Iloilo City, officially known as the City of Iloilo, is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the western Visayas region of the Philippines, situated on the southeastern coast of the island of Panay. It serves as the capital city of the province of Iloilo, even though it remains politically independent in terms of government and administration. This city is recognized as the center of the Iloilo – Guimaras Metropolitan Area and is also the regional center and primate city of the Western Visayas region.
Key Points:
● Population: According to the 2020 census, Iloilo City has a population of 457,626 people, with the total population of the metropolitan area being 1,007,945 people.
● Nicknames: Iloilo City is known by various nicknames such as the Most Loyal and Noble City, City of Love, Queen City of the South, Bike Capital of the Philippines, and Royal City of the South.
● Motto: The motto of Iloilo City is "La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad de Iloílo" (The Most Loyal and Noble City of Iloilo).
Historical Background:
● Iloilo City has a rich history dating back to pre-colonial times when it was the center of Madja-as.
● The city's history includes being founded by Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, and it witnessed significant growth during the 1700s due to its local sugarcane industry.
● During the early days of the Philippine Revolution, Iloilo City served as the capital of the Federal State of the Visayas.
● After the Philippine-American War, the city became an important Protestant mission site with the establishment of universities like the Central Philippine University.
Economic, Cultural, and Tourism Center:
● Iloilo City is a highly urbanized city with a separate government from the province. It is the economic, cultural, educational, and tourist center of Iloilo province.
● Together with Guimaras, the city forms the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Metropolitan Area.
● The city is located on the southern coast of Iloilo province and boasts a range of attractions from religious and historical sites to parks and wildlife.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:
● Britannica - Iloilo City
● Wikipedia - Iloilo City
● Wikivoyage - Iloilo City
The Iloilo Esplanade, also known as the Iloilo River Esplanade, is a scenic promenade and linear park that runs alongside the Iloilo River in Iloilo City, Philippines. It is a tranquil haven for relaxation, recreation, and leisure activities, offering breathtaking views of the river and its surroundings. Here is some detailed information about the Iloilo Esplanade:
Location and Design:
● The Iloilo Esplanade stretches for approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) along both sides of the Iloilo River, from Carpenter's Bridge in the Mandurriao and Molo districts to Muelle Loney (Drilon) Bridge in the City Proper and Lapuz districts.
● Designed by landscape architect Paulo Alcazaren, the esplanade is recognized as the longest linear park in the Philippines.
● It was opened to the public on August 18, 2012, as part of the Iloilo River Rehabilitation Project, showcasing the city's commitment to environmental conservation and urban development.
Attractions and Activities:
● The Iloilo Esplanade offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
● Visitors can enjoy a scenic stroll along the well-paved paths of the esplanade, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance and picturesque views of the river.
● The esplanade is a favorite spot for leisure walking, jogging, cycling, and other outdoor activities, providing a perfect setting for individuals and families to unwind and enjoy nature.
● It is also a venue for cultural events, festivals, and recreational activities, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Access and Amenities:
● The Iloilo Esplanade boasts convenient access points and strategic locations, making it easily reachable via taxis or jeepneys.
● The esplanade has two main entrances: the eastern end along Diversion Road (Benigno Aquino Avenue) in the Mandurriao district and the western end near Carpenter's Bridge, located on the boundary of Molo and Mandurriao.
● Visitors can access the esplanade from various points in the city, allowing them to explore different areas along the riverbanks and enjoy the diverse offerings of the promenade.
Recognition and Impact:
● Since its inauguration, the Iloilo Esplanade has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iloilo City, attracting thousands to millions of visitors annually.
● The linear park has received recognition and awards for its landscape architecture and contribution to the city's development, showcasing its significance as a landmark and cultural asset of Iloilo.
For more information, you can refer to the following sources:
● EmbraceTheEpic - Iloilo Esplanade
● Wikipedia - Iloilo River Esplanade
● IloiloToday - Iloilo Esplanade
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