Happy TravellerWelcome to Hinigaran, a first-class municipality located in the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines. With a population of 88,909 people according to the 2020 census, Hinigaran is a charming town that offers a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Join us as we explore the many wonders of Hinigaran and discover why this hidden gem should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
History:
Hinigaran was founded in 1765, and its early inhabitants were the aboriginal people called Mundos and Ambaks. When traders and settlers from Panay started moving in, the natives were driven to the mountains. The new settlers were called Tagahigad, and when the Spaniards came, the place was called Ginigaran from the word higad, but it was later spelled and pronounced as Hinigaran. The town was governed by Capitanes Municipales, Tenientes Absolato, and Cabeza de Barangays. When revolt against the Spanish Government broke out, Capitan Bibiano Gelvosa and his followers fought bravely against the Spaniards. He was the last Capitan Municipal when the Americans arrived.
Geography:
Hinigaran is politically subdivided into 24 barangays. The town is located 52 kilometers (32 mi) south from Bacolod and offers stunning landscapes, including the Talabahan Plantation, Linao Lake Farm Resort, and Hinigaran Sakura Tree.
Demographics:
The people in the town speak the Hiligaynon language (often called Ilonggo). Filipino and English are generally understood.
Economy:
Hinigaran’s major industry is agriculture and fishing, and the town produces Nylon shell, Capiz shell, Talaba, and firecrackers. The town has several malls and supermarkets, including Lopues Value Store, Prince Hypermart, Puregold, Melvas Grocery, DGarisson Mini Mart, Negros Grace Pharmacy Grocery Store, and Mercury Drug Store w/ Grocery Store. Upcoming malls/supermarkets include Metro Gaisano Mall, CityMall, Savemore, and Gaisano Grand Mall. The town also has several banking institutions, including BDO, RCBC, Producers Bank, Banko (a subsidiary of BPI), and Land Bank (Coming soon).
Education:
Hinigaran has 25 elementary schools, seven secondary schools, and two colleges, including Central Philippines State University – Hinigaran Campus (2011) and Hinigaran Polytechnic State College.
Tourism:
Hinigaran offers several tourist attractions, including San Jose Muscovado Sugar Mill, Barangay Pilar World War II Marker, Mary Magdalene Church, Paradiso del Sur Beach Resort, Mini Rizal Park, Canonoy Beach Resort, Bulobito-on Beach Resort, Makikiling Point Beach Resort, Senator Esperidion Guanco Bridge, Espiso Beach Resort, Tagda Pier, and Linao Lake Farm Resort. The town celebrates its town fiesta on April 30 (Hinugyaw Festival) and its patronal fiesta on July 22 (Kampana Festival) in honor of Saint Mary Magdalene.
References:
Remy Presas- Father of Martial Arts
We hope you enjoyed this guide to Hinigaran and that it has inspired you to visit this beautiful town. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Hinigaran has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets!
