REGION 3 province.

(Additional Info/s: Battle

(CENTRAL LUZON) of Bataan, Bataan Death March)

REGION 3 Tourist Attractions:

- Also known as “Rice Grannary of ● Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
the Philippines”. Region 3 lies ● Laki Beach & Five Fingers Cove
between Manila and Northern ● Balanga Cathedral
Luzon. Composed of 7 provinces, ● Plaza Mayor de Balanga
12 cities, and 118 municipalities.
Its province are Aurora, Bataan, Festivals:
Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, ● Day of Valor or Bataan Day (Araw
Tarlac, and Zambales. ng Kagitingan)
● Banga Festival
➔ AURORA ● Pawikan Festival

AURORA ➔ BULACAN
- “Land of the Golden Sunrise” and
“Gateway to the Pacific”. A BULACAN
province located at the eastern - Its capital is the city of Malolos.
part of Central Luzon, facing the Honored as one of the 8 rays of
Philippine Sea. Its capital is Baler. the sun in the national flag.
Before 1978, Aurora was part of - Home of “Three Republics” such
Quezon Province. The province as:
was named after Aurora Aragon, ❖ Republic of Real de Kakarong de
the wife of then President of Sili (1896) in Pandi
Philippine Commonwealth, Pres. ❖ Republic of Biak-na-Bato (1897)
Manuel L. Quezon. ❖ First Philippine Republic in Malolos
(1899-1901)
Tourist Attractions:
● Sunrise at Dipasaleng Beach Tourist Attractions:
● Surf at Baler Bay ● Biak-na-Bato National Park
● Learn at Museo de Baler ● Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish -
● Sight Seeing at Dicasalarin Cove Barasoain Church
● Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
Festivals: ● Verdivia Falls
● Aurora Surfing Cup
● Aurora Foundation Day Festivals:
● Sabutan Festival ● Obando Festival
● Pulilan Carabao Festival
➔ BATAAN
➔ NUEVA ECIJA
BATAAN
- Occupying the entire Bataan NUEVA ECIJA
Peninsula on Luzon, Bataan is - “Rice Bowl of the Philippines” Its
bordered by the provinces of capital is Palayan City. Honored as
Zambales and Pampanga to the one of the 8 rays of the sun in the
north. Its capital is the city of national flag. It was named by the
Balanga while Mariveles is the Spanish colonisers after the small
largest local government unit in the town of Ecija, Spain. Its indigenous
name, such as Pinagpanaan.
Tourist Attractions: Tourist Attractions:
● Minalungao National Park ● Monasterio De Tarlac
● Isdaan Floating Restaurant ● Bulsa River
● Camo Pangatian War Memorial ● Mt. Telakawa
Shrine ● Kart City Tarlac
● Pantabangan Daan ● Anzap Twin Falls

Festivals: Festivals:
● Pandawan Festival ● Belenisimo Festival
● Taong Putik Festival ● Malatarlak Festival
● Tanduyong Festival
➔ ZAMBALES
➔ PAMPANGA
ZAMBALES
PAMPANGA - “The Beauty Within” The second
- “Culinary Capital of the Philippines” largest among the 7 provinces in
Its capital is the City of San Region 3. Its capital is Municipality
Fernando. Honored as one of the 8 of Iba. Noted for its mango, which
rays of the sun in the national flag. are abundant from January to
“Pampang” which the province’s April. The province’s name came
name origates, means river bank. from the word ‘zambal’, which is a
(Additional Info/s: Home to 2 Hispanized term for Sambali.
Philippine Air Force bases which
are Basa Air Base in Florida Tourist Attractions:
Blanca and Clark Air Base) ● Campones Island
● Talisayen Cove
Tourist Attractions: ● Mt. Tapulao
● Mt. Pinatubo
● Mt. Arayat Festivals:
● Holy Rosary Parish ● Dinamulag Mango Festival
● SandBox Pampanga ● Paynauen “Duyan” Festival

Festivals:
● Giant Lantern Festival NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION
● Philippine International Hot Air (NCR)
Balloon

NCR
➔ TARLAC
- Known as Metropolitan Manila, the
capital region of the Philippines.
TARLAC
It’s located in the southwestern
- “Melting Pot of Central Luzon”
portion of Luzon, directly below
Honored as one of the 8 rays of
Central Luzon.
the sun in the national flag. Its
capital is Tarlac City. The province
Traditions & Culture:
is situated at the center of the
central plains of Luzon, landlocked Culture
by four provinces of Pampanga on ➢ Manila
its south, Nueva Ecija on its east, - Is a dynamic place that not just
Pangasinan on its north, and crams one of the largest
Zambales on its west. metropolitan urban populations in
 the world into a small space, but Filipinos due to its historical
also tries to combine and reconcile significance.
disparate philosophies, customs, - The Park is the location where
and traditions from a colorful past. their national hero, Jose Rizal, was
executed. Today, the park is
Traditions: spread over 140 acres and has
➢ Bamboo Organ beautiful ornamental gardens,
- The Bamboo Organ Festival statues of historical figures, a
features musical and cultural Central Lagoon with musical
presentations showcasing the fountains, as well as an
instrument's unique qualities and Orchidarium. Also locally known as
best attributes. Luneta Park.
- The bamboo organ is housed in St.
Joseph's Parish where it has been ➢ Manila Ocean Park
used to grace most of the masses - Manila Ocean Park is the country's
and services for nearly two first world-class marine theme park
centuries. and a premiere educational facility.
- An integrated urban resort with
➢ La Naval marine life attractions and an
- The rosary has always been a aqua-themed hotel.
central item in Catholic
iconography and on the second ➢ Quiapo Church
Sunday of October, the Sto. - The Minor Basilica of the Black
Domingo Church's statue of the Nazarene known canonically as
Blessed Virgin Mary of La Naval is the Parish of Saint John the Baptist
paraded around the parish to and also known as Quiapo Church
inspire devotees to strengthen their is a prominent basilica in the
faith and actualize the virtues district of Quiapo in the city of
taught by the rosary in their daily Manila, Philippines.
lives. - The basilica is a famous home for
- The statue is credited for the Black Nazarene, a dark statue
performing miracles over the past of Jesus Christ said to be
four hundred years of its existence miraculous. The basilica is under
the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese
➢ Feast of Black Nazarene of Manila and its current rector is
- A day after, the religious and Rev. Fr. Rufino C. Sescon, Jr.
faithful Filipinos rush to the Quiapo
Church (St. John the Baptist ➢ National Museum
Church) in the Philippines’ capital, - The National Museum of the
Manila City, for the Feast of the Philippines is an umbrella
Black Nazarene, which was government organization that
brought to the county in 1606. oversees a number of national
Since Jesus was born in Nazareth museums in the Philippines
and the sculptures carried were including ethnographic,
black in color. anthropological, archaeological
and visual arts collections.
Tourist Spots:
➢ Rizal Park ➢ Fort Santiago
- Rizal Park is the city’s biggest - Fort Santiago is built in 1571, it is a
public park and is very dear to citadel built by Spanish navigator
 and governor Miguel López de - Typically, meat, fish, seafood, or
Legazpi for the newly established poultry will be sautéed and
city of Manila in the Philippines. combined with a variety of
- The defense fortress is located in vegetables, such as carrots, yams,
Intramuros, the walled city of chickpeas, shredded cabbage,
Manila. The fort is one of the most onions, and bean curds that are
important historical sites in Manila. also sautéed and seasoned.

