The Northern Pearls of Iloilo

Text by Bombette G. Marin, photos by Jason Matias, Bombette G. Marin, Vincent Angelo Gefes and Reynaldo Paguntalan Jr.

Looking for a turquoise ocean and a deserted, white-sand beach?Iloilo has an intense variety and striking beauty of the islands in the north.Pristine palm fringed beaches with clear waters are everywhere in this area. Some are even of high ecological value due to its protected areas, native fauna and rare ecosystems.

With a string of 67 islands, these natural beauties sit on azure waters. From the more popular island beaches of Carles and Concepcion to the lesser known waters in Ajuy, the northern portion of the province has a tropical vibe that few can resist. Most of these island beaches have been unspoiled by pollution and tourism and appeals more to the adventurous tourists, backpackers and nature-lovers.

Hibotkan Rock Sanctuary, Banate is a Marine sanctuary that 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. 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.

MARBUENA BEACH RESORT in Binongan-an Island, Ajuy is a beautiful holiday destination that boasts of its white sand beach and plenty of things to do which include boating, fishing, snorkeling and trekking. Around the resort are religious images where one is constantly reminded of God’s love and protection of man and nature. The beach area has picnic and napping shelters. It is a10-minute motorized boat ride from Barangay Morocoro wharf.

Sitio Salog Gamay in Barangay Punta Buri, Ajuy is an island that is off the main tourist track about 10 kilometers or a 45-minutes motorized boat ride from Barangay Morocoro wharf. With no tourist amenities, however, the island only offer a place where you can hang a hammock and lean back, enjoy the sound of the waves without crowds ruining the peace and quiet. It has a soft, creamy sand beach that is laid back and perfect for relaxing and taking it easy.

Photo by Gerard Villareal

Calabazas Island, SitioNasidman, Ajuyis this town’s popular dive site. Its coral garden isa come on for visitors who would like to go snorkeling. It is home to an 1884 Spanish Lighthouse. The keeper’s house, now in ruins still holds the 45 feet high tower with a focal plane of 100 feet. It is included as one of the 27 Spanish Lighthouses in the Philippines.

 

Sandbar Island Beach Resort in Barangay Polopińa, SitioBulubadiangan, Concepcionhas increased its popularity and has made all its adjacent island beaches so lively as well. It can be reached within 30 minutes through a motorized boat ride from the municipal wharf.  Its white coral sand beach and clear blue waters is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. The most attractive feature of this resort is its sandbar.

 

Sitio Sanggutan in Barangay Polopińa, Concepcion has a coastline with fringes of coconut trees offering visitors a pleasant atmosphere. Its calm sea is also suitable for swimming and boating. It has an accommodation that appeals to those who love comfort and tranquility amidst pristine nature. It is fronting Sandbar Island Beach Resort. From the municipal wharf, it is a 30 minute motorized boat ride to the island.

Agho Island, Concepcion is a picnic island destination set on a serene surrounding with its dazzling white sandy beach and a sweeping view of the islands of Igbon, Mangalabang and Tambaliza. The alluring emptiness of its white sand beach offers a personal oasis in nature's tropical playground. Relax and listen to the sound of the breeze in the trees and the gentle waves on the beach.

Barangay Taloto-an in Pan de Azucar Island, Concepcion has a laid-back lifestyle from an off the beaten path. Though the island is inhabited and with traces of destruction from the recent typhoon, a considerate portion in the island provides ample opportunity to relax in its natural and secluded beauty. There are no rooms with bathroom facilities, as tourists do not commonly visit the area.

Barangay Tambaliza, Pan de Azucar Island, Concepcionis famous for its landmark, Mt. Manaphag or popularly known as Pan de Azucar. It has budget-conscious accommodation establishments that rest at the foothill of the majestic mountain. Its beach features golden sand, palm trees and shallow water that provide swimming, snorkeling and boating opportunities.

LUMPATAN, Concepcion is mainly made up of granite rocks. The first thing visitors will probably want to do when in the area is to walk to its 300-meter trail that frames almost half of the island. The beach, however, is rocky, with corals and pebbles, but is a place for a gentle swim capped by happy hours of sunbathing. It is a great spot to relax.

