PASTOR, VINCENT KYLE MS.

MARIANE JOY BSUTAMANTE

BSHM INSTRUCTOR
SECOND YEAR
ACTIVITY 1
MODULE 8

THC 104
PHILIPPINE TOURISM, GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURE
Create a three days/ two night’s itinerary based on the attractions, activities, places found at Region VI or
VII. This should include the attractions to be visited, accommodations to stay in, and activities to do that
will showcase the culture and heritage of the region.

Iloilo City is on Panay Island in the Philippines. It's known for its Spanish colonial churches and old houses. On
Jaro Plaza, Jaro Cathedral has a shrine to the local patron saint, Our Lady of the Candles. Nelly’s Garden is an
iconic 1920s mansion. Museo Iloilo explores local history. The Iloilo Esplanade is a pathway along the Iloilo
River. To the west, the 18th-century Miagao Church has an ornate sandstone facade. Iloilo City is the capital
of Iloilo Province. It is strategically located at the heart of the Philippine archipelago and serves as a gateway to
Panay Island. It is a highly urbanized metropolis and is the center of commerce, trade, finance, education and
governance in the region.
1. Explore Islas de Gigantes

Your trip to Iloilo won’t be complete without trying different adventures in Gigantes Islands.
Also called Islas de Gigantes, it is perhaps the most famous Iloilo tourist spot with its secret caves and lagoons,
fantastic beaches, and gastronomic seafood lunch buffets!

2. Go on a Pilgrimage at Garin Farm

Garin Farm in San Joaquin is another well-photographed Iloilo tourist spot. It's an in-land resort that uniquely
combines recreational, religion, and agriculture. You can kayak, swim, fish, and ride the zipline here.
You can check out the pilgrimage site where you’ll see nine biblical scenes, including Noah’s Ark and the
Garden of Eden, depicted as life-size dioramas.
To reach the majestic white cross that stands atop a hill, you need to climb the 456-step staircase. The summit is
a great place to reflect and pray.
At the summit, you’ll find the entrance to the Divine Mercy Dark Meditation Tunnel that leads to what is
probably the most photographed part of Garin Farm in a day trip in Iloilo: the so-called Heaven On Earth.
The dark tunnel symbolizes one’s challenges while on Earth, and the all-white and blindingly bright Heaven On
Earth represents a person’s ascent to heaven after cleansing.
There are many tours in Garin Farm you can try to maximize your trip. The place is accessible via both
private and public transportation. The best time to go here is either very early in the morning or just before
sunset.

3. Visit Molo Church

The province of Iloilo is filled with historical and ancestral homes that show travelers a glimpse of how the
wealthy families lived back then as well as centuries-old churches that survived natural and human-made
disasters.
Today, you can visit these ancestral homes and churches by joining a pilgrimage excursion.
If you want to see statues of Greek gods and goddesses across a Catholic church, visit the Molo Church along
San Pedro Street in Molo, Iloilo City. This so-called “female church” dates back to 1831.
4. Pray at Jaro Cathedral

The Jaro Cathedral is one of Iloilo's oldest churches with a long, colorful history. Also known as the Church of
St. Elizabeth of Hungary and National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, locals lovingly call it merely as Jaro
Cathedral.
It first started as a small parish back in 1587. As the years went by, it became a cathedral, and today, it is a
national shrine that serves as the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Jaro.
The church was destroyed by an earthquake back in 1948 and was rebuilt in 1956. In 1976, the Jaro Cathedral
was declared a historical landmark.
Interestingly, the Jaro Cathedral is called the “male church,” while the Molo Church, which is also in Iloilo, is
called the “female church.” The churches got their nicknames because of the saints displayed there.

5. Try La Paz Batchoy

The province of Iloilo is famous as the home of La Paz Batchoy, a clear noodle soup with pork cracklings, beef,
chicken stock, and round noodles. The most popular places to eat batchoy are Netong's, Deco’s, Ted's, and
Inggo’s.
You may go on an Iloilo food trip and judge for yourself which among them serves the tastiest.
Batchoy's side dishes are pandesal (a Filipino bread) and puto (steamed rice cake). You can buy them or dip
them in the broth. If you want, you can order more side dishes at a minimum cost.
Add a little pepper and soy sauce to the soup, mix well and enjoy. You can ask for a refill if you finish your
soup quickly. Joining a food trip in Iloilo will make this experience even better.

