Region II – Cagayan Valley

List of the 18 Regions in the Philippines
National – Capital Region ● I – Ilocos ● II – Cagayan Valley ● III – C. Luzon ● IV‑A – Calabarzon ● IV‑B – Mimaropa ● V – Bicol ● VI – W. Visayas ● VII – C. Visayas ● VIII – E. Visayas ● IX – Zamboanga Peninsula ● X – N. Mindanao ● XI – Davao ● XII – Soccsksargen ● XIII – Caraga ● XIV – CAR ● XV – BARMM ● XVI – Negros Island Region (NIR)

Educational Note: Only 17 of the 18 administrative regions of the Philippines are under the jurisdiction and general supervision of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is the sole exception — it operates under its own organic law and answers directly to the President of the Philippines.. (This distinction is often misunderstood, as many Filipinos assume BARMM is under the DILG — it is not.)

Region II – Cagayan Valley: An Overview

Region II, also known as the Cagayan Valley, is a region in the northeastern part of the island of Luzon, Philippines. It is bordered by the Cordillera Administrative Region to the west and the Ilocos Region to the southwest. Known for its vast valleys, extensive river systems, and rugged coastlines, the region is a major agricultural hub, primarily for rice and corn.

Provinces

The Cagayan Valley region is composed of five provinces:

Regional Center

The center of the regional government for Region II is Tuguegarao City, located in the province of Cagayan.

Tourist Attractions

The diverse geography of Cagayan Valley offers a wide range of natural and historical attractions.

Cagayan:

Callao Cave: A system of seven chambers with a massive opening that allows natural light to illuminate the interior, showcasing impressive rock formations. It also holds an important archaeological history, as the Callao Man, the oldest human remains found in the Philippines, was discovered here.
Palaui Island: An island known for its beautiful white-sand beaches, volcanic rocks, and a rugged coastline. Its centerpiece is the 19th-century Cape Engaño Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Babuyan Channel.
Buntun Bridge: One of the longest river bridges in the Philippines, providing scenic views of the vast Cagayan River.

Batanes:

Valugan Boulder Beach: A beach composed of large, smooth volcanic boulders, not sand. It offers a unique, dramatic landscape sculpted by Mt. Iraya.
Marlboro Country (Racuh a Payaman): A vast, rolling pastureland with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding hills, often compared to the iconic Marlboro advertisements.
Traditional Ivatan Houses: Unique stone houses with thick walls and cogon grass roofs, designed to withstand the strong winds and typhoons that frequently hit the islands.

Isabela:

Magat Dam: One of the largest dams in the Philippines, located at the border of Isabela and Ifugao. It is a major source of irrigation and hydroelectric power, surrounded by a large reservoir.
Queen Isabela Park: A park in Ilagan City that features a vast open space, a grand arch, and recreational facilities.
Dicotcotan Beach: A white-sand beach with clear waters, offering a peaceful and secluded getaway.

Nueva Vizcaya:

Mount Pulag National Park: While Mount Pulag’s peak is in the Cordillera Administrative Region, a part of the park’s scenic trails and forests are within Nueva Vizcaya. It is famous for its sea of clouds views at sunrise.
Capisaan Cave System: Known as the “Cave of the Golden Mites,” this is a massive cave system with a river flowing through it, offering a challenging but rewarding spelunking adventure.
Dalton Pass: A historic pass that played a crucial role during World War II, featuring a monument and a museum in honor of the soldiers who fought there.

Quirino:

Siitan River: Famous for its limestone cliffs, rapids, and the “Bimmapor” natural rock formation, resembling a ship. It is a popular spot for river cruises and whitewater kayaking.
Aglipay Caves: A vast network of more than 37 caves, seven of which have been explored, offering a chance for both beginner and experienced spelunkers to explore underground chambers and formations.
Landingan Viewpoint: Located in Nagtipunan, this viewpoint provides a magnificent panoramic view of the rolling hills and rivers of the province, often referred to as the “Batanes of the South.”

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.