Region Component

PS Regio
(regional Island local Population
Location GC[ nal Area[A] [21]
Density
designation
20]
group government (2015)
center
) units

National 13 Luzon Manila 17 611.39 km 12,877,253 21,000/km2

2
Capital (12.8%) (54,000/sq mi)
Region Caloocan (236.06 sq
Las Pias mi)
(NCR)
Makati
Malabon
Mandaluyo
ng
Manila
Marikina
Muntinlupa
Navotas
Paraaque
Pasay
Pasig
Pateros
Quezon
City
San Juan
 Taguig
Valenzuela

Ilocos 01 Luzon San 5 13,012.60 5,026,128 390/km2

Region Fernan km2 (5.0%) (1,000/sq mi)
[22]
do Dagupan (5,024.19
(Region I)
Ilocos Norte sq mi)
(La Union)
Ilocos Sur
La Union
Pangasinan

Cordiller 14 Luzon Baguio 7 19,422.03 1,722,006 89/km2

a km2 (1.7%) (230/sq mi)
Administ Abra (7,498.89
rative Apayao sq mi)
Region Baguio[23]
Benguet
(CAR)
Ifugao
Kalinga
Mountain
Province
Cagayan 02 Luzon Tugueg 6 28,228.83 3,451,410 120/km2
Valley arao km2 (3.4%) (310/sq mi)
Batanes (10,899.21
(Region II)
Cagayan sq mi)
Isabela
Nueva
Vizcaya
Quirino
Santiago[22]

Central 03 Luzon San 9 22,014.63 11,218,177 510/km2

Luzon Fernan km2 (11.1%) (1,300/sq mi)
[23]
do Angeles (8,499.90
(Region III)
Aurora sq mi)
(Pampang
Bataan
a)
Bulacan
Nueva Ecija
Olongapo[23
]

Pampanga
Tarlac
Zambales
Calabarz 04 Luzon Calamb 6 16,873.31 14,414,774 850/km2
on a km2 (14.3%) (2,200/sq mi)
Batangas (6,514.82
(Region IV-
Cavite sq mi)
A)
Laguna
Lucena[23]
Quezon
Rizal

Mimarop 17 Luzon Calapa 6 29,620.90 2,963,360 100/km2

a n km2 (2.9%) (260/sq mi)
Marinduque (11,436.69
(Region IV-
Occidental sq mi)
B)
Mindoro
Oriental
Mindoro
Palawan
Puerto
Princesa[23]
Romblon
 Bicol 05 Luzon Legazp 7 18,155.82 5,796,989 320/km2
Region i km2 (5.7%) (830/sq mi)
Albay (7,010.00
(Region V)
Camarines sq mi)
Norte
Camarines
Sur
Catanduan
es
Masbate
Naga[22]
Sorsogon

Western 06 Visa-yas Iloilo 6 12,828.97 4,477,247 350/km2

Visayas City km2 (4.4%) (910/sq mi)
Aklan (4,953.29
(Region VI)
Antique sq mi)
Capiz
Guimaras
Iloilo
Iloilo City[23]
Negros 18 Visa-yas Bacolo 3 13,350.74 4,414,131 330/km2
Island d and km2 (4.4%) (850/sq mi)
[23]
Region Dumag Bacolod (5,154.75
uete Negros sq mi)
(NIR /

Region (interim)
Occidental
[B] Negros
XVIII)
Oriental

Central 07 Visayas Cebu 6 10,102.16 6,041,903 600/km2

Visayas City km2 (6.0%) (1,600/sq mi)
Bohol (3,900.47
(Region VII)
Cebu sq mi)
Cebu
City[23]
Lapu-
Lapu[23]
Mandaue[23]
Siquijor
Eastern 08 Visa-yas Tacloba 5 23,251.10 4,440,150 190/km2
Visayas n km2 (4.4%) (490/sq mi)
Biliran (8,977.30
(Region VIII)
Eastern sq mi)
Samar
Leyte
Northern
Samar
Ormoc[22]
Samar
Southern
Leyte
Tacloban[23]

Zamboa 09 Minda-nao Pagadi 5 17,056.73 3,629,783 210/km2

nga an km2 (3.6%) (540/sq mi)
Peninsul Isabela (6,585.64
[24]
a City sq mi)
Zamboang
(Region IX)
a City[23]
Zamboang
a del Norte
Zamboang
a del Sur
Zamboang
 a Sibugay

Norther 10 Minda-nao Cagaya 7 20,496.02 4,689,302 230/km2

n n de km2 (4.6%) (600/sq mi)
Mindana Oro Bukidnon (7,913.56
o Cagayan sq mi)
[23]
(Region X)
de Oro
Camiguin
Iligan[23]
Lanao del
Norte
Misamis
Occidental
Misamis
Oriental
 Davao 11 Minda-nao Davao 6 20,357.42 4,893,318 240/km2
Region City km2 (4.8%) (620/sq mi)
Compostela (7,860.04
(Region XI)
Valley sq mi)
Davao
City[23]
Davao del
Norte
Davao del
Sur
Davao
Oriental
Davao
Occidental
Soccsks 12 Minda-nao Korona 6 22,513.30 4,545,276 200/km2
argen dal km2 (4.5%) (520/sq mi)
Cotabato (8,692.43
(Region XII)
Cotabato sq mi)
[22]
City
General
Santos[23]
Sarangani
South
Cotabato
Sultan
Kudarat

Caraga 16 Minda-nao Butuan 6 21,478.35 2,596,709 120/km2

(Region XIII) km2 (2.6%) (310/sq mi)
Agusan del (8,292.84
Norte sq mi)
Agusan del
Sur
Butuan[23]
Dinagat
Islands
Surigao del
Norte
Surigao del
 Sur

Autono 15 Mindanao Cotaba 5 12,525.79 3,781,387 300/km2

mous to City km2 (3.7%) (780/sq mi)
Region Basilan (4,836.23
in (excluding Isabela sq mi)
Muslim City)

Mindana Lanao del

o Sur
Maguindan
(ARMM)
ao
Sulu
Tawi-Tawi
^
a. Land area figures are the sum of each region's component provinces (and/or independent cities), derived from the National Statistical
Coordination Board (Philippine Statistics Authority) official website. For the ARMM, land area is derived from Bangsamoro Development
Plan Integrative Report.[25][26][27]
^
b. Bacolod and Dumaguete are proposed to be joint, temporary regional centers for a three-year transition period. Kabankalan and
neighboring Mabinay are envisioned to be joint, permanent regional centers. [28]

Natioanal Capital region (NCR)

Manila
Manila ( /mnl./, Filipino: Maynila) is the capital city of the Philippines, founded on June 24, 1571 by Spanish conquistadorMiguel Lpez de Legazpi. It is one of the
i

oldest cities in the country and was the seat of power for most of the colonial rules of the Philippines. It is situated on the eastern shore of Manila Bay and contains a
multitude of landmarks, some of which date back to the 16th century, such as the Spanish colonial era Walled City of Intramuros.

Manila is the second most populous city in the Philippines after the former capital Quezon City with a population of 1,780,148 in 2015.[6] Because of its small land area and
huge population, Manila is regarded as the most densely populated city in the world with 41,515 people per square kilometer.[6][3] Manila is one of the sixteen cities and a
municipality that make up Metro Manila, theNational Capital Region of the Philippines. In 2012, Globalization and World Cities Research Network listed Manila as a global
city.

Manila has six representative districts for the lower house of the Philippine Congress. Furthermore, the city is composed of 16 districts,
namely: Binondo, Ermita, Intramuros, Malate, Paco, Pandacan, Port Area, Quiapo, Sampaloc, San Andres, San Miguel,San Nicolas, Santa Ana, Santa Cruz, Santa
Mesa and Tondo.

The Kingdom of Tondo once ruled in the vicinity of Manila before it briefly became a province of the Hindu Majapahit Empire. During the Brunei invasion of the
Philippines, Sultan Bolkiah of Brunei captured Seludong (a village in modern-day Manila) and renamed it Maynil,[9] a Tagalog term referring to the presence of the Nila shrub.
Maynila was a vassal state of Brunei, established to overpower Tondo. Maynil had been Indianized since the sixth century CE and earlier. It had become partly Islamic
and Hindu-animist by the 15th century CE.

In 1571 Spanish Conquistadors arrived from Mexico, from across the Pacific, and founded present-day Manila in what today isIntramuros. Spanish missionaries soon
Christianized the city and incorporated Tondo under Manila and then built some of the oldest churches in the country, including San Agustin Church. The Conquistadors
renamed the area Nuevo Reino de Castilla(New Kingdom of Castille) and shortened the name to Manila

Culture

Religion
Christianity
As a result of Spanish cultural influence, Manila is a predominantly Christian (Catholic) city. As of 2010, Roman Catholics comprises 83.5% of the population, followed by
adherents of the Philippine Independent Church (2.4%); Iglesia ni Cristo (1.9%); various Protestant churches (1.8%); and Buddhists (1.1%). Members of Islam and other
religions comprises the remaining 10.4% of the city's population.[103]

Manila is the site of prominent Catholic churches and institutions. The Manila Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila and the oldest established
church in the country.[104] Aside from the Manila Cathedral, there are also three other basilicas in the city: Quiapo Church, Binondo Church, and the Minor Basilica of San
Sebastin. The San Agustn Church in Intramuros is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the two fully air-conditioned Catholic churches in the city. Manila also has
other parishes located throughout the city, with some of them dating back to the Spanish Colonial Period when the city serves as the base for numerous Catholic missions
both within the Philippines and to Asia beyond.

Several Mainline Protestant denominations are headquartered in the city. St. Stephen's Parish pro-cathedral in the Sta. Cruz district is the see of the Episcopal Church in the
Philippines' Diocese of Central Philippines, while align Taft Avenue are the main cathedral and central offices of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (also called the Aglipayan
Church, a national church that was a product of the Philippine Revolution). Other faiths like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains a presence in the city.

The indigenous Iglesia ni Cristo has several locales (akin to parishes) in the city, including its very first chapel (now a museum) in Punta, Sta.
Ana. Evangelical, Pentecostal andSeventh-day Adventist denominations also thrives within the city. The headquarters of the Philippine Bible Society is in Manila. Also, the
main campus of the Cathedral of Praise is located along Taft Avenue. Jesus Is Lord Church also has several branches and campuses in Manila, and celebrates its
anniversary yearly at the Burnham Green and Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park.

Annual cultural events and religious festivities

Manila celebrates civic and national holidays. Manila Day, which celebrates the city's founding on June 24, 1571, was first proclaimed by Herminio A. Astorga (then Vice
Mayor of Manila) on June 24, 1962 and has been annually commemorated, under the patronage of John the Baptist. Locally, each of the city's barangays also have their own
festivities guided by their own patron saint. The city is also the host to the Feast of the Black Nazarene, held every January 9, which draws millions of Catholic devotees.
Another religious feasts held in Manila was the Feast of the Nuestra Seora de los Desamparados de Manila (Our Lady of the Abandoned), the patron saint of Santa Ana and
was held every May 12. Non-religious holidays include the New Year's Day, National Heroes' Day, Bonifacio Day and Rizal Day

Museums and art galleries

As the cultural center of the Philippines, Manila is the home to a number of museums. The National Museum of the Philippines Complex, which include the National Museum
of Fine Arts, Museum of Anthropology and the Museum of Natural History, is located on the northeast part of Rizal Park facing Taft Avenue. proposed national government
center during the American time. Museums established by educational institutions include the Mabini Shrine, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, UST Museum of
Arts and Sciences, and the UP Museum of a History of Ideas.

Bahay Tsinoy, one of Manila's most prominent museums, documents the Chinese lives and contributions in the history of the Philippines. The Intramuros Light and Sound
Museum chronicles the Filipinos desire for freedom during the revolution under Rizal's leadership and other revolutionary leaders. The Metropolitan Museum of
Manila exhibits the Filipino arts and culture.

Other museums in the city are the Museum of Manila, the city-owned museum that exhibits the city's culture and history, Museo Pambata, a children's museum, the Museum
of Philippine Political History, which exhibits notable political events in the country, the Parish of the Our Lady of the Abandoned and the San Agustin Church Museum, which
houses religious artifacts, and Plaza San Luis, a public museum.

Ilocos Region (Region 1)

San Fernando( La Union)

San Fernando, officially the City of San Fernando (Ilocano: Ciudad ti San Fernando; Pangasinan: Siyudad na San Fernando;Filipino: Lungsod ng San Fernando) and often
referred to as San Fernando City, is a third-class component city and capital of the province of La Union in the Philippines. According to the 2015 Philippine census, it has a
population of 121,812 people.[3]

San Fernando was founded in 1786 and was named after Saint Ferdinand III of Castile. The city's original settlements, San Vicente de Balanac and San Guillermo de
Dalangdang, were attacked by pirates and headhunters.

In 1759, Augustinian friar, Padre Jos Torres fused these 2 settlements to Pindangan (local word for dry fish), where a church dedicated to San Guillermo the Hermit was.
This church is now the Cathedral of St. William the Hermit. The massive 1860's earthquake destroyed the church which was later rebuilt.

It became the cabecera or provincial capital of La Union province in 1850.

From 1896 until 1898, during the Philippine Revolution, the Spanish garrison of San Fernando was attacked by Filipino insurgents under Manuel Tinio y Bundoc and Mauro
Ortiz. The Spaniards were finally ousted.

In the Second World War, the last battle of San Fernando was fought during the Japanese occupation at Barangay Bacsil. The Bacsil Ridge Monument was built on the site in
the city, the north-eastern portion of the town plaza. The victory enabled the establishment of the United States Army Base, Base M at Poro Point (a buildup area for the
Japan invasion).[5] The town was liberated in 1945.[1]

In 2010 the police of San Fernando demonstrated the ability to use computer technology when they apprehended suspected serial killer Mark Dizon. [6]

Economy

San Fernando is mainly agricultural (rice, legumes, leafy vegetables, root crops, fruit trees, corn and tobacco). But residents treat fishing in coastline and seashore areas as
secondary means of livelihood. The natives also have "inabel" (hand-woven cloth), baskets, shell crafts, including foods, such as "kilawen" and "papaitan", "basi", "sukang
iloko" and "paslubong" such as guapples, "longganiza", honey and native rice cakes, "puto", "suman" and "bibingka".

Patopat is San Fernando's native delicacy, made from "agdapil" (sugarcane, a tall tropical Southeast Asian Grass (Saccharum officinarum).[2]

San Fernando has many class A hotels and resorts, night clubs, inter alia.

Tourism

Poro Point

Poro Point Special Economic and Freeport Zone [3] (formerly American Military Base Wallace Air Station)

Thunderbird Resorts (Philippines)

Boardwalk
 The La Union Botanical Garden (8 kilometers from the city) is a 10 hectare garden (Barngay Cadaclan), the home of various species of rare plants and a sanctuary
of wild animals.

Battle of Bacsil Ridge Marker

Pindangan Ruins (Barangay Parian)

Seven Hills

Capitol Hill (Barangay II) home of the Provincial Capitol

Pagoda Hill also known as Filipino-Chinese Friendship Park or Chinese Pagoda (Barangay II)

Heroes Hill & Freedom Park Stairway (153 steps) located at the eastern portion of Capitol Hill

Bethany Hill (Barangay II)

Mirador Hill(Barangay II)

Mariner's Hill (Barangay Catbangen)

Miracle Hill (Barangay Pagdaraoan)

Christ the Redeemer (25 foot statue, Reservoir Hill, Barangay I)

Moro Watch Tower (Barangay Carlatan)

La Union Science Centrum & Museum (LUSCM has 5 Galleries: Kadaklan Burial Site and Environmental Gallery, Museum, Dark Room, Main Science Gallery and
Portable Planetarium (Barangay Cadaclan)
 Ma-Cho Temple

Tomb of Unknown Soldier (Barangay Madayegdeg)

Cathedral of St. William the Hermit (Barangay II, Poblacion)[4]

Christ the Redeemer (25 foot statue, Reservoir Hill)

Kasay Marine Sanctuary: 30 hectares MPA, featuring the 50 years old Giant clam or Tridacna gigas (Barangay Canaoay)

Childrens Park (Barangay II, City Plaza)

10.6 hectares Engineered Sanitary Landfill (Barangay Mameltac)[11]

La Union Trade Center (beside the City Hall)

Cordillara Administration Region CAR ( Baguio)

Baguio, officially the City of Baguio (Ibaloi: Ciudad ne Bagiw; Pangasinan: Siyudad na Baguio; Ilocano: Ciudad ti Baguio;Filipino: Lungsod ng Baguio; Spanish: Ciudad de
Baguio) and often referred to as Baguio City, is a highly urbanized city in northern Luzon of the Philippines.Now also known as Summer Capital of the Philippines. It is
geographically located withinBenguet, serving as the provincial capital from 1901 to 1916, [3] but has since been administered independently from the province following its
conversion into a chartered city. The city has become the center of business, commerce, and education in northern Luzon, as well as the regional center of the Cordillera
Administrative Region.[4] According to the 2015 census, Baguio has a population of 345,366. [2]

Baguio was established as a hill station by the Americans in 1900 at the site of an Ibaloi village known as Kafagway. It was the United States' only hill station in Asia.[5] The
name of the city is derived from bagiw, the Ibaloi word for "moss". The city is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,540 meters (5,050 feet) in the Luzon tropical pine
forests ecoregion conducive for the growth of mossy plants and orchids.[6]
During the Spanish occupation in 1846, the Spaniards established a comandancia in the nearby town of La Trinidad, and organized Benguet into 31 rancherias, one of which
was Kafagway, a wide grassy area where the present Burnham Park is situated. Most of the lands in Kafagway were owned by the Ibaloi chieftain Mateo Cario. The
Spanish presidencia, which was located at Bagyiw at the vicinity of Guisad Valley was later moved to Cario's house where the current City Hall stands. Bagyiw, a local term
for "moss" once abundant in the area was converted by the Spaniards into Baguio, which served as the name of therancheria.[3][7]

During the Philippine Revolution in July 1899, Filipino revolutionary forces under Pedro Paterno liberated La Trinidad from the Spaniards and took over the government,
proclaiming Benguet as a province of the new Republic of the Philippines. Baguio was converted into a "town", with Mateo Cario being the presidente (mayor).[3][7]

Shortly after in November 1899, the PhilippineAmerican War ensued. American forces led by Capt. Robert R. Rudd arrived in La Trinidad searching for Pedro Paterno,
Mateo Cario and other rebels, but failing to do so, proceeded to Baguio, setting camp in what is now Camp John Hay.[3]

On November 22, 1900, the Americans established civil government in Benguet with the passage of Act No. 48, converting therancherias into townships. The Act likewise
made Baguio the capital of Benguet, and Sioco Cario, Mateo Cario's eldest son was made the president of the township. In September 1909, Baguio became a chartered
city through Act No. 1963,[7] but remained the capital of Benguet until August 21, 1916, when the capital was transferred to La Trinidad. [3]

American colonial period

When the United States took possession of the Philippines after the SpanishAmerican War, Baguio was selected to become the summer capital of the Philippine Islands.
Governor-General William Taft on his first visit in 1901, noted the "air as bracing as Adirondacks orMurray Bay ... temperature this hottest month in the Philippines on my
cottage porch at three in the afternoon sixty-eight."[8]:317319

In 1903, Filipino, Japanese and Chinese workers were hired to build Kennon Road, the first road directly connecting Baguio with the lowlands of Pangasinan. Before this, the
only road toBenguet was Naguilian Road, and it was largely a horse trail at higher elevations.

