Banate's Best!

photo by Clinton Clyde Belleza

The fisherfolks of Banate are lucky living and fishing in the area; it may be a little slower in pace than some of its neighboring towns but the community is blessed with kilometers of coastline that, even in times of declining fish stocks, fisherman have bountiful rewards.

If there is two species that reaches iconic status in Banate it is the succulent blue crab and whiting. These are much sought after species caught in good numbers right along their coastline. And it is just lucky for the blue crab and whiting-mad public Banate’s fertile, and nutrient rich waters ensure that blue crabs and whiting continues to live, breed and thrive.

photo by Clinton Clyde Belleza

Banate has long been known for its bounty of blue crabs popularly known as kasag in Hiligaynon. A major Ilonggo seafood resource, blue crabs are most notably associated with this town.  The town is among the highest contributors to the blue crab industry of Iloilo. Crabbing is part of this town's heritage, and a local favorite that is why the local festival is even named after it.

In spite of their colorful name, blue crabs are mostly grayish to bluish green. Only the claws are blue, and the claws of mature females also have bright orange-red tips.

photo by Clinton Clyde Belleza

Banate Maxwell Seafoods in Barangay Carmelo is the most popular crab processing plant in the area. From the catchers, the crabs are brought to the plant where they are steamed and their meat is picked out and packed for shipment to Cebu for canning and export. Presently, the processing plant employs 50 pickers. It produces 30 boxes of crabs with 15 kilos of crabmeat a day. The crab meat is shipped to Cebu and sold to exporters for the international market.

Another popular seafood resource in the area is the whiting fish popularly known as Aso-os in Hiligaynon. It is a slender fish found mostly along the beaches. They are small and often weigh less than 10oz. Whiting fishing is a favorite and one of the most popular among fishermen because they are plentiful,  it is common to find schools of over 100 fish feeding in an area. They are also easy to catch since they are found even on sand and mud-bottom areas.

photo by Clinton Clyde Belleza

Aso-os is a cheap fish that is why it is regarded as food for the poor or for pets. But it is now more highly valued especially by the fisherfolks. A study on the acceptability of a powdered milk candy popularly known as polvoron from Aso-os was made.  The study found out that it was the best fish species due to its acceptable color, flavor, odor, and texture.

Polvoron is a Philippine dessert or snack popular for “pasalubong” or homecoming gifts. Bay’s nutrifood polvoron is a semi-sweet concoction made of fish protein concentrate, flour, buttermilk, sugar and iodized salt. There are several polvoron recipes available today. There are the cookies and cream polvoron, peanut polvoron, chocolate polvoron, and many more.

photo by Clinton Clyde Belleza

The protein rich fish polvoron produced by BAY’S Nutrifood is a product of the project financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in 2009. A processing plant was constructed along with the financial aid given through the Banate Bay Integrated Small Fisherfolk Multi-purpose Cooperative. Though production stopped in 2011, concerned individuals along with the aid extended by the Iloilo Provincial Government managed to support its operation.

Presently, it employs 3 fisherfolks for its operation producing 250 pieces of dark and white chocolate coated fish polvoron daily. It has a selling price of P6.00 per piece. A box for 4 dark chocolate and 4 white chocolate-coated polvoron is also available. The chocolate coated polvoron has a life span of 3 months.

Banate is a town 50 kilometers north from Iloilo City. To get to Banate, one can take a bus or van at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Roselle Bactung at 09164002420 or at 3620068 or call the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government at telefax (033) 3384910.

MOLO: A Celebration of Iloilo’s History and Beauty

For some Ilonggos unmindful of its rich history, the district of Molo possesses some of Iloilo city’s most pronounced attractions. It has an elegance derived from its beautiful Gothic church and numerous examples of early 19th century architecture with exclusive residential neighborhoods sprawling beyond the historic central areas in all directions.

Discovery and exploration over the past several hundred years by the Chinese and Spanish means that the area offers a wealth of historic landmarks, cultural diversity and other attractions.

It has a flourishing economy actively engaged in local and international trade. It was called Parian (Chinatown) and was an important economic center where a significant Chinese community, attracted by the prospect of commerce in the area, established their residence and businesses.

