Benguet - Salad Bowl Of The Philippines

Brief Description
Benguet is the roof of Northern Luzon. It straddles on the Cordillera mountain ranges. Mt. Pulag, second highest mountain in the Philippines, and Halsema Highway, the highest mountain highway system in the country, are located in Benguet. Today it holds claim as the “Salad Bowl of the Philippines” because of the huge production of upland vegetables.

Geography
Benguet lies in the southernmost part of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Pangasinan bounds it on the south, Ifugao and Nueva Viscaya on the east, Mountain Province on the north, and La Union and Ilocos Sur on the west. The province has a total land area of 261,648 hectares. It is located between 16'33" north latitude and 120'34" to 125'52" east longitude. Its capital, La Trinidad, is 256 kilometers north of Manila and 6 kilometers north of Baguio City.

Political Subdivision
Benguet has 13 municipalities with a total of 140 barangays.

Climate
Benguet belongs under the Type 1 climate, with the wet season from May to October and the dry season during the rest of the year. The average daily temperature is 18.55° Celsius

Population
Benguet has a total population of 322,000 as of year 2000.

Language / Dialect
The two prominent dialects spoken in the province are Kankana-ey and Ibaloi. Others speak Kalanguya, Karao, and Iowak. The majority speak fluent English

Major Industries
Agriculture, small and large scale mining, gold panning, silver craft/ brass wares, gift and toy making, strawberry production, livestock and poultry, tiger grass broom making production.

Rural industries include silver craft / brass wares, woodcraft, loom weaving, handmade paper decors and novelty items, garment knitting; agricultures and fruit vegetable processing such as strawberry jams, fruit jellies, candies, and preserves.

Kalinga - Whitewater Rafting Capital Of The North

BRIEF DESCRIPTION
A glance of the Philippine map will easily reveal the similarity of the physiography of Kalinga to that of a bust of a man akin to former President Ferdinand E. Marcos. The province’s geographic feature is charcterized in the western portion by sharp crested interlinking peaks of the steep slope, isolated flat lands, plateaus, and valleys. The eastern portion has generally rolling, gradually sloping foothills. With interlocking wide tracks of flat lands and flood plains along its main drainage system, this rare geography interposes a great role expected of the province in national development pursuits.

GEOGRAPHY
Kalinga is nestled on an elevation of 300 to 5,000 feet above sea level with a northsouth assemblage of mountain ranges within the Cordillera Central. It has been dubbed as the “Prince of the Highlands” in the Philippines.

POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS
The province is composed of eight (8) municipalities: Balbalan, Lubuagan, Pasil, Pinukpuk, Rizal, Tabuk, Tanudan, and Tinglayan.

CLIMATE
The prevailing climate falls under the Type III classification of the Weather Bureau. The relatively dry season occurs from November to April while the rest of the year is generally wet. Heaviest rain occurs during September, with an average rainfall of 2,000 mm. Typhoons frequently occur from July to October.

POPULATION
Kalinga has a total population of 154,145 based on the latest census.

LANGUAGE
Ilokano is the dominant dialect spoken in the lower parts of Kalinga, specifically in the municipalities of Tabuk and Rizal. The Kalinga dialect is spoken in other municipalities. Filipino and English are widely understood in all parts.

INDUSTRIES
Loomweaving, rattan basketry, and banana chips processing in Tabuk; animal feeds prodcution n in Rizal; rattan furniture in Conner and Luna; gold jewelry manufacturing and coffee pre-processing in Tabuk, also the trading center.

Apayao - Cordillera's Last Nature Frontier

DESCRIPTION
The province of Apayao boasts its own collection of natural wonders that are otherwise not found in the rest of the Cordilleras. Little wonder that it has been dubbed as “Cordillera’s Last Frontier for Nature Richness.” Here, underground rivers, majestic waterfalls, magnificent lakes hug a unique land that is replete with captivating caves, picture-pretty parks, and exotic wildlife.

Delve deep into underwater splendor being offered by Malabisin Lake and Underground River as well as Waton Subterranean River. Come up the surface to gape at fish and wildlife, which are highly visible in the unpolluted waters of Apayao River. And do stop to admire the myriad of picturesque waterfalls of varying sizes that are found along the river.

Commune with nature and marvel at wondrous sights at the Agamata, Agora, and Anag-Sicapo wildlife sanctuaries. Scale the heights of Mount Solo, the highest peak in Apayao. Stumble into untold discoveries at Purit, Anganupan, Nalvo, and countless other caves that make Apayao a whole lot more than simply interesting.

GEOGRAPHY
The province of Apayao is located at the northernmost tip of the Luzon mainland. It is bounded on the east by the province of Cagayan, on the west by Ilocos Norte and Abra, and on the south by Kalinga. Total land area is 392,790 hectares or 21% of the total land area of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS
Apayao is made up of seven municipalities with 131 barangays

POPULATION
Total population was at 74,720 as of 1995, showing a 1.34% increase from the 1990 population at 74,004. The Isnegs are the dominant ethnic group

LANGUAGE/DIALECT
Ilocano is the dominant dialect spoken by almost half of the province's 26,812 households, followed by Isneg and Tagalog.

CLIMATE
The prevailing climate in the province falls under Corona's Type III Classification. It is characterized by relatively dry and wet seasons, from November to April, and wet during the rest of the year. Heaviest rain occurs during December to February while the month of May is the warmest

INDUSTRIES
Updated records of the Department of Trade and Industry Provincial Office reveal that existing industries in the province are furniture, garment craft, food processing, gifts and house wares, and agricultural support.

