Isla Naburot: A Perfect hideaway in the enchanted island of Guimaras

I have been in the island-province of Guimaras so many times before but I never really got tired of its rustic charm that can make you forget the trivial problems of the modern world. Thing is, the island itself is a tapestry of nature at its finest that every corner seems to have been created by God with a spell of charm and a sprinkle of enchantment. It might not be Palawan or Boracay but it is one of the most convenient beach destinations there is in the region since it's just a boat ride away from Iloilo City, which is one of the most important gateway cities in the Philippines.

Most of us have heard of Alubihod, Guisi and El Retiro beaches which are amongst the popular tourist destinations in Gumaras but there are also a few places which are also worth visiting. For instance, one of my favorite resorts which lies in a hidden cove somewhere in the island is 'Isla Naburot'. This beautiful family owned resort is only accessible by motorboat and prides itself for being a real island hideaway. The island is mainly solar powered but still provides basic amenities that every tourist would be needing. It's discreet location is perfect for intimate occasions and for vacation goers who wish to escape the hustle and bustle their city lives. 

One of the features of Isla Naburot which has enchanted is the ruins of an old ancestral house that lies on top of a huge rock overlooking the sea. It stands as a welcome sign that tells everyone that they have indeed reached the resort. Though abandoned, the house seems to be carrying an flair of enchantment and memories of colorful past. The downhill path from the house leads to the very cove where most of the main buildings and cottages are located. There is also a small white sand beach that lies before a coral reef diving spot.

Food and lodging may not be as cheap as the other more popular resorts but it's totally worth it. See, it's not the ordinary beach you see anywhere. There's just something a little special about it and that's what makes Isla Naburot a must-see when you're in Guimaras.

For Reservations, you can call : 0918 909 8500  

Calle Real: Downtown Iloilo's Heritage Street

In the olden days, before malls and other shopping centres were established in the city of Iloilo, there thrived Calle Real, what is now known as the downtown heritage street. Being strategically located in an area adjacent to one of the country's most busiest waterfronts, Calle Real became one of the most important trading communities in the region. In fact, the National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal had once admired the life that bloomed in these streets during the late colonial reign. Who wouldn't? It's beautiful old world charm eludes a classic atmosphere quite similar with that of Macau's Portuguese district. In fact it is only in this certain part of the city where one can find the most intact collection of Heritage Buildings in the entire province.

Though modernization has taken its toll on these beautiful treasures, many organizations had been working hand and hand with government to revive what was once the glory of the old Queen City. Today,  tourists and locals alike will appreciate the efforts of those who had worked hard in restoring the beautiful buildings of Calle Real. Now, what had been a forgotten piece of the city is slowly taking in a new breath of life and though the street is still as busy as it had been, one will truly feel that once a upon a time, there was a strange and beautiful world that existed in this very place and that it was more magical than anyone of us could ever imagine.

The Lizares Mansion comes to Life

Just on the other side of the Jaro river lies one of Iloilo's most popular academies, the Angelicum School. Not only that it is famous for being one of the best Christian schools in the city but it is also known to be the home of what was once the villa of a rich baron, the Lizares Mansion.

The villa is indeed amongst the most beautiful tourist attractions in the city specifically, in the district of Jaro which is basically known for its collection of sprawling century old mansions. It is not only in an icon of the beauty of the European rule but in some way it also symbolizes a certain part of the Ilonggo history. The villa was the home of a rich sugar baron and his family. It was considered one of the most beautiful mansions in the city of Iloilo and at par with the famous Nelly Garden Mansion, the White House at the South.

What a lot of people do not know is that the mansion had suffered the wrath of the second world war. Its iconic beauty had faded and its beautiful history was stained with blood and death. However, not too many years after the war, the mansion was transformed into what is now the Angelicum School. Those who had taken over the property has not failed to restore its old charm and antiquity. Nowadays, the mansion is a popular Christmas attraction mainly because its beautifully crafted exterior is decorated with stunning Christmas lights and lanterns.

Buenavista, Guimaras: On the Other Side

Guimaras is known as the most accessible white sand beach tourist destination from Iloilo City. The island -province is famous for its serene cliff side beaches and for its sweet mangoes (said to be the sweetest in the country).

