IBP SMARTPHONE SHOTS

SMARTPHONE SHOTS: visiting Iloilo Business Park, Megaworld's 72-hectare business township in Mandurriao district gives every onlooker a chance to capture some radiant scenery with his or her smartphone. Instantly, these photo snaps will become treasured memories and will surely define the kind of lifestyle they surely aspire. This week, we'll feature the smartphone photo snaps of Neil Jaranilla who is very much inspired by the vibrant life in IBP. His photos include the Iloilo Convention Center, Two Global Center, Richmonde Hotel and Tower, McDonald's and One Global Center.
Do you want your smartphone photo snaps to be featured and blogged? Send it to us!

VIBRANT and BUSTLING IBP

VIBRANT and BUSTLING: Iloilo Business Park's long-stretching Megaworld Boulevard which retained 30% of the old Iloilo Airport runway is transforming gorgeously into a vibrant and bustling picture of progress, development and lifestyle within the region's biggest township. In these August 2015 photo updates, we can see the swift shaping-up of Festive Walk Mall shopping center near Richmonde Hotel, the country's longest shop-and- dine strip - Street of Festive Walk is speeding up in construction, in front of McDonald's is the stunning IBP township signage and BPO buildings that caters to BPO call center companies. Are you excited to live a great life in IBP?

ICC Set for Unveiling

SET FOR UNVEILING: Ready for an official inauguration on Sept. 14 which will be led by Pres. Benigno Aquino is the Iloilo Convention Center (ICC), the region's most modern convention venue with 2 levels, 3,700 seating capacity and function rooms. ICC is preparing to hold the APEC 2015 Ministerial Meetings from Sept. 21- Oct. 6. Beside ICC is the international hotel Courtyard by Marriot soon to pamper visitors and Ilonggos with world-class accommodation in early 2016. Iloilo Business Park, Megaworld's largest business township is attracting large number of investors and visitors.

New BPO Buildings at IBP

One Techno Place

One Techno Place

Two Techno Place

Iloilo Business Park is cementing its lead as the region's next biggest home for IT-BPO industry with the rise of additional BPO Buildings where multinational call center companies can hold their office and operation site complete with modern facilities. One Techno Place and Two Techno Place (across the Iloilo Convention Center) with a turnover date set in the second quarter of 2016 are expected to provide competitive employment opportunities for Ilonggos. Megaworld envisions to bring global opportunities to Iloilo and its neighboring provinces with its vibrant IT Park and business township through IBP.

Iloilo Convention Center: Emerging Attraction

Iconic attraction and lifestyle of the future in Iloilo Business Park is now making an impact in the lives of Ilonggos as the 3,700-seater Iloilo Convention Center (ICC) is on its final phase of completion ready to cater the APEC Ministerial Meetings on Sept. 21- Oct. 6, 2015. Bikers and health buffs now enjoy the invigorating activities in the long-stretching Megaworld Boulevard where scenic view of the business township creates a synergy of interest for investors and visitors. ICC has great cultural importance for Ilonggos since its design was fully inspired by its two grand festivals - Dinagyang Festival and Paraw Regatta Festival, a resemblance of the city's rich history and title as the original "Queen City of the South." Aside from the APEC meetings, the ICC needs to be ready for its scheduled September 14 inauguration which will be led by President Aquino.

BPO Companies Finds Home in IBP

StarTek hold its Iloilo office at Two Global Center

One Global Center is the operation site for BPO Company Transcom 

Reed Elsevier have their Iloilo Site Office at the third level of Richmonde Tower

Iloilo Business Park is the region's home of the biggest BPO offices in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. Multinational company Transcom is located at One Global Center while StarTek operates at Two Global Center. Multinational company Reed Elsevier hold their office and operation at the third level of Richmonde Tower. Two more BPO buildings are on the rise at Iloilo Business Park such as One Techno Place and Two Techno Place. Ilonggos will find it more convenient to look for better employment opportunities and experience pleasure with soon-to-rise shopping malls and international hotels in this bustling township.

