4THE PHILIPPINES: AN OVERVIEW

The Philippines: officially the Republic of the Philippines, is an island nation located in
Southern Asia, with Manila at its capital city. The Philippine Archipelago comprises 7,107 islands
in the Western Pacific Ocean. The country reflects diverse indigenous Austronesian cultures
from its many islands, as well as European and American influence from Span, Latin America
and the United States.

Geographical Location
The Philippines constitutes an archipelago of 7,107 islands with a total area of approximately
300,000 square kilometers. The island of Borneo lies a few hundreds Kilometers southwest and
Taiwan directly north. The Moluccas and Sulawesi are the south, and Palau is to the east
beyond the Philippine Sea.

Administrative Divisions
The Philippines is divided into three island groups; Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These are
divided into 17 regions, 80 provinces, 131 cities, 1,497 municipalities, and 41,994 barangays.
On July 24, 2006, the State of the Nation Address of former President Arroyo announced the
proposal to create five economic super region to concentrate on the economic strengths in a
specific area.

REGIONS OF THE PHILIPPINES

 Ilocos Region Region I
 Cordillera Administrative Region CAR
 Cagayan Valley Region Region Ii
 Central Luzon Region Region III
 National Capital Region NCR
 CALABARZON Region Region IV-A
 MIMAROPA Region Region IV-B
 Bicol Region Region V
 Western Visayas Region Region VI
 Central Visayas Region Region VII
 Eastern Visayas Region Region VIII
 Zamboanga Peninsula Region Region IX
 Northern Mindanao Region Region X
 Davao Region Region XI
 SOCCSKSARGEN Region XII
 Caraga Region Region XIII
 Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. ARMM

Government: The New Philippine Constitution was ratified in early 1987, signaling the
country’s return to democracy. The President is both the chief of state and head of government.
Cabinet is appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission on Appointments.

Election: President and Vice President elected on separate tickets for six year terms.

NATURAL RESOURCES
The Philippines has abundant natural resources in areas such as agriculture, natural beauty,
and minerals. It has fertile lands, diverse flora and fauna, extensive coastlines, and rich mineral
deposit.

Endemic species include the tamaraw of Mindoro, and the tarsier of Bohol. The Philippines lacks
predators, with the exception of snakes, such as pythons, cobras, and birds or prey, such as the
National bird, known as the Philippine eagle. Other native animals include the palm civet cat,
the Mouse deer, the Visayan warty pig, and several species of bars.

Rainforests boast an array of flora, including several types of orchids, and rafflesia. The narra is
considered as the most important type of hardwood. The islands major crops include rice, corn,
sugarcane, coconut, abaca and tobacco. Rice is the most important source of food along with
corn. The coconut, mango, watermelon, and other native fruits are important contributors to
the nation’s income.
Due to the volcanic nature of the islands, mineral deposits are abundant. Its mineral resources
are nickel, cobalt, gold, silver, copper, and more. This also allows the Philippines to become a
powerhouse with regards to geothermal energy.

The Philippine territorial waters encompass as much as 1.67 million square kilometers,
producing a unique and diverse marine life, an important part of the Coral Triangle. There are
2,400 fish species. Other marine products include corals, pearls, crabs, and seaweeds. The rain
forest offer prime habitat for more than 530 species of birds, some 800 species of orchids, and
some 8,500 species of flowering plants.

RELIGION
The Philippines is one of the only two majority Roman Catholic countries in Asia. About 94% of
Filipinos are Christians, where 81% belongs to the Roman Catholic Church, 2% composed of
Protestant denominations and 11% either to the Philippines Independent Church (Aglipayan),
Iglesia ni Cristo and others. While Christianity is a major force in the culture of the Filipinos,
indigenous traditions and rituals still influence religious practices.

Approximately 5% of Filipinos are Muslims. They primarily settled in parts of Mindanao. Palawan
and Sulu archipelago, but are now found in most urban areas of the country. Most lowland
Muslim Filipinos practice normative Islam, although the practice of some Mindanao’s hill tribe.
Muslims reflect a fusion with animism. There are also small population of Buddhists, Hindus,
Sikhs, and animists, which along with other non-Christians and non-Muslims, collectively
comprise 5% of the population.

CULTURE
Filipino culture is a fusion of pre-Hispanic indigenous Autronesians civilizations of the Philippines
mixed with Hispanic and American cultures. It has been influenced by Chinese and Islamic
cultures.