MAGALUMBI ISLAND, Barangay Tanao Batadis a privately-owned island with creamy sand complimenting its bluish green waters perfect for swimming and boating activities. It is a 15-minute motorized boat ride from Barangay Banban or a 10-minute motorized boat ride from barangay Binon-an. The island barangays of Concepcion, Estancia and Carles serves as its backdrop.

 

Antonia Island in Barangay Gabi, Gigantes Sur, Carlesis a privately-owned small island of enormous beauty with the least signs of civilization. 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.  It has grown into an energetic destination for young travelers looking to sunbathe with a bit more privacy.

SITIO PULUPANDAN, Barangay Gabi, Carles is an idyllic deserted white-sand coral islet lapped by turquoise waters. The place is simply stunning,almost an hour awayby motorized boat from the mainland. The islet serves as a resting area for fishermen in the area. The isletis a perfect place to go snorkeling and diving.

 

Tangke, Barangay Gabi in Isla de Gigantes Sur, Carlesis a hidden saltwater lagoon formed by a surrounding wall of granite monolithic cliffs. During low tide, the level of water also recedes but also rises when it is high tide. Visitors to the area need to climb on its steep rocky wall that serves as the lagoon’s fortress. However, an easier and shorter climb from where the motorized-boat docks alongside its walls is done only during high tide. The lagoon’s rocky borders offer visitors one-of-a-kind formations.

Cabugao Gamay, Gigantes Norte, Carles is a privately-owned island surrounded by azure waters excellent for swimming and snorkeling activities. It is one of Iloilo’s most popular island-hop spots. After docking at the base of the island, a climb up the rocky hill steps to a breathtaking view of its outlying area and it is well worth the effort. Several other white sand island beaches are seen adjacent to the beach.

These northern island beaches are a far cry away from the crowded resorts of the neighboring provinces in the region. For those who would to stay overnight and experience the serenity of rural life, there are lodging houses in the area. There is enough space and so few visitors that you will probably find a spot just for yourself. If you are lucky enough to make it to any of these northern pearls, you will have an island experience that will surely give you a lifetime of memories.

For more information, please contact the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government at telefax (033) 3384910.

Iloilo Bike Fest Inspires a 'Bike-Safe' City

"Bike on Lights" added excitement and glitter in this year's Iloilo Bike Festival

"Bike on Lights" winner Joe Fondevilla showcases his colorfully-lighted bike during the competition

The 3rd Iloilo Bike Festival resonated a vision of bike-friendly and bike safe metropolis for Iloilo City as thousands of bikers gathered to join the series of events and fun activities from March 13-19. A partnership event of the City Government of Iloilo, Megaworld Corporation and Ronda Pilipinas,the week long event became a sensational attraction in Iloilo Business Park, the 72-hectare business and leisure township in Mandurriao District. The event opened with Ronda Pilipinas Criterium in Iloilo Business Park in the early morning of March 13. The most anticipated new event in this year's Bike Festival is "Bike on Lights," a gathering of bike lovers who paraded their bikes with colorful lights and designs in the evening of March 19. To showcase arts and culture, there's Pinta Siklista which showcased a parade of multi-colored painted participants with their bikes.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Hotel Manager, Natalie Lim awards the prize for first place winner of "Bike on Lights"

Participants are getting ready to parade and showcase their colorfully-lighted bike

Iloilo City official led by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and Megaworld - Iloilo Business Park Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Jennifer Ann Palmares-Fong led the formal ceremonies of Iloilo Bike Festival

The vision of the Iloilo Bike Festival is to emphasize Iloilo City as the country's most bike-friendly metropolis in the Philippines. In fact, Iloilo takes pride of its 5-meter bike lanes along the Diversion Road (Benigno Aquino Avenue) going to Iloilo Business Park to showcase another significant attraction that encourages Ilonggos and visitors to enjoy the healthy ambiance and activities of the city. The City of Government of Iloilo and Megaworld Corporation partnered and agreed to hold the annual Iloilo Bike Festival until 2020, a passion to encourage healthy lifestyle and a "bike-able" Iloilo City.

