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Travel Guide: 82 Provinces of the Philippines

Kara Santos

UPDATE: In September 2022, the province of Maguindanao was split into two, so the Philippines now has 82 provinces. This travel guide was originally completed and written in 2019 before the split and the pandemic, but has been updated to reflect the new province and newer photos from more recent revisits.

The Philippines is made up of 82 provinces, spread out under three major island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanano. Currently, there are 38 provinces in Luzon, 16 in Visayas, and 28 in Mindanao. The provinces are grouped under different regions based on their geographical, cultural, and ethnological characteristics.

It’s been a personal travel goal of mine to be able to visit all these places around the country. The idea of stepping foot on all parts of the country is sort of like a video game thing for me. In the virtual world, the more places you explore, the more experience points or XP you get.

Last May 2019, I finally completed this major travel quest (when the Philippines still had 81 provinces).

Beyond just visiting the different places, I really wanted to do something active and fun there. Aside from sightseeing around the usual landmarks, I explored mostly by motorcycle or bike, went hiking, visited beaches, tried spelunking in caves, and enjoyed the natural eco-tourism attractions.

There’s a lot you can see and do in each province. But based on my experience personally traveling to all the places, here are the highlights I can share. This “walkthrough” contains basic information on what each province is known for, the top / most easily accessible tourist spots, unique eats you can hunt down, and some of the fun activities that I personally enjoyed.

LUZON

Luzon is one of the three primary island groups of the Philippines, with 38 provinces. It contains the Luzon mainland, the largest and most populous island, as well as the Batanes and Babuyan groups of islands to the north, Polillo Islands to the east, and the outlying islands of Catanduanes, Marinduque and Mindoro, among others, to the south. The Luzon mainland, located in the northern part of the archipelago, is the economic and political center of the nation, being home to the country’s capital city, Manila.

NCR: National Capital Region

Manila is the capital of the Philippines, considered the center of culture, economy, education government of the Philippines. Officially, it’s also known as the National Capital Region (NCR) and commonly known as Metro Manila. The whole area is actually made up of 16 cities. Manila is the most common gateway for international tourists traveling to the Philippines.

CAR: Cordillera Administrative Region

The only landlocked region in the country, the Cordillera Administrative Region lies on the mountains of Luzon. The region comprises six provinces: Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga and Mountain Province. Its regional center is the highly urbanized Baguio City. The region is home to the world-famous Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, some of which fall under the UNESCO World Heritage List and can be seen on the Philippine currency. Mt. Pulag, Luzon’s highest peak borders between the provinces of Benguet, Ifugao, and Nueva Vizcaya.

Abra

Compared to other destinations in the Philippines, not a lot of tourists venture to the landlocked province of Abra. There’s still that air of mystery about this province, which hides many natural wonders, cultural gems and rich culture. Expect to do a lot of hiking to visit the remote spots.

Apayao

Formerly a part of the bigger province known as Kalinga-Apayao before it was split up, Apayao makes up the northernmost chunk of the cool and mountainous Cordillera region and is the least explored province of the region. The province of Apayao is considered “Cordillera’s Last Nature Frontier.” Apayao means “land of rivers” and the province is home to various bodies of freshwater.

Benguet

Benguet is a landlocked province known as the “Salad Bowl of the Philippines” because of its production of upland vegetables. Top tourist destination Baguio City, the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” is geographically located in this province though is administered independently from the province.

Ifugao

The landlocked province of Ifugao gets its name from the term i-, which translates to “people of the hill”. It’s home to the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras (also known as the Banaue Rice Terraces) which are believed to have been hand-carved into the mountains 2,000 years ago to plant rice. Five designated sites here are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Kalinga

Kalinga’s name is derived from the Ibanag and Gaddang noun which means “enemy”, “fighter”, or “.” The province is drained mainly by the Chico River, with its headwaters emptying out into the Cagayan River, which branches out into several tributaries. In recent years, the town of Buscalan has become increasingly popular with backpackers eager to get traditional tattoos from Whang-Od, a Filipino tattoo artist often described as the “last” and oldest who is part of the Butbut people of the larger Kalinga ethnic group.

