Roxas, Capiz

Roxas, officially the City of Roxas (Capiznon/Hiligaynon: Dakbanwa sang Roxas; Tagalog: Lungsod ng Roxas), is a 3rd class component city and capital of the province of Capiz, Philippines. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 167,003 people. [3]

Not to be confused with President Roxas, Capiz.
For other uses, see Roxas (disambiguation) § Places in the Philippines.
Roxas
Component city
City of Roxas
From top, left to right: Aerial view of Roxas City, City Welcome arc, Roxas Airport, city fishpens, Baybay Beach
Flag
Seal
Nickname(s): 
Seafood Capital of the Philippines
Anthem: Ang Banwa kong Pinalangga (The Town I Love)
Map of Capiz with Roxas highlighted
OpenStreetMap
Roxas
Location within the Philippines
Coordinates: 11°35′N 122°45′E
Country Philippines
RegionWestern Visayas (Region VI)
ProvinceCapiz
District1st District
Founded1569
CityhoodMay 12, 1951
Named forManuel Acuña Roxas
Barangays47 (see Barangays)
Government
 [1]
 • TypeSangguniang Panlungsod
 • MayorRonnie T. Dadivas (LP)
 • Vice MayorErwin B. Sicad (LP)
 • RepresentativeEmmanuel Acuña Billiones (LP)
 • Electorate104,264 voters (2019)
Area
 [2]
 • Total95.07 km2 (36.71 sq mi)
Elevation
7.0 m (23.0 ft)
Population
 (2015 census) [3]
 • Total167,003
 • Density1,800/km2 (4,500/sq mi)
 • Households
37,291
Economy
 • Income class3rd city income class
 • Poverty incidence14.65% (2015)[4]
 • Revenue₱624,662,844.31 (2016)
Time zoneUTC+8 (PST)
ZIP code
5800
PSGC
061914000
IDD : area code +63 (0)36
Climate typetropical climate
Native languagesCapiznon
Hiligaynon
Tagalog
Websitewww.roxascity.gov.ph

Originally known as the Municipality of Capiz (from which the province derives its name), the area became a chartered city on May 12, 1951, and was renamed in honor of native Manuel Acuña Roxas, the fourth President of the Philippines and the first of the independent post-American Third Philippine Republic.

After Iloilo City, it is the second center of education, trade, economic activities and logistics on the island of Panay.[5] The abundance of marine life makes Roxas City the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines." It has received Cleanest and Greenest Component City in Western Visayas Award in the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran (GPK) Cleanliness and Environmental contest. The Department of Health (DOH) awarded the city with the Red Orchid Award for being "100 percent tobacco-free".[6] It has also gained the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Seal of Good Housekeeping[7] and won the Best Police Station in the region by the Philippine National Police.[8]

History

Spanish colonial period

In 1569, Captain Diego de Artieda, who was sent by Miguel López de Legazpi from Cebu, landed on the shores of the town of Panay and proclaimed it as the area's capital. Later, the capital was moved to its present site upon realising that the town of Capiz was nearer to the sea and possessed better ground for docking facities. The Spaniards saw the long coastal cover and envisioned a trading and shipping center. Ports were subsequently built in Libas and Culasi.

The Panay River divided the original settlement in two, and had tributaries from the mountains that flowed through communities that sprang up along its shores. The river provided irrigation and gradually fertilized the land, and during high tide, it provided water to the lowlands than became a private and commercial fishponds that exist to this day.

In 1590, the Spanish navy coming from Acapulco, Viceroyalty of Mexico made the port of Capiz its naval yard where ships sought shelter when the sea was rough. Capiz grew into a bustling port and houses of stone were built. The social and political status enjoyed by indigenous rulers of Capiz often resulted in mixed marriages with colonial Spaniards. Their mestizo descendants became the base of the town's set of Principalía, the colony's noble or patrician class. Their privileged status enabled them to build houses near the población, the downtown area whose focal points was the plaza, the local chapel along Burgos Street, and the government complex.

Their children became the beneficiaries of the Augustinian mission in 1593. In 1746, Capiz was made the seat of the politico-military government separating from the clutches of Iloilo is almost 200 years, although it was ecclesiastically controlled by the Bishopric of Cebu. In the latter part of 1795, under Gobernadorcillo Miguel Bautista, the old road to Baybay was built as an extension of calle San Roque .

