Region 4A
Region 4A
Region 4A, also known as Calabarzon, is a diverse and vibrant region located in the southern part of Luzon,
Philippines. It is composed of five provinces: Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon. Calabarzon is known
for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and thriving industries. From the beautiful beaches of Batangas to the
lush mountains of Laguna, this region offers a mix of urban development and rural charm. With bustling cities,
agricultural areas, and tourist destinations, Calabarzon is a dynamic region that showcases the beauty and culture of
the Philippines.
CAVITE
“A Place with glorious Past”
FAST FACTS
Geography and Cavite is situated on the southern shores of Manila Bay and southwest of Manila.
Location
Capital The provincial capital of Cavite is the City of Imus.
Size Cavite occupies a land area of approximately 1,427.06 square kilometers (550.99
square miles), making it the second-smallest province in Calabarzon.
Population Cavite has a population of approximately 4,344,829.
Historical Known as the birthplace of independence (Decleration of Independence from Spain
Significance on June 12, 1898 in Kawit, Cavite)
PORT OF ACCESS
The mode of transportation and port of access primarily revolves around land-based options. The main
transport mode in the province is road-based, with various road classifications including national, provincial,
city/municipal, and barangay roads.
Natural Attraction:
TAGAYTAY- Tagaytay, known for its cool climate and stunning views, features Taal Volcano and
Lake, offering picturesque views and boat rides. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas at People’s Park
in the Sky and thrilling rides at Sky Ranch. Activities include dining with lake views and horseback
riding.
MT. PICO DE LORO- Mt. Pico de Loro, or Parrot's Beak, is a popular hiking destination on the
border of Cavite and Batangas with challenging trails leading to a distinctive rock formation.
Activities include trekking, rock climbing, and camping, offering stunning views of the surrounding
landscapes. It's a favorite spot for nature observation and photography.
BALITE FALLS- Balite Falls in Amadeo, Cavite, features two cascading waterfalls flowing into a
natural pool, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a serene
environment for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy swimming, exploring nearby trails, and photography.
Aguinaldo Shrine- Situated in Kawit, Cavite, the Aguinaldo Shrine is where Philippine independence
was proclaimed on June 12, 1898. It was the residence of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first
President of the Philippines.
Corregidor island- Known for its role in World War II. It served as a strategic fortress and witnessed
significant battles. Today, visitors can explore its ruins, tunnels, and military artifacts, gaining
insights into its wartime history.
Built Attraction:
Museo de la sale
Eagle Ridge Golf and Country Club
Tagaytay picnic grove
The Gingerbread House
ACCOMMODATION
Standard Room - Perfect for solo travelers or couples, with rates starting at PHP 1300 per night.
Family Room - Suitable for small families, with rates from PHP 1500 per night
Barkada Room - Designed for groups of friends, available from PHP 1500 per night.
Standard Room: Typically, the rate for a Standard Room is around PHP 1,800 per night.
Family Room: The Family Room, designed to accommodate small families, is generally priced
around PHP 2,500 per night.
Barkada Room: This room is suitable for groups of friends and is available at approximately PHP
2,500 per night.
Kalayaan Festival- This commemorates the heroism of the Caviteños, has the most significant social
and cultural importance
Mardicas Festival- celebrated in Ternate, Cavite in honor of Sto. Niño. The street dancers in colorful
costume depicting a war dance of the pirates highlighted the event.
Karakol Dance- a dance ritual performed by devotees as they join a pilgrimage and is carried out
during fiestas. The pilgrims dance their way to the church to the tune of a lively marching band,
following a waltz rhythm. The dance movement is performed collectively to express gratitude to the
patron saint.
Sanghiyang / Sayaw sa Apoy- A pre-colonial ritual celebrated by firewalkers of Indang and Alfonso.
It is a fusion of the elements of folk religion, magic, and Christian faith. It is done to give thanks to
Bathala for the blessings given to the people.
Traditional crafts:
Pancit posit-A distinctive noodle dish cooked with squid ink, giving it a unique black color.
