Iloilo

Iloilo is a province of the Philippines located in the Western Visayas region, subdivided into 2 cities and 42 municipalities. Iloilo is historically one of the major agricultural centers of the country by exporting mangoes, bananas, sugar, and copra during the Spanish and American colonial periods. Iloilo is 55 minutes by plane from Manila, 30 minutes from Cebu, and 90 minutes from Palawan. Iloilo is also only 4 hours away from Caticlan, the port to Boracay Island. Given this, Iloilo is a major stop to many beautiful beaches like world-reknowned Boracay, Guimaras Island, and many beaches yet to be discovered. Iloilo is aprovince rich in history and cultural heritage, reflected in its ancestral homes, old churches, handicrafts, festivals, and coastal communities with picture perfect beaches and islands.

The Dinagyang Festival, popular among tourists, is celebrated every fourth weekend of January. A colorful parade in honor of the Holy Child Jesus, it is Iloilo’s version of the world famous Ati-atihan Festival. The city is also renowned for its festivals like the Feast of Lady of Candles or Candelaria and the Paraw Regatta in February

Ilonggo is also the name of the culture associated with the people speaking Hiligaynon. Ilonggos are the kindest and warmest of all people in the Philippines, and the hospitality of Ilonggos is widely known throughout the country. Ilonggos especially love eating their food outdoors, close to nature (like at the beach) with Ilonggo food being one of the best in the Philippines. Ilonggos are inclined towards merrymaking and almost any excuse is good enough to hold a full-blown celebration.