CAR REPORT Final
CAR REPORT Final
CAR REPORT Final
A Written Report in
Submitted by:
Submitted to:
Introduction
The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) was established on July 15, 1987 through
Executive Order No. 220 issued by President Corazon Aquino. It is the only land-locked Region
of the Philippines. The region consists of the provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao,
Kalinga and Mountain Province. CAR is rich in ancient culture. It is the home of the indigenous
tribe called the Igorot. The way of life of the people in this region existed way back to ancient
Filipinos before the Spanish colonization.
According to the NSO (1990), the region has a total land area of 1, 829, 370 ha. or 13%
of the total area of Luzon Island.
Location
The Cordillera Administrative Region or CAR is bounded by Ilocos Norte and Cagayan
in the North, Pangasinan and Nueva Ecija in the South, Cagayan Valley in the east and the Ilocos
Region in the west.
Climate Type
The region is Agro-Climate. The region is dominantly within the moist Agro-climate
zone (74.97%) characterized y an average annual rainfall of 500-2500 mm and a growing period
of 210-270 days. About 25.03% of the region is within the wet Agro-climate zone. The region
has a favorable rainfall accumulation with substantial areas classified into Type I and II.
Languages
The region has been called the “most diversified ethno-linguistic region in the
Philippines” with many “sub-dialect variations” of its major languages. The languages spoken in
CAR are the following:
Religion
Like most other regions of the Philippines, Roman Catholicism is the single largest
denomination in this region, however, a slightly lower (around 60-70% of the population) adhere
to faith, while Protestants, mostly Anglicans and Evangelicals forming a large minority at about
20%-30% of the population. The traditional animist religions maintain a significant presence in
the region and are still practiced by the tribal people.
Chief Industry
The region is rich in natural resources and has abundant mineral reserves. Gold, copper,
silver and zinc are among the metallic ores that can e found in the region. Non-metallic reserves
include sand, gravel and sulfur. Although mineral reserves are found all over the region, mining
is concentrated in Benguet. Majority of Cordillera’s population engage in farming and small-
scale production.
CAR contributed 1.93% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product. In 2013, GRDP
improved by 5.97%. Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry and Fishing sector accounted for 10.33% of
the regional economy. It registered a 1.33% increment in 2013.
I. ABRA
- Is a land-locked province of the Philippines in the Cordillera Administrative Region in
Luzon and its capital is Bangued.
a. Location
The province of Abra is located on the northwestern side of the Cordillera
Administrative Region in Northern Luzon. Its deep valleys, wide plains and
sloping hills are shut-off by rugged mountains, except on the western portion
where the Abra River flows towards the coastal plains of Ilocos Sur. It is bounded
on the north by the provinces of Ilocos Norte and Apayao, on the east by the
province of Kalinga, on the west by the province of Ilocos Sur and on the south
by Mountain Province. It lies between 120.07º and 120.28º east longitude and
14.58º north latitude. It is approximately 408 kilometers north of Manila and 197
kilometers northwest
b. Climate Type
The province of Abra is classified under Type I Climate of the Coronas
Classification which is characterized by two pronounced seasons: dry from
November to April and wet the rest of the year.
c. Major Landforms and Water forms
Landforms: Mountains, and Hills
Waterforms: Rivers, and Lakes
d. Chief Industries
As of 1990, there were 743 cottage industries in Abra, of which 208 are
registered with the Department of Trade and Industry. 59% are engaged in
bamboo and rattan craft making, both leading industries in the area.
Abra’s economy is agriculture-based. Its major crops are rice, corn, and
vegetables, root crops; commercial products include coffee, tobacco and coconut.
Extensive grassland and pasture areas are used for livestock production.
f. Natural Attractions
Sapilang Falls (Bangued)
• Sapilang falls now greets and welcomes every nature lover to its rustic realm.