Mountain Province - Weaver's Paradise

BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Mountain Province is known as the “Weaver’s Paradise” due to the presence of various weaving centers sporting different designs that bespeak of the province’s cultural heritage. This was a province that practiced the traditional parliamentary/participatory form of governance as evidenced by the presence of the Dap-ay/Ato, a traditional form of governance led by the respected elders in the community.

GEOGRAPHY
Mountain Province is bounded by Isabela on the east; the provinces of Kalinga, Apayao, and Abra on the north; the provinces of Benguet and Ifugao on the south; and the province of Ilocos Sur on the west. It has an area of 229,231 hectares where 83% is mountainous while 17% make up hills and levels. It is a province of rivers, falls, mountains, and caves.

POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS
Mountain Province is composed of ten municipalities, namely: Bontoc, Barlig, Bauko, Besao, Natonin, Paracelis, Sabangan, Sadanga, Sagada, and Tadian, with Bontoc as the capital town. There are 144 barangays comprising the 10 municipalities

POPULATION
Mountain Province is home to 140,439 people (NSO 2000 census) with mostly Bontoks occupying the central and northern parts, Kankanaeys occupying the western part, and Balangaos on the eastern areas.

LANGUAGE/DIALECT
Kankanaey is the major dialect spoken although English, Ilocano, and Tagalog are also widely spoken.

CLIMATE
The province has two seasons - dry from November to April and wet for the rest of the year

MAJOR INDUSTRIES
The furniture industry is a growing venture in the province. Fixtures and furniture are made from raw materials like pinewood, bamboo, and steel. Bamboo and rattan basketry is presently diversifying due to product development. Backstrap weaving, an age-old handicraft, expanded to the use of loom. Colorful costumes are now designed for product lines like bags, purses, tapestry, ethnic costumes, blankets, linen, and fashion accessories

Ifugao - Land Of The Eighth World Wonder

Brief Description
Ifugao is home to a thriving ancient culture and host to the famous rice terraces carved from the base of the mountainsides to the top, which appear to be massive green stairways reaching to the sky. The famous terraces had been inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1995 as “a continuing cultural landscape” and likewise considered by the U.S. Association of Civil Engineers as an engineering marvel built by unschooled and free men not of slave labor.

It was a credit to the inherent wisdom of the Ifugao forefathers that a forest and watershed management system was instituted to help sustain the terraces that serve as the basic food source of the sturdy Ifugaos.

The Ifugao native huts could probably be among the world’s first prefabricated houses that do not use a single nail or metal to fasten their parts.

Geography
Ifugao, a land-locked area located at the foot of the Cordillera Mountain Range, is bounded on the west by the province of Benguet, Nueva Viscaya on the south, Isabela on the east, and on the north by Mountain Province, with a total land area of 251,778 hectares. It is 322 kilometers north of Manila.

Political Subdivision
As of 1988, the province is politically sub-divided into 11 municipalities and 178 barangays, with Lagawe serving as the provincial capital town.

Climate
The climate of the province is described as having the dry season from November to April and the rainy season during the rest of the year. The hottest months are March and April while the coolest months are November up to February.

Population
NSO 2000 census data indicated that Ifugao has a total population of 161,634

Language / Dialect
The English language is widely spoken and understood among the populace, second to its mother tongue which is the Ifugao dialect, and followed by the Ilocano dialect and then Tagalog

Major Industries
Farming; trading industry (gift, toys & house wares); services; manufacturing (garments & textiles); and food & beverages

Baguio City - Summer Capital Of The Philippines

Brief Description
Baguio is the gateway to the wonders of Northern Luzon: the calm beaches of La Union; the fabled Hundred Islands of Pangasinan; the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao; the ancient churches, Spanish influenced houses, historical and cultural relics of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, the Kabayan of the tribes of Benguet, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao, and Abra.

Geography
Baguio City, approximately 250 kilometers north of Manila, is situated in the heart of the Province of Benguet. The area of the city is 49 square kilometers enclosed in a perimeter of 30.6 kilometers. The developed portion of the city is a plateau that rises to an elevation of 1,400 meters. Most of it lies on the northern half of the city.

About half the area of the city has a slope of 25% or more.

Political Subdivision
A popularly elected Mayor heads the city government of Baguio. He is assisted by the Vice-Mayor and a 12-man legislative council called the Sangguniang Panglunsod.

Climate
Baguio is 8 degrees cooler on any month on the average than any place in the lowlands. The temperature seldom exceeds 26° centigrade at its warmest, and the lowest reading was 6.3° centigrade, recorded in January 18, 1961.

Baguio is very wet during the rainy season which is from June to October. The recorded heaviest volume of rainfall measured 9,038.3mm.

Population
The population of the city as of 1995 was 226,883. The youth constitute nearly half of the population. During the peak of the annual tourist influx, particularly during the Lenten period, transients triple the population

Language / Dialect
English is widely spoken and understood. It is the medium of instruction in all public and private schools. The national language, Filipino, is spoken by everyone. Ilocano is also spoken by almost everybody.

Major Industries
The three dominant industries in the city are tourism, education, and integrated circuits. Texas Instruments initiated the Export Processing Zone. Today, they export six hundred million dollars of products annually.

