Being old does not mean outdated. Such is the City of Iloilo, an eclectic mix of the old-world charm and modern developments. A stroll along its streets, one can see heritage buildings side by side with new buildings amid a bustling economic activity. The old meets the new and you’ll fall in love with this distinct character of what Iloilo offers.
Travel back in time and shop along the heritage district of Calle Real. The streets are filled with American period buildings of varying architecture. Many of its buildings and shophouses have since been restored and economic activity reinvigorated. Look for Roberto’s at Javellana Building and order the must try Queen Siopao.
When some cities construct more buildings in its economic core, Iloilo City is tearing down edifices to open-up public spaces. The newly opened Sunburst Park more aptly called Plaza de Aduana, its original name. It is a new public park where the Freedom Grandstand once stood. One can now appreciate more the Iloilo Customs House and enjoy a game of chess in the park.
Not far away, are the newly restored Ker and Co Building and Ynchausti Building. Both located at the back of the Iloilo City Hall. The two buildings are testaments to the commitment to heritage preservation. Ker and Co Building is now the Iloilo City Government function hall where it receives its guest. Ynchausti Building, on the other hand, is the Museum of Philippines Economic History that narrates the storied beginnings of Iloilo as the Queen City of the South in the ground floor and of Philippine Economy on the second floor.
The Iloilo City Hall, though a modern edifice, was designed after the heritage buildings around it. The rooftop gives a beautiful 360-degree view of the city and nearby Guimaras island. Lin-ay sang Iloilo, a 10-foot bronze statue on top, is a symbol of this growing city. Not to miss is the City Gallery, a mini museum that gives visitors an overview of the city.
As the saying goes, the best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. This proves to be true in Iloilo City where eating is a gastronomic adventure. Visit Lapaz Public Market and try the local noodle soup, Batchoy, and the native coffee from Madge. Explore Molo Church and the Molo Mansion and taste the Pancit Molo, a wanton soup of pork or chicken and shrimp. And it doesn’t end there, your food trip can bring you to the shores of Arevalo. Tatoy’s Manokan and Breakthrough Restaurant both serve local Ilonggo dishes from the grilled native chicken to fresh seafood delights. Also available to try are Laswa, KBL (Kadios-Baboy-Langka), Linagpang, Tinu-om and many pasalubong items like Biscocho, Butterscoch, Pinasugbo and Barquillos.
What surprises many visitors are the new developments around the city. New visitors and even those who have not seen Iloilo in quite some time have quipped that what they saw is something they didn’t expect for this provincial city. Upon arrival, they would notice how wide the Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue with its dedicated Bike Lane. The road connects the airport to the city and leads to the Mandurriao district where the Iloilo Business Triangle is located. The old airport, now Iloilo Business Park is a new destination for shopping and dining. Furthermore, they would discover Iloilo River and walk along the Iloilo Esplanade. The clean river together with the longest and most beautiful linear park in the country–The Esplanade–is a recent awardee for GalingPook for the improvement of the river.
More than the many different destinations and things to try in Iloilo City is known for its people. The Tagalogs identified Ilonggos as malambing. Its largely related to how Ilonggo’s speak which is soft-spoken and sometimes melodious. But more than the language, Ilonggo’s live and value the things they love from its rich culture and heritage, values and its environment. We have preserved these things and with these things we share and show our visitors with the warmth of our love.