Roxas City-is a medium-sized city in the province of Capiz, Phillipines. It is the capital and component city of Capiz. The current city mayor is former provincial governor Vicente Bermejo who was elected during the 2007 election
It is a center of copra and aquaculture production. The surrounding area grows sugarcane, rice,coconut , fruit, hemp, and tobacco. The language spoken in Roxas City is Hiligaynon, otherwise known as Ilonggo.
According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 126,352 people in 25,126 households.
The abundance of marine life makes Roxas City the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines." This environment-friendly city is home to one of the richest fishing grounds in the country. Roxas City's Baybay Beach is 16 miles long, one mile wide and is the 15th largest natural bay in the world. The tallest sea cliffs in Western Visayas can be found on the city's north side. Roxas City has been a three-time recipient of the Regional Cleanest and Greenest Component City in Western Visayas Award of the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran Program of the national government.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Roxas City
Roxas City-is a medium-sized city in the province of Capiz, Phillipines. It is the capital and component city of Capiz. The current city mayor is former provincial governor Vicente Bermejo who was elected during the 2007 election
It is a center of copra and aquaculture production. The surrounding area grows sugarcane, rice,coconut , fruit, hemp, and tobacco. The language spoken in Roxas City is Hiligaynon, otherwise known as Ilonggo.
According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 126,352 people in 25,126 households.
The abundance of marine life makes Roxas City the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines." This environment-friendly city is home to one of the richest fishing grounds in the country. Roxas City's Baybay Beach is 16 miles long, one mile wide and is the 15th largest natural bay in the world. The tallest sea cliffs in Western Visayas can be found on the city's north side. Roxas City has been a three-time recipient of the Regional Cleanest and Greenest Component City in Western Visayas Award of the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran Program of the national government.
It is a center of copra and aquaculture production. The surrounding area grows sugarcane, rice,coconut , fruit, hemp, and tobacco. The language spoken in Roxas City is Hiligaynon, otherwise known as Ilonggo.
According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 126,352 people in 25,126 households.
The abundance of marine life makes Roxas City the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines." This environment-friendly city is home to one of the richest fishing grounds in the country. Roxas City's Baybay Beach is 16 miles long, one mile wide and is the 15th largest natural bay in the world. The tallest sea cliffs in Western Visayas can be found on the city's north side. Roxas City has been a three-time recipient of the Regional Cleanest and Greenest Component City in Western Visayas Award of the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran Program of the national government.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Baybay beach, Roxas City
One of the sites to see in Captivating Capiz, Roxas City - The Seafood Capital of the Philippines - is Baybay Beach. It is just three kilometers away from the city circle. The place is a favorite weekend spot for the local populace and those coming from nearby towns and provinces. Considered a "must not miss" spot in Roxas City, Baybay beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It has a seven-kilometer stretch of sugar-fine, glittery, ebony sand. The water sometimes washes up to the shore a substance known as "margaha" to the locals, which is fine iron particles that an ordinary magnet can pick up and collect.
Captivating Capiz- "The Pilot School in Capiz"
A video from a student of Capiz National High School- the Pilot School in Capiz.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Ivisan, Brief History
Brief History
Famous for the abundance and delicious fish, called “IBIS”, the place was originally called during the Pre- Spanish period as Ibisan. People from the “Ilaya” would go near the bank of the river which they called “Ilawod”, where the Municipal Market site is now located, to barter their crops with “Ibis”.
Due to preference of “V” from “B”, the place was named Ivisan instead of Ibisan during the Spanish era. Through old local leaders and prominent people in the locality called the place “IVISAN” as evidenced by some inscription in old infrastructures. The later generation called it again Ivisan.
Captivating Capiz- Ivisan, Pregnancy and Birth
Ivisanons, like other Filipinos, are basically superstitious. A pregnant would never attempt to see an eclipse for fear that the baby would be deformed. A man should always see to it that his wife wanted to eat during conception should be give even if it is not the season for the bearing of the fruit she liked, otherwise the baby will not come into being. On the other hand, the fruit of the tree she conceived with, will become sour or tree, the tree will die.
Most deliveries were assisted by “hilots”, the unlettered obstetrician. Usually the father assisted the hilot. After the birth, the child was brought and turned around the stove so that he will be free from the ailment. The umbilical chord was cut by a “tagkis”, a thin sharp edged skin of bamboo. Presently, almost all of these hilots were already trained and recognized by the government.
Most deliveries were assisted by “hilots”, the unlettered obstetrician. Usually the father assisted the hilot. After the birth, the child was brought and turned around the stove so that he will be free from the ailment. The umbilical chord was cut by a “tagkis”, a thin sharp edged skin of bamboo. Presently, almost all of these hilots were already trained and recognized by the government.
Captivating Capiz- Ivisan, Mission and Vision
Ivisan Vision Statement
We envision Ivisan as a community of God and peace loving people working in partnership with a competent, dynamic and incorruptible local government in the efficient and effective delivery of basic services as a means of promoting social justice, self- reliance and enhancing the potentials of its human and natural resources without sacrificing its economic, socio- cultural and ecological balance for a healthy and contented citizenry.
Ivisan Mission Statement
Ivisan as a community of God and peace- loving people is committed to strengthen people- government partnership through pooling and harnessing human and natural resources for the efficient and effective delivery of basic services for social, political, economic, cultural, and spiritual development in order to promote people’s interest and capabilities in delivering basic services; ensuring equitable access to opportunities and benefits of development; promoting, enhancing, and protecting environment for a healthy and contented citizenry.
We envision Ivisan as a community of God and peace loving people working in partnership with a competent, dynamic and incorruptible local government in the efficient and effective delivery of basic services as a means of promoting social justice, self- reliance and enhancing the potentials of its human and natural resources without sacrificing its economic, socio- cultural and ecological balance for a healthy and contented citizenry.
Ivisan Mission Statement
Ivisan as a community of God and peace- loving people is committed to strengthen people- government partnership through pooling and harnessing human and natural resources for the efficient and effective delivery of basic services for social, political, economic, cultural, and spiritual development in order to promote people’s interest and capabilities in delivering basic services; ensuring equitable access to opportunities and benefits of development; promoting, enhancing, and protecting environment for a healthy and contented citizenry.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
captivating capiz: Ivisan; The Concept of “Buyloganay”
A Filipino cultural heritage that may never cease to exist for generations is the holding of Annual Town Fiesta, a tradition influenced through the spread of Christianity in the country and more particularly originated by the Catholic hierarchy whereby idolizing a certain saint as a patron. The municipality of Ivisan in this part, celebrate its annual Municipal and Religious Fiesta in the honour of its patron saint, St. Nicholas de Tolentino every September 10. Historical facts however, do not show what activities were undertaken during the first fiesta celebration, but for many years now, the festivity lasts for five days starting September 5 and culminating on its feast days. Unlike the barangay fiesta, the town fiesta celebration is usually associated with a theme be it cultural or current events that denotes significance to the occasion. Each and every year, the themes changes at the turn of events not until 1993 when the members of the fiesta management suggested that there should be a permanent theme for the affair, patterned after the provincial festivals of Halaran, Ati- atihan and Dinagyang which is a one-word theme in the local dialect that will depict the culture of the locality and should express simplicity and uniqueness. A management meeting was called for the matter to be discussed and decided, and among the suggestions raised, Buyloganay, a word typical of an Ivisan culture characterized by the gesture of unity and cooperation, turned out to be the one chosen as the permanent fiesta theme, thus BUYLOGANAY was conceived.
Lately, the fiesta management having been fascinated with the theme, further thought of organizing an association that will take responsibility of all fiesta celebrations of the municipality. Upon agreement of all members in the meeting, the plan was carried out. An association was organized and named BUYLOGANAY ASSOCIATION OF IVISAN (BAI), a non- stock, non- profit association with the objective to promote socio- economic, cultural and training programs that will enhance livelihood development in the municipality. The Buyloganay Association of Ivisan was founded on July 6, 1995 and handled for the first time the fiesta affair which was a big success. With this initial achievement, the BAI looks forward to many more fiesta celebrations to spearhead.
Lately, the fiesta management having been fascinated with the theme, further thought of organizing an association that will take responsibility of all fiesta celebrations of the municipality. Upon agreement of all members in the meeting, the plan was carried out. An association was organized and named BUYLOGANAY ASSOCIATION OF IVISAN (BAI), a non- stock, non- profit association with the objective to promote socio- economic, cultural and training programs that will enhance livelihood development in the municipality. The Buyloganay Association of Ivisan was founded on July 6, 1995 and handled for the first time the fiesta affair which was a big success. With this initial achievement, the BAI looks forward to many more fiesta celebrations to spearhead.
Captivating Capiz- Ivisan, Historical Events
Higlights of Historical Events
1815 - The Pueblo was established. The first Gobernadorcillo was Eugenio Gerardo, appointed by a Spanish friar.
1895 – A new reform in the government called “Reforma Nueva” changed the Gobernadornacillo to Capitan Municipal. Servillano Quiachon was appointed Capitan Municipal.
1901 – Revolutionary Reform changed the Capitan Municipal to Presidente Local. Don Eugenio Villagracia was appointed.
American Government in Ivisan was formally established and run by the American themselves.
1902 – Capitan Hipolito Vidal was responsible for the construction of the Catholic Church Convent.
1911 – Election of the Municipal Presidente. Pedro Advincula was the first Municipal President. In his term, the Gabaldon Building (later used as Ospital sang Ivisan, now Kabuhayan Training Center) was constructed.