Americans declared Baguio the "City of Pines" on July 1, 1903. [clarification needed] Every year between March and June, the entire American government.The transferred operations to
Baguio to escape Manila's summer heat, a practice abolished in 1913 when Governor-General Francis B. Harrison took office. Mansion House was built to become the
residence of the Governor-General, while in 1904 the rest of the city was planned out by the American architect Daniel Burnham, one of the earliest successful modern city
planners. On September 1, 1909 Baguio was declared a chartered city, the second after the City of Manila, and the period after saw further development of Baguio with the
construction of Wright Park in honor of Governor-General Luke E. Wright, Burnham Park in honor of Burnham, Governor Pack Road, and Session Road.

Economy
The economy of Baguio is centered on tourism and its educational institutions, of which it has at least eight colleges and universities, as well as a plethora of trade and
technical schools. Based on the latest census done in 2007, almost half of the city's population are students, [citation needed] many of whom come from nearby provinces, with
numerous foreign students to add to the diversity.

Another key source of income for Baguio is its position as the commercial hub for the province of Benguet. Many of the agricultural and mining goods produced
in Benguet pass through Baguio for processing, sale or further distribution to the "lowlands

Tourism
Tourism is one of Baguio's main industries due to its weather and history. During the year end holidays some people from the lowlands prefer spending their vacation in
Baguio, to experience cold temperatures they rarely have in their home provinces. Also, during summer, especially during Holy Week, tourists from all over the country flock
to the city. During this time, the total number of people in the city doubles. [19] To accommodate all these people there are more than 80 hotels and inns available. [20] Local
festivities such as the Panagbenga Festival also attracts both local and foreign tourists. Baguio is the lone Philippine destination in the 2011 TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice
Destinations Awards, Asia category, with the city being among the top 25 destinations in Asia.

Culture

The city is home to many immigrants from other parts of the country. Baguio also has a significant population of foreigners. [citation needed] Thelanguages commonly spoken in
Baguio are Ibaloi, Kankana-ey and Ifugao, as well as Ilocano, Pangasinan and Kapampangan. Filipino andEnglish are also understood by many inhabitants within and
around the city. Several restaurants also serve different types of local and foreign cuisine.

Baguio's youth majority in the population has given it a distinct flavour different from those of other cities in the Philippines. [citation needed]Panagbenga Festival, the annual Flower
Festival, is celebrated each February to showcase Baguio's rich cultural heritage, its appreciation of the environment, and inclination towards the arts.

The city became a haven for many Filipino artists in the 1970s-1990s. Drawn by the cool climate and low cost of living, artists such as Ben Cabrera (now a National Artist)
and filmmaker Butch Perez relocated to the city. At the same time, locals such as mixed-media artist Santiago Bose and filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik were also establishing work
in the city. Even today, artists like painters and sculptors from all over the country are drawn to the Baguio Arts Festival which is held annually.[12]

Many Baguio artists used the context of cultural diversity of the Cordillera Region to establish their work. Other notable Baguio artists include Narda Capuyan (weaving),
Kawayan de Guia (painting), Kigao (sculpture), Willy Magtibay, Peter Pinder (fiber glass sculpture, painting, mixed media), Art Tibaldo (mixed media-visual arts) and Franklin
Cimatu (poetry.) The active student population in Baguio has also spawned various interests in animation and digital arts, with several local artists doing work for large
production and advertising agencies in the Philippines and abroad.
Cagayan Valley(Tuguegarao)

Tuguegarao, (Ibanag: Siudad nat Tuguegarao; Ilocano: Ciudad ti Tuguegarao; Filipino: Lungsod ng Tuguegarao) is a 3rd-class (CYs 2004-2007) component city in the
Philippines. It is the capital of the province of Cagayan[2] and the regional and institutional center of Cagayan Valley Region.

The city, on the southern border of the province, is located where the Pinacanauan River empties into the Cagayan River and is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains to
the east, Cordillera Mountains to the west, and the Caraballo Mountains to the south.

The population of the city as of the 2015 census is 153,502 people.[3] Most of the inhabitants are Ilocanos, Ibanags andItawes.[citation needed] Some are
of Chinese and Indian descent.

The highest temperature ever recorded in the Philippines -- 42.2 C (108.0 F)was recorded in Tuguegarao on April 29, 1912 and again on May 11, 1969. [4] Average
temperature during March and April is 38 C (100 F), one of the highest in the country

History
The community was governed as a barangay established by the Dominicans as a mission until the Spaniards gave it the status of pueblo(municipality) on May 9, 1604,
making it one of the political units of the province of Cagayan. The settlement was a small in terms of population but was big in territory, which then included what would later
become the provinces of Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino till the 1850s. As a mission pueblo and with assigned encomendero (landlord) to Tuguegarao, the inhabitants
(as tenants) were made to pay taxes in the form of poultry products and other food products. Resentments later flared and the people of Tuguegarao revolted in 1605, killing
the encomendero. Again, the people of Tuguegarao revolted in 1718 and then 1761 under a leader named Rivera.

The first parochial building of Tugugarao was constructed in 1604, a chapel that became the foundation of what is now the Ermita de Piedra de San Jacinto (Stone Chapel of
Saint Hyacinth) dedicated to Saint Hyacinth, the patron saint of Tuguegarao. The present chapel is the latest in a process of rebuilding that started in 1724 when it was rebuilt
by Fr. Bernabe de la Magdalena, O.P..

Tuguegarao became the capital of Cagayan province in 1839 when the provincial seat of power was relocated from Lal-lo. The decline of Lal-lo became the transformation of
Tuguegarao as the most important town in Cagayan.

Tuguegarao was occupied by American troops on December 12, 1899. During World War II, the city and its airfield of some significance was captured by the Japanese
Imperial Army on December 12, 1941 as part of the Japanese invasion of Aparri. The General Headquarters of thePhilippine Commonwealth Army, Philippine
Constabulary and the USAFIP-NL units was activated on 1942 to 1946 and stationed in Tuguegarao. The city and airfield were bombed by the US and Philippine regularly
between January and May 1945, and attacked by Donald Blackburn's guerrilla forces in June 1945.[6]:299302 The local recognized guerrillas helped by entering the
town, Philippine Commonwealth troops under the Philippine Army and Constabulary units and USAFIP-NL military units came in early June; the town was officially liberated
on June 25, 1945.

Sitio Capatan was elevated into a barrio (or barangay) Capatan of Tuguegarao on April 3, 1959, by Republic Act no. 2107.[7]

Tuguegarao was once the only first-class municipality in the province of Cagayan. It has served as the provincial capital of Cagayan since 1839 because of the notable socio-
economic progress of the town. In 1975, Tuguegarao was declared as the capital and seat of the regional government of Cagayan Valley (Region II) being the region's
geographic center with adequate facilities and amenities needed by such.

New barangays were formed in the 1970s that by 1981, Tuguegarao had 49 barangays, 12 of which were urban. The late 1980s saw the gradual expansion of the urban core
of Tuguegarao to the outlying barangays of Ugac, Caritan and Atulayan. With the fast rising prices of real estate in the poblacion (city center), residents found it profitable to
sell their properties in the poblacion and buy lots in the surrounding barangay neighborhoods, but still close to avail the amenities of the city.

By 1980, Tuguegarao had a population of 73,507. The increase in population could be attributed to various factors. One is the increasing peace and order problems in the
other towns in the region driving the people to Tuguegarao, which is relatively free of the insurgency problem with the visible presence of the military and its geographic
location. Another factor is the presence of the schools, whose quality of education is highly comparable to that of Metropolitan Manila. Others come because of the increase
in trade and industry. The completion of the Maharlika Highway made Region II more accessible to people from other areas.

1983 marked the quadricentennial celebration of the establishment of the civil government of the Province of Cagayan. In the week-long celebration held in Tuguegarao,
several Philippine cabinet ministers visited the town and province.

Of very great consideration[according to whom?] is the town's tremendous improvement in social services and infrastructure facilities since 1975. In the 1980s and 1990s, multistory
buildings were constructed in the poblacion greatly changing Tuguegarao's skyline. Other changes included landscaped schools and homes, cable television, air-conditioned
buses, jet flights, telegraph and telex services, door-to-door delivery services, domestic and overseas long-distance calls, luxurious social amenities and other trappings of a
highly urbanized town.

Tuguegarao became a component city after it was affirmed in a plebiscite held on December 18, 1999. Randolph Sera Ting is the first mayor of the new city. On July 2, 2007,
Delfin Telan Ting (who was then a municipal mayor from 1988 to 1998) was elected to become the second mayor of the city.

Cordillera Administration Region (CAR)

Baguio
Baguio, officially the City of Baguio (Ibaloi: Ciudad ne Bagiw; Pangasinan: Siyudad na Baguio; Ilocano: Ciudad ti Baguio;Filipino: Lungsod ng Baguio; Spanish: Ciudad de
Baguio) and often referred to as Baguio City, is a highly urbanized city in northern Luzon of the Philippines. Now also known as Summer Capital of the Philippines. It is
geographically located withinBenguet, serving as the provincial capital from 1901 to 1916, [3] but has since been administered independently from the province following its
conversion into a chartered city. The city has become the center of business, commerce, and education in northern Luzon, as well as the regional center of the Cordillera
Administrative Region.[4] According to the 2015 census, Baguio has a population of 345,366. [2]

Baguio was established as a hill station by the Americans in 1900 at the site of an Ibaloi village known as Kafagway. It was the United States' only hill station in Asia.[5] The
name of the city is derived from bagiw, the Ibaloi word for "moss". The city is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,540 meters (5,050 feet) in the Luzon tropical pine
forests ecoregion conducive for the growth of mossy plants and orchids.

Early history
During the Spanish occupation in 1846, the Spaniards established a comandancia in the nearby town of La Trinidad, and organized Benguet into 31 rancherias, one of which
was Kafagway, a wide grassy area where the present Burnham Park is situated. Most of the lands in Kafagway were owned by the Ibaloi chieftain Mateo Cario. The
Spanish presidencia, which was located at Bagyiw at the vicinity of Guisad Valley was later moved to Cario's house where the current City Hall stands. Bagyiw, a local term
for "moss" once abundant in the area was converted by the Spaniards into Baguio, which served as the name of therancheria.[3][7]

During the Philippine Revolution in July 1899, Filipino revolutionary forces under Pedro Paterno liberated La Trinidad from the Spaniards and took over the government,
proclaiming Benguet as a province of the new Republic of the Philippines. Baguio was converted into a "town", with Mateo Cario being the presidente (mayor).[3][7]

Shortly after in November 1899, the PhilippineAmerican War ensued. American forces led by Capt. Robert R. Rudd arrived in La Trinidad searching for Pedro Paterno,
Mateo Cario and other rebels, but failing to do so, proceeded to Baguio, setting camp in what is now Camp John Hay.[3]

On November 22, 1900, the Americans established civil government in Benguet with the passage of Act No. 48, converting therancherias into townships. The Act likewise
made Baguio the capital of Benguet, and Sioco Cario, Mateo Cario's eldest son was made the president of the township. In September 1909, Baguio became a chartered
city through Act No. 1963,[7] but remained the capital of Benguet until August 21, 1916, when the capital was transferred to La Trinidad. [3]

American colonial period

The tents and dormitories of Teachers Camp in Baguio, 1909, the summer retreat for American educators
When the United States took possession of the Philippines after the SpanishAmerican War, Baguio was selected to become the summer capital of the Philippine Islands.
Governor-General William Taft on his first visit in 1901, noted the "air as bracing as Adirondacks orMurray Bay ... temperature this hottest month in the Philippines on my
cottage porch at three in the afternoon sixty-eight."[8]:317319

In 1903, Filipino, Japanese and Chinese workers were hired to build Kennon Road, the first road directly connecting Baguio with the lowlands of Pangasinan. Before this, the
only road toBenguet was Naguilian Road, and it was largely a horse trail at higher elevations.

Americans declared Baguio the "City of Pines" on July 1, 1903. [clarification needed] Every year between March and June, the entire American government.The transferred operations to
Baguio to escape Manila's summer heat, a practice abolished in 1913 when Governor-General Francis B. Harrison took office. Mansion House was built to become the
residence of the Governor-General, while in 1904 the rest of the city was planned out by the American architect Daniel Burnham, one of the earliest successful modern city
planners. On September 1, 1909 Baguio was declared a chartered city, the second after the City of Manila, and the period after saw further development of Baguio with the
construction of Wright Park in honor of Governor-General Luke E. Wright, Burnham Park in honor of Burnham, Governor Pack Road, and Session Road.

Geography
Baguio is located some 1,540 meters (5,050 feet) above sea level, nestled within the Cordillera Central mountain range in northern Luzon. The city is enclosed by the
province of Benguet. It covers a small area of 57.5 square kilometres (22.2 sq mi). Most of the developed part of the city is built on uneven, hilly terrain of the northern
section. When Daniel Burnham draughted plans for the city, he made the City Hall a reference point where the city limits extend 8.2 kilometres (5.1 mi) from east to west and
7.2 kilometres (4.5 mi) from north to south.

Culture
The city is home to many immigrants from other parts of the country. Baguio also has a significant population of foreigners. [citation needed] Thelanguages commonly spoken in
Baguio are Ibaloi, Kankana-ey and Ifugao, as well as Ilocano, Pangasinan and Kapampangan. Filipino andEnglish are also understood by many inhabitants within and
around the city. Several restaurants also serve different types of local and foreign cuisine.

Baguio's youth majority in the population has given it a distinct flavour different from those of other cities in the Philippines. [citation needed]Panagbenga Festival, the annual Flower
Festival, is celebrated each February to showcase Baguio's rich cultural heritage, its appreciation of the environment, and inclination towards the arts.
The city became a haven for many Filipino artists in the 1970s-1990s. Drawn by the cool climate and low cost of living, artists such as Ben Cabrera (now a National Artist)
and filmmaker Butch Perez relocated to the city. At the same time, locals such as mixed-media artist Santiago Bose and filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik were also establishing work
in the city. Even today, artists like painters and sculptors from all over the country are drawn to the Baguio Arts Festival which is held annually.[12]

Many Baguio artists used the context of cultural diversity of the Cordillera Region to establish their work. Other notable Baguio artists include Narda Capuyan (weaving),
Kawayan de Guia (painting), Kigao (sculpture), Willy Magtibay, Peter Pinder (fiber glass sculpture, painting, mixed media), Art Tibaldo (mixed media-visual arts) and Franklin
Cimatu (poetry.) The active student population in Baguio has also spawned various interests in animation and digital arts, with several local artists doing work for large
production and advertising agencies in the Philippines and abroad.

Cagayan Valley (Region II)

Tuguegarao
The City of Tuguegarao is a 1st class city in the province of Cagayan, Philippines. It is the capital city of Cagayan & the regional capital of Region 2. It is located on the Cagayan River, near
the southern border of the province, at 1737N, 12143E.

According to the 2007 census, it has a population of 129,539.

Languages commonly spoken are Itawes language|Ytawes, Ybanag and Ilokano.

The highest recorded temperature in the Philippines and of the Western Pacific Region was in Tuguegarao on April 29, 1912 at 42.2C (108F)[1]. Average temperature during March and April
is 38C, one of the highest in the country for years. The Former Senator Eulogio Balao is a native of this city.

History
The origin of the city's name is unclear. Possibilities include "tuggui gari yao" (this was cleared by fire), "garao" (swift river current), or "taraw" (a species of palm). The first recorded settlement
was a mission pueblo established May 9, 1604. The city developed gradually, then more rapidly after the provincial capital was transferred from Lallo, in 1839. It was occupied by American
troops on 12 December 1899.

During World War II, the city was captured by the Japanese on 8 December 1941, and its airfield was of some significance; the city and airfield were bombed by the US regularly between
January and May 1945. The Japanese had left by the time Filipino guerillas came in early June; the town was officially liberated on June 25, 1945.

Tuguegarao was once the only first class municipality in the province of Cagayan. It has served as the provincial capital of Cagayan since 1893 because of the notable socio-economic
progress of the town. In 1975, having adequate facilities and amenities aside from being the region's geographic center and having capabilities of serving as the administrative seat of
government for the region, Tuguegarao was declared the regional capital of Region II (Cagayan Valley).

Tuguegarao as a component city was affirmed in a plebiscite held on December 18, 1999, with Randolph Ting as the first city mayor.
Festival
Pav-vurulun Festival is celebrated from August 1016. Pav-vurulun is an Ibanag word which means get-together or a sense of belongingness. It is in this context that Tuguegarao City annually
celebrates its patronal fiesta. It gathers Tuguegaraoeos to a weeklong festivities culminating with a mass and procession of the patron saint on August 16. The patronal fiesta is in honor of St.
Hyacinth, the city's patron saint.

The week-long celebration is dubbed as a festival of activities. It is marked by parades, beauty contest, pancit eating contest, street dancing contest from the different schools of the city, music
festival, sports fest, and trade fairs among others.

Central Luzon (Region III)

San Fernando (Pampanga)
Pampanga or Pampaga (Kapampangan: Lalawigan ning Pampanga; Filipino: Lalawigan ng Pampanga) is a province in theCentral Luzon region of the Philippines. Lying on
the northern shore of Manila Bay, Pampanga is bordered by Tarlac to the north,Nueva Ecija to the northeast, Bulacan to the east, the Manila Bay to the central-
south, Bataan to the southwest, and Zambales to the northwest. Its capital is the City of San Fernando; Angeles City, while geographically within Pampanga, is classified as
a first-class, highly urbanized city and is governed independently of the province.

The name La Pampanga was given by the Spaniards, who encountered natives living along the banks (pampng) of thePampanga River. Its creation in 1571 makes it the
first Spanish province on Luzon Island (Cebu in Visayas is older as it was founded by the Spaniards in 1565). The town of Bacolor in the province briefly served as the
Spanish colonial capital when Great Britain invaded Manila as part of the Seven Years' War. At the eve of the Philippine Revolution of 1896, Pampanga was one of eight
provinces placed under martial law for rebellion against the Spanish Empire; it is thus represented on the Philippine national flag as one of the eight rays of the sun.

Pampanga is served by Clark International Airport, which is in Clark Freeport Zone, some 16 kilometres (9.9 mi) north of the provincial capital. The province is home to
two Philippine Air Force air bases, Basa Air Base in Floridabalanca, and the former United States Clark Air Base in Angeles City.

History
The town of San Fernando was founded in 1754 from the towns of Bacolor andMexico. The first church was built in 1755 with wooden walls and nipa roofing. The municipal
tribunal was erected later in the year in front of the town plaza using durable materials and thatched nipa roofing. Don Vidal de Arrozal served as its first gobernadorcillo that
year.

In 1796, after serving as gobernadorcillo the previous year, Don ngel Pantaleon de Miranda retired to Barrio Saguin, from where he started setting up his hacienda in Barrio
Culiat. The barrio was separated from San Fernando on the December 8, 1829 as the new town of Angeles, with the Los Santos ngeles Custodios as titular patrons.
An expediente requesting the transfer of the provincial capital of Pampanga to San Fernando was signed on the August 6, 1852. Real Cedula 745, approving the transfer of
the provincial capital of Pampanga from Bacolor to San Fernando, was signed on September 11, 1881. The said transfer would not materialize.

In 1878, actions were made to create the town of Calulut. This new town would be composed of Calulut and the neighboring barrios of Bulaun, Malpitic, Sindalan, La Paz,
Lara, Saguin, Telabastagan, Balete, Malinao, Pulung Bulu, Panipuan, Macabacle and the caserio of Pau in San Fernando, and Panipuan, Acle, Suclaban and the sitio of
Gandus in Mexico. This plan did not materialize due to strong opposition from the parish priest of San Fernando.

