Others believe that the name is a Spanish corruption of the Hiligaynon word biya-biya, as the area was originally considered a neglected patch of land that served mostly as a camping ground for city sophisticates and absentee landlords.

Others claim that the town was named after a Spanish governor-general, Manuel Pavia y Lay, Marquis of Novaliches, who eventually became a priest after his short tenure in the Philippines from 1853 to 1854.

[6] The last theory seems to be supported by circumstantial historical evidence: it was also in 1862 that an independent parish dedicated to Saint Monica was established by an Augustinian friar, Policarpio Minayo.

Quite significantly, the church design was apparently inspired by the ancient royal arched basilica of San Michele Maggiore in Pavia, Italy—minus the front columns.

Archaeological excavations at a Chinese burial ground in Cabugao Sur have provided evidence of these early settlements, suggesting a population of around 200 to 400.

During the Spanish Colonial Era, Pavia officially separated from the town of Jaro and was established as an independent entity in 1848.

It is bordered by the Iloilo City districts of Jaro and Mandurriao to the east and south, respectively; the towns of Leganes to the northeast; Santa Barbara to the north; San Miguel to the west; and Oton to the southwest.

It serves as an agricultural-industrial center, hosting companies like Vitarich Corporation and New Panay Agri-ventures in Cabugao Sur, Pavia.

The presence of these commercial centers contributes to the town's economic growth and provides convenient shopping options for residents.

The newly opened Holy Mary Women and Children's Hospital offers healthcare services to the community.

Spanning 43 hectares (110 acres), it will house corporate and business process outsourcing (BPO) offices, hotels, residential areas, a mall, and a stadium.

[25] The town's century-old pottery industry in Barangay Pandac and Jibao-an continues to thrive, showcasing traditional craftsmanship amidst flower and bonsai gardens.

Pottery makers create various items using the open pit firing method, including pots, stoves, drinking jars, and water containers.

Its interior and exterior walls are made entirely of red-bricks, making it the only existing brick-constructed church in the island of Panay.