1914 – The Road from Capiz was improved and extended to Ivisan. The Panay Autobus started the operation in Iloilo, Capiz and Aklan passing Ivisan.
1920 – Philippine copra was exported. Ivisan developed copra industry. Tice was produced in lowland areas with the use of plow and carabao.
Mayor Catalino Andrada established the Ivisan Elementary School.
1932 – Mayor Felipe Manalo opened the canal to facilitate water transportation to Balaring, Basiao and Cabugao.
April 2, 1942 – The Japanese Imperial Army forces came to Ivisan, occupying the Poblacion and put up their garrison at the foot of the bridge opposite the Roman Catholic Church.
The pattern living in the community abruptly changed. People left their homes and farms uncultivated for fear.
The Japanese exerted efforts to organize a civil government. The pre- war Mayor Manuel Villaruz was inducted into office. Norberto Villarde was appointed Chief of Police. Japanese Officers ordered the teachers to organize classes. The church was used as a classroom. The principal was Martiniano Andrada, aand the teachers were Mrs.basilisa Gustilo, Mrs. Marciana Valcarcel, Mrs. Consolacion Didulo and Mrs. Nancy Yap.
Major Esteban Andrada and Captain Leon Gamboa exerted efforts to organize different army troops who did not surrender to the enemies.
In the latter part of the war, sometime in 1944, a sporadic activity in Ivisan was aided by the Hublag Batallion which succeeded in raiding the Japanese Garrison in Loctugan.
July 4, 1946 – The Third Republic of the Philippines was born. Don Manuel Villaruz served as a mayor from 1935- 1948. In November 1947, Illuminado Villaruz was elected as Mayor. During his term everything returned to normal.
Captivating Capiz- Ivisan, Saint Nicholas of Tolentino
Born 1245 in Saint’ Angelo in Pontano, Italy, his parents are Compañon de Garutti and Amad Gaidiani. Being childless, they went on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. Nicholas of Bari, in Napolis. They prayed for a son who would serve God faithfully. He was named after the saint whom he imitated throughout his life. At the early age he took the minor orders. Impressed by a sermon of Fr. Reginald of the Hermits of St. Augustine, he joined the Augustinians. He was ordained priests in 1270 in Gingoli, Italy. Four years later, he was sent to Tolentino, a town for its wickedness. He labored for 30 years, reformed the people by his preaching and example. He died on September 10, 1305 at the age of 60 years old. He was canonized as s Saint on June 5, 1446 by Pope Eugene IV.
St. Nicholas was a man of great asceticism, deep spirituality and acute concern for the social problem of his day. He knew how to welcome guests to the monastery with gracious hospitality and charity just as he was aware to leave to the monastery to help someone in need. He was a Spiritual Director, a moral support for many families, as apostle of the confessional, a generous and sensitive alms giver.
St. Nicholas was a man of interiority concerned with that which is essential and lasting, which forms man from within, conforming to Christ and nourishing him with a deep love of the church.
St. Nicholas was a man of great asceticism, deep spirituality and acute concern for the social problem of his day. He knew how to welcome guests to the monastery with gracious hospitality and charity just as he was aware to leave to the monastery to help someone in need. He was a Spiritual Director, a moral support for many families, as apostle of the confessional, a generous and sensitive alms giver.
St. Nicholas was a man of interiority concerned with that which is essential and lasting, which forms man from within, conforming to Christ and nourishing him with a deep love of the church.
Captivating Capiz- Roxas City Taxi
ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Taxicabs with receipt-issuing meters started plying the streets of this city on Saturday, a first for a city outside Metro Manila.Dubbed as “Capiz Cabs,” the receipt-issuing taxis are the first in the Philippines apart from those operating out of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, said lawyer Antonio Ortiz, who chairs the Capiz Transport Multi-purpose Cooperative.
The cooperative, CTMC, which owns the captivating Capiz Cabs, launched the operation of the receipt-issuing taxi units on Friday in a ceremony held in front of Mary Immaculate Conception Cathedral here, following a motorcade that started from the Roxas City Airport.
This was also the first time that taxicabs will operate in Roxas City, where tricycles reigned as the mode of public transport.
The cooperative will initially operate five taxi units but the company plans to acquire more. The taxis will ply around Roxas City, Capiz’s 16 towns and, on special arrangements, to any point on Panay Island, said Ortiz.
Ortiz said five local businessmen, who are also members of the cooperative, put up the investment needed to have taxis in Capiz. They were Jose Nery Ong, Leny Albert Apaitan, Romulo Capunong, William Bantique, and Junith Blancaver.
Blancaver said it was Porfirio Clavel, regional director of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Western Visayas, who made it possible for taxis to operate in Capiz by lifting the moratorium on applications for the issuance of Certificates of Public Convenience.
Under LTFRB’s Memorandum Circular 017 dated September 3, 2008, the taxis should run on liquefied petroleum gas and should be dominantly “sunburst yellow in color including the designs, markings, and logos.”
Aside from being able to issue receipts, the taxis must have two-way radio system and top light.
About 50 units were initially allowed to operate in Capiz under the terms of the LTFRB memorandum.
Uniformed drivers, professionally trained by the Capiz Visitors and Convention Bureau for tourism services, will man the taxicabs, Blancaver added.
The cooperative, CTMC, which owns the captivating Capiz Cabs, launched the operation of the receipt-issuing taxi units on Friday in a ceremony held in front of Mary Immaculate Conception Cathedral here, following a motorcade that started from the Roxas City Airport.
This was also the first time that taxicabs will operate in Roxas City, where tricycles reigned as the mode of public transport.
The cooperative will initially operate five taxi units but the company plans to acquire more. The taxis will ply around Roxas City, Capiz’s 16 towns and, on special arrangements, to any point on Panay Island, said Ortiz.
Ortiz said five local businessmen, who are also members of the cooperative, put up the investment needed to have taxis in Capiz. They were Jose Nery Ong, Leny Albert Apaitan, Romulo Capunong, William Bantique, and Junith Blancaver.
Blancaver said it was Porfirio Clavel, regional director of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Western Visayas, who made it possible for taxis to operate in Capiz by lifting the moratorium on applications for the issuance of Certificates of Public Convenience.
Under LTFRB’s Memorandum Circular 017 dated September 3, 2008, the taxis should run on liquefied petroleum gas and should be dominantly “sunburst yellow in color including the designs, markings, and logos.”
Aside from being able to issue receipts, the taxis must have two-way radio system and top light.
About 50 units were initially allowed to operate in Capiz under the terms of the LTFRB memorandum.
Uniformed drivers, professionally trained by the Capiz Visitors and Convention Bureau for tourism services, will man the taxicabs, Blancaver added.
The following was published in 'The News Today', which serves Panay Island. It was also picked up nationally by GMA-7. To save the questions later, I mentioned holding a mini-aswang festival, and no, I did not say I was a TV host - I guess they just assumed that because of my devilishly handsome looks :P
It came about as I was interviewing two local news correspondents, Joel E. Capundun and Felipe Celino, regarding the Aswang festival being shut-down.
2 days ago I had the pleasure of interviewing acclaimed horror director Peque Gallaga for the new documentary. He has directed films like, 'Shake, Rattle & Roll 1-4', 'Aswang' and 'Sa Piling Ng Aswang'. He has also directed the award winning Filipino cinematic masterpieces 'Oro, Plata, Mata', and 'Scorpio Nights'.
Anyways, more on that later. Here is the article:
Canadian filmmaker to bring Aswang Festival to Canada
BY JOEL E. CAPUNDAN
TNT Capiz correspondent Joel Capundan
with Canadian Film Maker Jordan Clark
of High Banks Entertainment, Ltd,
Victoria, British, Columbia, Canada. Right,
Capundan being interviewed by Clark
regarding the Aswang Festival.
ROXAS CITY – A Canadian filmmaker and international T.V. host wanted to adapt this city's controversial Aswang Festival and hold it in their country.
The project would be for the benefit of Destonia victims and the Save Olotayan project.
Olotayan is an island barangay, about 30 minutes travel from the city, with white sand beaches.
Jordan Clark, 36, told The News Today (TNT) that he also is not a believer of the existence of witches but he wanted to make a documentary on the subject of which this writer was one of his sources.
"I love Roxas City, the cleanest and friendliest place to go. It's now my fifth time to visit here that's why I thought of making a documentary regarding the Aswang forklore," Clark said.
He said, he has also interviewed actress Maricel Soriano who plays a role in Sa Piling Ng Aswang in Filipino movies.
Clark's interview with this writer show that there is no such things as Aswang in Capiz and it's only in the mind of the people and has spread through gossips and stories from other people.
Clark's interview with this writer and colleague Felipe Celino was facilitated by Mrs. Cheche Lastimoso, wife of Board Member Rommel Lastimoso, at their residence in Brgy. Mongpong this city.
It can be recalled that Dugo Capiznon, Inc., a private organization, organized Aswang Festival here for three consecutive years but it stopped after several public officials and religious sectors particularly the Catholic church opposed it in 2006.
Public officials opposed it because they said that holding Aswang Festival has negative effect to the economy of Capiz considering that this province is a Seafood Capital of the Philippines exporting marine products.
Religious sector also said that holding Aswang Festival is an act of adoring the devil spirit which is against the stand of the church.
Indignation rallies were held against the holding of Aswang Festival and when City Mayor Vicente Bermejo assumed office, the controversial festival was scrapped.
Dugo Capiznon Inc, on the other hand, claim that holding Aswang Festival does not mean adoring evil spirits, but to promote tourism in Roxas City and Capiz.
