Region II: Cagayan Valley Region

Cagayan Valley, also known as Region II, is located in the northeastern part of Luzon, the
largest island of the Philippines. It is bordered by Isabela and Quirino provinces to the south,
the Philippine Sea to the north, the Sierra Madre Mountain range to the east, and the
Cordillera Central mountain range to the west. The region comprises the following provinces:

1. Cagayan
2. Isabela
3. Nueva Vizcaya
4. Quirino
5. Batanes (at the northernmost tip)

The capital of Cagayan is Tuguegarao City, which is also the regional center of Cagayan
Valley. Tuguegarao City is located along the Cagayan River, which has historically been the
lifeblood of the province’s agricultural activities and serves as an important transportation route.

Cagayan consists of 1 city and 28 municipalities:

City:

1. Tuguegarao City (Capital)

Municipalities:

1. Abulug
2. Alcala
3. Allacapan
4. Amulung
5. Baggao
6. Ballesteros
7. Buguey
8. Claveria
9. Enrile
10. Gattaran
11. Gonzaga
12. Iguig
13. Lal-lo
14. Lasam
15. Piat
16. Peñablanca
17. Rizal
18. Sanchez Mira
19. Santa Ana
20. Santa Teresita
21. Solana
 22. Tuao
23. Camalaniugan
24. Aparri
25. Santa Maria
26. Baggao
27. Lal-lo
28. Tuguegarao City (independent city)

Geographical Profile of Cagayan

Cagayan is located in the northeasternmost part of Luzon, the largest island in the
Philippines, and is part of Cagayan Valley (Region II). The province is known for its diverse
landscapes, ranging from fertile agricultural plains and mountains to pristine coastal areas. Its
strategic location, rich natural resources, and agricultural productivity play a major role in both
local and regional economic activities.

1. Location and Area

 Cagayan Province is situated in the northeastern corner of Luzon. It is bordered by

Isabela to the south, Apayao and Kalinga to the west, the Philippine Sea to the north,
and the Babuyan Channel to the west, which separates it from the Babuyan Islands.
 The province has a total land area of 27,000 square kilometers, making it one of the
largest provinces in the Philippines.

Ports of Access

1. Sea Access: Port of Aparri

 Port of Aparri is the primary seaport in Cagayan, located at the mouth of the Cagayan
River. It serves as the main gateway for cargo shipments (including agricultural
products like rice and tobacco) and fishing industry exports. The port also connects
Cagayan to international markets and nearby regions.

2. Land Access: Maharlika Highway

 The Maharlika Highway, also known as National Route 1, is the primary land route
that runs through Cagayan, connecting it to Metro Manila and other provinces in Luzon.
It is crucial for transporting goods and passengers within the province and to the rest of
the island.

3. Air Access: Tuguegarao Airport

 Tuguegarao Airport, located in Tuguegarao City, is the main airport in the province,
providing domestic flights to and from Manila and other major cities. The airport
supports tourism and trade, making travel to and from Cagayan convenient for both
locals and visitors.
 Tourist Destinations and Attractions

Category Attraction Location Activities

Historical, Tuguegarao Tuguegarao Religious tourism, Architectural
Cultural, and Cathedral City tours, History exploration
Heritage
Iguig Calvary Iguig Pilgrimage, Meditation, Exploring
Hills the Stations of the Cross, Scenic
views
Magapit Lal-lo Photography, Scenic views of the
Suspension Cagayan River, Historical site
Bridge exploration
Cape San Dalat Sightseeing, Exploring the coastal
Agustin (Southern tip) area, Historical landmarks
Callao Cave Peñablanca Religious pilgrimages, Spelunking,
(Chapel) Exploring natural limestone
formations
Natural Palaui Island Santa Ana Island hopping, Snorkeling, Diving,
Attractions Hiking to Cape Engaño
Lighthouse, Eco-tourism
Patar Beach Bolinao Swimming, Beach relaxation,
Sunset viewing, Photography
Tumbali Falls Ilagan Hiking, Swimming, Nature walks,
(Isabela) Photography
Anguib Beach Santa Ana Swimming, Beach activities, Water
sports, Eco-tourism
Enchanted Cave Bolinao Swimming in cave pools,
Photography, Nature exploration
Sierra Madre Eastern Hiking, Eco-tourism, Nature
Mountains Cagayan exploration, Wildlife watching
Built Attractions Cape Engaño Palaui Island Hiking, Photography, Scenic views,
Lighthouse Historical landmark exploration
Bolinao Bolinao Photography, Scenic views,
Lighthouse Historical landmark exploration
 Gastronomy of Cagayan