The town was frequently attacked by Muslims that in 1814, stone forts at Baybay Beach (Baluarte) were built through the initiative of Gobernadorcillo José Consolación.

In 1870, ground was broken for the construction of Capiz Cathedral under the guidance of Reverend Apolonio Alvarez. It was built by sturdy hands, sweat and blood of Capizeños, who were pressed into its building by the polo y servicios (forced labour) system. In 1876, the Diocese of Jaro in Iloilo was erected, and Capiz came under its jurisdiction. In 1877, the cathedral was finally finished.

During the Philippine Revolution, the Spanish colonial government capitulated in August 1899, when Governor Juan Herrero formally surrendered to General Ananias Diokno along Baybay area.

American colonial period

After 300 years under Spanish rule, the Philippine Islands came under the sovereignty of the United States of America. By the early 1900s, Protestant missionaries arrived in the Islands, which the various denominations subsequently agreed to divide into mission territories. Western Visayas went to the American Baptists; Baptist institutions such as Filamer Christian University, Central Philippine University, Capiz Emmanuel Hospital were later established. In August 1904, Rev. and Mrs. Joseph Robbins were entrusted with care of three little children. This situation of neglected homeless children touched their hearts which led to the establishment of Capiz Home School, with the first building being a gift from the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society. The Capiz Home School was later renamed Filamer Christian University, "Filamer" being a portmanteau of "Filipino" and "American".

In 1914, an economic debacle hit the town of Capiz when the Ayala Distillery abruptly stopped operations. What could have been an ambitious forerunner of nationalized industrialization became the victim of the Internal Revenue Law under American control.

In 1917, Division Superintendent of Schools F.E. Hemingway founded Capiz Trade School for intermediate pupils. The institution offered woodworking as the only vocational course. The next division superintendent opened Capiz High School.

In 1926, Division Superintendent Arthur Wittman authorized teaching of complete secondary curriculum in the Capiz Trade School. In the same year, Culasi Port was built to accommodate inter-island ships.

Third Philippine Republic

Capiz became a chartered city on May 12, 1951 through House Bill 1528, sponsored by Ramón Acuña Arnaldo, the Representative of the First District Capiz. It was approved by President Elpidio Quirino, Roxas' successor, on April 11, 1951 as Republic Act 603.[9] Consequently, the town was renamed Roxas City after the late Manuel Roxas, the final President of the Commonwealth and the first President of the Third Republic.

The city's first appointed Mayor was Lorenzo Acuña Arnaldo, followed by Ramón Berjamin Blanco, José Dorado, and Juliano Alovera Alba. In 1959, Arnaldo became the city's first elected head. He was succeeded by Teodoro Roxas Arcenas, who himself was succeeded by Juliano Alovera Alba. Alba was also the Representative of the First District Capiz when President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law nationwide on September 21, 1972.

Antonio A. del Rosario, the incumbent Representative of the First District Capiz, was elected to three terms as Mayor, serving from 1998 to 2007. Vicente B. Bermejo, the former governor of the Province of Capiz, was elected Mayor and served from 2007 to 2010.

Roxas City's current mayor is Ronnie T. Dadivas.

Historical Account of Pedro G. Gallardo, O.S.A.

Capiz is located on a small island formed by the Panay and Banica rivers. The Panay Rivers was famous, it is said by the great number of caimanes (alligators).

The soil is poor in the northern part of the island and is most productive only in the southern part. It is bounded by the Mindoro sea, the Panay River, Loctugan, the Mindoro Sea and Ibisan.

It enjoys balmy atmosphere and offers very picturesque views, especially from the open sea. This town was accepted in 1693 as a visita of the town of Panay. Fr. Agustin Estrada was named prior that same year. In 1707, it was declared an independent parish under the advocation of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The private council of 1716 created this town which was originally named El Puerto de Capiz, a vicariate under Fr. Pedro Vivaldi (?) as prior-vicar. In 1728, the convent was relieved from paying any rent to San Agustin Monastery. And likewise, in 1732. This suggests that the convent was rather poor or that the priors were building the parochial edifices. By this time, Loctugan and Ibisan were assigned to it as visitas. In the middle of the 18th century, Capiz was declared the capital city of the province of the same name which later became “the most famous sea port and the biggest ministry the Augustinians had in that province.” Capiz (or Capis) was renowned all over for its shells, the capis used for window panes on houses and convents all throughout the Philippines. Tradition holds that this is the place where the Visayas dialect is spoken with “more propriety and musicality” and where “women dress with more neatness, and elegance” The Capizeños showed special loyalty to Spain during the British invasion, by sending money and ammunition to Manila and jailing the alcalde mayor, Señor Quintanilla, who was caught “conducting secret negotiation to have the province handed over peacefully to the British.”

