Capiz Province, Philippines

People of Capiz

• As of the 2020 Census, Capiz Province had a population of 835,098.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 761,384, reflecting a steady growth rate over five years.
• Capiz is home to the indigenous Panay Bukidnon (also known as Suludnon), who reside in the mountainous areas of Tapaz and Jamindan. They are known for their oral epics, binanog dance, and traditional weaving.
• The major dialect spoken is Capiznon, a variant of Hiligaynon, with Kinaray-a also spoken in upland areas. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Capiz

• Capiz is located in the northeastern portion of Panay Island in the Western Visayas Region (Region VI). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 11.38°N latitude and 122.63°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 2,594.64 square kilometers, with terrain ranging from coastal plains to mountainous interiors. The highest elevation is Mount Nangtud, rising to 2,074 meters on the Capiz–Antique border. Capiz has a tropical climate, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Capiz is Roxas City, and the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Lawaan, within the Pueblo de Panay township development.
• Most people reach Capiz via air and sea. The Roxas Airport offers flights to and from Manila, while the Port of Culasi and Port of Roxas connect the province to neighboring islands. Bus routes link Capiz to Iloilo, Aklan, and Antique.

Tourist Attractions of Capiz

• Panay Church (Santa Monica Parish): A coral-stone church built in 1774, home to Asia’s largest Catholic bell.
• Baybay Beach: A long stretch of black sand beach in Roxas City, popular for seafood dining and sunset views.
• Palina Greenbelt Eco Park: Offers river cruises, mangrove tours, and community-based tourism.
• Sinadya sa Halaran Festival: Held every December 4–8, this joint celebration of Roxas City and the province features street dancing, fluvial parades, and cultural exhibitions.
• Pangahaw Festival: Celebrated in Tapaz, this festival honors indigenous harvest traditions through performances in traditional attire.

Economy of Capiz

• In 2023, Capiz posted a GDP of ₱79.47 billion, up from ₱74.38 billion in 2022, reflecting a growth rate of 6.8%.
• Major contributors to the economy include:
  • Agriculture: Rice, corn, sugarcane, and root crops are widely cultivated.
  • Fisheries: Capiz is known as the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines,” with abundant marine harvests.
  • Services: Retail, education, and tourism drive urban growth in Roxas City.
  • Industry: Food processing, shellcraft, and furniture manufacturing are emerging sectors.

Educational Institutions of Capiz

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Capiz State University (CAPSU): A state university with multiple campuses including Roxas City, Dumarao, Pilar, Mambusao, Pontevedra, Sapian, Sigma, and Tapaz. Offers programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and business.
  • Filamer Christian University: A private institution offering liberal arts, nursing, and graduate programs.
  • Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion: A Catholic college offering undergraduate and master’s programs in commerce, education, and health sciences.
  • Hercor College: Known for its programs in criminology, IT, and hospitality management.
  • College of St. John–Roxas: Offers business and liberal arts programs.

History of Capiz

• Capiz was first settled by the Spanish in 1566, and became an encomienda in 1569. It was organized as a politico-military province in 1716, with Roxas (then called Capiz) as its capital.
• The province was formally established under American rule on April 15, 1901 through Act No. 115 of the Philippine Commission, which extended the provisions of the Provincial Government Act to Capiz.
• Capiz was once larger, encompassing what is now Aklan Province. Aklan was separated and became an independent province in 1956 through Republic Act No. 1414.
• Today, Capiz is known for its seafood, cultural heritage, and resilience. The Capiztahan celebration every April commemorates the province’s founding and showcases its history, cuisine, and artistry.

Elected Officials of Capiz

• As of the 2025 elections, Capiz Province is led by:
  • Governor: Fredenil H. Castro
  • Vice Governor: James “Mitang” O. Magbanua
  • Representative (1st District): Emmanuel “Tawi” Billones
  • Representative (2nd District): Jane Castro
  • Provincial Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Capiz Election Results.

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