The Hispanic influence in Filipino culture are largely derived from the culture of Spain and
Mexico as a result of over three centuries of Spanish colonial rule through Mexico City. These
Hispanic influences are more evident in literature, folk music, folk dance, language, food, art
and religion, such as Roman Catholic Church religious festivals. Filipinos hold major festivities
known as barrio fiestas to commemorate their patron saints. One of the most visible Hispanic
legacy is the prevalence of Spanish surnames among Filipinos. This peculiarity, unique among
the people of Asia, came as a result of a colonial decree for the systematic distribution of family
names and implementation of the Spanish naming system on the inhabitants of the Philippines.
A Spanish name and surname among the majority of Filipinos does not always denote of
Spanish ancestry. Only about 1-2% the population would quality as Hispanic by ancestry.

There are also significant amounts of Spanish influence in the country, such as names of
countless streets, towns and provinces, which are named in Spanish. Spanish architecture also
made a major imprint in the Philippines. This can be seen especially in the country’s churches,
government buildings are being preserved, like the Spanish Colonial town in Vigan City, for
protection and conservation. Kalesa is a horse-driven carriage introduced by the Spaniards and
was a major mode of transportation during the colonial times. It is still being used today.
Filipino cuisine is also heavily influenced by Mexican and Spanish Cuisine.

The Chinese influences in Filipino culture are most evident in Filipino cuisine. The prevalence of
noodles, known locally as mami or pansit, is a testament to Chinese cuisine. Other Chinese
influences include linguistic borrowings and the occasional Chinese derived surnames.

The use of the English language in the Philippines is contemporaneous and is America’s visible
legacy. The most common played sports in the Philippines are basketball and billiards. There
are also a wide influence of American Pop cultural trends, such as the love of fast-food and
movies. Many street corners boast fast-food outlets. Aside from the American commercial giants
such as Mc.Donalds, Pizza Hut, Burger King, and KFC, local fast-food chains also sprung up,
including Goldilocks, Jollibee, Greenwich Pizza and Chowking. Modern day Filipinos also listen to
contemporary American music and watch American movies. However, Original Filipino Music
(OPM) and Philippine movies are also widely appreciated.

LANGUAGE
Two official languages Filipino and English. Filipino, which is based on Tagalog, is the national
language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education and
major subjects in basic education.
Eight major dialects are spoken by the majority of the Filipinos: Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano,
Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango and Pangasinense.
Filipino is the native language which is used nationally as the language of communication
among ethnic groups. Like any living language, Filipino is in a process of development. There
are about 78 major language groups, with more than 500 dialects.

BEST OF THE ISLANDS

THE PHILIPPINES stands at the crossroads of the developed western world and the Orient. It
lies in the heart of Southeast Asia , stretching more than 1,840 Kilometers. Composed of 7,107
islands, the Philippines is readily accessible to the different capitals of the world. Its three main
islands are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Th3 South China Sea washes its western shores. Taiwan, China and Hong Kong are northern
neighbors and further north is Japan. To the west lie Southeast Asian countries such as
Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. An arm of the archipelago reaches out towards Borneo and
its feet stands the chain of Indonesias islands.

Tour Activities in the Philippines

Ecotourism
Ecotourism/ecological tourism is a form of sustainable tourism within a natural and cultural
heritage area where community participation, protection and management of natural resources,
culture and indigenous knowledge and practices, environmental education and ethics as well as
economic benefits are fostered and pursued for the enrichment of host communities and
satisfaction of visitors. Ecotourism Activities in the Philippines features eco experiences such as
trekking, mountaineering, wildlife watching, scuba diving, snorkeling, caving, kayaking/rafting
and surfing.

Wellness and Medical Tourism

the Philippines welcomes tourism from all over the world to visit the country for their
medical and leisure needs. The most common medical services being availed are cosmetics/
plastic surgery, weigh loss surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, and dentistry. We have been
growing as a tourist destination of choice for health and recreational needs because of our
world class physicians, modern technology, and our uniquely Filipino brand of caring and
compassion at great values for money at a fraction of the cost in developed countries. A new
sector in medical tourism is our spa & wellness services.

Culinary Tourism
A fusion of the modern and traditional culinary delight can be found in the Philippines.
From the roadside food stalls to the high end five star dining rooms, Filipino modern chefs has
been dishing out the local, regional and international cuisine to the delight of local and
international travelers, though Filipino cuisine have yet to hit the international scene. It would
be a delight just to join one of the numerous culinary tours being offered by its tour operators.

