View source for Aklan

{{about|the Philippine province}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name               = {{PH_wikidata|name}}
| native_name        = {{Native name|mis|Akean|paren=omit}} ([[Aklanon language|Aklanon]])
| settlement_type    = {{PH wikidata|settlement_type}}
| image_skyline      = {{Photomontage
| photo1a = Boracay Island, Philippines - panoramio.jpg
| photo2a = Cathedral Kalibo.jpg
| photo2b = Ati-Atihan Festival Participant.jpg
| photo3a = Bakhawan Eco-Park - panoramio (3) (cropped).jpg
| photo3b = Church of Lezo, Aklan.jpg
| photo4a = Aklan Provincial Capitol.jpg
| size = 250
| spacing = 2
| color = transparaent
| border = 0
}}
| image_caption      = (from top: left to right) [[Boracay]], [[Diocese of Kalibo|Kalibo Cathedral]], [[Ati-Atihan Festival]], Bakhawan Ecopark, [[Lezo, Aklan|Lezo Church]], and [[Kalibo, Aklan|Aklan Provincial Capitol]]
| image_flag         = Flag_of_Aklan.svg
| flag_size          = 120x80px
| image_seal         = Seal_of_Aklan.png
| seal_size          = 100x80px
| image_shield       = 
| nickname           = 
| motto              = ''"Arangkada, Aklan"''{{force singular}}
| anthem             = '' "Aklan Hymn" ''
| image_map          = Aklan in Philippines.svg
| map_caption        = Location in the Philippines
| mapframe = yes
| coordinates        = {{PH wikidata|coordinates}}
| subdivision_type   = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
| subdivision_name   = {{PH wikidata|country}}
| subdivision_type1  = [[Regions of the Philippines|Region]]
| subdivision_name1  = {{PH wikidata|region}}
| established_title  = First settled
| established_date   = 13th century
| seat_type          = Capital<br/>{{nobold|and largest municipality}}
| seat               = {{PH wikidata|seat}}
| leader_party       = 
| leader_title       = [[Governor]]
| leader_name        = [[Jose Enrique Miraflores|Jose Enrique M. Miraflores]] ([[Lakas–CMD|Lakas]])
| leader_title1      = [[Vice Governor]]
| leader_name1       = Dexter M. Calizo ([[Lakas-CMD|Lakas]])
| leader_title2      = [[Sangguniang Panlalawigan|Legislature]]
| leader_name2       = [[Aklan Provincial Board]]
| area_footnotes     = <ref name=nscblist>{{cite web |title=List of Provinces |url=http://www.nscb.gov.ph/activestats/psgc/listprov.asp |work=PSGC Interactive |publisher=National Statistical Coordination Board |access-date=14 May 2014 |location=Makati City, Philippines |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419000512/http://www.nscb.gov.ph/activestats/psgc/listprov.asp |archive-date=19 April 2016}}</ref>
| area_total_km2     = {{PH wikidata|area}}
| area_rank          = 64th out of 81
| elevation_max_m    = 1,777
| elevation_max_point = [[Mount Timbaban]]
| population_footnotes = {{PH census|current|06}}
| population_total   = {{PH wikidata|population_total}}
| population_as_of   = {{PH wikidata|population_as_of}}
| population_rank    = 51st out of 81
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_rank = 23rd out of 81
| population_demonym       = Aklanon
| demographics_type1 = Divisions
| demographics1_title1 = [[Cities of the Philippines#Independent cities|Independent&nbsp;cities]]
| demographics1_info1 = 0
| demographics1_title2 = [[Cities of the Philippines|Component cities]]
| demographics1_info2 = 0
| demographics1_title3 = [[Municipalities of the Philippines|Municipalities]]
| demographics1_info3 = {{Collapsible list
| titlestyle              = font-weight:normal;text-align:left;background-color:WhiteSmoke;
| title                   = 17
 | [[Altavas, Aklan|Altavas]]
 | [[Balete, Aklan|Balete]]
 | [[Banga, Aklan|Banga]]
 | [[Batan, Aklan|Batan]]
 | [[Buruanga, Aklan|Buruanga]]
 | [[Ibajay, Aklan|Ibajay]]
 | [[Kalibo, Aklan|Kalibo]]
 | [[Lezo, Aklan|Lezo]]
 | [[Libacao, Aklan|Libacao]]
 | [[Madalag, Aklan|Madalag]]
 | [[Makato, Aklan|Makato]]
 | [[Malay, Aklan|Malay]]
 | [[Malinao, Aklan|Malinao]]
 | [[Nabas, Aklan|Nabas]]
 | [[New Washington, Aklan|New Washington]]
 | [[Numancia, Aklan|Numancia]]
 | [[Tangalan, Aklan|Tangalan]]
}}
| demographics1_title4 = [[Barangay]]s
| demographics1_info4 = 327
| demographics1_title5 = [[House of Representatives of the Philippines|Districts]]
| demographics1_info5 = [[Legislative districts of Aklan]]
| timezone           = [[Philippine Standard Time|PHT]]
| utc_offset         = +8
| postal_code_type   = [[List of ZIP codes in the Philippines|ZIP Code]]
| postal_code        = {{PH wikidata|postal_code}}
| area_code_type     = {{areacodestyle}}
| area_code          = {{PH wikidata|area_code}}
| iso_code           = {{PH wikidata|iso_code}}
| blank_name_sec1    = [[Human Development Index|HDI]]
| blank_info_sec1    = {{increase}} 0.660 ({{fontcolor|orange|Medium}})
| blank1_name_sec1   = HDI rank
| blank1_info_sec1   = [[List of Philippine provinces and regions by Human Development Index|29th in Philippines]] (2019)
| blank1_name_sec2   = [[List of regions of the Philippines by GDP|GDP]] (2022)
| blank1_info_sec2   = [[Philippine peso|₱]]63.57 billion <br />[[USD|$]]1.084 billion <ref name="grdp">{{Cite web |title=2021 to 2023 Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP)|url=https://psa.gov.ph/statistics/grdp/tables |access-date=April 26, 2024 |publisher=Philippine Statistics Authority|website=openstat.psa.gov.ph}}</ref>
| blank2_name_sec2   = Growth rate
| blank2_info_sec2   = {{increase}} 22.5%
| blank_name_sec2    = Spoken languages
| blank_info_sec2    = {{hlist | [[Aklanon language|Aklanon]] | [[Malaynon language|Malaynon]] | [[Hiligaynon language|Hiligaynon]] | [[Ati language (Philippines)|Ati]] | [[Kinaray-a language|Kinaray-a]] |
[[Onhan language|Onhan]] | [[Capiznon language|Capiznon]] | [[Filipino language|Filipino]] | [[English language|English]] }}
| website            = {{PH wikidata|website}}
| established_title1 = [[Date of establishment|Founded]]
| established_date1  = {{PH wikidata|founded}}
}}

'''Aklan''', officially the '''Province of Aklan''',{{Efn|{{langx|akl|Probinsya it Akean}} {{IPA|akl|akˈɤan|}}; {{langx|hil|Kapuoran sang Aklan}}; {{langx|tl|Lalawigan ng Aklan}}}} is a [[Provinces of the Philippines|province]] in the [[Western Visayas]] region of the [[Philippines]]. Its capital and largest town is [[Kalibo]]. The province is situated in the northwest portion of [[Panay|Panay Island]], bordering [[Antique (province)|Antique]] to the southwest, and [[Capiz]] to the southeast. Aklan faces the [[Sibuyan Sea]] and [[Romblon]] province to the north.