Iloilo Bike Festival: Iloilo and IBP’s Visionary Biking Event

Iloilo Bike Festival is envisioned as the biggest gathering of bikers and enthusiasts for the last 3 years in the Philippines. The event has inspired Ilonggos to be proud of their beautiful city where amidst the booming economy and developments, there’s always a reason to stay healthy, live an active life and promote a sport that educate the public for a greener and cleaner ecology. Iloilo Bike Festival is one of the major events of the City Government of Iloilo in partnership with Megaworld Corporation to emphasize the need to appreciate healthy lifestyle and promote biking activities which is basically pollution-free and inexpensive. Since Iloilo Bike Festival was established in 2014, people from all walks of life – the Ilonggos, visitors and investors have all seen the rise of the city not just as a modern metropolis that continuously embraces progress but keeps up with the changes by promoting healthy activities and sports such as biking. 

The first two series of Iloilo Bike Festival proved to be a successful endeavor and were able to generate attention internationally in making the city as the next “bike capital” in the Philippines. Last year, a total of 4000 bikers and spectators came to participated in the event. Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park in Mandurriao District is the main venue of the Iloilo Bike Festival, showcasing real estate developments and a beautiful township where “biking” is hugely promoted through the Megaworld Boulevard Bike Lanes. The event is a momentous milestone gathering in order to celebrate the realization for Iloilo City as a “Bike-able” and “walk-able” modern metropolis in the country.

This year, the 3^rd Iloilo Bike Festival is far more significant and inspiring with a lot of activities that would elevate the vision of the city in emphasizing the need to promote the “biking culture and lifestyle” from March 13-20. Ronda Pilipinas National Criterion is now part of innovating the event. There will be a series of Ronda Pilipinas activities after the opening of the Iloilo Bike Festival and fellowship and awarding night at Iloilo Business Park on March 13. The Iloilo Bike Festival will start a photo contest and ifold Art Tour on March 15-18. On March 18, major activities are Obstacle/Adventure Course, Kids Biking activities, Bike Expo Show, Interschool Cycling activities, Flatland BMX Street, Fitstop Amazing Race and unveiling of Bike Statue. On March 20, there will be Bike Fun Ride, King and Queen of Iloilo Bike Festival, Pinta Siklista, Bike Expo Show, XCO/4X/BMX, Tri-Sikad Race, Sprint Race and Battle of the Bands.  

Here are significant photos highlighting dynamic and life-changing scenes that happened in the last 2 series of Iloilo Bike Festival… 

Megaworld - Iloilo Business Park Embraces Dinagyang Festival fever

As the grandest cultural event in the Philippines creates a synergy of excitement and ignites attention from tourists from different parts of the world, Megaworld – Iloilo Business Park is embracing the Dinagyang Festival fever this January.

Considered as the largest and most prestigious business township in Western Visayas located in the flourishing Mandurriao District in Iloilo City, the 72-hectare Iloilo Business Park is capturing the affinity of investors, visitors and Ilonggos in defining new lifestyle and opening better opportunities. In time for Dinagyang Festival, all eyes are in Iloilo City, thus, Iloilo Business Park take part in the city’s cultural and spiritual merriment in honoring the Senor Santo Nino, the symbol and the heart of the festival.

To open the series of exciting Dinagyang events, Iloilo Business Park will have a Music and Wine Night on January 15, 8PM at the Iloilo Business Park Sales and Information Center. The event is an open-house-cum-acoustic-night party featuring some of the city’s most revered singing and acoustic artists, performing covers songs to the delight of invited guests. Free overflowing wine courtesy of Emperador Distillers, Inc. will provide classy experience for the crowd. Also, guests will have a better look at the luxurious condo model units of The Palladium in the IBP showroom.  

On January 16, 5PM, the Swimsuit Competition of the Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2016 will be staged in front of the Iloilo Business Park Sales and Information Center. 10 lovely and charming Ilongga beauties will showcase their curvaceous bodies and personalities leading to the grand pageant night on January 20, 7PM at San Agustin Gym.  Miss Iloilo Dinagyang is the cultural advocacy pageant of Dinagyang Festival that annually crowns an Ilongga beauty who will represent Iloilo City in the Aliwan Festival Quuen pageant and acts as cultural ambassadress.

