Iligan
Iligan is a city in the northeastern coast of Mindanao, surrounded by the towns of Baloi and Linamon of Lanao del Norte to the south, the town of Lugait in Misamis Oriental to the north, and the provinces of Lanao del Sur and Bukidnon to the east and Iligan Bay to the west.
Understand
Chroniclers say that centuries ago, long before Legaspi's expedition reached the Philippines in 1565, the Tala-andigs and the Banhawons, two of the known peace-loving Higa-onon tribes of Mindanao, had to build an ilihan or iliyan, meaning a "fortress of defense" on the coastal plain to secure them from the frequent attacks of pirates and savage tribes. Hence, the place to be called as Iligan. Some say its name was derived from the seasonal surge and outflow of its two major rivers. Local folks call this alluvial phenomenon "ilig". This is the reason why Iliganons consider the monsoon season a blessing because the soil along the riverbanks are fertilized. Its Cebuano-speaking inhabitants likes to believe that Iligan means "where good fortune gravitates".
Mother Nature has blessed this city of more than 300,000 inhabitants. Not only is it situated on a limestone-rich area, it is also way out of the typhoon belt, earthquakes and other natural disasters. Iligan is also ringed by more than 20 waterfalls (earning the moniker "City of Majestic Waterfalls") and more than a dozen springs distributed evenly within a 30-km radius of the city.
Its rivers and tributaries practically caused Iligan to move forward economically and make it the industrial center of Mindanao today.
Besides its rich natural resources, it is also the home of nationally acclaimed artists, poets, cultural workers and writers.
Iligan is predominantly Christian (93.61%). Iliganons are the mixture of the Muslim and Cebuano population with a minority of Tagalog and some other cultural minorities and immigrants from other places.
Get in
By plane
- 1 Maria Cristina Airport (Iligan Airport, IGN IATA), Iligan-Marawi Road, Balo-i. Now closed to commercial service since the opening of Laguindingan Airport.
The nearest airport to Iligan City with regular, scheduled commercial flights is Laguindingan Airport (CGY IATA) in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental. There are multiple daily flights every day from Manila and Cebu with Cebu Pacific, Air Asia, Philippines Airlines. Flight time from Manila to Laguindingan Airport is approximately 1 hr 20 min. Flight time from Cebu is approximately 1 hr.
By ferry
There are ferries from Manila, Cebu City, and Ozamiz, Iloilo.
- 2GO Travel: Manila via Iloilo.
- Cokaliong Shipping Lines: Cebu via Ozamiz
- Trans Asia shipping lines: non-stop from Cebu
By bus
- Super Five bus lines. Airport and Cagayan de Oro.
- Rural Transit. Airport, Cagayan de Oro, Ozamiz, Oroquieta, Dipolog, Pagadian, Zamboanga.
- The best way to travel to Iligan is by bus. At Bulua Westbound Bus Terminal in Cagayan de Oro, you can find buses going to Iligan. Travel time from Cagayan de Oro to Iligan by bus is approximately 2 hours, and the a/c bus ticket is ₱145. The buses are modern with air conditioners and movies playing on the video screen.
- From Laguindingan Airport, you can also take a direct van/bus to Iligan for ₱195.
- The non a/c bus/ferry fare from Iligan to Ozamiz is ₱85.
Get around
Jeepneys or jips are the most common public transport in the city with a minimum fare of ₱7.50. Taxis are readily available anytime of the day. It can be radio dispatched, and will pick you up if you give the dispatcher a call. Habal-habal or motorcycles are most common especially in going to the city outskirts or hinterland areas. There is also the famous "Tartanillas" (calesas) that is also a public mode of transportation which serves through Barangay Pala-o and Barangay Tambacan.
Talk
Cebuano is the common language among Iliganons. but most people also speak English and Tagalog, Maranao, Hiligaynon, Ilocano, Chavacano, and Waray-Waray are also understood and spoken by a few.
See
A number of these attractions are quite unique and could only be found in this city. There are numerous waterfalls, springs, and beach resorts.
This is not the final list on what's worth seeing, but it's a good place to start whether you're a first-time visitor or an Iligan expert.
- Downtown Iligan - A lot has changed since the tri-people (cultural mix of Maranaos of Lanao del Sur, Higaonons of Bukidnon, the predominantly Christian settlers and migrants from other parts of the country) helped create the foundation of this city. Today's downtown practically has most of the amenities that make an urban center - hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and cultural attractions.
