Regions of the Philippines

The following is a map of the regions of the Philippines followed by a detailed description of each region.

NOTE: Regions 14-17 do not have a numerical designation. These numbers are for labeling purpose only.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

MAP	NAME OF REGION	ARE KM2	POPULATION	CAPITAL	ABBREVIATION
1	Ilocos Region	13,012.60	5,301,300	Laoag	1
2	Cagayan Valley	28,228.83	3,686,100	Tuguegarao City	2
3	Central Luzon	22,014.6	11,699,300	San Fernando	3
4	CALABARZON	16,873.31	15,916,300	Calamba	4A
5	Bicol Region	18,155.82	6,082,400	Legazpi	5
6	Western Visayas	20,794.18	6,896,500	Iloilo City	6
7	Central Visayas	15,487.69	6,256,200	Cebu City	7
8	Eastern Visayas	23,251.10	4,295,500	Tacloban	8
9	Zamboanga Peninsula	17,056.73	2,768,100	Pagadian	9
10	Northern Mindanao	20,496.02	3,931,600	Cagayan de Oro	10
11	Davao Region	20,357.42	3,466,800	Davao City	11
12	SOCCSKSARGEN	22,513.30	3,879,300	Koronadal	12
13	Caraga Region	21,478.35	2,432,200	Butuan	13
14	Cordillera Administrative Region	19,422.03	1,431,400	Baguio	CAR
15	National Capital Region	619.57	13,485,300	Manila	NCR
16	MIMAROPA	29,620.90	2,921,700	Calapan	4B
17	Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao	12,535.79	4,404,600	Cotabato City	BARMM

The following is a list of the 17 regions of the Philippines with a description and additional information you may find useful and interesting about each region:

NCR – National Capital Region

Popularly referred to as Metro Manila, the National Capital Region, abbreviated NCR, is the seat of government and one of the three defined metropolitan areas in the country. Metro Manila is the economic heart of the Philippines. It houses the headquarters of many national and international corporations, making it the country’s financial and business center.

Area: 619.7 km² (239.26 mi²)

Languages: Filipino, English

Barangays: 1,710

NCR – National Capital Region

CITY/TOWN	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Caloocan	53	1,661,600
Las Piñas	32	606,300
Makati	27	629,700
Malabon	16	380,600
Mandaluyong	11	425,800
Manila	43	1,846,600
Marikina	23	456,100
Muntinlupa	42	543,500
Navotas	12	247,600
Parañaque	47	690,000
Pasay	19	440,700
Pasig	31	803,200
Pateros	2	65,300
Quezon City	165	2,960,100
San Juan	6	126,400
Taguig	45	886,800
Valenzuela	46	715,000
Total	620	13,485,300

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Caloocan	Luzon	Luzon	1,661,600	53 km2
2	Las Piñas	Luzon	Luzon	606,300	32 km2
3	Makati	Luzon	Luzon	629,700	22 km2
4	Malabon	Luzon	Luzon	380,600	16 km2
5	Mandaluyong	Luzon	Luzon	425,800	11 km2
6	Manila	Luzon	Luzon	1,846,600	43 km2
7	Marikina	Luzon	Luzon	456,100	23 km2
8	Muntinlupa	Luzon	Luzon	543,500	42 km2
9	Navotas	Luzon	Luzon	247,600	12 km2
10	Parañaque	Luzon	Luzon	690,000	47 km2
11	Pasay	Luzon	Luzon	440,700	19 km2
12	Pasig	Luzon	Luzon	803,200	31 km2
13	Quezon City	Luzon	Luzon	2,960,100	165 km2
14	San Juan	Luzon	Luzon	126,400	6 km2
15	Taguig	Luzon	Luzon	886,800	45 km2
16	Valenzuela	Luzon	Luzon	715,000	46 km2

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Coffee, Coconut)
• Food Processing
• Mass Transportation Operation
• Tourism
• Machinery
• Textiles and Garments
• Handicrafts and Furniture