Though most tourists would agree that the white sand beaches of Nueva Valencia are pretty much like that of Boracay, not so many are familiar with the beaches in the district of Buenavista. The sand on the beaches on these parts of the island is distinctive for its unique color, creamy and almost pinkish when soaked. The town is also known for the 7 Sister Islands, locally known as 'Siete Picados'. Legends say that these islands were once beautiful sisters who ran away from home and drowned in the sea. On the village of Navalas lies, a small church (The Navalas Church) that was built in during the late years of the Spanish Colonial Era. It appears to be like a miniature version of the grand white stone Cathedral of Candelaria in the district of Jaro.

The Beautiful Iloilo River: The very Life-vein of the City

Named after its peculiar nose-like shape or 'Ilong', the river of Iloilo is one of the most important rivers there is in the country not only for the fact that it runs through the heart of Iloilo City itself but for it also hosts one of the most busiest ports in the Philippines; El Puerto de Muelle Loney.

Before the Spaniards came in the Island, the marshland surrounding the river of Iloilo has been known as a rich trading settlement between local and foreign merchants. Here, traders from China, India and other countries flock to exchange goods with the locals. This is the very reason why the Spaniards built a port in the mouth of the river which will serve as a gateway between Panay and its neighboring islands. In 1855, El Puerto de Muelle Loney, one of the first international sea ports in the country was opened and spurred the economy of the city making it the second most richest city after Manila.

Today Iloilo River serves as a major tourist attraction. The river bank is home to 22 species out of the countries 35 known species of Mangrove trees. Hotels such as Hotel del Rio, The Castle Hotel, River Queen Hotel and Sarabia Manor are located facing Iloilo River as well. Aside from that Marina, Barbeque Village, Tijuana and many more famous Ilonggo restaurants runs along the riverside and so as the famous Iloilo River Boulevard which is Iloilo's version of Dumaguete's Rizal Boulevard and Manila Bay.

The Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral's restored elegance

When one speaks of a town called Jaro, known in the hispanic era as Xaro, he might as well mention of magnificent mansions and of Hispanic ancestral stone houses, of a beautiful 19th century belltower and of a religious Catholic fiesta that would last for more than a month or two. Yes! Jaro is indeed Iloilo City’s very own folklore town.
But if Jaro is known for one thing aside from its antiques, then it would be the Metropolitan Cathedral which is also the highest seat of Roman Catholicism in the Region. The Cathedral of Candelaria-which it is fondly called by the townspeople- is known as largest house worship in the entire province.The walls are built of white and cream colored fossil rock and coral stones. It’s exterior is baroque in its simplest form though recent additions to the 19th century structure include some neogothic and neoclassic elements. The terrace before the facade holds the miraculous Virgin of Candelaria that is believed to have outgrown its former niche. The archwindows are wide and tall and there is a minimal usage of rose windows, unlike its neighboring churches. The main entrance is flanked by flights of stairs leading to the miraculous Virgin's terrace where Pope John Paul II stood and faced hundreds or perhaps thousands of devotees from all over the region, when he visited the Philippines in 1981.
Though war and calamities took away the cathedral’s once magnificent beauty, it is currently being restored at least to bring back its former glory as an icon of art and architecture. The interior, once critiqued by many, is now amongst the most beautiful in the country. The paintings on its vaulted ceiling would remind you of artistically decorated churches in latin america and Spain and its baroque retablos are definitely the most well decorated just like the ones at the Feminist Neogothic church of Santa Ana in Molo.

Heritage Houses of Arevalo

Arevalo is known as Iloilo city's garden district and the province's flower capital. It's old Spanish name was 'Villa Rica de Arevalo' which means that it is amongst the most important Hispanic settlements in the country. Here also lies the third oldest Sto. Niño in the Philippines, one of the city's oldest traditional weaving centres and many of the city's last well preserved colonial houses.
These colonial houses are fine examples of a typical hispanic house or 'Bahay na Bato' wherein the lower half is built of hewn stone or baked bricks while the upper part is built of strong wood.
A trip to Arevalo will not only make you adore it's flower filled streets or it's notable seaside restaurants but in some way, it will make you realize that a 'Once a upon a time' drama did exist along it's peaceful and historic streets like the rest of the city themselves.