Gastronomic Foods:
➢ Kare - Kare REGION IV-A
- Kare-kare is a Philippine stew (CALABARZON)
(kare derives from "curry") that
features a thick savory peanut CALABARZON
sauce. It is generally made from a - Located in Southwest Luzon,
base of stewed oxtail, beef tripe, formally known as the Southern
pork hocks, calves' feet, pig's feet Tagalog Mainland.
or trotters, various cuts of pork, - Consists of 6 Provinces: Cavite,
beef stew meat, and occasionally Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and
offal. Quezon. Derived from the first 2
letters of every province;
➢ Tapsilog CALABARZON.
- Tapsilog is a condensation of the - It is a perfect destination for the
words “tapa, sinagag at itlog ” Manila-based tourist, providing the
(TAP-SI-LOG). This translates to visitor a glimpse of life in these
beef tapa, garlic fried rice, and islands and an opportunity to feel
egg. their rhythm without venturing too
- This dish is often enjoyed with a far from the national capital.
generous portion of sinangag
(garlic fried rice). It is served ➔ CAVITE
alongside fresh tomatoes, - It’s the cradle of the Philippine
cucumber slices, and a spicy revolution, it also witnessed
vinegar dipping sauce. several significant events in the
country’s history.
➢ Lechon Baboy
- An indispensable delicacy in Tourist Attraction:
Philippine celebrations, lechon also 1. Tagaytay Picnic Grove - One of the
known as lechon baboy is a dish in most familiar memories that people have
which the entire pig or piglet is when they think of Tagaytay. It’s one of the
stuffed, glazed, and slowly few places on the Tagaytay Ridge where
spit-roasted over coals. travelers can see Taal Lake and the
- The most coveted part is the mighty Taal Volcano.
crispy, golden brown skin, which
tops the tender meat that melts in 2. People’s Park in the Sky - Called
one's mouth. “Palace in the Sky”. Known for its soaring
elevation that gives its visitors a 360 view
➢ Lumpia of Tagaytay City and nearby provinces. An
- A common appetizer in the astonishing view of the green mountains,
Philippines that consists of a food lake, and Taal Volcano can surely be
wrap (Lumpia wrapper) covering a enjoyed on this site.
variety of savory ingredients.
3. Sky Ranch - One of the famous ➔ LAGUNA
amusement parks here in the Philippines. - The birthplace and province of Dr.
It has 3 branches; Tagaytay, Pampanga, Jose Rizal. Also abounds with the
and Baguio. blessings of nature and a rich
cultural and artistic heritage.
Historical Attraction:
1. Aguinaldo Shrine - This historical house Tourist Attraction:
witnessed the first proclamation of 1. Pagsanjan Falls - Locally known as
Philippine Independence on June 12, Cavinti Falls, a famous 3 tiered fall in the
1898. Built-in 1845, it’s the ancestral home Philippines. Although it was named
of Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of Pagsanjan falls, located at Cavinti
the Philippines. Laguna, a town near Pagsanjan.

Festival: 2. Enchanted Kingdom - A theme park in

1. Kawayan Festival Sta. Rosa, Laguna. There are 20 rides
- Held on every 7th day of and attractions such as the Space Shuttle,
September in Maragondon, Cavite Rio Grande Rapids, Anchors Away, and
wherein a group of street dancers many more. It was founded by Mario and
parade indigenous materials. An Cynthia Mamon and managed and
exhibit of Bamboo products was operated by Enchanted Kingdom
likewise done in the town plaza, Incorporation.

2. Kalayaan Festival Historical Attraction:

- Named after the Filipino word for 1. Rizal Shrine - Located at Calamba,
“Independence”, is a series of Laguna. An ancestral home and birthplace
events held in San Francisco of Dr. Jose Rizal. It’s a bahay na bato,
during the month of June to two-story Spanish colonial-style house
commemorate and celebrate the that middle-class families have during the
anniversary of the Declaration of Spanish colonial period. Inside this, you
Philippine Independence, which can see the memorabilia of Dr. Jose
occurred in Kawit, Cavite on June Rizal’s life, including his writings,
12, 1898. certificates, and many more.

Cuisine: Festival:
1. Bacalao 1. Coconut Festival
- Popular salted cod fish dish - Also known as the tree of life
present in every Cavitenean house because of its parts that can be
every lenten season, most used to sustain and support human
especially on Good Friday. life.
- This festival is celebrated in San
2. Tamales Pablo, Laguna to honor the patron
- A Caviteno noche buena staple saint, Saint Paul the Hermit.
delicacy and a famous pasalubong - It’s a weeklong celebration held in
from Cavite. early January.

3. Ensaimada Tradition:
- A swirl-shaped bread with a thin 1. Paete and Wood Carving
dusting of sugar topped with grated - Skilled artists in this woodcarvers
cheddar cheese. town create sculptures, furniture,
and small decor items from local
 wood. This traditional craft has 2. Taal Volcano
been practiced since Hispanic - The caldera of a very large extinct
times, and old creations from volcano. In the center of this lake is
Paete are among the most valued Taal Volcano, which is very active.
antiques today. A volcano within a volcano, its
beauty, and its uniqueness makes
2. Shoe and Slipper making in Liliw it one of the country’s must-see
- The craftsman in Liliw produced sights.
abaca slippers, bakya, leather
shoes, and bags. A lot of tourists Historical Attraction:
are buying products here because 1. Casa de Segunda
of their good quality and affordable - A traditional bahay na bato (stone
price. house) built in 1880 in Lipa,
Batangas, Philippines. The
Cuisines: Spanish colonial bahay na bato
1. Kinulob na Itik - Known as deep-fried style was considered the home of
duck, a recipe in Victoria, Laguna. The the Filipino elite. It reflected the
Victoria Laguna received the nickname of fusion of indigenous and colonial
Duck raising capital region because of its architecture.
number of duck farms in the municipality.
2. Taal Heritage Village
2. Buko Pie - One of the national Filipino - The charming town of Taal is the
desserts that are considered the specialty oldest town in Batangas province.
in the city of Los Banos. Made of flesh of It’s located 112 kilometers (70
young coconut and cooked with sugar and miles) south of Manila. When
cream then cooked in a flaky pie crust. people think of Taal, what usually
comes to mind are the famous Taal
3. Espasol - Originated from the province Lake and the Taal Volcano, not
of Laguna and is mostly seen in almost all Taal town.
bus stops and pasalubong stores. A type
of rice cake that is made of rice flour Festival:
cooked in coconut milk then shape in a 1. Sublian Festival
straight line and usually pack with paper. - A festival celebrated in Batangas
City, the capital of the province of
➔ BATANGAS Batangas. It’s a two-week-long
- Known as the Province of festival that culminates every July
Batangas and is one of the most 3 coinciding with the city’s
popular tourist destinations near foundation day.
Manila. There are 30 municipalities
and 4 cities here in Batangas. 2. Tapusan Festival
- Prayers and flowers are offered to
Natural Attraction: the Virgin Mary daily, until the 31st
1. Fortune Island of May. And it is on this day that
- A 27-hectare private property that the yearly Tapusan Festival is
is fast becoming a go-to place for celebrated in Alitagtag town. The
those aiming for a quick island celebration is a way to give thanks
escapade, especially for those to God and to the Virgin Mary for
living in Metro Manila and rain, for flowers and crops to
Southern Tagalog. bloom, and a bountiful harvest.
Cuisine: white-marbled rocks and pristine
1. Batangas Lomi water.
- It’s very different from it Metro -
Manila version of the dish. It has Historical Attraction:
more meat toppings, fewer 1. Calinawan Cave
vegetables, and ticker soup. - Located in Barangay Tandang
2. Kapeng Barako Kutyo in Tanay, Rizal.
- A common name for all coffee from - It contains different levels and
Batangas. It’s a rare and exotic chambers that tourists can explore.
coffee fully grown in Lipa and other - It is also known as a historical site
high places in Batangas and since it was used as a hideout by
known for its strong taste. Filipinos during World War II.

3. Bulalo 2. Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs

- A light-colored soup that’s enriched - An important historic site because
as it’s cooked with potatoes, beef it is believed to be the oldest
shank, and bone marrow for a few known artwork in the country.
hours until a large part of the - These ancient images were carved
collagen and fat have melted in into a wall of solid rock in the
this clear broth. mountainside of Angono and
Binangonan.
➔ RIZAL
- Named after Dr. Jose Rizal, has Festival:
earned a reputation as the "Cradle The Rizal Province is known for its vibrant
of Philippine Art." Known for its and colorful festivities. Their festivals are
artists' communities and folk just some of the most joyous events in the
festivals. Rizal also provides a country.
variety of natural and man-made
attractions. 1. Higantes Festival
- Celebrated annually on the 23rd of
Tourist Spot: November in Angono Rizal
1. ATV Adventure Rizal - The event’s most popular attraction
- Can try ATV riding across the is definitely the several gigantic
rugged terrain and muddy trails of statues made of paper-mache,
lush forests. which are paraded in different
- Visitors can take part in this parts of the area until they
adrenaline-pumping activity at the converge into a final procession
ATV Adventures Rizal. leading to the Laguna de Bay.
- The statues are depictions of
2. Mount Purro Nature Reserve different people known to the city
- An eco-park located in the Sierra whether it be its fisherfolk or
Madre Mountain Range’s foothills. national and local politicians.
- One of the most beautiful resorts in
Antipolo, Rizal. Cuisine:
1. Epalog
3. Tinipak River - Some describe it as “kwek-kwek”
- Another of Rizal’s hidden gems but bigger and with a more flavorful
that have acquired popularity over taste to its butter mixture.
time. A hidden gem that boasts
 - It’s hard-boiled eggs that are the longest bridge made during the
dipped in orange-colored batter, Spanish era.
deep fried, and served with sauce.
2. Kutang San Diego
2. Minaluto - Recognized by the National
- A dish that has lechon kawali, fried Historical Commission as a
chicken, crispy squid, fish, salted national treasure in 1981, this
eggs, broiled and fried veggies, fortress was constructed by the
and choice rice (sticky, Spaniards under the leadership of
binagoongan, garlic, seafood, the Franciscan Father Francisco
black, and plain). Coast.
- It was erected to help guard the
➔ QUEZON town against sea pirates. Located
- Rich in coconut plantations and in Gumaca, Quezon, San Diego
rice farms. It’s known for its quaint De Alcala Fortress, or Kutang San
islands and rugged mountains. Diego is an ancient, weathered fort
Serene beaches and forests attract that has kept watch over the land
many nature enthusiasts, along for centuries, itself a witness to the
with modern amenities and exciting rich history of the town and
nightlife. province.

