Sunburst Park Iloilo — Attraction in Iloilo City

Sunburst Park in Iloilo City is a compact yet historically significant public space located directly in front of the stately Iloilo Customs House along Calle Real, at the heart of the city’s heritage district. Once known as Plaza de Aduana, it was renamed in honor of the U.S. Army 40th Infantry “Sunburst” Division, which played a crucial role in liberating Panay during World War II. This historical connection gives the park a deeper purpose beyond being a green space — it serves as a living memorial to the city’s resilience during wartime. The park’s revitalization features patterned paving radiating from a central sunburst motif, landscaped garden beds, and mature trees that offer refreshing shade. Benches are arranged to provide rest and a perfect view of the Customs House, making it a popular spot for heritage photography. Locals and tourists alike visit for short breaks, casual conversations, or to include it in walking tours that connect Calle Real and Plaza Libertad. The park also plays a role in festivals like Dinagyang, serving as a gathering point during city celebrations. While generally clean and welcoming, some visitors may notice the presence of a few street dwellers in and around the park. This highlights the need for the local government not only to maintain the space but also to address the welfare of these individuals with compassion and sustainable support. Adding historical information panels, improved evening lighting, and extra seating could further enhance the park’s appeal. Modest in size but rich in character, Sunburst Park bridges Iloilo’s storied past with its vibrant present, offering both a place of rest and a reminder of the city’s...

it was the former Iloilo grandstand, wherein almost all the city events were being held. At the city center hub. Nice for relaxation when sun is down. wide open park. ilonggos should maintain its cleanliness and take good care of the plants sorrounding the park and the whole environment. Dinagyang festival always starts here,when it was still the iloilo grandstand. But this year, it was already moved just nearby at the Dinagyang grandstand, facing the mueley looney park. Iloilo city is an amazing city, prosperous and very safe. Iloilo province offers a lot of tourist spots too. People are...

Really loved how the old Iloilo grandstand was converted into a small city park. Highlights of this park include a memorial to the brave Ilongos who fought during World War 2 and a statue of General Peralta who was the leader of Filipino Guerrillas on Panay during the war. A nice park to both meet up, relax...