23 CAPIZ TOURIST SPOTS & THINGS TO DO for Your Roxas Metropolis Itinerary

OK, let’s get one thing out of the best way: No, we didn’t see any aswang. Not that we anticipated to.

Capiz’s shut affiliation with tales concerning the aswang — maybe the nation’s most well-known blood-sucking, fetus-munching, typically shape-shifting folks monster — has been so embedded within the Pinoy psyche that once we talked about to anybody that we have been Capiz-bound, it was the very first thing to pop on their minds. It was additionally one of many first subjects that our information addressed, barely 5 minutes from the second we emerged from the airport.

However as one nice thinker stated, “C’mon guys, it’s 2022!” 😅

For the longest time, the aswang has overshadowed no matter else the province has to supply vacationers. However Capiz is a lot greater than its folklore. Other than its pure wonders, it additionally actively pushes sustainable sights showcasing its tradition, historical past, and delicacies, whereas serving to promote the livelihood of the area people. When you’re into new and off-the-beaten path locations, right here’s a listing of the issues to do and locations to go to in Capiz.

Be aware: This text is a piece in progress. As of now, now we have solely explored Roxas Metropolis and neighboring Panay. We’ll replace this as we journey and uncover extra of the province.

Roxas Metropolis is the capital of the province of Capiz. The truth is, the province acquired its title from it, which was previously known as the Municipality of Capiz earlier than it was renamed in honor of Manuel Roxas, the fourth president of the Republic of the Philippines. Right now, it serves because the gateway to the province and close by areas in Panay Island. Listed below are a number of the key sights in Roxas Metropolis.

Roxas Metropolis Museum (Ang Panublion)

Sitting on the coronary heart of town is the Roxas Metropolis Museum, formally named Ang Panublion Museum. The Hiligaynon time period panublion means “heritage”, an apt description as a result of it showcases cultural and historic artifacts together with these of the province’s indigenous teams, the Ati and the Panay Bukidnon.

It’s a nice first cease of the tour as a result of it will possibly function a fast overview of what town and province have to supply. This manner, you’ll have extra context whenever you go to one other historic or cultural web site, permitting you to understand them higher.

Additionally on show are collections depicting the historical past of Capiz and of Panay Island as an entire. On the very middle of the room stand blown-up images of assorted scenes within the province.

The museum construction itself is taken into account a historic landmark. Relationship again to 1910, the round water tank survived the claws of World Battle II and was finally repurposed as a museum in 1993 by town authorities.

Location: Legaspi Avenue nook Hughes Avenue, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday – Friday); 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday); CLOSED (Monday)
Entrance Price: FREE

Roxas Metropolis Plaza

Only one block away from the Panublion Museum lies the Roxas Metropolis Plaza, town’s historic core. Surrounded by a quantity vital constructions, the sq. is a one-stop web site to see a number of the metropolis’s key landmarks:

• a fountain on the middle, which additionally serves because the Kilometer 0 mark
• the Rizal Monument and the Capiz Provincial Capitol on the japanese facet
• a historic bridge on the southern facet
• the Roxas Metropolis Corridor on the northern facet
• the Roxas Monument on the western facet
• the Metropolis Bandstand

However maybe probably the most dominant construction right here is the Roxas Cathedral. Extra formally referred to as the Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral, it’s the middle of Catholic religion in Capiz and the seat of the Archdiocese of Capiz.

The church’s historical past might be traced again all the best way to 1707, when it was established by Augustinian missionaries. However the constructing we see immediately was accomplished in 1827.

Palina Greenbelt Ecopark & River Cruise

Located on the outskirts of town, about 5 kilometers west of the city middle, the Palina Greenbelt Ecopark gives riverside agro-tourism, river tour, and recent seafood deal with on one of many many floating open-hut cottages.

Get a glimpse into the seafood farming trade. Bear in mind, Roxas Metropolis is the nation’s seafood capital! Right here, fishermen develop their very own oysters, mussels, shrimps, and different marine merchandise, selling sustainable tourism and the area people’s livelihood.

Managed by the community-based group, Palina River Growth Affiliation, Inc., this multi-awarded endeavor has obtained recognitions together with the ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards 2016 (Grand Winner for Group-based Accountable Tourism Enterprise), the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award 2018, and the Capiz Inexperienced Enterprise Award 2019 (Champion).

