Iloilo, located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, has a rich and complex history shaped by indigenous traditions, Spanish colonization, American rule, and modern development.
Here's a breakdown of its key historical periods:
Pre-colonial Period (before 1566):
• Maragtas Legend: Oral tradition speaks of ten Bornean datus (chieftains) who fled a tyrannical ruler, Datu Makatunao, in the 13th century. They landed in Panay (specifically the Sirawag River in what is now San Joaquin, Iloilo).
• Barter of Panay: The Bornean datus, led by Datu Puti, bartered the lowlands of Panay from the native Ati people, who were led by King Mari Kudo and Queen Mani Tiwang. The Ati people then moved to the mountains.
• Irong-Irong: One of the datus, Datu Paiburong, was assigned the territory of Irong-Irong (meaning "nose-like," referring to the shape of the river). This area later became Iloilo.
• Code of Kalantiaw: Panay Island was believed to have been ruled under the Code of Kalantiaw, a legal system that promoted peace and prosperity for about 300 years.
• Trade Outpost: Records from the Yuan Dynasty in the 14th century indicate that the area was a bustling trade outpost, known to the ancient Chinese for its agricultural resources like rice, sugar, and dyes.
Spanish Colonial Era (1565-1898):
• Early Settlements: In 1566, Miguel López de Legazpi established a Spanish settlement in Ogtong (now Oton, Iloilo).
• Relocation and Renaming: Due to recurrent raids by Moro pirates and Dutch and English privateers, the town center was moved several times. In 1581, it was moved about 12 km east and renamed La Villa de Arevalo. By 1700, the seat of power moved further east to the village of Irong-Irong, where Fort San Pedro was built. Irong-Irong was eventually shortened to "Iloilo."
• Textile and Sugar Industries: In the late 18th century, Iloilo became known as the "textile capital of the Philippines," producing sinamay, piña, and jusi, which were exported to Manila and other places. This led to the rise of an upper-middle class.
• Opening of the Port: The opening of Iloilo's port to international trade in 1855, coupled with the booming sugar industry in Panay and Negros, further propelled its economy. Nicholas Loney, a British vice-consul, played a significant role in developing the sugar industry.
• Cityhood and "La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad": Due to its economic progress, Queen Regent Maria Christina granted Iloilo city status in 1889 and bestowed upon it the honorific title "La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad" ("The Most Loyal and Noble City") in recognition of its people's loyalty to the Spanish government. By the late 19th century, Iloilo was the second most important city in the Philippines, after Manila.
• Philippine Revolution: The Panay uprising against the Spanish was led by General Martin Delgado of Santa Barbara. Although many towns were liberated, Iloilo City, Molo, and Jaro remained under Spanish control until December 25, 1898, when the Spanish government surrendered to the Ilonggo revolutionaries.
American Colonial Era (1898-1941):
• Arrival of Americans: American forces arrived at Iloilo port on December 28, 1898.
• Reversion to Municipality and Re-incorporation: In 1900, the city's status was reverted to a municipality. However, it continued to flourish as a vital port and trading center. On July 16, 1937, through Commonwealth Act No. 158, surrounding towns like La Paz, Jaro, Mandurriao, and Arevalo were incorporated to form Iloilo City, and it was inaugurated on August 25, 1937. It earned the moniker "Queen City of the South."
• Golden Era: Under American rule, Iloilo experienced a "golden era" as a center of commerce, education, and culture.
Japanese Occupation (1942-1945):
• Iloilo was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 until its liberation in 1945 by Filipino and American forces. The city suffered significant destruction during this period.
Post-War and Contemporary Era (1945-Present):
• Rebuilding and Growth: After World War II, Iloilo experienced a period of rebuilding. While there was a modest economic slowdown initially, the city gradually recovered.
• Modern Development: In the 21st century, Iloilo City has seen significant economic growth, becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in the Philippines. It is known for its well-preserved heritage structures, vibrant economy, culinary traditions, and cultural events like the Dinagyang Festival.
• UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy: In 2023, Iloilo City was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Iloilo's history is a testament to its resilience and its enduring importance as a cultural and economic hub in the Philippines.
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