Philippines Hotels and Resorts

The coastline of Negros Occidental is more irregular than that of its sister province, Negros Oriental. The northern and western parts are largely level plains and gently rolling slopes while the remaining portion is particularly a land of sierras of varying elevations. Mt. Kanlaon, which rises to an elevation of about 8,100 feet, is the highest peak in the province, and is considered also be the highest in central Philippines. Other mountains are Mt. Mandalagan and Mt. Silay.

Across the Guimaras Strait from Iloilo is Negros Occidental, sugar capital of the Philippines. Bacolod, the province's capital city has three challenging golf courses, making it the golfing center in the Visayas.

Convention facilities are also available with the opening of the Bacolod Convention Plaza. And in October, the smiles of the people of Bacolod widen during the Masskara Festival. Masskara, meaning "many faces" was conceived to boost the local people's morale during the height of an economic depression which hit the province in 1980.0.

TRANSPORTATION

By air; Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific fly to Manila to Bacolod City daily.

By sea, Negros Navigation Company links Manila to Bacolod City at least three times a week.

Bacolod City is 50 minutes from Manila by plane. 30 minutes by plane from Cebu. By boat from Manila is 20 hours and 55 minutes by fast craft from Iloilo and 1 hour by hydrofoil. By land from Cebu, it is approximately 7 hours away.

SNAPSHOTS

Gen. Anicento Lacson's House (Talisay) - The historical mansion of Gen. Anicento, the Negrense hero who together with Gen. Juan Araneta led a revolution on November 5, 1898. It is 7.3 km. away from Bacolod City or a 20 minute ride by jeepney.

Ramon Residence (Bacolod City) - Located on Burgos St., Wartime residence of General Tagaishi Kono, Provincial Commander of the Japanese Imperial Army in Negros with supervision over Panay Island.

Provincial Capitol (Bacolod City) - Located in front of park & lagoon, used to be the seat of provincial government of Negros Occidental. This Roman neo-classical building was done in 1931. It is acclaimed to be the most imposing building in the whole island of Negros.

Provincial Jail (Bacolod City) - Located on Gatuslao St., one of the surviving works initiated by Fr. Fernando Cuenca who came to Negros in 1848. This used to be the fortress of the Negrenses during World War II.

Western Visayas Regional Hospital (Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Hospital) - Located on Lascon St., established in 1927 with only thirty beds for a start.

Leon Guinto's House (Talisay) - Residence of the first mayor of Manila, Leon Guinto. Has a collection of antique furniture and fixtures.

Cinco De Noviembre Marker (Silay City) - The spot where the first exchange of shots between the Filipino and Spanish soldiers took place during the one-day revolution of November 5, 1898. This is also the approximate location of the then public square where the northern forces under Gen. Lacson assembled and raised the Philippine flag.

Gen. Juan Araneta's Monument (Bago City Plaza) - Erected in memory of the general who led the Negrense forces from the south during the one-day revolution against Spain in 1898.

Rizal Elementary School (Bacolod City) - Located on Araneta St., it was constructed by the Americans in 1901. The school became the first one established in the city.

Andres Bonifacio Elementary School (Bacolod City) - Located on Bonifacio St., it served as the garrison for enemy-alien during World War II.

Apolinario Mabini Elementary School (Bacolod City) - Located on Mabini St., it once used as the headquarters of the Japanese Army.

Patag Settlement (Patag, Silay City) - A valley of about 1,034 feet above sea level, 32 km. from Bacolod City with a travel time of one hour and 20 minutes by jeep. In this area, the last stronghold of the Japanese Imperial Army fought their last against the Filipino-American soldiers in the whole Western Visayas region. Some 15,000 Japanese soldiers were killed and hundred Filipino-American soldiers gave their lives in liberating this historic area.A wide Japanese altar has been constructed in honor of those who died during WWII, and often visited by Japanese soldiers and their widows/children.

Ramon Hofilena Residence - Located at #145 de Noviembre St., Silat City. Typical example of the Philippine ancestral home built at the turn of the century.

CHAPELS AND CHURCHES

San Antonio Abad Church (Lizares Subd., Bacolod City) - This crown-shaped church feature stations of the cross done by Bacolod's top artist. Also features an altar sculpture "The Risen Christ" done by national artist, Solomon Saprid.

Sta. Clara Chapel (Sta. Clara Subd. Bacolod City) - Features mural of the Blessed Virgin Mary which is a cottage of 95,000 piece of locally available shells carefully art, sandered and particularly mounted. Features also the Stations of the Cross and images of the saints etched out of the shells. Thirty thousand species of Philippine shells were used. Chapel was built in 1983.

San Sebastian Cathedral (Downtown Bacolod) - This is one hundred ten years cathedral initiated by Father Fernando Cuenca (sent by Gov. Claveria to establish a central capital in the island) is primarily made of corals taken from nearby Guimara's island.