If you wish to dig into the freshest catch, it’s extremely advisable to order a day or two earlier than your scheduled go to. For reservation and pre-order (menu), you could attain the administration through the contact particulars under. You may additionally convey your individual meals, however corkage charges apply.

Location: Sitio Cablatan, Barangay Cagay, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Day by day). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page earlier than visiting.
Charges: P10/head (Entrance); P1,500 (Stationary Floating Cottage, 4 hours); P1,500 (River Tour, 1 hour, 15 pax); P2,000 (1-hour River Tour + 2-hour Stationary/Swimming)
Corkage Charges: P20/menu, P50/case, P100 (Lechon), P100 (Ice Cream)
Contact Particulars: 0910 609 7475 / 0946 319 5772

Paseo del Rio & Casa de Mercado

Launched to the general public in February 2022, Paseo del Rio (River Stroll) was a dumping web site however was later rehabilitated and reworked right into a scenic promenade. Working between San Roque Bridge and Jumbo Bridge (Juliano Alba Bridge), it’s a public leisure area, the place folks can have a soothing stroll alongside the Panay River.

Essentially the most distinguished construction right here is Casa de Mercado, fronted by the Paseo del Rio welcome signal. As of this writing, the casa is essentially empty and solely booked for personal and public occasions. Nevertheless it doesn’t take a lot creativeness to see it and the entire stretch as a vibrant cultural hotspot — probably a weekend market — that locals and vacationers alike can take pleasure in on a extra common foundation.

Roxas Metropolis Public Market

Simply throughout Paseo del Rio stands the Teodoro Arcenas Commerce Middle, Roxas Metropolis’s public market and the most important in Capiz. Extra popularly identified regionally as Lipunan Market, it’s over 40 years outdated however was just lately renovated after Hurricane Ursula damages a few of its components. It was named after former mayor Teodoro Roxas Arcenas, who had the marker constructed.

Like every other market, there are sections for vegatables and fruits, meat, dry items, and different merchandise. Nevertheless it’s additionally an amazing place to seek out one among Roxas’s best property — seafood — at pleasant costs!

Whereas Roxas Metropolis is a contemporary metropolis, its extra conventional roots can be seen in and across the market, particularly at retailers promoting numerous gadgets which can be claimed to have therapeutic properties, generally utilized by albolaryo. In line with our information Jong Arcenas (grandson of Teodoro Arcenas, after whom the place was named), these embrace staples like tawas, lana (coconut oil) and natural medication. You’ll additionally discover kamangyan, a kind of incense constructed from dried resin of choose bushes after which burnt to supply smoke, typically utilized in treating sure ailments or at rituals; and sulfur powder, additionally used to heal some forms of pores and skin sicknesses. However most curious of all are the anting-anting, amulets and talismans that are claimed to struggle off or forestall aswang assaults, usog (afflictions led to by the eye or greetings from strangers), or dangerous luck.

Jong additionally extremely recommends Mang Inaso — nope, not Mang Inasal, however Mang Inaso. It’s a humble carinderia throughout the market premises that serves lutong-bahay-style Pinoy dishes however is finest identified for his or her barbecue or grilled meat like liempo. Its loyal patrons come from all walks of life, from drivers to executives.

Baybay Seaside

Protecting the northern border of Capiz, the seven-kilometer Baybay Seaside is a well-liked leisure vacation spot for locals due to its shut proximity to town middle. Additionally known as La Playa de Roxas, it overlooks the Sibuyan Sea, offering charming beachfront views, making it a favourite hangout spot, assembly place, and avenue meals joint in Roxas.

The seemingly infinite stretch of positive darkish grey sand makes it a superb venue for a lot of actions together with swimming, picnicking, enjoying seashore sports activities, jogging, strolling, and watching the dawn and sundown. From right here, you’ll have a superb take a look at a number of the islands fronting town together with Mantalinga Island and Olotayan Island.

Guests typically have a full meal at one of many seafood eating places lining the seashore.

Location: Individuals’s Park, Arnaldo Boulevard, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Price: FREE

Tabai Espresso + Take a look at Kitchen

However when you’re not up for a full meal however would love a drink whereas in Baybay, head over to Tabai Espresso + Take a look at Kitchen. Tabai is greater than only a cafe. Its greatest asset is its location, excellent by Baybay, town’s essential seashore. From its beachfront deck, you possibly can watch the waves and revel in a view of the islands.

