REGION II (CAGAYAN VALLEY)

-Tilapia Capital of the Philippines

-2nd largest region in the Philippines
- Capital: Tuguegarao City
-Located at the Northeastern part of mainland Luzon, covering an area of about 26,858.79 sq. km.
-Bounded on the east by the Sierra Mountain Range, on the west by the Caraballo and Cordillera
Ranges, and on the North by South China Sea.
-PROVINCES: Batanes (Basco)
Cagayan (Tuguegarao)
Isabela (Ilagan)
Nueva Vizcaya (Bayombong)
Quirino (Cabarroguis)
-CITIES: Cauayan
Ilagan Component Cities
Tuguegarao
Santiago – Independent City
-Population: 3, 451, 410 (2015 census)
-Municipalities: 89
-Barangays: 2, 311
History
Archaeology indicates that Cagayan has been inhabited for half a million years, though no human
remains of any such antiquity have yet appeared. The earliest inhabitants are the Agta, or Atta, food-
gatherers who roam the forests without fixed abodes. A large tract of land has lately been returned to
them. The bulk of the population are of Malay origin. For centuries before the coming of the Spanish,
the inhabitants traded with Indians, Malays, Chinese, and Japanese. In the nineteenth century the
prosperity found in tobacco cultivation caused many Ilokano to settle here. Tobacco is still a major
factor in the economy of Cagayan, though a special economic zone and free port has been created to
strengthen and diversify the provincial economy.
During Spanish times Cagayan Valley had a larger territory than what it has today. It included the
territories of the above-mentioned provinces and the eastern parts of the Cordillera provinces of
Apayao, Kalinga, Ifugao and Benguet. As the historian and missionary Jose Burgues, said, "The old
Cagayan Valley comprises the province of Cagayan, Isabela and Nueva Vizcaya as well as the military
Districts of Apayao, Itaves, Quiangan, Cayapa and Bintangan, plus the area of the Sierra Madre to the
Pacific Ocean in the said trajectory.
During World War II at Balete Pass in Nueva Vizcaya, the retreating Japanese under General Tomoyuki
Yamashita dug in and held on for three months against the American and Filipino forces who eventually
drove them out; the pass is now called Dalton Pass in honor of General Dalton, USA, who was killed in
the fighting.
Economy
-Rice fields in Nueva Vizcaya The province of Isabela and the city of Santiago are notably the most
progressive province and city in the region, respectively. Isabela was the 10th richest province in the
Philippines in 2011, being the only province of northern Luzon to be included in the list.
-The city of Tuguegarao is the center of excellence in education, commerce, trade and culture and as the
economic center of the region, the city continuously aims for outstanding performance and competence
in administration, citizen participation, community and economic development, cultural arts, education,
fiscal management, infrastructure, intergovernmental cooperation, planning, public safety, recreation
and leisure services, social services, and technology. Its economy gradually shifted from agriculture to
secondary/tertiary economic activities such as trading, commerce and services. The shift was ushered by
city's role as the Regional Government Center and Center of Commerce in Northern Luzon.
-Cauayan is a component city in the province of Isabela. It is dubbed as the Ideal City of the North and
the host city for the proposed Isabela Special Economic Zone and the Regional Agro-Industrial Growth
Center. It is the home of Cosmos Bottling Corporation, now acquired by the giant multinational business
conglomerate San Miguel Corporation manufactures soft drinks in the area and the Mega Asia Bottling
Corporation with its newly built plant for RC Cola brand. It is also here where the regional sales offices of
several multi-national companies are located. As a young city, it has enormous potential for small to
large enterprises and its real estate industry is just beginning. Medium size commercial centers or
subdivisions are the appropriate ventures to put up.
-Ilagan is a component city and the capital of the province of Isabela. The city is the Corn Capital of the
Philippines and has been considered as the Primary Growth Center of Region 2. Most of the industries in
the city are agri-based. Over the past decades, there has been a great number of local investments in
poultry and hog raising. There are several poultry contract growers and small and medium scale hog
raisers in the city. Other support facilities, warehouses and small and big rice mills, strategically located
in the different barangays of the city to address the storage needs of farmers during the harvest season.
Of all cities in the country, Ilagan ranks as the top producer of corn. As an agriculture-based city, it
produces ample supply of corn, rice, vegetables and legumes. Fruits like the banana are year-round
products especially in the mountainous areas of the city. Ilagan also produces seasonal fruits such as
mangoes and pomelo. Commerce and trade is considered to be the city's second economic-based
income. It is also the hub of the Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines, Inc., one of the industrial complexes in the
region.
-Solano is a first class municipality and the main commercial and financial center of the province of
Nueva Vizcaya. It also has the most number of fast food restaurants chains and the most number of
banks among the municipalities in the entire region. According to the 2016 Cities and Municipalities
Competitiveness Index conducted by the National Competitiveness Council, Solano took the 25th spot
overall and ranked 30th among the first class and second class municipalities in the Philippines. This
further solidified the status of Solano as the undisputed premier town of Cagayan Valley being the
premier town in Nueva Vizcaya and the fastest-growing municipality in the region.
Cagayan has several attractions which include beaches, swimming, snorkeling, skin-diving, fishing in the
river and the sea, hiking in primeval forest, mountain-climbing, archaeological sites, the collection of the
provincial museum, the Callao Caves, and many churches. The Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA)
is situated in Santa Ana, Cagayan.
-Quirino is the youngest province in the region. With its agricultural based nature, the vast vegetative
agricultural covers reveal the major source of living of the people. Farming has been the main industry in
the province, with rice and corn as major crops as with other provinces in the region. Virgin forest and
wealthy bodies of water have been great contributors in its development. Small scale industries like
furniture making, basketry, rattan craft, and dried/fossilized flower production, where the province was
famously known, are prevalent. Banana products also sold in and out the province and also for export
purposes. The small scale business and associations also make their own products like banana chips,
peanuts, patupats and others. The province also produces a substantial amount of fruits/crops like
mango, citrus, pineapple, coffee, coconut, papaya, lanzones, rambutan and vegetables.
The province of Nueva Vizcaya has basically an agricultural economy with commerce, trade, and industry
contributing to its growth and development. Among other major economic activities are farming and
cattle and swine raising. Primary crops are palay and corn. The province produces quality onions and
vegetables often sold in Metro Manila. Oranges and mangoes are now major crops being exported fresh
to other Asian countries; earning its title as the Citrus Capital of the Philippines.
-Batanes is the northernmost and smallest province in the region as well as in the whole Philippines. It is
the only province located outside the mainland Cagayan Valley. Due to its geographical location, fishing
is considered as a major industry and source of livelihood for the people. Garlic and cattle are major
export crops. Ivatans also plant camote (sweet potato), cassava, gabi or tuber and a unique variety of
white uvi. Sugarcane is raised to produce palek, a kind of native wine, and vinegar. Tourism also
contributes to the province's thriving economy.
Trade and industry
In 2014, retail giants like Robinsons Land and SM Prime opened its pioneer malls in the region, the
Robinsons Place Santiago and SM City Cauayan in Santiago City and Cauayan City respectively. The two
retail companies further strengthened their presence in the region with the opening of SM Center
Tuguegarao Downtown in 2017 and Robinsons Place Tuguegarao.
In 2018, both are located in the region's capital, Tuguegarao City. SM Prime is set to launch its third mall
in the region in 2019, the SM City Tuguegarao. In 2018, Vista Land and Life Scapes, Inc. announced the
establishment of its first high-end mall in the region that is Vista Mall Santiago in Santiago City.
Tilapia industry
On January 11, 2008, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) stated that tilapia (species of
cichlid fishes from the tilapiine cichlid tribe) production grew and Cagayan Valley is now the Philippines’
tilapia capital (Saint Peter’s fish).[22] Production supply grew 37.25% since 2003, with 14,000 metric
tons (MT) in 2007. The recent aquaculture congress found that the growth of tilapia production was due
to government interventions: provision of fast-growing species, accreditation of private hatcheries to
ensure supply of quality fingerlings, establishment of demonstration farms, providing free fingerlings to
newly constructed fishponds, and the dissemination of tilapia to Nueva Vizcaya (in Diadi town). Nueva
Vizcaya Governor Luisa Lloren Cuaresma entered into similar aquaculture endeavors in addition to
tilapia production. Isabela province is the richest in harvest among the other provinces in Region 2.
Citrus industry
Cagayan Valley is positioned to become the country's Citrus Capital through a program undertaken by
the Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) with funding from the Philippine Council for Agriculture,
Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and
Technology (DoST-PCAARRD). The country’s domestic supply of citrus is currently insufficient to meet
local demand, according to DoST-PCAARRD, due to “high incidence of pest and diseases, poor orchard
management, and low adoption of improved management practices, among many other factors.” The
NVSU’s citrus research and development program includes yield improvement, setting up a gene bank,
and value chain analysis. It targets a 233% increase in yield — from 4.5 tons per hectare ha (t/ha) to 15
t/ha — and a 60% reduction in post-harvest losses from 25% to 10% by 2019. The targets are part of the
Citrus Industry Strategic S&T Program (ISP) of DoST-PCAARRD. By the end of 2017, the program team is
expected to produce value chain maps for calamansi, orange, and pomelo in the region; characterize
fifteen species for the database system of the gene bank study; improve NVSU and Municipal
Agriculture Office (MAGRO) citrus nurseries producing 10,000 and 2,000 budded seedlings, respectively;
establish new 1-hectare orchard with planting materials from NVSU; and generate data on the
description of local citrus pests and diseases.