Another new exciting event set to take place in the township is the Dinagyang Carnival from January 21-24. It is a nightly event wherein onlookers and visitors can enjoy carnival rides, parties, a parade of unique concessionaires and attractions that could add colors in the celebration of the festival.

Giving boost to the fantastic concept of dance parties and gathering during the Dinagyang Festival celebration, Emperador Distillers, Inc. will launch its very own “Emperador and Smirnoff Mule Festival” from January 21-22 at the Megaworld Boulevard, right in front of the Iloilo Business Park Sales and Information Center. The event is more than just a dance party but a showcase of music, overflowing drinks, DJs and other attractions that would gather the “who’s who” in Iloilo’s party circle.

Finally for the second year in a row, Megaworld – Iloilo Business Park will hold “Glitters in the Sky,” a spectacular fireworks display event on January 23, 8PM in partnership with the City Government of Iloilo. After a successful showcase of fireworks display last year, Iloilo Business Park is expected to launch a bigger and even more magnificent event in time for the country’s world-famous cultural festivity.

This Dinagyang Festival, head on to Iloilo Business Park and be a part of these exciting events that would ignite passion, excitement and fun in the region’s biggest and most prestigious tourism, lifestyle and business centerpoint rising to define the grandiose culture of the “city of love.”     

Hello Iloilo!

Welcome signage at Iloilo Business Park in front of IBP McDonald's

“Maayong adlaw” [Good day], as Ilonggos used to say when greeting someone and expressing their daily passion.  It is heartwarming to enjoy a tranquil life in Iloilo. The city is a hodge-podge of both old-world charm, rich history and trailblazing progress, which slowly creates an inspiring impression among tourists and visitors when they come to immerse in Iloilo’s “welcoming warmth.” Looking around, the bustling metropolis is often filled with friendly faces, a deluge of pleasing energy and passion as Ilonggos were known to have such high regard for hospitality.

Moving further into the city, Iloilo unveils a strong balance between the past and the present, its old “queenly” glory and its recent swift developments are forming a feeling of pride and dynamism in the heart of its people. To guide your way in finding love, excitement and fun in Iloilo, here are ways to appreciate the “original queen city of the south” in a brand new light:

Calle Real is a reminder that Iloilo used to be a cosmopolitan city hosting international gatherings of leaders, center of trade and business outside of Manila.

Calle Real, A walk in the Past

Known as one of the oldest business districts in the Philippines, Calle Real still hold the remnants of the city’s glory as the center of trade, business and textile industry with the presence of textile stores, shopping centers, old bistros and shops that defines the reason why Ilonggos love to make business. A pleasant walk in Calle Real will give you a glimpse of breathtaking architectural designs of heritage buildings now being restored by the city government in its full glory.

You can also look around the street for some great items to buy and do the “ayo” [Ilonggo term for asking discount].

There's only one branch of Roberto's and their variety of siopao's are all best-sellers.

Queen Siopao, a heavenly gastronomy

In the far end of Calle Real, one restaurant stands out among the rest is Roberto's known for its delicious “Siopao.” With only one branch in the city and a long list of old and young Ilonggo customers, people are lining up every day to buy their favorite Siopao. Their most popular gastronomy is “Queen Siopao” known for its humungous fillings of meat, bacon strips, egg and secret ingredients that's truly mouth-watering and addicting. In fact, it has become the favorite “pasalubong” [keepsakes] of visitors and OFWs when visiting the city. Amidst the popularity of the resto, the family-owned business believes in their passion to serve delicious food and satisfying their customers with one branch than venture in franchising to expand their business. They believe that people would really come if they love what you cook and serve them.

When Ilonggos enjoy the food, they often say "namit" [delicious], signifying that they are indeed food lovers.

The new Iloilo Capitol is now a perfect destination for pictorials and video shoots among art lovers who enjoy a classic facade of architectural designs.

Newly restored Iloilo Capitol

Back in its old glory and form, the Iloilo Provincial Capitol was recently restored by the Provincial Government of Iloilo to preserve the province cultural heritage. Iloilo Provincial Capitol now houses a mini museum inside where visitors and onlookers can look back on the rich history of both the province and the city. In the evening, it is transformed into an astonishing destination where the lights and the building create a nostalgic feeling for Ilonggos. Right across it is the Arroyo Fountain, a symbol of Iloilo’s strong dominance and economic glory from the past. Also, it is used in the past to measure distances of other landmarks and locations in the city.

