Panay

Panay is an island in the western Philippines, part of the Western Visayas region. It is one of the larger islands in the country and features a varied coastline that supports agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. The island’s land area is around 12,000 square kilometers.

Administratively, Panay is divided into four provinces: Aklan, Antique, Capiz, and Iloilo. The regional capital and major urban center on the island is Iloilo City, which serves as a cultural and economic hub for the island and the broader Visayas region.

Geography and notable features include Mount Madja-as, the highest peak on Panay, located in Antique. Boracay, a world-famous beach destination, lies off the coast of Aklan and is a major driver of tourism for the island. The Panay landscape also encompasses fertile plains in Iloilo and Capiz and upland areas in Antique and Aklan.

People and culture on Panay speak several languages, including Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), Kinaray-a, and Aklanon. The majority religion is Roman Catholicism, with various Protestant and indigenous communities as well. Major cultural events include the Ati-atihan festival in Kalibo (Aklan) and the Dinagyang festival in Iloilo City, both reflecting the island’s rich celebrations and heritage.

History on Panay includes precolonial indigenous polities and trading networks. The island came under Spanish colonial administration in the 16th century and participated in the Philippine Revolution in the late 19th century. In modern times, Panay has developed as an agricultural and tourism-focused region, with Boracay contributing significantly to its international profile.