The Iloilo Provincial Government has taken initial steps to push for the development of Pan de Azucar Island in the municipality of Concepcion as an eco-tourism destination.
The declaration is anchored on Governor Arthur Defensor Jr’s flagship tourism program “Turista sa Barangay” which aims to develop the barangays as ideal venues for tourism events and activities.
The MoRProGRes Iloilo team led by the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office - Province of Iloilo (PCAHTO) conducted a consultation with the leaders of Barangays Tambaliza, Talo-toan and Macatunao on May 5, 2025 to identify the key challenges in the island and outline strategies to address them.
Among the weaknesses identified include inadequate water and power supply, poor telecommunication services, poor roads leading to tourism sites, lack of tourism activities, and absence of local tour circuits, among others. There is also poor community support as well as a weak implementation of approved local ordinances.
In response to these challenges, the Iloilo provincial government committed to explore infrastructure development, provide capacity building for local communities, and establish other tourism-related support facilities.
Provincial Tourism Officer Gilbert Marin said there is a need to address these challenges to ensure the competitiveness of the island as a tourist destination. Marin said his office has already nominated Pan de Azucar Island for local assessment and the cooperation of the three barangays is crucial for this initiative.
“We are very serious about this because this is the program of our governor. Governor Defensor really sees the potential of the island as an eco-tourism destination,” Marin said.
During the consultation, the village leaders and other stakeholders also signed a pledge of commitment to work together to transform the island and protect its natural resources.
The three barangays will also craft a joint resolution pushing for the said declaration to be submitted to the Sangguniang Bayan of Concepcion.
Last April 15, Defensor met with the stakeholders and officials from the Save Pan de Azucar Movement relative to this initiative.
Provincial Administrator Raul Banias said the transformation of Pan de Azucar has long been a target of the governor.
“Governor Defensor committed to provide infrastructure support to the barangays to ensure the sustainability of the island,” Banias said.
Pan de Azucar island is consists of barangays Tambaliza, Talo-toan, and Macatunao. The island is a home to Mt. Manaphag, one of the highest peaks in the province. Its rich biodiversity and natural beauty make it an ideal candidate for eco-tourism.
Other sites nominated by PCAHTO as eco-tourism destination are Katunggan Eco-Park in Leganes, series of marine sanctuaries in San Joaquin, Silagon Eco Park in Ajuy, Barangay Pedada Eco Park in Ajuy, Alimodias Rice Terraces in Miagao, Mari-it Wildlife and Conservation Park in Lambunao, and Hibotkan Rock Marin Sanctuary in Banate.
(Capitol News)
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