Palacio Episcoral (Bishop's Place) - Located at Downtown Bacolod. Older than the Cathedral by approximately 50 years, built in 1830 at a cost of P 10,000.00. Has seen the rise and fall of foreign powers in the province, and is presently the seat of diocese of the province.

The Church of Saint Joseph, the Worker (Church of the Angry Christ) - Located at Victorias Milling Company Compound Victorias. Once featured in the Life Magazine as the Church of the Angry Christ. A unique church with bits of broken pop bottles forming mosaic and with murals depicting Christ and the saints as brown-skinned Filipinos. The altar mural is one in a psychedelic splash of primary colors, printed in Belgian-born artist, Ade de Buthune.

Hda. Rosalia Chapel (Chapel of the Cartwheels) - Located in Manapla, probably the most nature-looking of all the Philippine churches, this chapel's farming motif reveals as facade of stylized "salakot" made of wood. The walls are made of discarded carabao cartwheels. Usual image of Christ on the cross is modified by a Christ on a cartwheel.

Valladolid Church (Valladolid) - The size of the church and the convent, which was built by the Recollects missionaries in 1851, support some views that the church authorities during those days were the most powerful in running the affairs of the government all throughout the country.

Church of Our Lady of Peace (La Carlota City) - In the heart of downtown of La Carlota, this century old church is a living witness to the devotion of the predominantly Catholic La Carlotenos. The church has the distinction of one of the very few churches of romanesque architectural design in the province.

Features of this fortress church is the lavish use of bricks and coral stones and is considered to be one of the most architecturally beautiful church in the province.

Scenic Bohol casts an enigmatic charm drawn from the many archaic mementos spread throughout the oval-shaped island - from unique rock formations to a 45 - million - year - old mammal species, from massive sotne watchtowers built by the Spaniards in the 18th century. Surrounding the mailand are 73 other smaller offshore islands ans islets whose pal - fringed coastlines are rimmed by white sand and sheltering coves. Serpentine coastal highway wing aling unsullied beaches and rustic rivers where the tourist can stop at any point and jump in for a dip.

Bohol is the perfect arena for scuba diving, kayaking, trekking and cave exploration. For the less adventurous, it offers leisurely pursuits like cruising, swimming, snorkeling or, simply, collecting seashells by the seashore.

Town visits promise exciting culturak treats that include scheduled performances by the Treatro Bolanon Dimiao Rondalla, Diwanag Dance Theater and the award-winning Loboc Children's Choir.

Bohol is an anchor tourist destination and one of the 7,000 times more islands that make up the Philippines archipelago.

Gem of an Island - Bohol is like a jade brooch set on a velvet-blue sea. Its fertile land has hills that roll gently around lush forests and grassy meadows. Marine life - from schools of tiny reef fish to bigger pods of dolphins and whales - teem in the surrounding waters.

Located east of Cebu and southwest of Leyte in the Philippines' Centrak Visayas region, Bohol is bounded on the north by the Camotes Sea, int he west by the Cebu Strait, and on the South by the Bohol Sea.

Covering an area of 4,117 squate kilometers, it is essentially an agricultural province, with rice, coconut and corn as main produce. Fishing is a major industry.

Bohol 's hadicrafts are famous throughout the country. These include mats and baskets, raffia woven cloth, fashion accessories, woodcraft, processed food, and ceramics.

Awesome Hills - Chocolate Hills is a series pf 1,268 perfectly symmetrical, haycock - shaped hills that rise some 30 meters above the ground. A National Geologic Monument, these unique, rock formations were cast after million years of evolution.

Spread out in the towns of Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan, the hills are so-called because they resemble chocolate bonbons when their grass cover turns to brown at the onset of summer. Two of the hills have been developed and provided with facilities, including a viewdeck, a youth hostel and a restaurant.

Other hills with a commanding view of the surrounding islands include Banat - l and Elly in the capital city of Tagbilaran, Himontagon in the town of Loay, Sampoangan in Calape and Ilihan in Jagna.

Surreal Caves - With its limestone foundation, the province of Bohol is also known as "Cave Country." An average of 30 caves are found in each ofits 47 towns, many of them still unexplored. It is said that Bohol got its name from the word boho, meaning "hole" [ the term boho really means hole from which spring water usually gush forth, common in many coastak areas of this island.]

The Francisco Dagohoy Cave in the town of Danao is especially noted for its historical role. It was once the headquarters of the Boholano patriot Dagohoy who led an extended rebellion against Spain starting in the first half of the 1700's. One of the many crystal-studded passages within the cave's maze has an underwater route leading to dry land, Local lore has it that every time Spaniards would enter the cave, Dagohoy would dive under and hide in the breathing space.

The largest cave, however, is Sudlon. Nestled in a lovely mountain environment, it hosts a huge population of bats which emerge like vast stormy clouds at dusk.

