MANILA, Philippines - Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe.” So said a certain poet. So accompany me as I discuss my wanderings in Iloilo City an adorable place situated at the center of the Philippine archipelago and discover why I love this city.
A place where you can find a wharf away from the hurly-burly of big city life, Iloilo presents a serene spot for anyone who desires quiet, laid-back living. It is a city where you can stop and smell the flowers and hear the birds sing, and yet you will not miss the conveniences offered by a developed city.
Welcome to Iloilo: this location is the root of the province’s old name, ilong-ilong, which means “noselike.” Its people bring warm greetings, good-natured smiles and a friendly atmosphere to all.
Starting with one of the busiest airports, the Iloilo International Airport is magnificently landscaped. Visitors from all walks of life will find Iloilo to be a destination island worthy of returning to again and again.
Blessed with a rich history and colorful tradition, Iloilo is synonymous with its famous festival the Dinagyang, a local mardi gras. Held every January in honor of the Infant Jesus, the festival is a major tourist attraction. Festivals provide an opportunity for elders to pass on folk knowledge to younger generations.
Iloilo is also well known for its mouth-watering food specialties such as La Paz batchoy, a famous noodle dish.
What’s more endearing is the fact that these attractions, culture, people, fashion, food, delicacies and souvenirs all rolled into one can be found in a place where locals and tourist alike visit: SM Iloilo.
It is the eighth SM Supermall brought here by the man who has provided so much inspiration with his hard work, discipline and success Mr. Henry Sy Sr. and it’s the biggest shopping mall in the Western Visayan Region.
The Dinagyang festivities its vivid displays and atmosphere are captured in SM Iloilo, as you can see from my camera shots.
“Namit gid nga pagkaon!” Delicious La Paz batchoy is here to be savored, as I ate a bowl along with a white puto at Ted’s, found in SM Iloilo’s food court and the one on the upper floor, too. Munching on butterscotch, galletas and piyaya (the ube flavor is my favorite) can develop into a habit, too.
SM has continued to add new shops, offering products and services all the time so that your shopping experience is always interesting and exciting. They, indeed, have “got it all for you.”
To me, SM stands for “Surely Memorable, Simply Marvelous, Superb M-all”!
I’m glad I could share this wonderful experience with fellow Filipinos through this newspaper, and now you can view them as well, captured with my Sony Cybershot T300.