10. Pampanga River

Pampanga River, Spanish Río Grande De Pampanga, river on Luzon Island, Philippines, rising in several headstreams in the Caraballo Mountains and flowing south for about 120 miles (190 km) to empty into northern Manila Bay in a wide, swampy delta. The Candaba Swamp, covering more than 200 square miles (500 square km) when flooded, has been formed north of the delta where the Angat River joins the Pampanga. Other major tributaries are the Chico Pampanga and the Lubao. There are extensive fishponds and a large-scale irrigation project on the lower course of the Pampanga.

9. Bugang River

As the people of Antique are ardent and steadfast protectors of their environment, the province has remained a haven for natural beauty, and this has become evident in having the cleanest river in the Philippines: Bugang River.    

Bugang River ranked first among the cleanest inland bodies of water in the region for three consecutive years and eventually won the “Gawad Pangulo sa Kapiligiran” as the cleanest river in the Philippines.

The river is supported by several springs, one of which is the major source of the municipality’s water supply. Moreover, the same river serves as the municipality’s tourist resort whose cool and fresh water provides a soothing and relaxing sensation to many local excursionist and tourists.

The tour, through the management of the Bugang Community Based Eco-Tourism Organization, aims to present the exquisite sites of Pandan while showcasing the cultural heritage of the community and the environment. It is composed of three aspects: nature, culture, and adventure. The nature aspect is to appreciate the beauty of nature by viewing the scenic spots of the Bugang area. The cultural aspect is to facilitate a better understanding of the local customs, traditions, practices, and beliefs of the community. And the adventure aspect is to experience a real sense of adventure on the river such as rafting, boating and trekking.

8. Pagsanjan Rapids

Where there is a waterfall, there is a river, and a river that is both exhilarating and enchanting. The foamy top created by the rush of the current creates a very dangerous atmosphere for a first-time visitor, yet this is what most people come for. Downstream is a picturesque river with tree-lined river beds and peaks of the rooftops of local residents. Upstream, the roar of the falls is deafening and exhilarating at the same time.

Pagsanjan Falls also known as Cavinti Falls (indigenous name: Magdapio Falls) is one of the most famous waterfalls in thePhilippines. Located in the province of Laguna, the falls is one of the major tourist attractions of the region. The three-drop waterfall is reached by a river trip on dugout canoe, known locally as Shooting the rapids, originating from the municipality of Pagsanjan.The falls can also be reached from the top by a short hike from Cavinti. The boat ride has been an attraction since the Spanish Colonial Era with the oldest written account in 1894. The town of Pagsanjan lies at the confluence of two rivers, the Balanac Riverand the Bumbungan River (also known as the Pagsanjan River).

7. Panguil River

Panguil River Eco-park was once called Piit Resort in Pangil, Laguna. It was developed into an eco-park with funding from the World Bank, and with the development came the maintenance of the pristine state of the river. The river is fed by the Ambon-ambon falls from upstream, and it flows out to Laguna de Bay.

Riverside cottages are available for visitors to stay in. They also get to dip in the water at their convenience. The foliage surrounding the water frames the river to make an enchanting picture. Visitors also can take pictures with the river flowing below by walking the 20-metre hanging bridge.

6. Villa Escudero River

This one is situated in a privately owned resort, but this does not diminish the beauty and experience it can offer to any wanderlust. It is near Manila, a few hours’ drive to San Pablo, Laguna. The resort used to be a coconut plantation and now offers accommodations for tourists wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of Manila. If you are lucky enough, rooms with a river side view may be available to book. This is a courtside seat to the serene river.

Visitors are in for a special treat in this resort, as a waterfall and river dining experience is offered. For previous visitors, food is average, but the experience of eating right at the foot of a roaring waterfall and flowing river is one in a million.

5. Davao River

On a clear day, the sky is mirrored in the calm waters of Davao River. It is a river basin – one of the eight river catchments in Mindanao and the largest. The river stretches for 143 kilometres, and the main source originates as far as the Salug River of Bukidnon. Davao River is actually the main natural reservoir of the aquifer in Davao City.

Not only is Davao River a good place to hang out and appreciate the serene waters, it is also a good location for white water rafting.