Valladolid, a charming town in Negros Occidental, traces its origins back to 1860. Originally named Inabuyan, inspired by the month of the same name characterized by gentle winds and light rains, it was renamed by a Spanish settler who honored his hometown in Spain, Valladolid.
During the Spanish era, it flourished as one of the province’s most prosperous towns, evidenced by the grand church and convent built by the Recollect Missionaries in 1851. Valladolid’s fertile lands earned it the title “Rice Granary of Negros Occidental,” with 90% of its arable land dedicated to rice farming, yielding over half a million cavans annually. It is also renowned for its summer fruits and the seasonal delicacy, Diwal (Angel Wings Clam).
The town’s history is deeply
intertwined with the arrival of settlers from Guimaras, Panay, and Cebu, who
introduced sugar cultivation, spurring economic growth. The original
inhabitants, the Aetas, were displaced to the uplands as settlers and colonizers
arrived. Valladolid played a significant role in Negros Occidental’s social,
spiritual, and political development, even influencing the 1935 presidential
election when the Aglipayan sect supported a candidate against Manuel L.
Quezon.
Today, Valladolid celebrates its
rich heritage through the Pasundayag Festival, a vibrant thanksgiving event
honoring its patroness, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, featuring street dancing
and cultural showcases. The town remains a testament to resilience, progress,
and cultural pride.
Land Marks:
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, established in 1851 by the
Recollect Missionaries, is a testament to Valladolid's prominence during the
Spanish era. Renowned as the largest church in the province at the time, its
grand structure and adjoining convent reflect the town's prosperity and
influence.
Balay Dolid, the Valladolid Community Museum, is a treasured
ancestral home of the Ykalina family. It showcases the town's vibrant cultural
heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
For nature lovers, Sunset Boulevard is a must-visit. This
serene spot along the Guimaras Strait offers breathtaking views of the sunset,
with the soothing sound of waves lapping against the seawall creating a
tranquil atmosphere.
At the heart of the town lies the Century-old Acacia Haven at public plaza,
where 32 towering Acacia trees planted by the first town official, Ykalina,
provide shade and a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike.
Lastly, the Relic of an 18th-Century Graveyard stands as a
historical landmark. Reserved for the Ilustrados, or the elite of that era,
this 3-hectare site is enclosed by coral reef stones, exuding a timeless and
classic charm.
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