READ MORE:  National Capital Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 1 – Ilocos Region

Ilocos is a region in the Philippines, encompassing the northwestern coast of Luzon island. It’s known for its historic sites, beaches, and the well-preserved Spanish colonial city of Vigan. Dating from the 16th century, Vigan’s Mestizo district is characterized by cobblestone streets and mansions with wrought-iron balconies. Further north, Laoag City is a jumping-off point for the La Paz Sand Dunes. The regional center of Ilocos Region is the city of San Fernando in La Union.

Area: 13,012.60 km² (5,024.19 mi²) this number will equal the total KM² below

Languages: Ilocano (Iloko); Pangasinan; Bolinao; English; Filipino

Provinces: 

REGION 1 – Ilocos Region

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Ilocos Norte	3,467.89	609,600
Ilocos Sur	2,596.00	706,100
La Union	1,497.70	822,400
Pangasinan	5,451.01	3,163,200
Total	13,012.60	5,301,300

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Alaminos	Luzon	Luzon	99,400	164 km2
2	Batac	Luzon	Luzon	55,500	161 km2
3	Candon	Luzon	Luzon	61,500	103 km2
4	Dagupan	Luzon	Luzon	174,400	37 km2
5	Laoag	Luzon	Luzon	111,700	116 km2
6	San Carlos	Luzon	Luzon	205,500	169 km2
7	San Fernando	Luzon	Luzon	125,700	103 km2
8	Urdaneta	Luzon	Luzon	144,600	100 km2
9	Vigan	Luzon	Luzon	54,000	25 km2

Barangays: 3,267

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Tomato, Tobacco, Coconut)
• Food Processing
• Mass Transportation Operation
• Aqua Culture
• Mining

READ MORE:  Ilocos Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 2 – Cagayan Valley

Situated in the northeast part of Luzon, Cagayan Valley is an administrative region composed of five provinces and four cities. The region is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, valleys, and coastlines. The Sierra Madre mountain range runs along the eastern part of the region, offering hiking and adventure opportunities. The Cagayan River, one of the longest in the Philippines, flows through the area. The regional center of the Cagayan Valley is Tuguegarao City in Cagayan.

Area: 28,228.83 km² (10,899.21 mi²)

Languages: Ilocano; Ibanag; Ivatan; Itawis; Gaddang; Yogad; Isinay; Ilongot; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 2 – Cagayan Valley

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Batanes	219.01	18,900
Cagayan	9,295.75	1,268,700
Isabela	12,414.93	1,697,100
Quirino	2,323.47	203,900
Nueva Vizcaya	3,975.67	497,500
Total	28,228.83	3,686,100

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Cauayan	Luzon	Luzon	143,500	336 km2
2	Ilagan	Luzon	Luzon	158,300	1,166 km2
3	Santiago	Luzon	Luzon	148,600	256 km2
4	Tuguegarao	Luzon	Luzon	166,400	145 km2

Barangays: 2,311

Major Industries

• Crop (Palay, Corn, Sugarcane, Tomato, Peanut, Coffee, Coconut, Sweet Potato)
• Mining
• Milling
• Machineries
• Food Processing

READ MORE:  Cagayan Valley Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 3 – Central Luzon

Designated as Region III, Central Luzon is an administrative region located in the island of Luzon. It is composed of seven provinces with seven cities, two of which are independent cities. The region is often called the “Rice Granary of the Philippines” because of its extensive rice fields and production. The regional center of Central Luzon Region is the City of San Fernando in Pampanga.