NCR - PHILIPPINES

MANILA CITY ♥ QUEZON CITY
CALOOKAN CITY
PASAY CITY ♥ PASIG CITY
MAKATI CITY
MANDALUYONG CITY ♥ MARIKINA CITY
VALENZUELA CITY
MUNTINLUPA CITY ♥ PARANAQUE CITY
LAS PINAS CITY
MALABON CITY ♥ NAVOTAS
TAGUIG
PATEROS♥ SAN JUAN

Manila City - Cosmopolitan Capital Of The Philippines

Description

Fascination is an understatement of the feeling that one gets by visiting Manila, a lively metropolis commanding a magnificent view of the world-famous Manila Bay and its golden sunset. Historic, bustling, awe-inspiring, the “Philippine Cosmopolitan Capital” is a blend of cultures and flavors that offers an endless serving of places to see, sights to behold, and experiences to never forget. Right in the heart of Manila is found the “Walled City” – Intramuros. Constructed in 1571, during the period of Spain’s colonization of the Philippines, it comprised of European buildings and churches that have been replicated in different parts of the archipelago. It had been one of the world’s best preserved medieval cities. Here, dungeons and old churches share space with art galleries, theaters, a nature park. At the center of Intramuros is the grand Manila Cathedral, the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. Then there is San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in Metro Manila and one of the four Philippine Baroque Churches inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Marking its entrance at the northwestern tip is Fort Santiago, one of the oldest fortifications of Intramuros. Built in nearly 150 years through Filipino forced labor, it now houses a lush park with flowering trees, homing pigeons, and rides aboard horse-drawn carriages. Manila is home to Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the highest chief executive of the country and one of the most historic structures in the Philippines, and the National Museum of the Philippines, the official repository and guardian of the Philippine cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Along the northern bank of the historic Pasig river is Chinatown, a symbol of the long history of Chinese presence in the Philippines long antedating the arrival of the Spaniards. Today it is an important trade and business center, and a primary bargain shopping destination. Five-star hotels and restaurants, some of them housed in historic buildings, make the perfect party place in the city. The nightlife offers everything from dazzling cultural shows to futuristic discotheques, lively casinos, sensational entertainment lounges, and fashionable cafes. The popular districts of Malate and Ermita showcase a wild variety of restaurants, clubs, bars, cafes, art and antique shops – truly, the ultimate cosmopolitan paradise. Manila is geographically advantaged. It is an hour or two away from full-day excursions to Cavite and Corregidor Island, Batangas, and Laguna, replete with exceptionally beautiful beaches, stunning views, and local color. The city is over 17 hours away by air from Los Angeles, less than five hours from Tokyo, and seven and a half hours from Sydney. Wherever you are, you are less than a day away from one of Asia’s greatest cities – Manila.

Geography

The city of Manila is located on the west coast of the Philippine main island of Luzon and surrounded by fertile plains. The city straddles at the delta of the Pasig river, a short navigable stream that connects the fresh water lake of Laguna de Bay with Manila Bay and the South China Sea. It occupies a total land area of 38.3 square kilometers.

Population

The total population was 1,654,761 as of the 1995 census

Political Subdivision

The city is composed of 897 Barangays, which are subdivided into six Congressional Districts. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Quezon City - City Of New Horizons

Description

That Quezon City has been dubbed as the “City of New Horizons” holds truth when it comes to culture and lifestyle – the experience is fresh and not quite what would be expected of the usual urban setting. Fast becoming a famous landmark in the metropolis is the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Nature Center, an experience of nature within the city. Conveniently located at the heart of Quezon City, the area was developed to simulate a natural forest setting and serve as a breather from high-rise and concrete. Found here are about 38 species of trees and shrubs, which are represented by 2,443 trees commonly found in Philippine forests. Nature tripping tastes all the sweeter as there is a grove, lagoon, rock garden, mini-zoo, craft village, and fishing village, among others. Diliman in Quezon City is home to the University of the Philippines, the country’s foremost institute of higher learning and considered the finest in the Far East. UP was established in June 1908, and is sprawled over an area of 450 hectares. The state-owned university has produced many of the country’s best leaders, artists, writers, and professionals. The city is likewise the home of Camps Crame and Aguinaldo, two of the most important military headquarters where the famous four-day peaceful rebellion called People Power or EDSA Revolution of 1986 had started. Holding court as the Cubao district’s focal point is Araneta Coliseum, the world’s largest covered dome during the 1960s. Towering 220 feet and with a seating capacity of 32,000, it captured the Philippines’ first post-war world boxing title by the legendary Gabriel “Flash” Elorde. Araneta Coliseum has since staged world-famous shows, from the classic “Fight of a Lifetime” between Mohammed Ali and Joe Frasier in 1976 to beauty pageants, basketball tournaments, musical concerts, athletic events.

Geography

Quezon City is 10 km. north of Manila. To the city's east are San Mateo, Rizal and Marikina City; to the west are San Juan and the city of Manila; to the north are Caloocan City and San Jose del Monte, Bulacan; and to the south are the cities of Pasig and Mandaluyong. Quezon City is five times bigger than Manila, and in area, it is second to the country's biggest city, Davao City. Rolling hills spread over a large portion of Quezon City. Its lowest altitude is 25 feet above sea level while its highest is 55. The city occupies a total land area of 166.2 square kilometers

Population

The total population was 1,989,419 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

Quezon City consists of 140 Barangays, which are subdivided into fours Congressional districts. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Calookan City - Home Of Heroes

Description

No other city in the Philippines is quite like Caloocan. From humble beginnings had risen a city now in the face of relentless and continuing progress. Before Caloocan emerged into a city, it had modest beginnings – first, as a wilderness, then as an uninhabited hill, then as a hilltop village. Few know the full story of how the city began. Even fewer remember the very interesting details that make up its birth and growth. Today Caloocan continues progressing to be the great yet humble city that is the radiant vision of its residents and the current leadership. The main landmark of Caloocan City is the Bonifacio Monument, located at the intersection of Rizal Avenue and Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, or EDSA. The monument commemorates the most proletarian of all Filipino heroes, Andres Bonifacio. It likewise marks the first encounter between Andres Bonifacio and his revolutionary group called Katipunan with the Spanish soldiers on August 3, 1896. The monument was immortalized by the great Filipino nationalist Guillermo Tolentino.