1. Pancit Batil Patung (Isabela)

o A noodle dish popular in Isabela and parts of Cagayan, made with stir-fried
noodles, minced meat, a special sauce, and a fried egg on top. It's often served
with a flavorful broth and is a must-try local delicacy.
2. Longganisa (Cagayan)
o This Filipino sausage is made from pork, garlic, and other local spices.
Cagayan’s longganisa is known for its distinct taste and is typically served for
breakfast with garlic rice, making it a popular comfort food.
3. Tupig (Isabela)
o A traditional rice cake made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar,
wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over charcoal. This sweet and savory treat
is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.
4. Buro (Cagayan)
o A fermented rice dish typically served with fish, used as a side dish or
condiment. It is a staple of the Cagayan and Isabela regions and showcases the
province’s unique methods of food preservation.
5. Binallay (Isabela)
o A sticky rice dessert made with coconut milk and brown sugar, often wrapped
in banana leaves. It is a beloved treat in the Isabela province, representing the
region's agricultural roots.
6. Satti (Davao del Sur)
o A type of grilled meat often served with a special spicy-sweet sauce, frequently
paired with rice. It is a popular food in Davao del Sur and neighboring regions,
typically enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
7. Pomelo (Cagayan)
o A citrus fruit that is a major product in Cagayan, known for its sweet and juicy
flavor. It is commonly sold in local markets and used in fruit salads and as a
snack.
8. Chicharabao (Cagayan)
o Chicharabao is a local delicacy made from deep-fried carabao (water buffalo)
skin. The skin is boiled and then fried until crispy and golden brown, often
seasoned with salt or spices for extra flavor. It is typically served as a snack or
appetizer, usually accompanied by vinegar or a dipping sauce, and is popular at
social gatherings. Chicharabao is a unique Cagayan specialty, especially in
Tuguegarao City, reflecting the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Isabela

Isabela is located in the northeastern part of Luzon, and it is part of Cagayan Valley (Region
II). It is bordered by Cagayan to the north, Quirino and Aurora to the south, Nueva Vizcaya to
the west, and the Philippine Sea to the east. The province is known for its expansive agricultural
lands, which are some of the most productive in the country.

1. Location and Area

 Isabela Province is the second-largest province in the Philippines in terms of land area,
with a total of 13,000 square kilometers.
 It is a key producer of rice, corn, and sugarcane and is one of the primary agricultural
hubs of the Philippines.

2. Land Features

 Plains and River Valleys: The Cagayan River, which flows from Cagayan, also passes
through the province, providing a fertile plain perfect for agriculture. The Magat River is
another important river system in the province.
 Mountains: Isabela is surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountain range to the east and
the Cordillera Central to the west. These mountainous areas are rich in biodiversity and
offer opportunities for eco-tourism.

3. Climate

 Isabela has a tropical climate, with a distinct wet season from May to October and a dry
season from November to April. Its climate is favorable for agricultural production,
especially for crops like rice, corn, and tobacco.

Ports of Access in Isabela

Isabela’s ports of access by sea, land, and air connect the province to the rest of the
Philippines, facilitating trade, commerce, and tourism.

1. Sea Access: Port of Aurora

 Location: Cauayan City

 Significance: Port of Aurora is a major seaport in the province that handles cargo
shipments, especially agricultural products. It connects Isabela to international shipping
routes, facilitating trade in rice and other local produce.
2. Land Access: Maharlika Highway

 Location: National Route 1

 Significance: The Maharlika Highway runs through Isabela, connecting it to Metro
Manila and other provinces in Luzon. This major highway is crucial for the transport of
goods and passengers within the province and to neighboring regions.

3. Air Access: Cauayan Airport

 Location: Cauayan City

 Significance: Cauayan Airport serves as the province's main domestic gateway. It
provides flights to Manila and other regional airports, making travel to and from Isabela
convenient for both locals and tourists.