Dive into the Deep - One of Asia's finest diving destinations, Bohol boasts of an undersea panorama filled with impressive coral gardens teeming with marine life.

The dive sites of Bohol are noted for their deep, steep walls - the creation of continental shifts during prehistoric times. Just over the causeway from Tagbilaran is Panglao Island with its spectacular drop-offs.

The crab - shaped is yet another popular diving destination. Pamilican, which means "resting place of the mantras," is also boted for its big whales called "balilan" and the highly prized rare seashell Gloria Maris. Pantudlan in Cabilao Island is frequented by many foreign diving enthusiasts.

Trek through Wild Country - The Tarsier Trail is a pathway from where one may become acquainted with a wide variety of local flora and fauna, including the tiniest primate on Earth.

Covering a distance of roughly 15 kilometers, the trail meanders through the gently rolling terrain of the interior towns of Corella, Sikatuna and Loboc. It traverses the natural habitat of the Philippines tarsier, one of Earth's oldest mammal inhabitants. A 45 - million - year old prosimian species, it is popularly known as "the worlds smallest monkey."

Going deeper into the trail crosses over into Loboc River. Here, bamboo rafts are for rent, from where one may glide down the placid, green river to the seaport of Loay. One can also partake of a native seafood buffet or a hearty snack in any of the floating restaurants that cruise on the river.

Trained volunteer guides, mostly college students from Tagbilaran, bring trekkers through the 134 - hectare forested area that has been set aside as the Tarsier Sanctuary.

A Whiff of History - During the 16th century, a "Treaty of friendshop" was forged between the brown and white races, sealed by the blood compact of the Boholano chieftain Datu Sikatuna and the Spanish Captain Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.

Some 302 years of Spanish rule followed after the treaty. It was a rude bathed with sweat and tears, as native sons plodded in hard labor building massive fortresses and grand colonial churches. More blood was also shed in the many attempts to free the motherland from the shackles or Spanish domination. To this day, there still stands in Bohol many structures that serve as mute testimonials to its rich historic past.

Baclayon Church, is the best preserved Jusuit - built church in the region, although its facade and most of the stone structures surrounding it were built by the Augustinian Recollects in the late 19th century. The Christian community organized by the Jesuits on November 17, 1596 and thereafter a visita was erected on the site. Baclayon was canonically raised to the status of a parish only in 1717, the present stone church was completed in 1727. The Casa parroquial was built by the Augustinian recollects in 1872. An ecclesiastical museum was established in 1969/70. It’s narthex has the cuadro paintings of the historically acclaimed Filipino painter Liberato Gatchalian. Paintings were executed in 1859. Declared a national historical landmark in 1995 by the National Historical Institute. Its convent has been transformed into a museum and houses priceless religious artifacts.

Other mission churches of architectural distinction include Dauis Church with its beautiful frescoes, Loboc Church with its three-story convent, Panglao Church with its ornate antiquities and ceiling murals, Loon Church, the most stunning church built by the Recollect Friars, and the 19 th century Maribojoc Church.

Also found in the town of Maribojoc is the ancient Punta Cruz watchtower which used to serve as a look-out for marauding pirates. It now serves as a view deck and offers a picturesque vista of the Mindanao Sea and the provinces of Cebu and Siquijor. Other watchtowers of note can be found in the towns of Loay, Balilihan and Pamilacan Island.

Island Flavors - At the market, one can have a pick of the day’s fresh sea catch and have them cooked home-style at any of the food stalls.

There are also fishermen, whose bancas coast along the resort row, selling Neptune’s bounty for instant grills. A river cruise through pastoral Cambuhat River in Buenavista leads one to the oysters farms from where one can indulge in real fresh “slipper oysters.” The hotels and resorts have their own dining outlets which can also prepare picnic baskets upon request.

Warm Hospitality - Filipinos do not simply provide the guest with a place to rest or part their luggage; they also share the best of what they have. This warm, effusive brand of hospitality is what distinguishes Philippine hotels from the others.

In Bohol, the traveler has a pick of accommodations to choose from, depending on one’s budget and needs. There are accommodations ranging from plush hotels to cozy pensions, from luxurious resorts to the more tailors “SIR” (special interest resorts), which cater to specific sporting needs.

Bohol can be reached daily by Super Fast Sea Ferries from Cebu, the regional transportation hub, although it can also be reached by direct flights and by ship from Manila, the international travel capital.

Asian Spirit fields direct flights form the Manila Domestic Airport to the Tagbilaran Domestic Airport four times a week. Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific have several daily flights from the Manila Domestic Airport to the Cebu – Mactan International Airport. From the Cebu City wharf, there are many scheduled trips daily for the Tagbilaran seaport by super fast ferries.

After a swim in the sea, you can engage in relaxing activities. Comb the beaches on horseback. Play an exciting game of volleyball. Get on an outrigger and sail to the other side of the island. Swim over to the floating bar and cool off with a cocktail. Or
hop around one beach to another and enjoy the easy-going atmosphere.