"Balik 'ta diri bala" [let's come back again here], these are usually the expression of Ilonggos when they enjoy the place and couldn't get enough of it.

Iloilo River Esplanade is a life-sustaining body of water, giving the city a breath of fresh air, beautiful scenery and a place to unwind.

Iloilo River Esplanade, nature and modernity converge

Iloilo City is slowly claiming the reputation as a model metropolis for beautifully sustaining a balance between nature and modern progress through the Iloilo River Esplanade. The nose-shaped river sanctuary that passes through the heart of the city is an ecological wonder and the lifeblood of the people where Iloilo got its name from an Ilonggo term “Irong-irong” [means nose in shape] which was later called Iloilo. It stretches 1.2 Kilometers from Diversion Road (officially Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue) to Carpenter Bridge. The project cost P58.7 million and was designed by Paolo Alcazaren, who also designed the Singapore quay and river esplanade. The project now extends from Diversion Road to Jalandoni Bridge. Also, the proposal is underway to extend from Carpenter’s Bridge going to Brgy. Sooc in Arevalo. Today, it is the center of leisure, recreation, healthy lifestyle and one of the most photographed tourism destinations in the city.

Impressed with the scenery? Ilonggos would usually say "katahum" [beautiful] to express their praise for a certain place.

Are you visiting Jaro Cathedral? Just ride a jeepney with signage of Jaro CPU, Jaro Ungka or Jaro Liko and tell the driver to drop your off at Jaro Plaza where the old Church can be found.

Jaro Cathedral, Faith come alive in Iloilo

The center of Catholic faith and devotion in the city is unquestionably the Jaro Cathedral where the annual “Nuestra Senora dela Candelaria” [Our Lady of Candles] is celebrated together with the Jaro district's fiesta every first week of February. The Virgin Mary image is said to be miraculous that every year it grows and the church expands its protective casing. Devotees flock the church every day to pray and meditate for good health and protection, reflecting the Ilonggos’ heart for Catholic faith. Jaro Cathedral is a breathtaking tourism destination where people enjoy the place and converge with their faith in God.

So, when you come to Iloilo with an Ilonggo friend, they would usually say to you on an early Sunday morning: "masimba 'ta" [let's go to church].

MO2 Bar and Restaurant is a complete entertainment complex connected to a disco bar called Ice, Westown Hotel and a Karaoke Bar.

 

The Avenue is a destination where the best and classy restaurants caters to the meticulous taste of Ilonggos.

Night life at Smallville, The Avenue and Boardwalk

Iloilo’s night life escapade is absolutely exciting along the Benigno Aquino Avenue where Smallville, The Avenue and Boardwalk can be found. This is where most of the city’s favorite restaurants, bistros, pubs and discos are located where people can hang-out, bond and have fun. Smallville Complex is the first to get popular in the early 2000s. The Avenue is a classy line-up of local and international bistros, pubs and disco club. Boardwalk located near the Iloilo River Esplanade showcases first-class restaurants and bars where its serene ambiance creates pleasurable moments for diners and visitors.

"Lakat 'ta" or "lagaw 'ta" [let's go out or let's travel], these are usually the expression of Ilonggos when they ask you for a night out or have a good time.

La Paz Batchoy is slowly becoming a global symbol of Ilonggos' unique gastronomic creation.

Batchoy, the country’s most favorite noodle soup

The best noodle soup in the Philippines with extraordinary ingredients and condiments has always been claimed by Iloilo’s La Paz Batchoy, a unique delicacy created by Ilonggos after of World War 2. A combination of left-over meats, noodles, chicaron crackers, secret spices and tasteful hot soup originally served in the wet market of La Paz district, Batchoy became a world-famous specialty food by Ilonggos and visitors. In the city, there are various restaurants and signature batchoy eateries that cater to the palate of Ilonggos. From the well-known Ted’s Batchoy, Deco’s Batchoy and many others, visiting Iloilo will never be complete without a satisfying and hot bowl of Batchoy.

