REGION VI: WESTERN VISAYAS

I. Introduction

The Philippine Republic's Region VI, Western Visayas, comprises six provinces: Negros Occidental,
Guimaras, Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, and Aklan. Negros Occidental is part of the island of Negros, fourth largest of
the Philippine Islands. Guimaras is a separate island; the other four provinces share the island of Panay.The
center of regional office is in Iloilo City. Among the 16 cities in the region that make it as the region with the
highest number of cities, there are also 2 highly urbanized cities that make this up: Bacolod City and the Iloilo
City.

Administrative Divisions

Province City Municipality

Aklan Altavas, Balete, Banga, Batan, Buruanga, Ibajay,Kalibo

(Capital), Lezo, Libacao, Madalag, Makato, Malay, Malinao,
Nabas, New Washington,Numancia
Antique Anini-Y, Barbaza, Belison, Bugasong, Caluya, Culasi,
Hamtic, Laua-An, Libertad, Pandan, Patnongon, San Jose
(Capital), San Remigio, Sebaste, Sibalom, Tibiao, Tobias
Fornier (Dao), Valderrama
Capiz Roxas City (Capital) Cuartero, Dao, Dumalag, Dumarao, Ivisan, Jamindan, Ma-
Ayon, Mambusao, Panay, Panitan, Pilar, Pontevedra,
President Roxas, Sapi-An, Sigma, Tapaz
Negros Bacolod City (Capital), Binalbagan, Calatrava, Candoni, Cauayan, Enrique B.
Occidental Bago City, Cadiz City, Magalona, Hinigaran, Hinoba-An, Ilog, Isabela, La
Escalante City, Castellana, Manapla, Moises Padilla, Murcia, Pontevedra,
HimamaylanCity, Pulupandan, Salvador Benedicto, San Enrique, Toboso ,
Kabankalan City, La Valladolid
Carlota City, Sagay City,
San Carlos City, Silay City,
Sipalay City, Talisay City,
Victorias City
Iloilo Iloilo city Ajuy, Alimodian, Anilao, Badiangan, Balasan, Banate,
Barotac Nuevo, Barotac Viejo, Batad, Bingawan, Cabatuan,
Calinog, Carles, Concepcion, Dingle, Dueñ as, Dumangas,
Estancia, Guimbal, Igbaras, Janiuay, Lambunao, Leganes,
Lemery, Leon, Maasin, Miagao, Mina, New Lucena, Oton,
Pavia, Pototan, San Dionisi, San Enrique, San Joaquin, San
 Miguel, San Rafael, Santa Barbara, Sara, Tigbauan,
Tubungan, Zarraga
Guimaras Buenavista, Jordan (Capital), Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo,
Sibunag
Table1.Administrative divisions of Western Visayas.

The Western Visayas comprise of 11 regions, 16 cities, 98 municipalities, 3389 barangays

II. History

Regions first came into existence on September 24 of 1972, when the provinces of the Philippines were
organized into 11 regions by Presidential Decree No. 1 as part of the Integrated Reorganization Plan by
President Ferdinand Marcos. The provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo (including its then-subprovince of
Guimaras), and Negros Occidental were grouped together to form the Western Visayas region.

The province of Palawan was transferred to Region VI (Western Visayas) on May 23, 2005 by
Executive Order 429. The Department of the Interior and Local Government announced in June 2005 that the
transfer had been completed. However, Palaweñ os criticized the move, citing a lack of consultation, with most
residents in Puerto Princesa City and all municipalities but onepreferring to stay with Region IV-B.
Consequently, Administrative Order No. 129 was issued on August 19, 2005 to address this backlash.

This Order directed the abeyance of Executive Order 429 pending the approval of animplementation plan
for the orderly transfer of Palawan from Region IV-B to Region VI. Hence, Palawan is currently still part of
Region IV-B.

By virtue of Executive Order No. 183 issued on May 29 of 2015, by President Benigno Aquino III, the
province of Negros Occidental and its capital, Bacolod City, were both removed from Western Visayas in
order to form the Negros Island Region along withNegros Oriental.

But later regained Negros Occidental and its capital, Bacolod City back into Western Visayas on August 9,
2017 when President Rodrigo Duterte dissolved the Negros Island Region, revoking Executive Order No. 183,
s. 2015 through the signage of Executive Order No. 38, citing the reason of the lack of funds to fully establish
the NIR according to Benjamin Diokno, the Secretary of Budget and Management.

III. Physical Geography

a. Size of the Region

Western Visayas is located in

Central Philippines and lies between
two large bodies of water, namely; the
Sibuyan Sea and the Visayan Sea. The Region is composed of six provinces: Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras,
Iloilo and Negros Occidental. The Region has atotal land area of 20,223.2 sq km, or approximately 6.74
percent of the total land area of the Philippines.

Figure1.The figure shows the size of each provinces in Western Visayas.

Province Land Area

Aklan 1,953 sq. Km

Antique 2,522 sq. Km

Capiz 2,594.6 sq. Km

Iloilo 4,767 sq. Km

Guimaras 604.6 sq. Km
Negros Occidental 7,802 sq. Km
Total Land Area Below 20,223.2 sq km
Table2. It shows the size of the different provinces in WesternVisayas.

b. Territory

Region VI or Western Visayas is located in the Central Philippines with boundaries of the Visayan Sea
on the east, the Cuyo East Pass on the west, the Sibuyan Sea and Romblon on the north and the Cagayan
Island on the southwest. It has the coordinates of 11.0050° N,122.5373° E. It is composed of the four
provinces of Panay (sixth largest island of thePhilippines with 11,520 km2), the Guimaras Island (twentieth
largest island with 580 km2) and the western portion of the island of Negros and its outlying islands (Negros
Island is the fourth largest island with approximately 12,706 km2). Western Visayas has a total land area of
20,223.2 sq. kms. which is approximately 6.74 percent of the total land area of the Philippines.

Also, the region has a fragmented and elongated shape which may entail challenges in transportation
and governance but at the same time may be utilized for tourism and production advantages

Figure2.It shows the territory and the boundaries of Western Visayas.

 c. Map

Figure3.
Western Visayas
Map

d.