The Colonial Heritage of Molo

Molo, once a thriving colonial district in the coast of Iloilo City, is often referred as the 'Athens of the Region' for it is the hometown of many political leaders in our country. Molo holds a rich heritage that will interest tourist and travelers like for instance, the magnificent Molo Church, known to many as the church of women.
However, If you're in Molo, it is advisible that you visit the town's heritage street that is Calle San Pedro where one of the historical Locsin mansions can be found. One of the heritage houses which dates back from the early 1800's was said to have housed the builders of the famous gothic church of the town.
The Pison house, another Spanish Era brick mansion, which is located in the same street can be remembered as one of the settings of an episode of "Maala-ala Mo kaya", a famous television show in the Philippines.
San Pedro Street in the heart of Molo is an interesting place to visit for traveling photographers who would want to capture what Iloilo City would have looked like centuries ago.

Calle Santo Rosario: Iloilo's Heritage Street

Welcome to Santo Rosario street, one of the oldest and most historical avenues in city of Iloilo. Calle Santo Rosario is known for a number of Spanish Era houses that would welcome tourists whenever they would pass by or visit the coastal part of the city. Evident in their architectural forms, these houses typically shows what Iloilo streets looked long before war and modernization changed the humble city.
The street appears to be like a simpler and smaller version of Vigan's Calle Crisologo that is the most well preserved Spanish-Filipino village in all of the Philippines. Another feature that would delight tourists is that Calle Santo Rosario is located very near Plaza Libertad and San Jose Church which are perhaps the most popular tourist attractions in the downtown city. The street also leads to the ruins of Casino Espanol de Iloilo, one of the earliest social centers for Spanish Filipinos in the country.
What makes Calle Santo Rosario special is that, perhaps in the entire province, it has the most intact collection of heritage buildings dating from the Spanish rule to the American colonial period. It adds up as one of downtown Iloilo's historical points like Hughes Street and the famous Calle Real that is definitely touristy in their very own ways.

The Tree of Bondage: A Monument of Pain

The historic province of Iloilo is known as the last Spanish territory in the Philippines and has been also considered as one if the most heavily hispanized regions in the country, like Manila and Cebu. The province boasts its majestic Spanish heritage like many of its centuries old colonial churches and mansions and so as its numerous traditions that has been preserved and still practiced for many generations.
In the Spanish regime, when the Hispanic government initiated the construction of roads, bridges, churches and other public buildings, a system called 'Polo Y Servicios' arose which stands for 'forced labor' and was practiced in almost every part of Spanish territory in the country. In the town of Cabatuan lies one of the few monuments of 'Polo Y Servicios' in the country. This monument is a centuries old calachuchi tree known to locals as the 'tree of Bondage'. The living monument was believed to have been where Indios (Native Filipinos) were tied and whipped as a punishment. This form of punishment was used during the construction of the great red brick Church and the town's public square in the early 1800's.
The tree of Bondage is indeed a unique monument, a tourist attraction that does not only represent a town but rather, a part of the great Filipino History that was untold for years.

Janiuay Cemetery and the Arches of Heavenly Splendor

One of Iloilo’s most picturesque places was once included in the famed pages of National Geographic, this is the beautiful cemetery of Janiuay, the most artistic Spanish Colonial cemetery in the entire Philippines. Janiuay Cemetery is a beautiful example of Neogothic architecture. Tourist will be intrigued and awed by the architecture of this historical destination since the entire structure is perched on a hill and is approached by a grand flight of stairs that is not a very common arrangement for a cemetery. The main arch-gate has a pointed arc decorated by a cluster of ionic poles and simple rosettes. Two other arches flank the main arch-gate, however, the arcs of these gates are Tudor in style and are more ornate compared to the central gate. On the heart of the cemetery lies a Neo-gothic chapel. The windows of this chapel are amongst the most artistic renditions of Gothic Geometric style found in all of Iloilo.
The cemetery of Janiuay is amongst the country's greatest architectural achievements. It is a unique tourist destination because it showcases the artistry of Iloilo's golden era of colonial art.

