PAVIA TOWN: Regional Agro-Industrial Center

Just a few minutes from Iloilo City, Pavia has been considered as the Regional Agro-Industrial Center (RAIC) of Iloilo Province because its lands combine the agriculture (which mainly produces palay) and industrial (manufacturing plants like Coca-Cola and its very own Love Feeds) sectors. It is also home to some of the most sought-after housing subdivisions (Parc Regency and Savannah). Once a part of neighboring town Sta. Barbara, this town which is subdivided into 18 barangay has now its own set of culture that has been made famous through the years. And because of the construction of the International Airport of Iloilo, there's no stopping this once sleepy town for more progress.



FESTIVALS 


Carabao-Carroza Festival

Founded in 1973, the Carabao-Carroza Race has delighted both the townspeople and tourists alike. The Festival starts with a parade of the native-decorated carrozas (or bamboo sled) pulled by carabaos representing the 18 barangays, with the beautiful lasses waving from it. Then on to the race, where the riders atop the carabaos pulling the sleds, tries to outrun each other. The festival ends with the search for the most beautiful and deserving Ms. Carroza. This is one of the highlights of the town's annual Fiesta which is held every May 4.

 photo by Pavia government

TIGKARALAG FESTIVAL

photo by jo jan paul penol

The "only one of its kind" in the whole Panay since 1992, Tigkaralag Festival is being celebrated every Oct .30 in consonance with All Soul's Day. "Tig" meaning season of, and "kalag" meaning soul is the festival where participants posed as "kalag" or "aswangs" and compete in a dance-drama for a prize.




LANDMARKS
PAVIA CHURCH

photo by Pavia government

Known as the Santa Monica Church, is a century-old church built by the Spanish Augustinian Fathers sometime in 1862, which is similar to the church in Pavia, Italy. This is the only existing church in the whole Panay made entirely of red bricks. Ravaged by time, most of the original red bricks have been replaced recently. 




BAYE-BAYE
This sweet delicacy is made by combining pinipig, shredded coconut, and white sugar. It is well-loved by all ages because of its sweet taste. It is said that this is one of the oldest industry and originated from Brgy. Cabugao Sur. In fact, this is one of the staple food in the celebration of the  barangay fiesta every November 1.

photo from Pavia government

his delicacy has been a favorite as a pasalubong. One could choose to buy packs of five, or to order a plate of baye-baye.