They said that the Aswang Festival intend to manifest that Capiz is not haven of Aswang as branded in Manila and instead, it's only stories and in the mind of the people that never existed. They instead said that Aswang are those people who are corrupt public officials, drug lords and addicts, and other bad elements of the society.
Aswang festival is usually held last week of October before the Halloween celebrations.
It came about as I was interviewing two local news correspondents, Joel E. Capundun and Felipe Celino, regarding the Aswang festival being shut-down.
2 days ago I had the pleasure of interviewing acclaimed horror director Peque Gallaga for the new documentary. He has directed films like, 'Shake, Rattle & Roll 1-4', 'Aswang' and 'Sa Piling Ng Aswang'. He has also directed the award winning Filipino cinematic masterpieces 'Oro, Plata, Mata', and 'Scorpio Nights'.
Anyways, more on that later. Here is the article:
Canadian filmmaker to bring Aswang Festival to Canada
BY JOEL E. CAPUNDAN
TNT Capiz correspondent Joel Capundan
with Canadian Film Maker Jordan Clark
of High Banks Entertainment, Ltd,
Victoria, British, Columbia, Canada. Right,
Capundan being interviewed by Clark
regarding the Aswang Festival.
ROXAS CITY – A Canadian filmmaker and international T.V. host wanted to adapt this city's controversial Aswang Festival and hold it in their country.
The project would be for the benefit of Destonia victims and the Save Olotayan project.
Olotayan is an island barangay, about 30 minutes travel from the city, with white sand beaches.
Jordan Clark, 36, told The News Today (TNT) that he also is not a believer of the existence of witches but he wanted to make a documentary on the subject of which this writer was one of his sources.
"I love Roxas City, the cleanest and friendliest place to go. It's now my fifth time to visit here that's why I thought of making a documentary regarding the Aswang forklore," Clark said.
He said, he has also interviewed actress Maricel Soriano who plays a role in Sa Piling Ng Aswang in Filipino movies.
Clark's interview with this writer show that there is no such things as Aswang in Capiz and it's only in the mind of the people and has spread through gossips and stories from other people.
Clark's interview with this writer and colleague Felipe Celino was facilitated by Mrs. Cheche Lastimoso, wife of Board Member Rommel Lastimoso, at their residence in Brgy. Mongpong this city.
It can be recalled that Dugo Capiznon, Inc., a private organization, organized Aswang Festival here for three consecutive years but it stopped after several public officials and religious sectors particularly the Catholic church opposed it in 2006.
Public officials opposed it because they said that holding Aswang Festival has negative effect to the economy of Capiz considering that this province is a Seafood Capital of the Philippines exporting marine products.
Religious sector also said that holding Aswang Festival is an act of adoring the devil spirit which is against the stand of the church.
Indignation rallies were held against the holding of Aswang Festival and when City Mayor Vicente Bermejo assumed office, the controversial festival was scrapped.
Dugo Capiznon Inc, on the other hand, claim that holding Aswang Festival does not mean adoring evil spirits, but to promote tourism in Roxas City and Capiz.
They said that the Aswang Festival intend to manifest that Capiz is not haven of Aswang as branded in Manila and instead, it's only stories and in the mind of the people that never existed. They instead said that Aswang are those people who are corrupt public officials, drug lords and addicts, and other bad elements of the society.
Aswang festival is usually held last week of October before the Halloween celebrations.
Captivating Capiz- Aswang turned into a movie
By FELIPE V. CELINO
ROXAS City – To raise funds for the poor island of Olotayan here and patients of dystonia parkinsonism in Capiz, a young filmmaker from Canada is doing a documentary on the “aswang” myth.
High Banks Entertainment Ltd. filmmaker Jordan Clark hopes to make his documentary a definitive material on the myth that has put Capiz in a bad light for decades.
Olotayan is 30 minutes by boat from this city. Eighty percent of its 985 inhabitants are poor. Their main source of livelihood is fishing, but the catch has not been good due to years of destructive fishing methods.
On the other hand, dystonia parkinsonism is a progressive movement disorder endemic to Panay Island, particularly in Capiz.
The 36-year-old Clark is now in the thick of his research. This is his fifth visit to Roxas City and Capiz.
“Roxas is the cleanest and safest city in the Philippines. The hospitality of its people is second to none,” Clark said.
No, he said, he does not believe in “aswang.” But he wants to know how the myth started and how it had affected the province’s way of life.
Clark said he had also consulted with acclaimed Filipino director Peque Gallaga of Bacolod City.
Gallaga had directed successful horror flicks such as “Shake, Rattle and Roll” (Part 1-4), “Aswang” and “Sa Piling ng Aswang.”/PN
ROXAS City – To raise funds for the poor island of Olotayan here and patients of dystonia parkinsonism in Capiz, a young filmmaker from Canada is doing a documentary on the “aswang” myth.
High Banks Entertainment Ltd. filmmaker Jordan Clark hopes to make his documentary a definitive material on the myth that has put Capiz in a bad light for decades.
Olotayan is 30 minutes by boat from this city. Eighty percent of its 985 inhabitants are poor. Their main source of livelihood is fishing, but the catch has not been good due to years of destructive fishing methods.
On the other hand, dystonia parkinsonism is a progressive movement disorder endemic to Panay Island, particularly in Capiz.
The 36-year-old Clark is now in the thick of his research. This is his fifth visit to Roxas City and Capiz.
“Roxas is the cleanest and safest city in the Philippines. The hospitality of its people is second to none,” Clark said.
No, he said, he does not believe in “aswang.” But he wants to know how the myth started and how it had affected the province’s way of life.
Clark said he had also consulted with acclaimed Filipino director Peque Gallaga of Bacolod City.
Gallaga had directed successful horror flicks such as “Shake, Rattle and Roll” (Part 1-4), “Aswang” and “Sa Piling ng Aswang.”/PN
Captivating Capiz- Weird Fund Raising
The funds raised for the Olotayan, Philippines generator were instead used to assist with relief efforts after the island was devastated during hurricane Frank. Check www.aswangmovie.blogspot.com for more info. A feature length straight documentary is being edited - regarding the origin of the aswang myth. The current film, 'Aswang: A Journey Into Myth', will be supplementary on the DVD as an artistic exploration of the myth, while the current film will expose the origins and historical events that have perpetuated it. We are hoping to make this documentary the most comprehensive and informative presentation of the word Aswang and the myths surrounding it.
Feel free to visit our online production diary blog at www.aswangmovie.blogspot.com for the latest information.
Aswang: A Journey Into Myth had its debut at the Victoria Film Festival. You can read press articles here.
"There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other."
When do myth and reality meet? Maria Villanueva believes that apparitions are real – so much so, she has devoted her life to writing about them.After being ostracized by the writing community, Maria sets out to complete her follow up to “Apparition of Souls”. This time, she seeks proof and will stop at nothing to document paranormal activity. She comes across a photo of a young Filipina, kidnapped by the Chinese mafia circa 1920 and brutalized through prostitution. Rumours escalate that her spirit lingers.
Maria learns of a mysterious folklore – the girl was possibly a Mangkukulam (a witch who cannot die until she passes on her power) or an Aswang (a Filipino ghoul who is drawn out only to feed). When Daila, Maria’s best friend, is attacked, she soon learns that the line between myth and reality is thinning.Hidden in the Central Islands of the Philippines, Capiz is a province where many believe in, and are thought to be, Aswang. Through a series of interactions with the local people, Maria explores the roots of the Aswang myth, and is privileged to see the rituals of a Babaylan (a modern day Aswang). The more she is drawn into the dark heart of the folklore, the more Maria discovers her own role in the myth that has cast a dark cloud over Capiz.
“Aswang: A Journey into Myth” is an improvised DocuMovie not only about Filipino Folklore, it is also about the artist’s process and how myth is perpetuated through their work. It is about how a creative mind eventually sculpts a new reality. Shot throughout Victoria, British Columbia’s downtown, as well as in the Philippines, the film offers a terrific view of the melding of myth and reality (Part 1 &2 of the film), and how the two, when combined, reveal a greater truth than either can reflect on their own. High Banks Entertainment Ltd. , in association with Dugo Capiznon Inc. presents, a Jordan Clark Film, “Aswang: A Journey Into Myth”. The DocuMovie/ Suspense film stars Janice Santos Valdez (in her screen debut), along with a special appearance from the Diamond of Filipino Cinema, Maricel Soriano (Mano Po, Filipinas).
We have also included, to the left, a few scores from the film - original music was composed by Charlie Armour in London, England.
Principal photography took place in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada and in Laguna Province, Quezon City, and Roxas City-Capiz, Philippines.
Captivating Capiz- Aswang as Myth
Folklore is the body of expressive culture, including tales, music, dance, legends, oral history, proverbs, jokes, popular beliefs, customs, and so forth within a particular population comprising the traditions (including oral traditions) of that culture, subculture, or group. It is also the set of practices through which those expressive genres are shared.
One of the reason why the captivating Capiz Province is well known to the other Filipinos, not for the reason that Capiz is the “Sea Food Capital of the Philippines”, but for also for the word “ASWANG”. What with this Aswang???
Aswang is a ghoul in Filipino Folklore. They are most feared of the supernatural creatures in the Philippines which has some variety of stories and myths. This feared creature is very well known in Western Visayan regions such as the Province of Capiz, Iloilo and Antique. They are sometimes called as Tik-tik or Wak-wak in some places in Capiz.
