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The Philippines is known for having some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world that are loved by both locals and foreign tourists. The province of capiz, home base of Boracay Island, is one those Philippine destination. From white sand beaches to colorful cultural festivals, capiz has got it all and more. Located in the Western Visayas region, capiz with its capital of Kalibo might be a popular jumpoff for Boracay, but there’s more to this province than just the popular island tourist spot.
Best time of year: November – April
Capiz is a unique interplay of history, myths, and seafood. Interesting, though nobody is certain of its veracity, is how Capiz got its name, one legend narrates that the name of the Province is in honor of one of the twin granddaughters of Datu Bankaya, the leader of the district comprising today’s Capiz and Aklan. He divided his territories into two: Kapid and Akean. The Spaniards who later settled in the area adopted the names of Capiz and Aklan. Another legend says that it was Datu Bangkaya’s wife who gave birth to twin daughters sometimes in 1570. Twin in local Capisnon language is “kapid”.
The significance of seafoods in the lives of early inhabitants was clearly reflected in other versions: when the Spaniards came to Capiz they saw plenty of a certain fish. Asked as to the name of the fish, the natives answered “lapis”. It is claimed that the conquerors heard “kapis” and so the place was named. Most popular version is that when the Spaniards settled in Capiz, they found in here abundance of mollusk known in the dialect as “pios” or “kapis”. The shell called “capiz” is utilized for windows and decorative items.
In precolonial times, Panay Island was called Sinugbahan. Capiz was part of Akean (now Aklan) and its name was Ilaya, thus its people were called Ilayahon or Ilayanon.
In 1582, during the Governor General Ronquillo de Peñalosa’s term, Panai was renamed Capiz and the name Panai (later spelled Panay) was given to the island. When the Spaniard reorganized the island in 1703, they made Akean a district of Capiz. On April 15, 1901, the United States Philippine Commission through Act No. 115 established the second civil government of Capiz. Aklan which was then part of Capiz was separated on April 25, 1956 through Republic Act 1414 signed by Pres. Ramon Magsaysay.
Today, the people of Capiz are called Capisnon (Ca-PIS-non). They predominantly belong to the brown race. Initially, they were a blend of the indigene, the Negrito, the Indonesian and the Malay. Later, the Arab, Chinese, American and other races modified the blend.
Capiz is a home of two Indigenous Peoples Communities, Panay Bukidnon and Ati, who had preserved their culture by faithfully passing it on from generation to generation. Their philosophy, values, traditions, rituals, language, games, foods, architecture, literature, music, dance, embroidery express a unique way of life of respect and love to and interconnectedness of the Divine, fellowman and environment.
Take pleasure in an innovative educational and recreational experience-where local and foreign visitors can embrace budget-friendly, rejuvenating ambiance. The Aqua-Silvi integrated farm-com-leisure resort is the first of its kind where various modern yet environmentally sound amenities blend with nature’s vast resources including its lush mangrove forest that complement the rich culture and tradition of the people. This 50-hectare off-the- beaten road destination is located at San Pedro, Pontevedra, Capiz and offers exhilarating activities such as: fishing (pamunit), boating and kayaking, mangrove forest nature strolling with bird watching and fresh seafood dining in its “kinamot” style.
January 19
Pangahaw derive in words “mahaw” which mean breakfast. It is also the culture of Jamindanganon which implies to their habitant such livelihood, agriculture, forestry, etc.