Geography

Caloocan City is located at the northern part of Metropolitan Manila. The city is divided into two parts: the urban portion, which is bounded on the north by Malabon, on the east by Quezon City, on the south by Manila and Navotas, and on the west by Manila Bay; and the rural portion, bounded on the north by San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, on the east and south by Quezon City, and on the west by Valenzuela. It occupies a total land area of 55.8 square kilometers.

Political Subdivision

Caloocan City is composed of 188 Barangays, which are subdivided into two Congressional Districts. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Population

The total population was 1,023,159 as of the 1995 census.

Pasay City - Cultural Center Of Metro Manila

Description

The city of Pasay has long been a great earner for Metropolitan Manila, even when it was only a town. The economic life of the town had so steadily improved that its income exceeded the limit set for an ordinary town, and thus, it became a city. Farming was once an important livelihood in the barrios of San Isidro, San Roque, and Malibay but it later give way to the manufacturing industry. Fishing, too, was a good source of livelihood in the town – until the construction of Roxas Boulevard, which was formerly named Dewey Boulevard. Today, Roxas Boulevard is a recognized center for culture and the arts in the country. Found here is the Cultural Center of the Philippines, which was built to symbolize the country’s national cultural development. The CCP is an institution mandated by law to preserve, promote, and enhance the Filipino people’s cultural heritage. Not far from the Cultural Center of the Philippines stands the Folks Arts Theater. The work of Architect Leandro Locsin, the 10,000-capacity theater is used for popular performances which anticipate extensive audiences. Found in Pasay are the houses of two prominent people in the national government, Claro M. Recto and President Manuel L. Quezon. With its nearness to Manila and the proliferation of business firms and factories, Pasay has been the target destination of people from all walks of life who have wanted to settle and build beautiful residences in the metropolis. Pasay today is a progressive city boasting modern conveniences and, for its multitute of urban settlers, cheap forms of transportation.

Geography

Pasay City is the third smallest political subdivision in the National Capital Region. It is adjacent to the city of Manila and bounded to the south by Parañaque, northwest by Makati City, and Taguig to the west. It occupies a total land area of 13.9 sq. kilometers.

Population

The total population was 408,610 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

Pasay City consists of 200 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Pasig City - The Urban Rainforest

Makati City - Wall Street Of The Philippines

Description

Urban lifestyle and affluence are nowhere more pronounced in the Philippines than in Makati, the country’s classiest city. Bustling and modern, it is the country’s model for city planning, rising in less than a decade from vast stretches of empty land to become the nation’s premier city. This affluent city southwest of Manila is the country’s financial center, earning it the nickname, “Wall Street of the Philippines.” The major banks, corporations, department stores as well as embassies of the different nations are based here. Situated along Ayala Avenue is the Makati Stock Exchange, which houses the trading of stock. Fully developed, well-reputed city villages provide the perfect address for office buildings, shops, and restaurants. Right in the heart of bustling Makati, spread along Ayala Avenue, is Ayala Center, the country’s business and financial center. Encompassing the Glorietta and Greenbelt shopping malls, among others, Ayala Center is also a commercial complex completely at par with the world’s most modern business cosmos. Within it is the Ayala Museum, among the city’s primary repositories of history, culture, and heritage, along with the Filipinas Heritage Library and Museo ng Makati. Makati has the highest concentration of the country’s finest department stores, fashion boutiques, exclusive jewelry shops and antique stores, shoe stores, bookstores, and most other commercial establishments. In identified portions, the city contains the most exclusive residential subdivisions, including Forbes Park, where many of the country’s wealthy and powerful families make their homes. Five-star hotels and restaurants further provide the ultimate avenue for a life of comfort and relaxation.

Geography

Around the northern and eastern borders of Makati City curl the serpentine length of the Pasig River, which separates the premier urbanscape from the adjacent cities of Pasig and Mandaluyong and the municipality of Pateros. Fort Bonifacio and its crowded barangays sprawl along the eastern fringes. Due west is Pasay City, joined at various points to Makati's major arteries via the South Superhighway, Gil Puyat and Taft Avenues. Across Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) from the Ayala Center are the posh villages of Forbes Park and Dasmariñas. The trend spills over Makati's boundaries all the way down the South Superhighway towards the newer subdivisions of Magallanes and Merville Park in Parañaque, and Ayala Alabang in Muntinlupa. Villamor Air Base, skirting the highway due southwest, is the headquarters of the Philippine Air Force. The city occupies a total land area of 29.9 sq. kilometers.

Population

Makati City has a population of 444,867, according to the 2000 Census. This figure represents an increase of 39,824 or 8 % over the 1995 Census figure. Among the cities and municipalities in Metro Manila, Makati ranks fifth in population, with a 5 % share. In a span of 97 years, Makati's population grew 193 times. The 1903 Census placed the population at 2,700. Although its population is slightly less than half a million, the daytime population of Makati City is estimated to be a million during a typical working weekday because of the large number of people who go to the city to work, shop, and do business, especially in the Central

Political Subdivision

The city consists of three Barangays, which are subdivided into two Congressional Districts. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Mandaluyong City - The New Tiger Of Metro Manila

Description

Mandaluyong, the heart of the “Golden Triangle” (Manila, Makati, and Quezon City), has finally emerged as a veritable boom city. It is one of the leading business and industrial centers in the country today, the “New Tiger” of Metro Manila, which made an unprecedented giant leap to progress. A popular landmark of Mandaluyong is the EDSA Shrine. Located along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, or EDSA, the shrine serves as a monument to the Virgin Mary, considered to be the protector of those who participated in the People Power Revolution of 1986, the country’s first peaceful and bloodless revolution, which led to the downfall of the corrupt regime under President Ferdinand Marcos. What used to be a swampy, stagnating town is now the haven of industrial giants and business conglomerates. The astonishing growth of Mandaluyong gained headway because its local and foreign investors hone a conducive climate for capital growth. The city today boasts top-class amenities, from deluxe hotels and commercial centers to high-rise offices and residential condominiums.

