When the Spanish landed on the island of Panay in 1566, they were surprised to find an Iloilo that was rich and prosperous. Chinese and Muslim traders had made their way to the peaceful island harbor hundreds of years before to barter silk, pottery and gold. To the wide-eyed colonists, the island of Panay was as bustling as it was beautiful.
Over the centuries, Iloilo and its surrounding towns of Jaro and Molo came to possess the most cosmopolitan of cityscapes: rows of shops selling the finest mercantile, towering cathedral spires, schools and banks, and unassuming mansions.
An appropriate setting befitting the many distinguished Filipino families who call Iloilo home.
Today, the Ilonggo's resilience is evidenced by its moral and physical landscape - homes and churches, now centuries old, are steadfast reminder of the convergence of values that have grown and abided here.
Thus it comes as no surprise that Iloilo is known for an abundance of ancestral homes. An abundance that bears witness to how indispensable the home was and continues to be to wards the nurturing of this convergence.
Spawned from this rich, historical background and inspired by the home's example. Isla Bank extends this role into its banking philosophy. Striving emulate the same functions and responsibilities, the home has ministered to through the centuries.