District 1

 Guimbal
 Igbaras
 Miag-ao
 Oton
 San joaquin
 Tigbuan
 Tubungan

Iloilo city festivals

Dinagyang Festival: Held on the fourth Sunday of January, this world-renowned festival commemorates
the feast of the Santo Niño (Holy Child) and the pact between the native Ati and Malay settlers. The
word "Dinagyang" is derived from the Hiligaynon phrase "dag yang," meaning "to make a noise" or
"merrymaking." Featuring colorful costumes, energetic street dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere, the
Dinagyang Festival attracts millions of visitors from across the Philippines and around the world.

Bina Nog Festival: Celebrated in Lambunao, Iloilo, during the second week of January, this festival
culminates on the second Sunday with a cultural presentation highlighting the "Bina Nog" dance. This
courtship ritual dance mimics the movements of the "banog" bird (hawk). The festival honors the baby
Jesus and features various events, dance routine, performances and contests

Chinese New year Celebration - Iloilo City hosts numerous other festivals throughout the year, including
the Chinese New Year celebration, the Nuestra Señora de Candelaria Feast, and the Iloilo City Charter
Day. These events showcase the diversity of Iloilo's cultural influences and provide opportunities for
community bonding and celebration.

Churches in Iloilo

Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral: Located in Jaro, Iloilo City, this grand cathedral is a prominent landmark
and a testament to the city's rich colonial past. Its intricate design and imposing structure make it a
must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Jaro: This shrine is a popular pilgrimage site, attracting
devotees from all over the Philippines. It is known for its serene atmosphere and its devotion to Our
Lady of Fatima.

Molo Church (St. Anne Parish Church): This church, also known as the "Female Cathedral of the
Visayas," is renowned for its Gothic architecture and its collection of female saints lining the main aisle.
It was built in the 19th century and is considered one of the oldest churches in Iloilo.

San Agustin Church (Sambag, Jaro): This church, located in the Jaro district, is known for its Baroque
architecture and its historical significance. It was built in the 18th century and is a testament to the city's
rich colonial past.
St. Monica Church (Pavia): This church, located in the town of Pavia, is known for its beautiful
architecture made of red bricks. It is a popular destination for weddings and other special events.

Livelihood

Agriculture: Agriculture remains a vital sector in Iloilo, providing employment and contributing to the
city's food supply.

Tourism: Tourism has become increasingly important to Iloilo's economy, with the city attracting visitors
from across the Philippines and around the world.

Manufacturing: Iloilo has a growing manufacturing sector, producing a variety of goods, including
furniture, textiles, and food products.

Livelihood Programs: The city government and organizations like the Department of Labor and
Employment (DOLE) implement livelihood programs to support small businesses and provide
employment opportunities for residents.

Products

Rice: Iloilo is a major rice producer in the Philippines, consistently ranking among the top producers in
the country. The fertile lands of Iloilo, particularly in the towns of Pototan, Dumangas, Oton, Santa
Barbara, Tigbauan, Pavia, Leganes, San Dionisio, Sara, and Batad, are ideal for rice cultivation

Corn: Iloilo is also a significant corn-producing province in the Visayas region. The province's abundant
underground aquifers allow for irrigation, enabling farmers to grow three crops of corn per year in some
areas. Northern Iloilo towns are particularly known for corn production, while Pavia and San Miguel are
known for their sweet corn.

Biscocho: This is a popular Filipino cookie, and Iloilo is known for its delicious biscocho. Many bakeries in
the city specialize in this treat, offering a variety of flavors and variations.

Pastillas de Leche: This milk candy is another popular local delicacy. Iloilo is known for its high-quality
pastillas de leche, which are often made with fresh milk and sugar.

District 1 festivals

Binanog Festival - an annual event in Lambunao, Iloilo, Philippines. This event is held in memory of the
baby Jesus. Several events, dance routines, performances, and contests are part of the festival, which
draws both residents and visitors for a week of joy.

Katagman Festival (Oton) -Over the course of the week-long event, Laro Ng Lahi bring back games like
palosebo, tumba patis, and the ever-popular kadang sa paya.

Tribes Contest - combines street dance with street drama in a unique way. Tribes from a cluster of the
municipality's 37 barangays are participating in the competition. This group includes the Tribu Kanipaan,
the Tribu Nakatundan, the Tribu Katamnanese, the Tribu Parayan, the Tribu Parawese, the Tribu
Mandaragat and Tribu Malacan.

Pasungay in San Joaquin - In Iloilo, there are no other bullfighting events. It is only during the week-long
celebration of the town’s festival that the general interest in bull and horse fighting is aroused amongst
the fanatics.