Tourist Destinations and Attractions in Isabela

Category Attraction Location Activities

Historical, Tumauini Tumauini Exploring historical architecture,
Cultural, and Church Religious tourism, History
Heritage exploration
Cauayan Cauayan Architectural tours, Religious
Cathedral City pilgrimages, History exploration
Magat Dam Ilagan Photography, Scenic views,
Learning about the dam’s
historical importance
Iguig Calvary Iguig Pilgrimage, Meditation, Exploring
Hills the Stations of the Cross, Scenic
views
Pangasinan Santiago City Exploring local heritage, Learning
Heritage Park about the Santiago community’s
culture
Natural Palanan Bay Palanan Eco-tourism, beach activities,
Attractions hiking, scenic boat rides
Patar Beach Bolinao Swimming, beach relaxation,
sunset watching, water sports
Conner Hills Conner Hiking, eco-tourism, nature
exploration, wildlife watching
Puinbato Cave Bambang Cave exploration, photography,
hiking
Tumbali Falls Ilagan Hiking, swimming, nature walks,
photography
Built Attractions Magapit Lal-lo Photography, Scenic views of the
Suspension Cagayan River, Historical site
Bridge exploration
 Tuguegarao Tuguegarao Religious tourism, architectural
Cathedral City tours, history exploration
Cape Engaño Palaui Island Hiking, photography, scenic
Lighthouse views, historical landmark
exploration
Bolinao Bolinao Photography, scenic views,
Lighthouse historical landmark exploration

Gastronomy of Isabela

Isabela's gastronomy is deeply influenced by its agricultural wealth, with local delicacies that
reflect its farming traditions. Here are some of Isabela’s well-known food offerings:

1. Pancit Cabagan
o A famous noodle dish from Cabagan, Isabela, made with stir-fried noodles,
pork, and vegetables, often served with sauce and egg. It’s a must-try local dish
for visitors.
2. Longganisa (Isabela)
o Longganisa from Isabela is a unique Filipino sausage known for its flavorful
and garlicky taste. It is traditionally served with garlic rice and is a popular
breakfast choice.
3. Tupig (Isabela)
o A rice cake made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, wrapped
in banana leaves and cooked over charcoal. This sweet treat is common during
festivals and special occasions.
4. Binallay
o A sticky rice dessert made from coconut milk, brown sugar, and wrapped in
banana leaves. It is a popular snack in the province, especially during
celebrations.
5. Carabao Milk Products
o Isabela is known for its carabao dairy farming, and carabao milk-based
products such as carabao milk ice cream and carabao milk cheese are local
specialties.
6. Satti (Grilled Skewers)
o Satti is grilled meat skewers served with a sweet-spicy sauce. It’s a favorite
street food, often enjoyed with rice.
Nueva Vizcaya

Nueva Vizcaya is located in the northeastern part of Luzon and is part of Cagayan Valley
(Region II). It is bordered by Cagayan to the north, Quirino to the south, Aurora to the east, and
Tarlac to the west. The province is known for its mountainous terrain, lush valleys, and fertile
plains, making it an agricultural hub of the region.

1. Location and Area

 Nueva Vizcaya is bordered by Cagayan to the north, Isabela to the east, Quirino to the
south, and Tarlac to the west.
 It has a total land area of 4,300 square kilometers, making it a medium-sized province in
the Philippines.

2. Land Features

 Mountain Ranges: The Caraballo Mountains run through the middle of the province,
with part of the Sierra Madre to the east.
 Rivers and Valleys: The Magat River flows through the province, providing irrigation to
the fertile lands, and the Cagayan River passes near the northern border.
 Climate: The province has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons,
benefiting agricultural production.

Ports of Access in Nueva Vizcaya

Nueva Vizcaya is well-connected to the rest of the Cagayan Valley region and Luzon through its
road network and nearby transport hubs.

1. Land Access: Maharlika Highway

 The Maharlika Highway, also known as National Route 1, runs through Nueva Vizcaya
and connects it to Metro Manila and other provinces in Luzon.