Area: 22,014.6 km² (8499.88 mi²)

Languages: Kapampangan; Pangasinan; Sambal; Ilocano; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 3 – Central Luzon

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Aurora	3,147.32	235,800
Bataan	1,372.98	853,400
Bulacan	2,796.10	3,708,900
Nueva Ecija	5,751.33	2,310,200
Pampanga	2,062.47	2,437,800
Tarlac	3,053.60	1,503,500
Zambales	3,830.83	649,700
Total	22,014.6	11,699,300

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Angeles	Luzon	Luzon	463,000	60 km2
2	Balanga	Luzon	Luzon	104,200	112 km2
3	Cabanatuan	Luzon	Luzon	327,400	192 km2
4	Gapan	Luzon	Luzon	123,000	164 km2
5	Mabalacat	Luzon	Luzon	293,300	83 km2
6	Malolos	Luzon	Luzon	261,200	67 km2
7	Meycauayan	Luzon	Luzon	225,700	32 km2
8	Muñoz	Luzon	Luzon	84,400	163 km2
9	Olongapo	Luzon	Luzon	260,400	185 km2
10	Palayan	Luzon	Luzon	45,400	101 km2
11	San Fernando	Luzon	Luzon	354,700	68 km2
12	San Jose	Luzon	Luzon	151,000	186 km2
13	San Jose del Monte	Luzon	Luzon	651,900	106 km2
14	Tarlac City	Luzon	Luzon	385,400	275 km2

Barangays: 3,102

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Tomato, Tobacco, Coconut)
• Food Processing
• Mass Transportation Operation
• Aqua Culture
• Mining

READ MORE:  Central Luzon Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 4 – CALABARZON

Designated as Region IV-A, the term CALABARZON came from the acronym of the five provinces within its scope: Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon. The region is formally referred to as Southern Tagalog Mainland. The region is known for its industrial and manufacturing sectors, producing a wide range of goods, including electronics, automotive parts, and processed food products. It plays a crucial role in the country’s export industry. The regional center of CALABARZON is Calamba City in Laguna.

Area: 16,873.31 km² (6,541.82 mi²)

Languages: Tagalog; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 4A – CALABARZON

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Batangas	3,119.75	2,908,500
Cavite	1,574.17	4,344,900
Laguna	1,917.85	3,382,200
Quezon	9,069.6	1,950,500
Rizal	1,191.94	3,330,200
Total	16,873.31	15,916,300

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Antipolo	Luzon	Luzon	887,400	306 km2
2	Bacoor	Luzon	Luzon	664,700	46 km2
3	Batangas City	Luzon	Luzon	351,500	283 km2
4	Biñan	Luzon	Luzon	407,500	44 km2
5	Cabuyao	Luzon	Luzon	355,400	43 km2
6	Calamba	Luzon	Luzon	539,700	150 km2
7	Cavite City	Luzon	Luzon	100,700	11 km2
8	Dasmariñas	Luzon	Luzon	703,200	90 km2
9	General Trias	Luzon	Luzon	450,600	81 km2
10	Imus	Luzon	Luzon	496,800	172 km2
11	Lipa	Luzon	Luzon	373,000	209 km2
12	Lucena	Luzon	Luzon	279,000	80 km2
13	San Pablo	Luzon	Luzon	285,400	198 km2
14	San Pedro	Luzon	Luzon	327,000	24 km2
15	Santa Rosa	Luzon	Luzon	414,900	55 km2
16	Sto. Tomas	Luzon	Luzon	218,500	95 km2
17	Tagaytay	Luzon	Luzon	85,400	65 km2
18	Tanauan	Luzon	Luzon	194,000	107 km2
19	Tayabas	Luzon	Luzon	112,700	231 km2
20	Trece Martires	Luzon	Luzon	210,600	39 km2

Barangays: 4,019

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Coffee, Coconut, Sweet Potato, Pineapple)
• Food Processing
• Machineries
• Textiles and Garments
• Handicrafts and Furniture
• Aqua Culture
• Tourism
• Minerals (Gold, Silver, Copper, Nickel)

READ MORE:  CALABARZON Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 5 – Bicol Region

Located in the southern part of Luzon Island is Bicol Region, also known simply as Bicol. It is composed of six provinces; four of which are within the Bicol Peninsula mainland while two are offshore. Bicol is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes. It is home to the world-famous Mayon Volcano, known for its near-perfect cone shape, located in Albay. The region also boasts pristine beaches, lush forests, serene lakes, and picturesque waterfalls. The regional center of Bicol Region is Legazpi City in Albay.

