Experience the Unmatched Beauty of Cordillera Administrative Region
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) is an administrative region located in the northern-central part of Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines. This region covers 6 provinces, namely Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province, and 1 highly urbanized city, the City of Baguio. The region has a total population of 1,797,660, according to the 2020 Census, which represents 2.89% of the overall population of the Luzon island group, or 1.65% of the entire population of the Philippines.
In this article, we will explore the Cordillera Administrative Region in detail, from its history and geography to its economy, culture, and tourism.
Geography and Climate
Cordillera Administrative Region covers a total land area of 19,422 square kilometers, making it the second-smallest region in the Philippines in terms of land area. Despite its small size, the region has a diverse topography, with mountains, valleys, and plateaus. The Cordillera Central mountain range, also known as the "backbone of Luzon," is the dominant landform in the region. It includes some of the highest peaks in the Philippines, such as Mount Pulag, the second-highest mountain in the country.
The region has a humid subtropical climate, with two pronounced seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The region's high elevation and mountainous terrain make its climate cooler and more temperate than the lowlands, with an average temperature of 18°C to 20°C.
History and Culture
The Cordillera region has a rich and unique cultural heritage, with indigenous peoples such as the Kalinga, Ifugao, and Bontoc, among others, comprising the majority of its population. These indigenous peoples have maintained their cultural traditions, including their music, dances, and rituals, despite the influences of Spanish colonization and modernization.
One of the most famous cultural attractions in the Cordillera region is the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the engineering and agricultural ingenuity of the Ifugao people. The rice terraces, which were built over 2,000 years ago, cover an area of around 10,360 square kilometers and are a testament to the region's long and rich history.
Economy
The Cordillera region's economy is mainly agricultural, with rice, corn, and vegetables as the primary crops. The region is also known for its high-quality Arabica coffee, which is grown in the highland areas. Mining is another significant industry in the region, with gold, copper, and other minerals being extracted from the mountainous terrain.
Tourism is a growing industry in the Cordillera region, with many visitors coming to experience the unique culture and natural attractions of the area. The region's natural attractions, such as waterfalls, hot springs, and caves, offer visitors a chance to experience the region's beauty and diversity. The region is also home to many festivals, such as the Panagbenga Festival, a month-long celebration of flowers and the City of Baguio's charter anniversary.
Transportation and Infrastructure
The Cordillera region's transportation and infrastructure have improved significantly over the years, with better roads, bridges, and airports connecting the region to the rest of the Philippines. The region is accessible via major highways, such as the Manila North Road, and via the Loakan Airport in Baguio City.
In recent years, the government has invested in infrastructure projects to boost the region's tourism and economic development. One such project is the Baguio-La Trinidad-Itog on bypass road, which is set to ease traffic congestion and improve travel time between the two cities. Another notable project is the Chico River Pump Irrigation Project, which aims to provide irrigation water to around 8,700 hectares of agricultural land in Kalinga and Cagayan.
Aside from these projects, the Cordillera region has also been the site of various road rehabilitation and construction projects, including the Halsema Highway in Mountain Province and the Banaue-Bontoc Road in Ifugao. These projects have helped improve the transportation network within the region, making it easier for locals and tourists to travel and explore its natural wonders.
The region's airports have also undergone significant improvements in recent years, with the Loakan Airport in Baguio City being modernized and expanded to accommodate more flights and passengers. The airport serves as the primary gateway to the region, with direct flights to and from Manila, as well as other cities in the Philippines.
Tourism
The Cordillera region is known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The region is home to various natural wonders, including the Banaue Rice Terraces, which are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Sagada Caves, known for their breathtaking rock formations and underground rivers.
Aside from these natural wonders, the Cordillera region is also home to various cultural and historical sites, such as the Tam-Awan Village in Baguio City, which showcases the region's indigenous arts and culture, and the Ifugao Museum in Kiangan, which features exhibits on the Ifugao people and their way of life.
The region's festivals and celebrations also draw tourists from all over the world, with the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City, the Kalinga Bodong Festival, and the Lang-ay Festival in Mountain Province being among the most popular.
To cater to the growing number of tourists visiting the region, various accommodation options have also been developed, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to high-end resorts. Local cuisine is also a must-try, with various restaurants and eateries offering Cordilleran dishes such as pinikpikan, etag, and inasal.