• The falls are called because they cascade in one place. However, they are not
identical. The first falls to see is tall, thin, and has multi-layers. The second
falls, on the other hand, descends on a broad and bare rockface. This can be
climbed. This waterfall has an extension which cannot be seen from below
This is perhaps one of the most famous tourist spots in Abra. Unlike most
popular falls in the country, Tineg is bizarrely unique. It cascades in a
terraced-like manner on bare limestone rocks. It has numerous pools along its
broad stretch with crystal-clear water.
Piwek Rock Formations are a cluster of white rocks and boulders along
the river.
The turquoise and clear waters of the river make this even more alluring to
visit. The rock formations are becoming popular jumping spots. The highest of
which is around 11 meters. Well, the locals love jumping from this point. And
many tourists tried it already.
Libtec Crystal Cave (Dolores)
The falls measures around 30 feet high. Its waters carved a beautiful pool,
fit for swimming and cliff jumping.
Standing at more than 1,546 meters above sea level, Mt. Poswey ranks
among the highest mountains of Abra.
Mt. Poswey is a prime biodiversity area. In fact, the critically-endangered
Philippine eagle has been sighted in the area. This mountain, therefore, must be
given attention and protection.
Apao Rolling Hills casts a view of the mountains like the grassy meadows
of European hinterlands. From the viewpoint at Vira, one can gaze on wave-like
hills as far as the eyes could see. Grasses and a few shrubs and trees cover these
hills.
Mt. Bullagao projects the shape of a woman lying prostrate on her back,
her breasts sharply contoured, and her reclined head facing the sky.
Near the summit, there is a small plateau, covered in grasses. There are
also small patches of secondary forests. From the top and along the trails near it,
one can view the surrounding mountains and plains of Ilocos Sur, Abra, and the
mighty Abra River.
g. Historical Attractions
Standing in the Bucay Poblacion at the back of the present-day town hall is a
lonely ruin of the old provincial capitol of the province. The façade is the only
thing that's remaining.
Holy Cross Parish Church
Holy Cross Parish Church is located 30-40 minutes from Bangued along the
Abra-Kalinga Road. The church offers a classic ambiance. Its façade, made of
red bricks, is charming up close.
La Paz has its Our Lady of Peace Church. It's a church older than a century.
Beside the church is a Catholic school managed by the clergy.
The Old Pidigan Church has been a victim of fire and a witness of tragic
incidents in the past but it was not able to survive the ageing process brought
by time. Due to its oldness (original materials have become debris that may
fall anytime), the church has been abandoned. The church might collapse
anytime, in part, or as a whole. A new church has been built right beside it.
It's a church located atop a hill and the most popular landmark in town.
The Gabriela Cariño Silang Gallery of Fine Arts is an Aladdins Cave full of
priceless artifacts and is the 300-year-old ancestral home of the Cariño family.
This house is where the revolutionary fighter Gabriela Silang sought refuge to
escape the Spanish who were trying to capture her after the execution of her
husband Diego Silang.
h. Festivals
The fiesta is a big part of Filipino culture. To the province of Abra, fiestas
must go on through good and bad times. It is a regular celebration to give thanks
to their patron saint, or recognize their rich culture and tradition, as well as their
favorite products.
One of the biggest festivals of Abra is the Arya Abra Festival. It is a week-
long celebration coinciding with the province's foundation anniversary held
annually every March 5-10 or at the second week of March in the capital
town of Bangued. It showcases the province's history and culture through
parades, cultural shows, and agro-industrial fairs. The highlights of the
revelry are the "Karerakit", a bamboo rafting along Calaba River, and the
Tingguian Festival of the tribal natives of Abra.
Tingguian Festival
Bamboo is the major industry of Abra, aside from tobacco. The festival was
name “Kawayan Festival”, a three-day traditional celebration starting every
6th of March. It features a grand cultural parade of beautiful and creative
floats and handicrafts made of bamboo. There are also trade fairs, cultural
presentations, Balikbayan nights, and fashion shows. Sakuting dance is a
much-awaited activity where dance performers are group of men using
bamboo sticks.