For Ilonggos, a bowl of Batchoy is "makabulusog" [fulfilling], enough for a perfect meal.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is a first-class business and luxury hotel that opened in 2015 at Iloilo Business Park.

The Courtyard by Marriot, 2016's most anticipated luxurious hotel scheduled to open in Iloilo Business Park.

The long-stretching Megaworld Boulevard where most of Iloilo Business Park's biggest establishments are connected in major highway road.

The impressive swimming pool amenity at One Madison Place, a contemporary chic residential tower in Iloilo Business Park.

The Palladium, the tallest residential tower in the region with 22 floors, infinity pool, sky gardens and loft units.

Iloilo Business Park, vision of new Ilonggo lifestyle

These days, Iloilo City is taking a progressive flight with its new found economic glory and developments presented by Megaworld Corporation, the country’s leading real estate developer with its most important and biggest single investment outside of Luzon for a total of P35 billion – the Iloilo Business Park. The 72-hectare old Iloilo Airport property located in Mandurriao District was transformed by Megaworld into a bustling commercial and business integrated township where some of the most prestigious establishments and attractions will be rising soon. Iloilo Business Park takes pride of the newly-finished Iloilo Convention Center that can accommodate not less than 3,700 audiences to see the biggest conventions and events in the country including the recent APEC ministerial meetings last September 21- October 6. Shopping and dining experience will be defined to another level with Festive Walk Mall and Street of Festive Walk set for 2016 opening. The newly-opened Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and upcoming Courtyard by Marriot are ready to provide world-class luxurious accommodation for visitors and Ilonggos. In the next 10 years, 10 BPO Buildings will open in the biggest IT Park in the region. Two of these BPO buildings are already functional which include One Global Center and Two Global Center. Before 2015 will end, two more BPO Buildings will open such as One Techno Place and Two Techno Place. The township will have the biggest commercial and business district where prestigious financial companies and local entrepreneurs will open regional headquarters and businesses. The biggest McDonald’s branch in Panay island is located at Iloilo Business Park near the Festive Walk Mall.

To define a new luxurious lifestyle and introduce “condo living,” Iloilo Business Park has three unique residential towers offering multi-faceted architectural designs and amenities. These three condo towers are One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and the highest tower in Western Visayas with 22 floors, The Palladium. Aside the vibrant developments, the township have its own wide roads and bike lanes as part of Megaworld Boulevard where residents and visitors can enjoy healthy physical activities while immersing themselves in the active lifestyle.

For Ilonggos who are coming home, they usually say "puli 'ta" [let's go home] because they always believe that their heart is often left at home. Iloilo Business Park is now presenting a new home for Ilonggos where their dream of a serene, exciting, luxurious and vibrant lifestyle awaits them.

Hello Iloilo!

Welcome signage at Iloilo Business Park in front of IBP McDonald's

“Maayong adlaw” [Good day], as Ilonggos used to say when greeting someone and expressing their daily passion.  It is heartwarming to enjoy a tranquil life in Iloilo. The city is a hodge-podge of both old-world charm, rich history and trailblazing progress, which slowly creates an inspiring impression among tourists and visitors when they come to immerse in Iloilo’s “welcoming warmth.” Looking around, the bustling metropolis is often filled with friendly faces, a deluge of pleasing energy and passion as Ilonggos were known to have such high regard for hospitality.

Moving further into the city, Iloilo unveils a strong balance between the past and the present, its old “queenly” glory and its recent swift developments are forming a feeling of pride and dynamism in the heart of its people. To guide your way in finding love, excitement and fun in Iloilo, here are ways to appreciate the “original queen city of the south” in a brand new light:

Calle Real is a reminder that Iloilo used to be a cosmopolitan city hosting international gatherings of leaders, center of trade and business outside of Manila.

Calle Real, A walk in the Past

Known as one of the oldest business districts in the Philippines, Calle Real still hold the remnants of the city’s glory as the center of trade, business and textile industry with the presence of textile stores, shopping centers, old bistros and shops that defines the reason why Ilonggos love to make business. A pleasant walk in Calle Real will give you a glimpse of breathtaking architectural designs of heritage buildings now being restored by the city government in its full glory.

