LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS
area, with only 5 municipalities, it contains 7 active
Officials of the LGUS or the Local Government Units
are able to run their respective provinces, cities or
municipalities and barangays because of the
country's Local Government Code
All officials in LGU are selected during election
The smallest LGU unit but the most personal to the
communities are the Barangay officials
1. Provinces = Governor (as chief local executive),
with Vice-Governor and Members of the Board (as
local legislation)
2. Cities and Municipalities = Mayor (chief local
executive), with Vice-Mayor and Councilors (as local
legislation)
3. Barangay = Barangay Captain and the rest are
Kagawad.
Islands and Landforms
I. Luzon
Luzon, located in the northern region of the
archipelago, in the country's largest and most
populous island. It also has the greatest population
among the three island groups. Having an area of
42.458 square miles, Luzon is further subdivided into
four major areas-Northern Luzon, Central Luzon.
Southern Luzon, and the National Capital
Region, which is home to the country's capital,
Manila and is the country's center of economic,
social, cultural, and and financial financial
development (Vallejo, 2014 and Valdevilla, 2018).
II. Visayas
The Visayas is composed of 5 major islands: Panay,
Negros, Cebu, Samar and Leyte. There are also
the outlying province islands of Guimaras, Bohol,
Siquijor and Biliran. The Visayas has the smallest
geographical division of the 3 main parts of the
country. The and Visayas boasts of its shores coast
lines.
III. Mindanao
Dubbed as the “Land of Promise", Mindanao, the
country's second largest island is the southern
boundary of this country. In it you can find the top 2
tallest mountains of this country, Mt. Apo and Mt.
Dulang Dulang. Beside this big island are the
outlying island provinces of Sulu, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi,
Basilan, Camiguin, and Dinagat Islands. The island
of Camiguin is also remarkable in that in its tiny land
volcanoes.
Major Landforms
1. Highest Point: Mount Apo
Mount Apo is the largest and the tallest solfataric
mountain on the island of Mindanao and in the entire
Philippines. The mountain has an elevation of 9,692
feet and is located between the city of Davao and the
province of Davao Sur. Mount Apo is characterized
by a tropical rainy climate with rainfall relatively
distributed throughout the year.
Mount Apo is home to 272 of birds of 111 species are
endemic to the mountain. Nineteen rivers drain
Mount Apo's eight major watersheds. Six indigenous
groups of people including Bagobo, Ubos, and
Tagacaol live around the regions of Mount Apo and
consider the mountain a sacred place and a place
for worship rituals (Misachi 2017).
2. Oldest Province: Aklan
Originally called Minuro, Aklan is considered as the
oldest province in the Philippines. Records say that
the province was established during the early 12th
century by settlers Borneo. Datu originating from
Dinagandan, who established rade with neighboring
islands, was the first ruler. Kalantiaw then grabbed
the throne, and his family continued to rule the
province until the mid- 14th century (topten.ph
2016).
3. Number of Provinces:
There are 81 Provinces as of March 31, 2018
(Philippine Statistics Authority 2018)
Largest/Smallest Province:
a. Largest Province:
Palawan is the largest in terms of land area at
17,030.75 sq. kms.
b. Smallest Province:
Batanes has a land area of 203.22 sq kms. (De la
Rosa, Fiestada, Sanchez, and Mangahas 2018).
D. Climate
The first half of the year, from January to May, is the
best time to visit the country. November to
February is cool, while March to May is hot and dry.
June to October is rainy, with the months between
July and September characterized by typhoons. 15. Surigaonon
Average temperature is 78 degrees F/25 degrees C;
16. Tagalog
average humidity is 77%.
17. Tausug
Tropical country experiences in varying degrees, its
2 season all through the year: the wet or rain season 18. Waray
and the dry season. lower eastern side of the
country: Bicol, Samar, Leyte and Surigao provinces 19. Yakan
have no clear dry season. It is just wet and very wet Major Ethnic Groups
seasons from Nov to Jan. Western side of the
country experience more pronounced dry seasons, The Philippines has more than 100 ethnic groups.
with them in varying degrees, from Nov to Apr every The more dominant ethnic groups include
year and rains experienced the rest of the time Tagalog, Bisaya, Cebuano, Ilocano, Ilonggo, and
Waray.
E. Language
Ethnic Group Population (2010)
The Philippines has two official languages, Filipino
(or Pilipino) and English. Filipino has eight major Tagalog- 22,512,089
dialects, in order of use: Tagalog, Cebuano,
Visayan/Bisaya- 10,539,816
Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray,
Pampango, and Pangasinense, Filipino, based on Cebuano- 9,125,637
Tagalog, is related to Malay and Indonesian and is
part of the Malayo-Polynesian subgroup of the Ilokano/llocano- 8,074,536
Austronesian language family. Filipino is the Hiligaynon/Ilonggo- 7,773,655
common language used between speakers of
different native languages, which are closely related Waray- 3,660,645
but not mutually intelligible. There are about 76 to 78
What are some of the known characteristics of
major language groups, with more than 500 dialects
these ethnic groups?
(DOT 2018).
Ilocanos are generally known for their simple lifestyle
19 languages identified to be the language of
and strong value for money. Hardwork and strong
instruction
educational foundation are virtues they strive to pass
1. Aklanon on to their children.

2. Bikol The bayaniban spirit is alive in the Tagalog-speaking

provinces. Neighbors help without pay in the hope
3. Cebuano that when it is their turn to need help, their neighbors
4. Chavacano will be there to help them. Tagalog families are
closely-knit, with adult children even the live married
5. Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) ones still with their parents.
6. Ibanag The Bicolanos are religious and conservative in
nature. Songs and dances are ways of expressing
7. Ilocano
themselves. They prefer spicy food with coconut
8. Ivatan milk.

9. Kapampangan Warays, situated in the Eastern Visayas Region, are

often stereotyped as brave warriors, as in the
10. Kinaray-a popular phrase. "hasta ang Waray, bind aurong sa
11. Maguindanao away." They are also known as contented people
that during the Spanish occupation in the region,
12. Maranao they were misunderstood and called lazy.
13. Pangasinan Ilongos are very hospitable. They always provide for
their guest comfort and ease artheir expenses. They
14. Sambal
are also very gentle in their ways that their quarrels Batangas - Batangas City
do not seemlike ones. Since time is not important to
Cavite - Imus
the llongos, they also take life as it comes.