Geography

Mandaluyong lies on a heart-shaped 26 sq. km. of land, 7 km. southeast of Manila and 8 km. west of Pasig. To the south lies Makati, to the northwest, San Juan, and to the northeast, Quezon City. Thus, Mandaluyong is located at the very center of Metro Manila. With this geographical advantage, it has in recent years emerged as a veritable boomtown, the leading business and industrial mecca of the country.

Population

The total population was 286,870 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivisions

Mandaluyong City is composed of 27 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Marikina City - Shoe Capital Of The Philippines

Description

A city once threatened by a residential housing pandemonium, Marikina has emerged to reap various national awards for excellence in local governance and environmental preservation. In 2002 alone, it was a “Clean and Green” awardee of the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran – a category for which it has already been a Hall of Famer as early as in 1996, when it was still a municipality. On the same year, Marikina was also recognized for having a healthy workplace and marketplace. In various occasions, the city has been awarded as well as the “Best Local Government Unit.” Thriving proof of the city’s continued quest for excellence is the Marikina River Park. Spurred by the death of natural resources resulting from the continuous growth in residential area, Marikina took pains in rehabilitating and converting the 220-hectare Marikina River into a sports and recreational park. The city is no stranger to popularity. It has long been famous for its export-quality shoes, the products that gave Marikina the monicker, Shoe Capital of the Philippines. The city’s former Bigasang Bayan is presently being rehabilitated to become the Shoe Museum, showcasing no less than Marikina shoes. Part of the collection are the famous Imelda Marcos shoes. Don Laureano Guevarra, popularly known as Kapitan Moy, who hailed from Marikina, is considered as the founder of the country’s footwear industry. Marikina also used to be a fulcrum of regional sports events when it was still a part of the province of Rizal. It used to be the training ground of some of the best athletes the country has ever produced.

Geography

Marikina, a lush valley bounded by mountain ranges and sliced by a river, is one of the twelve cities and five municipalities comprising the Metro Manila area. It is approximately 16 km. away from Manila, passing through Quezon City. It occupies a total land area of 38.9 sq. kilometers.

Population

The total population was 357,231 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

The city is composed of 14 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Valenzuela City - Industrial Boomtown

Geography

The city of Valenzuela is situated in the northern part of the National Capital Region. Valenzuela City, together with Navotas, Malabon, Pateros, Taguig, and Muntinlupa, form the Metro Manila outer ring of towns. It is bounded to the north and northwest by Caloocan City and Malabon, and to the west by Navotas. The city occupies a total land area of 47 square kilometers.

Population

The total population was 473,165 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

Valenzuela City is composed of 32 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as an Urbanized City.

Muntinlupa City - Residential Haven

Geography

Muntinlupa is located at the southwestern part of Metropolitan Manila, bounded on the north by Taguig, on the northwest by Parañaque, on the west by Las Piñas, on the southwest by the province of Laguna, and on the east by Laguna de Bay.

Parañaque City - Novena Mecca Of Metro Manila

Las Piñas City - Salt Center Of Metro Manila

Description

The city of Las Piñas is famous for the Bamboo Organ, praised for its unique, rare, and melodious sound. The unique bamboo organ can only be found inside the St. Joseph Church of the Parish of Las Piñas. It was in the year 1822 that the construction of this one-of-a-kind musical instrument started; it was completed in 1824. Fr. Diego Cera initiated building this organ using bamboo, wood, and metal. Yearly, a Bamboo Organ Festival is being held at the Parish during the month of February. Las Piñas has also come to be known as a major site of Philippine revolts. During the Philippine-Spanish revolution of 1896, it was occupied by the forces of General Emilio Aguinaldo, President of the First Philippine Republic. Similarly, the city, then only a town, figured prominently during the World War II. Beliefs on the true origin of the town’s name vary. Some say it is derived from the word “Piña,” meaning pineapple, since traders from the provinces of Cavite and Batangas shipped their pineapples for sale first to this town before the nearby markets. Others believe that the name was really “Las Peñas,” owing to the quarrying of stones and adobe, which were used to construct buildings and bridges. The name could also have originated from the two political groups that ruled the town at that time. An inscription in an old church bell, which has been preserved inside the museum of the Las Piñas Parochial Church, states, “Siendo Cura-del Pueblo de Las Peñas el M.R.P. Padre Diego Cera se Fundio este equilon ano de 1820.” It shows that, as early as during the time of Fr. Diego Cera, the town’s first parish priest, the town had been called “Las Peñas” – until after sometime that the town’s name was somehow changed to “Las Piñas.”

Geography

Las Piñas City is bounded on the north and northeast by the city of Parañaque; on the east and southeast by the city of Muntinlupa; on the south by the municipality of Imus, Cavite; on the southwest and west by the municipality of Bacoor, Cavite; and on the northwest by the scenic Manila Bay. It occupies a total land area of 41.54 sq. kilometers.

Population

The total population was 413,086 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

The city is composed of 20 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as a Highly Urbanized City.

Malabon City - A Coastal Capital

Description

The city of Malabon was an important literary center of the revolutionary Filipinos during the period of Spain’s colonization of the Philippines, which ended with the revolution in 1896. It was here, in Malabon’s Asilo de Huertanos, that the “La Independencia,” the voice of the revolutionary government, was printed. On the same site were housed children who had been orphaned due to the plague of 1882. Today Malabon has become a coastal city situated in the northern part of Metro Manila. Malabon, together with Navotas, Valenzuela, Pateros, Taguig, Pasig, and Muntinlupa, form the Metro Manila outer ring of towns, with the city of Manila as the center. A primary attraction in the city is the Malabon Zoo and Aquarium. It is a well kept and unique conservatory of both endemic and exotic animals, including a large variety of unusual fishes, stashed inside a one-hectare tropical rainforest environment. An amusing destination for the old and the young, it indulges its visitors with the distinct privilege to pet wild animals that normally avoid human contact. The zoo is an accommodating classroom for nature lovers as it educates people on the environmental preservation of forests and wildlife.