Mountain Province

Situated within the central Cordillera region mountain range in the upper highalnds of Luzon island, Mountain Province or (Mt. Province) is known for its mummy caves, which contain naturally mummified bodies, hanging coffins, and ecotourism attractions including rivers, waterfalls, mountains, and caves.

Region 1: Ilocos Region

The Ilocos Region, which occupies the northwestern section of Luzon, comprises four provinces: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan. is one of the most developed for tourists, offering a variety of natural attractions and tourist-friendly facilities that have been developed to cater to mass tourism. Notable destinations include the Historic City of Vigan and two UNESCO World Heritage churches. The region is also home to top surfing destinations in La Union and Pagudpud and the laid-back coastal towns of Pangasinan.

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte is famous for its historical and cultural landmarks, Spanish colonial buildings, Baroque churches and great Ilocano dishes. It’s known as the birthplace of the former President Ferdinand E. Marcos. Top things to do here are visit heritage sites, churches and museums, go food-tripping or try sandboarding and 4 x 4 offroad adventures at the La Paz Sand dunes.

Ilocos Sur

Ilocos Sur is home of two UNESCO World Heritage sites, including one of the best preserved colonial towns in Asia – Vigan. The architecture and planning in the town is preserved from the time of the Spanish colonization in the country during the 16th century. Stroll along the or ride a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) along the cobblestone streets of Calle Crisologo.

La Union

La Union is a vibrant coastal province known mainly for its surf scene. It’s a popular weekend beach getaway for those based in the metro. You can take surfing lessons, go hiking and cliff-jumping to scenic waterfalls, go grape-picking, enjoy the lively food scene and spectacular sunsets by the beach.

Pangasinan

Pangasinan is the biggest province of the Ilocos Region in terms of land area, with mostly coastal natural attractions that will appeal adventure-seekers. The best thing to do here is island-hopping and food-tripping.

Region 2: Cagayan Valley

Cagayan Valley, the second largest region of the Philippines in terms of land area, lies in a large valley in northeastern Luzon, between the Cordilleras and the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. The region is composed of five provinces: Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino and four cities: Cauayan, Ilagan, Santiago, and Tuguegarao. The Cagayan River, the country’s largest and second longest river, runs through the entire region. The region also includes the outlying islands of the Babuyan and Batanes, remote and beautiful islands to the north.

Batanes

Batanes is the northernmost province of the country and smallest in terms of land area, yet it offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, natural attractions and well-preserved culture. Batanes is the only province in the country that’s been declared in its entirety as a Protected Landscape and Seascape.

Cagayan

Cagayan was one of the early provinces that existed during the Spanish Colonial Period.  It lies in the northeast of Luzon Island and includes the Babuyanes Islands to the north. It’s known mainly for its cathedral-like Callao Cave on the mainland (where fossil bones and teeth from a new human species were recently found) and for hosting back-to-back seasons of the American reality game show, Survivor.

Isabela

Isabela is the second largest province of the Philippines and the largest in Luzon in terms of land area. It’s considered the “rice and corn granary of Luzon,” and remains mainly agricultural. The more accessible mainland is home to various natural eco-tourism attractions, while the premiere spots with beautiful white sand beaches and islands are located in the isolated portion in the coastal region, cut off by the Sierra Madre Mountain ranges.

Nueva Vizcaya

Nueva Vizcaya is usually considered by many local tourists as a transit town. Nicknamed the “Citrus Capital of the Philippines,” the landlocked province is bounded by three mountain ranges – the Sierra Madre, Cordillera, and Caraballo. Nueva Vizcaya is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an uncrowded destination for hiking and biking.

Quirino

Quirino is a landlocked and rugged province that has lots to offer in terms of natural attractions and eco-adventures. The best things to do here are nature-tripping and camping, caving, spelunking, trekking, rafting and outdoor sports. It’s a popular destination for Motocross Riders because of its mountainous terrain.

Region 3: Central Luzon

The Central Luzon Region is located north of Manila and contains the largest plain in the country and produces most of the country’s rice supply. It’s comprised of 7 provinces: Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales. It’s also home to Mt. Pinatubo, one of the most destructive volcanoes in the world, which is located on the tripoint boundary of Zambales, Tarlac and Pampanga. Zambales on the Western side and Aurora on the Eastern side of the province are both considered top beach and surfing destinations.