The best breeds of bulls and horses in San Joaquin are brought to the San Joaquin Sports Stadium at the
town center to take part in one of lloilo’s most unique cultural event, the Pasungay-Pahibag. The annual
bull (Pasungay) and horse (Pahibag) fights have developed over the years, from an amusing and
recreational event to an exciting competition

Tangyan Festival in Igbaras - The town unites in recognizing the economic importance of Tangyan River
to its people. The river has functioned as the economic heartland where lgbarasnons are engaged in
agriculture. As they say, the most fertile areas for farming are in the plains near the Tangyan tributaries
where it provided irrigation water for their agricultural produce.

- Tangyan Festival is dedicated to the preservation and protection of their natural and cultural heritage
and to be able to share them with the younger generation.

2nd District

Notable Infrastructures:

 Alimodian Public Plaza: This central plaza in Alimodian serves as a gathering place for the
community and often hosts local events and festivals.
 Agony Hill (Alimodian): This hill, located in Alimodian, features the Stations of the Cross, making
it a popular destination for Lenten pilgrims.
 St. Thomas of Villanova Parish Church and Convent (Alimodian): This church, built in 1874, is a
prominent landmark in Alimodian and features a unique architectural style
 Leganes Church (Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception): This church, built in 1869,
is a prominent landmark in Leganes and features a unique architectural style.

Places of Interest

 Aganan River Dam (San Miguel): This dam, located in San Miguel, is a vital irrigation source for
surrounding towns
 Santa Barbara Victory Plaza: This plaza, located in Santa Barbara, commemorates the "Cry of
Santa Barbara," where the Filipino flag was first raised outside Luzon.
 General Martin Delgado Monument (Santa Barbara): This monument, located in Santa Barbara,
honors the Filipino general who played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution.
 Mila's Hill Inland Resort (New Lucena): This resort, located in New Lucena, offers scenic views
and recreational activities.

Notable Foods:
  Banana: Alimodian is known as the "Banana Capital of Western Visayas," offering a variety of
banana products and dishes
 Strawberry: Alimodian is also known as the "Strawberry Capital of Iloilo," producing a variety of
strawberry products and delicacies
 Vegetables: Leon is known as the "Vegetable Basket of the Province," producing a variety of
fresh vegetables.
 Seafood: The 2nd District is known for its fresh seafood, with various restaurants offering a wide
selection of dishes.

Notable Churches:

 St. Thomas of Villanova Parish Church and Convent (Alimodian): This church, built in 1874, is a
prominent landmark in Alimodian and features a unique architectural style.
 Leganes Church (Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception): This church, built in 1869,
is a prominent landmark in Leganes and features a unique architectural style.
 San Miguel Church (Church of St. Michael the Archangel): This church, built in 1869, is a
prominent landmark in San Miguel and features a unique architectural style.
 Santa Barbara Church (Church of St. Barbara): This church, built in 1869, is a prominent
landmark in Santa Barbara and features a unique architectural style.
 Zarraga Church (Church of St. John the Baptist): This church, built in 1869, is a prominent
landmark in Zarraga and features a unique architectural style.

Notable Places:

 Alimodian Public Plaza: This central plaza in Alimodian serves as a gathering place for the
community and often hosts local events and festivals.
 Agony Hill (Alimodian): This hill, located in Alimodian, features the Stations of the Cross, making
it a popular destination for Lenten pilgrims.
 Bucari Mountain Range (Leon): This mountain range, located in Leon, offers a refreshing escape
with its cool climate and pine forests.
 Mila's Hill Inland Resort (New Lucena): This resort, located in New Lucena, offers scenic views
and recreational activities.
 Santa Barbara Victory Plaza: This plaza, located in Santa Barbara, commemorates the "Cry of
Santa Barbara," where the Filipino flag was first raised outside Luzon.
 General Martin Delgado Monument (Santa Barbara): This monument, located in Santa Barbara,
honors the Filipino general who played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution.

Notable Arts:

 Traditional Crafts: The 2nd District is known for its traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery,
and wood carving.
 Local Music: The 2nd District has a vibrant music scene, with local bands and musicians
performing in various venues, showcasing a range of genres.
  Folk Dances: The 2nd District is known for its traditional folk dances, reflecting the region's
cultural heritage.

Notable Festivals:

 Handuraw Festival (Leon): Held every September 1st, this festival commemorates the transfer
of the municipality's old site to its current location. It features a week-long celebration with food
festivals, trade fairs, and a showcase of local agricultural produce.
 Kaing Festival (Leon): This festival pays tribute to Leon's abundance of farm produce and natural
resources, highlighting the town's vibrant farming traditions.
 Saad Festival (Leganes): This religious celebration, derived from the Hiligaynon word "saad"
meaning faith, is a testament to the strong religious beliefs of the community.
 Birao Paraw Festival (Leganes): Held during the last week of June, this festival showcases the
traditional "paraw" sailboats, with races and other festivities celebrating the maritime heritage
of the region.
 Cry of Jeli Cuon Festival (New Lucena): This festival commemorates significant events in the
revolt against Spanish colonizers, shaping the town's identity.
 Pantat Festival (Zarraga): This festival showcases the town's top marine produce, the "pantat"
(mudfish), with culinary events and cultural performances.