Last Week of April 1st week of May Municipality of Dumalag
Feast of the Most Holy Trinity
It was conceptualized during the Pre-Spanish time, wherein there were aetas in the upland barangays who tilled the soil and planted rootcrops. During the harvest season of their rootcrops, they brought their products to the town for the barter of the abundant catch of the fishermen in the 10 coastal barangays. The upland people then meet with the fishermen in the seashore and bartered their catch with the products of the upland folks. The hiligaynon term for the meeting of the upland and fisher folks along the seashore is “Tagbu”.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 528-4029
September 10
“Buyloganay” is a word typical of an Ivisan culture characterized by the gesture of unity and cooperation. It is celebrated every September 10 in honor of its patron saint, St. Nicholas of Tolentino.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 529-0088
September 20 – 22
The Municipality of Dao celebrates its annual feast every September 20-22 of the year to honor the town’s patron saint, Sto. Tomas de Villanueva. “PASALAMAT” is the annual theme of town’s fiesta celebration. The occasion is an auspicious opportunity to highlight town’s rich culture and heritage, strengthen Daonhons solidarity as a community, and as well as thanksgiving to God Almighty for the good health and prosperity received through His blessings.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 534-1054
July 22-26
The Tilibyugan Festival is the merging of two Festivals of Sapian celebrated from every 22nd to the 26th day of July. Apparently, the Tilibyugan Festival is the grandest fiesta in honor of Patron Saint, SaintAnne during her month-feast, July of each year .Originating from the vernacular word “tibyug” which means to lift up or to support, tilibyugay of the Sapianons subscribes to the concept of lifting each other and supporting one another for a common welfare. Consequently, the said festival enhances their appreciation of cultural heritage.The Talahong Festival, on the other hand was organized few years ago. Celebrated every 2nd Fridays and Saturdays of May each year, its concept is based on the municipality’s thrust to boost entrepreneurship and promote tourism while boasting of its premier seafood tourism product particularly the Tahong (mussel) and Talaba which are considered flagship commodity of Sapian.
Upon the initiative of the local government officials, the two festivals were fused as supported with a Resolution that the Tilibyugan sa Talahong Festival will be the official festival of Sapian.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 6470-504)
August 1 – 5
Being held every year mirrors the spirit of unity and cooperation of its people. One of the few is the street dancing and pista ng bayan. These are the concrete example of group effort. From one fermented idea of planners, action men, and executions, they have translated their ideas and concepts into mass action of well rehearsed and well executed play, dancers, and graceful rendition of songs and dances. A delight to the eyes of the heart.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 537-3006/ 537-0049
May 1 – 4
Lingga-anay Festival is held every May 1-4 annually. It means looking back. A vivid and accurate interpretation of the Panayanons deep love for our birthplace, strong sense of responsibility toward our fellow Panayanons. It was also inspired by our Dakung Lingganay or the Big Bell in which the town of Panay is well-known for, not only locally but around the world.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 621-2022
June 4 – 13
The Agdahanay Festival is held every 2nd week of June which culminates on the 13th in honor of the town’s patron saint, San Antonio de Padua. This was conceptualized to give due recognition to the Cuarteronhon’s hospitality. “Agdahanay” means inviting and accommodating others. One whole week of fun, revelry, cultural activities and frenzied street dancing are enjoyed by the Cuarteronhons.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at Tel. no. (036) 535-1002/ 535-1101
June 22–24
Hil-o Hanay Festival is a manifestation of culture inherent to Sigma as a cultural expression of symbiosis. It is the way showing this rich cultural tradition to the younger generation in order to let the Hil-o Hanay spirit continue with passion. It gives honor to the noblest and highest virtue of “community-ness” of its people, their innate and common traits that keep the balance of their relationship with one another, their environment, and their God, the crowning glory that fires their iniative to constant becoming-their search for culture of excellence.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at Tel. no. 6470-444/ 6470-231
August 1 – 10
Meaning to honor our young generations. This festival also honors their “KASIMANWAS” who brought fame, honor and recognition for Panitan.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at Tel. no. 6340-665/ 6340-236/ 6340-235
November 20 – 25
Was first introduced in1975 in celebrating the Mambusao annual cultural–religious festivity. This is a colourful pageant celebrated by way of recollecting the stories of Mambusao and depicting the historical and cultural growth of the town during the celebration of the town fiesta on November 25 in honour of Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The term Inilusan means the mutual and reciprocal giving and sharing of food and resources in generous measure and in the spirit of fraternal goodwill that permeates the daily life of Mambusaonons.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at Tel. no. 6470-160/ 6470-160
