Iloilo City history

Foundation and first mentions. The history of Iloilo is rooted in the pre-colonial era, when thriving settlements already existed on the site of the modern city. According to local legends, the origins of the name "Iloilo" are linked to the word "Irong-Irong," the name given to this land by settlers from Kalimantan in the 13th century. The official history of the city is closely intertwined with the arrival of the Spanish. In 1566, an expedition led by Miguel López de Legazpi established a settlement here, originally named Oton. Due to frequent pirate attacks and threats from Dutch and English navigators, the settlement was moved several times until it found its final location at the mouth of the river, which spurred its development.

Key factors of formation. Iloilo owes its growth and influence primarily to its strategic geographic location. Situated on the shores of the strait, the city possessed a protected natural harbor, making it an important seaport and trading hub. In 1855, following the opening of the port to international trade, the city began to develop rapidly. Iloilo's political significance also grew: in the 17th century, it became the provincial capital, and in the late 19th century, during the Philippine Revolution, it briefly became the last stronghold of the Spanish government in Asia.

Early cultural and economic features. Iloilo's economic prime occurred in the 19th century when the city transformed into the "Sugar Capital" of the Philippines. The boom in the sugar industry attracted vast capital to the region, contributing to the formation of a wealthy local elite and the emergence of luxurious mansions, many of which have survived to this day. During this period, Iloilo was not only an economic leader but also an important cultural center, earning the unofficial title of the "Queen City of the South". It was also known as the textile capital of the country. The rich heritage of Spanish colonial architecture, including churches, cathedrals, and administrative buildings, remains the city's calling card to this day.

Key Milestones in Iloilo's History

• 13th Century — According to legends, ten chieftains (Datus) from Borneo arrive on Panay Island; one of them, Paiburong, founds the settlement of Irong-Irong, which became the prototype of the future city.
• 1566 — Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi establishes the settlement of Oton (Ogtong) on the coast, marking the beginning of the region's colonial history.
• 1688 — The settlement, moved to the river mouth, officially becomes the capital of the province of Iloilo, consolidating its administrative status.
• 1831 — Construction begins on the famous Neo-Gothic Molo Church, built from coral limestone and egg whites, which is one of the city's symbols today.
• 1855 — The Port of Iloilo opens to international trade, triggering rapid economic growth, particularly in the sugar industry.
• 1864 — The Jaro Cathedral is founded, dedicated to Our Lady of Candles, becoming a significant religious center for the entire Western Visayas.
• 1890 — Iloilo receives official city status (ciudad) from the Spanish government, recognizing its economic and cultural importance.
• 1898 — During the Philippine Revolution, the city briefly becomes the last capital of the Spanish Empire in Asia following the fall of Manila.
• 1901 — After the Spanish-American War, the Philippines, including Iloilo, come under the administration of the United States of America.
• 1937 — Several neighboring towns merge with Iloilo, which regains city status (chartered city) under American rule.
• 1942–1945 — During World War II, the city was occupied by Japanese forces, which caused serious damage to its economy.
• 1960s — Gradual economic recovery of the city begins after the war, with the construction of new port facilities and the attraction of commercial investments.

Major Development Milestones

The history of the development of Iloilo is a journey from a colonial trading port to a modern "smart" city that successfully combines economic growth with care for historical heritage. Below are the key stages that have defined the modern look of the city in the Philippines.

• Opening of the Port to International Trade (1855)
  Economic Significance: This event was the catalyst for transforming the city into the "Sugar Capital". Direct access to world markets attracted foreign trading houses and consulates, forming a wealthy stratum of local elite and providing the financial base for building luxurious mansions.
• Development of Calle Real (Early 20th Century)
  Urban Planning Significance: The formation of the historic central business district (CBD) with a unique ensemble of buildings in Neoclassical and Art Deco styles. This zone became the commercial core of the city and is today an architectural monument attracting tourists.
• Redevelopment of the Old Mandurriao Airport (2007)
  Economic Transformation: A strategic decision to move the airport outside the city limits and transfer the vacated 72 hectares for development. The modern Iloilo Business Park district rose on this site, becoming a magnet for IT companies, the BPO sector, and major businesses.
• Launch of the Cultural Heritage Conservation Program (2010s)
  Cultural Significance: Unlike many metropolises, Iloilo chose the path of restoration rather than demolition of old buildings. The restoration of historic mansions and public structures gave the city a unique visual style that distinguishes it from other urban centers in the country.
• Construction of the River Esplanade (2012)
  Urban Significance: The project to clean up the Iloilo River and develop an extensive waterfront promenade became a benchmark for urban planning. Turning a neglected coastal zone into a popular public space radically improved the ecology and quality of life for residents.
• Designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy (2023)
  International Significance: Inclusion in the prestigious UNESCO network confirmed Iloilo's status as a culinary capital. This stimulated the development of gastronomic tourism and support for local food producers.