Tourist Spot: Festival:

1. Kamay ni Hesus 1. Niyogyugan Festival
- A place of contemplation and - A combination of the words "niyog"
restoration with your connection and "yugyog"— showcases not
with God. The site has a huge only the heritage and culture of
statue of Jesus Christ on the hilltop Quezon but also the province's
that you need to climb via stone main source of livelihood which is
stairs. The area also has a huge coconut.
life-size Noah's Ark and various
animals depicted in the bible. Dish:
1. Pancit Habhab
2. Borawan Island - Also called Pancit Lucban.
- Home to one of the popular - It is arguably the most popular dish
Quezon beaches. The sand on its in the province.
coast is powdery white, - It uses miki lucban (a type of pancit
comparable to Boracay. In fact, the noodles exclusive in the area),
name Borawan is a combination of pork, vegetables, and minimal
Boracay and Palawan. Aside from seasoning.
the Boracay-like sand, the island
also has large giant rock 2. Minukmok
formations similar to Palawan. - It is made from mashed banana
(saba) or sweet potato (kamote),
Historical Attraction: sugar, margarine, evaporated milk,
1. Malagonlong Bridge and occasionally peanut butter.
- A five-span 445 ft long stone arch - Other people call it Nilubak,
bridge built during the Spanish Niyubak or Nilupak.
colonial period in Tayabas, - This creamy and tasty delicacy is
Quezon, Philippines. Known as perfect for a midday snack or
one of the oldest bridges as well as dessert.
 Region IV-B Culture in Mindoro:
(MIMAROPA) - The common religions on the
island fall under Christianity. The
religion of the indigenous Mangyan
MIMAROPA
population is animism. Though
- It was also formerly designated as
they are into animism as a religion,
Region IV-B until 2016. It is one of
the Catholic Church in some of
two regions in the country having
Mindoro’s parts is also active.
no land border with another region
Sadly, they have been treated as
(the other being Eastern Visayas).
second-class citizens like other
- The name is an acronym
indigenous people in the world for
combination of its constituent
years often exploited, neglected,
provinces: Mindoro (divided into
and discriminated against by
Occidental Mindoro and Oriental
lowlanders.
Mindoro), Marinduque, Romblon,
and Palawan
Tradition in Mindoro:
➔ Occidental Mindoro - Thousands of swaying candles
- is the seventh-largest and light up the city as the Province of
eighth-most populous island in the Oriental Mindoro celebrated its
Philippines. With a total land area much-anticipated festival –
of 10,571 km² and a population of Pandang-Gitab or Festival of
1,408,454 as of the 2020 census. It Lights.
is located off the southwestern - According to Oriental Mindoro
coast of Luzon and northeast of Governor Alfonso V. Umali Jr.,
Palawan. Pandang-Gitab represents the
province’s rich culture and history.
This starts the Pandanggo sa Ilaw,
Tourist Attractions:
which Pandang Gitab took
1. Apo Reef - A coral reef system in the
inspiration from, originated from
Philippines situated in the western waters
Oriental Mindoro.
of Occidental Mindoro province in the
Mindoro Strait. Encompassing 34 square
➔ Marinduque
kilometres, it is considered the world's
- was ranked number 1 by the
second-largest contiguous coral reef
Philippine National Police and
system and is the largest in the country.
Philippine Security Forces as the
2013 Most Peaceful Province of
2. Mt. Iglit (Mindoro Island) - A game the country due to its low crime
sanctuary for the Tamaraw, a wild animal rate statistics alternately ranking
found nowhere else in the world, bearing a with the province of Batanes
resemblance to the Philippines buffalo, yearly. Furthermore, for almost 200
commonly known as Carabao. years, the province is home to one
of the oldest religious festivals of
3. White Island - A mile-long beach with the country, the Moriones
divinely white and powdery smooth sand celebrated annually every Holy
that makes it an ideal site for lounging Week.
under the sun. Aside from vacationers
who go swimming, fishing, and scuba Tourist Attractions:
diving. 1. Paadjao Falls - A 15-foot-high
cascading falls that nature hunters might
surely enjoy. This falls formed bathtubs
downstream and you will enjoy its Jacuzzi- 2. Catingas River - Catingas River,
effect. It is an ideal place for picnicking or taclobo, San Fernando, Romblon is known
camping, a perfect getaway for the whole for their enchanting vistas. In its mountain
family. are found the world’s smallest bat, the
endangered wild cat or the singalong, and
2. Bellaroca Island Resort and Spa - This the hardest wood, the Catingas river valley
newly opened resort is located on an is known to have the second cleanest
exclusive island minute away from inland water in the region.
Marinduque’s mainland. Marinduque's
tranquil environment and perfect for 3. Busay Falls - Busay Falls,
tourists who wish to relax and at the same Panangcalan, San Fernando, Romblon is
time experience luxurious amenities and one of the last remaining untouched falls
services. in the Philippines.

Culture in Marinduque: Culture in Romblon:

- The island province of Marinduque - The people of Romblon are mostly
is most known for its Lenten Visayans whose language is
tradition of the Moriones Festival. similar to Hiligaynon. But there are
- This annual religious festivity which marked differences between the
originated in the municipality of dialects used on each island. The
Mogpog, is characterized by Neighboring islands of Mindoro,
colorful Roman costumes and Panay, and Masbate have a long
masks. Moriones is a play-based history of contact. Since the
festival from the biblical story of mineral’s discovery in the late 19th
Longinus. century, marble has been
synonymous with Romblon.
Tradition in Marinduque: - Small souvenir eggs and animals,
chess sets, nameplates, mortars
- The Moriones Festival also plays a
and pestles, and religious icons
prominent role in Marinduque
are a thriving industry.
culture. Marinduque is famous for
- Slabs and blocks of marble are
this annual festival locally known
also sent to other regions of the
as “Moryonan”. Moryons can be
Philippines to be used for
seen on the main road connecting
construction, monuments, and
the towns of the island.
gravestones.
➔ Romblon
- Has been inhabited by aboriginal Tradition in Romblon:
Filipinos prior to the arrival of the - Saginyogan Festival or the
Spanish in 1569. In 1901, Romblon Coco-Banana Festival was initially
was declared a province and organized and presented in the
placed under civilian rule. 2010 town fiesta. The presentation
was participated in by the pupils
Tourist Attractions: from the different schools in the
1. Mt. Guiting-Guiting - The highest district of Alcantara. The
mountain in the province of Romblon, presentation was in a form of a
located on Sibuyan Island, in the contest. However, the 2011 Fiesta
Philippines, with an elevation of 6,752 ft Management thought of changing
above sea level. its title to Saginyogan Festival to
make it common and striking to the
community people.
 - Biniray Festival is Romblon’s Marinduque, Concepcion,
prestigious festival participated in Romblon, and tablas strait in the
by Rombloanon every second east, Semirara, and Antique in the
week of January in honor of Señor South, and Occidental Mindoro in
Santo Niño. It is just the same as the west.
the Sinulog Festival of Cebu which
also depicts the strong faith of the Tourist Attractions:
residents to Roman Catholicism. 1. Puerto Galera - A town on the
The festival features dancing and Philippine island of Mindoro. It’s known for
activities that make every people’s its dive sites and beaches. The long curve
faith in their patron saint stronger of White Beach is backed by bars and
every minute. It is adorned with resorts.
colorful designs and costumes
which attract local and international 2. Tamaraw Falls - Located at Barangay
tourists. Villaflor, Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro.
- Talabukon is a religious celebration This stands at 423 feet and never fails to
the municipality of Looc is known impress its visitors. It’s as tall as a 5-story
for, which is held during the 3rd building and the waterfall has unique
week of April to honor St.Joseph Y-shape dropping waters because of the
and to celebrate a genie who was twin falls merging together.
stated to once save the town folks.
3. Sabang Beach - This beach is ideal for
➔ PALAWAN swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Cottages with entertainment facilities
Tourist Attractions: stand close to each other. Low-budget
1. Coron Palawan - Coron, one of the top accommodations are available. It’s located
tourist destinations in the Philippines, is east of Puerto Galera.
best known for world-class World War
II-era wreck diving, but the island also
offers limestone karst landscapes, REGION V
beautiful Palawan beaches, crystal-clear (BICOL REGION)
freshwater lakes, and shallow-water coral
reefs.
BICOL REGION
- Officially designated as Region V.
An administrative region in the
2. Tabon Caves - Known as the “Cradle of
Philippines grouped under the
Philippine Civilization” Tabon caves
Luzon island group. It covers 6
consists of a series of chambers where
provinces: Albay, Camarines
anthropologist discovered the remains of a
Norte, Camarines Sur,
crude man and his tools. Anthropological
Catanduanes, Masbate, and
significance came to the fore with the
Sorsogon. The regional center is
discovery of the remains of the
the City of Legazpi.
22,000-year-old Tabon man in one of its
interiors, along with other artifacts
Geographical Location:
decades ago.
The total land area of the Bicol Region is
17,632.5 km2 (6,807.9 sq mi) or 5.9% of
➔ Oriental Mindoro
the total land area of the country. The
- The eastern portion of the island
region is bounded by Lamon Bay to the
which is about 140 km southwest
north, the Pacific Ocean to the east, and
of Manila. It is bounded by the
the Sibuyan Sea and Ragay Gulf to the
Verde Island Passage in the north,
west. The northernmost province, Church in the municipality of
Camarines Norte, is bordered to the north Daraga, Albay, the Philippines
by the province of Quezon, thereby under the jurisdiction of the Roman
connecting the region to the rest of Luzon. Catholic Diocese of Legazpi. The
church was built by the
Culture & Tradition: Franciscans in 1772 under the
- Bicol Region has an array of patronage of the Our Lady of the
cultural sites that showcase its rich Gate. Certain church sections were
history. Originally descended from declared as a National Cultural
incomers from China, the Treasure of the Philippines in
inhabitants of Bicol often mix 2007.
Chinese, Arab, and Spanish
ancestry, and most are devout 3. Bulusan Lake
Catholics. - A lake on Luzon island in the
- Bicolanos observe an annual Philippines. It lies at the heart of
festival in honor of the Virgin of Bulusan Volcano National Park
Penafrancia every third Sunday of which covers a land area of 3,672
September. The town of Naga hectares. Bulusan Lake is formed
comes alive. During the by tectonic damming and perhaps
celebration, a jostling crowd of another crater of a volcano. Its
all-male devotees carries the water is greenish and its waterbed
image of the Virgin on their is rocky and sandy and parts are
shoulders to the cathedral, while muddy.
shouting Viva La Virgin! For the
next 7 days, most Bicolanos, come 4. Mayon Volcano
for an annual visit to light candles - Also known as Mount Mayon and
and kisses the image of the Virgin. Mayon Volcano. It’s an active
stratovolcano in the province of
Albay in Bicol Region, on the
Tourist Attraction: island of Luzon in the Philippines.
1. Cagsawa Ruins A popular tourist spot, it’s
- Also spelled as Kagsawa, renowned for its “perfect cone”
historically Cagsaua are the because of its symmetrical conical
remnants of a 16th-century shape and is regarded as very
Franciscan church. It was originally sacred in Philippine mythology.
built in the town of Cagsawa in
1587 but was burned down and 5. Matukad Island
destroyed by Dutch pirates in - One of the smaller islands off the
1636. It was rebuilt in 1724 by Fr. coast of the Caramoan peninsula.
Francisco Blanco but was Like many islands in the area, its
destroyed again, along with the beaches and surrounding waters
town of Cagsawa, on February 1, are freckled with towering
1814, during the eruption of the limestone cliffs. But they aren’t
Mayon Volcano. even its biggest selling point. What
many visitors love about Matukad
2. Daraga Church Island is its fine, fine sand that can
- Nuestra Senora de la Porteria definitely give Boracay a run for its
Parish Church (also Our Lady of tourist money.
the Gate Parish Church),
commonly known as Daraga
Church, is a Roman Catholic
 visit its blissful island, dive
Cuisines: sites, long beaches,
- Bicol Express eco-parks, waterfalls,
- Kinalas caves, and museums
- Sili Ice Cream among the rest.
- Kinunot
History:
Festivals: Aklan is believed to have been settled in
- Penafrancia Festival the 13th century by settlers from Borneo,
- Ibalong Festival ruled by the chieftain Datu Dinagandan
- Tinagba Festival who traded with its neighboring islands.
Aklan then became a part of the Kedatuan
of Madja-as. Aklan became an
REGION VI independent province through Republic
(WESTERN VISAYAS) Act No. 1414 signed by Philippines
President Ramon Magsaysay on April 25,
1956, separating Aklan from Capiz.
REGION VI
- Region VI, Western Visayas,
Culture & Traditions:
consists of six provinces: Aklan,
Antique, Negros Occidental, Capiz, - The Aklanon cultivated rice and
Guimaras and Iloilo with 16 corn, and the women wove abaca
component cities making it the and cotton. They fished and
region with the highest number of panned for gold in the tributaries of
cities. Iloilo City is the regional the Aklan River.
center. - They celebrate the feast of the Sto.
Nino every 3rd Sunday of January
and used to join the procession of
➔ AKLAN
the carozzas during holy week.
- The province of Aklan has
They also have a search for the
become famous for the
“Mutya ag Lakan it Ati-Atihan” as a
immaculate exquisiteness
pre-celebration for the Ati-Atihan
that nature has imparted to
Festival. People use to go to
it and its people. A
church at dawn or “Simbang Gabi”
remarkable place in the
during the Christmas Season,
Philippines that has made a
celebrate the Kalibo Food Festival,
clear-cut mark on the world
and commemorate the heroism of
map when it comes to
the 19 martyrs of Aklan who
luring in tourists.
consecrated their lives in the cause
- Every municipality boasts
of freedom against the colonizers.
of its different attractions,
festivals, and even
Geographical Location:
delicacies and products Aklan occupies the northern third of the
unique only to their town. island of Panay and is bordered by the
- Aklan is a Tourism Hub of provinces of Capiz from the southeast and
the country where one of its Antique from the southwest. It also faces
islands is included in “The the Sibuyan Sea from the north. The
World’s Best Islands” by province covers a total area of 1,821.42
international travel square kilometers and includes the island
magazines. All year round, of Boracay which is located at its
foreign and local tourists northwestern tip.
gather in this province to
Tourist Spots: tourists who want to leisurely
1. Boracay immerse themselves in nature.
- Boracay is not just one of the best - This Eco Park is a 220-hectare
tourist spots in Aklan but also mangrove forest recognized as the
consecutively on the list of “World’s most successful mangrove
Best Islands” by international travel reforestation project in the
magazines and agencies. It’s a Philippines. It serves as a
small island at the northwest tip of protection of the nearby community
Panay Island continually being from natural calamities such as
visited by millions of tourists all floods and storm surges.
year round.
- The most famous beach on the 4. Nabas Wind Farm
island is White Beach which - One of the remarkable tourist spots
stretches 4 kilometers lined up with in Aklan. Lined up along a
a budget to high-end resorts and mountain ridge of the province are
hotels, restaurants, and dive shops the strategically positioned 18
among the rest. gigantic wind turbines that supply
- Dubbed the “Island of Bliss”, clean and renewable energy to the
visitors can have fun with a wide Western Visayas grid. This site has
array of things to do during the day been a frequent sightseeing
such as parasailing, windsurfing, destination that offers amazing
scuba diving, kiteboarding, and scenery of the green mountains of
fly-fish riding. Then during the Aklan and the vast ocean.
night, tourists can enjoy the fire
dance and party all night. ➔ ANTIQUE

