Anyone have any cool experiences in the Philippines, outside of Manila, and not on any of the resort islands (Boracay, Cebu)? I'm interested to explore the country, and have already been there. Anything would be greatly appreciated!

Exploring less touristy areas leaves you alot of choices, North of Bontoc in the Kalinga area, Palawan, south of Puerto Princesa or in Coron's off shore islands, and in Bukidnon province of Mindanao between Cagayan De Oro City and Davao City. Less visited islands with beaches would be Siquijor Island with daily ferries from Dumaguete, southern Negros Island.

"Bukidnon province of Mindanao between Cagayan De Oro City and Davao City."

I agree. Fascinating area, and other than a scant few in Davao, virtually no tourists.

Guimaras.......but don't tell anyone!

Donsol is cool if you wanna swim with the whale sharks... it's not NOT touristy.. but it is sweet (if you don't get caught in a typhoon... like i was)

Palawan is definitely the best choice!
I love Guimaras too..they have a lot of great -whitesand- beaches, nice for snorkeling.

There are a lot of great places around the Philippines to see. Best if you get out of the main cities (Manila, Cebu) as these are crowded, dirty, and not that much to see IMHO. Each of the regions has different things to see. If you like the mountains and cooler climates (relatively) then Northern Luzon (Banaue, Bontoc) are a few of the good choices. As a country of islands, great beaches are to be found all over. My personal favorite is Coron in the Northern part of Palawan, however the last time I was at the Palawan Center in Makati they told me it would be redeveloped soon (that was about a year ago). Bohol is another favorite.

For a visual idea of some of these places we have put together a mini photo gallery for a few locations in the Philippines. Can be found at http://connie.kehres.com/photos/phils

Just a word of warning - the country seems to becoming more and more dangerous each month. Aside from Davao, I would personally avoid travel to Mindanao. Also the airports (especially terminal 3, Cebu Pacific, in Manila) are becoming hotbeds for extortion from travelers (foreign and Filipino alike). The Philippines is perhaps one of the most beautiful places I have been with some of the nicest people anywhere. However the huge rise in crime and select targeting of foreigners is a concern. Best to be careful and polite when you are there.