Governor-General Eulogio Despujol and Manila Archbishop Bernardino Nozaleda inaugurated the San Fernando railroad station, together with the Bagbag-Mabalacat stretch
of the Manila-Dagupan Railroad, on February 23, 1892. The station was second only to Manila in revenues that year, and was thus the most important provincial station of
the Manila-Dagupan Railroad. On June 27 of the same year, Dr. Jos P. Rizal made a stop-over in the town as part of his mission to recruit members to the La Liga Filipina.

On September 1, 1896 the town was declared to be in a state of war despite its peaceful situation. Brigadier General Diego de los Rios arrived on December 2 to calm the
revolution that started in Manila on August 30. General Ruiz Serralde took over the Rios's post on June 26, 1897 to maintain the peace in San Fernando. The revolution was
not yet at its height with occasional exchanges of fire in some places in Pampanga.

On June 26, 1898, representatives from all Pampanga towns, except Macabebe, gathered in San Fernando to swear allegiance to Gen. Maximino Hizon who was the
provincial military governor and representative of the revolutionary president, Emilio Aguinaldo. On October 9, Aguinaldo, together with his cabinet visited the town and was
welcomed with so much applause and enthusiastic cheering from the public. He proceeded to the convento which was served as the military headquarters at that time.

On May 4, 1899, Philippine revolutionary troops led by General Antonio Luna burned the casa municipal, the town church and several houses to render them useless to the
approaching American forces. On June 16, due to the strategic location of the town, Aguinaldo himself led Filipino forces in the Battle for San Fernando. The plan to retake
the town proved unsuccessful. Calulut fell to the Americans on August 9.

On August 15, 1904, the Pampanga provincial government was finally transferred to San Fernando from Bacolor, by virtue of Act No. 1204 signed on July 22, 1904. This was
during the term of Governor Macario Arnedo and Municipal President Juan Sengson. The town of Minalin became part of San Fernando that same year. It will later regain its
political independence in 1909.

On January 2, 1905, the town of Santo Tomas was consolidated with San Fernando by virtue of Act 1208.

On August 12, 1904, US Secretary of War William H. Taft visited the town to get first hand information and gather ideas for the governance of Pampanga. Due to the short
notice, a bamboo pavilion was hastily constructed for his visit where he was welcomed with a banquet for 200 people. Taft would later be elected President of the United
States.
In 1921, the Pampanga Sugar Development Company (PASUDECO) sugar central began its operations. The company was formed in 1918 by large-scale planters such as
Jos de Len, Augusto Gonzales, Francisco Tongio Liongson, Toms Lazatin, Toms Consunji, Francisco Hizon, Jos Henson, and Manuel Urquico in the San Fernando
residence of Governor Honorio Ventura as part of a plan to construct a locally financed central.

In 1932, the Socialist Party of the Philippines was founded by Pedro Abad Santos. Two years later, he created and headed the Aguman Ding Madlang Talapagobra (AMT).
The Abad Santos compound in Barangay San Jose became the focal point of the peasant movement.

On February 14, 1939, Philippine president Manuel L. Quezon proclaimed his social justice program before a gathering of farmers in front of the Municipal Government
building.

In 1941, forces of the Japanese Imperial Army occupied the town and placed the municipal government under its supervision. The following year, thousands of Filipino and
American POWs walked from Bataan to the San Fernando Train Station in what will be known as the Bataan Death March.

In 1952, the town of Santo Tomas was separated from San Fernando.

In 1986, Paterno Guevarra was sworn in as officer-in-charge of the town after the successful People Power Revolution that toppled the Marcos dictatorship that same year.
He was later elected municipal mayor.

In 1990, Philippine president Corazon C. Aquino inaugurated the Paskuhan Village, the first Christmas village in Asia and the third of its kind in the world. The following
year,Mount Pinatubo erupted after over 600 years of dormancy hurling a layer of ash and volcanic debris on the town.

On October 1, 1995, Typhoon Sibyl (Mameng) struck the town. It unleashed floodwaters and mudflows from Mount Pinatubo into the town. The Barangays of Sto. Nino, San
Juan, San Pedro Cutud and Magliman were severely damaged by lahar. The citizens of San Fernando rallied to save the town by raising funds to build the St. Ferdinand
People's Dike. The Pampanga Megadike was constructed the following year, thus preventing further damage to the town.

Festivals and local events

Date Name

January 31 Pedro Abad Santos Day

February 4 Cityhood Anniversary

Good Friday San Pedro Cutud Lenten Rites

May 7 Jos Abad Santos Day

First Saturday of May El Circulo Fernandino

May 30 San Fernando City Fiesta

September 10 San Fernando Women's Day

San Fernando Frog Festival (Kapampangan: Piestang

Around October to November
Tugac)

Around November to December Sinukwan Festival

December 11 Pampanga Day (Kapampangan: Aldo ning Kapampangan)

December to First Week of
Giant Lantern Festival (Kapampangan: Liligan Parul)
January

Calabarzon (Region IV-A)

Calamba
Calamba (PSGC: 043405000), officially known as the City of Calamba (Filipino:Lungsod ng Calamba) and often referred to as Calamba City, is a component
cityof Laguna, Philippines. It is the regional center of the Calabarzon region. It is situated 54 kilometres (34 mi) south ofManila, the city is known as the Resort Capital of the
Philippines[4] because of its numerous hot spring resorts, which are mostly located in Barangay Pansol, Bucal and Bagong Kalsada.

According to the 2015 census, the city has a population of 454,486 people, making it the most populous local government unit in Laguna. [3] It is the 5th densest city in the
province with more than 2,600 people per square kilometer after San Pedro, Bian, Cabuyao and Santa Rosa. Based on the overall rankings of the 2014 Cities and
Municipalities Index, the city ranked 18th in the overall competitiveness (cities ranking) and 1st among cities in theCalabarzon region.[5][6]

The City of Calamba is the hometown of the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal.

History
The oldest part of Calamba is believed to be Barangay Sucol where its first settlers remained. With the arrival of Spaniards, the whole area was converted into a hacienda,
then a part of Tabuco (now known as Cabuyao City). Calamba became an independentpueblo on August 28, 1742, and formed into the town of Calamba in 1770. In 1813,
Calamba was placed in the hands of "encargados" by the Dominican Brothers, who divided into portions and sold the haciendas to the natives during the American regime. [7][9]

During the Japanese occupation in World War II, the city was the theater of a massacre during which the Imperial Japanese Army killed at least 2,000 civilians.[10] The St. John
the Baptist Church, established in 1859, was burned by the Japanese during World War II. It was reconstructed by Fr. Eliseo Dimaculangan. It was the christening site
of Jos Rizal. The original baptismal font has been preserved and refurbished.

Tourism and places of interest

Here are some of Calamba City's tourist destinations:

Rizal Shrine
 This is located at Calamba City Proper. Beside the St. John the Baptist Church, it is where Jos Rizal, the Philippines' national hero, lived before he was executed
in Rizal Park.
Calamba Rizal Park/The Plaza
The former tallest Rizal Statue located at Calamba.

This public park in Barangay Real commemorates Jose Rizal. Erected on a 7 hectares (17 acres) land at Calamba City Hall Complex, the monument is 22 feet
(6.7 m) tall, with the number symbolizing the 22 languages and dialects used by Rizal. It sits on top of a 15-step podium, symbolizing one decade since Rizal was
born. The monument was once cited as the tallest Jose Rizal Monument in the World, [23] until a monument of Rizal was built in Santa Cruz, Laguna for thePalarong
Pambansa 2014. The monument was inaugurated by President Benigno Aquino III in preparation for the National Hero's sesquicentennial birth anniversary on June
19, 2011.

St. John the Baptish Parish Church

St. John the Baptish Parish Church

Established in 1859, the Calamba Church, also St. John the Baptish Parish Church was burned by the Japanese during World War II. It was reconstructed by Fr.
Eliseo Dimaculangan. It was the christening site of Jos Rizal. The original baptismal font has been preserved and refurbished

Banga/Pot of Calamba
Banga (also Calambanga) is a large pot that symbolizes the name of Calamba City. The name of Calamba City derived from the two words, "kalan" and "banga".
Thebarangays in Calamba was inscripted around the pot. This pot is also known asCalambanga.
Republ1c Wakepark

The newest and most innovative wakepark in the world. Located at Nuvali, Canlubang, Calamba City.

Is a tourist attraction located at barangayCanlubang and one of the falls here in Calamba City, it is situated at the western edge of the city.

Wonder Island Resort

 Situated on a two-hectare island in the middle of Laguna de Bay, Wonder Island Resort is surrounded by the wide expanse of the largest freshwater lake in the
country. About 50 kilometers south of Manila, the island can be reached via Calamba in Laguna, with a seven-minute ride aboard the sleek, safe and ultra-
comfortable air-conditioned ferryboat.
Hot Spring Resorts
Most resorts in Calamba are located in Barangays Pansol, Bucal and Bagong Kalsada.

Mimaropa (Region IV-B)

Calapan
Calapan, officially the City of Calapan(Filipino: Lungsod ng Calapan) acomponent city, is the capital of the province of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. According to the 2010
Census, this coastal community has a population of 124,173 people. [3] Its citizens are called Calapeos.

The city serves as the gateway to the Oriental Mindoro province with the implementation of the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SRNH) an integrated ferry project of
former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo that extends further to the southern part of the Philippines. The Calapan City Seaport is the largest and busiest seaport on Mindoro
Island, which is just 45 minutes away by ferry boats androll-on/roll-off (RORO) ships to-and-froBatangas City International Seaport.

Calapan is currently one of the only two cities in Region 4-B (Mimaropa Region) the other being Puerto Princesa City inPalawan. Calapan serves as the region's
administrative center. It is also the center of commerce, industry, transport, communication, religious activities and education in the entire province of Oriental Mindoro.

Geography
Calapan is bounded to the north and north-east by the Calapan Bay, south and southeast by the Municipality of Naujan, and to the west by the Municipality ofBaco. The city
lies at the quadrangle bounded by 1312.6 and 1327 north latitudes and 12117 east longitudes. It is approximately 28 nautical miles (52 km; 32 mi) from the nearest point
of BatangasProvince, 45 km (28 mi) south of Batangas City and 130 km (81 mi) south of Manila.

The city has an area of 250.06 km2 (96.55 sq mi) and is composed of 62 barangays of which 22 are classified as urban and 40, rural. The city also has jurisdiction over the
three Baco-Chico Islets and the two Silonay Islets on Calapan Bay.

The overall land characteristic is a wide plain with rivers, interspersed with wetlands at the seacoast periphery. The highest elevation is 187 m (614 ft) above sea level at
Bulusan Hill, a 6-kilometre (3.7 mi) long landform east of the city, which interrupts the mostly flat terrain north-east of the Halcon-Baco Mountain Range

History
Calapan was formerly a small village before the establishment of the first Religious District in Baco. The District convent was transferred to Calapan in 1733 and began its
jurisdiction over the Northern Mindoro Ecclesiastical Area.[4]

In the early 18th century, the town only occupied a strip of land stretching from Ibaba to Ilaya in a cross-shape facing the present church and cut off by the river. Later on,
succeeding barrios were founded.

In 1837, the capital of the province was moved from Puerto Galera to Calapan. When Mindoro became a part of Marinduque on June 13, 1902, the provincial capital was
once again moved to Puerto Galera. On November 10, 1902, Mindoro was detached from Marinduque. In 1903, Calapan once again became the provincial capital. [4]

When Mindoro was detached from Marinduque on November 10, 1902, Baco, Puerto Galera and San Teodoro were annexed to Calapan in 1905 under Act. 1280, adding a
total area of 843 square kilometres (325 sq mi). of land. In 1902, under Act 2824, the three municipalities gained their independence.

In 1919, the boundary dispute between Calapan and Naujan was adjudicated byPresidentes (Mayors) Agustin Quijano of Calapan and Agustin Garong of Naujan over a
portion of the territory of what is now known as the present boundary. The portion of agricultural area was awarded to Naujan, thus, making the area of Calapan much smaller
as compared to that of Naujan which is now considered as the biggest municipality of the province.

Transportion
Port of Calapan is the primary seaport serving the city which connected through routes to the Port of Batangas City in mainland Luzon. Motorized tricycles are a common
mode of transport and jeepneys and vans served as transportation options to other municipalities within Oriental Mindoro which passes through the mostly concreted
pronvincial road spanning the province.

The city also has an airport, the Calapan Airport, classified as a secondary airport and is used for general aviation handling mostly small planes and choppers with regular
trips from Manila Domestic Airport.

Bicol Region( Region V)

Legazpi
Legazpi, officially the City of Legazpi(Bikol: Ciudad nin Legazpi; Filipino:Lungsod ng Legazpi) and often referred to as Legazpi City, is a component city and the capital of
the province of Albay in thePhilippines. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 196,639. [8]

Legazpi City is the administrative center and largest city of the Bicol Region.[10][11] It is a center of tourism, education, health services, commerce[12] and transportation[4] in the
Bicol Region.
Mayon Volcano, one of the Philippines' most popular icons and tourist destinations, is partly within the city's borders. [13] The city is composed of two districts: Legazpi Port and
Albay district.

Legazpi was recognized as the most business-friendly city in Southern Luzon in 2007 by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. [14][15] In 2013, Legazpi was ranked
11th among the most competitive cities in the country.[16] In 2014, the city was ranked second among the top three livable cities in the Philippines in the Livable Cities Design
Challenge organized by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) and theAsia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.[17][18]In 2016, Legazpi was named overall third most
competitive component city in the Philippines by the National Competitiveness Council.

History
The area that is now Albay had a thriving civilization before the Spanish arrived. [20] The Spanish explorers found densely populated settlements with an abundance of gold and
provisions in the southern Bicol peninsula.[21] Ancient inhabitants practiced rice cultivation, made fine gold jewelry and possessed silk, suggesting trade with China.
[21]
American anthropologist Henry Otley Beyer found jars, stone tools and shells from 100 to 500 BC inSorsogon and Albay.[22] Meanwhile, ancient burial jars and pottery were
also found in Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave in Camalig.[23] Other evidences of pre-Hispanic civilization include the Mataas shell scoop, which dates back to the Late Neolithic Period,
found in Cagraray Island.[24] The Mataas shell scoop was declared a National Cultural Treasure by theNational Museum of the Philippines

Geography
Legazpi is on the eastern portion of the province of Albay bounded on the north by the municipality ofSto. Domingo, on the east by the Albay Gulf, on the west by the
municipality of Daraga, and on the south by the municipalities of Manito, Albay andPilar and Castilla, Sorsogon. The city is located 532 kilometers south of Manla.

From north to south, the city spans approximately 29 kilometers; from east to west, the narrowest portion is about 3 kilometers (urban district) while the widest is about 15
kilometers (southeast area).[51] Legazpi has a total land area of 20,437 hectares, 90 percent of which is classified as rural (18,431.66 hectares) while 10 percent is classified
as urban (2,005.39 hectares).[52]

Legazpi's topography is generally plain on the northeastern areas, with slopes ranging from five to fifteen degrees. The southern areas have mostly rolling to hilly terrain. In
the city's coastal areas, the terrain varies from plain (north) to hilly (south). [53] Legazpi is criss-crossed by several rivers including the Tibu, Macabalo and Yawa rivers with a
number of swampy areas, particularly in the urban district. To mitigate flooding in these low-lying areas, the local government has built an urban drainage and flood control
system consisting of dikes, canals, sea walls and three pumping stations located in Barangays San Roque, Bay-Bay and Victory Village.

Festival
Ibalong Festival is a non-religious festival held annually each August. The festival celebrates the epic-fragment Ibalong, which narrates the exploits of three legendary
heroes of Ibalon or Ancient Bikol: Baltog, Handyong, and Bantong. It was first held in October 1992. Yearly activities include the Ibalong Street Presentation, trade fairs,
bazaars and weekend markets, Mutya ng Ibalong Pageant, and sports-related events such as the annual Mt. Mayon Triathlon. [74] In 2013, the epic was adapted into a critically
acclaimed[75] dance-musical 'Ibalong the Musical'[76] by playwright Rody Vera as part of the Tanghalang Pilipino's 26th season. The musical premiered at the Tanghalang
Aurelio V. Tolentino of Cultural Center of the Philippines on February 8, 2013.

Daragang Magayon Festival is a month-long annual festival celebrating Mt. Mayon. It is held in April in the entire province of Albay with most of the activities held in Legazpi
City. The name comes from the Bikol word 'magayon', which means beautiful, from which the name of Mt. Mayon is derived. It is considered the biggest secular celebration of
culture in Albay, helping promote trade and tourism in the province.[79] The festival features agricultural products display and trade fairs, culinary shows, cultural events, street
parades, photo/arts exhibits, and sports events.[80] Notable activities include the Festival of Festivals Showdown, Legend Showdown, Mayon 360 Ultramarathon, Higantes
(Parade of Giants), Search for Daragang Magayon, and Sayaw kan Tulong Bulod (Dance of the Three Mountains) Musical. [81]

Karangahan Albay Green Christmas is an annual Christmas festival with emphasis on safe and environment-friendly celebration of the Yuletide season. First held in 2009,
the festival runs from December 1 to 31. Highlights of the festival include performances of thePastores, a traditional Christmas dance,[82] trade fairs, bazaars, and Culinaria
Albay, a food festival wherein local restaurants put up kiosks in Pearanda Park offering food and native delicacies. [83][84][85] Another highlight is the annual lighting of the
Karangahan Christmas tree typically made of recycled and environment-friendly materials.

Natural Attractions[edit]
Ligon Hill Nature Park

Mayon Volcano is an active stratovolcano located 15 kilometers northwest of Legazpi renowned for its symmetric conical shape.

Ligon Hill is a 156-meter peak with a nature park in its summit offering panoramic views of the city and Mt. Mayon as well as adventure activities like zip-line.[174]

Kapuntukan Hill (also known as the Sleeping Lion Hill) is located at the point south of the Port of Legazpi. The Embarcadero, the Legazpi Port District, and Albay
Gulf with Mayon Volcano can be viewed from the top of the hill. [175]

Karangahan Falls, in Brgy. Banquerohan, has a deep catch basin ideal for swimming.
 Legazpi Dive Sites are a collection of sixteen coral reefs off the coast of Legazpi and around the Albay Gulf ideal for scuba diving.[176][177] The city plans to set up an
underwater park in six of the coral reefs in the city.[178]

The city has a long coastline along the Albay Gulf with black sand beaches ideal forskimboarding.[179][180]

Whale sharks, locally known as butanding, occasionally visit the waters off the city's coast.

Western Visayas (Region VI)

Iloilo City
Iloilo (Hiligaynon: Kapuoran sang Iloilo;Filipino: Lalawigan ng Iloilo) is a provincein the Philippines located in the region ofWestern Visayas. Iloilo occupies the southeast
portion of Panay Island and is bordered by province of Antique to the west, Capiz to the north, the Jintotolo Channel to the northeast, the Guimaras Strait to the east, and
the Iloilo Strait andPanay Gulf to the southwest. Just off Iloilo's southeast coast is the island province Guimaras, once part of Iloilo but now an independent province. Across
the Panay Gulf and Guimaras Strait is Negros Occidental. Iloilo's capital is Iloilo Citythough the city itself is independent and not governed by the provincial government of
Iloilo.

According to the 2015 census, the population of the province (excluding Iloilo City) is 1,936,423. If Iloilo City is included, the population is 2,361,042.

History
At the time of the Spanish conquest, writing was a new import and the use of organic medium such as leaf and bamboo, and no pre-Hispanic written accounts of Iloilo exist
today. Oral history, in the form of recited epics, has survived to a small degree, with a few recordings made from the last known surviving binukots. But from these oral history
and from writings from other sources, one can still glean Iloilo's prehispanic past.