6. Pray at Miagao Church

Miagao Church along Zulueta Avenue in Miagao is probably the most visually appealing, age-old church in the
province of Iloilo. Also known as the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova, its construction was completed in
1797.
Today, it is one of the most unique Iloilo tourist spots and is a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, listed as one of
the top examples of a Baroque-style church.
It is also famous for the detailed, artistic sculptures that adorn its facade, showcasing a unique mix of Spanish,
Muslim, and Chinese traditions, influence, and elements.
The image of the town's patron saint, St. Thomas of Villanueva, can be seen above its ornate wooden doors.
Getting to Miagao Church is pretty straightforward. Take a jeepney bound for Miagao from Iloilo City. The
church is about 45 minutes away from the city proper.

7. Enjoy the Nightlife at Smallville

Smallville is the nightlife capital of Iloilo City filled with dining and entertainment options for locals and
tourists. It’s connected to the Iloilo River Esplanade and easily accessible from many Iloilo hotels.
You can find Smallville Complex along Diversion Road.
Smallville started out as a complex with a casino, bar, and club next to Iloilo Business Hotel. If people mention
Smallville" they usually mean the larger area that stretches from the initial Commercial Complex of Smallville
to the Iloilo River Esplanade.
There are many trendy Iloilo restaurants and bars here serving local, fusion, and international cuisines. Grab a
drink at some of the most hip bars, go clubbing, or watch a live band and experience the nightlife in the city
during your sightseeing escapade in Iloilo.

8. Buy Souvenirs at Biscocho Haus

If you’re looking for the best pasalubong (food souvenir) to bring home, head to Biscocho Haus and get some of
their famous Biscocho, a type of toasted bread with butter and sugar.
It's best eaten as a snack with coffee or Pancit Molo. Operated from 6 am to 8 pm every day, in the roads of
Lopez Jaena St., Don Aguedo Del Rosario house, near Jaro Square, the Original Biscocho House has served
patrons for more than four decades.
They are experts in producing biscocho, the twice-baked, butter-coated, sugar-coated small loaves of bread. It's
great to tickle the palate with coffee in the afternoon, or even with a bowl of hot soup.
Because of its long tradition of being a favorite snack for generations, Filipinos also relate this pastry to their
loved ones' fond memories.
Also, the original Biscocho Haus offers a variety of pasalubong products such as butterscotch, which is another
best seller.
There are also various types of fruit tarts, assorted slices of bread, banana chips, muscovado pieces of bread,
tableas, and even numerous chicharon variants.

9. Visit Molo Mansion

This prominent mansion belonged to a noble and wealthy family in Iloilo. Built-in the 1920s, the Yusay-
Consing Mansion, which is commonly known as the Molo Mansion, was once thought to be beyond repair.
But today, it’s open to the public as a heritage attraction. Spend an afternoon here and marvel at the details of
Filipino colonial architecture.
There are several stores here selling export quality Philippines souvenirs and clothing, particularly those
featuring the Ilonggo heritage.
After a short tour, you can head to the Molo Mansion Café, located behind the mansion, and enjoy local Ilonggo
dishes like Pancit Molo with kinihad (toasted bread).
Do try the intriguing buko ternate shake, a blue drink made with coconut meat and juice, and served in a green
coconut shell. Its signature blue color comes from the bluish ternate flower.
The historic Molo Mansion stands just across the St. Anne Parish or Molo Church. There are a lot of tours you
can join to maximize your time here, or you can hop on a jeepney bound for Molo or Arevalo.
10. Eat Pancit Molo

 This local dish is a must-try in Iloilo. Pancit Molo is a meat-filled wonton with a hearty broth. The piping hot
soup is ladled into bowls and garnished with green onions and fried garlic.
It originated from the seaport in the Philippine town of Molo. The Chinese tradesmen introduced wonton soup
to the area, and local people started to call them Pancit Molo, perhaps because of a lack of a word for wonton
that they instead likened it to pancit (noodles).
Tita Paz House of Pancit Molo is said to be the source of the famous soup. The restaurant shares a room with
the Molo County Bakeshop, where residents can also buy gifts from Iloilo.
Kap Ising Pancit Molo is also one spot that locals love going to. Kap Ising's is said to have Pancit Molo's most
exquisite taste in the region.

