Iloilo Province, Philippines

People of Iloilo

• As of the 2020 Census, Iloilo Province had a population of 2,082,616.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,936,423, reflecting a steady growth rate over five years.
• Iloilo is home to the indigenous Panay Bukidnon (Suludnon), who inhabit the mountainous areas of Calinog and Lambunao. They are known for their binanog dance, oral epics like the “Hinilawod,” and traditional weaving and embroidery.
• The major dialect spoken is Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), with Kinaray-a prevalent in upland and interior towns. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Iloilo

• Iloilo Province is located in the southeastern part of Panay Island in the Western Visayas Region (Region VI). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 11.00°N latitude and 122.40°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 5,000.83 square kilometers, with terrain that includes coastal plains, river valleys, and volcanic highlands. The highest elevation is Mount Baloy, rising to 1,958 meters above sea level.
• The capital of Iloilo Province is Iloilo City, though the city is administratively independent. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Magsaysay, Iloilo City, adjacent to the regional government center.
• Most people reach Iloilo via air and sea. The Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan offers flights to Manila, Cebu, and other key cities. The and Port of Dumangas serve inter-island cargo and passenger vessels. Bus routes connect Iloilo to Capiz, Antique, and Aklan.

Tourist Attractions of Iloilo

• Miagao Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1786, known for its baroque architecture and bas-relief facade.
• Islas de Gigantes: A group of islands in Carles with limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and seafood-rich waters.
• San Joaquin Campo Santo: A historic cemetery with Spanish-era architecture and religious carvings.
• Bucari Highlands: A cool-climate destination in Leon, dubbed the “Summer Capital of Iloilo.”
• Dinagyang Festival: Held every January in Iloilo City, this world-renowned celebration features Ati-Ati street dancing, tribal competitions, and religious devotion to the Santo Niño.

Economy of Iloilo

• In 2024, Iloilo Province posted a GDP of approximately ₱145.62 billion, making it one of the top-performing economies in Western Visayas.
• Major contributors to the economy include:
  • Agriculture: Rice, sugarcane, corn, and mangoes are widely cultivated.
  • Fisheries: Coastal towns like Carles and Estancia are major seafood producers.
  • Manufacturing: Food processing, textiles, and furniture production are key industries.
  • Tourism: Heritage churches, festivals, and island destinations attract domestic and international visitors.
  • Services: Education, healthcare, and retail trade are concentrated in Iloilo City and nearby municipalities.

Educational Institutions of Iloilo

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of the Philippines Visayas (Miagao): A premier public university offering programs in marine science, fisheries, and management.
  • West Visayas State University (Iloilo City): Known for its excellence in teacher education, nursing, and medicine.
  • Central Philippine University (Jaro): A private Protestant university offering engineering, law, and business programs.
  • University of San Agustin (Iloilo City): A Catholic institution offering liberal arts, pharmacy, and graduate studies.
  • Iloilo Science and Technology University: Offers engineering, IT, and technical-vocational programs across multiple campuses.

History of Iloilo

• Iloilo’s history dates back to the 13th century, when Bornean datus led by Datu Puti arrived on Panay Island and bartered land from the native Ati people. Datu Paiburong was assigned to Irong-Irong, the area now known as Iloilo.
• Spanish colonizers arrived in 1566, establishing Iloilo as the second Spanish colonial center after Cebu. The city’s natural harbor and strategic location made it a hub for trade and governance.
• In 1855, the opening of the Muelle Loney port transformed Iloilo into the country’s premier sugar export center. The wealth generated from sugar funded the construction of churches, schools, and civic buildings, earning Iloilo the title “Queen City of the South.”
• Iloilo Province was formally established under Spanish rule and reorganized during the American period. Today, it is known for its cultural heritage, economic vitality, and civic pride, with Iloilo City serving as its urban heart and regional center.

Elected Officials of Iloilo Province

• As of the 2025 elections, Iloilo Province is led by:
  • Governor: Arthur R. Defensor Jr.
  • Vice Governor: Nathalie Ann F. Debuque
  • Representatives:
    • 1st District: Janette L. Garin
    • 2nd District: Michael B. Gorriceta
    • 3rd District: Lorenz R. Defensor
    • 4th District: Braeden John Q. Biron
    • 5th District: Raul C. Tupas
  • Provincial Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Iloilo Election Results.

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