Aurora

The province of Aurora is located in the eastern part of Central Luzon region, facing the Philippine Sea. While its capital Baler has long been known as a surfing destination, the province is becoming more popular with backpackers and tourists for weekend and summer trips. Beyond Baler, areas like Dingalan and Casiguran offer scenic landscapes and raw adventures.

Bataan

Bataan is best known for its historical significance as one of the last stands of American and Filipino soldiers before they were overwhelmed by the Japanese forces during World War II. The rising eco-tourism destination is home to beaches, mountains, turtle sanctuaries, bird-watching sites, springs and waterfalls. 

Bulacan

Bulacan is known mainly for its heritage sites, historic caves, and fireworks industry. This province is often overlooked by tourists because of its proximity to Manila, but it has its share of secret spots for adventure-seekers including mountainous areas and trails for hiking and biking.

Nueva Ecija

Nueva Ecija is best known as the “Rice Granary of the Philippines.” About four hours from Metro Manila, this landlocked destination is usually overlooked by travelers as well. While it may not have any beaches, it does have mountains and other landscapes like rivers and waterfalls worth exploring. Enjoy the laid-back provincial life in farms and riverside resorts.

Pampanga

Pampanga is the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines” and offers one of the best destinations in the country for foodies. Visit farms where you can ride carabao carts and enjoy authentic Kapampangan cuisine or go off-roading around the lahar trails of Mt. Pinatubo for an extreme adventure.

Tarlac

Tarlac is often considered as a stopover destination for most travelers headed north. But it has a lot of tourism potential, including historical sites, museums, adventure parks, religious destinations, hiking and biking trails, waterfalls, and local restaurants worth trying. 

Zambales

Zambales is the second largest among the seven provinces of Central Luzon after Nueva Ecija. It’s known for its sweet mangoes, which are abundant from January to April. Zambales has become a go-to destination for weekend travelers since it’s just a few hours’ away from Metro Manila and offers a variety of natural attractions from beaches to hiking trails. The Freeport Zone contains many casinos, parks, malls, beach-side huts, cottages, resorts, historical sites and a bay popular for yachting.

Region 4A: CALABARZON

Formally known as Southern Tagalog Mainland, CALABARZON is an acronym for its five provinces: Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon. It’s situated just south of the metro, making it a popular destination for weekends and day trips. The whole region is home to various historical sites, farms, lakes, waterfalls and coconut plantations while the coastal province of Batangas is home to numerous beaches and dive spots.

Batangas

Batangas is one of the most popular tourist destinations near Metro Manila, known mainly for its beaches and dive sites. It contains the second largest international seaport in the country and is home to the well-known Taal Volcano.  You can spend the day swimming, diving and enjoying other outdoor activities. It’s best to stay for the weekend at beach resorts to maximize your visit.

Cavite

Cavite is one of the most industrialized and fastest-growing provinces in the Philippines. The province played an important role in the country’s colonial past and eventual fight for independence, earning the title “Historical Capital of the Philippines.” Cavite is best known for its historical attractions and sites. For locals, Tagaytay is one of the most popular choices for a quick weekend or day trips from Manila. You can enjoy the cooler climate while dining on fresh farm-to-table cuisine in many of the restaurants located along the ridge overlooking Taal Lake.

Laguna

For those who want to experience simple country living, Laguna is a good day trip getaway from Manila. Laguna hugs the southern shores of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country. You can go rafting or have picnics by lakes, hike to waterfalls, spend the day at farms, stay in cozy bed & breakfasts, dine in artistic and heritage restaurants or visit artist’s studios. Laguna is also notable for being the birthplace of Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero. 

Quezon

Quezon is a province southeast of Metro Manila, known for its mountains and vast coconut plantations. Mount Banahaw, one of the most sacred sites during pre-colonial times, is a major tourism draw and well-known pilgrimage site. Part of Quezon province connects the Bicol Peninsula to the main part of Luzon. Quezon also includes Polillo Islands in the Philippine Sea, which has remote, but beautiful beaches.

Rizal

The province of Rizal, named after national hero Jose Rizal, also lies on the northern shores of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country. This mountainous province is perched on the western slopes of the southern portion of the Sierra Madre mountain range.