Dapil came from the word “dadapilan”, an equipment used in extracting sugar
cane juice. From the meaning, the festival is a celebration focused on
sugarcane, one of the Abra’s main agricultural products. Sugarcane is
manufactured into a wine called “basi”, vinegar, molasses called
“muscovado”, and candies. The festival also features basketball tournaments,
beauty contests, parades, and cultural shows.
II. APAYAO
- It was created by virtue of Republic Act No. 7878 providing for the conversion of the
subprovinces of Kalinga and Apayao into regular provinces to be known as the
province of Kalinga and the province of Apayao, amending Republic Act No.
4695.The province is composed of 7 municipalities and 134 barangays with 2
administrative barangays and geographically subdivided into two separate regions the
Upper and Lower Apayao. Upper Apayao is composed of the upland municipalities
of Calanasan, Conner and Kabugao. Lower Apayao is composed of the lowland
municipalities of Luna, Pudtol, Flora and Sta. Marcela. Its capital town is Kabugao.
a. Location
It is located at the northwestern part of Luzon. It is bounded on the East
and North by the Province of Cagayan, on the West by the Province of Ilocos
Norte and Abra, on the South by the Province of Kalinga.
b. Climate Type
The prevailing climate in the province falls under Corona’s Type III
classification. It is characterized by not very pronounced dry and wet season,
relatively dry from the months of November to April and wet during the rest of
the year. Torrential rains usually occur during the months of July to October.
c. Major Landforms and Water forms
Landforms: Mountains
Waterforms: Rivers
d. Chief Industries
Apayao is devoted to agricultural production, particularly food and
industrial crops scuh as palay, corn, coffee, root crops and vegetable. Fruits
produced include lanzones, citrus, bananas and pineapples, durian, santol,
rambutan, coconut and mangosteen. Rice production totaled 98,489 metric tons in
2011.
Economic activity is also based on livestock and poultry breeding such as
swine, carabao, cattle, goat and sheep. Other additional investment includes
manufacturing, food processing, furniture, crafts and housewares making.
Updated records of the DTI Provincial Office reveal that existing
industries in the province are furniture, garment craft, food processing, gifts and
house wares and agricultural support.
f. Natural Attractions
Bayugao Falls
Containing several chambers, Lussok cave showcases nature at its best. It has
a wide opening, reminiscent of a cathedral’s dome. The view of the river itself
is breathtaking. It reflects the color of the surrounding forest. Once inside, one
can catch sight of stunning stalactite and stalagmite rock formations. One
could simply wonder how such beauty formed. In addition, numerous bats
inhabit the cave. These indicate the rich biodiversity inside the cave and the
surrounding area.
Gololan Falls
Gololan falls cascades for more than 33 meters. On sunny days, it projects a small
rainbow, thanks to rock cliffs that trap the sunlight on the bottom. The falls’
waters carved a deep and wide pool.
Abulog/Apayao River
Apayao River ranks as one of the cleanest rivers in the country and one of the
largest river systems. It provides a home to a plethora of marine species. In
fact, big fishes can be seen swimming. Hardwood trees and dense forests also
grow on some parts of its banks.
Maton River
Maton River is now creating a fuss among the tourist spots in Apayao. In fact,
it’s more than a favorite getaway for the local communities. It is now a rising
come-on of Pudtol.
The river features numerous pools. These are fit for swimming and boating.
Along the lower Maton, there is a favorite pool with a small cascade. Its waters
are cool and crystal-clear. There are numerous rock formations in the area
Mt. Kilang
Mt. Kilang rises to more than 1, 656 meters above sea level (MASL). This
makes it one of the highest peaks of Northern Apayao. It can be viewed from
the boundary of both Apayao and Ilocos Norte. The best time to view its
majesty is from 4 am to 5 am. However, if you are looking for a challenge,
you can try assaulting its summit.