After sunset, the island transforms into one exciting night of dancing and partying. But don't take our word for it, Boracay is an island you have to experience yourself.

For many certified sun-worshippers the world over, paradise goes by the name Boracay. For indeed, many visitors have come back to Boracay year after tear. Some have even chosen to live in this paradise island.

Sheltered from the fierce easterly typhoons, Boracay can be found at the northwestern tip of Panay, in the west Visayas region, off the Sibuyan Sea. Boracay has managed to pack its thousand-hectare area with all the elements of a tropical paradise--crystal blue waters, powder white sand, liberal doses of tropical palms and flowering plants, and a healthy marine life underneath the seas.

Boracay is made up of three little communities: Yap in the north, Balabag in the middle, and Manoc- manoc in the south. Hilly elevations up to 100 meters above sea level characterize Yapak and Manoc-manoc. Intertwining trails link the small villages together but may sometimes lead to lush tropical jungles. Electricity and public transportation remain relatively scare.

Boracay would have remained a national secret if not far a few foreign travelers whom accidentally stumbled upon the place. Some say it was a movie crew, which spread word about Boracay to other sun worshippers. Other swear it was German traveler Jens Peters' book, which included rare reviews about Boracay, that sent tourists on their way. Whichever tale is true, Boracay has become a melting pot for beach loceers. At any point in the islands, visitors can hear English, German and French spoken fluently. More importantly, visitors respect the serene quality of the place, and pay tribute to native Boracaynons by behaving according to local behavioral codes-which means no nudity, no fighting, and no loud commotion's.

Not surprisingly, the culinary fare at Boracay is as diverse as the nationalities of its
visitors. French, Australian, Belgian, German, Spanish and Thai-they're all here side by side the native cuisine. Lending ample support to this virtual rainbow of fruit shakes: from sweet yellow mango, greens tart.

How To Get There? - Take a flight to Manila. You may have to spend a night in Manila on your outward journey because onward flights to Boracay are limited. Fly Philippine Airlines from Manila (Domestic Airport) to Kalibo Airport. (The flight takes 30 minutes and costs about 3,000 Philippine peso return). From Kalibo Airport takes the air-conditioned bus to Caticlan and the boat from Caticlan harbor to Boracay (the bus trip takes 90 minutes and the boat 30 minutes; combined ticket Pp140). Various charter companies fly direct from Manila to Caticlan Airport (Pp4, 000 return; 60-90 minutes). As there is no jetty on Boracay, you have to wade ashore from the boat, so wear something suitable.

Where To Eat? - There are four miles of beachfront restaurants with every kind of food you can imagine: Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Korean, as well as Filipino.

What To Bring? - You need very few clothes. Beach clothes/towels can be bought on the island. Sweet pants and tops are useful if you go at Christmas, when it can get cool at night.

Money - Take a mixture of American dollars in traveler's cheques and cash. Change some
money at Manila International Airport where the rate is better than on Boracay. Credit
cards are accepted in some locations on Boracay. Safety deposit boxes for valuables
are available at the Tourist Centre on Boracay.

Activities - Wind Surfing, Diving, Sailing, Mountain Biking, Beach Volleyball and other beach sports, sunbathing, INSO DISCO - Lorenzo Main, Restaurant Hopping and Bar Hopping.

CEBU - metamorphosed in more ways than one, but always for the better. From a sleepy fishing village to a fledging trading port in 1521, from the first Spanish settlement named Villa del Santisimo Nombre de Jesus in 1575 to a municipality in 1901, Cebu finally became a chartered city on February 24, 1937. Being the first and oldest city in the country, ante-dating Manila by 7 years, having the oldest school and oldest street and being the cradle of Christianity in the Far East (i.e. Magellan's cross planted in Cebu as a symbol of natives embracing the Christian faith), Cebu is replete with historical first's.

The streeets of Tres de Abril and V. Rama were the sites of a fierce battle on April 3, 1898 when General Leon Kilat of Bacong, Negros Oriental spearheaded the revolution against Spanish colonialism.

The Spaniards sought refuge at the Fort San Pedro and three days of relentless attacks would have spelledd victory for the rebels were it not for the propitious arrival of the Spanish armada.

Miguel Lopez de Legazpi then urged his men to construct the oldest and smallest fort in the country: Fort San Pedro. As Spain intensified its colonization efforts, indifnant islanders showed opposition by way of intermittent attacks against the colonizers. Thus the rebellion paved the way to the construction of Fort San Pedro, a Spanish military stronghold.

However, the fort fell to the hands of the native Cebuanos when Americans commanded by Commodore George Dewey vanquished the Spanish fleet in December 1898 in the battle of Manila Bay. With the American reign in full force in 1901, then Senate Pro Tempore and late President Sergio Osmeña, Sr. and then Congressman and majority floor leader in the House of Representatives, the late Senator Manuel Briones vigorously lobbied for Philippine Independence.