In 1857, Chinese mestizos totaled to 1,106 from Molo’s total population count numbering to 16,428 (Iloilo Heritage of Greatness, Museo Iloilo). Spain’s growing influence encouraged frequent Muslims raids mostly originating from Mindanao. Parian was later changed to Moro which later evolved to its present name. Molo was chartered as a district when Iloilo gained its city-hood status in 1937.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

Molo is a major visitor destination. The grand monument that distinguished it is concentrated on its district plaza, in the central area. Over the centuries, the much-admired PARISH OF ST. ANNE, constructed in 1831, stood magnificently. It is one of the very few dedicated churches in Iloilo. Outside the church, the only of its kind outside of Manila, it boasts of its Gothic feature with two main towers, where a tower is said to have been destroyed by the Americans suspecting it was used for military purposes by the Japanese during World War II. Inside is a unique feature found nowhere else in the Philippines, with its two rows lined with life-size statues of beautifully carved 16 female saints on Greek columns on the way to the main altar. It is said that in August 4, 1886, Dr. Jose Rizal, on his way back to Manila from his exile in Dapitan dropped at the church to pray. The National Historical Institute declared it a national landmark in 1992.

photo by Harold Agustin Ziegenhohn

Combine a visit to Molo church with a trip to PANADERIA DE MOLO in Barangay North Avancena where you can buy cookies that are up to the present baked using the original equipment in the olden days. It is well known to many Filipinos and has a growing and loyal clientele, all attracted by enthusiastic word-of-mouth reports that have been doing the rounds since the later part of the 19th century. History of the bakeshop dates back in the 1800s. Masons used egg whites to cement bricks that make up the walls of churches; so as not to waste the rest of the egg, women in their idle time would use the yolks to bake cookies. For many visiting tourists, the obligatory pasalubong purchase is their best-selling creamy galletas.

photo by Harold Agustin Ziegenhohn

The ROSENDO MEJICA MUSEUM in Lopez Jaena Street in Baluarte is a family-owned museum set in the original house of Rosendo Mejica and features the furniture and other furnishings, clothing and the extensive papers and his collections. Rosendo Mejica He was a newspaperman, printer and a philanthropist. He founded the Makinaugalingon Press in Iloilo City that stresses the awareness and educates Filipino of the Hiligaynon Literature. Mejica was also responsible in translating Rizal's Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo from Spanish to Visayan. He founded and built the First Public Elementary School in the Philippines, the Baluarte Elementary School in 1905. The museum opens daily every weekday from 9:00am – 5:00pm.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

Iloilo history is abundant with notable people. And Molo, long known as the Athens of the Philippines, have produced names whose significant efforts in fostering goodwill and enhancing and promoting the image of an Ilonggo as competent, dignified and responsible individual are etched on the Ilonggo consciousness: Senators Francisco Villanueva, Esteban de la Rama, Esperidion Guanco, Jose Ma. Arroyo, Francisco Zulueta, Jose Zulueta and Rodolfo Ganzon; Supreme Court Justices Raymund Melliza, Gregorio Araneta, Felicisimo Feria and Ramon Avanceña): and Governors Raymundo Melliza, Amando Avanceña, Gregorio Yulo; Mariano Arroyo, Jose Yulo-Regalado, Timoteo Consing and Jose Zulueta. They are remembered for greatly contributing to the socio-economic development of Iloilo and the Philippines as a whole.

It was also home to private schools such as the Instituto Inseñana de Molo; the all-girl school founded by the Avanceña sisters, the Colegio de la Santa Ana; and the Centro Escolar de Molo.

Annually celebrating its Patronal Fiesta every 26^th of July, Molo’s unique local culture blends Filipino, Malay, Chinese and Spanish influences with beautiful architecture and culinary traditions.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

Molo, comprised of 25 barangays, is one of the most exciting and beautiful districts in the city of Iloilo today.  It has a cosmopolitan outlook with the right combination of facilities, attractions and friendly people. It is an economic, social, educational and cultural center of Iloilo that offers a kaleidoscopic variety of experiences for everyone. It has style, color and charm where history and beauty come together.