You can also look around the street for some great items to buy and do the “ayo” [Ilonggo term for asking discount].

There's only one branch of Roberto's and their variety of siopao's are all best-sellers.

Queen Siopao, a heavenly gastronomy

In the far end of Calle Real, one restaurant stands out among the rest is Roberto's known for its delicious “Siopao.” With only one branch in the city and a long list of old and young Ilonggo customers, people are lining up every day to buy their favorite Siopao. Their most popular gastronomy is “Queen Siopao” known for its humungous fillings of meat, bacon strips, egg and secret ingredients that's truly mouth-watering and addicting. In fact, it has become the favorite “pasalubong” [keepsakes] of visitors and OFWs when visiting the city. Amidst the popularity of the resto, the family-owned business believes in their passion to serve delicious food and satisfying their customers with one branch than venture in franchising to expand their business. They believe that people would really come if they love what you cook and serve them.

When Ilonggos enjoy the food, they often say "namit" [delicious], signifying that they are indeed food lovers.

The new Iloilo Capitol is now a perfect destination for pictorials and video shoots among art lovers who enjoy a classic facade of architectural designs.

Newly restored Iloilo Capitol

Back in its old glory and form, the Iloilo Provincial Capitol was recently restored by the Provincial Government of Iloilo to preserve the province cultural heritage. Iloilo Provincial Capitol now houses a mini museum inside where visitors and onlookers can look back on the rich history of both the province and the city. In the evening, it is transformed into an astonishing destination where the lights and the building create a nostalgic feeling for Ilonggos. Right across it is the Arroyo Fountain, a symbol of Iloilo’s strong dominance and economic glory from the past. Also, it is used in the past to measure distances of other landmarks and locations in the city.

"Balik 'ta diri bala" [let's come back again here], these are usually the expression of Ilonggos when they enjoy the place and couldn't get enough of it.

Iloilo River Esplanade is a life-sustaining body of water, giving the city a breath of fresh air, beautiful scenery and a place to unwind.

Iloilo River Esplanade, nature and modernity converge

Iloilo City is slowly claiming the reputation as a model metropolis for beautifully sustaining a balance between nature and modern progress through the Iloilo River Esplanade. The nose-shaped river sanctuary that passes through the heart of the city is an ecological wonder and the lifeblood of the people where Iloilo got its name from an Ilonggo term “Irong-irong” [means nose in shape] which was later called Iloilo. It stretches 1.2 Kilometers from Diversion Road (officially Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue) to Carpenter Bridge. The project cost P58.7 million and was designed by Paolo Alcazaren, who also designed the Singapore quay and river esplanade. The project now extends from Diversion Road to Jalandoni Bridge. Also, the proposal is underway to extend from Carpenter’s Bridge going to Brgy. Sooc in Arevalo. Today, it is the center of leisure, recreation, healthy lifestyle and one of the most photographed tourism destinations in the city.

Impressed with the scenery? Ilonggos would usually say "katahum" [beautiful] to express their praise for a certain place.

Are you visiting Jaro Cathedral? Just ride a jeepney with signage of Jaro CPU, Jaro Ungka or Jaro Liko and tell the driver to drop your off at Jaro Plaza where the old Church can be found.

Jaro Cathedral, Faith come alive in Iloilo

The center of Catholic faith and devotion in the city is unquestionably the Jaro Cathedral where the annual “Nuestra Senora dela Candelaria” [Our Lady of Candles] is celebrated together with the Jaro district's fiesta every first week of February. The Virgin Mary image is said to be miraculous that every year it grows and the church expands its protective casing. Devotees flock the church every day to pray and meditate for good health and protection, reflecting the Ilonggos’ heart for Catholic faith. Jaro Cathedral is a breathtaking tourism destination where people enjoy the place and converge with their faith in God.

So, when you come to Iloilo with an Ilonggo friend, they would usually say to you on an early Sunday morning: "masimba 'ta" [let's go to church].

MO2 Bar and Restaurant is a complete entertainment complex connected to a disco bar called Ice, Westown Hotel and a Karaoke Bar.

 

The Avenue is a destination where the best and classy restaurants caters to the meticulous taste of Ilonggos.