February 24, 1937 was a milestone in Cebuano history as Cebu City was granted its charter by virtue of Commonwealth Act No. 58 enacted by Congress on October 20, 1936. The late Senator Vicente Rama, formerly representative of Cebu's 3rd district was isntrumental as author and sponsor of the bill. It was at that time that Secretary of Interior Elpidio Quirino appointed the mayor and board members of Cebu City in his capacity as representative of Manuel Quezon.

Shortly after the landing of the Japanese Army in Cebu City on April 10, 1942, the entire province became the principal Japanese base due to its strategic location and substantial population. Cebu finally saw the light of freedom in March 1945 when American liberation forces landed in Talisay town. Liberation came in full circle in March 1946 and to restore law and order, a civil government dubbed as Philippine Civil Affairs Unit (PCAU) was established in the city.

In April 1965, the entire Christian world focused its attention on Cebu City, considered as the cradle of Christianity in the Far East as it played host to teh 40th Anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines. The celebration highlighted the contributions of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Fray Andres de Urdaneta in proselytizing Christianity by way of establishing a Spanish settlement in the province. In a coutnry where Catholics predominate, the conferment of the San Agustin Church to the title Basilica Minore del Santo Niño proved to be a momentous occasion as Rome sent its representative Papal Legate, His Eminence Ildefonso Cardinal Antonuitte.

DIALECT - Cebuano is the dialect in the province, which is also widely spoken in the Visayas and Mindanao. Tagalog and English are also spoken and understood.

POLITICAL SUBDIVISION - The five major cities in Cebu province are Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, Danao and Toledo; while there are 48 towns or municipalities. Facing Bohol Strait is the island's capital, Cebu City and historic Mactan Island lies just across the city's harbor.

Cebu City is bounded by the city of Mandaue and the municipality of Consoalcion in the north; city harbor and Bohol Strait in the east; Talisay town in the south and Toledo City in the west. Of the 73 barangays comprising the city, 30 are categorized as mountain barangays with land area totaling 27,797 hectares. There are 6 congresional districts, 3 component cities, namely: Lapulapu, Danao and Toledo; 2 highly urbanized cities: Cebu and Mandaue; 48 municipalities; and 1,122 barangays.

SPECIAL INTEREST

FIRING RANGE - A tourist come-on, located in Barangay Pusok, Lapulapu City, for pistol-shooting enthusiasts.

GUITAR FACTORIES, Maribago District, Lapulapu City - One can see actually how guitars are made. It is amazing, however, to note that while the occupation of the people is in that Mactan District, the raw materials used have to be shipped from Mindanao and nowhere on the island can be found such materials.

CEBU BOTANICAL GARDEN, Camp Marina, Capitol Hills - Plant hobbyist can see a collection of greenery.

R & M PRESERVE, V. Rama Avenue, Guadalupe - A processing plant for fruit preserves like mango, orange, papaya, jackfruits, etc.

FIESTAS AND FESTIVAL

SINULOG - Celebrated every 3rd Sunday of January, Sinulog is Cebu's biggest and most popular festival. The feast is in honor of the Holy Image of Senyor Santo Niño de Cebu. Fiesta Senyor, as it is widely known, is the most celebrated among Cebu's festival where people converge along the routes of a grand solemn procession and partake in the gaiety amidst a mardi gras parade immersed in with colors and the constant beating of drums.

TRES DE ABRIL CELEBRATION - Celebrated every 3rd of April in commemoration of the Spanish resistance in the south. This historic battle under Leon Kilat's leadership gave Cebu the glory of being the first major island outside Luzon to oppose Spanish dominance.

SANAYON - Agro-tourism festival in the southern towns of the second district about 100 kms. from the city. A month-long activity to spread out tourism to the coutryside.

PASKUHAN, Cebu City/Province-wide - A christmas celebration of songs and lantern-making held during the month of December to spread good cheer to local residents and visitors alike.

KADAUNGAN SA MACTAN, Lapulapu City - A one-day reenactment celebrated with pomp and pageantry every 27th of April to commemorate the historic battle of Mactan between the forces of Lapulapu and Ferdinand Magellan.

SEMANA SANTA SA BANTAYAN, Bantayan Island - A unique mixture of solemn religious rites and local celebration highlights the Holy Week activities in Bantayan Island. The normally quiet island is visited by relatives and friends of the residents, as well as tourists to experience the solemn rites or to cool off the summer heat in the beautiful white sandy beaches and clear tropical waters.

TAGBO, Poro, Cebu - Celebrated every January in honor of Patron Santo Niño de Poro. Beloved memoir of a living past, Tagbo is the cornerstone from which this great municipality has sprung. Rich in cultural heritage and deep in spiritual values, Tagbo is a very significant event preluding the birth of a town every dear to the hearts of her sons and daughters.