BATANES
Batanes (Ivatan: Probinsya nu Batanes; Tagalog: Lalawigan ng Batanes) is an archipelago
province in the Philippines situated in the Cagayan Valley region. It is the
northernmost province in the country, and also the smallest, both in population and land area.
Its capital is Basco located in the island of Batan.
The island group is located approximately 162 kilometres (101 mi) north of the Luzonmainland
and about 190 kilometres (120 miles) south of Taiwan, separated from the Babuyan
Islands of Cagayan Province by the Balintang Channel, and from Taiwan by the Bashi Channel.
The entire province is listed in the UNESCO tentative list for inscription in the World Heritage
List. The government has been finalizing the site's inscription, establishing museums and
conservation programs since 2001. The government aims to push for the site's inclusion
between 2018-2019. Seven intangible heritage elements of the Ivatan have been set by the
Philippine government in its initial inventory in 2012. The elements are undergoing a process to
be included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists between 2018-2025.
Geography
The province has a total area of 219.01 square kilometres (84.56 sq mi) comprising ten
islands situated within the Luzon Strait between the Balintang Channel and Taiwan. The
islands are sparsely populated and subject to frequent typhoons. The three largest
islands, Batan, Itbayat, and Sabtang, are the only inhabited islands.
The northernmost island in the province, also the northernmost land in the entire
Philippines, is Mavulis (or Y'ami) Island. Other islands in the chain are Misanga (or
North), Ditarem, Siayan, Diogo (or Dinem), Ivuhos, and Dequey. The islands are part of
the Luzon Volcanic Arc.

Topography
Almost one-half of Batanes is hills and mountains. Batan Island is generally mountainous
on the north and southeast. It has a basin in the interior. Itbayat Island slopes gradually
to the west, being mountainous and hilly along its northern, eastern coast. As for
Sabtang, mountains cover the central part, making the island slope outward to the
coast.
The islands are situated between the vast expanse of the waters of Bashi
Channel and Balintang Channel, where the Pacific Ocean merges with the China Sea. The
area is a sea lane between the Philippines and Japan, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. It is
rich with marine resources, including the rarest sea corals in the world.