Bacalao- A traditional dish made from dried codfish, commonly served during Holy Week.
Puchon- Cavite’s “puchon” (pugon-cooked lechon) is a flavorful and succulent dish. Puchon is a
roasted pig dish that is often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Calandracas -Authentic calandracas use bones from pork, beef, and ham in addition to chicken,
which contributes to the broth’s thickness and flavor.
Bibingkoy- is a popular delicacy made from glutinous rice dumplings filled with sweetened boiled
mung beans, and it is only found in the province of Cavite.
Tamales Made- from rice flour, peanuts, and various fillings wrapped in banana leaves, a staple in
Cavite's local cuisine.
PAHIMIS FESTIVAL
The annual Pahimis Coffee Festival aims to promote Cavite coffee for domestic and worldwide
consumption. The festival will try to revive farmers' interest in coffee farming, enhance coffee yields, and
attain a competitive coffee price in the world market. The success of the very first Pahimis did not end there.
KALAYAAN FESTIVAL
It is a two-week-long, province-wide event that takes place annually from May 28 to June 12. As the name
implies, the festival's series of events are held to celebrate the Independence Day season.
LAGUNA
FAST FACTS
Geography and It is situated in the Calabarzon region, lies in the heart of Luzon. It borders the
Location: southern edge of Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines.
Capital The provincial capital of Laguna is the Santa Cruz.
Size Laguna has a land area of approximately 1,917.85 square kilometers (740.49
square miles).
Population Laguna has a population of approximately 3,382,193.
Historical Known for being the birthplace of Jose Rizal
Significance
PORT OF ACCESS
Natural attractions:
Pagsanjan Falls- Located in Cavinti, Laguna, and this stunning waterfall is famous for its boat ride
experience through the gorge and cascading waters.
Mt. MAKILING- A dormant volcano and popular hiking destination known for its diverse flora and
fauna, situated in Los Baños.
HIDDEN VALLEY SPRING- A natural resort in Alaminos, Laguna, featuring hot springs, lush
gardens, and pristine pools surrounded by tropical rainforests.
Pila Historic Town Center- Declared a National Historical Landmark, Pila showcases well-
preserved Spanish-era houses and the San Antonio de Padua Parish Church, dating back to 1578.
Rizal Shrine, Calamba- The ancestral home of Philippine national hero Jose Rizal, now a museum
displaying his memorabilia, personal belongings, and significant artifacts.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery- Located in Nagcarlan, this historical cemetery features an
underground crypt used during the Spanish colonial period for burial rites.
BUILT ATTRACTIONS
Splash Island- Splash Island in Biñan City, Laguna is a popular water park known for its thrilling
slides and wave pools, perfect for cooling off and having fun during hot weather.
ENCHANTED KINGDOM- A popular theme park in Santa Rosa City, Laguna, offering thrilling
rides, entertainment shows, and family-friendly attractions.
PINYA FESTIVAL-Every 15th of May, the municipality of Calauan, Laguna celebrates the Pinya
Festival. The Calauan’s patron saint is St. Isidore Laborer, the patron of farmers. Pinya Festival
started in the year of 1999. Calauan is regarded to be the number one town in the CALABARZON
area for producing the sweetest pineapples. The festival’s goal is to promote the pineapple and other
agricultural products of Calauan. The Trade Fair Show showcases regional goods to which the
majority are pineapple related like different delicacies and pinyin fabric-textile that is made from
pineapple leaves.
ITIK FESTIVAL- The “Duck Raising Center of the Philippines”, Victoria, became a traders’
destination for balut. The Itik Festival is held annually every second of November to commemorate
the founding anniversary of the town. The Itik Festival began in November 2002, many tourists and
students from neighbouring towns visited to observe how itik is raised and to see items made from it.
The street dance, consisting of participants from public and private schools is one of the attractions
of the Itik Festival.
