Feature:

Simbang Gabi: What it’s all about

By Pepin

Photo Credit: Flickrhivemind.net

“Simbang Gabi” is a popular Christmas tradition in the Philippines. It is a nine-day novena mass in preparation for the birth of our savior Jesus Christ. 

People flock big churches and small parishes as early as four in the morning. Christmas hymns and carols are being sung in the mass, and the scripture readings are centered on the life of Jesus before and during his birth.

It is a solemn tradition that intensifies the true meaning of the season. People become more aware of the parts of the Christmas story and they are encouraged to reflect on those events. 

A midnight mass on the 24^th of December concludes the nine-day novena mass, just before Christmas Day.

Popular destinations for Simbang Gabi in Iloilo City are the Jaro Metropolitan Catholic Church (Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria) and St. Joseph the Worker Parish both in Jaro, St. Clement’s Church in La Paz, St. Anne’s Parish in Molo, Sta. Maria Church in the City Proper, and the Sto. Nino Church, also located in the city centre.

Announcement:

Christmas Season is here once again!

Panay Mud Pie wishes everyone

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Video:

Antique: Banwa nga Hamili

Video Credit to andreastuarttv

A Music Video featuring the Culture and Tourist Destinations of the Province of Antique.

Feature:

The Iloilo Convention Center

By Pepin

Photo Credit: ramzkie.com

Iloilo is getting more ambitious to become the next big thing.

Early this month, the city government revealed the mock-up model of the Iloilo Convention Center that features an impressive façade inspired by the Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta Festivals - the main tourism events that the city is known for.  

The new building has a main hall, which is 2880 square meters wide and can accommodate up to 3,700 people. It also has eight function rooms and other facilities that guests can use.     

This new infrastructure will soon become one of Iloilo City’s prime icons.

Feature:

ILOILO CITY: Bugal Ko!

 

Masaya at Masarap Maging Ilonggo!

Announcement:

Remembering our beloved dead

During this time of remembrance, Panay Mud Pie joins the entire nation in praying for those who have passed away.

“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and may your perpetual light shine upon them. May you grant them eternal rest and peace, Amen.”

Feature:

Olotayan Island

By Pepin

If you are looking for an alternative to Boracay, Olotayan Island in the Province of Capiz can be the best option. This little island is not far from Roxas City (approximately 45 minutes) and it offers awe-inspiring natural marvels just like many other beach destinations in the country.

The crystal blue water that surrounds it is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the shade created by huge trees lining the shore offers a relaxing ambiance for siesta or reading. Sunbathing and picnics are also popular activities among tourists.

Photo Credit to J.Barza

Feature:

Back in its golden days

By Pepin

It took years for the interior of the world-famous Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church in Miag-ao Iloilo to be restored to its original design. The altar is now in gold with intricate carvings at the sides and corners. 

The side windows of the church as well as the doors have sculpted arcs that add drama to the solemn ambiance. While, the chandeliers that hang parallel to the aisle create some sophisticated look. 

It cannot be denied that the interior of the church is as magnificent as its façade.