In the course of the day, it’s a scenic cafe, good for meet-and-chill or work-and-chill forms of conditions. However at night time, it turns right into a cocktail lounge, the place you possibly can meet up with mates over a drink, ideally with alcohol. Baybay faces north so that you gained’t truly get to catch the solar set from the shop, however you possibly can nonetheless benefit from the glow because the day turns to nighttime whereas taking a sip of its signature Tabai sundown drink. Tabai additionally hosts conferences, small gatherings, and occasions (arts and music) amongst others.

The menu additionally consists of snacks, rice meals, hen wings, and pizza. And true to its check kitchen tag, we have been served a dish that wasn’t on the menu but!

The Ruins of Alcatraz

The western finish of Baybay Seaside is dominated by the Ruins of Alcatraz, encroaching a promontory that overlooks the coast and the ocean. The towering wall intimidates its onlookers, however it delights the followers of Assault on Titans as it’s paying homage to its three colossal partitions (Sina, Rose, Maria).

It sort of reminds us of many different films and collection, too. Something with a large wall, actually. From The Maze Runner to any medieval fantasy like Lord of the Rings or Recreation of Thrones. Let your creativeness run wild!

The wall was presupposed to be a part of a resort, which the Bermejo household initially deliberate for that web site however was later dropped. Right now, the highest portion primarily serves as a viewing spot, whereas the wall itself makes for an ideal background for photoshoots.

Location: Sitio Nipa, Barangay Culasi, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Price: FREE

Mantalinga Island

There are totally different sorts of magnificence. Mantalinga Island is a sort that one can solely admire however not conquer. Separated from the mainland about one kilometer off the northern coast of Roxas Metropolis, the uninhabited island is seen from Baybay Seaside, whether or not on the shore or in one of many eating places lining the seashore.

Topped with greenery, the island sits on a rocky elevated throne, making it laborious for folks to dock and set foot on the island. It used to function a roundabout for kayaking and sailboat racing competitors. The waters surrounding the island are adorned with colourful corals and are residence to a various marine life, offering an ideal spot for scuba divers.

Nicknamed “Good Luck Island”, Mantalinga is believed to convey good luck to fishermen who could have the names of their boats written on the rocky basis of the island earlier than they go fishing throughout its maiden voyage. In line with a legend, Mantalinga, together with Olotayan Island and Iloilo’s Gigantes Islands, is a part of an enormous’s physique representing the eyes and the ears, therefore the title.

Location: Roxas Metropolis, Capiz

Olotayan Island

In line with folklore, the 53-hectare Olotayan Island is a part of the legendary large’s anatomy, significantly the pinnacle and the stomach!

Located a couple of kilometers off the coast of Baybay Seaside, Olotayan is the only real island barangay of Roxas Metropolis. Whereas the settlements are largely niched on the japanese and the northern shores, a lot of the land is roofed in vegetation.

An off-the-beaten seashore vacation spot, it isn’t normally frequented by vacationers, making it an ideal spot for many who desire quiet and fewer touristy seashores. The shore seems to be white, however it’s made up of coral rubbles, so it’s finest to put on aqua footwear or footwear whereas strolling and exploring the seashore. For many who love venturing additional into the deep, the encircling waters are residence to varied species of fish, corals, and even the fluted large clams, in accordance with our information.

A few of the widespread jump-off factors are Baybay Seaside and Punta Cogon. The journey time is round half-hour by boat. The sturdy waves make it difficult for smaller boats to cross the waters separating Olotayan from the mainland. It’s finest to convey your individual meals and sufficient consuming water.

Espacio Verde Resort

As early as now, let me inform you that Espacio Verde isn’t low-cost by any means. However when you’re in Roxas to rejoice an event and also you don’t thoughts splurging slightly, contemplate staying in one among their 23 suites, all spacious and well-appointed. These are housed in backyard villas, that are surrounded by gardens and a man-made lagoon, which you’ll be able to discover by kayak. Touring with youngsters? They’ll have a splash zooming down the water slide into their swimming pool. It has one thing for everybody within the household.

Our favourite half is that this picturesque strolling path, flanked by date bushes!

The resort additionally has three eating places – Abuelo, Aquatico, and Veranda — however it’s the first that serves as the primary eating space, with a largely Spanish-Filipino menu.

