Best known as the birthplace of ‘The Guy’ (better known as favorite former president Ramon Magsaysay), Iba is a provincial capital located at the center of a long stretch of coastal highway.
This entire region, the Zambales Coast, escapes the attention of most tourists. There’s plenty of coastline but little infrastructure, making this a good place to escape the crowds. The downside is that there’s little to keep visitors engaged. Iba’s beach boasts a few mid-range resorts that can be a good layover point for those traveling the coast.
Jungle trekking is the most popular organized activity, easily arranged through the front desk of your hotel. Most treks venture into the jungle, though it’s also possible to organize an excursion to Mount Pinatubo, the infamous volcano that last erupted in the 1990s.
The other major tourist attraction is the former residence of ‘The Guy.’ The house doesn’t attract many international tourists, but locals come in reliable numbers to learn more about the local legend.
Getting There & Away
Iba is about 4 hours’ drive from Manila, where tourists are ushered through the gates of the international airport. From Manila follow the North Luzon Expressway for 2 hours, 30 minutes to San Antonio, gateway to the Zambales Coast. From here it’s another 1 hour, 30 minutes’ drive to Iba. Buses and hire cars are available for the journey.
Things to Do
Iba Attractions
- Ramon Magsaysay’s house
-
The former president’s term was cut short by a tragic airplane crash in 1957. the house he was born and raised in is here in iba.
- Iba Beach
-
This gray-sand beach is tinged with eons of volcanic activity.