In 1732, Capiz had 2,327 souls. In 1760 Capiz had 3,971 of which 16 were Spaniards. In 1896, its population increased to 17,683. In 1990, it reached 103,171.

Capiz was a progressive city in 1891, its exports through the sea port, reached 1,800,000 pesos and imports were valued at 900,000 pesos. It was a joy to watch, in the old times, the many boats converging, often at the same time, at the port to load rice.” The primitive church was built before 1698, the year in which the typhoon of January 4 destroyed it together with the convent. According to a document, the priest found it difficult “to rebuild them because the people were not used to work.” Fortunately, Fr. Domingo Horbegoso, minister of Capiz, started building the church in 1728, the year in which the convent was relieved from paying any rent to San Agustin Monastery. The construction seemed to have continued, at least until 1732 .

Capiz was founded in 1693 under the advocation of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.[10]

Geography

Roxas City is situated just east of the north-central coast of Panay Island with geographic coordinates of 11°35' N, 122°45' E. Its boundaries are: the Sibuyan Sea to the north, the municipality of Panitan to the south, the municipality of Ivisan to the west, and the municipality of Panay to the east. It is located 116 kilometres (72 mi) north of Iloilo City, 86 kilometres (53 mi) from Kalibo, 213 kilometres (132 mi) from San Jose de Buenavista and 250 nautical miles (460 km) southeast of Manila. Travel time from/to Iloilo City takes 2 hours by land, while travel time from/to Manila is 50 minutes by air and 18 hours by sea.

Climate
Climate data for Roxas City (1981–2010, extremes 1903–2012)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 33.1
(91.6)		 34.4
(93.9)		 35.3
(95.5)		 36.8
(98.2)		 38.1
(100.6)		 37.8
(100.0)		 37.0
(98.6)		 36.9
(98.4)		 37.6
(99.7)		 36.1
(97.0)		 35.6
(96.1)		 35.5
(95.9)		 38.1
(100.6)
Average high °C (°F) 29.1
(84.4)		 29.5
(85.1)		 30.5
(86.9)		 31.9
(89.4)		 32.6
(90.7)		 32.1
(89.8)		 31.5
(88.7)		 31.7
(89.1)		 31.5
(88.7)		 31.0
(87.8)		 30.6
(87.1)		 29.4
(84.9)		 31.0
(87.8)
Daily mean °C (°F) 26.6
(79.9)		 26.8
(80.2)		 27.5
(81.5)		 28.5
(83.3)		 28.9
(84.0)		 28.4
(83.1)		 28.0
(82.4)		 28.1
(82.6)		 28.0
(82.4)		 27.8
(82.0)		 27.7
(81.9)		 27.0
(80.6)		 27.8
(82.0)
Average low °C (°F) 24.1
(75.4)		 24.1
(75.4)		 24.5
(76.1)		 25.1
(77.2)		 25.2
(77.4)		 24.8
(76.6)		 24.5
(76.1)		 24.5
(76.1)		 24.4
(75.9)		 24.5
(76.1)		 24.8
(76.6)		 24.5
(76.1)		 24.6
(76.3)
Record low °C (°F) 16.4
(61.5)		 17.4
(63.3)		 18.6
(65.5)		 20.0
(68.0)		 20.3
(68.5)		 16.7
(62.1)		 16.5
(61.7)		 19.0
(66.2)		 18.5
(65.3)		 19.0
(66.2)		 19.0
(66.2)		 17.5
(63.5)		 16.4
(61.5)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 72.1
(2.84)		 49.3
(1.94)		 63.7
(2.51)		 69.9
(2.75)		 144.7
(5.70)		 259.0
(10.20)		 253.4
(9.98)		 202.1
(7.96)		 213.5
(8.41)		 304.9
(12.00)		 239.4
(9.43)		 171.3
(6.74)		 2,043.3
(80.44)
Average rainy days (≥ 0.1 mm) 12 8 6 6 10 16 16 15 16 19 17 15 156
Average relative humidity (%) 84 83 82 79 80 82 83 84 84 84 84 85 83
Source: PAGASA[11][12]

Barangays

The City of Roxas is politically subdivided into 47 barangays of which 31 are urban and 16 are rural. It is classified as a second Class Component City belonging to the first legislative District the Province of Capiz along with the Municipality of Ma-ayon, Panay, Panitan, Pilar, Pontevedra, and President Roxas.