Laguna - Calamba
Mindanao is the only predominantly Muslim region in
the country. Their customs and traditions are Quezon - Lucena City
different than that of Luzon and Visayas. Majority of
the population of Mindanao region believes in the Rizal - Antipolo City
Islam religion and submits themselves completely to Region 4 – B - MIMAROPA (Southwestern
the will of Allah. Communal assistance is widely Tagalog Region)
practiced among the Maguindanaons and
Maranaos. By custom and tradition, they are Marinduque - Boac
expected to help their relatives by putting in money
Occidental Mindoro - Mamburao
to finance such activities as marriages, funerals,
pilgrimages to Mecca, and many others. Oriental Mindoro - Calapan City
17 Regions and their Provinces Palawan - Puerto Princesca City
I. LUZON Romblon - Romblon
Region 1 - Ilocos Region Region 5 - Bicol Region
Ilocos Norte - Laoag City Camarines Norte - Daet
Ilocos Sur - Vigan City Camarines Sur - Pili
La Union - San Fernanado City Catanduanes - Virac
Pangasinan - Lingayen Albay - Legazpi City
Region 2 - Cagayan Valley Sorsogon - Sorsogon City
Batanes - Basco Masbate - Masbate City
Cagayan - Tuguegarao City Region 14 - NCR (National Capital Region)
Isabela - Ilagan 17 Cities:
Nueva Vizcaya - Bayombong Caloocan , Valenzuela , Navotas , Malabon , Quezon
City Marikina , Manila , San Juan , Mandaluyong ,
Quirino – Cabarroguis
Pasig Pasay , Makati , Pateros , Taguig , Paranaque
Region 3 - Central Luzon Las Pinas , Muntinlupa

Aurora - Baler Municipality: Pateros

Bataan - Balanga City Region 15 - CAR (Cordillera Administration

Region)
Bulacan - Malolos City
Apayao - Kabugao
Pampanga - San Fernando City
Abra - Bangued
Nueva Ecija - Palayan City
Kalinga - Tabuk
Tarlac - Tarlac City
Mt. Province - Bontoc
Zambales - Iba
Ifugao - Lagawe
(Angeles City o Olongapo City - largest city)
Benguet - La Trinidad
Region 4 -A - CALABARZON (Southern Tagalog
Region) VISAYAS
Region 6 - Western Visayas REGION 11- DAVAO REGION
Aklan - Kalibo Compostela Valley- Nabunturan (Davao de Oro)
Antique - San Jose Davao del Norte- Tagum City
Capiz - Roxas City Davao del Sur- Digos City
Iloilo - Iloilo City Davao Occidental
Guimaras - Jordan Davao Oriental- Mati City
Negros Occidental - Bacolod City o Bacolod City o REGION 12- SOCCSKARGEN
Iloilo City
South Cotabato- Koronadal City
Region 7 - Central Visayas
Cotabato- Kidapawan City (North Cotabato)
Bohol - Tagbilaran City
Sultan Kudarat- Isulan
Cebu - Cebu City
Sarangani- Alabel
Negros Oriental - Dumaguete City
(Cotabato City, General Santos)
Siquijor - Siquijor
REGION 13- CARAGA
(Cebu City o Lapu-Lapu City o Mandaue City)
Agusan del Norte- Cabadbaran City
Region 8 - Eastern Visayas
Agusan del Sur- Prosperidad
Biliran - Naval
Dinagat Islands- San Jose
Leyte - Tacloban City
Surigao del Norte- Surigao City
Southern Leyte - Maasin City
Surigao del Sur- Tandag City
Northern Samar - Catarman
(Butuan City)
Eastern Samar - Borongan City
REGION 16- BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous
Samar - Catbalogan City Region in Muslim Mindanao)
MINDANAO Basilan- Basilan
Region 9 - Zamboanga Peninsula Lanao del Sur- Marawi City
Zamboanga del Norte - Dipolog City Maguindanao- Shariff Aguak(Mgonoy)
Zamboanga del Sur - Pagadian City Sulu-Jolo
Zamboanga Sibugay - Ipil Tawi-tawi- Bongao
(Isabela City , Zamboanga City) Lesson 2: Introduction to Philippine Tourism
Region 10 - Northern Mindanao ROLE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN THE
PHILIPPINES
Bukidnon - Malaybalay City
Tourism has 3 main impacts: the economic,
Camiguin - Mambajao
environmental and socio-cultural. On all aspects,
Lanao del Norte - Tubod the Philippines, as a country and its smaller
communities stand to gain. The impact that is most
Misamis Occidental - Oroquieta City felt in a positive way is the economic gains to
Misamis Oriental - Cagayan de Oro City individuals, businesses and communities if they
invest in providing a tourism service to visitors, both
(Cagayan de Oro City, Iligan City)
foreign and domestic. The rich natural sites and
resources provide a strong foundation for nature-
based tourism all over the country*, even in the
smallest of islands. Many of our islands have had
communities develop while relying on tourism for
their livelihood. The rich biodiversity in our seas,
mountains and rainforests, coupled with cultural
practices, indigenous traditions, monuments,
heritage towns, good food and (generally) warm
people make for a colorful and abundant variety of
things to offer visitors.
The biggest gains in the Philippine Tourism Industry
has taken place in the last decade, when Republic
Act (RA) 9593, the Tourism Act of 2009 was
enacted into law. Its main purpose is the following:
-To recognize that tourism is an indispensable
element of the Philippine national economy
-That tourism is an engine of socio-economic growth
and cultural affirmation
-That tourism is a source of national pride
RA 9593 has 7 identified goals. These goals are:
1. That Philippine Tourism is primarily for the Filipino
people
2. To promote national identity and a sense of unity
3. That sustainable tourism development is ideal to
improve quality of life of Filipinos, with focus on
socio-economic developments
4. Pursue ecologically sustainable, responsible,
culturally sensitive, economically viable and ethically
and socially equitable tourism for LOCALS
5. To show a favorable international image
6. To become a prime tourist "hub" in Asia and be a
center for MICE
7. To encourage private sector participation and agri-
tourism for rural areas
GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS INVOLVED IN
PHILIPPINE TOURISM
THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
this department is primarily created to look out for,
standardize, manage and promote Philippine
Tourism for Filipinos and foreigners alike. To quote
the DOT's mandate: "The DOT is mandated to
encourage, promote, and develop tourism as a
major socio-economic activity to generate foreign
currency and local employment and to spread the
benefits of tourism to a wider segment of the
population with the support, assistance, and
cooperation of both the private and public sectors.
The DOT assures the safe, convenient, enjoyable
stay and travel of foreign and local tourists in the
country
Current DOT Secretary
Maria Esperanza Christina Garcia Frasco
DOT Attached Agencies
1. DUTY FREE
As a government corporation, Duty Free Philippines
Corporation is tasked to operate the duty-and tax-
free merchandising system in the Philippines to
augment the service facilities for tourists and to
generate foreign exchange and revenue for the
government as mandated by E.O. No. 46.
2. TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE AND
ENTERPRISE ZONE AUTHORITY (TIEZA)
The TIEZA shall be a body corporate which shall:
designate, regulate and supervise the Tourism
Enterprise Zones with the primary objective of
encouraging investments develop, manage and
supervise tourism infrastructure projects ensure
strict compliance of the TEZ operator with the
approved development plan continue to exercise
functions previously exercised by the PTA under
Presidential Decree No. 564, unless otherwise
inconsistent with the other provisions of this Act:
implementing arm of the Department of Tourism
develop tourist zones assist private enterprise
operate and maintain tourist facilities assure land
availability coordinate all tourist project plans and
operations
3. The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA)
is a government owned and controlled corporation
created by virtue of Executive Order No. 1037,
signed by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos on
04 July 1985. On 31 August 2001, through Executive
Order No. 26, the control and supervision of PRA
was transferred to the Board of Investments (BOI)-
Department of Trade and Industry from the Office of
the President. On 12 May 2009, Republic Act No.
9593, otherwise known as Tourism Act of 2009, PRA
became an attached agency of the Department of
Tourism and placed under the supervision of the
Secretary. PRA is mandated to develop and promote
the Philippines as retirement haven as a means of
accelerating the social and economic development
of the country, strengthening its foreign exchange
position at the same time providing further best
quality of life to the targeted retirees in a most
attractive package
4. INTRAMUROS ADMINISTRATION (IA)
is a National Government Agency attached to the
Department of Tourism of the Philippines. Under
Presidential Decree No. 1616, IA is responsible for
the orderly restoration and development of
Intramuros as a monument to the Hispanic period of
Philippine history.
5.PHILIPPINE COMMISSION ON SPORTS SCUBA
DIVING
By the virtue of the Letter of Instruction no.745
issued Sept 29, 1978 the Philippine Commission on
the Promotion and Development of Sports SCUBA
Diving was created by then, Former President
Ferdinand E. Marcos. The Commission is hereby
mandated to:
1) Promulgate programs and projects geared to the
development of the country as a premier diving area
in Asia.
2) Formulate rules, regulations, safety standards
and operating procedures to implement the
development of Sports SCUBA Diving
3) The Commission shall undertake studies,
researches and surveys for possible incentives to
the private sector who may wish to undertake
projects and programs beneficial to the development
of SCUBA Diving Tourism within the framework of
related Presidential Decrees
4) The Commission is expressly directed to
formulate and implement programs on marine
conservation, particularly those areas of high
touristic value
6. NATIONAL PARKS DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE (NPDC)
As an attached agency of the Department of
Tourism, the National Parks Development
Committee is tasked to develop, preserve, and
manage Rizal and Paco Parks in Manila and other
parks that may be assigned to NPDC.
7. NAYONG PILIPINO FOUNDATION (NPF)
is Government-owned and Controlled Corporation
created under Presidential Decree no. 37, issued
last November 6, 1972. It was established with the
purpose of promoting and encouraging research and
development projects on social sciences,
humanities, and other related fields
Latest DOT Campaigns and Developments
THE NATIONAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN
2023-2028
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved the
NTDP 2023-2028, which was crafted by the
Department of Tourism (DOT) following a series of
listening tours on 16 May 2023. The NTDP serves
as the blueprint and development framework for the
Department's key objectives which will be pursued
by the DOT through three strategic approaches
namely: connectivity, convenience, and [e]quality, to
transform the Philippines into a tourism powerhouse
in Asia.
1. DOT TOURIST REST AREAS
The Tourist Rest Area is one of the flagship
programs of Secretary Frasco and is grounded on
the Department's vision to provide convenience and
comfort to tourists. The TRA will highlight the
provision of clean restrooms for tourists in transit to
different tourist destinations. The Tourist Rest Area
will also have a Coffee Shop, Pasalubong and
Souvenir Store, Tourist Information Area, and a
Charging Station. Reflecting the President's
pronouncements during his first State of the Nation
Address (SONA) on the need to promote an
enhanced Filipino brand, the Tourist Rest Areas will
adopt the use of local materials and design
elements. The facilities will also be equipped with
information centers, and pasalubong centers that will
showcase a variety of products that are proudly
made in the Philippines
2. A WARM FILIPINO WELCOME
Anchored on the Filipino core values, the
Department of Tourism developed the Filipino Brand
of Service Excellence program. Every tourism
worker manifests the world-renowned Filipino
hospitality, providing every guest heartfelt service
and a one-of-a-kind experience.
3. INTERNET BOOST IN TOURIST
DESTINATIONS
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the 8. EXPERIENCE THE PHILIPPINES
Department of Information and Communications
The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the
Technology (DICT) entered into a Memorandum of
nationwide Philippine Experience Program Culture,
Understanding on 20 December 2022 to improve
Heritage, and Arts Caravan to give tourists a glimpse
internet connectivity in identified destinations across
into the multi-dimensional tourism offerings of the
the country to further entice tourists to travel around
country, and to give equal opportunities for tourism
the Philippines. The agencies have begun the
promotion and development even to the most
improvement of internet connectivity in 47 out of 94
remote tourism communities. The pilot leg, which
identified destinations connectivity in out
invited members of the diplomatic corps, was
4. REINTRODUCING THE PHILIPPINES TO THE successfully launched in the Davao Region on 28
WORLD June 2028
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and its marketing 9. PHILIPPINES: A MUSLIM-FRIENDLY
and promotion arm, the Tourism Promotions Board DESTINATION
(TPB) Philippines, led the country's big comeback at
The Philippines has been awarded at the Emerging
important expos including the Internationale
Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year (non-
Tourismus-Bo rse (ITB) 2023 Convention in
Organization of Islamic Cooperation category at the
Germany last March 2023, and the ASEAN Tourism
prestigious Halal in Travel Global Summit 2023 on 1
Forum Travel Exchange in Indonesia last February
June 2023 in Singapore.
2023. By participating in kay International expos, the
Philippines successfully generated over Php 3.6 10. BISITA, BE MY GUEST PROGRAM
billion in estimated sales leads
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the
5. MAXIMIZATION OF DOMESTIC TOURISM Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on 15
December 2022 launched the Bisita, Be My Guest
The Department of Tourism (DOT) organized the
(BBMG), an online travel incentive program which
first-ever North Luzon Travel Fair in Clark, Mindanao
invites Filipinos to become tourism ambassadors by
Tourism Expo in Davao City, and Central Philippines
enticing their foreign friends to visit the Philippines in
Tourism Expo in Iloilo to entice more tourists and
exchange for incredible prizes. Since then, the
boost regional travel exchange, recognizing the
BBMG program has been launched in different
strength of domestic tourism in supporting the
regions in the Philippines and abroad
Philippine economy. The DOT and its marketing arm,
Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), also successfully 11. PHILIPPINES HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS TOURS
mounted the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX).