TSINELAS FESTI VAL- Gat Tayaw, Liliw, Laguna is also known as the “Footwear Capital of
Laguna” because the footwear industry is consistently growing and developing. With that said,
CIPRIANO & MANGAOANG
REGION 4A
Tsinelas Festival is celebrated annually in the last week of April. A parade of floats showcases the
agricultural and industrial products of LIliw which includes a variety of shoes produced locally.
ACCOMMODATION
Kesong puti- is a soft, non-aged Filipino cheese made from carabao milk, curdled with vinegar or
citrus juice, and lightly salted. Originating from Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
Buko pie- A traditional Filipino coconut custard pie from Los Baños, Laguna. Made with young
coconut meat and sweetened milk, it features a flaky crust and a rich coconut flavor.
Espasol- is a cylindrical Filipino rice cake from Laguna, traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas
season. Made from rice flour cooked in coconut milk with coconut strips, it is rolled in toasted rice
flour.
Batangas
Geography and Batangas is situated on the southern shores of Manila Bay and southwest of Manila. It
Location: is part of the Calabarzon region (Region IV-A) in Luzon.
Capital The provincial capital of Batangas is the City of Batangas.
Size Batangas spans about 3,119.75 square kilometers (1,204.54 square miles), making it
the 44th largest province in the Philippines.
Population Batangas has a population of approximately 2,908,494.
CIPRIANO & MANGAOANG
REGION 4A
Historical Batangas played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule
Significance and during World War ll.
PORT OF ACCESS
In Batangas, the tricycle is a primary mode of transportation for getting around towns and barangays. You
can hire a tricycle to reach a specific destination. When traveling from one town to another, or if the distance
is more than 5 kilometers, the common mode of transportation is the jeepney. Buses and jeepneys are the
main modes of transportation throughout the province, while tricycles serve as a secondary mode of
transportation in each city and town.
Natural attractions:
Fortune Island- Known for its Grecian pillars, this island offers white sandy beaches and clear
waters ideal for snorkelling and diving.
MASASA BEACH- A popular hiking destination in Nasugbu, Mt. Batulao offers stunning views of
rolling hills and the sea. It’s suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers.
Taal Lake and Volcano- One of the most iconic attractions in the Philippines, Taal Lake is a volcanic
lake with a unique island (Taal Volcano) in the middle.
Marcela Agoncillo Museum- This is the largest Catholic church in Asia, known for its impressive
architecture and historical significance. Built in the 19th century, it stands as a testament to Spanish
colonial influence.
Taal Basilica (Basilica of St. Martin de Tours)- Also known as the Taal Heritage House, this
museum in Taal is dedicated to Marcela Agoncillo, who helped sew the first Philippine flag. The
museum offers insights into her life and contributions.
Miguel Malvar Monument- The Miguel Malvar Monument in Santo Tomas, Batangas, honors
General Miguel Malvar, a key figure in Philippine history known for his leadership in the Philippine
Revolution and the Philippine-American War.
BUILT ATTRACTIONS
Parish and National Shrine of St. Padre Pio-In 2015, it was recognized as a national shrine, which
houses several first-class relics of the Italian saint, who spent most of his life in a monastery in
southern Italy. Known for his stigmata and gift of healing, Padre Pio is one of the most revered saints
of the 20th century.
La virginia leisure park and amusement resort- Harmonious blend of affordability, comfort, and
ease at La Virginia Hotel & Resort. Set against a stunning backdrop, this haven offers a myriad of
services and amenities, with air-conditioned rooms ensuring your relaxation
ACCOMMODATION
BUDGET: Reddoorz
Standard Room: Rates typically start from around PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,500 per night.
Deluxe Room: Prices generally range from PHP 3,500 to PHP 5,000 per night.
Family Rooms or Suites: Higher-end accommodations can range from PHP 5,000 to PHP 7,000 per
night or more, depending on the specific amenities and size
Standard Room: Typically starts from PHP 4,000 to PHP 6,000 per night.
Deluxe Room: Generally ranges from PHP 6,000 to PHP 8,000 per night.
