Lambunao Celebrates 1st Pasidungog Kay Sr. Sto. Nino

photo by Jose de Luna

The municipality of Lambunao will hold a cultural presentation to honor the patron saint of the Ilonggos with the celebration of the 1^st Pasidungog Kay Sr. Sto. Nino on January 11-13, 2013.

The three-day festivity opens on January 11 (Friday) with a Motorcade at 1 p.m., and a Torch Parade and Procession of Sto. Nino images at 6 p.m.; January 12 (Saturday) will feature Laro Ng Lahi at 8 a.m. and a Stylized Folkdance Competition at 6 p.m.; January 13 (Sunday) will highlight the Binanog Dance competition at 2 p.m.

The Binanog dance is an example of one of the most important statements in our local history. It is a clue that philosophically people did exist in a different form, other than the ones that we see now. It is a beautiful combination of chanting and dance.

Binanog is a courtship dance performed by the youth when it is time for them to choose partners for marriage. It is a descriptive dance mannered after the coupling mechanisms of two Banog (hawk) birds whose movements they mimic. The dancers move to and simple pattern of rhythms which marks only a superficial attempt to portray the movements of the birds. It reaches climax as the female dancer catches her male partner using a long piece of cloth wrapped in her waist. It is self-consciously a traditional dance and the performance of this dance is a public expression of their combined interpretation of the Sulod-Bukidnon courtship aesthetic.

The Binanog dance exhibits the graceful movements of the female dancer and her partner, reflecting the rhythm of the gong beat. The dramatic gong beat is an ideal back drop to the performers who leap and swirl in the happy mood of dance. Its aesthetics and rhythmic movements and foot work with the vibrant beat of the gong form the basics of the dance.

photo by Jose de Luna

Attired in the traditional costumes, the male dancers wear black top with traditional embroideries called tubok and is matched with red pants. The female dancer wears a headpiece of old coins while her face remains visible. She also wears adornments for neck. She wears a red top with traditional embroideries and a patadyong draped as a skirt. The dancers are accompanied by musician who uses a gong.

Mutual responsibility is important. The dance is important in that during the time of the dancing the dancers are propelled, if you will, back to that ancient time. Those who see the dance have a chance to return to the original form that they were in before.

This year, the annual Binanog Festival celebration highlighted by its tribal competition will be moved to December to closely connect with the Municipal Day.

Binanog is an integral part of the life of Lambunaonons. This traditional tribal dance along with its music, dress and stories of ancestors from times long past make it an exciting and distinctive experience.

The Primitive and Mysterious Beauty of San Dionisio

a view of San Dionisio plaza with the imposing Pan de Azucar of Concepcion at the backdrop, photo by Bombette G. Marin

The fifth district in the northern part of Iloilo is one of the many wonderful scenic drives in province. Its coastline hosts various beautiful beaches where the sun is strong and waters are warm. Although it is not as developed as Boracay in Aklan, thus luxurious water sports might be a bit hard to find in some places, but the beaches here are still mostly unspoiled and naturally beautiful. 

The municipality of San Dionisio is an ideal get-away from the hustle and bustle of Iloilo City.  Situated 112 kilometers far north from the city, it offers a different kind of adventure. It offers a panoramic site which makes it an interesting place to visit. Viewed from its Municipal Hall, the town is a combination of beauty and tranquility as it is set against a backdrop of blue seas, clear skies and lush landscapes.

the Iloilo Tourism Officers Association with our newly-found friend from the United Kingdom, Mr. Robert Giddings, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Not like its neighboring Concepcion, Estancia and Carles, San Dionisio was for some time partly hidden from the gaze of local and foreign tourists. Despite increased interest from visitors, San Dionisio still remains as the undiscovered gem of Iloilo. The town, 112 kilometers from the city is composed of 29 barangays with a population of a little over 32,000 exudes a delightful, almost other-worldly charm reminding one of a simpler, easier time.

There is much to be discovered throughout this area. In recent years, inland resorts have been invested. Visitors can lay back enjoy the excellent scenery, food and service without any worries.

the main entrance of Gazebo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

GAZEBO creates a unique atmosphere of total detachment and relaxation. The exclusive resort was born in 1999. Measuring around 9,000 square meters from the main gate, it is nestled on the hill of Bitac Cove which allows guests to enjoy the peace of area at the same time the exclusive atmosphere that the location suggests. 

