NCR (National Capital Region)
Metropolitan Manila, the Philippines’ National Capital Region is a Mega-Metropolis covering an area of 633.3 square kilometers with an estimated thirteen (13) million who live and work within. Bounded by the Manila bay and the provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, and Laguna, it is an urban wallow of seventeen (17) modern cities and a municipality, each with its own distinct and interesting characteristics: Caloocan City, Las Piñas City, Makati City, Malabon City, Mandaluyong City, City of Manila, Marikina City, Muntinlupa City, Parañaque City, Pasig City, Quezon City, Valenzuela City, Navotas City, San Juan City, Taguig City and the Municipal Government of Pateros.
An aggregate of adverse distinctions, the region is an intriguing blend of the past and the present, of striking contrasts and contradictions. Blessed with significant historical and cultural destinations, it is likewise enriched with modish skyscraping edifices, world-class convention facilities, state of the art shopping malls and entertainment venues, and strips for internationally satisfying gastronomic delights.
As the major gateway to the country’s 7,107 alluring islands, Metro Manila is the nation’s heart and soul. Believed to be the ultimate city to millions of Filipinos living outside the metropolis, Metro Manila is the central nerve of all activities in the country, the seat of the government, the center of trade and economic activities and the core of education, culture and the arts. It is a melting pot of different people, different cultures and different beliefs. NCR is the pulsating domain that remains to be the stalwart realm of the nation.
The DOT-NCR is a regional office of the Department of Tourism mandated to coordinate with concerned government agencies and private sector groups the development and promotion of Metropolitan Manila, the country’s National Capital Region, as one of the Philippine’s major tourist destinations.
Cordillera Administrative Region
The Cordillera Administrative Region is composed of two (2) cities and six (6) provinces, namely the City of Baguio, Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga and Mountain Province. With the newly established City of Tabuk in Kalinga, the region now boasts of its two cities.
The tourism assets of the region are mainly culture and nature based set in a highly fragile mountain setting. Its natural assets are further enhanced by the products of nature and culture interaction as signified by the rice terraces of Ifugao and indigenous arts and crafts. Among the many and dispersed attractions are the whitewater rafting in Kalinga, caving and spelunking in Sagada, mountain climbing in Mount Pulag of Benguet while the City of Baguio remains a favorite destination for seminars, conventions and vacationers who want to have a unique cool mountain experience and respite.
REGION I (IIocos Region)
The regional officers of the Department of Tourism are basically responsible for domestic tourism promotion, tourism marketing, regulation and supervision, tourism assistance, public relation, coordination with local government units and tourism administration in the region.
Region 1 covers the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan, the cities of Laoag, Vigan, Candon, San Fernando, Dagupan, Alaminos, Urdaneta and San Carlos.
Region 1 is envisioned to be a vacation paradise offering waves and wealth of natural, cultural and historical tourist attractions, and man-made wonders through a tourist-friendly, upright and hardworking people.
REGION II (Cagayan Valley)
Cagayan Valley Region is composed of the provinces of Batanes, Cagayan, Isabella, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino and the cities of Tuguegarao, Santiago and Cauayan. The region is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and pilgrims. Both foreign and local tourist visit the religion to explore its caves, climb its mountains, enjoy the sun, sea and sand and retreat to its centuries-old churches. Favorite destinations are the Callao Caves Tourist Zone and Basilica of Our Lady of Piat in Cagayan; Northern Sierra Madre Natural Parks of Isabel; Nueva Vizcaya’s vegetable farms and citrus farms; Quirino’s fossilized products, waterfalls, forest, and rivers and the ecotourism-rich Island Province of Batanes.
REGION III (Central Luzon)
In early months of 1991, Brgy. Sta. Juliana which has a population of about 3000 including some 500 indigenous people figured quite prominently on the local news that is slowly becoming a jump-off point for people who dared to trek up to the crater of Mt. Pinatubo. Initial reports reaching the Department of tourism – Central Luzon Regional Office in June indicated that a growing number of local and foreign tourists constantly passed by the local community on their way to the volcano crater.
