25/04/2025
The Provincial Government of Cagayan, under the dynamic leadership of Governor Hon. Manuel Mamba, in collaboration with the Cagayan Tourism Office (CTO) headed by Provincial Tourism Officer EnP. Jenifer Junio-Baquiran, successfully hosted the PHILTOA x Cagayan Familiarization Tour—a multi-day cultural and adventure-driven experience designed to showcase some of the province’s most iconic and treasured destinations.
The tour officially kicked off on April 22 in Callao, where participants explored the majestic Callao Cave and enjoyed a serene river cruise along the Pinacanauan River. As the sun began to set, guests were treated to a relaxed riverside picnic, culminating in the breathtaking sight of thousands of bats emerging from the cave at dusk—a natural wonder that left everyone in awe.
The second day shifted to a more spiritual and historical journey with a pilgrimage tour of Cagayan’s most significant religious landmarks. Participants visited St. Hyacinth Church (Ermita de San Jacinto), St. Peter Metropolitan Cathedral, the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat, St. Philomene Parish Church in Alcala—known as the widest church in the province—and St. Dominic Parish Church in Lal-lo. At each stop, the group was warmly welcomed with local refreshments and delicacies, a heartfelt reflection of the province’s rich hospitality and culinary culture.
The day continued with a cruise along the mighty Cagayan River, courtesy of LGU Lal-lo, featuring a scenic stop at the iconic Magapit Suspension Bridge. As evening fell, participants gathered at Lal-lo Park for a festive outdoor dinner, highlighted by a delightful dancing fountain show—an enchanting close to a culturally immersive day.
The final leg of the tour brought the group to the stunning Palaui Island in Santa Ana, where participants hiked to the iconic Cape Engaño Lighthouse, offering sweeping views of turquoise waters and dramatic coastlines—an emblem of Cagayan’s natural beauty and ecological pride. The island experience was made even more memorable with traditional boodle fight-style meals, where breakfast and lunch were served on banana bark—a meaningful nod to local customs and a true showcase of Cagayano warmth.
Before wrapping up the tour, participants made a brief stop at the Cagayan Provincial Capitol in Capitol Hills, where they were welcomed for a quick tour and a meaningful conversation with Provincial Administrator Atty. Charo Mamba-Villaflor. On the final day, just before flying back to Manila, guests were treated to a taste of pansit batil patong, a beloved culinary staple of Tuguegarao City—the perfect way to cap off the Cagayan experience.
The Cagayan Tourism Office extends its heartfelt gratitude to the City and Municipal Local Government Units of Tuguegarao, Piat, Alcala, Lal-lo, and Santa Ana, whose dedicated tourism offices played a vital role in the tour’s success. We also thank the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist in Amulung for their usual support. The seamless coordination, shared commitment, and spirit of unity among all stakeholders received high praise from PHILTOA participants—clear proof that Cagayan Tourism is strong, united, and ready to welcome the world.
CTO is responsible for the sustainable development of the provinces’ tourism industry by way of set plans & programs