Area: 18,155.82 km² (7,010 mi²)

Languages: Central Bikol; Albayanon; Rinconada; Sorsoganon; Catanduanes; Masbateño; Kinaray-a; Waray-Waray; Tagalog; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 5 – Bicol Region

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Albay	2,575.77	1,374,800
Camarines Norte	2,320.07	629,700
Camarines Sur	5,497.03	2,068,300
Catanduanes	1,492.2	271,900
Masbate	4,151.8	909,000
Sorsogon	2,119.0	828,700
Total	18,155.82	6,082,400

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Iriga	Luzon	Luzon	114,500	137 km2
2	Legazpi	Luzon	Luzon	209,600	154 km2
3	Ligao	Luzon	Luzon	118,100	247 km2
4	Masbate City	Masbate	Luzon	104,600	188 km2
5	Naga	Luzon	Luzon	209,200	84 km2
6	Sorsogon City	Luzon	Luzon	182,300	276 km2
7	Tabaco	Luzon	Luzon	141,000	117 km2

Barangays: 3,471

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Jackfruit, Coconut, Pineapple)
• Food Processing
• Mining
• Aqua Culture
• Minerals (Gold, Silver, Chromite)

READ MORE:  Bicol Region Visitors Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 6 – Western Visayas

The most populous region in Visayas, Western Visayas consists of six provinces with Iloilo City as the regional center. Boracay Island in Aklan, known for its powdery white sand beaches, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Philippines. Western Visayas is known for its vibrant festivals. The Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan, and the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City are celebrated with colorful street dances and processions.

Area: 20,794 km² (8,028 mi²)

Languages: Hiligaynon; Aklanon/Malaynon; Capiznon; Kinaray-a; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 6 – Western Visayas

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Aklan	1,821.42	615,500
Antique	2,729.17	613,000
Capiz	2,594.64	805,000
Guimaras	604.57	187,900
Iloilo	5,079.17	2,051,900
Negros Occidental	7,965.21	2,623,200
Total	20,794.18	6,896,500

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Bacolod	Negros Island	Visayas	600,800	163 km2
2	Bago	Negros Island	Visayas	191,300	401 km2
3	Cadiz	Negros Island	Visayas	158,600	525 km2
4	Escalante	Negros Island	Visayas	96,200	193 km2
5	Himamaylan	Negros Island	Visayas	116,300	367 km2
6	Iloilo City	Panay	Visayas	457,700	78 km2
9	Kabankalan	Negros Island	Visayas	200,200	697 km2
8	La Carlota	Negros Island	Visayas	66,700	137 km2
9	Passi	Panay	Visayas	88,900	251 km2
10	Roxas	Panay	Visayas	179,300	95 km2
11	Sagay	Negros Island	Visayas	148,900	330 km2
12	San Carlos	Negros Island	Visayas	132,700	169 km2
13	Silay	Negros Island	Visayas	130,500	215 km2
14	Sipalay	Negros Island	Visayas	72,500	380 km2
15	Talisay	Negros Island	Visayas	109,000	201 km2
16	Victorias	Negros Island	Visayas	90,200	134 km2

Barangays: 4,051

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Coconut, Sugarcane, Sweet Potato)
• Food Processing
• Tourism
• Milling
• Aqua Culture
• Minerals (Gold, Silver, Copper, Manganese)

READ MORE:  Western Visayas Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 7 – Central Visayas

Numerically designated as Region VII, Central Visayas consists of four provinces and three highly urbanized cities. Cebu City, the largest city in the region, is the regional center. Central Visayas boasts a diverse range of natural landscapes, from white sand beaches and clear blue waters to lush forests. The Chocolate Hills in Bohol and the beaches in Moalboal, Cebu, are iconic examples.