The Andoks Mansion

An old Mansion turned into a restuarant, well that's not a first but I guess you'd still love the thought that your dining in one of most historical places in the city. Andoks is a popular Chicken Fastfood Restaurant which was established a few years ago. One of it's first branches in Iloilo City was at Jaro when the old orange mansion in front of the public park was turned into a restaurant which everyone knew as 'Ihaw-ihaw republic'. 'Ihaw-ihaw' is another way of roasting meat and is also known as 'inasal' that is a popular delicacy in the cities of Iloilo and Bacolod. 

The Old mansion is mexican inspired perhaps because of it's festive colors and overwhelming arched details. The mansion is known for its lovely intricate portal which is neoclassic and the rest of the house is detailed using the styles of Art Deco.

If you're simply looking for place to nibble on some good food, or simply give your feet some rest or refresh yourself with coolers then try visiting Andoks, a dining center that is tinged with a spice of history.

Museo Iloilo: Where History Comes Alive

'Museo Iloilo' is the provincial Museum of Iloilo. It is located near the Provincial Capitol and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the province since it is located strategically near important government and liesure centres in the city. The Museum hosts many of the province's historical treasures like potteries found even before in the Spaniards arrived in the island of Panay and so as religious artifact of the Hispanio-Filipino Era. The Museum also displays a variety of Ilonggo paintings and sculptures both modern and antique. Weaponries and armories of the Filipino-Spanish War in the late 1800th century and some artificats from the second world war are interesting finds as well.

There is also a mini-library and photo gallery where you can learn many things about the province through eductaional books and rare pre-war photographs that showcases the colonial beauty of prewar Iloilo and the simple life of the Ilonggos before modernization arrived in the islands.

If you want to learn many things about Iloilo like how life was during the colonial Era and how Iloilo took hold of it's victory from its invaders or simply see notable ilonggo artistry, then I suggest you to visit Museo Iloilo, a place where the History of the province is brought back to life.

Iloilo: 'A Visita Iglesia'

  

Visita Iglesia is a known Roman Catholic tradition where Christians would visit seven churches to pray as part of their pilgrimage for the lent season or 'Semana Santa'. This custom was passed to the Filipinos by the Spaniards who brought Christianity in the Philippine Islands and has been practiced for many centuries as part of the religion's faithful devotion to God. 

When in the city, one may adore the beautiful spires of Molo Church which is also known as the church of women because of the domination of female saints inside the church. The Cathedral of Jaro and the Church of San Jose are also interesting points to spend solemn moments with the Divine Being. Off the city, a traveler may find the Magnificent Sta. Barbara Church and Convent, known for it's moorish architecture possibly inspired by churches of Southern Spain. The road north leads to the massive Cabatuan Church that is the largest red brick structures in the entire country and also considered as one of the greatest architectural acheivements of its era. One may also take the road west where three beautiful baroque churches await travelers; there's the beautifully decorated Guimbal Church with its flowery designs, the famous Miagao Church, a world heritage site and known fort its unique Aztec-like design and finally, the San Joaquin Church, which is also known as the gem of the island for it's unique bas-relief facade depicting the victory of the Christians in Morocco.

There are actually more than twenty beautiful churches to visit in Iloilo. Wherever you are in the province, there is one historical temple nearby. However, it is not important if you visit many churches, what matters most is that you know and you feel that God is in your heart that is the very temple of faith within you.  Happy Lent Season everyone.

Puerto de Muelle Loney; History beyond the seas...

Muelle Loney Street, one of the most important sea ports in the Philippines is one of the many reasons why Iloilo flourished in the Hispanic and American Era as a vital trading city.

The Muelle Loney St. is the busiest seaport in Iloilo and Panay. In 1855, the port was opened to international trade thus spurring the city's trading industrty making Iloilo City one of the wealthiest cities in the country. Goods from all over the province and neighboring Islands like Guimaras and Negros are sent to Iloilo before being exported out of the country.