Aklan is most well-known for [[Boracay]], a resort island 0.8 kilometers north of the tip of Panay. It is known for its white sand beaches and is considered one of the more prominent destinations in the country. The [[Ati-Atihan festival|Ati-Atihan Festival]] of Kalibo has also been known worldwide, hence declared "The Mother of all Philippine Festivals." It is an annual celebration held on the third Sunday of January to honor the [[Santo Niño de Cebú|Santo Niño]] (Infant Jesus). The festival showcases tribal dancing through the town's main streets to the tune of ethnic music, with participants in indigenous costumes and gear.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Invest in Aklan {{!}} The Official Website of Aklan Province |url=https://aklan.gov.ph/economy-and-investment/ |access-date=2022-07-27 |language=en-US}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>

==History==
{{more citations needed section|date=June 2021}}

===Early history===
Aklan is believed to have been settled in ancient times by settlers from Borneo, ruled by Datu Bangkaya, with his seat at Madyanos, near present-day Numancia.

===Spanish colonial era===
Several [[datu]]s succeeded Datu Manduyog until the Spanish explorer [[Miguel López de Legazpi]] landed in Batan in 1565 and claimed the island for [[Spain]], in early Spanish accounts it was called ''El Río de Aclán''.

===Japanese occupation===
In 1942, the [[Japanese Imperial Army|Japanese]] [[Philippines campaign (1941–1942)|invaded]] Aklan during [[World War II]]. In 1945, combined Filipino and [[United States|American]] army along with Aklanon guerrillas [[Philippines Campaign (1944–45)|liberated]] Aklan during the [[Pacific War|war in the Pacific]].{{citation needed|date=July 2022}}

===Postwar Era===
Aklan (Akean) became an independent province through ''[[Republic Act]] No. 1414'' signed by Philippine President [[Ramon Magsaysay]] on April 25, 1956, separating Aklan from [[Capiz]].<ref name="ChanRobles-RA1414">{{cite web|title=Republic Act No. 1414 – An Act to Create the Province of Aklan|url=http://www.chanrobles.com/republicacts/republicactno1414.html|website=Chan Robles Virtual Law Library|access-date=18 March 2016|date=25 April 1956}}</ref> The original towns were [[Altavas, Aklan|Altavas]], [[Balete, Aklan|Balete]], [[Batan, Aklan|Batan]], [[Banga, Aklan|Banga]], [[Buruanga, Aklan|Buruanga]], [[Ibajay, Aklan|Ibajay]], [[Kalibo, Aklan|Kalibo]], [[Lezo, Aklan|Lezo]], [[Libacao, Aklan|Libacao]], [[Madalag, Aklan|Madalag]], [[Malay, Aklan|Malay]], [[Makato, Aklan|Makato]], [[Malinao, Aklan|Malinao]], [[Nabas, Aklan|Nabas]], [[New Washington, Aklan|New Washington]], [[Numancia, Aklan|Numancia]], and [[Tangalan, Aklan|Tangalan]], then all part of the province of [[Capiz (province)|Capiz]]. The province was inaugurated on November 8, 1956. Jose Raz Menez was appointed the first governor of Aklan by President Magsaysay and he served until December 30, 1959.

In 1960, Godofredo P. Ramos became the first elected governor but upon resigning to run for Congress he was succeeded by the vice governor, Virgilio S. Patricio. In 1964, José B. Legaspi succeeded Patricio and he held office for two consecutive terms from 1964 to 1971.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}}

=== Marcos dictatorship era ===
{{main|Martial law under Ferdinand Marcos|Human rights abuses of the Marcos dictatorship}}
The beginning months of the 1970s had marked a period of turmoil and change in the Philippines, as well as in Aklan.<ref name="Robles2016">{{Cite book|last=Robles|first=Raissa|title=Marcos Martial Law: Never Again|publisher=Filipinos for a Better Philippines, Inc.|year=2016}}</ref><ref name ="GazetteHistoryProtest">{{Cite web |url=https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/edsa/the-ph-protest/ |title=A History of the Philippine Political Protest |access-date=2024-06-17 |archive-date=2017-07-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703123638/http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/edsa/the-ph-protest/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During his [[Ferdinand Marcos’ 1969 reelection campaign|bid to be the first Philippine president to be re-elected]] for a second term, Ferdinand Marcos launched an unprecedented number of foreign debt-funded public works projects. This caused<ref name=Balbosas1992>{{Cite journal|last=Balbosa|first=Joven Zamoras|date=1992|title=IMF Stabilization Program and Economic Growth: The Case of the Philippines|journal=Journal of Philippine Development|volume=XIX|issue=35|url=https://dirp4.pids.gov.ph/ris/pjd/pidsjpd92-2imf.pdf|access-date=November 6, 2022|archive-date=September 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921141056/https://dirp4.pids.gov.ph/ris/pjd/pidsjpd92-2imf.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Balisacan&Hill2003">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O_L9k58WM9UC&q=The+Philippine+economy+under+Marcos:+A+balance+sheet|title=The Philippine Economy: Development, Policies, and Challenges|last1=Balisacan|first1=A. M.|last2=Hill|first2=Hal|date=2003|publisher=Oxford University Press|isbn=9780195158984|language=en|access-date=2024-06-17|archive-date=2023-02-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218080523/https://books.google.com/books?id=O_L9k58WM9UC&q=The+Philippine+economy+under+Marcos:+A+balance+sheet|url-status=live}}</ref> the Philippine economy to take a sudden downwards turn known as the [[1969 Philippine balance of payments crisis]], which led to a period of economic difficulty and a significant rise of social unrest.<ref name="Cororaton1997">{{Cite journal|last=Cororaton|first=Cesar B.|title=Exchange Rate Movements in the Philippines|journal=DPIDS Discussion Paper Series 97-05|pages=3, 19}}</ref><ref name="Celoza1997">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Sp3U1oCNKlgC|title=Ferdinand Marcos and the Philippines: The Political Economy of Authoritarianism|last=Celoza|first=Albert F.|date=1997|publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group|isbn=9780275941376|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/philippinesreade00schi|title=The Philippines reader : a history of colonialism, neocolonialism, dictatorship, and resistance|last=Schirmer|first=Daniel B.|date=1987|publisher=South End Press|isbn=0896082768|edition=1st|location=Boston|oclc=14214735}}</ref><ref name="Kessler1989">{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/rebellionrepress0000kess|title=Rebellion and repression in the Philippines|last=Kessler|first=Richard J.|date=1989|publisher=Yale University Press|isbn=0300044062|location=New Haven|oclc=19266663|url-access=registration}}</ref> {{rp|page="43"}} With only a year left in his last constitutionally allowed term as president, Ferdinand Marcos placed the Philippines under [[Martial Law under Ferdinand Marcos|Martial Law]] in September 1972 and thus retained the position for fourteen more years.<ref name ="Kasaysayan9ch10">{{Cite book|title=Kasaysayan, The Story of the Filipino People Volume 9:A Nation Reborn.|publisher=Asia Publishing Company Limited|year=1998|editor-last=Magno|editor-first=Alexander R.|location=Hong Kong|chapter=Democracy at the Crossroads}}</ref> This period in Philippine history is remembered for the Marcos administration's record of [[Human rights abuses of the Marcos dictatorship|human rights abuses]],<ref name="McCoy199909202">{{cite web|url=http://www.hartford-hwp.com/archives/54a/062.html|title=Alfred McCoy, Dark Legacy: Human rights under the Marcos regime|date=September 20, 1999|publisher=[[Ateneo de Manila University]]|access-date=June 17, 2024|archive-date=September 1, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220901062823/http://www.hartford-hwp.com/archives/54a/062.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Abinales&Amoroso20052">{{Cite book|title=State and society in the Philippines|last1=Abinales|first1=P.N.|last2=Amoroso|first2=Donna J.|date=2005|publisher=Rowman & Littlefield Publishers|isbn=978-0742510234|location=Lanham, MD|oclc=57452454}}</ref> particularly targeting political opponents, student activists, journalists, religious workers, farmers, and others who fought against the Marcos dictatorship.<ref name="Rappler">{{Cite news|url=https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/182828-marcos-dictatorship-martial-law-youth-leaders-killed|title=Gone too soon: 7 youth leaders killed under Martial Law|work=Rappler|access-date=June 15, 2018|archive-date=June 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624114207/https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/182828-marcos-dictatorship-martial-law-youth-leaders-killed|url-status=live}}</ref> Aklanons discovered that they could be arrested for even mundane things like being caught possessing a cassette tape of nationalistic songs.<ref>https://hrvvmc.gov.ph/the-marcos-regime-and-the-making-of-a-subservient-philippine-press-part-ii-2/</ref>