  • Adlawan
  • Bago
  • Balijuagan
  • Banica
  • Barangay 1
  • Barangay 2
  • Barangay 3
  • Barangay 4
  • Barangay 5
  • Barangay 6
  • Barangay 7
  • Barangay 8
  • Barangay 9
  • Barangay 10
  • Barangay 11
  • Barra
  • Bato
  • Baybay
  • Bolo
  • Cabugao
  • Cagay
  • Cogon
  • Culajao
  • Culasi
  • Dumolog
  • Dayao
  • Dinginan
  • Gabu-an
  • Inzo Arnaldo Village (Cadimahan)
  • Jumaguicjic
  • Lanot
  • Lawa-an
  • Li-ong
  • Libas
  • Loctugan
  • Lonoy
  • Milibili
  • Mongpong
  • Olotayan
  • Punta Cogon
  • Punta Tabuc
  • San Jose
  • Sibaguan
  • Talon
  • Tanque
  • Tanza
  • Tiza

Demographics
Population census of Roxas
YearPop.±% p.a.
1903 21,472—    
1918 22,022+0.17%
1939 29,021+1.32%
1948 32,353+1.21%
1960 49,326+3.58%
1970 67,648+3.21%
1975 71,305+1.06%
1980 81,183+2.63%
1990 103,171+2.43%
1995 118,715+2.66%
2000 126,352+1.35%
2007 147,738+2.18%
2010 156,197+2.05%
2015 167,003+1.28%
Source: Philippine Statistics Authority [3] [13] [14][15]

In the 2015 census, the population of Roxas, Capiz, was 167,003 people, [3] with a density of 1,800 inhabitants per square kilometre or 4,700 inhabitants per square mile.

Languages

Languages spoken in Roxas City are Capiznon, Hiligaynon language, English and Tagalog.

Economy
Robinsons Place Roxas

The city gets its power from the Capiz Electric Cooperative (CAPELCO) distributed by powerplant in Iloilo. The Metro Roxas Water District (MRWD) supplies drinking water to the populace, MRWD claims they have the cleanest and safest potable water in the region. Supplementing the water supplied by Metro Roxas Water District (MRWD) are wells with hand pumps and artesian wells which are constructed through the Barangay Water Program (BWP) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The city's urban area now expanded to the southern part primarily on the site of the 500 hectares (1,200 acres) master-planned city within a city, Pueblo de Panay, which aims to build a new business district between Lawaan and Sibaguan highways. It is now occupied by several restaurants and hotels, 40 metres (130 ft) high Sacred Heart of Jesus (Roxas, Capiz) shrine (the tallest in the Philippines), Sitio Uno by Pueblo Residences (Roxas City's first condominium), and the 37,500 m2 (404,000 sq ft) Robinsons Place Roxas. The Pueblo de Panay Technopark will house international and national BPO companies such as ePerformax Contact Centers and BPO.[16]

Nearby the decade-old Gaisano Grand Roxas is the location of the first of the many CityMalls of DoubleDragon Properties and SM Prime Holdings. Roxas City is experiencing a "real estate boom" due to rapid conversions of fishponds into subdivisions and commercial areas.

The National Port of Culasi and Roxas Airport serve as the main gateway to the city from the capital city of Manila. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific has a daily flight to/from the capital city, Manila. The M/V Love-1 of Moreta Shipping Lines provides shipping going to Manila North Harbor and The Super Shuttle RoRo and 2GO Travel links Culasi to Batangas.

Agriculture

Roxas City has an agri-based economy. Farming and fishing are the major economic activities which claim 37.05% of the city's total land area. Although agricultural, the city is now moving towards commercialization and industrialization as it is the center of trade and commerce not only in the province of Capiz but also in the northern part of Panay Island. Rice and melons are the major crops grown in this area. Papaya and jackfruit trees are also cultivated.