2. Ariel’s Point ANTIQUE

- Also called Batasan Point, an - One of the unseen yet most
awesome destination in Aklan that beautiful provinces in the
should never be missed especially Philippines. It has wonderful beliefs
when you are traveling to/from and traditions that everyone would
Boracay. be amazed by if they got to know
- It’s a magnificent beach resort every single detail of such beliefs
perched on a limestone cliff and traditions.
surrounded by lush greens. The
most exciting and signature thing History:
to do on this site is cliff diving. Antique was one of the three sakup
Daring visitors can dive from the (districts) of Panay before Spanish
different levels of diving planks or colonizers arrived on the islands. The
platforms on a limestone cliff down province was known at that time as
to the deep seawater below. Hantík, the local name for the large black
- For the gentle hearts, enjoy ants found on the island. The Spanish
kayaking, stand-up paddling, and chroniclers, influenced by the French,
snorkeling on its surrounding recorded the region's name as Hantique,
waters teeming with marine life. which was then read as 'antique (silent
'h'). The locals then pronounced the name
3. Bakhawan Eco Park into its present name "Antique" (än-ti-ké).
- One of the most popular tourist Antique became a province separate from
spots in Aklan and is a Iloilo in 1796.
recommended destination for
Culture & Traditions: storing drinking water. These
- One of the famous traditions in products are usually sold in local
Antique is the celebration of their markets and exported to nearby
festivals. Antique celebrates its islands and provinces, such as
province-wide annual fiesta called Cuyo, Palawan.
Binirayan Festival. “Binirayan”
means “where they sailed to”. It’s Geographical Location:
also a remembrance of the ten Antique is one of the five provinces
bornean datus who settled in such comprising Western Visayas or Region VI,
a place in the early 15th century. and one of the four provinces on the
- Antiquenos always felt the need to island of Panay. The province, with a total
be reunited and to get together land area of 2,729.17 square kilometers
every year in the celebration and (1,053.74 sq mi), is an elongated stretch
remembrance of such history. of land occupying the entire western side
Some activities during Binirayan of the island. It is bounded by the rugged
Festival are: Torch Parade, Biray, central mountains of Panay, bordering on
Fluvial Parade, Bugal kang Antique the provinces of Aklan in the northeast,
Awards, Lin-ay kang Antique, Capiz in the east, Iloilo in the southeast,
Pasundayag. and the Sulu Sea in the west.
- The town of Hamtic has a great
part in this celebration. Hamtic is a Tourist Spots:
very famous town in Antique, 1. Antique Rice Terraces
especially in barangay Malandog, - Nestled in the remote mountains of
which memorializes the first Antique are 200-year-old rice
Malayan Settlement in the terraces built by the Iraynon
Philippines led by Datu Sumakwel. Bukidnon Indigenous Group. There
- In the town of Tobias Fornier or is a vantage point where you’ll get
also known as Dao, the famous an entrancing view of the rice
tradition of the people is terraces surrounded by towering
Buri-making. mountains and forests. From this
- The women of Diclum Buri point, you’ll also glimpse two
Handicraft Association get their waterfalls providing irrigation to the
livelihood from this useful material. terraces. These Rice Terraces are
Buri is a variety of palm with the one of the best places to visit in
strips of the unopened leaf being Antique.
used to make different kinds of
productive things such as bags, 2. Seco Island
baskets, mats, hats, wallets, - It’s one of the famous tourist spots
boxes, and some sleeping in Antique, Seco Island remains a
materials. generally laid-back destination. It is
- Antique is very famous in terms of an elbow-shaped island boasting
quality and durability. The powdery white sands and an
craftsman that manufactures alluring sandbar. The surrounding
earthen products is called potters crystal-clear waters are ideal for
locally termed manugdihon. The swimming and snorkeling. You can
most common earthenware they also do kite surfing here because
produce are the kuron or daba, a of the strong winds.
round-bottomed, wide-mouthed
native cooking pot; kalan, an 3. Igbaclag Cave (Stone Castle)
earthen stove; paso or plant pot; - From the outside, the cave looks
and banga, used exclusively for like a majestic palace that you’ll
 think of as a mystical spot. It Negros del Norte. Later that year,
consists of two chambers with however, the Supreme Court declared the
multiple openings. If you’re an creation unconstitutional and eventually
adrenaline junkie, you can go cliff made Negros Occidental whole again.
climbing to reach a spot where you
can get a magnificent view of the Culture & Tradition:
area. Here is a more exciting part. - The culture of Negros Occidental
Rafflesia, the biggest flowers in the has been heavily influenced by
world, also abound in the area. But both the Spanish and the later
it’s a hit-and-miss as these only American occupations of the
blooms in three to four days. region. The indigenous religion
long gave way to Roman
4. Aningalan Highland Strawberry Garden Catholicism as the dominant
- You’ll not only find strawberries in religion. The people of Negros
La Trinidad but also Antique. Occidental value hospitality, family,
Aningalan Strawberry Garden has humor, and hard work.
cool weather similar to Baguio City. - The Negrenses’ joie de vivre is
Aside from strawberry picking, you manifested in the various festivals
can also experience harvesting all over the province, foremost
vegetables and other crops grown among which is the famous
here. Other activities to do here MassKara Festival of Bacolod,
are hiking, camping, mountain Pasalamat Festival of La Carlota,
biking, picnicking, and sunset Bailes de Luces of La Castellana
viewing. Not far from here is Lake and Pintaflores Festival of San
Danao, where you can ride a balsa Carlos. These and other interesting
or bamboo raft. local festivals are featured during
the Pana-ad sa Negros Festival
➔ NEGROS OCCIDENTAL staged every April at the
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 25-hectare tree-lined Pana-ad
- Experience a happy blending of Stadium in Bacolod City.
cosmopolitan and rustic lifestyle in - Negrenses are noted for their
Negros Occidental, the sugar artistic abilities as well as for their
capital of the Philippines, and aim love for sports. Many Negrense
to be the Organic Food Bowl of artists-designers/architects,
Asia. Celebrate nature’s blessings cartoonists/visual artists have
by hiking, camping, fishing, gained national and international
angling, scuba diving, snorkeling, distinction in their fields.
and mountain biking. - The province is also noted for its
world-class athletes in track and
History: field, swimming, football, softball,
The Negros Island was originally called golf, and boxing among others.
"Buglas", but the Spaniards changed this Even in the field of cock-fighting, it
to Negros because of the dark-skinned is known as the home of the best
Negritos that inhabited the area. The first handlers and gamefowl breeders.
capital of the province was Ilog in 1743,
and was later transferred to Himamaylan. Geographical Location:
Bacolod became the province's capital in Negros Occidental occupies the northern
1849. Negros Occidental officially became and western parts of Negros
a province on March 10, 1917. In 1986, Island, the fourth largest island in the
the province was divided into two, with the Philippines. The province is bounded
northern part declared as the province of
by the Visayan Sea on the north, Tanon and friends to relax and enjoy the
Strait and Negros Oriental on the beach and the amenities of the
east, Guimaras Strait on the northwest, resort. The resort proudly offers all
Panay Gulf on the southwest, and the comforts of home available and
the Sulu Sea on the south. spacious accommodations. Of all
the tourist attractions in the
Tourist Spot: province, never miss to visit
1. The Ruins Lakawon Island Resort.
- It’s the remains of once a grand
mansion built by Don Mariano 4. Carbin Reef
Lacson for his unending love of his - A huge white sandbar in Negros
wife, Maria Braga after her death. Occidental that looks like a tongue
This is the reason why it is known in shape. It is the center of
as the Taj Mahal of the Philippines. attraction in the 32,000-hectare
It was burned down by the United marine reserve where mangroves,
States Armed Forces in the Far corals and a variety of marine
East when World War II broke out species can be found. The white
since rumors had it that Japanese sandbar is surrounded with crystal
forces might use it as clear waters perfect for swimming
headquarters. The building is still and snorkeling. For non-swimmers,
amazing and was made of the waters near the sandbar are
Italianate architecture with shallow, giving you a great
neo-Romanesque twin columns. opportunity to enjoy water
Outside the mansion is a fountain sports/games.
with a beautiful garden.
2. Danjugan Island ➔ CAPIZ
- One of the best island destinations
in Negros Occidental. It is a CAPIZ
43-hectare island with lush - Capiz is a province in the Western
vegetation and is home to many Visayas region that is home to
wildlife species. Its coasts are Roxas City, also known as the
teeming with marine life and form a Seafood Capital of the Philippines.
perfect getaway for nature lovers. Aside from the mouthwatering
The island is a marine reserve and seafood dishes, Capiz also boasts
wildlife sanctuary, an ecotourism of enchanting caves, historical
destination for students, landmarks, and beaches that will
researchers, and of course, fulfill your wanderlust.
tourists. There are plenty of things
to do here like snorkeling, History:
kayaking, trekking, bird watching, The name Capiz was believed to be
sailing, and scuba diving. derived from the Visayan word kapid,
meaning “twins.” When the Spaniards
3. Lakawon Island Resort arrived, twin children were born to
- One of the famous tourist spots in the ruler of Aklan, Datu Bankaya. Capiz is
Negros Occidental. It is a the site of the famous coral-stone Santa
16-hectare, banana-shaped island Monica Church in the town of Panay,
resort dotted with coconut trees. It home to the largest Catholic Church bell in
is being dubbed as the Boracay of Asia. Capiz is the birthplace of Manuel A.
Negros for its vast pure white sand Roxas, the fifth president of the republic of
beach. This is a perfect weekend the Philippines, after whom the provincial
getaway destination for families capital was named. When Capiz was
made into a province under Act No. 2711 places, Capiz nevertheless boasts
on March 10, 1917, it included what is of being the home of the largest
now Aklan. Due to the persistent demand Catholic Church bell in Asia, which
of the Akeanon, Aklan was separated from can be seen at the famous
Capiz in 1956. coral-stone Santa Monica Church
in the town of Pan-ay. The bell was
Culture & Tradition: made from 70 sacks of gold and
- Capiz is synonymous with its silver coins donated by the
trademark product, the brilliant townsfolk. Measuring seven feet in
shell that has a luster similar to the diameter, five feet in height, and
mother of pearl shells. Capiz weighing 10,400 kilograms or just
chip-made products have made over 10 metric tons, the Pan-ay
their way to the other parts of the bell is popular among tourists
world, ranging from lanterns, lamp visiting Capiz.
shades, window panes, faux
chandeliers, curtains, picture Geographical Location:
panels and frames, plates, The province of Capiz located in the
decorative bowls, candle holders, central section of Western Visayas