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership
6. A CONVERGENCE FOR VISA REFORMS with the local government units of Metro Manila and
Makati and private stakeholders launched the Metro
The Department of Tourism (DOT) initiated a high-
Manila Hop-on Hop-off, a mobile city bus tours
level convergence meeting on 24 March 2023, with
program with a seamless and contactless travel
the heads and representatives from the Department
system within strategic hubs of Metro Manila. It
of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Information
provides group travelers and fully independent
and Communications Technology (DICT),
travelers (FIT) the option to avail of guided tours in
Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Bureau of
selected destinations in the metro
Immigration (BI), to discuss visa reforms, including
e-visa system, that will facilitate ease of entry for 12. SECURING WINS AND NOMINATIONS ANEW
visitors from the country's tourist source markets, AT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
and in the hopes of finding solutions to concerns
affecting the flow of entry of international tourists. The World Travel Awards (WTA), a brand
"recognized globally as the ultimate hallmark of
7. CRUISE TOURISM COMES BACK STRONG industry excellence", hailed The Philippines as the
World's Leading Beach Destination and World's
The Philippines expects over a hundred ports of call
Leading Dive Destination, and Intramuros as Asia's
for 2023 welcoming cruise ship travelers from all
Leading Tourist Attraction during its 2022 edition.
over the world across over 40 island destinations
This year, the country secured six nominations under
the Asia category of the WTA.
NON-GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS INVOLVED
IN PHILIPPINE TOURISM
Government needs the help of non-government
organizations, the private sector and the academe in
order to help further the goal for growth in Philippines
Tourism. Here are some of the active non-
government institutions:
A. PTAA: PHILIPPINE TRAVEL AGENCIES
ASSOCIATION
Organized by the registered travel agencies in the
Philippines who cater to needs of individual and
group clients for local and international (outbound)
travel
B. PHILTOA: PHILIPPINE TOUR OPERATORS'
ASSOCIATION
Organized by the registered tour operators in the
Philippines whose main operations is to arrange
packages for travelers within the Philippines as well
as those travelling inbound from abroad
C. TIBFI: TOURISM INDUSTRY BOARD
FOUNDATION, INC.
TIBFI is a tripartite body composed of
representatives from the government, private and
labor sectors. They aim to provide manpower
development in various tourism enterprises
D. HRAP: HOTEL AND RESTAURANT
ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES
"Taking the lead roles as the single voice
organization representing the Philippine private
business sector in the hotel and restaurant industry".
Thr Hotel and Restaurant Association of the
Philippines is a non-stock, non-profit organization
represented by Hotel Managers, Restaurant
Owners, University Deans and CEO's
PACEOS PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF
CONVENTION/ EXHIBITION ORGANIZERS AND
SUPPLIERS, INC.
PACEOS promotes the professional development of
practitioners in the Philippines in the
Convention/Exhibition Industry. They also promote
the Philippines as a convention and exhibition
destination for international events in Asia.
VARIOUS ACADEMIC ORGANIZATIONS:
COHREP- Council of Hotels and Restaurant
Educators of the Philippines
AAHRMEI- Association of Administrators in
Hospitality, Hotel and Restaurant. Management
Educational Institutions
UFTE- Union of Filipino Tourism Educators
PARTH- Philippine Association of Researchers for
Tourism and Hospitality
TEAM- Tourism Educators and Movers
Lesson 3: Region 1: Ilocos Region
Ilocos Region
Ilocos Region offers a wide variety of products-from
a historical walk Calle Crisologo, taking a dip in the
popular beaches of Pagudpud, and to take a selfie
at the pictureperfect Bangui windmills. It successfully
developed an array of tourism attractions and
activities, hence, having one of the most vibrant
tourism industries.
Ports of Access
Laoag International Airport
-By Air: Currently, only Philippine Airlines services
offers Manila-Laoag domestic flights with a
frequency of one to two flights per day. Laoag is just
45 minutes away from Manila.
Via MacArthur Highway
-By Land: Several bus companies offer regular trips
from Manila to Laoag, passing through the other
provinces in the region. The average travel time is
10-12 hours; hence, night trips are recommended. o
Getting Around: Private van and car rentals are
available to move around as well as the public
modes of transportation. One can take a bus to
move from one province to the other, or a jeepney
and tricycle to get around towns.
I. Ilocos Norte – PAOAY CHURCH
Paoay Church (Church of San Agustin) is one of the
four Baroque Churches in the Philippines that has
been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The
traditions of pottery and weaving still exist in the
province today. Old lighthouses and other cultural
landmarks can be found around the province. In
addition, many of this country's heroes and other
prominent persons on the Philippines' history are
from, the llocos Norte.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Paoay Church:
Church of San Agustin A UNESCO World Heritage
Site. Built of coral blocks and stuccoplastered bricks,
the architecture is a unique combination of Gothic,
Baroque and Oriental. Construction of the church
was started in 1704 and completed in 1894
B. Cape Bojeador:
Built in 1892, it is said to be the tallest lighthouse in
the Philippines. Also known as the Burgos
Lighthouse, it is cultural heritage site that was built
to ensure safety of seafarers on the coasts of the
South China Sea
C. Pagudpud Beach:
The beautiful white sand beaches referred to as the
Boracay of the North fronts the West Philippine Sea
(South China Sea).
D. Kapurpurawan Rock Formation:
located in Burgos, is known for its creamy white,
sculpted limestone formations, which have been
formed by different oceanic tides and weather
forces.
E. La Paz Sand Dunes
an 85 sq kms. protected desert and coastal sandy
area which has been used for shooting several local
Filipino movies. It is an ideal place for sandboarding
and adventures riding the steep slopes on a 4x4
truck
F. Bangui Windmills or Turbines
lies fronting Bangui Bay. This environmentally sound
means of power generation now benefits the town's
(and neighboring areas) electricity needs.
FESTIVALS
A. GULING GULING FESTIVAL
The word "guling" from Ilocano, means to mark or
smear The mayor in town would smear in the
person's forehead a cross sign that signifies the
purity. They also believe that the mark in their
forehead will cleanse all of their past sins. The cross
is a white color made up of wet and white rice flour
B. PAMULINAWEN FESTIVAL
Pamulinawen Festival celebrates the religious,
patronal feast of St. William the Hermit and the
cultural and historical heritage of the people in the
Ilocos city of Laoag, Norte, Philipines every February
10.