SOME TOURIST ANCHOR DESTINATIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES

MANILA
Manila is a microcosm of the rhythm of the islands, named after a delicate white mangrove
plants, this charming city lives as a silent witness to the country’s turbulent history. Once ruled
by the Islamic Rajah Sulayman, the city was captured one after the other by the Spaniards, the
Americans, and then the Japanese. Today, the city is the country’s capital, a fast growing
metropolis spurred by the country’s robust economy. Given its fascinating history. Manila is a
showcase of different cultures. The enterprising tourist might want to visit the ruins of
Intramuros or Corregidor, the greens of Rizal Park, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the
mystique of Chinatown, or the urban veneer of Makati and Ortigas.

CEBU
In the island of Cebu, the world of business and leisure go hand in hand. Called the “Queen City
of the South”, Cebu is the site of the new and exciting business ventures between local and
foreign capital. But amidst such commercial activity, Cebu’s numerous beach resorts and
exhilarating history beckon tourist of all races. The city is also blessed with numerous museums
and churches. As the shopping, Cebu offers a lot of souvenir ideas from export quality fashion
accessories and furniture, handcrafted guitars and handicrafts, to dried mango preserves, sugar
coated biscuits, and peanut wafers

DAVAO
Known for its elegant orchids, exotic fruits and Muslim heritage. Davao is a bustling city
teeming with cultural diversity. It is the industrial hub of Mindanao with corporate centers,
manufacturing sites, shopping centers, hotels, and casinos. Davao also features various points
of interest for the adventurous visitor. Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country and home to
the Philippine Eagle, is a close distance from Davao City. Coroland Farms, 13 Kms from the city,
is a bird and wild duck sanctuary. Samal island offers an array of beach resorts for serious
unwinding.

BAGUIO
The country’s summer capital, Baguio City, stands amidst the mountainous region of the
Cordillera. Situated 1,500 meters above the sea. Baguio is one of the few place in the country
blessed with a cool climate. At any given time, it is eight degrees cooler in Baguio than the
lowlands. Apart from the numerous sightseeing “must: Burnham Park, Club John Hay, Lourdes
Grotto, and the Mines View Park. Baguio is also a great shopping place. Delight on freshest
vegetables and strawberries. Baguio is also the jump-off point to the famous Banawe Rice
Terraces.

BORACAY
Known far and wide as an island paradise, Boracay has charmed vacationers with its powder
white sand, crystal blue waters and purposely laid-back pace. Located at the northern tip of
Panay island, Boracay is about an hour away from Manila. Sun worshippers from all over the
world visit Boracay yearly, and some have even made it their second home. It is no wonder,
that French, German, Spanish, and English can be heard spoken in the island. The culinary fare
is equally exciting, featuring a wide range from Thai and Austrian to Belgian and Filipino.
Numerous water sports facilities, including dive shops, are on hand as well as a sprinkling of
bars and discos. Most visitors, however, prefer to sit back and enjoy the sun.

PALAWAN
An island of peace and quiet, it seems time has stood still for Palawan. Situated between
Mindoro Island and North Borneo. Palawan is the country’s last frontier. It is the home of over
80 cultural minority groups. It is a sanctuary for the most exotic plant, animals and aquatic life
in the country including the Calamian deer, the Palawan bearcat and the tarsier. Palawan also
features white sand beaches, black marble caves, and breathtaking dive sites. Visit Calauit
island, Ursula island, El Nido beach, and Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park for
an unforgettable Palawan sojourn.

BOHOL
The country’s tenth largest island, Bohol is a versatile masterpiece of nature with its blend of
pristine white beaches, wonderful dive sites, virgin forest and rolling hills. Situated in Central
Visayas, Bohol is particularly popular for the Chocolate Hills. This natural wonder consists of
hundreds of dome-shaped limestone hills covered with grass which dried up and turned brown
under the sun. It is also in Bohol where the historic blood compact between the Boholano
chieftain Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legaspi took place. Other point of
interest include the jesuit-built Baclayon Church and the underground watersprings of
Hinagdanan Cave.

LAOAG/VIGAN
Time-locked Ilocos is a broad hardy country blessed with impressive wide highways and
stretches of narrow cobblestoned roads, antiquated towns dominated by heavily-buttressed
grand churches and Antillan ancestral homes, and a brave people who, by sheer industry,
harnessed a formidable terrain into a source f sustenance. A seemingly tempestuous sea
rimmed with uneven rock formations and ascetic mountains are the two scenic images that first
impress the visitor to Ilocos. Divided into Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, their capitals -Vigan and
Laoag City are anchor tourist destinations and part of the 7,000 times more islands that make
up the Philippine archipelago.

