Spentitall Travelling

5/16/2026

Walking Into Iloilo Proper

May 16th – I was up early and hit the streets heading towards the downtown core. One direction of the 8 lane divided road was closed and several marathon runners were just finishing up at 0630. In this climate I understand why they start early. There is a dedicated 10ft wide path for walking/running /cycling along the roadway into town. This then connected to the esplanade routes which follow both shores of the Iloilo river. The city planning a long these main routes is very well done.

I really am sharing the sentiment for Iloilo.

Dedicated cycling lane across the bridge.

View of the esplanade, people were out gardening and sweeping a long the route. Very well maintained.

One of many cycling repair stations, the pump looked out of commission but there was a good selection of tools.

I walked down from SM Mall, crossed the river and walked sections 4, 6, 10 and 8 into town. On the way back I walked 5, 3 and the EXT to the bridge.

I went as far as the Plaza Libertad, then stopped for a coffee and some breakfast. One the way back I stopped at Casa Real which served as the former capital building. On the same block is the new capital building, Museo Iloilo and the National Museum of the Philippines – Iloilo. I managed to visit them all before heading back to my condo. Clocked in 22000 steps by the time I was back near the mall for a much needed rest and lunch.

Plaza Libertad – Complete with statue of Rizal

Arch leading to the interior courtyard – Casa Real

New Castle Hotel – Former residence of the Don Juan Ledesma family (sugar barons before WW2), occupied by the Japanese during the war, then home to US Army headquarters following liberation. Now a hotel.

After lunch I relaxed at the condo and went for a swim to cool down. That night I headed over to Megaworld Blvd and the Festive Walk. Stumbled across a car show including car stereo competition on the roof of the parkade. I could feel the bass from across the road!