THE VISAYAS to commemorate  Tibiao River – one of the premier white-wa

the bravery of the kayaking

Visayan Islands, also called Visayas or Bisayas, Aklanos who fought  Mt. Madia-as – trek for 15 km through a ro
island group, central Philippines. during the WW2 trail leading to a dry riverbed.
The Visayan group consists of seven large and  Tigayon Hill (Kalibo) Padayong weaving (Bugasong) – a colorful nat
several hundred smaller islands clustered around – stands on the fabric; only one its kind in the Visayas and is w
the Visayan, Samar, and Camotes seas. flatlands alongside known throughout the islands.
Aklan River; its base FESTIVALS:
The seven main islands are Bohol, Cebu, Leyte, is a cave; 14  BINIRAYAN – commemorates the land
Masbate, Negros, Panay, and Samar. stations of the Cross in Malandog in the mid-13th century of t
leading to chapel Malay datus; celebrated every Decemb
The smallest of the three main geographical FESTIVALS: 28 to 30.
divisions of the Philippines is the Visayas.  ATI-ATIHAN –
one of the
Inter-island travel is frequent when wanting to get most
from the Western to the Eastern side of the celebrated
events; low
region.
landers
imitate their
The most widely spoke Visayan language is Ati brothers
Cebuano-Bisaya. With a variation of tones and by rubbing
accents, it is normal to have Visayans speak in their their entire 3. CAPIZ: SEAFOOD CAPITAL OF THE
native tongue and be replied to in another bodies with PHILIPPINES
language, yet having a full conversation. charcoal. ROXAS CITY
DESTINATIONS
Seafood abounds in this region and one sees many  Baybay Beach (Roxas City) – black sand
coastlines along these provinces. There are no beach ideal for water skiing.
landlocked provinces in this region. 2. ANTIQUE: MARBLE  Pan-ay Church (Pan-ay) – awe-church
monument to a past-Spanish grandeur;
CENTRAL OF
250 feet long and 80 feet wide; central
PANAY
altar and retablo made of silver.
SAN JOSE
 Pilar Cave – earthen pots with intricately
REGION VI (6) – WESTERN VISAYAS DESTINATIONS incised designs; burial sites of pre-
Mainly speaks ILONGGO but they can  Danao Lake (Mountains spanish Filipinos
understand Tagalog and English of San Remegio) – heavy FESTIVALS:
rains do not raise the  MUNDO – dance of the
1. AKLAN: THE PHILIPPINES’ OLDEST PROVINCE water level; monkeys mountain tribe; a vanishing
and wild chickens live in remnant of the pre-Malayan
KALIBO
the nearby jungle ideal Indonesian immigrants to Panay
DESTINATIONS for nature tripping.  SINADYA – December 5 to 8;
 Boracay Island – most celebrated  Macalbag Waterfalls commemoration of the feast of
attraction; one of the best beaches in (Barbaza) – 50 foot high the Immaculate Conception
the world waterfalls; has 7 caves  ASWANG
 Aklan Freedom Shrine (Kalibo) – built and 1 believed have 7
rooms.
 It is a symbol of Iloilo’s  MASSKARA – mask symbolizes
affluence and love for great the happy disposition of the
celebrations held every Negrenses despite the
4. GUIMARAS: MANGO COUNTRY OF THE February 2nd. adversities in life.
VISAYAS FESTIVALS:
JORDAN  DINAGYANG – colorful REGION VII: CENTRAL VISAYAS
DESTINATIONS cavalcade; every 4th  Dominated by the native speakers of
 Alubijod Beach (Nueva Valencia) – weekend of January in Cebuano.
most popular beach areas in the honor of the Holy  Cebu City is the regional center
province Child Jesus
 Isla Naburot (Sinapsapan, Jordan) –  Lies in the Center of both Western and
white sand beach rich in coral and Eastern Visayas
6. NEGROS OCCIDENTAL:
marine life  Rugged terrain characterized by highlands
SUGAR BOWL OF THE
 Oro Verde Mango Plantation in the interior and narrow strips of arable
PHILIPPINES
(Buenavista) – owned by the land lining the coast except Bohol
Marsman– Drysdale group; 2nd BACOLOD CITY
DESTINATIONS  Cebuano, ilonggo, boholanon (majority
largest mango plantation in the world
 Danjugan Island – excellent tagalog and English)
 Pagtaltal (Brgy. Rizal, Jordan) –
reenactment of the Passion of Jesus place for bird watching,  4 provinces and 3 urbanized cities
Christ, patterned after Germany’ bulbuls, weaverbirds, and
Oberammergu; Christ’s body was sunbirds. 1. BOHOL
removed from the cross  Hofilena Ancestral House –
TAGBILIRAN CITY
old building houses a
FESTIVALS: Situated at the heart of Central Visayas, 1 large
collection of rare art pieces
 MANGGAHAN SA GUIMARAS – and antiques.
island and numerous islets
May 15 to 22 which 4117 square kilometers
 Mt. Kanlaon – one
commemorates as a province. Terrain is rolling and hilly
of the most climbs
Karosahan, a parade of beautiful in this part of the Generally flat but dotted with numerous hills
muses on karosas and of people country; home to known as Chocolate Hills
dressed in colorful mango rare species of birds Mountains with deep gullies and gorges that
costumes. such bleeding heart slope abruptly towards the sea are located at
pigeon and Negros the south of the main island.
fruit dove. DESTINATIONS
 Yulo Anccestral  Balicasag Island – one of the famous diving;
5. ILOILO: HERITAGE HAVEN OF PANAY House (Bacolod caters excurtionists due to lack of tourism
ILOILO CITY City) facilities in the area.
DESTINATIONS  The Ruins –  Blood compact site and marker – datu
 Balaring Beach (San Francisco) – an abundance remains of the sikatuna and the Spanish Miguel lopez lopez
of colorful stones are scattered all over the ancestral home de legazapi on March 16, 1565; treaty of
mansion of the Friendship between Philippines and Spain
beach
family of Don  Bonacon Island – houses the largest
 Jaro District (Iloilo City) – the seat of Catholicism
Mariano Ledesma mangrove area in the province of Bohol
in Western Visayas Lacson and Maria  Chocolate Hills – 1,268 cone-shaped hills
 Miag-ao Church – national landmark in 1973 Braga Lacson stand side by side on a wide expanse of land
and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
 Loboc River – motorized pump boat takes the
 Feast of Our Lady of Candles – biggest and most FESTIVALS: tourist on a cruise lunch whilst traversing the
opulent religious pageantry in Western Visayas.
 serene and calming banks of the loboc river.  Basilica Minore del Sto. located in the shore of the coral island.
 Mag-aso Falls – situated in the midst of a Nino – Miguel Lopez de  Fort San Pedro – the smallest and oldest tri-
forest; the falls form a deep natural pool; Legazpu and Fr. Andres bastion forth in the country
popular site for excursionists among local Urdaneta; site where  Fuente Osmena – circular park that has
residents. image of Sto. Nino was fountain (middle) and skating rink.