Things to Do During the Rainy Season in Iloilo

ancient finds in Oton, Iloilo, Museo Iloilo, photo by Harold Agustin Ziegenhohn

It is official! The rainy season has set in in Iloilo. Muggy, sticky, humid and wet, that is what the air will be like for the next couple of months. Rainy season in Iloilo usually begins late of May or in early June to October or November where tropical storms can go hand-in-hand with the season. It generally rains in the afternoon and evening and very few days are rainy all day. You can enjoy some sightseeing activities or head to the beach in the morning. If it rains in the afternoon you can look for some indoor activities for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

It is actually a bit pleasant, and not a bad time to visit in the least. You will benefit from cheaper accommodation and a quiet atmosphere. Here are some ideas for things to do and places to visit during rainy season in Iloilo.

Visit Museums and Galleries

Rainy season can be fun in Iloilo because this is the time when you get to enjoy things indoor. Enjoying around Iloilo does not have to be always outside. You can make the most of a rainy day by visiting museums, galleries or other indoor attractions in Iloilo.

Museo Iloilo, Iloilo City Gallery, The UPV Art Gallery, UPV Cinematheque and the Sta. Barbara Centennial Museum are all worth visiting if you are interested in art and history.

Museo Iloilo at Bonifacio Drive, photo by Harold Agustin Ziegenhohn

Museo Iloilo in Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City is one of the main tourist attractions of city and known as the First Government Constructed Museum Building in the Philippines. It is only a few meters away from the Department of Tourism Regional Office and the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. It exhibits a collection of Archeological, Historical, Ethnographical craft and tribal folk arts of Western Visayas. There are relics and antique religious images and relics donated by illustrious Ilonggos. Other valuable items include dated fossils, artifacts from sunken vessels, stone-age tools, pottery, trade wares from China, Annam and Siam, burial jars and coffins and rare photographs and mementos from World War II. Present day artworks are also on exhibit. The museum opens from Monday to Saturday (except Holidays) at 8:00 am to 11:00 am and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm with an entrance fee at P15.00 for students and P20.00 for adults.

Iloilo City Gallery, photo by Harold Agustin Ziegenhohn

The Iloilo City Gallery in Plaza Libertad is located at the ground floor of the 7-storey City Hall Building, was opened to the public in June 2012. The gallery showcases Ilonggos’ good governance and cultural excellence highlighting the city’s awards, famed festivals, unique and creative arts and crafts, giant development projects, and a virtual tour of the metropolis long-standing legacy and vibrant future as Premier City by 2015. The gallery is open to the public for free every Monday to Friday during official working hours. For more information, please call (033) 3331111.

The University of the Philippines in the Visayas Art Gallery at the historic Arellano Building (former Iloilo City Hall) or the main building of the city campus in General Luna or Infante Streets, Iloilo City prides itself as the only art gallery in the region to have exhibited the works of several national artists such as Joya, Francisco, Legaspi, Luz, and Ang. It also feature works of popular Ilonggo artists such as Defensor, Ferraris, Orig, Cabalfin, Amora, Decierdo, Sanares, Belgica, Genodepa, Salmon, and Querubin. The gallery also serves as a venue for several visual art exhibitions, small-group art workshops, book launchings, and art lectures. Or more information, please contact (033) 337 9159 or email:upv.culture.and.arts@facebook.com.

UPV Cinematheque, photo by Harold Agustin Ziegenhohn

The UPV Cinematheque Film Museum at the University of the Philippines in the Visayas, city campus in General Luna or Infante Streets, Iloilo City is dedicated to the collection and exhibition of film-related materials like movie props, equipment, posters, books, souvenirs and toys. The film museum along with Cinema Exmundo is a collaboration project between Cinema Exmundo and the University of the Philippines Visayas Alumni Relations Office. It is as a non-profit repertory theater for use by students and alumni as well as the community. It was one of several projects the U.P. Visayas launched in 2008 to commemorate the University of the Philippines’ Centennial Year. The museum is open from Mondays till Fridays, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. For more information, please call (033) 5091501 or Email: cinematheque@upv.edu.ph

The Sta. Barbara Centennial Museum and Information Center beside the municipal hall is a beautiful introduction to this town’s rich cultural heritage. It features irreplaceable historic artifacts of local hero, General Martin Delgado. It also includes paintings, furniture, decorative arts, and costume collections as well as maps, newspaper volumes, government documents. When in the area, you can visit the Iloilo Golf and Country Club and the Santa Barbara Roman Catholic Church and Convent. It opens Monday to Friday from 8 am till 5 pm with an entrance fee of P10.00 for students and P20.00 for adults. For more information, please call (033) 5239955. Also accepts visitors during Saturdays by appointment.