2. Air Access: Cauayan Airport (Isabela)

 Cauayan Airport, located in Isabela (near Nueva Vizcaya), serves as the region's main
domestic airport. It provides flights to and from Manila and other nearby airports.
 Tourist Destinations and Attractions
Category Attraction Location Activities
Historical, Cultural, Tumauini Church Tumauini Exploring historical architecture,
and Heritage religious tourism, history exploration
Cauayan Cauayan City Architectural tours, religious
Cathedral pilgrimages, history exploration
Magat Dam Rizal Photography, scenic views, learning
about the dam’s historical importance
Capisaan Cave Kasibu Cave exploration, trekking, nature
walks, photography
Natural Attractions Mount Ugo Kayapa Hiking, eco-tourism, nature exploration,
scenic views
Magat Dam Rizal Photography, scenic views, fishing,
nature exploration
Capisaan Cave Kasibu Cave exploration, trekking, nature
walks, photography
Mount Pulag Kayapa Hiking, eco-tourism, nature exploration,
wildlife watching
Built Attractions Magapit Lal-lo Photography, scenic views of the
Suspension Bridge Cagayan River, historical site
exploration
Tuguegarao Tuguegarao Religious tourism, architectural tours,
Cathedral City history exploration
Cape Engaño Palaui Island Hiking, photography, scenic views,
Lighthouse historical landmark exploration
Bolinao Bolinao Photography, scenic views, historical
Lighthouse landmark exploration

Gastronomy of Nueva Vizcaya

Nueva Vizcaya’s gastronomy reflects its agricultural roots with dishes influenced by local
produce and traditional recipes.

1. Pinikpikan
o A traditional dish from the Ifugao people, made with chicken that is beaten and
cooked with ginger and vegetables. It is typically served with rice.
2. Rice Cakes (Biko)
o A sweet rice cake made from glutinous rice, brown sugar, and coconut milk. It is
a popular dessert during festivals and special occasions.
3. Sinianggang
o A local dish made with sour tamarind soup and pork, cooked with vegetables. It's
a comfort food in the region.
4. Mangoes
 o Isabela, particularly Nueva Vizcaya, is famous for its sweet mangoes, often eaten
fresh, used in desserts, or made into smoothies.

Quirino

Quirino is a province located in the northeastern part of Luzon and is part of Cagayan Valley
(Region II). It is bordered by Isabela to the north, Nueva Vizcaya to the west, Aurora to the
east, and Cagayan to the north. The province is known for its mountainous terrain, lush
forests, and rich natural resources.

1. Location and Area

 Quirino Province has a total land area of 3,010 square kilometers, making it one of the
smaller provinces in the region.
 It is strategically located as a transition point between the Cagayan Valley and the
Central Luzon region, making it an important area for both transportation and
agriculture.

2. Land Features

 Mountain Ranges: Quirino is situated within the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, with
significant biodiversity and natural resources. The range provides the province with
abundant forest cover and serves as a key ecological area.
 Rivers: The province is traversed by the Cagayan River, the longest river in the
Philippines, which provides essential irrigation for agricultural activities. The Magat
River also runs through the province, playing a vital role in the region's water system.
 Climate: Quirino has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet
season runs from May to October, and the dry season lasts from November to April.

Ports of Access in Quirino

Quirino is well-connected to the rest of the Cagayan Valley region and Luzon through its road
network and nearby transport hubs.

1. Land Access: Maharlika Highway

 Location: National Route 1

 Significance: The Maharlika Highway is the main land route that runs through
Quirino, connecting it to Metro Manila and other provinces in Luzon. This highway is
vital for transporting agricultural products and goods from the province.

2. Air Access: Cauayan Airport (Isabela)

 Location: Cauayan City, Isabela (near Quirino)

  Significance: Cauayan Airport in Isabela serves as the main domestic airport for
Quirino. It provides flights to and from Manila and other nearby airports, making it easy
for visitors to access Quirino.

Tourist Destinations and Attractions

Category Attraction Location Activities
Historical, Cultural, Quirino Museum Cabarroguis Cultural exploration, history exploration,
and Heritage learning about the province’s heritage
Cabarroguis Plaza Cabarroguis Photography, exploring local landmarks,
learning about the town's history
Pulong Binga Nagtipunan Historical site exploration, local heritage
exploration
Natural Attractions Mighty Cave Nagtipunan Cave exploration, nature photography,
trekking
Aglipay Caves Aglipay Cave exploration, hiking, trekking,
photography
Governor's Rapids Cabarroguis Swimming, rafting, eco-tourism, nature
walks
Dipaculao River Dipaculao River trekking, eco-tourism, swimming
Dibulo Falls Nagtipunan Swimming, hiking, nature walks,
photography
Built Attractions Nagtipunan Nagtipunan Photography, scenic views, exploring local
Hanging Bridge architecture
Cabarroguis Town Cabarroguis Sightseeing, exploring the local town
Plaza center

Gastronomy of Quirino

Quirino’s gastronomy reflects its agricultural roots, with dishes influenced by local produce and
traditions.

