OK, let’s get one thing out of the way in which: 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, generally shape-shifting people 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. Apart from 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. For those who’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, we’ve solely explored Roxas Metropolis and neighboring Panay. We’ll replace this as we journey and uncover extra of the province.
WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
Roxas Metropolis is the capital of the province of Capiz. In truth, the province bought its identify 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. At the moment, it serves because the gateway to the province and close by areas in Panay Island. Listed here are a number of the key sights in Roxas Metropolis.
Roxas Metropolis Museum (Ang Panublion)
Sitting on the coronary heart of the 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 might probably function a fast overview of what the town and province have to supply. This fashion, you’ll have extra context if 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 heart of the room stand blown-up pictures of assorted scenes within the province.
The museum construction itself is taken into account a historic landmark. Courting again to 1910, the round water tank survived the claws of World Battle II and was ultimately repurposed as a museum in 1993 by the town authorities.
Location: Legaspi Road nook Hughes Road, 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, the town’s historic core. Surrounded by a quantity essential constructions, the sq. is a one-stop web site to see a number of the metropolis’s key landmarks:
- a fountain on the heart, which additionally serves because the Kilometer 0 mark
- the Rizal Monument and the Capiz Provincial Capitol on the jap 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 essentially the most dominant construction right here is the Roxas Cathedral. Extra formally often called the Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral, it’s the heart of Catholic religion in Capiz and the seat of the Archdiocese of Capiz.
The church’s historical past may be traced again all the way in which to 1707, when it was established by Augustinian missionaries. However the constructing we see in the present day was accomplished in 1827.
Palina Greenbelt Ecopark & River Cruise
Located on the outskirts of the town, about 5 kilometers west of the city heart, the Palina Greenbelt Ecopark presents 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 enterprise has acquired 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 really useful 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 beneath. 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
The Fringe of Roxas Metropolis + Painted Anitos
Crowning a cliff alongside the northern, uhm, fringe of the Culasi peninsula, The Edge is a comparatively new hangout place the place one can respect nature, meals, and humanities. The promontory faces the Sibuyan Sea, affording revelers picturesque views of the encircling space.
It was initially constructed as a non-public piece of paradise for household and buddies of the house owners however was ultimately opened to the general public. It has a snack bar serving refreshments, pica-pica (finger meals), and all-day breakfast for walk-ins. You can even ask for the particular menu, however you should definitely order a day earlier than your deliberate go to.
From the Port of Culasi, visitors have to trek about 300 meters to succeed in the place. The positioning additionally harbors the Barangay Culasi Lighthouse, only a quick trek up from The Edge correct.
Whereas its picture spots are evidently impressed by related standard websites in Bali, its coronary heart and soul are grounded in native heritage. In your approach to the lighthouse, you’ll be greeted by colourful anitos. An anito can confer with ancestor spirit, which is revered in many folks religions. The thought of putting in the painted statues got here from Mr. Jose “Jong” Arcenas and his deep appreciation of our precolonial tradition, particularly that of the Hangaway Pintados, the tattooed warriors in Panay and close by areas.
“(The anitos) are dressed up and painted with tattoo designs or conventional clothings,” Jong shares. “These tattoos have numerous meanings and the definition of every sample depends upon the tribe it’s representing.” Apart from native designs, the figures additionally spotlight our Austronesian roots, showcasing Visayan kinds alongside these of our seafaring cousins just like the Maori; and illustrating how we’re all associated. In truth, every was created in line with its artist’s interpretation of assorted conventional Austronesian designs together with batik (textile) and batuk (tattoo).
Jong’s dream is to catapult this ardour undertaking of his into a serious vacationer attraction to convey this facet of our heritage nearer to extra individuals. It’s additionally an incredible reminder of our wealthy tradition and identification as a nation.
Location: Barangay Culasi, Roxas Metropolis, Cadiz
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Day by day). Upon request, the closing hour can prolong as much as 10:00 PM. The schedule might change so verify the official Fb Web page or contact the administration for the up to date schedule earlier than going.
Entrance Price: P20/head
Paseo del Rio & Casa de Mercado
Launched to the general public in February 2022, Paseo del Rio (River Stroll) was once a dumping web site however was later rehabilitated and remodeled right into a scenic promenade. Operating between San Roque Bridge and Jumbo Bridge (Juliano Alba Bridge), it’s a public leisure area, the place individuals can have a soothing stroll alongside the Panay River.
Essentially the most outstanding 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. But it surely 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 get pleasure from on a extra common foundation.
Roxas Metropolis Public Market
Simply throughout Paseo del Rio stands the Teodoro Arcenas Commerce Heart, Roxas Metropolis’s public market and the most important in Capiz. Extra popularly recognized regionally as Lipunan Market, it’s over 40 years previous however was not too long ago renovated after Storm Ursula damages a few of its elements. It was named after former mayor Teodoro Roxas Arcenas, who had the marker constructed.