CARCAR FIESTA, Carcar, Cebu - Celebrated on November 24-25 in honor of the town's patron, St. Catherine of Alexandria. Carcar town is noted for its old Spanish style houses in the quiet coutnryside setting. During the fiestas, the residents would invite friends, relatives and town visitors into their homes to taste popular local delicacies. A lively and enjoyable event.

NUESTRA SEÑORA DE REGLA FIESTA, Lapulapu City - Held to honor the patroness of Opon on November 20-21, this religious and social event reveals faith of the people and the penchant for merry making. A food fair, carnival, procession and a coronation of the Fiesta Queen highlight the festivity.

Guimaras, considered one of the exotic islands in the Philippines; believed to have been once part of the Panay group of islands. Original name was Himal-us. Once a sub-province of Iloilo, Guimaras was proclaimed as a regular and full-pledged province on May 22, 1992. It has 5 towns, with Jordan town as the capital. Located southwest of Panay Island and northwest of Negros Island, it has a land area of 604.65 sq. km. It has dry and wet season and population is estimated at 117,990. Hiligaynon is the native dialect but the residents also write and speak English and Pilipino, the national language. The province is basically agricultural with palay, coconut, mango, vegetables, livestock, poultry and fishing as major products. Its major industries are tourism, fruit processing, coconut processing, handicrafts making, mining, quarrying and lime production.

Transportation Establishment
1. Fel-am Transport Ferry Service - Muelle Loney St., Iloilo CityOrtiz
2. Pumpboats (leave every 30 mins.) - Wharf or Parola Wharf, Iloilo
3. FF Cruz RORO Service
4. Pumpboats to Negros Occ. - City Muelle Loney St., Iloilo City
5. Ferry to Palawan

Note: Restaurants, recreational facilities, shopping centers, banks, money changers, hospitals, clinics, communication facilities are also provided in the island.

LOCATION - Located 238 statute miles from Manila, Iloilo is the gateway of the Western Visayas Region. The province comprises the southeastern part of Panay Island.

Iloilo is 55 minutes by plane from Manila, 30 minutes from Cebu, 90 minutes from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and one hour 45 minutes away from Gen. Santos City.

Should you opt to go by sea, Sulpicio Lines, Negros Navigation and Aboitiz have ships plying from Manila (19 hours), Cagayan De Oro City (16 hours), Zamboanga City (14 hours), Cotabato (26 hours), Bacolod (a 2-hour ferry service), and Guimaras (a 20-minute ferry pumpboat service).

Natural boundaries, such as mountain ranges with peaks as high as 7,000 ft., lie between Iloilo and Antique on the west and Capiz on the north.

Mainland Iloilo is composed of plain interspersed with upland portions. The capital, Iloilo City, rests between the Iloilo and Batino rivers which from the angle of a nose.

This location is the root of the province's old name, ilong-ilong which means "noselike".

CLIMATE - The climate is tropical, with two pronounced seasons: rainy from June to Septmeber and dry, from October to May.

LANGUAGE - Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) is the major dialect, although English and Tagalog are also widely spoken and understood, especially in urban areas.

POLITICAL SUBDIVISION - Iloilo is made up of the city and 43 municipalities, and divided into five congressional districts. Iloilo province has 1,720 barangays.

MAJOR INDUSTRIES - Iloilo province is primarily the commercial and trade center of Western Visayas, with commercial, industrial development and rural banks, financial and investment houses, insurance companies, and realestate agencies and developers. Nevertheless, agriculture is the province's main source of livelihood. In fact, Iloilo's production of rice, sugar and mango has made it one of the country's top agricultural producers.

Fishing is the second biggest industry, for Iloilo has rich fishing grounds. This is the site of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center which conducts researches on the spawning of milkfish and prawns; and the University of Philippines (Miag-ao) which is the center of marine and aquatic studies in the Philippines. The multi-million peso Iloilo Fish Port also helps maximize the production of inland and deep-sea fisheries in Western Visayas.

The Iloilo Commercial Port Complex, the first island pier in the country, is a multi- purpose port terminal which caters to both domestic and foreign containerized and convention sites.

Cottage industries include pottery, ceramics-making, weaving, woodcraft and handicraft.

FESTIVALS AND HISTORICAL SITES

Iloilo's is a byword for its famous festival - the Dinagyang, a local mardigras. Held every January in honor of the Infant Jesus, the festival is a major tourist attraction. Another even Iloilo is known for is the Paraw Regatta. Which is participated in by local and foreign sportsmen.