Geography

The town of Malabon is basically a coastal town situated in the northern part of Metro Manila. Malabon, together with Navotas, Valenzuela, Pateros, Taguig, Pasig, and Muntinlupa, form the Metro Manila outer ring of towns, with the city of Manila as the center. The municipality is bounded on the north and northeast by Valenzuela, on the west and southwest by Navotas, and on the southeast by Caloocan City. It occupies a total land area of 23.4 square kilometers.

Population

The total population was 347,484 as of 1995.

Political Subdivision

Malabon is composed of 21 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as a 1st Class Municipality.

Navotas - Fishing Capital Of Greater Manila

Geography

Navotas is a small fishing town in the northwest portion of Metropolitan Manila. It is a long island system presenting an aggregate shoreline of approximately 4.5 km. fronting Manila Bay. Towards the north, Navotas shares a common border with the town of Obando in Bulacan along the Sukol Creek. The eastern boundaries of Navotas are the Binuangan river, Daang Cawayan river, the Bangculasi channel, and the Estero de Maypajo, all bodies of water sharing a common boundary with Manila in the south. In the west, the waters of Manila Bay wash the shores of Navotas. The minucipality occupies a total land area of 2.6 square kilometers.

Population

The total population was 229, 039 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

The municipality consists of 14 Barangays. It has been classified as a 1st Class Municipality.

Taguig - Rice Bowl Of Greater Manila

Geography

Taguig, a first class municipality, is situated at the northwestern shore of Laguna de Bay at the upper mouth of the legendary Pasig River, also known as the Napindan Channel, through which Laguna drains its flood waters. It occupies a total land area of 33.7 sq. kilometers.

Population

The total population was 381,350 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

Taguig consists of 18 Barangays. It has been classified as a 1st Class Municipality.

Pateros - The Philippines' Duck Egg Capital

Description

The foremost tourist attraction in Pateros is also its biggest and most famous industry - balut-making. Balut are duck eggs, and have been the source of a thriving industry in Pateros, which has been handed down from generation to generation. It presently accounts for about 23% of the total industry. Balut makers mostly come from Aguho. Another attraction, and another industry, in Pateros is its popular Alfombra slippers. In fact, slipper manufacturing was one of the earliest and original skills of the people of Pateros. Today, the Alfombra slipper business ranks fourth in the registered industrial establishments of Pateros, with stores situated along the streets of M. Almeda and B. Morilla.

Geography

Pateros is approximately 13 km. southeast of Manila and north of the Pasig River. It is bounded by the following municipalities: Pasig in the northeast, Taguig in the south, Makati in the northwest, and the Pateros River in the west. It occupies a total land area of 10.4 sq. kilometers.

Population

The total population was 55,286 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

Taguig is composed of 10 Barangays under one Congressional District. It has been classified as a 4th Class Municipality.

San Juan - Brave Men In History

Geography

San Juan is situated in the central part of Metropolitan Manila. Its northern and western boundaries are Quezon City and the city of Manila, respectively, while the city of Mandaluyong form its southern and eastern boundaries. It occupies a total land area of 10.4 sq. kilometers.

Population

The total population was 124,187 as of the 1995 census.

Political Subdivision

San Juan is composed of 21 Barangays. It has been classified as a 1st Class Municipality.

ARMM - PHILIPPINES

BASILAN
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LANAO del SUR
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MAGUINDANAO
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TAWI-TAWI
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SULU

Basilan - A Province To Be Watched

Description

Basilan is one province in a setting that reflects the true description of an island paradise. Blessed with natural bounties since its early years of existence, it has been called by merchants and travelers as an island of hope. The province, bestowed with different cultures and traditions and rich in aquatic resources, was once considered the trading center of Mindanao in the early days. The kilometer-wide channel that opens to the port of Isabela, provincial capital, is lined on both sides by mangroves and Samal houses on stilts. Across is Malamawi Island, the gateway to Basilan, where can be found the Badjao, Samal-Luaans-Banguingui, and Muslim cemeteries. The island boasts of the only lake in the province with wild ducks and is home to the Panigayan fishing village, an ideal spearfishing destination. In the heart of Isabela is the Santa Isabel Cathedral with its modern architectural design. Beside the cathedral is a display center of native handicrafts like mats, bags, and other products made of buri. Not far from Isabela proper is the Kaum Purnah Mosque and Muslim Village, which shows Muslim culture through at least three tribes. The 400-meter-high Calvario Peak and its Chapel of Peace are a delight to photographers. Sumagdang Beach is a natural swimming resort amidst coconut plantations, mini rice fields, and fishponds while Kumalarang River boasts of a 14-meter-high waterfalls. The next town of Lamitan is the best place to see the Yakan, a peace-loving people known for colorful clothes handwoven with intricate geometric designs as well as for elaborate weddings and festivals.

Geography

The province of Basilan has an aggregate historical jurisdiction of 135,892 hectares, with mainland Basilan encompassing an area of 124,892 hectares. It is separated from the mainland of Mindanao by a strait of about 17 miles wide at its narrowest point. Basilan is geographically located between latitude 6°15' and 7°00' longitude 121°15' and 122°30'.

Political Subdivisions

Basilan has eight municipalities, namely; Isabela, Lamitan, Tuburan, Tipo-Tipo, Sumisip, Maluso, Malamawi, Lantawan.