The province is hilly and mountainous, with only 1,631.5 hectares or 7.1% of its area
level to undulating, and 78.2% or 17,994.4 hectares varying from rolling to steep and
very steep. Forty two percent (42%) or 9,734.40 hectares are steep to very steep land.
Because of the terrain of the province, drainage is good and prolonged flooding is non-
existent. The main island of Batan has the largest share of level and nearly level lands,
followed by Itbayat and Sabtang, respectively. Itbayat has gently rolling hills and nearly
level areas on semi-plateaus surrounded by continuous massive cliffs rising from 20 to
70 metres (66–230 feet) above sea level, with no shorelines. Sabtang has its small flat
areas spread sporadically on its coasts, while its interior is dominated by steep
mountains and deep canyons. Batan Island and Sabtang have intermittent stretches of
sandy beaches and rocky shorelines.
The terrain of the province, while picturesque at almost every turn, has limited the
potential for expansion of agriculture in an already very small province.
Climate
Batanes has a tropical climate (Köppen climate classification Af). The average yearly
temperature is 26.0 °C (78.8 °F), and the average monthly temperature ranges from
22.0 °C (71.6 °F) in January to 28.5 °C (83.3 °F) in July, similar to that of Southern
Taiwan. Precipitation is abundant throughout the year; the rainiest month is August
while the driest month is April. November to February are the coldest months. There is a
misconception that Batanes is constantly battered by typhoons. [citation needed] Batanes is
mentioned frequently in connection with typhoons because it holds the northernmost
weather station in the Philippines and is thus a reference point for all typhoons that
enter the Philippine area. However, in September 2016, Typhoon Meranti impacted the
entire province, including a landfall on Itbayat.

Economy

About 75% of the Ivatans are farmers and fishermen. The rest are employed in the
government and services sector. Garlic and cattle are major cash crops. Ivatans also
plant camote (sweet potato), cassava, gabi or tuber and a unique variety of white uvi.
Sugarcane is raised to produce palek, a kind of native wine, and vinegar.
In recent years, fish catch has declined due to the absence of technical know-how.
Employment opportunities are scarce. Most of the educated Ivatans have migrated to
urban centers or have gone abroad.
A wind diesel generating plant was commissioned in 2004.
Distance and bad weather work against its economic growth. Certain commodities like
rice, soft drinks, and gasoline carry a 75% to 100% mark-up over Manila retail prices.

Delicacies

#1 Uved
Called as ‘tabtab‘ in Sabtang (one of the 3 inhabited islands in
Batanes), uved or uvud is one of those Ivatan comfort food that I
always miss!
It’s basically made of finely-grated corm (which is found at the base
of a trunk of a banana plant) that’s mixed with ground meat (beef or
pork), and minced fish. Afterwards, it is seasoned with onion, garlic,
salt and pepper. This will be rolled into balls or served as is and can
either be with or without its broth.
.
 #2 Dibang
A common fish that you will find in the islands is dibang or flying fish
— yes, it does ‘fly’ or leap out of the water, a defense mechanism to
evade predators. To date, it has different variations (other than
simply frying it as is), such as:
Lataven – are you familiar with kinilaw-style of preparing fish meat in
the Philippines or simply, ‘ceviche’? If yes, then lataven is very
similar to this. Dibang (or any kind of fish) is drenched in vinegar and
calamansi juice, as well as mixed with minced ginger, onions, and
salt.
Maytahes (one-day-old) – after the fish is cleaned and opened up, it
will be marinated in salt, vinegar, and garlic and then laid out under the sun for a day to dry.
.
#3 Vunes
This is a dish that my father used to prepare a lot for our family (he
cooks it real good!). This is made of preserved gabi (taro) stalks
which could technically last for years.
As a typical Batanes food, the gabi stalks are first soaked in water.
Afterwards, it will be cut and minced and then cooked together with
pork and patola (or sponge gourd).

#4 Payi
Payi or lobsters are abundant in Batanes, so a humongous one can
be easily bought for as cheap as Php 150 (or $3)! Indeed you could
imagine my surprise when my family and I moved out of Batanes and
I found out that my favorite payi is ridiculously expensive in the city.

As for another crustacean that you’ve probably heard about would

be tatus or coconut crabs which are well known for its sweet meat
and creamy aligue (or crab fat) — after all, they feed on fleshy fruits,
nuts, seeds, and coconuts (which is not a big part of their diet,
contrary to popular belief). Anyhow, these coconut crabs are
impressive because they can climb a coconut tree, take one, and cut
its husk with just their claws; although… it can actually take several
days for the coconut to be opened.
Now here’s the thing: tatus is declared as an endangered species.
#5 Root Crops
The Batanes Islands are abundant with root crops, namely:

 Wakay (sweet potato)

 Dukay (yam)
 Uvi (another type of yam)
 Sudi (taro)

They’re steamed, fried, or smoked; but recently, we have started to

make different ways of cooking it (I’ve heard that there’s even
a wakay donut now).

#6 Luñis
This is a different version of the popular Filipino
dish, adobo, because luñis is rather served dry.
Lasting for quite a while, this traditional dish is made of pork cooked
with rock salt until its fat is rendered and it turns golden brown. Back
in the old days, it is stored in its own lard in jars for months to
ensure continuous supply.

#7 Supas
Always a staple during fiestas or festivals, supas or balencyana (as
called in Itbayat Island) is rice cooked in turmeric pulp (yellow
ginger) that’s often mixed with garlic and pork.
It’s aptly called as yellow rice because, well… it is yellow from the
turmeric. Some people would often say that the taste is close to
‘java rice‘, and that’s right! Though, I have to say that I like
our supas more when it comes to flavor.

#8 Other Local Vegetables

 Tamiduk – also called as pako or Fiddlehead fern, this is
arguably the most popular vegetable in Batanes and one of my
favorites too! When I was still living in the island, I often helped
prepare it for our meals as it was easy to make: simply sauté and
season with salt, garlic and onions. If you go to restaurants, they
serve it as a salad with dressing (such as calamansi vinaigrette).
 Utut nu Bulyas – my favorite morning fix, these are scallions
or green onions that are sautéed together with scrambled egg and
spices.
  Chinavules – these are steamed taro leaves that are mixed with
garlic, ginger, and onions.
.

#9 Other Batanes Food from the Sea

 Arayu – also called as mahi-mahi or golden dorado, this fish
is indeed of golden color and slightly mixed with hues of blue and
green. In Batanes, harvesting this fish is a part of a sacred
tradition (kapayvanuvanua) in the small fishing village of Diura. Up
to this day, the Ivatans there still practice it as they believe that it
will protect them from the sea as well as give them a bountiful
catch.
 Kanañis – octopus that is commonly fried, this is often a
favorite when it comes to beer drinking sessions!
 Seaweed soup or balls – my family actually rarely eat this but
it’s quite a unique treat (and healthy too!)
 Uni – these are sea urchins and they can be eaten raw or cooked.
 Dumay – also called as a ‘common periwinkle’, dumay is a species of small edible sea snail;
however, as much as I love them, it’s a bit of a pain to eat (you have to use a pin to scoop it
out, but I bet restaurants can serve this to you without its shell).