 Panglao Island – main tourist traffic is for found in 1565  Magellan Marker – erected in 1866, spot
both domestic and international  Beverly Hills – a scenic where Magellan died.
 Rajah Sikatuna National Park – home to the subdivision on lahug  Magellan’s Cross – marks the first Christian
tarsier and flying lemur, as well as several hills which commands a Filipinos, Rajah Humabon, Queen Juana,
species of birds, particularly hawks; logarita breathtaking view of the and their constituents; to protect the
spring pool also located in the area. entire city. original cross, a hollow one was made of
FESTIVALS:  Olango Island – a haven tinalo wood to encase it.
 SANDUGO – every March 16; features for migratory birds that  Malapascua Island – 3-km long, 1-km wide
an agro-industrial fair, cultural, comes from the island; known to house the beautiful
historical, sports events, balls and northern countries Tresher Shark, a site craved by international
dances, and various entertainment  Boljoon Watchtower – divers.
shows. The culmination of the festival tucked in the crook of  Moalboal – bustling town 89 kilometers
is the reenactment of the famed the two tall limestone southwest of Cebu City; meant bubbling
blood compact. mountains narrow brook; popular for water activities such as
enough to defend all snorkeling and diving as it is famous for the
artillery positioned on sardine run
2. CEBU the mountain.  Taoist Temple – preserves the teaching of
CEBU CITY  Casa Gorordo Museum Lao Tse the 600 BC Chinese Philosopher;
Situated in the center of the Philippine – house of the 1st people climb 99 steps to light joss sticks and
Archipelago Filipino Bishop of Cebu; have their fortunes read.
peek into Filipino
5,088 square kilometers FESTIVALS:
lifestyle during 1860
Narrow strip of land  SINULOG – held during the feast of the
and 1920
200 kilometers from north to south Child Jesus which is celebrate
 Colon Street – known as
41 km at its widest nationwide, occurs on the 3rd Sunday
the Parian district, the
Has a backbone of rugged mountains rising of January.
street lies in the
to 1,013 meters in the center downtown Cebu; oldest
Narrow plains can be found along the street in the Philippines; 3. NEGROS ORIENTAL
island’s coastline built by the Spaniards DUMAGUETE CITY
166 smaller islands surround the island of (Miguel Lopez de 5, 402 kilometers
Cebu Legazpi) Low terrain but serrated mountain ranges
DESTINATIONS  Lapu Lapu Monument – mostly close to the shoreline.
 Argao – one of the most frequented famous Battle of Highest peak is the Mt. Kanlaon which is 2,465
tourist destinations in Cebu because of its Mactan occurred; lapu- meters high in the nearby the towns of
white-sand beaches and dive sites; Argao lapu holding a bolo in Guihulngan, Vallehermoso and Kanlaon City.
Fortress Church an elaborately decorated one hand and pestle in DESTINATIONS
19th century fortress is also located. the other  Apo Island – site of the Siliman University’s
 Aznar-Alfonso Collection – collection of  Mactan Island – a must- Marine Conservation Park; surrounding
period furnitures, antique jewelries, saint see destination in Cebu; waters is teeming with a vast array of corals
figurines, and authentic grave goods from resorts are one of the and other marine life.
archeological digs bests in the world and is  Casaroro Waterfalls – water cascading
 down a sheer of 100 foot high cliff to form From November to April, islands and faces the Philippine Sea to the
a cold pool which is surrounded by huge the island has a generally east.
rocks and trees home to various flora and dry climate as it is situated San Juanico Bridge dubbed as the “Most
fauna. sandwich by bigger island
Beautifully Designed and Longest Bridge in
 Mt. Kanlaon – Raises majestically between provinces.
DESTINATIONS the Philippines.”
the Negros Province; Kan-Laon derived
from the ancient Visayan god and is the  Cantabon Cave – one of Native languages of Eastern Visayas:
Supreme Ruler – One who is the ruler of the numerous caves that Abaknon (Capul Island), Baybayanon
time. dot the island of Siquijor. (Baybay City), Boholano (Southern Leyte),
 Malatapay Seaside Market – Wednesdays,  Bitaog beach – endowed Cebuano (Biliran, Leyte, Samar), Kinabalian
farmers from the mountains and with light colored sands (municipality of San Juan, Southern Leyte),
fisherman from the coast and nearby and cleared waters. Waray-waray (regional lingua franca)
islands come to Malauay to participate.  Kagusuan beach – hidden
Agricultural region with rice, corn,
haven of white sand;
 Manjuyod Sand Bar – one of the largest coconut, sugarcane and banana
maria, siquijor; large
sandbars in the Philippines and is dubbed Primary sourcesof revenue are
grained white sands
as the “Maldives of the Philippines.” manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade
mixed with small coral
 Millenium Tree – Dalakit tree; 1,300 years rocks covers this 500 and services
old; stands in the middle of the rice meter long beach.
terraces and coffee plantation.
Tinikling, the Philippines’ national dance is
 Cambaguhay falls – three- folkdance.
 Odloman Cave – second largest cave in the tiered popular falls for its
Philippines (Dutch-Belgian team) Kuratsa, cultural dance among Warays
tarzan swing drop activity
 Pulangbato falls – one of the series of five and marble blue Waray people are music lovers whose
waterfalls amid an elevated forest; said to  Paliton beach – an idyllic folkloric music are mostly ballads in form,
have reddish water. palm, white sand beach famous of which is Iroy nga Tuna
 Siliman University – built in 1901; the and famous for its sunset. (Motherland)
university is the first Protestant run in the  Old Enchanted Balete
Philippines and named after its founder Tree – 400 year old tree in 1. BILIRAN: PARADISE UNDISCOVERED
Dr. Horace B. Siliman. Lazi where a fishpond for
fish spa was built. NAVAL
 Tanon Strait- dolphins and cetacean
whales frequents the are particularly along One of the country’s smallest and
the shore of Bais Bay REGION VIII: EASTERN newest provinces. Formerly a sub-
FESTIVALS: VISAYAS province of Leyte, became
 KASADYA-AN – an extravagant Consists of three main
independent province in 1992.
Mardi Gras; celebrated every year islands, Samar, Leyte,
and Biliran 536.01 square kilometers
since 1950 to commemorate the
establishment of the Foundation 6 provinces, 1 Population: 171,612 – 75th
University independent city, 1 Highest Elevation: Mt. Biliran 4,400 ft.
highly urbanized city
4. SIQUIJOR
8 municipalities: Almeria, Biliran,
Tacloban City (regional
SIQUIJOR (Island of Fire or Isla del Fuego) Cabucgayan, Caibiran, Culaba, Kawayn,
center)
Smallest province among the 4 provinces of Maripipi (smallest), Naval (largest)
These provinces and
Central Visayas 132 barangays
cities occupy the
343 square kilometers
Hilly or mountainous while narrow flood easternmost islands of Cebuano and Waray
plains and deltas line the coast. the Visayas group of
Economy largely based on fishing. 95
 hectares of brackish water fish ponds 4,660.47 square Waray people; made of bolinaw
kilometers (anchioves) or budlis (tuna) and
50% Roman Catholic and 40% Iglesia
Population: 467,160 pating
Filipina Independiente or Aglipayan (58th) DESTINATIONS
Church Mount Pagcem  Balangiga bells – three church bells
DELICACIES (1,940 ft.) taken by the United States Army from
22 municipalities, 1 the Church of San Lorenzo de Martir.