Climate

Basilan, as part of Mindanao, is outside the typhoon belt. The annual average rainfall is 1,100 millimeters and mean annual temperature is 26.6° C. Source of rainfall is the southwest monsoon and intertropical convergence zone (mc). Prevailing winds are from the southwest with a speed of 4 knots.

Language / Dialect

Approximately 55% of the people speak Chavacano; 20% Samal; Joloano, Yakan, and Maranao; 10% Visayan; 10% Tagalog, 5% llocano and other dialects.

Major Industries

Agriculture is the main source of livelihood of the people of lsabela, in particular. There are a few industries operating here and all are agro-based. Copra trading is the leading commercial activity while coconuts are planted almost throughout the year. Rubber-sapping and logging complement the people's major occupations. Mineral deposits of gold, manganese, iron, ore, copper, and coal are also found in Basilan.

Lanao Del Sur - Cradle Of Muslim Art

Description

Lanao del Sur is the land of the Maranaos, “people of the lake,” among the most devout of Muslim tribes as well as the most artistic. Nowhere is this more evident than in the the people’s most natural way of life and the land’s most attractive sites. The life of the Maranaos centers on Lake Lanao, the second largest and deepest in the Philippines and one of the most breathtakingly beautiful. The lake is surrounded with myths and legends. The climate here is envigorating and fine grazing land stretches into the distance. A commanding view of the lake is offered by Marawi City, the provincial capital. The unique natural setting of the Maranaos is perhaps best manifested in Marawi Cty, by the presence of the many large torogans, the Maranao houses, which are characterized by an antique royal high roof with curved designs. The city’s Aga Khan Museum, located within Mindanao State University, is a repository of Maranao and other Moro artifacts. It boasts a huge collection of indigenous art and cultural materials, ethnic music, the native tools and weapons used by the Muslims, and Muslim houses of different artistic designs. Founded in 1962, the university draws the most crowds to the city. The Maranaos’ flair for the creative is exhibited by their numerous ceremonial artifacts and everyday tools trimmed with the sensuous "okir" (carving) and colorful "nagas" (serpent figures). Their long, low, and sleek boats sport a rainbow of brilliant colors matched only by the exuberance of the malong, the native wear of the Maranao women. Worn as a shirt or dress, used to cover the head or as a blanket, the highly decorated malong is violet, purple, green, red, yellow, floral, and geometric.

Geography

Lanao del Sur forms the western portion of Northern Mindanao. It is bounded on the north by Lanao del Norte, on the east by Bukidnon, on the west by Illana Bay, and on the south by Maguindanao and Cotabato. Rolling hills and valleys, a placid lake and river dominate the landscape.

Climate

The province has a cool and pleasant climate that falls dominantly under type F, which is distinguished by an even distribution of rainfall throughout the year. The Philippine summer is not quite distinct here. The wettest month is February and the dryest month is June. Lanao del Sur is outside of the typhoon belt

Language / Dialect

The Maranao dialect is the most commonly spoken. Also spoken are Tagalog and Visaya as well as English and Arabic.

Maguindanao - The Seat Of Muslim Mindanao

Description

The essence of the ancient Islamic faith and culture remains in good health and well-being in the province of Maguindanao, home of the Muslim Maguindanaos, traditionally a peace-loving, inland-dwelling people. Maguindanao is the only predominantly Muslim province of the four that were created out of the former province of Cotabato. Today it holds the seat of the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The ARMM Compound, located on Gov. Gutierrez Avenue, is a showcase of a unique blend of modern and Muslim architecture. It houses the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Center, the Regional Museum, the Regional Library, and almost all regional offices of Region 12. Perhaps Maguindanao is most popularly known for Rio Grande de Mindanao, the second largest river in the Philippines and the longest in Mindanao. Water sports and boat racing are ideal activities here, and are usually held to coincide with the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival and the Feast of Hariraya Puasa. Celebrated every December 19, the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival is a colorful commemoration of Kabunsuan’s arrival via Rio Grande de Mindanao more than 500 years ago to introduce Islam to the natives. Cotabato City's most famous landmark is P.C. Hill, a stone fort towering over the city with a height of 90 feet and now housing the Cotabato City Internal Defense Command. This historic hill served as a watch tower for the natives. It commands a panoramic view of the city and Rio Grande de Mindanao. The oldest church in the city is Tamontaka Church at Barangay Tamontaka. It was built in 1872 following Spanish architecture and design.

Geography

Maguindanao is bounded on the north by Lanao del Sur, on the east by North Cotabato, on the west by the Moro Gulf, and on the south by Sultan Kudarat.

Climate

The province's climate is generally characterized by a more or less even distribution of rainfall throughout the year. Compared to other regions of the Philippines, Maguindanao has the lowest frequency of very cloudy or over-cast days.

