Sara

Nestled in the northern plains of Iloilo, Sara is a vibrant municipality known for its golden rice fields, rich cultural heritage, and charming rural life. Once a major sugar-producing area in Panay, Sara has evolved into a peaceful yet progressive town that beautifully balances tradition and development.

One of Sara’s most prominent landmarks is the St. John the Baptist Parish Church, a centuries-old stone church that stands as a testament to the town’s deep Catholic roots. For a touch of nature, locals love the Baras Bird Sanctuary, a serene refuge for various migratory and native birds perfect for eco-tourists and photography lovers.

Nearby, you’ll also find Tumalog Falls (yes, Iloilo has its own version!), a scenic, lesser-known waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Looking for a peaceful escape? Sara offers rural farm experiences, such as rice field walks, carabao rides, and local fishing activities in barangays like Anoring and Damires. Nature enthusiasts and hikers can head to Sitio Cueva, where natural caves and limestone formations await exploration.

Sara’s culture is deeply rooted in Hiligaynon traditions. People here are naturally hospitable, family-oriented, and hardworking. The language spoken is primarily Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), peppered with some Kinaray-a and Tagalog in daily conversation.

No visit to Sara is complete without trying native Ilonggo dishes such as KBL (Kadyos, Baboy, Langka), Laswa, and the town’s own twist on batchoy. Street vendors sell tasty snacks like ibos (sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaves), baye-baye, and sweet banana treats during local gatherings.

Every June, the town comes alive with the Hirinugyaw Festival, a celebration of unity and thanksgiving filled with colorful parades, dance competitions, and cultural shows. Drum beats, bamboo instruments, and native chants echo throughout the streets, creating a true fiesta atmosphere.

Traditional rondalla music still finds its place in local events, but you’ll also hear modern Ilonggo love songs and acoustic covers from local youth bands during barangay festivities and open-mic nights. Music is a shared love in Sara uniting young and old alike.

Sara is known for its agricultural abundance, particularly rice and sugarcane, and its community spirit that prioritizes unity, faith, and resilience. It’s a town that charms you not with skyscrapers, but with stories, smiles, and scenic simplicity.