tiles, flower vases, wind chimes, region. Its capital is the city of Roxas. It is
soap dishes, pendants, necklace located at the northeastern
decors, beads, bird cages, floor portion of Panay Island, bordering Aklan
lamp holders, gift boxes, collection to the north, Antique to the west,
item racks, and many more. and Iloilo to the south. Capiz faces the
- Capiz has abundant marine life. Its Sibuyan Sea to the north.
growing economy relies heavily on
seafood trade and business. This Tourist Spot:
is why it is now known as the 1. Baybay Beach
“Seafood Capital of the - One of the best tourist spots in
Philippines.” They even have a Capiz which is a favorite weekend
Talahong Festival (talaba and destination among locals and
tahong) in May to celebrate the foreign travelers. The beach
province’s abundance of shellfish features a 7-kilometer long stretch
production and promote its of soft black sand and calm
seafood produce. seawater (most of the time) facing
- The peculiarity and beauty of the the Sibuyan Sea. It is a great spot
culture of its people is expressed for swimming, snorkeling and
aesthetically through various art kayaking but another main reason
forms. This is best seen in music why most people visit here are the
and dance. Capiznon dancers delicious seafood dishes being
exhibit graceful orchestration of served in an array of beachfront
body movements. In fact, Capiz restaurants. Fascinating sunset is
has given us many Visayan folk also best viewed here.
dances such as “Tinolabong,”
“Gayong-gayong,” “Timawa,” 2. Olotayan Island
“Dagit-dagit,” “Beneracion,” “Tatay - A 53-hectare island in Capiz
Meroy Cariñosa,” “Pukol,” abundant in greenery surrounded
“Habanera Capiceña,” by clear emerald sea waters
“Cabatingan,” “Saad,” “Pitik teeming with marine life and
Mingaw,” “Kuratsa Capiceña”. pockets of white sand beaches. It
- Although it doesn’t have as many is the best site for snorkeling,
cultural heritage sites as other scuba diving and beach bumming
 with its notable white sand ➔ GUIMARAS
beaches mixed with crushed corals
and seashells. It is an inhabited GUIMARAS
island yet it seems like it’s in raw - The boundary between the islands
form since the locals are taking of Panay and Negros, Guimaras
good care of the island. The name Island is afforded with a superb
of the island comes from the native location in the Panay Gulf.
words “olo” which means head and Renowned for its pristine beaches,
“tyan” which means stomach and wide range of accommodations
has a popular legend behind it. and huge selections of activities,
and the sweetest mangoes that
3. Mantalinga Island can’t be found anywhere in the
- Few kilometers off the coast of world, Guimaras Island is indeed
Baybay Beach is another popular the ultimate tropical destination.
tourist attraction called Mantalinga
Island. The Department of Tourism History:
named it a “Good Luck Island” for it Guimaras is known to have had a unique
is believed to bring good fortune history. Guimaras is considered one of the
for the local fisherfolk. Spirits and most pristine islands in the Philippines. Its
supernatural beings are believed to original name was “Himal-us” but was later
be dwelling on the island which changed to “Guimaras” after the folktale of
attracts more tourists. It is a great the ill-fated lovers, Princess Guima and
spot for scuba diving and it serves the slave Aras, who defied tradition with
as a rotunda for sailboat and their romance. The island was once a
kayaking racing contests. Most sub-province of Iloilo but by the virtue of
visitors would just dare to ride a R.A. 7160, it was proclaimed a regular
kayak to reach the island then province on May 22, 1992.
back to the mainland.
Culture & Tradition:
4. Palina Greenbelt Ecopark - THE ISLANDS of Panay and
- One of the known tourist spots in Guimaras in Western Visayas are
Capiz that offers a relaxing and storied places and the natives
satisfying river cruise. Tourists will know this. A coffee table book of
board a floating restaurant which is the anthropological type captures
made of a nipa hut with tables and the traditions and cultures of
benches perched on a bamboo raft indigenous peoples in the
while being pulled by a motorboat mountains and coastal areas that
for a river cruise down the placid are almost forgotten by time and
Palina River. It will pass through civilization.
mangroves, fish ponds and visitors - In Kadagatan Tubtub Kabukidan
may catch a glimpse of the daily (From the Seas to the Mountains):
living of the locals. Aside from the Traditional Knowledge Practices of
cruise itself, visitors may enjoy the Panay and Guimaras, readers
fresh seafood meals served on the discover the unique fish lore
raft. Even foot spa or body (stories about fish) and traditional
massage while on board. fishing practices of various groups.
- It also shows how the natives use
“the rich endowment of nature as
their inspiration” which find their
way in pottery making and the
weaving of mats and traditional
 cloth as well as metal craft. Some the lighthouse where a
of the major rice varieties in the breath-taking panoramic view of
plains and terraces of the islands the Guimaras Strait and Guisi
as well as the various “survival Beach awaits.
food” found in Panay’s
mountainous areas are also 3. Tatlong Pulo Beach
showcased. - It is a secluded and
underdeveloped cove with white
Geographical Location: sand beach and crystal clear
Guimaras is an island province located waters. On the beach, one can find
Southeast of Panay and Northwest of three small islets in front of it,
Negros Island in Western Visayas, hence the name. Visitors say you
Philippines. Its capital is the Municipality of can cross it on your own on low
Jordan. Guimaras is bordered, clockwise tide and visit these small islets or
from the North, by the Iloilo Strait, rent a boat to explore it on high
Guimaras Strait, and Panay Gulf. tide. No fancy amenities or
whatsoever but a humble cottage.
Tourist Spot: Getting here could be rough, but it
1. Guisi Beach will be worth it. This is a perfect
- A considerable stretch of golden place for relaxation. Tatlong Pulo
yellow sand beach and emerald Beach is located in Jordan,
green waters. Visitors found this Guimaras.
very alluring since the sea water in
the shore is so transparent that 4. Taklong Island National Marine
one would see through the sand or Sanctuary
pebbles below then as one goes - A protected marine area in
on, color turns to emerald green to Guimaras being maintained by the
blue waters. Interesting rock University of the Philippines
formations can also be found at Visayas of nearby Iloilo province.
both ends of the beach perfect for Registration and accommodation
swimming, cliff jumping or just are on donation rate. It is
taking beautiful pictures. Guisi composed of many small islands
Beach is located in Nueva with lush vegetation. One can
Valencia, Guimaras. explore the vast mangroves,
secluded coves, white sand
2. Guisi Lighthouse beaches and sandbars. A
- Guisi Lighthouse is just near Guisi lighthouse on top of a hill will give
Beach, it is another one of the a beautiful view of the entire island
known tourist spots in Guimaras. It and the vast sea. Taklong Island
is an 18th century old Spanish National Marine Sanctuary is
lighthouse that served as a located in Nueva Valencia,
navigational aid to sailors cruising Guimaras.
the Guimaras Strait, the second
oldest lighthouse in the country. ➔ ILOILO
On the way to the lighthouse, one
can notice the remains of the ILOILO
ruined structures in the area. - Iloilo has been hailed as The Heart
Although there is a sign that it is of the Philippines. Iloilo is home to
not safe to climb, most courageous historical landmarks, quaint
ones do. A careful climb to a spiral beaches and islands, heritage
staircase would lead to the top of homes, plus tasty and unique
 cuisine. The province's picturesque the same year it was tapped as the
natural wonders and the friendly first local government to serve as a
locals will make this a destination model for resilience by the National
that will feel like a second home. Resilience Council.
The word “Iloilo City” came from
the shape of the city, cut by the Tourist Spot:
river which looks like the shape of 1. Islas de Gigantes
a nose, “Irong-Irong”, nose-like, - A remote group of islands located
later became Iloilo. Other accounts off the coast of Carles and
point the origin of the name to a Estancia towns in northeastern
fish. Iloilo, Philippines. Those willing to
go the “extra mile” can look
History: forward to enjoying beautiful
During the Pre-Spanish Period, as with seascapes and a laid-back island
other civilizations, Filipino settlements lifestyle that Gigantes has to offer.
began along bodies of water. In Iloilo, the The islands are blessed with
typical dwelling was the hut made of pristine white sand beaches,
bamboo and grass or palm, which lined up bountiful fresh seafood, and jagged
along the coasts or the banks of Jaro, rock formations shrouded by
Iloilo and Batiano Rivers. Rich landscape mystical tales of locals. Despite the
of forests, ricefields, mountains or brush increase of tourist arrivals in recent
and bamboo thicket provided the natives years, Gigantes has retained its
with materials for clothing, shelter and off-beat charm and remains
tools. The simple ways of Ilonggos were relatively underdeveloped
reflected in the lack of public buildings or compared to Boracay, Bohol, and
places of worship. other mainstream tourist
destinations in the Philippines.
Culture & Tradition: 2. Cabugao Gamay Island
- Iloilo City prides itself on having a - The Cabugao Gamay Island is
vibrant cultural and artistic famous not just for its beauty but
ecosystem. The Dinagyang also for its peculiar, elongated
Festival — a religious spectacle shape. From above, one end of the
featuring dancers with elaborate island is covered with thick flora
costumes and headdresses — while the other end features some
attracts tourists within and outside rock formation. In between is a
the Philippines who want to beautiful white sandbar with
experience the Ilonggo version of emerald green waters surrounding
merrymaking. While a part of the the island. The beach is filled with
city’s heritage, the festival now piles of zen stones that recently
enjoys a global following, having became an unexpected tourist
been featured in vlogs and taken attraction on Cabugao Gamay
part in the Philippine Island.
Independence Day parade in New
York 3. Bantigue Island
- Economic and cultural factors have - Head to the surreal Bantigue
created the impetus for boosting Island and its amazingly long
Iloilo City’s potential for greater sandbar. How the sandbar looks
competitiveness. This has resulted depends on the current, so better
in the city winning the top award check the local weather before you
for resilience in the Cities and go. If you want to camp out on an
Municipalities Index Awards 2019, island, you can do it on Bantigue
 Island; imagine how perfect the sibo means trade, a shortened
sunrise and sunsets would be. form of sinibuayng hingpit means
the place for trading. The ancient
4. Antonia Beach name of Cebu was sugbu or zubu
- This beach in Iloilo has vast from the old Cebuano term for
boulders on its shores. If you look scorched earth or great fire.
a little closer, you’ll see the
boulders’ erosion lines that make Tourist Attraction:
them look like sandwiches piled on 1. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
top of each other. That’s why the - Commonly known as Santo Niño
island is also called The Sandwich Basilica, it was founded in 1565 by
Island, but there’s more! Antonia Fray Andres de Urdaneta and Fray
Beach is often the recommended Diego de Herrera. It is the oldest
lunch stopover for the island Roman Catholic church in the
hopping tours. country.