With no way to express their grievances about government abuses after the declaration of Martial law in 1972, many students felt they had no option but to join the underground resistance movement against the dicttorship.<ref>https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1559917/edsa36-remembering-those-who-gave-up-their-lives</ref> Among the most prominent of them were underground movement leaders Antonio "Tonyhil" Hilario, Rolly Lorca, and Antonio Tagamolia, who were killed in a raid in [[Libacao]] in February 1974;<ref>https://bantayogngmgabayani.org/bayani/edward-dela-fuente/</ref> as well as student journalist Antonio "Diore" Mijares and Baptist Youth organizer Edward Dela Fuente, who were caught, tortured, and killed somewhere in [[Ibajay]] on Good Friday, April 20, 1984.<ref>https://bantayogngmgabayani.org/bayani/rolly-lorca/</ref> Some of these figures were later honored by having their names inscribed in the Philippines' [[Bantayog ng mga Bayani]] memorial which honors the martyrs and heroes who fought the authoritarian regime.

==== Dispossession of Boracay from the Ati ====
{{Main|Boracay|Ati people}}
On Nov. 10, 1978, six years after the declaration of [[Martial Law under Ferdinand Marcos]], 65 Philippine islands including Boracay was declared "tourist zones and marine reserves" without any mention of the status of the Ati who were the original residents of the island.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Burgos |first=Nestor P. Jr. |date=2018 |title=Boracay rehab magnifies land ownership issue |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/997554/boracay-rehab-magnifies-land-ownership-issue |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806234152/https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/997554/boracay-rehab-magnifies-land-ownership-issue |archive-date=2024-08-06 |access-date=2025-09-19 |website=INQUIRER.net |language=en }}</ref><ref>{{Cite PH act|chamber=PP|number=1801, s. 1978|url=https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1978/11/10/proclamation-no-1801-s-1978/|title=Declaring certain islands, coves and peninsulas in the Philippines as tourist zones and marine reserve under the administration and control of the Philippine Tourism Authority|date=November 10, 1978}}</ref>  This de facto dispossession of Ati lands on Boracay by Marcos<ref name="Neef2019">{{Cite book |last=Neef |first=Andreas |title=Tourism, land grabs and displacement: the darker side of the feel-good industry |date=2021 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-0-429-34072-7 |series=Routledge studies in global land and resource grabbing |location=Abingdon, Oxon; New York, NY}}</ref> placed the islands under the control of the Philippine Tourism Authority, and marked the beginning of rapid development on the island. In turn, this resulted in the further marginalization of the Boracay Ati for decades.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ANGAN |first=JOSEPH |date=2013 |title=Beyond the beach: The untold story of Boracay's Ati tribe |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/artandculture/313920/beyond-the-beach-the-untold-story-of-boracay-s-ati-tribe/story/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250623023627/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/artandculture/313920/beyond-the-beach-the-untold-story-of-boracay-s-ati-tribe/story/ |archive-date=2025-06-23 |access-date=2025-09-19 |website=GMA News Online |language=en }}</ref>

=== Contemporary history ===
Aklan was among the provinces affected by the [[COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines]], with an overseas Filipino worker who showed symptoms on March 12, 2020 becoming the first "person under investigation" (PUI) in the province.<ref>https://www.rappler.com/philippines/254508-aklan-coronavirus-pui-home-quarantine-14-march-2020/</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:Aklan River seen on Madalag Aklan.jpg|thumb|left|A view of the Aklan River]]
Aklan occupies the northern third of the island of [[Panay]] and is bordered by the provinces of [[Capiz]] from the southeast and [[Antique (province)|Antique]] from the southwest. It also faces the [[Sibuyan Sea]] from the north. The province covers a total area of {{convert|1,821.42|km2}}{{PSGC detail|nscb}}, and includes the island of [[Boracay]] which is located at its northwestern tip.

[[Mount Nausang]], is formerly the highest peak in Aklan, standing at {{cvt|5,190|ft|abbr=on}}, the discovery of [[Mount Timbaban]] is much higher, with an elevation of {{cvt|5,830.1|ft|abbr=on}} above sea level, Mount Timbaban is not considered as independent mountain, it is still part of [[Mount Madja-as]] sub-summit with only [[Topographic prominence]] peak of {{cvt|30|m|abbr=on}} above the isolation from the  [[Parent peak]]. Located 6&nbsp;km northwest of Mount Nausang and 4.8&nbsp;km northeast of [[Mount Madja-as]] in Antique. [[Aklan River]], is the longest [[river]] in the province with a total length of  {{cvt|91|km|abbr=on}} long.

The province features high geographic diversity, ranging from white sandy beaches, [[mangrove]]s and mountainous landscapes. Situated within the province is the river [[Akean]], which appears unique due to its "boiling or frothing" appearance.