Girgira Falls
Mt. Solo
Mt. Solo towers to over 1,336 meters above sea level, making it the highest
peak in Apayao. From here, one can view the extensive forest cover of Pudtol
and its neighboring municipalities.
g. Historical Attractions
Spanish Church
Located at Barangay Mataguisi in Pudtol is considered to be one of the oldest
churches in the Philippines.
h. Festivals
Apayao Day
It is on this day that the Bulut family along with the people of Apayao
gathered together at the statue of EKB erected in front of the Municipal Hall
of Calanasan and celebrates his birthday which Governor Bulut said with a
grinn, “When he was alive, he does not celebrate his birthday on May 18
because he rather celebrates my birthday on May 15. But now, it is time for
me to repay what he did, that is, I no longer celebrate my birthday on time but
rather celebrate in his birth day.
Say-Am-Talip-Tadoc Festival
Considered as Apayao’s grandest, this festival marks the founding anniversary
of the province every February 14. It is Isneg’s traditional way of offering
thanksgiving to Alawagan, or the unseen supreme god through native chants,
songs and dances called talip and tad-do. There are other activities during the
festival such as indigenous games, sports, street dancing, and the Search for
Miss Dayag ti Apayao.
Conner Festival
Conner is celebrated every 3rd Week of May with cultural presentations, trade
fair, pageant and sports activities.
III. BENGUET
- The province has a total land area of 298,160.062 hectares accounting to 15.65% of
CAR land area. It is the fourth biggest province in the region. Apayao has the highest
land area occupying more than one-fifth of the region’s land area while Mountain
Province has the least which is nearly twice smaller than the land area of Apayao. Its
capital is La Trinidad.
a. Location
Benguet lies southernmost in the Cordillera Administrative Region. It is
geographically located between 160330 north latitude and 1200340 to 1200520
east longitude. It is bounded by Mountain Province on the north, Pangasinan on
the south, Ifugao and Nueva Viscaya on the east, and by La Union and Ilocos Sur
on the west. It is 256 kilometers north of Metro Manila and serves as the gateway
to Baguio City and the other CAR provinces.
b. Climate
Benguet province falls under Type I climate classification under the
Coronas System. This climatic type is characterized by two pronounced seasons,
wet from May to October and dry season during the rest of the year.
d. Chief Industries
Agriculture, mining, and tourism are the major industries in Benguet. It’s
cool climate and high latitudes has made it an ideal place for producing highland
vegetables. Benguet is often called the Salad Bowl of the Philippines. The La
Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post in the capital town of La Trinidad serves as the
hub of vegetable trading in the province, attracting farmers, merchants and traders
from the local community and the Philippines’ different provinces. Major crops
produced which include potatoes, Baguio beans, peas, strawberries, cabbage,
broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, sayote and carrots are shipped throughout the
country.
Horticulture and floriculture are practiced in the province. The province
supplies flowers to the different municipalities, including Baguio City, as well as
to Metro Manila, including other parts of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Roses
are produced, particularly in Barangay Bahong La Trinidad, earning the barangay
the title Rose Capital of the Philippines. Apisang (scientific name: Pittosporum
resiniferum), a plant endemic to the Phlippines, is grown in the municipalities of
Kapangan and Kiungan as a potential alternative source of fuel and energy,
rivaling the jatropha biofuel plant.
Mining is also a major industry in Benguet, which is one of the country’s
leading gold producers. The Benguet Corporation, the first and oldest mining
company in the Philippines, has extracted gold, copper and chromite in Itogon
since 1903.
f. Natural Attractions
Mt. Pulag
Rising to an estimated 2, 922 MASL, Mt. Pulag is the highest mountain in
Luzon and the third highest in the Philippines. Vast groves of dwarf bamboo
grasses cover its rolling summit. These shelter endangered species such as the
cloud rat.
The peak of Mt. Pulag offers one of the best views of sunsets and sunrises. A
stunning sea of cloud formations frequently appears as far as the eyes could
see. Mossy forests also abound.
Mt. Yangbew
Mt. Yangbew dominates La Trinidad valley. It is perhaps one of the most
accessible tourist spots in Benguet. While atop, you can have a full view of La
Trinidad and neighboring Baguio city. The towering peaks of Atok and
Kabayan including Mt. Pulag are also visible here. Grasses and a few shrubs
cover the summit of Mt. Yangbew, reminiscent of Mt. Pulag’s peak. Another
interesting feature of the mountain is the presence of limestone rock
formations. Just like other tourist spots in Benguet, this is a fragile ecosystem
needing protection.
