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Iloilo: The Heart of the Visayas

A comprehensive exploration of the province's rich history, diverse geography, vibrant culture, and economic landscape.

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Province Overview

Location and Capital

Iloilo is a province situated in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, occupying the southeastern portion of the island of Panay. Its capital and largest city is Iloilo City, which serves as the regional center for Western Visayas. While geographically located within the province, Iloilo City maintains political independence from the provincial government.

Geographical Context

The province is bordered by Antique to the west, Capiz to the north, the Jintotolo Channel to the northeast, and the Guimaras Strait and Panay Gulf to the east and southwest, respectively. It encompasses mainland Panay and several smaller islands to its northeast.

Cultural Significance

Iloilo is renowned for its historical depth and cultural heritage, particularly evident in its Spanish-era architecture, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like Miag-ao Church, and numerous National Cultural Treasures. The northern coastal areas are celebrated for their natural beauty, featuring islands and sandbars like Islas de Gigantes.

Etymology

Origin of the Name

The name "Iloilo" originates from the province's capital, Iloilo City. The city's name is derived from the archaic Hiligaynon term "Irong-irong," meaning "nose-like." This appellation refers to a distinctive promontory situated between the Iloilo and Batiano rivers, an area historically significant for the location of Fort San Pedro and the early Spanish port.

Historical Trajectory

Early Settlements

Pre-Hispanic Iloilo lacks extensive written records, relying primarily on oral traditions and epics like the Hinilawod. The 1907 work Maragtas by Pedro Alcantara Monteclaro details oral accounts of the island's settlement by ten datus from Borneo, who allegedly purchased lands from the native Ati people. Datu Paiburong is credited with establishing the settlement of Irong-irong.

Spanish Colonial Era

The Spanish established their first settlement in Ogtong (now Oton) in 1566, relocating to La Villa Rica de Arevalo in 1581 due to coastal raids. The current Iloilo City emerged as a strategic center after a Moro raid in 1600, leading to the construction of Fort San Pedro in 1616. Iloilo prospered through its textile and sugar industries, attracting trade and immigration.

American Colonial Period

During the American colonial era, Iloilo was a hub of significant development, noted for establishing some of the first department stores and cinema theaters in the Commonwealth of the Philippines.

Japanese Occupation

World War II brought devastation to Iloilo. The province experienced severe hardship during the Japanese occupation, including the establishment of "comfort stations." However, local resistance efforts, led by figures like Macario Peralta Jr., played a crucial role in liberating Panay Island from Japanese forces.

Independence and Marcos Era

Following Philippine independence in 1946, Iloilo became part of the new republic. The province, like the rest of the nation, experienced political and economic turmoil during the Marcos dictatorship era, with reports of political detainees and human rights abuses occurring in local military camps.

Geographical Landscape

Topography and Area

Iloilo province covers approximately 5,000.83 square kilometers (1,930.83 sq mi). Its topography is characterized by the highlands of the Central Panay Mountain Range along its western border and extensive lowland plains. The province also includes several islands in the Visayan Sea, such as Pan de Azucar and Sicogon. Mount Baloy, at 1,958 meters (6,424 ft), is the province's highest peak.

Rivers and Coastal Features

Numerous rivers traverse the province, including the Jalaur River, Tigum River, and the Iloilo River. The coastal areas and river deltas are marked by expansive fishponds and mangrove wetlands, particularly in municipalities like Oton, Leganes, and Banate.

Climate Data

Meteorological Overview

Iloilo experiences a tropical monsoon climate. Temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year, with average daily maximums around 31.12°C (88.02°F) and average daily minimums around 24.02°C (75.24°F). The province receives significant rainfall, particularly from June to October, with an annual average of 1,953.7 mm (76.92 inches). Relative humidity remains high, averaging 81.25% annually.