FESTIVALS
-Kulay Festival
If you happen to book around the 2nd week of April with the help of your travel agent, you are very
lucky to witness the “Kulay Festival” which means, “anything dried” this festival highlights the simple yet
colorful food heritage of the Ivatans. They celebrated it in cooperation with the local government of
Basco, Batanes and the Philippine’s Department of Trade and Industry. The main objective of this 5-day
feast is to introduce locally manufactured and processed food products like dried products such as
onion, garlic, rice, corn and fish among others to local and foreign tourists visiting their province.
-Bayanihan or Payuhuan Festival
In the Ivatan laguage, “payuhan” stands for cooperation which is truly evident in this 5-day event every
June. In this event, a province-wide procession is done to recall the route of evangelization.
Communities and schools conduct the Ivatan Olympics to pay tribute to their native game. Another
highlight of this fiesta is the Kanan Nu Kumavahayan or the Unity Lunch, a government funded
celebration for everyone.
-Palu-palo Festival
Held every 1st week of August, it is one of the must-see feasts in the Philippines. This is the time
wherein people get to have a glimpse of the rich lands of Batanes. It is also the perfect time to have a
taste of their cuisine and discover more about their history. This is a yearly festival of the Ivatans in
Basco, Batanes centers on livelihood and culture. Coming from the name itself, “palu-palo” it is a stick
used by Ivatans in the past to combat their colonizers.
-Vakul-Kanayi Festival
Sabtang Island just held its first-ever Vakul-Kanayi Festival this year. Starting from April 25 to 27,
activities are made from indigenous outdoor games and cultural shows to colorful parades and street
dancing competition. Vakul is the headgear worn by women and kanayi are the vests wrapped on men
when they work. It was made from Philippine date palm and they are still worn up to this day.
-Payuhwan Festival
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

 Sabtang Island is undisturbed and unspoiled. It has intermittent white sand beaches with steep
mountains and deep canyons with small level areas sporadically found along the coastline.
Southwest of Batan Island, Sabtang is accessible by 30-minute falowa ride from Radiwan Port in
Ivana. Sabtang Island is also the take off point for Ivuhos Island from Barangay Nakanmuan.
 Itbayat Island is located north of Batan Island. Itbayat is shaped like a giant bowl. The island is
surrounded by massive boulders and cliffs rising from 20 to 70 feet (6.1–21.3 metres) above sea
level and has no shoreline. It has a dirt airstrip for light aircraft. A regular ferry runs the Batan-
Itbayat route. Travel time is about four hours by falowa from Basco Seaport. A light plane flies
from Basco Airport to Itbayat at around P1,875 per person and leaves only when the plane is
full.
 Batan Island is the most populated island of the province. It is composed of four
municipalities: Basco, Ivana, Uyugan and Mahatao. Basco is the center of commerce and seat
of the provincial government.
 Mount Iraya is a dormant volcano standing at 1,517 metres (4,977 feet) whose last eruption was
recorded in 505 AD. Mountaineering, trekking and trailblazing are recommended sports activities
on the mountain. Walking distance from Basco, the top of Mt. Iraya can be reached in about
three hours.
 Mavulis is the northernmost island of Batanes. From this location, one can see Formosa
(Taiwan) on a clear day. Tatus or coconut crabs abound in the island surrounded by rich marine
life.
 Di-atay Beach is a cove with multi-colored rocks and white sand ideal for picnics and beach
combing. Located along the highway of Mahatao, it is 9.85 kilometres (6.12 miles) from Basco.
 Songsong in Chadpidan Bay is an hour of exhilarating trek from Basco proper (3 kilometres (1.9
miles)). It is famous for its beautiful sunset view.
 Naidi Hills is walking distance from Basco.
 Chawa Cave is for the more adventurous. An enchanted cave with a natural salt bed whose
mouth opens to the south China Sea and is accessible through the boulders of Chawa Point in
Mahatao. It is 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) from Basco.
 Sitio Diura at Racuj-a-Ide is the fishermens village at Mananoy Bay. Fishing season is marked
by a festival in mid-March called Kapayvanuvanua. Visitors are treated with fresh fish delicacies
from the Pacific Ocean. Within the area is the legendary Spring of Youth and living cave with
crystal limestone formations. The bay is nine kilometres (5.6 miles) from Basco.
 Nakabuang Cave is 5.5 kilometres (3.4 miles) from San Vicente Centro in Sabtang.
 Mt. Matarem is an extinct volcano 495 metres (1,624 feet) at its summit. It is eight kilometres
(5.0 miles) from Basco.
 White Beach at Vatang, Hapnit and Mavatuy Point, all in Mahatao.
 Storm-proof Stone houses in Batanes many residents during typhoon made up their already-
fortified houses with wood and secured the roofs with nets and ropes. This was done to ensure
that the structures -- which symbolize the Ivatan's strength and resilience against disasters --
outlast the high-pressure winds of typhoon that is expected to unleash. Tapangkos or covering
were also installed on the doors and windows of several buildings in Batanes, including the
capitol building. During heavy storms it was also a time for bayanihan of the residents as they
helped each other tie down roofs.
Manmade
 Radar Tukon was a United States weather station on a hilltop. It offers a magnificent 360-degree
view of Batan Island, the South China Sea, Mt. Iraya, Basco proper, boulder lined cliffs and the
 Pacific Ocean. At present, it houses the northernmost weather station in the Philippines, the
Basco Radar Station, and is only 2.75 kilometres (1.71 miles) from Basco.
 Old Loran Station housed a US Coast Guard detachment for almost two decades and is about
25 kilometres (16 miles) from Basco.
 Ruins Of Songsong is a ghost barangay which is a cluster of roofless shells of old stone houses
abandoned after a tidal wave that hit the island of Batan in the 1950s. It has a long stretch of
beach. The ruins are 23 kilometres (14 miles) from Basco.
 San Jose Church in Ivana was built in 1814. It has a crenelated fortress-like campanile. The
church fronts the Ivana Seaport and is 14 kilometres (8.7 miles) from Basco.
 Kanyuyan Beach & Port at Baluarte Bay in Basco is the port of call of the cargo ships bringing
goods from Manila.
 San Carlos Borromeo Church and a convent at Mahatao are six kilometres (3.7 miles) from
Basco. It was completed in 1789 and still retains its centuries-old features.
 Idjangs or fortified stone fortresses where the native Ivatans' ancestors migrated to Batanes as
early as 4,000 BC lived in them for defensive cover.
 Fundacion Pacita is a lodging house and restaurant, which was formerly owned by Pacita Abad,
the most iconic Ivatan visual artist. The house has been redecorated and filled with numerous
art works of Pacita Abad after she passed away in 2004.
Historical
 Radiwan Point at Ivana Seaport is where the Katipuneros landed in September 18, 1898. It is
also the ferry station of the falowas plying the islands of Sabtang and Itbayat.
 Boat-shaped Stone Grave Markers, Chuhangin Burial Site, Ivuhos Island, Sabtang, Batanes
 Chavulan Burial Jar Site, Ivuhos Island, Sabtang Island
 Arrangement of Stone with Holes, Sumnanga, Sabtang
 Columnar Stones, Post Holes, Stone Anchors, Itbud Idyang, Uyugan, Batanes
 Arrangement of Stone Walls, Idyang Site, Basco, Batanes
 Paso Stone Formation, Ivuhos Island, Sabtang, Batanes
 Columnar Stone with Holes, Mahatao, Batanes