Zen Lifestyle Ideas at IBP

City life is tiring and stressful. To counter such pressuring situation and creating a sense of balanced lifestyle, moving to the city with a new home can be your best choice. Buying your first condominium at Iloilo Business Park, you can beautifully transform it into your own space of zen-influenced ambiance, your home of relaxation and healthy zone. Check out some great ideas how you could do this with your first condo…  

Breath of fresh air

Start with a central location that offers a quiet and peaceful feeling once inside. Many condos can meet that requirement, but certainly being able to open windows — and bring the outdoors in — is important.

Of course, when windows are open, you want to ensure there is no ambient street noise. Buildings near highways or tunnels can be a negative for this reason.

Some buildings do not have windows that open. This is a must for a Zen condo. If you’re buying new construction, check the type of windows to be installed and find out which rooms will have windows you can open.

When you sleep, do you require fresh air? If so, does the bedroom window open and is the room still quiet? How can you get a cross breeze in your condo? And if you cannot, can you live without that?

Outdoor touch

Having outdoor space such as a balcony or terrace is another excellent way of adding a serene feel to your condo.

I recently saw an urban rooftop terrace with a herb garden. Not only do herbs smell fantastic, they can be very useful. The best part about a condo herb garden is, depending on your floor, it may be out of reach of squirrels and other pests.

Keep in mind that your balcony should not be a place for junk. Consider getting an outdoor storage container to tuck things away and give you a space to store pillows during damp weather. Don’t discount the relaxation factor involved with these.

Back inside

To be truly Zen, you have to focus on inner peace. This includes enhancing tranquility in the interior of your condo. Make your bathroom Zen by rolling your towels and buying your favourite soap or a diffuser.

Or try some of the aromatherapy products to detox and energize yourself. While you’re there, grab some refreshing tea. Not only does it smell delicious, it tastes delicious and is guaranteed to put you in a Zen state of mind.

And, of course, candlelight — either battery operated or natural — can go a long way to help relax.

Finally, add some chlorophyll and you may even breathe better. It has been shown that a home with green plants is healthier. Create an outdoor space inside for reading or sipping wine amongst the shrubbery.

Towers of Pleasure

Iloilo Business Park’s three faces of luxury, it’s gorgeously-themed residential towers such as One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and The Palladium can offer these lifestyle ease and pleasure with its spacious condo units. These condo units are designed to blend well with the vibrant and healthy lifestyle that the whole township is offering. Each tower comes with unique amenities to pamper and give residents the stress-relieving habits they need to go on with their hectic days. The Palladium stands out with its 4 sky gardens, infinity pool, loft-type units in its 22nd floor penthouse level and other significant amenities that could elevate lifestyle perspective. Creating a moment of meditation and finding tranquility its sky gardens will refresh and invigorate lost energy and vitality for its residents.

Pursue a zen-inspired, healthy lifestyle with Iloilo Business Park’s condominiums. For inquiries, call us (033) 330-34-52-65, visit our showroom at the upper ground floor of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City or check our website at www.iloilobusinesspark.ph.  

The 3 Sides of our Story - the IBP lifestyle

It’s always good to know the real story behind every curtain. Stories are meant to inform, inspire and inculcate passion in each of us. Now, imagine yourself living a life of style inspired by extraordinary simplicity, sheer class and something exciting to look forward to. Iloilo Business Park is passionate to share with you our three sides of our story, the story of lifestyles that tickles your senses and truly close to your heart. Let’s imagine life now the way it should be…

ONE MADISON PLACE

You open your eyes and see the world from the window. The sunlight touches your skin gently; you walk around your bedroom as sparks of creativity inspires your soul. You take a sip from a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice before you rush for another adventurous morning. As you go on a biking habit around the boulevard, familiar faces of friends smiling at you, as radiant as the sun, greets you with optimism. So you decided have a seat with them at a coffee shop and started talking a lot of great possibilities in life while browsing each other’s phones and tablets. Everybody’s updating their social media status, telling the world what a great day it is for all you. So, to capture the moment, you take a “selfie” with them and post it online. You told yourself: it’s an inspiring day.  But before you left, you look above and saw the condo tower you now call home – there’s bright colors, modern facet design, visionary in style – just like you – young, vibrant and adventurous by heart. 

