Negros Occidental Province, Philippines

People of Negros Occidental

• As of the 2020 Census, Negros Occidental had a population of 2,623,172 (excluding Bacolod City).
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 2,497,261, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 5.05% over five years.
• Negros Occidental is historically home to the Ati people, an indigenous Negrito group. Over time, the population diversified with Ilonggo (Hiligaynon) settlers becoming dominant, alongside Cebuano, Karay-a, and Tagalog-speaking communities.
• The major dialect spoken is Ilonggo (Hiligaynon), though Cebuano is also used in southern municipalities. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Negros Occidental

• Negros Occidental is located in the western section of Negros Island, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.42°N latitude and 123.00°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 7,844.12 square kilometers, comprising 12 cities and 19 municipalities. Its terrain includes coastal plains, sugarcane fields, volcanic highlands, and mountain ranges. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The capital of Negros Occidental is Bacolod City, although it is administratively independent as a highly urbanized city. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay 39, Bacolod City.
• Most people reach Negros Occidental via air and sea. Bacolod-Silay Airport serves domestic flights from Manila and Cebu. Major seaports include Bacolod Port and Pulupandan Port, with ferry connections to Iloilo and Cebu. Bus terminals connect Bacolod to cities like San Carlos, Kabankalan, and Sipalay.

Tourist Attractions of Negros Occidental

• The Ruins: Located in Talisay City, this iconic mansion is a symbol of Negrense heritage and resilience.
• Mount Kanlaon: The highest peak in the Visayas, ideal for trekking and biodiversity exploration.
• Magikland Theme Park: A family-friendly amusement park in Silay City.
• Lakawon Island: A white-sand island resort in Cadiz City, known for its floating bar and beach activities.
• Panaad sa Negros Festival: Held every April in Bacolod, this province-wide festival showcases the culture, products, and traditions of all LGUs in Negros Occidental.

Economy of Negros Occidental

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Sugarcane production: Negros Occidental is known as the “Sugarbowl of the Philippines,” contributing significantly to national sugar output.
  • Agriculture: Other crops include rice, corn, banana, and coffee. Livestock and poultry farming are also prominent.
  • Tourism: Heritage sites, beaches, and festivals attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Manufacturing and services: Bacolod and neighboring cities host BPOs, food processing, and retail centers.
• In 2024, Negros Occidental posted a Gross Provincial Domestic Product (GPDP) of approximately ₱210 billion, ranking among the top 10 provincial economies in the Philippines.

Educational Institutions of Negros Occidental

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of St. La Salle (USLS): A private Catholic university in Bacolod offering programs in law, business, engineering, and liberal arts.
  • Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU): A public university with campuses in Talisay, Alijis, and Fortune Towne, offering programs in education, technology, and agriculture.
  • Negros Occidental Language and Information Technology Center (NOLITC): Offers tech-based and TESDA-accredited programs.
  • Technical-vocational schools: TESDA centers across the province provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Negros Occidental

• Negros Occidental was officially established on January 1, 1890, when the island of Negros was divided into two provinces: Occidental (west) and Oriental (east). The division was formalized under Spanish colonial administration to improve governance and resource management.
• During the Spanish era, the province became a center of sugarcane production, with haciendas and sugar mills shaping its economy and social structure. The rise of the “sugar barons” led to the development of towns and cities along the coast and inland valleys.
• In the American period, Bacolod was designated as the capital, and infrastructure such as roads, schools, and ports were expanded. The province played a role in World War II resistance and post-war recovery.
• Today, Negros Occidental is a dynamic province balancing agricultural heritage with urban development. It continues to advocate for sustainable farming, cultural preservation, and inclusive growth across its cities and municipalities.

Elected Officials of Negros Occidental

• As of the 2025 elections, Negros Occidental is led by:
  • Governor: Eugenio Jose V. Lacson (NPC)
  • Vice Governor: Jose Benito A. Alonso (NUP)
  • Representatives: Greg Gasataya (Bacolod), Mercedes Alvarez (6th District), Francisco Benitez (3rd District), and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
  • Board Members: Representing districts such as San Carlos, Silay, Kabankalan, and Himamaylan.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Negros Occidental Election Results.

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