Probably one of the less maintained attractions in the city of Iloilo in the Philippines, the Graciano Lopez Jaena Park (also known as Jaro Plaza) is one of the many parks located in the island of Panay. It was constructed years ago to honor Graciano López Jaena (1856 – 1896), a Filipino journalist, orator, and revolutionary from Iloilo. He is well known for his written work, La Solidaridad (The Solidarity).
Graciano López Jaena’s parents sent him to Jaro which had been opened under the management of Governor General Carlos María de la Torre. Whilst studying at a seminary institute, López Jaena served as a secretary to an uncle named Claudio López who was the honorary associate consul of Portugal in Iloilo. His dream of becoming a doctor influenced his parents that this was the better path to take. Graciano López Jaena sought enrollment at the University of Santo Tomas but was denied admission for the reason that the required Bachelor of Arts degree was not offered at the seminary in Jaro. However he was appointed to the San Juan de Dios Hospital as an apprentice. Unluckily, due to financial troubles, his parents could not afford to keep him in Manila. He returned to Iloilo and practiced medicine in communities.
Because of his help to the folks in Iloilo, the park at Jaro was made in his respect. The Graciano Lopez Jaena Statue now stands at the west side of the park fronting the Monument of the Ilonggos Veteran during World War II. On the east side is the large gazebo with his name printed on top of it.
Graciano Lopez Jaena Park
The Graciano Lopez Jaena Park is located near the Jaro Belfy across the Jaro Cathedral. From the International Airport of Iloilo, take a van going to SM Supermaket-Jaro. I suggest you visit the Jaro Cathedral first, and then cross the street going to the large belfry. From there you can take a short peek at the Graciano Lopez Jaena Park. Hopefully when you visit the place it’s already restored to it’s once beautiful ambiance. Only the Feast of our Lady of Candles invigorates the Park with the annual Agricultural and Industrial Fair, coronation of Jaro Fiesta Queen and other activities.
Statue of Graciano Lopez Jaena
Bank inside an old house located across the park
Graciano Lopez Jaena
Landscape of the Graciano Lopez Jaena Park
Monument of the Ilonggos Veteran during World War II
Toys for sale inside the park
Small Chapel inside the park
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About the author
Mark Anthony Maranga is an Educator-Parent to his 3 Homeschooling Kids. He sells Ice Cream and Balloons in Mandaue City, Cebu. Exploring the Philippines tourist attractions together with his family is his passion; they are learning without borders.