Aquaculture (seafood production)

Roxas City as Seafood capital of the Philippines exporting seafood products to various countries such as Taiwan, Japan and the United States. Phillips Seafood Philippines Corporation is the sole seafood production company with processing plant located in Banica, Roxas City. The main aquaculture farms are oyster and milk fish farms that take advantage of natural tidal bays and other low-lying areas near the coast.

Banking

Close to forty banks are currently operating in Roxas City to serve personal and entrepreneurial savings. Furthermore, through PPP, several financial assistance from banks are utilized for infrastructure developments in Roxas City. Many of these banks have armed guards.

Infrastructure

Public Transport
Artist impression of Pueblo de Panay

Roxas City is served mostly by passenger jeepneys, metered taxis and motorized tricycle within the city limits.

The Capiz Cabs (metered taxis) of Roxas City are made of SUV type and can carry seven maximum passengers and serve to any point of Panay Island. Most of them are designed in colorful packaging and can be seen all the time in Roxas Airport.

The Pueblo de Panay Libot Vehicles are new additions to the transportation system primarily within Pueblo de Panay. These vehicles are customized Isuzu NHR Trucks and are bigger than the usual passenger jeepneys.

Transport Terminals

Roxas City has two Transport Terminals located at the city's perimeter areas, these are:

Roxas City Integrated Terminal located at the Pueblo de Panay in Lawaan is the transport hub serving passengers to/from the provinces of Aklan and Iloilo and roll on-roll off (RORO) buses plying Roxas-Manila(Cubao). The Php 50 million newly erected integrated terminal was done thru PPP by the LGU and Pueblo de Panay Inc.

Roxas City Eastern Terminal located in Banica, Roxas City is the transport hub serving passengers to/from the province of Iloilo.

Railroad

From 1907 to 1989, Panay Railways operated a railroad from Roxas City to the port area of Muelle Loney along the Iloilo River in Iloilo City. A revival of Panay Railways has been approved by the Regional Development Council - Region VI and is currently under feasibility study.

Roxas Airport
Philippine Army Servicemen at the Roxas Airport

Roxas Airport (RXS) is an airport serving the general area of Roxas City, the entire province of Capiz, and Northern Iloilo in the Philippines. The airport is classified as a Class 1 principal airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

In 2013, the national government has approved the Php 215 million budget for the expansion of the Roxas Airport including installation of night landing facilities.[17]

Roxas Airport has three (3) daily flight bound to Manila, two (2) flights by Cebu Pacific and one (1) flight by Philippine Airlines. The airport also has a direct link to Mactan–Cebu International Airport in Cebu courtesy of a daily flight by Cebgo, a subsidiary of Cebu Pacific.

Port of Culasi

The Port of Culasi is the port serving the entire area of Roxas City and the gateway port of Northern Panay. This port is the trading and shipping center during the Spanish Colonialism. Currently, it has routes from Roxas City to Romblon, Sibuyan, Dumaguit, Cadiz, Estancia, Carles, Batangas and Manila. The Philippine Coast Guard-Roxas and the 1st Search and Rescue Hub of the PCG and a mini-hospital are also located here. In 1926, Culasi Port was built by the construction firm Pedro Siochi and Company to serve as trans-shipment point for inter-island vessel that carries vital products for the people living in Capiz, and its neighboring provinces such as Aklan and Northern Iloilo as well.

Currently, 2 RORO vessels are operating the port namely: 2GO Travel and Supper Shuttle RORO both are bound to Batangas.

Domestic Seaports and Fishing (marine) Port Facilities

The Port of Libas or Libas Fishing Port, provides anchorage to fishing vessel; and serves as center for trade of marine products in the province.

The Port of Banica, serves as a trading route from Roxas City to different parts of Masbate Island. This wharf is said to be the site where Captain Diego de Artieda who was sent by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi from Cebu landed in 1569.

Communication

Available communication services in Roxas City are: telephone services including domestic and international direct dial, facsimile; mobile communications, internet, telegraph and telex stations, post offices and other messengerial and courier services.

There are three (3) telephone Service provider in Roxas City providing landline connections to almost all of the municipalities. These are: Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company, INNOVE (Globe Telecom) and Bayan Telecommunications.