The architectural appearance of Iloilo is a living chronicle of its rich history, where layers of eras and styles have created a unique and eclectic urban landscape. From monumental colonial churches to elegant mansions and modern business centers, every building tells its part of the story of this "Queen City of the South".

Spanish Colonial Era (16th–19th Centuries)

Early Iloilo architecture was defined by Spanish influence and the need for defense. The primary style for religious structures became the so-called "Earthquake Baroque". It is characterized by massive, squat forms, thick walls, and powerful buttresses designed for stability during seismic activity. Local limestone and coral blocks were widely used as building materials.

• Jaro Cathedral — One of the oldest cathedrals in the Philippines, known for its detached belfry located across the street. It is a striking example of Romanesque style with Baroque elements.
• Molo Church — A Gothic church built from coral stone, often called "feminist" because its naves feature statues exclusively of female saints. Its graceful spires and Gothic windows stand out against the prevailing Baroque style.

The "Sugar Boom" Era (Late 19th – Early 20th Centuries)

The economic flourishing linked to the sugar trade led to the emergence of a wealthy class of planters who built luxurious mansions (ancestral houses). During this period, the unique style of "bahay na bato" (house of stone) was formed, combining Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese traditions with European trends such as Neoclassicism. The ground floor was built of stone, while the upper residential floor was made of wood. Iconic examples of this architecture are concentrated in the Jaro and Molo districts, as well as along the historic Calle Real, which served as the city's main commercial center.

American Colonial Period (Early 20th Century)

With the arrival of the Americans in Iloilo, an era of modernization and urban planning began. Art Deco, Neoclassical, and Beaux-Arts styles began to dominate architecture. The Americans built numerous administrative and commercial buildings that shaped the look of the business center. One of the most striking examples of this period is the monumental Customs House (Aduana), designed in a Neoclassical style and symbolizing Iloilo's status as a major international port.

Contemporary Architecture and Urban Revival (21st Century)

In recent decades, Iloilo has been experiencing a new stage of development. On the site of the old airport, the modern business district Iloilo Business Park has risen, featuring high-rise buildings, hotels, and the Iloilo Convention Center, which is distinguished by its avant-garde design. These modern complexes contrast with carefully restored historic quarters, creating a harmonious dialogue between the city's past and future.

Prominent Figures Associated with Iloilo

Iloilo City, with its rich history and culture, has been the birthplace and base of operations for many prominent Filipinos who have left a significant mark on the country's history, politics, and arts.

• Graciano López Jaena — A national hero of the Philippines, writer, and brilliant orator born in the Jaro district. He was a key figure in the Propaganda Movement in Spain and the founder of the newspaper "La Solidaridad," which advocated for reforms in the Philippines during the colonial period.
• Teresa Magbanua — A schoolteacher who became a leader of the revolutionary movement. Known as the "Visayan Joan of Arc," she was the only woman to command combat troops in the Visayas region during the Philippine Revolution against Spain and later in the war against the USA.
• Miriam Defensor Santiago — A native of Iloilo, a distinguished stateswoman, senator, judge, and presidential candidate. She served in all three branches of the Philippine government and was elected as a judge of the International Criminal Court. Santiago is known for her intellect, fearlessness in fighting corruption, and fiery speeches.
• Franklin Drilon — An influential politician from Iloilo who served as Senate President of the Philippines four times. His long career in politics includes serving as Secretary of Justice and Executive Secretary.
• Fernando Lopez — Vice President of the Philippines for three terms under two different presidents. Together with his brother Eugenio Lopez, he founded one of the country's largest media conglomerates, ABS-CBN Corporation.
• Jose Mari Chan — A famous singer and songwriter born in Iloilo. He is considered the "King of Philippine Christmas Carols" due to the incredible popularity of his album "Christmas in Our Hearts". His music has become an integral part of the country's cultural life.
• Magdalena Jalandoni — One of the most prolific writers in the Hiligaynon language. Her novels, poems, and plays have made a huge contribution to the literature of the Western Visayas, and she is rightfully considered one of the central figures in 20th-century Philippine literature.