CAMPSUR
From the Bicol region, Camarines Sur is the Philippines’ newest and fast rising tourism star with
coastlines and islands that greet the traveler with coastlines and islands that greet the travelers
with gorgeous limestone formations. Secluded white sand beaches as well as a throbbing
adventure sports scene that makes the rest of Asia stand up and take notice.

CAGAYAN DE ORO
Cagayan de Oro is located at the northern coast of Mindanao, Philippines. It is the capital of
Misamis Oriental province and the regional center for northern Mindanao. Cagayan de Oro is
known as “The Gateway to Nirthern Mindanao” because of its location and good transportation
facilities. However, it is through her warm and hospitable people that the city became more
known as “The City of Golden Friendship”.

Tourism Highway
Being an archipelago of more than 7,107 islands scattered over 114,000 square kilometers is no
obstacle to travel in the Philippines. Tye country’s geographical structure and make up has, in
fact, proven to be an advantage to the traveler, particularly the adventurous, daring and
enterprising.

Traveling overland the entire length of the Philippines is now possible through the Pan
Philippine Highway. Also known as the Maharlika Highway, the road network runs from Manila
to Laoag City via Cagayan Valley in northern Luzon and from Manila to Davao in Mindanao via
Bicol in southern Luzon, and Samar and Leyte in eastern Visayas.

Twenty-six areas in Luzon and seven areas in the Bicol region, the Visayas and Mindanao have
been designated as scenic Highways, all with great amenities for the travelers.

PHILIPPINE CULTURE AND TOURISM

Objectives:
at the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
1. Accept the economic value of the tourism destinations in the different provinces and the cities of
the Philippines
2. Identify the various provinces in each region and towns, and chartered and component cities in
each province on a blank map.
3. Identify the major access routes to major domestic destinations.
4. Name and describe major attractions in each province.
5. Know the cultural differences and similarities among the major ethnic groups in the country; and
6. Improve their research and presentation skills.

PHILIPPINE TOURISM: AN OVERVIEW

The Philippine is a beautiful and archipelagic country. On top of its natural and cultural/heritage
attractions are the friendliest. Most hardworking and considered the most hospitable people in the world.
Filipinos are bilingual, making it easy for foreign tourists to communicate with locals of different
destinations.

The Philippines has several UNESCO world heritage sites. These include the cultural Baroque
Churches of the Philippines, such as the San Agustin Church in Manila. Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte, Sta
Maria Church In locos Sur, and Miag-ao in Iloilo. The Historic Town of Vigan and the Rice Terraces of the
Philippine Cordilleras are among those listed under cultural heritage. Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife
Sanctuary in Eastern Mindanao, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, and Tubbataha Reef
National Marine Park in Palawan are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites Natural category. The
Philippines is also home to the internationally acclaimed white sand beaches of Boracay, Coron, El Nido,
and Panglao.

Tourism in the Philippines has become a valuable economic, social, and cultural driver. Its
impacts have been far and wide based on arrival rate each year. Based on origin, international tourism
and domestic tourism are the two main distinct type of tourism. International tourism refers to
tourism that crosses national borders while domestic tourism is defined as travel made within one’s
country of residence.

There is no discounting the fact that with cheaper and easier ways of travel, social media, and
higher disposable income, more and more people will be traveling within and outside their countries. As
domestic tourism develops, economic and socio-cultural impacts and environmental protection need to be
addressed.

Economic Aspect
On the economic vantage point, domestic tourism contributes vastly in increasing a country’s
economic activity. In the Philippines, domestic tourism activity has become increasingly high. Domestic
tourists outnumber international tourists ten times more. Domestic tourism expenditures, which includes
expenditures of resident visitors within the country’s either as domestic trip or part of an international
trip, has grown because of tourism. In terms of employment, tourism and related industries have grown
considerably; 1 out of 10 jobs are tourism related.

Socio-cultural Aspect
the Philippine culture is a blend of the Malay – Polynesian, Hispanic, and Western cultures with
some influence from the Chinese and other Asian cultures. Having Spain colonizes us for more than 300
years and the Americans, thereafter, have made the Filipinos a melting pot of different cultures. With the
increasing number of Overseas Filipino Workers and International travel, the Filipino culture continues to
evolve.

