Iloilo City street art can spur mural tourism

Every time I pass by Bonifacio Drive several years ago, I could not help but marvel at the graffiti on a wall somewhere in the area.

While the exact location escapes my memory now, what I could not forget was the thought that some of these graffiti artists, loosely called as vandals at that time, can be tapped to make Iloilo City colorful and attractive to tourists.

Street art can be a voice to the voiceless, it can remind the community of its heritage, and it can make the community alive again.

Now, street art in the metropolis has gained popularity after a push from Mayor Jerry P. Treñas and the support of Iloilo City's visual artists.

In November 2019, artists Archie Oclos and Dennis Bato and with the support of local artists converted a wall along Muelle Loney into a tribute to the last Binukot of Capiz, Rosita Caballero. 

Ilonggo heroes like Graciano Lopez Jaena and Teresa Magbanua also have their murals.

Graciano Lopez Jaena used his writing to expose the injustices during his lifetime. His works include Fray Botod, La Hija del Fraile and Esperanzas. Meanwhile, Teresa Magbanua was a member of the Katipunan and has actively participated in the battle of the Philippines against the Spaniards and the Americans.

The abovementioned may have passed on but the murals would remind everyone about the Panay Bukidnon and its rich culture (through Caballero) and bravery (through Jaena and Magbanua).

Rosita Caballero, last Binukot of Panay Bukidnon in Capiz

Blank Walls for Murals

To further add color to Iloilo City's streets, the Iloilo City Government is urging the owners of establishments to turn their blank walls into murals.

In a press release from the Iloilo City Hall, it was revealed that Mr. Francis Cruz, the executive assistant to the Mayor, said they are scouting for empty spaces to be converted into creative artworks. 

They plan to put paint more areas along Muelle Loney. The painters were contacted by visual artist Rock Drilon as project coordinator.

He was quoted, “Right now, hopefully, we will start this month as a tribute to our indigenous people, the roots of Ilonggos or Iloilo."

“It’s infusing the culture and arts to the bloodstream of the city and into the community,” said Cruz.

Mural of Teresa Magbanua, "Joan of Arc" of the Philippines

Mural tourism

The beauty of having street art or murals is that it enhances the city's look and at the same time provides a story to tourists. 

Every artwork is a good conversation starter for locals and their guests. It is also an affordable way to enjoy what a community has to offer.

Iloilo City is famous for its food tourism and heritage tourism. Now, street art is set to spur another - mural tourism./

Photos from Iloilo City Government and Atmos.PH Facebook pages

Mural of Graciano Lopez Jaena