Region 4B: MIMAROPA / Southwestern Tagalog

The Southwestern Tagalog Region is one of the two regions in the country sharing no land border with another region, as they are mostly islands provinces. The name is an acronym for its provinces: Mindoro (divided into Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro), Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan. The region is home to some of the country’s best beaches. Palawan consistently ranks in lists of the world’s best island, with beautiful beaches and lagoons in the top tourist destinations of Coron and El Nido. It’s also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Puerto Princesa Underground River and Tubbataha Reef Marine Park.

Marinduque

Marinduque is an island province known primarily for celebrating one of the oldest religious festivals of the country, the Moriones Festival during Holy Week. The heart-shaped island is considered the geographical center of the Philippine archipelago.

Occidental Mindoro

Occidental Mindoro occupies the western half of the island of Mindoro. The province is home to Apo Reef Natural Park, the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef system, and the largest in the country. Apo Reef is one of the best known and most popular dive sites in the country.

Oriental Mindoro

Oriental Mindoro is one of the country’s emerging eco-tourism destinations. It’s here where you can find the center of marine fish biodiversity and the home of the most diverse marine ecosystem in the world. Puerto Galera, located at the north-westernmost part of the province, is one of the most popular tourist destinations for locals, accessible by ferry rides from Luzon via the Batangas ports.

Palawan

Palawan is an archipelagic province and one of the most biodiverse (terrestrial and marine) islands in the Philippines. It has been ranked as one of the most beautiful islands in the world and best island destinations in East and Southeast Asia by international publications because of its beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes. Palawan is the largest province in the country in terms of the total area of jurisdiction. There’s currently a move to split it up into three separate provinces.

Romblon

Romblon is an archipelagic province made up of several islands including Tablas (the largest), Romblon Island and Sibuyan Island. It’s known for its local marble industry and has been dubbed the “Marble Capital of the Philippines.” The province is a rising ecotourism destination, with several white-sand beaches, diving spots, mountains and rainforests.

Region 5: Bicol Region

The Bicol Region comprises six provinces, four on the Bicol Peninsula mainland (the southeastern end of Luzon) – Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur and Sorsogon – and the offshore island provinces of Catanduanes and Masbate. Bicol is known for its volcanoes and colonial churches on the mainland, while the coastal provinces offer stunning island-hopping destinations, surf spots, whale shark encounters and rodeos.

Albay

Albay is best known for being the home of Mayon Volcano, a perfectly symmetrical active stratovolcano visible throughout most cities of the province. Albay has various natural wonders, including caves, waterfalls, beaches, and is known for its delectable cuisine and local industries.

Camarines Norte

Camarines Norte occupies the northwestern coast of the Bicol Peninsula in the southeastern section of Luzon. It’s known for its surfing scene, beaches, and agricultural products including a pineapple variety that is extensively cultivated in the area.

Camarines Sur

Camarines Sur is the largest among the six provinces in the Bicol Region. On the eastern portion of the province, you can find the Caramoan Peninsula and islands made popular worldwide by the reality show Survivor. Within the province lies Lake Buhi, where the smallest commercially harvested fish, the Sinarapan (Mistichthys luzonensis), can be found. It’s also known for its old churches and Mt. Isarog.

Catanduanes

Catanduanes is an island province, traditionally known for being frequently hit by typhoons. It’s a top surfing destination and rising eco-tourism destination, with many stunning beaches and islands, lagoons, caves and waterfalls that will appeal to adventure-seekers.

Masbate

The province of Masbate is one of the oldest settlements in the country, with rolling, hilly and mountainous terrain and rugged topography. It consists of three major islands: Masbate Island, Ticao and Burias. Masbate City, the capital of the province, is known as “The Rodeo Capital of the Philippines.”

Sorsogon

Sorsogon is the southernmost province in Luzon with striking volcanic topography and a few little-known beaches, lakes, hot springs and waterfalls. Located at the tip of the Bicol Peninsula facing the island of Samar to the southeast, Sorsogon is the gateway of Luzon to the Visayas and Mindanao through its Roll-on/Roll-off ferry terminal facilities.

VISAYAS

Located in the central part of the archipelago, Visayas consists of 16 provinces made up of several islands, primarily surrounding the Visayan Sea. What I like most about destinations in the Visayas are its beautiful natural attractions, historical sites, and distinctive cuisine, particularly fresh seafood.