Family has a very strong sense of family and kapwa (others) this is evident in the way we give
importance to our relationships with others. the Filipinos are known to be one of the most hospitable
people in the world wherein we think of others as part of themselves and their family.

Filipinos are also lovers of art in many forms. Music is an integral part of the Filipino culture as
evidenced by singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments. The town fiestas celebrated in different
parts of the country is a testimony of the Filipinos faith and gratefulness to patron saints where many
religious activities, street dancing, singing, and eating are part of the celebration.

Environmental Protection
One of the major threats to environmental protection is the continuous growth of tourism
industry. The implementation of laws and other policies in favor of the environment has to be strictly
enforced for tourism development to be sustainable.

The Philippines has the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to oversee
the protection of the environment in line with proposed tourism development in various areas.

THE 4 As OF TOURISM

Access – land, sea, and air access to and from the destination as well as within the destination
should be relatively fast and easy. Tourists would not want to be traveling the whole day. They prefer to
be spending time on the destination than on the bus, boat, or plane. Roads, bridges, and ports should be
developed to acceptable levels to accommodate the influx of tourists.

Attractions – the main reason tourists go to a destination is because of its attractions. The
attraction can be a cultural/heritage/historic, natural, and/or built/man-made. There should be a good
mix of these three types for good variety.

Accommodations – there should be a wide range of accommodations that vary from budget,
mid-range, and deluxe. This way, the destination can attract tourist from a wide demographic profile.
Accommodations should include the most basic needs of a comfortable bed, clean toilets, and food
services. Wi-Fi access is becoming a necessity for tourists to connect with their loved ones.

Activities – the destinations should also offer a variety of activities located closed to each other.
The activities should be connected to each other with varying degrees within a similar theme. Themes
would include adventure, health, and wellness, medical, sports, MICE (meeting, incentives, conferences,
events), etc. for example, if a destination wants to be known as an adventure destination, then activities
should range from soft, medium, and hard adventure activities. A good mix of activities will keep tourists
to stay longer and spend more.

as local tourism in the country exceeds international tourists arrivals by as much as 10 times,
destination managers cannot disregard the contribution that local tourists make. Hence, activities,
accommodations and amenities should also be designed with the local tourist in mind. In fact, many
tourist facilities such as hotels and resorts have acknowledged the fact that majority of its guests are
local tourists.

Basic Facts in the Philippines

A. Islands in the Philippines

1. Largest Island in the Philippines

Luzon Island, located in the northern region of the archipelago, is the country’s largest and most
populous island. it also has the greatest population among the three island groups. Having an
 area of 42,458 square miles. Luzon is further subdivided into four major areas – Northern Luzon,
Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, and the National Capital Region, which is a home to the country’s
capital, Manila and is the country’s center of economic, social, cultural, and financial
development.
2. Smallest Island in the Philippines
The Philippines consists of thousands of islands and there is no known smallest island using any
known technical definition and due to high tide and low tide variations.
3. Number of Islands
There are 7, 641 islands in the Philippines
4. Length of Coastline
Estimates of the total length of the coastline range from 17,500 kilometers to 36, 289 kilometers.

B. Major landforms

1. Highest Point: Mount Apo

Mount Apo is the largest and the tallest solfataric mountain on the island of Mindanao and in the
entire Philippines. the mountain has an elevation or 9,692 feet and is located between the city of
Davao and the province of Davao del Sur. Mount Apo is characterized by a tropical rainy climate
with rainfall relatively distributed throughout the year. Mount Apo is home to over 272 species of
birds of which 111 species are endemic to the mountain. Nineteen rivers drain Mount Apo’s eight
major watersheds. Six indigenous groups of people including Bagobo, Ubos, and Tagacaol live
around the regions of Mount Apo and consider the mountain a sacred place and a place for
worship rituals.
2. Oldest Province: Aklan
Originally called Minuro, Aklan is considered as the oldest province in the Philippines. records
says that the province was established during the early 12 th century by settlers originating from
Borneo. Datu Dinagandan, who established trade with neighboring islands, was the first ruler.
Kalantiaw then grabbed the throne, and his family continued to rule the province until the mid-
14th century
3. Number of Province
There are 81 Provinces as of march 31, 2018
4. Largest/smallest Province:
a. Largest Province: Palawan. Palawan is the largest in terms of land area at 17,030.76 sq. kms.
b. Smallest Province: Batanes. Batanes has a land area of 203,22 sq. kms.