Topography

Its topography is characterized by relatively wide stretches of coastal lowlands with rugged hills and
mountains in the interior.The diving maps above show the continental shelves of the islands which may serve
as an indication for the wide stretches of fishing grounds.The pictures below further illustrate how the
topography of Western Visayas ranges from the highest altitude of land forms down to the pristine coastal
gems that asidefrom serving its climatic functions are also exploited for tourism and economic activities.

Figure4. It shows what are the mountains and hills in theWestern Visayas.
 Figure5. Mt. Madjas Figure6. Mt. Kanlaon

Fi
g ur
e 7. Mt. Igcuron
Figure8. Mt. Nangtud

F
i g
ure9. Boracay Island (Aklan) Figure10. Alubihod Beach (Guimaras)

Figure11.Basiao Beach (Capiz) Figure12.Danjugan Island (Negros

occidental)
IV. Demographics
a. Population

The population of Region VI

Table 3. Population of Region VI - Western Visayas
(Western Visayas) as of
(Based on the 2000, 2010, and 2015 Censuses)
Census Reference Population August1,2015 was 4,477,247
Census Year
Date (in millions) based on the 2015 Census of
2000 May 1, 2000 3.65 Population (POPCEN 2015).
2010 May 1, 2010 4.19
2015 August 1, 2015 4.48

The 2015 population of the region is higher by 282,668 compared with the population of 4.19 million in 2010,
and by 831,932 compared with the population of 3.65 million in 2000. Refer to Table 4. Among the five
provinces comprising the region, Iloilo (excluding Iloilo City) had the biggest population in 2015 with 1.94
million, followed by Capiz with 761 thousand, Antique with 582 thousand, and Aklan with 575 thousand.
Guimaras had the smallest population with 175 thousand. Refer to Table 5.

The total population of Region VI accounted for about 4.4 percent of the Philippine population in 2015.

Table4. Population by Province: Region Vi-Western

Visayas (based on the 2015 Census)
Province Population
Aklan 575,000
Antique 582,000
Capiz 761,000
Guimaras 175,000
Iloilo(excluding Iloilo City) 1,936,000
Iloilo City 448,000

b. Famous People
Fernando Lopez

Ló pez was born on April 13, 1904 in Iloilo City, Iloilo to Benito
Villanueva Ló pez and Presentacion Javelona Hofileñ a. He is the younger
brother and only sibling of Eugenio Ló pez, Sr. The Ló pez family was the
richest family and most influential in the province.

Ló pez studied high school at San Juan

de Letran College, finishing in 1921.

Figure13. Fernando Lopez

 He then studied law in the University of Santo Tomas, earning his Bachelor
of Laws degree in 1925. After passing the bar examinations, he did not go
into private practice, but helped his older brother manage the family
business.

In 1945, with no prior political experience, Ló pez was picked by President Sergio Osmeñ a to be mayor of
Iloilo City. In 1947, he ran for Senator and won the election. Ló pez was one of the founders of University of
Iloilo and the FEATI University in Manila.

Manuel A. Roxas

Manuel A. Roxas, the third of the Quezon Osmeñ a triumvirate credited

with the struggle for Philippine independence from the American regime,
was born on January 1, 1892 in Capiz, Capiz, nowRoxas City. His parents
were Gerardo Roxas and Rosario Acuñ a.Roxas took up a law course at the
University of the Philippines where he graduated in 1913 and topped the
bar examinations.He became a provincial governor in the days of the
Commonwealth, and was later elected to sit at the House of
Representatives. On his first term, he was chosen

Speaker of the body.

Figure14. Manuel Roxas

Gina Alajar

Regina Alatiit was born as the eldest child, on June 28, 1959, to
Bernardino Alatiit of Roxas City and Angelica Liguid of Cavite.
She attended elementary school at the P. Burgos Elementary
School and, after high school, took a one-year course on Tourism
and Travel at the Centro Escolar University. She was a member of
the Concerned Artists of the Philippines (CAP) which was headed
by her mentor and friend, Lino Brocka, and with whom she took
part in issues confronting the movie industry and other social
concerns. Alatiit was only eight when she auditioned for Lea
Productions' Kaibiganko'ngSto. Niñ o (1967). Among some 300
aspirants, she won the role of "Oreng" opposite Roderick Paulate.
Figure15. Gina Alajar Later, Gina appeared in several Sampaguita pictures. Among her
early films was Donata (1968), where she played the titular role
of the girl who grows up to be Gina Pareñ o. (She would also play "Narda" to Gina Pareñ o's "Darna" in the
1969 film Si Darna at angPlanetman (1969). She also portrayed the real-life character of Irene Marcos in
Pinagbuklod ng langit (1969), and was one of the children in Lina Brocka's Wanted: Perfect Mother (1970).

c. Ethnic Groups

ILONGGO

The Ilonggos are concentrated in the Western Visayas Region, particularly in

Panay Island (Iloilo, Capiz, etc.) and Negros Occidental. They are also found in
some areas of Mindanao. The word “Ilonggo” normally refers to a person, whose
language is Hiligaynon. The term Hiligaynon originated from Yligueynes, which
means “people of the coast.”

The Ilonggo population is mostly Catholic, but old pagan traditions are
nevertheless still applied, sometimes combined with Christianity. The best Figure16. Illonggo
example is the practice of bathing a statue of the Santo Nino (Child Jesus) for
good luck or to bring rain.

Ilonggos have a sterling reputation of being affectionate, friendly, and happy.

CEBUANO

It is referred to by most of its speakers as Binisaya (or Visayan in

English), is an austronesianlaguage spoken in the philippines by about 20
million people, mostly in the central visayas, most of whom belong to the
bisaya ethnic group. It is the most widely spoken of the languages within
the so-named Bisayan subgroup and is closely related to other Filipino
languages. It has the largest native language-speaking population of the
Philippines despite not being taught formally in schools and universities.
It is the lingua franca of the Central Visayas and parts of Mindanao. The
Figure17.
name Cebuano is Cebuano
derived from the island of Cebu where the prestige
language is spoken.