11. Have a Food Trip at Tatoy’s Manokan

One of Iloilo's best restaurants is Tatoy's Manokan. This popular restaurant was founded in the 1970s and was
originally a three table nipa shack. Tatoy was a fisherman, but he had the skills to cook them into tasty dishes. 
Tatoy’s is best known for their lechon manok (roasted chicken). Tatoy's chicken is marinated in native vinegar
and calamansi with stuffed tamarind leaves and lemongrass. It has a rich, juicy, and savoy flavor that needs no
sauce. 
Tatoy's also offer a wide variety of delicious seafood dishes. They have fresh scallops cooked with butter and
garlic, grilled fish, kinilaw (ceviche), and stuffed squid.
There’s a large glass-covered table where a selection of mouthwatering meals are presented. They provide fresh
mango, coconut shake, and coconut juice.

12. Take a Dip at Sicogon Island

A high-end resort called Sicogon Island made this part of Iloilo famous during the 70s and 80s. Today, the
luxurious resort is no longer in operation.
However, the island is still a popular Iloilo tourist spot because of its forests, mountains, and beaches where
the sand has a light yellow or orange tone.
The Barangay Buaya Beach is believed to be the best swimming spot on the entire island. Teeming with nipa
huts and tall coconut trees, it’s one of the best Iloilo beaches where you can unwind in peace.
If you want to snorkel, head to Tumaguin Island, but if you're going to do some hiking, you can take on the 1-2
hour hike towards the summit of Mount Opao.
Near the central part of the beach are some cottages that are available for tourists who plan to stay overnight.
Make sure to try some activities in Sicogon Island to maximize your experience.

13. Appreciate Heritage at Camiña Balay nga Bato

Camiña Balay nga Bato is one of Iloilo’s most prominent landmarks. The complex is still home to the 4th
generation Melocoton-Avancena family.
When visiting the old house, visitors are also welcome to visit the Antiques and Souvenir Shop named the Lola
Rufina Heritage Curio Shop.
Saint figures crafted in red bricks, pictures, and textiles are just some of the rarer objects here. The wide
staircase reveals a century-old Spanish style, where visitors are told to ascend sideways.
When guests reach the second floor, you’ll see the Oratorio or prayer room, the Grand Sala, and the restaurant. 
In their bright, balcony dining room and casual dining-room, Camiña Balay nga Bato serves you Iloilo's finest
Pancit Molo and hot chocolate.
The Pancit Molo dish originated from the kitchen of the local legend Kapitan Ising. Every dumpling has a
smooth tasty broth and rich filling of pork, chicken, and shrimp. 

14. Unwind at Iloilo River Esplanade

Go here if you want to see Iloilo City’s effort to protect the Iloilo River and promote a healthier, active lifestyle
among its people. The Iloilo River Esplanade is where you can find the big “I Am Iloilo” signage. It’s both a
lively and peaceful spot to jog, stroll, or take in the view.
Locals sometimes call it merely the Esplanade, and it’s easily accessible by both jeepneys and taxis.
It’s the best starting point to kick off your walking tours because it’s nearby many Iloilo tourist spots like the
Molo Church and Molo Plaza. The best time to go here are early morning and early evening.
The Esplanade stretches from Diversion Road to Carpenter's Bridge, linking Molo and Mandurriao
neighborhoods. The Esplanade is a great place to visit, providing entertainment and pleasant places, amazing
views of the Iloilo River and the sunset.