==Administrative divisions==
Aklan comprises 17 [[Philippine municipality|municipalities]].{{PSGC detail|nscb}} The province is divided into two legislative districts for congressional representation.{{PSGC detail|nscb}}

[[File:Ph_fil_aklan.png|thumb|400px|upright=1.1|{{center|Political map of Aklan}}]]

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="table-layout:fixed;text-align:right;background-color:white;font-size:95%;border-collapse:collapse;"
|-
! scope="col" style="border-width:thin 0 0 thin;" class="unsortable" rowspan="2" |
! scope="col" style="border-width:thin 0 0 0;text-align:left;padding-right:1.5em;" class="unsortable" colspan="2" | Municipality{{efn-lr|name=Coord}}
! scope="col" style="border-bottom:0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" colspan="3" | Population
! scope="col" style="border-bottom:0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" | {{PSGC rubric}}
! scope="col" style="border-bottom:0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" colspan="2" | Area{{PSGC detail|nscb}}
! scope="col" style="border-bottom:0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" colspan="2" | Density{{thinsp}}{{small|(2020)}}
! scope="col" style="border-bottom:0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" | {{abbr|Barangay|Total number of barangays}}
|-
! style="border-width:0 thin thin 0;" colspan="2" |
! style="border-width:0 0 thin thin;text-align:center;" colspan="2" | {{small|(2020)}}{{PH census|2020|06}}
! style="border-width:0 thin thin 0;text-align:center;" | {{small|(2015)}}{{PH census|2015|06}}
! style="border-top:0;" |
! style="border-width:0 0 thin thin;text-align:center;" | km<sup>2</sup>
! style="border-width:0 thin thin 0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" | {{nowrap|sq{{thinsp}}mi}}
! style="border-width:0 0 thin thin;text-align:center;" | /km<sup>2</sup>
! style="border-width:0 thin thin 0;text-align:center;" class="unsortable" | {{nowrap|/sq{{thinsp}}mi}}
! style="border-top:0;" |
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.5373|N|122.4881|E|name=Altavas|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Altavas, Aklan|Altavas]]
| {{percent and number|25,639|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 24,619
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|25,639|2015.3315|24,619}}
| {{convert|109.05|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|25,639/109.05|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 14
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.5564|N|122.3797|E|name=Balete|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Balete, Aklan|Balete]]
| {{percent and number|30,090|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 28,920
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|30,090|2015.3315|28,920}}
| {{convert|118.93|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|30,090/118.93|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 10
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.6382|N|122.3322|E|name=Banga|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Banga, Aklan|Banga]]
| {{percent and number|40,318|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 39,505
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|40,318|2015.3315|39,505}}
| {{convert|84.53|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|40,318/84.53|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 30
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.5869|N|122.4962|E|name=Batan|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Batan, Aklan|Batan]]
| {{percent and number|33,484|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 32,032
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|33,484|2015.3315|32,032}}
| {{convert|79.22|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|33,484/79.22|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 20
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.8442|N|121.8884|E|name=Buruanga|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Buruanga, Aklan|Buruanga]]
| {{percent and number|19,357|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 19,003
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|19,357|2015.3315|19,003}}
| {{convert|56.44|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|19,357/56.44|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 15
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.8184|N|122.1649|E|name=Ibajay|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Ibajay, Aklan|Ibajay]]
| {{percent and number|52,364|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 49,564
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|52,364|2015.3315|49,564}}
| {{convert|158.90|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|52,364/158.90|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 35
|-
! scope="row" style="border-width:medium 0 medium medium;background-color:initial;" |  {{coord|11.7089|N|122.3640|E|name=Kalibo|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-width:medium 0 medium;" | [[Kalibo, Aklan|Kalibo]]
| style="border-width:medium medium medium 0;padding-right:0.7em;" | †
| {{percent and number|89,127|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 80,605
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|89,127|2015.3315|80,605}}
| {{convert|50.75|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|89,127/50.75|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 16
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.6679|N|122.3286|E|name=Lezo|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Lezo, Aklan|Lezo]]
| {{percent and number|15,639|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 15,224
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|15,639|2015.3315|15,224}}
| {{convert|23.40|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|15,639/23.40|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 12
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.4806|N|122.3024|E|name=Libacao|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Libacao, Aklan|Libacao]]
| {{percent and number|28,272|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 28,241
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|28,272|2015.3315|28,241}}
| {{convert|254.98|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|28,272/254.98|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 24
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.5269|N|122.3063|E|name=Madalag|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Madalag, Aklan|Madalag]]
| {{percent and number|18,890|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 18,389
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|18,890|2015.3315|18,389}}
| {{convert|269.60|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|18,890/269.60|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 25
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.7116|N|122.2926|E|name=Makato|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Makato, Aklan|Makato]]
| {{percent and number|29,717|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 27,262
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|29,717|2015.3315|27,262}}
| {{convert|103.45|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|29,717/103.45|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 18
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.9002|N|121.9100|E|name=Malay|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Malay, Aklan|Malay]]
| {{percent and number|60,077|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 52,973
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|60,077|2015.3315|52,973}}
| {{convert|66.01|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|60,077/66.01|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 17
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.6439|N|122.3076|E|name=Malinao|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Malinao, Aklan|Malinao]]
| {{percent and number|24,517|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 23,194
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|24,517|2015.3315|23,194}}
| {{convert|186.01|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|24,517/186.01|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 23
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.8288|N|122.0933|E|name=Nabas|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Nabas, Aklan|Nabas]]
| {{percent and number|40,632|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 36,435
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|40,632|2015.3315|36,435}}
| {{convert|96.82|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|40,632/96.82|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 20
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.6473|N|122.4356|E|name=New Washington|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[New Washington, Aklan|New Washington]]
| {{percent and number|47,955|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 45,007
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|47,955|2015.3315|45,007}}
| {{convert|66.69|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|47,955/66.69|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 16
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.7058|N|122.3280|E|name=Numancia|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Numancia, Aklan|Numancia]]
| {{percent and number|35,693|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 31,934
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|35,693|2015.3315|31,934}}
| {{convert|28.84|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|35,693/28.84|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 17
|-
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;background-color:initial;" | {{coord|11.7740|N|122.2604|E|name=Tangalan|region:PH-AKL_type:city|format=hidden}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align:left;font-weight:bold;border-left:0;" | [[Tangalan, Aklan|Tangalan]]
| {{percent and number|23,704|615,475|disp=table|1|pad=yes}}
| 21,916
| {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|23,704|2015.3315|21,916}}
| {{convert|62.03|km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| {{convert|{{sigfig|23,704/62.03|2}}|PD/km2|abbr=values|disp=table}}
| style="text-align:center;" | 15
|- class="sortbottom"
! scope="row" style="border-right:0;" |
! colspan="3" style="border-left:0;text-align:left;font-size:medium;font-variant:small-caps;letter-spacing:0.05em;" | Total
! style="text-align:right;" | 615,475
! style="text-align:right;" | 574,823
! style="text-align:right;" | {{PAGR|color=true|2020.5835|615,475|2015.3315|574,823}}
! style="text-align:right;" | 1,760.30
! {{convert|1,760.30|km2|disp=number|2}}
! style="text-align:right;" | {{sigfig|615,475/1,760.30|2}}
! style="text-align:right;" | {{convert|{{sigfig|615,475/1,760.30|2}}|PD/km2|disp=number}}
! style="text-align:center;" | 327
|- class="sortbottom" style="background-color:#F2F2F2;line-height:1.3em;border-top:double grey;"
| colspan="2" style="border-width:thin 0 0 thin;" |
| colspan="5" style="border-width:thin 0 0 0;text-align:center;padding:0.7em 0;" | {{Color box|white|†|border=darkgray}}{{thinsp}}Provincial&nbsp;capital
| colspan="6" style="border-width:thin 0 0 0;text-align:left;padding:0.7em 0;" | {{Color box|white|border=darkgray}}{{thinsp}}Municipality
|- class="sortbottom" style="background-color:#F2F2F2;line-height:1.3em;font-size:110%;"
| colspan="13" style="border-top:0;padding:0 12em;" |
{{notelist-lr|refs=
{{efn-lr|name=Coord|The ''globe''&nbsp;[[File:WMA button2b.png|frameless|upright=0.1]] icon marks the [[town&nbsp;center]].}}
}}
|}