Sacred Coronary heart of Jesus Christ Shrine

Crowning Tumandok Hill in Barangay Dinginan, the towering 132-foot Sacred Coronary heart of Jesus Christ statue is taken into account one of many tallest and largest Jesus pictures within the Philippines. (The determine of Christ measures 102 ft, whereas the bottom 30 ft.)

The situation affords pilgrims and guests a 360-degree view of Roxas Metropolis and a panoramic view of Sibuyan Sea. You can too spot the statue from afar, at the very least from some components of the primary street (freeway).

The shrine is a undertaking of the Ong household, who owns and runs the Sacred Coronary heart of Jesus Growth Company (SHJDC) and Pueblo de Panay, two of the most important employers within the province. However the web site is extra like a private tribute. We had the pleasure of chatting with SHJDC VP for Company Affairs Hariette Ong-Banzon, one of many Ong siblings. She shared with us the heartwarming story of how her sister, Hyacinth, was recognized with a uncommon illness in 1990 and the way religion pulled their household collectively and surrendered every part to the Lord. Her miraculous restoration led them to constructing the statue, impressed by a imaginative and prescient she had whereas nonetheless battling the affliction.

The development of the church on the base continues to be ongoing, so donations, massive or small, are drastically appreciated. You can too purchase snacks, drinks, and memento gadgets beside the car parking zone and the short-term chapel.

Location: St.Peter’s Highway, Tumandok Hill, Pueblo de Panay Township, Barangay Dinginan, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Day by day). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page (Holy Trinity Drive Therapeutic Ministry, Inc.) or contact the administration earlier than visiting.
Entrance Price: FREE

Homegrown Cafés

The laidback vibe of Roxas Metropolis is an ideal setting for espresso breaks and meetups. Charming homegrown cafés are steadily changing into widespread. Every has its personal specialty and providing each native and worldwide flavors and concoctions.

One of many rising spots for a caffeine repair is Luna Espresso, situated proper on the coronary heart of Roxas, simply a few hundred meters west of the Metropolis Plaza’s Kilometer 0 Fountain. At first look, it’s fairly tough to pin down the theme it’s going for. Aesthetically, it has the stylish industrial look, however ledges are adorned by gadgets from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and partitions are neon-lit with Korean and Filipino phrases. However this hodgepodge of decors might be what makes it attention-grabbing. Each nook right here is stylishly Instagrammable, that’s when you can catch it unoccupied.

The cafe takes probably the most satisfaction in its freshly made hand-crafted espresso and iced Spanish latte. However alas, we weren’t within the temper for espresso on the time, so we ended up having a cup of their “pink drink”, made with strawberries and condensed milk.

Café Terraza

Perched on a hill within the sloping advanced of Circulo Conference Middle, Cafe Terraza proudly claims to be the one scenic hilltop eating vacation spot in Roxas Metropolis. The cafe is ready on a spacious terrace, enabling native patrons and guests to soak in attractive countryside views and laid-back vibe. It additionally has 15 native cabanas and a pavilion, and serves Filipino and worldwide dishes.

Roughly three kilometers south of the city middle, its accessibility can also be a contributing issue to its reputation.

Location: El Circulo Conference, Sacred Coronary heart of Jesus Avenue, Barangay Dinginan, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Day by day). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page earlier than visiting.

Banica Dried Fish Middle

Banica Dried Fish Middle is situated over two kilometers east of town middle, in Barangay Banica. It’s a widespread wholesale dried fish market and pasalubong middle. The entire stretch of avenue, from the primary street to the Banica Wharf, is lined with distributors promoting totally different sorts of dried fish — tabagak, barol, balingon, and dilis, simply to call a couple of. If you’re planning to purchase pasalubong right here, your landmark is the Banica Bridge and the Shell Gasoline Station.

We had a pleasant chat with one of many distributors, Ate Mylene, who defined to us most of the merchandise on show. When you’re planning on shopping for dried seafood, go to her at Andre and Janna Retailer, however there gave the impression to be no signage so simply select the third stall from the primary street. Or search for her.

Location: Iloilo East Coast – Capiz Highway, Barangay Banica, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz

Capiz Provincial Park

A inexperienced haven, the Capiz Provincial Park grants a fast breather from the hustle and bustle of town. Its centerpiece is a small artifical rocky fountain surrounded by a small lagoon. The park additionally serves as an arboretum of some native bushes within the Philippines.