 Suman Tinambiran – rice based city, all double War trophies after reprisals following
delicacy, rolled in tinambiran or legislative districts. the Balanggiga massacre in 1901.
wrapped in anahaw leaves. Waray. Cebuano  Calicoan Island – east of Leyte Gulf
Roman Catholicism and off the southeastern point of
 Binagol – sweet delicacy, offers a 1 airport, Borongan Samar. The island can be reached from
distinct taste to the pallet. Airport Tacloban City by a 2-hour bus ride.
DESTINATIONS Commercial  Canhugas Nature Park – gigantic
activities in waves crushing onto large rock
 Bagongbong Falls – Bagumbong Borongan, Tourism formations.
Falls, crystal clear and ice-cold in Guiuan Town  Locso-on Cave – Salcedo in Eastern
rapids, nesteled in Almeria town. (Calicoan Island and Samar; offers a cool and calming
Homonhon Island) respite against the jagged and rough
 Recoletos Falls – 15 meters high,
Major economic rock formations.
perfect for swimming and cliff resource is fishery  Guiuan Church – Immaculate
jumping. and agriculture Conception Parish Church, a Roman
 Ulan-ulan Falls – “rain the falls” (coconut, copra, Catholic Church within the jurisdiction
corn, rice, sugar, of the Diocese of Borongan; classified
cascading waters form a catch
vegetables) as a Natural Cultural Treasure by the
basin Typhoon Haiyan National Museum of the Philippines
 Tingkasan Bat Cave – Sambawan (Yolanda), strongest  Homonhon Island – 20 kilometre long
Island, ideal for spelunking, diving typhoons ever island, encompassing eight barangays
recorded, made its FESTIVALS:
and spearfishing.
first landfall in the  KARAYAPAN
 Iyusan Rice terraces – manmade coastal town of
agricultural landform and tourist Guiuan in November
3. LEYTE: LAND OF HISTORY
attraction in Barangay Iyusan 2013.
TACLOBAN CITY
DELICACIES
Occupying three-quarters of Leyte
 Salakura – Rice
FESTIVALS: Island
crepe, a cross
 HUDYAKA between a West: Samar Island, North: Southern
 BAGASUMBOL hotcake, Leyte, South: Biliran, West: Cebu
bibingka, and 6,313.33 square kilometers
2. EASTERN SAMAR: GATEWAY TO puto. Population: 1,724,679 – 14th
PHILIPPINEDISCOVERY  Pudpod – exotic Alto Peak (4,423 ft.)
BORONGAN CITY food inherent 40 municipalities and 3 cities, all
Eastern portion of the Samar among clutstered into 5 congressional districts.
East: Philippine Sea, South: Leyte Gulf, Samarenos, The site of the largest naval battle, the
North: Northern Samar, West: Samar smoked fish Battle of Leyet Gulf (WWII)
Province pancake from West and South: Cebuano, North and
East: Warays  Kalanggaman  Kamuntaha – or mantis shrimp,
Roman Catholic Island – a pristine crustacean delicacy in Biri; typically
Mixed agriculture, fishing, industrial dream beach cooked by boiling in Sprite with garlic
energy and mining. destination;  Sinarungsong – kakanin made from
Commercial airport in Tacloban City municipality of rice, flour, steamed in banana lead;
(Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport) Palompon; similar to a suman
DELICACIES famous for its DESTINATIONS
 Chocolate Moron –exquisite
stretch white  Biri Rock Formation – composed of
powdery sand four small rocky island; San
chocolate ‘kakanin’ wrapped in
beaches Bernardino Strait meets the Pacific
banna lead. Moron is always
present in all occasions in Leyte FESTIVALS: Ocean
and Samar  SANGYAW  Capul Lighthouse – known as Titoog
 BUYOGAN Point of barangay San Luis; 39 feet
 Roscas – similar to fortune cookie
conical structure made up of granite;
from Barugo Leyte. Anis added  PINTADOS-
1893 to 1896 (finished); 110 feet
ingredients KASADYAAN
above sea level
DESTINATIONS
 Capul Church – an example of
 San Juanico Bridge – an arch- 4. NORTHERN SAMAR: Spanish fortress church, surrounded
shaped truss bridge from Samar to A JOURNEY BACK IN by strong stone walls and bastions of
Leyte crossing the San Juanico TIME dissimilar designs; established as a
Strait; Pan-Philippine Highway; CATARMAN mission station by the Jesuits in 1596
longest bridge in the Philippines. South: Samar and under the advocacy of Saint Ignatuis
 Leyte Landing Memorial – eastern Samar, of Loyola;
MacArthur Leyte Landing Memorial Northwest:  Onay beach – a long, long stretch
National Park protected are of the Sorsogon, East: with one side fringed with thick
Philippines; commemorates the Philippine Sea, West: vegetation
historic landing of General Douglas Samar Sea  Pink beach – Sila Island one of the
MacArthur in Leyte Gulf 3,692.93 square seven islands of San Vicente. The
 Lintaon Peak – the city’s highest kilometres sand is pinkish
peak, comprised of white and red Population: 632,379  Canawaon Island – leisure sanctuary
roses – 46th is the island "resort" of Canawayon,
 Gunhuban Falls – beautiful, bluish- Mount Soomong a 2-hectare public estate with a
green waters surrounded by (1,600 ft.) sugary white beach.
enormous trees 24 municipalities w/ FESTIVALS:
 St. Francis Xavier Church – The 569 registered
 MANOGLAYA
Roman Catholic Church of barangays and 2
Palompon – founded in November legislative districts
5. SAMAR: SPLENDOR BETWEEN MOUNTAIN
12, 1784, built for 44 years; oldest 3 major geographical
areas: Balicuatro AND SEA
church in Leyte. Sanit Francis
Xavier, the patron saint and set area, Central, Pacific CATBALOGAN CITY
December 3 as their fiesta date People are calls Formerly names as Western Samar
 Lake Danao National Park – a Ibabaonon Samar is connected to the island of Leyte
guitar-shaped lake on Leyte; 148 4.5 percent speak via the San Juanico Bridge
hectares, situated in 2,193 Cebuano 6,048.03 square kilometres occupying the
hectares; also includes the Inabaknon, unique central-western sections of the Samar
Amandiwin mountain range language island in the eastern Visayas region.