15. Explore Casa Mariquit

Casa Mariquit is a must-see well-preserved historic house in Iloilo. The house has been passed down through
generations.
It became the residence of Mariquit Javellana Lopez, the granddaughter of banker Ramón Javellana, and her
husband Fernando Lopez Sr., the former Vice President of the Philippines. 
The word “mariquit” comes from the Tagalog word marikit which means beautiful, most likely referring to both
the lady of the house and the house itself.
A Casa Mariquit excursion will take you around the property: the master bedroom, the former bank vault that
Ramon Javellana used during his banker days, and the many furniture and memorabilia that belongs to the
family spanning generations.
Unlike other ancestral homes in Iloilo, Casa Mariquit doesn't have sprawling lawns. It's also not as grand as it
looks. But the furniture and political campaign paraphernalia here speak volumes about its history.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Venezia Suites Hotel Iloilo
5.0(2)
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
RedDoorz near Jaro Church Iloilo
3.4(83)
·
Excellent location
2-star hotel
 Wi-Fi
 Air conditioning
 Child-friendly
Urban Sands Iloilo
4.5(148)
3-star hotel
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
 Outdoor pool
 Hot tub

Diversion 21 Hotel
4.3(960)
·
Excellent location
3-star hotel
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi
 Air conditioning
 Restaurant
 Room service

Circle Inn - Iloilo City Center

3.9(393)
2-star hotel
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi

 Parking
 Outdoor pool
 Air conditioning

Zuri Hotel
4.4(191)
·
Excellent location
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
 Pool
 Air conditioning
 Fitness centre

GRAND XING IMPERIAL HOTEL

4.3(1,128)
3-star hotel
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
 Outdoor pool
 Hot tub

OYO 258 Chito's Hotel

3.7(131)
3-star hotel
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
 Pool
 Air conditioning
 Restaurant

Harbor Town Hotel

4.2(145)
2-star hotel
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi
 Air conditioning
 Restaurant
 Room service
District 21 Hotel
4.4(163)
·
Excellent location
 Free Wi-Fi
 Air conditioning
 Restaurant
 Room service
 Full-service laundry
 Child-friendly

The Grand Dame Hotel

4.3(123)
3-star hotel
 Breakfast ($)
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
 Air conditioning
 Restaurant

Figtree Hotel
4.3(61)
·
Excellent location
 Free breakfast
 Free Wi-Fi
 Air conditioning
 Airport shuttle
 Child-friendly
RedDoorz @ San Jose Tagbak Jaro Iloilo
3.5(34)
 Wi-Fi
 Air conditioning

Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo

4.6(755)
4-star hotel
 Breakfast ($)
 Free Wi-Fi
 Free parking
 Outdoor pool
 Air conditioning

Activities

1. Enjoy a bowl of the original La Paz Batchoy

Iloilo is a haven of great food, but one special dish stands out from all the rest -- the ultra Filipino La Paz
Batchoy. The noodle soup with egg, beef loin, crispy pork cracklings (crushed chicharon), spring onions, and
garlic originated from the La Paz district of the province and has since been a favorite among Filipinos. Locals
and tourists can find an authentic bowl of this mouthwatering dish at La Paz Public Market, where Netong’s
Original La Paz Batchoy is located.
Location: La Paz Public Market, Luna cor. Huervana st., La Paz, Iloilo City
Operation Hours: 7am to 7pm
Best For: Foodies, Families, Barkadas
Highlight: There’s no other highlight on this trip than a steaming bowl of the delicious, original La Paz
Batchoy.
Activity Tips: - There are several other Batchoy restaurants in the area, however, people claim Netong’s
originated the dish. Regardless if it did or didn’t, the taste will make you come back for more! - Queues may
start around lunch and dinner time, best to come a bit earlier.
Insider Info: The restaurants are located at the heart of the public market, but don’t fret. The place is clean and
well-maintained, with air conditioning.

2. Tour old Iloilo

Iloilo City continues to preserve its old city charm by restoring some of its oldest buildings from the
Commonwealth era. Some even date back to the 1800s. Walking down Calle Real, also known as JM Basa
Street, and along Plaza Libertad, you’ll get a sense of how Ilonggos lived back in the day -- clean and stress-
free. The retro feel of the area recaptures the old glory of what is heritage district of the province.
Location: JM Basa Street, Iloilo City and Plaza Libertad, Zamora St., Iloilo City
Fee(s): FREE
Best For: History lovers, Photographers, Barkadas
Highlights: - You’ll find a stretch of old buildings along Calle Real, transporting you back to old Iloilo circa
1950s. Almost all establishments in this place follow the retro-theme of the area. - At Plaza Libertad, you’ll find
more establishments that feature old Manila architecture. The Iloilo City Hall and the San Jose Church are
sights to behold.
Activity Tips: - Old Iloilo has this old city charm that a mere stroll along its streets is enough to make you feel
right at home. The buildings’ facades along Calle Real are striking, while Plaza Libertad offers that community
park warmth. - Make sure you visit the preserved Panay Railways train displayed at Plaza Libertad. It’s perfect
for an Instagram photoshoot.

