ILOILO: HEART of the PHILIPPINES

After two long years, the world’s biggest book sale is finally back in Iloilo!  Today, Big Bad Wolf Books officially opened its doors with an exclusive VIP Day at Robinsons Pavia, Iloilo, giving Ilonggo leaders, partners, media, and KOLs the first chance to explore over 2 million brand-new English books at discounts of up to 95% off retail prices. This highly anticipated return marks Big Bad Wolf’s first Iloilo comeback since 2023, and it’s here for a limited time only—from August 28 to September 8, 2025. First Dibs for Iloilo’s VIPs The special VIP Opening Ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting led by Iloilo provincial government officials, alongside Big Bad Wolf Philippines’ Country Manager, Ley Almeda.  Guests were treated to a sneak peek of aisle after aisle of must-have reads from children’s books and young adult favorites, to fiction bestsellers, biographies, and self-help titles. A Limited-Time Love Letter to Iloilo True to Iloilo’s title as the City of Love, Big Bad Wolf B...

The leading budget hotel network across Asia Pacific is now in the City of Love.   Opened just a little more than a year ago, Hop Inn Iloilo is conveniently located near Atria Park District  along Donato Pison Avenue in the district of Mandurriao, Iloilo City. It offers around 150 Rooms consisting of Standard Double with king size bed and Standard Twin rooms with two single beds with a number of rooms classified as PWD-friendly. Each room include air-conditioning, hot and cold shower, free WiFi, work desk, electronic key card access, in room safe and cable TV.  Meanwhile hotel offers free parking for guests, 24-hour front desk for convenient check in, anytime, 24-hour security and housekeeping services among others.  Hop Inn Iloilo provides a comfortable and secure stay with convenient access to Iloilo City's attractions as it is located near key spots in Iloilo City. It is walking distance to the Iloilo River Esplanade plus the many lo...

Mandurriao , ILOILO CITY , July 24, 2025  – Reinforcing its status as Iloilo City’s Center of Arts and Culture,  Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park i s  open ing  its third museum inside the 72-hectare township  this July. Occupying 1,650 square meters at the third level of Festive Walk Mall, the Science  XPdition  will be the first museum in Iloilo City dedicated entirely to science, learning, and discovery.  Science XPDition is the third museum to open at Iloilo Business Park, reinforcing the township's stature as the city’s center for arts and culture, and as a destination for discovery, learning and experiences. The museum is known for its immersive, hands-on approach to science education.   It features over 100 interactive exhibits and more than 100 hands-on experiments across 10 themed laboratories, offering children and families a unique opportunity to explore science in engaging and accessible ways. Covering a wide range of topics—from ...

The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) proudly unveils "Rhapsodies and Recollections," a landmark exhibition that brings together the works of two celebrated figures in Philippine visual art—National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera and acclaimed contemporary artist Mark Justiniani. As part of the exhibition launch, BenCab led the signing of a plaque recognizing Megaworld’s long-term commitment to arts and culture—a symbolic act affirming shared efforts to support the creative landscape of Iloilo City. The launch was attended by key figures in the art and civic community, including Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, former Mayor Jerry Treñas, and Rosalie Treñas, reflecting strong public support for cultural development in Western Visayas. A major highlight of the exhibition is the unveiling of two original sculptures: Reunion by BenCab and Ang Debate by Mark Justiniani, each reflecting powerful narratives on memory, discourse, and identity. The exhibiti...

Iloilo City welcomes a taste of Europe as two new restaurants—Carpaccio by Chef Antonio Consoli and El Rincón de los Sabores—open their doors at the Festive Walk Parade, bringing with them stories, flavors, and culinary traditions from Italy and Spain. Carpaccio by Chef Antonio Consoli At Carpaccio, every dish tells the story of Italy. Chef Antonio Consoli, known for his refined take on traditional Italian fare, transforms simple, raw ingredients into elevated experiences.  From Antipasti to Dolci, each plate is crafted with precision and passion. Some of the must-trys include the signature Spaghetti All’Aragosta, Caviale, and the Wagyu Ribeye. Carpaccio invites diners to slow down, savor, and celebrate the art of Italian cooking.   El Rincón de los Sabores Just a few steps away, diners will find a cozy Spanish escape at El Rincón de los Sabores. This charming spot is helmed by Chef Juan Carlos, an 80-year-old Spaniard who brought his family’s culinary heritage from Madrid to ...

This July, Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo invites guests and diners to experience the vibrant flavors of the season through its exclusive A La Carte specials.  From locally inspired dishes to globally influenced creations, this curated culinary lineup is designed to celebrate the richness of Iloilo’s  taste and hospitality. Whether you’re planning a leisurely lunch, a refined dinner, or simply exploring new places to eat in Iloilo, the hotel’s July dining promotions promise an elevated experience. A Culinary Journey at Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo The A La Carte specials for July showcase a thoughtful blend of seasonal ingredients, creative techniques, and impeccable presentation.  Each dish is crafted to highlight fresh flavors while maintaining the signature quality and service Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo is known for. Guests can expect a rotating menu of chef-selected entrées, sides, and desserts, designed to offer something new with every visit.  From hearty mains...