The Bicol Region has an array of cultural sites that showcase its rich history. Originally descended from incomers from China, the inhabitants of Bicol often mix Chinese, Arab and Spanish ancestry, and most are devout Catholics.
Bicol is also famed for its spicy food, which is based largely on coconut and chillies – as evidenced in the likes of gulay na lada or Bicol Express (pork and local chillies cooked in coconut cream). Other dishes not to miss are laing (taro leaves with meat or seafood in coconut milk, spiced with chilli, lemongrass and more) and local specialities featuring local pili nuts.
Tinagba Festival, Iriga City – February
A harvest thanksgiving including parades, street dancing and sporting challenges.
Ibalong Festival, Legazpi – August
A celebration of a local legend, with masked and costumed reconstructions of classic battles.
Peñafrancia Festival, Naga – September
A barge procession, fireworks and more, celebrating Bicol’s patron, Our Lady of Peñafrancia.