Tekip Falls
This is just one of the countless waterfalls found in Bakun. From barangay
Poblacion, it takes around 30 minutes of a hike to get here. Along the way,
you can glimpse of the stunning Tres Marias falls and the majestic Mt.
Tenglawan, one of the trio-mountains of Bakun.
Tekip Falls cascades like a giant curtain of water. It measures more than 80
feet high. It has small and shallow pools with icy-cold waters. To really feel
the rejuvenating effect of Tekip falls, try positioning yourself at its base while
its cascades give you a massage.
The best time to visit Tekip falls and other cascades of Bakun is during the
rainy months of June to December. During these periods, the falls display
their full strength and beauty.
Bayokbok Falls
Bayokbok falls of Tublay is one of the emerging tourist spots in Benguet. It is
a three-layered cascade. Only the first and second falls, however, are readily
visible upon reaching the site. The first layer cascades in a sideward manner.
It carved a very deep, wide, and long pool.
During good weather conditions, Bayokbok falls casts a crystal-clear view of
its waters. To get to the third falls, one needs to climb over the first and
second. The third fall also has a deep pool, sandwiched on bare rock cliffs.
These cliffs provide a good diving or jumping platform.
The first cascade of Bayokbok Falls.
Aran Cave
Aran Cave is rapidly gaining popularity among locals residing in Baguio City
and La Trinidad. It is just more or less an hour of drive away from these urban
centres. The cave is named after a giant called Aran. Locals say that he used
to dwell in the area and was responsible for the disappearance of workers
during the construction Kennon Road.
Inside the cave, one can find at least three waterfalls cascading on pristine
pools. The waters of these are icy-cold and crystal-clear. Various stalactite
and stalagmite rock formations also abound. There are actually three caves in
the area, however, the other two are still undergoing assessment. A waterfall
can also be discovered for a separate fee. It takes more or less two hours to get
there.
Rock formations and the third falls inside Aran Cave.
Later on, you can have a chilly bath or swim in the river. Further upstream,
you can find stunning white rock formations. Oh, I used one of these to jump
over a deep pool of Tuel River.
Shamsham Falls
Shamsham falls is perhaps the highest falls in Tublay and one of the least
known tourist spots in Benguet. There are actually at least three waterfalls
composing Shamsham. However, the main waterfall is most frequented by the
locals for recreational activities. It measures more than 60 feet high and
cascades on a small and shallow pool.
Mt. Pokgong
Mt. Amanayaw
Mt. Amanayaw soars to more than 2000 MASL, making it one of the highest
peaks in Kibungan, Benguet. Only a few trees and shrubs grow on its summit,
thus, it offers a good view of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and other
landscapes. On the other hand, mossy forests cover its lower slopes. These
feed several brooks and creeks leading to the Amburayan River.
Mt. Ulap
Along with Mt. Pulag, Mt. Ulap fares as one of the most popular hiking
destinations in the Cordillera. Unlike Mt. Pulag, the trails going to Mt. Ulap’s
summit are mostly lined with pine forest stands. There are actually two major
jump-off points going to the mountain. The first one commences from
somewhere in Nueva Vizcaya.
g. Historical Attractions
Baguio Museum
Baguio Museum stands for, upholds, and embodies the cultural and
historical heritage of Baguio City. Inspired by Ifugao architecture, the
museum is made of stone and wood featuring a striking pyramid roof and
two huge concrete poles at the stair entrance that resembles a traditional
Ifugao home with an elevated floor supported by posts.
BenCab Museum
The Bencab Museum is committed to the promotion of the arts, and the
preservation, conservation and protection of the environment, as well as
the culture and traditions of the Cordilleras, as an expression of the artist’s
gratitude to the country that nurtured and inspired an artistic career that
continues to grow, mature and fascinate.