3rd District

Famous Infrastructures

 West Visayas State University - College of Agriculture and Forestry, Lambunao Campus: This
campus is more than just an educational institution. It houses a 2.5-hectare agri-eco park and a
rescue and captive breeding center for endemic flora and fauna, making it a unique destination
for nature enthusiasts.
 Calinog Golf Course: Built in 1907, this golf course is the oldest in Iloilo, offering a glimpse into
the region's historical sporting scene.

Delectable Foods

 Lakatan Bananas: Calinog is renowned for its large plantations of lakatan bananas, a popular
and flavorful variety.
 Rice: Pototan is known as the "Rice Granary of Panay" due to its vast rice paddies, making it a
key producer of this staple food.
 Sawali Weaving: Badiangan and Maasin are known for their sawali weaving industry, using
woven bamboo strips for walling and other purposes[1].

3rd District

Notable Churches
  St. Nicholas de Tolentine Parish Church in Lambunao: Built in 1883, this church showcases the
classic baroque architectural style.
 Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Parish Church in Calinog: This church, built in 1874, is
another example of the baroque style, with its intricate details and grandeur.

Places of Interest:

 Islas de Gigantes: While technically located off the coast of Bingawan, these islands are a
popular destination for island hopping, exploring secret caves and lagoons, and enjoying fresh
seafood.
 Bukidnon Indigenous Culture: Lambunao is home to the Bukidnon indigenous people, known
for their vibrant "Bina Nog" dance, featuring colorful costumes and intricate gong-bamboo
musical accompaniment.
 Natural Beauty: The 3rd District boasts stunning natural landscapes, including waterfalls,
mountains, and coastal areas, offering opportunities for hiking, exploring, and enjoying the
outdoors.

Arts and Culture

 Bina Nog Dance: This traditional dance, performed by the Bukidnon people of Lambunao, is a
captivating display of cultural expression, showcasing intricate movements and traditional
instruments.
 Sawali Weaving: This traditional craft, practiced in Badiangan and Maasin, is a testament to the
region's long-standing history of utilizing natural materials for practical and artistic purposes.

Festivals:

 Bina Nog Festival: Held in Lambunao during the 2nd week of January, this festival celebrates the
"Bina Nog" dance and the cultural heritage of the Bukidnon people.
 Hirinug Yaw-Sugilanon Festival: Held in Calinog during the last Sunday of January, this festival
celebrates the municipality's rich history and cultural heritage.

4th District

The 4th District of Iloilo is composed of seven municipalities and one city:

 Anilao
 Banate
 Barotac Nuevo
 Dingle
 Dueñas
 Dumangas
 Passi City
 San Enrique
Famous Infrastructures

Bulabog Puti National Park: This natural park in Barangay Moroboro, Dingle, features the biggest
limestone rock formation in Panay, excluding Guimaras. It was designated as a national park through
Congressional Bill No. 1651, and boasts 33 known caves, making it a popular destination for cave
exploration and outdoor adventures.

● Passi City Caves: Passi City is another popular destination for cave exploration, with 17
caves to explore.

● St. Augustine Parish Church in Dumangas: This church, built in 1887, showcases a
striking Gothic Byzantine architectural style and was declared a national landmark in May 1983.

● Ruins of the First Stone Church in Panay: Located in Barangay Ermita, Dumangas, these
ruins have been declared a national landmark by the National Historical Institute.

Delectable Foods

The 4th District is known for its diverse culinary scene, with several local specialties:

● Dumangas Cuisine: Dumangas is known for its unique culinary offerings, which are often
featured in local festivals and events.

● Seafood: The coastal municipalities of the 4th District offer fresh seafood, particularly
from the Iloilo Strait, which is known for its diverse marine life.

● Agricultural Products: The district's agricultural bounty, including rice, bananas, and
other fruits, is reflected in its local cuisine.

Notable Churches

● St. Augustine Parish Church in Dumangas: This church, built in 1887, showcases a
striking Gothic Byzantine architectural style and was declared a national landmark in May 1983.

● St. Nicholas de Tolentine Parish Church in Dumangas: This church is another example of
the baroque style, known for its intricate details and grandeur.