Cellular telephone facilities are also provided by three (3) cellular companies namely Smart Communications, Globe Telecom and Sun Cellular.

Convention Facilities

El Circulo Convention Center, the Mediterranean-inspired convention center is the latest infrastructure of Pueblo de Panay. The convention center hosts wedding and other important events. Pueblo de Panay proposes to add resorts and hotels near the convention center by 2017. Currently, it houses the University of the Philippines Visayas College of Management – Master of Management Program Roxas Extension and holds classes every Saturday.

Gerry Roxas Foundation Resource Center at the Roxas City Center, serves as host of several symposia, meetings, and convention for government sectors.

CAP Auditorium, owned by College Assurance Plan also hosts major events such as national, regional and local conventions and serves as a venue for cultural presentations and educational events.

Other big venues in Roxas City that can accommodate International and National gatherings are the Capis Mansion Ballroom at Banica, the Main Hall at La Hacienda Hotel and MVW Restaurant and Hotel.

Sports Venues and Stadium

Villareal Stadium - is the biggest stadium in Western Visayas. Built in 1962, the 20,000 seating capacity stadium has an Olympic-sized swimming pool, fully air-conditioned 6,000 capacity gym (Capiz Gymnasium), rubberized oval and paved tennis, volleyball, football and basketball courts. The 10-hectare sports complex has become the official venue of various events aside from sports such as the 2nd Annual One Visayas Festival in 2010. It has also become a major forerunner in promoting sports tourism in the province of Capiz. The sports complex had hosted the Palarong Pambansa in 1963, Philippine University Games (Unigames) in 2011 and numerous WVRAA and WVPRISAA events.

Dinggoy Roxas Civic Center - the civic center has 5,000 seating capacity and a host for Regional and Local basketball sports events like WVRAA, WVPRISAA and Intercollegiate basketball leagues in the city. The civic center usually serves as the venue for Mutya sa Sinadya sang Halaran beauty pageant.

Capiz Gymnasium - this gym has 6,000 seating capacity and has been a host of several sports events such as Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), WVRAA, WVPRISAA, Unigames, etc. The gymnasium serves also a venue for various National, Regional, and Local events.

New Road Networks

The Roxas City Government, thru the Capiz Provincial Government, identified Roxas City Circumferential Road as one of their priority projects. Roxas City Circumferential Road would serve as a by-pass road for traffic of goods and passengers going to and from Culasi Port and Panay town and the adjoining northeastern towns of Capiz, without passing thru the central business area of Roxas City. The Roxas City Circumferential Road is one of four road projects being proposed by DPWH VI under the Panay Roads Investment Development (PRIDE) to be funded by the Japan Bank of International Cooperation. Although most of the construction on the road projects is done by hand. Many of the road projects are politically motivated and cause undo stress and burden on the locals who live alongside the major roads. Some locals have lost there property to the government in road projects with little to no compensation.

Roxas City Circumferential Road is divided into two sections:

Section I starts at the Culasi Port and passing at the side of Cadimahan River, crosses the said river wherein two bridges will be constructed. Section II starts at the junction of the Ivisan-Roxas National Road and eventually joins the national highway going to Panay and Pontevedra towns.

Pueblo de Panay Road Network - a four-lane to six-lane high impact roads connecting the national highway in Lawaan to the highways in Brgys. Dinginan and Sibaguan.

The Health Centrum Complex Road Network - newly access roads developed by the Health Centrum Inc. to connect direct access from the main highway of Banica to the complex recently. The roads are also connected to the bridge that connects Tiza and Banica.

Plazas and Public Parks

Capiz Provincial Park

This landmark is located within the perimeter of Barangay Tiza, Roxas City fronting the Capiz National High School. It has lush greeneries and houses several pocket gardens. The park has three monuments that represent the historical and cultural diversities of Roxas City. A turtle-shape outdoor theater nests at the Western part of the park. Another platform is situated at the Southern area, which can accommodate numerous public events. This park perfectly resembles a simple yet picturesque nook for local and foreign tourists.

Roxas City Plaza/Halaran Plaza
Roxas chess plaza

Located at the heart of the city, this park has two divisions. The first division lies near the Panay River banks. It houses a famous landmark (Roxas City Bandstand), where it is the exact location were signing of MOA, chartering Municipality of Capiz into City of Roxas. At the right-end of the first division, stands the life-size chess plaza.

