The 16.2 kilometer long Iloilo River starts in Oton at the Batiano estuary and traverses to Mandurriao, Molo, Arevalo, Lapaz and Lapuz before emptying its water into the Iloilo Straight.
Historically, Iloilo River has a role in molding Iloilo City to what it is now economically, environmentally and socially. It serves as a major sea transportation hub that receives 9,062 ship calls and at least 1.6 million passengers yearly. The 2,995 businesses along the river generates around USD 176 million in investments. Several commodities are transported thru it since the early times up to the present.
The river bank is home to 22 mangrove species and tilapias and other fish species including mud crabs.
These modern times, the river that has undergone rehabilitation and massive clean-up in the last few years is home to the Iloilo Paddlers Club, water activities like boating and is the major and natural complimenting body of the world famous Iloilo River Esplanade, a nine kilometer linear park that hosts several outdoor activities that include biking, jogging, walking and family outings.
It is said that one can never really claim to have set foot in Iloilo City without dropping by for a walk at the esplanade.