The Philippines is known around the world for its white-sand beaches and island getaways, but beyond the shores lies another kind of paradise — one shaped by rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and a quiet charm. At the country’s northernmost tip sits Batanes, the smallest province in the archipelago and one of its most breathtaking.
This remote island group captivates visitors with its endless views of the sea, centuries-old stone houses, and the warmth of its Ivatan people. It may be tiny in size, but it offers some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the country. Experience its beauty firsthand by joining top-rated Batanes tours that highlight its most scenic and culturally rich attractions.
Often called the “Home of the Winds,” Batanes Island enjoys a mild, breezy climate and a peaceful rhythm of life. Its remote setting has helped preserve its postcard-worthy vistas and traditions, offering travelers a glimpse into an older, simpler Philippines. For a seamless trip, you can book pre-arranged Batanes vacation packages, complete with flights, accommodations, and guided experiences.
Made up of ten islands — with Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat as the main inhabited ones — this northern frontier is rich in natural and cultural wonders. From quiet coastal villages and windswept pastures to lighthouses standing guard over the sea, every corner tells a story worth discovering.
If you’re planning your getaway, here are the top attractions and experiences that make Batanes one of the most remarkable places to visit in the Philippines.
Key Takeaways
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Batanes is the northernmost province of the Philippines, known for its dramatic scenery, stone houses, and laid-back island life.
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The province is made up of 10 small islands, but only the three main ones — Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat — are inhabited. Each offers a distinct experience: Batan for its accessible landscapes and heritage sites, Sabtang for its preserved Ivatan villages, and Itbayat for its wild, remote terrain.
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Top attractions in Batanes include the windswept hills of Rakuh a Payaman (Marlboro Hills) and Vayang Rolling Hills, scenic viewpoints like Basco Lighthouse and Chawa View Deck, the white sands of Morong Beach, and the traditional Ivatan stone houses that showcase the islanders’ craftsmanship and resilience.
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The islands of Batanes offer a mix of nature, culture, and history, from rugged coastal landscapes to centuries-old communities that have preserved their way of life through generations.
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Popular activities include sightseeing tours, traditional tricycle rides along coastal roads, and cultural visits.
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The best time to visit is during the dry season (March to May), when the weather is sunny, seas are calm, and landscapes are at their greenest.
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For a seamless and memorable trip, book your Batanes tours and vacation packages with Guide to the Philippines — the country’s largest online travel marketplace offering flights, hotels, transfers, and curated experiences to help you explore Batanes and beyond with ease.
1. Marvel at the Scenic Views of Rakuh a Payaman (Marlboro Country or Hills)
Often regarded as the most popular attraction in Batanes Island, Rakuh a Payaman—better known as Marlboro Country or Marlboro Hills—captures everything that makes this northern province unforgettable. Here, emerald-green hills roll endlessly toward the sea, dotted with grazing cows and carabaos beneath a wide, wind-swept sky. The view is so vast and tranquil that it feels like stepping into a living postcard.
The nickname “Marlboro Country” came from travelers who said it resembled the landscapes in vintage commercials—but nothing compares to seeing it for yourself. Every gust of wind and every patch of sunlight reminds you why Batanes is often called the most scenic province in the Philippines.
From this spot in Mahatao town, you can see Tayid Lighthouse standing tall in the distance, Diura Fishing Village along the coast, and the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean stretching to infinity.
To experience this breathtaking view with ease, join the South Batan Day Tour. The tour includes Rakuh a Payaman as a highlight, along with other must-see spots. With convenient transfers, a local guide, and a delicious Ivatan lunch included, it’s the most seamless way to discover the natural beauty of southern Batanes Island.
2. Watch the Sunset from Basco Lighthouse at Naidi Hills
The Basco Lighthouse, standing on Naidi Hills, is among Batanes Island’ most recognizable landmarks — and one of its most peaceful spots to end the day. The 66-foot lighthouse offers a panoramic view of Basco town, the rolling hills, Mount Iraya, and the West Philippine Sea. It was built in 2003 on the ruins of an old American telegraph station destroyed during World War II, symbolizing both Batanes Island’ resilience and enduring calm.