May 15
“Caguyuman” the old name of Pontevedra, meaning ant hill, a name distinct for ants’ house was once a part of the municipality of Pan-ay mainly because of its rich and abundant natural resources both from the coastal and upland areas. People from the nearby municipalities of Pan-ay, Panitan, Maayon and President Roxas, would thrive in the marketplace like a swarm of ants for trading. This rich tradition is now a celebration of life and thanksgiving for all Caguyumanons.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. (036) 6340-132/ 6340-559
Last Saturday of February
Maayon Municipal and Religious Fiesta known as Hil-o Hil-o Festival which connotes reciprocity that demonstrates mutual interdependence among our people, expresses itself in many forms and in many ways. It could simply be helping one another to make a heavy work for one be lighter. It can be rendering of services or giving material donations for a relative, a friend or a neighbour who is holding a very important affair in the family. This Festival is celebrated annually every 3rd week of February for three (3) days starting Thursday.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at Tel. no. 526-2009
May 3
Inspired by the Masskara Festival of Bacolod City that started in 1988, it is a street dancing contest among groups dancing to the tune of the Latin beat garbed in colorful Caribbean costume. This annual festival is held every 1st week of May, is the centerpiece of the town’s municipal and religious fiesta drawing a number of tourists and balikbayans.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at tel. no. 537-3060
Septermber 21 – 30
Was conceived to give identity to the Tapaznons’ festivities. It is coined based on the people’s generosity of heart and the idea of “you’ll help me and I’ll help you” which is reflected in their way of life. “Pagpatabang” is one valuable trait of Tapaznons when it comes to some occasional time of hard work such as working in the farm during planting and harvesting season, transferring of the house from one place to another, preparing foods during thanksgiving and many more. This bayanihan spirit is very common among the Tapaznons simple way of life.
For more information, call Mayor’s Office at Tel. no. 538-2011
April 15 of Every Calendar year as the Foundation Day of the province of Capiz and to celebrate the said occasion with fitting activity
The United States Philippines Commission through Act No. 115, entitled ‘AN ACT EXTENDING THE PROVISIONS OF THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT ACT TO THE PROVINCE OF CAPIZ” establish the provincial Government of Capiz. (April 15, 1901)
Kapi, atbp. Shellcraft is a family-owned business specializing in the manufacture of export-quality products, gift and decors made from ‘Kapis’ shells (Placuna placenta) located in Banica, Roxas City.
December 4–8
Capiz’ abundance in natural resources and cultural heritage makes Capiznon naturally generous and thankful. Human existence, for a Capiznon, is seen as oneness with nature, fellowmen, and the Divine Provider.
Sinadya sa Halaran Festival (loosely translated as “joyful in offering/sharing”) is a jovial celebration of thanksgiving and sharing of these blessings that took forms in programs and activities that depicts oneness of Capiznon with his Divine Source of blessings, with the blessings themselves, and with the whole humankind.
For more information, call:
City Tourism Office at Tel. No. (036) 6215-316
Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office at Tel. No. (036) 6210-042 local 221
This century-old Church’s interior is shaped like a cross and is made from yellow sandstone. The Church’s six arched windows at each side with columns between them reaching the roof with buttresses at the side give it a different look. It was finished in 1872 when Fr. Andel Abasolo was the parish priest of the town. At the front left side of the church is the five-storey belfry housing five bells of different sizes, all made in 1881.
The church is made of coral stone, very refined and marble-like. It has one main nave and very spacious transept. The façade is characterized by the massive wall that contrasts with some rather slender columns. It is a one-story affair and has a very small Greek pediment which puts the whole façade off-balance. The main entrance, a semi-circular arch, is flanked on both sides by two almost equally large arched entrances separated by paired Tuscan columns mounted on heavily built rectangular pedestals. The cornice is slightly decorated with triglyphs.
Considered as one of the tallest religious icons in the country, Agtalin Shrine is an 80ft statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary atop a mountain. Thousands of devotees attend mass here every first Saturday of the month.
What is intended for preparing the fish for shipment to Manila after drying the heat of the sun, is now a thrill to see when sea folks from all ages, size and shape, move all in a uniform pattern as if their movements were choreographed. The several hectares of shorelines left open for fish drying looked like a solar plant when scales of the fish glistens in the midday sun when viewed from a distance.