- Macaraeg-Macapagal Ancestral House - The house boasts as the only house in Mindanao where two Philippine Presidents resided. One being the father, and the other, the daughter, Pres. Diosdado Macapagal and HE Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo respectively. In 1994, upon the instigation of the late former President Diosdado Macapagal, the lot where the house stands and a two-hectare cocoland nearby were donated to the City Government of Iligan for the purpose of developing the place into a tourist destination with a memorabilia of the Macaraeg-Macapagal Family.
- Iligan City Hall - The seat of the city government, is on top of Buhanginan Hill, some 47 meters above sea level. It was built in 1957.
- Anahaw Open Amphitheater - On Buhanginan Hill's southeastern side is Anahaw Amphitheater, probably the biggest open amphitheater in Mindanao, which is a venue for theater, sports tournaments, celebrations, and other activities. The amphitheater and the city hall is only less than 3 km away from the city.
- Bayug Island - Bayug (an island sitio of Barangay Hinaplanon, 3.7 km northeast of poblacion) is traditionally considered as the first settlement in Iligan even in pre-Islamic times.
- Other places worth visiting: - Laya Ancestral House, Linya Galleria, MVC Park and Lagoon, Rizal Park, Freedom Park.
- 1 Maria Cristina Falls.
Do
You may request for a tour guide at the City Tourism Office, Bahay Salakot, Buhanginan Hills, Pala-o, Iligan City Tel. #221-3426 or you may wish to go around on your own. Here are some tips for the unguided tourist for a whole day tour.
- 7:00 Breakfast
- 8:00 ETD Buhanginan Hill From Poblacion (City Proper) take a jeepney (Iligan-Palao-City Hall-City Hospital) and inform the driver to take you to City hall. Jeepney Fare is ₱7.50
- 8:15 ETD Buhanginan Hill The road going to the top of the Buhanginan Hill is a quick and convenient challenge and favorite destination for early-morning joggers. At the top is a playground where children can romp around. It houses the City Hall which is 49 years old, the new City Council Building, the Anahaw Amphitheatre. You'll get a good view of the city from the hill too. Some 200 meters from the City Hall is the Bahay Salakot which houses the City Tourism Office and the Iligan Investment Promotion Center.
- 9:30 ETD for Maria Christina Falls Take a Jeepney from Buhanginan Hill to City proper. Tell the driver to drop you at Masonic Temple and pay a fare of ₱7.50. From there take a jeepney (Iligan-Buruun route) to Maria Cristina Falls. Fare is ₱13.00. Inform driver to drop you at the crossing going to Maria Cristina Falls.
- 10:15 ETA at Gate of NPC Agus VI and Agus VII Hydro-electric Power Plant Complex From the crossing of the National Highway and road leading to Maria Cristina Falls is the NPC gate which is some 150 meters from the highway You shall be asked to register at the gate, fill out some forms and leave an ID. In exchange you shall be given an ID PASS which you shall be asked to wear at all times while inside the complex. From the gate to Agus VI HEP Plant where you shall be viewing the falls, is an 800-m walk. Maria Cristina Falls is open to the Public everyday, however should you wish to view its full grandeur, it is recommended to view it on Saturdays and Sundays at 11AM.
- 11:45 ETD from Maria Christina Falls to Timoga Cold Springs From the gate of the complex walk towards the highway and cross it.
- 1:00 Macaraeg-Macapagal Ancestral House
- 1:30 ETD for Mimbalut Falls Tell driver to drop you at Buru-un talipapa (stalls selling fish). Fare is ₱6.50. At the talipapa are the habal-habal (motorcycles used as public transport) inform barker that you're going to Tinago Falls.
- 2:00 ETD for Tinago Falls Literally hidden in a deep ravine, the falls cascading beautifully into a basin-like pool, clean, and deep and icy cold. It has an elevation of approximately 420 ft (130 m). It is 13.8 km from the city. Rate is ₱20 per head, Minimum passenger is 2 passengers. If you are alone and you do not wish to wait for additional passenger then fare is ₱40. You may make arrangements with driver to pick you up at the Iligan Tinago Mountain Resort and special rates can be arranged. Entrance fee at the Iligan Tinago Mountain Resort is ₱10.