Visayas offers an amazing destination for beach-lovers, adventure-seekers and foodies. Some provinces in the Visayas are well known for their rich culinary history and dishes which have been greatly influenced by Chinese and Spanish cuisine. Visayas is further divided into three administrative regions, namely: Western Visayas, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas.

Region 6: Western Visayas

Western Visayas consists of the major island of Panay and the smaller Guimaras as well as several outlying islands. It also includes the western half of the larger island of Negros. 

Aklan

Aklan is most famous for being the home of Boracay, a resort island known for its white sandy beaches considered one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines.

Antique

Antique is a laid-back province on Panay Island that has lots to offer those looking for raw and rugged adventures. Its tagline is “where the mountain meets the sea” and you can find riverside jungle hot tubs, beautiful uncrowded beaches, rice terraces hidden in remote mountain villages, multi-level waterfalls, clear rivers and springs, mountain highlands and stunning karst cliffs and more here.

Capiz

Capiz is a rising eco-tourism province that has a lot to offer for different types of travelers. History buffs can visit sites of historic and religious interest, nature-trippers can venture out and explore the off-the-beaten natural tourist spots like islands and waterfalls, while culture buffs can enjoy the province’s rich handicrafts. Its capital Roxas City is known as the “seafood capital of the country” and a great place for foodies.

Guimaras

Guimaras is one of the smallest island provinces in the country, reachable by a short boat ride from Iloilo City. It’s known as the “Mango Capital of the Country” and is home to one of the sweetest varieties of mango.

Iloilo

Iloilo occupies a major southeast portion of the Visayan Island of Panay. As a leading province during the Spanish Colonial Era, the province is widely known for its beautiful old world architecture similar to that of Latin American Countries. It’s home to the UNESCO World Heritage Miag-ao Church.

Negros Occidental

Negros Occidental occupies the northwestern half of the large island of Negros. It’s known as the “Sugarbowl of the Philippines” because of its vast sugarcane plantations. The capital Bacolod City, dubbed the “City of Smiles” is famous for holding the vibrant Masskara Festival and its great food scene.

Region 7: Central Visayas

The Central Visayas is a major tourist hub in the Philippines consisting of two major island provinces of Cebu and Bohol (among the country’s top tourist destinations) as well as the smaller island of Siquijor and several outlying islands. It also includes the eastern half of the larger island of Negros.

Bohol

Bohol is a major tourist destination in the country, known mainly for the unique geological formation of Chocolate Hills, beaches and dive resorts. The Philippine tarsier, among the world’s smallest primates, is indigenous to the island.

Cebu

Cebu is one of the most developed provinces in the Philippines for tourism and serves as the main center of commerce, trade, education and industry in the Visayas. Its capital Cebu City is the oldest city and first capital of the Philippines, which is politically independent from the provincial government. It’s known mainly for its historic sites in the city and eco-tourism attractions in the north and south of the island.

Negros Oriental

Negros Oriental occupies the southeastern half of the large island of Negros, with a chain of rugged mountains separating it from Negros Occidental. Its capital Dumaguete is known as a university city, with several notable educational institutions. Dumaguete has the distinction of being one of the best places to retire in the country. The province is where you can find Apo Island, a popular dive site for both local and foreign tourists.

Siquijor

The island province of Siquijor is the third smallest province of the Philippines. It’s commonly associated with mysticism, folkloric and faith healing traditions. During the Spanish colonial period of the Philippines, the Spaniards called the island Isla del Fuego or Island of Fire.

Region 8: Eastern Visayas

The Eastern Visayas, which faces the Philippine Sea to the east, offers raw and rugged eco-tourism adventures. The region is known for its famous landmark, the San Juanico Bridge, dubbed as the “Most Beautifully Designed and Longest Bridge in the Philippines” as well as large cave systems in Samar.

Biliran

Biliran is one of the country’s smallest and newest island provinces. Formerly a sub-province of Leyte, Biliran lies less than a kilometer north of the island of Leyte and is connected with a bridge-causeway fixed link. Biliran is home to beautiful islets with pristine beaches and sandbars. Inland, there are natural attractions like waterfalls and mountains to hike.