Area: 15,885.97 km² (6133.6 mi²)

Languages: Cebuano; Boholano; Porohanon; Bantayanon; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 7 – Central Visayas

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Bohol	4,820.95	1,394,400
Cebu	5,342.0	3,325,400
Negros Oriental	5,385.53	1,433,000
Siquijor	337.49	103,400
Total	15,885.97	6,256,200

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Bais	Negros Island	Visayas	84,400	320 km2
2	Bayawan	Negros Island	Visayas	122,800	699 km2
3	Bogo	Cebu	Visayas	88,900	104 km2
4	Canlaon	Negros Island	Visayas	58,900	171 km2
5	Carcar	Cebu	Visayas	136,500	117 km2
6	Cebu City	Cebu	Visayas	964,200	315 km2
7	Danao	Cebu	Visayas	102,700	107 km2
8	Dumaguete	Negros Island	Visayas	156,400	34 km2
9	Guihulngan	Negros Island	Visayas	134,200	389 km2
10	Lapu-Lapu	Mactan	Visayas	497,700	58 km2
11	Mandaue	Cebu	Visayas	364,200	25 km2
12	Naga	Cebu	Visayas	133,200	102 km2
13	Tagbilaran	Bohol	Visyas	105,000	36 km2
14	Talisay	Cebu	Visayas	263,100	40 km2
15	Tanjay	Negros Island	Visayas	82,700	276 km2
16	Toledo	Cebu	Visayas	207,400	216 km2

Barangays: 3,003

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Coconut, Sugarcane, Sweet Potato)
• Food Processing
• Tourism
• Milling
• Aqua Culture
• Minerals (Gold, Silver, Copper, Manganese)

READ MORE:  Central Visayas Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 8 – Eastern Visayas

An administrative region in the Philippines, Eastern Visayas consists of three main islands, six provinces, one independent city, and one highly urbanized city. Eastern Visayas offers a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. It’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, history, and the chance to explore some of the Philippines’ less-visited but equally captivating provinces. The regional center of Eastern Visayas is Tacloban City in Leyte.

Area: 23,251 km² (8,977.3 mi²)

Languages: Waray-Waray; Cebuano; Abaknon; Baybayanon; Kinabalian; Filipino; English

Provinces:

REGION 8 – Eastern Visayas

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Biliran	536.01	179,400
Eastern Samar	4,660.47	477,200
Leyte	6,515.05	1,776,900
Northern Samar	3,692.93	639,200
Samar	6,048.0	793,200
Southern Leyte	1,798.61	429,600
Total	23,251.10	4,295,500

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Baybay	Leyte	Visayas	111,900	459 km2
2	Borongan	Samar	Visayas	72,000	475 km2
3	Calbayog	Samar	Visayas	187,000	881 km2
4	Catbalogan	Samar	Visayas	106,500	274 km2
5	Maasin	Leyte	Visayas	87,500	212 km2
6	Ormoc	Leyte	Visayas	231,000	614 km2
7	Tacloban	Leyte	Visayas	251,900	202 km2

Barangays: 4,390

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Coconut, Jackfruit, Sweet Potato)
• Aqua Culture
• Energy Related
• Mining
• Minerals (Chromite)

READ MORE:  Eastern Visayas Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 9 – Zamboanga Peninsula

Zamboanga Peninsula is an administrative region in the Philippines. It is numerically designated as Region IX and consists of three provinces and two cities. Zamboanga City serves as a regional center for commerce and trade. The city of Dapitan in Zamboanga del Norte is a historical site related to Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine National Hero. The regional center of Zamboanga Peninsula is the City of Pagadian in Zamboanga del Sur.