3. Take a stroll along the Iloilo River Esplanade

Early mornings and late afternoons are best spent walking along the Iloilo River Esplanade. The open area is
perfect for recreational activities such as jogging, biking, or just taking a stroll along the river to unwind. Most
locals also spend their afternoons hanging out with friends and family members, sipping a cup of coffee in one
of the cafes near the area while kids play in the open space. The serene waters and the sunrise or sunset
complete the calming mood in this tourist spot.
Location: Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Fee(s): FREE
Operation Hours: 24 hours
Best For: Families, Barkadas, Health buffs
Highlights: - The view of the sunset shining over the Iloilo River is a sight to behold. - The afternoon breeze
coupled with the park’s amenities and the nearby cafes and restaurants will make any tourist fall in love with
Iloilo.
Activity Tips: - Take a stroll along the esplanade with the cool breeze brushing through your hair as the sun
bids its farewell. - Join recreational activities held at the park, or go for a jog or a bike ride along the river.

4. Party the night away at Smallville Complex

Provinces aren’t usually synonymous with a good night out, dancing and drinking with friends. However, in
Iloilo, the club scene is booming! Smallville Complex in Iloilo City is the hippest spot for a weekend out to
have a good time over a couple of beers. The place has a string of dance clubs, bars, KTVs, and restaurants that
cater to younger party animals as well as the older, more sophisticated crowd. If you’re looking to have a good
time after touring Iloilo tourist spots, head over to Smallville!
Location: Smallville Complex, Diversion Rd, Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Best For: Barkadas, Partygoers
Highlights: - Smallville puts you at the heart of the party! The strip of restaurants, clubs, bars, and cafes make
everything within reach. - Smallville is close to hotels, so getting rest after a full night of partying is as easy as a
few steps.
Activity Tips: - You can dance the night away, have a drink with friends, or sing your lungs out to your
favorite tune. Everything’s here! - During daytime, Smallville is also a great place to dine with your family. A
string of restaurants offering different cuisines to settle your grumbling tummies.

5. Join the Dinagyang Festival

One of the biggest festivals in the Philippines, Dinagyang is a celebration of religion and culture of Ilonggos, as
well as the colorful history and rich heritage of the province. Highlighted by spirited performances, outrageous
costumes, and heart-pounding drumbeats, Dinagyang is a huge spectacle of color and entertainment.
Location: The parade and performance stages are scattered around Iloilo City.
Fee(s): Parade (FREE), Other performances (P800 to P1,200)
Time: The festival is held every fourth Sunday of January, lasting for over two weeks.
Best For: Everyone!
Highlights: The Dinagyang Festival is best known for the street performances and the vibrant costumes. The
parade’s energy will make you want to jump right into the scene!
Activity Tips: - Join in the fun! Watch the grand parade and every other event throughout the weeks-long
celebration. There’s something to look forward to every day -- from dance contests to beauty pageants, fashion
shows to celebrity meet and greets. - Make sure you snap photos of the festivities!

