Iligan, Lanao del norte
Iligan City is a highly urbanized city located in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines. It is situated at coordinates 8°14′N 124°15′E and is geographically part of the province of Lanao del Norte. The city covers a total area of 813.37 square kilometers (314.04 square miles) and has an elevation ranging from sea level to 1,195 meters (3,921 feet) above sea level.
The city of Iligan has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1609. It was officially chartered as a city on June 16, 1950, and became a highly urbanized city on November 22, 1983. Iligan City is composed of 44 barangays, each with its own distinct characteristics and communities.
In terms of governance, Iligan City is led by the Sangguniang Panlungsod, with Frederick W. Siao serving as the current mayor and Marianito D. Alemania as the vice mayor. The lone district of Iligan City is represented by Celso G. Regencia in the Philippine House of Representatives.
As of the 2020 census, Iligan City had a population of 363,115 people and a density of approximately 450 inhabitants per square kilometer (1,200 inhabitants per square mile). The city is known as the "City of Majestic Waterfalls" due to its abundant natural attractions, including Tinago Falls, Maria Cristina Falls, and Mimbalot Falls.
Iligan City is classified as a first-class city in terms of income. Its economy is diverse, with industries such as hydroelectric power generation, agribusiness, manufacturing, and services contributing to its growth. The city has made efforts to reduce poverty, with a poverty incidence of 15.74% as of 2018.
The native languages spoken in Iligan City include Maranao, Cebuano, Binukid, and Tagalog. The city operates on Philippine Standard Time (UTC+8) and uses the ZIP code 9200. The area code for making phone calls to Iligan City is +63 (0)63. The official website of Iligan City is www.iligan.gov.ph, where visitors can find more information about the city and its services.
These are just a few of the things you can do in Iligan City. The city offers a mix of natural attractions, historical sites, and cultural experiences that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers.
- Visit Tinago Falls: Tinago Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iligan City. It is nestled in a deep ravine and requires a trek down a flight of stairs to reach. The waterfall is known for its stunning beauty and natural pool where visitors can swim.
- Explore Maria Cristina Falls: Another iconic waterfall in Iligan City is Maria Cristina Falls. It is often called the "twin falls" because the water cascades down two separate streams. The falls provide a scenic backdrop for photos and offer a glimpse of the city's natural beauty.
- Discover Mimbalot Falls: Mimbalot Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near the city center. It features multiple tiers of cascading water and lush surroundings. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the cool waters and immersing themselves in the refreshing atmosphere.
- Take a dip at Timoga Springs: Timoga Springs is a natural spring complex that consists of several pools and small waterfalls. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing. There are also cottages and picnic areas available for visitors to enjoy a leisurely day outdoors.
- Visit the Divine Mercy Shrine: The Divine Mercy Shrine is a religious landmark in Iligan City. It features a towering statue of Jesus Christ and provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The shrine offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas.
- Explore Ma. Cristina Ancestral House: For a glimpse into the city's history and heritage, visit the Ma. Cristina Ancestral House. It is a well-preserved ancestral home that showcases the lifestyle and architecture of the past. Guided tours are available to learn more about Iligan's cultural heritage.
- Discover the Macaraeg-Macapagal Ancestral House: Another historical landmark in Iligan City is the Macaraeg-Macapagal Ancestral House. This heritage house showcases the lifestyle and memorabilia of the Macapagal family, including former Philippine President Diosdado Macapagal.
- Enjoy local delicacies: Iligan City is known for its delicious local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to try Iligan's famous lechon (roasted pig) and the local delicacy called "cheding," which is a sweet and crunchy peanut brittle. You can also explore the city's vibrant food scene and try various local dishes.
- Visit the Iligan City Museum: The Iligan City Museum is a small museum that displays artifacts, historical items, and artworks related to Iligan City's culture and history. It provides insights into the city's past and the cultural diversity of the region.
- Go on a food trip at Timoga Food Park: Timoga Food Park is a popular spot in Iligan City for food enthusiasts. It offers a wide variety of food stalls and vendors selling local delicacies and international cuisines. It's a great place to satisfy your cravings and experience the local food scene.