Lakdayan Island fronting Gazebo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Framed by glass walls, it is overlooking the scenic Lakdayan Island. This cozy retreat is simply designed and accented with natural furnishings with four very comfortable and well-equipped air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate travelers of all types. 

the veranda of Gazebo's log house, photo by Bombette G. Marin

It features facilities such as kitchen where guests can cook their own meals, meditation area and a veranda from its log house nearby. Touches of Filipino and Japanese cultures make up the distinct ambience and atmosphere in the resort. The resort is owned and managed by Mrs. Susan Gonzales-Franje.

a picturesque view of Pan de Azucar, Concepcion at the beach of Shelter Point, photo by Bombette G. Marin

SHELTER POINT BEACH RESORT in Barangay Sua is this town’s leading beach break destination where one can experience pleasant distractions, whether you are holidaying as a family, a couple, a group or alone. The resort is in a secluded beach that put you in close proximity to the sea with mountain views from the town of Concepcion and Carles. At a very minimal rate the resort has four (4) small air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate five persons for a fee of P700.00 per room; two big air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate a group of 20 persons for a fee of P1,000,00 per room; and a big fan room that can accommodate 15 persons for a fee of P800.00. For more information, please contact, Mrs. Isaly Jalandoni-Muyco at 09199292990.

photo by Bombette G. Marin

The newly-built SEALIPS PENSION HOUSE in Barangay Poblacion is a total surprise with its colorful living accommodations name after Japanese fishes. It offers two (2) air-conditioned rooms with two single beds at P700.00 per room and four (4) fan rooms with two single beds at P400.00 per room. It also has a viewing deck. It is situated beside Unifish Inc. Processing Plant that exports marine products such fish, shellfish, shrimps and oysters to Japan. Its restaurant specializes in sizzling seafood such as squid and scallops. For more information, please contact, Mr. Eduard Samonte-Designated Municipal Tourism Officer at 09082546186.

Though calm and quiet, San Dionisio is slowly becoming one of Iloilo’s holidaying destinations with options for fun and excitement. So, if you are looking for an exotic faraway retreat, why not experience San Dionisio?

To get to the town, one can take a van at the Northern Central Iloilo Transport Terminal, Inc. in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact, Mr. Eduard Samonte-Designated Municipal Tourism Officer at 09082546186.

A Fusion of Boom and Grandeur for ILOILO Dinagyang 2013

photo by Jun Fuerte

Iloilo is a festival province. It has a calendar filled with more festivals then most people can think of. Throughout the whole year, colorful and vibrant festivals range through musical, religious, cultural and harvest to name just a few. In fact many of these festivals have won national acclaim. Our festivals are occasions where people come together to celebrate anything from the arts and live music, to food to name but a few. 

Every year during the last weekend of January, the city and province of Iloilo prepares itself for one of the country’s greatest cultural festivals, one of the biggest and most boisterous celebrations called Dinagyang, from the Hiligaynon word, Dagyang or roughly translated it means “merry-making.”  The Hiligaynon term Dinagyang was coined by a local writer and radio broadcaster, the late Pacifico Sumagpao Sudario and was used in 1977 to differentiate it from the Ati-atihan Festival of Kalibo.

photo by Jun Fuerte

At the fourth weekend of January each year the city of Iloilo is transformed into one huge happening with the celebration of the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival. It is a religious, spiritual and celebratory festival to honor the Child Jesus popularly known as Sr. Sto. Niño, considered as Iloilo’s patron saint. It is highlighted with the inter-tribal dance competition on the fourth Sunday along with extravagant parades in a dazzling display of colorful shiny and glittery tribal costumes, painted faces and thunderous drumbeats with shouts of "Viva Señor Santo Niño" that accompany the participating tribes.

photo by Jun Fuerte

Dancing and music have held an important role in culture of the celebration and are closely intertwined with ceremony, ritual and ancestral worship. Hear the performers move out in rhythmic steps, with vociferous shouts and wild cries of joy with the occasional clapping of hands and jerky dances keep time to the beatings of the drums. The dance develops into variety of pleasing pattern, in which the dancers change their positions which amazing speed.