C. Climate Information
the first half of the year, from January to May, is the best time to visit the country. November to
February is cool, while March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy, with the month between
July and September characterized by typhoons. Average temperature is 78 degrees farenheit average
humidity is 77%

D. Language
The Philippines has two official languages. Filipino (or Pilipino) and English. Filipino has eight
major dialects, in order of use: Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray,
Pampango, and Pangasinense. Filipino, based on Tagalog, is related to Malay and Indonesian and is part
of the Malayo-Polynesian subgroup of the Austronesian language family. Filipino is the common language
used between speakers of different native language, which are closely related but not mutually
intelligible. There are about 76 to 78 major language groups, with more than 500 dialects.

E. Major Ethnic Groups

The richness of the Philippines does not end with just its aesthetic appeal, but beyond what the
eyes can see in photos and videos, is the vibrant feel of its people. This is the differentiation of the
Philippines as a tourist destination. Its people are known to be the most hospitable in the world. Fiipinos
treat guests like family, willing to give up the seat of honor for its visitors.

Religion is an integral and inseparable aspects of Filipino culture. The Philippines is known to
celebrate the longest Christmas season. Devotion to various images of the Lord Jesus, such as Sto. Nino
and the Black Nazarene, as well as to te Blessed Virgin Mary and different patron saints, is celebrated
through festivals, most of which have religious origins. Religion is also a powerful organizing principle for
ethnic groups.

Filipinos are generally family-oriented with adult children continuing to stay in the family home. It
is not unfamiliar for families to have extended family members staying with them permanently. Extended
family members may include elderly aunts and uncles and married children with their growing families.
Nursing home are not popular in the Philippines as children take care of their ageing parents.

Filipinos find reason to celebrate all occasions. Birthdays, weddings, baptisms, funerals, and
Christmas are grand occasions to celebrate. Food becomes the centerpiece of every Filipino family
celebration. Filipino food throughout the region is characterized with flavors of being salty, sour, sweet,
and spicy from our Hispanic and Malay influence.

Each region has its unique and distinct characteristics influenced by its own history and culture. Bicolano,
Tagalog, Bicolano, Waray, Ilongo, and Mindanaoan are just a few of the ethnicities of Filipinos.
 Ilocanos are generally known for their simple lifestyle and strong value for money. Hard work
and strong educational foundation are virtues they strive to pass on to their children.
 The bayanihan spirit is alive in the tagalog speaking provinces. Neighbors help without pay in
the hope that when it is their turn to need help, their neighbors will be there to help them.
Tagalog families are closely-knit, with adult children even the married ones still live with their
parents.
 The Bicolanos are religious and conservative in nature. Songs and dances are ways of
expressing themselves. They prefer spicy food with coconut milk.
 The Warays, situated in the Eastern Visayas Region, are often stereotyped as brave warriors,
as in the popular phrase, “basta and Waray, hinde uurong sa away.” They are also known as
contented people that during the Spanish occupation in the region, they were misunderstood
and called lazy.
 Ilongos are very hospitable. They always provide for their guest comfort and ease at their own
expenses. They are also very gentle in their ways that their quarrels do not seem like ones.
Since time is not important to the Ilongos, they also take life as it comes.
 Mindanao is the only predominantly Muslim region in the country. Their customs and traditions
are different than that of Luzon and Visayas. Majority of the population of Mindanao region
believes in the Islam religion and submits themselves completely to the will of Allah. Communal
assistance is widely practiced among the Maguindanao and Maranaos. By customs and
tradition, they are expected to help their relatives by putting in money to finance such activities
as marriages, funerals, pilgrimage to Mecca, and many others.

CHAPTER III
REGION I – ILOCOS REGION

Objectives:
By the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
1. Identify the different major attractions, activities, accommodations, and cultural highlights in the
provinces within the Ilocos Region
2. Create different tour packages that carry different types of tourism activities within the region;
and
3. Assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the region in terms of the 4 As of
tourism.