It’s additionally right here that you simply’ll discover the Capiz Vacationer Data Middle and Specialty Retailers, a one-stop store for native handmade merchandise, delicacies, and souvenirs from not simply Roxas Metropolis but additionally different municipalities in Capiz. Some snack retailers provide free samples for tasting so which gadgets to buy with out regrets!

Location: Fuentes Drive, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 24/7 (Park)
Entrance Price: FREE

Culajao Mangrove Eco Park

You’ll know Roxas Metropolis locations nice significance on surroundings and sustainable tourism by the variety of eco-friendly sights dotting town’s map. One other inexperienced vacation spot is the Culajao Mangrove Eco Park, a virtually five-hectare mangrove reservation space in Barangay Culajao, about 4 kilometers northeast of town middle.

Opened in June 2008, this mangrove reforestation undertaking is spearheaded by the Roxas Metropolis Authorities in partnership with Katunggan Sa Culajao Salbaron Affiliation (KACUSA), Inc. and PEW Fellows Program in Marine Conservation, aiming to teach each locals and vacationers on the advantages of mangroves locally, the ecosystem, and the surroundings as an entire.

The Culajao Mangrove Forest is residence to a number of mangrove species and various wildlife — birds, fishes, bugs, mollusks, and extra. Cottages can be found for guests who prefer to spend extra time right here.

Location: Barangay Culajao, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Day by day). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page earlier than visiting.
Entrance Price: P20 (Grownup), P15 (Pupil), P10 (Baby)
Different Charges: P100-250 (Cottage, relying on the dimensions); P100/5 pax (Paddle Boat, P30/head if lower than 5 pax, P20/head if greater than 5 pax); P300/journey (Floating Bamboo Raft, 15-30 pax, obtainable solely throughout excessive tide)

Whereas Roxas Metropolis is the official capital of Capiz, the municipality of Panay (pronounced Pan-ay) was declared the heritage capital of the province. The truth is, it’s the second oldest Spanish settlement within the Philippines, subsequent solely to Cebu. It’s typically included in and infrequently turns into the spotlight of most Capiz tour itineraries. Under are a number of the must-see sights in Panay.

Panay Church

Formally named Santa Monica Parish Church, the historic Panay Church traces its roots again to the late seventeenth century, however the present construction was constructed within the late Nineteenth century. It was designated a Nationwide Historic Landmark by the Nationwide Historic Fee of the Philippines in 1997 and a Nationwide Cultural Treasure by the Nationwide Museum in 2001.

The Neo-Classical Baroque construction was made from coral stones that includes three-meter-thick partitions. Different options are the outdated picket roof truss, the artifacts, the museum, the Our Girl of Lourdes Grotto, the outdated Spanish nicely behind the church, and naturally, its well-known bells!

Historical past buffs could have a grand time admiring the church’s most exceptional treasure — the humongous Nineteenth-century bell fondly known as Dakong Linganay. It’s at the moment the most important Catholic bell recorded within the Philippines and in Asia.

Commissioned by Father Jose Beloso and accomplished in 1884, the famed bell was created by Don Juan Reina out of cash donated by the townspeople. It measures 5 ft tall with a diameter of seven ft and weighs over 10,000 kilograms. If you wish to climb up the five-story bell tower to see the unique centuries-old bell (and the opposite eight), you possibly can ask one of many employees (normally, it’s Kuya Joseph) to accompany you.

When you can’t or don’t wish to climb the belfry, yow will discover the reproduction of the bell, positioned in entrance of the Museo de Santa Monica subsequent to the church.

Location: Iloilo East Coast – Capiz Highway, Panay, Capiz
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday, Wednesday – Saturday); 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM (Sunday); CLOSED (Tuesday). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page earlier than visiting.
Entrance Price: FREE, however you’re welcome to donate any quantity. And you might also give tip to the employees member accompanying you to point out your appreciation.

Balay ni Nanay Lording

Positioned alongside Calle Revolucion, stated to be the second-oldest avenue within the nation, in Barangay Poblacion Ilawod, Balay ni Nanay Lording is without doubt one of the heritage homes in Capiz. From the skin, the home won’t look too outdated due to the fashionable accents added by means of the years, however whenever you step inside, you’ll see that it has preserved many components of the outdated inside.

