Province of Batanes:
Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20900000
Batanes: A Hidden Gem
Batanes, an archipelagic province in the Philippines, is a destination like no other. Its breathtaking landscapes, unspoiled beauty, and rich Ivatan culture make it a must-visit for travelers seeking unique experiences. Its provincial capital is the municipality of Basco.
Land of Rolling Hills
Batanes is renowned for its dramatic rolling hills, imposing cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. The undulating terrain presents a picturesque sight, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the golden light bathes the landscape in a mesmerizing glow. Visitors can embark on invigorating hikes to vantage points such as Mt. Iraya and Racuh a Payaman (Marlboro Country) to revel in the stunning panoramas.
Cultural Tapestry
The Ivatan people, known for their resilience and strong community ties, imbue Batanes with a distinct cultural identity. Their traditional stone houses, designed to withstand the region’s harsh weather, stand as enduring symbols of heritage. Moreover, the locals’ craftsmanship shines through in their vibrant vakul (headgear) and intricately woven clothing, showcasing a deep connection to their roots. Immersing oneself in the local way of life through homestays and participation in age-old rituals provides a profound understanding of the Ivatan ethos.
Pristine Seascapes
Beyond its emerald hills, Batanes boasts a coastline defined by rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and crystalline waters. One can explore the natural rock formations along Valugan Boulder Beach or marvel at the expanse of the South China Sea from Basco’s lighthouse. For the adventurous, snorkeling in the cobalt waters off Sabtang Island offers a glimpse into the region’s underwater splendor, teeming with vibrant marine life.
Preserving the Charm
Batanes’ remote location and the concerted efforts of locals and authorities have preserved its pristine allure. Strict adherence to sustainable tourism practices ensures that the ecological balance and cultural integrity remain uncompromised. While the province welcomes visitors with open arms, it also instills the importance of responsible travel, encouraging everyone to appreciate and conserve its natural and cultural treasures.
In essence, Batanes is a rare marvel, where nature and tradition coalesce to form an enchanting tapestry. For those seeking an offbeat adventure intertwined with history and raw beauty, this idyllic province is nothing short of a revelation.
Batanes is an archipelagic province with 9 islands and is composed of:
| Municipalities: | Barangay (of which are Island Barangays): |
|---|---|
| 7 | 29 (29) |
Map of Batanes:
By HueMan1 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79270096
Municipalities:
Basco: Municipality and Capitol of Batanes
Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20901000
2020 Population: 9,517
| PSGC # | Brgy. # | Barangay Name: | Rural/ Urban: | Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | Hectares sq: | Coastal/ Inland: | Island: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20901005 | 1 | Chanarian | Rural | 448 | 360 | Coastal | Batan Island | |
| 20901002 | 2 | Ihubok I (Kaychanarianan) | Urban | 1,768 | 1,822 | Inland | Batan Island | |
| 20901001 | 3 | Ihubok II (Kayvaluganan) | Rural | 2,626 | 2,344 | Coastal | Batan Island | |
| 20901006 | 4 | Kayhuvokan | Rural | 1,888 | 1,700 | Inland | Batan Island | |
| 20901003 | 5 | San Antonio | Rural | 2,247 | 1,969 | Coastal | Batan Island | |
| 20901004 | 6 | San Joaquin | Rural | 540 | 384 | Coastal | Batan Island | |
| Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | |||||||
| Totals: | 9,517 | 8,579 |
Itbayat: Municipality
Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20902000
2020 Population: 3,128
| PSGC # | Brgy. # | Barangay Name: | Rural/ Urban: | Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | Hectares sq: | Coastal/ Inland: | Island: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20902006 | 1 | Raele | Rural | 472 | 465 | Coastal | Itbayat Island | |
| 20902007 | 2 | San Rafael (Idiang) | Rural | 897 | 745 | Coastal | Itbayat Island | |
| 20902008 | 3 | Santa Lucia (Kawxawxasan) | Rural | 438 | 422 | Coastal | Itbayat Island | |
| 20902009 | 4 | Santa Maria (Marapuy) | Rural | 488 | 463 | Coastal | Itbayat Island | |
| 20902010 | 5 | Santa Rosa (Hiñatu) | Rural | 833 | 772 | Coastal | Itbayat Island | |
| Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | |||||||
| Totals: | 3,128 | 2,867 |
Ivana: Municipality
Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20903000
2020 Population: 1,407
| PSGC # | Brgy. # | Barangay Name: | Rural/ Urban: | Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | Hectares sq: | Coastal/ Inland: | Island: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20903001 | Radiwan | Rural | 389 | 365 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20903002 | Salagao | Rural | 368 | 349 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20903003 | San Vicente (Igang) | Rural | 267 | 264 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20903004 | Tuhel (Pob.) | Rural | 383 | 349 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | |||||||
| Totals: | 1,407 | 1,327 |
Mahatao: Municipality
Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20904000
2020 Population: 1,703
| PSGC # | Brgy. # | Barangay Name: | Rural/ Urban: | Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | Hectares sq: | Coastal/ Inland: | Island: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20904001 | Hañib | Rural | 404 | 365 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20904002 | Kaumbakan | Rural | 446 | 425 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20904003 | Panatayan | Rural | 480 | 449 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20904004 | Uvoy (Pob.) | Rural | 373 | 316 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | |||||||
| Totals: | 1,703 | 1,555 |
Sabtang: Municipality
Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20905000
2020 Population: 1,696
| PSGC # | Brgy. # | Barangay Name: | Rural/ Urban: | Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | Hectares sq: | Coastal/ Inland: | Island: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20905001 | Chavayan | Rural | 161 | 157 | Coastal | Sabtang Island | ||
| 20905002 | Malakdang (Pob.) | Rural | 277 | 234 | Coastal | Sabtang Island | ||
| 20905003 | Nakanmuan | Rural | 134 | 142 | Coastal | Sabtang Island | ||
| 20905004 | Savidug | Rural | 201 | 201 | Coastal | Sabtang Island | ||
| 20905005 | Sinakan (Pob.) | Rural | 563 | 509 | Coastal | Sabtang Island | ||
| 20905006 | Sumnanga | Rural | 360 | 378 | Coastal | Sabtang Island | ||
| Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | |||||||
| Totals: | 1,696 | 1,621 |
Uyagan: Municipality
Uyagan Philippine Standard Geographical Code # 20906000
2020 Population: 1,380
| PSGC # | Brgy. # | Barangay Name: | Rural/ Urban: | Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | Hectares sq: | Coastal/ Inland: | Island: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20906002 | Imnajbu | Rural | 177 | 164 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20906003 | Itbud | Rural | 530 | 482 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20906004 | Kayuganan (Pob.) | Rural | 369 | 312 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| 20906001 | Kayvaluganan (Pob.) | Rural | 304 | 339 | Coastal | Batan Island | ||
| Pop. (2020): | Pop. (2015): | |||||||
| Totals: | 1,380 | 1,297 |