 

LAFAYETTE PARK SQUARE

Love is alive in the air for you, and so is life. As you sip your brewed coffee, the soothing aroma calms you, it almost tickles your soul and makes you feel the passion you need to experience throughout the day. You look around and you see classic novels beautifully placed in the cupboard, a collection of your passion and fondness for romanticism. You heard the birds chirping while the sweet scent of the room excites you. As you take your shower, the warm water running through your skin gives you a touch of rejuvenation while jazz music filled your ears with serenity. In a blink of an eye, evening comes with a surprise at the balcony of your condo as you share an intimate candlelight dinner with someone whose heart is enamored by your presence. You sit beside your amore while looking each other eye-to-eye and the bright lights of the township below glows flawlessly. Slowly, you reach out for each other’s hands and hold it tight - it is love, the spirit of romance and passion transcends a notion of a sweet life you destined to share.

 

THE PALLADIUM

You’re motivated to do everything that you want. You start your day by going to the gym, sweat it out and challenge yourself to do your best, for your flourishing business and your lifelong endeavor. After a while, you take a plunge in the infinity pool to refresh yourself. The smell of your newly-cooked breakfast feed the passion within you, and looking at the glass window, you can see your future, your drive for success to be on top of everything you know you deserve to have and to achieve. You make yourself dressed-up for work today – sleek, sexy and confident. But before you leave your condo, you look back with a smile - for this is the kind of lifestyle luxury you used to dream of.  So you close the door and take you first step towards a new day, ready to conquer your ambitions, the success, the fulfillment you now have right in the palm of hands.  

This Saturday, August 22, 7PM at the 7th Floor Function Room of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, come to the biggest IBP event this 2015 - "Know the 3 Sides of our Story." Get ready to be inspired and captivated.

For inquiries, call us at (033) 330-3462-65, visit us at our showroom at upper ground floor of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. Our website is www.iloilobusinesspark.ph.

Personifying Luxury at IBP’s ‘Know the 3 Sides of our Story’

Three faces of luxury, three definition of passion, and three stories transform into one coherent lifestyle for the privileged few, Iloilo Business Park unveils something new with its latest “tour-de-force” event, the first of its kind that will create magnificent impression.

The life-changing mantra – “Know the 3 Sides of our Story” – is a passionate approach to make Ilonggos and investors realize the lasting change and elevation of lifestyle with Iloilo Business Park’s first-class residential perspective, giving them unparalleled approach to the visionary kind of life that’staking shape in Western Visayas’ biggest business township. Megaworld, the Philippines’ leading township developer ensures satisfaction, bliss and fulfillment with their top-notch residential and condominium towers inspired by various themes, hues and sophistication. Personifying these unique lifestyle concepts with their residential towers give investors and Ilonggos not just a choice but a lasting assurance that there is no other lifestyle with such class and prestige like Megaworld has to offer at Iloilo Business Park. There’s more to life-style than meets the eye with the township’s mega-luxurious residential towers – One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and The Palladium.   

Life-changing and ultimately inspiring, “Know the 3 Sides of our Story,” a one-of-kind event happening in Iloilo City for the first time that graciously invites you to come on Saturday, August 22, 7pm at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s 7th Floor Function Room is entirely “about YOU, the lifestyle you DREAM about and a moment to write you OWN story” very soon. This is it, embrace your [lifestyle] moment… it’s NOW or NEVER!

Inquiries and reservation to the event? Call us at (033) 330-3462-65 or visit our showroom at the ground level of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. Website: www.iloilobusinesspark.ph. 

IBP’s ‘Know the 3 Sides of our Story’

Every story needs to be told and known before it could make a lasting mark. For Iloilo Business Park (IBP), Megaworld’s 72-hectare biggest business and lifestyle township in Western Visayas, is arguably making a mark on its own as the most anticipated development and investment hub in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Envisioned as one of the most significant events in Iloilo Business Park this year, you’re exclusively invited to classy cocktail party and showcase of lifestyle perspective with “Know the 3 sides of our story” on August 22, 7PM at the 7th floor of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s Function Hall.