WARAY

The Waray are an ethno-liguistic group of people geographically

inhabiting in the islands of Samar, Leyte and Biliran commonly
referred to as the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. The
Waray, speak their native language called Waray Waray.
 Figure18. Waray

d. Religion

Pre-Christianity

Prior to the arrival of Catholicism, precolonial Visayans adhered to a complex Hindu-Buddhist and
animist system where spirits in nature were believed to govern all existing life. Similar to other ethnic groups
in the Philippines such as the Tagalogs who believed in a pantheon of gods, the Visayans also adhered to
deities led by a supreme being. Such belief, on the other hand, was misinterpreted by arriving Spaniards such
as Jesuit historian Pedro Chirino to be a form of monotheism. There are Kaptan and Magwayan, supreme god
of the sky and goddess of the sea and death, respectively. They in turn bore two children, Lihangin, god of
wind, and Lidagat, goddess of the sea. Both aforementioned gods had four children, namely Likabutan, the
god of the world, Liadlaw, the god of the sun, Libulan, the god of the moon, and Lisuga, the goddess of the
stars. People believed that life transpires amidst the will of and reverence towards gods and spirits. These
deities who dwell within nature were collectively called the diwata. Meanwhile, spirits were referred to as
umalagad (called anito in Luzon). These refer to ancestors, past leaders or heroes also transfigured within
nature. Beside idols symbolizing the umalagadwere food, drinks, clothing, precious valuables or even a
sacrificial animal offered for protection of life or property. Such practice was a form of ancestor worship.
Furthermore, these rituals surrounding the diwata and umalagad were mediated by the babaylan who were
highly revered in society as spiritual leaders. These intercessors were equivalent to shamans, and were
predominantly women or were required to have strong female attributes such as hermaphrodites and
homosexuals. Old men were also allowed to become one. One notable example is Dios Buhawi who ruled a
politico-religious revolt in Negros Oriental at the beginning of the Philippine Revolution.

Present-day

According to 2000 survey, 86.53% of the population of Western Visayas professed Roman Catholicism.
Aglipayan (4.01%) and Evangelicals (1.48%) were the next largest groups, while 7.71% identified with other
religious affiliations.

V. Economy

Land Use
 Region VI is an agricultural region with an area of around 1.05 M hectares or 52% of the total land
area. 35.4% of this is Riceland. The region also produces sugar, coconut,banana, fruits, root crops and
vegetables. It is one of the top food producers in the country. It is the largest producer of sugar, 63% of the
total sugar produced in 1996. In 1996, it was the third largest rice producer among the regions, third ranking
marine fish producer, and fourth largest aquaculture supplier.

Natural Resources

Western Visayas is one of the richest regions in the country in terms of natural resources. Its forests
however have been denuded due to indiscriminate logging. Its waters abound with numerous species of fish
and other marine products. Mineral resources include copper, gold, silver, clay, limestone, coal, sand and
gravel and other non-metallic. It is a key fisheries development area, with its 84 coastal municipalities, eight
major fishing grounds, inland bodies of water and 43,050 hectares of fishponds.

Industries

The major economic activities of the region are farming, sugar, rice and corn milling, fishing, mining
and trading. Forward and backward integration in production, processing or marketing are good areas for
investment. Other important industries include livestock and poultry raising and cottage industries such as
rattan craft, food preservation, ceramics andconfectionery manufacturing. The region has a competitive
advantage in the production of seaweeds, mangoes, pineapple, banana and cashew.

Agricultural Production

Palay production contributed 24.87 percent to the region’s agricultural output. Production wise, the
region ranked 3rd among all regions. Sugarcane shared 15.39 percent and the region was the top producer.
The region also ranked second in milkfish production; third in hog production; fourth in chicken production.
It is also one of the country’s major exporters of prawn, tuna, and other fish products.

Figure19.Palay Figure20.Sugarcane

Figure21.Fish Ponds
Industries

Aside from the major economic activities aforementioned, there are also other flourishing industries
and businesses in the region like processing or marketing which is considered as good areas for investment.
Other important businesses include cottage industries such as rattan craft, food preservation, ceramics and
confectionery manufacturing. Moreover, major contributors to the region’s economic growth include, but not
limited to, business process outsourcing and tourism for natural attractions and cultural heritages.

Figure22.Butterscotch

Figure23.Pottery

Figure24. Rattan Craft

Other Resources

Western Visayas is one of the richest regions in the country in terms of natural resources. Its forests
however have been denuded due to indiscriminate logging. Its waters abound withnumerous species of fish
and other marine products. Mineral resources include copper, gold, silver, clay, limestone, coal, sand and
gravel and other non-metallic.
 Also, the region’s skilled manpower resource is also due of its greatest potential. With proper training
and capability building, the people of the region can pave the way for the industrial growth and expansion of
Western Visayas.

Figure25. Timber Production

Figure26.Copper

VI. Language

a. Dialects
Ilonggo, Karay-a and Akeanon

Figure27.Language of Region VI.

Western Visayas Language Map. Negros Occidental and Bacolod not shown.
The native languages of Western Visayas are:

 Aklanon/Akeanon, spoken in Aklan and northwestern Capiz.

 Capiznon, spoken in Capiz, northeastern Iloilo, and eastern Aklan.
 Cebuano, spoken in northeastern Negros Occidental.
 Hiligaynon, spoken in Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Capiz, Antique, and Aklan. It is the regional
lingua franca.
 Kinaray-a, spoken in Antique, southwestern half of Iloilo, Guimaras, western Capiz, and southwestern
Aklan.
 Malaynon, spoken in northwestern Aklan including Boracay Island.
 Caluyanon, spoken in the Semirara Islands (Semirara, Caluya, and Sibay Islands).
b. Sample Phraseologies

Phrase Ilonggo Karay-a Akeanon

Good morning! Maayongaga! Maayad-ayadngaagahon

Good noon! Maayongugto!

Good evening! Maayong gab- i! Maayad-ayadngagabi-i
Thank you very much! Damo ngasalamat!

What's your name? Anoimongalan?

Where do you live? Di-in kagaistar?

How are you feeling? Ano bay pamatyagmo?

I love you Gihugmatakaw.