Suites: Higher-end suites can range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 15,000 per night or more, depending
on specific amenities and size.
ALA EH FESTIVAL- The Ala Eh! Festival, held annually in Batangas every December 8, is a
vibrant celebration of the province's rich cultural heritage and local products. The festival features
lively street dancing competitions, colorful parades, and trade fairs showcasing Batangas coffee,
handcrafted goods, and other local specialties. Cultural shows and performances highlight the unique
traditions and history of Batangas, making the Ala Eh! Festival a must-see event that captures the
spirit and pride of the Batangueños.
PARADA NG LECHON-The Parada ng Lechon, held annually on June 24 in Balayan, Batangas,
celebrates Saint John the Baptist with a parade of roasted pigs (lechon) dressed in costumes. This
lively event features music, dancing, and water splashing, highlighting the community's festive spirit
and culinary pride.
CALACATCHARA FESTIVAL- The Calacatchara Festival, held annually in Calaca, Batangas,
celebrates the town's agricultural bounty, particularly its flourishing atsara (pickled papaya) industry.
This vibrant event features street dancing, colorful parades, and culinary competitions, showcasing
the creativity and cultural heritage of the local community.
Sinaing na Tulingan -is a variant of this cooking method. The tuna is simmered in a clay pot or
palayok low and slow until the flesh and bones are tender and infused with subtle tangy flavors.
Batangas lomi- Most Lomi in Batangas is devoid of vegetables, instead featuring a wide variety of
meat toppings such as kikiam, chicharon, eggs, and much more. Some Lomi dishes include tofu and
lumpiang shanghai.
Bulalo- Batangas Bulalo is a dish prepared with beef leg bones cooked like a Batangas Goto, a soup
dish cooked with lots of annatto seeds, garlic and ginger.
RIZAL
Geography and Situated in the Calabarzon region occupying the central section of Luzon. It is bordered
Location: by Bulacan, Quezon, Laguna, Laguna de Bay, and the National Capital Region.
Capital The provincial capital of Rizal is the City of Antipolo.
Size Rizal has a land area of approximately 1,182.65 square kilometers (456.62 square
miles).
Population Rizal has a population of approximately 3,330,143.
Historical The province is named after Jose Rizal.
Significance
PORT OF ACCESS
The modes of transportation available include iconic jeepneys, nimble tricycles, comfortable buses, UV
Express, and private van or car rentals.For port access in Rizal, major access points include Ortigas Avenue
Extension or Marikina-Infanta Highway (formerly Marcos Highway). Binangonan Port serves as an
important port of access for ferry boat services, with connections to Talim Island. Traveling to Antipolo can
be done by taking a jeep or a van from Cubao or EDSA-Shaw bound for Antipolo.
Natural attractions:
WAWA DAM- A scenic spot with a reservoir surrounded by mountains, popular for picnicking and
hiking.
Masungi Georeserve- Known for its unique rock formations, lush greenery, and conservation
efforts.
Puray falls- A majestic waterfall nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains, offering a refreshing natural
retreat.
Pinto art museum- Showcases contemporary and indigenous art amidst Mediterranean-inspired
architecture in Antipolo City.
Angono Petroglyphs- Ancient rock engravings believed to be over 5,000 years old, offering insights
into early Filipino art and culture.
Carlos "Botong" Francisco Ancestral House- Located in Angono, Rizal, Philippines. It is the former
residence of Carlos "Botong" Francisco, a renowned Filipino artist known for his murals and
contributions to Philippine art.
QUEZON
FAST FACTS
Geography and Situated in the Calabarzon region in Luzon, Philippine, southeast of Metro Manila.
Location:
Capital The provincial capital of Quezon is the City of Lucena.
Size Quezon has a land area of approximately 8,989.39 square kilometers (3,470.82 square
miles).
Population Quezon has a population of approximately 1,950,459.
Historical Named after Manuel L. Quezon and has a rich history dating back to Spanish
Significance colonization.
