A hidden paradise: Malangabang, Concepcion Iloilo

Dreaming of a white sand to lie down on? And want to have an adventure on an untouched islands? Concepcion is a dream come true! Concepcion Iloilo is located in the northeastern Panay island. It has 16 islands and the biggest is the Pan de Azucar. Our destination is one of the 25 barangays, the Malangabang.

clear and calm view going to Malangabang Island, Concepcion Iloilo

    Going there, you will take a two hours bus trip from Iloilo City and 30 minutes boat ride going to Malangabang. It has been devastated by the typhoon Yolanda that struck last 2013. Houses were destroyed and boats were lost considering that fishing is the main livelihood of the area. People ran into the mountains to save themselves from the typhoon surge. Their elementary school was also wrecked and right now the children are having classes on tents. despite the situation, you'll never see a single sadness on these children for they know that help will always come.

children on temporary school tents

priceless smile

You'll never resist going there empty handed because these children deserves to be given at least a share of what you have. One year had past yet Malangabang grew to its original beauty again. Nature really finds a way to recover whats genuine and original. A break water was formed after the Yolanda storm. It is an island of corals and can be seen during low tide.

trees start to grow leaves

long breakwater, composed of rocks and corals

    The soft white sand welcomed us and gave us a way to discover what it feels to be in this island. A taste of their sea foods featuring the 'kasag' (crabs), 'pasayan' (shrimps) and the 'locos' (squid) will let you think of coming back again and again in this island. Dried fish were also all over the place and will be handed over to the town of Concepcion to be sold. 

 fish are dried under the sun

steamed kasag (crabs)

Grilled squid (lokus in Hiligaynon)

pasayan (shrimps)

    There is a grotto that stood at the mountain and walking towards it is worth. You'll experience an astonishing view of the islands. Get your camera and never miss the sunset! There were also a rock formations along the beach side and a perfect site for photo shoots. 

Sunset at Malangabang Island, Concepcion

    The following day, we went to the famous Sand Bar which is almost 30-45 minutes boat ride from Malangabang. The white side formation makes it peculiar. Cottages were also available for picnics and if you want to go on overnight. 

long sand bar at Bolobadiangan, Concepcion, Iloilo

    A two days away from the city and be with this island loosens up all the tension in your mind and body. A perfect get away with your family and friends where you can bond together without any distractions but just you and the nature itself. 

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