MUST TRY ILOCANO FOOD
A. Pinakbet Pizza
Vegan? Don't forget to put bagoong sauce
B. Bagnet
a fried pork belly called bagnet
C. Poqui-Poqui
Sounds weird but this healthy dish is perfect for any
type of meat
II. Ilocos Sur : "Heritage Haven of the Far North"
– CALLE CRISOLOGO
Ilocos Sur is world-famous for not one, but two
UNESCO World Heritage Sites that let you travel
back in time. UNESCO describes Ilocos Sur's capital
city, Vigan, as "the best-preserved example of a
planned Spanish colonial town in Asia." Meanwhile,
Santa Maria Church boasts one of the most
memorable architectural designs of the whole
country, capturing the European Baroque style and
adapting it to the Philippine environment.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Calle Crisologo:
These houses have tile roofs, massive hardwood
floorings, balustrades and azoteas in varying
Spanish-Mexican-Chinese architectural styles
B. NUESTRA SENORA DELA ASUNCION
one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the
province of Ilocos Sur. The Santa Maria Church is a
complex art of clay bricks and mortar, located on top
of a hill. The buttresses on its side a feature similar
to that of the other UNESCO World Heritage
baroque churches in the country, in Pasay and Miag-
ao.
FESTIVALS
A. LONGGANISA FESTIVAL
Every January 22, the locals of Vigan celebrate a
longganisa-themed festival. Longganisa is a local
sausage with a creamy garlic flavor and a breakfast
staple in the country.
B. VIVA VIGAN BINATBATAN FESTIVAL OF THE
ARTS
also called Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts, is a
cultural and religious festival Ini Vigan City, Ilocos
Sur, Philippines every first week of May. It is a multi-
faceted festival, presenting many aspects of culture
and tradition including religious feast day (Feast of
Apo Sto. Cristo Milagroso), traditional textile-making
(Abel lloko fabric), and commemorative activity to
remember the life of the first Filipino labor leader
Isabelo de los Reyes
MUST TRY ILOCANO FOOD
A. Miki- Get a taste of different variations of miki and
taste the difference
B. Empanada- choosing from the different varieties;
seaweed, crispy, sweet, and classic
C. Longganisa-BBQ is old, grilled longganisa is the
new trend
III. La Union : "Surfing Capital of the Northern
Philippines"
Explore the chill surf beach vibe arid other tourist
spots in La Union, one of the favorite quick weekend
destinations of young Metro Manila dwellers. This
laid-back coastal town is famous for its surfing spots
but what not a lot of people know is that it's also
brimming with other natural and heritage attractions
and cultural activities.
The slogan Love La Union was institutionalized to
highlight the province as the preferred tourist
destination in Northern Luzon and sustain a general
level of awareness for La Union as a place to "Live,
Own, Visit, Enjoy" (LOVE), and shall be used in all
its promotional materials.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. TANGADAN FALLS:
The iconic lower cascade of Tangadan Falls has a
rise of 50 feet and width of 100 feet, perfect for those
who want to go on a side trip for a quick dip in its
natural basin. The upper tier's deeper pool of the
falls is ideal for adventurous cliff divers.
B. SURFING:
Located 277 kilometers north of Manila, San Juan is
one of the growing economies in La Union and is
considered as the surfing capital of Northern
Philippines
FESTIVALS
A. BUYBUY FESTIVAL
Buybuy Festival is a celebration of Burgos, La
Union's Town Fiesta displaying their significant their
"buybuy" or tiger grass. This crude material is made
into soft brooms and other brightening things.
B. La Union Surfing Break
It is in October where people flock this popular surf
destination to experience the La Union Surfing
Break-a 3-day celebration of music and arts, which
coincides with the official start of surf season in San
Juan.
IV. Pangasinan – HUNDRED ISLANDS NATIONAL
PARK
The third biggest province in the whole Philippine
Archipelago, derived its name from salt or "asin" in
the vernacular. Owing to the rich and fine salt beds
which were the prime source of livelihood for the
province's coastal towns, PanagASINan or
"Pangasinan" which means "where salt is made"
came to be its name See Pangasinan captures
Pangasinan Tourism's sure, safe yet fun campaign
for the new normal tourism restart in accordance
with the Department of Tourism and IATF guidelines.
The See Pangasinan Logo and Branding focuses on
how tourists "see" Pangasinan's farm and faith
tourism pristine beaches, and diverse gastronomy,
with emphasis on salt from which the province's
name is derived.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Hundred Islands National Park:
In Alaminos, Pangasinan one finds the Lingayen
Gulf where thereare 124 islands, more or less, called
the Hundred Islands. Thisgroup of islands boasts of
many attractions' visitors enjoy, such as: snorkeling
above giant clams, caving, cliff jumping, zip lining
and even scuba diving (for those with licenses).
B. Sky Plaza:
The Sky Plaza in Natividad is called so perhaps
because of its location atop a hill in Barangay
Batchelor East. Pilgrims flock to this site and climb
long flights of stairs to visit a grotto of the Virgin Mary,
a 30-foot Holy Cross and, most famously, the "Ayat
ni Apo Jesus" or "God's Love" which is a 40-foot
statue of Christ the Redeemer.
C. Cape Bolinao Lighthouse:
The light house which was built by the American in
1903 on a 300 feet high promontory at the western
part of Cape Bolinao still sends signal to vessels
passing by the area.
D. Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of
Manaoag
Known as the great church in the north to have been
granted the title Minor Basilica by Pope Francis in
2015, it is a globally recognized pilgrimage site
where thousands of visitors stop by every year
especially many Marian devotees. Devotees believe
her image is miraculous and prayer intentions are
heard here.
FESTIVALS
A. DAGUPAN BANGUS FESTIVAL
The highlight of the Dagupan Bangus Festival or
Philis the grilling of thousands of bangus and
followed by a street party. About 10,000 bangus in
1000 grills were grilled along Fernandez Avenue
which is a major street of Dagupan during one world
record-breaking celebration.
B. Pistay Dayat
is a cultural, environmental, and thanksgiving festival
held in the province of Pangasinan every first of May.
It is also known as Festival of the Sea, Sea Festival,
or Seaside Festival. It is celebrated as summertime
thanksgiving among fishing folks for the harvests
from the sea that they have made for the whole year
FOOD/DELICACIES
A. ALAMINOS LONGGANISA
taste the goodness of ground pork and garlic
delectably mixed with spices the and easily spotted
with signature toothpicks separating each longanisa.
B. BINUNGEY
Binungey or they also call as "barboo cake" is a
sweet sticky rice dessert cooked in a bamboo shell.
It is a mixture of sticky rice, coconut milk, coconut
meat, and water slowly cooked inside a bamboo
shell.
C. PUTO CALASIAO
Puto is a steamed rice cake and its a famous
Kakanin in Pangasinan. Calasiao is a small town in
Pangasinan. Puto Calasiao refers to the special puto
that is produced in this town.
Lesson 4: Cagayan Valley
Cagayan Valley Most of the region, as its name
implies, lies within a valley between the Cordillers
and the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. The
country's longest river also flows in this region while
its east coast faces the Pacific Ocean. Hence, the
Cagayan Valley Region offers never-ending
adventure of caves, forests, waterfalls, beaches, and
centuryold heritage sites.