Eastern Samar

Eastern Samar occupies the eastern portion of the large island of Samar. Because of its location facing the Philippine Sea to the east, part of the vast Pacific Ocean, and the Leyte Gulf to the south, it frequently suffers from powerful typhoons. Eastern Samar has a significant history of the country’s rich colonial history through the island of Homonhon, where Ferdinand Magellan first set foot on Philippine soil in 1521 on his way to conquer the Philippines for the western world.

Leyte

Leyte (also known as Northern Leyte) occupies the northern three-quarters of Leyte Island, the seventh largest island in the Philippines by land area. It’s most famous for its role in the reconquest of the Philippines in World War II. The convergence of naval forces resulted in the four-day Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval battle in history. Leyte is especially prone to typhoons because of its location facing the Pacific Ocean. In 2013, the province was devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda, internationally known as Haiyan.

Northern Samar

Northern Samar lies on the northern portion of the large island of Samar. Still raw and rugged, it has several tourism potentials that remain undiscovered by tourists. Some of these include old churches, waterfalls, rivers, caves, virgin forests, and beaches.

Samar

Samar province (formerly named Western Samar) is located on Samar Island. It is connected to the island of Leyte via the San Juanico Bridge. Samar is known as the Caving Capital of the Philippines.

Southern Leyte

Southern Leyte forms an important part of the inter-island transportation system of the country, with ferries transporting people and goods between Liloan and Surigao del Norte in Mindanao. The province is well known for its quality abaca products.

MINDANAO

The Mindanao island group is made up of 27 provinces in the Mindanao mainland (the second-largest island in the Philippines) and smaller islands surrounding it. It’s divided into six administrative regions: the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, the Caraga region, the Davao region, Soccsksargen, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Mindanao is the most culturally diverse island in the country, home to many different tribes and ethnic groups.  It’s where I’ve experienced some of the most amazing adventures in the country and felt genuine hospitality from locals.

Region 9: Zamboanga Peninsula

Zamboanga Peninsula consists of three provinces (Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Sur) and two cities (Zamboanga City and Isabela City in Basilan). Zamboanga Peninsula noted for its vibrant melting pot of cultures, Hispanic-inspired cuisine and stunning attractions, including a world-famous pink sand beach.

Zamboanga del Norte

Zamboanga del Norte is the largest province of the Zamboanga Peninsula region by land area. It comprises 25 towns and 2 cities including Dipolog City (known as the “Gateway to Western Mindanao”) and Dapitan City (the “Shrine City in the Philippines). Dapitan is historically significant as the place where national hero Jose Rizal was exiled by the Spaniards for his revolutionary activities.

Zamboanga del Sur

Zamboanga del Sur occupies the southern section of the Zamboanga peninsula in Western Mindanao. For tourists, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of its capital Pagadian, are the steep inclined tricycles that have been designed to adapt to the city’s hilly terrain. Originally a stop-over for traders who plied the road between the old Spanish fort-town of Zamboanga on the southwestern tip of the Zamboanga peninsula and other bigger towns to the north, this province is also home to the longest river in the region.

Zamboanga Sibugay

Zamboanga Sibugay is the third youngest province in the country, lying in between the road traversing Zamboanga City to Zamboanga del Sur. Though tourist sites are not yet that developed, Zamboanga Sibugay has a lot of potential in terms of natural attractions including mountains, waterfalls, caves, hot springs, white sand beaches, as well as bird, fish and sea snake sanctuaries.

Region 10: Northern Mindanao

Northern Mindanao occupies the north-central part of Mindanao island. It comprises five provinces: Bukidnon, the island province of Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental and two cities classified as highly urbanized, Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, which are administered independently from any province.

Bukidnon

Bukidnon occupies a wide plateau in the north central part of the island of Mindanao. It’s considered to be the food basket of the region, being the major producer of rice and corn, and is known for its highland areas and vast plantations of pineapples, bananas and sugarcane. 

Camiguin

Dubbed “The Island Born of Fire,” Camiguin is an island province with volcanic origins. It’s currently the second smallest province in the country after Batanes. But despite its compact size, this lovely island has a lot of natural sites to offer from sea to summit and all around the island.

Lanao del Norte

Lanao del Norte is a rugged province that ranges from the coastal shorelines in the north to the high plateaus and mountains in the south. While it’s governed independently from the province, the highly urbanized city of Iligan, known as the “City of Majestic Waterfalls” is geographically situated here.

