Once the Iloilo Provincial Jail, this century-old structure, built in 1911, has transformed into a treasure trove of history and culture as the National Museum-Western Visayas.
After serving as a jail for nearly a century, the building ceased operations in 2006 when inmates were transferred to a larger facility in Pototan. Left to deteriorate, it was revived through a collaboration between the Iloilo provincial government and the National Museum, culminating in its inauguration as a museum in 2018. The building was also recognized as an Important Cultural Property for its exceptional architectural and cultural significance, as noted in Museum Declaration No. 22-2017.
Today, the museum features fascinating permanent exhibits, including galleries on Western Visayas textiles, archeology, geology, and paleontology.
The museum’s charm extends beyond its exhibits. Located in the landscaped Iloilo Provincial Capitol Complex, it stands as a striking white structure along Bonifacio Drive, near Museo Iloilo and the Iloilo River Esplanade. Its glass dome bathes the central lobby in natural light, while the rooftop al fresco area offers serene views of the Iloilo River, historic landmarks, and vibrant cityscapes. Visitors can also admire the original watchtowers, a nod to its prison history.
The National Museum-Western Visayas is more than a cultural hub—it’s a stunning testament to the region’s rich heritage.
From Provincial Jail to Museum: The Transformation of the Iloilo Rehabilitation Center
The Iloilo Rehabilitation Center, originally known as the Iloilo Provincial Jail, was constructed in late 1911. Designed to accommodate no more than 150 inmates, the facility consisted of a single building built during the administration of Governor Ruperto Montinola.
The jail functioned as a penitentiary until World War II, when the Japanese Imperial Forces repurposed it as a detention center for prisoners of war, including American soldiers and Filipino captives. Eventually, the building was converted into a garrison during the Japanese occupation.
After the war, the facility resumed its role as a prison. Under the leadership of Governor Jose Zulueta, a barbed wire fence was installed to secure the compound and prevent escapes. Significant improvements followed during Governor Rafael Palmares’ administration. With Major Jose Perlas, Jr. as Provincial Warden, inmates contributed labor to enhance the facility. The barbed wire fence was replaced with concrete walls made of hollow blocks, a water tank was installed, and a canopy was built to protect inmates from the rain. Guards’ quarters were added to the rooftop, and the compound’s footpaths were paved.
To prevent escape attempts through underground passages, additional barbed wire was installed above the concrete fence. A wooden door was later added to the main gate to further reinforce security.
In 2018, after extensive rehabilitation efforts by the Province of Iloilo and the National Museum of the Philippines, the former jail was transformed into the National Museum-Western Visayas. Today, this historic building stands as a cultural landmark, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and history.