Go Underground

Rainy days are also great for exploring caves where you will not be aware of the weather conditions. The Bulabog Puti-an Natural Park in Barangay Moroboro in Dingle, Iloilo can be enjoyed as a day visit to the area since one does not have to go on extensive trail blazing. It has a land area of 834.033 hectares covering five of Dingle's 33 barangays. Combining trekking and cave exploration, the trip offers a rare opportunity to get close to one of Iloilo’s rarest limestone rock formation in Panay excluding Guimaras. It was designated as a National Park through Congressional Bill No. 1651, and such is considered a "nationally significant area." The centerpiece of the park is its 33 known and named caves where most are undeveloped, so there are no lights, stairs, nor walkways. Hike up and go cave exploration while enjoying the gorgeous view of the park over its wild and luscious forests. The municipality of Dingle is 37 kilometers away from Iloilo City. To get to the town, vans are available at the Northern Central Iloilo Transport Terminal, Inc. in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact, Mr. Dane Dizon, Municipal Tourism Officer at 09477424341.

The City of Passi, Iloilo also boasts of 16 caves and offers both self-exploring and guided opportunities. Whichever method of exploring the caves you choose, you are bound to be fascinated by these amazing underground world in the heart of Passi City. To get to Passi City, busses are available daily at the Northern Central Iloilo Transport Terminal, Inc. in Barangay Tagbak, Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Mrs. Mae Pojol-Buenaflor - City Tourism Officer at 09213543537.

Head to a Spa

A pampering spa treatment is a great way to spend your time and you will surely enjoy it even more if you know you're not missing out on time in the sun. With calming music, great smells and lots of massages, you can regain your inner peace and come back refreshed and relaxed to your everyday life. Going to the spa is a fun and relaxing experience. For the best experience possible do your research and take a friend or loved one along on your first trip. That way you can learn, laugh and relax together. One should seriously consider visiting a massage spa on a regular basis to remain stress free and healthy.

While away the Hours in Café

The city of Iloilo has some fantastic cafes and if you can find one in a good location for people watching, you are set for the afternoon. Most cafes offer free Wi-Fi so you can use the opportunity to catch up on Facebook or even get some work done while you wait for the rain to stop. They can also be a great place to meet friendly Ilonggos and get some good recommendations for local sightseeing.

Shop your Heart Out

There is something for everyone and shopaholics can easily spend a few rainy days here without getting bored. If it is pouring down and you want to stay inside, there are shopping malls that are easily reached by a taxi ride, depending on where you are staying.

So these are some of the activities that you and your loved ones can enjoy during the rainy season in Iloilo.  Aside from these you can also create your own fun and exciting activities. Rainy season does not have to ruin your day or trip. Just come prepared and you will be fine.

Hibotkan Rock Sanctuary: Banate’s Most Popular Excursion

CPU sophomore tourism students with their  BBRMCI guides during their snorkeling activity in Hibotkan, Banate, Iloilo for TUMANDOK 2012, photo by Nene Paguntalan

Many coastal and marine attractions in the province of Iloilo have the potential to provide crucial ecotourism positioning for the region. Some destinations are already developed. However, protection and promotion remain constraints.

Outdoor recreational programs in the northern towns in Iloilo have gained wide popularity among domestic travelers, especially students and young professionals. With its warm and crystal-clear waters, it is home to some of Iloilo’s best snorkeling hot spots. Some sites have shallow waters and others plunge down to great depths, but wherever you go in the area, beautiful coral gardens provide abodes for hundreds of brightly colored tropical fish. 

as seen only during low tide, Hibotkan is a haven for the snorkeling tourists, photo by Nene Paguntalan

When it comes to getting wet and interacting with the underwater world, your adventure begins with a relaxing motorized boat ride to your first snorkeling stop to the beautiful and exotic Hibotkan Rock Sanctuary in Banate, Iloilo.

