Natural Heritage Archives - Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras

February 18, 2026

CMPG

The Phuyoy also known as the Philippine Worm Eel, is a type of fish found mainly in the brackish waters of estuaries and mangroves in places like Brgy. Mamhut Norte. It has a long, slender, snake-like body with smooth skin, making it well-suited for moving through muddy areas; its dark coloring helps it blend into its surroundings. This eel is carnivorous and feeds on smaller fish and crustaceans, and it is most active during the rainy season. Locally known as “puyoy” or “sili-sili,” it is commonly caught for food and often cooked grilled or in local dishes like adobo and ...

Animals (Fauna), Natural Heritage

PANTAT

Iloilo, Zarraga

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Pantat, also known as catfish, is a native fish commonly found in slow-moving or stagnant waters like rivers and ponds in Iloilo. It has a smooth, scaleless body with whisker-like barbels that help it find food in muddy water, and it can survive harsh conditions by breathing air and burrowing into mud. Pantat is an important source of income and food for many families in Zarraga, where it is celebrated annually during the Pantat Festival. The festival highlights the town’s history of catfish farming and promotes local culture through dances, cooking contests, and community events. Pantat farming supports sustainable aquaculture, ...

Natural Heritage, Plants (Flora)

KORONA KA AMO

Igtuble, Iloilo, Tubungan

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Korona ka Amo, locally known in Tubungan, Iloilo, also called the Rafflesia, or “Uruy and Karay-a” in other areas of Panay, is a rare and giant flower that grows as a parasite on Tetrastigma vines in the rainforest. This plant has no leaves, stem, or roots and only appears when its large, red, foul-smelling flowers bloom for just a few days to attract flies for pollination. It is endemic to the Philippines and can be found in select upland areas like Brgy. Igtuble, Tubungan, where locals deeply respect its presence and associate it with forest-dwelling monkeys. The species is under ...

Natural Heritage, Plants (Flora)

TIGBAW

Iloilo, Tigbauan

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Tigbaw, also known as wild sugarcane or talahib, is a tall native grass commonly found along riverbanks like the Sibalom River in Tigbauan, Iloilo. It has long, green leaves with serrated edges and white, silky flower plumes. The town of Tigbauan got its name from this plant through a misunderstood conversation between a local and a visitor, showing how deeply tied the plant is to the area’s identity. Tigbaw is also valued for its beauty, often used in decorations and adding charm to riverbanks, especially with upcoming esplanade projects. Although it’s not endangered, Tigbaw faces threats from urbanization, fire, and ...

Natural Geological and Physiographical/ Land Formations, Natural Heritage

WARD

Arante, Iloilo, Sara

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Ward Mountain, located in Sitio Iraya, Barangay Arante, Sara, Iloilo, spans about 1.75 hectares and is rich in native trees and wildlife, including monkeys, pythons, and civet cats. A natural cascade in the area provides water for locals’ rice fields and vegetable gardens. The mountain earned the name “Ward” during World War II when it served as a secret hospital for wounded Filipino guerillas, sparing it from Japanese bombing due to a mix-up in location. Local stories tell of mysterious sounds and spirits, especially after a Balete tree was cut down, making some residents fearful of entering the area. The ...

Natural Heritage, Protected Area

CROSSING DAPUYAN TURTLES MARINE SANCTUARY

Crossing Dapuyan, Iloilo, San Joaquin

February 18, 2026

CMPG

The Crossing Dapuyan Turtles Marine Sanctuary in Barangay Crossing Dapuyan, San Joaquin, Iloilo, is a 2-hectare non-NIPAS protected area mainly known as a nesting site for Olive ridley sea turtles. It features four types of seagrass that attract dugongs and serves as an important habitat for marine life. Turtle nesting usually occurs in October, and the eggs take 45–60 days to hatch, with documented instances of hatchlings being released into the sea. Despite being protected under a local ordinance, the sanctuary lacks complete assessments and faces challenges like stray animals and human disturbances on the nesting beaches. Conservation efforts include ...

Natural Heritage, Protected Area

Lakdayan Island

Iloilo, San Dionisio

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Lakdayan Island is a protected coastal area in San Dionisio, Iloilo, known for its white sand beaches, coral reefs, and rich marine life, making it a popular ecotourism site. The island is home to various plants like coconut and bamboo, and some wildlife including snakes. A local legend tells the tragic love story of Apo Lakay and Matagda, whose secret romance on the island ended in their death due to jealousy. However, it faces threats like typhoons and illegal logging. Conservation efforts are led by the local government.

Bodies of Water, Natural Heritage

AGANAN RIVER

Aganan, Iloilo, Pavia

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Aganan River is a 20-kilometer-long waterway in Iloilo that starts in the uplands of Leon and Alimodian and flows through several towns before merging with the Tigum River in Pavia. Its upper sections have clean water and natural vegetation, while downstream areas, especially in Pavia, are more urbanized and face pollution and erosion, requiring concrete flood controls. The river holds historical value, with Barangay Aganan named after it, and it became the site of the first Carabao-Carroza Race in 1974, now a yearly tradition. However, the river faces serious threats such as pollution, erosion, and mismanagement due to limited resources ...

Bodies of Water, Natural Heritage

DUHOL-DUHOL

Ayuyan, Iloilo, Passi

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Duhol-duhol Falls, located in Brgy. Ayuyan, Passi City, is a small yet scenic multi-tiered waterfall known for its steep terrain, which inspired its name meaning “to hand over” in the local dialect. The falls are surrounded by tropical plants and layered rock formations shaped by flowing water, forming clear pools at the base. It holds cultural value, especially during the San Juan feast, when locals gather to swim and celebrate in honor of Saint John the Baptist. The falls are also tied to local folklore, such as the barangay’s name origin and traditional practices involving the badjang plant. While it ...

Natural Geological and Physiographical/ Land Formations, Natural Heritage

BRGY. TRAPICHE BEACH

Iloilo, Oton

February 18, 2026

CMPG

Brgy. Trapiche Beach in Oton, Iloilo, is a 10-hectare coastal area known for its long shoreline, resorts, and fishing communities. Located just 13 kilometers from Iloilo City, the beach is popular for both recreation and small-scale fishing, particularly for lampirong shells. Historically, it was the site of the Japanese landing on April 16, 1942, during World War II, as detailed by former Imperial Army officer Toshimi Kumai in his memoir. While there were talks of installing a historical marker, locals were hesitant to commemorate the enemy landing. The beach also holds environmental importance, as pawikan (sea turtles) are occasionally seen ...

PUYOY

Cultural Mapping Of Panay and Guimaras

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