Area: 17,056.73 km² (6,685.64 mi²)

Languages: Chavacano; Cebuano; Tausug; Subanon; Yakan; Sama; Filipino; English; Malay

Provinces:

REGION 9 – Zamboanga Peninsula

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Zamboanga del Norte	7,301.0	1,047,500
Zamboanga del Sur	5,914.2	1,050,700
Zamboanga Sibugay	3,841.53	669,900
Total	17,056.73	2,768,100

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Dapitan	Mindanao	Mindanao	85,300	391 km2
2	Dipolog	Mindanao	Mindanao	138,200	241 km2
3	Isabela	Basilan	Mindanao	130,400	224 km2
4	Pagadian	Mindanao	Mindanao	210,500	379 km2
5	Zamboanga City	Mindanao	Mindanao	977,300	1,483 km2

Barangays: 1,904

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Coconut, Coffee)
• Food Processing
• Mining
• Milling
• Mass Transportation Operation
• Minerals – Chromite

READ MORE:  Zamboanga Peninsula Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 10 – Northern Mindanao

Region X, also referred to as Northern Mindanao region, is comprised of five provinces, two highly urbanized cities, and an island-province. Cagayan de Oro is the designated regional center. Whether you’re looking for adventure tourism, cultural experiences, or simply a taste of the Philippines’ agricultural abundance, this region has much to offer.

Area: 20,496.02 km² (7,913.5 mi²)

Languages: Cebuano; Maranao; Subanen; Higaonon; Bukid; Kamigin; Ilianen; Matigsalug; Iranun; Western Bukidnon; Hiligaynon; Waray

Provinces:

REGION 10 – Northern Mindanao

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Bukidnon	10,498.59	1,541,400
Camiguin	237.95	92,900
Lanao del Norte	4,160	723,000
Misamis Occidental	2,055.22	617,400
Misamis Oriental	3,544.3	956,900
Total	20,496.02	3,931,600

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Cagayan de Oro	Mindanao	Mindanao	728,500	413 km2
2	El Salvador	Mindanao	Mindanao	58,800	106 km2
3	Gingoog	Mindanao	Mindanao	136,700	568 km2
4	Iligan	Mindanao	Mindanao	363,200	813 km2
5	Malaybalay	Mindanao	Mindanao	190,800	969 km2
6	Oroquieta	Mindanao	Mindanao	72,400	238 km2
7	Ozamiz	Mindanao	Mindanao	140,400	170 km2
8	Tangub	Mindanao	Mindanao	68,400	163 km2
9	Valencia	Mindanao	Mindanao	216,600	587 km2

Barangays: 2,022

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Coconut, Coffee)
• Food Processing
• Mining
• Milling
• Mass Transportation Operation
• Minerals (Chromite)

READ MORE:  Northern Mindanao Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 11 – Davao Region

Designated in the southeastern portion of Mindanao, Davao Region is composed of five provinces, one highly urbanized city, and five component cities. The highest mountain in the Philippines, Mount Apo in Davao Region is a popular destination for mountaineers and nature enthusiasts. Davao City, the regional center of the region, is an important economic center, with a growing information technology and business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.

Area: 20,357 km² (7,859 mi²)

Languages: Cebuano; Mandaya; Kalagan; Giangan; Dibabawon; Tagabawa; Mansaka; Sangirese; Obo; Sarangani; Hiligaynon; Japanese; Hokkien; English

Provinces:

REGION 11 – Davao Region

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Davao de Oro	4,479.77	767,600
Davao del Norte	3,426.97	1,125,100
Davao del Sur	4,607.59	680,500
Davao Occidental	2,163.45	317,200
Davao Oriental	5,679.64	576,400
Total	20,357.42	3,466,800