Iloilo is a trove of historical sites. Tour the province's famous sunset strip, Fort San Pedro or the flower-decked La Villa Rica de Arevalo, site of the Hispanic governance. Or one can visit another historical landmark, Plaza Libertad in the central city district where the flag of the Philippine revolutionaries was first raised upon Spain's final surrender. Old paintings, tapestries, furniture and memorabilia may be viewed in the Museo Iloilo and also in private galleries deeo in the heart of the city.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Museo Iloilo - An impressive collection of Iloilo's cultural heritage which includes stone age native pottery; fossils; jewelry; burial sites; trade pottery from China, Annam and Siam; era photos. Mementos and war relics; a British sunken ship; Spanish-era Filipino sculpture; and modern art done by Ilonggo artists and craftmen.

Jaro - A district 3 kms. away from the city where one can see the old colonial homes of sugar barons and Spanish - Filipino mansions of the rich. Other attraction : the antique shops and its being the seat of Catholicism in Western Visayas.

Jaro Cathedral - This seat of the Jaro Arch bishoric is approximately 3 kms. from the city proper. Miag-ao Church. Declared a national landmark in 1973 through P.D. 260, this church has an architectural style reminiscent of the Aztecs. It was built in 1786 and is located 40 kms. south west of Iloilo City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage lister.

Sta. Barbara Golf Course - Located 16 kms. north of Iloilo City, this 37-hectare, 18-hole course built in 1907 is the oldest in the Philippines.

Panay Liberation Market - The market commemorates the American libreation of Panay Island from the japanese invaders in 1945.

Janiuay Cemetery - Built in 1875, this famous Spanish-Filipino cemetery is made of cut stone and fossil rocks and features three imposing stairways and two Gothic doors. Its is 32 kms. from the city.

Sicogon Island - Five kilometers away from the Estancia town proper is this 1,104-hectare palm fringed island with while sand beaches.

LEYTE - is one of the country's historic provinces. It is the site of uprising against the Spaniards and the famous landing of US forces during World War II.

This historical consciousness is reflected in Leyte's seal, with stars symbolizing the 49 towns of the province and an alphabet on cross argent representing the ancient letter L. A white cross indicates the second phase of Leyte's development, when Magellan passed through enroute to Cebu; while the upper portion commemorates the landing of Gen. Douglas MacArthur through a perspective of the National Freedom Park.

The capital city of Tacloban is the most important seaport on the eastern coast, while Ormoc City is the outlet on the western coast.

The Leyte Provincial Capitol in Tacloban became the seat of the Commonwealth during the Liberation of 1944.

GETTING THERE. By air, Philippine Airline has at least one flight to Tacloban City daily; travel time is 1 hour and 10 minutes.By sea, Aboitiz Liner takes 36 hours, and only the ship departs from Manila three times a week. The days of departure are fixed a week before.

GETTING AROUND. Buses, jeepneys and tricycles are readily available to ferry the tourists to the various attractions in and around Leyte.

It has murals depicting the first Mass in Limasawa and Gen. MacArthur´s landing in Leyte. Price Mansion used to be General MacArthurs´s official headquarters, it is now the governor´s guesthouse. The Redoma Residence housed then President Osmeña.

The Tacloban City Hall is on topp of Kanhuraw Hill in front of Sto. Niño Church. At the foot of the hill is a landscaped garden with a statue of the Madonna of Peace which was donated by the Japanese people.

Sto. Niño Church houses the miraculos ivory image of the Child Jesus, parton saint of Tacloban and Leyte. The Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum has the image of the Holy Child by Fernando Amorsolo, paintings of the 14 Stations of the Cross by Filipino legend Malakas at Maganda The Adjacent People´s Center and Library contains dioramas fo the countrys ethnic groups and historical documents on Samar and Leyte, as well as a social hall and gymnasium. In Serin Disrict are lifesize concrete Stations of the Cross leading to an 18-ft statue of the Sacred Hearth of Jesus.

The Gen. Douglas MacArthur Landing Memorial in Red Beach, Palo, marks the spot where the American liberation forces landed. The Palo Cathedral was converted into an evacuation hospital for Allied forces during World War II. Hill 522 in Palo was the entrance to the first liberated town in 1944.

A Japanese ar Memorial Cementery is in Berauen, where one of the fiercest battles of the Liberation was fought. The Philippine-Japan Peace Memorial, a marker set by relatives of World War II Japanese soldiers, is in Ormoc City.

The city is also the site of Tongonan Hot Spring National Park which has a warm, medicinal swimming pool at an elevation of 2000 meter. Amid densely forrested hills sits Lake Danao National Park, which has the 3 km long lake said to be the habitat of the giant eel, at an elevation of 1600 meters.

San Juanico Bridge, which connects Leyte to Samar, is the longest and said to be the most beautifully designed bridge in the Philippines.

The Tacloban Festival is held every last week of June. It is kicked off by the Subiran Regatta, a sailboat race held at the eastern entrance of San Juanico Strait.Next is the Balyuan, a pageant reenacting the historical exchange of images between Basey, Samar, and Tacloban City. Then thre is Pintados Festival where participants paint their bodies and dance to the rhytht of bamboo sticks. On the last day is the city fiesta in honor of the Santo Niño de Leyte.