The second division of Roxas City Plaza faces the right side of Roxas City Hall. It has several pine trees, but after the ravaging Super Typhoon Yolanda hit the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, several trees were uprooted and only few are currently existing. Travelers can visit Manuel A. Roxas Monument in this park. The monument faces with Jose Rizal Monument at the far-end of the Capitol. Few steps from M.A.Roxas monument is the only water-tank turned into Museum in the Philippines. The Panublion Museum serves as the "Story Teller" of Roxas City's History.

La Playa de Roxas People's Park

This public park is situated at Barangay Baybay, Roxas City. It faces the Sibuyan Sea and the scenic coastline of Northern Panay. At the left-end of the Park showcases the colorful dancing fountain. There is a beach that people swim at and the park has grass area and security both. The park also has cheap street food and a children's playground. At the right-end of the park is the kapis shells-inspired Seafood Court, where the City's marine products are served fresh at very reasonable prices.

Hospitals

Roxas City is gearing up toward a medical-hub in Northern Panay as several hospitals and health institutions are upgrading. Currently, the city has one government-owned hospital with two sites and four private hospitals. Through the aid of public empowerment, City of Roxas took off its landfall in the Hall of Famer for Red Orchid (Smoke Free City) in the Philippines. With the partnership of Private and Government sectors, several health propaganda were established to strengthen the health care delivery system.

  1. Capiz Emmanuel Hospital, founded by the American Baptist Mission in Capiz. Dr. Frederick Meyer, a former administrator of the hospital, also wrote the early history of Capiz. This 100-bed capacity tertiary hospital was founded in 1908. Capiz Emmanuel Hospital is the first Baptist hospital in the Philippines.
  2. Saint Anthony College Hospital of Roxas City, The 135-bed capacity was founded in June 1956 by Mr. and Mrs. Pio Bernas who, having realized the need for more health care facilities in Roxas City and in Capiz, initiated the project with the help of Dr. Gaudencio Ortañez.
  3. Roxas Memorial Provincial (General) Hospital, The 150-bed capacity public hospital is moving to Capitol Hills, Lanot, Roxas City. The new 300-bed capacity hospital is currently under-construction while the OPD is already completed.
  4. Capiz Doctors' Hospital is in Water Village, Lawaan, Roxas City. The facility is a 100-bed capacity hospital.
  5. The Health Centrum Hospital and Wellness Center is a 60-bed capacity tertiary hospital and is open for expansion in the future.

Education

Roxas City is considered as the center of Education in Northern Panay.[18] The city hosts 3 universities and various colleges.

Universities

The city has one national (program extension) university, one state university, one private university, and one satellite campus of a private university.

Colleges
St. Pius X Seminary

Festivals

Sinadya Sa Halaran
Roxas City Sinadya sa Halaran Beauty Pageant 2010

The Sinadya sa Halaran Festival is celebrated the first week of December in commemoration of the founding of the city followed by the Diwal Festival signifying the city's importance as the country's "Seafood Capital" along with the Aswang Festival that symbolizes the heritage of myth and folklore in the province.

There used to be two separate festivals, the Halaran ("Offering") and the Sinadya ("Celebration"), the former is celebrated by the Province of Capiz and the latter by the City of Roxas. The Sinadya was formerly held at the same time as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which was celebrated by the Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral. The Halaran was usually held by the last week of October each year (A prelude to All Souls Day and All Saints Day festivals). However, because of the costs of holding two separate festivals year, the two festivals were merged, with both the Province of Capiz and the City of Roxas contributing to the expenses.

Diwal Festival

The Roxas City Seafood Festival is held to commemorate and promote the resurgence of the Angel Wing or diwal, which neared extinction in Capiz until protected and cultivated in Roxas City.[21]

Capiztahan Festival

The Capiztahan is celebrated every second week of April combined joint forces from City of Roxas, Province of Capiz and One Capiz.

Aswang Festival

Short-lived festival dealing with supernatural characters and Capiz folklore. It was discontinued due to the protests from religious groups.

