Western Visayas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Western Visayas
Kabisay-an Nakatundan
Kanlurang Kabisayaan Region VI |
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Location in the Philippines
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| Country |  Philippines |
| Island group | Visayas |
| Regional center | Iloilo City |
| Area | |
| • Total | 20,794.18 km2 (8,028.68 sq mi) |
| Population
(2015)
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| • Total | 7,536,383 |
| • Density | 362.42752/km2 (938.68296/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+8 (PST) |
| ISO 3166 code | PH-06 |
| Provinces | |
| Cities |
16
Bacolod
Bago Cadiz Escalante Himamaylan Iloilo City Kabankalan La Carlota Passi Roxas Sagay San Carlos Silay Sipalay Talisay Victorias |
| Municipalities | 117 |
| Barangays | 4,051 |
Western Visayas is a special area in the Philippines. It is also known as Region VI. The main city and center of this region is Iloilo City.
This region has six main areas called provinces. These are Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental. There are also two important cities that manage themselves: Bacolod City and Iloilo City. Western Visayas includes the large islands of Panay and the smaller island of Guimaras. It also covers the western part of the island of Negros.
Contents
Provinces and Cities of Western Visayas
Western Visayas is made up of several provinces and cities. Each one has its own unique features.
The Six Provinces
- Aklan: This province is famous for Boracay Island. Boracay has beautiful white sand beaches. It is a popular spot for tourists from all over the world.
- Antique: Known for its mountains and coastal areas. Antique offers a mix of natural beauty. It is often called "Where the Mountains Meet the Sea."
- Capiz: This province is known as the "Seafood Capital of the Philippines." It has many fishponds and a rich marine life. You can find lots of fresh seafood here.
- Guimaras: A small island province famous for its sweet mangoes. Guimaras mangoes are considered among the best in the world.
- Iloilo: This province is home to Iloilo City, the regional center. Iloilo is rich in history and culture. It has old churches and beautiful heritage houses.
- Negros Occidental: This is the largest province in Western Visayas. It is known as the "Sugar Bowl of the Philippines" because it produces a lot of sugar. Bacolod City is its capital.
Important Cities
- Iloilo City: This city is the heart of Western Visayas. It is a busy center for trade, education, and tourism.
- Bacolod City: Located in Negros Occidental, Bacolod is known as the "City of Smiles." This is because of its famous MassKara Festival. People wear smiling masks during this festival.
Geography and Nature
Western Visayas has a diverse landscape. It includes islands, mountains, and coastal plains.
Islands and Landforms
The region mainly covers the island of Panay. It also includes the smaller island of Guimaras. The western part of Negros Island is also part of this region. These islands have different types of land. You can find high mountains, flat plains, and long coastlines.
Climate
The climate in Western Visayas is tropical. This means it is generally warm all year round. There are two main seasons: a dry season and a wet season. The dry season usually runs from November to April. The wet season is from May to October. This climate is perfect for growing various crops.
Culture and People
The people of Western Visayas are known for their warm hospitality. They have a rich culture with many traditions.
Languages Spoken
Most people in Western Visayas speak Hiligaynon. This language is also called Ilonggo. Other languages spoken include Kinaray-a and Aklanon. These languages show the diverse heritage of the region.
Festivals and Traditions
The region is famous for its colorful festivals. These events celebrate history, religion, and local products.
- Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City: This festival honors the Santo Niño (Child Jesus). It features vibrant street dances and costumes.
- MassKara Festival in Bacolod City: People wear smiling masks and colorful outfits. It is a celebration of resilience and happiness.
- Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan: One of the oldest festivals in the Philippines. It involves tribal dances and music.
Local Food
Western Visayas offers delicious food. Some famous dishes include:
- La Paz Batchoy: A hearty noodle soup from Iloilo. It has pork, liver, and chicharon (pork cracklings).
- Piaya: A flatbread from Negros Occidental. It is usually filled with muscovado sugar.
- Fresh Seafood: Capiz is especially known for its fresh fish, crabs, and oysters.
Economy and Livelihood
The economy of Western Visayas is mainly based on farming and fishing. Tourism is also a big part of it.
Main Industries
- Agriculture: Sugar cane is a major crop, especially in Negros Occidental. Rice, corn, and fruits like mangoes are also grown.
- Fisheries: With its long coastlines, fishing is an important source of income. Many people work in fishponds and coastal areas.
- Tourism: Places like Boracay Island attract many visitors. This helps local businesses and creates jobs.
Images for kids
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Map shows the Koppen-Geiger climate classification of the Western Visayas region, Philippines.
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Western Visayas Language Map.
See also
In Spanish: Bisayas Occidentales para niños