Aguinaldo’s Museum
The majestic church located on top of a hill in the heart of the city, it is
one of the more familiar icons and most visited landmarks of the city. Its
beautiful rose-colored structure is distinguished from other churches in the
Philippines by its twin spires.
h. Festivals
IV. IFUGAO
- It has a total land area of 256,636 hectares (computed based on NAMRIA 2003 Land
Cover and Cadastral survey) and the 5th largest among the 6 provinces in CAR. It
accounted for 14% of the total land area (1,829,368 hectares) in the region but less
than 1% of the total land area of the Philippines. Ifugao is politically sub-divided into
two (2) board member districts and (11) municipalities. Its capital is Lagawe.
a. Location
Ifugao is located in the Northern portion of Luzon Island at the foot of the
Cordillera Mountain Range. It is bounded by Isabela on the east, Benguet on the
west, Mountain Province on the north and Nueva Vizcaya on the south. On the
eastern side between the provinces of Ifugao and Isabela is the Magat River, on
the western side between Ifugao and Benguet is Mount Pulag, on the northern part
between Ifugao and Mountain Province is Mount Polis and on the southern side
between Ifugao and Nueva Vizcaya is the Lamut River. Ifugao is generally
located at 120 degrees 40 minutes to 121 degrees 31 minutes longitude and 16
degrees 35 minutes to 17 degrees 5 minutes latitude.
b. Climate
Based on the climate map of the Philippines published by PAG-ASA, the
climate of Ifugao falls under the 1st and 3rd climate types. Ifugao Province is
generally classified as a Type III climate under the Corona‟s system of
classification. This climate type is characterized as not having pronounced
seasons but relatively dry from January to April and wet during the period from
May to December. Type I is characterized by two pronounced seasons, dry and
wet, with maximum rain period from June to September and a dry season which
lasts from 3 to 6 months.
d. Chief Industries
Situated within the Cordillera Central mountain range, Ifugao is
characterized u rugged terrain, river valleys, and massive forests. The main
economy of the province is based in agriculture, hunting and forestry. They raise
rice, root crops, vegetables, coffee and cotton in the rice terraces or in kaingins.
Tappiyah Falls
Tappiyah falls is one of the most popular tourist spots in Ifugao. It cascades
on the face of a massive rock cliff for more than 75 meters. Because of its
sheer water volume and force, it created a wide and deep pool.
Its waters are cold and crystal-clear. They emanate from the mossy forests
of Mt. Amuyao and its adjacent ridges.
Ambuwaya Lake
Banaue Rice terraces are obviously overrated. If you are looking for a more
rustic view of terraces, then do visit those of Hungduan. They don’t make it to
the top of Ifugao’s tourist spots. But visiting them would really make a
difference in your trip.
The most popular in Hungduan are Hapao Rice Terraces, the Bacung Spider
Web Terraces, and the Dakkitan Rice Terraces. Each of these has a unique
feature to offer.
Abundant brooks and rivers from the mountains provide water to these
terraces all year round. They yield premium heirloom rice varieties. For those
who don’t know, heirloom rice is organically-grown. They are known for their
distinct taste and nutritional value as compared to commercial rice.
Tenogtog Falls
Tenogtog falls is a three-layered fall with pools in between. According to
locals, Tenogtog is an Ifugao word which means, “chopped.” The falls is
named as such because this is where hunters used to chop the meat of deer or
wild pigs. Interestingly, they share the chopped meat with passersby.
g. Historical Attractions
Kiangan Shrine
Kiangan Shrine is one of the historical tourist spots in Ifugao. It signifies the
local’s valiant resistance against the Japanese invaders. In fact, this is where
Gen. Yamashita and his troops informally surrendered, thus, ending World
War II in the Philippines.
Kiangan Branch Museum
The Kiangan Museum is an ethnic museum which serves as a showcase of
priceless Ifugao artifacts and ancient traditions. It stands on the historic PVAO
compound facing the war memorial shrine. Kiangan Museum was previously
administered by PANAMIN until it was officially turned-over to the National
Museum on May 30, 1984.
h. Festivals
Amdayoyong
This month is considered the spring period in Banaue and start of planting
season where rice seedlings are finally transplanted (hopnak) in the rice fields.