One Madison Place is a 10-storey residential tower that goes perfectly with trendy, outspoken and vibrant people. Lafayette Park Square is a 16-storey tower that personifies romance, passion and classic-vintage theme. The Palladium makes you feel you’re rising to the very top of your desires - visionary, confident and ambitious as the region’s tallest tower with 22 floors and stunning sky gardens. As an inspiring tribute to IBP’s three faces of luxury, rising Ilonggo interior designer, Johanna Garin-Fermin of Nana Fermin Interiors exclusively designed three different vignettes for each residential tower as a closer look on the classy lifestyle they envision. The event is a surreal glimpse on the exquisite lifestyle that selected clients and guests will experience with IBP’s unique residential towers. A Bossa Nova acoustic band will turn the air of romance and pleasure as guests delight in the magnificent vision of Iloilo Business Park for an unforgettable evening.

Come and re-imagine the luxurious life you truly desire. For inquiries, call us at (033) 330-3465, visit us at the ground level of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City or check us online at www.iloilobusinesspark.ph.

SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO

Iloilo City, the Philippines’ “city of love” and the historical city most favored by Spain through the royal decree of Queen Regent Maria Christina during the Spanish colonial era, is now on its way for a newfound elevation, a magnificent rise as one of the most favored economic centers, a new investment hub, and world-class cultural heritage. A passionate site-seeing within this vibrant metropolis would give visitors and quests some glimpses of different world wonders. These resemblances are often associated with its grandeur history, culture and optimistic people whose values and perspective focuses mainly in their deep cultural pride. Take a journey with us and SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO…

Singapore’s Esplanade and Iloilo River Esplanade: Nature and Progress Fuses Beautifully  

The Esplanade is a waterfront location just north of the mouth of the Singapore River in downtown Singapore. It is primarily occupied by the Esplanade Park, and was the venue where one of Singapore's largest congregation of satay outlets until their relocation to Clarke Quay as a result of the construction of a major performance arts venue, the Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, which took its name from this location.

Iloilo River Esplanade is an esplanade along Iloilo River in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Philippines that was opened on August 18, 2012. It stretches 1.2 Kilometers from Diversion Road (officially Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue) to Carpenter Bridge. The project cost ₱58.7 million. and was designed by Paolo Alcazaren, who also designed the Singapore quay and river esplanade.

There are proposals to extend the Esplanade from the Carpenter Bridge to Barangay Sooc, Arevalo, Iloilo City and from the Diversion Road to Jalandoni Bridge.

Singapore’s Esplanade and Iloilo River Esplanade both showcases the harmonious fusion of ecology, progress and stunning scenery, a picturesque vision of sustainability and commitment to our environment where people can truly appreciate. It’s the same vision and passion for nature… SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO!

Paris Buildings and Iloilo’s Calle Real: Stunning Historical Scenery

Featured in the photo is one of the classic-designed buildings in the city of Paris. Paris is the capital and most-populous city of France. It is situated on the Seine River, in the north of the country. Paris was founded in the 3rd century BC by a Celtic people called the Parisii, who gave the city its name. By the 12th century, Paris was the largest city in the western world, a prosperous trading centre, and the home of the University of Paris, one of the first in Europe. In the 18th century, it was the centre stage for the French Revolution, and became an important centre of finance, commerce, fashion, science, and the arts, a position it still retains today.

Calle Real (Royal Street) or the Iloilo City Heritage and Cultural District old buildings that were constructed in the Commonwealth era in Calle Real, Iznart, Aldeguer and Guanco were declared as a heritage site of Iloilo by the National Historical Institute. Also known as the downtown area of Iloilo City, it is one of the oldest and affluent business districts in the Philippines where the first department store Hoskyn’s was established in 1877.

The classic similarity of buildings in Paris and Calle Real would give onlookers the same feeling of nostalgia. Both refuted as cities of love – Paris and Iloilo exudes passion with their architectural designs from the past and transcends a cultural value in their future. A walk in Calle Real would also give the same view of architectural excellence with the world-famous city of Paris… SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO!

Covadonga Church and Molo Church: Reflections of Faith

Our Lady of Covadonga is a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and a Marian shrine devoted to her at Covadonga in the province of Asturias in north west Spain. The Spanish shrine rose to prominence following the Battle of Covadon in 722, at which the Moorish invasion of Spain was first resisted. A statue of the Virgin Mary, secretly hidden in one of the caves, was believed to have miraculously aided the Christian victory. Our Lady of Covadonga is the patron of Asturias, and a basilica was built to house the current statue. Pope John Paul II visited the shrine at Covadonga to honour the Virgin Mary.