DELICACIES Mount Huraw (2,790 ft)
Population: 780, 481 – 37th Ferdinand Magellan during the
2 congressional districts, 24 6. SOUTHERN LEYTE: expedition
municipalities, and 2 component cities, THE CENTURIES- Coconut planting and abaca planting
has 952 barangays OLDCHARMER DELICACIES
DELICACIES MAASIN CITY  Ampaw – rice puff; made of rice
 Samar Torta – buttery pound cake North: Leyte, East: and mixed with sugar
with scalloped edges Surigao Strait, South:  Banagan – freshwater lobster
 Baduya Nga Pasayan – Samar’s Bohol Sea, West: DESTINATIONS
answer to Japanese Tempura Canigao Channel  Dan-an Twin Falls – a majestic
 Tamalos – spicy and nutty; covered 1,798.61 square revelation of God’s creation
with thick peanut sauce and sealed kilometres  Tangkaan Beach – Leyte’s version of
away with a banana leaf The central portion Boracay
 Binukohang Pansit – Calbayog’s of the province is  Mt. Caningag – has a wide grass land
version of Pancit dominated by the with an iverview of the Pacific Ocean
DESTINATIONS Sogod Bay, a long (Pintuyan)
 Lulugayan Falls – 50 meters in bay the cuts deep  Agas-Agas Bridge – highest bridge
width; one of the widest waterfalls into the island ever built in the Philippines; 89
in the country Population: 421,750 meters above the ground
 Tarangabn Falls – paradise for – 62nd  Limasawa Island- a small island of
nature lovers; has pristine Mount Nacolod histori importance
waterfall; water flows through the (1,110 ft)  Napantao Fish Sanctuary – Marine
big rocks 18 municipalities, Protected Area (MPA) established in
 Bangon Falls – locally known as and 1 city, all 1996 covers an area of 5 hectares
Bugtong Falls; has an estimated encompassed by a  Calag-itan Fish Sanctuary – serves as
height if 60 meters; system of double legislative permanent asylum for the
cascades districts and further protection of fish
 Sahoton Caves & Natural Bridge subdivided into 500  Uwan-Uwanan Gorge – resembling a
Park – a maze of natural barangays rainfall because you will see little
adventures; teeming with exotic Boholano, Waray, waterfalls
wildlife English, Spanis
 Guinogo-an cave – large entrance Kinabalian – a rare, FESTIVALS:
leads one to a natural tunnel with unique language  Hudyaka – Biliran Provincehood
uneven ceiling Limasawa – believed Anniversary, every May 11;
 Lobo Cave – “The Most Beautiful to be the site of the celebration of the Biliranons’
Cave in the Philippines” first Christian Mass, endeavors
 Calbiga Caves – The Philippines the birthplace of  Bagasumbol – every 1st Saturday
biggest harst formations and one of Christianity when of October, depicts the birth of
the largest in Asia, the 2,968- Magellan landed on Christianity in the town during
hectare cave system; composed of March 28, 1521 the Spanish time
12 caves The first Holy  Sangyaw – religious and socio-
 Malajog Beach – magnificent view Sacrifice of the Mass cultural event; means to herald
of sunset behind nearby island was held on March news
FESTIVALS: 31, 1521 led by Friar
 Buyogan – celebrated the front
 BANIGAN Pedro de
town of Abuyog every year in
 PAHOY-PAHOY Valderrama, the
the 28th of August; buyog or
chaplain of
honey bees are the centerpiece.
 Pintados-Kasadyaan – cultural-
religious celebration based on Mindanao is the second largest
the body-painting traditions of island in the country. It is home
the ancient tattoed “pintados” to 5 of the Philippines' regions,
warriors; always held on June
Regions 9 to 13 and the
29
Autonomous Region of Muslim
 Manoglaya – celebrating the
Mindanao (ARMM). It is
fishing skills of the town folks;
9th to the 12th of June annually surrounded by the Bohol, Celebes
 Malitbog Sinulog Festival – held
and Sulu seas. On the eastern
every 15th of January in honor side of this land mass is the
of its Patron, the Senor Santo Philippine Deep/Trench which is
Nino or the Holy Child Jesus. said to be close to the area
 Karayapan – depicting how the deepest part of the world's
early Guiuan Townsfolk oceans, the Marianas Trench on
enjoyed the nature’s bounties; the Western Pacific Ocean. It is
thanksgiving to their Patroness, populated by many ethic tribes of
the Blessed Virgin Mother the country.
 Banigan – called Kawayan-
Banigan Festival’ a yearly move
parade of ious/lous types of
mats; 2 fundamental wellspring
of job in Basey, bamboo
weaving and tangle weaving.
 Pahoy-Pahoy Festival – Grand
Parade of colordul scarecrows
to celebrate a good harvest
REGION IX: ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA  Paklay – a stew made up of kilometers
Consists of 3 provinces: Zamboanga pig and cow innards  Sungkilaw Falls – new whitewater
del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, and  Halang Halang – a mash up experience where sightseeing
Zamboanga del Sur between Chicken Tinola and pleasure never wanes. A 25-minute
2 cities: Isabela (part of Basilan Ginataang Manok hike from the OISCA Forest Park
province) and Zamboanga City (a brings you to the falls
highly urbanized city) 1. ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE:  Sicayab Beach – a seven-kilometer
Known as Western Mindanao before ORCHID CITY OF SOUTH or velvet stretch of fine gray sand
the enactment of executive Order ORCHID CITY
no. 36 on August 12, 2015. offering exquisite solitude as the
DIPOLOG fiery sun dies in the horizon
Zamboanga City, the regional center
until Pagadian city was designated as In 1948, Basilan was made  Galas and Olingan Beach – a public
its new regional center into a separated chartered beach that stretches for 8 kilometers;
CAPITAL: PAGADIAN city when Republic Act No. its gray sand beach is a favorite of
LANGUAGE: Chavacano, Cebuano, 711, issued on June 6, bathers
Tausug, Subanon, Yakan, Sama, 1952, created 2 more  Cogon Jungle Adventure – a thickly
English and Malay provinces out of forested are of around 300 hectares,
DELICACIES Zamboanga City ideal for mountaineering, hiking and
 Moron – Suman Moron, Language: Cebuano and nature buffs.
chocolate moron made up of Subanon  3003 Steps to Linabo Peak –
“malagkit” DESTINATIONS Dipolog’s highest elevation point –
 Tagaktak – net-like snack of 486 meters above sea level. The 14
 Dakak Beach – known
ground sticky rice batter.
for its beautifully Stations of the Cross punctuate the
 Binaki – dessert made of grated way up. At the peak is a community
shaped cove and
young corn with milk
powder white sand; chapel for prayer and contemplation.
 Montano Sardines – City of
diving mecca in  OISCA Pamansalan Forest Park –
Dipolog in Zamboanga del Norte
Mindanao these are 64 hectares of lush forests,
is known for its Spanish Style
Sardines; pasalubong  Dapitan Bay – stretch of flora and fauna; showcase of nature
 Budbud – a rice cake snack or clean beach on the conservation and ecological balance;
dessert wrapped in banana northern section of the It is home to exotic birds as a
leaves Poblacion; with a water declared bird sanctuary.
 Pilit – “to stick” refers to the depth that is gradual  Tulwanan Village – original
variety of glutinous/sticky rice and no undertow settlement of Dipolog’s early
that’s’s used in budbud pilit  Barangay Daro – inhabitants, the Subanos.
