Region 6 provinces refer to the five provinces that make up Western Visayas in the Philippines: Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, Negros Occidental, and Antique. These provinces share administrative and economic ties under the regional government.
Western Visayas occupies the western part of the Visayas island group. The region includes the whole island of Panay and the western half of Negros. Its capital is Iloilo City, which serves as the regional administrative center.
The region borders Region 7 (Central Visayas) to the east, Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) to the northeast, and the Sulu Sea to the southwest. It also faces the Sibuyan Sea to the north and the Guimaras Strait to the southeast.
Each province in Region 6 has its own key cities that serve as commercial, educational, and governmental hubs. Iloilo City is the most populous city in the region, with a population of over 455,000 as of the 2020 census. Bacolod City, the capital of Negros Occidental, is known for its masskara festival and has a population of around 590,000.
Other notable cities include Kalibo (Aklan), Roxas City (Capiz), and San Jose de Buenavista (Antique). These cities are centers of trade, education, and tourism in their respective provinces.
The economy of Region 6 is primarily driven by agriculture, fishing, and industry. Sugar production is a major industry in Negros Occidental, earning it the nickname "Sugarbowl of the Philippines." Iloilo is known for its changing fishing industry, while Aklan is famous for its boracay white sand beaches, a major tourist attraction.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, Region 6 contributed 5.2% to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2021. The region's GDP growth rate was 6.1% in the same year, indicating a steady economic performance.
Region 6 is rich in natural and cultural attractions. Boracay, located in Aklan, is renowned worldwide for its pristine white sand beaches. The region also boasts historical sites such as the Miagao Church in Iloilo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cultural festivals are also abundant in Region 6. The Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City, and the MassKara Festival in Bacolod City are among the most popular celebrations that attract both local and international tourists.
Some people confuse Region 6 with other regions in the Visayas due to the similar names of provinces and cities. For instance, Negros Oriental is part of Region 7 (Central Visayas), while Negros Occidental belongs to Region 6. Similarly, Cebu is part of Region 7, not Region 6.
To avoid confusion, it's essential to remember that Region 6 comprises the provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, Negros Occidental, and Antique, all located in Western Visayas.