Lapuz, Iloilo City

Lapuz is a district in Iloilo City, in the Philippine province of Iloilo, on the island of Panay, in the Western Visayas region. It is the smallest district by land area as well as the least populous district, with 31,747 people in the 2020 census.

Lapuz is home to significant transportation infrastructure that plays a vital role in regional connectivity and commerce. The Iloilo International Port Complex (IIPC) serves as a major maritime gateway, facilitating the movement of goods and cargo in and out of Iloilo City. Lapuz is also home to the Iloilo Fastcraft & RORO terminals, which serve as terminals for fastcraft and roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessels, respectively.

Etymology
The name "Lapuz" is derived from its older name "Lapus-lapus", which came from the Hiligaynon word "lapus", which means "to insert/pass through" because of its location.

History
Lapuz, initially a sub-district of La Paz during the Spanish regime, eventually gained its own district status on December 17, 2008. Prior to this, Lapuz had been a part of the larger La Paz district within Iloilo City.

The decision to establish Lapuz as a separate district was made by the Sangguniang Panglungsod (City Council) of Iloilo City. This resolution was passed to enable Lapuz to have its own dedicated police station and fire station, ensuring the provision of essential services to the local community.

Geography
Lapuz is the smallest district, covering 3.25 km2. It is 1.32 km from Iloilo City Proper, making it the nearest district to the city center. It's bordered by La Paz to the north and the City Proper to the west. It also faces eastward across the Iloilo Strait at Guimaras Island.

Barangays
The district of Lapuz has a total of 12 barangays.


 * Alalasan
 * Bo. Obrero
 * Don Esteban
 * Jalandoni Estate
 * Lapuz Norte
 * Lapuz Sur
 * Libertad
 * Loboc
 * Mansaya
 * Progreso
 * Punong
 * Sinikway