CAGAYAN
Cagayán (/kɑːɡəˈjɑːn/ kah-gə-YAHN) (Ilokano: Probinsia ti Cagayan; Ibanag: Probinsiya nat
Cagayan; Tagalog: Lalawigan ng Cagayan) is a province of the Philippines in the Cagayan
Valley region in the northeast of Luzon Island, and includes the Babuyan Islands to the north. The
province borders Ilocos Norte and Apayao to the west, and Kalinga and Isabela to the south. Its
capital is the city of Tuguegarao.
Cagayán was one of the early provincias that existed during the Spanish Colonial Period. Called La
Provincia de Cagayan, its borders essentially covered the entire Cagayan Valley, which included the
present provinces of Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Batanes and portions of Kalinga and Apayao.
The former capital was Nueva Segovia, which also served as the seat of the Diocese of Nueva
Segovia.[3] Today, only 9,295.75 square kilometres (3,589.11 sq mi) remain of the former vastness of
the province. The entire region, however, is still referred to as Cagayan Valley.
In 2013, Cagayán was host to the 27th (Survivor: Blood vs. Water) and 28th (Survivor: Cagayan)
seasons of the American reality game show, Survivor.

Geography
Situated within the Cagayan Valley region, the province is bounded by the Philippine Sea on the
east; on the south by Isabela province; on the west by the Cordillera Mountains; and on the north by
the Balintang Channel and the Babuyan Group of Islands. About 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from the
northeastern tip of the province is the island of Palaui; a few kilometers to the west is Fuga Island.
The Babuyan Group of Islands, which includes Calayan, Dalupiri, Camiguin, and Babuyan Claro, is
about 60 nautical miles (110 km) north of Luzon mainland.
The eastern coast forms the northern portion of the Sierra Madre mountain range, while the western
limits are generally hilly to low in elevation. The central area, dominated by a large valley, forms the
lower basin of the country's longest river, the Cagayan. The mouth is located at the northern town
of Aparri.
The province comprises an aggregate land area of 9,295.75 square kilometres (3,589.11 sq mi)
which constitutes approximately three percent of the total land area of the country, making it the
second largest province in the region.

Economy
Agricultural products are rice, corn, peanut, beans, and fruits. Livestock products include cattle,
hogs, carabaos, and poultry. Fishing various species of fish from the coastal towns is also
undertaken. Woodcraft furniture made of hardwood, rattan, bamboo, and other indigenous materials
are also available in the province.
The Northern Cagayan International Airport is a planned airport in Lal-lo. The airport will be built to
support the Cagayan Special Economic Zonein northern Cagayan, which also serves seaborne
traffic through Port Irene. The airport project will involve the construction of a 2,200-meter runway,
with a width of 45 meters, following the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Once completed, the planned international airport can accommodate large aircraft such as
the Airbus A319-100 and Boeing regional jets of comparable size.
Festivals:
Aggao Nac Cagayan, Samba-li Festival (Piat), Cabibi Festival (Lallo), Crab Festival (Buguey),
Aramang Festival (Aparri), Kalingkingan Festival (Penablanca), Mappa-labbet Festival (Enrile),
Abayao Festival (Solana), Tinupig Festival (Lasam), Panagsan-gal Festival (Baggao), Namunit
Festival (Sta.Teresita)
Attractions :
Calayan, IslandPalaui, IslandCalvary, HillsBluewater, FallsAnguib, BeachBasilica, Minore of Our
Lady of PiatCallao, CavesSpanish, HornoRuinsof San Jacinto de Polonia Church Portabaga Falls

Popular Food:
Pancit Batil Patong, Pinakbet, Igado, Twit and Mondonggo, Bagong
ISABELA
Isabela (Ilokano: Probinsia ti Isabela; Ibanag: Probinsiya nat Isabela; Tagalog: Lalawigan ng
Isabela) is the second largest province of the Philippines, and the largest on the island of Luzon in
land area. Its capital is the city of Ilagan. Situated within the Cagayan Valley region, it is bordered by
the provinces of Cagayan to the north, Kalinga to the northwest, Mountain Province to the central-
west, Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya to the southwest, Quirino and Aurora to the south, and
the Philippine Sea to the east.
This primarily agricultural province is the rice and corn granary of Luzon due to its plain and rolling
terrain. In 2012, the province was declared as the country's top producer of corn with 1,209,524
metric tons.
Isabela is the 10th richest province in the Philippines as of 2011.The province has four trade centers
in the cities of Ilagan, Cauayan, Santiago and the municipality of Roxas.

