Venture to Capiz in Western Visayas and explore the wonders that await. Travelers are in for a treat with the breathtaking views at Baybay Beach and the fresh catch in the Seafood Capital of the Philippines.
Capiz Ecology Park and Cultural Village
Capiz Ecology Park and Cultural Village, located in Cuartero, Capiz, is a 16-hectare eco-park that features a diverse array of Filipino traditional houses and endemic plant species, including shrubs, bamboo, and trees. This agro-forestry attraction functions as an open-air museum, providing visitors with the opportunity to engage in guided tours that offer a deep dive into local culture and history.
The park includes an Institute of Living Traditions, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the region. Here, visitors can learn about traditional crafts like basket-weaving and the preparation of local delicacies such as baye-baye and ibus. The eco-park also offers various activities, including cooking demonstrations, tree planting, and cultural performances like the poetic joust in the Hiligaynon dialect.
One of the highlights is the Palina River Cruise, where guests can enjoy a seafood lunch in floating cabanas while cruising along the scenic Palina River, learning about local marine life and sustainable fishing practices. This immersive experience makes the Capiz Ecology Park and Cultural Village a must-visit destination for those interested in both nature and cultural heritage.
Sta. Monica Church and Panay Bell
This awe-inspiring church monument reveals the Spanish grandeur in Pan-ay town. A small fortress; it is about 250 feet long and 80 feet wide with 9-foot thick walls of coral blocks. The floor is colored marble, which shines in a subdued tone in misty light. The central altar is an elaborated sculpture retablo of silver and hardwood in a florid Baroque style. The lateral altars have intricately carved tiers of niches for images of saints. Sta. Monica is the patron saint. The church’s five-story belfry shelters a huge antique bell and is surrounded by eight smaller bells. Shrouded with many enchanting tales, the huge bell holds a more fascinating truth.
It was cast from 70 sacks of coins believed to have been contributed by the citizens of the town. It is seven feet in diameter, five feet high, and weighs 10.4 tons. In fact, it is estimated to be the largest in Southeast Asia.
Baybay Beach
Go extreme at Baybay Beach in Roxas City as it is perfect for water sports like skimboarding and waterskiing 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.