That is the household residence of Ms. Vicky Baes, President of Capiz-Roxas Journey Businesses and Tour Operators Affiliation (CARTATOA). She herself confirmed us round the home, which additionally serves as a museum, safeguarding a variety of vintage tableware and age-old clothes, nostalgic furnishings, and different collections. You’ll see a number of the household’s heirloom and treasured possessions.

The area downstairs was reworked right into a specialty restaurant, Cafe Marcelo, providing meal packages, together with all-out seafood-all-you-can (P378 per head), good for large teams, together with crabs, scallops, oysters (served uncooked), squid, and fish, all served recent!

Chocolate lover? Espresso addict? The backyard cafe additionally has a neighborhood tablea and occasional showroom. You’ll be able to take residence a few of their very personal tablea chocolate (P200-300 per pack) and native Capiz espresso in pasalubong-ready packs. Salud salud!

Location: Calle Revolucion, Poblacion Ilawod, Panay, Capiz

Istorya Forest Backyard

It was laborious to seek out one label that matches Istorya Forest Backyard. It’s an out of doors bar, providing an entire vary of alcoholic drinks from cocktails to sangria to wine to whiskey. It’s a restaurant, serving what was undoubtedly the most effective meal we had in Capiz. It’s a romantic sanctuary, set below the cover of towering bushes, surrounded by nature, illuminated by strains of lanterns at night time.

However it’s initially a resort. It was initially a non-public household resort, however in 2019 it lastly began accepting friends, looking for refuge from the busy work week. This eight-hectare lush property homes 4 villas and 23 rooms. For in a single day keep, reserve and e book by contacting them by means of e mail, cellular numbers, or Fb messenger (particulars under).

You may additionally go to on a day tour, however it’s finest to contact them earlier than you go. Whereas the resto-bar can also be open to non-staying guests, they might solely drop by on specified days (see particulars under) earlier than 5pm. Past these hours, the property is unique to resort friends who’re checked in. The resort additionally hosts occasions, personal dinners, and Sunday Brunch Buffet.

Location: Barangay Poblacion Ilaya, Panay, Capiz
Opening Hours: Oculars 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Thursday – Sunday); Bar Botanico 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Friday – Sunday). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page or contact the administration earlier than visiting.
Contact Particulars: [email protected] / 0933 855 1705 / 0917 855 9307

Capiz Ecology Park and Cultural Village

Encompassing 16 hectares, the Capiz Ecology and Cultural Village is an unlimited inexperienced area established to advertise sustainable community-based livelihood and agro-tourism. House to varied endemic bushes and crops, the park additionally serves as an academic web site for natural farming and forestry.

Managed by the provincial authorities, it additionally capabilities as an open-air museum showcasing a number of the conventional homes within the Philippines together with the Ati’s sapew ke meme, the Hiligaynon/Akeanon/Kinaray-a’s payag, the Igorot’s Bontoc home or fayu, the Panay Bukidnon’s home, and Jama Mapun’s luma. We have been advised there additionally was a lepa, the Badjao’s conventional boathouse, however was destroyed by a latest hurricane.

Our information from the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Workplace, Sir Ahdiemar Baylon, toured us and patiently defined every cease. He additionally allowed us to witness how native delicacies are made (together with my favourite nilupak, which is made with plantains on this a part of the nation) and study extra concerning the province’s cultural heritage by means of weaving and different native crafts.

The park additionally hosts company crew buildings, seminars, retreats, campings, and only a fast getaway from the same old every day grind. Different amenities are spa home, wall climbing, treehouse, memento store, and a café (Kapehan sa Ecopark).

The park is situated in Brgy. Nagba within the municipality of Cuartero, a bit indifferent from the same old vacationer sights. However when you want to come go to, you could get in contact with Park Supervisor Rolly Miguel at 09194720875.

Location: Barangay Nagba, Cuartero, Capiz
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Day by day). Be aware that the schedule would possibly change, so all the time verify the official Fb web page earlier than visiting.
Methods to get there: From Roxas Metropolis, board a bus to Cuartero city middle (P60-80). From there, the park is only a 10-minute tricycle trip away.
Entrance Price: FREE

Diwal and Different Seafood

In Capiz, you’ll discover the freshest and most scrumptious seafood the nation has to supply. Hiya?! You might be within the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, so go on and stuff your face with the comparatively inexpensive native and traditional seafood dishes.

