Region 6 - Western Visayas

Western Visayas is a combination of interesting history and natural beauty. Region 6 is composed of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental. Aklan Kalibo is the capital of Aklan where the Ati-Atihan Festival takes place every third week of January. Natural attractions include Jawili Falls, a seven basin, tiered waterfall and Ignito Cave, locally known as the Elephant Cave. Other attractions include the Kalantiaw Shrine in Batan, which was once the seat of government of Rajah Bendahara Kalantiaw. Boracay island is a tropical paradise, world-famous for its incredibly fine white sand beach, clear blue water, romantic sunsets, freshly caught seafood and friendly locals. Activities include banana boat rides, scuba diving, snorkeling, golf, massages, island tours, and jet ski, bike or motorcycle rentals. At night, Boracay becomes a party place for locals and foreigners where one can jump from one restaurant, bar or club to another. Other attractions include the Talipapa (market), Puka beach and the bat cave. Antique Antique is located in the western border of Panay. Natural attractions include the Igpasungaw Falls in Sabaste, the Sira-an Hot Spring and Nogas Island in Anini-y. Mt. Madiaas in Culasi is filled with exotic plants and animals like rare orchids, wild deer, boar and cloud rats. Recreational activities include shell hunting, snorkeling, scuba diving and white water kayaking. Fiestas in Antique include the Biniyaran Festival held every late April to commemorate the first landing and settlement of 10 Malay Datus in the 13th Century. Capiz Capiz Province is known as the birthplace of the first President of the Republic of the Philippines, Manuel Roxas. It is also known as the seafood capital of the Philippines. Churches include the Pan-ay Church, which has the largest bell in Southeast Asia, measuring 7 feet in diameter and weighing at 10.4 tons. Natural attractions include Pilar, Sulhot, Igang and Suhoton Caves. Roxas City celebrates the 'Sinadya sa Halaran' or Harvest Festival. Guimaras Guimaras is a small island located between Negros and Panay Islands. Its main produce is the yellow mango. White sand beaches and small coral islands include Alubihod, Tatlong Pulo, Baras and Inampulugan Island. Other activities in the island include hiking and riding mountain bikes. Other attractions include the Navalas Church, MacArthur's Wharf, the Trappist Monastery in Barangay San Miguel and the Balaan Bukid Shrine. Iloilo

Iloilo Province contains plenty of historical and cultural sites, including the Plaza Libertad, Fort San Pedro (built in the early 1600's), San Joaquin Church, the fortress church at Miagao and the Museo Iloilo, which has a rich collection of antiques and cultural heritage. Natural attractions include the Nadsadjan Falls, Sicogon Island and Isla de Gigantes, a site with 15th Century burial caves. The capital city of Iloilo celebrates the Dinagyan Festival every 4th weekend of January. La Paz is known for the local dish 'batchoy', a flavorful noodle and pork soup. Santa Barbara has the oldest golf course in the country, built in 1907. Negros Occidental Bacolod is the capital city of Negros Occidental, and is home to a variety of hotels, restaurants and entertainment, including the Casino Filipino. Historical sites include Victorias Milling Company, Sagay City's Shay Steam locomotive and Vito Church, the Church of St. Joseph, San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City, The Chapel of Santa Clara and the Chapel of Cartwheels in Manapia. Natural attractions include Mambucal hot springs, Mt. Kanlaon National Park, and Lakawon Island. Sugar and gold are the main products of Negros Occidental.