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 ...