The controversial origins of the people of Iloilo is said[by whom?] to be from the state of Pannai, a country occupying Sumatra. Pannai was a militant nation allied under the Sri-
Vijaya Mandala that defended the conflict-ridden Strait of Malacca. The small kingdom repulsed any unlicensed Chinese, Indian or Arab navies that often warred in or pirated
the straights of Malacca and for a small country, they were adept at taking down armadas larger than itself. They were successful in policing and defending the straights of
Malacca for the Mandala of Sri-Vijaya until the Chola invasion of Srivijaya occurred, wherein a surprise attack from behind, originating from the occupied capital, rendered the
militant-state of Pannai vulnerable from an unprotected assault from the back flank. The Chola invaders eventually destroyed the state of Pannai and its surviving soldiers,
royals and scholars were said to have been secreted-out eastwards. In their 450 years of occupying Sumatra, they refused to be enslaved to Islam, Taoism or Hinduism but
after the state's dissolution, the people who stayed behind in Pannai, themselves, have a legend wherein the high-borne scholars, soldiers and nobles of Pannai, "fled to
other islands." [3]

At this juncture, Iloilo came into prominence, when the local settlement called Irong-Irong and was founded by Datu Paiburong, who presumably fled the fallen Sri Vijaya
Mandala after he and his fellows within the new Mandala of Confederation of Madja-as, bought the island of Panay (Which they presumably named after the state
of Pannai or the shortening of the Ati word, Ananipay) from the Negrito Chieftain, Marikudo. The Confederation of Madya-as eventually grew a powerful and strong naval
presence that it rivaled the nearby states of the Rajahnate of Cebu, The Kingdom of Tondo and the Sultanate of Sulu when it came to wealth and prestige.

By 1512, this state had grown so powerful militarily and economically, their naval power regularly threatened Chinese Imperial shipping. So much so, that the Chuan-chou
gazeeter specifically reported that the Pisheya (Bisaya) (Another term for people from Iloilo) consistently made devastating raids against the Empire's commerce [4]

Nevertheless, Spain eventually succeeded on conquering of the island of Panay when Spanishconquistador Miguel Lpez de Legazpi moved his headquarters from the
island of Cebu and creating the first Spanish settlement in the island in Ogtongin 1566. This is mainly due in part to the rivalries between the Bisaya and Moro, of which the
former found an ally in Spanish against the latter. The Bisaya accepted alliances with Spain, to defend themselves against the enslaving Moros. To this end, Iloilo contributed
troops in the Castille War against the Sultanate of Brunei. In 1581, the encomienda in Ogtong was moved to La Villa Rica de Arevalo, because of frequent coastal raids by
theDutch privateers. Furthermore, an attack in the year 1600 (Part of the SpanishMoro conflict) where there was a large Muslim armada to destroy Iloilo City, led by
two Morosnamed Sirungan and Salikala who lead the Muslim force of 70 ships and 4,000 warriors that had raided and attacked several Visayan islands in order to abduct
slaves to sell to their allies in the Sultanate of Demak and the Sultanate of Malacca, eventually caused the move of the city center further on to the mouth of the Irong-Irong
river founding what is now Iloilo City and constructing Fort San Pedro to defend it in 1616. [5] Nevertheless, when the 4,000 Moros led by Sirungan and Salikala tried to attack
Iloilo City they were repulsed with heavy losses in Arevalo, Iloilo by a force of 1,000 Hiligaynon warriors and 70 Spanish arquebusiers under the command of Juan Garca de
Sierra, who died in battle.[6]

Soon, the area itself began to prosper, due to its successful textile and sugar industry. As a result, it received Chinese immigrants from the west (that worked for its trades)
andLatinos from the ports of Mexico in the east (to man its military installations). And over time Iloilo grew to be the most important province outside Manila. The City of Iloilo
by virtue of a Royal Decree of 1896 was given the honor of having a coat of arms with the Inscription: "La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad de Iloilo (The Most Loyal and Noble City)
in reward for its loyalty to Spain during the Philippine uprising.

During the American period, Iloilo then became a home to many firsts: including the first department stores and cinemas in the country. Nevertheless, Iloilo experienced a fall
from grace after it was severely devastated in World War II and then had a decline during the 1950s-2000s. In part due to the great Iloilo fire which ruined the economy and
the slow death of the sugar and textile industries that eventually some prominent families (Iloilo then, had the highest concentration of millionaires outside Manila) to abandon
the city to go to other areas such as Cebu, Bacolod, and Manila. Still, the large middle-class populace of Iloilo and its agri-business sector has managed to maintain the
province despite the exodus of some of its prominent families.

Geography
Iloilo covers a total area of 5,000.83 square kilometres (1,930.83 sq mi)[7] occupying the central and eastern section of Panay island in the Western Visayas region. The
province is bordered by province of Antique to the west,Capiz to the north, the Jintotolo Channel to the northeast, the Guimaras Strait to the east, and the Iloilo
Strait andPanay Gulf to the southwest.

The province is divided into two distinct geographic regions; the highlands of the Madia-as on the western border and the lowland plains which account for a larger portion of
the province. Small islands east of its northernmost tip also dot the Visayan Sea- of these, Pan de Azucar and Sicogon are well-known.

Expansive fishponds and mangrove wetlands are found along the coasts and rivers ofOton, Iloilo City, Leganes, Zarraga, Dumangas, Barotac Nuevo, Anilao, Banate, Barotac
Viejo, Ajuy, Balasan, and Carles.

Tourism
As a leading province during the Spanish Colonial Era, the province of Iloilo is widely known for its beautiful old world architecture similar to that of Latin American Countries.
Spanish colonial Churches are amongst the well-known tourist sites in the province. Some natural sites are also in here as well as mixed-use parks that sprawl around the
province.

Miag-ao Church. A World Heritage Site. The Aztec-Baroque inspired church with Filipino botanicals used to carved on the facade. It is known for its intricate facade and
pyramidal bell towers. The church was used as a fortress during the olden days. It is a massive structure built of yellowish Limestones.

Molo Church. The Gothic Renaissance Church of Molo was used as a watch tower to warn the people if there are any attackers on the shore of Iloilo City. It is a fine coral
stone church with Classical and Gothic details. It is also known as the feminist church because of the beautiful female saints lining inside the church.

Cabatuan Church. This Neoclassic Church, known to be the most massive Hispanic structure in Iloilo is built of red bricks. It is believed to be the largest red brick structure
in the Visayas and it was given the title "Model of Temples" by the 'El Eco de Panay'. The Cabatuan Church is known to be the only extant Spanish colonial church with three
facades.

San Jose Church. The beautiful church in front of plaza Libertad is considered the most historic amongst the churches in Iloilo City. It is a Byzantine-Neoclassic Church
planned to look like the Spanish Church of Valencia del Cid. The Church is known for its collection of priceless Catholic treasures.
Passi City Church. This is considered a militaristic church in that it was planned as a fortress church and the proof of this can be seen in the massive buttresses which
support the front and back walls of the church. The church was built to replace churches that had been destroyed by an earthquake in 1612 and subsequent churches that
had been destroyed by fires.

Old Capitol building of the Province of Iloilo. A National Historical Site. The building was built with wood stone during the Spanish colonization. It served as the capitol
when the civil government of Iloilo was founded in 1901. The National Historical Institute (NHI) formally recognized the Old Capitol as a historical landmark through a marker
installed on its walls on April 11, 2010.[12]

Bucari Area. Bucari Area is an area with mountainous terrain situated in the highlands of Leon and Alimodian. It is known as the "Summer Capital of Iloilo" and declared as a
special economic zone for tourism and ecological enterprise due to its cool climate, topography, highland attractions and scenery.

Bulabog Putian National Park. Bulabog Puti-an National Park is a protected rain forest area known for being a living museum of flora and fauna. Hundreds of local and
foreign tourists visit the 847 eco-tourism park to immerse in the areas natural attractions such as its various forms of wildlife and more than 30 caves. It is located within the
municipalities of San Enrique and Dingle.[13]

Islas de Gigantes. The Islas de Gigantes is an island group found in the offshores of the municipality of Carles. The place is known for its numerous caves, white sand
beaches, emerald-like shores and lagoon, and rock formations.

Santa Barbara Church. The Santa Barbara Parish Church and Convent is considered to be the "Cradle of Independence" in Panay and in the Visayas. In 1991, the National
Historical Commission of the Philippines declared Santa Barbara Church and Convent as a National Landmark. The church was the site where General Martin Delgado of the
Visayan Revolutionary Government started the junta that resulted to the first Cry of Revolution against the Spaniards outside Luzon. It was also used as the general
headquarters and military hospital of the revolutionary forces.

Calle Real Heritage District. Calle Real, or the J.M. Basa St. In Iloilo City, is once the shopping and entertainment center of the city during the Spainsh and American period.
It houses numerous old colonized buildings.

Iloilo River Esplanade. The Esplanade is Iloilo City's newest hub for dining, leisure and recreation. Poised to be one of the longest linear park in the country.

Iloilo Golf and Country Club. The Iloilo Golf Course and Country Club is the oldest golf course in South East Asia. It all began in the 1850s when the British, led by Iloilo-
based Vice Consul Nicholas Loney known today as the Father of the Philippine Sugar Industry."

Negros Island (NIR/Region XVIII)

Bacolod and Dumaguete
Bacolod /bkld/, officially City of Bacolod (Hiligaynon: Dakbanwa/Syudad sang Bacolod; Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Bacolod; Filipino: Lungsod ng Bacolod) and often
referred to as Bacolod City, is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines.[5]It is the capital of the province of Negros Occidental where it is geographically situated but governed
administratively independent from it. Having a total of 561,875 inhabitants as of 2015 census, it is the most populous city in the Negros Island Region and the second most
populous city in the Visayas after Cebu City.[4] It is part of the Bacolod Metropolitan Area, which also includes the cities of Silay and Talisay with a total population of 791,019.[4]

It is notable for its MassKara Festival held during the third week of October. Known for being a relatively friendly city, it bears the nickname "The City of Smiles". In 2008,
Bacolod City topped a survey byMoneySense Magazine as the "Best Place to Live in the Philippines".[6] The city has also been declared by the Department of Science and
Technology as a "center of excellence" for information technology andbusiness process managementoperations

History
Spanish colonial period
Historical church accounts provide a glimpse of the early years of Bacolod as a mere smallsettlement by the riverbank known as Magsunggay (English: Magsungay). When
the neighboring settlement of Bago was elevated into the status of a small town in 1575, [10] it had several religious dependencies and one of which was the village
of Magsunggay. The early missionaries placed the village under the care and protection of San Sebastin(English: Saint Sebastian) sometime in the middle of the 18th
century. A corregidor(English: magistrate) by the name of Luis Fernando de Luna, donated a relic of San Sebastin for the growing mission, and since then, the village came
to be known as San Sebastin de Magsunggay.[11]

Bacolod was not established as a town until 1755 or 1756, after the inhabitants of the coastal settlement of San Sebastin de Magsunggay, were attacked
by forces under DatuBantlan of Sulu on July 14, 1755 and the villagers transferred from the coast to a hilly area called Baclod (which is now the barangay of Garanada).
Bernardino de los Santos became the first gobernadorcillo (English: municipal judge or governor). The town of Bacolod was constituted as a parroquia (English: parish) in
1788 under the secular clergy, but did not have a resident priest until 1802, as the town was served by the priest fromBago, and later Binalbagan. By 1790, slave raids on
Bacolod by Moro pirates had ceased.[12]

On 11 February 1802, Fr. Eusebio Laurencio became acting parish priest of Bacolod. In September 1806, Fr. Len Pedro was appointed interim parish priest and the
following year became the first regular parish priest. [13]

In September 1817, Fray (English: Friar) Julin Gonzaga from Barcelona was appointed as the parish priest. He encouraged the people to settle once again near the sea. He
also encouraged migration to Bacolod and the opening of lands to agriculture and industry.[13]

In 1846, upon the request of Msgr. Romualdo Jimeno, bishop of Cebu and Negros at that time, Gobernador General (English: Governor-General) Narciso Clavera y
Zalda sent to Negros a team of Recollect missionaries headed by Fr. Fernando Cuenca.[11] A decree of 20 June 1848 by Gobernador General Clavera ordered the
restructuring of Negros politically and religiously. The following year (1849), Negros Island GobernadorcilloManuel Valdevieso y Morquecho transferred the capital of
the Province of Negros fromHimamaylan to Bacolod and the Augustinian Recollects were asked to assume spiritual administration of Negros, which they did that same year.
Transfer of Bacolod to the Recollects, however, took place only in 1871. [12] Fray Mauricio Ferrero became the first Augustinian Recollect parish priest of Bacolod and
successor to the secular priest, Fr. Mariano vila.[13] In 1863, a compulsory primary public school system was set up. [14][15]

In 1889, Bacolod became the capital of Occidental Negros when the Province of Negros was politically divided into the separate provinces of Occidental
Negros (Spanish: Negros Occidental) and Oriental Negros (Spanish: Negros Oriental).

Geography
Bacolod City is located on the northwestern coast of the Province of Negros Occidental. It is bounded on the north by the City of Talisay, on the east by the town of Murcia, on
the south by the City of Bago and in the west by the Guimaras Strait. The global location of Bacolod City is 10 degrees, 40 minutes 40 seconds - north and 122 degrees 54
minutes 25 seconds - east with Bacolod Public Plaza as the benchmark.

Bacolod has a total land area of 16,267 hectares (40,200 acres) or 162.67 square kilometers (62.81 sq mi), including straits and bodies of water and the 124 hectares (310
acres) reclamation area; and is composed of 61 barangay (villages) and 639 purok (smaller units composing a barangay/village). It is accessible by sea through the ports of
Banago; the BREDCO Port in the Reclamation Area, and the port of Pulupandan. By air, it is accessible through the Bacolod-Silay International Airport, which is
approximately 13 (four is counting from the Lagoon) kilometers away from the center of the city.

Bacolod is ideally located on a level area, slightly sloping as it extends toward the sea with an average slope of 0.9 percent for the city proper and between 3 to 5 percent for
the suburbs.[citation needed] The altitude is 32.8 feet or 10.0 meters above sea level with the Bacolod City Public Plaza as the benchmark. Bacolod has two pronounced seasons, wet
and dry. The rainy (wet) season starts from May to January of the following year with heavy rains occurring during the months of August and September. Dry season starts
from the month of February until the last week of April.

Transportation
Airport
The Bacolod-Silay International Airport, located in nearby Silay City, is 15 kilometers north-east from Bacolod. Bacolod is 1 hour by air from Manila, 30 minutes by air
from Cebu, 1 hour by air fromCagayan de Oro and 1 hour and 10 minutes by air from Davao City.

Exterior of Bacolod City Domestic Airport

Bacolod City Domestic Airport was the airport serving the general area of Bacolod. It was one of the busiest airports in the Western Visayas region, when Bacolod was still
part of it. This airport was replaced by the new Bacolod-Silay International Airport, located in nearby Silay City. It was classified as such by the Air Transportation Office, a
body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the operations of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international
airports. The Bacolod City Domestic Airport ceased operations on January 17, 2008, prior to the opening of the Bacolod-Silay International Airport which began operations the
day after

Dumaguete
Dumaguete, officially City of Dumaguete(Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Dumaguete;Hiligaynon: Dakbanwa/Syudad sang Dumaguete; Filipino: Lungsod ng Dumaguete) and often
referred to asDumaguete City, is a component city in the province of Negros Oriental in thePhilippines. It is the capital, principalseaport and most populous city of the
province. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 131,377 people. [3] The city is nicknamed The City of Gentle People.[4]

Dumaguete is referred to as a university city because of the presence of four universities and a number of other colleges where students of the province converge to enroll for
tertiary education. The city is also a popular educational destination for students of surrounding provinces and cities in Visayas andMindanao. The city is best known
forSilliman University, the country's firstProtestant university and the first American university in Asia.[5][6] There are also 18 public elementary schools and 8 public high
schools. The city's student population is estimated at 30,000. [4]

The city attracts a considerable number of foreign tourists, particularly Europeans, because of easy fast ferry access fromCebu City, the availability of beach resorts and dive
sites and the attraction of dolphinand whale watching in nearby Bais City.

The power source of the city comes from the geothermal power plant in Palinpinon, Valencia. The city has redundant fiber optic lines and is a focal point for
telecommunications. It is the landing point for fiber optic cables linking it to Manila, the capital of the country, the cities south of Luzon and the whole Visayas, as well as to
other major cities in Mindanao.

Geography
The city has a land area of 3,362 hectares (8,310 acres),[2] situated on the plains of the southeastern coast of the island of Negros near the mouth of the Banica River. Of the
province's 19 municipalities/towns and 6 cities, Dumaguete is the smallest in terms of land area. It is bounded on the north by the town of Sibulan, on the south by thetown of
Bacong and on the west by the town of Valencia. As a coastal city, it is bounded on the east by the Bohol Sea and the Taon Strait, serving as a natural border to the
neighboring island provinces of Cebu, Bohol andSiquijor.
The city's topography is generally flat from two to six kilometers from the shoreline. It slopes gently upwards to the adjoining municipality of Valencia. The highest ground
elevation is located at the boundary of the municipality of Valencia, about one hundred meters above mean sea level. About 93% of the land have slopes of less than 3%.
The remaining areas have 3% to 5% slope.

Transportation
Air
Sibulan Airport (IATA: DGT, ICAO: RPVD), also known as Dumaguete Airport or Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, is the city's domestic airport located in neighboring Sibulan town
in the north. It provides daily flights to and from Manila, Cebu Cityand other Philippine cities through Cebu Pacific,Cebgo and PAL Express.[24] However, a new airport is being
planned to be built in Bacong, a town bordering Dumaguete in the south[25] The proposal for the transfer and upgrading of this airport to international standards has already
been approved and should be completed before 2025. An initial PHP 500 million budget has already been released for initial study and procurement of free lands. [26]

Sea
Dumaguete, as a major port city is a jump-off point for passengers/tourists who are going to other Visayas and Mindanao areas. There are daily ferry connections to the
islands of Cebu, Bohol, Siquijorand Mindanao operated by Montenegro Lines, Ocean Jet Shipping, Cokaliong and other companies. Dumaguete is an access city for
passengers/tourists going to Cebu which is dubbed as economic hub of the Visayas. There are smaller ports north of the city where short and frequent ferry connections are
available to that island as an alternative. Dumaguete is a port of call for travelers to Manila and Zamboanga City by ship serviced by 2GO Travel.

Land
The main form of public transport in Dumaguete is the motorized tricycle. The Dumaguete version of the motorized tricycle can fit up to 6-8 passengers. For transport to
destinations outside the city limit, there are jeepney and buses travelling set routes. Meanwhile,Vallacar Transit Corporation, the company that operates Ceres buses recently
constructed a 2-storey terminal building in Dumaguete just beside the newly erected commercial center, the Marketplace.

Central Visayas ( Region VII)

Cebu City
Cebu City, officially the City of Cebu(Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo;Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu), is the capital city of the province of Cebuand is the "second city" of
thePhilippines being the center of Metro Cebu, the second most populous metropolitan area in the Philippines after Metro Manila. Cebu is a first income class highly
urbanized citywhere political governance is independent and separate from the province of Cebu, and according to the 2015 census, it has a population of 922,611 making
it the fifth most populated city in the country.[3] In the 2016 election, it had 631,003 registered voters.[4] Cebu City is a significant center of commerce, trade and education in
the Visayas region.

The city is located on the mid-eastern side of Cebu island. It is the firstSpanish settlement, the country's oldest city,[5] and the first capital of the Philippines. It is considered as
the Fount of Christianity in the Far-East.[6][7][8][9]

Cebu is the Philippines' main domestic shipping port and is home to about 80% of the country's domestic shipping companies. Cebu City is bordered to the northeast
by Mandaueand the town of Consolacion, to the west are Toledo City, and the towns ofBalamban and Asturias, to the south are Talisay City and the town ofMinglanilla.
Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island.