The resident theatre of Sigmahanon Foundation for Culture and the Arts, Inc. (SFCAI), of Sigma, Capiz. The group is making waves in the pioneering work of promoting Capiznon culture and arts as an instrument of development. Social and economic issues, cultural directions, the problems of education, governance, health and other concerns are addressed through the arts especially through theatre.
This is the dance of the mountain tribe, the vanishing remnants of pre-Malayan Indonesian immigrants to Panay. The dance retains to this day the original choreography arranged around ancient Indonesian fertility rites.
One of the pre-spanish settlements in Northern Panay (Capiz and Aklan Area). After a Spanish settlements including “Aranguen”. It was unfortunately destroyed by the Japanese during World War II.
This monument located in front of the Provincial Capitol is recognized as one of the oldest statues of Rizal in the country – built in 1901. The Jose Rizal monument was put up with the help of Governor Jose Cortez Altavas.
There are 19 permanent stations and 10 flag stops before. The structure of Panay Railway is now faced out because it is now replaced by other vehicles such as tricycle and cargo trucks. Panay Railway Inc. is a government-owned and controlled corp. of the Philippines. It is subsidiary of the Phildevec Railways Inc. of the Philippine Veteran Investment Development Corp. (Phildevec). The current railway doesn't operate any train but it leares propecty it own form which it derives revenue to defray the personnel and administrative costs incurred from looking after the assets. The company has been owned in succession by the Rehabilitation Finance Corp. which became the Development Bank of the Philippines (1945-1974) in 1979, management and operation were transferred to the Philippine Sugar Commission (Philsucom) which change the company name to the current panay railways, on september 26, 1995, Philvedec retook ownership of Panay Railway from the Sugar Regulatory Administrator, Philisucom's successor as of 2013 the Director of the Panay Railway Inc. was Cesar Capulan.
One of the oldest in Panay Island, the church is a silent witness to the countless events that has unfolded in the city over the past centuries. Its imposing view is complemented by its location which is beside the city plaza fronting the Panay River and the old Capiz Bridge (now Roxas City Bridge).
On April 15, 1901, the minutes of the meeting recorded that the session of the (Second) Philippine Commission in Capiz was called to order at 4 pm. The bill establishing the provincial government of Capiz was unanimously passed and Simplicio Vidal was named provincial governor. It was under his watch that a two-storey government-owned wooden house was transformed into Capiz Provincial Capitol.
A concrete bridge designed with a western influence constructed during the post-American regime connecting the towns of Dao and Sigma. The interior consist of the typical American era bridges, which side railings consisted of "Ballesters". The bridge has a tunnel under its main floor which also contributes to the exterior looks of the bridge. One way lane bridge, 400m to town proper 15 length. Connects Sigma and Dao. Presently not used became the newly constructed highway. The only way to Roxas, Aklan.
Built-in 1774, this church in Panay town is about 250-foot long and 80-foot wide with walls made of coral blocks and are nine-foot thick. The central altar is an elaborate retablo of silver and hardwood in florid Baroque style. The lateral altars have intricately carved tiers of niches for images of saints. The five-story belfry houses a huge, old bell, surrounded by eight smaller bells. Popularly known as Panay Bell, it is cast from 70 sacks of coins contributed by the townsfolk. It is 7 ft. in diameter, has a height of 5 ft. and weighs 10.4 tons. It is the largest Christian bell in Asia.
Founded in 1904, is adorned with multicolored centenarian history. With a legacy of more than 100 years of Christian education, the school remains steadfast in its commitment to provide holistic and relevant education to its clientele.
“The site of first historical battle against Spaniards” Pan-ay was the center of the first act of revolt against the Spaniards in the Province of Capiz. This was headed by General Esteban D. Contreras, where the first battle happened on May 3, 1897, at Sitio Tadiao, Barangay Linateran, near a junction road going to Barrio Agojo. The insurectors or the Agraviados were under the command of Col. Pascual Barza.
The old imposing Roxas City Bridge (formerly Capiz Bridge) remained strong and firm after it was built in 1910 overlooking the Panay River. The bridge is a silent witness of various changes that ushered in progress and development in the City. Like the old bridge, equally alluring is the huge stretch of Panay River that transverse the very heart of the City. Passing the major edifice of the City, Roxas City River has been compared and dubbed as the “Venice of the Visayas”.