==Demographics==
{{Philippine Census
| align= left
| title= Population census of {{PH wikidata|name}}
| 1903 = {{PH census population|1903}}
| 1918 = {{PH census population|1918}}
| 1939 = {{PH census population|1939}}
| 1948 = {{PH census population|1948}}
| 1960 = {{PH census population|1960}}
| 1970 = {{PH census population|1970}}
| 1975 = {{PH census population|1975}}
| 1980 = {{PH census population|1980}}
| 1990 = {{PH census population|1990}}
| 1995 = {{PH census population|1995}}
| 2000 = {{PH census population|2000}}
| 2007 = {{PH census population|2007}}
| 2010 = {{PH census population|2010}}
| 2015 = {{PH census population|2015}}
| 2020 = {{PH census population|2020}}
| 2024 = {{PH census population|2024}}
| 2030 = 
| footnote = Source: Philippine Statistics Authority{{PH census|2015|06}}{{PH census|2010|06}}{{PH census|2010}}
}}

The population of Aklan in the 2024 census was 634,422 people,<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 17, 2024 |title=2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) Population Counts Declared Official by the President |url=https://psa.gov.ph/content/2024-census-population-popcen-population-counts-declared-official-president |access-date=November 15, 2025 |website=psa.gov.ph}}</ref> with a density of {{convert|{{sigfig|634,422/1,821.42|2}}|PD/km2|disp=or}}.

===Ethnic groups===
The main inhabitants of the province are the [[Aklanon people|Aklanon]], who are part of the [[Visayan people|Visayan]] ethnic group. Other inhabitants include the [[Negrito]], locally known as the [[Ati (tribe)|Ati]] and the Sulod, a lesser known tribal group living in the hinterlands of Panay. Other [[Visayan people|Visayans]] also present are the [[Hiligaynon people|Hiligaynon]], [[Karay-a people|Karay-a]], and [[Capiznon people|Capiznon]].

{{bar box
| title    = Population by ethnicity (2000)<ref name="CensusGovPH-2000" />
| titlebar = #CCCCFF
| left1    = Ethnicity
| right2   = Number
| barwidth = 6.5em
| float    = right
| bars     =
{{bar pixel | [[Aklanon people|Aklanon]]     | #000040| 96.56| | {{number and percent | 434,869 | 450,353 | 2}} }}
{{bar pixel | [[Hiligaynon people|Hiligaynon]]     | #707094|  0.75| | {{number and percent |   3,375 | 450,353 | 2}} }}
{{bar pixel | [[Tagalog people|Tagalog]]     | #AFAFC3|  0.50| | {{number and percent |   2,271 | 450,353 | 2 | pad=yes}} }}
{{bar pixel | [[Kankanaey people|Kankanaey]] | #C3C3D2|  0.28| | {{number and percent |   1,281 | 450,353 | 2}} }}
{{bar pixel | [[Cebuano people|Cebuano]]     | #D2D2DE|  0.21| | {{number and percent |     939 | 450,353 | 2}} }}
{{bar gap|<hr/>}}
{{bar pixel | ''Others''                     | #404070|  1.07| | {{number and percent |   4,816 | 450,353 | 2}} }}
{{bar pixel | ''Not Reported''               | #9494AF|  0.62| | {{number and percent |   2,802 | 450,353 | 2}} }}
}}

Based on the 2000 census survey, [[Aklanon people|Aklanon]] accounted for {{percent and number|434,869|450,353|2}} of the provincial population of 450,353. Other ethnic groups in the province were the [[Hiligaynon people|Hiligaynon]] at {{percent and number|3,375|450,353|2}}, [[Tagalog people|Tagalog]] at {{percent and number|2,271|450,353|2}}, [[Kankanaey people|Kankanaey]] at {{percent and number|1,281|450,353|2}}, and [[Cebuano people|Cebuano]] at {{percent and number|939|450,353|2}}.<ref name="CensusGovPH-2000">{{cite web|title=Aklan: Population Growth Rate up to 2.05 Percent in 2000; Table 5. Household Population by Ethnicity and Sex: Aklan, 2000|url=http://census.gov.ph/content/aklan-population-growth-rate-205-percent-2000-results-2000-census-population-and-housing-nso|website=Philippine Statistics Authority|access-date=26 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150421142905/http://census.gov.ph/content/aklan-population-growth-rate-205-percent-2000-results-2000-census-population-and-housing-nso|archive-date=21 April 2015|date=24 July 2002}}</ref>

[[File:Aeta family at Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines.jpg|thumb|An Ati family in front of [[Kalibo Cathedral]].]]

===Languages===
The most prominent languages in Aklan are [[Aklanon languages|Akeanon]]  and its dialect [[Malaynon language|Malaynon]] and the  [[Buruanganon]] language. Aklanon is spoken by a majority of the people, while Malaynon is spoken in [[Malay, Aklan|Malay]] and Buruanganon is spoken in [[Buruanga]]. [[Hiligaynon language|Hiligaynon]] is also widely spoken and understood in the province. Another language used is [[Ati language (Philippines)|Ati]], which is spoken by the tribe of the same name famous for the [[Ati-Atihan festival]]. [[Kinaray-a language|Kinaray-a]] is spoken in the western part of the province bordering [[Antique (province)|Antique]]. [[Capiznon]] is spoken in the eastern part of the province bordering [[Capiz]]. [[Filipino language|Filipino]] and [[English language|English]] are used in administration and business as the national official languages.

===Religion===
{{unreferenced section|date=May 2020}}

====Catholicism====
[[Roman Catholicism in the Philippines|Roman Catholicism]] is the dominant religion of the people and Christian festivals such as [[Christmas]] and [[Lent]] are regarded with high importance. Meanwhile, Christian icons such as the ''[[Santo Niño de Cebú|Santo Niño]]'' are regarded as cultural symbols of the people. [[Animism]], however, is still practised by the [[Ati (tribe)|Ati]]. The [[Aglipayan Church]] or the Iglesia Filipina Independiente is the second most predominant religion in the province.

====Others====
Other religions in the province include [[Members Church of God International|Members Church of God International (MCGI)]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=July 26, 2023 |title=A Joyous Celebration: Bro. Daniel Razon Visits Brethren in Capiz, Aklan, and Antique |url=https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=678843513606235 |access-date=May 8, 2024 |work=MCGI Cares}}</ref> [[Iglesia ni Cristo]], and [[Islam]].

==Economy==
{{stack|float=left|{{PH poverty incidence}}}}
[[Image:Boracay Blue Calm.jpg|thumb|A view of the Grotto in [[Boracay]] at dusk. Tourism is the main industry in Boracay.]]