It is the center of a metropolitan areacalled Metro Cebu, which includes the cities of Carcar, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Naga and Talisay; and the municipalities (towns)
of Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Liloan, Minglanilla and San Fernando. Metro Cebu has a total population of about 2.55 million people (2010 census).

History
Before the arrival of the Spaniards, Cebu city was part of the island-rajahnate and trade center of Pulua Kang Dayang or Kangdaya (literally "[the islands] which belong to
Daya"), now better known as the Rajahnate of Cebu. It was founded by a prince of the Hindu Chola dynasty of Sumatra, the half-Malay and half-Tamil, Sri Lumay. The name
Sugbo (shortened form of Kang Sri Lumaying Sugbo, literally "that of Sri Lumay's great fire") refers to Sri Lumay's scorched earth tactics against Muslim Moro
raiders (Magalos).[10][11]

On April 7, 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan landed in Cebu. He was welcomed by Rajah Humabon (also known as Sri Humabon or Rajah Humabara), the
grandson of Sri Lumay, together with his wife and about 700 native islanders. Magellan, however, was killed in the Battle of Mactan, and the remaining members of his
expedition left Cebu soon after several of them were poisoned by Humabon due to threats of foreign occupation. The last ruler of Sugbo, prior to Spanish colonization, was
Rajah Humabon's nephew, Rajah Tupas (d. 1565).[10][11]

On February 13, 1565, Spanish conquistadors led by Miguel Lpez de Legazpi together with Augustinian friars, whose prior was Andrs de Urdaneta, arrived in Samar,
taking possession of the island thereafter. They Christianized some natives and Spanish remnants in Cebu. Afterwards, the expedition visited Leyte, Cabalian,
Mazaua, Camiguinand Bohol where the famous Sandugo or blood compact was performed between Lpez de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, the chieftain of Bohol on 16 March
1565. The Spanish arrived in Cebu on 15 April 1565. They then attempted to parley with the local ruler, Rajah Tupas, but found that he and the local population had
abandoned the town. Rajah Tupas presented himself at their camp on 8 May, feast of the Apparition of Saint Michael the Archangel, when the island was taken possession of
on behalf of the Spanish King. TheTreaty of Cebu was formalized on 3 July 1565. Lpez de Legazpi's party named the new city "Villa de San Miguel de Ceb" (later renamed
"Ciudad del Santsimo Nombre de Jess)." In 1567 the Cebu garrison was reinforced with the arrival of 2,100 soldiers fromNew Spain (Mexico).[a] The growing colony was
then fortified by Fort San Pedro.

By 1569 the Spanish settlement in Cebu had become important as a safe port for ships from Mexico and as a jumping-off point for further exploration of the archipelago.
Small expeditions led by Juan de Salcedo went to Mindoro and Luzon, where he and Martn de Goiti played a leading role in the subjugation of the Kingdoms
of Tundun and Seludong in 1570. One year later, Lpez de Legazpi departed Cebu to discuss a peace pact with the defeated Rajahs. An agreement between the
conquistadors and the Rajahs to form a city council paved the way for the establishment of a new settlement and the construction of the Christian walled city of Intramuros on
the razed remains of Islamic Manila, then a satellite state of the Bruneian Empire.

On 1571, the Spanish carried over infantry from Mexico and then raised an army of Christian Visayan warriors from Cebu and Iloilo as well as mercenaries from the Tagalog
region and assaulted the Sultanate of Brunei, in what is known as the Castille War. The war also started the SpanishMoro Wars waged between the Christian Visayans and
Muslim Mindanao, wherein Moros burned towns and conducted slave raids in the Visayas islands and selling the slaves to the Sultanates of the Malay Archipelago and the
Visayans fought-back by establishing Christian fort-cities in Mindanao, cities such as Zamboanga City.

On 14 August 1595, Pope Clement VIII created the diocese of Cebu as a suffragan to theArchdiocese of Manila.

On 3 April 1898, local revolutionaries led by the Negrense Leon Kilat rose up against the Spanish colonial authorities and took control of the urban center after three days of
fighting. The uprising was only ended by the treacherous murder of Leon Kilat and the arrival of soldiers from Iloilo.[13] On 26 December 1898, the Spanish Governor, General
Montero, evacuated his troops to Zamboanga, turning over government property to Pablo Mejia. [14] The next day, a provincial government was formed under Luis Flores as
president, General Juan Climaco as military chief of staff, and Julio Llorente as mayor.

The signing of the Treaty of Paris at the end of the SpanishAmerican War provided for the cession of Cebu along with the rest of the Philippine islands to the United States
until the formation of the Commonwealth Era (193546). On 21 February 1899, the USS Petrel (PG-2) deployed a landing party of 40 marines on the shores of Cebu.
[15]
Cebu's transfer to the Commonwealth government was signed by Luis Flores although others, most notably General Arcadio Maxilom and Juan Climaco, offered
resistance until 1901.[16]Governor W. H. Taft visited Cebu on 17 April 1901, and appointed Julio Llorento as the first provincial governor.[17] Juan Climaco was elected to that
office in January 1904.[17]

After having remained a town since its original founding in 1565, Cebu became a chartered city on 24 February 1937. Many other Philippine cities such as Dansalan
(nowMarawi), Iloilo City, and Bacolod City were also incorporated at that time (see Cities of the Philippines).
Along with the rest of the country, Cebu came under Japanese occupation during WWII. The Japanese encountered some opposition there from guerrillas led by Col. James
Cushing and the Cebu Area Command. It was finally liberated with the Battle for Cebu Cityin March and April 1945. The military general headquarters of the Philippine
Commonwealth Army and 8th Infantry Regiment of the Philippine Constabulary, active from 1942 to 1946, was stationed in Cebu City during World War II.

Colon Street, the oldest national road in the Philippines, is the center of a dense and compact area in downtown Cebu City that was once the heart of Cebu City's shopping
and business activity, with fashionable shops, restaurants and movie houses. In the early 1990s, much of this activity shifted to the more modern and more diverse business
districts located in almost all of the urban areas of the city, including in what was considered residential and leisure neighborhoods. Colon also serves as a transit point for
public utility jeepneys (PUJ) covering arterial routes within the city.

Geography
Cebu City has a land area of 315 square kilometres (122 sq mi). To the northeast of the city is Mandaue City and the town of Consolacion; to the west is Toledo City and the
towns of Balamban and Asturias; to the south is Talisay City and the town of Minglanilla.

Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island where Lapu-Lapu is located. Further east across the Cebu Strait is the Island of Bohol.

Culture
Cebu City is a significant cultural center in the Philippines. The imprint of Spanish and Roman Catholic culture is evident. The city's most famous landmark is Magellan's
Cross. This cross, now housed in a chapel, is reputed to have been erected by Ferdinand Magellan (Ferno Magalhes) when he arrived in the Philippines in 1521. It was
encased in hollow tindalo wood in 1835 upon the order of the Augustinian Bishop Santos Gmez Maraon to prevent devotees from taking it home chip by chip. The same
bishop restored the present template or kiosk, located at Magallanes Street between the City Hall and Colegio del Santo Nio. Revered by Filipinos, the Magellan's Cross is a
symbol of Christianity in the Philippines.

A few steps away from Magellan's Cross is the Basilica Minore del Santo Nio (Church of the Holy Child). This is an Augustinian church elevated to the rank of basilica in
1965 during the 400th anniversary celebrations of Christianity in the Philippines, held in Cebu. The church, which was the first to be established in the islands, is built of hewn
stone and features the country's oldest relic, the figure of the Santo Nio de Ceb (Holy Child of Cebu).
Devotees inside the Basilica del Santo Nio.

This religious and cultural event is celebrated during the island's cultural festivities known as theSinulog festival. Held every third Sunday of January, it celebrates the festival
of the Santo Nio, who was formerly considered to be the patron saint of Cebu. (This patronage was later changed to that of Our Lady of Guadalupe after it was realised that
the St. Nio could not be a patron saint because he was an image of Christ and not a saint.) The sinulog is a dance ritual of pre-Hispanic indigenous origin. The dancer
moves two steps forward and one step backward to the rhythmic sound of drums. This movement resembles somewhat the current (sulog) of the river. Thus, the Cebuanos
called it sinulog.

When the Spaniards arrived in Cebu, the Italian chronicler Antonio Pigafetta, sailing under convoy with the Magellan expedition, offered a baptismal gift to Hara Amihan, wife
of Rajah Humabon. She was later named Juana, the figure of the Santo Nio. The natives also honored the Santo Nio de Ceb in their indigenous sinulog ritual.[citation
needed]
This ritual was preserved but limited to honoring the Santo Nio. Once the Santo Nio church was built in the 16th century, the Christianized-Austronesian natives started
performing the sinulog ritual in front of the church, the devotees offering candles and indigenous dancers shouting "Viva Pit Seor!

In the 1980s and 2000s, the city authorities of Cebu added the religious feast of Santo Nio de Ceb during the Sinulog Festival to its cultural event

Tourism
Tourism is a thriving industry in Cebu. It hosted the 1998 ASEAN Tourism Forum. The city also hosted the East Asian Tourism Forum on August 2002, in which the province of
Cebu is a member and signatory.

There are significant number of Filipino-Spanish heritage buildings in Cebu City which includes theBasilica Minore del Santo Nio, Fort San Pedro, Casa Gorordo Museum
and Magellan's Cross, among others.[40]

The Cebu Reggae Festival is a popular Filipino Reggae and Roots music festival, it now has become one of the Philippines' largest annual Reggae Festivals. On Cebuano
musical heritage, the Jose R. Gullas Halad Museum in V. Gullas St. (former Manalili) corner D. Jakosalem St. in Cebu City, holds musical memorabilia of Cebuano
composers in the early 20th century, the likes of Ben Zubiri (composer of Matud Nila), Inting Rubi (Kasadya Ning Taknaa) and Minggoy Lopez (Rosas Pandan). The Cebu
City Sports Complexexhibits sporting and festival events.[41]

Views of Cebu City and its skyline can be seen from villages and numerous gated communities located on its mountainsides.

Ayala Center Cebu is a shopping mall at the Cebu Business Park, and is currently undergoing a massive expansion. On average, more than 85,000 people visit this mall
every day, with the figure increasing to 135,000 on weekends.

Transportation
The city is readily accessible by air via the Mactan-Cebu International Airport located in Lapu-Lapu City which has direct international flights to Hong
Kong,Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, China, Taiwan, Los Angeles, Dubai and South Korea, Charter flights toRussia and domestic destinations.[43][44] Many international and cargo
airlines fly to Cebu. There are also direct transfer flights via the capital's Ninoy Aquino International Airport that readily connect the city to other destinations in the world.

The city is served by a domestic and international port which are handled by the Cebu Port Authority. Much of the city's waterfront is actually occupied by the port with around
3.5 kilometres (2.2 mi) of berthing space. The city is home to more than 80% of the country's island vessels traveling on domestic routes mostly in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Mass transportation throughout the city and the metropolitan itself is provided byjeepneys, buses and taxis. The Cebu City Government conducted a 2012 feasibility study on
implementing bus rapid transit (BRT) system that will ease the transportation of the residents in the city and throughout the entire Metro Cebu area.[45][46] Aimed to serve an
estimated 330,000 passengers per day, the project would have a capacity of 176 buses running through 33 stations along Bulacao until Talamban with a link to South Road
Properties.[47][48] The project is currently branded as TransCebu and is expected to be fully operational by 2017.

Eastern Visayas (Region VIII)

Tacloban
Tacloban (English: /tklobn/ tak-LOH-ban; Waray and Filipino: [tkloban]) is afirst income class highly urbanized city in the Philippines and the provincial capital
of Leyte where it is geographically situated but governed administratively independent from it. It is 360 miles (580 km) southeast from Manila. According to the 2015 census, it
has a population of 242,089 and is the most populous city in the Eastern Visayasregion.[5] In the 2013 election, it had 109,027 registered voters.

It is also the regional center of Eastern Visayas, being the main gateway by air to the region. Tacloban was briefly the capital of the Philippines, from 20 October 1944 to 27
February 1945.
In an extensive survey conducted by theAsian Institute of Management Policy Center and released in July 2010, Tacloban ranks as the fifth most competitive city in the
Philippines, and second in the emerging cities category.[7]

On 8 November 2013, the city was largely destroyed by Typhoon Haiyan, having previously suffered similar destruction and loss of life in 1897 and 1912. [8]

On 17 January 2015, Pope Francisvisited Tacloban during his Papal Visit in the Philippines and held a mass at Barangay San Jose, and later he led mass of 30,000 people in
front of theairport.

History
Tacloban was first known as Kankabatok, an allusion to the first inhabitants Kabatok. They established their dwellings in the vicinity of the present day Santo Nio Church.
Others who came later were Gumoda, Haraging and Huraw who erected their own settlements in nearby sites. Huraw's domain is the hill where the city hall now sits. The
combined settlements acquired the name Kankabatok, meaning Kabatok's property.

By the end of the 16th century, Kankabatok was under the political administration of Paloand part of the parish of Basey, Samar. It was discovered in 1770, by
the Augustinian Mission, who were superseded by the Franciscans in 1813. During this period,Kankabatok was renamed to Tacloban.

The change of the name came about in this manner: Kankabatok was a favorite haunt of fishermen. They would use a bamboo contraption called a "taklub" to catch crabs,
shrimps or fish. When asked where they were going, the fishermen would answer, "(to) tarakluban", which meant the place where they used the device to catch these marine
resources. Eventually, the name Tarakluban or Tacloban took prominence.

It is not known when Tacloban became a municipality because records supporting this fact were destroyed during a typhoon. It is commonly believed that Tacloban was
officially proclaimed a municipality in 1770. In 1768, Leyte and Samar were separated into two provinces, each constituting a politico-military province. Due to its strategic
location, Tacloban became a vital trading point between the two provinces.

The capital of Leyte was transferred from one town to another with Tacloban as the last on 26 February 1830. The decision to make Tacloban the capital was based on the
following reasons: 1) ideal location of the port and 2) well-sheltered and adequate facilities. On 20 June 1952, Tacloban was proclaimed a chartered city by virtue of Republic
Act No. 760.

Statue of Gen. Douglas MacArthur and President Sergio Osmea

The arrival of Colonel Murray in 1901 made him the first military governor of Leyte. His first official act was the opening of Tacloban port to world commerce. Before World
War II, Tacloban was the commercial, education, social and cultural center of the Province of Leyte. Copra and abaca were exported in large quantities. The leading
institutions were: Leyte Normal School, Leyte High School, Leyte Trade School, Holy Infant Academy and Tacloban Catholic Institute.
In November 1912, a typhoon swept through the central Philippines and "practically destroyed" Tacloban. In Tacloban and Capiz on the island ofPanay, the death toll was
15,000, half the population of those cities at the time.[9]

On 25 May 1942, Japanese forces landed in Tacloban, signalling the beginning of their two-year occupation of Leyte. They fortified the city and improved its airfield. Since
San Pedro Bay was ideal for larger vessels, the Japanese Imperial Naval Forces made Tacloban a port of call and entry. This time was considered the darkest in the history
of Tacloban and the country due to the incidences of torture among civilians, including the elderly. In response, guerrilla groups operated in Leyte the most notable of which
was the group of Ruperto Kangleon.

Leyte was the first to be liberated by the combined Filipino and American troops. General Douglas MacArthur's assault troops landed in the Tacloban and Palo beaches
(White Beach and Red Beach, respectively) and in the neighboring town of Dulag (Blue Beach) on 20 October 1944. These landings signaled the eventual victory of the
Filipino and American forces and the fulfillment of MacArthurs famous promise: "I Shall Return."

Three days later, on 23 October, at a ceremony at the Capitol Building in Tacloban, MacArthur, accompanied by President Sergio Osmea, made Tacloban the temporary
seat of the Commonwealth Government and temporary capital of the Philippines until the complete liberation of the country. The provincial government of Leyte and the
municipal government of Tacloban were re-established.

Paulo Jaro was the Liberation mayor of Tacloban. The first mayor of this capital upon inauguration of the Philippine Republic was Epifanio Aguirre.

On 8 January 1960 MacArthur made his "sentimental" journey to Leyte.

The city was proclaimed as a highly urbanized city by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on 4 October 2008 [10] and ratified by the people on 18 December 2008.

Geography
Tacloban is located on Cancabato Bay, in the San Juanico Strait, which divides the islands of Leyte and Samar.

Transportation
Tacloban is served by air, multicabs, taxis, jeepneys, buses, tricycles and pedicabs. The airport has had plans (for many years) to upgrade to an international airport. At
present, the airport is served by four airlines that offer domestic flights to and from Cebu, Iloilo and Manila. and the New Transport Terminal of Tacloban City or New Bus
Terminal

Culture
the Grand fiesta of Tacloban celebrated with the traditional turn-over ceremonies of the "Teniente" made by the immediate past Hermano Mayor to the incoming Hermano
Mayor. This is accompanied by the ritual of giving the medallion containing the names of all Hermanos Pasados and the Standartes. Fireworks and grand parades mark the
occasion. Every house in the city prepares a feast and opens its doors to guests and well wishers.

Subiran Regatta

Subiran Regatta is a race of one-man native sailboats with outriggers locally called "subiran" along scenic and historic Leyte Gulf. The race is done without using a paddle but
only skills and techniques to manoeuvre the sail. The Subiran Regatta is now on its 32nd year and counting. This contest is done annually on that weeklong celebration of the
Tacloban City Fiesta. The race aims to preserve the art of sailing with the wind alone, and to showcase the mastery of this art by local boatmen.

Balyuan

This is a re-enactment of the historical exchange of images between Barrio Buscada ofBasey and Sitio Kankabatok, now Tacloban City. In the old days, Sitio Kankabatok was
a small barrio under the jurisdiction of Basey town in Samar. During the Feast of Sto. Nio, the residents of Sitio Kankabatok would borrow the bigger image of the saint from
the chapel of Barrio Buscada in Basey. Sto. Nio is the revered patron saint of both Kankabatok and Barrio Buscada. The image is returned promptly after the festivities.
When Kankabatok grew into a barrio of its own, the local Catholic authorities decided that the bigger Sto. Nio image be retained in prospering village. Stories of the image
missing in Buscada and turning up in Kankabatok aided to this decision. The Basey Flotilla bearing the church and government leaders goes on a fluvial procession along
San Pedro Bay. A budyong (shell) call announces the sight of the flotilla off Kankabatok Bay.

Sangyaw Festival
Main article: Sangyaw

Sangyaw is an archaic Waray word which means to herald the news. The Sangyaw Festival was created by Imelda Marcos in the 1980s. The festival was revived in 2008 by
her nephew, current city mayor Alfred Romualdez. The Sangyaw Festival invites contingents of different performing groups of various festivals in the country to compete in
this side of the region. Cash prizes and trophies are at stake as the Sangyaw Festival grooms itself to be a big festival to watch out in the succeeding years.

Official seal of the city of Tacloban[edit]

The official Seal of Tacloban is the symbol of the city's identity when it became a city under Republic Act No. 760 on 20 June 1952.

The city's emblem stands for the following physical attributes and character: [21]

Left Portion - Symbolizes the province of Samar, major supplier of agricultural and marine products to the city, stabilizing its volume of business and trade.

Center - Stands for the beautiful and scenic San Juanico Strait

The Galleon - Illustrates the ship of Ferdinand Magellan who discovered the island of Limasawa where the first Christian mass was held in Philippine soil.