Climate data for Iloilo, Philippines — NOAA Station Id: PH98637
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 29.7
(85.5)
30.2
(86.4)
31.7
(89.1)
33.1
(91.6)
33.1
(91.6)
31.6
(88.9)
30.7
(87.3)
30.4
(86.7)
30.8
(87.4)
31.1
(88.0)
30.9
(87.6)
30.2
(86.4)
31.12
(88.02)
Daily mean °C (°F) 26.1
(79.0)
26.5
(79.7)
27.6
(81.7)
28.9
(84.0)
29.1
(84.4)
28.1
(82.6)
27.6
(81.7)
27.5
(81.5)
27.6
(81.7)
27.7
(81.9)
27.5
(81.5)
26.8
(80.2)
27.59
(81.66)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 22.7
(72.9)
22.7
(72.9)
23.5
(74.3)
24.6
(76.3)
25.1
(77.2)
24.7
(76.5)
24.4
(75.9)
24.5
(76.1)
24.4
(75.9)
24.2
(75.6)
24.0
(75.2)
23.4
(74.1)
24.02
(75.24)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 39.9
(1.57)
19.1
(0.75)
27.1
(1.07)
47.7
(1.88)
117.9
(4.64)
255.2
(10.05)
313.2
(12.33)
363.7
(14.32)
266.8
(10.50)
264.1
(10.40)
174.8
(6.88)
64.2
(2.53)
1,953.7
(76.92)
Average relative humidity (%) 82 80 75 73 77 82 85 85 85 84 84 83 81.25
Source: Climate-Charts.com (Archived)

Demographics

Population Statistics

As of the 2020 census, the province of Iloilo (excluding Iloilo City) had a population of 2,051,899, with a population density of 410 inhabitants per square kilometer. Including Iloilo City, the total population reaches approximately 2,509,525. The province ranks among the most populous in the Philippines.

Population Census of Iloilo (Excluding Iloilo City)
YearPop.±% p.a.
1903 329,993
1918 397,854+1.25%
1939 589,198+1.89%
1948 665,563+1.36%
1960 757,440+1.08%
1970 885,221+1.57%
YearPop.±% p.a.
1975 1,001,507+2.51%
1980 1,096,432+1.83%
1990 1,337,981+2.01%
1995 1,415,022+1.05%
2000 1,559,182+2.10%
2007 1,691,878+1.13%
YearPop.±% p.a.
2010 1,805,576+2.40%
2015 1,936,423+1.34%
2020 2,051,899+1.23%
2024 2,082,616+0.36%
Source: Philippine Statistics Authority

Languages and Ethnicity

The primary ethno-linguistic group in Iloilo are the Ilonggos. The province is linguistically diverse, with Hiligaynon (also known as Ilonggo) being the predominant language, spoken widely in Iloilo City and surrounding areas. Kinaray-a and Capiznon are also spoken, particularly in the western parts of the province. Filipino and English serve as administrative, educational, and commercial languages.

Languages Spoken (2000)
LanguageSpeakers
Hiligaynon
899,108
Kinaray-a
148,307
Capiznon
2,913
Other Visayan languages
2,731
Others
11,815
Not Reported
7,596

Religious Affiliation

The province is predominantly Roman Catholic, with approximately 87% of the population adhering to this faith. Other Christian denominations, including Iglesia Filipina Independiente, various Protestant groups, and Iglesia Ni Cristo, are also present. Non-Christian religious affiliations, such as Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, are represented by smaller segments of the population.

Economic Profile

Economic Indicators

Iloilo's economy is robust, contributing significantly to the region's GDP. In 2022, the provincial GDP was estimated at PHP 351.05 billion ($5.98 billion USD), reflecting a growth rate of 8.5%. The province demonstrates a very high Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.800, ranking fourth nationally. Poverty incidence in Iloilo has shown a declining trend, indicating economic progress.