 Bulad – dried fish “Bulad” breathtaking view of  The Rizaliana – a modern concrete
 Dayok – a mixture of different the Sulu Sea building constructed in 1972, which
fermented fish intestines; a  Aliguay and Silinog houses all Rizaliana books,
perfect grave and side dish in periodicals and exhibits. Also serves
Islands – island
your meal.
barangays abound in as the office of the Rizal Shrine
 Ginamos and Oyap – Salted Fish curator.
white sand beaches and
and Shrimp Paste
rich aquatic resources;  Rizal Shrine – “Shrine City of the
 Bas-oy – a soup dish composed
roughly 10 and 14 Philippines”
of pig liver
 Dapitan City Plaza – Retiro and Himno a Spanish-Moorish wars.
developed and beautified Talisay; aka Batong  RIZAL’S DEATH ANNIVERSARY –
by Dr. Jose Rizal with the Lumayag (December 30) declared a
assistance of Gov.  Amphitheater – an national holiday;
Carcinero. commemorative activities focus
open air auditorium
on Rizal’s life, works, and ideas.
 Relief Map of Mindanao – with a seating capacity
 SINULOG SA DIPOLOG – 3rd
across St. James Church, of 500
Saturday of January
the map resting on a total  Holy Rosary Cathedral –  BUKLOG SA DIPOLOG – 3rd
900 square meters. Done erected by the Spanish Saturday of May; It highlights the
by Jose Rizal. He intended friars in 1895. Records colors and culture of this ethnic
it as a motivating device for show that the cathedral group (Subanen) of the
teaching history and altar was designed by Zamboanga Peninsula
geography to the Rizal.  FEAST OF ST. VINCENT FERRER –
townsfolk. 1st week of June, a religious
 Sta. Cruz – Migrating
 The Aqueduct – reservoir Boholanos from the event aimed to honor Saint
served as a good water Visayas landed here in Vincent Ferrer
syste,; bamboo tubes were May 1905  ARAW NG DIPOLOG – July 1,
used founding anniversary celebration
 Filipino-Japanese of Dipolog City
 Casa Redonda – an Memorial park – a  FEAST OF THE HOLY ROSARY –
octagonal dwelling that WWII memorial in Octiber 7, a religious festival to
served as the quarters for Barangay Dicayas where celebrate the feast day of the
Rizal’s pupils. Converted to Filipino and Japanese Holy Rosary of Virgin Mary, the
a clinic, it was George soldiers clashed city’s patroness.
Tauter, the foster father of
Josephine Bracken, had his 2. ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY
FESTIVALS:
eye operation IPIL
 CITY CHARTER DAY
 Casa Cuadrada – the main – Dapitan City Congressman George T. Hofer of the
house that serves as the marks the signing municipality of Titay then sponsored
residence of Jose Rizal of its charter (June House bill No. 1311.
 Casa Redonda Pequena – 22, 1963) by then Republic Act. 8973 emobodies the legal
President Diosdado created of Zamboanga Sibugay Province
hexagonal structure that
Macapagal DESTINATIONS:
has served as the chicken
 SINULOG AND  Sibuguey Bay – bounding the
house during Rizal’s stay in
KINABAYO – a two province’s southern peripheries,
Dapitan
day celebration of blessed with several coral
 Casitas Hospitales – two of the annual patronal formations that function normally as
these structure were feast of St. James. fish sanctuaries
originally intended as tea The Sinulog is a  Tantanan Bay – It is the largest fish
houses but Rizal converted dance procession sanctuary found in the province,
them into clinics. while the Kinabayo encompassing an area of five
os an exotic and hectares.
 Mi Retiro Rock – a naturally
colorful pageant re-  Takushari - a notable fish sanctuary
heart-shaped rock, this is
enacting the dubbed as “Takushari”
where Rizal scribed the Mi
  Waterfalls – among the Subanens can be Labangan; source of water for the
picturesque waterfalls revisited. Labangan irrigation system;
found in the province are  Lakewood – 49 became a beautiful camping site
Tagbilat, Dalisay, Tugop, kilometers’ named and has a permanent Boy and Girl
Muslim, Cobacob, Go- after Lake Wood, a Scout sitre
otoc, Malagandis, large lake  Bomba Beach – available for
Basay,Palina Falls intersecting the fishing and swimming with a
 Pandilusan Island in Payao town. The most bomba bridge and shed as well as
– a coral reef sanctuary, it popular species of a coral reef
reminds you of talcum fish in the province  Mt. Susong Dalaga – a semi-
powder can only be caught perfect cone with a good-forest
FESTIVALS: in the lake: the carpa cover; can be reached by
 SIBUG-SIBUG – and porang horseback
celebrated during the  Lake Dasay – second  Lourdes Waterfalls – ideal for
Foundation Day of the largest mountain bathing
province of Sibugay; lake in the province;  Mt. Pinokis – features virgin
promotes the luscious mouth is forests inhabited by monkeys and
Sibugay’s No. 1 parted like the smile gorillas
product – the oyster of a country damsel.  Manga Falls – two-layered
(Talaba); Talaba  Sominot Cave – cascading fall surrounded by huge
Longest Grill was part massive pillars and trees which are home to white
of the two-week long columns; beautiful monkeys.
festival. “World’s stalactites and  Aurora Mountain Resort – carved
Longest Talaba Grill” stalagmites adorn out of a hillside in Barangay
wide spaces. Anonang, has a wide swimming
3. ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR  Malindang Mountain pool
PAGADIAN “Little Hong Resort – owned and  Lily’s Hidden Spring – along the
Kong of the South” managed by Rogelio rocky highlands and steep
Mabanag, one of the mountainside flows the Lily’s
Derived from the Malay
most outstanding hidden spring
word jambangan meaning a
farmers in  La Suerte Hanging Bridge –
pot or place of flowers
Zamboanga del Sur. suspended cable support for
On June 9, 1952, through
 Dao-Dao Islands – a wooden floor planks
Republic Act 711,
big island has an  Lower Sibatang Hanging Bridge –
Zamboanga del Sur was
area of 1.1507 27 meters in length
carved out from the former
hectares; has
Zamboanga province that  Bagalupa Hanging Bridge – 80
artificial coral reefs meters in length
encompassed the entire
peninsula in Southwestern  White Beach – a
FESTIVALS:
Mindanao stretch of white
sand beach just five  MEGAYON – an
Language: Bikol and tagalog institutionalized tri-people
minutes via
DESTINATIONS: festival to showcase the arts
motorboat
 Lapuyan – takes pride in southeast of the and crafts for Zamboanga del
Lapuyan Falls and its seaport Sur
cultural village where
 Pulacan Falls – found  BUKLOG – social hierarchy of
the rich and unique the Subanon community
in the town of
 CITY PAROCHIAL FIESTA REGION X: NORTHERN MINDANAO hectare inland body of water located
– January 3, Sunday; in Regional center: Cagayan De Oro in Don Carlos, Bukidnon; plays a vital
honor of the patron Sto. Composed of 5 provinces: role in providing a life support
Nino is colorful event Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del system to people within its vicinity;
showcasing the norte, Misamis Occidental and serves different purposes: academic
Zumbalawan festival Misamis Oriental institutions, tourism site
 CITY CHARTER DAY – 9 cities: Cagayan de Oro, El  Kaamulan Park – pine-tree covered
Araw ng Pagadian (June Salvador, Gingood, Malaybalay, park is ideal for camping and rodeo
21) – commemorating Valencia, Oroquieta, Ozamiz, activities, often the venue for
pagadian’s becoming a Tangub, and Iligan provincial fairs, the foremost which
chartered city, North: Bohol Sea, South: Lanao is the Kamulan.