/palanggakoikaw
My love/sweetheart Palanggako
How are you? Kumustaka eon?
What is your name? Anongaranmo? Anoingpangaean/ngaean?

Thank You Saeamatgid.

IX. Festival

With its vibrant tourism industry and substantial

agriculture anchored on its rich cultural heritage, Western
Visayas is now considered as an emerging economy in the Philippines. For the Department of Tourism, this
destination is on the beaten track, but it’s still a joy to visit and enjoy what it has to offer, and seek out its
undiscovered attractions.

In this colorful and exciting region, six festivals are celebrated annually, namely: Ati-Atihan in
Aklan, Binirayan in Antique, SinadyasaHalaran in Capiz, Manggahan in Guimaras, Dinagyang Festival
in Iloilo and Maskara in Negros Occidental.

Ati-Atihan in Aklan
Aklan is considered the country’s oldest province believed to have been established around 1212-
1213 by settlers from Borneo. Every third week of January, heed the call of the Ati-atihan Festival and join the
rythmic dancing of participants who darken their bodies with soot and don colorful tribal finery.

Figure50.Ati-atihan Festival

Binirayan in Antique
Antique is home to the Binirayan Festival which
commemorates the landing of Bornean Datus led by
DatuPuti and DatuSumakwel during the 13th Century, a
historical significance which brings pride to Antiqueñ os.
The Malandog Marker is a monument to the landing site
of the first Malayan settlers. The Binirayan Festival every
April 30 to May 2 commemorates the landing

Sinadya sa Halaran in Capiz

Join in with the locals in street dances during the

SinadyasaHalaran in Roxas City which literally means
“joy in sharing and giving” when rituals and festivities of
every town are captivated in the weeklong celebration of
fireworks, grand parade, fluvial processions, fair and food
festival and exhibits.

Manggahan in Guimaras
Figure51. Binirayan in Antique
 Figure52. Sinadya sa Halaran in Capiz

Manggahan Festival is a unique event celebrated every

April 16-20 for the sustained promotion of the mango
industry. The festival culminates in a grand showcase of cultural festivals in an apparent bid to show the
world that there is more to the province than its sweet, fiber and pest-free mangoes.Guimaras Island has
Figure53.Manggahan in Guimaras
8,000 hectares of mango orchards which “create an awesome verdant landscape and the characteristic
ambience of rural life”. These orchards produce the best mango variety forming as the province’s most
important product.With its over 50,000 fruit bearing mango trees planted on its soil, Guimaras is known as
the “Mango Country” and prides itself as the Mango Capital of the World.

Dinagyang in Iloilo

Dinagyang Festival is Iloilo City’s version of the Ati-Atihan Festival but is definitely impressive in
choreography and striking in terms of the various attired worn by participating tribes which reflect the
ingenuity, craftsmanship and artistry of the Ilonggos. Dinagyang is an Ilonggo term forrevelry and
merrymaking. This riotous celebration has evolved into a big religious and cultural activity which now
features cultural presentations, sports competitions and various side events.

Masskara in Negros Occidental

Figure 54.Dinagyang The Masskara is a combination of the English word “mass” and the
in Iloilo
Spanish “kara,” meaning “face”. The festival which depicts the steadfast
character of the Negrenses is held every third weekend of October up to
October 19 when the city of Bacolod celebrates its Charter Anniversary.

X. PRODUCTS

a. Delicacies w/ sampling

Pastel in Camiguin

The popular Vjandep Pastel buns were, originally, buns filled with custard or, as the locals call it,
“yema”. Up until now, this is still the most popular variety of these Pastel buns in the market. However, there
are at present all sorts of fillings to choose from, like pineapple, chocolate, blueberry, etc. Currently, there are
12 fillings to choose from. These Vjandep Pastel products can be found not only in Camiguin but also all over
the Visayas and many parts of the country.

Moron in Tacloban City

Moron may sound negative, but boy does it taste positively delightful!
Pronounced differently from the English word “moron”, moron is a variation
of the local Filipino delicacy, suman. It is made of rice, milk and cocoa.
Basically, it’s a rice cake with a chocolatey twist to it wrapped in fresh banana
leaves. Suman Moron can be found in Pasalubong Stores scattered all over
Tacloban City.

Bandi in Antique

Bandi is Antique’s own version of peanut brittle. With the province’s production
of muscovado sugar, their version of the peanut brittle is made with this type of
sugar. This produces a unique sweetness to the product which makes it taste
differently from Luzon’s version of peanut brittle, the ‘panutsa’, and Baguio’s
version of peanut brittle. These Bandi can be bought in pasalubong shops all
over Antique.

Seafood in Roxas City

Roxas City has been deemed as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines,
and for good reason too. With crabs that have claws so big you’d think they’ve
been lifting weights at the gym, shrimp the size of a baby’s arm, and oysters
the size of a glass coaster, you’d be wrong to think otherwise. Not only are the
seafood in Roxas fresh, they’re also pretty cheap! Yes, I know, it’s weird to ask
for fresh seafood as pasalubong but have you seen how expensive seafood is in
the metro?! The stigma that getting fresh seafood as pasalubong is weird
should be stopped, ASAP.

Kalamay in Bohol

At first glance, Bohol’s Kalamay may not look like food. It may look
like just a round wooden ball to the untrained eye. But to the certified foodies,
they know that within this odd-looking wooden ball is a taste of sweet, sweet,
sweet heaven. The Kalamay is made of brown sugar, coconut milk, and rice
mixed and ground into a sticky paste. These balls of Kalamay can be found in pasalubong stores all over
Bohol.
Mangoes in Guimaras

Mangoes from Guimaras are the sweetest. Period. There’s a reason

why mango vendors all over the country claim that their mangoes hail from
Guimaras. Guimaras mangoes taste like they’re dipped in honey. No hint of
sourness at all. You can devour baskets full of mangoes in Guimaras and I tell
you, you will not experience even just a hint of sourness in their mangoes.
These mangoes can be found all over Guimaras and don’t worry about
finding the wrong mangoes because it is forbidden to import mangoes to this
place. People are only allowed to export mangoes from this place, never to
import, to make sure that no sour mangoes infiltrate the land of the sweetest.