The province of Aklan is designated as a [[Provinces of the Philippines#Classification|first class province]].{{PSGC detail|nscb}}

===Agriculture===
Aklan depends on agriculture, with [[palay]] being the top produce in the province. Rice plantations had an area of {{convert|42,218|ha}} (0.39 percent of the total provincial agricultural area).<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy">{{cite web|title=Economy|url=http://aklan.gov.ph/economy/|website=Province of Aklan|access-date=18 March 2016|archive-date=17 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160317190547/http://aklan.gov.ph/economy/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

With the implementation of the Ginintuang Masaganang Ani (GMA) umaru rice production program using the Hybrid rice, production is expected to increase by 15 percent or an average of 10 metric tons per hectare in the succeeding years. However, the problem of low price support for rice still continues to affect the production sector.

In general, Aklan is sufficient in meat and other livestock and poultry products,<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" /> though in the inventory of livestock and poultry in the year 2000, hog and chicken had a decrease in population from 114,890 heads of hogs and 886,597 heads of chickens in 1999 to 95,950 heads of hogs and 782,820 heads of chicken in the 2000. The decrease in production was attributed to the following factors: high cost of feeds, feed supplements and biologics, livestock and poultry diseases, increasing prices of chicks, and high cost of labor.

[[Coconuts]] still occupy the largest area planted among major permanent agriculture crops. The total area planted with coconut is {{convert|32276|ha}}.<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" /> Ibajay ranks the largest with {{convert|4,317|ha}}; followed by Balete with {{convert|2,611|ha}}; Banga with umaru {{convert|2,314|ha}}; Makato with {{convert|2,089|ha}}; and, Altavas with {{convert|2,054|ha}}. All the rest of the municipalities have areas below {{convert|2000|ha}}. However, in terms of copra production, Makato ranks number one with 2,770 metric tons per year; next is Balete with 2,669; and Libacao with 2,399. The rest produce less than 2000 metric tons. Total production is 25,375 metric tons annually.

Other crops produced include [[bananas]] (''Lakatan''), [[mango]]es, [[rambutan]], and [[lanzones]], as well as fiber crops such as [[piña]] fiber and [[abaca]].<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" />

===Aquaculture===
Fishpond areas had a total area of {{convert|7,807.14|ha}}.<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" /> Of the total fishpond areas, {{convert|4,512.04162|ha}} are with Fishpond Lease Agreement (FLA); {{convert|138.85672|ha}} are with permits; {{convert|2,729.02636|ha}} are on process/application; and, {{convert|370.0|ha}} are titled.

===Industry===
Aklan is a top producer of [[Abacá|abaca]],<ref name="TheDailyGuardian">{{cite news|last1=Villanueva|first1=Venus G.|title=Aklan still among top abaca producers in Phl|url=http://www.thedailyguardian.net/index.php/local-news/7952-aklan-still-among-top-abaca-producers-in-phl|access-date=18 March 2016|work=The Daily Guardian|ref=Venus G. Villanueva|quote=KALIBO, Aklan – The province of Aklan continues to be one of the country's top 10 abaca producers, according to Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez.  Abaca fiber production in Aklan also rose by 50.89 percent in 2011, which reached 1,874,691 kilograms in 2011, with an estimated value of P75 million. Production in 2010 was 1,242,344 kilograms.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160327090008/http://www.thedailyguardian.net/index.php/local-news/7952-aklan-still-among-top-abaca-producers-in-phl|archive-date=2016-03-27|url-status=dead}}</ref> which are dyed and made into cloths or place mats, bags, wall decor and fans.<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" />

The ''[[piña]]'' cloth, considered the "Queen of the Philippine Fabrics", is a prime produce of Kalibo, weaved from its unique crude wooden or bamboo handloom.<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" />

Lezo is known for its red clay, used by the natives to make pots, vases and various novelty items.<ref name="AklanGovPH-Economy" />
{{clear left}}

== Government ==
Elected Officials:
*Member of the House of Representative:
**Representative, 1st District of Aklan: [[Jess Marquez]]
**Representative, 2nd District of Aklan: [[Joeben Miraflores]]
*Governor: [[Jose Enrique Miraflores|Jose Enrique M. Miraflores]]
*Vice Governor: Dexter M. Calizo
* Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members:
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-break}}
:* 1st District:
#  Nemesio P. Neron
#  Mark V. Quimpo
#  Mark Ace L. Bautista
#  Teddy C. Tupas
#  Apolinar C. Cleope
{{Col-break}}
:*2nd District:
#  Jay E. Tejada
#  Romeo M. Dalisay
#  Jupiter Aelred G. Gallenero
#  Bayani M. Cordova
#  Plaridel M. Solidum
{{Col-end}}

*PCL President (Philippine Councilors League): Roly O. Equiña, Jr.
*ABC President (Association of Barangay Captains): Ralf A. Tolosa
*SK Provincial Federation Chairman: Edmundo M. Tolentino, Jr.

==Transportation==

===Road===
Aklan is accessible via highways and buses. Buses with routes from [[Iloilo]], [[Capiz]], and [[Antique (province)|Antique]] connect Aklan with neighboring provinces. The [[Iloilo–Capiz–Aklan Expressway]] (ICAEx) is a proposed expressway on the island of Panay that will run from [[Iloilo City]] to [[Caticlan|Caticlan, Malay]]. A {{Convert|1.2|km|mi|abbr=|adj=on}} limited-access bridge connecting Caticlan to [[Boracay]] is also being proposed by the [[Department of Public Works and Highways]] (DPWH) as part of its [[Public–private partnership|Public-Private Partnership]] (PPP) infrastructure projects.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Guardian |first=Daily |date=2024-08-02 |title=Boracay Bridge to get PPP funding in 2025 budget |url=https://dailyguardian.com.ph/boracay-bridge-to-get-ppp-funding-in-2025-budget/ |access-date=2024-08-12 |website=Daily Guardian |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Airports===
[[File:Kalibo airport.jpg|thumb|Kalibo International Airport]]
Aklan is famous for Boracay, a resort island {{convert|1|km}} north of the tip of [[Panay]]. It is known for its white sandy beaches and is considered one of the most prominent destinations in the Philippines. Because of this, there is frequent air travel to the province's airports in [[Kalibo International Airport|Kalibo]] and [[Godofredo P. Ramos Airport|Caticlan]]; [[Kalibo International Airport]] itself is about ten minutes from the main plaza. Kalibo Airport serves flights to and from [[Incheon International Airport|Incheon]] in [[South Korea]] and [[Irkutsk]] and [[Khabarovsk]] in [[Russia]] through international flights served by [[T'way Air]] and [[IrAero]].

The following are the airports in Aklan:
<div style="font-size:95%;">

* [[Kalibo International Airport]] (under [[Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines|CAAP]])
* [[Godofredo P. Ramos Airport]] (under public private partnership (PPP) with [[San Miguel Corporation]])
</div>

===Seaports===
The following are the seaports in the province:

{{Div col|colwidth=30em|style=font-size:95%}}
* Alegria Port
* Batan Port
* Cagban Port
* Caticlan Jetty Port
* Tabon Port
* Tambisaan Port
* Gibon Port
* Colong-Colong Port
* Dumaguit Port
* Kalibo Jetty Port
* New Washington Port
{{div col end}}

==Culture==
Despite the prevalence of [[Christianity]], native beliefs about the ''[[aswang]]'' and the ''[[babaylan]]'' are still prevalent among the people. ''[[Kulam]]'' or [[witchcraft]], locally known as ''amulit'' is still feared by many residents.