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Davao City	Mindanao	Mindanao	1,777,000	2,444 km2
2	Digos	Mindanao	Mindanao	188,400	287 km2
3	Mati	Mindanao	Mindanao	147,600	587 km2
4	Panabo	Mindanao	Mindanao	209,300	251 km2
5	Samal	Samal Island	Mindanao	116,800	301 km2
6	Tagum	Mindanao	Mindanao	296,300	196 km2

Barangays: 1,162

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, corn, sugarcane, banana, coconut, durian, pineapple)
• Aqua Culture
• Food Processing
• Mining
• Livestock/poultry
• Tourism
• Forest Products
• Minerals (Gold, Copper, Silver, Chromite)

READ MORE:  Davao Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 12 – SOCCSKSARGEN

SOCCSKARGEN is an administrative region located in south-central Mindanao. The name is an acronym of its four provinces, South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and once city, General Santos. Often referred to as “GenSan,” General Santos in SOCCSKARGEN is a highly urbanized city known for its tuna industry. It is the largest city in the region and serves as a major economic center. The regional center of SOCCSKARGEN is the City of Koronadal in South Cotabato.

Area: 22,337.30 km² (8,624 mi²)

Languages: Hiligaynon; Maguindanao; Cebuano; Iranun; Sarangani; Tboli; Blaan; Dulangan; Manobo; Obo; Tagabawa; Teduray; Ilianen; Ilocano; Kapampangan; Karay-a; English

Provinces:

REGION 12 – SOCCSKSARGEN

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Cotabato	9,184.9	1,490,700
Sarangani	3,601.25	559,000
South Cotabato	4,428.81	975,500
Sultan Kudarat	5,298.34	854,100
Total	22,337.30	3,879,300

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	General Santos	Mindanao	Mindanao	697,400	493 km2
2	Kidapawan	Mindanao	Mindanao	160,800	358 km2
3	Koronadal	Mindanao	Mindanao	195,400	277 km2
4	Tacurong	Mindanao	Mindanao	109,400	153 km2

Barangays: 1,195

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, corn, banana, coconut, durian)
• Energy related
• Forest Products
• Milling

READ MORE:  SOCCSKSARGEN Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

REGION 13 – Caraga Region

Caraga is an administrative region located in the northeastern section of Mindanao. It is composed of five provinces and six cities with the City of Butuan as the regional administrative center. Famous for its surf spots like Cloud 9, Siargao in Caraga offers pristine beaches, lagoons, and a laid-back island vibe.

Area: 21,478.35 km² (8,292 mi²)

Languages: Cebuano; Surigaonon/Tandaganon; Butuanon; Kamayo; Manobo; other minority languages

Provinces:

REGION 13 – Caraga Region

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Agusan del Norte	3,546.86	387,600
Agusan del Sur	9,989.52	739,400
Dinagat Islands	1,036.34	128,200
Surigao del Norte	1,972.93	534,700
Surigao del Sur	4,932.70	642,300
Total	21,478.35	2,432,200

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Bayugan	Mindanao	Mindanao	109,500	689 km2
2	Bislig	Mindanao	Mindanao	99,300	332 km2
3	Butuan	Mindanao	Mindanao	373,000	817 km2
4	Cabadbaran	Mindanao	Mindanao	80,400	214 km2
5	Surigao City	Mindanao	Mindanao	171,200	245 km2
6	Tandag	Mindanao	Mindanao	62,700	292 km2

Barangays: 1,311

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, corn, banana, coconut, abaca, soybeans, coffee)
• Aqua Culture
• Forest Products
• Mining
• Handicrafts and Furnitures
• Minerals (Gold, silver, copper, nickel, chromite)

READ MORE:  Caraga Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

CAR – Cordillera Administrative Region

Cordillera Administrative Region, abbreviated CAR, the only landlocked region in the country. It is located on the island of Luzon and is primarily mountainous. It is bordered by the Ilocos Region to west and southwest, and Cagayan Valley to the north, east, and southeast. The Banaue Rice Terraces is a popular destination in the region. These ancient rice terraces are often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and are a testament to the ingenuity of the Ifugao people. The regional center of the Cordillera Administrative Region is Baguio City in Benguet.

