SULANGGA
CMPG
Sulangga, commonly known as Kamantigue or Garden Balsam, is a native herbaceous plant found in some barangays of Janiuay, Iloilo. It particularly thrives in most shady areas and is known for seed pods that explode upon touch. The plant is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes, especially with its vibrant flowers that come in a variety of colors including red, pink, white, and purple. It is also believed to have medicinal properties, being traditionally used to treat skin ailments and even dengue fever according to local informants. Though not endangered, this plant suffers from pests like aphids and diseases such as ...
MANGROVE FOREST
CMPG
The Mangrove Forest in Iloilo City is a 38-hectare mangrove reserve situated along the Batiano and Iloilo Rivers, dedicated to conserving native mangrove species and promoting sustainable urban ecology. The reserve serves as a haven for biodiversity which has experienced regrowth through natural processes and, unexpectedly, through flood management efforts like the Jaro Floodway. The protected area holds ecological, economic, cultural, and historical significance for the City of Iloilo, as it provides storm protection, serving as fish nurseries, supporting ecotourism, and providing environmental materials for traditional and modern uses. Conservation initiatives include City-led planting programs, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and enforcement of ...
DARAG
CMPG
The Darag chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus), also known as the native chicken of the Philippines, is a hardy, free-range bird known for its flavorful meat and cultural significance. Found in rural areas like Bingawan, Iloilo, it thrives in tropical climates and are commonly raised in backyard farms. Darag chickens play a key role in traditional Filipino cuisine like tinu-om, and are central in rituals such as panghimalay and padugo for blessings and protection. Despite its importance, the breed is endangered due to diseases, limited market demand, and the lack of ample land area for free-range farming. Groups like Panay Darag ...
BADIANG
CMPG
Badiang, also known as Elephant Ear, is a native herbaceous plant widely found in lowland areas of Iloilo, Philippines. It has large, arrow-shaped leaves and greenish-white flowers, and it produces red, fleshy berries when ripe. Traditionally overlooked and considered useless by locals, the plant has gained ornamental value during the COVID-19 pandemic where its price surged dramatically. Its violet variant holds cultural significance, believed to ward off evil spirits and often placed near homes for protection. Once seen as a weed, it now symbolizes changing perceptions of nature's overlooked assets.
DAPLAK
CMPG
Daplak also known as the Philippine Nightjar is a type of bird native to the Philippines and is commonly found in subtropical lowland forests, mangrove forests, and montane forests. It has a mix of mottled brown, gray, and black feathers that help it camouflage during daytime, and it has large heads with large eyes adapted for low-light vision for nocturnal hunting. The daplak primarily feed on flying insects which they catch in mid-air using their wide mouths and specialized bristles on their bills. They often hunt in open areas where insects are abundant and can often be sighted during their ...
ROBUSTA COFFEE
CMPG
Kape or robusta coffee thrives in tropical climates and can be found in certain areas in Lambunao, mainly Cabatangan, Panuran, Bagongbong, and Agsirab. Its flowers have a pleasant fragrance, often described as sweet and floral with hints of jasmine or citrus notes. The fruit is called coffee cherry, which resembles a cherry in appearance and has a dark red color when fully ripe. The beans, found inside the cherry, are then dried, roasted, and grounded to make coffee. These are then sold by the community, providing income and employment opportunities. The kape can withstand harsh conditions such as high temperatures, ...