Like every other market, there are sections for fruit and veggies, meat, dry items, and different merchandise. But it surely’s additionally an incredible place to seek out one among Roxas’s biggest belongings — seafood — at pleasant costs!
Whereas Roxas Metropolis is a contemporary metropolis, its extra conventional roots will also be seen in and across the market, particularly at outlets promoting numerous gadgets which are claimed to have therapeutic properties, generally utilized by albolaryo. In keeping 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 drugs. You’ll additionally discover kamangyan, a kind of incense produced from dried resin of choose timber after which burnt to provide smoke, typically utilized in treating sure illnesses or at rituals; and sulfur powder, additionally used to heal some kinds 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 inside the market premises that serves lutong-bahay-style Pinoy dishes however is greatest recognized 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
Overlaying 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 the town heart. 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 road meals joint in Roxas.
The seemingly countless stretch of high quality darkish grey sand makes it venue for a lot of actions together with swimming, picnicking, enjoying seaside sports activities, jogging, strolling, and watching the dawn and sundown. From right here, you’ll have have a look at a number of the islands fronting the town together with Mantalinga Island and Olotayan Island.
Guests typically have a full meal at one of many seafood eating places lining the seaside.
Location: Folks’s Park, Arnaldo Boulevard, Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Price: FREE
Tabai Espresso + Check Kitchen
However should you’re not up for a full meal however would love a drink whereas in Baybay, head over to Tabai Espresso + Check Kitchen. Tabai is greater than only a cafe. Its largest asset is its location, good by Baybay, the town’s essential seaside. 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 kinds of conditions. However at evening, it turns right into a cocktail lounge, the place you possibly can meet up with buddies over a drink, ideally with alcohol. Baybay faces north so that you received’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 contains snacks, rice meals, hen wings, and pizza. And true to its take a look at 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, but it surely 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 motion pictures and sequence, too. Something with an enormous 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 alleged to be a part of a resort, which the Bermejo household initially deliberate for that web site however was later dropped. At the moment, 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 seaside.
Topped with greenery, the island sits on a rocky elevated throne, making it exhausting for individuals 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 house 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 can have the names of their boats written on the rocky basis of the island earlier than they go fishing throughout its maiden voyage. In keeping 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 identify.
Location: Roxas Metropolis, Capiz
Olotayan Island
In keeping with folklore, the 53-hectare Olotayan Island is a part of the legendary big’s anatomy, significantly the pinnacle and the stomach!
Located a number of kilometers off the coast of Baybay Seaside, Olotayan is the only real island barangay of Roxas Metropolis. Whereas the settlements are principally niched on the jap and the northern shores, a lot of the land is roofed in vegetation.
An off-the-beaten seaside vacation spot, it isn’t normally frequented by vacationers, making it an ideal spot for many who want quiet and fewer touristy seashores. The shore seems to be white, but it surely’s made up of coral rubbles, so it’s greatest to put on aqua footwear or footwear whereas strolling and exploring the seaside. For individuals who love venturing additional into the deep, the encircling waters are house to varied species of fish, corals, and even the fluted big clams, in line with our information.
Among the standard jump-off factors are Baybay Seaside and Punta Cogon. The journey time is round half-hour by boat. The robust waves make it difficult for smaller boats to cross the waters separating Olotayan from the mainland. It’s greatest to convey your individual meals and sufficient ingesting water.
Espacio Verde Resort
As early as now, let me let you know that Espacio Verde isn’t low-cost by any means. However should you’re in Roxas to have fun 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 children? 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 timber!
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 principally 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 placement affords pilgrims and guests a 360-degree view of Roxas Metropolis and a panoramic view of Sibuyan Sea. You can even spot the statue from afar, at the very least from some elements 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 largest 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 thing 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 remains to be ongoing, so donations, large or small, are significantly appreciated. You can even 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 standard. 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 troublesome 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 fascinating. Each nook right here is stylishly Instagrammable, that’s should you can catch it unoccupied.
The cafe takes essentially 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 complicated of Circulo Conference Heart, 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 beautiful 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 heart, its accessibility can be a contributing issue to its recognition.
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 Heart
Banica Dried Fish Heart is situated over two kilometers east of the town heart, in Barangay Banica. It’s a standard wholesale dried fish market and pasalubong heart. The entire stretch of road, 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 number of. In case you are 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 lots of the merchandise on show. For those who’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 the town. Its centerpiece is a small artifical rocky fountain surrounded by a small lagoon. The park additionally serves as an arboretum of some native timber within the Philippines.
It’s additionally right here that you simply’ll discover the Capiz Vacationer Info Heart and Specialty Retailers, a one-stop store for native handmade merchandise, delicacies, and souvenirs from not simply Roxas Metropolis but in addition different municipalities in Capiz. Some snack outlets supply free samples for tasting so you understand 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 atmosphere and sustainable tourism by the variety of eco-friendly sights dotting the 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 the town heart.