===Cuisine===
Two main dishes associated with Aklan and Aklanons are [[inubaran]]<ref>{{Cite book|title=Philippine Food, Cooking, & Dining Dictionary|last=Polistico|first=Edgie|publisher=Anvil Publishing, Inc|year=2017|isbn=9786214200870}}</ref> and [[binakol]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://casaveneracion.com/chicken-binakol-tinola-coconut/|title=Chicken Binakol: Subtly Sweet Tinola With Coconut|date=2018-11-13|website=CASA Veneracion|language=en-US|access-date=2019-07-30}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.panlasangpinoymeatrecipes.com/chicken-binakol.htm|title=Chicken Binakol {{!}} Panlasang Pinoy Meat Recipes|language=en-US|access-date=2019-07-30}}</ref>

Inubaran, is a [[Filipino cuisine|Filipino]] chicken stew or soup made with chicken cooked with diced [[banana]] [[pith]], [[coconut milk]] (''gata'') or [[coconut cream]] (''kakang gata''), a souring agent, [[lemongrass]], and various spices. The souring agent (called ''aeabihig'') is traditionally either ''batuan'' fruits (''[[Garcinia morella]]'') or ''libas'' leaves (''[[Spondias pinnata]]''). The name means "[cooked] with ''ubad'' (banana pith)", not to be confused with ''ubod'' ([[Heart of palm|palm heart]]); although ''ubod'' can sometimes be used as a substitute for ''ubad'' which can be difficult to acquire. Variants of the dish can also be made with other types of meat or seafood. It is a type of ''[[ginataan]]''.<ref name="Polistico">{{cite book |last1=Polistico |first1=Edgie |title=Philippine Food, Cooking, & Dining Dictionary |date=2017 |publisher=Anvil Publishing, Inc. |isbn=9786214200870}}</ref><ref name="langyaw.com">{{cite web |title=Going local: 6 Aklanon food you should try |url=http://langyaw.com/2014/06/03/6-aklanon-food-try/ |website=Langyaw |date=3 June 2014 |access-date=6 June 2019}}</ref>

Binakol, also spelled binakoe, is a [[Filipino cuisine|Filipino]] [[chicken soup]] made from chicken cooked in [[coconut water]] with grated coconut, [[green papaya]] (or [[chayote]]), [[leafy vegetable]]s, garlic, onion, ginger, lemongrass, and ''[[Patis (sauce)|patis]]'' (fish sauce). It can also be spiced with chilis. ''Binakol'' can also be cooked with other kinds of meat or seafood. It was traditionally cooked inside bamboo tubes or directly on halved coconut shells.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Veneracion |first1=Connie |title=Chicken Binakol: Subtly Sweet Tinola With Coconut |url=https://casaveneracion.com/chicken-binakol-tinola-coconut/ |website=Casa Veneracion |date=13 November 2018 |access-date=20 April 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Chicken Binakol |url=http://www.panlasangpinoymeatrecipes.com/chicken-binakol.htm |website=Panlasang Pinoy Meaty Recipes |access-date=20 April 2019}}</ref>

''Linapay'' also known as ''tinamuk'', is a dish related to [[Laing (food)|Laing]] but from Aklan in the [[Western Visayas]]. It is made from pounded freshwater shrimp (''ueang'') mixed with ''gawud'' (grated young coconut meat) and wrapped with taro leaves (''gutaw'') and cooked in coconut milk.<ref name="langyaw.com"/>

===Festivals===
The province is known for its festivities which includes the [[Ati-Atihan festival]] in Kalibo.<ref name="AklanGovPH-Kalibo">{{cite web|title=Vibrant Kalibo|url=http://aklan.gov.ph/tourism/kalibo/|website=Province of Aklan (official government website)|access-date=26 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160318005617/http://aklan.gov.ph/tourism/kalibo/|archive-date=18 March 2016}}</ref> Originally, the festival was to celebrate the treaty between the Ati and the Malayan tribes who settled on the Island. The Ati live in the mountain regions and the Malay people in the flatlands or close to the water. The festivity begins in the dry season, at which time the Ati come down from the mountains to trade and celebrate with the Malayan tribes. When the Spaniards settled in the region and converted the Malays to their Christian religion, they asked the Malays to celebrate this festivity to coincide with the [[Santo Niño de Cebú|Feast of the Santo Niño]] (Holy Child) which is usually held during the third week of January.

==== Ati-Atihan Festival ====
{{Main|Ati-Atihan festival}}
[[File:Parade-Goers At Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival, Philippines.jpg|thumb|Participants in the Ati-Atihan Festival parade]]
The [[Ati-Atihan Festival]] is a feast held annually in honor of the [[Santo Niño de Cebú|Santo Niño]] (Infant Jesus), held on the third Sunday of January in the town of [[Kalibo]], Aklan, Philippines, on the island of [[Panay]]. It originally came from [[Batan, Aklan]], then was adopted later by some neighboring towns. The name ''Ati-Atihan'' means "to be like Atis" or "to make believe Atis", the local name for the [[Aeta]] aborigines who first settled in Panay Island and other parts of the archipelago.

The festival consists of tribal dance, music, accompanied by indigenous costumes and weapons, and a parade along the street. Christians and non-Christians observe this day with religious processions. It has inspired many other Philippine Festivals including the [[Sinulog Festival]] of [[Cebu City]] and [[Dinagyang]] of [[Iloilo City]], both adaptations of the Kalibo's Ati-Atihan Festival, and legally holds the title "The Mother of All Philippine Festivals", being the oldest festival in the Philippines and in spite of the other Sinulog and Dinagyang festivals' claims of the same title.

The costumes worn at the festival are patterned after African tribal designs like those seen at the [[Rio Carnival]] in [[Rio de Janeiro]], [[Brazil]].

A 1200 A.D. event explains the origins of the festival. A group of 10 [[Malay race|Malay]] chieftains called ''[[Datu]]s'', fleeing from the island of [[Borneo]] settled in the Philippines, and were granted settlement by the [[Ati (tribe)|Ati]] people, the tribes of [[Panay Island]]. Datu Puti made a trade with the natives and bought the plains for a golden salakot, brass basins and bales of cloth. They gave a very long necklace to the wife of the Ati chieftain. Feasting and festivities followed soon after.

Some time later, the Ati people were struggling with famine as the result of a bad harvest. They were forced to descend from their mountain village into the settlement below, to seek the generosity of the people who now lived there. The ''Datus'' obliged and gave them food. In return, the Ati danced and sang for them, grateful for the gifts they had been given.

The festivity was originally a pagan festival from this tribe practicing Animism, and their worshiping their [[anito]] god. [[Spain|Spanish]] missionaries gradually added a Christian meaning. Today, the Ati-Atihan is celebrated as a religious festival.

In 2012, the [[National Commission for Culture and the Arts]] (NCCA) and the ICHCAP of [[UNESCO]] published ''Pinagmulan: Enumeration from the Philippine Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage''. The first edition of the [[UNESCO]]-backed book included the ''Ati-atihan Festival'', signifying its great importance to Philippine intangible cultural heritage. The local government of Aklan, in cooperation with the NCCA, was given the right to nominate the Ati-atihan Festival in the [[UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists]].