Geography
Isabela comprises an aggregate land area of 12,414.93 square kilometres (4,793.43 sq mi)
representing almost 40 percent of the regional territory. It is the largest province in the island
of Luzon and the second largest province in the Philippines by land area. Occupying the central
section of the Cagayan Valley region in Luzon, Isabela is bordered by Cagayanto the
north, Kalinga to the northwest, Mountain Province to the central-west, Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya to
the southwest, Quirino to the south, and Aurora to the south. To the east lies the Philippine Sea,
making Isabela one of the typhoon-prone provinces in the country.
The province is divided into three physiographic areas. The eastern area, straddled by the Sierra
Madre mountain range, is rugged and thickly forested. A substantial portion is uncharted. These
unexplored hinterlands are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, and some are under
government reservations. It is home to one of the world's largest remaining low-altitude rainforests,
with numerous unknown endemic species of flora and fauna and biological diversity in the protected
area known as the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park. Isabela has 600,000 hectares (1,500,000
acres) of Cagayan Valley’s 900,000 hectares (2,200,000 acres) of forest cover.
The highest point of the province is located near the border with Cagayan. Mount Dos Cuernos peak
has an elevation of 1,785 metres (5,856 ft) located in San Pablo near the border with Maconacon.
Other notable peaks in the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park is Mount Cresta in Divilacan with an
elevation of 1,672 metres (5,486 ft).
The western area is a fertile valley hemmed by the Central Cordillera. It is crisscrossed by the
mighty Cagayan River, Siffu River, and Magat River.

Economy
In terms of income classification, Isabela is rated as first-class province and considered among the
richest and most progressive province in the Philippines and the most progressive in Region 02
courtesy of the three key cities strategically located in the province.
Strategically located at the center of Cagayan Valley region, Isabela is acknowledged to have
demonstrated strengths in business and industry. Thus, it has come to be known as the Regional
Trade and Industrial Center of north-eastern Luzon.
The province of Isabela is the richest in Cagayan Valley. It is also the Top 10 Richest Province in
the Philippines last 2011. The cities of Cauayan, Ilagan, Santiago and the town of Roxas are the
principal commercial centers of the province. Metro Manila-based malls and fast food chains have
recently opened in these key trading hubs. To date, 192 banking branches operate in the province,
with most of the universal and commercial banks providing automated teller machines for the
convenience of their clients.
Since the start of the 21st century, a growing number of foreign and local investors have selected
Isabela as site of their business ventures. Heading the list are Isabela's top investors, namely:
Mindanao Grains Processing Company, Inc., SN Aboitiz Power- Magat Inc., Universal Leaf
Philippines, Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines, Inc., San Miguel Corporation, RC Cola and Pepsi Cola.
In the rice industry, substantial investments have been made by Valiant Rice Mills Corporation,
Family Choice Grains Processing Center, Golden Season Grains Center, Herco Agro Industries,
JDT Silver Grains Center, New Cauayan Goldyluck Grains and the La Suerte Rice Mill Corporation.
Retail giants like SM Prime, Robinsons and Puregold Price Club, Inc. have set up shops
like Savemore, Robinsons Supermarket and Puregold, respectively. In 2014, these retail companies
opened its pioneer malls in the region, the SM City Cauayan and Robinsons Place Santiago.
Land transportation operators Victory Liner, Five Star Bus Company, Dalin Liner, GV Florida
Transport, EMC Transportation, Inc., Solid North Transit Inc., and Northern Luzon Bus Company
(NELBUSCO) have terminals and depots in the province.
Leading car, motorcycle and truck manufacturers such as Honda, Toyota, Mitsubishi Motors, Isuzu
Motors, Kia Motors, Nissan, Ford, Chevrolet, Suzuki, Hyundai, Mazda, Foton, Peugeot, MAN
SE, Yamaha and many other companies entered the province over the past years.
Telecom firms Globe, PLDT/Smart and Digitel/ Sun Cellular operate cellular sites and fixed
telephony facilities throughout Isabela.
Big real estate developers like Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc. entered the province with the opening
of Camella Isabela, Camella Santiago and the Camella Santiago Trails in Santiago City, and
Camella Cauayan and Lumina Isabela in Cauayan City. Vista Malls is set to launch its first high end
mall in Santiago City.