PORT OF ACCESS
Various modes of transportation are available for getting around and accessing different areas. Jeepneys,
buses, and tricycles are commonly used for local transportation within towns and barangays. For longer
distances and inter-provincial travel, buses and vans are popular modes of transportation. For port access in
Quezon, the province has several ports that serve as gateways to different destinations. Lucena Port is a
major port in Quezon, offering ferry services to and from Marinduque and other nearby islands. Meanwhile,
Real Port is another access point for travelers going to and from Polillo Island. These ports provide
important links for both passengers and goods moving in and out of Quezon province.
Natural attractions
Cagbalete Island - is known for its cerulean blue waters, pristine beaches, and powder-white
sandbars said to rival those of Boracay and El Nido.
Balagbag falls- It is known for its two layers, boasting a total height of 50 meters that cascades into
a basin of about 15 meters in diameter and a shallow depth of 5 meters. Balagbag falls has become a
KAMAY NI JESUS-"Kamay ni Jesus" refers to a revered relic at the Kamay ni Hesus Healing
Church in Lucban, Quezon, known for its healing services and pilgrimages.
MALAGONLONG BRIDGE- Located in Tayabas City, it is one of the oldest and longest Spanish
colonial bridges in the Philippines, dating back to the 1800s.
THE ISKONG BANTAY WATCH TOWER- Built during the Spanish colonial period, it served as a
lookout point to guard against pirates and other threats from the sea. The tower's strategic location
offers panoramic views of the coast, making it a notable landmark reflecting Quezon's maritime
history and defenses during the colonial era.
ACCOMMODATION
Offers budget-friendly rooms and cottages with rates typically starting from PHP 1,000 to PHP 1,500
per night.
Provides mid-range rooms with rates starting from around PHP 3,500 to PHP 4,500 per night,
located near key attractions in the area.
Offers luxurious rooms and private villas set amidst a coconut plantation. Rates typically start from
PHP 5,000 per night and can go higher depending on the type of accommodation.
PAHIYAS FESTIVAL- Pahiyas Festival Held in Lucban every May 15th, the Pahiyas Festival is a
colorful celebration in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. Houses are adorned
with colorful decorations made of agricultural produce like rice, fruits, and vegetables.
AGAWAN FESTIVAL- Held in Gumaca, the Agawan Festival celebrates the town's historical and
cultural heritage. The festival features street dancing, parades, and various competitions that
highlight Gumaca's local products and cultural identity.
MAYOHAN FESTIVAL -The Mayohan Festival is a cultural and religious celebration held
annually on May 15 in Tayabas City, Quezon, Philippines. This festival is marked by its local rice
cake delicacy called suman and a unique tradition known as hagisan, where suman, food items, bills,
gifts, and other items are thrown to festival-goers.
TAGALOG
ENGLISH
CHAVACANO
Tagalog
Dialects:
Batangas Tagalog: Known for its distinct accent and vocabulary, often using "ala eh!"
Quezon Tagalog: Features unique words and expressions specific to Quezon province.
English
Role: It serves as a second language for most Filipinos in the region, often used in formal and professional
settings.
Chavacano
Location: Chavacano, a Spanish-based creole language, is spoken in specific areas of Cavite, particularly in
Ternate and some parts of Cavite City.
Historical Context: The presence of Chavacano in Cavite is due to Spanish colonial influence and
migration from Chavacano-speaking regions like Zamboanga.
MAJOR INDUSTRIES
Travel Trivia
Amadeo is nicknamed the "Coffee Capital of the Philippines". Amadeo is the largest coffee producer
in the Philippines.
Ternate is the place where many people still speak Chavacano or "Broken spanish". Chavacano is
also called Philippine creole Spanish".
In 2006. Dasmarinas was declared the richest city in Cavite Province.
Kawit is known as the Cradle of the Philippine Independence. Kawit is the place where General
Emilio Aguinaldo first waved the flag of the Republic of the Philippines.