Molo Church is a famous Spanish-colonial church and heritage site in Molo District. It known for the prominent red spires that crown its tall bell towers and as “the feminist church” because of the all-women ensemble of saints represented in 16 statues perched on the aisle pillars. Built in neogothic style, the church is one of the Iloilo City’s most familiar landmarks and top tourist attractions.

Probably the greatest link between Spain and the Philippines is their deep-rooted devotion to the Catholic Religion. 300 years of colonialism by Spain, etched a strong ties through Christian faith. In their physical manifestation of religious faith, these two old churches – the Our Lady of Covadonga and St. Anne Church have quite similar architectural concept and design, forged by the same religion and destined to become timeless… SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO!

 

Sydney Opera House and Iloilo Convention Center: World-Class Venues

The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Situated onBennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, close to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the facility is adjacent to the Sydney central business district and the Royal Botanic Gardens, between Sydney and Farm Coves. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, the facility formally opened on 20 October 197

Iloilo Convention Center (ICC) is a state-of-the-art convention center in the Iloilo Business Park in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Philippines which is expected to be completed in 2015 in time for the APEC 2015 hosting. It is built on a 1.7-hectare of lot in the district of Mandurriao donated by the Megaworld Corp. The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority allocated P200 million for the construction of the convention center, while another P250 million was sourced from the Priority Development Assistance Fund of Senator Franklin Drilon.

Australia takes pride of Sydney Opera House as a world-class convention and venue of events. Likewise, Iloilo Convention Center is the most-anticipated convention facility in the Western Visayas region. Both venues can hold thousands of audiences and have cultural connection from the past. They both showcase contemporary architectural design – classy and impressive and a product of vision and dreams. A visit to ICC will also make you feel you’ve visited Sydney’s beautiful convention destination. Would you like to SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO?

Novotel Nanjing Central and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: Getty’s Masterpieces

Novotel Nanjing Central is located in the heart of Nanjing, China, convenient to all of its historical centers, commercial complexes and businesses. The hotel boasts with 297 beautifully appointed guest rooms or suites with their magnificent views on Xinjiekou.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is the first international hotel that opened in Iloilo Business Park, Megaworld’s 72-hectare business township in Western Visayas region. The hotel boasts with gracious service and world-class accommodation that provides comfort with its 149 rooms and amenities.

Getty’s, one of the world’s most prestigious hotel designers both showcased their expertise and passion to build hotels that exudes masterpiece vision and style. When Getty’s conceptualize impressive designs, they always infuse a large part of the cultural heritage of the city or country where their hotel projects are being built. Both of these hotels showcase unique architectural and interior flair but maintains the same element of perspective – minimalism, dynamism and grandeur. Staying at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo will make you SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO.

 

Musselburgh Golf Club and Iloilo Golf Club: Legends in their own Right

The Royal Musselburgh Golf Club is a golf club at Prestongrange House, Preston grange near Prestonpans, East Lothian,Scotland. The first golf clubs were founded in the 18th century. The first was the Royal Blackheath Golf Club, instituted in 1706, followed by the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfersin 1744, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in 1754, and the Royal Musselburgh Golf Club in 1774. These clubs gradually accepted some responsibility for the links on which they played.

The Iloilo Golf and Country Club, formerly and informally known as the Santa Barbara Golf Course in Brgy. San Sebastian,Santa Barbara, Iloilo on 35 hectares of plain and rolling hills. It was built in 1907 by a group of British and Scottish expatriates building the Panay line of Panay Railways, also completed in 1907.  The club was the first Philippine club accepted as an affiliate of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews in Scotland.[1] Since it is the oldest golf course in the country, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2012 approved the placement of a national historical marker.

The Guinness Book of World record considered Royal Musselburgh Golf Club as the oldest in the world while Iloilo Golf and Country Club is considered as one of the oldest in Asia. Both destinations are icons and legends in their own right. Thus, a trip to Iloilo Golf and Country Club would be like visiting the oldest golf club in Scotland… SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO!

River Thames and Iloilo River: A Tale of Two Timeless Rivers

The River Thames is a river that flows through southern England. It is the longest river entirely in England and the second longest in the United Kingdom, after the River Severn. While it is best known for flowing through London, the river also flows alongside other towns and cities, including Oxford, Reading, Henley-on-Thames and Windsor.