Night life at Smallville, The Avenue and Boardwalk

Iloilo’s night life escapade is absolutely exciting along the Benigno Aquino Avenue where Smallville, The Avenue and Boardwalk can be found. This is where most of the city’s favorite restaurants, bistros, pubs and discos are located where people can hang-out, bond and have fun. Smallville Complex is the first to get popular in the early 2000s. The Avenue is a classy line-up of local and international bistros, pubs and disco club. Boardwalk located near the Iloilo River Esplanade showcases first-class restaurants and bars where its serene ambiance creates pleasurable moments for diners and visitors.

"Lakat 'ta" or "lagaw 'ta" [let's go out or let's travel], these are usually the expression of Ilonggos when they ask you for a night out or have a good time.

La Paz Batchoy is slowly becoming a global symbol of Ilonggos' unique gastronomic creation.

Batchoy, the country’s most favorite noodle soup

The best noodle soup in the Philippines with extraordinary ingredients and condiments has always been claimed by Iloilo’s La Paz Batchoy, a unique delicacy created by Ilonggos after of World War 2. A combination of left-over meats, noodles, chicaron crackers, secret spices and tasteful hot soup originally served in the wet market of La Paz district, Batchoy became a world-famous specialty food by Ilonggos and visitors. In the city, there are various restaurants and signature batchoy eateries that cater to the palate of Ilonggos. From the well-known Ted’s Batchoy, Deco’s Batchoy and many others, visiting Iloilo will never be complete without a satisfying and hot bowl of Batchoy.

For Ilonggos, a bowl of Batchoy is "makabulusog" [fulfilling], enough for a perfect meal.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is a first-class business and luxury hotel that opened in 2015 at Iloilo Business Park.

The Courtyard by Marriot, 2016's most anticipated luxurious hotel scheduled to open in Iloilo Business Park.

The long-stretching Megaworld Boulevard where most of Iloilo Business Park's biggest establishments are connected in major highway road.

The impressive swimming pool amenity at One Madison Place, a contemporary chic residential tower in Iloilo Business Park.

The Palladium, the tallest residential tower in the region with 22 floors, infinity pool, sky gardens and loft units.

Iloilo Business Park, vision of new Ilonggo lifestyle

These days, Iloilo City is taking a progressive flight with its new found economic glory and developments presented by Megaworld Corporation, the country’s leading real estate developer with its most important and biggest single investment outside of Luzon for a total of P35 billion – the Iloilo Business Park. The 72-hectare old Iloilo Airport property located in Mandurriao District was transformed by Megaworld into a bustling commercial and business integrated township where some of the most prestigious establishments and attractions will be rising soon. Iloilo Business Park takes pride of the newly-finished Iloilo Convention Center that can accommodate not less than 3,700 audiences to see the biggest conventions and events in the country including the recent APEC ministerial meetings last September 21- October 6. Shopping and dining experience will be defined to another level with Festive Walk Mall and Street of Festive Walk set for 2016 opening. The newly-opened Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and upcoming Courtyard by Marriot are ready to provide world-class luxurious accommodation for visitors and Ilonggos. In the next 10 years, 10 BPO Buildings will open in the biggest IT Park in the region. Two of these BPO buildings are already functional which include One Global Center and Two Global Center. Before 2015 will end, two more BPO Buildings will open such as One Techno Place and Two Techno Place. The township will have the biggest commercial and business district where prestigious financial companies and local entrepreneurs will open regional headquarters and businesses. The biggest McDonald’s branch in Panay island is located at Iloilo Business Park near the Festive Walk Mall.

To define a new luxurious lifestyle and introduce “condo living,” Iloilo Business Park has three unique residential towers offering multi-faceted architectural designs and amenities. These three condo towers are One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and the highest tower in Western Visayas with 22 floors, The Palladium. Aside the vibrant developments, the township have its own wide roads and bike lanes as part of Megaworld Boulevard where residents and visitors can enjoy healthy physical activities while immersing themselves in the active lifestyle.

For Ilonggos who are coming home, they usually say "puli 'ta" [let's go home] because they always believe that their heart is often left at home. Iloilo Business Park is now presenting a new home for Ilonggos where their dream of a serene, exciting, luxurious and vibrant lifestyle awaits them.