The Batabat and Punta Coral Reefs in Barbaza feature spectacular diversities of tropical fishes and distinct coral formations in vibrant colors. Considered as the highest peak in Panay, Mt. Nangtud offers unexplored waterfalls, wild-winding rivers and unnamed caves. Camp Eupre Forest and Orchard Resort will fill your eyes with fascinating wonders of nature. The 50-ft. Macalbag Waterfalls is surrounded by unchartered caves.
Year Founded : 1596 Land Area : 13,834 Hectares Classification : 5th Class Municipality No. of Barangays : 39 Barangays Zip Code : 5706
Long after the discovery of the Philippines by the Spaniards led by Ferdinand Magellan on March 16, 1521, there was already an established settlement in a place presumably now Barangay Esparar. In the later years however, the Moros from Palawan and Mindoro started coming to raid and plunder the inhabitants and oftentimes abducted beautiful maidens and men to be made slaves. Because of fear, the inhabitants moved to a much safer place, in a narrow strip of land just at the of Mt. Dumangsal. The site of the new settlement up to this day is called Igtara, but the population rapidly increased. The people felt that the place was already too small for them, so they decided to move down to a much wider plain. Unfortunately, sometime in the 18th century the settlement had suffered another drawback and through an order from Spanish Governor named Enrique Barboza, the people transferred to another site called Otngol which was at the time, a part of what is now the town of Laua-an.
Barbaza is 61.30 kilometers away from San Jose de Buenavista, accessible to all major transportations that travel from San Jose de Buenavista and Iloilo. Buses and vans are available in the municipality.
