BATANES, PHILIPPINES|The Home of the Winds
The province that I really want to explore can be found in the northernmost part of the Philippines facing the Pacific Ocean. The tip of the island is closer to Taiwan than Manila. It is made up of 10 volcanic islands, but only three of them are inhabited by Ivatans. It is considered as the smallest province in the country but they have the breathtaking views, rich cultures and kind locals that why I'm dreaming to visit Batanes someday. There's almost zero crime rate in the place, the concept of Honesty Store I think originated in this province. Blow ur Horns sign is very common to see in their roads to avoid accident as they have like chicken intestines road. Traditional houses here is made up of stones and cogons roofs in order to withstand the strongest typhoon, facing in the Pacific Ocean made them prone and vulnerable to strong winds and typhoon. About their culture, for them bayanihan is still alive up to this day. They have a traditional way of serving food called vunung. Foods is wrap in kabaya leaves (siguro papaya to) and usually serve in special occasions. During the Batanes Day local government give foods to everyone may it be locals or tourist. Here are the tourist attractions that can be found in their province.
📍 Mt. Iraya
An active volcano that offer great adventures. One of the most significant mountain for Ivatans. Every turn in this mountain is worth capturing of photos.
📍 Baseco Lighthouse/ Sabtang Lighthouse/ Tayid Lighthouse
These are the three active lighthouses in Batanes that serves as a guide for local fishermans and large ships. They are considered tourists attraction as they offer endless view of oceans and sprawling hills. Ayaw nyo yon? Usto ko yun!
📍Vayang Rolling Hills
In this hill you can unobstructed the Mt. Iriya I was talking about earlier. Big part of this rolling hill was used for plantation of cogon grass they use to make their cogon roofs.
📍House of Dakay
When exploring Batanes, we should never forget to visit this House of Dakay that was built during colonial times. The oldest surviving stone house in the province after remaining standing after being hit of strong earthquake in early 1990s.
📍Rakuh A Payaman
The most photograph tourist spot in Batanes.The hills are vast pastureland dotted with grazing cows, carabaos, and horses. It offers a perfect view of where land, sea, and sky meet in harmony. With the green grass covering the hill, the landscape provides a spacious and open area for cows, water buffalos, and horses where they can freely graze and wander about.
📍 Chawa View Deck
Chawa View Deck is one of the highest areas in South Batan Island in Batanes. Situated on a mountainside between the towns of Basco and Mahatao, the view deck was built overlooking the West Philippine Sea.
Batanes truly is not just a feast for the eyes for its picturesque views but also a destination where visitors can learn culture, traditions, and good values. Ivatans are so lucky to call this place home.
Ps. I am new here at read.cash aiming to earn some money for my tuition. 20 years old student living alone. My articles will focused on different attractions in the Philippines and my experiences about construction.