Littotong/Bisbis
This is the period when people celebrate the thanksgiving rites called "ulpi".
During this celebration, the whole family stays home to drink their homemade
wines called "baya". They butcher sacrificial animals as offering for a
bountiful harvest.
Ikghumtad Ad Mayoyao
Town fiesta adopting the cultural festival "Ikghumtad" similar to the "Gotad
of Hingyon & Kiangan".
Luya/ upeh
This summer months in Banaue, characterized by sunny and clear blue skies,
the perfect months for touring and picture taking to the later part of May. The
rice terraces change from green to yellow with the ripening of the rice plants.
Kulpi Ad Asipulo
Town Fiesta adopting the ritual term "kulpi", a family thanksgiving after
transplanting the rice seedlings.
Tungoh Ad Hungduan
Town fiesta adopting the cultural festival term "tungoh", where the
community celebrates the end of rice planting season.
Gotad Ad Hingyon
Town fiesta adopting the festival term "Gotad" which is culminating activity
of a "bimmayah" - a well-to-do.
Urpir Bannawar
Town fiesta at the same time performing the cultural ritual of the "urpih" by
the town mayor. Similar to the kulpi of Lagawe & Asipulo except that Banaue
has no "K" in their dialect.
Imbayah
A festival celebrated every after 3 years. The event title was coined after the
term "bumayah" refering to a well-to-do who celebrates his good health or
ripe old age w/ gong-beating and dancing culminating the feast.
Gotad Ad Kiangan
Same as that of Hingyon where the program includes cultural dances,
presentation or Contested ethinic songs and games.
V. KALINGA
- Created under Republic Act 7878, the province has a total land area of 3,231.30
square kilometers covering 17% of the total CAR’s land area. It is smaller than the
land area of the provinces of Abra and Apayao but larger than Mountain Province,
Benguet and Ifugao. Its capital is Tabuk.
- The name “Kalinga” is believed to be derived from the Ibanag and Gaddang dialects -
Kalinga means enemy, fighter or headhunter. In the past when tribal wars were
prevalent, the inhabitants of Cagayan and Isabela considered the Kalingas as enemies
in their headhunting attacks on the Ibanag and Gaddang territories.
a. Location
The province of Kalinga is located at the central part of the Cordillera
Administrative Region and lies at 121o17’ east longitude and 17o26’ north
latitude. It is a landlocked province bounded by the provinces of Apayao on the
north, Cagayan and Isabela on the east, Abra on the west and Mountain Province
on the south.
b. Climate Type
The province experiences an average temperature ranging from 17 to 22
o
C (63 to 72 oF) with Type 3 weather patterns. The dry season extends from
November to April, while the rest of the year is considered the rainy season, the
heaviest rains usually occurring from July to October.
d. Chief Industries
The economic activity of Kalinga is agriculture. The main products are
rice, corn, coffee and bananas.
f. Natural Attractions
Binasalan Falls
Binalasan Falls is one of the rustic tourist spots in Kalinga. Its waters emanate
from the dense mossy forests of Mt. Binuluan. It cascades for more than 30
meters on a very deep pool. Swimming in the pool can be quite dangerous due
to its strong and churning current.
Sulfur Hills
The surreal Sulfur Hills lie on the lower slopes of Mt. Binuluan. To get
here, you need to trek on hunter’s trails for hours. You will be passing
across pine and mossy forests. Expect the thrills and challenges frequently
encountered when on forested terrains. But the bizarre sight of these sulfur
hills would definitely make up the difficulty in getting here.
Buaya Caves
Surely, these could be the next big hit after Sagada. But proper
management practices need to be developed and strictly implemented.
From the road, these terraces look like circular cascades. They surround the
village of Lubo. The Tanudan river passes alongside these terraces. On a
personal note, these are among the most picturesque tourist spots in Kalinga.