2. Tops Lockout
REGION VII - It offers a notable view in a
(CENTRAL VISAYAS) fortress-like viewing deck which
makes the place more romantic
and serene. The vicinity has
REGION VII
concrete structures adorned with
- It is composed of four provinces
fascinating circular stone
which is Cebu, Bohol, Negros
architecture, green landfill and
Oriental, and Siquijor.
pasture and the undeniably cool air
straight from the top. The place
Culture & Tradition:
has a bar for beers and snacks
- The Visayas broadly share a
and also have a dainty souvenir
maritime culture with strong
shop. This venue is perfect during
Roman Catholic traditions merged
the night but it is also breathtaking
with cultural elements through
in the face of the sun up here in
centuries of interaction and
the mountain of Tops Lookout.
inter-migrations mainly across the
seas of Visayas, with ancient
3. Fort San Pedro
animistic-polytheistic influences.
- Military defense structure in Cebu,
- They believe in shamans and
Philippines, built by the Spanish
diviners. Illness is caused by soul
under the command of Miguel
loss, and a spirit medium is used
Lopez de Legazpi, first governor of
for retrieval. The dead are revered,
the Captaincy General of the
but there is no true ancestor
Philippines. It is located in the area
worship. Spirits of the dead can be
now called Plaza Independencia,
dangerous if not properly mourned.
in the pier area of the city. Oldest
triangular bastion fort in the
➔ CEBU
country.