celebrated with del Sur and North Cotabato,  Dahilayan Forest park – nestled at
festivities only every 10 West: Zamboanga provinces, the foot of Mount Kitanglad 4,700 ft.
years East: Agusan Provinces and Davao above sea level; built with the vision
 ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR Bisaya, Boholano, Cebuano of helping develop the tourism
ANNIVERSARY – industry in Bukidnon
September 17, mother FESTIVALS:
1. BUKIDNON
province’s anniversary  KAAMULAN – Bukidnon word
MALAYBALAY CITY
is marked with argo- “amul” which means to gather. It
Landlocked province
trade, a civic-military is a gathering of Bukidnon
located at the center of
parade, a cultural tribespeople; held annually in
Mindanao Island
presentation and sports Malaybalay City from the 2nd half
North: Misamis Oriental, of the February to March 10, the
competitions. South: North Cotabato and
latter date marks the anniversary
Davao del Sur, West: Lanao
of the creation of Bukidnon as a
del Sur, East: Agusan del
province in 1917.
Sur and Davao del Norte
7 tribal groups, Bukidnon,
2. CAMIGUIN: BORN OF FIRE
Higaonon, Talaandig,
MAMBAJAO
Manobo, Matigsalug,
Tigwahanon, Umayamnon Has 7 volcanoes.
DESTINATIONS Volcanic eruptions and land movements
have created this spectacular island
 Mt. Dulang-Dulang
which is full of natural wonders and
(Kitanglad Mountain
riches.
Range) – rising 9,696 ft
above the sea level; 2nd Recognized by the Department of
highest peak in the Tourism (DOT) as one of the top tourist
Philippines destinations in the country.
 Alalmum Falls – DESTINATIONS
Kisolon, Sumilao  Mount Hibok-Hibok – on top of the
 Del Monte Philippines – list of every avid hike; officially
situated on plateaus known as Mounts Tininpong Hibok-
with elevations ranging Hibok Natural Monument,
from 1,600 to 2,200 declared as an ASEAN Heritage
feet. Park.
 Lake Pinamaloy – a 60-  Katibawasan Falls – most visited
 waterfalls in Camiguin; a 3. LANAO DEL NORTE
250-meter high waterfall TUBOD 4. MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL
 Ardent Hot Spring – most North: Iligan Bay and Misamis OROQUETA CITY
popular with its six Oriential, South: Lanao del Sur Located at the northwestern tip of the
pools; the topmost pool and Illana bay, West: Panguil island of Mindanao
is the hottest at groung Bay and Zamboanga del Sur, Northeast: Mindanao Sea, east: Illigan
40 degrees celsius East: Bukidnon Bay, Southeast: Panguil Bay, West,
 White Island – has white Iligan City, tourism capital also Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga
sand surrounded by known as the City of Waterfalls del Sur
crystal clear waters and DESTINATIONS DESTINATIONS:
colorful underwater  Maria Christina Falls – one  Baliangao Marine Park – divers can
scenery; technically, a of the famous waterfalls in choose between shallow and deep
sandbar the Philippines; a natural coral observation areas
 Sunken Cemetery- stood landmark which Illigan City  Bukagan Hill – a spiral road; a
as an eerie reminder of is very proud of. Its water concrete bell tower with a large bell
Camiguin Island’s violent from the Agus River and it sits at the top
past. The eruption of is also harnessed a source  Ceriaco Pastrano Hanging Bridge –
Mount Vulcan in 1871, of electricity. 75 meter hanging bridge connects
the same one that  Cathdral Falls – located in Baranagay Layawan and Taboc
destroyed the Old Barangay Waterfalls, Norte
Bonbon Church. A big Kapatagan, Lanao del  Cotta beach – Fort Truinfo is located
cross was erected in Norter; known for its at this beach with clear blue waters.
1982 to mark the rectangular stone
location.  Cotta Fort Santiago – an Old Spanish
structures Port built in 1707 to protect this
 Mantigue Island – purely  Limunsudan Falls – an 870- region from marauding pirates.
a sandbar; has a small foot is wonder of nature
patch of forest  Hoyohoy Highland Stone Chapel
and is supposed to be the Adventure Park – located 850
surrounded by white country’s tallest. The lower meters above sea level and
sand beaches and alone is taller than Ma. established in 2010
turquoise waters; stands Cristina Falls.
proudly in the middle of
FESTIVALS: 5. MISAMIS ORIENTAL: CITY OF GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP
protected marine
 ALIMANGO – a CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY
sanctuary.
colorful and North: Malacajar Bay, South, Bukidnon
FESTIVALS: fascinating
 LANZONES – an annueal and Lanao del Norte, East: Agusan del
celebration in the Norte, West: Iligan Bay
event marked in the town of Lala
month of October is a DESTINATIONS
 DIYANDI – the official  Gardens of Malasag Ecotourism Village
four-day festival held to title of Iligan City’s
celebrate bountry – 7 hectares village has replicas of
month long tribal houses; owned and managed by
harvests of the Lanzones celebration; promote
fruit the Philippine Tourism Authority
the cultural identity
 The Divine Mercy Shrine – a Catholic
and in honor of city’s
monument in El Salvador. Features a
patron saint, St.
50-foot statue of Jesus as the Divine
Michael the
Mercy as the focal point of Divine
Archangel.
Mercy Hills.
 Macahambus Cave – a the town of Baloi;
scenic cave in the Cagayan made from sticky rice REGION XI: DAVAO REGION
de Oro City; the area of the flour, coconut milk, Former name: Southern Mindanao
cave is part of the tropical and sugar. Regional Center: Davao City
Macahambus Forest Nature  Moron (of Plaridel Languages: Cebuano, Hiligaynon,
reserve Mis Occ) – a sweet Dabawenyo, maguindanao, Bagobo,
 Sagpulon Falls – a natural tasty treat made of Gulangan, Tagakaolo, Kagan, and Mandaya
attraction in Barangay San glutinous rice or rice Most crowded are in Mindanao and the 7th
Isidro flour mix, chocolate most crowded in the nation
 Agutayan Island- one of the sugar and coconut 5 provinces: Davao Occidental, Davao del
Marine Protected Areas milk, rolled and Norte, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, and
(MPAs) wrapped in banana Davao de Oro (former Compostela Valley)
 Catanico falls – water from leaves then boild or
6 cities: Davao, Digos, Mati, Panabo, Samal,
the falls drops into a big steamed
Tagum
pool surrounded by a huge  Suman – made from
rocks; Swimming here is not malagkit, pure
advisable because the water coconut milk and 1. DAVAO DEL NORTE: THE BANANA CAPITAL
has a high lead content sugar. It’s sweet OF THE PHILIPPINES
 Initao National Park – has comes in a variety of TAGUM CITY
numerous attractions flavors such as Amihanang Dabaw
including natural limestone balintawak, suman 8 municipalities and 3cities
formations, a forest park, latik and ibus 3,426.97 square kilometers
various wildlife.  Jamon de Cagayan – Mount Sinako (5,220 ft)
also known as North: Aagusan del Sur, West: Bukidnon,
FESTIVALS:
Legham; a long east: Davao de Oro, South, Davao City
 KUYAMIS – is an
process of salt curing Samal City is the only municipality in the
occasion associated with
and natural smoking. province not situated on Mindanao
the founding of the
Island.
