It's My Panay!: Feature:

Get captivated by Banate’s charm

By Pepin

There’s a unique moment when a curious tourist becomes a savvy local. That’s how you’ll be when you start to unknot Banate’s veiled charms. This little town can instantly turn your ordinary days into an authentic experience of a lifetime.

Sitting fifty kilometers away from Iloilo city, Banate is a coastal town with almost 30,000 inhabitants. It is shaped like a boat shoe when it is separated from its neighbouring towns on the map. The livelihood of people revolves mainly on farming and fishing, but recent programs of the government have opened business opportunities for the locals.

Banate is the home of the Kasag Festival, which was adjudged as one of the best cultural presentations in the country for several years now. It garnered several national and international distinctions and won the hearts of the Filipino people. “Kasag” is a generic name for crabs among the Ilonggos, but the town is more known for cultivating a specific specie, called the Langwayan or the blue crabs.

But more than the produce of its sea, Banate brags the unscathed wonders of nature, which include the Hibutkan Fish Sanctuary. Located just a few meters from the shoreline, this site opens a spectacular display of corals and other underwater marvels every time the low tide sets in.

Another perfect natural backdrop is the Managupaya Falls located at Brgy. Managupaya. This spot is perfect for anyone who seeks a different twist of adventure. Aside from it, there are also many beaches in Banate to spend some quality time for relaxation.

The Eco-park, situated at the back of the Municipal Hall, is an ideal place for lazy afternoon chitchats. It also provides a splendid view of the sea and the industrious fishermen aboard their little bangka. At present, it is being renovated to provide locals and guests with a more convenient place to spend some worthwhile moments.

But a tour to this town won’t be complete without tasting some of the mouth-tickling specialties. On top of the list is the steamed blue crab. It goes well with a Sinamak Dip (a strong blend of vinegar and native spices). In addition, guests can also devour the town’s own version of the Buko Halo-halo. This ice crazed dessert is a perfect summer relief.

For some souvenir items, the town produces consumable goods, such as the Chocolate-coated Polvoron and the Bottled Bangus (Milkfish),which has a sweet-sour fusion of flavors. These products are being manufactured by the Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Barotac Viejo, and Anilao Resource Management Council Incorporated (BBBRMCI), and are already being exported internationally.

Banate celebrates its town fiesta every 24th of June. One of the event highlights is the fluvial parade at Banate Bay. While the Kasag Festival is being held on the third week of December.

It’s easy to fall in love with Banate. Not because of the seafood and other local treats, but more because of its people. “Banatenhons” are God-fearing, hard-working, and ingenious people, who will make you feel extra special every time you visit their charming town that you can also call your own.

*** Panay Mud Pie would like to thank the Office of the Hon. Mayor Renerose B. Caborubias, M.D., F.P.A.F.P. for the interview.