For a period of 10 days starting with the festival’s opening salvo, with a hive of special events from art exhibit, travel fair, golf tournament, car show, medical mission, marathon, photo and painting exhibits, heritage tours, beauty pageant, religious parade, pyrolimpics, film, sports, fluvial procession, fashion show and food festival. It has the largest outdoor food festival in the city with a labyrinth of food stalls nestled closely together, and a hive of activity. Some stall holders sleep here in the evenings as eating and drinking rarely stops.

photo by Jun Fuerte

From its humble beginnings in 1969 the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival has snowballed into a major event on the country’s festival scene. It is as strong today as ever before, it is evident the present generation fuses the culture, customs and traditional values for future generations to uphold.

Throughout the entire Iloilo Dinagyang celebration, with this year’s theme, “A Fusion of Boom and Grandeur,” you have the opportunity to enjoy the different events, which are celebrated right here in Iloilo City:

January 4 (Friday) Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Talent Competition at 4 p.m., Robinsons Place Iloilo; January 11 (Friday) Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Festival Costume at 3 p.m., Robinsons Place Iloilo; January 12 (Saturday) Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Jetski Swimwear Fashion Show at 4 p.m., Iloilo Esplanade; January 18 (Friday) Mass for Opening Salvo at 2:30 p.m., San Jose Parish Church; January 18 (Friday) Opening Salvo at 3 p.m., City Parade Route; January 19-31 with Dinagyang Art Exhibition at the UPV Art Gallery; January 19-25 with Iloilo Travel Mart at the Mary Mart Mall; January 19-20 with Dinagyang 2013 Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament at the Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Sta. Barbara,Iloilo; January 19-20 with Dinagyang Sound Off and Car Show at 3 p.m., SM City carpark; January 20 (Sunday) 2^nd Iloilo Dinagyang Marathon at 5 a.m., SM Front Covered Walk; January 21-27 with 1^st Dinagyang Photo and Painting Exhibit at the SM City Event Center; January 23 (Monday) Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Coronation Night at 7 p.m., San Agustin Gymnasium; January 24 (Thursday) Arrival of Pilgrim Image of Sr. Sto. Nino de Cebu at 7 a.m., Iloilo Portb to San Jose Church; January 24-25 with the 4^th Dinagyang Pyrolympics: Luces in the Sky at 7 p.m., SM City Parking Lot; January 24-26 with Sineng Pambansa at 6 p.m., SM City Cinema; January 24-27 with Dinagyang IHRRA Food Festival at Delgado street; January 25-26 with 6^th Iloilo Dinagyang National Age Group Swimfest at 5 p.m., Iloilo Sports Complex and 3^rd Mayor’s Badminton Cup at the Sportsville Badminton Court, Sambag, Jaro; Januay 25-27 with Iloilo Dinagyang Street Party at 6 p.m., Delgado, Valeria, Ledesma and Iznart streets and Bonifacio Drive; January 25 (Friday) Tambor, Trumpa, Martsa, Musika at 8 a.m., Bonifacio Drive to Freedom Grandstand; January 25 (Friday) Fluvial Procession at 3 p.m., Fort San Pedro Drive to San Jose Church; January 25 (Friday) Dinagyang Dance Showdown Grand Finals at 4 p.m., SM City carpark , Kapuso Night at 7 p.m., Robinsons Place and Handog ng Bombo at Star FM at 8 p.m., SM City carpark; January 26 (Saturday) Kasadyahan Festival at 8 a.m. and Sponsosrs Mardi Gras at 2 p.m. with ABS-CBN Kapamilya Caravan at 5 p.m., SM City carpark, Religious Sadsad at 7 p.m., San Jose Church and Patis Tesoro: Metamorphosis Fashion Show at 7 p.m., Kalantiao Hall of Sarabaia Manor Hotel and Convention Center; January 27 (Sunday) Concelebrated High Mass at 6 a.m., San Jose Church; Iloilo Dinagyang Ati Contest at 8 a.m., GMA Kapuso Mall Show at 5 p.m. at the SM City carpark, Awarding Ceremony at 7 p.m., Freedom Grandstand.

Zarraga’s PANTAT Festival Turns 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SICOGON Island: A Glorious Tropical Experience in Iloilo




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

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

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



seaweed gatherer at Buaya Beach, Sicogon, Carles, Iloilo

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

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

Molopolo Island overlooking Sicogon,Carles, Iloilo

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

photo by April Gail Valencia

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

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

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

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

photo by April Gail Valencia

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

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

photo by April Gail Valencia

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

photo by April Gail Valencia

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

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