Area: 19,422.03 km² (7,498.88 mi²)

Languages: Ilocano; Bontoc; Filipino; English

Provinces:

CAR – Cordillera Administrative Region

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Abra	4,413.35	251,000
Apayao	4,165.25	124,400
Benguet	2,826.59	460,700
Ifugao	2,628.21	207,500
Kalinga	3,231.25	229,600
Mountain Province	2,157.38	158,200
Total	19,422.03	1,431,400

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Baguio	Luzon	Luzon	366,400	58 km2
2	Tabuk	Luzon	Luzon	121,100	700 km2

Barangays: 1,177

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Tomato, Tobacco, Coconut)
• Minerals (Gold, Silver, Copper)
• Mining
• Textiles and Garments
• Handicrafts and Furniture

READ MORE:  Cordillera Administrative Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

MIMAROPA

MIMAROPA, also known as Region IV-B, is one of the two regions in the country without land border with another region, derived its name from the acronym of the five provinces it is composed of: Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan. Located in this region is the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. This underground river is famous for its limestone karst formations and diverse ecosystem. The regional center of MIMAROPA is the City of Calapan in Oriental Mindoro.

Area: 29,621.90 km² (11,436.69 mi²)

Languages: Tagalog; Romblomanon; Bantoanon or Asi; Onhan; Cuyonon; Hiligaynon; Filipino; English

Provinces:

MIMAROPA

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Marinduque	952.58	239,300
Occidental Mindoro	5,865.70	525,400
Oriental Mindoro	4,238.40	908,400
Palawan	17,031.72	939,600
Romblon	1,533.50	309,000
Total	29,620.90	2,921,700

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area ( km2)
1	Calapan	Mindoro	Luzon	145,800	250 km2
2	Puerto Princesa	Palawan	Luzon	307,100	2,381 km2

Barangays: 1,460

Major Industries

• Crops (Palay, Corn, Mango, Banana, Coffee, Sweet Potato, Pineapple)
• Food Processing
• Mining and Quarrying
• Natural Gas
• Handicraft and Furniture
• Aqua Culture
• Tourism
• Minerals (Gold, Silver, Copper, Nickel)

READ MORE:  MIMAROPA Region Travel Guide

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 | 11 |12 | 13 | NCR | CAR | MIMAROPA | BARMM

BARMM – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

Bangsamoro – Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, or simply BARMM, is an autonomous region in country that is predominantly consists of five Muslim provinces namely Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. The creation of BARMM was a significant development in the peace process between the Philippine government and various Moro rebel groups, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The region was established to provide the Moro people, who are predominantly Muslim, with greater autonomy and self-governance in their ancestral homeland in Mindanao. The regional center of BARMM is Cotabato City in Maguindanao del Norte.

Area: 12,711.79 km² (4,908 mi²)

Languages: Tagalog; Arabic; English; Maranao; Cebuano; Yakan; Tausug; Sama; Iranun; Chavacano; Tiruray; Maguindanaon; Sabah Malay

Provinces:

BARMM

PROVINCE	LAND AREA KM2	POPULATION
Basilan	1,103.50	426,300
Lanao del Sur	3,872.89	1,195,600
Maguindanao del Norte	3,653.64	926,100
Maguindanao del Sur	4,973.48	741,220
Sulu	1,600.40	1,000,200
Tawi-Tawi	1,087.40	440,300
Total	16,291.31	4,729,720

Cities:

#	City	Island	Island Group	Population	Area (km2)
1	Cotabato City	Mindanao	Mindanao	325,100	176 km2
2	Lamitan	Basilan	Mindanao	100,200	--
3	Marawi	Mindanao	Mindanao	207,100	88 km2

Barangays: 2,590

READ MORE:  BARMM Travel Guide

Updated: September 2023