Geography of the Philippines Bay. Laguna de Bay, east of Manila Bay, is the largest freshwater lake in the Philippines. Several rivers have been harnessed for hydroelectric power. To protect the country's biological resources, the government has taken a first step of preparing a Biodiversity Action Plan to address conservation of threatened species. The islands are volcanic in origin, being part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and are mostly mountainous. The highest point in the country is the peak of Mount Apo in Mindanao, which is above sea level. The second highest point can be found on Luzon at Mount Pulag, a peak
Rancho Punta de Laguna Rancho Punta de Laguna Rancho Punta de Laguna was a Mexican land grant in present day northern Santa Barbara County, California and southern San Luis Obispo County given in 1844 by Governor Manuel Micheltorena to Luis Arellanes and Emigdio Miguel Ortega. The name of this rancho means "point of the lagoon" and refers to the irregular lake lying within its territory. The grant is east of Rancho Guadalupe and encompassed present day Santa Maria and Betteravia. Luis Arellanes and Emigdio Miguel Ortega were granted the six square league Rancho Punta de Laguna in 1844. Emigdio Miguel Ortega (1813–1893), son of