Come before sunset to see the sky turn gold over the sea, with the lighthouse casting its warm glow on the grasslands below. Locals often say it’s the best place to feel the rhythm of island life — quiet, simple, and endlessly scenic. You can visit it easily on a North Batan day tour, which also covers nearby attractions like Vayang Rolling Hills and Valugan Boulder Beach.
3. Take in the Views at Vayang Rolling Hills
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
Few places capture the essence of Batanes Island as beautifully as the Vayang Rolling Hills in Basco town. Here, waves crash against the cliffs far below while gentle slopes stretch endlessly into the horizon. It’s one of those rare landscapes that look exactly like a painting — a blend of greens and blues that change with the light.
It’s a favorite stop among photographers and nature lovers alike. You might even spot cows or goats quietly grazing, adding life to the tranquil scenery. From this vantage point, you can see three of the province’s main islands — Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat — all at once. Most North Batan tours include Vayang Rolling Hills in their route, making it easy to enjoy this picture-perfect view without rushing.
4. Experience the Raw Beauty of Valugan Boulder Beach
For a change of scenery, head to Valugan Boulder Beach, where nature’s power is on full display. Instead of sand, the coastline is covered in smooth volcanic rocks — remnants of Mount Iraya’s eruption hundreds of years ago. Over time, the Pacific Ocean’s waves polished these boulders into their perfectly rounded shapes, creating a landscape that feels otherworldly.
Though swimming isn’t allowed because of the strong current, visitors come here to witness the drama of waves colliding with stone and to listen to the rhythmic echo of rocks tumbling in the surf. The beach is especially beautiful at sunrise, when the soft morning light highlights the textures of the boulders and sea.
You can easily visit this spot on a North Batan sightseeing tour, often combined with Vayang Rolling Hills and Basco Lighthouse for a full day of exploration.
5. Admire the Panoramic Landscape from Chamantad–Tinyan Viewpoint in Sabtang Island
If you think Batan Island holds all the best views, Chamantad–Tinyan Viewpoint on Sabtang will prove you wrong. This vast viewpoint overlooks the shimmering waters of Chamantad Cove and the surrounding rolling hills that define Sabtang Island’s rugged charm. The slopes here are carpeted with grass and wildflowers, creating a perfect contrast against the turquoise sea below.
Travelers can walk along the ridge or stop by the huts nearby offering sugarcane wine (palek) and Ivatan tea (tubho). Locals sometimes lend their traditional vakul and kanayi garments for photos, giving you a chance to experience Ivatan culture firsthand. To reach this viewpoint, hop on a Sabtang Island day tour, which also includes Morong Beach and the heritage stone houses of Savidug.
6. Step Back in Time at the House of Dakay
In the serene, wind-swept village of Ivana on Batan Island lies the House of Dakay — believed to be the oldest surviving stone home in Batanes, built in 1887. With its thick coral and limestone walls and traditional thatched cogon roof, the house stood firm through the mighty 1918 earthquake that flattened most of the town. Walking around its rooms, you’ll feel how Ivatan architecture wasn’t just built to be beautiful — it was built to endure.
Step inside the House of Dakay and you’ll see old family photographs, heirloom furniture and the kind of local warmth that lingers long after you leave. For cultural explorers and heritage-lovers, this stop offers a deeply authentic glimpse of Ivatan life.
Nearby, the Old Spanish Bridge still arcs across a quiet stream — a living reminder of the island’s colonial past, where stones and stories merge in harmony.
To experience this meaningful heritage, consider booking the North & South Batan Day Tour. This full-day itinerary includes the House of Dakay, the Old Spanish Bridge, and a seamless journey across the island’s finest landscapes and cultural gems — all with hotel pick-up, travel in an air-conditioned van, guide services, and lunch included.