1. Pinikpikan
o A traditional dish made from chicken, beaten and cooked with ginger,
vegetables, and served with rice. It’s a delicacy in Cagayan Valley, particularly
in Quirino.
2. Bagoong (Fermented Fish)
o A type of fermented fish commonly used as a condiment in many dishes in
Quirino. It adds a unique flavor to vegetable dishes and rice meals.
3. Tupig
o A traditional rice cake made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar,
wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over charcoal. This sweet treat is
commonly enjoyed during festivals and special occasions.
4. Carabao Milk Products
 o Quirino is known for its carabao dairy farming, and carabao milk-based
products, such as carabao milk ice cream and carabao cheese, are local
specialties.

Batanes

Batanes is the northernmost province in the Philippines, located in the Cagayan Valley (Region
II). It is made up of a group of islands that form the Batanes Archipelago, situated between the
Philippine Sea to the east and the South China Sea to the west. Batanes is known for its unique
landscapes, which include rolling hills, stunning coastlines, and traditional stone houses.

1. Location and Area

 Batanes is located at the northern tip of the Philippine archipelago, and it is composed
of 10 islands, with the main islands being Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat.
 The total land area of Batanes is approximately 230 square kilometers, making it one of
the smallest provinces in the Philippines.

2. Land Features

 Rolling Hills and Valleys: The province is famous for its rolling hills, especially on the
island of Batan, which provides breathtaking panoramic views.
 Coastal Areas: The province is surrounded by pristine beaches and clear waters, making
it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
 Climate: Batanes has a tropical climate, but it is cooler than most other parts of the
Philippines due to its location. It experiences occasional typhoons, especially during the
wet season (June to October).

Ports of Access in Batanes

Batanes is relatively isolated from the rest of the Philippines, but it is accessible by both sea and
air.

1. Sea Access: Port of Basco

 Location: Basco, Batan Island

 Significance: The Port of Basco is the primary seaport of Batanes and serves as the
main point of entry for goods and passengers traveling to the province. Ferries from
Cagayan and Ilocos Norte regularly dock at this port, making it the province's link to the
mainland.

2. Air Access: Basco Airport

 Location: Basco, Batan Island

  Significance: Basco Airport is the primary airport in Batanes, offering regular flights
from Manila. The airport is the most efficient way to access the province, and flights are
operated by various domestic carriers, making it easy for tourists to reach Batanes by air.

Tourist Destinations and Attractions

Category Attraction Location Activities
Historical, Cultural, San Jose de Ivana Ivana Religious tourism, History exploration,
and Heritage Church Architectural tours
Batanes Provincial Basco Cultural tours, History exploration,
Capitol Photo ops
Honesty Coffee Marlboro Cultural experience, Meeting locals,
Shop Hill Enjoying local food
Chawa View Deck Basco Sightseeing, Photography, Learning
local history
Natural Attractions Sabtang Island Sabtang Island hopping, Beach activities, Scenic
photography
Nakabuang Beach Sabtang Swimming, Beach activities, Scenic
views
Vayang Rolling Basco Sightseeing, Photography, Nature walks
Hills
Marlboro Hill Basco Hiking, Panoramic views, Eco-tourism
Diura Fishing Diura Cultural immersion, Community
Village interaction
Built Attractions Cape Engaño Palaui Hiking, Photography, Scenic views,
Lighthouse Island Historical landmark exploration
Bolinao Bolinao Photography, Scenic views, Historical
Lighthouse landmark exploration

Gastronomy of Batanes

Batanes' gastronomy reflects its rich cultural heritage and reliance on local ingredients. Due
to its geographical location, the cuisine in Batanes is influenced by seafood, agriculture, and
local traditions.

1. Uvud (Ivatan Stew)

o A local dish made from tender meat (usually beef or carabao), vegetables, and
coconut milk. It is a comforting stew often served with rice and is a signature
dish of the Ivatan people.
2. Lamao (Seaweed Soup)
o A traditional seaweed soup made from local seaweed, often served with fish or
shrimp. This dish highlights the marine resources of Batanes and is a staple in
the diet of the Ivatan people.
3. Batanes’ Liku
 o A type of rice cake made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar.
It’s a popular dessert served during festivals and special occasions.
4. Fried Danggit
o One of the province's most popular dishes, fried danggit (dried fish), is often
served for breakfast or as a snack, with vinegar and rice.
5. Tuna
o Being an island, Batanes is known for its fresh seafood, particularly tuna.
Locally caught tuna is often served grilled, fried, or as sashimi.