The Panay Landing Memorial marks spot where American troops landed on March 18, 1945 on the beaches of Parara, Tigbauan to begin the liberation of Panay Island. The Japanese garrison on Panay was only 2000 to 2350 soldiers. American soldiers came ashore to be greeted by Philippine guerrillas “stiff in starched khaki and resplendent in ornaments.” By the time American troops landed, the well-organized resistance fighters were in control of most of the island.
The American 40th Division expanded the beachhead rapidly and ran into no serious resistance until it approached the outskirts of Iloilo City. On March 20th the troops entered Iloilo City and not one Japanese was found.
Source: History of United States Naval Operations in World War II Vol. XII.
The monument is just off the National Highway in Parara, west of Tigbauan proper.
The memorial was completely rebuilt for the 65th anniversary of the landing on March 18, 2010
The old historical plaque was used on the rebuilt memorial.
The shape of the new memorial suggests a ship.
Parara Beach where US troops landed to liberate Panay Island, March 18, 1945
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November 15, 2011 at 12:01 am
Hello… Im a native of parara sur where the famous landmark of Gen. Douglas Mc Arthur was landed in our seashore. my father and mother as well my brother was lived, even i was already stayed and work as PNP in bacolod city I always back in my barangay Parara sur, hope someday i well served my hometown.
November 14, 2011 at 11:56 pm
i’m a native of parara sur, tigbauan, eventhought I stayed at silay city negros occidental, i always back in my barangay and recall my youth days in my barangay, hope someday i will served my town of tigbauan, iloilo.
August 22, 2010 at 9:06 am
I am a proud part-time resident of Parara Sur and I am very happy that the Memorial has been refurbished. My wife and I are looking forward to returning to our home in Parara Sur in a few months Oh go Parara Wildcats!!!!!
September 17, 2009 at 6:45 am
Sure, you’re welcome to link to http://
Glad to hear the Parara memorial will be restored. Good luck.
Bob and Carol
September 16, 2009 at 10:39 pm
Hello…..i chanced upon your website while browsing the internet for possible links to our municipal official website which was just recently built recently by our well-meaning staff at the municipal office. will it be alright for us to post a link to your site at our newly opened website? we want our constituents to have the opportunity to explore our hometown the best possible way. Thanks!
Pls visit our site http://www.tigbauan-iloilo.com for more updates on our town.
Also, rest assured that the administration of Mayor Torres is in the process of improving our historical Parara landmark. Thank you.