7. Relax at Morong Beach and See the Nakabuang Arch
Nestled on Sabtang Island’s eastern shore, Morong Beach is a haven of powder-white sand and gentle waves — a rare treat in an island known for its rocky coastlines. The crown jewel here is the Nakabuang Arch rising dramatically from the shore, framing sky and sea in one unforgettable shot. It has become an emblem of Batanes Island’ scenic charm, and it’s easy to see why.
Beyond its visual wow-factor, Morong Beach delivers a calm, laid-back rhythm: kids playing by the shoreline, fishing nets drying in the sun, locals greeting each other with nods and the sea breeze in their hair. Because the waves are mild here, it's one of the few beaches in the province where you can safely dip your toes or take a swim.
For the fullest, most immersive way to experience this and many other Batanes Island highlights — think historic stone houses, sweeping hills, lighthouses perched above the sea, and local culture — consider booking the 2-Day Batanes Nature & Sightseeing Tour to North & South Batan via Cogon Roofed Tricycle.
The tour spans both North and South Batan across two relaxed days and includes land transfers via a traditional cogon-roofed tricycle, accommodation pick-up & drop-off, guide services, and key stops like Morong Beach & the Nakabuang Arch.
8. Take in Ocean Views from Chawa View Deck
Perched on a cliffside between the towns of Basco and Mahatao, Chawa View Deck offers one of the most dramatic panoramas in all of Batanes Island. From its elevated platform you’ll see the endless stretch of the West Philippine Sea meeting the sky, with layers of rolling green hills and rugged coastline creating a breathtaking backdrop. The long stone staircase that leads down to the rocky shore adds to the sense of adventure and discovery.
The vantage point is especially magical at sunset when golden light bathes the cliffs and the sea reflects hues of orange and violet. A grotto dedicated to the Virgin Mary sits along the path, offering a moment of quiet reflection amid the wild beauty.
For a hassle-free visit that covers this view deck and other top southern spots, consider booking the Sabtang Island & South Batan Batanes Tour. This curated route includes Chawa View Deck, Mahatao town, and the iconic landscapes of Sabtang Island — all with transfers, guide service and a relaxed pace.
9. Conquer the Summit of Mount Iraya
Adventure-seekers can take their Batanes experience to new heights — literally — by hiking up Mount Iraya, the island’s dormant volcano. Rising 1,517 meters above Basco town, Mount Iraya dominates the province’s skyline with its cloud-capped peak and dense tropical slopes. The trail winds through thick vegetation, moss-covered rocks, and narrow forest paths, making the ascent a thrilling challenge for hikers.
At the summit, you’re rewarded with a sweeping view of Basco town, the nearby islands, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Even if you don’t make the full climb, catching a glimpse of Mount Iraya from different viewpoints around Batanes will remind you how deeply nature shapes the island’s identity.
Join a guided Mount Iraya hiking tour to ensure a safe and memorable adventure, especially given the mountain’s unpredictable weather.
10. Visit the Hilltop Tukon Chapel (Mt. Carmel Chapel)
Perched high above Basco town, Tukon Chapel—also known as Mt. Carmel Chapel—feels like a peaceful high-point where land, sea, and sky converge. Built in the style of traditional Ivatan stone homes, the chapel is mounted on a windswept ridge, offering sweeping views of both the Pacific Ocean and the West Philippine Sea.
Inside, you’ll find paintings by local artists and quiet benches where you can soak in the scenery and reflect on the island’s timeless calm.
Whether you’re attending a service, capturing photos of the stone-built sanctuary against dramatic skies, or simply pausing in silence as the breeze passes through the corrugated cogon roof, Tukon Chapel stands out as a meditative highlight of Batanes Island. The nearby PAGASA radar station is also worth a short detour for even broader vistas.
For the most seamless and comfortable experience that includes Tukon Chapel along with other top sights, consider joining the Sabtang Island & North Batan Tour.
11. Catch the Sunrise at Tayid Lighthouse
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Mahatao town and facing the open Pacific, Tayid Lighthouse rewards early risers with some of the most beautiful sunrise views in Batanes Island. Its distinctive hexagonal tower rises above windswept grasslands, offering a quiet contrast to the endless ocean below. When the morning light paints the sky in pinks and golds, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the province.