Ports of Access
A. Basco Airport: Tuguegarao Airport: Cauayan
Airport
By Air. Manila to Basco and vice versa are offered
daily by both Philippine Airlines and Skyjet Airlines.
There, Tuguegarao is serviced daily by Philippine
Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air flights. Daily flights from
Manila to Cauayan, Isabela is also offered by Cebu
Pacific Air. Travel time is approximately one hour.
Smaller airports/airstrips served by charter services
are in Palanan and Maconacon, both are coastal
towns of Isabela.
B. Currimao, Ilocos Norte - Basco, Batanes
By Sea: MV Ivatan Princess offers trips from
Currima o, Ilocos Norte to Basco, Batanes and versa
only every Wednesdays and Sundays. Travel fare is
P1.200 and the trip takes about 18 hours.
C. From Manila via Pan- Philippine Highway:
From Baguio: From Vigan
By Land: Several bus companies offer regular bus
and sleeper bus trips from Manila to Tuguegarao via
Pan- Philippine Highway and passing through the
other provinces in the region. The average travel
time is 12 hours; hence, night trips are
recommended. There are also passenger bus lines
that plies directly to Tuguegarao from both Baguio
(10-hour trip) and Vigan (nine-hour trip).
I. BATANES - Honesty Coffee Shop
"Land of the True Insulars"
Dubbed as a "Nature's Playground", the archipelago
province has been declared by the government as a
Protected Landscape and Seascape because of its
rare flora and fauna, undulating terrain, diverse
marine life, limestone cliffs, and panoramic
sceneries. it boasts of stretches of white and cream
colored sandy beaches and clear water
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Ahaw (Natural Stone Arch) and Morong
Beach:
One of the iconic and most photographed spots in
Batanes because of its rock arch formation in a
beach cove, and is an ideal site for picnic,
snorkeling, and camping
B. House of Dakay:
Probably the most photographed Ivatan house, it
was built of lime and stone in 1887 and owned by
Luisa Estrella who bequeathed it to her favorite
nephew, Jose "Dakay" Estrella. A survivor of the
destructive earthquake of September 13, 1918
which has destroyed much of the town, its shutters
and floor have never been changed and has retained
much of its authentic look through the decades.
C. Honesty Coffee Shop:
An unmanned refreshment store which has become
famous worldwide for showcasing Ivatan's honesty.
There is no standby seller, the owners rely on the
honesty of its customers when paying for goods
taken from the store.
D. Basco Rolling Hills:
These are seemingly endless waves of rolling hills
which boast of the perfect combinations of
landscapes and seascapes which can be enjoyed
from afar but is best experienced when explored on
foot. The site is the best vantage point for an
unhampered view of the Province's three major
island.
FESTIVALS
A. KULAY FESTIVAL
For Ivatans, "Kulay" is a native term which means
"anything dried" that may imply dried products such
as onion, garlic, rice, corn and fish among others,
proudly manufactured within their locality.
B. BAYANIHAN OR PAHUYUAN FESTIVAL
In the Ivatan laguage, "payuhan" stands for
cooperation which is truly evident in this 5-day event
every June. In this event, a province-wide
procession is done to recall the route of
evangelization. Communities and schools conduct
the Ivatan Olympics to pay tribute to their native
game.
FOOD/DELICACIES
A. Uved
(called Tabtab in Sabtang island) Grated banana
corm mixed with minced fish or ground pork or beef
B. LATAVEN
Raw fish mixed with minced ginger and onions,
calamansi juice, hot pepper, and blanched with
boiling fish broth
C. VUNES
As a typical Batanes food, the gabi stalks are first
soaked in water. Afterward, it will be cut and minced
and then cooked together with pork and patola (or
sponge gourd)
II. CAGAYAN - Caving Capital of the Philippines
"A True Spelunker's Paradise" Endless Fun,
Cagayan is the new tourism brand of the Province
that encapsulates the unending adventure and fun
that tourists can experience each time they visit
Cagayan. Known as the spelunker's, trekker's, and
gamefisher's paradise rolled into one, Cagayan
provides a never-ending adventure with ecotourism
in the forefront of its offering. Both foreign and local
tourists continue to explore its caves, engage in
gamefishing expeditions, trek its mighty mountains
and retreat to its centuries-old churches. Present
day chroniclers say that the name was derived from
the word "tagay," a kind of plant that grows
abundantly in the northern of the province. Thus,
"Catagayan" which means a place where the tagay
grows abundantly was shortened to "Cagayan," the
present name of the province. It has nationally
proclaimed protected areas that include landscapes,
seascapes, watersheds, a game refuge and bird
sanctuaries. Another version of the etymology
place's name is Hispanicized form of the word
kagayan, a native term meaning "place near or on a
river," with the root word kagay having cognates in
many Austronesian languages as a term for "river,"
referring to the main river of northeast Luzon.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Callao Cave:
The Callao Caves (declared under Republic Act
7357 as a National Park) is a 7- chambered cave
with massive limestone formations running through
a great length of the Pinacanauan River. One of its
chambers features a stone altar illuminated by
natural skylight, producing an eerie catacomb- like
atmosphere. Also a treat is the spectacle of red-
billed kalaw birds and daily charge of bats at dusk
when millions pour out of the Bat's Cave.
B. Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat
houses the more than 365 year-old miraculuous
image of Our Lady of Piat. The image which comes
from Macao was originally enshrined in Lallo but the
Dominicans brought it later to Piat to win the Itawes
region to Christianity. Its feastday is every July 2nd
of the year.
C. Palaui Island:
a protected landscape and seascape in an island
that is a declared national park in the Santa Ana,
Cagayan. The tourism development and activities
are an actual practice of ecotourism where the
members of the community and their indigenous
peoples operate all services from accommodations,
food and tours.
D. Iguig Calvary Hills:
This duplicate of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross
set up amidst Spanish era ruins. It is situated atop
an 11 hectare rolling terrain overlooking the
Cagayan River. The images are more than lifesize
concrete monuments standing on a hillside
E. The town of Pen ablanca
in Cagayan is the "Caving Capital of the Philippines,"
having more than 300 of the known caves
documented by the National Museum.
FOOD/DELICACIES
A. BATIL PATONG
Batil literally means "beat the egg" or "scrambled
egg" in English and Patong means "put it on the top"
or "placed on top". The main ingredients are pansit
miki Tuguegarao, pork, cara beef, lechon and
chicharon bits, togue with an egg on top with a side
dish hot creamy sauce of an egg (scrambled egg
soup).
