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Albay's signature attraction is, undoubtedly, the majestic Mayon Volcano. While the nearly perfectly-shaped active volcano can also be seen from Sorsogon, Catanduanes, and Masbate, the 2,462 meters-high volcano is nestled in Albay's mountainous terrains. In 2016, the province was added to the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves because of its high conservation value, harboring precious wildlife in its marine and coastal ecosystems. The agricultural province is marked by fertile plains and valleys that set the stage for rugged outdoor adventures and scenic getaways.

Romblon links the Tagalog-speaking and Visayas-speaking regions and contains a cultural convergence of both. Believed to be first inhabited by the indigenous Negrito and Mangyan people, the province is composed of three main islands: Tablas, Romblon, and Sibuyan, which are surrounded by rich waters teeming with marine life. Its landscapes are equally vibrant: Mt. Guiting-Guiting and its jagged peaks that overlook thick forests the caves and waterfalls, the hot springs of Corcuera and Banton, and the Spanish era forts, churches, and heritage houses of the town of Romblon. Bring home a piece of Romblon with you by purchasing their renowned traditional weaving, basketry, and woodwork. 

This heart-shaped island province is literally the heart of the Philippines. Located at the geographical center of the Philippines and surrounded by water, it is steeped in history and culture descended and evolved from its primarily Malay roots. Experience the Moriones festival for yourself, discover the submerged shipwrecks and less charted subterranean rivers, snap photos of heritage houses and churches, and visit nearby islands, sandbars, and marine zones that let you soak the sun up right in the heart of the Philippine islands. 

One of the most visited provinces of the region, Oriental Mindoro's geography gives tourists from all over plenty of reasons to visit. The province is marked by wildlife-harboring irregular coastlines, rugged terrain traversed by numerous streams and rivers - all of which the province's seven Mangyan tribes call home. Get to know the gentle Mangyan people in their own cultural villages, dip your toes in the lively beachfront buzz of Puerto Galera, and scale the highest point of the island - Mount Halcon - all in Oriental Mindoro. 

Like much of the region, it is replete with sparkling beaches, falls, rivers, and caves, but it is also characterized by world-renowned biodiversity zones such as the Apo Reef Natural Park - the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world and the largest one in the Philippines - and the Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park, home to the only known place the biggest remaining population of the tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) are found. Immerse yourself in the wildlife wonders of Occidental Mindoro. 

Zambales is a classic example of a province with sea-to-summit attractions. Bordered by four other provinces and the West Philippine sea to its west, it shares a portion of Mt. Pinatubo (together with Tarlac and Pampanga), the Zambales Mountains, the economically and historically significant Subic Bay, and a long coastline with plenty of inlets and coves that make great island hopping and surf spots. Enjoy Zambales' day to night attractions while snacking on its famously sweet mangoes, and cap off your day with serene sunset views over the West Philippine Sea.

The vast plains of tarlac offer equally vast opportunities for leisure and adventure. Enjoying both bustling industrial and urban centers as well as idyllic countryside scenery, Tarlac has its own distinct dishes and artisanal products. Try out the different variations of goat dishes found in almost every corner of the province, shop for one-of-a-kind, export-quality products made of lahar, and discover more rugged terrains via ATV, 4x4, motorcycle, or via a scenic hike.

The Philippines' culinary capital has earned the title the same way its cuisine is characterized: through a test of time and tradition. Pampanga's abundance of agriculture, aquaculture, and craftsmanship appears in its cooking, which has heavy hints of heritage passed down through generations. Explore new sights around Pampanga's share of Mt. Pinatubo attractions, see its skilled guitar makers at work in Guagua, and discover new mangrove forests, falls, and indigenous Aeta communities that have rich stories to tell about the province's history.

The landlocked province of Nueva Ecija has made it conducive for growing rice - so much so that it has been dubbed the "rice granary of the Philippines". Its landscape, composed of vast plains with gradual hills leading up to the Sierra Madre, Caraballo and Cordillera Central mountain ranges, is also conducive for off-road adventures. Discover the Dupinga River, Gabaldon Falls, or stay in the breezy resorts at the foothills of the aforementioned mountain ranges in Nueva Ecija.
 

Bulacan's strong connection to its rural and revolutionary roots are steeped in history and its fertile plains. Because of its proximity to Metro Manila, the province exudes a similarly corporate and industrial energy while also maintaining its rustic charm. Parts of the province echo Bulacan's important contributions to Philippine history, particularly in the Philippine Revolution. More than being a gateway to northern Philippine provinces, Bulacan is well beyond being a pitstop. Sample all the kakanin (rice delicacy) varieties, bring home some chicharon and pastillas, discover new riverside and mountaintop adventures, and learn more about Bulacan's roots in your next visit.