One of the pioneering educational institutions in the province, Capiz National High School (Capiz High School) was established and completely organized in 1914. Its imposing structure and location (top of a hill) is always a welcome sight. Its 48-step stairway is popular spot for picture taking.
Located in the city proper; a two-storey hardwood stone house of First President of the Third Philippine Republic President Manuel Roxas, now a historical shrine.
Located in Pueblo de Panay, Roxas City, it was once a fishpond converted into a commercial and recreation zone where visitors can dine in its stationary, floating restaurants, served with fresh seafood and have fun with its family-friendly playground and leisure area.
Started out as a hobby for husband and wife Nelson and Jean Oquendo back in September 2010. They sought the assistance of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) represented by Mr. Malone Montiague. They were taught the art of mushroom cultivation, using the Pleurotus specie, an edible mushroom that grows in tropical climates and known to be easy to cultivate.
Roxas City is also known for its delicious dried fish. A visit in the city would not be complete without visiting the Banica Dried Fish Market to buy the famous danggit, dried pusit, pamaypay, dilis, alamang and a whole lot more as a tasty pasalubong or just for their consumption.
Nestled on top of a hill among giant boulders that seems landscaped by a divine force in the middle of a wide area of well-manicured carabao grass surrounded by tall trees, this grotto is a place of beauty and peace – a perfect location for meditation and prayer. Climbing the hill with a fresh escort of nature; cool breeze, clear water in a creek seeping out from a rock and various species of birds, to the life-size statues of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette is quite fulfilling.
With a towering height of approximately 132-foot (40 m), the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a giant statue of Jesus Christ built in 2015 and is located at Pueblo de Panay, Roxas City. Overlooking the scenic view of the city, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a perfect place for meditation and peace.
The Provincial Eco-Park nestles within an estimated 16-hectare landmass characterized by undulating terrain situated in Barangay Nagba in the Municipality of Cuartero. Established in the late 1980s and managed by the Provincial Government, the facility was covered by lush vegetation comprised of trees, shrubs and bamboos, among others. Likewise, there are small farm lots devoted to rice production and forage plots as protein bank as well as ornamental gardens within the Park’s landscape.
This is the 2nd largest camp in the country with an area of more than 33,000 has.It is also a natural sanctuary and one of the best ecotourism destinations in Capiz.Facilities include nature park, camping site, fishing ponds, mountain trek ranges, mountain bike trail, obstacle course, airsoft/paint ball, firing range, swimming pool, fitness center, jogging lane, grotto and garden of the Virgin Mary, and accommodation.
Palina river and its adjacent areas are economic zones. Three thousands group cages are installed in the river and at the mouth is the original diwal growing area. The river bank lined with mangroves is about 1 km. in length not including the tributaries.
Opening out into Baybay Beach where Cadimahan River had its mouth is refuge to different species of marine life that survive only in contending fresh and seawater. Shouldered on both sides by varieties of mangroves is also an abode for those who seek peace and relaxation. Local folks offer an excitement of a dinner in a raft while serenade of folk songs makes tourist seem transported to paradise. Traditional massage by trained “hilot” makes an experience complete.
The landmass and its unique bio-physical characteristics lies mostly in an undulating terrain with elevation ranging from 200 to 400 masl. Originally called Rarantawan, the settlement can be reached by foot through an ascending unpaved pathway in approximately 40 minutes to one hour. In the area, one can find the traditional farm lands of the Ati as well as patches of residual and secondary forest.
It is composed of fish cages squarely arranged though bamboo poles floating above the water and piled above the fish nets in the brackish waters of the City’s estuaries. The fish pen is solely for the breeding of lapu-lapu, a distinct fish locally known in the area.
An emerging ecotourism attraction in the province. Witness the "tulabong" and other migratory birds fly to and fro the lush green mangroves of Agustin Navarra, as well as, experience "panginhas", or the traditional way of harvesting oysters, as you enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Brgy. Agustin Navarra, Ivisan.
