Iloilo - Heart of the Philippines

ILOILO is situated right at the center of the Philippine Archipelago in the heart shaped Panay Island. Fertile soils, wide plains, rich marine resources, a strategic location, and a favorable tropical climate destined Iloilo as a cradle of development.

Legends tell of 10 chieftains and their subjects, who sailed from Borneo and first settled in Iloilo, an event which gave birth to the Filipino Malayan Race. Centuries later, in search of the elusive spice islands, the Spaniards crossed the Pacific Ocean and wandered off to palm-fringed Philippine shores. After exploring and inhabiting some of islands, the tired and hungry conquistadores found refuge in Iloilo, where they discovered plentiful rice and an excellent natural harbor causing them to proceed there from Cebu and make it the base of Spanish colonization in the Philippines.

During the mid 1800s, Iloilo was already the most populous and richest province, maintaining direct trade links with America, Europe and Australia, especially during the heyday of the sugar industry. Being one of the busiest trading posts in Asia, it is not surprising for Iloilo to possess a vast collection of old structures and antiques, many of which still survive to this day. These heritage sites and artifacts, preserved in testimony of an opulent past, have become subjects of interest, attracting curious tourists from all over.

Amidst Iloilo’s abundant natural beauty and colorful history, the Ilonggos remain to be its most important asset. A humble people with a rich heritage, known for their genuine hospitality, romantic “tongues”, friendly smiles, and amiable faces. Such are the diverse treasures of Iloilo, the very heart of the Philippines.

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