Sta. Juliana has no viable tourism product to begin with. It is one of those rural communities found in backcountry environment. Its tourism potential lies on its convenient location as a stop-over for Pinatubo trekkers, its warm and hospitable people and the presence of an Aeta settlement, among other things. The strength of the community leis therefore on its proximity, and accessibility to the volcano crater (some 20 kilometers to Botolan, Zambales where the crater is situated), the presence of some 500 culture – bound indigenous people called Aetas and the willingness of local residents to better quality of life.
REGION IV (Southern Tagalog)
The Southern Tagalog composed of the provinces of CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) and the provinces of MIMAROPA (Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) is endowed with rich and diverse natural resources, warm and hospitable people and unique attractions for domestic and international visitors. CALABARZON is just a few hours from Metro Manila. A favorite weekend destination of urban dwellers, the area is a colorful tapestry of mountains and verdant forests, springs and beaches, rituals and festivals.
It is the perfect destination for the Manila-based tourists providing the visitors a glimpse of life in the provinces and an opportunity to feel their rhythm without venturing too far from the national capital.
As a tourism hub, MIMAROPA is readily accessible by plane only a little more than an hour out of Metro Manila or by fast craft ferry from the International Port of Batangas and the Port of Lucena. The provinces in the MIMAROPA are together comprise a package of not-to-be missed opportunities for visitors who wish to experience the best of the Philippines, the oldest of its traditions, the most colorful of its festivals, the richest and most scenic of its natural attractions and the warmest welcome from its people.
REGION V (Bicol Region)
Mabuhay! We welcome you all to Bicol.
Surf the waves in Camarines Norte and Catanduanes. See and climb the majestic Mayon Volcano in Albay. Swim and interact with the Butanding in Sorsogon. Pray with the devotees of our Lady of Peñafrancia in Naga City. Wakeboard in Camarines Sur, Home of Xtreme Sports in Asia. Romance the bull in Masbate, the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines.
Savor Bicol’s exotic cuisine; the pinangat, Bicol express, seafood, pili sweets and other native delicacies.
Shop the finest abaca handicrafts, cutleries and decors made from indigenous materials.
Above all, fell and experience the warmth and hospitality of Bicolanos.
Do come hope for a cause and tug along your friends. Touring Bicol is an experience you’ll long to remember and treasure for a lifetime. Wow Bicol, gayon Bicol! “Madya sa Kabikolan, Sagot Kita!”
REGION VI (Western Visayas)
Aklan – Lasting Paradise
Aklan’s pride are world-renowned white beach Boracay Island, 7-basin Jawili waterfalls, Nabas Cold Springs, Ignito Cave (Buruanga’s biggest), Ati-Atihan Festival every 3rd weekend of January, piña (pineapple) fabrics among many others.
Antique – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
Antique is the legendary Binirayan Festival, majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, white beaches, rich fishing grounds and white water kayaking, Nogos Island, Mt. Madia-as Sira-an hot springs and Bugang River.
Capiz – Seafood Capital of the Philippines
Bewitching Capiz, has Southeat Asia’s biggest bell at Pan-ay Church, Sinadya sa Halaran Festival, Pilar, Suhot, Igang and Suhot coves and beaches and abundant all year round seafood produce.
Guimaras – Island that fits your taste
The Island province of Guimaras is “Mango Country” that boasts of exiting bike routes, picturesque islets, Trappist Monastery.
Iloilo City – Rich in historical and cultural attractions
Iloilo,is home of the famous Dinagyang Festival and, Philippines’ oldest golf course, stately mansions, majestic old churches, unspoiled countryside, hablon and sinamay fabrics and exotic delicacies.
Negros Occidental – Sugar…and more
Sugar capital of the Philippines, Negros Occidental blends history and nature elegant mansions in Silay City, “Iron Dinosaurs” (steam locomotive) in La Carlota/Bago, provincial festival Panaad and Boracay City’s Masskara and mountains, islet, rivers valleys and Mambucal Hot Springs.
