Visayas

Region in the Philippines

File:Visayas region map.png

Map of the Visayas region in the Philippines

The Visayas is one of the three principal geographical divisions of the Philippines, along with Luzon and Mindanao. It is located in the central part of the country and is composed of several islands and islets. The Visayas is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and vibrant festivals.

Geography

The Visayas is divided into three administrative regions: Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas. Each region consists of several provinces, cities, and municipalities.

Western Visayas

Western Visayas, or Region VI, includes the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental. The regional center is Iloilo City.

Central Visayas

Central Visayas, or Region VII, comprises the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor. The regional center is Cebu City, which is a major economic and cultural hub.

Eastern Visayas

Eastern Visayas, or Region VIII, includes the provinces of Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, and Southern Leyte. The regional center is Tacloban City.

Culture

The Visayas is known for its diverse culture and traditions. The region is home to several ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. The most widely spoken languages in the Visayas are Cebuano, Hiligaynon, and Waray-Waray.

Festivals

The Visayas is famous for its colorful and lively festivals. Some of the most popular festivals include the Sinulog Festival in Cebu, the Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, and the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo. These festivals are celebrated with street dancing, music, and religious rituals.

Cuisine

Visayan cuisine is known for its use of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and native spices. Popular dishes include lechon, pancit, and kinilaw. Each province has its own specialty dishes that reflect the local culture and ingredients.

Economy

The economy of the Visayas is diverse, with agriculture, fishing, and tourism being the main industries. The region is a major producer of sugarcane, rice, and corn. The Visayas is also known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, attracting tourists from around the world.

Tourism

Tourism is a significant industry in the Visayas, with many natural attractions and historical sites. Popular tourist destinations include the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, the White Beach in Boracay, and the Magellan's Cross in Cebu City.

Related pages

• Luzon
• Mindanao
• Philippine culture
• Philippine geography