The Iloilo River located in the Province of Iloilo, Philippines is actually an estuary.

The river starts in Oton at Batiano River, which is also an estuary, then traverses the Iloilo City districts of Lapuz, Lapaz,Mandurriao, Molo, Arevalo and the city proper, before emptying into the Iloilo Strait.

Iloilo River wharf, including Muelle Loney in the Iloilo City Proper, is a natural harbor which made it a preferred port of call for ships seeking protection from strong winds and tropical monsoons. It serves as port for inter island ferries that travel from Iloilo City to Bacolod on Negros and to Guimaras.

London is hailed as a royal city, the capital of England and home to the British Royal Family. Iloilo is historically considered as the “Queen City of the South” in the Philippines. Both cities take pride with their natural wonder – a grand river of ecological and historical value that sustains life, resources and commitment for preservation. These are veins and lifeblood of both royal cities that creates a synergy between the past and the future. So, a stroll around or boat ride at Iloilo River would give you a heartfelt appreciation for nature and history like those in London… SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO!

Orchard Road and Iloilo Business Park: Vibrant Spots of Progress

Orchard Road is a 2.2 kilometre-long boulevard that is the retail and entertainment hub of Singapore. It is a huge tourist attraction, in addition to being the most popular shopping enclave in the city-state. Often, the surrounding area is known simply as Orchard, partly because the MRT station that serves the vicinity is named Orchard MRT.

The Orchard Planning Area is one of 55 urban planning areas as specified by the Urban Redevelopment Authority and is a commercial district. It is part of the Central Region and Singapore's central business district, the Central Area.

A 72-hectare master planned mix-used development community project of Megaworld, Iloilo Business Park in Mandurriao District is the vibrant future township of business and lifestyle in Western Visayas.

Iloilo Business Park is Megaworld’s biggest single investment outside Luzon of 35 billion. Gorgeously rising in this vibrant township are BPO Buildings, the iconic 7,000-seater Iloilo Convention Center, international hotel brands – Richmonde Hotel and Courtyard by Marriot, lifestyle shopping center Festive Walk Mall, the country’s longest dinning destination – the Street of Festive Walk and luxurious condominium towers – One Madison Place, La Fayette Park Square and The Palladium, the tallest tower in Western Visayas.

Orchard Road is the busiest business capital of Singapore, a proof of its dominance in terms of economy, investments and tourism. Iloilo Business Park is currently the most talked-about business, leisure and tourism, a mixed-used commercial complex in Iloilo and Western Visayas region, giving a great boost for opportunities. People converge in these business centers to chase a good life and work hard to sustain their dreams. The bright lights and vibrant ambiance gives us a glimpse of progress. Therefore, roaming around and starting a life in Iloilo Business Park replicates the same vein of opportunities like any other business centers in the world.

So, are your ready to SEE THE WORLD THROUGH ILOILO? It’s time to open your eyes and widen your vision.

(some parts of this article were taken from Wikipedia.com)

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Iloilo

Iloilo is a city of magnificent history and opportunities shaped throughout its existence. Still, it remains to be vibrant and culturally-passionate through its culture-loving people who never fail to dream big yet continue to preserve its rich cultural past. If you’re a true-blue Ilonggo or just a visitor of this exquisite city, here are 10 things you should know: 

Are you Foodie? Come to Iloilo and tickle your taste buds.

Iloilo City is more than just the heart of Western Visayas and economic center. For visitors and travelers who are looking ahead to visit this vibrant city, it’s world-famous gastronomy, delicacies and food tickle the taste buds and palettes of many people. We have the luscious bowl of La Paz Batchoy originated in the wet market of La Paz district, the delicious soup-based Pancit Molo, the Biscocho Haus selling yummy Biscocho and Pandesal ni Pa-a in Jaro district, the Barquillos from Wewins, tastiest Queen Siopao of Roberto’s, the variety of the best seafood, chessy baked Oyster, Native Chicken barbeque in Tatoy’s Manokan, all of these mouth-watering menu sold in various mini-restos along the shores of Villa Beach and many other must-have keepsakes the brings the flavors of authentic Ilonggo cuisine.

Didn’t you know your grandparents were movie lovers? Yes they are.