Completed in the early 2000s, the lighthouse still serves as a guide for local fishermen while welcoming travelers who come to admire the view. From its vantage point, you can spot Diura Fishing Village and the green slopes of Marlboro Hills in the distance.
To see this breathtaking landmark—along with the best of Sabtang Island and the highlights of North and South Batan—join the 2-Day Batanes Sightseeing & Nature Tour. This curated adventure combines all of Batanes Island’ top landscapes and cultural gems into one unforgettable two-day experience, complete with guided tours, transportation, and plenty of time to soak in views like this.
12. See the Coastal Views from Sabtang Lighthouse
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
Welcoming travelers arriving by boat, Sabtang Lighthouse is one of the first sights you’ll see upon reaching Sabtang Island. Constructed from local stone and designed to withstand the island’s strong winds, this lighthouse stands as both a maritime beacon and a picturesque attraction. Its natural stone façade and red lantern roof mirror the rustic beauty of Sabtang itself.
Climb up to the viewing area for a sweeping look at the coastline and the island’s rolling hills, where the waves of the Pacific crash dramatically against the cliffs. You can visit this stop easily through a Sabtang Island tour, which includes boat transfers, local guides, and visits to nearby highlights like Morong Beach and Savidug Stone Houses.
13. Enjoy a Sunset Walk at Naidi Hills
Naidi Hills in Basco town offers one of the most accessible and scenic walks in Batanes. The gentle slope leads up to the Basco Lighthouse, passing grassy ridges where the wind carries the scent of the sea. Historically, this hilltop once hosted an American telegraph station that connected Batanes Island to the rest of the country until it was destroyed during World War II.
Today, it’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset and enjoy panoramic views of Basco town and the West Philippine Sea. You’ll often see locals walking or biking here in the late afternoon. Include Naidi Hills in your North Batan tour for a perfect balance of history, scenery, and relaxation.
14. Experience the Simplicity of the Honesty Coffee Shop
In a world that often feels rushed, the Honesty Coffee Shop in Ivana town is a refreshing reminder of kindness and trust. This humble, unmanned store runs purely on an honesty system — customers pick what they need, pay by dropping money in a box, and even make their own change. The shop sells coffee, snacks, and souvenirs for travelers heading to or from Sabtang Island.
Opened in 1995 by a local couple, this unique spot has become a symbol of Ivatan values and a must-visit for anyone exploring Batanes Island. While simple in setup, it leaves a lasting impression on visitors from around the world. Make it a quick but meaningful stop on your South Batan tour before continuing to the heritage towns nearby.
15. Visit Diura Fishing Village and Learn Ivatan Traditions
Nestled by the sea in Mahatao town, Diura Fishing Village is home to the Ivatan fishermen who keep centuries-old traditions alive. Visit between March and May to witness the kapayvanuvanu ritual — a ceremonial offering to the spirits of the sea for a prosperous fishing season. Outside of festival time, the village is quiet and scenic, with views of Madi Bay and Mount Iraya in the distance.
Nearby, a short trek leads to the Spring of Youth, a natural freshwater pool overlooking the coast. It’s a tranquil spot to unwind after exploring the village. Add Diura Fishing Village to your South Batan day tour for an immersive experience that combines culture, scenery, and local storytelling.
16. Explore the Savidug Stone Houses in Sabtang Island
Step into the past with a visit to Savidug Village, where rows of traditional stone houses line narrow paths overlooking the sea. These Savidug Stone Houses are the pride of the Ivatans — built with limestone, coral, and thick cogon roofs designed to withstand strong winds and typhoons. Walking through the village feels like entering a living museum where daily life moves at the same gentle pace as it did centuries ago.
The community still practices bayanihan — locals come together to help re-thatch roofs or rebuild homes after storms. This cultural resilience makes Savidug one of the most meaningful stops on Sabtang Island. Experience it firsthand through a Sabtang Island tour, which also includes the nearby Chamantad Viewpoint and Morong Beach.