Teeming with life, the sanctuary covers 25 hectares but only 1 hectare is exposed to the sun during low tide. There 16 families of corals are found with 34 species being observed. The corals found in the sanctuary are a precious resource for Banate because of their beauty and biodiversity. They provide shelter for a wide variety of marine life and for the community with recreation. It is also abundant with tropical fishes.  It is found in between the municipal waters of town and Guimaras Strait and is a paradise for tourists who enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving and underwater photography. 

underwater photo taken in Hibotkan in Banate, Iloilo, photo courtesy of BBRMCI

Hibotkan forms part of the Marine Protected Areas found in the towns of Anilao and Barotac Nuevo and Viejo as members of the Banate Baywide Resource Management Council Incorporated or BBRMCI.

The BBRMCI is an active Council formed in 1996 supported by the Iloilo Provincial Government that promotes and implements programs on Coastal Resource Management. The declaration of these areas as protected via Municipal Order 001-1999 allows the protection of marine resources as well as the regulation of fishing operations and other activities in the area. It is also an educational and outdoor recreational council that actively supports the ecotourism program of the province with a view to building greater awareness and commitment to environmental protection. 

coral garden in Hibotkan, Banate, photo courtesy of BBRMCI

Before visitors could enjoy snorkeling in the area there, they would have to take a 3-kilometer motorized boat-ride from the Banate Seaport going to the Marine Sanctuary. From there, they will enjoy viewing the magnificent underwater world. This excursion is a truly unique and enjoyable experience.

Watch and listen as the professional staff from BBRMCI help you with your snorkeling skills as well as provide helpful information regarding the marine life and environment in the area. Complete snorkeling gears may also be rented out through the office.

CPU sophomore tourism students with their BBRMCI instructors explore the seas of Banate,
photo by Nene Paguntalan

The Iloilo Provincial Tourism Office is taking a district approach to tourism marketing by combining promotional efforts and is now acknowledged as sharing popularity unattainable by individual destinations. It has improved the growth in destination awareness with greater media exposure; and, improve product positioning with an effective branding and allegiance building among neighboring towns to rapidly penetrate its target markets.

taken in Hibotkan, Banate, photo courtesy of BBRMCI

So if you are feeling adventurous, hold one yourself! It is an experience you will never forget. There are lots of good places that have become a popular spot with local folks. Surprisingly, there are a number of inland resorts right around the poblacion area if one would plan to stay overnight. Opportunities to link the niche snorkeling markets with other land-based attractions have already been explored.

Banate is about 50 kilometers north from Iloilo City and offers good tourist attractions. To get to Banate, one can take a bus or van at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro, Iloilo City. For more information, please contact Miss Roselle Bactung at 09164002420 or at 3620068 or call the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government at telefax (033) 3384910.

Experience Real Island Village Life in Homestay Barangay Lantangan, Carles

island boy in Barangay Lantangan, Gigantes Sur, Carles, Iloilo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Have you ever been interested to stay in a Homestay environment when you travel around, especially in Iloilo? With Homestay, you will be able to travel within a very reasonable budget and learn new things such as the culture, habits, and customs of your host.

For many people especially foreign tourists, homestay is the best way to take part in cross-cultural understanding. Especially in Iloilo, where culture is diverse and customs they have not seen, encountered, or experienced, experiencing homestay is the best choice.

Lantangan shoreline, Carles, Iloilo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Vacation in the Philippines from the months of March till May is an ideal time to escape and enjoy a peaceful and fun filled time not only for yourself but with your loved ones. Iloilo is an ideal vacation destination known for its culture, incredible scenery and warm and friendly people and choosing to stay in the area is a wonderful and convenient way for you to experience what this magnificent province and city has to offer.

Most often, tourists who choose to live in commercialized areas miss out on a truly enriching experience that can be found in the rural areas. Only a homestay experience gives travelers a real, wholesome glimpse into what truly makes Iloilo unique.