Misamis Oriental;
DESTINATIONS
highlighted by booth
 Island Garden of Samal – the jewel of
exhibit showcasing the
Davao Gulf is haven for various
products and by-
ecoadventure
products of coconut.
 Talikud Island – a small island located
DELICACIES/PASALUBONG behind Samal hence the name; greets
 Binaki – a steamed cake the visitors with clear, sparkling
made of grated young turquoise waters and pristine water
corn with powdered shores.
milk, baking powder and  Pearl Beach Farm resort- 11-hectare;
sugar mixed with water was once a real pearl farm that
 Pinasitas – a pineapple- cultivated oysters imported from the
based product Sulu Sea
 Pastel – Spanish term  Taclobo Santuary – The giant Clam
for cake; soft, sweet sanctuary houses 3,000 giant clams
bun, filled with yema  Montfort Bat Sanctuary – the worlds’
 Dodol – most-popular largest known population of
rice-based delicacy in Geoffrey’s Rousette fruit bats;
officially recognized by the Guinness
 World Record in 2010 as the for a bountiful DESTINATIONS
largest colony of this kind. harvest featuring  Ballistic Island – the Spanish
 Hagimit Falls – a secluded parades, street explorer Villalobos, landed on
waterfall at the heart of dances, agri- the islet and built a fortress.
deep full grown woods industrial fairs  Colo Sabak B’laan Village – one
 Hijo Resorts Davao – first  KADAGAYAAN – of the indigenous people of
and only eco-agri tourism derived from the Southern Mindanao; famous
destination of the country; word “dagaya” which
over their brassworks,
aka Banana Beach Resort, it means abundance
is the world’s only beach beadwork, tabih weave
and bounty in the
resort and nature park  Museyo Dabawenyo- housed
local dialect.
within a banana plantation in an old structure that has
 Kapalong Cave – “Caving INDUSTRY AND CRAFTS
stood countless developments
Capital of Mindanao” of Davao City. Renovated in
 Panabo’s Mariculture Park – 2008
areas to the sea similar to  Buko Batchoy – hot
 Mt. Apo National Park - aka
noodle soup w/ slivers
industrial parks or estates Apo Sandawa; 9,692 ft above
of tender pork meat
on land sea level; highest mountain in
 Christ the King Cathedral – and topped with
chicharon the Philippines; shared by
the biggest cathedral in the
 Binignit – a mix of Santa Crus, bansalan, and Digos
Philippines and the world’s
largest and longest Rosary flavorful ingredients  Eden Nature Park and resort –
can be found. 1993 – 12 such as camote, gabi a mountain resort 3,000 feet
years – silver anniversary of sago, bili-bilo, langka, above sea level
the Diocese coconut milk and  Philippine Eagle Center – the
bananas. home of the Pithecophaga
FESTIVALS:
 Sinuglaw – contraction Jeffreyo or commonly known
 MUSIKAHAN SA TAGUM
– acknowledges the of words, Sinugba and as the Philippine Monkey-
Tagumenyos excellence Kinilaw; combinations Eating eagle.
in musical repertoire, of fresh tuna or  Mainit Spring – part of semi-
commemorated every malasugi and grilled
virgin forest
pork.
month of March and  Tibangao Caves – wide caverns,
remains the most sought  Durian (Pie and Ice
bat habitat, underground
after musical cream), Marang
springs
extravaganza in the city  Malagos Garden Resort – a
 BANANA – held every 2. DAVAO DEL SUR: LAND
nature park and resort offers a
first weel of July; OF THE EAGLES
great scenery with a century-
celebration of the DIGOS
old Durian trees
province’s foundation Habagatang dabaw
 Davao Crocodile Park –
anniversary, a tribute to 9 municipalities, 1
banana exportation, cultured crocodiles, Pangil one
independent city, 1
Davao del Norte’s of the largest captive
component city
biggest economic crocodiles in the Philippines
4,607.59 square
distribution  Davao Cathedral – oldest
kilometers
 PANGAPOG – 1st week Mount Apo (9,692
church in Davao City aka San
of August, celebration Pedro Cathedra;; distinct
ft)
 curved roof white sand beaches, 5,679.64 square kilometers
resembling a vinta shell hunting and 20 Mount Hamiguin (5,310 ft)
 People’s Par – a well- springs Mandaya and Kagan People
maintained public  Sibulan River – the DESTINATIONS:
park river to brave, a long  Pintatagan Welcome Park,
stretch of rapids after Banaybanay – a pit stop and a favorite
FESTIVALS:
rapids that the tubing selfie spot for tourists
 KADAYAWAN SA guides had to divide it  Sabangan Provincial Museum – the
DABAW – week-long by levels; owned by centre of arts and natural history
merrymaking highlights the Ayala-Zobels collection of Davao Oriental; houses a
the manifold tribal selected collection of the province’s
FESTIVALS:
cultures of the region
 KAPYAAN – a festival historical and cultural heritage well-
 ARAW NG DAVAO DEL preserved
of the Day of
SUR – held every July 1,  Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife
Establishment of the
commemorates the Sanctuary – majestic mountain with a
town of Jose Abad
founding anniversary of peak of 5,345 feet above sea level;
Santos
Davao del Sur home to the Pygmy Forest, Tinagong
DELICACIES:  GAGINAWAY –
Malita is known for Dagat, and twin waterfalls
 Kinilaw na Tuna – made  Mount Hamiguitan Eco Park and
various cultural arts
from fresh, raw tuna or Natural Science Museum – protected
and heritage of its
swordfish mountain range is home to the
people and tribes;
 Kinilaw Sushi Style celebrated annually Philippine Eagle and the unique bonsai
 Sinugbang Bihod – fish roe every full moon on forests; first side in the country both a
of a female tuna the month of UNESCO World Heritage Site and an
 Sinugbang Bagaybay – November and Araw ASEAN Heritage Park.