Delicacies

Pancit Cabagan
The thin Miki noodle recipe that is garnished with pork lechon carajay, pork or chicken liver, vegetables
and quail eggs.
Binallay
When in Isabela, don’t miss Binallay; a native suman delicacy of the province made of sticky rice flour
and wrapped in banana leaves. Binallay is cooked in boiling water until done then serve with latik sauce.
Moriecos
This variety of rice cake (kakanin in Tagalog) is stuffed with latik or caramelized young coconut then
steamed and wrapped in fresh banana leaf.
Inatata
Whole glutinous rice that’s a bit sweet and wrapped in small cylinders made of banana leaves are
cooked by steaming. They’re tied in batches; ten per batch and it resembles a magazine of bullets when
tied.
Bibingkang Kanin
Bibingkang Kanin is made of glutinous rice, coconut milk, white sugar, and young coconut meat. It
follows simple cooking procedures like steaming the rice and adding the remaining ingredients then
baking it.
Lechon Cordero
This dish is a sumptuous combination of lamb lechon which is marinated in oyster sauce, lemon juice,
and red wine. It’s also the same marinade that will be injected inside the lechon.
Pinataro
A mixture of white sticky rice dumplings and coconut strips are what make up this warm dish. The sticky
rice dumplings is served in thick coconut latik cream.
Corn Coffee
Corn coffee in Isabela is popular because of the abundance of corn supply in the province. It’s as tasty as
coffee and it has its own health benefits.
Corn Pastillas
This is a native milk candy from Isabela which is made of corn, sugar, flour, powdered milk, and butter.
Pancit Batil Patong
Although it originated in Tuguegarao, Pancit Batil Patong is also popular in Isabela. This sauteed noodle
dish is made from Miki noodles, bean sprouts, cabbage, minced carabeef, crushed Chicharon (pork
cracklings), and fried eggs.
Festivals:
BAMBANTI FESTIVAL- The festival features the province being an agricultural province and
Bambanti (scarecrow) is used as a symbol to scare birds that destroys agriculture crops. It is usually
held annually during the last week of January.
BAKA FESTIVAL- A survey revealing quite number of ranches in San Pablo led to the establishment
of the Baka Festival. Held on January 15 it is expected not only to be the highlight of future patronal
fiestas of San Pablo but also to sustain efforts to promote the local cattle industry and the products
that have been developed since a convergence project was located in the municipality. The festival
is a fine time to see cowboys of San Pablo display skills that are reminiscent of the American Wild
West.
BALATONG FESTIVAL- In San Mateo, mungo beans are not just a rich source of protein. It is also
so packed with economic potential that it is referred to as “black gold”. For a town bent on
maximizing the development potentials of its resources, the Balatong Festival draws attention to yet
another product. In previous years, the annual town fiesta promoted duck-related products during
the Pato Festival.
GAKIT FESTIVAL -The Gakit Festival is an annual festival held at the Cagayan River. Participants of
the festival offer fruits, vegetables, poultry, and livestock as thanksgiving for their abundant bounty.
The practice also reminds Angadanians of their tradition of planting crops and raising poultry in their
own backyards for their own consumption. The Gakit Festival also aims to show Angadanians that
progress can only be achieved if they are united as one. A key detail of the Gakit Festival is the
hand-made bamboo rafts which are used by the participants of the Festival. Each bamboo pole, if
alone, has no value. It cannot float reliably on a river nor can it be used to transport anything. But if
many bamboo poles are tied together as one, it can be made into a raft which can float and sail on
calm or rough waters while transporting people and products.
GAWAGAWAYAN FESTIVAL -The City Fiesta and the Feast of Our lady of the Pillar are celebrated
annually on April 10-13 and October 10-12 respectively. Since its conversion into a component city
on March 30, 2001, the City Government started to celebrate its founding anniversary with the
conduct of “Gawagaway-yan Festival aimed to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the city. It is
highlighted by street dancing, beauty contest, trade fair, cultural parade, parlor games, free concert,
band exhibition and other variety shows performed by local and Manila-based talents as well.
MANGI FESTIVAL -Aside from its exquisite church, one of the most enduring legacies of the
Spanish colonial era lives on, quite literally in Tumauini, corn (Zea mays). It was one of the plants
that came aboard the galleons and became one of the primary crops of the Philippines. It is
interesting to note that corn seems to have transcended being a mere crop in Tumauini. The late
National Artist for Dance, Ramon Obusan traced the origins of a traditional dance inspired by the
crop to Tumauini. Thus, a corn inspired festival seemed especially appropriate for Tumauini.NUANG
FESTIVAL- Despite the introduction of mechanized agriculture, the carabao (Bubalus Bubalis
Carabanesis) remains a farmer’s indispensable helpmate in the fields. This beast of burden is
honoured in the Nuang Festival of San Agustin as are the products the carabao enables farmers to
produce. The town boasts of over 300 heads and farmers bring them over to the poblacion (town
center) for the festival. To get the cattle there, they either guide the animals onto the ferry and keep
them quiet for the short river crossing or find the shallowest point of the river, take off their clothes
then lead them across. San Agustin the town supplies carabao milk to other towns where carabao
milk candy is produced. The festival also serves as a venue for promoting other major products such
as corn (Zea mays) and bananas (Musa paradisiaca L.).
PAGAY FESTIVAL -The "Pagay Festival" is held annually every September 28 in conjunction with
the founding anniversary of the town of Alicia. It used to be called Alicia Town Festival, but was
redefined and renamed to Pagay Festival in 2010 by Mayor Cecilia Claire N. Reyes. The festival
aims to uphold the town's cultural identity and heritage and to promote the municipality’s primary
agricultural product called, pagay (Ilocano word for rice)- the municipality’s major livelihood economy
and trade mark. The festival is widely participated by the community which features various
competitions (e.g., rice planting, harvesting, and cooking among others), street dance showdown,
beauty pageant (Mutya ng Alicia), battle of the bands, and exhibits. However, the Pagay Parade is
the main highlight of the festival that features decorated carabaos, various rice crop floats, and
people marching with colorful costumes which attracts tourists and visitors.
SABUTAN FESTIVAL- In March, Palanan holds the Sabutan Festival. It is named after the local
name for pandan (Pandanus tectorius) which is plentiful in the town. The people of Palanan are fine
craftsmen who weave dyed and natural colored strips into a variety of bags, hats, and placemats,
among other items that have both traditional and contemporary designs. For the festival, the sabutan
products are not only sold, these are aslo used as a theme and are fashioned into costumes and
décor.
Attractions:
AGUINALDO SHRINE- Although Isabela did not play a major role in the revolt against Spain, it is in
Palanan that the final pages of the Philippines Revolution was written when the American forces led
by Gen. Frederick Funston finally captured Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo in the area on March 23, 1901.
BONSAI FOREST- Dinapigue showcases a bonsai forest with plants ranging from one foot to 7 feet
in height. The forest is astonishing – covering an estimated 5,000 hectares.
CAMP SAMAL- The historic Camp Samal was the site of the National Jamboree in 1977. Spanning
at 23.50 hectares, elevated mass of rolling hills 500 feet above sea level overlooks the mighty
Cagayan River, the Pinacanauan River, the town of Tumauini itself, the municipality of Delfin Albano,
and the Sierra Mountain ranges.
CROCODILE SANCTUARY OF SAN MARIANO- San Mariano houses a gallery of spectacles
ranging from its flora and fauna to the diverse river systems and waterfall formations. The Philippine
Crocodile, a critically endangered species, can be found throughout the length of the river and
creeks of San Mariano. Mabuwaya foundation, and even the president of the famous clothing
company Lacoste, Michel Lacoste, shows support for the famous Crocodile Sanctuary of San
Mariano.
DIBULO FALLS- Dibulo falls is one of the most notable throughout the Sierra Madre mountain
range. It is one of the attractions of Sierra Madre Nature
ParkDICOTCOTAN BEACH- Dicotcotan Beach boasts of a three-kilometer long beach with coral
reefs, sea grass beds and sandy shoreline that is fringed with a coastal forest and a village. There
are regular sightings here of pointed nosed dolphins and hump back whales aside from the various
species of fish and shellfish, and marine turtles that can be seen from the surface.
FUYOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK -Situated in the suburbs of Sta. Victoria, City of Ilagan, Fuyot
Springs National Park nestles a multitude of attractions guaranteed to satisfy adventurers. The park
houses the Sta. Victoria Caves, which showcases more than 12 caves open for public spelunking.
The caves feature formed lattices, stalactites, and stalagmites, a few of which have mineral deposits
making them glimmer and shine when hit by light.
GIANT BUTAKA Dubbed as the furniture capital of the province, Ilagan houses the world’s largest
Butaka, towering at 11 feet, 4 inches high; 20 feet 8 inches long; and 9 feet 7 inches wide, weighing
at a massive 2,368 kilos. With its wide arms, it was depicted by, then town Mayor, Mayor Jojo
Albano, as the testament to the genuine hospitality of IlagueñosHONEYMOON ISLAND -World
famous island in Divilacan, Isabela ISABELA THY WILL BE DONE A testament of Isabela's
Christian history, the renowned “Isabela Thy Will Be Done” marker is the first to welcome those who
are on their way to the province. Located just at the boundary between Nueva Vizcaya and Isabela,
the iconic landmark is a bannering welcome of Isabela’s hospitality – imbuing the firm faith of the
province in bidding the safety of travellers.
LANDMARK OF HEROES- The Landmark of Heroes in Jones, Isabela is dedicated to forefathers
who waged blood and sweat to ensure liberty.
MACONACON FALLS -Serving as a gateway to the coasts of Isabela, Maconacon offers bountiful
splendors to those who venture into its vast landscape. Most notable landmarks include the hanging
bridge in the town and the Maconacon falls.MAGAT DAM Nested in The first multi-purpose dam in
Southeast Asia, Magat Dam is located in the largest tributary of Cagayan River, the Magat River,
just at the boundary of Ifugao and Isabela.A nearby destination after a visit to the dam site is Camp
Vizcarra, where visitors of the dam flock to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. MORORAN RIVER -
Huddled within massive boulders, the panoramic crystal-clear Mororan river takes pride with its
numerous miniature waterfalls cascading like veils. The river is popular to those who prefer long
winding and rushing water over the constraints of a swimming pool.
PALANAN RAINFOREST- The Philippine’s largest low altitude rainforest with numerous unknown
endemic species of flora and fauna and exceptional biological diversity.WATER WORLD GRAND
RESORT- Water World is one of the best resorts in Region 2, if not the entire Philippines. It offers
pools accommodating both adults and children alike. There is also a man-made lake where you can
go boating and enjoy the view of assorted colored fishes.
Popular Food:
Pancit Cabagan, Binallay, and Inatata