Poverty Incidence Data (Approximate percentages):

  • Year 1: 12.94%
  • Year 2: 38.6%
  • Year 3: 21.76%
  • Year 4: 26.62%
  • Year 5: 26.21%
  • Year 6: 22.03%
  • Year 7: 16.49%

Key Economic Sectors

The economy is driven by agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Key agricultural products include rice, corn, and various fruits. The province also benefits from its strategic location for trade and commerce, with Iloilo City serving as a major economic hub.

Administrative Divisions

Governance Structure

The Province of Iloilo is administered through a provincial government headed by a Governor and a Vice Governor, supported by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. It comprises 42 municipalities and two cities: the component city of Passi and the highly urbanized, independent Iloilo City.

City or municipality District[38] Population ±% p.a. Area[38] Density Barangay Coordinates[A]
(2020)[39] (2015)[2] km2 sq mi /km2 /sq mi
Ajuy 5th 2.6% 53,462 52,268 +0.43% 175.57 67.79 300 780 34 11°10′17″N 123°01′12″E / 11.1713°N 123.0199°E / 11.1713; 123.0199(Ajuy)
Alimodian 2nd 1.9% 39,722 38,408 +0.64% 144.82 55.92 270 700 51 10°48′59″N 122°25′56″E / 10.8163°N 122.4321°E / 10.8163; 122.4321(Alimodian)
Anilao 4th 1.5% 30,520 28,684 +1.19% 85.09 32.85 360 930 21 10°58′44″N 122°45′04″E / 10.9789°N 122.7511°E / 10.9789; 122.7511(Anilao)
Badiangan 3rd 1.3% 27,056 27,005 +0.04% 77.50 29.92 350 910 31 10°59′11″N 122°32′12″E / 10.9863°N 122.5367°E / 10.9863; 122.5367(Badiangan)
Balasan 5th 1.7% 35,064 33,088 +1.11% 54.27 20.95 650 1,700 23 11°28′23″N 123°05′21″E / 11.4731°N 123.0891°E / 11.4731; 123.0891(Balasan)
Banate 4th 1.6% 33,376 32,532 +0.49% 73.48 28.37 450 1,200 18 11°00′02″N 122°49′06″E / 11.0006°N 122.8182°E / 11.0006; 122.8182(Banate)
Barotac Nuevo 4th 2.8% 58,176 54,146 +1.38% 94.49 36.48 620 1,600 29 10°53′42″N 122°42′15″E / 10.8951°N 122.7041°E / 10.8951; 122.7041(Barotac Nuevo)
Barotac Viejo 5th 2.4% 48,614 45,808 +1.14% 185.78 71.73 260 670 26 11°02′31″N 122°51′02″E / 11.0419°N 122.8505°E / 11.0419; 122.8505(Barotac Viejo)
Batad 5th 1.1% 22,157 21,298 +0.76% 53.10 20.50 420 1,100 24 11°25′02″N 123°06′35″E / 11.4173°N 123.1098°E / 11.4173; 123.1098(Batad)
Bingawan 3rd 0.8% 16,164 15,199 +1.18% 85.20 32.90 190 490 14 11°13′58″N 122°34′03″E / 11.2329°N 122.5675°E / 11.2329; 122.5675(Bingawan)
Cabatuan 3rd 3.0% 61,110 58,442 +0.85% 112.90 43.59 540 1,400 68 10°52′49″N 122°28′53″E / 10.8803°N 122.4815°E / 10.8803; 122.4815(Cabatuan)
Calinog 3rd 3.1% 62,853 60,413 +0.76% 274.55 106.00 230 600 59 11°07′21″N 122°32′17″E / 11.1225°N 122.5380°E / 11.1225; 122.5380(Calinog)
