Jaro District Plaza was designed in the late 19th century and was built under local supervision. By the 1930s, it was celebrated as one of the most beautiful plazas on Panay Island, known for its graceful arch, manicured hedges, elegant bandstand, and inviting benches. Its cultural significance led to conservation initiatives under the Heritage Law, which designated Jaro Plaza and several nearby landmarks as part of the city’s Cultural Heritage Tourism Zones. In the 2020s, a ₱20-million restoration project further revitalized the area, highlighted by the major repair of the iconic 29-meter Jaro Belfry, which was formally turned over to the local church and city government in 2022, marking a key milestone in preserving Jaro’s architectural heritage.

Currently, there are three significant monuments standing at the Plaza as tangible reminders of Jaro’s identity, pride, and historical legacy. Each monument offers a unique window into the district’s past, commemorating its heroes, its struggles, and its contributions to Philippine history.

1. Statue of Graciano López Jaena

At the heart of the plaza stands the statue of Graciano López Jaena, the illustrious Ilonggo journalist, reformist, and founder of La Solidaridad. Born in Jaro, López Jaena became one of the leading voices of the Propaganda Movement, advocating for reforms during the Spanish colonial period. The monument honors not only his brilliance and patriotism, but also his deep connection to the district where he grew up. The statue serves as a focal point of the plaza and symbolizes Jaro’s enduring legacy of producing leaders who shaped national consciousness. The plaza’s renaming to Graciano López Jaena Park further underscores this tribute.

2. Panay War Memorial

The Panay War Memorial in Jaro District Plaza stands as a solemn tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Ilonggos who fought during World War II. Designed to honor soldiers, guerrilla fighters, and civilians who endured the hardships of the war, the monument serves as a powerful reminder of the region’s resilience during one of the most challenging periods in Philippine history. Set within the peaceful surroundings of the plaza, the memorial invites reflection and gratitude, allowing visitors to pause and remember the courage of those who defended the freedom of Panay and the nation. Its presence adds depth to the historical character of Jaro Plaza, transforming the park into not only a communal space but also a place of remembrance and national pride.

3. Shrine of Patrocinio Gamboa, the “Heroine of Jaro”

The newly installed shrine of Patrocinio Gamboa celebrates the courage and patriotism of a remarkable Ilongga often referred to as the “Heroine of Jaro.” Gamboa famously delivered the Philippine flag, the first one outside Luzon, to the headquarters of General Martin Delgado in Santa Barbara, ensuring it arrived in time for the inauguration of the revolutionary government. Her daring act became a defining moment in Iloilo’s revolutionary history. The shrine honors her legacy and shines a light on the essential, yet often overlooked, contributions of women to the Philippine struggle for independence.