Ma-ayon

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Ma-ayon, officially the Municipality of Ma-ayon, is a 3rd class municipality in Capiz, Western Visayas, Philippines. It covers 142.32 square kilometers and has 32 barangays. In 2024, its population was 42,997, with a density of about 300 people per square kilometer. The town is about 32 kilometers from Roxas City and is bordered by Cuartero, Dumarao, Pontevedra, Panitan, and Iloilo.

Origin of the name
One popular story says Spanish soldiers, while asking for the place’s name, were told “Maayo man” (meaning harvest is good). The Spaniards then called the area El Pueblo de Maayon, and the name stuck.

History
Ma-ayon became a town in 1955 through Republic Act 1203 signed by President Ramon Magsaysay. It started with eight barrios and now has 32. The first mayor was Rafael M. Declaro Sr.; later leaders included Prudencio L. Alovera (1957–1971). The town was officially re-established as a separate municipality after years of effort.

Geography and economy
The landscape includes uplands and lowlands, with the Maayon River flowing through the area. The river area provides gravel and sand, and the hills (including Villa Flores) hint at mineral deposits. Agriculture, especially rice farming, is the main livelihood. The river also helped transport goods to markets in the past.

People and culture
Maayonans practice Hil-o Hil-o, a spirit of mutual assistance and cooperation. Local languages include Capisnon, Hiligaynon, and Tagalog.

Landmarks and attractions
- Handurawan Library and Museum, housed in a historic Gabaldon building from 1911.
- A shrine honoring Ramon Magsaysay for reviving the municipality.
- Mag-olot Falls Resort in Barangay Tapulang (Sitio Bailan Bato, in Salgan), about 7 kilometers from the town center.
- The area features scenic mountains, forests, and caves that attract visitors.

Education and government
The Maayon Schools District Office oversees all public and private schools in the municipality. The local government is led by Mayor Raymond D. Malapajo (since 2019) with Vice Mayor Jose C. Dapulaza and a municipal council.

Demographics and economy (quick facts)
- Population: 42,997 (2024)
- Households: around 10,700
- Poverty incidence: about 18.9% (2021)
- 2022 revenue: about 205.7 million PHP; assets: 385.7 million; expenditures: 196.6 million; liabilities: 39.38 million

Maayon blends natural beauty with a strong farming tradition and a history of community cooperation that shapes its daily life.