Misamis Occidental

Misamis Occidental is located near the narrow strip of land linking Northwestern Mindanao, to the North-central part of the island.  The province is named after the early settlement of Spaniards at the entrance to the Panguil Bay.

Misamis Oriental

Misamis Oriental is a coastal province in Northern Mindanao. Its capital and provincial center is the city of Cagayan de Oro, which is famous for its white water rafting and kayaking adventures, one of the tourism activities being promoted along the Cagayan de Oro River.

Region 11: Davao Region

Davao Region is situated at the southeastern portion of Mindanao, comprising five provinces; Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Davao Occidental, the newest province of the Philippines. Its regional center is Davao City, nicknamed the “Durian Capital of the Philippines.” Davao region is home to Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines and a forest-like conservation center for endangered Philippine eagles.

Davao de Oro

Davao de Oro (formerly known as Compostela Valley or ComVal until it was renamed in December 2019) is the fourth newest province of the Philippines. It’s known for possessing one of the largest gold deposits in the country. In terms of tourism, Davao de Oro is still raw and rugged, with beautiful landscapes of rolling hills and mountains with peaks ideal for trekking.

Davao del Norte

Davao del Norte is known as “the banana capital of the Philippines.” This province includes Samal Island, a small tourist-friendly island just 2 km from Davao city to the south in the Davao Gulf, which is known for its beach resort and dive spots.

Davao del Sur

Davao del Sur occupies the southwestern section of the Davao Region in Mindanao. Its capital and largest city is Digos. Davao City, which serves as the main trade, commerce, and industry hub of Mindanao, and the regional center of Davao Region is geographically part of the province, though is governed independently from it.

Davao Occidental

Davao Occidental is the 81st and newest province of the Philippines. Tourist spots are not yet that well-known and developed here and it has yet to craft its distinct identity. Potential tourist destinations are mostly concentrated at the province’s coastal beaches and the remote Sarangani and Balut islands in the south.

Davao Oriental

Davao Oriental is the easternmost province of the country, facing the Philippine Sea and part of the Pacific Ocean. Famous for its white sand beaches and waterfalls, the province is also home to Mount Hamiguitan Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Region 12: SOCCSKARGEN

SOCCSKSARGEN, located in south-central Mindanao, is an acronym that stands for the region’s four provinces and 1 city: South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City. Hidden gems and beautiful culture, including Lake Sebu, Lake Holon and Mt. Matutum as prime tourist destinations. General Santos City is well known for its tuna industry.

Cotabato

Cotabato (colloquially known as North Cotabato) is a landlocked province politically located in the Mindanao region of Soccskargen, though some of its barangays are under the jurisdiction of the nearby Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. Cotabato derives its name from the Maguindanao word kuta wato, meaning “stone fort.”

Sarangani

Sarangani is a province that lies at the southernmost tip of Mindanao island. Geographically, the province is divided into two sections, separated by the Sarangani Bay and General Santos City. Known for extreme activities like whitewater tubing and paragliding. Glan, the summer capital, is where you can find Gumasa Beach, a six-kilometer powdery white sand beach stretches the length of a crescent-shaped cove.

South Cotabato

South Cotabato is often associated with the T’nalak, the native textile woven by the local T’boli tribal women from abaca strips. The fabric has come to symbolize the blending of culture, strength, and unity of the various ethnic groups living in the province. It’s been dubbed as the “Land of the Dreamweavers.”

Sultan Kudarat

The province of Sultan Kudarat is named after the great Muslim ruler and national hero, Sultan Mohammad Dipatuan Kudarat, who reigned in the Sultanate of Maguindanao from 1625 to 1671. This largely unexplored province is home to many beaches, hot springs, waterfalls, and a bird sanctuary.

Region 13: Caraga Region

CARAGA Region occupies the northeastern section of the island of Mindanao. The region comprises five provinces: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands. The regional administrative center is Butuan, though the most popular tourist-friendly destination for local and international travelers is the island of Siargao, well-known for its surf and food scene.