A perfect place for nature tripping and swimming. The bewitching nature trails, of clear waterfalls and the trilling views of kalikasan park and waterfalls predicts the outmost summer getaways.
One of the beautiful cascade deep waterfalls in Jamindan which is located inside a military camp in Camp Macario Peralta. It entails 4 kilometers of trekking over a rough terrain but the rewards of seeing and swimming this waterfall is all worth it.
From a distance, the 200ft. high grayish black rock cliff of the mountain that hosts these caves offers spectacular sight for tourists. Exotic orchids and other plants fill the air with adorable fragrance especially during summer. Wild ducks and birds can also be found in the area. These caves are revered for their cultural and historical significance. These have been used as burial sites of pre-Spanish inhabitants. One of the greatest battles in the province against Spanish soldiers took place in one of its caves, the Balisong Cave. Juan Arce, Capiz greatest revolutionario died during this battle.
Liktikon falls is a natural water falls located within the forest areas of Brgy. Bayuyan President, Roxas, Capiz. It has two known levels. The first level is 8 to 9 feet tall and is inclined. The swimming area spans 40 to 60 meter and has a depth of 13 to 16 feet. The water is cool and clear since the base of the area is made of rocks. The sorrounding forest area adds serenity and ralaxation to those who swims on ots water. The second level is taller, about 11 to 14 feet tall. The area is located above the first level and it is seldom visited.
The trek going up to Liktikon Falls is an adventure itself since you have to endure the jumping from one gigantic rock formation across another. The local named the place to described the path going up the waterfalls, which in local dialect expresses the action as “Naga liktin-liktin” (to jump from one place to another), hence “Liktikon”.
Where history happened is only 900 meters North Easth of Marciano Patricio National High School of the Municipality.
A history happened year 1982 when a private plane of the Philippines Airline crushed. The pilot and the assistant where burn to death only Japanese passengers where saved. Mountain folks received aids and donations after the incident.
Abundant of granite and marbles. Inside the cave there is an altar formation of rocks (stalactites).
Got its name by the folktale appearance of a mermaid singing a beautiful melody heard by a man during a night of full moon. Beleived to have a tunnel under water connecting to the seashore. The man made structure was done by Azure mining during the late 70’s as their water source.
It is called “kawa-kawa” because its shape is like a big frying pan. There is a falls above it with clear waters flowing down the “Kawa” with about 15 feet deep. It has a diameter for around ten meters and its sorrounded by “dalipe” or solid rockes. This has a distance of around 1.5 kilometers from the Barangay San Silvestre and Tabun-acan Pilar, Capiz.
It has an “S” formation that makes it distinctive from other falls. Its invigorating cool waters are refreshing. A 1.5km away from the Barangay proper best for trekking to adventures and nature lovers especially to tourist who wanted to get away from the fast-paced urban life.
It has a white sand beaches and there resorts to stay and enjoy.
The Hinuluga’t Shanghai is a miniature water fall found in Sitio Ilaya Sapian in Poblacion is a favorite family picnic ground. Folk stories told that a place got its name when a horse riding chinese merchant fall and died on the raven by the side of the falls.
In the light moments of every family and outdoor fun, the Gugma Beach is the usual place to visit for relaxation and family bonding. Enjoying the ambiance of fresh air coming from the northwind over Sapian Bay. Gugma Beach can be reach from Poblacion towards Bilao Junction of the National Highway going north through the Provincial Road up to Sitio Culasi of Barangay Lonoy at about 16 kilometers by means of land transportation through jeepneys, trucks and other motor vehicles. It can also be reached through motor boats or pumpboats by means of sea transportation.
Fanciful formations of stalactites and stalagmites make this a fascinating underground world. Its side walls are solid strontium and the ceilings are arched with prismartic crystrals that flash and twinkle. On its floor are terraced miniature dams of cool water. The scenic hi8lls and peaceful valleys on the surface are part of the place’s attraction.
70 hectares of mangroves found in the Barangays of Pawa, Buntod, Jamul-awon and Lat-asan, Panay, Capiz. Experience passing through the Cathedral walls of the coastline.
Located in Brgy. Artuz, Tapaz, Capiz 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 Brgy. Artuz where 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, which could rival the famous chocolate hills of Bohol.