Right Portion - Leyte side, where Tacloban City is Located

Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX)

Pagadian
Pagadian, officially the City of Pagadian(Filipino: Lungsod ng Pagadian), is located in Mindanao, Philippines. It is the capital of the province of Zamboanga del Sur[6] and the
regional center of Zamboanga Peninsula. Pagadian City is the second largest city in the region, after the independent city of Zamboanga.

With its beginnings as a stop-over for traders who ply the road between the oldSpanish fort-town of Zamboanga on the southwestern tip of the Zamboanga peninsula and
other bigger towns to the north of the old Zamboanga Province and apart from its sheltered bay and good fishing grounds, it was not a place where anyone imagined that a
city would be founded on it as it is situated on steeply rolling terrain. In the course of its local history, waves of different kinds of people came to stay and eventually called
among themselves "Pagadianons."
The iconic symbol of Pagadian is its uniquely designed tricycle built to adopt to the city's hilly terrain. It is the only place in the Philippines with a public transport inclined at
about 25-40 angle

Geography
Pagadian is on the northeastern side of the Western Mindanao region, bordering on Illana Bay. It is bounded by the municipalities of Tigbao and Dumalinao on the
southwest, Lakewood on the west,Labangan on the east and northwest, andMidsalip on the north.

About 45% of the total city area is steeply sloping terrain of hills and mountains on the northwestern portion that covers an estimated 15,090 hectares. Mt. Palpalan, Mt.
Timolan, Mt. Pinokis, and Mt. Sugar Loaf are the four tallest peaks. Areas in the direct north and central part, have gentle to moderate slopes, making up 47% of the total. The
remaining 8% is level or nearly level which makes up most of the eastern and the southern parts of the city. The urban area covers about 845.48 hectares. Elevation of the
urban area of the city ranges from 1 MSL (mean sea level) near Pagadian Bay to about 100 MSL in the area of Barangay San Jose.

The Tiguma, Bulatoc, Gatas, and Balangasan Rivers, drain to Pagadian Bay and serve as natural drainage. Due to its topography, most of the city's 54 barangays do not
experience flooding. The low-lying southern and eastern part of the city sometimes experienceflooding, most especially during heavy rains.

History

Date/Year Significant Events

pre-1920s The present-day Pagadian had its beginnings as a sitio of Margosatubig.

July 1927 It became a barrio under the Municipal District of Labangan, Zamboanga upon the implementation of Executive Order no.70. [14]

1934 The transfer the seat of the Labangan Government to Pagadian was made through the efforts of Director Teofisto Guingona, Sr. who was commissioned
by Philippine Governor-General Leonard Wood to find out the possibility of transferring the seat of government of the Labangan municipality to another
place. A conference was first held, together with the Datus and the early Christian settlers as the idea of the transfer was at first largely opposed by the
Christians. Eventually, a consensus was reached when the designated committee led by Datu Balimbingan of Labangan and with the consent of Datu
 Macaumbang surveyed the western part of the present area and found Talpokan, a part of the barrio of Pagadian, deemed as a suitable place for such
transfer. At the same time, Datu Macaumbang donated 260 hectares of land to Christians who were willing to transfer to the area. [15]

Pagadian became a municipality through Executive Order 77 due to the eager initiative of then Assemblyman Juan S. Alano, with the Hon. Jose Sanson
appointed as acting mayor. The Hon. Federico Jamisola was elected as the first officially elected municipal mayor after the regular elections. The
Municipality of Pagadian was formed by merging the municipal districts of Labangan and Dinas,[16] as a result, making Labangan a district under its former
March 23,
barrio. The newly created town had 19 barangays or districts.[17] (In 1950 the barrios of Dinas, Legarda, Mirapao, Migpulao, Kalipapa, Pisaan, Bubway, Tiniguangan,
1937
Tabina and Dimataling which were under the Municipality of Pagadian, were incorporated into the newly created town ofDimataling.[18] In the same manner, the barrios of Dumalinao
Proper, Begong, Nilo, Tigbao, Ticwas, Balongating, Baguitan, Pantad, Napolan, Tagulo, Camanga, Maragang, Sibucao, Tina, Guling, Miculong, Baga, Rebucon, and Mambilik were
constituted intoDumalinao in 1956.)[19]

Pagadian was occupied by Japanese troops. From November 5 to November 20, 1944, the combined American and Filipino troops including recognized
guerrillas were attempted to take the town from the Japanese. Sixteen Japanese soldiers were killed, but they remained in possession of Pagadian. [20] The
World War II establishment of the general headquarters of thePhilippine Commonwealth Army and the Philippine Constabulary were stationed in Pagadian and active
from November 21, 1944 to June 30, 1946 during and aftermath of World War II and include the military operations and engagements against the
Japanese and liberated areas inMindanao began in November 21, 1944 to August 15, 1945.

June 6, 1952 Congressman Roseller T. Lim authored R.A. 711 dividing Zamboanga into two provinces - Norte (north) and Sur (south).

September
Pagadian became the capital town of the newly established province of Zamboanga del Sur.
17, 1952
June 21, 1969 It became a chartered city through R.A. 5478, becoming the third city in theZamboanga Peninsula (Administrative Region).

The city was one of the hardest hit areas in the Moro Gulf earthquake and tsunami of 1976, considered as the most devastating tsunami disaster in the
August 16,
Philippines in recent times.[21] Pagadian was the major city in the area that was struck by both the earthquake and tsunami and sustained the greatest
1976
number of casualties.[21][22]

President Corazon Aquino issued the Executive Order 429 that designated Pagadian City as the Regional Center for Region - IX (Zamboanga Peninsula) .
October 1990
[23]

November 12,
Pagadian officially became the Regional Center for Region IX- Zamboanga Peninsula
2004

Festival
The City Fiesta is celebrated every third Sunday of January in honor of its patron saint, the Holy Child Jesus (Sto. Nio) which coincides with the feastday of Cebu City. It is
officially called the Pasalamat Festival highlighted with a fluvial parade (regatta), trade exhibits, theMutya ng Pagadian beauty pageant, carnival shows and a civic military
parade. On every 21 June, the Araw ng Pagadian is celebrated in commemoration of its founding as a chartered city; as Capital of Zamboanga del Sur, the city hosts the
annual provincial celebration in September with agro-trade exhibits, a civic-military parade, cultural presentations and sports competitions.

The Megayon Festival is a week-long celebration that coincides with the Zamboanga del Sur anniversary in September. It honors the tri-people settlers: the Subanens,
BangsaMoro Muslims and Christians.[26] "Megayon" is a Subanen word which means "Unity and Solidarity". The festival is a showcase of three distinctly different cultural
heritage in songs, dances, rituals of peace, foods and crafts, to foster unity and understanding among the three cultures. Environment-related activities, peace and
development forum, and indigenous sports competitions[27] are being held.

Pagadian City also officially celebrates the Chinese New Year. It honors the local Chinese community.

Transportation
Tricycles are the primary public transport in the urban center while jeepneys usually ply the city's rural barangays. Private vehicles comprises the largest percentage of the
traffic. Buses, minibuses, and jeepneys are the modes of transportation for transients bound for the neighboring municipalities and other parts of Zamboanga del Sur. These
short-travel transports also serve the bus terminal which is located downtown.

See also: Pagadian Airport

Airport. The city is served by a Principal Airport Class 1 (or major domestic). It is located in Barangay Muricay and Barangay Tiguma, approximately five (5) kilometers from
the city proper.[28] The airport serves as the only air portal in the Province of Zamboanga del Sur with direct flights to and from Manila and Cebu.

Seaport. The port of Pagadian City is served by shipping lines operating for both passenger and cargo vessels. Ports of call include Zamboanga
City, Jolo, Siasi, Bongao, Sitangkai and Cotabato City.

Integrated Bus Terminal. Served by two (2) major bus companies and several other smaller Public Utility Vehicles(PUVs), i.e. vans, the terminal sits atop the hill as the
station for both Eastbound and Westbound transport particularly for public transports bound forZamboanga City, Ozamiz City, Dipolog City, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato
City, General Santos City, and Davao City.

Northern Mindanao (Region X)

Cagayan De Oro
Cagayan de Oro (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Cagayan de Oro; Filipino: Lungsod ng Cagayan de Oro) is a first class highly urbanized city and the capital of
theprovince of Misamis Oriental. It is a chartered city where governance is independent and separate from the province of Misamis Oriental. It also serves as the regional
center and business hub of Northern Mindanao(Region X), and part of the growingMetropolitan Cagayan de Oro area, which includes the city of El Salvador, towns of Opol,
Alubijid, Laguindingan, Gitagum at the western side, and towns of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Claveria at the eastern side.

The City of Cagayan de Oro is located along the central coast of northern Mindanao island facing Macajalar Bay and is bordered by the municipalities of Opol to the
west; Tagoloan to the east, and the provinces of Bukidnon and Lanao del Norte to the south of the city. According to the 2015 census, the city has a population of 675,950,
making it the 10th most populous city in the Philippines.[5]

Cagayan de Oro is also famous for itswhitewater rafting or kayakingadventures, one of the tourism activities being promoted along the Cagayan de Oro River.

History
The area was first inhabited around 377 C.E. (the late Neolithic period), island natives lived in a settlement then known as Himologan [10] (now known as Huluga), eight
kilometers from present-day Cagayan de Oro. The natives were polytheistic animists. Austronesian in origin with seafaring capabilities like the Badjaos. Their customs were
closely related to the prosperous Rajahnate of Butuan with rich Sri Vijayan (Visayan) and Indian culture. Tribal and traditional costumes and dressings have similarities with
Bali, Indonesia. Ceramics were found in the area, Chinese had probably visited from Song to Ming dynasty period. Possibly an old thriving port of Srivijaya Empire with
overseas trading link to China, India and even America.

Geography
Cagayan de Oro is located along the central northern coast of Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippine archipelago.

The southern part of the city is bordered by the provinces of Bukidnon and Lanao del Norte. The municipality of Opol borders the city on the west and Tagoloan, Misamis
Oriental to the east. To the north lies Macajalar Bay facing the Bohol Sea.

Its total land area is 488.86 km representing 13.9 percent of the entire Misamis Oriental province. It includes 25 kilometers of coastline and a harbor, Macajalar Bay. 44.7
percent of Cagayan de Oro is classified as agricultural land, while 38.4 percent is classified as open spaces.[19]

The city is frequently categorized and referenced according to geographic factors: the 1st District (west of the Cagayan River) consisting of 24 barangays which are mostly
suburban, and the 2nd District (east of the river), made up of 17 barangays, including city proper barangays numbering from 1-40.

Culture
There are several notable events in the city. Each barangay or barrio has its own feast locally known as Fiesta (or festivals) honoring their patron saints after achieving
recognition in their own rights.

During the Higalaay (Kagay-an Festival) 2014

The Higalaay Festival (formerly the Kagay-an Festival) is a week-long celebration in honor of Cagayan de Oro's patron saint St. Augustine, held every August.
Highlights of the Higalaay Festival are the Kahimunan Trade Fair, which features the native products of the city and province, particularly agricultural, Miss Cagayan de Oro,
Folkloric Street Dancing Competition featuring colorful attires and cultural dances of the Higaonon tribes, Higalas Parade of Cagayan de Oro Icons and Floats, Halad sa
Lambagohan, PE Rhythmic Dance Competition, Kalo Festival and Kumbira, a culinary show and exhibit that started in 1996 by Kagay-anons hoteliers and restaurants. It has
since evolved over the years and now hosts a culinary competition among students and professionals from all over Mindanao. [24]The competition is divided into students and
professionals where Hotel and Restaurant Management schools and professional chefs compete against each other in their respective categories. There are also cultural
shows, competitions and celebrity concerts. In more recent years, some of these competitions have been replaced with new ones, such as the Folkloric Street Dancing
Competition, which was replaced by the Cagayan de Oro Carnival Parade in 2014. [25]

Himugso, which means birth, is a week-long celebration of Cagayan de Oro's Charter Day and Philippine Independence Day. Charter Day is Cagayan de Oro's cityhood
established on June 15, 1950. Independence Day is a national commemoration of the Philippine Declaration of Independence from Spain on June 12, 1898. Both Charter
Day and Independence day are non-working holidays and a roster of special activities is lined up annually to mark the dual special occasion.

Tourism
Due to the national government's aggressive tourism campaign, local and foreign tourist arrivals in the city are on the rise. In 2004, the city registered a tourist arrival of
307,820; an increase from a previous of 232,257 in 2003. Numerous hotels of varying categories are present in the city.

Parks and resorts

Duaw Park is a riverside park along the Cagayan River, underneath the Ysalina Bridge and next to St. Augustine Cathedral. It was created in August 1987 by former
City Mayor Ambing Magtajas, together with 120 Kagay-anons who returned (Du-awmeaning visit) to the city from the USA and Canada after years of self-exile during the
Marcos regime.[26][27]

Gaston Park is located across from St. Augustine Cathedral. This park eventually became an execution ground for Spanish criminals turned later into a training
ground for the local revolutionaries during the American occupation. It has been redeveloped in recent years, with the worn grass being replaced by red tiles. [28] In
December 2015, the long-awaited Musical Fountain started running after some delays. [29]

Plaza Divisoria (Golden Friendship Park) is located in the downtown area. It was built around 1900's as a town divider after a great fire that almost burned down
the entire city. The park is dedicated to local and national heroes like former PresidentRamon Magsaysay, Andrs Bonifacio, Dr. Jos Rizal, and former Mayor Justiniano
 R. Borja. Most of the Kagay-anons soldiers who died during the Philippine-American Warare buried beneath the monument and has survived the ravages of time
includingWorld War II.[7]

Vicente de Lara Park (McArthur Park) Formerly called MacArthur Park named after American soldier Douglas MacArthur, now Vicente de Lara Park honoring the
former governor of the province, is situated in front of the Provincial Capitol of Misamis Oriental building with age-old mahogany trees that provide a therapeutic canopy
for the promenades. Because of this, the park is a popular jogging area in the mornings. APress Freedom Monument and the Heritage Monument of Misamis
Orientaldesigned by renowned Filipino sculptor Eduardo Castrillo can also be found in this redeveloped park.[30][31]

Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village is located in a reforested area on Malasag Hill. This 7 hectare village has replicas of tribal houses in the region and a
panoramic view of Macajalar Bay. The tourism village is owned and managed by the Philippine Tourism Authority.[32]

Plaza de Los Heroes is a memorial park dedicated to the heroes of the Three Battles of Cagayan de Oro during the Philippine-American War located along
Mastersons Avenue in upper Carmen.

Mapawa Nature Park is for horseback riding, biking, zip line and nature trekking adventures.

Monigue Cave is located in barangay Mambuaya this city; the cave entrance is flowing water from underground stream. The cave has a small opening that seems
too narrow to be passable, it has a six inches airspace between ceiling and water that you have submerge yourselves one by one, equipped with a helmet and a
waterproof cap lamp. It contains a beautiful sparkling formation, which is called the Calcium Carbonates (CaCO3) or Calcites. These stalactites and stalagmites, white
and brown, are sign of oxidized materials that take 50 to 60 years to form an inch the cave is definitely spellbinding. There were formations of flowstone, gurpool-
resembling, rice terraces, transparent crystals and picturesque speleothems, such as cathedral drapes and icons.

Catanico Falls is concealed by huge boulders, rapids, cascading falls and natural pool of Barangay F.S. Catanico.

Palalan Falls is surrounded by boulders and stones dubbed by the city as "Oro" stone similar in characteristics with the Mangima stone.

Migtugsok Falls is located at barangay Cugman and it is composed of five beautiful cascading waters, where the beauty of nature could be experienced, unexploited
by the carelessness of human search for progress and development.
 Kagay-an Resort (Lawndale Spring Resort) is located in Barangay Taguanao, and is usually packed with families and groups on weekends lounging in the cold
springs.

Davao Region (Region XI)

Davao City
Davao City (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Dabaw, Filipino: Lungsod ng Dabaw,Chavacano: Ciudad de Dvao) is a highly urbanized city on Mindanao, Philippines. As of the 2015
census, it had a population of 1,632,991 people, making it the third-most-populous city in the Philippines and the most populous in Mindanao.[4] It is the center of Metro
Davao, the third most populous metropolitan area in the Philippines (as of 2015 census with a population of 2.5 million, after Metro Manila's 12.8 million and Metro Cebu's 2.8
million). With a total land area of 2,444 square kilometers,[2] the city is the largest in the country in terms of land area. The city serves as the main trade, commerce, and
industry hub of Mindanao and the regional center of Davao Region. Davao is home to Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines. Davao is also known as the
"Durian Capital" of the Philippines.

For geographical and statistical purposes, Davao City is grouped with the province ofDavao del Sur but is governed independently from it. The city is divided into three
congressional districts, which are subdivided into 11 administrative districts with a total of 182 barangays.

Davao City is constantly described by its residents and the national media as arguably among one of the safest cities in the Philippines, however this has been met with
criticism, especially by the people from Metro Manila.

History
Spanish Era
Although Spaniards began to explore the Davao Gulf area as early as the 16th century, Spanish influence was negligible in the Davao region until 1844, when the Spanish
brigadier general Agustin Bocallan claimed the area in what is now Davao City for the Spanish Crown, despite opposition by the Sultan of Maguindanao.[citation needed] Official
colonization of the area, however, began in 1848 when an expedition of 70 men and women led by Jos Cruz de Oyanguren ofVergara, Spain, established
a Christian settlement in an area of mangrove swamps which is now Bolton Riverside. Davao was then ruled by a chieftain, Bago, who had a settlement on the banks of the
Davao River (then called the Tagloc River by the Bagobos).

After Cruz de Oyanguren defeated Bago, he renamed the region Nueva Guipzcoa, founding the town of Nueva Vergara (the future Davao) on 29 June 1848[13] to honor of his
home in Spain and becoming its first governor.
By Saturnino Urios, who labored among the Moros of Hijo in 1892, divided the population[citation needed]; those who wanted to live among the Christians left Hijo, and were resettled
in Tigatto, Mawab and Agdao under the supervision of Francisco Bangoy and Teodoro Palma Gil. These groups generally refer to themselves today as Kalagans.

American Period
The development of large-scale plantations faced a labor shortage, and workers were contracted from Luzon and the Visayas (including Japanese laborers from the Baguio,
Benguet road construction). Many Japanese became landowners, acquiring lands by government lease or buying American plantations. [

Japan-town, Davao City (circa 1930s)

Because of increasing Japanese influence in the region's economy, on March 16, 1936, congressman Romualdo Quimpo from Davao filed Bill 609 (passed as
Commonwealth Act 51), creating the City of Davao from the Town of Davao (Mayo) and Guianga District. The bill called for the appointment of local officials by the president.
[14]

Davao was inaugurated as a charter city on October 16, 1936 by President Manuel L. Quezon. The City of Davao became provincial capital of a united Davao Province. It
was one of the first two towns in Mindanao to be converted into a city (the other was Zamboanga). By that time, the city's population was 68,000.

Second World War

Davao Times, December 8, 1942 under Japanese Occupation

On December 8, 1941, Japanese planes bombed the harbor and from December 20, 1941 landed forces and began an occupation of the city which lasted to 1945. Davao
was among the earliest to be occupied by Japanese forces, and the city was immediately fortified as a bastion of Japanese defense.

The city was subjected to extensive bombing by forces led by Douglas MacArthur before American forces landed in Leyte in October 1944. The Battle of Davao towards the
end of World War II was one of longest and bloodiest battles during the Philippine Liberation, and brought tremendous destruction to the city, setting back the economic and
physical strides made before the Japanese occupation.