QUIRINO
Quirino (Ilokano: Probinsia ti Quirino) is a landlocked province in the Philippines located in
the Cagayan Valley region in Luzon and named after Elpidio Quirino, the sixth President of the
Philippines. Its capital is Cabarroguis.
The province borders Aurora to the southeast, Nueva Vizcaya to the west, and Isabela to the north.
Quirino used to be part of the province of Nueva Vizcaya, until it was separated in 1966.
Climate
The province has a mean annual temperature of 33.6 °C (92.5 °F). May is generally the warmest
month and the wettest months are March to August, with the rest of the year being neither too dry
nor too wet. Heavy, sustained rainfall occurs from September to November.
Economy
Agriculture is the main industry in the province, with rice and corn as major crops.These supply the
demand of neighboring provinces and the metropolis. It is the leading producer of banana in the
Cagayan Valley region.Banana as well as banana chips are major products sold in Metro Manila and
Pampanga. Small scale industries like furniture making, basketry, rattan craft, and dried flower
production are prevalent.

DELICACIES

Since the “inandila” does not have any sweeteners cooked into it, it
is generally served with something sweet on the side. Served with a
caramel like sauce made from coconut milk with latik.

Pancit Batil Patung

It took a few minutes for us to figure out how to eat this. The pancit
itself is served on a plate, but with a bowl of soup on the side. We
experimented, and you can either pour the soup over the noodles
like a sauce, or scoop a spoonful after chewing on the pancit to
“relax” your palate and get rid of the saltiness. It is called as such
because it is served with egg (batil) cooked sunny side up, put on
top (patung).The egg in the photo is hidden underneath that heap
of crunchy chicharon,
Festivals:

Araw ng Quirino (Panagdadapun) – September 5-10.Aglipay

(Panagsalukag) - July 27-28.Cabarroguis
(Ginnamuluan) - June 19-21.Diffun
(Pammadayaw) - July 1-3.Maddela

(Panagsasalog) - June 12-15.Nagtipunan

(Penenkakasisit) - February 22-25.Saguday
(Pagay-Pagay) - April 7-8.

Tourist Attractions:
Diffun-Nagbukel Caves, Baguio Village FallsCabarroguis-Susong DalagaSaguday- Integrated Agro-
forest ParkAglipay-Aglipay Caves & Campsite, Pensal FallsMaddela- Governor’s Rapids, Maddela
WaterfallsNagtipunan-Bimmapor, Siitan River, Diamond Caves
NUEVA VIZCAYA
Nueva Vizcaya (Ilokano: Probinsia ti Nueva Vizcaya [Baro nga Biscaya]; Gaddang: Probinsia na
Nueva Vizcaya; Tagalog: Lalawigan ng Nueva Vizcaya) is a province of the Philippines located
in Cagayan Valley region in Luzon, Its capital is Bayombong. It is bordered by Benguet to the
west, Ifugao to the north, Isabela to the northeast, Quirino to the east, Aurora to the
southeast, Nueva Ecija to the south, and Pangasinan .Quirino province later on broke away from the
province as it was more related to Isabela province in the north.

Tourist Attraction:
-Capisaan Cave
-Lower Magat Ecotourism Park
-Mt. Pulag National Park
-Mt. Palali -Imugan Falls
-Mapallao Falls
-St. Dominic Cathedral
-People's Museum and Library
-St. Vincent Ferrer Church
FESTIVAL:
-Grand Ammungan Festival
-Kasipegan Festival
-Baykat Festival
-Panagsisibuyas Festival
-Pabbalat Festival
-Panggayjaya Festival
-Bayongyong Festival
-Raragsakan Festival
-Paglingalingan Festival
-Pugungan Festival
-Owag-shi Festival
-Tangguyob Festival
-Kalanguya Festival
-Pagbiagan Festival