Back in the middle 1950s until 1980s, Iloilo City’s progress paved way for the expansion of its bustling metropolitan where countless movie theaters started to mushroomed and scattered within the city. The existence of some prominent movie theaters such as Cinema, Regent, Crown Allegro and Rivera, among others makes Iloilo as the movie capital outside Manila. In fact, prominent film festivals in Metro Manila along with their biggest movie stars were brought in to Iloilo back in the heydays. The passion of Ilonggos for movie theaters simply shows that most Ilonggos are affluent and enjoy living in a economically-stable city because they regularly watch movies after work or during weekends with their family. Old folks even used to say that most movie theaters are full-packed during premieres of important Filipino movies. Back then, Ilonggos are very passionate with local Filipino movies which are a form of cultural pride.

Ilonggos take Banking seriously. Here’s why…

There’s a bank in almost every corner in downtown area of Iloilo City. The progressive business, commerce and trade back in the 18th century and the economic rise of the city in 1900s, Ilonggos are known for their thrifty and wise-spending attitude. Thus, banks were lining up in downtown area where most businessmen and old rich Ilonggos are ensuring they always kept their hard-earned money at the right place. Since Iloilo has been the most important international city next to Manila during the heydays, foreign exchange banks can be seen everywhere and large amount of deposits goes in the bank every day. In fact, most of the city’s present major investors were convinced to invest because Ilonggos are known to have big deposits in banks and financial institutions, something that transcends potential financial prominence and the right attitude for progress.

Ilonggos are one of the BEST weavers in the world.

One of the reasons for Iloilo City’s economic prominence was the establishment of its popular weaving industry – sinamay, hablon, jusi and piňa cloth in later 18th and early 19th century. Iloilo became an international trading port for textile industry where local products are sold and send to Europe and other parts of the world.  Textile products made from Iloilo were considered expensive and in-demand in the international market during the heydays. Such reputation ensured Ilonggos’ timeless ingenuity and legacy with their distinct local products. Textile industry and retail stores mushroomed relentlessly in Calle Real, the busiest business district of the city. In Villa de Arevalo, Sinamay production flourished as local weavers became more and more popular for their intricate hand-woven products that impressed investors and suppliers. The Iloilo Sinamay House, an antique heritage house in Villa owned by Guizon and Villanueva clan passed on to her children their family’s business.

Before jeepneys, care for a train ride in Iloilo?

The company was originally founded in Hartford, Connecticut, United States as Philippine Railway Company Inc. on March 5, 1906. It was part of a collection of Philippine infrastructure companies. On May 28, 1906, the Philippine Commission granted the Philippine Railway Corporation a concession to construct railways on the islands of Panay, Negros and Cebu. In 1907, construction began on a railroad from Iloilo City to Roxas City in Capiz. It was later controlled and owned by the Philippine government as Panay Railways Inc. with headquarter in La Paz in Iloilo City. The original route the company’s train service was 117 kilometers (73 miles) long, included 19 permanent, 10 flag stations and connected to La Paz in Iloilo City heading as far as Loctugan in Capiz. It had a total of 46 bridges. The operation of the train service ceased in 1983 and its demolition started in March 2005 under the administration of President Fidel V. Ramos.

Photo from habagatcentral.com

Forget about shopping malls, Iloilo’s Calle Real is timeless!

Its existence dates back in the time of Spain’s colonial era in the Philippines, Calle Real is a long-stretching old business district in Iloilo City where most of the pioneer Chinese merchants and local business clans established their businesses. From expensive to the cheapest shopping centers, retails stores, boutiques, goods, textile products, medical supplies, restaurants, and street vendors selling almost everything are lined-up beautifully to cater the locals. Calle Real is known for its heritage buildings build during the Spanish and American era in the Philippines. The recent effort of the city’s local government and Heritage Council to rebuilt and revive the original façade of heritage buildings creates an echo of cultural pride. The sights and sound of Calle Real dramatically changes from time to time. Its long existence captured great memories of Ilonggo culture, business-minded nature of locals, the city’s legacy for trade and commerce integrated in its impressive international business relationship in the past. Back then, elegant Illustrados, well-dressed elites and the iconic Calezas used to roam around the streets of Calle Real, a place that even until now never loses its mark in the lives of Ilonggos as their first and true leisure destination.