Post-war period
In 1967, the Province of Davao was divided into three provinces: Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental and Davao del Sur. The city of Davao became part of Davao del Sur; no
longer the provincial capital, it became a commercial center of southern Mindanao. During the 1970s, Davao became regional capital of southern Mindanao; with the
reorganization, it became the regional capital of the Davao Region (Region XI) and highly urbanized city in the province of Davao del Sur.
The conflict inside the city became severe that murders in the streets were the norm at the time. It lasted until 1985, when the locals formed the vigilante group "Alsa Masa"
(People's Rise) to drive out such elements from the city.[15]

Real social stability in the city, however, began in the earnest when Rodrigo Duterte first assumed office as the city mayor in 1988. The city was still considered that time as
the country's murder capital.

Culture
Like most cities in the Philippines, Christianspredominate in Davao. Christian churches and chapels dot the city's landscape along with temples, mosques and other places of
worship.

Another Spanish tradition is the celebration bybarrios (villages) of the feast day of their respective patron saint with a festival (fiesta). In these celebrations, songs and dance
become the sights and sounds of Davao. The largest of these celebrations is the week-long Kadayawan Festival.

Davao City's Chinatown is said to be the Philippines' biggest in terms of land area.

The Davao Chinatown is the primary residence of the Chinese community in the city. It has its own seaport, the Santa Ana Wharf which is also a part of Davao International
Port.

Japanese cultural influence, like that of the Chinese, was also prominent in the city.[citation needed] The concentration of the Japanese Community before was in Mintal in the 3rd
District of Toril, Davao City. In fact, a Japanese cemetery and Japanese Shrine is located there in Bago Oshiro in Mintal. It is the Japanese town-like place in Davao, where
there are Japanese villages and schools. There are various Japanese-owned businesses in the city. Davao is also home to Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School, a
Japanese-administered educational institution.

There are also Indonesians, Malays, and Indians living in the City. English language schools for foreigners, and export-oriented industrial parks to entice Japanese and South
Korean firms to set up shop in the city. However, there were also some cultural conflicts in the integration of Koreans in the city, as the then-city mayor Rodrigo Duterte
complained about their habit of smoking in public places.

Tourism
The Philippine eagle, the country's national bird and considered the largest eagle in the world, is endemic to Davao. [citation needed]The orchid waling-
waling and fruits such as durians, pomeloes and mangosteens are popular and generally cheaper in the city. Tourist destinations in the city include the
Philippine Eagle Foundation and Nature Center, Mount Apo, Gap Farming Resort, the Davao Crocodile Park, Malagos Garden Resort, Eden Nature
Park, and People's Park in the city center which is popular for its sculptures of indigenous people and dancing fountain. Samal Island, a part of Metro
Davao, is an island city situated immediately off the city's coast in the Davao Gulf, popularly known for its scenic beaches.
The city also offers outdoor activities, such as wild river rafting, river tubing, wakeboarding, and mountain trekking, most especially up to the peak of Mt.
Apo.
Two major annual festivals are held in the city: the Araw ng Dabaw (Day of Davao) on March 16 (The city's incorporation day) and the Kadayawan
Festival in August.[36] Also celebrated in the entire month of December, Pasko Fiesta sa Davao is an integration of festive and competitive Christmas
activities showcasing colorful lightings and array of decorations in barangays, public parks, roads and buildings, and a series of competitive
performances showcasing the community's creativity and talents while keeping alive Christmas traditions. During this season, the city pulsates with
exciting sights and sounds, barraged with mall sales, bazaars, food festivals, and night markets filled with wholesome entertainment day and night.
[37]
Another annual festival, the Torotot Festival,[38] is held annually every New Year's Eve. First organized in the last day of 2013 during the 2014 New
Year's Eve, it was organized as a recompense for the city firecracker-pyrotechnics ban; it includes a huge number of people simultaneously blowing
party horns, locally known as torotots. It recorded a number of 7,568 people[39] participating in the first event, aiming to break the world record set by
Japan for the most people simultaneously blowing party horns.
As of 2011, there were 1,075,000 recorded tourist arrivals in the city, totaled from 81,081 foreign travelers, 983,315 local citizens, and 10,604
balikbayans/overseas Filipino workers. Estimated tourist receipts were recorded at 12.81 billion pesos while estimated economic benefits were 28.19
billion pesos.
Transportation
Land

Popular modes of public transportation in the city are multicabs, jeepneys, tricycles, buses and taxis. Multicabs and jeepneys ply 82 designated passenger-vehicle routes
around the clock. Tricycles ply routes beyond the main streets of the city. Taxis have several routes in and around Davao City. In mountainous areas, the habal-
habal passenger motorcycle is the main mode of transportation.

The city has the first taxis in the Philippines to accept payments from BancNet and MegaLinkATM and debit cards.[41] The black taxis are linked to the Global Positioning
System (GPS), and dispatching is done by computer.[42]
The city offers a wide bus network to cities and provinces in Mindanao and as far as Pasay City in Luzon, and Ormoc and Tacloban in the Visayas. The city is accessible by
bus from several points in Mindanao such as tabato, Kidapawan, General
Santos, Digos,Koronadal, Isulan, Tagum, Tandag, Bislig, Malaybalay, Mati, Monkayo, Malita, Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, and Surigao .

Construction and improvement of roads and bridges in the city are underway. The city's third major road, the Buhangin Underpass, was completed in the first quarter of 2003.
The Traffic Management and Computerization Scheme was implemented, considered one of the most modern in the country.[43]

A 28-kilometer monorail project has been endorsed by the City Government to the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and Philippine National
Railways (PNR).[44]

Sea
The Port of Davao is the busiest port in Mindanao.

Davao is connected to Manila by roll-on/roll-off inter-island ferries. The city is served by domestic passenger ferries at Sasa International Seaport and Santa Ana Wharf, the
international seaports of the Port of Davao, the busiest port in Mindanao.[45] The port is capable of servicing inter-island and international shipments. It is located in Davao Gulf
and has two approaches, one at Pakiputan Strait between Davao and western Samal Island.

The Port of Davao has two government seaports (Sasa International Wharf and Santa Ana Domestic Wharf) and nine privately owned ports. In addition, the Toril International
Fish Port Complex accommodates small and large-scale fishing activities and provides facilities such as cold storage.

Air
Davao International Airport's air traffic control tower is considered the most advanced ATC in the Philippines.[46]

Davao City has direct flights to major Philippine cities and Singapore. Located north from the city center, Francisco Bangoy International Airport is the major airport serving
the city and the region. It is the busiest airport in Mindanao and the third-busiest in the country. On November 12, 2007, Cebu Pacific announced that the airport would be its
third hub.

Soccsksargen (Region XII)

koronadal
Koronadal, officially the City of Koronadal (Hiligaynon: Dakbanwa/Syudad sang Koronadal; Filipino: Lungsod ng Koronadal) and popularly known as Marbel, is a 3rd-class
component city in the Philippines. It is the capital of the province of South Cotabato and regional administrative center of Soccsksargen (Region XII).[6] According to the 2015
census, it has a population of 174,942.[4]

Koronadal became a component city of South Cotabato by virtue of Republic Act 8803 dated October 8, 2000.[7] In 2003 and 2005 the city was recognized as "Most
Competitive City" in the small-city category, and in 2005 and 2006 as the most business friendly city in Mindanao. [7] Koronadal also hosted an international activity
called Pyesta Kolon Datal: Koronadal International Folkloric Festival in coordination with Conseil international des organisations de festivals de folklore et d'arts
traditionnels or International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Art (CIOFF) on August 10 to 18, 2015 [8] and several national activities such as
the Palarong Pambansa in 1996 with General Santos and solo in 2007, Mindanao Business Forum, and National Schools Press Conference. On June 12, 2009,
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo together with Defense Secretary Gibo Teodorocelebrated the 111th Independence Day in the city, which marks a significant and historic
event in the history of Koronadal.

Koronadal City is one of the cities in Mindanao whose citizens are Hiligaynon speakers. 95% of the city's population is from theHiligaynon ethnic group from the Visayas, the
other city is Tacurong in Sultan Kudarat

History
The settlement of Koronadal and its creation as a municipality by virtue of Executive Order No. #82 dated August 18, 1947 was marked by a rapid initial development, so that
when the province of South Cotabato was created under Republic Act No. 4849 on July 18, 1966, it easily became the capital town. In the past, the place was populated
by B'laan people and Maguindanaos. The word Koronadal is believed to have been derived from two B'laan words- koron or kolon meaning cogon grass,
and nadal or datalmeaning plain, which aptly described the place to the natives.[9] On the other hand, Marbel, which is another name for the poblacion, is a B'laan term marb-
el which means "murky waters" referring to a river, now called the Marbel River.

Koronadal used to comprise the area extending from the banks of Buluan Lake to the north to Barangay Polonoling in themunicipality of Tupi to the south from Quezon
mountain range to the northeast to the municipality of T'Boli to the southeast.

It was on August 18, 1947 when President Manuel Roxas signed the Executive Order creating the municipalities in the entire province of South Cotabato, one of which was
Koronadal. The same executive order likewise mandated the official function of the municipal government which began after the qualification and election of the first set of
municipal officials.
The municipal government of Koronadal began its official function on January 1, 1948 with an approved Annual Estimated Budget of P30,000.00. The land area of the
municipality by then was comparable with the Province of Bata-an embracing the present municipalities of Tampakan, Tupi, Banga, Lake Sebu, Surallah, T'Boli, Sto.
Nio, Norala, and Isulan.

Municipal Council Resolution No. 32, Series of 1948 mandated and proclaimed January 10 of each year as the Municipal Town Fiesta commemorating the foundation of
Marbel Settlement District of the National Land Settlement.

Koronadal was converted into a component city of South Cotabato, now known as the City of Koronadal by virtue of Republic Act 8803 on October 8, 2000. At present,
Koronadal is a fast developing growth center composed of twenty seven (27) barangays including the four (4) zones in the poblacion. Being the capital city of South
Cotabato, it is the center of the province in terms of political, cultural and socio-economic activities.

By virtue of Executive Order No. 304 signed by Former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Koronadal was named as the Regional political and socio-economic center
of Soccsksargen on March 30, 2004. Regional departments, bureaus and offices were ordered to move from Cotabato City, the former Regional Center of the Region

Culture
B'laan culture
The B'laan people are one of the indigenous peoples of the Southern Philippine island of Mindanao. Another tribe called the Maguindanao also inhabits the same area. The
two tribes consider themselves to be brothers and sisters. Long ago, an Arab male (ancestral brother) married a B'laan female (ancestral sister) and through this marriage
union, Islam infiltrated Southern Mindanao so that when the Spaniards arrived, their attempts to establish Catholicism were unsuccessful in the south. Eventually the B'laan
and the Maguindanao became trade partners with the B'laan settling in the mountains and the Maguindanao settling along the coastal areas. From that time until now, the
B'laans have been producing rice, vegetables, livestock, and rainforest products. The original religion of the B'laan is Animist. Presently, only 5% of the 8,000 B'laan tribal
people are considered to be evangelical.

Christian culture
The Christian Filipinos make up the great majority (over 70%) of the Southern Philippine population. They are relatively newcomers to the area; the first wave of Christian
migrants came in the seventeenth century when the Spaniards sought to populate Zamboanga, Jolo, Dapitan and other areas by encouraging people from Luzon and the
Visayas to settle there. In the nineteenth century Spanish policy found considerable success in encouraging migrations to Iligan and Cotabato.

The Americans continued this pattern during their colonial administration. In 1913 the American colonial government provided resources for the establishment of agricultural
colonies in Mindanao. By the time the Philippine Commonwealth was established, Mindanao had become a veritable frontier. Wave upon wave of migrants poured into the
region, chief among them the Hiligaynons, Cebuanos, Ilocanos, Tagalogs, Warays, Kapampangans, Pangasinenses, Aklanons and Bicolanos. These people did much to
clear the virgin areas of Mindanao and open them to extensive agriculture and industry.

Muslim culture
The cultural diversity of the region is the result of a large influx of migrants from the north over a long period of the region's history. Found here are three main cultural groups:
the early Filipinos who belong to various indigenous tribes living in the highlands and remote areas of Mindanao, the Muslim Filipinos who were early converts to Islam and
who regard the region as their traditional homeland, and the Christian Filipinos who founded settlements and communities in the course of their migrations from other parts of
the country.

Festivals

T'nalak Festival

Hinugyaw Koronadal (January 10) - is the festival that marks the foundation anniversary of Koronadal as a municipality. It shows the festive spirit of the people of
Koronadal with street dancing and night beer parties in the streets of Koronadal among other worthwhile activities.

T'nalak Festival (July 1618) - a festival that celebrates South Cotabato's T'boli tribe with colorful abaca cloth created and woven by the women from their tribe. It
symbolizes the blending of culture, strength and unity of the various ethnic groups living in the province. They have Dayana Civic Parade which highlighted by a float and
cheer dance competition. They perform on the streets of the city showcasing native costumes of B'laan, T'boli and other tribal groups in Mindanao.

City-hood Charter Anniversary (October 8) - celebrates the city-hood of Koronadal highlighted by "Negosyo Festival" showcasing the vibrancy of business and
other economic enterprises in the City of Koronadal; consumers enjoy month-long citywide grand sale as participating business establishments give discounts of up to
70% off their regular prices on goods or services.
Caraga ( Region XIII)
Butuan
Butuan (pronounced /butwn/), officially the City of Butuan (Butuanon: Dakbayan hong Butuan; Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Butuan; Tagalog: Lungsod ng Butuan) and often
referred to as Butuan City, is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines and the regional center of Caraga. It is located at the northeastern part of the Agusan
Valley, Mindanao, sprawling across the Agusan River. It is bounded to the north, west and south by Agusan del Norte, to the east by Agusan del Sur and to the northwest
byButuan Bay. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 337,063 people. [4]

Butuan City was the capital of the province of Agusan del Norte until 2000, when Republic Act 8811 transferred the capital toCabadbaran City. For statistical and
geographical purposes, Butuan City is grouped with Agusan del Norte but governed administratively independent from the province but legislatively administered by the
province's 1st congressional district.

History
Butuan, before its colonization, was known as the Rajahnate of Butuan, an Indianized kingdomknown for its metallurgic industry and sophisticated naval technology. The
rajahnate flourished at the 10th and 11th centuries CE, and had an extensive trade network with the Champa Civilizationand the Srivijayan Empire.[5][6]

On 1001 CE, the rajahnate had established contact with the Song Dynasty of China. The annualSong Shih recorded the appearance of a Butuan mission at the Chinese
imperial court, and the rajahnate was described as a small Hindu country with a Buddhist monarchy, which had a regular trade connection with Champa. The mission, under
a rajah named Kiling, asked for equal status in court protocol with the Champa envoy, but ultimately was denied by the imperial court. [7][8]However, under the reign of Sri Bata
Shaja, the diplomatic equality was eventually granted to the Kingdom, and as a result the diplomatic relations of the two nations reached its peak in the Yuan Dynasty.[9]

Evidence of these trading links are in the discovery of 11 balangay boats around Ambangan in barangay Libertad, which was described as the only concentration of
archaeological, ancient, ocean-going boats in Southeast Asia. Other evidences of the post are the discovery of a village in Libertad that specializes in gold, deformed skulls
similar to reports in Sulawesi, and the discovery of many artifacts by locals andtreasure hunters.

Colonial period
On March 31, 1521, an Easter Sunday, Ferdinand Magellan ordered a mass to be celebrated. This was officiated by Friar Pedro Valderrama, the Andalusian chaplain of the
fleet, the only priest then. Another priest, the French Bernard Calmette (Bernardo Calmeta) had been marooned at Patagonia with Juan de Cartagena for being implicated in
the mutiny at Puerto San Julin. Conducted near the shores of the island, the Holy First Mass marked the birth of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines. RajahColambu and
Siaiu were said to be among the first natives of the soon-to-be Spanish colony to attend the mass among otherMazaua inhabitants, together with visitors from Butuan who
came with the entourage of Colambu, king of Butuan.

Controversy has been generated regarding the holding of the first masswhether it was held in Limasawa, Leyte in Masao, Butuan City, in the hidden isle made up
of barangays Pinamanculan and Bancasi inside Butuan, in the latest discovered site in between Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur, the small barangay of Barobo, or
elsewhere. It is sure, however, that Ferdinand Magellan did not drop anchor by the mouth of Agusan River in 1521 and hold mass to commemorate the event which was held
at Mazaua, an island separate from 1521 Butuan which, in the geographical conception of Europeans who wrote about it, was a larger entity than what it is now. Antonio
Pigafetta who wrote an eyewitness account of Magellan's voyage described in text and in map a Butuan that stretched from today's Surigao up to the top edge of Zamboanga
del Norte

The first municipal election in Butuan took place in March 1902 in accordance with Public Law No. 82 [10] which coincided with the American occupation of the pla

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II, more than half of Butuan, if not all of it, was burned when local guerrilla forces attacked the enemy
garrison on 12 March 1943 in the Battle of Butuan.[11][12]:318[13]:7 On January 17, 1945, guerrillas attacked Japanese troops on the road between Cabadbaran and Butuan to
prevent the Japanese garrison at Butuan from being reinforced. When the guerrillas depleted their ammunition supply, they were forced to retreat. [14] Later in 1945,
the Philippine Commonwealth troops in Butuan together with the recognized guerrillas attacked the Japanese forces during the Battle of Agusan. On October 20, 1948, still
recovering from the war, the entire municipality was ruined by a fire.[citation needed]

Modern era
By the late 1940s to the 1970s, Butuan's industry specialized in timber, earning it the nickname, "Timber City of the South". The plentiful trees of the area invited many
investors to the city, and inspired then-congressman Marcos M. Calo to file a bill elevating Butuan for cityhood. On August 2, 1950, this was passed converting Butuan into
a city.

However, by the early 1980s, the logging industry of the city began to decline, although the city was still an economic haven to many investors. The city's main income by that
time frame and until this day depended on small and medium business, and large-scale projects by investors. In February 7, 1995, the city was reclassified from a chartered
city to a Highly Urbanized city. 16 days later, on February 23, the region of Caraga was created by virtue of Republic Act 7901, with Butuan as its regional center, and the
provincial capital of Agusan del Norte. In 2000, Republic Act 8811 formally transferred the capital of Agusan del Norte from Butuan to Cabadbaran, however most provincial
offices are still located in the city.

Geography

Butuan City has a land area of 81,662 hectares (201,790 acres), [3] which is roughly 4.1% of the total area of the Caraga region.
The existing land use of the city consists of the following uses: agriculture areas (397.23 km2), forestland (268 km2), grass/shrub/pasture land (61.14 km2) and other uses
(90.242 km2). Of the total forestland, 105 km2 is production forest areas while 167.5 km2 is protection forest areas.

Geography
The forestland, as mentioned earlier, comprised both the production and protection forest. The classified forest is further specified as production forest and protection forest.
In the production forest industrial tree species are mostly grown in the area. The protection forest on the other hand, is preserved to support and sustain necessary ecological
performance. Included in this are the watershed areas in Taguibo, which is the main source of water in the area,

The city is endowed with swamplands near its coastal area. These swamp areas are interconnected with the waterways joined by the Agusan River. Most of the swamplands
are actually mangroves that served as habitat to different marine species.

Filling material needs of the city are extracted usually from the riverbank of Taguibo River. Others are sourced out from promontories with special features and for special
purpose.

The fishing ground of Butuan is the Butuan Bay of which two coastal barangays are located. It extends some two kilometers to the sea and joins the Bohol Sea. These are
the barangays of Lumbocan and Masao.

Kahimunan Festival
The Kahimunan Festival is celebrated every third Sunday of January in celebration of the city patron Sr. Sto. Nio. This celebration is a Butuanon version of
the Sinulog festival of Cebu City. Kahimunan is a Lumad term which means "gathering".
Balangay/Balanghai Festival
Butuan celebrates its annual fiesta, the Balangay Festival, for the celebration of the city patron St. Joseph every whole month of May, with the exact feast day of St.
Joseph on May 19. The city holds many events such as summer league basketball championship games, thanksgiving mass, and more.