17. Discover Wartime History at the Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel
Carved into the slopes of Tukon Hills, the Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel offers a fascinating glimpse into Batanes Island’s World War II history. Built by Japanese soldiers with the forced labor of local Ivatans, the tunnel stretches through interconnected chambers, bunkers, and lookout points once used for military defense.
Today, visitors can explore parts of the tunnel with a flashlight and a guide to learn about the island’s wartime experiences. The site is surrounded by lush greenery and overlooks Basco and Mount Iraya, making it a mix of history and scenery in one stop. Add this to your North Batan historical tour for an insightful experience beyond the typical viewpoints.
18. Visit the Historic San Jose de Ivana Church
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
Just a few steps from the Honesty Coffee Shop, San Jose de Ivana Church stands as one of the oldest and most historic structures in Batanes Island. Built in 1775, it features thick stone walls and a belfry that has withstood centuries of storms and earthquakes. Its simple yet sturdy architecture reflects the deep faith and craftsmanship of the Ivatans.
The church once served as the center of worship for both Ivana and Sabtang residents before the latter was allowed to resettle back on their island. Declared a National Historic Landmark, the church remains a peaceful stop where travelers can pause, reflect, and admire the artistry of old-world Batanes Island. Include it in your South Batan cultural day tour for a mix of heritage and heartfelt simplicity.
19. Walk Through the Songsong Ruins
A hauntingly beautiful reminder of nature’s power, the Songsong Ruins in Uyugan town are the remnants of a small village destroyed by a tidal wave in the 1950s. Rows of stone houses, now covered with vines and flowers, stand as silent witnesses to the past — blending tragedy, resilience, and renewal into one moving sight.
Some descendants of the original residents have rebuilt nearby, keeping the memory of their ancestors alive. The quiet charm of Songsong, surrounded by lush hills and sea breeze, makes it one of Batanes Island’ most underrated stops. You can visit this site as part of your South Batan countryside tour, which also passes through Marlboro Hills and Tayid Lighthouse.
20. Dive into the Trevallies’ Lair and Canyons
Beyond its scenic hills and stone houses, Batanes Island hides a mesmerizing underwater world. The Trevallies’ Lair and Canyons are among its most famous dive sites, teeming with marine life and dramatic underwater terrain. Here, divers encounter schools of trevallies, coral gardens, and the occasional reef shark amid towering rock formations sculpted by strong currents.
Because of the challenging waters, these sites are recommended for experienced divers or those joining guided scuba diving expeditions. For non-divers, snorkeling near Basco town’s calmer areas also reveals glimpses of Batanes Island’s thriving marine ecosystem. Ask about diving add-ons in your Batanes vacation package if you’d like to see a wilder side of the islands.
21. Savor Local Flavors on a Batanes Island Food Trip
No trip to Batanes Island is complete without a taste of authentic Ivatan cuisine. Meals here are fresh, hearty, and rooted in the land and sea. Must-try dishes include luñis (Ivatan-style adobo), vunes (dried taro stalks cooked in coconut milk), and uvud balls made of banana pith and minced meat. Seafood lovers will enjoy payi (lobster) and dibang (flying fish), staples of Ivatan coastal dining.
For a true local experience, dine in small canteens like Pension Ivatan, Vunong Dinette, or SDC Canteen, where meals are served on vunong (breadfruit) leaves. Food tours can also be arranged as part of a Batanes vacation package to help you sample the island’s best dishes while meeting the locals behind them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Batanes Island Tourist Spots
What are the most famous tourist spots in Batanes Island?
The most famous tourist spots in Batanes Island include Rakuh a Payaman (Marlboro Hills), Basco Lighthouse, Vayang Rolling Hills, and Morong Beach with its iconic Nakabuang Arch. Visitors also love exploring Chawa View Deck, Tayid Lighthouse, and the Ivatan stone houses in Sabtang and Ivana, which showcase the province’s unique heritage. These attractions highlight the island’s signature mix of nature, culture, and history.
What makes Batanes Island unique from other destinations in the Philippines?