Places of Interest

 Hibot Kan Rock Marine Sanctuary: Located in the waters between the 4th District and Guimaras
Strait, this sanctuary is a haven for divers and snorkelers, offering a glimpse into the diverse
marine life of the region.
 Monfort Coast Boulevard: This scenic road offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a
popular route for travelers exploring the 4th District.
 Dumangas Port: This port serves as a vital transportation hub for travelers heading to Bacolod
City or other destinations in the region.
Arts and Culture

 Traditional Crafts: The region is known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful handwoven
textiles, such as sinamay, piña, and jusi. These crafts are a testament to the region's long-
standing tradition of textile production.
 Music and Dance: Iloilo has a rich musical heritage, with traditional instruments like the kudyapi
and the kulintang still played today. The region is also known for its vibrant dance traditions,
such as the Ati-Atihan dance, which is performed during the Dinagyang Festival.
 Historical Sites: The district is home to several historical sites, including the ruins of the first
stone church in Panay, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

Festivals

 Pintados de Passi Festival: This festival, held in Passi City during the 2nd week of March, is a
colorful celebration of the region's rich history and culture.
 Taltal Festival: Held in Barotac Viejo during Good Friday, this festival is a unique expression of
the region's Catholic faith.

5th District:

Municipalities of the 5th District

 Ajuy
 Balasan
 Barotac Viejo
 Batad
 Carles
 Concepcion
 Estancia
 Lemery
 San Dionisio
 San Rafael
 Sara

Arts and Culture

 Traditional Crafts: The region is known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful handwoven
textiles, such as sinamay, piña, and jusi. These crafts are a testament to the region's long-
standing tradition of textile production.
 Music and Dance: Iloilo has a rich musical heritage, with traditional instruments like the kudyapi
and the kulintang still played today. The region is also known for its vibrant dance traditions,
such as the Ati-Atihan dance, which is performed during the Dinagyang Festival.
 Historical Sites: The district is home to several historical sites, including the ruins of old churches
and Spanish-era houses, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Festivals:

 Paraw Regatta Festival: Held in Estancia during the 3rd Sunday of February, this festival is a
colorful celebration of the region's maritime heritage and features traditional paraw boats
racing in the waters of the Iloilo Strait.
 Sandugo Festival: Held in San Rafael during the 3rd week of July, this festival celebrates the
region's rich history and culture and features a variety of events, including parades, cultural
performances, and food stalls.

Delectable Foods

 Seafood Dishes: The islands of the 5th District offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including
grilled fish, seafood stews, and seafood salads.
 Local Delicacies: The district also boasts a range of local delicacies, such as "kinilaw" (a raw fish
dish marinated in vinegar and spices) and "lapaz batchoy" (a noodle soup).

Notable Churches

 St. John the Baptist Parish Church in Estancia: This church is known for its simple yet elegant
design and its historical significance.
 St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church in San Rafael: This church is a prominent landmark in
the municipality of San Rafael and is known for its traditional architecture.

Places of Interest

 Sicogon Island: This island is a popular destination for beach lovers, offering pristine white sand
beaches, clear blue waters, and a range of recreational activities, including swimming,
snorkeling, and diving.
 Gigantes Islands: These islands, located off the coast of Carles, are known for their stunning
limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and diverse marine life.
 Agho Island: This uninhabited island, located in Concepcion, is known for its extensive white
sand beach and sprawling coral garden.
 Antonia Point: This island beach, located in Gigantes Sur, Carles, offers a tranquil setting for
sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
 Bantigue Island: This island, located in Gigantes Sur, Carles, is known for its white sand beach
and its constantly changing sandbar, creating a picturesque scene.
 Bulubadiangan Island: This island, located in Concepcion, is known for its long sandbar and its
panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
 Cabugao Dako: This small uninhabited island, located in Gigantes Sur, Carles, offers a secluded
setting for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing..
 Cabugao Gamay: This privately owned island, located in Gigantes Sur, Carles, is known for its
twin beaches, rocky hills, and its range of amenities for overnight stays.
 Calabazas Island: This island, located in Ajuy, is known for its ruins of an 1884 lighthouse, the
second oldest in the Philippines.
 Lumpatan: This island, located in Concepcion, is known for its scenic cliffs, rocky beach, and its
300-meter trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
 Malabang Island: This island, located in Concepcion, is known for its mountainous terrain, ideal
for hiking and trekking, and its beach area, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and game fishing.
 Nasidman Island: This inhabited island, located in Ajuy, is known for its white sand beach,
crystal blue waters, and its range of activities, including snorkeling, paddle boating, and
swimming.
 Oja Tras Island: This islet, located in Gigantes Sur, Carles, is known for its clean water, beautiful
beach, and its lone palm tree standing on the island.
 Tangke: This hidden saltwater lagoon, located in Gigantes Sur, Carles, is known for its
surrounding granite cliffs, its unique rock formations, and its changing water levels with the
tides.
 Marbuena Island (Binongan-an Island): This privately owned island, home to the Marbuena
Island Resort, is known for its crescent-shaped sandbar, soft sand, calm waters, and its nature
trail encircling the island.