Biscocho from Biscocho House in Iloilo City

Biscocho is the main product of Biscocho House, a famous

pasalubong shop in Iloilo City. Yes, biscocho can be found in pasalubong
centers all over the country but none of the other biscochos rival Biscocho
House’s Biscocho. After all, this pasalubong center is the house that was
built by Biscocho. Biscocho House Biscocho has the perfect blend of
sweetness. The sweetness is spread all over the piece of biscocho unlike
others that have spots that are sweeter and spots that have no taste.
Another difference is that the Biscocho from Biscocho House is crunchy, but
soft. Other biscochos are too hard to even crack with your jaws or too soft that it feels like chewing on bread.
These Biscochos are available at the different branches of Biscocho House all over Iloilo City.

Napoleones in Bacolod City

Bacolod is known as the Sugar Capital of the Philippines, and

rightly so, as Bacolod is home to one of the best and sweetest delicacies in
the country. Usually known for being the home of the piaya and the chicken
inasal, only few know of Bacolod’s other mouth-watering pastry, the
Napoleones. The Napoleones is made up of layered pastry filled with
custard and glazed with white sugar on top that melts and mixes in your
mouth. This then results in an amazing experience of the blend of these
different textures. Boxes of Napoleones can be bought at different
pasalubong centers in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
Silvanas in Dumaguete City

The Silvanas has put Dumaguete in the maps of sweet tooths

nationwide. With its creamy, buttery filling, and buttery outer layer, sinking
your teeth into a piece of this will make you feel like you’re in paradise. The
sweetness is just of the right amount and isn’t too overpowering. The Silvanas is
available in 2 flavors, original and chocolate, both satisfying in their own
tastes. Boxes of Silvanas can be bought at the Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries
Shop in Dumaguete City, Negros Occidental.

Cebu Lechonin Cebu

Cebu’s world famous lechon! I don’t think there’s a single Filipino

who has never heard about Cebu’s world-class lechon. Yes, lechon has
become a staple in Filipino celebrations and a lechon can be found almost
anywhere in the Philippines. But the lechon in Cebu has a different taste to
it. Anyone who has ever tasted Cebu Lechon will know that the lechon
from Cebu is just uniquely sumptuous and has a very distinct taste that
seeps up to the bones.

Figure 65. Cebu Lechon in Cebu

b. Crafts & Pasalubong

Aklan – crispy shrimp, piñ a fabric,

calamansi muffin

Antique –butong-butong, bandi

Capiz– dried fish, capiz shell crafts

Iloilo – butterscotch, biscocho, barquillos, pinasugbo

Guimaras – mangoes and mango-based treats

Negros Occidental – napoleones, piaya

Crafts
 Figure 67.Simple fibers to astonishing crafts (2018)

Banga, Aklan - From cultivation, to processing, and marketing of indigenous fibers, this greatly
depicts the rich cultural heritage of the country’s premier fiber products. In Region 6, indigenous fiber
production is one of the sources of livelihood. Abaca fibers produced in the region is noted to be the most
durable and of better quality as compared to other fibers produced in the country.the training aimed to
enhance the knowledge, attitude, and skills of participants on the production and utilization of abaca,
pineapple, and other indigenous fibers. Moreover, participants were also educated on different value-adding
techniques necessary to create an avenue for community-based livelihood opportunities. This likewise
promotes Filipino heritage and ingenuity. Highlights of the activity
include demonstration on fiber crafts and hand-made papermaking.

Sinamay Cloth in Agbalogo, Makato, Aklan

Sinamay is woven from the stalks of the abaca tree. Abaca
fiber is stronger than cotton or silk, and as a result of that sinamay
holds a very firm shape. It is one of the most common materials used
in fascinator making and can be used to create all kinds of hat shapes
too. It dyes very well and can be seen in a huge range of colors in stock
now.

Piña cloth in province of Antique

Figurehandwoven
It is a delicate and exquisite 68. Sinamay Cloth
clothofthat
Aklanis

made from the fibers which you can get in the leaves of
pineapple plants. It is popularly used in Barong Tagalog, our
traditional clothes. Having its organic and airy textile, it is
becoming more popular now around the world. Abaca fiber
come from the abaca plant that is endemic and grown in the
country. It is woven chiefly to make sinamay fabric. Abaca is
 popular in making a rope, specialty papers like vacuum bags, currency, and tea bags. There are also
handcrafts like bags, furniture, carpets and clothing made of abaca.

Capiz shells in province of capiz

A capiz shell, which is found on the coastal waters, is the outer

shell of a marine mollusk. The shell is a flat, semi-transparent shell with
a pearlescent appearance. The capiz shells are very important to the
culture of the capiz people; it is the way that the people in capiz earn
money. The shells are not endangered, so there are plenty of Capiz
shells in the Philippines, and the government supports the harvesting of
these shells.

Figure 70. Capiz shells of Capiz

Tinukib in Iloilo

Tinukib was a product

of ideas and the vision of reintroducing and providing local and
international tourists a glimpse of authentic and quality Ilonggo
products, craftsmanship and cultural promotion that emanates the
artistry and creativity of Ilonggos.

Figure 71. Tinukib of Iloilo

XI. Tourist Attractions

a. Religious Sites

Name and Location Description Photos

Pink Sisters Convent The tranquility and peacefulness of the
-AKLAN convent offers anyone the opportunity to really
pick up the pieces of his heart and recollect
himself towards a grandeur conversion.
Everything is perfect there even small and big Figure 72. Pink Sisters Convent

plants that surrounded the convent.

Old Hispano-Filipino Anini-y church or the Parish of St. John of
Church-ANTIQUE Nepomuceno is the only preserved church in
the Antique, originally built by the
Augustinians Friars.

Figure 73. Old Hispano-Filipino

Churh
Pan-ay Church
The Santa Monica Parish Church, also
- CAPIZ
called Panay Church, Spanish: 'Iglesia
Parroquial de Santa Mónica', is a historic
church in Panay, It was built in 1884 on the
site of an earlier church, built in 1774 by
Miguel Murguia, which was gravely damaged
by the typhoon of 17 January 1875.The church
is built of coral blocks and is approximately 70
meters long, 25 m in width and 18 m in height;
the walls are about 3 meters thick.