Nearby Mantalinga Island which is a kilometre away from the shoreline of Baybay Beach, Roxas City has been identified by the Department of Tourism as an ideal spot for scuba divers and a perfect rotunda for sailboat (dilayag) and kayaking contest. Recently named “Good Luck Island” by DOT consultants, the place is believed by local fisher folks as source of luck when names of their fish boats are written on the sides of the island before it goes fishing for the first time.
One of Capiz highest waterfalls plunges over the brink into a shaded pool. The waters cascade through three waterfalls among beautiful woodland settings along the way is another gigantic falls, where waters magnificently flow from the top of the mountain along gorges and stands of unspoiled timbers. Its rustling sound can be clearly heard along the road which is more than 200 meters away.
Its aquamarine deep waters rest alongside the steep sloping rocks somewhat like a wall of 70 inclination. The drop-off waters are only a few feet that intertwine the rocky banks of the river. The deep waters have been preserved due to no occurrence of silts. Enjoy the river’s cooling sensation at the mountainous outskirts of Brgy. San Jose, Jamindan, Capiz.
It has several multi-layered chambers in its vast interior. Inside one chamber is an altar-like formation surrounded by stalagmites that seem like giant images in silent repose. Some chambers are as big as hotel ballrooms or cathedrals.
The coves are 10 km. or 30 minutes by jeepney, car or tricycle over rough roads from the town proper. These two barangays have the white sand beach coves in the whole Capiz. In Basiao are the following coves: Marangcalan, Dinogmaan, Patyo and Basiao.
A limestone cave found in Tapulang, Maayon , around 7 kms.away from the poblacion or 15 minutes ride by car or jeepney. It has several entrances at difference levels which lead to a central chamber and fan out again to different passages. Big starlike structures connect upper portions to the central chamber, which is well-lighted and well-ventilated. A gradually sloping passage, 7 feet wide and 7 foot high, take one to lower chamber, which unlike the upper and central chamber is dark. The floor is covered with guano which the townspeople use as fertilizer. The cave has stalactites and stalagmites.
It is 10 kms. along Pilar shoreline. This is a submarine islet of seashells and corals topped with thin layers of sand. When the tide is low the whole island emerges and with it, shells and corals of different colors – green, red, blue, pink, clear water. From this marine garden, the mountains of Masbate can be seen. Tucat Reef is accessible by a pumpboat or on foot during low tides.
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 sulphurous 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 but 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-live effort.
One and a half km. from the poblacion by jeepneys, tricycles and cars over rough roads. About two years ago, townspeople discovered earthen pots with intricately incised designs. The cave must have been burial sites of pre-Spanish Filipinos. At the Balisong Cave where the Capiz Revolucionarios routed the Spanish soldiers. This is where the greatest Capiznon hero, Juan Arce of Sigma, Capiz died. At the side of the cave is a spectacular sight of a mountain. A greyish black rock rises up to 200 ft. to the sky. Plants, orchids among them, hang from the cliffs, blooming in the summer and filling the air with exotic fragrance.
30-minute ride; about 3 km. 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 the others. In certain sections that seem like dead ends, except for small openings measuring 2 to 3 feet through which only one person can crawl. These holes lead to the main chamber which is as big as a hotel ballroom which is why it is dubbed as the ‘Kipot Hilton”.
30 minute pump boat ride from Banica wharf, Roxas City. This 53 hectares island is blessed with colourful fishes and coral reefs. It has crystal-clear water and abundant marine life ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The island’s beach is carpeted with tiny crushed shells called cascaho.
Described as the “Little Boracay” of Ivisan because of its crystal clear waters and white sand, the Basiao Beach is just a 30-minute ride over rough roads from the town proper. It has four nearby islands where visitors can enjoy island-hopping namely: Marocol Gamay, Marocol Dako, Mahabang Pulo and Mabaay Islands.
Go extreme at Baybay Beach in Roxas City as it is perfect for water sports like skim boarding and water skiing or go relax by simply basking in the sun, swimming in the cool water, and taking a walk along the shore feeling the waves lap at your feet.
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