6. Bask in the beauty of Islas de Gigantes

There are a ton of places to visit and things to do in Iloilo, but visiting Islas de Gigantes is up there on the list.
Gigantes Islands is getting more recognition for being one of the most beautiful, underdeveloped beaches in the
country. If you’re looking for white sand beaches, clear blue waters, majestic rock formations, mystic caves, a
lagoon, and possibly everything the spells paradise, then Islas de Gigantes is a must visit for you!
Location: Carles, Iloilo
Operation Hours: Ferry ride from Carles Bancal Port to Gigantes Norte will take around 1.5 hours. Commuter
boats leave the port around 10am
Best For: Nature lovers, Beach bums
Highlights: - The white sand beach and the clear blue waters are what brings tourists to Gigantes Islands all
year round. When we say “this is paradise”, we sincerely mean every single word. - Tangke Lagoon is a must
visit. The saltwater lagoon hidden in the steep rock formations and cliffs of Islas de Gigantes. The view is
stunning, and swimming in it makes for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Activity Tips: - For groups, it’s best to rent a boat so you can visit all the beautiful spots of the islands -- from
the lagoon to the beaches. - Note that electricity in the island is not available 24/7. Depending on your hotel,
they may shut down the power at night until early morning.
Insider Info: Pack the necessities before traveling to the islands as there aren’t many stores to buy stuff from.
Small sari-sari stores are available in certain areas only.
7. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site

Part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, Miagao Church in Iloilo has been named a UNESCO World
Heritage Site for its history and ornately decorated facade. Completed in 1797, the church was built with thick
walls to serve as protection from the Moro invaders. Although it has been severely damaged by natural
disasters, it has been restored several times with its structure standing strong today.
Location: Zulueta Ave, Miagao, Iloilo
Fee(s): FREE
Operation Hours: Daily mass starts at 5:30am while the last mass is at 6pm.
Best For: Art lovers, History fans, Religious
Highlights: - It’s intricately sculptured facade features St. Christopher holding onto a coconut tree with the
Child Jesus on his back. A stone statue of St. Thomas of Villanueva is situated on top of the church doors, as
well as other intricate designs. - Inside the church is a gold-plated retablo with the tabernacle being finished in
98% gold and silver.
Activity Tip: Stroll along the church grounds. You’ll find a historical marker that details the history of Miagao
Church and at the rear side of the church, you’ll find the original image of St. Thomas of Villanova from the
1790s.

8. Go island hopping at Concepcion

If we talk about Iloilo and beaches, people will probably have Islas de Gigantes at the top of their minds.
However, there are more beaches in Iloilo than one might think. Aside from Gigantes Islands, Northern Iloilo
has much to boast. Concepcion group of islands is just as magnificent! Divided into 16 white sand islands, these
patches of paradise are connected by the clear blue waters of the Visayan Sea. The area is also spotted with
green hilltops and mountains half-drowned in the azul waters, as colorful marine life decorate the seas.
Location: Concepcion, Iloilo
Best For: Beach bums, Barkadas
Highlights: - The beautiful islands of Concepcion all have white sandbars, clear blue waters, and a landscape
like no other. Imagine basking in the sun with a mountain range as your backdrop. It’s a true piece of paradise! -
Aside from the beautiful beaches, the marine life in the waters of Concepcion is majestic. You’ll find a lot of
impressive coral reefs and colorful fish species.
Activity Tips: - One of the best things to do in Iloilo is to go island hopping in Concepcion! Rent a boat with
your friends and visit the beautiful Concepcion islands to see what each beach shore has to offer! - Go
snorkeling! When the white sand shore and the clear waters aren’t enough, bring the party under water. Just
don’t forget to bring your own gear.

9. Appreciate the well-preserved marine life at San Joaquin

Located on the southern tip of Iloilo, San Joaquin boasts of rich marine life. Facing the Panay Gulf, which is
considered Marine Protected Areas, San Joaquin offers great scuba diving spots that tourists will enjoy.
Location: San Joaquin, Iloilo
Fee(s): Diving rates range from PHP20,000 to 25,000 inclusive of equipment, training and boat transfers.
Operation Hours: Shop hours 9am to 7:45pm
Best For: Scuba divers, Adventurous
Highlights: - The marine life in San Joaquin is one of a kind. Since these are preserved and protected areas,
you’ll find some of the most beautiful coral reefs and sea creatures in the area. - Given the rich marine life,
seafood in this area is just as good! Expect to get delicious, fresh seafood on a budget in San Joaquin.
Activity Tips: - Go scuba diving! It’s the best thing to do in the area, as well as snorkeling. - Try shrimp
catching! Ask one of the local fishermen to teach you how to catch shrimp, then have them for lunch -- the best
part!