Mt. Mating-oy
Mt. Mating-oy depicts the shape of a lady lying on its back. Legend says that
the mountain is the remnant of a woman who waited for her husband to return
but in vain. Dense forests cover the mountains. These feed abundant creeks
and brooks as well as cascading waterfalls. To date, Mt. Mating-oy is one of
the least explored tourist spots in Kalinga.
Saltan River
Saltan river comes from the vast mossy forests of Balbalan. During good
sunny conditions, the waters exude an emerald appearance, making it inviting
for a swim.
Tumuyoc Falls
Tumuyoc falls measures around 30 feet high and cascades to a wide and very
deep pool. Its waters are icy-cold and crystal-clear. To get here, one needs to
hike for hours from the nearest community. But then again, nature’s surprises
will greet you all along.
Laroy Falls
Matabor Falls
Leeches are a constant menace, especially during the rainy months. The trail
may be long and challenging but it affords one with fascinating views of the
forest. The main falls of Banga-banga cascades on the face of an exposed
cliff. It measures around 50 meters high.
Guinaang Village
Guinaang Village is one of the historical tourist spots in Kalinga. During the
Philippine-American War, it served as Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s retreat haven.
His stay, however, did not last long. The Americans continued to pursue him
until he was finally caught somewhere in Isabela.
g. Historical Attractions
Unoy Festival
a. Location
Mountain Province is located in the northern most part of Luzon. It is
within the Central Cordillera, and is bounded on the north by Kalinga and Abra,
east by Isabela and Ifugao, south by Ifugao and Benguet and west by Ilocos Sur.
Geographically, it lies between north latitude 16 degrees 50 minutes and
17 degrees 10 minutes, and east longitude 120 degrees 50 minutes and 121
degrees 41 minutes.
b. Climate
The Modified Corona classification shows that the province is under
climate type 3 which means - No very pronounced maximum rain period, with a
short dry season lasting only from one to three months, either during the period
from December to February or from March to May.
d. Chief Industries
The province relies mainly on agriculture for its income, while tourism
provides a significant boost to its economy. The furniture industry is also growing
venture in the province, with fixtures made from pinewood, bamboo and steel. In
addition, the bamboo and rattan basketry is currently varying due to product
development, and the age-old handicraft of backstrap weaving is expanded to the
use of loom. Woven patterns are now used to design other product lines like bags,
purses, tapestry, ethnic costumes, blankets, linen and fashion accessories.
f. Natural Attractions
Mt. Amuyao (Barlig)
Mt. Amuyao in Barlig rises to more than 2, 702-2,862 MASL, making it one
of the highest peaks in the Philippines. Thick mossy and pine forests cover the
mountain slopes, providing a haven for endemic and endangered species such
as deer, wild pigs, cloud rats, and civet cats.
Maligcong Rice Terraces (Bontoc)
Nestled high up in the mountains, Maligcong Rice Terraces showcase the
brilliant engineering skills, industry, hard work, and unity of the locals’
ancestors. The adjacent Mt Kupapey provides the best view of these terraces.
From here, the Maligcong Terraces appear like circular and winding cascades.
Paradise falls cascades like heavenly-drizzles from the heavens. You might be
wondering why it is named as such. Well, according to the tourism officer,
one feels like in paradise upon visiting the falls. Indeed, the pine-scented
breeze wafting around and the caressing mists that the falls exude make it a
perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventurers.
According to a story, Fuwaas was fixing an irrigation dike above the falls
when he accidentally fell down. Surprisingly, he managed to survive and the
falls was named in remembrance of him.
The historic and mighty Abra River is also visible from the summit. If you are
viewing from barangay Pandayan, Mt Mogao resembles the shape of a
“Sleeping Lady.”
g. Historical Attractions
h. Festivals
Lang-ay Festival
Tribal folks from Paracelis, Mountain Province clad in their colorful ethnic
regalia perform a traditional dance during the 14th Lang-ay festival celebration in
Bontoc, Mountain Province. The Lang-ay festival is a celebration of merriment,
kinship, music, dances and a bountiful harvest in Mountain Province.