However, The glory of Muelle Loney didn't last longer because some ports were established in the nearby Islands in the early 20th century. Today Muelle Loney still serves as the portal between Negros, Guimaras and Iloilo. Now, the wealth that it once claimed is only manifested by some if its old historic buildings of which some were forgotten by time itself...

The People's Park in La Paz

Looking for a place teeming with activities? If the weekend brings boredom, why not visit The freedom park at La paz? It is perhaps the busiest park there is in the city. The park is considered the widest public leisure park in Iloilo City. It can host sports events like soccer and badminton.
If you want to have a good afternoon stroll, you might want to look at the cool scene of the man-made lagoon at the left corner of the park; play some ball games with friends in the nearby courts or have a good excercise to stay fit and healthy.

The Artistic Lapaz Church

There are three notable Red brick structures in the province of Iloilo; the historical San Jose Church, the gargantuan Cabatuan Church and the Lapaz Church. These three churches are very similar in the fact that all of them have twin domed belfries and neoclassic facades. The Lapaz Church however is more on Greek inspired architecture which makes it artistic in its very own way.

It's construction was initiated during the late nineteenth century. Compared to San Jose and Cabatuan churches, The one in Lapaz has the most decorated facade. The Domes of the belfry are also very interesting because they resemble slight Russo-Byzantine styles, a pleasing deviation from the usual onion or bell shaped domes.

Amongst the many churches of Iloilo, this one in Lapaz, may not be as popular but surely, it is one sight that is equally pleasing to the eyes, a fine structure that showcases fine Ilonggo artistry.

The Elegant Locsin Mansion

Jaro is known for its numerous collections of Heritage Buildings from the 18th and the 19th centuries. Jaro was once the center of Hispanic rule in the the Province of Iloilo. It was where wealthy Ilonggos lived and built Mansions of Elegance and Prestige. One of the most photographed mansions in Jaro is the Locsin House which peacefully lies just outside the Metropolitan Cathedral. The Mansion is like any typical Hispanio-Filipino Colonial House... simple yet elegant. With continuous restoration and preservation, the mansion remained as one of the most attractive sights in the town of Jaro.
Tuscanic Pilasters flank the three entrance doors which are of varied architectural styles and a continuous Capiz-shell window dominated the upper level. The interior is reinforced by stained glasses, antique furnitures and wares that provides a timeless and classic atmosphere.

The Intricate Facade of Miagao Church

What makes Miagao Church Iloilo's most visited historical site?

Undeniably, this sandstone church has the most artistic sculptured facade there is in Iloilo, or perhaps in all of the Philippines. It is a distinct and grand description of what we call Filipino Baroque.
The entire facade that must have been inspired by Churrisguresque Architecture appears more like an intricate Retablo and is overwhelmed with carvings of local botanicals, Rococo curves, and Classical pilasters. These curves generate an eternal movement which further creates an imaginative array of fansy and enchantment. Local botanicals of the tropical archipelago dominate the pediment of the facade. Here, there is an explosion of floral fantasy where San Cristobal, with the Child Jesus on his shoulder holds a coconut tree while being flanked by more tropical plants with some still on intricate vases. All these features and details make the church's facade extraordinary... something very magical...something very unusual.

The Cathedral of Jaro

One of the earliest cathedrals that was built in the Philippines was The Jaro Cathedral or known as the church Our Lady of Candles. Unlike most of the Hispanic structures in Iloilo that were built either of bricks or of yellowish sandstones, the cathedral was built of cream like fossil stones.
It is mainly designed of baroque architecture emphasized by slopes and curves entwining with many neoclassic features. The stained glass Romanesque windows contribute a unique balance between the Baroque and Classic features of the Church. The small rose window at the upper half of the facade which is typical of Gothic churches also deviates from the church's Baroque dominance.
The cathedral has been a part of Iloilo's rich history. It is perhaps the most important Roman Catholic Shrine in all of the Region and is considered as the heart of Catholicism in the island. Many important events in history happened in the very grounds of the Cathedral. Hundreds of pilgrims gather every year in February to celebrate the anniversary of the miraculous patron Saint whose statue is believed to have outgrown its niche. The Feast of Our Lady of Candles is also one of the largest festivals in the country that is filled with traditions practiced from generations to generations.