Agusan del Norte

Agusan del Norte is still largely an agricultural province, with major crops of rice, corn, coconut, abaca and bananas. The port city of Butuan (the regional center) is best known for the balangays (ancient large sailing vessels) which were unearthed there. Agusan River, the third longest river in the country, used to serve as a highway for Spanish colonizers in gaining access to inner northeastern Mindanao.

Agusan del Sur

Agusan del Sur is home to Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most ecologically significant wetlands in the Philippines. This marsh situated in the heart of Mindanao’s Agusan Basin, contains nearly 15% of the nation’s freshwater resources in the form of swamp forests. Lolong, one of the world’s largest crocodiles ever caught, was captured from a creek here.

Dinagat Islands

The Dinagat Islands are a group of islands mainly known for its mining industry and for being one of the archipelago’s holiest sites in the Pre-Christian native religion and base of the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association. It is the second newest province and one of the smallest island provinces in the country.

Surigao del Norte

Surigao del Norte serves as an important transportation hub between Visayas and Mindanao. Numerous ferries cross the Surigao Strait to and from the island of Leyte in the Visayas carrying vehicles and passengers. Aside from the mainland, the province comprises two major islands – Siargao and Bucas Grande in the Philippine Sea.

Surigao del Sur

Surigao del Sur is situated at the eastern coast of Mindanao and faces the Philippine Sea to the east. Surigao del Sur is one of the suppliers of rice, bananas and other tropical fruits. The Mindanao Deep, one of the deepest trenches in the world, is situated a few kilometers east of the coastline.

BARMM: Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

BARMM is an autonomous region within the southern Philippines. Formerly known as ARMM, it is the only Muslim-majority region in the Philippines. It is composed of 5 provinces: Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. Its regional center is Cotabato City, which is home to the largest mosque in the Philippines, the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkia Masjid. The whole region is very rich in culture, architecture, raw natural attractions and has very distinctive cuisine, with Spanish and Malay influences.

Basilan

The province of Basilan is an island province of the Philippines in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It’s the largest island and northernmost of the major islands of the Sulu Archipelago. It lies just off the southern coast of the geographic Zamboanga Peninsula.

Lanao del Sur

Lanao del Sur is a province situated at the basin of Lake Lanao, the largest in Mindanao. The landscape is dominated by rolling hills and valleys, placid lakes and rivers. The province is known for its traditional houses built by the Maranao people of Lanao and rich weaving culture. Its capital city, Marawi suffered extensive damages during the 2017 Battle of Marawi. Much of the province is still in the recovery phase.

Maguindanao del Norte

Maguindanao del Norte was was formed when the province of Maguindanao, situated in the central section of Mindanao, was split into two provinces following a plebiscite on September 17, 2022. While geographically part of the province, the largest city, Cotabato City (not to be confused with the province) is administratively independent from the province.

Maguindao del Sur

Maguindanao del Sur was formed when the province of Maguindanao was split into two provinces following a plebiscite on September 17, 2022. Similar to Maguindanao del Norte, the native Maguindanaon culture revolves around Kulintang music, a specific type of gong music, found among both Muslim and non-Muslim groups of the Southern Philippines.

Sulu

Sulu is a volcanic island located along the southern border of the Sulu Sea and the northern boundary of the Celebes Sea. Its capital Jolo was the center of the government of the Sulu Sultanate.

Tawi-Tawi

Tawi-Tawi is the southernmost province of the Philippines. It lies at the southwestern tip of the country and shares sea borders with the Malaysian State of Sabah and the Indonesian East Kalimantan province. It covers some islands in the Sulu Sea to the northwest, including Turtle Islands, just 20 km from Sabah.

MISSION COMPLETE

Looking back on this journey around the Philippines, I’m amazed at just how diverse the landscape and the culture of the country is. I always get asked which place is my favorite or which is in my Top 5, but I really think it’s unfair to compare one place to the other. Each destination has its own unique charm and something distinct to offer. It’s up to travelers to find out for themselves.

Beyond the postcard-worthy landscapes and souvenir “proof” shots I’ve taken, I realized that a lot of my most memorable highlights while traveling had to do with the joy of discovery, setting foot in an unknown place, the crazy misadventures and mistakes, good company, and just those small, random moments of magic when you least expect. I enjoyed the destinations the most where I had a chance to go around on two wheels, either by motorcycle or bicycle, and I can’t wait to revisit each destination to spend more time in each one.

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