Escalante, city of the Philippines in the province of Negros Occidental
Escalante is a coastal city in Negros Occidental situated on a narrow strip of land facing the Tañon Strait. The city is organized into several barangays with local markets and shops, where about 100,000 residents live in a mix of rural farmland and residential areas.
Archaeological findings from the 1970s revealed settlements dating to the 12th century with artifacts from the Sung Dynasty, indicating trade contacts with Asia. Originally called Manlambus after a local fishing method, the settlement was renamed Escalante, established as a separate town in 1856, and officially became a city in 2001.
Hiligaynon is the main language spoken in the city, alongside Filipino and English in schools and businesses, reflecting local traditions and modern influences. Celebrations like the Manlambus Festival in May feature traditional music and dance that reconnect residents with their heritage and local identity.
The city is accessible by road from nearby towns of Sagay and Cadiz or by air via Cebu or Negros. It has warm and humid weather year-round with cooler months from December to March, so explore early in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are more comfortable.
Archaeological discoveries reveal that the area had trading connections with China as early as the 12th century, including Sung Dynasty artifacts like gold beads and ivory tools. This early international exchange suggests the city has a long history of connection with distant lands that often goes unnoticed by visitors.
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