Much has been said of other countries most especially the most popular tourist destinations in Asia like China, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan and Korea but only a few heard of the priceless and timeless beauty of the Philippines which was also one of the less promoted destinations around the world.
A lot of people are saying that the country is always marred by violence, terrorism, crimes, rampant corruption and gives them the impression that the country is dirty and untidy, very hot and humid with lots of social, political and environmental problems as sensationalized and exaggerated by the news let alone few campaigns and marketing discouraging the tourist arrivals although what is really within the country belies all of those and quite the exact opposite for the most part.
These 81 provinces of this country proves to anyone that this country is really an underrated gem of the Orient.
These pictures taken by Instagram users both amateurs and professionals best represent each of the 81 provinces of the Philippines. To view the rest of their photos, you can click their highlighted Instagram accounts and for additional info and details. Get ready to pack your bag as we show you a series of images from broad north to the deep south and from the vastness of the Pacific coasts to the magnificent side on the west.
This is the second part of eight series.
Batanes
The northernmost secluded island province of Batanes is also the most picturesque of all. It is a very serene, tranquil land of peaceful Ivatans and the only noise you can hear is the huge waves crashing through the rugged coast of the island. Instagram-worthy image of a simple living in Chavayan is pictured here by @thatneverlandgirl
Caribbean not exactly but that's what I presume at first until I found out that it's actually Mahatao Shelter Port in Batanes and thanks to @akkinnikka for this picture and a lot more in her collections.
Batangas
Seasoned traveler and adventurer @theluckyjohn ventured into the breath taking Pico de Loro and brave the insurmountable odds to have this worth the risk moment at the pinnacle column of the famed island cove in Batangas - just one of his few treasured captures on his account.
@maylucena most unforgettable memory among her 333 images is this vantage view point of one of the world's smallest volcano - Taal in the lake terraces of Batangas.
Benguet
She has been to so many jaw dropping places but for @missskitcat the perfect date would be the top of Mt Pulag. The colors, landscape and amazing ambiance of the great outdoors sets the mood for the romantic plethora of the place in the morning.
@kathyevangelista wants to bring us to her home literally with this image of house stockpiles on a hilly part of La Trinidad. Who wouldn't come with her and feel at home?
Biliran
Backpacker Mawe Trev Ong stays true to his handle @amazingspidermaw as he almost embrace Ulan Ulan Falls in Almeria in midair feeling the rush of the water on his body having some sorts of spa therapy but at the same time rejuvenated thereafter.
@whatstoloveph is a potpourri collection of amazing finds about what's in and out in the Philippines. This Instagram-perfect shot of Sambawan Island in Biliran is enough for us to make it in our bucket list of our next destination. This small province gives us big reason to see and experience the resilient beauty of its enchanting temptress.
Bohol
When one mention Bohol, what comes to mind first is the famed Chocolate Hills that is perfectly captured by @sebastiaanbenjamin as one of his almost 1300 fondest memories of the Philippines. It is so called because the verdant hills turn brown during dry summer season hence the name. Thousands of mounds to climb huh?
@laurascora reveals her soft spot by taking this picture of the world's smallest primate - Tarsier. Who wouldn't be - this nocturnal animal with its ogling eyes bigger than his heart and a head that rotates 180 degrees will surely melt anyone's heart.
Bukidnon
This southern Mindanao province has more interesting places to showcase aside from its large pineapple plantation. Just like this Alalum Falls in Sumilao that havingthe water pouring in a little basin. Thanks @eedenxx for this photo.
@ryderziur encounters the vine trees bring them to life in this photo while on his way to the summit of Mt. Dulang Dulang. Looks creepy but one is rewarded with a spectacular array of colors, landscape and ambiance at the top of that mountain so ready for canvass.
Bulacan
This poetic and lyrical province is known for its exciting caves and wild rivers and even unusual water theme parks but more importantly, its historical significance in Philippine history namely the first constitution of the country was drafted here, first President's oath of office was also held here among others. Health and fitness savvy @kc_contado rode her bike to really feel the ambiance of this poetic province and breathe its air. One of her stop is this beautiful Bakas river in Norzagaray with religious statues depicting the events of Jesus crucifixion.
@joshlunzaga seems lost in his native Bulacan by straying away into Malangaan Cave in San Rafael looking out into these magnificent rocks carved out by nature. This gives us a picture of a province not just by its colorful past and brilliant citizens but of a mystery waiting to be unmasked.
Cagayan
The province of extremes has its fair share of extremities. Where it can be the hottest during summer it can also be one of the coldest during the cool last quarter of the year. In fact, the highest temperature ever recorded in Philippine history was set here. Surely the following images will give definition to the extreme and Cagayan will make sure to reach its maximum potential being the northernmost province in the contiguous Philippines. One such example is this photo of Callao Cave Chapel by @ericcabahugofficial. This cave is not just for spelunking but it also serve as a place of worship for the faithful and a holy mass is sometimes held here.
This image of @jaytenmari swept us off our feet featuring the rugged coasts of Palaui Island off the Babuyan Channel and even fronting the vast Pacific Ocean. Who wouldn't go back to this dreamy coast? and Oh by the way, this is the location of US reality series Survivor: Cagayan.
Camarines Norte
This Bicol province boast of stunning landscapes, lovely shores and beautiful people. One of Camarines Norte's pride as captured by @janjanolarte is Calaguas Island pictured here as tropical alternative to other equally stunning island with its sun kissed sea washing the shores of the gorgeous island nestled in the Pacific Ocean. The perfect harmony of sun and sky defines the tropical paradise of Bicol region.
This is a photo of a passion flower which is one of several species of flora abundant in the province. @Skunxriotriot gives us a depth picture of Camarines Norte interiors which we are only oriented with its astounding beaches for the most part.
Camarines Sur
The location for US reality series Survivor: Philippines and Survivor: Caramoan, @wheresfranky bring us to this enchanting bay of Caramoan where his love deeply rooted and his picture of Camarines Sur left us wanting for more.
From the shores of Caramoan to the hinterlands of the Bicolandia, @jelaguillon shows us the beauty of water form in the interiors of this province like this astounding Naglalalata Falls of Bula. The striking effects of the water against the backdrop of the lust vegetation and very brood daylight gives us the personality that is truly Camarines Sur.
