I am an Ilonggo- Born in Jaro. Iloilo

This is the 16th article of my blog series about the Philippines in connection with the Filipino-American History Month Celebration Here in the US.    It describes the term Ilonggo.  

I am a pure-blooded Ilonggo. I was born in Jaro, Iloilo. My childhood and teenaged years were spent in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, the ancestral home of my mother-member of the Balleza Clan. When I turned 26,  I went to the US with a student visa ( Ph.D- Graduate School). Later my family became permanent residents and become naturalized US citizens in 1972.  

The term "Ilonggo" is derived from "Ilong-ilong", the old name for Iloilo City, Panay. “Ilonggo” is considered to define a specific group of people whose ethnic origins are in the provinces of Iloilo, Guimaras, and Panay, while "Hiligaynon" defines the language and culture of the Ilonggo people.

The Hiligaynons, or the ``Ilonggos'', are a subgroup of people from the Visayan region who speak Ilonggo. It is interesting to note, however, that the different Western Visayans have distinct traits that add to their own beauties as cultures.

Are people from Negros in Ilonggos?

Many people from Negros can trace their family history back to Iloilo because of the sugar trade. That's one of the reasons why people from Negros would still identify themselves as Ilonggo. Strictly speaking, Hiligaynon is the language.

What is the attitude of Ilonggo?

Ilonggos are usually nonconfrontational. They don't want to offend, so they often talk with indirection, are fond of euphemism, and given to courtly language.

What is the tradition of Ilonggo?

The Ilongos observe many customs and traditions surrounding important life events like birth, baptism, courtship, marriage, death, and burial. Some beliefs include not allowing expectant mothers to look at people with disabilities and burying the placenta with books to influence the child's interests.

What is the ancestry of Ilonggo?

Similar to the majority of ethnolinguistic groups in the country, Ilonggos are Austronesian at their core but still carry with them elements of Negrito, Indic, Hàn Chinese, and Castilian culture. Ilonggos in Mindanao have also incorporated Lumad and Moro traditions into their culture, and vice versa.

What is the festival of Ilonggo people?

The Dinagyang Festival is a religious and cultural festival in Iloilo City, Philippines, held annually on the fourth Sunday of January in honor of Santo Niño, the Holy Child. It is one of the largest festivals in the Philippines, drawing hundreds of thousands to over a million visitors every year.

Religion and Culture

The majority of Ilonggos are Christians, specifically Roman Catholics, while some minorities are Aglipayans, Protestants, and Muslims. Interestingly, to this day, some Christian practices are still mixed with old Pagan Ilonggo traditions. As an example, Ilonggos would bathe their Santo Niño both as a ritual to summon rain and as a means of inviting good luck. This is due largely to Hiligaynon faiths having been eliminated during the Spanish era and hence surviving as Folk Catholicism.

Ilonggo cuisine has a reputation for being unique and flavorful. Some of the more popular Ilonggo dishes not only locally but also in the whole country include La Paz batchoy, a pork stew composed of pork innards, liver, and heart in a broth with noodles, and is topped with chicharron and garlic; pancit Molo, a wonton soup with dumplings; suman sa Ibos or Ibus, a rice cake wrapped in coconut leaves; and laswa, a vegetable soup with shrimp.

Source:Wikipedia

Meanwhile,  Did you know about the Manton de Manila?  

The Manton de Manila, or Manila Shawl, which became a staple in Spanish fashion—especially in Flamenco performances—actually originated in the Philippines!

These intricately embroidered shawls were brought to Spain via the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade during the Spanish colonial period.

The Spaniards admired the vibrant designs and craftsmanship of the shawls, which were made from silk and embroidered with floral patterns.

Over time, they incorporated the Manton de Manila into their own cultural attire, particularly in traditional dances like Flamenco.

This fascinating blend of Filipino artistry and Spanish culture showcases the Philippines' influence on global fashion trends.

Lastly, Did you know, When it comes to hospitality, Filipinos truly set the gold standard!

If you ever find yourself feeling unwelcome in a Filipino household, you might want to check your pulse—because you've likely done something terribly wrong!

Filipinos have a remarkable knack for making guests feel like part of the family, going above and beyond to ensure you feel at home. From generous servings of food to warm smiles and heartfelt conversations, their hospitality is second to none!

Meanwhile enjoy these photos of the Katague Clan- Mahjong Bonding time.

Mahjong with two Daughters, Dinah and Ditas with Carenna and Yuka

Mahjong with Dinah and Grand daughter Alix Katague and Husband Brendan Quinn