Passi City, Iloilo, Philippines

Passi City, Iloilo is within Region VI – Western Visayas, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Passi City

• As of the 2020 Census, Passi City had a population of 88,873.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 80,544, reflecting a steady growth rate over five years.
• Passi City is historically home to the Panay Bukidnon (Suludnon) indigenous group, particularly in upland barangays. Known for their binanog dance, oral epics, and intricate weaving, they continue to preserve their cultural identity through community rituals and education.
• The major dialect spoken is Kinaray-a, with Hiligaynon also widely used in commerce and education. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Passi City

• Passi City is located in the central part of Panay Island, within the Province of Iloilo in the Western Visayas Region (Region VI). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 11.1°N latitude and 122.63°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 251.39 square kilometers, making it the largest component city in Iloilo by land area. Its topography includes fertile plains, rolling hills, and river systems, notably the Jalaur River. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The Passi City Hall is located in Barangay Bacuranan, which also houses the Passi City College and other civic institutions.
• Most people reach Passi City via land transport. It is approximately 50 kilometers north of Iloilo City and accessible by bus and jeepney through the Iloilo-Capiz Road. The nearest airport is Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan, about 45 minutes away. The closest seaport is in Iloilo City, reachable within 1.5 hours by road.

Tourist Attractions of Passi City

• Passi Church (St. William the Hermit Parish): A Spanish-era church built in the 18th century, known for its coral stone façade and heritage architecture.
• Jalaur River: A scenic river ideal for eco-tourism, fishing, and community-based river cruises.
• Agri-Tourism Farms: Passi is home to sugarcane plantations, rice fields, and fruit orchards that offer farm tours and local produce.
• Passi City Plaza: A landscaped civic space featuring monuments, fountains, and cultural installations.
• Pintados de Pasi Festival: Held every March, this vibrant celebration features street dancing, body painting, and cultural performances that honor the city’s warrior heritage and agricultural roots.

Economy of Passi City

• Passi City is a major agri-industrial hub in Iloilo Province. Its economy is anchored in:
  • Sugarcane production: Home to one of the largest sugar mills in Panay Island.
  • Rice and corn farming: Fertile plains support year-round cultivation.
  • Fruit processing: Mangoes, pineapples, and bananas are processed locally for domestic and export markets.
  • Retail and services: The city’s strategic location supports trade and logistics for northern Iloilo.
• While city-specific GDP data is limited, Passi contributes significantly to Iloilo Province’s economy, which posted a GDP of ₱145.62 billion in 2024.

Educational Institutions of Passi City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Passi City College: A public institution offering programs in education, business, agriculture, and IT. Located in Barangay Bacuranan, it benefits from free tuition under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.
  • Passi Trade School: A public vocational college offering certificate programs in automotive, electronics, and hospitality services.
  • Nearby Institutions: Students also attend universities in Iloilo City such as West Visayas State University, Central Philippine University, and Iloilo Science and Technology University.

History of Passi City

• Passi traces its origins to pre-Hispanic times, with early settlements established by Malay migrants. The name “Passi” is believed to have come from a Spanish explorer’s encounter with a local woman winnowing rice, who replied “Pasi” when asked about the place—referring to the unhusked rice in her basket.
• During the Spanish colonial period, Passi was organized into a pueblo and became a center for agriculture and trade. Its strategic location along the Jalaur River made it a vital link between coastal and upland communities.
• Passi played a role in World War II as a quartermaster depot for the United States Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE), supplying food to troops resisting in Bataan via Capiz. It briefly served as the capital of Iloilo Province during the Japanese occupation in 1942.
• On January 30, 1998, Republic Act No. 8469 was signed into law, converting the Municipality of Passi into a component city. The cityhood was ratified on March 14, 1999. Today, Passi is known as the “Sweet City in the Heart of Panay,” blending agricultural strength with cultural pride.

Elected Officials of Passi City

• As of the 2025 elections, Passi City is led by:
  • Mayor: Stephen A. Palmares
  • Vice Mayor: Elyzer C. Chavez
  • Representative (4th District of Iloilo): Ferjenel G. Biron
  • City Councilors: Katherine D. Palmares, Mario A. Hidalgo III, Bonifacio P. Barbero, Paul Girard A. Panes, Jovi A. Palmares, Renz Carlo P. Palma, Cenonito S. Pama, Joe Divin M. Palencia, Ramon Andrei P. Pantin, Pedro P. Sumagpao Jr.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Passi City Election Results.

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