REGION VII (Central Visayas)
Central Visayas is strategically located at the center of the Philippines. Composed of four provinces namely Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, the region is blessed with beautiful beaches, a plethora of sea life, and areas with natural wonders. Moreover, the region is steeped in historical significance. The death of Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan at the hands of Chieftain Lapu-Lapu of the Island of Opon (now known as Mactan Island), and the Blood Compact between Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Boholano Datus Sikatuna and Sigala are some of the events that make a visit to the region very interesting.
Central Visayas boast of its natural and man-made attractions. The coral gardens and colorful marine life offers some of the world’s best scuba, snorkeling and diving sites. The region has numerous waterfalls, mountain trails, caves and mangroves, great for mountain trekking, spelunking and other adventure activities. Visitors too can get a glimpse of a vibrant culture, enriched by history and tradition, which is not just Filipino but uniquely, VISAYAN.
This is the place for a total experience of REST, RECREATION and INSPIRATION where you’ll find an abundance of Nature, History and Culture.
REGION VIII (Eastern Visayas)
I have traveled far, found these islands and came back for their many charms…..
- Picturesque view of mountains, hills, islets, strait with whirlpools at the San juanico Bridge
- Pastoral life at beautiful Biliran Island
- History-laden Leyte Gulf, Homonhon and Limasawa Islands
- Old Churches of Guian, Buscada and Capul
- Surfer’s haven at Calicoan Island Facing the Pacific Ocean
- Cliffs, coasts, coves and rock islets of Marabut
- The Bays of Sagod, Maqueda and Cancabato
- Biri Rock Island off San Bernardino Strait
- Caverns and caves of Calbiga, Sohotan, Rawis
- Calbayog’s Bangon-Bugtong waterfalls
- Violin-shaped Lake Danao
- Seafood galore
- Banig, binagol, home-made delicacies and other shopping delights
- Strings of fiestas and festivals
- Unique and vibrant culture and arts
- Warmth and graciousness of its people
Plus many more in Eastern Visayas!
Discover less traveled paths as the Philippines Portuguese discoverer and World War II heroes did centuries ago.
REGION IX (Zamboanga Peninsula)
An exotic mix of color and culture…..ZamPen CAN!
A melting pot of races, ZamPen boasts of a diverse mix of living cultures of Subanens, Yakans, Tausugs, Bajaus, Samals, as well as Chabacanos, that set the Zamboanga Peninsula ( ZamPen) apart from the rest of Philippine travel destinations..
The colorful vintas of Zamboanga, the intricate hand-woven cloth of the Yakans, the Buklogan of the Subanens, houses on stilts of the Samals, the houseboats of the Bajaus, and the Hispanic influence preserved in Chabacano are spectacles of vibrant cultures.
For adventurous spirits, ZamPen provides heart-pumping challenges where stamina and guts count and where relief is assured in each attempt. Ascent 3,003 steps to Linabo Peak in Dipolog City and be rewarded with a breath-taking view of Dipolig City. For its part, Mt. Timolan in Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur, poses a unique challenge for mountaineers both novice and experienced. Successful trekkers are accorded a refreshing bath in the cool waters of Lake Maragang atop the mount. Sports enthusiasts are welcome to join the pack of competing teams in quest for the laurels of Zamboanga Eco-Challenge held annually in Zamboanga City during the Fiesta Hermosa. For adventure aficionados, this is promise of a truly exhilarating adventure.
Nature lovers will also experience the renewing therapy of nature – so pristine and captivating. Who can resist the sight of thousands of wild ducks on Lake Lakewood at sunrise? Catch their flight on a click and feel the strength of their wings flapping upon takeoff from the quiet waters.
The Pasonanca Natural Park presents another side of Zamboanga City. Just fifteen minutes away from the hustles and bustles of city life, it is a spiel of natural beauty and experience. On the other hand, Cogon Ecotourism Park in Dipolog City is both cultural and natural.