CEBU
4. Cebu Taoist Temple
- Queen City of the South, Oldest
- A temple located in Beverly Hills
City, and First Capital of the
Subdivision of Cebu City,
Philippines Creative Capital of the
Philippines. The temple is built by
Philippines. The name Cebu came
Cebu's substantial Filipino-Chinese
from the old Cebuano word sibu or
community in 1972. Small replica
 of the Great Wall of China located
at the entrance of the temple. One 5. Halad (Inasal Festival)
can also find a chapel, library, and - A thanksgiving celebration in honor
a wishing well amongst other of the town's patroness, St.
things. Theresa de Avila. Held on every
October 15. Featuring a parade of
5. Simala Shrine Lechons clad in colorful and
- Roman Catholic pilgrimage site. exquisite costumes.
The site hosts the image of the Our
Lady of Lindogon which is believed Cuisines:
to be miraculous by devotees of ● Lechon Baboy - a dish in which the
the Virgin Mary after it is attributed entire pig or piglet is stuffed,
to the healing of those who were glazed, and slowly spit-roasted
afflicted with dengue in the area in over coals. The most coveted part
1998. is the crispy, golden brown skin,
which tops the tender meat
6. Mactan Island ● Puso - hanging rice or boiled rice
- Lapu Lapu Shrine wrapped in woven coconut leaves.
- Magellan Shrine ● Barbeque
- Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort
➔ NEGROS ORIENTAL
Festivals:
1. Sinulog Festival NEGROS ORIENTAL
- The biggest Cebu festival to honor - A laid-back province situated in the
of Santo Niño, annual cultural and southeastern portion of Negros
religious festival held on the third Island, Visayas, Philippines.
Sunday of January. Surrounded on the north and west
by its neighboring province,
2. Kadaugan sa Mactan Negros Occidental; the province is
- A celebration of the victory of a breathtaking mix of culture and
Mactan people during the famous modernization.
“Battle of Mactan.” Held on the
month of April. It is weeklong Festivals:
commemoration of the historic 1. Buglasan Festival
battle. - Also known as “The Festival of
Festivals”, is one of the most
3. Palawod Festival waited festivals in Negros Oriental.
- This festival shows the unique It is celebrated annually in
fishing traditions. Palawod is a Dumaguete City, the capital of the
Cebuano term which means to go province in the middle of October
out to fish. It is annually held every since 2002. The festival is a
June 29 in honor of the town's ten-day event held in the city of
patron saints: Peter and Paul. Dumaguete, a movable provincial
fiesta, participated in by the
4. Sinanggiyaw Festival Province’s six cities and 19
- A fun celebration being held every municipalities.
4th of October. The festival
basically features a festive mood 2. Sandurot Festival
showcasing the three aspects: - The city comes alive every
planting, harvesting and September by celebrating its
thanksgiving. Sandurot Festival, which means
 “fellowship and reaching out” is a the most active volcanoes in the
commemoration of Dumaguete’s Philippines, not to mention that it’s
rich history dating back from the also part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
pre-Hispanic period when people
of different foreign cultures 4. Pulang Bato Falls
converged and created a varied - Most known for its captivating sight
community that is Dumaguete City and cooling water. Located in
today. Through the course of Valencia, Negros Oriental, this is
history and to the present time, the indeed a must-visit attraction for
people of Dumaguete have always both local and foreign tourists.
been known to welcome strangers Situated at the Red River Valley,
from different shores and this Pulang Bato Falls is just an
countries, and to live with them in hour away from proper
complete peace and Dumaguete.
understanding.
5. Rizal Boulevard
Tourist Attractions: - There are benches where visitors
1. Apo Island can sit and watch the sun rise in
- Is one of the best tourist spots in the early mornings as boats come
Negros Oriental, known being the in and out of the nearby port. Rizal
best diving and snorkeling Boulevard is also very
destination in the province. It is a family-friendly. During the day,
marine sanctuary, a home of people often come and picnic with
around 650+ species of fish and their families, chat and play
400+ types of corals. Apo Island is guitars, or visit the restaurants and
under the jurisdiction of the shops which line one side of the
municipality of Dauin, Negros boulevard. It is also convenient to
Oriental. many other attractions and
landmarks in Dumaguete. During
2. Saint Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral certain festivals and holidays, there
- Is referred to by the people of are also parades, barbecues, and
Dumaguete as the Dumaguete live music that the whole family
Cathedral. Outside of the church can enjoy.
are four stone pillars which hold up
the entrance gate; standing atop 6. Silliman University
these pillars are four intricate - In 2007 it was rated one of the top
statues of the Saints Matthew, five universities in the Philippines,
Mark, Luke and John. On the has been given national landmark
churches veneer, Saint Peter and status. Due to its interesting
Saint Paul have their statues history, the museum housed on
placed as they greet visitors when campus, and the lovely campus,
they enter. Silliman University is not only a
place to study for students from all
3. Mount Kanlaon over the world, but a major tourist
- Known as Kanlaon Volcano attraction of Dumaguete.
straddles the provinces of Negros
Oriental and Negros Occidental. It Cuisines:
is the highest point in the Visayas ● Bam - i - Noodle dish (pancit
with an elevation of more than canton and sotanghon) with
8000 ft above sea level. Currently, chicken, pork, shrimp, Chinese
Mt. Kanlaon is considered one of sausage, carrots, peas (chicharo)
 and cloud ear mushrooms the barangay of San Antonio
garnished with green onions and where medicinal potions are
calamansi. commonly prepared, using the
● Binakhaw - A fish dish that traditional method practiced since
originated in Dumaguete City. A ancient times. A motley of tree
fish kinilaw (ceviche) that uses the barks, roots, herbs, dirt, insects
seeds (dungon) of bakawan tree in and other “secret” ingredients are
removing its fishy odor and taste, thrown into a large cauldron filled
giving kinilaw a bitter-sweet flavor;” with coconut oil while participants
; topped with chicharon and mango gathered in a circle mumble
strips. incantations to empower the brew
● Ginata-ang Kabayo - Horsemeat believed to cure a variety of
with coconut milk; a Dumaguete ailments.
City specialty.
● Silvanas - “cookie version of the 2. Solili Festival
sans rival” ; A Dumaguete City - Taking after the traditions in Lazi,
specialty. Siquijor, the Solili Binalaye is a
marriage ritual where both parents
➔ SIQUIJOR of the bride and groom prepare a
feast and take turns in advising the
SIQUIJOR couple on the realities of married
- Known as the Mystic Island of life. The rituals are depicted in a
Central Visayas, Siquijor is the street-dancing competition that
southernmost island in the Visayan serves as the highlight of the
Island Group. Siquijor is the week-long Araw ng Siquijor
smallest province in the region and Charter Day celebration.
the 3rd smallest province in the
country. It is classified as a 5 th Tourist Attraction:
class province and has one 1. San Isidro Labrador Parish Church
congressional district. Previously a - Also known as the Lazi Church, is
sub-province of Negros Oriental, it one of the Baroque Churches of
became an independent province the Philippines. It is a Roman
by virtue of Republic Act 6398 Catholic Church and one of the
enacted on September 17, 1971. heritage sites of the country
designated as a National Cultural
Culture & Tradition: Treasure by the National Museum
Siquijor is known throughout the country of the Philippines. The construction
for its unique healing arts. Its centuries old of the church was completed on
tradition of concocting local potions is still 1884 and the church bell the next
being practiced and used as alternative year. It was built with sea stones
medicine. It is recognized as a center of and wood with neoclassical style.
mystic power and a capital of mystic
activities and black magic. Siquijor is 2. Cantabon Cave
known for the infamous agimat and - It has low ceilings and passages
gayuma. so most of the time one have to
bend knees or body to move
Festivals: forward. So many stalactites and
1. Folk Healing Festival stalagmites can be found and there
- (Black Saturday, San Antonio, are famous formations like the
Siquijor) – Herbalists from all over king’s bed and shower bell. One
the Visayas and Mindanao meet in can also pass though some
 dipping pools with cold waters. 4. Saluwaki - Fresh sea urchins abound in
People do not recommend going Siquijor. And they are much bigger than
the when its raining, aside from its the ones popularly eaten in Lilo-an, Cebu.
slippery, the waters inside the cave Some Siquijodnons even eat this raw right
can go deep. It is a 800 meters by the beaches where it can be found in
spelunk and an average time of abundance such as the beach in Siquijor
completion is 1 hour. town’s barangay Canal.

3. 400-500 Years Old Balete Tree 5. Lomboy Wine - Made from the black
- Is one of the most visited tourist plum fruit. Lomboy is the Cebuano term
spots in Siquijor. It is a very huge for the fruit while the Tagalogs call it duhat.
tree where many locals believed Lomboy wine has that curious taste
that it is where sorcery rituals are blending sweetness, bitterness, and aplod
perform and spirits dwell but you (astringent) taste.
can set that aside and appreciate
the grandeur of this strong old tree. ➔ BOHOL
At its base, one can find a
man-made spring pool and this is BOHOL
one of the reasons while the old - According to Lumin B. Tirol, it
tree is still lively. originated from the word ‘bo’ol’,
which is a kind of a tree that used
4. Capilay Spring Park to grow in the province. It’s located
- It has a long spring pool located at in Central Visayas, about 70km
the center of the park where southeast of Mactan Island. Lying
residents love to plunge especially southeast across the Cebu Strait
during summer. Beside the pool and southwest from Leyte Island,
are the benches and trees that it’s separated by the Camotes Sea
gives good shade from the blazing and Canigao Channel.
sun.
Popular Among Tourist:
Cuisines: ● Tarsier
1. Saang sa Alat - Spider conch shells or - One of the smallest
saang is a popular seafood item in primates it is more active at
Siquijor. The popular way of cooking it is night. The most noticeable
to boil it in seawater, a recipe they call thing about tarsiers are
saang sa alat. their eyes. They have the
largest eyes relative to
2. Binas-oy - Its called “bas-oy” “binas-oy” body size of any mammal.
which is consist of pig inner parts such as Each eyeball is around 16
liver, intestines and a little bit of pork meat millimeters in diameter,
and the thing that makes the soup dark is which is as large as the
because of blood. tarsier’s entire brain, but
every last millimeter is
3. Pan Bisaya - A humble baking shack in necessary since the tarsier
Enrique Villanueva town prides itself of its is a nocturnal species.
Pan Bisaya, bread with a filling of bucayo. Delicacies:
In other parts of the Philippines, this is ● Kalamay - A delicacy known
called pan de coco. The name of the across Bohol and in the country,
establishment that sell this bread is called with many different versions.
Lilybeth’s Pan Bisaya. Calamay is a sweet delicacy, made
of milled, glutinous rice, coconut
 milk, and sugar, with crushed white and red mahogany trees.
peanuts as an additional While the trees in the forest are
ingredient. actual trees, they were planted
● Peanut Kisses - Serves as an there as a part of a reforestation
iconic sweet delicacy of Bohol, project.
signifying the Chocolate Hills-like
form into a sweet and crispy Festival:
delicacy. ● Sandugo Festival - Takes place on
the month of July, every year in
Tagbilaran City, one of the island in
Tourist Spot: Bohol. It commemorates the treaty
1. Chocolate Hills of friendship of Miguel Lopez de
- A geological formation in the Bohol Legaspi and Datu Sikatuna.
province of the Philippines. There “Sandugo” is a Visayan word which
are at least 1,260 hills but there mean “one blood”.
may be as many as 1,776 hills
spread over an area of more than
50 square km. They’re covered in
green grass that turns brown
during the dry season, hence the
name.

2. Baclayon Church
- Built in 1596, it’s considered as the
oldest church in Bohol. Its majestic
facade leads to an undeniably
stunning interior which includes a
gold-platter altar and an
assortment of centuries-old
religious images and artifacts.

3. Panglao Island
- A famous tourist destination for its
white sand beaches and
world-class diving sites, a
wondrous island found in the north
Bohol sea that’s situated in the
Central Visayas area. Basking in
the radiant sun is one of the things
this island is best known for. In the
night time, the island transforms
into a party place central where
Filipinos and foreigners alike
mingle.

4. Bilar Man-Made Forest

- A mahogany forest stretching in a
2km stretch of densely planted with
Mahogany trees located on the
border of Bilar and Loboc towns.
The forest is mainly made up of