As I remember when I was still a child, my elders told me that If I will not go home early from outside playing with my friends I will be eaten by Aswangs. As I grow older I realize that Aswang is not really existing at all. Some elders are doing that and telling some Aswang stories in their children to keep them off the streets and keep them home at night.
Whenever some Filipino’s heard that you are from the captivating Province of Capiz. Their first impression is you are an “Aswang”. Some of them are afraid to be accompanied by Capizeño just because they are afraid to be eaten. But actually I been here in the captivating Capiz and I already reached at this age, 19 years old, but still until now I didn’t see Aswang yet.
With this captivating Capiz, this will help to realize some Filipinos that instead keep in their mind that Aswang is existing, why don’t they discover some captivating places in Capiz not only places but also some cultures, events and architecture which we can consider as one of the Pride of the Island of the Philippines.
One of the reason why the captivating Capiz Province is well known to the other Filipinos, not for the reason that Capiz is the “Sea Food Capital of the Philippines”, but for also for the word “ASWANG”. What with this Aswang???
Aswang is a ghoul in Filipino Folklore. They are most feared of the supernatural creatures in the Philippines which has some variety of stories and myths. This feared creature is very well known in Western Visayan regions such as the Province of Capiz, Iloilo and Antique. They are sometimes called as Tik-tik or Wak-wak in some places in Capiz.
As I remember when I was still a child, my elders told me that If I will not go home early from outside playing with my friends I will be eaten by Aswangs. As I grow older I realize that Aswang is not really existing at all. Some elders are doing that and telling some Aswang stories in their children to keep them off the streets and keep them home at night.
Whenever some Filipino’s heard that you are from the captivating Province of Capiz. Their first impression is you are an “Aswang”. Some of them are afraid to be accompanied by Capizeño just because they are afraid to be eaten. But actually I been here in the captivating Capiz and I already reached at this age, 19 years old, but still until now I didn’t see Aswang yet.
With this captivating Capiz, this will help to realize some Filipinos that instead keep in their mind that Aswang is existing, why don’t they discover some captivating places in Capiz not only places but also some cultures, events and architecture which we can consider as one of the Pride of the Island of the Philippines.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Captivating Capiz- React for Olotayan Island
Roxas City --- REACT (Regional Emergency Assistance Communications Team) HALARAN, a local emergency communications team under the Office of Civil Relations-Philippine Information and Civic Action Group (PHILCAG) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), conducted a relief operation in Olotayan Island here.
Olotayan is an island-barangay off the coast of Roxas City. It is one square mile and an hour travel from the city. It has tourism potential because its shorelines have blue waters that are pristinely beautiful. It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. However, almost 80 percent of its 985 inhabitants are in the poverty threshold. The island has one source of electricity, a generator which has been non-operational since April 2007. Much of Olotayan still relies on the barter system, or trade, to support and feed their families. The super typhoon Frank worsened their situation and devastated some parts of the island.
REACT Halaran's Leonardo Eusalan,
A group of REACTors led by Group Chief Mark "Surfer" Ortiz went to Olotayan Island to distribute relief goods to the residents. The members who went with him are Immediate Past Group Chief Romulo "Direct Hit" Capunong, Past Group Chief (PGC) Eugenio "Honeybee" Chu, PGC Jose "Ali Baba" Aligno, PGC Catalino "Octagon" Albar, REACTor Rudy "Capiz Shell" Alba, and PGC Leonardo "Poodle" Eusalan. They brought with them 225 packs of relief goods and distributed them to the people in the island-barangay. The barangay council led by Brgy. Captain Manuel "Bongbong" Aninang assisted the group during the distribution.
Beneficiaries await the distribution of
REACT Halaran is a local group member of REACT Philippines Inc. which is considered as the largest civic communications organization in the country. The assistance of REACT is often sought especially when rapid information gathering and dissemination is required. During non-emergencies, REACT local groups conduct free medical clinics, anti rabies missions, tree planting or clean up drive. REACT supports the campaign against illegal logging and for the protection of wildlife, marine life and the environment.
-----------BY: DONNA CASIO--------------
Olotayan is an island-barangay off the coast of Roxas City. It is one square mile and an hour travel from the city. It has tourism potential because its shorelines have blue waters that are pristinely beautiful. It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. However, almost 80 percent of its 985 inhabitants are in the poverty threshold. The island has one source of electricity, a generator which has been non-operational since April 2007. Much of Olotayan still relies on the barter system, or trade, to support and feed their families. The super typhoon Frank worsened their situation and devastated some parts of the island.
REACT Halaran's Leonardo Eusalan,
Romulo Capunong, Mark Ortiz, Brgy Capt
Bongbong Aninang, Eugenio Chu, Jose
Aligno, Catalino Albar and Rudy Alba
A group of REACTors led by Group Chief Mark "Surfer" Ortiz went to Olotayan Island to distribute relief goods to the residents. The members who went with him are Immediate Past Group Chief Romulo "Direct Hit" Capunong, Past Group Chief (PGC) Eugenio "Honeybee" Chu, PGC Jose "Ali Baba" Aligno, PGC Catalino "Octagon" Albar, REACTor Rudy "Capiz Shell" Alba, and PGC Leonardo "Poodle" Eusalan. They brought with them 225 packs of relief goods and distributed them to the people in the island-barangay. The barangay council led by Brgy. Captain Manuel "Bongbong" Aninang assisted the group during the distribution.
Beneficiaries await the distribution of
relief goods.
REACT Halaran is a local group member of REACT Philippines Inc. which is considered as the largest civic communications organization in the country. The assistance of REACT is often sought especially when rapid information gathering and dissemination is required. During non-emergencies, REACT local groups conduct free medical clinics, anti rabies missions, tree planting or clean up drive. REACT supports the campaign against illegal logging and for the protection of wildlife, marine life and the environment.
-----------BY: DONNA CASIO--------------
Captivating Capiz- Roxas City, Capiz Officials
Roxas City, Capiz Officals
Hon. Victor Tanco
City Governor
Hon. Felipe Barredo
City Vice Governor
Hon. Vicente B. Bermejo
City Mayor
Hon. Ronnie T. Dadivas
City Vice Mayor
Sangguniang Panlungsod
Members
Hon. Erwin B. Sicad
Hon. Amador P. Anisco, Jr.
Hon. Gregorio Crisostomo A. Arcenas
Hon. Herbert S. Chu
Hon. Ramon A. Albar
Hon. Jose D. Agdalipe
Hon. Rolando V. Ignacio
Hon. Carla B. Abela
Hon. Dennis Q. Altobano
Hon. Rogelio A. Delfin
Hon. Katrina F. Barrios
SK Federation President
Mr. Dino Beluso
SP Secretary
Captivating Capiz- "The Seafood Capital of the Philippines"
This is your ultimate tour to the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, ROXAS CITY, capiz! enjoy the city's attractions and captivating tourist spots, the Olotayan Island, panublion, the city landmarks!! The captivating Sinadya sa Halaran festival and aswang festival. The different schools here in Capiz :smac,cpc,fcc.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Captivating Capiz - Typhoon "Frank"
An aerial view of the devastation caused by tropical typhoon Frank in the province of Capiz, particularly in Roxas City, Panay, and Pontevedra.
Video courtesy of Capiz Provincial Government.
Video courtesy of Capiz Provincial Government.
Captivating Capiz- Parade of Festivals
Presentation of Capiz during the Parade of Festivals in Regional Tourism Assembly in Iloilo.Performers came from the town of Pres. Roxas.
Captivating Capiz- Birthplace of Pres. Manuel Roxas
Located in Ilawood, a section of the city west of the plaza is a bahay na bato in which Pres. Manuel Acuña Roxas was born. Declared a national historical site, the marker affixed to the residence in 1958 by the Philippine Historical Committee reads in part; "On this site in the town of Capiz, was born President Manuel A. Roxas, 1 January 1892. Fiery Orator, Dignified Statesman, Realistic Economist, and true patriot. Second Son of Gerardo Roxas and Rosario Acuña … Last president of the Philippine Commonwealth and first president of the Republic of the Philippines, 1946-1948."
This house is probably one of the oldest in Roxas City, Capiz; it survived the conflagration that consumed many houses in Roxas during World War II. The house stands on a lot which was once part of a more extensive piece of real estate, owned by Eleuterio Acuña, Pres. Roxas' maternal grandfather. The residence was inherited by Don Eleuterio's youngest daughter, Jovita, who married Conrado Barrios, a justice of the Court of Appeals during the post war years. Conrado renovated the house, changing the configuration of the rooms and adding a staircase inscribed with the initials CJ. Descendants of the Conrado and Jovita lived in the house for a while, and had the lower story rented out. The house, however, has been uninhabited for some time. Plans are to convert the house into a lifestyle museum and a museum honoring Pres. Roxas.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Roxas City, Seafood Capital of the Philippines
Alluring Capiz is abundant with seafood found on its rich marine fishing ground. Savor the taste of mouth watering, tempting, fresh, safe, yummy, plentiful and cheap seafood, such as oysters or “talaba”, clams, 
mussel, greenshell or “tahong”,” angel wings or “diwal”, milk-fish or “bangrus”, king crab or “alimango”, blue crab or “kasag”, shrimp or “pasayan”, prawn or “lukon”, squid, tangigue, scallops, seaweeds or “gulaman”, lobster and Lapu-lapu. These seafood where served at restaurants located at Baybay beach. Our seafood is the freshest and the tastiest you will ever experience and truly captivating. Capiz is also known for its cutflower production and marketing. Orchids, heliconias, anthuriums, roses, and other ornamental plants are suitable for reproduction in the province. Having a 400-hectare site ready for contract-growing arrangements, the cutflower industry is poised to become a major income-earner for the province and attracts investors mostly from Japan.