INTRODUCTION
Ilocos Region offers a wide variety of tourism products-from a historical walk on Calle Crisology,
taking a dip in the popular beaches of Pagudpud, and to take a selfie at the picture-perfect Bangui
windmills.it is successfully developed an array of tourism attractions and activities, hence, having one of
the most vibrant tourism industries. The Ilocos Region includes the province of:
 Ilocos Norte
 Ilocos Sur
 La Union
 Pangasinan

Fast Facts
Capital Land area Major Industries No of No. of towns &
(in hectares) Cities municipalities
La Union San Fernando 149,770 Agriculture, 1 19
city handicraft, cottage
Ilocos Norte Laoag City 346,789 Agriculture,
manufacturing, 2 21
furniture, tourism
Ilocos Sur Vigan City 259,600 Agriculture,
cottage, furniture, 2 32
food processing
Pangasinan Lingayen 545,101 Agriculture, 4 44
handicraft

PORTS OF ACCESS
 The region’s gateway is through the Laoag International Airport which has daily flights from
Manila and some international destinations. It is accessible by land, though located at the northern most
part of the country.

By Air: currently, only Philippine Airline services offers Manila - Laoag domestic flights with a
frequency of one to two flights per day. Laoag is just 45 minutes away from Manila.

By Land: several bus companies offer regular trips from Manila to Laoag, passing through the
other provinces in the region. The average travel time is 10 – 12 hours; hence, night trips are
recommended.

Getting around: Private van car rentals are available to move around the region a swell as public
modes of transportation. One can take a bus to move from one province to the other, or a jeepney and
tricycle to get around towns.

FOOD AND DELICACIES

Ilocos Norte Ilocos Sur La Union Pangasinan
Bagnet Bagnet Halo-halo de Iloko Puto Calasiao
Empanada Empanada Chuletas Creamy deremen
Pakbet Pakbet Dinakdakan Nilatikang bibingka
Longganisa Lumpianada Jumping salad Bagoong
Pinapaitan Vigan miki Ilokano express

FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Ilocos Norte
 Pamulinawen Festival – (February 10) in honor of St. William, the celebration features floral
and street dance parade.
 Guling – guling – (a day before ash Wednesday) the residents of Paoay dress in their Ilocano
traditional costume adorned with antique jewelries, dance and sing around the town while being
given the sign of the cross using pounded rice instead of gray ash.
 Talip Festival – (May 19-20) commemorates the ancient peace pact that has brought peace
among ethnic tribes in the province of Ilocos Norte.
 Ani Festival – (March 23-30) a thanksgiving celebration for the bountiful harvest of rice in the
town of Dingras.

Ilocos Sur
 Longganisa Festival – (January 22) showcases the longganisa delicacy of Vigan; highlight of
the celebration is the street dancing competition.
 Tobacco Festival – (March 28-31) showcases the major industry of Candon City – Tobacco in
line with the founding anniversary of its cityhood.
 Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts – (1st week of May) showcases the rich history, heritage, and
cultural treasure of the city of Vigan; it has become the biggest cultural event in the region.

La Union
 International Long Board Cup – (January 25-27) an international surfing event for both
amateurs and professionals organized by the La Union Surfing Association.
 Buybuy Festival – (February 9-11) showcases the major produce of Burgos, La Union, the
buybuy or tiger grass.

Pangasinan
 Dagupan Bangus Festival – (April 16 – May 4) showcases the major product of Dagupan, the
milkfish or Bangus; features street dancing, trade fairs, fluvial parade and others.
 Binongey Festival – (April 17) showcases the traditional taste of rice cake cooked in bamboo
using direct firing.
 Mango – Bamboo Festival – (April 20-27) aimed to promote San Carlos City as a major
trading center of bamboo-based products and producer of carabao mangoes.

MAJOR CULTURAL GROUPS

This Region has three distinct groups: Ilocanos, Pangasinenses, and Igorots. Ilocanos occupy the
coastal provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and certain parts of Pangasinan. The natives of
Pangasinan are the Pangasinenses. There are also Tingguians who live in the secluded mountains of
Ilocos Sur.

The Ilocanos are from the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Abra, and Cagayan.
The people are essentially rice producers but also plant cash crops like tobacco and garlic. Due to the
limited agricultural potentials in Ilocos, Ilocanos are known to be thrifty, sel-sufficient, and enduring.
Most have also resorted to outmigration, wherein the Ilocanos can be found all over the Philippines as far
as Mindanao and overseas. For families who chose to stay in the region, most of these families have a
family member working in Manila or abroad.
 The Pangasinan live in the Peninsula just north of Zambales. There is a lust area for vegetation
and agriculture. Fishing abounds by the waters of the Lingayen Gulf. They also produce some of the best
buri mats and the productions of bolos.