reproductive parts of male ng Malita is also  Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park and
tuna celebrated on Riverview Park – perhaps the crowning
 Crocodile Egg Ice Crea, November 17 glory of the province; one of the most
beautiful and the tallest waterfalls in
 Crocodile Burger DELICACIES
the country
 Fresh Durian (coffee,  Lolob Adlai cooked in
 Pusan Point Science Discovery Center
cheesecake), and Fresh Agik-ik Leaves
and Eco Park –the setting of the first
Pomelo INDUSTRY AND CRAFTS sunrise of the new millennium
 Aquaculture and  Cape San Agustin Eco Park – home to 3
agriculture lighthouses known as Tatlong Maria
3. DAVAO OCCIDENTAL: LUPAIN NG  Malita is the  Boston Pacific View Park – Philippines’
ANTIGONGMAMAMAYAN province’s main Boston
MALITA commercial hub  Dahican Beach – a crescent shape
Kasadpang dabaw white beach
5 municipalities 4. DAVAO ORIENTAL: FESTIVALS:
2,263.45 square kilometers COCONUT CAPITAL OFTHE  BANAYAN – rice granary of Davao
Mount Latian (5,289 ft) PHILIPPINES oriental, a tribute to the town’s
Republic act 10630 on July MATI main product rice
23, 2013 Sidlakang Dabaw  KALINDUGAN – 2-day celebration
DESTINATIONS: 10 municipalities and 1 supplied with extravagant
 Balut Island – boasts its component city parades, authentic Mandaya
 dances, colors, and Mount Pandadagsaan  Mahayahay Cave – a habitat of small
somgs; one of the most (8760 ft) bats,a rubber plantatation, wikd
venerable and well DESTINATIONS: deer, bird sanctuaries
known festivals in the  Tagbibinta Falls  San Vicente System – has 4 caves; a
province.  Kanlawig Hot Spring sinking cave which starts with a 600
DELICACIES  Bahay Katutubo – a ft. drop
 Mati Empanada and Lumpia museum showcasing  Heaven’s Peak highland Resort –
– oozes with ground pork, the ethnography – gives a commanding view of gold-
eggs, cheese and all the Mansaka, Mandaya, rich peaks on board the cable car
herbs. Lumpia made from Manobo,  The Beach club at Lubi Plantation
ubod (coconut heart) Mangguangan, Island – rebrands as Dusit Thani Lubi
 Pinaksiwang Ratrat Dibabawon, Aeta, Plantation
(Palakang Bukid) Kamayo, Kalagan, FESTIVALS:
Davaoeno  BULAWAN – held every March,
 Paksiw Kasili (Native Eel)
 Provincial Capitol of Bulawanong Pasundayah street
 Sawugnun – a type of fish Nabunturan – Solidarity
that thrives in the upper dance showdown
ring, a 99% gold jewel GASTRONOMY
river of Cateel worth 1.5M
 Nilamburan nga Suman – means
 Camp Manuel T. Yan
5. DAVAO DE ORO: GOLDEN mixed with
Eco Militay Park and
CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINES  Lyurot – traditional method for the
Tribal Village – a
NABUNTURA Mansaka tribe
section of the
Bulawang Dabaw Philippine Army’s 10th
11 municipalities Infantry (Agila) division
4, 479.77 square kilometres
REGION XII: SOCCSKSARGEN REGION XIII: CARAGA
 Central Mindanao 1. AGUSAN DEL NORTE
 SOX BUTUAN CITY
 Regional: Koronadal City FESTIVALS:
 2nd most populated with Muslims  BALANGAY – month long celebration of Saint joseph features the search for Mutya Hong
 4 provinces: Cotabato, Sarangani, South  Balangay Shrine Museum – known as Butuan Boats
Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat  Balanghai Shrine – a graveyard of the balanghai small badjao boats to be believed to be about
 4 cities, 45 municipalities 1,200 years old
 Butuan Regional Museum
 Repository of prehistoric facts of buturan’s rich heritage
1. COTABATO: STONE FORTRESS OF MINDANAO
 Century-old Bituag Tree –a tree claimed to be over 150 years old
KIDAPAWAN
 Historic Magallanes Marker – erected in 1872 by Governer Maria Caravello to commemorate the
FESTIVALS: celebration of the 1st catholic mass in Mindanao in april 8, 1521
 KALIVUNGAN  Lake Mainit Shoreline a stretch of land along the Maharlika highway of San roque
 TIMPUPO FRUIT  The Agusan river – longest navigable river in Mindanao
 Tinago Beach – wide expanse of sandy beach is lined with a number of privately owned
2. SARANGANI: SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES’ FRONT resthouses
DOOR TO BIMP-EAGA  Vinapor Beach – a wide sandy beach set against towering coconut palms and lush vegetations
ALABEL
FESTIVALS:
 BINUYUGAN 2. AGUSAN DEL SUR
 SARANGANI BAY PROSPERIDAD
 MUNATO Belong to the CARAGA region
Agusan Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary – biggest marchland in the Philippines; known habitat for migrant
3. SOUTH COTABATO: LAND OF DREAMWEAVERS birds flying along the Asian flyway during winter
KORONADAL CITY Binaba falls – the cool, crystal-clear water are believed to originate from an underground system
FESTIVALS: Irosin Stone Craft – use sandstones to create a masterpiece for the home
 T’NALAK Mt. Diwata Springs – set midst a forest, a haven for tired urbanities and nature lovers
MT. Magdiwata – mythical mountain reaches a height of 633 meters, San Francisco’s sole source of
potable water
Giant Toong tree – 280 feet and 7 meters at the base
Toong Trees – grow to a height of 85 maters, and are used for boat building
FESTIVALS:
 KAAMULAN – held every September 23, in honor of the tribal leads in Agusan del Sur
 KAHIMUAN – local version of Sinulog Festival, every 3rd Sunday of Janurary
3. SURIGAO DEL NORTE
SURIGAO CITY
Concological Exhibit – houses numerous species shells found
Danawan island beaches – beaches covered with crushed seashells
Day-Asan floating Village – houses of this village stand over shallow water
 Del Carmen Swamps – natural Sohoton Cave – full of unique rock formation and low-hanging stalactites; underground
habitat of the biggest species lagoon with green water
of saltwater crocodile in the Zaragosa Rock formations – dagger-edged rocks just out from a one-hectare area of
country waist deep
Dinagat Island – good
snorkeling and scuba-diving 4. SURIGAO DEL SUR
site Jagged piece of land extending along the coast of Mindanao facing the Pacific Ocean
General Luna Beach – Irog Mountain – holds the biggest iron reserve in the hemisphere
internationally known as one Maltangtang Cave –boat-shaped cavern has a cool spring and is filled with guano
of the surfing sites in the Mangkangagi Island
Pacific Turtle Island – eight hectare, turtle-shaped island are multi coral reefs
Ipil Beach –white pebbled
beach by the Surigao City Lions
Club 5. SURIGAO DEL NORTE
Siargao Island – discovered by SURIGAO CITY
European surfers and scuba Concological Exhibit – houses numerous species of shells
divers, a famous dive site. Danawan
Socorro Rock Formations –
dominated by daggerlike rocks 6. SURIGAO DEL SUR
TANDAG
out from the sea

4. SULTAN KUDARAT
ISULAN
FESTIVALS:
 TALAKUDONG
 KALIMUDAN
 TUNA
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