Your experience in visiting mezmerizing Capiz will not be completed without bringing home dried fish pasalubong such
as “Tabagak”, “uga” or “tuyo” and dried squid or “pusit”, also banana crackers, banana chips , fresh lumpia and “dayok”. All these can be bought in Balay Capiznon, Banica market and Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center.
mussel, greenshell or “tahong”,” angel wings or “diwal”, milk-fish or “bangrus”, king crab or “alimango”, blue crab or “kasag”, shrimp or “pasayan”, prawn or “lukon”, squid, tangigue, scallops, seaweeds or “gulaman”, lobster and Lapu-lapu. These seafood where served at restaurants located at Baybay beach. Our seafood is the freshest and the tastiest you will ever experience and truly captivating. Capiz is also known for its cutflower production and marketing. Orchids, heliconias, anthuriums, roses, and other ornamental plants are suitable for reproduction in the province. Having a 400-hectare site ready for contract-growing arrangements, the cutflower industry is poised to become a major income-earner for the province and attracts investors mostly from Japan.
Your experience in visiting mezmerizing Capiz will not be completed without bringing home dried fish pasalubong such
as “Tabagak”, “uga” or “tuyo” and dried squid or “pusit”, also banana crackers, banana chips , fresh lumpia and “dayok”. All these can be bought in Balay Capiznon, Banica market and Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center.
Captivating Capiz- Sulong Roxas(Roxas City, Capiz Theme)
Promoting the Capiz helps to be recognize by some people who are not yet aware of the beautiful island. Capiz is famous for being the “Sea Food Capital of the Philippines“. Sometimes some people discrimate Capizeños about the myth “Aswang“,. With this captivating Capiz, it helps to promote the wealthy and progressive Province of Capiz and not just only the captivating Capiz, but also the Roxas City
Captivating Capiz- "Hymn of the Capizeno's"
O, Capiz, also known as the Capiz Hymn, is the official provincial anthem of the province of Capiz in the Philippines. The hymn, which bested 24 other entries in a province-sponsored competition, was written by Charmaine O. Guartero, a high school music teacher at Filamer Christian College.
The hymn was adopted on June 23, 2006 by an ordinance of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Capiz and performed for the first time at the charter aniniversary of the province. The current arrangement, meanwhile, was unveiled on June 25, 2007. According to then-governor Vicente Bernejo, who is currently serving as the mayor of Roxas City, said that in the Capizeños' quest for development, "we need a melody that will inspire us and forge our efforts together to achieve our dream for a better Capiz", describing O, Capiz as a unique expression of what the true Capiz is and what Capizeños really are.
The hymn was adopted on June 23, 2006 by an ordinance of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Capiz and performed for the first time at the charter aniniversary of the province. The current arrangement, meanwhile, was unveiled on June 25, 2007. According to then-governor Vicente Bernejo, who is currently serving as the mayor of Roxas City, said that in the Capizeños' quest for development, "we need a melody that will inspire us and forge our efforts together to achieve our dream for a better Capiz", describing O, Capiz as a unique expression of what the true Capiz is and what Capizeños really are.
Captivating Capiz- "Caves"
Igang Cave(Maayon)
A limestone cave found in Tapulang, Maayon. It has several entrances at different levels which lead to a central chamber, and fan out again to different passages. Big stairlike structures connect upper portions to the central chamber which is well lighted and well ventilated. A gradually sloping passage, 7 feet wide and a foot high takes one to a lower chamber, which, unlike the upper and central chambers, is dark. The floor here is covered with guano, which towns-people use as fertilizer. The Igang Cave is laced with stalactites and stalagmites of various sizes. The whole cave, including its chambers and tunnel system, is some three hectares. It is 7 kms. away from the town proper and is a 15 minutes ride by car or jeepney.
Pilar Caves
One and a half kms. From the poblacion by jeepneys, tricycles and cars over rough roads. About two years ago, townspeople discovered earthen pots with intricately incised designs. The caves must have been burial sites of pre-Spanish Filipinos. The Balisong Cave where the Capiz revolucionarios routed Spanish soldiers is also found hereabouts. The side of the mountain where the caves are is a specta-cular sight. It is grayish-black rock rising 200 ft. to the sky. Plants, orchids among them, hang from the cliffs, blooming in the summer and filling the air with exotic fragrance.
Quipot Cave (Mambusao)
30 minute ride over rough roads, it is about 3 kms. from the Mambusao Agricultural and Technical College or around 9 kms. from the town proper. Wild birds, deer and wild ducks abound the place. Near the cave is a stream. The cave consists of many chambers each at a level different from other chambers. In certain sections, one has to crawl because the space between the roof and cave floor is just two or three feet. There are also sections that are seems like dead ends, except for small openings through which only one person can crawl. These holes lead to a chamber as big as a hotel ballroom, which is why it is dubbed the "Quipot Hilton". There are plenty of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is cool inside.
Suhot Cave(Dumalag)
Situated in Dumalag, Capiz and only 300 meters away from the provincial road. It is actually a series of interconnected caverns of different sizes. At the cave's arched entrance is a pool of clear, ice-cold water fed by a rock spring from within the cave. Further on, however, is a crack in the rocks where sulfurous water comes out. Suhot is believed to have a connecting tunnel to the Badiang Cave, Dumarao since both caves are found in the same mountain only 6 km apart from each other although Badiang is on a higher elevation. On the other hand, entrance to Badiang is hidden by dense jungle. In pre-war days, phosphate was said to have been extracted from the cave but it was a short-lived effort.
A limestone cave found in Tapulang, Maayon. It has several entrances at different levels which lead to a central chamber, and fan out again to different passages. Big stairlike structures connect upper portions to the central chamber which is well lighted and well ventilated. A gradually sloping passage, 7 feet wide and a foot high takes one to a lower chamber, which, unlike the upper and central chambers, is dark. The floor here is covered with guano, which towns-people use as fertilizer. The Igang Cave is laced with stalactites and stalagmites of various sizes. The whole cave, including its chambers and tunnel system, is some three hectares. It is 7 kms. away from the town proper and is a 15 minutes ride by car or jeepney.
Pilar Caves
One and a half kms. From the poblacion by jeepneys, tricycles and cars over rough roads. About two years ago, townspeople discovered earthen pots with intricately incised designs. The caves must have been burial sites of pre-Spanish Filipinos. The Balisong Cave where the Capiz revolucionarios routed Spanish soldiers is also found hereabouts. The side of the mountain where the caves are is a specta-cular sight. It is grayish-black rock rising 200 ft. to the sky. Plants, orchids among them, hang from the cliffs, blooming in the summer and filling the air with exotic fragrance.
Quipot Cave (Mambusao)
30 minute ride over rough roads, it is about 3 kms. from the Mambusao Agricultural and Technical College or around 9 kms. from the town proper. Wild birds, deer and wild ducks abound the place. Near the cave is a stream. The cave consists of many chambers each at a level different from other chambers. In certain sections, one has to crawl because the space between the roof and cave floor is just two or three feet. There are also sections that are seems like dead ends, except for small openings through which only one person can crawl. These holes lead to a chamber as big as a hotel ballroom, which is why it is dubbed the "Quipot Hilton". There are plenty of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is cool inside.
Suhot Cave(Dumalag)
Situated in Dumalag, Capiz and only 300 meters away from the provincial road. It is actually a series of interconnected caverns of different sizes. At the cave's arched entrance is a pool of clear, ice-cold water fed by a rock spring from within the cave. Further on, however, is a crack in the rocks where sulfurous water comes out. Suhot is believed to have a connecting tunnel to the Badiang Cave, Dumarao since both caves are found in the same mountain only 6 km apart from each other although Badiang is on a higher elevation. On the other hand, entrance to Badiang is hidden by dense jungle. In pre-war days, phosphate was said to have been extracted from the cave but it was a short-lived effort.
Captivating Capiz - “Dumalag“
Dumalag is located by the slopes of several mountains on hilly but fertile land irrigated by the Panay and Malisbug rivers and other rivulents. It is bounded by Dao, Dumarao, Cuartero, Calinog and Tapaz. Dumalag one of the central towns of Capiz province. The name Dumalag, came from the Bisayan word ” dalag” which mean yellow. Others claim, that the “dalag” came from the color of the Pan-ay river that cuts across the town which is used to turn yellow because of the leaves of the certain tree. Another term is also “dumalaga” or spring chicken which could have been in abundance in the area in early times. Another municilapity of Roxas City is SIgma. Sigma is a 4th class municipality n the province of Capiz, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 27,366 people in 5,541 households. Sigma composed of 12 barangays.
* Acbo
* Amaga
* Balucuan
* Bangonbangon
* Capuyhan
* Cogon
* Dayhagon
* Guintas
* Malapad Cogon
* Mangoso
* Mansacul
* Matangcong
* Matinabus
* Mianay
* Oyong
* Pagbunitan
* Parian
* Pinamalatican
* Poblacion Norte
* Poblacion Sur
* Tawog
Dumalag is typical small town in Capiz. People know and great one another by name. Seeking directions to reach the places that brought them to the idyllic town, 35 kilometers from Roxas City. Dumalag is located in between of Cuartero and Tapaz. Their source of income came from rice planting and selling vegetable. Their work are farmers, fisherman and vendors. One thing that captivate the Dumalag because they a lot of tourist attraction that they can see.
