Iligan City The land of majestic Waterfalls
Iligan City, Located in Lanao del Norte, Northern Mindanao. It is considered the industrial center of the south. To get here, you can fly from Manila to Cagayan De Oro, then take a one hour bus ride to Iligan.
Iligan is derived from Ilihan, the name given to the city by the Higa-onon-on of the tribes inhabiting this part of Mindanao. Ilihan literally means "fortress of defense" as the earlier inhabitants often faced attacks from other tribes and pirates. The harbor, ideally situated on Iligan Bay, used to serve as a lookout point.
Iligan is also known for its numerous waterfalls, the most famous of which is the Maria Cristina Falls, which is the main source of power for the surrounding districts and nearby provinces. Only 9 kilometers from the city, you can reach it by taking a jeepney ride from the pier to the Agus Bridge. From here, you can walk the rest of the way for about half an hour. The falls is 320 feet high and plunges into the torrential Agus River. Swimming here is dangerous. But you can get a good view of the falls from the Agus Bridge, where a path and concrete steps lead straight to the waterfall. Aside from this attraction, you will be awed by the thick, undisturbed virgin forest around you.
Tinago Falls or Hidden Falls in Barangay Buru-un is another interesting sight. It is perhaps among the most beautiful waterfalls in Mindanao. It is 13 kilometers from the center of Iligan City. There are exactly 379 steps that will lead you to the falls, hidden deep within lush forests. From an elevation of 420 feet, its ice-cold waters crash into a depth of an estimated 60 feet. You can take a swim in its big, natural pool, although you will be deafened by the fall's roaring sound.
On the southeastern side and just below the city hall on Buhanginan Hill, is the Anahaw Ampitheater. Cultural presentations, sports tournaments, and other social activities are often held here.
In the city, there are plenty of hotels and restaurants that serve a wide choice of food and cuisine. Downtown Iligan is lined with supermarkets, novelty shops, and department stores. Several stores in the city also sell Maranao handicrafts and native products.
Every September 27th, Iligan City celebrates the "Kasadya", in honor of Michael the Archangel. It is characterized by street dancing participated in by different schools, civic organizations, and ethnic groups. It is a showcase of Iliganon tradition depicting historical, cultural, and religious aspects, group competition of tribal dances, and presentation of a religious stage play.
