ILOILOS HIDDEN PARADISE Cabugao Gamay is the most photographed islet on Islas de Gigantes for its rock formations, white beach and clear waters. NESTOR P. BURGOS JR./INQUIRER VISAYAS

The Inquirer is running a series of articles on the countrys tourism crown jewelssomehow uncut but equally sparkling and surprising as the usual vacation haunts. The articles will appear three times a week during the summer months. Please send us your own hot go-to discoveries to summer by. Text 0917-8177586 for details.Ed.

CARLES, IloiloDespite its name, travelers wont find any giant in this group of islands in northern Iloilo.

According to folklore, Islas de Gigantes got its name from the inhabitants who once roamed the islands and were about nine feet tall. The folk belief is seemingly supported by the sight of large wooden coffins found on the island that some locals say were used by the early settlers.

But more than the mythical stories, Gigantes Islands has drawn an increasing number of travelers with its isolated and pristine white-sand beaches and coves, crystal-clear waters, majestic rock formations, storied caves and other attractions.

It has been described as Iloilos hidden paradise getaway even as its fame continues to grow in recent years.

During the recent Holy Week, some 500 tourists flocked to Gigantes Norte, the main jump-off point in exploring the islands. The number represented a leap from the hundred or so visitors in previous years.

10 islands

Most of the tourists had to stay in tents because there were not enough rooms to accommodate them, according to Josephine Decano, resort manager of Gigantes Hideaway, one of seven resorts on the islands.

There has been a marked increase in the number of guests, mostly because of accounts from those who have been here, Decano said.

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Paradise found on islands of giants