Although Homestay is a concept not popular in Iloilo and is seldom found anywhere in the area; it is an experiment of the Northern Iloilo Growth Corridor of the Iloilo Provincial Government to help tourists especially backpackers to experience the real village way of life in the northern island villages.  The area offers accommodation for visitors under the Homestay concept enabling them to live village life fist-hand.  This program is run by private home and resort owners in the area.

serene beach area of Lantangan, Carles, Iloilo, photo by Bombette G.Marin

The island-beaches of Carles is one of the most popular beachside towns in Iloilo. Here is where you will be able to enjoy the sun, sea and sand as well as affordable accommodation around. For those of you who are traveling on a budget and would like to stay in proper homes instead of rooms, Homestay in the area offers a good choice. This is where you will be staying not far from the beach while enjoying a convenient place.

Visitors housed with their host families in the island villages, which will allow them to capture the real essence of island-village life in a new and distinct way.  You will surely be mesmerized by the simple lives of the village people, living in traditional houses.  The accommodations are provided and managed by their respective owners, which means each house defines the owner’s personality and offers a different perspective into their village life.

Presently, there are 19 houses available, with a total of 36 rooms are at hand.  The meals, planned in advance are prepared by the hosts, which consists of local dishes for visitors. 

Lantangan playground, photo by Bombette G. Marin

The sun-kissed beaches await you in Barangay Lantangan, Gigntes Sur which is among the populated island beaches in Carles. Homestay in the area provides rooms only within walking distance to the beach. From here, it is located in the vicinity of major public amenities in the island like sari-sari stores and eating places. Rates start from P150.00 per person per night. Getting around the island is by single motorcycle charging P15.00 per person.

Staying at the Lantangan Homestay would allow you to set base before heading out to the waters and beach side and where you can visit the nearby island attractions. With beautiful sea in the foreground and rigged hills as the back drop, this island-barangay is a perfect retreat for those who wish to experience Homestay in the island. 

photo by Bombette G. Marin

The municipality of Carles is 146 kilometers away or a 3-hour bus or van ride from the city. To get to Barangay Lantangan, Gigantes Sur, one can take an hour and 45 minutes motorized boat ride from Estancia Feeder Port at a fee of P75.00 per passenger. 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 45 and 80 persons can be privately arranged. For more information regarding Homestay in the area, please contact Deocadez Homestay c/o Allan Deocadez at 09305117805, Gelvezon Homestay c/o Lanie Gelvezon at 09103520349, Nash Homestay c/o Nea Lumontad at 09128275524. For more information on Homestay in other parts of Carles, please call the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government at telefax (033) 3384910.

Remote, Idylic and Awe-inspiring Antonia Island in Carles

Antonia Island, Gigantes Sur, Carles, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Experience the intense variety and striking beauty of the islands of one of Iloilo’s most dramatic municipalities. A trip to the exotic islands in Carles is packed with physical activities, culture, history and good food in one of the most awe-inspiring sceneries in the region.

Antonia Island, Carles, Iloilo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

With its natural beauty and lovely, serene island beaches, Carles is a town that specializes in shattering preconceived notions. Embark on a tour. If you have something of the explorer in you, then an island-hopping holiday is ideal. Traveling across its vast sea evokes a spirit of discovery and offers a totally new perspective on the area. Explore and immerse yourself in the islands.

Part science lab, part playground, the islands of Carles has something for every nature lover, regardless of age. Your trip to the islands is not your average adventure tour package, but will be something rather more special. Enjoy nature walks, wildlife encounters and all the swimming and snorkeling you can handle. Best island adventure ever? You bet.

Antonia Isand Carles, photo by Bombette G. Marin

Touring the paradise islands with beautiful beaches will prove itself to be completely different than anything you have experienced anywhere else in Iloilo. Carles’ coasts are lined with island tourist destinations ranging from uninhabited coral atolls to built-up and developed islands.

Approximately an hour and 45-minuter motorized boat-ride from Estancia wharf discover one of Carles’ iconic highlights—explore the beautiful island of Antonia.

Antonia island in Carles, Iloilo photo by Bombette G. Marin

Antonia is an island-sitio of Barangay Gabi, Gigantes Sur in Carles. It is a small island of enormous beauty with the least signs of civilization and no one else around. This is one of the very few islands in Carles that is nearly uninhabited. It is no wonder a lot of visitors, mostly beach lovers and backpackers find it hard to leave.