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 in the neighborhood, the ecosystem, and the atmosphere as an entire.
The Culajao Mangrove Forest is house 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, out there 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. In truth, 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. Beneath 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 manufactured from coral stones that includes three-meter-thick partitions. Different options are the previous picket roof truss, the artifacts, the museum, the Our Woman of Lourdes Grotto, the previous Spanish nicely in the back of the church, and naturally, its well-known bells!
Historical past buffs can 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.
For those who can’t or don’t need to climb the belfry, you could find the duplicate 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 road within the nation, in Barangay Poblacion Ilawod, Balay ni Nanay Lording is without doubt one of the heritage homes in Capiz. From the surface, the home won’t look too previous due to the fashionable accents added via the years, however if you step inside, you’ll see that it has preserved many elements of the previous inside.
That is the household house of Ms. Vicky Baes, President of Capiz-Roxas Journey Companies and Tour Operators Affiliation (CARTATOA). She herself confirmed us round the home, which additionally serves as a museum, safeguarding plenty 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 remodeled right into a specialty restaurant, Cafe Marcelo, providing meal packages, together with all-out seafood-all-you-can (P378 per head), good for giant 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 low showroom. You may take house 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 exhausting 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 one of the best meal we had in Capiz. It’s a romantic sanctuary, set underneath the cover of towering timber, surrounded by nature, illuminated by strains of lanterns at evening.
However it’s initially a resort. It was initially a non-public household resort, however in 2019 it lastly began accepting visitors, 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 guide by contacting them via e-mail, cellular numbers, or Fb messenger (particulars beneath).
You may additionally go to on a day tour, but it surely’s greatest to contact them earlier than you go. Whereas the resto-bar can be open to non-staying guests, they could solely drop by on specified days (see particulars beneath) earlier than 5pm. Past these hours, the property is unique to resort visitors who’re checked in. The resort additionally hosts occasions, non-public 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: contact@istoryaforestgarden.com / 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. Residence to varied endemic timber and crops, the park additionally serves as an academic web site for natural farming and forestry.
Managed by the provincial authorities, it additionally features 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 once a lepa, the Badjao’s conventional boathouse, however was destroyed by a latest storm.
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 via weaving and different native crafts.
The park additionally hosts company group buildings, seminars, retreats, campings, and only a fast getaway from the same old each 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 should 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.
The right way to get there: From Roxas Metropolis, board a bus to Cuartero city heart (P60-80). From there, the park is only a 10-minute tricycle journey away.
Entrance Price: FREE
Diwal and Different Seafood
In Capiz, you’ll discover the freshest and most scrumptious seafood the nation has to supply. Howdy?! You might be within the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, so go on and stuff your face with the comparatively inexpensive native and basic 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 countless — crabs, prawns, mussels, scallops, catfish, marlins, shrimps, and oysters! However our favourite is certainly the diwal, also called Oriental angel wing clam (Pholas orientalis). Oriental, maybe to distinguish it from one other related trying clam within the west (Cyrtopleura costata). Angel wing, as a result of have a look at it! They do seem like how angel’s wings have been depicted for hundreds of years — ivory white, dove-like, and complicated.
Whereas diwal will also be present in different provinces (and different international locations), these seasonal mollusks are most considerable 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 people tales. There are numerous variations on how the islands bought their names, however one constantly floats on the floor: they’re scattered stays of a prehistoric big.
Brace your self if you embark on a journey to the islands as a result of the “giants” will seize you and overwhelm you with what they’ll supply — magnificent rock formations and cliffs, scenic islands and islets, pristine seashores, fascinating caves, a saltwater lagoon, and a Nineteenth-century lighthouse. The same old 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 attempt the recent limitless or piso scallops if you get the prospect. Ask your boatman or tour operator for particulars.
The right way to Get There: Gigantes Island is underneath 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. In case you are coming from Iloilo Worldwide Airport, the journey takes three to 4 hours, relying on the visitors and street situation.
AirAsia, one of many nation’s prime 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 way in which, every reserving is inclusive of a complimentary 7kg carry-on baggage allowance. For a hassle-free and extra comfy journey, you would possibly need to verify its Worth Pack, which covers 20kg check-in baggage allowance, normal choice, a meal, and Tune Shield insurance coverage (for bags delay & 1 hour on-time assure safety). In the meantime, their Premium Flex choice lets you change the date and time of your flight as much as two instances.
Previous to our latest journey, the group 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 because of the AirAsia fam for taking excellent care of us via the whole journey!
Whereas it’s fully potential to discover Roxas Metropolis and the remainder of Capiz by public transportation by yourself, we advocate 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
Cell No.: 09478063578
E mail: sanmateotravelagency@yahoo.com
For those who want a extra personalized sort of tour, get in contact with:
JONG ARCENAS
Freelance Tour Information
Cell 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 might 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 even ask him for ideas and different suggestions.
Written by Asta Alvarez
Photographs and extra phrases by Yosh Dimen
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