Batanes Island stands out for its breathtaking landscapes, well-preserved culture, and peaceful way of life. Its rolling hills, stone houses, and lighthouses create postcard-perfect scenery unlike anywhere else in the country. The province’s small population, strong community values, and focus on sustainability make it a model for responsible tourism.
What are the three main islands of Batanes and what can you see in each?
Batanes is composed of three inhabited islands — Batan, Sabtang, and Itbayat.
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Batan Island is the most accessible and home to top attractions like Basco Lighthouse, Marlboro Hills, and Chawa View Deck.
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Sabtang Island features the iconic Morong Beach and heritage stone villages of Savidug and Chavayan.
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Itbayat Island is known for its rugged cliffs, caves, and untouched natural beauty, ideal for adventurous travelers.
Where can I see the traditional Ivatan stone houses?
You can find well-preserved Ivatan stone houses in Sabtang Island (particularly in Savidug and Chavayan villages) and in Ivana on Batan Island, where the famous House of Dakay stands. These sturdy homes, built from limestone, coral, and cogon grass, are designed to withstand strong winds and typhoons — a testament to Ivatan ingenuity.
What are the best activities to do in Batanes Island?
Popular activities in Batanes Island include sightseeing tours, cycling along coastal roads, photography, and cultural immersion in Ivatan villages. Adventurous travelers can also hike Mount Iraya, visit the Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel, or dive in the Trevallies’ Lair to see the island’s underwater treasures.
How can I visit all the major Batanes Island tourist spots conveniently?
The best way to explore is by joining organized tours that cover multiple areas in one itinerary. You can join a 2-Day Batanes Sightseeing & Nature Tour to Sabtang Island, North & South Batan, which includes top landmarks such as Marlboro Hills, Chawa View Deck, and Morong Beach — complete with transfers, local guides, and meals.
When is the best time to visit Batanes Island tourist spots?
The best time to visit Batanes is during the dry season from March to May, when the weather is clear and ideal for sightseeing, outdoor walks, and photography. You can also visit from December to February for cooler weather and fewer crowds, though expect stronger winds during this period.
How do I get to Batanes Island?
You can fly directly to Basco Airport (BSO) from Manila or Clark cities. Flights are limited and book out early, so it’s best to reserve your flights in advance.
Where should I stay when visiting Batanes Island?
There are charming inns, guesthouses, and boutique lodges across Basco and Mahatao. Many feature traditional Ivatan touches like stone walls and cogon-style roofs. Browse hotels for stays that match your travel style and budget.
How can I book a complete Batanes Island trip easily?
You can book tours and packages to Batanes Island with Guide to the Philippines, which include flights, accommodations, transfers, and guided experiences. This is the easiest way to explore all the best Batanes tourist spots without worrying about logistics.
Explore Batanes Island Today!
Batanes Island is a destination that feels worlds away from the rush of city life — a place where nature, culture, and simplicity blend in perfect harmony. Its rolling hills, kindhearted locals, and quiet seaside towns make it one of the most enchanting corners of the Philippines.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise from a lighthouse, wandering through centuries-old stone villages, or breathing in the crisp ocean air, Batanes Island invites you to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.
This northern paradise rejuvenates even the most seasoned traveler. Each visit reveals something new — a hidden cove, a panoramic view, or a heartwarming story from the locals. It’s easy to see why so many visitors return to experience its charm again and again.
Take that well-deserved break now and plan your dream trip to the “Home of the Winds.”
Browse curated tours in the Philippines and discover guided experiences that showcase Batanes Island’s natural and cultural wonders.
You can also explore vacation packages in the Philippines for ready-made itineraries that combine accommodations, transfers, and tours across the country.
Book your flights to Batanes to reach the island province with ease and comfort. Find cozy stays and seaside accommodations among our handpicked Batanes hotels for a memorable island getaway. For a seamless travel experience, arrange your airport transfers in advance and enjoy a worry-free start to your Batanes Island adventure.
Experience the serenity, authenticity, and beauty of Batanes Island — a timeless escape waiting for you at the northern edge of the Philippines.