The church has an unusually large bell, the

largest in the country. This was cast by Juan
Figure 74. Pan-ay Church
Reina in about 1884, using sacks of coin given
by the people of the town; it weighs more than
10 tonnes.

In 1997 the church was declared a National

Historical Landmark by the National Historical
Commission of the Philippines
Ave Maria Shrine A pilgrimage site for Catholic devotees.
- GUIMARAS

Figure 75. Ave Maria Shrine

Chapel of Cartwheels Manapla NEGROS OCCIDENTAL was
- NEGROS OCCIDENTAL constructed using old cartwheels and other
farm implements.

Figure 76. Chapel Of Cartwheels

Our Lady of Peace, La A century-old church of Romanesque design.

Carlota

Figure 77. Our Lady Of Peace, La

Carlota
Chapel Of Santa Clara Features a mosaic of the Virgin Mary made up
of 95, 000 polished shells.

Figure 78. Chapel Of Santa Clara

San Sebastian Cathedral Made of coral stones from Guimaras and
- Bacolod completed in 1886.

Figure 79. San Sebastian Cathedral

ST. Joseph The Worker Commonly known as the Angry Christ Church,
Church is a Roman Catholic chapel located inside
- Victoria City the Victoria’s Milling Company residential
complex in Victoria’s City, Negros Occidental
Philippines

Figure 80. ST. Joseph The Worker

Church
Vito Church This Church is a pilgrim’s place and one of the
- Sagay City historical landmarks of the City. It was
established by the Recollect friars in 1860. The
faithful flock to the Church every Friday in
fulfillment of their “Panaad” or promise to the
patron saint. “Palapak”, a religious ritual
placing San Vicente Ferrer’s more than a
century-old wooden image on different parts Figure 81. Vito Church

of the body with aliment for Healing has been

practiced for many years.
MIAG-AO Church A fortress-like construction, one of the most
- ILOILO imposing in the Philippines.

Figure 82. MIAG-AO Church

Molo Church Molo Church is a famous Spanish-colonial
church and heritage site in Molo District. It
known for the prominent red spires that crown
its tall bell towers and as “the feminist church”
because of the all-women ensemble of saints
represented in 16 statues perched on the aisle
Figure 83. Molo Church
pillars.
San Joaquin Church Features a huge relief of the historic battle
between Christians and Moors at Tetuan in
Spain.

Figure 84. San Joaquin Church

Jaro Cathedral Seat of the Jaro Archbishop, embracing
Western Visayas.

Figure 85. Jaro Cathedral

b. Natural Tourist Attractions

BUCARI RANGE Tagged as the summer capital of
Western Visayas, Bucari consist of the 14
barangays of Leon and 7 barangays of
Alimodian. Its main feature is the pine clad
area of Tabionan and the Waterfalls of
Imoy.
Figure 86. BUCARI RANGE

BULABOG The only limestone rock formation

PUTI-AN, Dingle in Panay in Panay excluding Guimaras.
The park has a land area of 834 hectares
covering five of Dingle's 33 barangays. It
has 13 known caves. WVSU WILDLIFE
AND CONSERVATION PARK, Lambunao
Figure 87. BULABOG PUTI-AN
Located at the WVSU College of
Agriculture and Forestry in Brgy. Jayubo,
Lambunao, it is a rescue and captive
breeding center that houses exotic birds
like the Dolongan and Tarictic Hornbill.
Also, a home for white-spotted deer, warty
pigs and racquet-tail parrots.
PAN DE AZUCAR, Concepcion The biggest island barangay of
Concepcion (14 mainland and 11 island
barangays). The imposing Mt. Manaphag
rising 573 ft. above sea level is home to
wild orchids and the endangered White-
Breasted Sea Hawk. It's also home to
 Tambaliza beach. Figure 88. PAN DE AZUCAR,
Concepcion
TOBOG and BUGTONG BATO Contiguous to each other, these
beach resorts found in San Juaquin are
known for their green pebbles.

Figure 89. TOBOG and BUGTONG

BATO
Antique It’s a pristine, quiet place where
Bugang River in Pandan you can relax in peace. Yet you can also
find wild adventure here if you wanted to.
Bugang River in Pandan, Antique blends
these two contrasting worlds seamlessly.
Touted as the cleanest river in the
Figure90.Bugang River in Pandan
Philippines, Bugang River is so clear you
can even see the fields of lilies that lie
beneath. If you want a wet and wild
adventure, try riding an inflated rubber
tube down the rapids. We tell you, it’s
simply awesome!
Igpasungaw Falls in Sebaste If you are fascinated by waterfalls,
check out the multi-tiered Igpasungaw
Falls in Sebaste. You might need to trek for
almost an hour and cross a fast-flowing
river to get to it but it will all be worth it
when you see it in all its splendour and
power. You can freshen up in the clear,
Figure91.Igpasungaw Falls in
cool waters or simply listen to the sound
Sebaste
of the falls.
Tibiao River The rainy season is the perfect
time to find adventure at Tibiao River.
That’s because when the river swells
during a downpour, it becomes an ideal
venue for whitewater kayaking, rafting,
and water tubing. Try to maneuver your
way around the rocks, inlets, bays, and
other obstacles riding an extremely Figure 92. Tibiao River
responsive recreational vessel.

Bugtong Bato Falls of Tibiao To get here, you hike for less than
an hour through the stunning rice fields,
coconut groves, and farming communities
of Tibiao. As soon as you reach the main
river, you’ll come face to face with the first
tier of the Bugtong Bato Falls, one of the Figure 93. Bugtong Bato Falls of
tallest waterfalls in Antique. Locals Tibiao
consider it one of their favorite spots to
hang out thanks to the falls’ cool water and
majestic stature. You can carefully climb
up via a steep staircase to reach the upper
tiers.
Valderrama Rice Terraces For a really meaningful trip, you
need to immerse yourself in the local
culture. Grab the opportunity to be part of
a farming community in the highlands of
Valderrama, Antique. Sleep in humble
huts, listen to the locals’ stories, and enjoy
local and organic cuisine. Most
importantly, when you see the massive Figure94. Valderrama Rice

rice terraces on the side of the mountains, Terraces

you can’t help but admire the ingenuity of

our Filipino farmers.