Tourist Spots
CAPTIVATING SUHOT SPRING
One of the attraction that captivates the eye of the tourist is the SUHOT SPRING. The leading natural attraction of Dumalag is the Suhot Spring and caves being marked by the towering Panginraon Range. The natural brigde and the famed caves of Suhot lead into minimally explored caverns which are claimed to strecth as far as the other side of Panginraon, facing Dumarao, a neighboring municipality. The foot of legendary Panginraon mountain, just 300 meters from the town proper. Surrounded by lush vegetation and second - growth forest, the cave strecthes 18 kilometers. Its innermost recesses and labyrinthine passages have remained unexplored.
It is considered one of the longest caves in the country and has late been drawing amateur and seasoned spelunkers. The body of water in front of the cave is rich in minerals and originates from the watersheds of Panginraon.It flows through a subterranean passage and empties through the cave’s bowl-like opening guarded by a wall of solid rock.People came to Suhot Spring to test if that tourist spot can captivate them.
The many chambers of the Suhot Caves are grow over with stalactites and stalagmites of considerable sizes and lengths. At the mouth of the caves, near the natural brigde, is a spring with sulfurous, salty water that is consideres by the local folks as healthy for bathing. Suhot Spring and caves have become a favorite destination for people coming from other places visiting Dumalag.
CAPTIVATING DUMALAG PARISH CHURCH
Another tourist attraction that Dumalag captivate is the Dumalag Parish Church under the Patron St. of Saint Martin de Tours. The first church and convent of Dumalag were constructed between 1600 and 1720, and the parish was dedicated to Saint martin of Tour, a bishop. In 1833 Fr. Augustin Duran, whose name has been adopted by one of the Dumalag’s biggest Barangays, started the construction of present church. The church had a five story bell tower which rose majestically at the left side of the church.
The church made of yellow sandstone, is 70m and 18m wide. It has two doors at the sid and one in the front. Small pilasters decorate the facade wall. Six engaged rectangular pilaster rise up to the triangular pediment. The five story belltower rises gracefully by the left side of the church.
Captivating Capiz- Sta.Monica Church
In 1566, Fray Martín de Rada is said to have preached the Gospel in Bamban (Pan-ay) and from there he proceeded to evangelize Dumangas to the south. The Augustinians continued to spread their net of evangelization to the south and west of Pan-ay until they had established footholds in the whole island. By the late 1500s, they had been had been the sole evangelizers of Panay island until the Jesuits arrived at this time.
Because of lack of food, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi transferred the Spanish settlement from Cebu to Pan-ay in 1569. The town was formally founded in 1572 (1581 according to Jorde), although by that time Legazpi had moved the capital of the Philippines, further north, to Manila. Fr. Bartolome de Alcantara was named the prior of the town with Fr. Agustin Camacho as assistant. A prosperous town due to trade, Pan-ay became capital of Capiz for two centuries, until Capiz was named capital. The town name was eventually given to whole island. After 1607, Fr. Alonso de Méntrida, noted for his linguistic studies and Visayan dictionary became prior. In the 18th century, Pan-ay was famous for its textile industry which produced a cloth called suerte and exported to Europe. In the 19th century, Don Antonio Roxas, grandfather of Pres. Manuel Roxas, opened one of the largest rum and wine distilleries in the town. The Augustinians held the parish until 1898, when administration tranferred to the seculars.
The first church was built before 1698 when it is reported that a typhoon had ruined it. In 1774, Fr. Miguel Murguía rebuilt the church, but it was later damaged by a typhoon on 15 January 1875. Fr. Jose Beloso restored the church in 1884. The church is best known for its 10.4 ton bell popularly called dakong lingganay (big bell). The bell was cast by Don Juan Reina who settled in Iloilo in 1868. Reina who was town dentist was also noted as a metal caster and smith. The bell was cast at Pan-ay from 70 sacks of coins donated by the townspeople. The bell was completed in 1878. It bears an inspiring inscription which translated reads: "I am God's voice which shall echo praise from one end of the town of Pan-ay to the other, so that Christ's faithful followers may enter this house of God to receive heavenly graces."
Heritage Features: Pan-ay belongs to the Baroque style. The pediment cascades gracefully down. The façade is ornamented with swags of flowers, niches and statuary. The bell tower to the left of the façade is simple in contrast to the façade. It base is planned as a quadrilateral but its upper stories are octagonal with the two sides longer than the other. To the church was attached an L-shaped convento, which had been ruined. Remnants of the covento have been incorporated into the present modern convento. Behind the church are remnants of a wall, which according to town lore was once a fortification. Attached to the sacristy is a large storage room, now converted into a Blessed Sacrament chapel.
The interior was formerly divided into a central nave with flanking aisles, but in recent years, the wooden posts that marked the divisions were removed to improve sight lines to the altar. The wooden choirloft was also removed because it was damaged by termites, so were the wooden floors of the bell tower. In place the tower has an independent steel stairway that leads to the topmost floor. This floor has been reconstructed in reinforced concrete with coral stone facing. The roof of the church, already damaged by a storm in 1984 and subsequently repaired, was already in a dilapidated condition in 2000. Its wood work was rotten and was in danger of collapsing. The woodwork and roof have been replaced by a steel and galvanized iron structure.
The church retains much of its original floor: terra cotta tiles, white marble and black slate as accents and for the sanctuary.
The church has three altars in Baroque style. The retablo of the central altar has been painted over in silver and gold enamel, however, the side altars have hardly been touched and probably represent the original colors of the woodwork—primaries of blue, red, green, orange with gold leaf accents. These altars are unique for Latin inscriptions carved on roundels set in its reed thin columns.
Behind Gospel side altar are remnants of decorative painting, also done in brilliant primaries.
Because of lack of food, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi transferred the Spanish settlement from Cebu to Pan-ay in 1569. The town was formally founded in 1572 (1581 according to Jorde), although by that time Legazpi had moved the capital of the Philippines, further north, to Manila. Fr. Bartolome de Alcantara was named the prior of the town with Fr. Agustin Camacho as assistant. A prosperous town due to trade, Pan-ay became capital of Capiz for two centuries, until Capiz was named capital. The town name was eventually given to whole island. After 1607, Fr. Alonso de Méntrida, noted for his linguistic studies and Visayan dictionary became prior. In the 18th century, Pan-ay was famous for its textile industry which produced a cloth called suerte and exported to Europe. In the 19th century, Don Antonio Roxas, grandfather of Pres. Manuel Roxas, opened one of the largest rum and wine distilleries in the town. The Augustinians held the parish until 1898, when administration tranferred to the seculars.
The first church was built before 1698 when it is reported that a typhoon had ruined it. In 1774, Fr. Miguel Murguía rebuilt the church, but it was later damaged by a typhoon on 15 January 1875. Fr. Jose Beloso restored the church in 1884. The church is best known for its 10.4 ton bell popularly called dakong lingganay (big bell). The bell was cast by Don Juan Reina who settled in Iloilo in 1868. Reina who was town dentist was also noted as a metal caster and smith. The bell was cast at Pan-ay from 70 sacks of coins donated by the townspeople. The bell was completed in 1878. It bears an inspiring inscription which translated reads: "I am God's voice which shall echo praise from one end of the town of Pan-ay to the other, so that Christ's faithful followers may enter this house of God to receive heavenly graces."
Heritage Features: Pan-ay belongs to the Baroque style. The pediment cascades gracefully down. The façade is ornamented with swags of flowers, niches and statuary. The bell tower to the left of the façade is simple in contrast to the façade. It base is planned as a quadrilateral but its upper stories are octagonal with the two sides longer than the other. To the church was attached an L-shaped convento, which had been ruined. Remnants of the covento have been incorporated into the present modern convento. Behind the church are remnants of a wall, which according to town lore was once a fortification. Attached to the sacristy is a large storage room, now converted into a Blessed Sacrament chapel.
The interior was formerly divided into a central nave with flanking aisles, but in recent years, the wooden posts that marked the divisions were removed to improve sight lines to the altar. The wooden choirloft was also removed because it was damaged by termites, so were the wooden floors of the bell tower. In place the tower has an independent steel stairway that leads to the topmost floor. This floor has been reconstructed in reinforced concrete with coral stone facing. The roof of the church, already damaged by a storm in 1984 and subsequently repaired, was already in a dilapidated condition in 2000. Its wood work was rotten and was in danger of collapsing. The woodwork and roof have been replaced by a steel and galvanized iron structure.
The church retains much of its original floor: terra cotta tiles, white marble and black slate as accents and for the sanctuary.
The church has three altars in Baroque style. The retablo of the central altar has been painted over in silver and gold enamel, however, the side altars have hardly been touched and probably represent the original colors of the woodwork—primaries of blue, red, green, orange with gold leaf accents. These altars are unique for Latin inscriptions carved on roundels set in its reed thin columns.
Behind Gospel side altar are remnants of decorative painting, also done in brilliant primaries.
Captivating Capiz- Archdiocese
The Diocese of Capiz was created on January 27, 1951 and was elevated to an archdiocese on January 17, 1976. It now comprises the civil province of Capiz and Roxas City and has Kalibo and Romblon as suffragans. Capiz has a population of 652,809, of which 90 per cent are Catholics. Capiz is one of the provinces on the island of Panay. It is part of a group of provinces forming the Western Visayas group now comprising Region VII. On Panay Island, Capiz is bounded on the south and on the east by the province of Iloilo, on the west by Antique, on the northwest by Aklan and on the north by the Sibuyan Sea.
