Bantayan Island

Sts Peter and Paul Parish Church

           The most imposing historical structure in Bantayan is the five century old Sts Peter and Paul Parish Church. Located in the heart of the town across the town plaza. The church is made of corals and stones endemic in the island.

             Built in 1863, it is the seat of the first and therefore the oldest parish in Visayas and Mindanao which was founded on June 11, 1580. Then known as the Convento de la Asuncion de Nuestra Senora, the parish was under the direct supervision of the

Diocese of Manila.

             With its skillfully crafted architecture and well-preserved antiquity, the church is not just a hub of spiritual activities but is a tourist "must-see" destination as well.

Holy Week Celebration

           The world renowned Holy Week celebration in

Bantayan has attracted hordes of both local and foreign tourist.

The highlight of the observance is the solemn foot procession on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday when life-size images and icons are mounted on elaborately-decorated carrozas depicting tableaux of the Passion of Christ.

Palawod Festival

           Held every June 29, during the annual fiesta in honor of Sts. Peter & Paul, the Palawod Festival, has gained national and international acclamation.

             The street dances are performed with intricate steps and movements to the beat of the music specially attuned to the rhythmic accuracy of the sea waves.

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Museum

           Sts. Peter and Paul Parish is one of only three parish base museums in the Province of Cebu. It showcase old liturgical vestments, parish records, religious art.

Sunset at Bantayan Lantawan

           "Lantaw" is the vernacular term for watching at a distance. Thus this area is named, suggestive of the purpose for which it is constructed.

             Strategically lined on the verge of the sea wall facing west adjacent to the wet market, the benches provide comfort for a clear view of the sea, the islets and the silhouette of the nearby Negros Island.

             Late afternoon, is an opportune time where one can stay there, alone or in company, to sit back, relax muse over the days happenings commune with nature or simply appreciate the sunset on the horizon. As darkness sets in, lanterns on posts illumine the site.

Town Plaza

           The exotic Bantayan Town Plaza with its exquisite landscape is the widest in Cebu. Old agoho trees much like the Baguio pines, stand impressively as hemline along its perimeter.

             With water fountain at its base, Rizal Monument glitters with liquid crystals at night.

             Right across the church patio is the Kristo Rey Monument. The Basketball and volleyball courts provide recreation and amusement. Long benches with overhead pergola is a rendezvous for lovers and friends, thus named " lovers' lane"

             The plaza rotunda is a setting of many an important public functions. A water fountain at the center makes the place enchanting for evening gatherings.

             Adjacent to this is the childrens park where kids and adults

Like could spend leisure time.

Market and Food Park

           The newy-renovated Bantayan Public market  offers a variety of goods and ware.

             Marine, agricultural and industrial products are sold to shoppers or consumers who may delight buying or seeing delectable.

The Islets

              Bantayan has five islets barangays with still smaller islets  under each. These emerald green isles are sporadically spread within the blue green waters of the town.

             One can travel from one islet  unto the other via motorized banca and savor with so much fun. Wonderful island hopping adventure.

             These islets also teem with marine products and forest resources.

Obo-ob Mangrove Garden Ecotourism

              A wide area of  mangrove park established by barangay residents offers land and boat tours on its natural heritage resources