I am sharing this short writeup about the City of Iloilo which I wrote and contributed to the Grand Prix Manila Travel Guide handbook. The guide was initiated by the Philippine MtG judges as a reference for those coming over to participate in the event. This was also another opportunity for me to promote tourism in the city.

Iloilo City

Iloilo is a province of the Philippines, located in the center of the Philippine archipelago in the southeastern part of Panay Island. The capital city, Iloilo City, is considered one of the major urban centers in the Philippines and continues to become one of the major industrial and eco-tourism destinations in the country. The city was a conglomeration of former towns which are now turned into geographical districts. These are: Jaro, Mandurriao, Molo, Villa Arevalo, La Paz, Lapuz and Iloilo City Proper.

Iloilo City is just 55 minutes of flight away from Manila and is a hub for trade, commerce, technology, and of course, tourism. The nationally acclaimed Dinagyang Festival has been the flagship yearly event of the city and is celebrated every January. There are many travel treasures you can hunt around the city. From mouthwatering delicacies to mesmerizing and splendid architectural heritage and modern designs, these are a few of the many things the city has to offer for tourists and locals to enjoy.

The Top 10 you can have as your checklist are the following:
1. Eat Batchoy & Pancit Molo
2. Pray at historic churches
3. Love the skyline at the Iloilo City Hall Rooftop
4. Stroll at Iloilo Esplanade
5. Bike at Benigno Aquion Avenue
6. Time Travel at Calle Real
7. Joy Ride in a Jeepney
8. Party at Smallville Complex
9. Brew at Madge Café
10. Bask at Fort San Pedro Baywalk

Touring around the city is easy as most of the major roads are served by public utility jeepneys, taxis, and tricycles as your transport options. Most of the locals are very friendly so it is also easy to ask around for directions as guide or if ever you get lost. Start by greeting them “Maayong aga” for good morning or “Maayong hapon” for good afternoon, then follow it up with your inquiry. Other relevant lingo are “kamusta ka?” for “How are you?” and “Tagpila ni?” for “How much is this?” Lastly, always say Thank you or “Salamat”.

Traveling to the outer municipalities is catered by five major transport terminals located at the city’s parameter areas which offer large jeepneys and buses.

Iloilo City also serves as a gateway to other nearby tourist spots in the provinces of Guimaras, Antique, Aklan, and Capiz. Examples are Boracay Island, Isla de Higantes and Mararison Island.