Tawi-tawi - Wildlife Mecca Of Muslim Mindanao

Description

Wild cattle, wild hogs, and monkeys of the brown and white variety are just some of the many exotic fauna that abound in the forests of mainland Tawi-Tawi. Lying at the southwestern tip of the Philippines, accessible in only a matter of hours from Sabah in Malaysia, Tawi-Tawi is a province to visit for its natural zoos and a world all its own. At Sibutu, wild hogs come in rampaging bands of black, reddish brown, white, and spotted black and white. A hunter's paradise, Sibutu also boasts of the sleek and rare "labuyo" or wild rooster, birds of the edible variety – the balud, tabon, kingfisher, orioles, dandunay of the peacock variety, and more – as well as pet birds such as green, gold, and white parrots, canaries, lovebirds, and so much more. Seagulls, known to the natives as “tallah-tallah,” have settled by the thousands at Gusong Reef in Cagayan de Tawi-Tawi to lay their eggs there. Gusong Reef is a top producer of the delicious turtle eggs, ranking second to the Turtle Islands. Bongao Peak is a veritable monkey sanctuary, which also provides a view of the expanse of sea and the necklace of islands for miles around. Tawi-Tawi can easily transport one to a whole other world. Eye-catching Sitangkai is considered the “Venice of Tawi-Tawi.” The Royal "Kupunga" rises straight out of an Arabian setting. The Malay influences as well as tribal arts and crafts are very much visible in the province. Here, it is not uncommon to see folks dressed in colorful malongs, the women adorned in beads and brass trinkets. Bongao, the provincial capital, is the only place in the province where simple amenities can be availed of. Lodging is spartan. Bazaars and small cafes crowd the commercial center. At the marketplace, foodstalls serve seafare and native delicacies like the "tapa" or cured boar's meat.

Geography

Tawi-Tawi lies at the southwestern tip of the country. Irregular in shape, with splashes of white sandy beaches and rock-bound coasts, the province has 107 islands and islets with a combined land area of 462 square miles

Political Subdivisions

The province is composed of ten municipalities: Balimbing, Bongao, Cagayan de Tawi- Tawi, Simunul, Sitangkai, South Ubian, Tandubas, Turtle Island, Languyan and Sapa-Sapa. There are from ten to more than thirty barangays in each municipality. Each barangay is administered by a Barangay Captain.

Climate

Tawi-Tawi has two seasons: dry and wet The climate is generally moderate. The wettest months are from August to November. The other months of the year are generally dry with occasional rain showers.

Language / Dialect

The prevailing dialect is Samal, which is widely used in varied tones and accents. The Tausug dialect is also spoken, as are English and Filipino (Tagalog). Many local traders can speak Malay and Indonesian.

Major Industries

Agriculture, fishing, and agar-agar farming are the leading source of livelihood of the people of Tawi- Tawi, with quite a number engaged in the barter trade business. Copra is the top agricultural produce, followed by root crops, fruits, and vegetables.

Sulu - Land Of Treasures And Farers Of The Sea

Description

Far-flung Sulu is the southernmost part of the Philippines, lying between the Sulu Sea on the north and the Celebes Sea on the south. With fishing as its most important industry, it is classified as a First Class Province in terms of income. The glorious Sulu Sea is dotted with coral reefs, such as the pearl farm at Marungas Island, and provides some of the world's best dive spots. Tubbataha Reef is its best known site, a 33,200-hectare underwater splendor drawing divers from all over the world with its marvelous marine wilderness and special ecosystem. Because of its fabulous beauty, the Tubbataha Reef Marine Park was honored by UNESCO in December 1993 as the first natural site in the Philippines to be inscribed in the prestigious World Heritage List. The provincial capital is Jolo. Its walled city is the smallest in the world, with its historic brick walls that lay proof to the city’s historic and continuous strife. At the entrance of the city are four gates that were used as watch towers and several mounds that were the burial grounds of Spanish and American soldiers who died in the hands of the Muslim warriors. Another attraction of the city is the Provincial Capitol with its moorish-inspired architectural design. The province nurtures a harmonious coexistence of the two most dominant religions in the Philippines, Catholicism and Islam. There are Muslim mosques situated in each barangay, most notable being the Tulay Mosque. The existing churches of Christian faith in the province are the Jolo Parish Church, Sacred Heart of Jesus Chapel, and Jolo Evangelical Church.

Geography

The Sulu Archipelago is the southernmost part of the Philippines. It lies between the Sulu Sea on the north and the Celebes Sea on the south. The province consists of over 400 scattered and almost isolated islands, stretching from the tip of Zamboanga southwestward towards Borneo. It forms one of the three connections of the Philipines with Borneo.

Climate

Sulu is outside of the typhoon belt. Its climate is warm, humidity is generally moist, but precipitation is constant throughout the year. February is considered the coldest month while May to August are the hottest, with mean relative humidity of 86%, one of the hottest in the country. January to April is considered the dry period, with a monthly average of 7 to 9 inches of rainfall. The mean annual temperature is 26 degrees centigrade and the maximum is 27 degrees centigrade.

Language / Dialect

The principal dialect of the natives of Jolo is Tausug. The rest speak Samal, Cebuano, Chavacano, Tagalog, and other dialects. English is widely spoken.

Major Industries

Far-flung Sulu is surprisingly a first-class province by income classification. While there is an absence of mineral deposits, Sulu nevertheless abounds in timber resources. Lying outside the typhoon belt, it is blessed with a year-round bounty from both land and sea. Due to the character of the soil and climate, the province of Sulu grows a greater variety of products than any other part of the country. In addition to all the crops of the islands, which are abaca, coconut, and fruits like oranges, lanzones, and jacks, other fruits that do not grow in the northern islands are harvested here, such as the mangosteen and durian. Fishing is the most important industry. Trepang and pearls are extensively gathered. Sea turtles and fish of all kinds are caught. Otherwise the people engage in the industries of boat building, mat weaving, coffee processing, and fruit preservation (durian and mangosteen).

My Poem

All Things Bright And Beautiful

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures Great and Small,
All things Wise and Wonderful,
The Lord God made them All.

Each Little flowers ,
Each Little birds that Sings,
He made their Glowing colors,
He made their tiny Wings.

The Purple - Headed mountains,
The river running by,
The Morning sunset lighted,
That brightens up the Sky.

The Cold wind in the Winter,
The pleasant summer Sun,
The ripe fruits in the Garden,
He made them for Everyone.

The tall trees in the Green woods,
The Meadows where we play,
The rushes by the Water,
We gather Everyday.

How Great is God Almighty?
Who have made all things Well.