B. Chicharabao
is chicharon made of carabao skin instead of the
usual pork skin. It is as crispy and chewy yet less
health threatening than the pork variety
III. ISABELA - "Rice Granary of the North"
The province has retained its given name from
Spanish times. It was named after Isabella II, the
Queen of Spain at the time the province was created
in 1856. It is the 2nd largest province of the
Philippines. It is called Rice Granary of the North as
well as the Corn Capital of the Philippines, being that
they produce the most rice in the region and the most
volume of corn for the country. It is home to the
country's largest remaining rain forest in the
Philippines. The prominent ethno-linguistic groups
are Ilocanos, followed by Ibanag and Tagalog,
Gaddang, Paranan and Yogad.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. MAGAT DAM:
is a large rock-fill dam. It is located on Magat River,
a major tributary of Cagayan River. Constructed in
1983, Magat Dam is one of the largest dams in the
Philippines and has two primary purposes: as a
source of irrigation water and as a provider of
hydroelectric power.
B. Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park (NSMNP):
was established in 1997. The park is situated in the
northern part of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range.
It covers nearly 360,000 hectares. The area is
considered as one of the most biologically rich in the
Philippines. It is managed by the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources
C. World's Largest "Butaka":
a handcrafted chair with long "armrest" which is not
used for the arms but for the legs. Butaka is also
known as the "little hospital"
D. DIBULO FALLS: can be found in Dinapique,
Isabela. It is the tallest falls in the province flowing
from about 100 meters high.
FOOD/DELICACIES
A. PANCIT CABAGAN
is very similar to the traditional Pancit Canton,
although it makes use of a special miki noodle
manufactured locally
B. BINALLAY
is a delicacy from Isabela prepared with found
glutinous rice flour steamed in a banana leaf wrap
then served with coconut sugar syrup and curdled
coconut cream
IV. Nueva Vizcaya – TATEG – HIGHLIGHT FOOD
Its name, Nueva Vizcaya, has its Spanish origins for
"new Biscay", in honor of the province in the Basque
Country of Spain. The province of Nueva Vizcaya
was named after the people living in the coast of Mar
de Vizcaine in Spain. In the beginning of the 19th
century, it was a part of the vast "Territorio de
Missiones" of the Spanishcontrolled government of
Cagayan, covering the eastern half of Northern
Luzon It is surrounded by mountain ranges: the
Sierra Madre on the east, Caraballo Mountains on
the south, and the Cordillera on the west, including
Mt. Pulag National Park, the country's second
highest peak. This makes agro-forestry thrive in the
region with an abundance of fruits and vegetables,
thus, its nickname. Nueva Vizcaya is located in the
north central part of Luzon. Isabela and the Mt.
Province bound on the north and Pangasinan and
Mt. province on the West
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Capisaan Cave System
is the fifth longest cave in the country at 4.2
kilometers located in Barangay Capisaan, Kasibu. It
has layers of cave network including Lion and Alayan
Caves with rare calcite formations and a
subterranean river which doubles as a passageway
to the best part of the cave
B. Mount Pulag National Park
borders the provinces of Benguet, Ifugao, and
Nueva Vizcaya. It is the Philippines' third highest
mountain and Luzon's highest peak. The mountain
hosts more than five hundred plant species. The
dwarf bamboo, for instance, is endemic to the
mountain. It also houses several endangered
species of mammals.
FOOD/DELICACIES
A. Crispy Abal-abal (Salagubang)
This one has crispy skin lightly salty and a meaty
taste
B. TATEG
is the grub or larva of the abal-abal or sibbaweng
(May/June beetle). While the adult abal-abal is more
popularly known as a delicacy, its protein-rich grub
is also edible and, as claimed by many "gourmands,"
even more palatable.
V. Quirino – AGLIPAY CAVES
is generally mountainous, with these ranges
covering about eighty percent of its total land area
and is endowed with rich mineral deposits of gold,
copper, limestone, silver and iron. It is now gaining
the reputation of being the producer of high quality
banana chips, peanuts, processed meat and
vinegar. Located within the Sierra Madre Mountains
with croplands suitable for industrial crops, it is
hailed as the region's "Industrial Crops Producer and
AgriEco- Tourism Destination". It is called the forest
heartland because, approximately, 62% of its lands
are still forests and the leading producer of bananas
in Region II. The province is named after Elpidio
Quirino, the former President of the Republic of the
Philippines.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. AGLIPAY CAVES
is a series of 38 caves, seven of which have been
developed as tourist spots. Located in the midst of
rolling hills and verdant forests, the caves boast of
an underground river and well-preserved
stalagmites and stalactites. They interlink with each
other and run to a depth of 20 meters
B. BIMMAPOR ROCK FORMATION
landscape of spectacular geological massive
limestone wall nestled along Siitan River where it is
a head water of Cagayan River
Lesson 5: Cordillera Administrative Region
(CAR)
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
The landlocked region, officially created on July 15,
1987, covers most of the Cordillera Central
mountains of Luzon, and is home to numerous
ethnic peoples. CAR is rich in ancient culture. The
way of life of the people in this region existed way
back to ancient Filipinos before the Spanish
colonization. Presently, products of the region are
known to be the source of fresh vegetables and
flowers and aromatic upland coffee. Woven
materials from indigenous communities and wood
carvings are also popular products lowland people
seek out in the area.
Ports of Access
via MacArthur Highway, North Luzon Expressway
(NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX),
and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway
(TPLEX)
By Land: Due to its geographic nature as the only
landlocked region in the country, the Cordillera
Administrative Region is only accessible by land
through the MacArthur Highway or via the
interconnected expressway systems from Manila,
Ilocos Region, and Central Luzon Region. Regular
bus trips are offered by various companies from
Manila to the provinces of CAR.
Getting Around: Private van and car rentals are
available to move around the region as well as public
modes of transportation. One can take a bus to
move from one province to the other or a jeepney
and tricycle to get around towns.
I. ABRA – ABRA RIVER
"THE PHILIPPINES' NATURAL DYE CAPITAL"
Rich collection of antique porcelains, jars, and gongs
speaks of the trade from the oriental countries. The
place where Gabriela Silang, known Philippines'
Joan took refuge from as the of Arc, the pursuing
Spanish forces during the Ilocano Revolt.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Bangued Church:
Built in 1722, the church is one of the oldest
churches that evidently showcases the
craftsmanship of the locals over the years of
refurbishing
B. Gabriela Silang Monument: Built to
commemorate Gabriela Silang who led the Ilocano
Resistance against the Spaniards in 1763 after the
death of her husband Diego Silang.
C. Libtec Underground River:
Believed to be inhabited by mysterious water
creatures, this river is located inside a cave and
surrounded by extruding stalagmites, making it both
beautiful and eerie
D. Abra River:
Ideal for swimming and fishing, the river also serves
as the converging point of all the rivers and streams
in the nearby provinces and is one of the largest in
the area.
