Retracing Roots and Savoring Summer: The Sox Bloggers Explore Iloilo and Guimaras

To kick off the summer, the Sox Bloggers Society took a meaningful and flavor-packed trip to Iloilo and Guimaras, thanks to Cebu Pacific’s daily flights between General Santos City and Iloilo. For many of us from SOCCSKSARGEN, Panay Island is more than just a destination—it’s where our roots lie. This journey wasn’t just a getaway; it was a homecoming.

We landed in Iloilo City via Cebu Pacific and were warmly welcomed by our host, GoHotels Iloilo—our cozy base for the start of this adventure. After a satisfying late lunch at Ramboy’s (that lechon belly is always worth the wait), we visited the iconic Molo Church, also known as the “Feminist Church” for its all-female ensemble of saints. With its stunning Gothic-Renaissance architecture and deep-rooted history dating back to the Spanish colonial period, it instantly made us pause in awe.

Right across is the elegant Molo Mansion, a beautifully restored heritage house now transformed into a Kultura Shop by SM, featuring proudly Filipino-made crafts. Outside, the garden has blossomed into a vibrant food park—a delightful mix of culture, commerce, and community spirit.

As golden hour approached, we strolled along the Iloilo Esplanade. This well-designed riverside walkway has become a symbol of the city’s urban transformation—clean, breezy, and perfect for sunsets and slow conversations.

From there, we hopped on a local jeepney to Ayala Atria, where we experienced the original La Paz Batchoy at the legendary Netong’s. Rich, savory, and soul-warming—no Iloilo trip is ever complete without it.

Our evening was capped off with a fantastic show at the EuroXtreme Circus. With thrilling acrobatics and laugh-out-loud moments, it was a spectacle we didn’t know we needed.

A Journey South

Day two brought us further south of Iloilo province. First stop: the iconic Garin Farm, where faith, wellness, and agriculture intersect. From feeding animals to walking the “Stairway to Heaven,” it was a wholesome, surreal experience.

We made a short visit to the intriguing Campo Santo in San Joaquin, a unique hilltop cemetery overlooking the sea, and passed by the scenic Guimbal steel bridge for some quick snapshots.

But the real showstopper was the UNESCO World Heritage Site—Miag-ao Church. With its Baroque fortress-style façade and deep historical roots dating back to the 18th century, it’s a reminder of Iloilo’s rich religious and colonial heritage.

Back in the city, we tasted something familiar but new at Alicia’s Batchoy—a modern spin on the beloved classic. Same warm feels, but with a twist that even purists would appreciate.

A trip down memory lane led us to Camina Balay na Bato, a heritage home steeped in history and charm. But what stole the show? Their sikwate—the richest, silkiest tablea drink we’ve ever had. We all agreed: it was the best.

Later, Suisse Cakery wowed us with a tasting of their finest cakes. Each slice was a celebration of flavor—elegant, rich, and unforgettable.

Dinner at Ponsyon by Breakthrough at Plazuela Iloilo brought the day to a fitting close. With local staples like talaba, KBL (kadyos, baboy, langka), and more, we ended the day with full hearts and even fuller bellies.

At Ponsyon, we also signed the Memorandum of Understanding between the Sox Bloggers Society and Iloilo Bloggers Inc., as a testament of our partnership and shared goals for our respective communities and adherence to ethical use of our platforms.

That night, we checked in at Days Hotel by Wyndham Iloilo, which offered not just restful rooms but also a generous breakfast buffet with a view of the Iloilo Capitol. The perfect recharge.

Island Life in Guimaras

On day three, we crossed the clean and well-organized Iloilo port—giving off serious Marina Bay vibes—and made our way to Guimaras.

Island hopping from Alubijod Cove, we explored pristine stops like Natago Beach, Ave Maria Cave, Andanas Resort, and Baras Cove. We spent the most time at Natago Beach—quiet, serene, and uniquely beautiful.

Lunch was at the iconic The Pitstop Restaurant, where we had the famous Mango Pizza. Yes, it’s real—and yes, it lives up to the hype. Sweet, savory, and oh-so-Guimaras.

We made a quick stop at the Trappist Monastery for some pasalubong and a moment of quiet reflection, then capped the day with a glowing sunset at the San Lorenzo Windmill Farm—a majestic backdrop for one of our most memorable afternoons.

This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our generous partners:
Cebu Pacific, GoHotels Iloilo, Days Hotel by Wyndham Iloilo, Netong’s Batchoy, EuroXtreme Circus, Alicia’s Batchoy, Camina Balay na Bato, and Tinapayan at Iloilo Supermart. Thank you for helping us experience Iloilo and Guimaras at their best.

From its delicious food to its sacred heritage sites and stunning natural attractions, Iloilo is a destination that has it all. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, its culinary scene is worth the trip alone. And with Cebu Pacific’s convenient daily flights between GenSan and Iloilo, there’s no reason not to make this journey yourself.

Experience Iloilo. Rediscover your roots.