10. Go hiking at Bucari Pine Forest

Known as Iloilo’s “Little Baguio”, Bucari in the town of Leon offers a shift from the usual warm, sunny climate
of the province. The colder weather and highland attractions, make this place a popular among tourists.
Especially those looking for an adventure. Hike and bike trails are available in the area, and the views from the
top are worth the trek up!
Location: Bucari, Leon, Iloilo
Operation Hours: Jeepney rides from Iloilo City to Leon Town Plaza run from 7am and the last trip back to
town is at 2pm.
Best For: Nature lovers, Adventurous
Highlights: - The cool climate in Bucari is what brings tourists to the area! Already dubbed as the Summer
Capital of Iloilo, the pine trees and cold weather make tourists and locals feel like they’re in Baguio. - The view
from the top of the Mansiga Viewing Deck is just breathtaking, you’ll forget how tired you are from the hike
up.
Activity Tips: - Going on a hike/ trek up the mountains of Bucari is one of the best things to do in Iloilo. At
least on this side of the province. Visit Puting Bato too, which offers some of the best views of the area. - Swim
in the waters of Imoy Falls. On your down from the hike, pass by this series of small waterfalls and be
rejuvenated after a long tiring adventure.

11. Go spelunking at Pawikan Cave

Cave exploring is one of the more adventurous things to do in Iloilo and no better place to do it than Pawikan
Cave. This Iloilo tourist spot gets its name from the large egg-shaped rock found at the bottom of the cave,
resembling a giant turtle’s eggs. It is also best known for several more rock formations found at the heart of the
cave. Chambers make the adventure more exciting, especially since only rays of little light from creases
hundreds of feet up the cave opening light the area.
Location: Gigantes, Northern Iloilo
Fee(s): P500
Best For: Adventurous, Nature lovers
Highlights: - The rock formations inside this wide cave are stunning. - The history of the cave makes the trip
even more interesting. From being home to ancestral spirits to the resting place of the Yamashita treasure, many
tales have been said about the area. Ask your guide about these stories.
Activity Tips: - Make sure you wear the right outfit and shoes. The climb up the cave entrance is very steep, so
make sure you’re dressed appropriately. - If you are suffering from health problems or have issues with cardio
and stamina, think twice before going on the trip.

12. Swim in a natural saltwater lagoon

A hidden patch of paradise within paradise, this is what Tangke Lagoon is. It’s a natural saltwater pool hidden
in the cliffs of Gigantes Island. The clear, blue-green waters are almost unrealistic and the rock formations,
majestic -- it’s like a scene of the movie “The Beach.”
Location: Isla Gigantes Sur, Carles, Iloilo
Fee(s): P100 (entrance fee), P1,500 (tour package starting price)
Best For: Nature lovers, Adventurous
Highlights: - The view from the top of the limestone cliffs that surround the waters is breathtaking! The blue-
green-ish waters and the limestone formations that surround it make the perfect postcard photo of your Iloilo
trip. - You’d need to trek the limestone walls a bit to reach the top and be able to enter the lagoon. Don’t worry
though, your guide/ boat men should be able to help you out.
Activity Tips: - Swim in the clear waters of the lagoon! Relax and appreciate the beauty of nature. - Go cliff
diving! Conquer your fears and take the great leap. Be it inside the lagoon (during high tide) or into the sea, it
will be an experience you’d never forget!
13. Celebrate Christmas at Pototan’s Iwag Festival of Lights
Dubbed as the “Christmas Capital of Western Visayas”, the Pototan Plaza is turned into a village of lights
during the holidays. The most spacious plaza in Iloilo is glittered with Christmas lights, decorations, and
banderitas. The Iwag Festival of Lights also highlights the plaza’s features including the mahogany trees, man-
made lagoon, the gazebo, and the Pototan Coliseum.
Location: Pototan, Iloilo
Fee(s): FREE
Operation Hours: 24 hours
Best For: Families, Barkadas
Highlight: During the Iwag Festival of Lights, the plaza turns into a Christmas village with lights and decors
adorning the area!
Activity Tips: - Best to visit this area during the holiday season, when the plaza is adorned with Christmas
lights at every corner. - Several markers and monuments are found in the plaza celebrating the history of
Pototan and their struggle for freedom from the hands of the Spanish and Americans.