The early history of Capiz is closely associated with that of Aklan. Both were called Aklan under Datu Bankaya who, with ten other datus from Borneo settled in Panay in the 13th century. Aklan was ruled by the descendants of Bankaya until the Spaniards arrived in 1569. Miguel Lopez de Legaspi is reported to have established a settlement in Capiz and made it an independent encomienda.
The entire island of Panay was under the leadership of Datu Sumakwel who is remembered in Philippine history as the wisest of the group of datus from Borneo who bought the lowlands with gold from the Negritos. The so called Code of Kalantiaw, a code of laws in pre-Spanish times, also originated from Panay, presumably made by Datu Kalantiaw, descendant of Sumakwel.
The separation of Aklan from Capiz took place in 1956. Today Capiz is a prosperous province with an oversupply of rice, enough sugar production, and more than enough fish harvested from its 80-kilometer coastline. Most of the inhabitants speak Hiligaynon, a kind of Visayan with a distinct accent.
Since the creation of the Archdiocese of Capiz, no synod has as yet been convened. However, there have been seminars in the vicarial and parochial levels, participated in by all priests and parish leaders. They attend workshops and lectures on communication skills, human dignity, the Church, liturgy, Christian education, social action, Scriptural experience and Church finance. A monitoring team has been assigned to the four vicariates to help their parishes implement their pastoral programs.
In the seminars, which the archbishop himself initiates, updating and renewal in the faith are emphasized. Sacred Scriptures are being presented as an all-important factor in the renewal and maturing of the faith. The documents of Vatican II, the Code of Canon Law, tile pronouncements of the Holy Father and the pastoral letters of the CBCP, most specially the documents and decrees of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines, are given the importance due them and are disseminated among the clergy and laity.
Decrees, encyclicals, exhortations coming from the Vatican, and pastoral letters and guidelines from the CBCP are reprinted and translated into the local dialect for distribution to all priests for further dissemination to the laity.
There are 85 priests and 54 religious sisters ministering to the needs of the 22 parishes, 1 quasi-parish and 4 chaplaincies. Catholic institutions in the archdiocese, aside from a seminary and Catholic schools, include an orphanage, a home for the aged, and a hospital. The number of BEC's and faith communities have now come up to 763.
The early history of Capiz is closely associated with that of Aklan. Both were called Aklan under Datu Bankaya who, with ten other datus from Borneo settled in Panay in the 13th century. Aklan was ruled by the descendants of Bankaya until the Spaniards arrived in 1569. Miguel Lopez de Legaspi is reported to have established a settlement in Capiz and made it an independent encomienda.
The entire island of Panay was under the leadership of Datu Sumakwel who is remembered in Philippine history as the wisest of the group of datus from Borneo who bought the lowlands with gold from the Negritos. The so called Code of Kalantiaw, a code of laws in pre-Spanish times, also originated from Panay, presumably made by Datu Kalantiaw, descendant of Sumakwel.
The separation of Aklan from Capiz took place in 1956. Today Capiz is a prosperous province with an oversupply of rice, enough sugar production, and more than enough fish harvested from its 80-kilometer coastline. Most of the inhabitants speak Hiligaynon, a kind of Visayan with a distinct accent.
Since the creation of the Archdiocese of Capiz, no synod has as yet been convened. However, there have been seminars in the vicarial and parochial levels, participated in by all priests and parish leaders. They attend workshops and lectures on communication skills, human dignity, the Church, liturgy, Christian education, social action, Scriptural experience and Church finance. A monitoring team has been assigned to the four vicariates to help their parishes implement their pastoral programs.
In the seminars, which the archbishop himself initiates, updating and renewal in the faith are emphasized. Sacred Scriptures are being presented as an all-important factor in the renewal and maturing of the faith. The documents of Vatican II, the Code of Canon Law, tile pronouncements of the Holy Father and the pastoral letters of the CBCP, most specially the documents and decrees of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines, are given the importance due them and are disseminated among the clergy and laity.
Decrees, encyclicals, exhortations coming from the Vatican, and pastoral letters and guidelines from the CBCP are reprinted and translated into the local dialect for distribution to all priests for further dissemination to the laity.
There are 85 priests and 54 religious sisters ministering to the needs of the 22 parishes, 1 quasi-parish and 4 chaplaincies. Catholic institutions in the archdiocese, aside from a seminary and Catholic schools, include an orphanage, a home for the aged, and a hospital. The number of BEC's and faith communities have now come up to 763.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Balay Capiznon
This edifice is the venue where locally made products are displayed. It is located at the foot of the Capiz Bridge and is in the vicinity of the Rizal Monument and the Capiz Provincial Capitol. It occupies 700 square meters of a city government lot.
The initiative to construct this edifice was spearheaded by the city government and the Dept. of Trade and Industry. Construction began in 1997 and was completed in the same year. The Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc., was designated as the caretaker of the place and was tasked to oversee the local products put up for display. Local products like preserved foods and delicacies, handicrafts like shellcraft and furniture made from rail ties can be seen at the place.
In the garden of the venue which occupies almost two thirds of the property, ornamental plants, orchids, fruits tree seedlings and other local plants are housed. This area is also the place where plant exhibits are held several times a year.
The Tourism Promotion and Development Office of the city government moved to this place last December 6, 2003 in order that it could cater more to the needs of the people of Roxas City and the domestic and foreign visitors who continue to frequent the city. The inauguration and blessing of the edifice was graced by Mrs. Judy Araneta Roxas, Senator John Osmeña and Representaive Imee Marcos-Manotoc who came to attend the Sinadya sa Halaran celebrations. The display center was renamed Balay Kapisnon. As expected, the place has become a must see for visitors who come to Roxas City.
The initiative to construct this edifice was spearheaded by the city government and the Dept. of Trade and Industry. Construction began in 1997 and was completed in the same year. The Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc., was designated as the caretaker of the place and was tasked to oversee the local products put up for display. Local products like preserved foods and delicacies, handicrafts like shellcraft and furniture made from rail ties can be seen at the place.
In the garden of the venue which occupies almost two thirds of the property, ornamental plants, orchids, fruits tree seedlings and other local plants are housed. This area is also the place where plant exhibits are held several times a year.
The Tourism Promotion and Development Office of the city government moved to this place last December 6, 2003 in order that it could cater more to the needs of the people of Roxas City and the domestic and foreign visitors who continue to frequent the city. The inauguration and blessing of the edifice was graced by Mrs. Judy Araneta Roxas, Senator John Osmeña and Representaive Imee Marcos-Manotoc who came to attend the Sinadya sa Halaran celebrations. The display center was renamed Balay Kapisnon. As expected, the place has become a must see for visitors who come to Roxas City.
Captivating Capiz- People's Park
The seven kilometers stretch of ebony beach at barangay Baybay is one of the finest assets of the City of Roxas. When the Mayor noticed its potential, he allowed consigners to occupy the entire beachfront as long as the they sold seafood at low prices, and cleaned up all their areas upon closing. this area which is the favorite haunt of domestic and foreign tourist alike because of its succulent and fresh seafood became known as the Roxas City Seafood Plaza or Talabahan.
Soon, the concessionaires, will not only have the convenience of more stable and more aesthetically appealing stalls but also a steady water supply, as well as other facilities needed in their day to day operations. The general public will also have permanent umbrellas in which to spend their beach holidays and wide tiled parks for children. Public facilities such as toilets and showers will also be installed in the area. In the evening, the place will glow with mercury lamps - but not before everyone is able to witness the breathtaking sunset at Baybay Beach, Roxas City.
Soon, the concessionaires, will not only have the convenience of more stable and more aesthetically appealing stalls but also a steady water supply, as well as other facilities needed in their day to day operations. The general public will also have permanent umbrellas in which to spend their beach holidays and wide tiled parks for children. Public facilities such as toilets and showers will also be installed in the area. In the evening, the place will glow with mercury lamps - but not before everyone is able to witness the breathtaking sunset at Baybay Beach, Roxas City.
Captivating Capiz- Ang Panubli-on, the Roxas City Museum
In 1910, President Pastor Alcazar, third President of the town of Capiz (1908-1912), constructed a water tank near the “Municipio” to provide water to the Kapisnon during the dry months. Water flowed from the roof of the two-storey municipal building to the tank.
The “Municipio” was destroyed during World War II, but the water tank which was 11.5 meters in diameter, 6.10 meters in height and with walls 11 inches thick was spared.
After the war, offices were built around the tank completely hiding it from view with only a water spout visible. In 1993, the offices were demolished and for the first time in three decades, the water tank could be seen. The young people, who were not aware of the existing structure, had to be told that originally, it was a water tank.
The old water tank looks quite imposing, like a lady, grown serene, yet gracious and to demolish it would be like cutting the umbilical cord from the past.
However, that water tank had outlived its usefulness because Roxas City now had a modern water system, a legacy from the late Congressman Gerardo “Dinggoy” Roxas, Jr.
The City Government with a group of culture buffs brain-stormed on what to do with the structure and the idea of converting it to a museum was born. Thus, the Roxas City Museum, Ang Panublion, became a reality with Mrs. Ofelia Rendon as its curator.
Ang Panublion, in its initial exhibit, showcased the Kapisnon: how they lived, how they prayed, how they danced, what they ate, what they wore (gowns, jewelry, etc., and how they spent their time.
The “Municipio” was destroyed during World War II, but the water tank which was 11.5 meters in diameter, 6.10 meters in height and with walls 11 inches thick was spared.
