negros

Negros is the fourth-largest island of the Philippines, located in the Visayas. It is divided into two provinces, Negros Occidental in the west and Negros Oriental in the east. The island is bounded by the Guimaras Strait to the north, the Panay Gulf to the northwest, and the Tanon Strait to the east, which separates it from Cebu. The largest population centers are Bacolod City, capital of Negros Occidental, and Dumaguete City, capital of Negros Oriental.

Geography and environment: Mount Kanlaon, an active volcano, lies near the island's center and is part of Kanlaon National Park. The terrain includes volcanic highlands, agricultural plains, and coastal areas with coral reefs. Protected areas, forests, and marine habitats support biodiversity and livelihoods such as farming and fishing.

History and economy: Negros has a long sugar-producing heritage dating to the Spanish era, with large haciendas shaping the western half. Today the economy is diversified, including agriculture (sugarcane, fruit, rice), fishing, manufacturing, and growing tourism, particularly eco-tourism and beach destinations. The MassKara Festival in Bacolod is a notable cultural event.

Demographics and culture: Languages include Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) in Negros Occidental and Cebuano in Negros Oriental, among others. The island hosts a rich array of historical sites, colonial-era towns such as Silay and Dumaguete, and a vibrant culinary scene. Transportation includes the Bacolod-Silay Airport and the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, with ferries linking to neighboring islands.