ZamPen also abounds with unspoiled white sand beaches that prove irresistible to tourists. Among the most alluring are Triton Island of Vincenzo, Sagun, Aliguay and Selinog Islands of Dipolog and Dapitan, Litayon Island, Looc Labuan, and Buluan Island of Zamboanga Sibugay. For tourists wanting the luxury and comfort of beach resorts, Dakak Park Beach Resort provides world class facilities and amenities. Unique from all the rest is the pinkish sand beach of Sta. Cruz Islands lying across Zamboanga City.
ZamPEn is an anthology of the past. Renowned and inscribed in the pages of history books, Dapitan, Rizal’s place of exile, is one of the key cities of ZamPen. A visit to Rizal Shrine in Dapitan transports one to the past and gives a glimpse of the life of a man who made an impact in the world. His architectural works are a manifestation of indigenous ingenuity unrivaled by his contemporaries. Down south is Zamboanga City, Asia’s Latin City. It is so called because of the Spanish influence preserved in the Chabacano language, a concoction of Spanish and local dialects.
Today, ZamPEn promises excitement anywhere in the region. Festivals are celebrated annually even in the remotest municipality and big events are coming up this year.
REGION X (Northern Mindanao)
A government agency that involves in the promotion and marketing of the different destinations, events and festivals in Northern Mindanao; accredit and standardize tourism-related establishments, facilities and service to be globally competitive. Increase linkages with government agencies, Local Government Units and private sector in order to contribute to the nations’ socio-economic growth and sustainable development.
Cities
- Cagayan de Oro City
- El Salvador City
- Iligan City
- Malaybalay City
- Gingoog City
- Valencia City
- Tangub City
- Ozamiz City
- Oroquieta City
Provinces
- Province of Misamis Oriental
- Province of Bukidnon
- Province of Camiguin
- Province of Misamis Occidental
- Province of Lano del Norte
REGION XI (Davao)
It’s more than the exotic orchids, rare Philippine Eagle, tropical fruits, (yes, the soiky durian or the juicy pomelo) huge tuna and RP’s tallest mountain, among others that entice both local and foreign visitors to savor Davao’s southern charm as premier destination in Mindanao. It’s more than also the new Davao Int’l Airport that it is proud of and well, it hosted the Int’l ASEAN Tourism Forum on short notice in January 2006 to enhance its claim as “international gateway” which is in fact a major partner also in the BIMP-EAGA cooperation.
Philippine Eagle and Nature Parks
A sight to everyone to behold is the rare and endangered majestic Phiippine Eagle Research and Nature Center in the Malagos Protected Landscape in Calinan, 45 minutes away from the city center. Marvel at the Malagos Garden Resort and swarms of colorful butterflies as they flit from flower to flower; and, the different species of birds at the birdwalk of Eden Nature park & Resort before proceeding to the exotic Crocodile Farm.
Flower Farm Tour
Be dazzled with Davao’s pride, the Waling-Waling as you visit vast orchid farms, where the Waling-Waling and other hybrids, and other colectors’ items are propagated. From August to September, the slopes of these farms are carpeted in exotic, fragile blooms.
Culinary Delicacies
Savor local flavors like Panga, fish belly, bagaygay (testes), bihod (tuna egg), kinilaw, and fresh seafood various restaurants. From the nightcap, try Davao;s stand-out, you must taste durian-flavored coffee, or occasionally there’s the ‘kaimunan’ culinary experience that highlights ‘bamboo-cooking’, a tribal practice best appreciated until today.
Dive Davao
Get wet as you explore into unforgettable dive sites beneath the waters of Davao Gulf. Dive sites are within 45 minutes. to 2 hours via pump boat from the main land wharf. The crystal clear waters, coral gardens, and sunken wrecks off the islands are a delight for scuba divers and other aqua sports enthusiast. There’s skim boarding too! Try the city’s beaches or go wild as you go island hopping on the outlaying islets that shelter coral reefs, pulsating with marine life, dropping by various resorts, interspersed with coconut trees ringed with secluded coves of white sand beaches like the Kopiat Island Mabini, Compostela Valley Province.
