In the heart of Iloilo province lies the town of of Leganes, a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant festivals like Biray Paraw, Saad, and the Kaadlawan sang Leganes, the town proudly celebrates its rich traditions and religious devotion. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Church and the Cry of Balintawak Monument or immerse themselves in nature at the Leganes Integrated Katunggan Eco-Park. Whether it’s the festive spirit, spiritual experiences, or scenic destinations, Leganes offers everyone something unique.
Festivals:

Biray Paraw
Boat sailing has been a cherished tradition among the Leganesnons for over a century, showcasing their exceptional maritime skills. This expertise has made Leganes a prominent winner in the annual Paraw Regatta race of Iloilo City since 1972. Recognizing this legacy, the BIRAY PARAW Festival was launched in 2006, offering sailing enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze aboard a paraw while experiencing the joy of biray-biray. The festival’s cultural significance was further highlighted when it earned 2nd Runner-Up in the Best Tourism Event: Cultural Festival category at the Municipal ATOP Pearl Awards 2023.

SAAD
Saad, a Hiligaynon term meaning “vow,” reflects the deep spirituality and unwavering religious faith of the Leganesnons. This festival is a heartfelt celebration of gratitude for the blessings received through the intercession of the miraculous St. Vincent Ferrer, the town’s patron saint. Featuring a unique blend of praise and worship presentations, Saad incorporates the traditional “palapak” ritual alongside contemporary choreographed performances inspired by Leganes’ folktales. Its significance has been recognized with notable accolades, including 2nd Runner-Up for Best Tourism Event: Religious Festival at the Municipal ATOP Pearl Awards in 2019 and as a Finalist in 2023.

Kaadlawan sang Leganes
Kaadlawan sang Leganes commemorates the town’s autonomy from Jaro, officially becoming a full-fledged municipality on January 1, 1940, thanks to the efforts of the late Congressman Tomas Confesor, then Governor of Iloilo Province. This milestone is celebrated with the Parada sa Kasisidmun, a dusk parade introduced on January 1, 2006, by the Tourism Office to honor the town’s Foundation Day. The parade features vibrant, illuminated floats and street dancers carrying lighted torches or battery-operated decorations, creating a captivating display that culminates in an aerial fireworks show.
This innovative celebration, held just after New Year’s Eve, has become a beloved tradition, eagerly anticipated not only by the Leganesnons but also by residents of neighboring towns.
Patronal Fiesta
The Leganes Patronal Fiesta is a week-long celebration that concludes on April 5, commemorating the day St. Vincent Ferrer, the town’s patron saint, passed into eternal glory in 1419. The festivities begin with a solemn mass and a grand procession of St. Vincent Ferrer’s statue, drawing devotees from all over.
This annual town fiesta is among the most anticipated events in Leganes, featuring a variety of programs and activities that bring the community together. Filipinos from across the country and abroad make it a point to return home to join the celebration. The fiesta typically begins with a vibrant civic parade and culminates in the highly anticipated coronation of the fiesta queen, adding a touch of grandeur to this cherished tradition.
Churches:

St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Church
The patron saint of the Parish of Leganes, St. Vincent Ferrer, is renowned for his miraculous works, drawing thousands of pilgrims from all walks of life to venerate him. Before 1858, the Church of St. Vincent Ferrer functioned as a visita, with priests visiting occasionally to offer mass. In 1858, it was elevated to an independent parish, and from 1863 to 1898, it was overseen by the Augustinian Order (OSA).
Father Mariano Sitchon became the first parish priest in 1863, serving the 1,175 residents of Leganes until 1869. His leadership marked a pivotal chapter in the town’s spiritual journey. On April 4, 2008, Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo, Archbishop of Jaro, officially declared and elevated the Church of St. Vincent Ferrer to the status of a diocesan shrine, solidifying its importance as a sacred site for worship and pilgrimage.

Palapak
During the 150th foundation anniversary of the parish, when its status was elevated to a diocesan shrine, the Saad Festival was launched, spotlighting the Palapak as its central ritual. This sacred practice, observed by Leganesnons and pilgrims for over a century, has become a deeply rooted tradition.
In the Palapak ritual, a priest or lay minister presses a small image of St. Vincent Ferrer on the devotee’s head or other requested parts of the body. Some devotees also bring clothing items belonging to sick family members to be blessed. The officiating minister utters the words, “Ig ampo mo kami” (“Pray for us”), to which the devotee responds with “Amen,” completing this profound act of faith and devotion.
Must Visits:

Leganes Integrated Katunggan Eco-park (LIKE)
The Leganes Integrated Katunggan Eco-Park emerged from the ruins of abandoned fishponds devastated by Typhoon Frank in 2008. In 2009, the Municipality of Leganes partnered with the Zoological Society of London-Philippines to initiate a mangrove rehabilitation project, leading to the full replanting of the area by 2012. This collaborative effort involved schools, socio-civic groups, government agencies, and other organizations.
Dug Well (1917)
An empty well, dating back to 1917, stands in the town plaza with the inscription “P. Gumban… Mpal. President.” This well marks the historical event when Petronilo Gumban, the Municipal President of Jaro, officially designated Leganes as an arrabal (subdivision) of Jaro on January 1, 1916.
The well is located in Barangay Poblacion, Leganes, Iloilo.

Leganes Garden Club
The Leganes Garden Center showcases a variety of flowering and ornamental plants. Managed by the Leganes Garden Club, the center was recognized as the Most Outstanding Ornamental Plant Grower in 2011 by the Iloilo Provincial Government.
ADPIMC (Woodcraft)
The Association of Differently-Abled Persons in Iloilo Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ADPI-MPC) was registered with the Cooperative Development Authority in May 2002, under Registration No. ILO-4162. The cooperative’s mission is to create meaningful livelihood and employment opportunities for its members, as well as to promote technologies that enhance their mobility.
It is located in Barangay Lapayon, Leganes, Iloilo.

Cry of Balintawak
The Cry of Balintawak Monument, often referred to as the Bonifacio Monument, has stood at the heart of Leganes since April 1, 1950. It was donated by former Leganes Municipal Mayor Martin Jaen, who also oversaw its construction. The monument honors the brave efforts of the Katipuneros, led by Andres Bonifacio, in their fight for the country’s sovereignty. The Cry of Balintawak marked a pivotal moment in Philippine history, symbolizing the Filipinos’ united stand against the Spanish colonizers when they tore their cedulas in defiance.
The monument is located in Barangay Poblacion, Leganes.
Leganes is more than just a town—it is a vibrant tapestry of culture, faith, history, and natural beauty. From the lively festivals that honor its heritage to the serene eco-parks and historic landmarks that tell stories of its past, Leganes offers unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re sailing in the Biray Paraw Festival, exploring the mangroves at LIKE, or marveling at the enduring devotion in the Saad Festival, Leganes invites you to celebrate its essence and leave with cherished memories.