Villa Valderrama Nature Park The Villa Valderrama Nature Park

is home to the giant Rafflesia Speciosa,
which is Antique’s regional flower. But you
need to hike deep into a mahogany forest
to find these rare flowers. Mature
Rafflesias are larger than dinner plates
and emit an odor similar to that of a rotten
Figure 95. Villa Valderrama
carcass. Reward yourself after the hike by
Nature Park
dipping in the park’s pool, which is fed by
a natural spring.
San Remegio Mountain Town Is the perfect place to visit if you
want to go somewhere quiet and scenic?
The mountains, farms, hills, and pine
forests are all beautiful. The place
becomes even more magical at night when
thousands of fireflies light up the pine
forests. Being high up in the mountains, Figure 96. San Remegio Mountain
the temperature here is quite chilly, so Town
don’t forget to bring a sweater.

C. Man Made

The Ruins (mansion) Ruins is the remains of the ancestral home

mansion of the family of Don Mariano
 Ledesma Lacson and Maria Braga Lacson. It
is situated in Talisay, Negros Occidental, Figure 97. The Ruins (mansion)
Philippines. The mansion was built in early
1900s and inspired by Italian architecture.
One of the most famous heritage landmarks
in the Philippines, The Ruins, also known as
the “Taj Mahal” of Negros, was built in loving
memory of a sugar baron’s wife. Beautiful
mansion was built before it came into ruins,
a story of romance and a family put together
in love.
Siliman University Silliman University is a private research
university in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental,
Philippines. Established in 1901 as Silliman
Institute by the Presbyterian Board of
Foreign Missions, it is the first American
university in the Philippines and the entire
Asian continent. To most Americans in the
Figure 98. Siliman University
late 1800. Dumaguete was a name their
tongue was still to master. It was unfamiliar
to them. Even the Philippines, which at that
time was still recovering from the onslaught
of the Spanish-American War, was not on
the immediate list for a Presbyterian
mission. But it took the vision and
commitment of a man to turn this around.
Balay Negrense Museum The Balay Negrense (Hiligaynon,
"Negrense House") is a museum in Silay City,
Negros Occidental, showcasing the lifestyle
of a late 19th-century Negrense sugar baron.
It is notable for being the first museum to be
established in the province of Negros
Occidental.Balay Negrense is one of the
tourist Spot. This antique house houses Figure 99. Balay Negrense
different artifacts being used by the Museum
Negrense few decades ago. Balay Negrense
is a Hiligaynon phrase which means:
 Negrense refers to the people living in the
province of Negros and Balay or a House. It
is a century old house in Silay City which
was owned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, the
eldest son of a prominent sugar baron Yves
Leopold Germain Gaston and Prudencia
Fernandez. It was built between 1897 to
1901, then abandoned in the mid-1970’s,
repaired by the government and was
inaugurated on October 6, 1990.
Lizares Mansion It was built in the 1937 by Don
Emiliano Lizares, a Jaro-born sugar baron,
and stands in testimony of Iloilo's booming
sugar industry during its heydey. The
Lizares compound along with the mansion
was sold to the Domincans in 1962 and
became home of Angelicum School Iloilo
from 1978.One the most elegant reminders
of Iloilo's rich and noble past is the imposing
Figure 100. Lizares Mansion
Lizares Mansion in Tabuc Suba, Jaro.
Situated in an almost 2-hectare lot, this
mansion was built in 1937 by Don Emiliano
Lizares for his wife Conchita Gamboa. The
mansion has three floors, a basement and an
attic. It has a winding wooden staircase and
big bedrooms with floor and doors made of
hardwood. It has 59 doors which indicate
the intricacy of its layout.
Aklan Provincial Capitol Back in the pre-Spanish Philippines,
several Wave of immigrants sailed through
rough and tough seas to search for new
settlements. And then there were ten datus
from Borneo who found and bought new
territory to settle in. One of which is the
present-day Aklan. Fast forward to the 20th
century, Aklan was separated from the Figure 101. Aklan Provincial
Province Capiz and became a province upon Capitol
the approval by President Ramon Magsaysay
of Republic Act No. 1414 on April 25, 1956.

D. Historical

Hofilena Heritage House The Hofileñ a Ancestral House is the

residence of the late Manuel Severino
Hofileñ a and his family located in Cinco de
Noviembre Street, Silay City, in the province
of Negros Occidental, Philippines. The home
was built by Hofileñ a for his wife Gilda
Ledesma Hojilla, a former Miss Silay and their
nine children. Hofileñ a Heritage House in Figure 101. Hofilena Heritage
Silay City, the first inhabited house in Silay to House
be declared a national Historical landmark.
Guisi Light House Guisi Lighthouse is a ruin of an 18th
century Spanish parola located at the Guisi
Point of Barangay Dolores in Nueva Valencia.
Known as Faro de Punta Luzaran, it is the
second oldest lighthouse in the Philippines.
The old lighthouse was built by the Spanish
government in 1894 -1896 that used to serve
as a navigational aid to the fishermen and Figure 102. Guisi Light House
sailors cruising this strait lighthouse are old
and clasped by numerous thick tree roots.
The large windows are facing the beach.
Dumaguete Belfry The Campanario De Dumaguete is a
famous landmark of the city. Built in 1811,
the watchtower was constructed to warn
residents of the impending danger by Moro
pirate attacks in search of slaves.
The Dumaguete belfry was built
among one of the four watchtowers of the
town just right next to the Cathedral of St.
Catherine of Alexandria along Perdices street
fronting Rizal Park.Locals, tourists and
Figure 103. dumaguete Belfry
devotees visit the belfry to light candles and
offer prayers at the grotto of Our Lady of
Perpetual Help. There’s a small souvenir shop
near the grotto that sells candles, rosaries and
other religious items, the towering historical
marker now stands witness of Dumaguete
City’s growth and progress through the years
and years to come.
Fort San Andres Agustin de San Pedro, popularly
known as Padre Capitan. The twin forts
played a significant role in the history of the
province, as part of colonial military defense
system. It was constructed from coral stone
and served as a fortress against Moro pirates
and Dutch invaders in the 17th century. The
Figure 104. Fort San Andres
Fort San Andres was built literary to guard
the Romblon town, against pirates and also to
reinforce the dominance of Spaniards on the
common folk during those days. It overlooks
the town as well as the sea, which made it
perfect to notice any intruders coming
towards Romblon; either by sea or through
land.