Antonia island, Carles, Iloilo, photo by Bombette G. Marin

It has white sand with crystal clear blue waters. You can wander up and down the length of this short beach. It is a great destination for swimming and snorkeling. Its laid back atmosphere is a great place for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. For those who wish to stay overnight, tents are available for a group of five and ten with a minimal fee of P300 per person with beddings provided. It also has a rustic beach hut that can accommodate six persons with same minimal fee charged to every person. There is a sari-sari store that sells bread, cookies, junk food, mineral water, soda and beer. There is a communal rest room in the area.

Antonia Island, Carles, Iloilo photo by Bombette G. Marin

Privately-owned by Mr. Patrocinio Mahipos Jr., Antonia is incredibly popular between the months of March and May – the peak summer months. It has grown into an energetic destination for young travelers looking to sunbathe with a bit more privacy. A P20.00 environmental fee is collected to every visitor in the area.

With such a range of attractions, there is something for everyone on a Carles adventure tour where you can combine a relaxing beach break with visits to historic sites, or experience real adventure travel on a boat ride across its islands. Most of the island beaches in the area have been unspoiled by pollution and tourism. If you are lucky enough to make it to Antonia Island you will have a beach experience that will surely give you a lifetime of memories.

Antonia Island, Carles, Iloilo,photo by Bombette G. Marin

The municipality of Carles is 146 kilometers away or a 3-hour bus or van ride from the city. To get to Antonia Island the nearest, one can be reached through a 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 45 and 80 persons can be privately arranged. For more information, please contact Mr. Patrocinio Mahipos Jr. at 09192685896 or Mr. Danilo Dela Cruz at 09086164262 or Mr. Richard Mahipos at 09499442615. 

Iloilo Sets Off for the 12th Fiestas in the City Celebration

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

A week-long celebration of culture and the arts will kick off the 12th annual Fiestas in the City celebration on Monday, May 20, 2013 at 3 p.m. The event center of SM City Iloilo will feature entertainment and decorations as this annual celebration promotes and preserves the diverse heritage, culture, and the spirit of the Ilonggos for its residents and visitors.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

Fiestas in the City has grown over the years to a weeklong celebration featuring daily activities that feature music, dance, food, pageantry and parades on May 20-26, 2013.This year, traditions include the special performance of Kinaadman Chorale of John B. Lacson Maritime University with their rendition of popular Hiligaynon music along with the high school students of ton National High School Arts, Dance Class on the Opening Day on May 20, 2013 at 4 p.m.; May 21 will showcase the tribal performances of Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City, Katagman Festival of Oton, Binanog Festival of Lambunao, and Tangyan Festival of Igbaras at 4 p.m.; May 22 will feature local fiesta dishes with a Cooking Demonstration at 3 p.m.; May 23 will highlight the one-of-kind Filipiniana-inspired gowns and barongs of Ilonggo designer Alfie Jolo Desamparado at 5 p.m.; May 24 will open with the teen parade of saga queens with special guest, CJ Navarro; May 25, Saturday is marked by a parade of maidens featuring or local festival queens under floral arches in the much-anticipated Sagala of Festival Queens at 3 p.m.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

Started in 2002, the first fiesta celebration was an immediate success. It is Iloilo’s oldest continuous tourism celebration held inside a mall. Within a few years, more special events were taking place and the Fiesta tradition had been born. It evolved into one of Iloilo’s premier tourism celebration.

The people of Iloilo have taken pride in both the historical and religious significance that this event projects. It is a unique blend of rich multicultural heritage commemorating the return of the Spanish colonists.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

A Spanish word which means feast, festival or party, a fiesta is originally a religious celebration of the feast day of the patron saint of a barangay, town or city. It is so popularity that it is grandiosity celebrated by the people. Those who are working from the cities and other places far away from their hometown will go back a week before the Fiesta or maybe few days before the big event.

photo by Vincent Angelo Gefes

It is a time when we showcase our native dances, plays, cuisines, costumes and beautiful people. We take pride of our local traditions and culture and promote it.  

All of us, Filipinos love fiestas. It brings unforgettable memories as it is a special time to be with long-lost childhood friends, a time to bond with relatives, savor local cuisine that we missed so much, and lots of activities.

The Department of Tourism Regional Office and SM City Iloilo shares this event’s vision for creativity, innovation and service to our community and is proud to invite everyone for the 12^th Fiestas in the City celebration.