From the Baybay Seaside seafood grills and eateries to the Palina Greenbelt floating eating places to the limitless seafood buffets, the choices are seemingly infinite — crabs, prawns, mussels, scallops, catfish, marlins, shrimps, and oysters! However our favourite is unquestionably the diwal, also referred to as Oriental angel wing clam (Pholas orientalis). Oriental, maybe to distinguish it from one other comparable trying clam within the west (Cyrtopleura costata). Angel wing, as a result of take a look at it! They do appear like how angel’s wings have been depicted for hundreds of years — ivory white, dove-like, and complicated.

Whereas diwal can be present in different provinces (and different international locations), these seasonal mollusks are most plentiful on this a part of Panay Island, significantly Capiz. In comparison with different bivalves, diwal packs extra meat and is way simpler to open and eat. It’s additionally juicier and tastier. We’ve had them some ways however we cherished them grilled.

Aspect journey to Gigantes Islands, Iloilo

The Gigantes Islands, a gaggle of islands off the northeastern coast of Iloilo, along with Olotayan and Mantalinga Islands of Capiz, are shrouded in legends, myths, and folks tales. There are lots of variations on how the islands acquired their names, however one constantly floats on the floor: they’re scattered stays of a prehistoric large.

Brace your self whenever you embark on a journey to the islands as a result of the “giants” will seize you and overwhelm you with what they will provide — magnificent rock formations and cliffs, scenic islands and islets, pristine seashores, attention-grabbing caves, a saltwater lagoon, and a Nineteenth-century lighthouse. The standard island hopping stops are Cabugao Gamay, Antonia Island, and Bantigui Island. Some packages additionally embrace Pandan Island (Ojastras Island) and Mini (Little) Boracay Seaside (for small boats solely).

Don’t overlook to strive the recent limitless or piso scallops whenever you get the possibility. Ask your boatman or tour operator for particulars.

Methods to Get There: Gigantes Island is below the jurisdiction of Carles Municipality within the province of Iloilo, however in case you are coming from Manila, the closest main airport is Roxas Airport in Capiz. The journey time from the airport to Bancal Port, which is the jump-off level to Gigantes, is about two hours. If you’re coming from Iloilo Worldwide Airport, the journey takes three to 4 hours, relying on the site visitors and street situation.

AirAsia, one of many nation’s high price range airways, had its inaugural flight to Roxas on 2022 June 16! It now flies 3x weekly (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday) to Roxas Metropolis from Manila through NAIA Terminal 4. The journey time is 45 minutes to an hour.

By the best way, every reserving is inclusive of a complimentary 7kg carry-on baggage allowance. For a hassle-free and extra comfy journey, you would possibly wish to verify its Worth Pack, which covers 20kg check-in baggage allowance, customary choice, a meal, and Tune Shield insurance coverage (for bags delay & 1 hour on-time assure safety). In the meantime, their Premium Flex choice means that you can change the date and time of your flight as much as two instances.

Previous to our latest journey, the crew had been to all of the provinces within the Western Visayas Area (Area VI) EXCEPT Capiz, which has all the time piqued our curiosity. So when AirAsia invited us to lastly expertise the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, we stated sure instantly! Particular due to the AirAsia fam for taking excellent care of us by means of all the journey!

Whereas it’s totally doable to discover Roxas Metropolis and the remainder of Capiz by public transportation by yourself, we suggest hiring a tour information or becoming a member of a tour. Capiz is a type of locations that don’t instantly stun on the floor, however you’ll respect higher as you dig deeper. A lot of the sights are historic and cultural, making them extra experiential than visible.

For extra details about tour packages, contact:

SAN MATEO TRAVEL & TOURS
Headed by Ms. Vicky Baes
Cellular No.: 09478063578
E mail: [email protected]

When you desire a extra custom-made sort of tour, get in contact with:

JONG ARCENAS
Freelance Tour Information
Cellular No.: 09175332990

As a neighborhood, Jong is without doubt one of the most educated tour guides we’ve had within the Philippines. He had numerous compelling tales to share about every web site, and we may inform that it’s coming from a spot of satisfaction and love for his hometown. Whether or not you’re on a barkada journey or firm outing, having Jong will make your tour extra insightful. You can too ask him for ideas and different suggestions.

Written by Asta Alvarez
Photographs and extra phrases by Yosh Dimen

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