Bicol Region, Administrative region in southeastern Luzon, Philippines
This administrative unit in southeastern Luzon includes six provinces, with four on the peninsula and two island provinces, Catanduanes and Masbate. The territory stretches between the Philippine Sea to the east and the Sibuyan Sea to the west.
Spanish missionaries reached the area formerly called Ibalong in the 16th century and founded the first permanent settlements. Augustinians and Franciscans built churches and reshaped local governance throughout the territory.
People in this area speak different varieties of Bikol, with vocabulary and pronunciation that shift between coastal towns and inland communities. Chili peppers and coconut milk shape the local cooking, with dishes often spicier than those found elsewhere in the country.
Buses and vans link the larger towns, while domestic flights reach the provincial capitals. Travelers should allow extra time for overland journeys, as road conditions vary.
Mount Mayon in Albay province shows a nearly perfect cone shape rising above coconut and pili groves. Despite regular activity, people live and work close to its slopes.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