E. Cultural

Camina Balay Nga Bato Camiñ a: Balay nga Bato is an ancestral

house, a well-preserved heritage and currently
owned by Director Gerard Camiñ a, from the
fourth generation of the Avanceñ a Family and
his wife Mrs. Luth Saludes Camiñ a. The stone
house is down Osmeñ a Street in Villa de
Arevalo Iloilo City, next to Panaderia de Iloilo. Figure 105. Camina Balay Nga
Built in 1860, it was the humble abode of Bato
Fernando Avanceñ a with his wife Eulalia Abaja.
Patterned after the bahay kubo or cube house,
it was made of board walls and have a nipa and
bamboo roofing. To provide a very stable
 foundation, there are a total of 24 tree trunk
pillars called haligis.
Iloilo Museum of The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary
Contemporary Art Art (ILOMOCA), which was launched just last
March, is located inside the stunning Casa De
Emperador in the heart of the 72- hectare
complex. The museum is a collaboration
between Ilonggo art collector Edwin Valencia
and Megaworld Corp.ILOMOCA has three main
Figure 106.Iloilo Museum of
galleries. The ground floor is called The Hulot
Contemporary Art
Exhibit, which is a commercial space for gallery
exhibitions open to local and international
artists. The second floor is called The Gallery,
which will showcase rotating themes and
collections. The third floor is called The
Adoracion Valencia Gallery, which showcases
art curated by one of ILOMOCA’s primary
donors, who named the gallery in honor of
their matriarch.
Casa Mariquit The house became Ramon Javellana’s
home for his granddaughter, Mariquit, whom
the house was named after, and her husband
Fernando Lopez. Fernando Lopez served the
Philippines as vice president in 1950s.
Entering the house, you would probably feel
unreal because it looks like you actually
travelled back to the past. A huge Balete tree Figure 107. Casa Mariquit
guards the outside of the house and it creeps
out people often, particularly at night. In 1993,
the restoration of the house has started. The
owners wanted to preserve the historical
memory of the entire house. It is full of
memorabilia, mostly old framed photographs
attached on its walls.
Laguarta Home of the Home to thousands of vintage glass
Village Glasses Museum pieces mostly from the Depression Era in the
United States, the Vintage Glasses Museum in
Bacolod City is a unique and eccentric shrine to
 anything glass collected in a span of 30 years Figure 108. Laguarta Home of the
when the owner, Tomas Claridad Casiano Village Glasses Museum
worked as a butler for a Hollywood movie
director and eventually opening his own flower
shop for Beverly Hills royalty where he
procured unique glasses for his flowers. When
he came home to the Philippines, he brought
home 66 boxes full of his glass collection and
opened the museum as his home was too small
for his crystal obsession.
Ang Panubli- on Roxas Panublion or the Roxas City Museum
City Museum tirelessly collects and displays the wealth of
lore and memories of its citizens. Located just
across the City Hall, this impressive circular
piece of architecture offers every visitor a
comprehensive view of what Roxas City was
then, what it is now and its vision for the future
Figure 109. Ang Panubli- on Roxas
– a complete record of those who have given
City Museum
their share in making Roxas City what it is
today. Constructed in 1910, the museum used
to be a water tank that served the local
residents for more than three decades.

F. Special Interest

Motag Living Museum Montag Living Musuem is located in

Barangay Montag, Aklan. To get there, it may
take about 11 minutes from Caticlan Airport.
Montag Museum aims to preserve the heritage
and the native’s way of life and for the new
generation to be proud of their roots. A visit at
Montag Living Museum is far from the usual
activities to do in Boracay. Here, you will Figure 110. Motag Living

discover their tradition and culture through Museum

immersion with the locals, from visiting their

homes, cooking rice using traditional tools, to
traditional.
Ariel's Point Ariel's Point is a breathtaking eco-
adventure destination located a short and scenic
boat ride away from Boracay Island. With five
cliff-diving platforms (ranging in height from 3
meters to 13 meters) and ample opportunities
for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and
canoeing in a friendly setting, Ariel's Point is the
perfect daytime venue for Boracay travelers who
Figure 111. Ariel's Point
want to experience the natural beauty of the
Philippines while also meeting fellow travelers.
Rizal Boulevard Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete City was
named after the great Philippine National Hero, Figure 112. Rizal Boulevard
Dr. Jose Rizal, marking it as one of the historical
sites found in the city. Designated as one of the
historical sites in Dumaguete City, it was
believed that Dr. Jose Rizal made a stopover here
on his way to the town of Dapitan where he will
spend his four years (1892 to 1896) in exile.

Trappist Monastery Trappist Monastery. The Trappist Figure 113. Trappist Monastery
Monastery grounds is a peaceful and sacred
enclave in Guimaras run by monks of the
Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance. These
monks follow the rule of St. Benedict and are
best known for the extreme austerity or
strictness that characterizes their discipline.The
monks earn a living by selling souvenir items
and processed foods such as jellies, jams,
candies, piyaya and more, which are sold in a
small shop within the monastery grounds. All
the products are from ingredients grown in the
Trappist grounds.
Old Enchanted Belete A 400-plus year-old balete tree which is
Tree believed by the locals to be enchanted to this
day. The balete tree is also known as the banyan
in other parts of the world. It's a type of ficus, or
what's also called a strangler fig tree, since the
tree grows around a host tree and strangles it.
The balete tree belongs to the family of fig trees
(from the genus Ficus). There are several
species, about 10 of 800 are found in the
Philippines. The balete tree is also known as the
banyan in other parts of the world. It's a type of
ficus, or what's also called a strangler fig tree, Figure 114. Old Enchanted Balete
since the tree grows around a host tree and Tree
strangles it.