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There’s so much to explore and fall in love with in Iloilo, the country’s “City of Love!”
As seen in Kim Salinas’ report on “24 Oras” for GMA Integrated News’ “Summer PASTyalan” series, Iloilo boasts heritage sites, mouthwatering delicacies, and overflowing love from the Ilonggos, making it a must-visit place.
Here are five things to explore when in Iloilo!
1. Camiña Balay nga Bato
Begin your Iloilo journey by visiting the ancestral house of Don Fernando Avanceña and Eulalia Abaja, built in the 1860s, now known as Camiña Balay nga Bato in the Arevalo District.
Ma. Luisa Saludes Camiña, fourth-generation owner of the house, said that the house has been recognized by the National Museum as an important cultural property since December 23, 2015, signifying its cultural significance.
Inside, you'll find antique furniture and old photographs that showcase the family's appreciation for the past, as well as the traditional craft of hablon weaving.
“We used to sell, of course, all our fabric, all our hablon in Avenida. We were called the textile capital of the Philippines. All weavers would be normally along the river because we use the natural, of course, dye,” Ma. Luisa said.
The house features a main staircase called escalera de principal.
“Ladies should walk sideways. They carry their saya with them and then, of course, you have to use the handrail,” she said.
2. Indulge in authentic Ilonggo cuisine
On the second floor of Camiña Balay nga Bato is a heritage restaurant that offers famous Ilonggo dishes.
Pancit molo and chocolate batirol with ugoy-ugoy, a type of Pinoy biscuit, are must-try dishes from the restaurant.
“The secret of Pancit Molo is in the broth. You add hamon and then the bony parts of the chicken, and you saute it with garlic and you add the chives. We add evaporated milk,” Ma. Luisa said.
3. San Joaquin Church
As one of the first Spanish settlements in the 1500s, Iloilo is home to many churches built by the Spanish to spread Christianity.
The list includes the historic San Joaquin Church, a National Cultural Treasure and National Historical Landmark built in 1869. It is an example of Spanish colonial architecture constructed by famous carvers, masons, and mentors from Mexico and Spain using coral stones, limestone, and egg whites.
The church is especially known for its intricate stone carving.
“Featured here is the historical event that happened during the war between the Spanish Kingdom and the Moroccans. The event took place at Tetouan in Morocco,” said Rev. Fr. Rjay Palmos, Catechetical Director, Archdiocese of Jaro.
4. Miagao Church
Considered one of the best examples of Baroque churches in the Philippines is the Santo Tomas de Villanueva Parish Church, or Miagao Church.
Its facade showcases detailed stone carvings, and the surroundings feature native trees like papaya and guava.
The church, dedicated to its patron saint, St. Thomas of Villanueva, was built in 1786 with thick stone walls and two bell towers designed as protection against the Moros and for earthquake resistance.
Miagao Church is a National Historical Landmark, National Cultural Treasure, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“Kailangan ko talaga na mag-undergo ng mga training tsaka ma-identify kung ano ‘yung mga chemicals ang pwede naming gamitin para maglinis ng stones ng church,” tourism officer Mary Diane Flordeliza said.
5. Tigbauan Church
Built in 1575, St. John of Sahagun Parish, or Tigbauan Church, is one of the oldest standing churches in the country.
It was the first Jesuit boarding school for boys in the Philippines and is notable for its Churrigueresque style, which was popular in Spain during the 17th century.
The church features more detailed stone carvings, copulas, and crosses on its bell towers. It also has colorful mosaics depicting various biblical scenes and a large dome with an interpretation of Dante Alighieri’s heaven and hell.
“Ginuhit nila muna daw sa isang malaking tiles, tapos they break it into mosaic parts. Iniisa-isa na nilagay dito,” Bro. Alan Christian Tabaosares said.
—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News
