Dueñas exposed!

By Bombette G. Marin, Provincial Information Office

Perhaps blinded by the negative publicity on “aswangs” with the misconceptions on safety and security for first-time visitors, many are not aware that this town of 47 barangays and 9,052-hectare, fourth class municipality, adjacent to the central eastern part from Iloilo City, is actually a gem of a destination for tourist, with a culture very rich in history.

It is said that the purchase of Panay for one golden salakot and a golden batiya, was consummated in “Simsiman,” a place located in the banks of Ulian River, now known as the Municipality of Dueñas. In fact, artifacts like beads of Carnelian stones thought to have resemblances with the piece of necklace given by Datu Puti to Maniwangtiwang, were found in the locality.  Song and Ming ceramics were also found in the Barangays of Tinocuan and Pader, a proof that indeed, Dueñas is one of the earliest Malayan settlements in Panay and also the earliest among those engaging in barter trading with the Chinese during the 13th and 14th century.

It was the second Spanish settlement in the Philippines. Documented historical accounts stated that Miguel Lopez de Legaspi sent his men to Panay in 1569, and an encomienda was assigned to Diego Lopez de Valdepenas covering Sibucao, an area in Dueñas in 1571. However, in 1590, with the name of Sumandig, Dueñas was discovered.

About 89% of its 32,516 (2004 NSO Survey) present-day Dueñasanon are Catholics. This attributed to almost three centuries of Spanish rule in the municipality.

Ilonggos, most of whom hesitate to go to Dueñas due to misinformation, will have the opportunity to see the other side of this town in a rare showcase guaranteed to change their perception of the municipality and even send them trekking for a true adventure. It is also a treasure chest of various attractions and products.

Taking centerstage on September 24-30, 2005 is the Patronal Fiesta of the municipality with the municipal government hosting series of activities as part of their week-long celebration. Through this showcase, the municipal officials headed by their dynamic municipal mayor Hon. ROBERT MARTIN U. PAMA, hope to show the real Dueñas, its people, culture, songs and dances and products. There are a lot of things about the municipality that are just waiting to be discovered by our fellow Ilonggos.

An Agro-Industrial Fair with the PINAKA contest unveils on the opening day, September 24, 2005 opposite a garden show and food festival welcoming every visitor.

It will also highlight the ANIHAN Festival on September 25, 2005, Sunday at 8 o’ clock in the morning. This festival is an embodiment of the town’s culture and traditions as observed by their forefathers in celebrating their bountiful harvest.

The people of Dueñas themselves are very hospitable, inquisitive, enviably optimistic and gregarious. They are an accommodating lot. Graciousness and warmth seem to built into their genes. They are also passionate.

No shortage then of things to look forward when visiting Dueñas. Whenever you are in Dueñas, whether you are there for an adventure hop or simply just to hie-off from the hustle and bustle of urban life---all these misconceptions will never be a factor.