After the war, offices were built around the tank completely hiding it from view with only a water spout visible. In 1993, the offices were demolished and for the first time in three decades, the water tank could be seen. The young people, who were not aware of the existing structure, had to be told that originally, it was a water tank.
The old water tank looks quite imposing, like a lady, grown serene, yet gracious and to demolish it would be like cutting the umbilical cord from the past.
However, that water tank had outlived its usefulness because Roxas City now had a modern water system, a legacy from the late Congressman Gerardo “Dinggoy” Roxas, Jr.
The City Government with a group of culture buffs brain-stormed on what to do with the structure and the idea of converting it to a museum was born. Thus, the Roxas City Museum, Ang Panublion, became a reality with Mrs. Ofelia Rendon as its curator.
Ang Panublion, in its initial exhibit, showcased the Kapisnon: how they lived, how they prayed, how they danced, what they ate, what they wore (gowns, jewelry, etc., and how they spent their time.
What is Capiz??
Capiz is both a geographical location and the name of a shell that is used largely in interior decorating and for decorative gifts and accessories. Geographically speaking, Capiz is a province of the Philippines facing the Sibuyan Sea to the north. Capiz shell, which is used for decorative purposes, is the outer shell of the marine mollusk, Placuna placenta, found in the shallow coastal waters of the Philippines.
Capiz shell is a flat, semi-transparent shell with a pearlescent appearance. Capiz is often used to create lampshades or other luminescent objects, such as candle holders, because of its striking appearance when light shines through. However, it is just as common to see the bases of lamps crafted with capiz shell. Capiz is also frequently used as an accent to many household and fashion accessories. Capiz is generally considered to be elegant and formal.
As a decorative item for interiors, capiz is often found not only on light fixtures and furniture, but also on walls. Many upscale hotels feature capiz panels on the interior walls of their lobbies and hallways. You might also find capiz in the showers and bathrooms of such hotels. Capiz might be used in homes, but it is generally reserved for formal areas only, though a more casual look can also be achieved with capiz.
Capiz is also used in jewelry, especially necklaces and bracelets, where it can stand alone or accentuate mother of pearl. Capiz can be found as accent trim on leather handbags, watches, and even shoes. It is not uncommon to find giftware made with capiz as well. Dishes are another item that might incorporate capiz to create an elegant, one-of-a-kind look.
Essentially, the use of capiz shell in decorating and fashion is unlimited. It can be difficult to tell the difference between genuine capiz shell and a synthetic shell, but generally, synthetic versions are cheaper. Capiz shell products can add a look of elegance or formality to a room or object, but they can also be used to create a breezy, coastal feel. The decorative purposes of capiz are virtually limitless, and the look it gives depends largely on the quantity used and the accompanying materials, with silver or gold being the most formal and wood being a more casual material combined with capiz.
Capiz shell is a flat, semi-transparent shell with a pearlescent appearance. Capiz is often used to create lampshades or other luminescent objects, such as candle holders, because of its striking appearance when light shines through. However, it is just as common to see the bases of lamps crafted with capiz shell. Capiz is also frequently used as an accent to many household and fashion accessories. Capiz is generally considered to be elegant and formal.
As a decorative item for interiors, capiz is often found not only on light fixtures and furniture, but also on walls. Many upscale hotels feature capiz panels on the interior walls of their lobbies and hallways. You might also find capiz in the showers and bathrooms of such hotels. Capiz might be used in homes, but it is generally reserved for formal areas only, though a more casual look can also be achieved with capiz.
Capiz is also used in jewelry, especially necklaces and bracelets, where it can stand alone or accentuate mother of pearl. Capiz can be found as accent trim on leather handbags, watches, and even shoes. It is not uncommon to find giftware made with capiz as well. Dishes are another item that might incorporate capiz to create an elegant, one-of-a-kind look.
Essentially, the use of capiz shell in decorating and fashion is unlimited. It can be difficult to tell the difference between genuine capiz shell and a synthetic shell, but generally, synthetic versions are cheaper. Capiz shell products can add a look of elegance or formality to a room or object, but they can also be used to create a breezy, coastal feel. The decorative purposes of capiz are virtually limitless, and the look it gives depends largely on the quantity used and the accompanying materials, with silver or gold being the most formal and wood being a more casual material combined with capiz.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Pangilatan Waterfalls
One of the captivating places here in Capiz is the Pangilatan Waterfalls found in Tapaz, Capiz. It is also known as Pangilatan Waterfalls Ecotourism Park. The Pangilatan Waterfalls Ecotourism Park is composed of a main waterfalls which has a water drop off of about 81 ft., countless mini-falls whose water drop offs are between less than a foot to as high as 7 ft., the total length of which is at least 3.5 kms and could go as far as 8 kms and a viewing area on the highest point of Barangay Artuz. From here, one could see the rolling hills and mountains of Tapaz and neighboring towns as far as Calinog, Iloilo in the south and Libacao, Aklan in the north.
The Park is located in Barangay Artuz in Tapaz, the biggest among the 16 municipalities of Capiz, the Seafood Capital of the Philippines. Tapaz is 82 kms from Iloilo City and about 63 kms from the proper of Roxas City, the capital of Capiz.
Capiz, one of the Visayan islands in Central Philippines, is located at the northeastern section of Panay Island.
The Park is located in Barangay Artuz in Tapaz, the biggest among the 16 municipalities of Capiz, the Seafood Capital of the Philippines. Tapaz is 82 kms from Iloilo City and about 63 kms from the proper of Roxas City, the capital of Capiz.
Capiz, one of the Visayan islands in Central Philippines, is located at the northeastern section of Panay Island.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Captivating Capiz- Olotayan Island
Olotayan Island, can be found in Roxas City, Capiz Philippines.
It is a place where beauty reigns, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the beach, in short it is a paradise.
This island is blessed with serene shores with white sand, this island is comparable to Boracay Island(part of Aklan Province). But compared to Boracay, which is a well-known and country's popular tourist destination, Olotayan is not yet discovered by a lot of people. With relatively few visitors and tourists visiting the area, the place remains undisturbed and native. Despite it's short distance from the city, the place remained it's rustic view, giving the visitors a chance to be close to nature. With this, the tourists will find many ways to commune with Mother Nature and a chance to get back to the basic living.
There is no electricity within the island. Drinking water supply was rationed every week from Roxas City by the Metro Roxas Water District. If you want to visit the island you can contact the Olotayan Beach Resort at 6211-058 which is owned by “Dos Hermanas: Dra. Evelyn Sicad and Mrs. Magallanes. There are cottages and beach house with 2 rooms and sleeps up to 4-6 people. A solar panel system generates electricity for the resort.
Other land within the island according to Roxas City hall record was owned by Olotayan Development Realty Corp., lawyer William Villareal, and the Sicad, Aninang and Arenajo families.
The best time to visit Olotayan Island is during summer (March-May). Seasonal conditions can also affect the beach itself. Strong currents and dangerous shorebreaks in the mouth of Punta Cogon River could be experience going to the island in the month of November and December due to typhoon season. You have to check and observed the surf condition at Baybay Beach before going to the island. Hire a bigger boat with life jackets available for the passengers at the Banica Wharf.
Olotayan island is a good place for swimming and snorkelling during calm surf. You can also enjoy sailing, jet-skiing/flat boat riding, wind surfing, skimboarding, fishing and also seaweed harvesting. Don’t forget to bring your googles, underwater camera, swimwear, first aid kits and foods in visiting the island. Boat trip to Olotayan and Napti Island is accessible at Brgy. Banica Wharf, or ask with any beach front hotels/resort in Roxas City to facilitate your trip.
It is a place where beauty reigns, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the beach, in short it is a paradise.This island is blessed with serene shores with white sand, this island is comparable to Boracay Island(part of Aklan Province). But compared to Boracay, which is a well-known and country's popular tourist destination, Olotayan is not yet discovered by a lot of people. With relatively few visitors and tourists visiting the area, the place remains undisturbed and native. Despite it's short distance from the city, the place remained it's rustic view, giving the visitors a chance to be close to nature. With this, the tourists will find many ways to commune with Mother Nature and a chance to get back to the basic living.
There is no electricity within the island. Drinking water supply was rationed every week from Roxas City by the Metro Roxas Water District. If you want to visit the island you can contact the Olotayan Beach Resort at 6211-058 which is owned by “Dos Hermanas: Dra. Evelyn Sicad and Mrs. Magallanes. There are cottages and beach house with 2 rooms and sleeps up to 4-6 people. A solar panel system generates electricity for the resort.Other land within the island according to Roxas City hall record was owned by Olotayan Development Realty Corp., lawyer William Villareal, and the Sicad, Aninang and Arenajo families.
The best time to visit Olotayan Island is during summer (March-May). Seasonal conditions can also affect the beach itself. Strong currents and dangerous shorebreaks in the mouth of Punta Cogon River could be experience going to the island in the month of November and December due to typhoon season. You have to check and observed the surf condition at Baybay Beach before going to the island. Hire a bigger boat with life jackets available for the passengers at the Banica Wharf.
Olotayan island is a good place for swimming and snorkelling during calm surf. You can also enjoy sailing, jet-skiing/flat boat riding, wind surfing, skimboarding, fishing and also seaweed harvesting. Don’t forget to bring your googles, underwater camera, swimwear, first aid kits and foods in visiting the island. Boat trip to Olotayan and Napti Island is accessible at Brgy. Banica Wharf, or ask with any beach front hotels/resort in Roxas City to facilitate your trip.
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