The people attend masses for ''Santo Niño'', and benefit dances sponsored by government organizations. The formal opening mass emphasizes the festival's religious event. The procession begins with a rhythmic drumbeats, and dances parading along the streets. The second day begins at dawn with a rosary procession, which ends with a community mass, and procession. The phrase "Hala Bira! Pwera Pasma!" is originally associated with the Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Festival as the revelers and devotees keep on going with the festivities all over the town from morning to the wee hours of the next morning, rain or shine, for one week or even more. They believe that the miraculous Child Jesus will protect them from harm and illness. The highlight of the festival occurs on the third Saturday of January, when groups representing different tribes compete for tourists' attention and prizes. The festival ends with a procession of thousands of people carrying torches and different kinds of images of Santo Niño on the third Sunday. The contest winners are announced at a masquerade ball which officially ends the festival.

==== Bariw Festival ====
Bariw Festival is a unique festival showcasing the skills of every Nabasnon in weaving bags, mats and hats made of ''bariw'' leaves – the prospering livelihood in the municipality. It is highlighted by the dance performances of local talent and ingenuity to the beat of the drums and indigenous rhythms celebrated every May 14 of the year.

==== Bugna Festival ====
Bugna Festival is a festival showcasing the different locally produced products and eco-tourism destinations of Tangalan like the marine sanctuary and coral garden, Afga Point, Campo Verde, Jawili Falls, Bughawi beach and reforestation project every May 16 of the year.

==== Kali-Ugyon Festival ====
Kali-Ugyon Festival (''kali'' stands for Kalipayan or happiness and ''Ugyon'' meaning "unity"). This is the festival celebrated in Libacao every December 30 to January 1, costumed in modern and indigenous outfits bringing people together on the streets for merry-making and to drive away evil spirits in the coming New Year.

===Literature===
Aklanons are known for their literature, which includes the epic of [[Kalantiao]]. Certain Aklanons, such as Melchor F. Cichon, [[Roman Aguirre]], have produced several notable literary works in the province.

==Universities and colleges==
{{directory|1=section|date=September 2018}}

Aklan is the home of the Regional Science High School for Region VI (RSHS-VI), one of the specialized system of public secondary schools in the Philippines.

{{Div col|colwidth=30em|style=font-size:95%}}
* [[Aklan Catholic College]] — Andagao
* [[Aklan Catholic College]] — Kalibo Poblacion
* [[Aklan Polytechnic College]] — Kalibo
* [[Aklan Polytechnic College]] — New Washington
* [[Aklan State University]] — Banga (Main)
* [[Aklan State University]] — Ibajay
* [[Aklan State University]] — Kalibo
* [[Aklan State University]] — Makato
* [[Aklan State University]] — New Washington
* Altavas Colleges
* Balete Community College
* Batan Community College
* Canadian Tourism & Hospitality Institute — Boracay
* Carillo Culinary Arts and Skills Development Center
* Central Panay College of Science and Technology
* FEATI University — Kalibo
* [[Garcia College of Technology]]-Annex
* [[Garcia College of Technology]]-Capitol Site
* Madyaas Institute
* JAVTES College — Kalibo
* Lezo Technical College
* Montfort Technical Institute
* New OFW Vocational and Technical School
* [[Northwestern Visayan Colleges]]
* Panay Technological College
* [[PGA-ASU School of Nursing|Provincial Academic Center College of Nursing]]
* Saint Gabriel College
* Saint Anne Business School
* STI College of Kalibo
* Santo Niño Seminary
* Verde Grande Culinary School
* Western Pacific College
* Infant Jesus Academy Kalibo
* Infant Jesus School {{div col end}}

==Flora and Fauna==
[[Image:Cervus alfredi.jpg|thumb|upright=0.85|[[Philippine spotted deer]]]]

Several species [[Endemism|endemic]] to the [[Philippines]] are found in the province. Examples include [[endangered species|endangered animals]] such the [[Philippine spotted deer|Philippine spotted deer (''Cervus alfredi'')]], the [[Visayan warty pig|Visayan warty pig (''Sus cebifrons'')]], and the [[Visayan hornbill|Visayan hornbill (''Penelopides panini'')]]. As of 2007, conservation efforts are being made by the [[Aklan State University]] and the [[Department of Environment and Natural Resources|DENR]] with varying success. Three mangrove species are in the World's Red List namely [[Avicennia rumphiana]] (Vulnerable), [[Ceriops decandra]] (Nearly Threatened) and [[Camptostemon philippinense]] (Endangered) are documented in the forest of [[Ibajay, Aklan]].

==Notable personalities==
<!--NOTE: Only add people with existing Wikipedia articles as per Wikipedia:Notability policy. If you are a resident of Aklan, do NOT add yourself here.-->
* [[Nineteen Martyrs of Aklan]]
* [[Victorino Mapa]] &ndash;2nd [[Chief Justice of the Philippines|Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines]]
* [[Alejandro Melchor|Col. Alejandro Melchor Sr.]] (1900-1947) — designed the [[pontoon bridge]] contributed to the Allied Forces winning World War II / Secretary of National Defense in President [[Manuel L. Quezon]]'s Cabinet / [[Sergio Osmeña]]'s Military Adviser of the war cabinet
* [[Gabriel Reyes]] &ndash; the 28th and the first native [[Filipino people|Filipino]] [[Archbishop of Manila]]
* [[Jaime Cardinal Sin]] &ndash; 30th [[Archbishop of Manila]]
* [[Jose Advincula|Jose Cardinal Advincula]] &ndash; 33rd [[Archbishop of Manila]]
* [[Gabriel V. Reyes]]&ndash;  third bishop of the [[Roman Catholic Diocese of Antipolo]] 
* [[Jose Corazon Tala-oc]] &ndash; bishop of the [[Roman Catholic Diocese of Kalibo]] since 2011
*[[Nelia Sancho]] &ndash; Filipino women's rights activist and beauty queen. She was one of the co-founders of the [[Gabriela Women's Party]].
* [[Jonha Richman]] &ndash; businesswoman and philanthropist
* [[Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo]] &ndash; politician

==See also==
* [[Penitent Sisters of Our Lady of Fatima]]
* [[Roman Catholic Diocese of Kalibo]]
* [[Code of Kalantiaw]]
* [[Aklan Basketball Governor's Cup]]

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{GeoGroup}}
* {{Commons category-inline}}
* {{Wikivoyage inline|Aklan}}
* {{OSM relation|1506745}}
* [http://www.aklan.gov.ph/ The Official Website of the Provincial Government of Aklan] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090129173219/http://www.aklan.gov.ph/ |date=2009-01-29 }}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20051228060757/http://www.ati-atihan.net/atihome.html The Official Website of Kalibo Ati-atihan Festival]
* {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20161210042020/http://www.choosephilippines.com/specials/lists/1077/aklan-white-sands-wild-streetdancing/ ABS-CBN Choose Philippines travel guide to Aklan]}}

{{Geographic location
 | Centre    = Aklan
 | North     = [[Romblon]]<br />''[[Sibuyan Sea]]''
 | East      = ''[[Sibuyan Sea]]''
 | South     = [[Capiz]]
 | West      = [[Antique (province)|Antique]]
 | Northwest = ''[[Tablas Strait]]''
}}

{{Aklan|state=expanded}}
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