Carles 5th 3.5% 72,637 68,160 +1.22% 104.05 40.17 700 1,800 33 11°34′17″N 123°07′57″E / 11.5713°N 123.1326°E / 11.5713; 123.1326(Carles)
Concepcion 5th 2.2% 44,633 43,159 +0.64% 86.12 33.25 520 1,300 25 11°12′53″N 123°06′30″E / 11.2148°N 123.1082°E / 11.2148; 123.1082(Concepcion)
Dingle 4th 2.2% 45,965 45,335 +0.26% 98.37 37.98 470 1,200 33 11°00′00″N 122°40′18″E / 11.0000°N 122.6717°E / 11.0000; 122.6717(Dingle)
Dueñas 4th 1.7% 34,597 34,242 +0.20% 90.52 34.95 380 980 47 11°03′58″N 122°37′06″E / 11.0662°N 122.6183°E / 11.0662; 122.6183(Dueñas)
Dumangas 4th 3.6% 73,899 69,108 +1.28% 128.70 49.69 570 1,500 45 10°49′17″N 122°42′44″E / 10.8214°N 122.7122°E / 10.8214; 122.7122(Dumangas)
Estancia 5th 2.6% 53,200 48,546 +1.76% 29.38 11.34 1,800 4,700 25 11°27′29″N 123°09′04″E / 11.4580°N 123.1511°E / 11.4580; 123.1511(Estancia)
Guimbal 1st 1.7% 35,022 33,820 +0.67% 44.63 17.23 780 2,000 33 10°39′41″N 122°19′22″E / 10.6615°N 122.3228°E / 10.6615; 122.3228(Guimbal)
Igbaras 1st 1.6% 32,197 32,004 +0.11% 148.72 57.42 220 570 46 10°43′02″N 122°15′55″E / 10.7172°N 122.2654°E / 10.7172; 122.2654(Igbaras)
Iloilo City lone 457,626 447,992 +0.41% 78.34 30.25 5,800 15,000 180 10°42′09″N 122°34′08″E / 10.7024°N 122.5690°E / 10.7024; 122.5690(Iloilo City)
Janiuay 3rd 3.3% 66,786 63,905 +0.84% 179.10 69.15 370 960 60 10°56′57″N 122°30′07″E / 10.9491°N 122.5019°E / 10.9491; 122.5019(Janiuay)
Lambunao 3rd 4.0% 81,236 73,640 +1.89% 407.09 157.18 200 520 73 11°03′19″N 122°28′29″E / 11.0553°N 122.4746°E / 11.0553; 122.4746(Lambunao)
Leganes 2nd 1.7% 34,725 32,480 +1.28% 32.20 12.43 1,100 2,800 18 10°47′11″N 122°35′21″E / 10.7863°N 122.5892°E / 10.7863; 122.5892(Leganes)
Lemery 5th 1.5% 31,414 30,851 +0.34% 137.55 53.11 230 600 31 11°13′33″N 122°55′39″E / 11.2258°N 122.9274°E / 11.2258; 122.9274(Lemery)
Leon 2nd 2.5% 51,990 49,875 +0.79% 163.97 63.31 320 830 85 10°46′50″N 122°23′18″E / 10.7805°N 122.3882°E / 10.7805; 122.3882(Leon)
Maasin 3rd 1.9% 38,461 36,922 +0.78% 128.59 49.65 300 780 50 10°53′27″N 122°26′00″E / 10.8908°N 122.4332°E / 10.8908; 122.4332(Maasin)
Miagao 1st 3.3% 68,115 67,565 +0.15% 156.80 60.54 430 1,100 119 10°38′28″N 122°14′08″E / 10.6410°N 122.2355°E / 10.6410; 122.2355(Miagao)
Mina 3rd 1.2% 24,042 23,546 +0.40% 43.40 16.76 550 1,400 22 10°55′48″N 122°34′27″E / 10.9300°N 122.5742°E / 10.9300; 122.5742(Mina)
New Lucena 2nd 1.2% 24,314 23,240 +0.86% 44.10 17.03 550 1,400 21 10°52′39″N 122°35′48″E / 10.8776°N 122.5967°E / 10.8776; 122.5967(New Lucena)
Oton 1st 4.8% 98,509 89,115 +1.93% 86.44 33.37 1,100 2,800 37 10°41′37″N 122°28′38″E / 10.6936°N 122.4773°E / 10.6936; 122.4773(Oton)