Butwaan Festival: The newest festival is a feast day celebration of St. Joseph, patron of Butuan, which is held every May 19. This was created last 2013 as
replacement to Balangay Festival during the specific date. Both festivals will still celebrates the feast of St. Joseph with Butwaan focus on the Church activities
while Balangay will focus on the city government activities.
Cultural Festivals
The Cultural festival/tourism consciousness is a week-long celebration that lasts from the last week of July up to August 2 in celebration of the Charter Day of Butuan.
 Abayan Festival: The Abayan Festival, a part of the Cultural Festival, is held in celebration of St. Anne, patroness of Agusan River, which is celebrated every
last Sunday of July.

Palagsing Festival: "Palagsing" is a local delicacy popularly made in Banza, one of the old poblacion of Butuan City. The popularity of making Palagsing in
Banza is attributed to the abundance of Lumbiya (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) where Unaw or lumbiya starch is harvested from the palm tree. Another popular
ingredient is young coconut meat. The mixture of unaw, young coconut and brown sugar make palagsing moist and chewy. They are delicately wrapped by
banana leaves and are boiled for 30 minutes to create the soft consistency of palagsing. The Palagsing Festival usually held on Adlaw Hong Butuan
Celebration every 2nd day of August.

Adlaw Hong Butuan: Adlaw Hong Butuan is the charter day celebration of Butuan, which includes a thanksgiving mass, motorcade, palagsing festival,
street party recognitions of outstanding Butuanons and City Government Employees' Night.

Unaw Festival: The Unaw Festival is usually held on Adlaw Hong Baan Tres Celebration every 3rd or 4th Week of June.

Festival and Annual Celebration

Agusan River: The Agusan River is the widest and most navigable river in Mindanao. Natives who live on the banks of this river pay tribute to
their patroness, Senora Sta. Ana (Saint Anne) every last Sunday of July in the Abayan festival.

Mount Mayapay: Looming southwest of the Agusan Valley is this majestic mountain plateau. It rises to 2,214 feet (675 m) above sea
level. Mount Mayapay got its name from the ancient Madjapahit Empire. The history behind the Sri-Vishaya period bears much meaning
and influence of Butuan's pre-historic and archaeological discoveries.
 Guingona Park

The Butuan National Museum

Man-made attractions

Ramon Magsaysay Bridge: The old Magsaysay Bridge in Butuan, an arched-type steel bridge built during the early sixties spans the
mighty Agusan River. For years this bridge serve as a lone vital conduit of the city to the rest of Mindanao island until its new more
modern pair came at the citys southern side. The bridge links the main urban center to eastern suburbs of Baan and Ampayon. [26]

Balangay Boats: The Balangays (or Balanghai) are ancient boats that were found in Butuan. They were excavated in the Balangay
Shrine, across the Masao River from Bood Promontory. They played a major role in Butuan because Butuan was, and still is, a port city.
 Since its discovery, the Balangays have become an icon of Butuan. The Kaya ng Pinoy, Inc. recreated the Balangay boats and have
sailed it as part of their project, the Balangay Voyage. So far they have only sailed around Southeast Asia. They are planning to sail
around the world.

Balangay Shrine Museum: The Balangay Shrine Museum, located in Brgy. Libertad, lays the graveyard of the Balangay 1 dated 320 A.D.
or 1688 years old. The Balangay shrine museum is located at Balanghai, Libertad, Butuan City. This wooden plank-build and edge-
pegged boats measured an average of 15 meters in length and 3 meters wide across the beam. To date, 9 Balangays have already been
discovered in Ambangan, Libertad. Three have been excavated and others are still in Site.

National Museum (Butuan City Branch): This museum is the repository of historical and cultural materials and artifacts that proves
Butuan's prehistoric existence and rich cultural heritage. There are two exhibit galleries. The Archaeological Hall and Ethnological Hall
specimens of stone crafts, metal crafts, woodcrafts, potteries, goldsmith, burial coffins, and other archaeological diggings are exhibited. At
the Ethnological Hall are exhibits of contemporary cultural materials the Butuanon or every Filipino for matter used for a living.

Guingona Park: Guingona Park is the native name for that park. Changes of government, however, resulted in a change of name to Rizal
Park. It was contended that Rizal went there and that they named the park after him. Recently, the government of Butuan City headed by
Mayor Amante reconstructed the park and put the name back to Guingona, as it was he who donated the said park some decades past.

Delta Discovery Park: Delta Discovery Park is a newly opened zip-line in Butuan. Delta Discovery Park is at Brgy. Bonbon, Butuan City. A
hidden paradise in the heart of the city, it is also known as the longest zip-line in Mindanao and in Asia with a length of 1.3 kilometers.

Bood Promontory Eco Park: This historic hill is believed to have been the site where Magellan and his men celebrated the first Catholic
Mass on Philippine soil and erected a cross when he landed in Mazaua on March 31, 1521. The highest elevation nearest the seaside
village of present-day Masao, Bood is a wooded area at a bend in the Masao River (El Rio de Butuan), overlooking Butuan Bay and
ancient Butuan as well as the serpentine Masao River. Today, the indigenous Hadlayati tree abound, lording over a clonal nursery and
tree park, amidst fishponds and archaeological treasures. According to the chronicles of Spanish historian Pigafetta, the event took place
in the afternoon of March 31, 1521 after the Easter Mass was celebrated in the morning of the same date. Two Butuanon brother kings
attended these Easter ceremonies. Pigafetta also noted the surrounding fields and balanghai boats on the bay that could be seen from
 the hill. The eco-park was established to provide the people of Butuan and its visitors a place to rekindle the past amidst a relaxing
natural setting.
Transportation
Air
The Butuan National Airport, called Bancasi Airport, serves the general area of Butuan City, located in the province of Agusan del Norte in the
Philippines. It is the only airport in the province and largest in the Caraga region. The airport is classified as a trunkline airport, or a major
commercial airport, by the Air Transportation Office, a body of the Department of Transportation and Communications that is responsible for the
operations of not only this airport but also of all other airports in the Philippines except the major international airports. It also serves more than
400,000 travelers yearly that includes 250,000 local and foreign tourists. Butuan National Airport can also accommodate 5 to 10 flights a day
including large number of aircraft via Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines operated by PAL Express.
Sea
As a regional commercial and economic hub, the Port of Masao is Butuan's seaport. It was built to avoid having the city depend on the port of
Nasipit, Agusan del Norte. The said port will be having more expansion and development to become a seaport with international standards in the
region and in Mindanao.
Land
The main modes of transportation within the city proper is the "orange" tricycle which can accommodate up to 6 or 7 passengers. Another mode
of transportation is the small-type jeepneys or multicab vehicles with a seating capacity of at least 15 passengers via fixed routes going to big
barangays such as Bancasi, Libertad, Ampayon, Los Angeles and De Oro. Jeepneys, Vans and Buses is also available in Jeepney Terminal,
New Integrated Van Terminal and City Integrated Bus Terminal respectively located Langihan Public Area. They also follow fixed routes to
outlying barangays, neighboring towns, municipals, cities and provinces. Long distance routes also include cities
of Manila, Ormoc, Legazpi, Tacloban, Surigao, Tandag, Bislig (Mangagoy), Davao, Tagum, Cagayan de Oro,Gingoog and soon Malaybalay.
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)
Cotabato City
Cotabato City, officially the City of Cotabato (Malay: Kota Batu; Maguindanaoan: Kuta Wato; Cebuano: Dakbayan sa
Cotabato;Hiligaynon: Dakbanwa/Syudad sang Cotabato; Filipino: Lungsod ng Cotabato; Spanish: Ciudad de Cotabato), is one of theindependent
component cities located in Mindanao, Philippines. According to the 2015 census, it has a population of 299,438. [2]
Cotabato City is the regional center of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) but the city is administratively part of
the Soccsksargen region, which is composed of the provinces of South Cotabato, (North) Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, andSaranggani, as well as the
highly urbanized city of General Santos. For geographical, statistical and legislative purposes, it is grouped with the province of Maguindanao but still
does not belong to the ARMM.
Cotabato City is distinct from and should not be confused with the province of Cotabato.
The name Cotabato was derived from the Maguindanao word kuta wato and the Malay Bruneian word of Kota Batu, or City of Stone; kota mean city or
fortress, and batu mean rock or stone.
Cotabato City had witnessed more history than any other place in Mindanao. Its history dates back to the 15th century when Shariff Kabunsuan, a
Johore-born missionary ofMalay and Arab descent, landed along the banks of the Rio Grande de Mindanao and introduced Islam to the natives. Islam
was the faith that moved the early settlers to communal life, and to establish the Sultanate of Maguindanao with its golden age ushered in by Sultan
Dipatuan Qudarat during the 17th century the time when Cotabato City developed as the capital town of Maguindanao.
In the nineteenth century, when Sultan Makakua ruled, roads and wharfs were constructed which gave rise to the birth of modern-day Cotabato.
However, the then Municipality of Cotabato was first organized at the later part of the 19th century when the Spaniards established a military post at
what is now Barangay Tamontaka, one of the earliest Christian settlements founded south of the Philippines. Spaniards already took with them
Chabacanos and Chabacano-speaking Muslims from Zamboanga and Basilan and Cebuanos. Chabacanos being brought by Spaniards are the reason
of existing Chabacano dialect in Cotabato City called Cotabateo, evolved from Zamboangueo. Cotabato was then officially founded in 1862 when the
Pueblo de Cotabato was established; Christianity was introduced in the area in around the year 1870.
Datu Piang, fourth from the left, with American officers circa 1899. He was the first governor of the Empire Province of Cotabato; Cotabato City was
once the capital of the province from 1920 to 1967.

Following the Spanish evacuation in Jan. 1899, Datu Piang led the Moro's in a massacre of the remaining Christian community, enslaving those they did
not kill.[3]:529530 Americans arrived in Mindanao in 1900 after the SpanishAmerican War ended in 1898. Cotabato town was part of Moro Province and
of Department of Mindanao and Sulu from 1903 to 1920, when the Empire Province of Cotabato, referred to as "Moroland" by the Americans, was
founded with the town as the capital, with Datu Piang, known as the Grand Old Man of Cotabato, as its first governor.
Several towns were carved off from Cotabato town beginning in the year 1936, with Dulawan (now Datu Piang, Maguindanao) and Midsayap being the
first ones which were incorporated as regular municipalities.
In 1942, at the beginning of the Pacific Front of World War II, the Japanese Imperial forces entered what is now Maguindanao province. In 1945,
Maguindanao was liberated by allied Philippine Commonwealth troops and Muslim Maguindanaoan guerrilla units after defeating the Japanese Imperial
forces in the Battle of Maguindanao during the Second World War.
Several towns were carved off from Cotabato town since the year 1913, with Pikit being the first one founded by Cebuano Christian colonists. Dulawan
(now Datu Piang, Maguindanao) and Midsayap were incorporated as towns in 1936. In August 18, 1947, just two years after the Second World War and
a year after the official inauguration of Philippine independence, the number of towns in the gigantic Cotabato province were multiplied by Executive
Order No. 82 signed by President Manuel Roxas, namely: Kidapawan, Pagalungan, Buayan, Marbel, Parang, Nuling, Dinaig, Salaman, Buluan,Kiamba,
and Cabacan, a total of eleven (11) towns added to the previous four towns; the newly founded towns of Kabuntalan, Pikit (conversion as regular
municipality), and Glan added up in September 30, 1949. More and more newly created towns added up in the province's number of towns as the
province entered the second half of the 20th century.
On July 1, 1950, the then Municipality of Cotabato was made first class municipality under Executive Order No. 466. Nine years later, it became a city
on July 10, 1959, and on June 20, 1959 it was officially created into a chartered city by virtue of Republic Act No. 2364.
During the beginning of the 1950s up to the mid-1970s, Cotabato City was by far the second largest and most progressive city in Mindanao, after Davao
City, with its population of more than 200,000 people residing in the city that time. However, mass insurgencies and much disorder between Christians
and local Muslims in the region, began in the mid-1960 during the Marcos administration, capitulated into the city's economic decline, so the provincial
government moved its provisional capital to Pagalungan in 1967 to avoid internal strife in the city. This made the city mostly isolated to other important
economic centers in Mindanao.
The city used to be part of the original Province of Cotabato and was its capital from 1920 until 1967, a year after the separation of South Cotabato;
since then the city was the administrative center of the ARMM when Maguindanao was carved out in 1973. However, the city broke off administratively
from Maguindanao as it rejoined SOCCSKSARGEN in the 1990s. Now many sources consider the city as part of the present Cotabato province,
although geographically it is still considered part of Maguindanao.
Geography
Cotabato is approximately 698.9 nautical miles (1,294.4 kilometres) from Manila, the country's capital, and is bounded by the municipalities of Sultan
Kudarat to the northwithRio Grande de Mindanao separating the twoKabuntalan to the east, and Datu Odin Sinsuat to the south. The city
faces Illana Bay, part of the Moro Gulf, to the west.
Cotabato City has a total land area of 176.0 square kilometers, located at the mouth of the Rio Grande de Mindanao and Pulangi River.
Tourism
Landmark and parks

Rio Grande de Mindanao at Cotabato City

Rio Grande de Mindanao: The second largest river in the Philippines and the longest in Mindanao crisscrossing, with its tributary, the city's vast
area. Estimated to be 182 kilometers long and 96 meters wide. Water sports and boat racing are the popular attractions of the river, usually held to
coincide with the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival and the Feast of Hariraya Puasa. It is known among the locals by its original pre-Hispanic name, the
Pulangi River.

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid: The grandeur of the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid (Muslim center of worship), which reportedly costs $48
million, dominates the landscape of Barangay Kalanganan. Its minarets measure 43 meters (141 feet) high on top of which are pilot's lights to avoid
aerial accidents at night. The height is equivalent to a 15-storey building. Crescent moons adorn the domes painted in gold. The mosque can
accommodate 800 male and 400 female worshippers, A fountain will be among the main features of the courtyard.

Church of the Immaculate Conception of Tamontaka: The oldest church, of Spanish architecture and design, was built by the Jesuits. This is
where the old settlement was built in 1872. During the 1976 earthquake, a portion of the church collapsed but the Oblate Fathers restored the ruin
parts following the original design.

Immaculada Concepcion Cathedral: It is the Central Mindanao center of Catholic Preaching. With the Huge Bell Tower and state of the art
Building houses the Archdioces of Cotabato.

Lourdes Grotto: A replica of Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto in France. The compound is equipped with a retreat house for recollection and seminars,
a mini zoo and a children's park which opens only every Sunday.

Kutawato Caves: The only caves in the country that is right in the heart of the city are the Kutawato Caves. Its various entrances; all within traffic
is a rarity that can only be had in the "Heart of Mindanao Cotabato City". These caves were also the source of the city's present name for "kuta"
 means fort and "wato" means stone, hence the name fort of stone, which later became cotabato. Kutawato caves with its walls of white, beige and
brownish shade glitters in the dark and echoes a colorful past dating back to the days when no foreign foot yet trampled upon this island. This caves
had given sanctuary to the natives when the Spaniards tried to convert them into the castillan faith and has thus served the purposed when Filipino
guerillas fought the invading force of the Japanese Imperial Army during the Second World War. When the Japanese firepower proved superior to
that of the natives, the caves then used as an armory and even as a garrison. Within its confines, tortured and oppressed souls that thirst for
freedom and democracy echoed their faint moans and cries
that were buried in its bosoms, muted for over half a century. Formally re-opened and blessed on September 19, 1996, the outwait caves of Cotabato
city has once again reverberated the voices of the Cotabateos; this time however, in a peacefully happy tone. Located at the foot of the "Tantawan" or
P.C. hill, the cave is reputed to be seven kilometers long and of formidable, solid rock. Having four major entrances, each gaping mouth offers unique
experience to its visitors.

Old Cotabato City Hall: A century old structure which houses Marines Camp but soon to be a City Museum. It showcases the architectural design
of the Maguindanaon Art.

Old Provincial Capitol: An early American architecture, it was the seat of then Empire Province of Cotabato. It houses now by the reserved
Military Soldiers.

People's Palace: A majestic structure located at Malagapas, Barangay Rosary Heights 10, combining ethno-modern architectural with Muslim-
inspired roof symbolizing its royalty and Roman art symbolizing the existence of Christianity in the City. The entire bureaucracy of the Executive
Department are now housed under one roof.

Parac Basketball Court (U/C open in 2017) : in events and entitled of the place in Kimpo nearly barangay history year 1993 before formerly
Mayor Luvidico Badoy in year 1996 was elected begin to other City Mayors be soon now Barangay Hall of the property entitled
begin lanuched in 1999 and 2000

ARMM Regional Building

 ORC Complex: The regional seat of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao which composed of different government offices of the entire
region of ARMM and some offices of the SOCCSARGEN. Most buildings are built with state-of-the-art Islamic architecture.

Takumi Butai Memorial Shrine: A monument in honor of Takumi Butai and the Japanese soldiers who died here during the Second World War.
Takumi was the Provincial Commander of the Japanese forces assigned in Cotabato City. Before he died, he requested that some of his ashes be
buried in Cotabato City. This shrine was put up by the Lion's Club of Kyoto, Japan in cooperation with the City Government of Cotabato.

Tantawan Park: This park is build at the foot of Pedro Colina Hill which stand the huge golden statue of Sultan Kudarat.

Pedro Colina (PC Hill): A stone fort towering over the city with a height of 90 feet, now houses the Cotabato city Internal Defense Command. This
is Cotabato City's famous landmark, this historic hill served as a watch tower for the natives in their defense drive to detect and repel assaults by
enemies. From this hill, one can have a panoramic view of the city, its surrounding areas, and the Rio Grande de Mindanao.

Timaco Hill: Overlooking the Illana Bay, it is protected by Bongo Island. The place is a good resort with bluegreen waters, sandy white beach,
lake and cave, wooded park and a river, is ideal for camping, skin diving, snorkeling, boating, fishing and other water sports. It likewise offer nature
lovers and ideal place for trekking, bird and white monkey watching and other lesure activities. The cultural village which will be set at the foot of the
hill is a typical Maguindanao village where people practice the traditional crafts such as brassmaking, malong weaving, mat and basket weaving,
boat building and bamboo crafts. It is also a sanctuary for oral and written traditions of the people including lores, legends, dances, songs, rituals
and other metaphysical culture of the tribe.

Metal and Brass Foundry: Located in Brgy. MB Kalanganan, Cotabato City, this traditional working foundry manufactures brassware such as
kulintang gongs, traditional Muslim jars, and decorative souvenir items. As the oldest and the only remaining brassware maker in Cotabato City,
operated by the Mang family, it is the primary source of kulintang (traditional gong) instruments in the region. The foundry has a showroom located
in downtown Cotabato City.

Inaul Weaving Center: Located just outside Cotabato City (across the bridge, take the first road to the left), in Tamontaka, Datu Odin Sinsuat,
Maguindanao province. Established by H. Bai Aleizzah Albaya B. Wampa, the center is a Peace Project which employs women weavers, and
 concentrates on non-traditional floor-loom weaving of synthetic threads in traditional designs. The workshop displays examples of local weaving and
patchwork, including a number of vintage pieces.

Barter Trade Center: This marketplace in the south side of town caters to tourists and locals alike, and features different native goods,
accessories and souvenir items.

South Seas Mall: Cotabato City's first mall, a family-owned business serving the consumer needs of Cotabato City and its outlying municipalities.
The business started in the early 1950s, when 2 families (originally from the Sulu / Tawi-Tawi province and from Cebu City) formed the Cotabato
South Seas Trading Company.