MAJOR NDUSTRIES
Major industries are agriculture-based like crop production, mining, manufacturing, and cottage
industries. Its provinces are famous for agro-industrial businesses such as milkfish, cultivation and
processing, livestock raising, fish paste (bagoong) processing, among others. Income in the Ilocos
provinces also come from cultivating rice, tobacco, corn, sugarcane, and fruits, and from raising livestock
such as pigs, chicken, goats, and carabaos.

LANGUAGES/DIALECTS SPOKEN
Ilokano, Filipino, and English are predominantly spoken and understood within the region.
Pangasinense, Pangalatok, Bolinao, and Tagalog are also widely spoken in Pangasinan.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

ILOCOS NORTE

Natural Tourist Destination

 Paoay Lake national Park (Paoay). The landlocked lake shaped like a horse is located three
kilometers away from the sea in Suba near the Paoay Church. It has an area of 470 hectares and
was declared as a national Park under republic Act 5631 on sho, 1969.
 Pagudpud Beach. Along the Bangui Bay in Pagudpud, uninterrupted stretches of white sand
beaches with crystal blue waters and beautiful coral reefs. This is cause for its reputation as the
“Boracay of the North”.
 Sand Dunes of La Paz. It offers a spectacular vista of the South China Sea. It covers an area of
85 square kilometers and is declared and protected as a geological monument because of its
unique land formation. La Paz is a favorite location for local as well as international films.
 White Rock Formation (kapurpurawan Beach). After just one visit, this place will stand out
in your mind as a natural wonder. It is a massive rock that juts out of the sea. From afar, it
looks as if someone has wiped off the top layer frosting and exposed the cake beneath. Up close,
it is dazzling bright white rock that sparkles in the sun.

Historical, Cultural, and Heritage Attractions

 Sinking Bell Tower. Located almost a hundred meters away from the St. Williams
Catherdal, the tower has sunk to the ground and leans slightly to the north.
 Paoay Church. Built in 1701, said to be one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. it is
built in coral blocks and strucco-plastered bricks. The architecture is unique combination of
Gothic, Boroque and Oriental. A few meters away is the coral stone bell tower which served
as observation podt of the “katipuneros” during the Philippine Revolution. Paoay church is
included in the UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
 Cape Bojeador Lighhouse. Built in 1892, the lighthouse stands on top of a hill in Bugos,
45 kilometers north of Laoag City. It still sends out signals to ships passing by the cape
facing the northern portion of the South China Sea. It is said to be the tallest lighthouse.
 The Patapat Highway (Pagudpud). It is the access road built to connect the last towns of
Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte to Sta. Praxedes, Cagayan. It has a very nice view of the South
China Sea.
 Marcos Museum and Mausoleum. Batac is 471 kilometers north of Manila and is the
hometown and birthplace of the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos. The ancestral house of
the Marcos family in Batac was transformed into a museum, which showcases the
memorabilia of the late president.

PANGASINAN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Natural Attractions
 Hundred Islands natural Parks. Off the coast of Lucap, Alaminos City are over a hundred
islands and islets well known for their natural beauty. On many points between the islets, the
water is shallow enough for swimming, boating, and snorkeling. Facilities for camping, picnic,
snorkeling, sea kayak are available at the Quezon. These can be reached by hiring motorized and
bancas at the whaft in Lucap.
 Villacorta Cave. the cave system is 200 meters long, 20 meters high and 20 meter wide.
Accessible by means of a 200 meter foot trail in Brgy. Villacorta from a roadway seven kilometers
from the highway.
 Manleluag Spring National Park. located about seven kilometers in an uphill climb along the
highway in Malabobo, Mangatarem, the forest park declared as a National Park in 1940 is suitable
for special interest activities. Mangatarem is 178.47 kilometers away from Manila.

Historic, Cultural, and Heritage Attractions

 Cape Bolinao Lighhouse. The lighthouse was built by the American in 1903 on a 300 feet high
promontory at the western part of cape Bolinao still sends signals to vessels passing by the area.
 San Roque Multi-Purpose Dam. The largest dam in Asia, which is also the 12 th largest
embarkment dam in the world harnesses the power of the Agno River and benefits several
communities in the heart of Luzon.
 Shrine of the Nuestra Senora de Manaoag. The shrine called “apo Baket” believed to be
miraculous, is situated atop a hill. The shrine is known all over the Philippines. devotees frequent
the churh especially on Saturdays and Sundays and on her feast every Sunday of October and
18th day after Easter Sunday.