Boutique Resort in Oton; Bearland Paradise Resort in Tigbauan; Racsos Woodland and Inland Resort in Guimbal; High Mountain View Resort and Erlinda’s Inland Resort in Igbaras; Garinfarm and Assemblage Point Resort and Convention Hub in San Joaquin for the First District.

Sea Garden Resort in Leganes

The Second District has Fleur de Liz Inn in Sta. Barbara; Mila’s Hills Inland Resort in New Lucena; Mimai’s Inland Resort in Zarraga; Sea Garden Resort in Leganes; S-Five Inland Resort and Goducate Camp and Training Center in San Miguel; Mama Paz Hillside Resort in Alimodian; Villa Asuncion Country Inn and Resort in Leon.

Damires Hills Terra Verde in Janiuay

The Third District boast of Riverside Inland Resort and Villa Benedicta Hillside Resort in Maasin; Damires Hills Terra Verde in Janiuay; Ephrathah Farms and Jade Energetic Paradise and Adventure Corp. in Badiangan; Tan Casa Inland Resort in Calinog; Melrose Inland Resort and Camp Manahain Inland Resort in Pototan.

Kalingawan Picnic Area in Duenas

The Fourth District is proud of its Casa Fiammetta in Barotac Nuevo; Kalingawan Picnic Area and Rocky’s Place in Duenas; Christine’s Place Inland Resort and Hotel, The Erlina’s Place and Resort, Kawilihan Family Resort, Hda. Estrella Family Resort and Midway in Passi City; Cabas-an Cold Springs in San Enrique; and Villa Francisca in Banate.

 

Paon Beach Club in Estancia

The Fifth District has Garilva Recreation Center in Concepcion; Alexis and Alexa Poolside Pensionne, Relaxing Garden and Rodbon’s Place in Sara; Espia Inland Resort in Lemery; CNN Inland Resort in San Dionisio; Endielina’s Inland Resort Corporation, RC Woodland Resort Inc. and Paon Beach in Estancia; Palm Garden and Solina Beach and Nature Resort in mainland Carles; Huni Sicogon Resort in Sicogon, Carles.

For more information, please contact the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism – Iloilo Province at (033) 3384910 or email at iloiloprovincialtourism@gmail.com or visit our website at www.iloilo.gov.ph/tourism.

PANA-ET in Tubungan

Tubungan, Iloilo will showcase a ritual called Pana-et on April 19 (Friday) in Barangay Batga at  3 p.m. The ritual is supported by the Municipal Tourism Council for the Culture and the Arts, through the Office of the Municipal Tourism and the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of Iloilo Province.

One of the most interesting figures in the Visayan history were the Babaylanes. Often maligned and falsely accused as witches and were persecuted harshly during the Spanish era, a Babaylan may be a woman or a man and has the ability to mediate with the spirit world allowing them to travel to the spirit world. They are diviners where they are given gifts of healing, foretelling, and insight. They are ritualists and have their own spirit guides that they contact and interact especially when performing rituals.

The Pana-et, one of the rituals of the ancient Babaylans, continues to this day in Tubungan, Iloilo. Held once in every seven years, Babaylanes coming from Barangay Navillan gather in Balabago, a hilly sitio in Barangay Batga situated five-kilometers away from the town center to perform their ritual near a sacred well which the locals call Bubon Kumon that still exists even up to this day. Within the premises of the well are the Tabuyoc and Bayuco trees known to be holy to the Babaylanes. The well is considered to be one of the Four Pillars of the World or “Apat ka Harigi ka Kalibutan.”

Pana-et is a communal ceremony performed for the general well-being of the Tubunganons. It is intended to solicit good weather and/ or to thank the spirits for rain. The ritual that involve preparations and revelry, sacrificing animals and offering it to appease the spirits, seek approval, or simply to give thanks or appreciation. A native pig is an important offering since it is a special commodity in the past and was only served during special occasions. Despite the new developments surrounding the area today, Pana-et is still carried out as Babaylanes in the area overall still hang on to the ideas of supreme beings and spirits that influence their way of living. Theirs is a deep-rooted tradition that transcends generations.

The earliest documented Pana-et ritual happened in April 8, 1874 as recorded in the book Historicas Paginas on the account of Jose Paramos where Padre Isidro Badrena together with Don Lucas Tamara, Governor of Tubungan, principal Don Camilo Tamonan and various local residents proceeded to Balabago to peacefully discourage the Babaylanes from celebrating this pagan practice as it is condemned by the church. However, in his desire to comply with his sacred duty Padre Badrena ended up being killed by one of the Babaylanes while performing the Pana-et ritual. And to commemorate his death, a cross was erected in Balabago which has now become a historical landmark of Tubungan.

Tubungan in the First Congressional District of the province is famous for its rolling hills with considerable number of waterfalls, springs and caves. It is a mountaineer’s playground. Aside from these scenic attractions, the town has its own share of historical sites to contribute to the Heritage District of the province.

The Fourth-class municipality of Tubungan is 41.1 kilometers away or an hour and twenty-minute drive from the city. Located in the southwestern of the province, it is politically subdivided into 48 barangays over its 8,518-hectare land area. It is bounded on the north by the municipality of Leon, on the south by the municipality of Guimbal, on the east by the municipality of Tigbauan and on the west by the municipality of Igbaras.

To get to the town, one can take a Tubungan jeepney at the Don Benito Q. Acap Sr. Southern Iloilo Perimeter Boundary in Barangay Mohon, Oton or when in the city, at the market situated at the back of Robinsons Place Iloilo. For more information, please contact Marlyn Tagudar – Municipal Tourism Officer at 09152893395 or at 3960754.