Passi City * 4th 4.3% 88,873 80,544 +1.89% 251.39 97.06 350 910 51 11°07′03″N 122°38′36″E / 11.1174°N 122.6432°E / 11.1174; 122.6432(Passi)
Pavia 2nd 3.4% 70,388 55,603 +4.59% 27.15 10.48 2,600 6,700 18 10°46′29″N 122°32′31″E / 10.7748°N 122.5419°E / 10.7748; 122.5419(Pavia)
Pototan 3rd 3.8% 78,298 75,070 +0.80% 97.10 37.49 810 2,100 50 10°56′32″N 122°38′09″E / 10.9421°N 122.6358°E / 10.9421; 122.6358(Pototan)
San Dionisio 5th 1.9% 39,048 38,775 +0.13% 127.06 49.06 310 800 29 11°16′12″N 123°05′39″E / 11.2701°N 123.0942°E / 11.2701; 123.0942(San Dionisio)
San Enrique 4th 1.8% 36,911 33,911 +1.63% 110.28 42.58 330 850 28 11°04′21″N 122°39′21″E / 11.0724°N 122.6558°E / 11.0724; 122.6558(San Enrique)
San Joaquin 1st 2.6% 52,617 51,892 +0.26% 234.84 90.67 220 570 85 10°35′11″N 122°08′32″E / 10.5865°N 122.1422°E / 10.5865; 122.1422(San Joaquin)
San Miguel 2nd 1.5% 30,115 27,686 +1.61% 31.97 12.34 940 2,400 24 10°46′51″N 122°27′54″E / 10.7807°N 122.4650°E / 10.7807; 122.4650(San Miguel)
San Rafael 5th 0.9% 17,795 16,532 +1.41% 67.05 25.89 270 700 9 11°10′48″N 122°49′44″E / 11.1801°N 122.8288°E / 11.1801; 122.8288(San Rafael)
Santa Barbara 2nd 3.3% 67,630 60,215 +2.24% 131.96 50.95 510 1,300 60 10°49′38″N 122°31′53″E / 10.8272°N 122.5314°E / 10.8272; 122.5314(Santa Barbara)
Sara 5th 2.7% 54,637 52,631 +0.71% 169.02 65.26 320 830 42 11°15′31″N 123°00′46″E / 11.2587°N 123.0128°E / 11.2587; 123.0128(Sara)
Tigbauan 1st 3.2% 65,245 62,706 +0.76% 83.68 32.31 780 2,000 52 10°40′28″N 122°22′34″E / 10.6744°N 122.3761°E / 10.6744; 122.3761(Tigbauan)
Tubungan 1st 1.1% 23,021 22,449 +0.48% 85.18 32.89 270 700 48 10°45′55″N 122°19′05″E / 10.7654°N 122.3181°E / 10.7654; 122.3181(Tubungan)
Zarraga 2nd 1.3% 27,305 25,605 +1.23% 54.48 21.03 500 1,300 24 10°49′25″N 122°36′36″E / 10.8236°N 122.6099°E / 10.8236; 122.6099(Zarraga)
Total[B] 2,051,899 1,936,423 +1.11% 4,997.64 1,929.60 410 1,100 1,721 (see GeoGroup box)
  1. ^ Coordinates mark the city/town center, and are sortable by latitude.
  2. ^ Total figures exclude the highly urbanized city of Iloilo.

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References

References

  1.  Philippines: A Unique Nation By Dr. Sonia M. Zaide (2015) p. 150. [All Nations Publishing Co., Inc.]
  2.  "Jesuits In The Philippines (1581-1768)" Page 145.
  3.  ESTADISMO DE LAS ISLAS FILIPINAS TOMO SEGUNDO By Joaquín Martínez de Zúñiga (Original Spanish)
  4.  Table 5. Household Population by Ethnicity and Sex: Iloilo, 2000
A full list of references for this article are available at the Iloilo Wikipedia page

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