Since the introduction of relaxation and vacation, Liloan has been known for domestic tourism. Its white beaches are long been cherished by the patrons for swimming and sunbathing. For sea lovers, it is a favorite weekend destination and for summer escapes.
Also, Liloan is synonymous to the word “Rosquillos”. The production of such delicious delicacy started way back 1907 and has become favorites for all ages. For pasalubong, no better choices but the original rosquillos from Liloan.
In awareness of the “One Town, One Product” program, wherein every town should promote at least one product, it would surely be rosquillos and a festival is celebrated every year in thanksgiving a a tribute to its patron saint.
Some of Liloan’s Must-See Attractions:
Rosquillos
These home-made cookies, formed into ringlets have always been in top demand for pasalubong. Its delicious taste in crisp appealed to all ages, children to adults. The secret of the making of such cookies remained unrevealed and only Titay’s Liloan Rosquillos is capable of making such internationally-known delicacy.
To heed Gov. Gwen Garcia’s call for each town to have its own festival to celebrate local products or culture, for sure, it would be rosquillos in Liloan. The festival is celebrated every 29th and 30th days of May.
The Bagacay Point Lighthouse
This historic lighthouse is probably the best known landmark in the municipality of Liloan. It is sometimes dubbed as the “light of the north” whose light can be seen 17 nautical miles away, bright enough to become a beacon for the seafarers.
The lighthouse was originally constructed by the Spanish. But the current tower, which is still in active use until today, was erected in 1904 by the order of William Howard Taft. It is not only a mere landmark but a national heritage structure for the country.
Standing proudly at the over a cliff in Barangay Catarman, the lighthouse is one of the oldest structures in the province. The tower measures 72 feet tall. For Liloanons, it is a symbol of hope for light to shine over the town and its people.
Bantayan Sa Hari
Overlooking the Mactan Channel is the Bantayan Sa Hari or a watchtower. Built during the Spanish regime, the Liloan watchtower may be part of the series of watchtowers built in the coastal arras of Cebu to thwart Moros’ sudden attacks. Standing tall on a cliff in Barangay Calero, it served its purpose by giving forewarning to its people about the incoming raiders.
Sometimes, this is erroneously identified as the old lighthouse built by the Spanish. Besides, it stands next to the famous lighthouse built by the Americans. But its structure is more like a watchtower than a lighthouse. Today, with bushes growing tall in it, the tower is the lone forefront to the background of blue sea and skies.
San Fernando Rey Parish Church
This Liloan church is considered one of the oldest walled roofed structures in Cebu. Spaniards built this centuries-old church as they promulgated Christianity over the island which was their most important mission. The church was named after their King, Ferdinand III. He was called “Defender of the Church and of the Earth”. His heroic deeds saved many.
What makes this church unique from the other church in Cebu is the fact that it faces the west, to the mountains. Other churches on the contrary face the sea to the east.
The bay has been and will remain as the most enchanting part of the existence of Liloan as a town. Not just the whirlpool found at the mouth of the bay that give birth to the name of the town “lilo”, assorted mythologies about the bay are thought-provoking. Everyone has stories to tell.
This huge 100-hectare shallow tidal lagoon contains mangrove swamps, fishponds and two islets. Its waters flow from the Camotes Sea through a channel that measures 20 meters wide. Diversity of animal life can be found here: marine creatures like fishes, sea urchins and seashells and birds taking refuge in the abundance of foodstuffs.
Sunset here provides inner peace for weary souls.
River In Mulao
Connecting Liloan and nearby Compostela is the Mulao River, hidden behind the tall mountains. Naturally picturesque with its soothing crystal clear waters and aged-old huge boulders make this river a must for those who are addicted to nature. The peace and tranquility of the place is ideal for those who seek repose away from the urban world.
The river does not only provides fertile for agriculture and refreshing baths but it also spawned number of legendary tales making it more fascinating. For eco-tourists, this is one of the best surprises of Liloan.
Suba Bridge
Another prominent feature of Liloan is the Bridge where the famous whirlpool can be perceived beneath it. It connects two barangays: Poblacion and Catarman. It will always be mystical, idyllic for peace seekers, a perfect place reflecting, watching the moon rise or the sun sets.