- Timoga Spring Pools - Known for its pristine, cool and crystal clear waters freely flowing downstream towards several swimming pools. Shed, snack bars, cottages and lechon (roasted pig) stalls are available.
- Mimbalut Falls - It is a site to behold and provides an enjoyable swimming spot. Picnic tables are available if you simply want to wade and enjoy a quiet scenery and listen to the melodious chirping of birds.
Other things to do
- In Brgy. Hindang lies Hindang Falls and caves, a 40 ft (12 m) high two tiered waterfalls with lagoon ideal for swimming. It is nestled with towering peaks sheltering it from the sun and prying people. Other attractions of the barangay are the 6-8 cave clusters. Most caves have narrow entrances with long and deep chambers.
- Mt. Agad-Agad - Approximately 1,600 ft (490 m) above sea level, very accessible and is good for mountain hikings and campings. A small waterfall is also featured on the way to the top of the mountain. Because it's so easy to climb, you may go up Mount Agad-agad in the morning and come down in the afternoon. But the trek will be much more worth the sweat if you spend the night there. At the peak, the panoramic overlooking view of Iligan City and Mt. Malindang in Misamis Occidental right across Iligan Bay is a spectacle. But wait till evening when the city lights look like the reflection of the stars.
- Golf and Country Club of Iligan - A 9-hole golf course laid out on gently rolling low green hills which is a favorite among local golfers and others who come to Iligan. It is in Barangay Tipanoy which is about 6 km from the city.
- Adlaw sa Iligan - On June 16, 1950, President Elpidio Quirino signed into law the charter of the new city of Iligan. In 1984, June 16 of every year was declared as "Adlaw sa Iligan" to commemorate and celebrate the founding of Iligan as a chartered city. It is usually during the weeklong celebration of the Iligan City Charter Day that the city government forges unity and partnership with the private sector and the barangay leaders in fellowship gatherings. Activities that traditionally enliven the occasion are agro-industrial fair, cultural and artistic performances and the Tambayayong Festival, a float competition of various government agencies.
- Diyandi Festival sa Iligan - Folk-lore depicts Iligan's patron saint, St. Michael the Archangel as the protector of peace. Thus, his feast every 29 September, is a grand celebration in the city. In fact, it has transformed into a month-long festival, the "Diyandi Festival Sa Iligan". Every 27 September, Kasadya streetdancing and merrymaking is participated in by different schools, civic organizations, and ethnic groups. It is a showcase of Iliganon tradition depicting historical, cultural, and religious aspects, group competition of tribal dances, and presentation of a religious stage play.
- Alimyon Flower Festival - Every Oct 30-Nov 2 flowers are brought directly from cut-flower growers in the farms and are priced cheaper than those displayed at shops and markets. The flowers in Iligan are also sold at Zamboanga City, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Ozamiz, and Pagadian.
Swimming pools
- Maze Parks & Resort, and Taytay Swimming Pool are a ₱13 jeepney ride from downtown Iligan and cost ₱100 per person to go in.
Buy
Banks & ATMs
- There is a ₱250 fee is for overseas bank cards at ATMs.
- Bank of the Philippines Islands. Has a Master Card/Visa Card ATM. Maximum withdrawal ₱20,000.
- BDO Bank has a Master Card/Visa Card ATM. Max ₱10000.
- Metro bank has a Master Card/Visa Card ATM. Max ₱10000.
- PNB has a Visa Card ATM. Max ₱10000.
Shopping malls & supermarkets
- Gaisano Citi Super Mall - Roxas Avenue
- Gaisano Iligan Main - Cabili Avenue
- Robinsons Place Mall, Macapagal Avenue. 9AM-8PM.
- [dead link] Unitop Department Store, Quezon Avenue. 9AM-8PM. Has a small supermarket.
- Iligan Galaxy Express Mart, Manuel L Quezon Avenue. 9AM-6PM. Lower price supermarket.
Iligan delicacies
- Cheding's Peanuts
- Sukang Pinakurat
- Babuyap
Souvenirs
- Bamboo crafts
- Ethnic products
- Souvenir Iligan shirts
Eat
- Silvestro's Bistro and Confiserie, ☏ +63 63 223 7522. Soup, salad, sandwich, mains, as well as a selection of typical Western, Asian and European fusion food are served. The atmosphere is relaxed and caters mostly to tourists and expatriates, politicians, local business elites, and upper to middle class guests as well. Reservations are not essential, but if you are going with a large group it is best to phone and place your orders ahead of time as food is only prepared once ordered. Dietary restrictions can be catered for if informed in advance. The coffee shop also provides a large choice of local and imported coffee from different faces of the earth. Serves light snacks and cakes together with a choice coffee servings like cappuccino, cafe latte and more made of authentic 100% Arabica Coffee.