Mountaineers, trekkers, and nature lovers will enjoy the trek along winding trails and cool mountain springs to reach a series of waterfalls amid lush forests in breathtaking, natural wonders in Maragusan is an inland resort with icy-cold spring water, a refreshing treat to the urban traveler.
REGION XII (Southern Mindanao)
South Central Mindanao has a stronger arm for progress – the recently re-aligned Region 12. The newly configured region, now composed of the provinces of North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Saranggani, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato, forms a stronger arm for progress.
The region has a total land area of 20,566.26sq.km. 20 percent of the total Mindanao land area of 101,587 sq.km. Along the coasts are lowland area covered with mangroves and beaches. A chain of inactive volcanoes and low hills occupy the interior. The region belongs to the fourth climatic which is characterized by having an even distribution of rainfall through out the year. It is seldom visited by typhoon.
The region has abundant raw materials and products generally supplied to domestic markets while some products have already captured the export markets in the past years. These include canned tuna, fresh frozen and value-added fish, fresh and processed pineapple and banana, crude coconut oil and asparagus which are traded to countries in Europe, the USA, Japan and the ASEAN countries.
The region’s riches are also found in its aquaculture products like fresh and processed high value fish, crabs and prawns. It is also known for its tropical and exotic fruits like mangoes, marang, durian, calamansi, rambutan, lanzones, mangosteen, banana and many others. And there are the bullish industries of fruits, all palm, aquamarine and information and communications technology currently making its mark in the country.
Tourist spots include Mt. Apo, Lake Sebu, cultural villages, old Mosques and shrines, hot springs, lakes, dive and caves. Tourists can have varied experience from culture to nature and adventure with golf and dive. It is also a land of fresh and exotic fruits and flowers as well as the homes of the most festive festivals.
The artistry of the different ethnic tribes lends richness to local colors. Each tribes has one way in common, the weaving of versatile tubular cloth called “malong” and other hand-woven products, found among the Maguindanaons and T’bolis. Visitor will find unique souvenir items, among them are handicrafts, brasswares, beadworks, t’nalak cloth and hand-woven products. Tribal festival, tour and visit to ethnic villages provide insight into the everyday lives of these cultural minorities.
There are four feeder airports inLebak, Kalamansig, tacurong City, all in Sultan Kudarat and Surallan,South Cotabato. It has one national airport which is found in Cotabato City and one international airport in General Santos.
REGION XIII (Caraga)
Adventure knows no boundaries in Caraga Region XIII, the country’s newest geopolitical subdivision. If you are seeking a challenging experience, or simply an escapade from the humdrum of urban living, venture no more…CARAGA is it.
It is the land of extremes and superlatives. The country’s largest mangrove swamp nestled within its boundaries. The deepest waters in the country – some of the deepest in the world – lie just off its shores. Its borders encompass Agusan del Sur, where the Philippine’s largest gold deposit is found.
CARAGA’S anchor destinations are: Historical/ Archeological Sites of Butuan City; Exciting Islands of Surigao: Beautiful Islands and cluster of islets of Surigao City (e.g. Sagisi Island, Zaragoza Rock Formations, Manjagao Mangrove Forest, Punta Baluarte, punta Kalabera, etc.),; Lake Mainit (Agusan del Norte); Agusab Marsh (Agusan del Sur); Siargao Island (Surigao del Norte); Bucas Grande Island (Surigao del Norte; Mt. Hilong-Hilong (Agusan del Norte); Tinuy-an Falls (Bislig City)
ARMM (Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao)
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (abbreviated ARMM) is the region of the Philippines that is composed of all the Philippines’ predominantly Muslim provinces, namely: Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Shariff Kabunsuan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, and the Philippines’ only predominantly Muslim city, the Islamic City of Marawi. It is the only region that has its own government. The regional capital is at Cotabato City, although this city is outside of its jurisdiction. |