The city with over 100-year-old universities

Iloilo City is considered as the “center of education in Western Visayas” by having the most numbers of schools both private and public school. During the old times and presently, students flocked in Iloilo to gain the best education especially in tertiary level by having the biggest and prestigious universities. Iloilo’s two oldest universities who passed its centennial year or 100 years of existence but still going stronger are the University of San Agustin and Central Philippine University. Founded by the Order of Saint Augustine missionaries, the University of San Agustin was established in July 15, 1904 and celebrated its centennial year on 2004. Established in 1905 by American philanthropist John D. Rockefeller under the auspices of the American Baptist Foreign Missionaries, the Central Philippine University (CPU) has become known for its strong Christian foundation, competitive courses and a tourism-friendly university campus for its wide nature-friendly scenery and old buildings. CPU celebrated its Centennial Year in 2005. West Visayas State University is 113 years old this 2015. It is a prominent university with countless achievements to boast originally founded by the Thomasites who came to the Philippines in the early 1900s, it was a part of Philippine normal school system under the American occupation until it became separate and formally established in 1924. Iloilo Science and Technology University formerly Iloilo School of Arts and Trade (ISAT) and later became Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (WVCST) founded in 1905 is another educational institution in Iloilo City that existed for over a hundred years. The university is still fulfilling its vision of providing quality education from its laboratory high school, tertiary college courses and vocational technical continuing course.

What used to be Iloilo’s King of the Road?

Calesa, the traditional two-wheeled elegant cart pulled by a horse used to roam the streets of Iloilo City particularly in Calle Real during the Spanish era. They used to be the King of the road in Iloilo even before its transformation into a royal city through a decree by Queen Regent Maria Christina of Spain in 1889. During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Calesas can be still be seen in Calle Real. But the popularity of more modern jeepneys replaced the existence of traditional Calesa in Iloilo City.

Did you know that Ilonggos were the first to fly?

Iloilo holds the record as the first city to have a commercial airline company. 8 years before the Philippine Airlines (PAL) was established, Iloilo Negros Air Express Company (INAEC) owned by Eugenio Lopez had its inaugural flight in Fort San Pedro on February 1, 1933. The company catered to chartered and commercial flights during its peak years. The INAEC site airport was destroyed by 36 Japanese bombers on December 18, 1941 during the outbreak of World War II. Today, INAEC still exists in Iloilo providing chartered flights including medical emergency flights for private clients.

Didn’t you know your grandparents are shopaholics?

Since Iloilo City is prominently popular commercial metropolis next to Manila even way back during the Spanish colonization years, the city secured itself as a bustling commercial and leisure destination. Hoskyn’s Department Store located along J. M. Basa Street was considered as the oldest shopping center in the Philippines according to local historians established in 1877. It was founded by Englishman Henry Hoskyn’s under the business name “Hoskyn’s and Co.” It is the first store in the country to introduced “fixed price” policy in merchandising and the first known “store to sell almost everything from needle to anchor.” Right now, the building remained standing and several retail stores existed in the same location.

Iloilo City’s newest ‘claim-to-fame”- Iloilo Business Park

Reigniting the legacy of Iloilo City and opening a new gateway of opportunities, Megaworld Corporation, the Philippines prime mover in real estate developer set their sights in this city to establish Iloilo Business Park. Transforming the old Iloilo Airport (IBP) property into a bustling new commercial, business and leisure township, IBP is envisioned as the center of almost everything in Iloilo City. IBP will open a high-end shopping center – Festive Walk Mall, the country’s longest leisure strip – Street of Festive Walk, modern convention facility – Iloilo Convention Center, BPO Buildings that would serve as office and operation site for call center companies, international hotels – Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and Courtyard by Marriot and high-end residential towers sporting names like One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and The Palladium, the tallest and classiest among the three with 22 floors. IBP is seen as the grand destination that would uplift the tourism industry and modern lifestyle culture of the city. Employment openings in the IT-BPO sector in IBP are foreseen to rise up to 30,000 jobs in the next 10 years. Rapid infrastructure developments provide a life-changing hint in this modern township how Iloilo and its people, will embrace their city’s consistent rise to prominence as the region’s epicenter of progress.