Notable people

Politics
  • Pedro Gil, was a physician, journalist, and legislator. He was elected representative for the south District Manila on the Democratra party ticket. He became Minority Floor Leader in the House of Representatives of the Philippines.
  • Manuel Roxas (1892–1948), first President of the independent Republic of the Philippines
  • Gerardo Roxas (1924–1982), Philippine Senator and son of President Manuel Roxas
  • Manuel Roxas II (born 1957), Philippine Senator, grandson of President Manuel Roxas and former Department of the Interior and Local Government secretary
  • Gerardo Roxas Jr. (1960-1993), grandson of President Manuel Roxas and former Congressman

Business

Beauty Pageants

Entertainment

Sports

Music

Social Sciences

Sister cities

Roxas City has the following sister cities:

Local

International

See also

References
  1.  City of Roxas | (DILG)
  2. "Province: Capiz". PSGC Interactive. Quezon City, Philippines: Philippine Statistics Authority. Retrieved 12 November 2016.
  3. Census of Population (2015). "Region VI (Western Visayas)". Total Population by Province, City, Municipality and Barangay. PSA. Retrieved 20 June 2016.
  4. "PSA releases the 2015 Municipal and City Level Poverty Estimates". Quezon City, Philippines. Retrieved 12 October 2019.
  5. Webmaster. "Roxas City: From Seafood Capital to Logistics Hub of Panay Island". www.roxascity.gov.ph. Retrieved 2016-08-04.
  6. Webmaster. "Roxas City is Red Orchid 'Hall of Fame' awardee". roxascity.gov.ph. Retrieved 2016-08-04.
  7. Webmaster. "Seal of good financial housekeeping bestowed on Roxas City gov't three times". www.roxascity.gov.ph. Retrieved 2016-08-04.
  8. "Roxas City has 'best police station' in WV". thedailyguardian.net. Archived from the original on 2016-08-26. Retrieved 2016-08-04.
  9. "An act creating the city of Roxas". LawPH.com. Archived from the original on 2012-07-10. Retrieved 2011-04-09.
  10. Gallardo, Pedro (1996). Angels in Stone: Augustinian Churches in the Philippines. Manila.
  11. "Roxas City, Capiz Climatological Normal Values". Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. Archived from the original on 18 October 2018. Retrieved 18 October 2018.
  12. "Roxas City, Capiz Climatological Extremes". Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. Archived from the original on 18 October 2018. Retrieved 18 October 2018.
  13. Census of Population and Housing (2010). "Region VI (Western Visayas)". Total Population by Province, City, Municipality and Barangay. NSO. Retrieved 29 June 2016.
  14. Censuses of Population (1903–2007). "Region VI (Western Visayas)". Table 1. Population Enumerated in Various Censuses by Province/Highly Urbanized City: 1903 to 2007. NSO.
  15. "Province of Capiz". Municipality Population Data. Local Water Utilities Administration Research Division. Retrieved 17 December 2016.
  16. Salazar, Tessa R. "Eco-driven CBD to rise in Roxas City". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved 2016-08-04.
  17. "P215-M facelift set for Roxas airport". Rappler. Retrieved April 10, 2013.
  18. Cities Alliance, Updated City Development Strategy Report for Roxas City 9 Mar 2009 (PDF), pp. 8–9, retrieved 9 March 2009
  19. "Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion". Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion.
  20. "Home". Hercor College.
  21. Jr., Nestor P. Burgos. "Roxas' prized shellfish makes a comeback". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved 2016-08-04.
  22. Cadiz, Gibbs (2013-05-13). "National Artist for Theater Daisy Avellana dies; 96". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved 2013-05-19.
  23. "APINAN, Jeckster - PBA on INQUIRER.net". Philippine Daily Inquirer.
  24. "Jose Maxian Captures The WBC Youth Championship". BoxingScene.com.
  25. admin (12 February 2013). "Capiz's sports heroes remembered".
  26. "Jovita Fuentes was born in the town of Capiz February 15, 1895". The Kahimyang Project.
  27. "A". Women of History. Retrieved 6 January 2013.
  28. "Sister Cities". The Local Government of Quezon City. Archived from the original on 1 October 2017. Retrieved 9 April 2019.
  29. "Sister Cities Of San Bernardino".
  30. "Guam, Philippines share long history of sister cities". Pacific Daily News.
  31. "Sister/Twin Cities of Balıkesir" (PDF).
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