Seafoods and capiz shells from Roxas City

What is Roxas City Famous For?

Roxas City is known for being the Seafood Capital of the Philippines—and trust me, it lives up to the name. Having lived here for more than a decade, I’ve enjoyed some of the best seafood feasts with crabs, oysters, mussels, and the prized diwal (Angel’s wings). But Roxas City isn’t just about seafood. It’s also a place where history, nature, and culture come together to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re savoring a meal by the beach, cruising along the river, or wandering through heritage landmarks, this city offers something for everyone.

The Seafood Capital of the Philippines

Here in Roxas City, seafood isn’t just a meal—it’s part of our identity. Mornings at the public market are filled with the vibrant sounds of fishermen selling their fresh catch. You’ll find crabs, lobsters, tahong (mussels), and oysters all ready to be turned into delicious meals.

A trip to Baybay Beach is a must, where you can enjoy grilled seafood by the sea. I love ordering a plate of diwal and talaba (oysters), paired with a refreshing drink, while listening to the sound of the waves. If you’re lucky, you might catch a seafood cookout during the Sinadya sa Halaran festival in December—a celebration of food, music, and tradition.

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Don’t forget to try chicken binakol, a native chicken soup simmered with coconut water, or inubaran nga manok, cooked with banana pith. These dishes highlight the unique flavors of our local cuisine, making them worth every bite.

A Glimpse into Roxas City’s Past

Roxas City is not just about food; it’s also steeped in history and culture. I pass by the Old Roxas City Cathedral regularly, a structure built in 1693, still standing strong as a symbol of faith. The Capiz Provincial Capitol and Roxas City Bandstand have hosted countless events over the years, becoming icons of the community.

A favorite place of mine is the Ang Panublion Museum, which was originally a water tank but now serves as a museum showcasing our heritage. When friends visit, I always recommend this stop to understand how our city transformed over time—from its early roots to its renaming in 1951 to honor President Manuel Roxas.

We also take pride in preserving our traditional fishing methods—like surambao, siguin, and pukot—which are still practiced by local fishermen today. Seeing them cast their nets at sunrise is like watching history come to life.

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Natural Attractions and Adventures Await

When I need a peaceful escape, I head to Palina River or Cadimahan River. Both rivers offer unique bamboo raft tours, where you can rent a private raft and enjoy a relaxing cruise. Some cruises even come with foot massages or a picnic stop on a sandbar. It’s the perfect way to unwind while connecting with nature.

Of course, Baybay Beach is where I spend most of my weekends. Unlike crowded beaches, Baybay offers a quiet charm where you can enjoy the sea breeze and fresh seafood in one of the many shoreline restaurants. The Sibuyan Sea provides a stunning backdrop, especially during sunset, when the sky turns into shades of orange and pink.

Our landscape is equally captivating, with rolling hills, fishponds, and coastal promontories. Eco-tours offer a chance to see wildlife up close, and if you’re lucky, you might spot egrets or other birds quietly nesting by the ponds.

Capiz Shell Craftsmanship: From Sea to Stunning Decor

Capiz shells used as home decor

Another thing that makes Roxas City special is our Capiz shell industry. These translucent shells, called pi-os by locals, are crafted into beautiful home decor items—lamps, windows, and jewelry. I’ve visited workshops where artisans carefully shape these shells into stunning products sold worldwide.

What I love most is how these shells are also used locally. Many homes in the area have Capiz-shell windows, allowing sunlight to filter in beautifully during the day. Buying these products isn’t just about taking home a souvenir—it’s about supporting local craftsmanship and preserving our heritage.

Why Roxas City Should Be on Your Travel List?

After more than a decade of calling Roxas City my home, I can confidently say that this city is much more than just the Seafood Capital. It’s a place where every meal tells a story, every landmark whispers history, and every adventure feels personal. Whether you’re here for the seafood, river cruises, or cultural landmarks, Roxas City offers moments that will stay with you.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic Filipino experience with a touch of history and adventure, Roxas City is the place to be. Pack your bags and discover it for yourself—because no matter where you’re from, you’ll always feel welcome here.

FAQs

What is Roxas City best known for?
Roxas City is famous for its seafood, heritage sites, and river cruises. It’s also known for its Capiz shell products and traditional fishing practices.

When is the best time to visit Roxas City?
The best time to visit is between November and May, when the weather is dry and the Sinadya sa Halaran festival takes place.

What are the must-visit places in Roxas City?
You should check out Baybay Beach, Ang Panublion Museum, Palina River Cruise, and the Old Roxas City Cathedral.

How can I travel to Roxas City?
You can fly directly to Roxas Airport from Manila or travel by land from Iloilo or Bacolod.

What local delicacies should I try in Roxas City?
Aside from seafood, don’t miss chicken binakol, inubaran nga manok, buko pie, and bayi-bayi.

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