- Mr Beefy Burger, Nat highway. 24 hours. Hawaiian cheese ₱36. Ham egg ₱40. Bacon egg ₱40. Cheese burger with egg ₱40. buy one take one..
Drink
Coffee
- Zoey Cafe - The first espresso bar in town. It offers unique coffee blends, cakes and pastries. Excellent home style meals with a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
- Aruma Coffee Lounge - Located at the corner of De Leon and Burgos Sts.
- Brew's Almighty- Michaella's Plaza, Tibanga Highway
Bars
Sleep
| This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room: | |
| Budget | Under ₱700 |
| Mid-range | |
| Splurge | |
Iligan City offers adequate accommodation for every type of traveller. There are economy class hotels, pensionne houses, modest inns, and several lodging houses.
Budget
- Famous Pension House 1 and 2, 2-A Northgate Street and 21 Milestone Drive. San Miguel Tibanga, 063 225-3966 or 09426337064 or 09322076880. A/c single and double rooms with own bathroom and 40 inch Cable TV. Free Wi-Fi. There are 81 rooms at the two Famous pension houses. Single room 24 hours ₱350. double room 24 hours ₱450. ₱50 off for 2nd night and on.
- Home-stay Accommodation. Travellers who express preference to stay in houses of locals than in hotels or commercial inns can choose from among the 8 private homes in Iligan. Reservations can be made thru the City Tourism Office, Bahay Salakot, Buhanginan Hills, Pala-o, this city or call 221-3426 for details.
- 1 StayLite Suites, Champaca Street, San Miguel Village, Pala-o (at the back of Philippine Independent Church), ☏ +63 (63) 228-0467, info@staylitesuites.com. Clean and affordable pension house offering 59 air-conditioned rooms, each with its own queen-sized bed and private bathroom. Features and amenities: 24-hour reception, 24-hour security, 24-hour room service, daily housekeeping, flatscreen cable TV, free Wi-Fi, free luggage storage, free parking, intercom. ₱300 12 hours. ₱600 24 hours.
- First Choice Guest House., Cor milestone drive and Pinesville Streets (back of Mindanao Sanitarium and Hospital.), ☏ +63 63 2210615, +63 9053148592 (cell phone). A/C single with own bathroom and cable TV. A/C double with own bathroom and cable TV. A/C Quadruple with own bathroom and cable TV. ₱295/₱445/₱899.
- D morvie Suites, Tibanga National Highway (fronting city hardware), ☏ +63 63 225-4780. A/C double rooms with own bathrooms and cable LCD TV. 12/24 hours. Free Wi-Fi. ₱250/₱450.
- Flor-al Mansion, Gen aguinaldo street (near wet market). A/C rooms with own bathrooms and 40 inch cable TV. Free Wi-Fi. 12/24 hours ₱200/₱400.
- Plaza Alemania Lodge, Bernando Picardal Street, ☏ +63 63 2220927. Check-in: any time. A/C double rooms with own bathroom and cable TV, free Wi-Fi. 12 hours ₱250; 24 hour ₱500.
- Crystal Inn, Maria Cristina Subdivision San Miguel, ☏ +63 63-2212779. Check-in: noon, check-out: noon. A/C single/double with own bathroom and cable TV ₱350/₱450.
- Farrah Hotel, Sabayle Street, ☏ +63 63-2216986. Check-in: noon, check-out: noon. A/C double room with own bathroom and cable TV free WIFI ₱500.
Connect
- Internet cafes. 24 hours. Many internet cafes From ₱12 a hour.
Cope
- Bureau Of Immigration Iligan office. 2nd floor, room 203. Diocesan Centrum Bldg. Slavador T Liuch Street.
Go next
- Pagadian is 136 km from Iligan.
- Ozamiz is 67 km from Iligan (2-hour bus and ferry ride).
- Cagayan de Oro is 88 km from Iligan (2-hour bus ride).
- Laguindingan Airport is 56 km from Iligan.