5 Fun Things to Do in Pan-ay, Capiz

1. Visit Santa Monica Parish Church, a National Historical Landmark.

2. Try "puso", a specialty of Holy Grounds Coffee Shop located in front of the Church.

3. Go to Buntod Beach which has a commanding view of Olotayan Island.

4. Visit a heritage house, Balay ni Nanay Lording, and try their choriwich with thick hot chocolate.

5. Order pica-pica at Dante's Taberna on Friday and Saturday nights then dance the night away.

Santa Monica Church

The original church in Pan-ay was first established in 1774. A little over a century later, in 1875, a typhoon devastated that structure. It was reconstructed in 1884 and that is the church we see today. It is a fine example of the colonial Baroque style of architecture. Its walls are made of coral stones and are three meters thick (about 9.84 feet). Renovations have been made in recent years to the roof and belfry which have suffered from termites and the ravages of time. In 2013, the Church was once again devastated by the super typhoon, Yolanda. It has since been repaired.

Santa Monica Parish Church has been declared a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

For more on Santa Monica Church, follow this link: https://travelswithcharie.blogspot.com/2015/05/santa-monica-parish-church.html

Puso na malagkit

The puso is a variety of ibus which is a blend of glutinous rice, coconut milk and dash of salt. It's wrapped in woven palm leaf and steamed. What gives it that distinct flavor is the addition of tuba (coconut wine) to the mixture.

Holy Grounds Coffee Shop. In front of the Cathedral.

View of Olotayan Island from Buntod Beach

Looking for sand, sea and searenity? Head over to Buntod Beach which has the reputation of being jellyfish free all year round. The sea in this photo was rough due to the amihan (wind). Buntod has a lovely long stretch of sand perfect for a leisurely walk.

Olotayan Island and its sandy shores have remained under the radar, thanks to its secluded location. There are motorized outriggers that go to the island from Banica Pier. The trip takes about 45 minutes.

The beach is in Pawa, a short drive from the center of town.

Balay ni Nanay Lording

The rich cultural heritage of Capiz is best appreciated through objets d'art and family mementos at Balay ni Nanay Lording. Note the niche on the wall with religious statues. Altars are a main feature in the old homes of Capiz. The well preserved "tapi" floor, the beautiful aparador (cabinet) and saya (traditional Philippine dress) are reminders of a refined lifestyle.

A treat awaits visitors after the tour -- a hot demitasse of tablea de metate (thick chocolate) with choriwich (pandesal chorizo sandwich).

Calle Revolucion, Poblacion Ilawod.

Dante's Taberna

Try the duck adobo at Dante's Taberna while listening to music of the 70's and 80's. Then let Santana songs guide you to the dance floor. It's fun, fun, fun!

Poblacion Tabuc. Near Santa Monica Church.

*****

Images by TravelswithCharie

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