The Turogpo held every Black Saturday is the traditional contest of carabao (pasungay) and horses (paaway) in the town of Carigara.

The Leyte Landing Anniversary, every October 20, is usually attended by high-ranking government officials and the ambassadors of the united States, Japan and Australia. World War II veterans come on sentimental journeys.

Negros Oriental comprise 5,401 square kilometers of Negros Island's southeastern section, in the midpoint of the Central Visayas. Its capital, Dumaguete City, is popularly known as "The City of Gentle People!" It is a one-hour flight of 384 aerial miles south of Manila, 30 minutes from Cebu. Major passenger ships call regularly from most cities of the country.

Transportation - The Supercat catamaran is the latest, fastest (2 ¼ hours) and most modern sea transportation making three round trips everyday between Cebu and Dumaguete. Additional Fast Ferries include Delta Cat, Water Jet and Sea Angels Supercats and other Fast ferries travel to other islands as well. Negros Oriental is a province of peace, hospitality, adventure, charm and beauty.

DUMAGUETE, is the centerpoint of fun, shopping, business and nightlife. Silliman University, Lee Super Plaza shopping center and the Why Not /Music Box are a few of its vital landmarks.

Dumaguete is reputed as a University town. Silliman University is one of the best universities in the country.

The Ethno-Anthropological Museum is housed within its campus. Silliman University itself attracts a number of foreign students and also takes pride in the Luce Auditorium, the finest performing arts auditorium outside Manila.

The Provincial Capitol Dumaguete City was built in 1924. The Provincial Capitol houses the Governor's Office and other provincial government offices. Its architecture was patterned after the Capitol in the United States of America.

The main body is Grecian, while the columns are ionic. The first Provincial Capitol was an old residential house in the waterfront area of the city and was brought by the Provincial government in 1907.

Today, the Capitol stands as a picturesque site, fronting the beautifully shaded and landscaped gardens of the Freedom Park, lined with acacia trees and flowers. Nearby are three tennis courts, the Benigno Aquino Stage, and a fountain.

The Leyte Provincial Capitol in Tacloban became the seat of the Commonwealth during the Liberation of 1944.

It has murals depicting the first Mass in Limasawa and Gen. MacArthur´s landing in Leyte. Price Mansion used to be General MacArthurs´s official headquarters, it is now the governor´s guesthouse. The Redoma Residence housed then President Osmeña.

The Tacloban City Hall is on top of Kanhuraw Hill in front of Sto. Niño Church.

At the foot of the hill is a landscaped garden with a statue of the Madonna of Peace which was donated by the Japanese people.

Sto. Niño Church houses the miraculos ivory image of the Child Jesus, parton saint of Tacloban and Leyte. The Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum has the image of the Holy Child by Fernando Amorsolo, paintings of the 14 Stations of the Cross by Filipino legend Malakas at Maganda The Adjacent People´s Center and Library contains dioramas fo the countrys ethnic groups and historical documents on Samar and Leyte, as well as a social hall and gymnasium. In Serin Disrict are lifesize concrete Stations of the Cross leading to an 18-ft statue of the Sacred Hearth of Jesus.

The Gen. Douglas MacArthur Landing Memorial in Red Beach, Palo, marks the spot where the American liberation forces landed. The Palo Cathedral was converted into an evacuation hospital for Allied forces during World War II. Hill 522 in Palo was the entrance to the first liberated town in 1944.

A Japanese ar Memorial Cementery is in Berauen, where one of the fiercest battles of the Liberation was fought. The Philippine-Japan Peace Memorial, a marker set by relatives of World War II Japanese soldiers, is in Ormoc City.

The city is also the site of Tongonan Hot Spring NAtional PArk which has a warm, medicinal swimming pool at an elevation of 2000 meter. Amid densely forrested hills sits Lake Danao National Park, which has the 3 km long lake said to be the habitat of the giant eel, at an elevation of 1600 meters.

San Juanico Bridge, which connects Leyte to Samar, is the longest and said to be the most beautifully designed bridge in the Philippines.

The Tacloban Festival is held every last week of June. It is kicked off by the Subiran Regatta, a sailboat race held at the eastern entrance of San Juanico Strait.

Next is the Balyuan, a pageant reenacting the historical exchange of images between Basey, Samar, and Tacloban City. Then thre is Pintados Festival where participants paint their bodies and dance to the rhytht of bamboo sticks. On the last day is the city fiesta in honor of the Santo Niño de Leyte.

The Turogpo held every Black Saturday is the traditional contest of carabao (pasungay) and horses (paaway) in the town of Carigara.

The Leyte Landing Anniversary, every October 20, is usually attended by high-ranking government officials and the ambassadors of the united States, Japan and Australia. World War II veterans come on sentimental journeys.

Source of Information: Department of Tourism Philippines