FOOD/DELICACIES
A. ABUOS
Summer is the time for abuos or the eggs of big, red
ants. Gathered by poking a hole through their treetop
nests the abuos sauteed with garlic, onions and
lowland tomatoes, have a rich and tangy taste and is
a rare delicacy
B. Warek Warek
is a pork offal dish of twice cooked pork ear and
collar, first boiled then broiled, seasoned with lemon,
ginger, onion, garlic and chillies then tossed in
mayonnaise.
II. APAYAO – APAYAO RIVER
“Cordillera’s Last Nature Frontier” Apayao is said to
be among the earliest areas penetrated by the
Spaniards in the Cordilleras. On February 14, 1995,
the Republic Act no. 4695 was amended separating
Apayao and Kalinga.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Agamata National Park and Wildlife:
A delaminated forestland straddling the Ilocos Norte-
Apayao boundary. Ideal for hiking, camping, nature
tripping, and bird watching.
B. Apayao River:
Highly regarded by the locals as it is unpolluted and
pristine. This river traverses six Apayao
municipalities and can be navigated by motor boat
C. Mt. Solo:
The highest peak in Apayao. Good site for camping,
nature, mountaineering. tripping, and
D. Spanish Church:
The The unnamed edifice is one of the oldest
Catholic Churches in the Philippines
III. BENGUET – MT PULAG
"Salad Bowl of the Philippines'
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, the tribes of
Ibaloi and Kankana-ey from the several native tribes
that comprised the the Igorot were the dominant
tribes who had a flourishing trade with the
lowlanders. The township of Baguio became a
chartered city on September 01, 1909.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Mt. Pulag:
The highest mountain in Luzon reaching 9,600 feet
where one can literally walk beyond the clouds.
B. Baguio Cathedral:
One of the many religious landmarks that dot the city,
its pinkish hue rise above the skyline
C. Burnharm Park:
Named after the city's master planner Daniel
Burnham
D. Camp John Hay:
Formerly the rest and recreation center of the United
States Armed Forces in the Filipinos when the
Americans left the country in early 90s.
E. BAGUIO CITY
The Regional Center, is also called Summer Capital
of the Philippines.
F. Mines View Park:
The Park is now known as a shopper’s haven where
you can load up on the province’s bounties
G. Philippine Military Academy Museum:
Houses the important relics such as cultural artifacts
of the Cordilleras
IV. IFUGAO PROVINCE – BANAUE RICE
TERECES
“Land of Eighth World Wonder”
Home of the famous Banaue Rice Terraces. The
mountains contain lush forests and numerous rivers
and waterfalls that drain into the lowland valleys.
Some historians believe that the Ifugaos migrated
from Indochina Across southern Japan to Luzon then
southward to Java because these are the only areas
where rice terraces can be found.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Banaue Rice Terraces:
are terraces that were carved mountains of Banaue,
Ifugao into the Ifugao, in the Philippines by the
ancestors of the indigenous people. The terraces are
occasionally called the "Eighth Wonder of The
World"
B. Bangaan Village:
This village, which seems to be located inside a
huge bowl, offers a panoramic view of the rice
terraces
C. Batad Village:
Place to view the rice terraces, in a formed like seats
in an amphitheater
D. Hapao Village (Hungduan)
Affords some of the oldest rice terraces in the area,
as well as a view of some of the most scenic
landscapes.
THE RICE TERRACES OF THE CORDILLERA
There are five (5) clusters of Rice Terraces that are
inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage
Site. These are:
1. The Nagacadan terrace cluster in the municipality
of Kiangan, a rice terrace cluster manifested in two
distinct ascending rows of terraces bisected by a
river;
2. he Hungduan terrace cluster that uniquely
emerges into a spider web;
3. The central Mayoyao terrace cluster which is
characterized by terraces interspersed with
traditional farmers' bale (houses) and alang
(granaries)
4. The Bangaan terrace cluster in the municipality of
Banaue that backdrops a typical Ifugao traditional
village
5. The Batad terrace cluster of the municipality of
Banaue that is nestled in amphitheatre-like
semicircular terraces with a village at its base.
The Ifugao Rice Terraces are a living cultural
landscape of unparalleled beauty. These are
priceless contributions of Philippine ancestors to
humanity. Built 2000 years ago and passed on from
generation to generation, the Ifugao Rice Terraces
represent an enduring illustration of an ancient
civilization that surpassed various challenges and
setbacks posed by modernization
V. KALINGA – WANG OD Spanish exploratory attempts to conquer Mountain
Province were made between 1566-1665.
“White Water Rafting Capital of the North" Derived
Subjugation of the area was never achieved
from the Ibanag and Gaddang word that means
throughout the three centuries of Spanish rule in the
"Head Hunters". Tattoos are a status symbol that
country due to the fierce, war-like, and hostile Igorots
men respected and women admired. Largely rugged
that intimidated the Spaniards.
and mountainous.
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
FAMOUS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS:
A. Hanging Coffins:
A. Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park:
Showcases a unique tradition of the people of
A protected area of the Philippines located in the
Sagada
municipality of Balbalan, Kalinga. By virtue of RA
6463 the park was declared as a national park. B. Sumaguing Cave:
B. Mt. Vinaratan: Legend says that Kabunyan,the The largest known cave system that can be explored
legendary god of the Kalingas, hunted in the with cave guides
mountain range
C. Alab Petroglyph:
C. Chico Dam:
a huge rock with bows and arrows and human
Constructed by the National Irrigation beings etched on its surface
Administration, it is supposed to be one of the largest
D. Agricultural Stone Calendar:
dams in Southeast Asia
The calendar was made of 2 huge rocks situated
D. Padcharao Lake:
side by side, leaving a crevice at the middle where
The name is derived from the plants that abounds in the rays of the sun pass through only once a yea
the lake called "chargo". Rising approximately 1800
to 2000 meters above sea level, this one hectare
lake is full of Japanese eels.
Wang-Od
Is the last Ancient Kalinga Tattoo artist. In the past
years, the silence of this ancient art was broken
because people from around the globe pay homage
to this remaining artist and take pride that they were
tattooed by her. It is my personal advocacy to let the
Filipino community realize that it is now time to
recognize her world-class contribution to the art of
tattoo-making that is genuinely Filipino. She deserve
to be one of our National Artist
PAMBABATOK (Buscalan, Tinglayan)
an endangered ancient tattooing technique that
chiefly constitutes hand-tapping to create figures on
the skin.
She is often described as the "last" and oldest
mambabatok (traditional Kalinga tattooist) and is
part of the Butbut people of the larger Kalinga ethnic
group.
VI. MT. PROVINCE - Agricultural Stone Calendar
“Weavers Paradise”