Region VII: Central Visayas:

Central Visayas Region (Region VII) – A Vibrant Hub of Culture, Economy, and Nature

The Central Visayas Region, officially designated as Region VII, is one of the 17 administrative regions of the Philippines. Located in the heart of the Visayas island group, this region is known for its dynamic economy, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural attractions. It serves as a vital link between Luzon and Mindanao and is one of the country’s most progressive and tourism-driven areas. Its Regional Center is located in Cebu City, Cebu.

Geographical Overview

Central Visayas consists of four provinces:

• Cebu: the heart of the region, is a bustling urban center that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. It is known for being the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, as it was the site of the first Spanish settlement. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as the Magellan’s Cross, Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro. Additionally, the province is famous for its vibrant Sinulog Festival, a celebration deeply rooted in religious and cultural significance.
• Bohol: on the other hand, is celebrated for its iconic Chocolate Hills, which are thousands of dome-shaped limestone formations scattered throughout the island. The province also boasts the intriguing Philippine Tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates, and the centuries-old Baclayon Church, a National Cultural Treasure.
• Negros Oriental: is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with its captivating marine sanctuaries, captivating waterfalls like the Tinago and Casaroro Falls, and the mesmerizing Apo Island, a renowned diving spot known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem.
• Siquijor: lastly the mystical island is revered for its enchanting natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and traditional mystic folk healing rituals. The historical town of Lazi houses the iconic Lazi Convent and Church, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The region also includes three highly urbanized cities: Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Mandaue City. These cities, particularly Cebu City—dubbed the “Queen City of the South”—are central to the region’s economic and cultural activities.

The region is surrounded by the Visayan Sea to the north, the Bohol Sea to the south, and the Camotes Sea to the east, making it an area rich in marine biodiversity.

Demographics

As of the latest census, Central Visayas has a population of over 8 million people. Cebuano (or Bisaya) is the primary language spoken across the region, though Tagalog and English are also widely used, especially in education and government.

Economy

Central Visayas has a robust and diverse economy. The region is a major player in several key industries:

• Tourism: With popular destinations such as Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, Siquijor’s mystical landscapes, and Malapascua and Moalboal’s diving spots, tourism is a major economic driver.
• Information Technology and Business Process Outsourcing (IT-BPO): Cebu City is a top destination for BPO companies and shared service centers.
• Manufacturing and Shipbuilding: Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu cities are known for furniture manufacturing and shipbuilding.
• Agriculture and Fisheries: Rural areas support farming and fishing industries, supplying rice, corn, sugarcane, livestock, and marine products.

Culture and Heritage

Central Visayas is rich in history and traditions. It is the cradle of Christianity in the Philippines, where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan first landed in 1521. The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City houses the oldest Christian relic in the country.

Festivals are a vibrant part of the region’s culture:

• Sinulog Festival (Cebu City) – A grand celebration in honor of the Santo Niño, attracting tourists and devotees alike.
• Sandugo Festival (Bohol) – Commemorates the blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Miguel López de Legazpi.
• Buglasan Festival (Negros Oriental) – Known as the “Festival of Festivals” in the province.

Tourism and Attractions

Some of the must-see destinations in Central Visayas include:

• Chocolate Hills (Bohol) – A unique geological formation of over 1,000 hills.
• Kawasan Falls (Cebu) – A multi-layered waterfall known for canyoneering adventures.
• Apo Island (Negros Oriental) – A top diving destination and marine sanctuary.
• Cambugahay Falls (Siquijor) – A serene waterfall with turquoise pools.
• Historical landmarks like Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro in Cebu.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Central Visayas is well-connected by land, air, and sea:

• Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the second busiest in the Philippines and serves as the region’s main gateway.
• Extensive ferry and port systems connect the islands within the region and to neighboring regions.
• Modern highways and bridges, such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), enhance inter-island connectivity.

The Central Visayas Region is an archipelago island region and consists of 4 provinces and makes up the central portion of the Visayas Island Group. It’s bordered by Region VI: Western Visayas to the north-west, Mindanao Island Group to the south, and Region VIII: Eastern Visayas Region to the north-east.

Conclusion

The Central Visayas Region stands out as a blend of progress and tradition. With its vibrant cities, cultural richness, and stunning natural wonders, it is a cornerstone of Philippine heritage and economic vitality. Whether you’re exploring historic Cebu, relaxing on the beaches of Bohol and Siquijor, or diving in the coral reefs of Negros Oriental, Central Visayas offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Map Of Region VII: Central Visayas:

By Namayan at English Wikipedia, CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=46994641

Provinces Of Region VII: Central Visayas:

Bohol:

Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 71200000

Bohol is an island province in the south-eastern portion of the region and is composed of:

Cebu:

Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 72200000

Cebu is a multiple island province in the central portion of the region and is composed of:

Negros Oriental:

Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 74600000

Negros Oriental is a province on north-western side of the Island of Negros and is composed of:

Siquijor:

Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 76100000

Siquijor is an island province in the southern portion of the region and is composed of: