Cagayan Valley Region
BRIEF HISTORY:
CAGAYAN VALLEY has a distinct history. Long before the coming of the Spaniards into the valley,
fishing villages existed on the banks and at the mouths of the rivers and creeks flowing into the sea.
The Spaniards found natives inhabiting the narrow coastal plains in Northern Luzon and flood plains
of the Cagayan River. These were the Ibanags, so called because they lived on the banks of the
“bannag”, a native word for river. They were of the sturdy Indonesian type with a culture of their
own. They maintained commercial intercourse with China, Japan and other neighboring countries.
The early Ibanags kept their writings on barks of trees and bamboo, depicting the heroic deeds of
their chiefs. These tales were used as songs by bards during victories in wars, on weddings and other
important events and were therefore handed down from generation to generation like the famous epic
of Biuag and Malana, chief of Malaueg (Rizal) and Maquilat (Cabagan Viejo).
When Don Juan de Salcedo explored Northern Luzon in 1567 he landed his forces at a place now
called Mission, in the Municipality of Buguey located near what is believed to be the original mouth
of the Rio Grande de Cagayan. In the course of centuries, the Cagayan river gradually straightened its
meandering course by leaving a Rio Muerto or lagoon south of Buguey. The lagoon, believed to be
the original mouth of the Cagayan River, measures about sixteen kilometers long and roughly one
kilometer wide. (Source: Cagayan Souvenir Program ’68.)
It was however, in 1581 that the Spaniards headed by Captain Juan Pablo Carreon with his soldiers
and their families settled in the region. Thereafter, Spanish missionaries gradually penetrated deeper
into the valley, teaching and c
converting the natives. Lalloc was named Nueva Segovia by Juan Pablo Carreon in 1581 and was
visited by Juan Salcedo in 1572 and Luis Perez Dasmariñas in 1592. The Parish Church of Lallo was
constructed under the direction and supervision of the Dominican Friars in 1588. Lalloc was the seat
of Nueva Segovia created by Pope Clement VIII on August 14,1595 and continued to be so up to
1755 when it was transferred to Vigan.
Lallo was the capital of Cagayan Province from 1581-1839 when the Provincial Government was
moved to the town of Tuguegarao which was made capital of Cagayan up to the present. The first
Revolutionary Government was headed by Gov. Vicente Nepomuceno, appointive Governor in 1898.
On April 10, 1910 Pope Leo XII proclaimed Tuguegarao as a Diocese.
Later, the Americans improved the educational and political system and introduced improvements in
infrastructure.
Today, Cagayan Valley Region is one of the more progressive regions in the country.
OVERVIEW
Fr. Julian Malumbres in his “Historia de Cagayan” states that chronicles of Cagayan assert that the
first Spanish explorers came into the Valley by way of the original mouth of the Cagayan river, now
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the present site of Mission, Municipality of Buguey. It is said that at that time the mouth of the river
as well as the shores of the lagoon abound with “tagay” trees, hence the place was known as
“Catagayan”. Gradually, for convenience of pronunciation the shortened “Cagayan”, permanently
became the name of the province which was organized as one political subdivision of the archipelago
in 1583 and which comprised the whole Cagayan Valley.
Today, Region 02 is composed of the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, the
Cities of Santiago, Cauayan and Tuguegarao and the Island Province of Batanes. The Regional
Center is Tuguegarao City, Cagayan while the industrial center is Cauayan City, Isabela.
Prov/
No. of Capital
Commercial
City
Towns Town
Center
Batanes
6
Basco
Basco
Cagayan 28/ 1 TugueTug. City;
city
garao
Aparri,
City
Gattaran &
Tuao
Isabela
35/ 2 Ilagan
Ilagan,
cities
CauayanCity
Roxas
Nueva
15
Bayom- Bayombong
Vizcaya
bong
Solano,
Bambang
Quirino
6
CabarCabarroguis,
roguis
Maddela
Diffun
Santiago
City
GEOGRAPHY
The Region is located on the northeastern part of mainland Luzon, covering an area of about
26,858.79 square kilometers. It has rugged terrain along its boundaries, with the Pacific Ocean
bounding it on the east, the Bashi Channel on the north, the provinces of Nueva Ecija on the south,
Quezon on the south east and the Cordillera in the west.
CLIMATE
There are two pronounced weathers, the dry which generally occurs beginning December up to May
and wet from June up to November. Hot months are from March to May and extend up to August.
POPULATION
As of 2000, the Census of Population of the region is registered at 2,813,159.
Comparative Population Per Province
2
Source: National Statistics Office, Region 02
Province/
City
Batanes
Cagayan
Isabela
Nueva
Vizcaya
Quirino
Santiago
City
Tuguegarao
City
Cauayan
City
Total
1995
2000
14,180
787,775
1,062,179
334,965
16,467
993,580
1,073092
366,962
131,119
98,542
148,575
110,531
107,275
120,645
92,677
103,952
2,536,035
2,813,159
DIALECTS
Major dialects spoken are Ilocano, Ybanag, Ytawes and Filipino. In Batanes, the people speak Ivatan.
English is generally understood and spoken regionwide.
INDUSTRIES
Major industries are agriculture with rice and corn as main crops, livestock production of cattle, hog,
carabaos and poultry, furniture making of rattan and other indigenous materials, fishing especially
along the coast of Cagayan, Isabela and Batanes and Magat Dam in Isabela and also exportation of
fruits, fruit preserves and vegetables.
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Transportation facilities in the region are available at all times. There are about 15 transportation
companies that ply the Tuguegarao-Manila route and vice-versa.
Transport facilities to the neighboring CAR are also available:
1. Bagabag town in Nueva Vizcaya serves Banaue, Ifugao via Lamut town
2. Enrile town in Cagayan serves Dagupan, Tabuk, Kalinga via Liwan, Rizal
3. Junction Libertad/Junction Luna in Abulug, Cagayan serves Luna, Pudtol,Sta. Marcela, and
Flora towns of Apayao Province
4. Tuao town in Cagayan serves Kabugao town in Apayao via Conner and Pinukpok
Inter-regional transport is also readily available and runs the extensive road network of the region
along the national highway and into the municipal roads to interior towns. Water transport facilities
3
include cargo ships that dock in Aparri, and inter-island ship that dock at Port Irene in Sta. Ana and
Claveria in Cagayan.
In Batanes, there is an acute shortage of inter-island transport from Batan to Itbayat and while
Sabtang Island has a regular ferry that leaves from San Vicente Port in Ivana at 7 o’clock in the
morning daily. In Sabtang Island, boats are available for Ivuhos Island trip at about P300.00 one way
from Barangay Nakanmuan or Savidug. Chartered flight to Itbayat is available at P700.00 per person
one way. There are about eighty registered passenger jeepneys and tricycles for public use in Batan
Island. Other vehicles are owned by the government and some privately owned motorcycles. A cargo
ship from Manila visits the island of Batanes once a month.
There are four domestic airports servicing the region- Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport, Cauayan
City Domestic Airport, Basco Domestic Airport in Batanes while Bagabag Airport in Nueva Vizcaya
services charter planes. Smaller airports/airstrips served by charter services are in Palanan and
Maconacon, both are coastal towns of Isabela.
TRANSPORT FACILITIES
BUS COMPANIES
FLORIDA
(078) 846-2265
BALIWAG
(078) 844-4325
VICTORY
AUTOBUS
DANGWA
DELTRA TOURS
EMC BUS
NELBUSCO
ROYAL EAGLE
(078) 844-0777
(078) 844-5519
(078) 844-1761
(078) 844-5675
(078) 846-2196
(078) 682-8632
(078) 682-6592
AIRLINE COMPANIES
1.
2.
ASIAN SPIRIT (Manila-Batanes)
Mnl: (02) 851-888
Tug. :(078) 846-2084; (078) 844-8141; 844-8142
Contact Person: Rudilyn or Cherry
3.
AIR PHILIPPINES (Manila-Tuguegarao City)
Mnl(02) 855-9000
Fax: (02) 851-7922
Tug. Booking Ofc: Fax: (078) 846-7578
Contact Person: Abi
4.
CHEMTRAD AVIATION
Tug. Booking Ofc:
Tel: (078) 844-3113
Contact Person: Jennifer
Route: Tuguegarao to Batanes and Palanan or Maconacon
4. CYCLONE AIRWAYS
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Cauayan Booking Ofc
Tel # (078) 652-0913
Contact Person: Monet or Jasmine
Jasmin’s CP : 0917-574-3168
Route: Cauayan City to Palanan or Maconacon
5.
PACIFIC AIR
Laoag Office: (077) 772-0663
COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
Government and private communication facilities are found all over the valley. Direct dialing and
wireless cellular phones are also available. Smart Company operate in Batanes while Globe Company
is still expanding its operation. Internet service providers are available in urban centers.
IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS
DOT EMAIL: dotr02@yahoo.com
DOT WEBSITE:
1.www.dotregion2.com.ph 2.www.visitmyphilippines.com
3. try all the Web Links.
BATANES
BRIEF HISTORY OF BATANES
The island-province of Batanes was created by a series of volcanic activities and other geologic
forces when Mt. Iraya erupted around 325 BC.
In 1782, then Governor General of the Philippines Jose Basco y Vargas sent an expedition to
undertake the formalities of getting the consent of the Ivatans to become subjects of the King of
Spain. On June 26, 1783, Joseph Huelva Melgarjo became the first Governor of Batanes. The new
province was named Provincia dela Concepcion and Governor Basco was named “Conde dela
Conquista de Batanes” and the capital town was named after him.
By 1799, the Manila government was convinced that the Batanes provincial government was unable
to support itself and it was decided to downgrade it. The office of the governor was abolished and
Valero Bermudez was appointed alcalde.
By 1855, the Itbayat Mission was formally recognized, the same year when the era of the alcalde also
ended and the governorship was restored indicating a mode of political and economic upswing.
Fernando dela Cuevas was assigned Governor.
Around 1890, a mailboat was coming everythree months increasing the contact of the Ivatans with
Luzon specially Manila. The export
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of pork, lard and cattle increased. Galvanized iron became available.
On September 18, 1898 Katipuneros from Luzon hoisted their flag at Radiwan in Ivana. On
September 20, new sets of provincial and municipal officers were elected with Teofilo Castillejos as
Governor.
In February 1900, the USS Princeton landed in Batanes to begin American rule. The province became
a mere township the second time under Cagayan confirmed by the Provincial Government Act No. 83
of the American Government enacted February 6, 1901. Public School system was started. General
health, hygiene and sanitation campaign was launched.
Batanes became a province again by the
provision of Act 1952 enacted on May 10, 1909 and
Otto Scheerer was appointed Governor of the province. The Manila government erected a wireless
telegraph tower and station; better roads were built and an agricultural land was converted into an
airport. When the Japanese arrived in Batanes on December 8, 1941 they bombed the airport and
destroyed the wireless telegraph tower. Ivatan resentment turned to aggressive resistance in 1945.
After the war and the Philippines got its Independence, contact with the rest of the country increased.
The airport was rehabilitated, media and the radio communications have lessened cultural isolation.
Infrastructure, electrification and deep sea fishing improved and a shift to rice from root crops as
traditional subsistence was effected.
OVERVIEW
Batanes is home to the famous Ivatans, who are nationally acclaimed as the “True Insulares”.
The Island Province lies at the northernmost tip of the Philippines, on a vast expanse of wild waters
where the Pacific Ocean merges with the China Sea. It is made up of three major islands, namely:
Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat. Close by are seven islets including Amianan (the closest to Formosa or
Taiwan). Thus, Batanes has been identified as the country's potential “gateway to East China”.
The Batanes Archipelago was formally annexed to the Philippine Islands under the Spanish rule on
the 26th of June, 1783. The complete evangelization of the island took almost a century. Education,
centered on the Catholic faith, was introduced with the religious work. Prior to the Spanish rule, the
Ivatan ancestors had developed a unique culture of their own and the population then was placed at
about 30,000, excluding those from Itbayat.
The Ivatan, like most Filipinos are of Malay stock. They traced their roots to early immigrants from
Formosa, (Taiwan) as well as Spaniards, who came to the island in the 16 th century. Being an insular
people, the Ivatans have kept the purity of their gene pool. To this day, they have the features of their
forebears – the Formosan’s almond eyes and the Spaniard’s aquiline nose. Their language is peppered
with pidgin Spanish and spoken with the musicality of the Chinese tongue. The provincial capital
itself bears the name of the official who brought the island under the Spanish rule in 1788 and served
as its first Governor General (Basco).
The civil administration contributed much to the improvement of the towns by the construction of
new buildings and bridges, opening of new roads, improving health and sanitation and most
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importantly, the setting up of a water supply system in Basco in 1890. The Spaniards introduced
masonry in the construction of churches, ports and bridges.
Within the first century of Batanes Christianization, the need for regular communication with Manila
was already felt. Local officials sent petitions to the Governor-General for government boats to come
three to four times a year for deliveries instead of once a year. The economy of Batanes was
dependent on regular transportation. Whenever typhoons struck, islanders suffered hunger and
epidemics. Migration was unchecked as others sought work in mainland Luzon, thus the population
was reduced to 8,279 in 1898.
Agriculture was promoted by the introduction of new technologies, crops, breeds of animals and in
increasing the areas of arable land and grazing lands. With these improvements, trading with
Cagayan, Ilocos and Manila was realized.
During the first ten years of the American regime, from 1899 to 1907, Batanes was reduced to a mere
Municipality of Cagayan but was restored to its former status of a province in 1909.
The installation of a wireless telegraph station in Basco, frequent visits of ships and the construction
of Basco Airport in 1935 mitigated the isolation of the province.
The Province of Batanes today boasts of undisturbed and unspoiled beauty of nature preserved by the
peace-loving Ivatans. A complete eco-tourism destination, Batanes offers a kaleidoscope of natural
beauty and ecological attractions from its rich marine resources to its verdant rolling terrain – all ideal
for outdoor sports.
GEOGRAPHY
The Island Province is strewn on a 4,500 square kilometer-expanse of territorial waters – the Luzon
Strait and Balintang Channel, where the Pacific Ocean merges with the China Sea. The area is a sea
lane between the Philippines and the southern parts of Japan, China, Hongkong and Taiwan.
Bashi Channel bound the islands on the north, on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the west by the
North China Sea and on the south by the Balintang Channel. The islands are characterized by gently
rolling hills, cliffs and black and white sand beaches.
LOCATION
Batanes is about 860 kilometers (approx. 525 miles) from Manila in the northernmost tip of the
Philippine Islands. Basco, the capital town is about 280 kilometers north of Aparri and about 190
kilometers south of Taiwan.
AREA AND POPULATION
Its area is about 230 square kilometers. The inhabited islands of Batan, Itbayat and Sabtang occupy
an area of 209.30 square kilometers. The other islands are Dinem, Y’ami, Dequey, Ivuhos, North,
Mavudis and Siayan. The 2002 census of population for Batanes registered a total of 16,467.
7
CLIMATE
Wind and rain constantly sweep the islands, but the notion that it is constantly battered by typhoon is
wrong. If Batanes is always mentioned in connection with weather disturbances, it is because its
capital, Basco, holds the last weather station in the north. It is a reference point for all typhoons that
enter the Philippines’ area of responsibility. Average monthly rainfall is 450 mm. Actually, the
Batanes weather is rather pleasant. Compared to the rest of the country, Batanes is blessed with
cooler, balmier climate. It enjoys practically four seasons, the best one being summer (March -June).
POLITICAL SUBDIVISION
Batanes has six municipalities, 29 barangays and a lone congressional district. The six municipalities
are Ivana, Uyugan, Mahatao, Basco, the capital and the island municipalities of Sabtang and Itbayat.
LANGUAGE/DIALECT
The mother tongue of Batanes is Ivatan, spoken by 93.94 percent of the total households. Ilocano
dialect is also spoken. Filipino and English are also generally spoken and understood. Ivatans are
education-conscious and this is reflected in Batanes’ high literacy rate of 96 percent in year 2000.
MAJOR INDUSTRIES
The province has an actual total agricultural land area of 5,438 hectares. The Department of
Agriculture has identified a total of 9,293 hectares of land with high potential for agriculture
development and an additional 10,687 hectares for possible expansion.
Due to its terrain, Batanes is a major livestock producer with cattle as its main stock. Carabaos and
goats are also popularly raised.
Another major industry is fishing. Peak months of fishing is from March to June when the sea is
relatively calm during the summer months.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Visiting the island province is best during the periods from March to June. But in the cold months
from July to February, visitors should be prepared with thick clothing. During these months, visitors
can still go to Batanes especially during the intermittent good weather. The entire Batan Island can be
toured using a jeepney at a rate of Php1,200.00 – 1,500.00 per day. Boat fare to Sabtang from Ivana
Seaport at Radiwan is P30.00 one way. Basco Seaport to Itbayat Island is Php200.00 one way.
ACCESSIBILITY BY AIR
Batanes is served by Asian Spirit and Chemtrad Aviation Corporation. More information on booking
may be had in the following offices and telephone numbers:
Air Transportation Office (ATO)
8
Tuguegarao Domestic Airport
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
Philippines
Tel. No. (078) 844-1011
CHEMTRAD Aviation Corp.
Tuguegarao Domestic Airport
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
Philippines
Tel. No. (078) 844-3113
CHEMTRAD Laoag Office
C/o Capt. Fely Hilo
Tel: (077)-607-0167
CP: 0920-542-3924
ASIAN SPIRIT
Manila Office
Tel. (02) 851-8888
Telefax: (02) 851-1804; 851-1805
Tug: (078) 846-2084; 844-8141; 8142
PACIFIC AIR
Laoag City International Airport
Tel: (077)772-0663 thru Maricel
CP : 0919-8820-864 C/o Myrna de Mesa
Tel (078) 846-7578
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Natural
SABTANG ISLAND is relatively undisturbed and unspoiled. The island has lots of natural
attractions guaranteed to satisfy the most sophisticated nature lovers. It has intermittent white sand
beaches with steep mountains and deep canyons with small level areas sporadically found along the
coastline. Southwest of Batan Island, Sabtang is accessible by 30-minute falowa ride from Radiwan
Port in Ivana. Sabtang Island is also the take off point for Ivuhos Island from Barangay Nakanmuan.
ITBAYAT ISLAND is located north of Batan Island. Itbayat is shaped like a giant bowl. The island is
surrounded by massive boulders and cliffs rising from 20-70 feet above sea level and has no
shoreline. It has a dirt airstrip for light aircraft. A “regular ferry” runs the Batan-Itbayat route. Travel
time is about four hours on falowa from Basco Seaport or Radiwan Port in Ivana. A light plane flies
from Basco Airport to Itbayat at P700.00 per person and leaves only when the plane is full.
9
BATAN ISLAND is the most populated island of the province. It is composed of four municipalities
namely Basco, Ivana, Uyugan and Mahatao. Basco is the center of commerce and seat of the
provincial government.
MOUNT IRAYA is a dormant volcano standing at 1,517 meters above sea level, whose last eruption
was recorded in 505 AD. Mountaineering, trekking and trailblazing are recommended sports
activities on the mountain. Walking distance from Basco, the top of Mt. Iraya can be reached in about
three hours. It is the source of fertile soil for Basco and Mahatao.
Y’AMI is the northernmost island of Batanes. It is also called the Orchid Island. One can see
Formosa (Taiwan) on a clear day. “Tatus” or coconut crabs abound in the island surrounded by rich
marine life.
DI-ATAY BEACH is a beautiful cove with multi-colored rocks and white sand ideal for picnics and
beach combing. Located along the highway of Mahatao, it is 9.85 kilometers from Basco.
SONGSONG in Chadpidan Bay is an hour of exhilarating trek from Basco proper (3kms). It is
famous for its beautiful sunset view and smooth boulders which resulted from the previous eruption
of Mt. Iraya
.
NAIDI HILLS is walking distance from Basco. In the hill stands a newly built lighthouse and offers
a commanding view of Basco Proper.
CHAWA CAVE is for the more adventurous. An “enchanted cave” with natural salt bed whose
mouth opens to the South China Sea and is accessible through the boulders of Chawa Point in
Mahatao. It is four kilometers from Basco. The newly constructed Chawa View Deck gives visitors a
commanding view of the area.
SITIO JURA AT RACUJAIDE is the fishermen’s village at Mananoy Bay. Fishing season is marked
by the PAYVANUVANUAN festival in March signaling the start of the summer season. Visitors
are treated with fresh fish delicacies from the Pacific Ocean. Within the area is the legendary
“Spring of Youth” and the living cave with crystal limestone formations and the Racuaydi
Old settlements declared by the National Museum as hundreds of years old. The bay is nine
kilometers from Basco proper.
NAKABUANG CAVE is 5.5 kilometers from San Vicente Centro in Sabtang.
MT. MATAREM is an extinct volcano 495 meters at its summit. It is eight kilometers from Basco
and can be viewed from the abandoned NTC building.
WHITE BEACH at Vatang, Hapnit and Mavatuy Point all in Mahatao.
RACUH A PAYAMAN is a communal pasture land which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of
Batan Island where the number of cattle outnumber that of the residents.
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MANMADE
RADAR TUKON was a United States weather station on a hilltop. It offers a magnificent 360-degree
view of Batan Island, the South China Sea, Mt. Iraya, Basco proper, boulder lined cliffs and the
Pacific Ocean. At present, it houses the last weather station in the north, the Basco Radar Station and
is only 2.75 kilometers from Basco.
OLD LORAN STATION used to house a US coastguard detachment for almost two decades and is
about 25 kilometers from Basco. A working Sun Dial still stands within the facility. Within the area,
a good view of the Ivatans farm lands can be viewed protected by Grass Hedges. These grass hedges
act as natural protection against erosion, delineates the property lines and protect the crops against the
strong winds.
RUINS OF SONGSONG is a “ghost barangay” which is a cluster of roofless shells of old stone
houses abandoned after a tidal wave that hit the island of Batan in the 1950s. Some of the ruins are
now being restored while others are already inhabited. The place has a long stretch of beach. The
ruins are 23 kilometers from Basco.
SAN JOSE CHURCH in Ivana was built in 1814. It has a crenellated fortress-like campanile. The
church is fronting the Ivana Seaport and is 14 kilometers from Basco. Beside the Church stands an
Honesty Shop where buyers get what they want and drop the payment in a wooden box. Nobody
mans the shop.
KANYUYAN BEACH & PORT at Baluarte Bay in Basco is the port of call of the cargo ships
bringing goods from Manila.
SAN CARLOS BORROMEO CHURCH and a convent at Mahatao are six kilometers from Basco. It
has been declared by the National Historical Institute as a Heritage Site. It was completed in 1789 and
still retains its centuries-old features.
ABAD MUSEUM is now open to the public for viewing. It showcases the works of the late Pacita
Abad, a world renown artist and a native Ivatan.
BUILDINGS are traditionally two-storey LIME AND STONE HOUSES AND CHURCHES with a
foot-thick cogon roofs believed to last 60 years and a meter-thick lime stone walls. These houses
were built around 1795 with the help of imported masons, stone cutters and carpenters from the
Province of Cagayan. These stone houses, found all over Batanes, are worthy subjects for
photography.
HOUSE OF DAKAY is believed to be the oldest house in Ivana open to visitors, sign the guest book
and give donation for its upkeep.
MAHATAO WIND FARM is the first commercially operated wind farm in the Philippines. It is a
hybrid wind power that generates electricity and helps the diesel powered generator of the town. It
was inaugurated last August 2004.
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HISTORICAL
RADIWAN POINT at Ivana Seaport is where the Katipuneros landed in September 18, 1898. It is
also the ferry station of the falowas plying the islands of Sabtang and Itbayat. The other ferry station
for Sabtang Island is at Barangay San Vicente also in Ivana.
Boat-shaped Stone Grave Markers and Chuhangin Burial Site at Ivuhos Island in Sabtang, Batanes
Chavulan Burial Jar Site at Ivuhos Island in Sabtang Island
Arrangement of Stone with Holes in Sumnanga, Sabtang Island
Columnar Stones, Post Holes, Stone Anchors and Itbud Idyang in Uyugan, Batanes
Arrangement of Stone Walls at the Idyang Site in Basco
The Idyang in Basco, Batanes
Paso Stone Formation at Ivuhos Island in
Sabtang, Batanes
Columnar Stone with Holes at the Racuaydi Old Settlements in Mahatao, Batanes
The entire province is a place far from the maddening crowd with no traffic and pollution problems.
There is practically zero crime rate except for simple drunkenness and other related incidents.
SPECIAL INTEREST
1. Spelunking at:
1.1
Chawa Cave in Mahatao
1.2
Crystal cave, Mananoy Bay, Mahatao
1.3
Sarokan Cave, Itbayat
1.4
Nakabuang Cave, Sabtang
2. Trekking of Marlboro Country & Naidi Hills
3. Surfing at Madiwedved, Mahatao
4. Mountaineering, trekking & trailblazing at Mt. Iraya
5. Bird watching of cuyab, the migratory birds from China that flock the islands. They stopover in
Batanes for a day or two before they continue their flight in search for warmer climate.
The entire province is a place far from the maddening crowd with no traffic and pollution problems.
There is practically zero crime rate except for simple drunkenness and other related incidents.
FESTIVALS
1. Sto. Niño Festival – every December 25 for Basco and January 1 for the rest of the Province. The
image of the Sto. Niño is brought to all Ivatan homes for the whole day while the homeowners
share food or monetary gifts. The Parishioners will partake of the food in the Parish after all the
12
homes have been visited at the end of the day. The event has been going on since time
immemorial.
2. Payvanuvanuan: Fishermen’s Festival marks the start of the Fishing season in Batanes where the
fisherfolks perform a ritual to pray for a bountiful fishing season and safety while at sea. Date
varies when fishing season starts.
3. Batanes Day – June 26 marks the Anniversary Celebration of the establishment of the civil
government of Batanes marked by parades, sports fest, agro-trade fairs among others.
See ATTACHMENTS for Accredited Facilities
GOOD BUYS: Garlic, dried fish, palek or sugarcane wine, handicrafts
SOUVENIRS & HANDICRAFTS: Kalapay and Vakul, hats, baskets, dried flowers, fans, key
holders, vovud (jewelry boxes).
BATANES PUBLIC CALLING OFFICE/ PILTEL
Tel. Nos. (02) 533-3456
Fax No. (02) 533-3444
 Monday thru Friday: 8:30 am to 8:30 PM
 Saturday & Sundays: 9:00 am to 4:00 PM
 Cut-off: 30 minutes before closing time BUTEL via Satellite
Tel. Nos. (078) 371-2391 – 94
 Monday thru Fridays: 8:00 am – 5:00 PM
BAYANTEL
Tel. Nos. (02) 196-61-12 to 14
Fax No. (02) 196-61-15
Office of Cong. Gina Abad:
Basco, Batanes
Tel. (02) 533-3452
Manila Office:
Tel. (02) 931-53-20
932-1664
Batanes is served by SMART and GLOBE Company
SUPPORT FACILITIES
Health Services
1. Batanes General Hospital
Basco, Batanes
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2. Itbayat District Hospital
Itbayat, Batanes
3. Six Rural Health Centers and seven Barangay Health Stations – one each in five municipalities
and two in Basco
4. Sabtang – 6 bed lying in/community
hospital
Police Department
Aside from the Provincial Command, all towns have Police Department offices. Up to the present,
only petty crimes caused by intoxication have been reported.
Communication Facilities
1. Bureau of Telecommunications
Basco, Batanes
2. RCPI
Bayantel, Basco
3. Phil. Postal Corp. Office in Basco, Mahatao, Ivana, Uyugan, Itbayat and Sabtang
4. PILTEL
5. BUTEL
6. Radyo ng Bayan, DWBT AM
7. Batanes FM station
8. Batanes Website: -http://www.batanesinteractive.net
http://www.batanesonline.com
Banks
1. Land Bank of the Philippines, Basco, Batanes
2. Philippine National Bank, Basco,
Batanes
Now online although only US dollars can be
exchanged in the bank
3. Builders Bank, Basco, Batanes
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Electric Power
Electricity for domestic and commercial use are available in all barangays. Electric power service is
now 24 hours in Batan Island with the recent completion of a new NAPOCOR power house. In
Sabtang and Itbayat, electricity is18 hours. The Sabtang Diesel Power Plant Supplies power to
Sabtang Island.
Water Supply
All barangays are served by water works systems providing most households with potable water
supply.
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Jeep Hire: P1,600.00 per day around Batan Island
Falowa: Gross Tonnage – 7.72
San Vicente, Ivana port to Sabtang Island – P30.00/pax one way
Gross Tonnage – 12.18
Basco port to Itbayat Island – P200.00/pax one way
Private aircon vehicles - P250.00 per hour
Tricycle hire – P100.00 per hour
Bicycle hire – P200.00 / day
Basco to Itbayat by Plane : Pacific Air, Fare P800.00 per pax one way
TOURISM ORGANIZATION
1. Batanes Provincial Tourism Council
C/o Mr. Ferdinand Elica
Chairman
Batanes Development Foundation, Inc.
2. Batanes Eco-Cultural Tourism Cooperative (BECTC)
National Road, 3900 Basco, Batanes
C/o Juliet P. Cataluña
Manager
CP# 0919-536-9736
TeL: 098-199-5067
1. batanestourism@hotmail.com
2. ecotourism@batanes-ifdci.com.ph
3. jpcataluna@yahoo.com
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3. Mr. Elmo Merin
Provincial Tourism Officer
CP 0920-854-5639
Provincial Capitol Building
Province of Batanes
Landline: 02-535-4899
Email Address: elmolom@yahoo.com
Cagayan
BRIEF HISTORY
In 1581, Captain Juan Pablo Carreon, native of Vizcaya, a province of Spain, with one hundred
soldiers fully equipped with arms and ammunition and other provisions came to Cagayan with their
families by order of Don Gonzalo Ronquillo de Peñaloza, the fourth Spanish Civil Governor, to
explore the Cagayan Valley and to convert the natives to Christianity as well as to establish
ecclesiastical missions and towns throughout the valley. This was the first batch of Spanish settlers in
the Cagayan Valley who introduced Spanish culture and Latin Civilization, enriching primitive
culture, customs and tradition.
On June 29, 1583, Don Juan de Salcedo traced the northern coastline of Luzon and set foot on the
Massi, (Pamplona) Tular and Aparri areas. The Spanish Friars soon established mission posts in
Camalaniugan and Lallo, which became the seat of Nueva Segovia established on August 14, 1595.
The Spanish influence can still be seen in the massive churches and other buildings that the
Spaniards built for the spiritual and social welfare of the people.
With the Treaty of Paris signed in 1898, ending the war between Spain and the United States,
America took over the Philippines and enriched the culture most notably in agriculture and education
also in public works and communications. At the close of the 18th century, there were 29
municipalities in the Province of Cagayan. When Philippines came u
nder American sovereignty 35 municipalities have been founded. Since then, however, on account
of the tendency at centralization and shifting of population as a result of the opening of roads and
public agricultural lands only 29 municipalities now
remain. (Source: Cagayan Souvenir Program 1968)
Cagayan today is the Regional Seat of the Cagayan Valley Region.
Tuguegarao City, the capital is the seat of commerce and trade and center for learning. The province
has the largest marine fishing grounds and 73 percent of the region’s potential fishpond area.
Known as the spelunker’s, trekker’s, and gamefisher’s paradise rolled into one, Cagayan provides a
never-ending adventure with ecotourism in the forefront of its offering. Both foreign and local
tourists continue to explore its caves, engage in gamefishing expeditions, trek its mighty mountains
and retreat to its centuries – old churches.
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Air Philippines and Asian Spirit fly to Tuguegarao City- the regional seat, three times a week on
Mon-Wed-Fri. Various bus companies with lines to Cagayan Valley Region leave Manila everyday
while public utility jeepneys, buses, tricycles and calesas are the common mode of transport for short
leisurely trips.
OVERVIEW
Present day chroniclers say that the name was derived from the word “tagay”, a kind of plant that
grows abundantly in the northern part of the province. Thus, “Catagayan which means a place where
the tagay grows abundantly” was shortened to “Cagayan”, the present name of the province.
Geography
The province is bounded by the Pacific Ocean on the east, on the south is Isabela province, on the
west is the Cordillera Mountain and on the north by the Balintang Channel and the Babuyan Group
of Islands.
About two kilometers from the northeastern tip of the province is the island of Palaui, a few
kilometers to the west is Fuga Island. The Babuyan Group of Islands which include Calayan,
Dalupiri, Camiguin and Babuyan Claro is about 50 to 60 nautical miles north of Luzon mainland.
Location
Cagayan Province lies on the northeastern part of Luzon, occupying the lower basin of the Cagayan
River. It is well traversed by many rivers, with Abulug and Cagayan Rivers as the largest.
Area and Population
The province comprises an aggregate land area of 9,002.70 square kilometers which constitutes three
percent of the total land area of the country and the second largest province in the region.
The Province of Cagayan has a total population of 993,580 as of the year 2000 census of population
or 110.36 persons per square kilometer.
Climate
Seasons in the province are not very pronounced. Relatively dry season occurs during the months of
March to June and rainy season from July to October, although it is relatively cold during the months
of November to February.
Political Subdivision
Cagayan has 28 municipalities and one city divided into three congressional districts. It has 820
barangays. Tuguegarao City (December 18, 1999) is the provincial capital, regional seat and center
of business, trade and education. It has a land area of 144.80 square kilometers and a population of
120,645 as of 2000.
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Language/Dialects
Languages in the province are Ybanag, Ytawit, Malaweg, and Ilocano. Other ethnic groups that
migrated to the province speak their own dialects. People in places where literacy is high speak and
understand English and Pilipino.
Major Industries
Agricultural products are rice, corn, peanut, beans and fruits. Livestock products include cattle, hogs,
carabaos and poultry. Fishing various species of fish from the coastal towns of the province is also
undertaken. Woodcraft furniture made of hardwood, rattan, bamboo and other indigenous materials
are also available in the province.
Best Time to Visit
The advent of the dry season from January to June ushers the festivals. Visitors come in droves to
explore the caves, trek the mountains, enjoy the sea or make a pilgrimage trip to the Basilica Minore
of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Piat. Visitors and excursionists are advised to bring warm clothes
on July to September when the rain comes in the afternoon. Evenings are relatively cold in the
months of November to February.
TOURIST DESTINATIONS
Natural
The CALLAO CAVES TOURIST ZONE of Peñablanca, Cagayan is 24 kilometers from Tuguegarao.
The seven-chambered Callao Caves boast of massive limestone and other rock formations, skylights
and a chapel. Other pristine and undisturbed caves with living rock formations in the area include
Sierra Cave, Quibal Cave, Odessa-Tumbali Cave System, Jackpot Cave, Roc and San Carlos Caves,
among others. These caves can be explored with guides from Sierra Madre Outdoor Club (SMOC),
Adventures and Expedition Philippines, Inc. (AEPI) and North Adventours . More than 300 caves
dot the area, 75 of which have been documented by the National Museum since 1977. Within the
area is the Pinacanauan River conducive for river rafting or boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming
while the mountains are perfect for trekking and mountaineering. Daily Circadian Flight of bats from
a bat cave occur at dusk. Passenger jeepneys leave Don Domingo Public Market in Tuguegarao City
everyday for Peñablanca. The Callao Caves Resort is the only accommodation facility available at
the Callao Caves Tourist Zone. Fare is P25.00 per pax one way.
JACKPOT CAVE is located at Sitio Tumallo, Barangay Quibal in Peñablanca. At 115 meters, it is
the SECOND DEEPEST cave in the Philippines. The cave has a walking size passage, shafts and
drops of varying depths that provide for a lot of rope works. Meandering streams and gour pools of
varying size abound inside the cave. A sump of undetermined depth backs up on wet season flooding
the lower section of the cave to the roof as evidenced by large logs jammed in the roof of the cave.
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ODESSA-TUMBALI CAVE SYSTEM, whose local name is Abbenditan Cave is located at Sitio
Abbenditan, Barangay Quibal in Peñablanca. At 12.60 kilometers at its latest mapping, it is currently
the SECOND LONGEST cave in the Philippines. The cave is active, flood prone and provides
excellent wet sport caving. It has superb formations and passage shapes, canals and lakes for
swimming, photography and cave diving opportunities and varied fauna. Acknowledged to be a
perfect cave system, it has five known entrances with potential to exceed its length to 15 kilometers
or even longer.
SAN CARLOS CAVE is probably one of the toughest caves the Philippines could offer. When
inside the cave, spelunkers will learn the art of cave crawling. A chamber called “Ice Cream Parlor”
contains cluster of white stalagmites that resemble scooped ice cream. The “John the Baptist”
chamber is a breast deep sump that one has to take a deep breath and swim to the other side of the
chamber. Sharp and rough stones could scratch skin and tear clothing. San Carlos requires a lot of
crawling because more than half of the cave is covered by cold running subterranean water.
STA. ANA & THE PALAUI ISLAND is a destination for water and sports fishing enthusiasts. Sta.
Ana is the Philippine Sailfish Capital famous worldwide for its abundant marine life and is jump off
point of national and international gamefishing competitors. The Cape Engaño Lighthouse in Palaui
Island dates back to the Spanish Regime and is the only operational lighthouses in the northeastern
coast. Other light house in the area serving seafarers in the northeast are Palawig, San Vicente and
Racat, all in Sta. Ana. The island boasts of rich marine resources and uncontaminated environs and
has been declared under Coastal Environmental Protection (CEP) by the DENR and is very ideal for
eco-tourism activities. The island is 30 minutes away from the mainland by lampitao and is very
ideal for all types of water sports. Picnic areas also include Mavidad Islet, Mapurao Beach, Angib and
Gotan Cove at the east of the mainland. Also in Sta. Ana is Port Irene which is being developed as an
international port of call by the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority and Free Port (CEZA-FP). The
town of Sta. Ana is about 158 kilometers from Tuguegarao City. Public utility buses and
airconditioned vans leave Don Domingo Public Market in Tuguegarao City everyday for Sta. Ana.
Fare is about P170.00. The nearby towns of Gonzaga, Buguey and Sta. Teresita have facilities for
Homestay. See Attachments for List of Homestay Accommodation Facilities. Designated Municipal
Tourism Officer of Sta. Ana is Gloria Gagarin with contact numbers (078) 858-1004.
Calayan Island Coastline
WIDE EXPANSE OF BLACK AND FINE SAND BEACHES stretching along the coastal towns of
Sanchez Mira, Sta. Praxedes, Claveria, Buguey, Aparri, Gonzaga, Ballesteros, Abulug and the islands
of Palaui, Fuga and Island Municipality of Calayan. The towns of Sanchez Mira, Claveria and Sta.
Praxedes have facilities for Homestay while Fuga Island is being developed as a world class
recreation and tourism center. The airstrip at Claveria could be used as a jump-off point to Fuga
Island while Taggat Cove caters to sea faring boats from CalayanGroup of Islands. See Annex for
List of Homestay Accommodation Facilities. Aircon vans from Don Domingo public market in
Tuguegarao City are the available transport.
PORTABAGA FALLS in Sta. Paxedes is one of the tallest falls in the Province of Cagayan.
Approximately fifteen meters in height, it has three drop off points and a big manmade catchbasin for
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swimming. Sta. Praxedes is 194 kilometers from Tuguegarao and the falls is about 100 meters from
the highway.
THE CAGAYAN RIVER OR RIO GRANDE DE CAGAYAN is Philippines’ mightiest watercourse
– the longest and widest river in the country. Small streams originating from Balete Pass, Cordillera,
Caraballo and Sierra Madre Mountains meet other streams and rivers and flow to the Cagayan River.
The famous “lurung” fish abound in these river during the rainy season when the river is murky and
the fishes swim upstream from the delta of Aparri to spawn.
APARRI DELTA is an impressive expanse of land that is Aparri where one can see the Cagayan
River meet with the China Sea. Walk into the jetty at the estuary of Cagayan River and the sea to
find the awesome mouth of the vast Cagayan River. Stand, windblown, and experience the beauty
and power of the place. Aircon vans are available for transport from Tuguegarao City.
CLAVERIA BEACH BOULEVARD is home to the longest black fine sand beach accessible to
tourists and beach lovers with a long line of resorts and accredited establishments offering a relaxing
sun-sea-sand vacation anytime of the year. Claveria Taggat Cove is a good example of a preserved
eco-system because the area is where the former Taggat Wood Industries once flourish. The rampant
use of resources for plywood gathered from Claveria mountain was readily replaced
Manmade
THE BUNTUN BRIDGE is 2.5 kilometers from Tuguegarao City proper. Its length, 1.124
kilometers is the longest river bridge in the country and offers an unobstructed view of the Cagayan
River. This is the first bridge to span the Cagayan River, the other one is the Magapit Suspension
Bridge in Lallo.
MAGAPIT SUSPENSION BRIDGE is one of the first of its kind in Asia. It spans the Cagayan
River at Lallo and is 0.76 kilometers long. The hanging bridge links the first and second districts of
Cagayan going towards the Ilocos Region via the scenic Patapat Road on the Ilocos Norte-Cagayan
Inter-Provincial national highway. Travellers can have a good view of the hanging bridge on their
way to Aparri. Barangay Magapit in the town of Lallo is about 74 kilometers from Tuguegarao City,
one hour travel time on an aircon bus or van and fare is about P100.00
ST. PAUL UNIVERSITY PHILIPPINES was founded on May 10, 1907 by the sisters of St. Paul de
Chartres, four French and one Chinese nun. The school now boasts of being the core of the St. Paul
University System that covers 39 St. Paul College in the country. The former names of the school
were Colegio de San Pablo in 1907 starting with three classes only, then it was changed to Sagrado
Corazon de Jesus. The last World War heavily damaged the buildings and equipment but the college
trudge on bravely changing the name of the school to Sacred Heart of Jesus Institution and transferred
to where it stands today, then to St. Paul College of Tuguegarao to St. Paul University in 1983. It is a
co-educational institution.
CARSUMCO or the Cagayan Robina Sugar Milling corporation is built amidst thousands of hectares
of sugarcane plantation. The building stands along the highway of Sto. Domingo, Piat which is about
30 kilometers from Tuguegarao on the way to the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat.
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HISTORICAL
LALLO, the home of the “mestizas” in northern Cagayan. The town whose former name was
featured in the annals of Philippine history as “Ciudad Nueva Segovia” was one of the first four
cities in the Philippines; as the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia; as the chosen capital of
Cagayan Valley in the 16th century and as the capital of Cagayan Province until 1839.
CAGAYAN PROVINCIAL MUSEUM & HISTORICAL RESEARCH CENTER is for everyone.
Located at the provincial capitol complex, it was conceived by the Provincial Board in 1971 and
became operational on its inauguration on August 15, 1973 during the traditional Fiesta of
Tuguegarao City. It is a general museum and houses an extensive collection of artifacts, antiques,
ethno-graphics, trade wares, heirloom pieces and liturgical works of the province and fossils of
animals that once roamed the valley. On display also are Chinese Ming and Sung dynasty porcelain
and Paleolithic fossils. The center is only five kilometers from Tuguegarao City, within the Capitol
Complex.
REV. FR. GERRY Z. FILLIPETTO, OFM MEMORIAL MUSEUM, Sta. Ana – the place was
constructed in loving memory of the late founder of the Franciscan Apostolate Sisters. The museum
was put up for the purpose of perpetuating the memory of the late founder. Contents of the museum
include all the personal belongings of Father Ho such as prayer books, vestments, missals and other
items he used during his lifetime like his pictures, clothes, old shoes and slippers and his vehicle, a
Land Rover 109 WB Station Wagon purchased August 18, 1970. This was the first vehicle used by
the sisters in apostolating to the barrios. Consultant of the Museum is Rev. Fr. Ramon Balanay. A
chapel dedicated to Padre Pio also exists in the premises of the museum. The museum is about 175
kms from Tuguegarao City. It is owned by the Franciscan Apostolate Sisters (FAS). Entrance Fee is
Php 25.00 per person. Telephone numbers 0917 981-7752. Contact persons : Sr. Miluna Ruiz Cielo,
FAS, and Mother Agnes H. Cabote, FAS.
PANNADDAMMAN MUSEUM of Cagayan State University is located inside the CSU Campus at
Carig, Tuguegarao City. The museum opens with the following quotation: “History speaks of man’s
deeds; culture speaks of his noblest thoughts and ideals; his loftiest thoughts and aspirations. History
points to the direction of a nation; culture defines the identity of a race. History is of the material,
culture is of the spiritual. In this, CSU believes in fostering the development of man as both human
and divine, the landscape of the Cagayano Spirit dwells within these walls of Pannaddamman.” It
showcases the tradition of the native Ibanag and Ilocanos from birth to death by using mannequins.
The museum also boasts of a shell midden from the archeological site of Lallo, old coins and political
history, and home and farm implements, among others. The museum is open during weekdays. On
weekends call (078) 844 1949 for appointment. Entrance Fee is P10.00.
THE BASILICA MINORE OF OUR LADY OF PIAT, the Lady of the Visitation was originally
called the Lady of the Holy Rosary, perhaps because it was supposedly brought from Macao to the
Philippines in 1604 by the devotees of the Rosary, the Dominican Friars. This four-centuries old
image of Mary was first enshrined in Nueva Segovia or Lallo. It was brought to Piat supposedly to
convert the Itawes People to Christianity and was entrusted in the care of Doña Ines Maguilabbun.
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On June 20, 1954, her Church was declared a National Shrine for Catholic Philippines by His
Excellency Most Rev. Egidio Vagnozzi, then Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines. The image is
famous in the country and abroad as the Black Mary, thus making Piat the Pilgrimage center of the
Northeast. Pilgrims are drawn to Her Shrine every year. The pilgrimage reaches its peak on Her
Feast day on July 2. Public utility buses and jeepneys leave Tuguegarao City for Piat everyday which
is about 35 kilometers away.
Note: Special Masses maybe scheduled upon arrangement with the rectory through Msgr. Samuel
Baculi at CP0917-578-4477. The schedule of regular masses are:
Sundays and Holidays:
5:30 am
6:45 am
8:00 am
9:15 am
10:30 am
Weekdays and Saturdays
5:30 am
7:00 am
8:00 am
5:00 pm (Saturday)
IGUIG CALVARY HILLS and the PARISH OF ST. JAMES THE GREATER (San Antonio de
Galicia) are about 16 kilometers from Tuguegarao City. In the 11-hectare rolling hills are the
larger-than-life size concrete 14 Stations of the Cross depicting Jesus Christ’s suffering before His
death at Mount Calvary. The statues were completed in 1982. The place also features a three
centuries old well, a Dominican convent ruins and the prosaic view of the Cagayan River which
resembles that of the River Jordan. At the left side of the church is a chapel which houses the relic of
a piece of wood from the original cross of Christ mounted on the Jubilee Cross. Built of concentric
bricks, the church has buttresses, one of the very few left in the country. Rectory phone is 078-5010237.
STS. PETER AND PAUL METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL is the seat of the Archdiocese of
Tuguegarao. The church with belfry is the biggest Spanish-built church in Cagayan Valley
constructed under the supervision of Fr. Antonio Lobato, OP on June 17, 1761 to 1767. The
Cathedral suffered massive destruction in World War II and was rebuilt by Msgr. Bishop Constance
Jurgens. The picture of the Cathedral appears at Rome Basilica and is considered as one the of the
most beautiful works of art in the country and the world today.
ST. HYACINTH CHURCH OR SAN JACINTO CHAPEL is an elevated chapel whose construction
dates back in 1604. It was used as headquarters by American soldiers during the Filipino-American
War in 1899. It is 100 years older than the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral.
ST. PHILOMENE CHURCH of Alcala, Cagayan was built in 1881. It is 90 meters long and 30
meters wide, making it the widest brick church in the province. It is located along the Maharlika
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Highway. It stands as a mute witness to the several regimes that have enriched the province’s
cultural heritage. Alcala town is also famous for its carabao milk candy.
OUR LADY OF VICTORIES is housed at the Amulung Church. The church is also made of
unreinforced bricks with Spanish era design.
THE OLDEST BELL IN THE FAR EAST is in Camalaniugan’s San Jacinto de Polonia Parish.
Forged in 1595, it was brought to Manila in 1937 as part of the attractions during the 33rd
International Eucharistic Congress. The Quadricentenial Anniversary of the evangelization of
Camalaniugan town was celebrated last June 15, 1996. Camalaniugan is 93.6 kilometers from
Tuguegarao.
SPECIAL INTEREST







Scuba Diving, snorkeling and Game Fishing at Palaui Island in Sta. Ana
Surfing at Claveria and Sanchez Mira
Mountaineering & Trekking:
a. Towns of Peñablanca, Baggao and Rizal
b. Palaui Island
Spelunking at the Caves of Peñablanca and Baggao
Bird Watching and Bonsai exploration at Peñablanca and Magapit Bird Sanctuary
Whale Watching at Calayan Islands
Visita Iglesia to include all churches along the Maharlika Highway. Also Our Lady of Victories in
Amulung, St. Catherine of Alexandria in Gattaran and the Church of St. Michael the Archangel in
Nassiping Church, Gattaran
FESTIVALS
a. Semana Santa at Iguig Calvary Hills observes the passion and death of Jesus Christ thru the
larger-than-life size concrete Stations of the Cross spread on an 11-hectare rolling terrain. Iguig
town is about 16 kilometers from Tuguegarao.
b. Fluvial Parade at Aparri, Cagayan is celebrated every 10th of May. It is a local festival featuring a
fluvial procession of about a hundred boats of different sizes and shapes in thanksgiving to their
Patron Saint, St. Peter Thelmo. Aparri town is about 102 kilometers from Tuguegarao City.
c. Piat Sambali Festival and Feast of Nuestra Señora de Piat. Sambali is a war dance of tribes that
were united and converted to Christianity thru the intercession of the Lady of Piat. The festival is
celebrated every June 23-30 after which the Feast Day of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Piat
follows on July 1-2. Piat Basilica Minore, the fourth in the country, houses the image of Mary.
Piat town is about 41 kilometers from Tuguegarao City.
d. Aggao na Cagayan/ Sambali Cagayana Festival (as of 2006) is celebrated from June 23 to June
29. It is in commemoration of the establishment of the civil government of Cagayan which was
established on June 29, 1583.
e. Tuguegaro patronal fiesta is Pavvurulun Festival on August 10-17 celebrating the feast of St.
Hyacinth.
f. Sto. Niño Fiesta, San Gabriel Village, Tuguegarao City – 3rd Sunday of January
g. Bankarera, Peñablanca – April 21
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h. Dawa Festival, Gonzaga - 2nd week of May
i. Philippine Game Fishing Competition – every summer c/o PGFF
j. Claveria Town Fiesta, Claveria – May 7
k. Aringay Festival, Lasam – June 9
l. Feast of Our Lady of Piat – July 1-2
m. Parabur Festival, Buguey – July 26
n. Cabibi Festival, Lal-lo – August 4
o. Paskuhan, Tuguegarao City - December 16-25
See attachments for other festivals
GOOD BUYS
Pancit Batil Patung. Peanuts and peanut products, Tuguegarao longanisa, carabao milk candy,
furniture and rattan products, fossilized flowers, gifts, toys and home decors.
SOUVENIRS & HANDICRAFTS
Rattan and wood products and export quality gifts, toys and housewares/homedecors at the
Kabuhayan Center, 2/F Supermarket Building, Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. The
center is open from Monday to Saturday at 9 AM – 12 NN and 2 PM – 6 PM or call telephone
numbers 844-7651.
See ATTACHMENTS for DOT-ACCREDITED ESTABLISHMENTS
SUPPORT SERVICES
Health Services
1. Cagayan Valley Medical Center
Carig, Tuguegarao City
Tel. (078) 844-1410; 844-3789
2. Holy Infant Clinic
Washington Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel (078) 844-1039
3. De Leon Clinic
Bonifacio street, Tuguegarao City
Tel. No. (078) 844-1481
4. People’s Emergency Hospital
Luna Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel. (078) 844-1337
5. St. Joseph Clinic
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel. (078) 844-1571
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6. St. Paul University Hospital
Buntun Highway, Tuguegarao City
Tel (078) 844-2220
7. Private Clinics and Dental Clinics are also available in major urban centers
8. Health Centers are found in all Municipalities of the province
Police Department
PNP Stations are found in all municipalities and are located in very conspicuous places.
Tuguegarao, the contact number is (078) 844-0166.
In
Communication Facilities
1. RCPI offers telegrams, long distance calls (local & international) and Fax messages with four
branches in Tuguegarao, Claveria, Ballesteros and Aparri with telephone (078) 844-1614
2. PT &T offers telegrams, long distance calls (local & international) and fax messages with
branches in Tuguegarao, Aparri, Claveria and Ballesteros.
3. TELOF with office at San Gabriel, Tuguegarao City and telephone (089) 844-1002
4. PLDT with address at Burgos Street, Tuguegarao City and telephone (078) 844-1300
5. Government Regional Telephone System with office address at San Gabriel Village, Tuguegarao
City and branches at Aparri, Buguey, Solana, Ballesteros, Lallo, Snachez Mira, Claveria,
Pamplona, Peñablanca and Piat
Banks
1. Philippine National Bank
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel (078)844-1355
Accepts: ATM-Megalink & Bancnet
PNB –Aparri
Tel (078) 888-2124
PNB-Tuao
PNB-Sanchez Mira
2. Development Bank of the Philippines
Arellano Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel 844-1486
DBP-Aparri
Tel. 888-2163
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3. Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel 844-1165
4. Metrobank & Trust Company
Luna St., Tuguegarao City
Tel. 844-1461
Accepts: Bancnet
MetroBank Balzain, Tuguegarao City
ATM: Bancnet
Metrobank-Aparri
Tel. 888-2018
5. Private Dev’t. Corp. of the Phils.
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel. 844-1094; 844-1095
6. Allied Bank
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
Tel. 844-1091
7. Equitable –PCIBank
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
ATM: Fast Teller
8. China Bank
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
ATM: Bancnet
9. BPI-Far East Bank
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
ATM: Fast Teller
10. Postal Bank, Tuguegarao City
Two Branches
11. Land Bank of the Philippines
Tuguegarao City Branch
ATM: Megalink
12. Bank of Commerce
13. Union Bank
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14. Prudential Bank
15. Security Bank
16. Veteran’s Bank
17. United Coconut Planter’s Bank
18. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
Electric and Water Supply
Two electric cooperatives service the Province of Cagayan. Major urban centers have ample water
supply while the other municipalities use deep well
TOURISM ORGANIZATIONS
1. Sierra Madre Outdoor Club. Inc. (SMOC)
C/o Mr. Modesto Baylon, Jr.
President
Tel (078)844-1621; 844-2359
Res. (078) 844-7086
2. Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council
Ms. Purita Licas
Chairman
Tel. (078) 844-1736
CP: 0917-620-6325
3. Homestay Association in Cagayan ; see ATTACHMENTS for Homestay List
4. Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Press Corp.
Mr. Cadel Trilles
President
Tel (078) 844-1268
CP: 0927-383-1768
5. Adventures and Expedition Philippines, Inc.
C/o Mr. Anton Carag, Jr.
Tel. (078) 844-1298;CP#0917-532-7480
e-mail :aepi@whitewater.ph
Web address:
www.geocities.com/aephils
6. Provincial Tourism Office
Tel: ()78) 846-7576; 846-7337;
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Fax: (078) 844-1800
7. Kabuhayan Trade Center
2/F Supermarket Bldg.,
Bonifacio Street, Tuguegarao City
Cagayan
Open 9 am- 12 nn and 2-6 pm (Mon-Sat)
Tel (078) 844-7651
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Rent – A – Car
1. Nicanor Pagalilauan/Benjamin Musni
ATO Security Guard
Tel. 844-1011
Vehicle: L-300
2. Mr. Jay Domingo
Tel (078)844-1090; 844-3385
CP # 0917 438-0678
Vehicle: L-300 vans
3. Richard and Gina Perez
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
Tel: (078) 844-3314; 844-1092;
CP 0917-7898-556
4. AL & Charlotte Domingo
CP: 0918-935-2544; 0917-696-8482
Vehicles: Bus, Coaster and Vans
5. Mr. Glycerio Pacursa
CP 0916-481-4908
Vehicle: Vans
6. Mr. Edward Magcalas
CP : 0918-449-9749
Vehicle : Van
7. Mr. Lito Reyes
CP # 0920-279-1632
Tel: (078) 844-3408
1 unit van; 8 sitting capacity
8. Mr. Tomas Santos
CP # 0915-938-9804
1 unit van; 8 sitting capacity
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9. Mr. Hector Tubangi Jr.
CP # 0928-795-3373; 0919-761-3787
1 unit van; 8 sitting capacity
10. Ms. Roselyn Onggue
CP # 0920-424-6918; 844-0858
Vehicle: 3 units URVAN Escapade
AIRLINE
The Tuguegarao Domestic Airport is being serviced by the following airline companies:
1. Air Philippines
Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
3 X Weekly (M-W-F)
Tel: (02) 855-9000
Telefax: (078) 846-7578
Email:reservations@airphilippines.com.ph
2. CHEMTRAD Airlines
Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport
Tel (078) 844-3113
BN Islander
Batanes Trip: M-W-F
Fare: P3,200.00 per pax one way
Coastal towns of Isabela: Daily
Fare: P1,700.00 per pax one way
3. Asian Spirit
Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
3 X Weekly (M W F)
Tel : (078) 846-2084; 844-8141
Manila Office: (02) 851-8888
SECURITY SERVICES:
Area Code: 078
Office of the Governor:
F-844-1800;T-844-2293
PNP Provincial Headquarters:
844-1469; 844-1472
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Regional Command 02 :
844-1374; 844-1596
Tuguegarao Police Station
166; 844-1764
Tuguegarao Fire Department.
160;844-1573
Tuguegarao Mayor’s Office
844-1449; F-844-2894
Peñablanca Mayor’s Office 844-0399
Provincial Tourism Office 846-7576 or 7337
Provincial Museum Office 844-1514
Aparri Mayor’s Office
888-2001
Aparri PNP District 3
888-2171
Aparri Fire Department 888-2233
Tuguegarao City
Introduction
Tuguegarao City, the capital of the Province of Cagayan and the Regional Center of Cagayan Valley
(Region 02) is a major urban center in Northeastern Luzon and a Primary Growth Center of the
region. Historically, it is important as the provincial capital of the Province of Cagayan, which then
included the northern towns of the Province of Isabela and as a trading center for the Tobacco
Monopoly and as the only center for the higher education in Northeast Luzon.
Today, Tuguegarao City’s capabilities include higher-level facilities services, and amenities. With its
strategic location and substantial physical development, Tuguegarao City has intensified its
leadership in its traditional role as a center for commerce, education, religion, and government. It is
now an emerging metropolis and a backbone support to the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and
Free Port in Sta. Ana, Cagayan and the Cauayan City Regional Agro-Industrial Center in Isabela.
History
Tuguegarao was made a “mission-pueblo” on May 09, 1604. It derived its name from the Ibanag
sentence “Tuggui gari yaw”, meaning “ This used to be fire” or “this was cleared by fire”. The town
was carved out of the wilderness by fire. Today, the name Tuguegarao could mean “Moving Fire”
from the Ibanag word for fire, “tuggui” and the Ilokano word for movement, ”garao”. Tuguegarao is
the dynamic flame that leads the Cagayan Valley for growth and development.
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The original inhabitants of Tuguegarao were the Irayas and the Itawes, who built houses along the
“bannag” or river and subsisted on fishing, hunting, farming, and livestock raising. They wove cloth
and made household and farm implements.
On August 16, 1724, Tuguegarao celebrated its first patronal town fiesta with the completion of the
elevated Ermita de San Jacinto. The provincial capital was transferred from Lal-lo to Tuguegarao on
May 24, 1839, with the division of “La Provincia de Cagayan” into the southern part called Nueva
Vizcaya, and the northern part, which retained the name Cagayan.
Tuguegarao’s first school was established in 1892. Formerly belonging to the Diocese of Nueva
Segovia, Tuguegarao grew to become a separate diocese in 1910. In 1975, it was made the
Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. The schools, the government and the church greatly influenced the
development of the town- its economy, its services and facilities, and its people.
Aside from public education and public works, the Americans also introduced the bureaucracy to
Tuguegarao. Several Ilocano college graduates were brought to Tuguegarao to fill in government
positions. Reduced to complete rubble by US planes on May 9, 1945, Tuguegarao was officially
liberated on June 15, 1945. In the ensuing rehabilitation and war reparation years, Tuguegarao
attracted many families from Central Luzon and Southern Tagalog who flocked to the Cagayan
Valley to escape the Huks.
In 1975, Tuguegarao was chosen the center of Region 2. By 1985, almost all national government
agencies had established their regional offices in Tuguegarao, bringing to the region varied and
higher-level government services and facilities. The Department of Finance classified Tuguegarao a
First Class Municipality in July 1993.
Today, Tuguegaro City (December 18, 1999) is a bustling commercial, education and government
center with tall buildings, sprawling school campuses and government center sites, 24 banks ably
assisting almost 3,000 business establishments, more than 200 industrial establishments, 29 public
schools, colleges and university, 8 private schools, colleges and universities and several other
institutions and agencies operating in Tuguegarao City.
Physical Characteristics and Land use
Tuguegarao is the main entry at the south central tip of the Province of Cagayan, which lies in
northeastern Luzon. It has a total area of 144.8square kilometers. It lies 121 43’ 46” longitude and 17
36’ 54” latitude. It is approximately 483kilometers north of Manila. Iguig, bound it on the north, on
the east Penablanca (both of the Province of Cagayan), on the south by the Province of Isabela and
the Cagayan River on the west and southwest. The town is politically subdivided into 49 barangays,
26 of which are urban.
It is generally low-level land, about 24 meters a.s.l. Almost 65% of its land area are plains while more
than 35% are hills. The town is generally drained by the Cagayan and the Pinacanauan Rivers. The
town’s climate is characterized by no pronounced season; relatively wet May to October, with
maximum rain periods not very pronounced and dry seasons lasting from one to three months.
Tuguegarao is driest from February while October has the most rainfall. Warmest month is June.
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January is the coldest. Average heat temperature is 26.95 centigrade. On the average, two typhoons
and two tropical storms pass over Tuguegarao every year. Being protected in the east by Sierra Madre
mountain ranges and by the Cordilleras in the west, its prevailing winds are north and south.
The bedrock formation of Tuguegarao is entirely of sedimentary form, more than 65% of which is
Recent Alluvium of the Quaternary Recent series, 19% of Pliotocene-Pleistocene series
(shale/sandstone/siltstone) and the rest of the Upper Miocene-Pliocene series (shale and sandstone).
Tuguegarao is free of any active fault, existing or probable. Because the town is one vast plain in the
big Cagayan valley and nearly surrounded by rivers, its soil is generally fertile and productive.
Almost 74% of Tuguegarao is of the sandy and/ or clay loam.
In 1997, 17.9 sq. kilometers (12.4%) of the town’s total area are built-up areas; 60.1 sq. kilometers
(41.5%) are agricultural; and 66.8 sq. kilometers (46.1%) are open spaces. Of the built-up areas, 13.2
sq. kilometers are used as residential areas; 1.2 for commercial; 1.6 for institutional; 0.3 for industrial;
and 1.6 sq. kilometers are used for utilities. For the period 1991-1997, agricultural areas in
Tuguegarao decrease by an average of 0.82 sq. kilometer a year.
Demography
Since 1604, the municipality’s population has grown 21 times over, to its 1995 level of 107,275, in a
span of 391 years. In 1995, Tuguegarao has 20,598 households, with an average household size of 5.2
persons. The people of Tuguegarao are mostly Ibanags and Itawes, with a growing strong number of
Ilocanos and Tagalogs. About 99.9% are Filipinos and 90.33% are Roman Catholics, as of 1988.
Economy
Over the past and a half decades, Tuguegarao’s economy slowly shifted from agriculture (primary)
to secondary/tertiary economic activities. The shift was ushered by the designation of Tuguegarao as
the regional government center for Region 02. With more government funds funneled to
Tuguegarao for the regional line agencies, Tuguegarao served as a magnet for investors and settlers.
This resulted to a tremendous increase in the number of trade and service establishments, and an
appreciable increase in industrial and tourism-related establishments.
Trade and Commerce
Business establishments in Tuguegarao grow at an average rate of 7.83% or about 142 additional
business establishments a year. In 1995, there were 2,389 registered business establishments. More
than half of these were located in the Poblacion and less than one-third are in the urban barangays
surrounding the Poblacion.
Including the regional office of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, a total of 24 banks operate in
Tuguegarao in 1997. Working with the government agencies, institutions, schools, two big public
markets and infrastructure facilities in Tuguegarao, the city’s financing institutions have contributed a
lot to the viability of several establishments. Today, Tuguegarao has a complete array of commerce
and service establishments that have created more jobs and provided better quality products and
services.
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Industry
Tuguegarao is a core municipality for the regional industrial development strategy because of its
present level of facilities and services. By providing goods, services and linkages, Tugeugarao allows
the adjacent municipalities in Kalinga and Apayao (CAR), the coastal towns of Ilocos Norte (Region
01) and the regions industrial centers and agricultural production areas to pursue their development
functions in support to the overall regional role. Region 02 is envisioned as an “open growth area and
international trade and industrial partner of the East Asian global economy”.
Agriculture
Agriculture remains a major economic activity for the city’s rural barangays. The abundance of
fertile alluvium along the riverbanks, the availability of complete agricultural inputs and technology,
and the availability of expanded credit facilities and commercial services in the city benefit the local
farmers. The city has two public markets that operate daily and a highly developed private sector
marketing system that could absorb the agricultural production of the area.
Tourism
Tuguegarao city has developing tourism attractions. Its business services and social amenities,
coupled with its advanced infrastructure facilities make it very important to the regional tourism
development program. It is the regional tourism service center because of its accessibility to the
tourism attractions and because of the existence of reliable facilities for land, water and air transport,
communication, water, power, health, protective services, and finance as well as amenities for dining,
lodging, recreation and souvenir shops. A growing interest in locally produced souvenirs, crafts,
delicacies is now apparent.
Tuguegarao City is accessible to most tourist destinations in the Cagayan Valley Region and has
become a melting pot, a haven for a variety of cultures. It has however, preserved its distinct culture,
customs and traditions. The unique hospitality of the people of Tuguegarao induces people to make
return visits.
See ATTACHMENTS for ACCREDITED ESTABLISHMENTS
FESTIVALS
PAVVURULUN FESTIVAL – is the Tuguegarao City patronal fiesta celebration featuring sports
and cultural presentations, trade fairs, beauty pageants, street dancing competition, drum and lyre
competition, pancit festival featuring the Pancit Batil Patung, among others
Social Services
With its becoming a regional center, more and better social services became available in the city.
Today, with private sector response to such development, the quality and level of social services in
Tuguegarao City has become the best in the region. These services now also serve as attractions to
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investors and settlers who come in search of a place where standards of living are not as exorbitant as
the big cities, but whose available services and facilities are very much like those found in these
cities.
Education
Twenty-three public schools and eight private schools undertake elementary education in the city.
The Region’s Optimum Pupil education through Networking-School of the Future (OPEN-SF) is
located in the Tuguegarao West District.
The OPEN-SF is a special class of all high achievers in the elementary level for the entire region.
The OPEN-SF and the Central Schools are noted for accelerated pupils and successful entrant to the
Philippine Science High School system.
Secondary Schools:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Cagayan National High School (CNHS)
CNHS-Cataggaman Annex
CNHS-Linao annex
Gosi Barangay High School
St. Paul University - Philippines
University of St. Louis
Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao
Methodist Christian School/John Wesley College
Tertiary Schools:
1. St. Paul University - Philippines
2. University of St. Louis
3. Cagayan Colleges Tuguegarao
4. Cagayan State University
5. F. L. Vargas College
6. ISAP-MCNP
7. ABN
8. STI
9. AMA
10. others
Sports and Recreation
In 1991, more than half of the sports and recreation facilities in Tuguegarao City were privately
owned. The rest were found in public schools. In response, the city government of Tuguegarao
completed the facilities and amenities of the Tuguegarao People’s Gymnasium with 4,000 seating
capacity.
34
Protective Services
The presence of government protective services is most evident in the city. In addition to the 68-man
police force stationed in the City Hall Compound in Centro 3 in the Poblacion, the city has two
military camps (Camp Marcelo Adduru and Camp Tirso Gador) and ten security agencies with
combined force of 242 security guards. Thirty one barangays have organized Barangay Tanod
brigades with a combined force of 272 Barangay Tanods who assist in the keeping of peace and
order in the barangays, especially during nighttime, disasters and other occasions.
Housing
Housing in Tuguegarao City is largely provided by the private sector. Presently the housing situation
in the city is a little less than adequate prompting the National Housing Authority (NHA) to
undertake an 845-unit housing joint venture with a region-based developer and the Heirs of Jose
Carag. The City Government of Tuguegarao, in a joint venture with NHA, has also completed, by
administration, the 94-unit, lowcost housing project known as the Sunshine Valley Homes.
Social Welfare
Generally, the core families of Tuguegarao City take care of their own social welfare cases. Some of
these cases are so well supported by their families that they are still as productive and as capable as
persons without disabilities are.
The city, in coordination with the Kapisanan ng Maykapansanan sa Pilipinas, Inc. (KAMPI) and the
Danish National Society of Polio and Accident Victims (PTU), established the Stimulation and
Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) for the rehabilitation of the poor disabled children of
Tuguegarao. STAC provides for free the necessary rahabilitation and therapy that are considered
expensive alternatives to the traditional “hilot”.
Environmental Management
As in most urban centers, Tuguegarao City has its share of problems of garbage, drainage and
environmentally critical areas. The only advantage it enjoyed is that it had the chance to seriously
study its conditions in an integrative manner and developed reasonable and attainable solutions to
such undesirable conditions before complete degradation set in.
Transport
Tuguegarao City is a transport pivotal point in Northern Luzon, whereby one can travel to any point
in Luzon from Tuguegarao City. The city has three circumferential roads for traffic management.
There are 15 bus companies, with both air-conditioned and ordinary buses, servicing Tuguegarao
City, along with numerous mini-buses, vans and jeepneys. There are also tricycles and calesas plying
Tuguegarao city and the immediate surrounding municipalities of Solana, Peñablanca and Iguig.
Mainly, they service the city proper and its outlying barangays. Rural barangays are now served by
jeepneys for intra-municipal commuting.
35
The Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport is modern facility at 21.036 mters or 69 feet asl and is
capable of servicing a 737 jet plane. Small aircrafts, helicopters and army cargo planes also utilize the
airport.
From Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport, air transport service is provided by the CHEMTRAD
company at regular intervals. From Manila, three weekly flights on Mondays- Wednesdays and
Fridays are being provided by Asian Spirit and Air Philippines. Asian Spirit also flies to Basco,
Batanes on the same days.
Water transportation is very minimal and only small bancas are being used for fishing and to ferry
work animals and produce.
Power
Power supply for Tuguegarao City is being provided by the Cagayan Electric Cooperative I
(CAGELCO I), which is wholly dependent on the National Power Corporation (NPC). The NPC has
a sub-station in Barangay Larion Alto of Tuguegarao City.
Water
The Tuguegarao Water District serves the potable water requirements of the entire city utilizing TWD
finances. National Irrigation Administration (NIA) provides the irrigation requirements to some 80
hectares farm land while other sources are from small water impounding dams, deep wells, shallow
tube wells and open source pumps. DAR has also provided a Communal Pump Irrigation Project
which services an area of 202 hectares.
Communication
Tuguegarao City is
serviced by PLDT, BUTEL, RCPI and PT&T. PAGASA provides
meteorological services for the region from the Provincial Capitol Compound in Tuguegarao City.
The following provide postal service requirements, door-to-door delivery:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Philippine Postal Corporation (PPC) (with FAX Services)
Luzon Brokerage Corp (LBC)
Jet Reliable Services (JRS)
Aboitiz Air
Air 21 or FedEx
Radio Stations:
Amplitude Modulation (AM) = 6
Frequency Modulation (FM) = 5
36
Three cable television companies and one regional television station (ABS-CBN) service 100 % of
the urban and 80 % of rural households in the city. The entire city is served by more than 25 video
centers.
Majority of the national newspapers and magazines are available in Tuguegarao City, on a daily basis
delivered by land and air, while four local newspapers are printed in the city.
Local Government Administration
The City Government of Tuguegarao is among the very few Philippine LGUs that generate more
local revenues than the Internal Revenue Allocation that it receives from the National Government as
its share in the national taxes collected locally. This enables the city to implement more projects and
render more services than could be expected.#7-04
Isabela
BRIEF HISTORY
It is believed that the history of the province dates back over 25,999 years ago with the Stone-age
race of dark skinned kinky haired pigmies whose descendants, the nomadic Aetas (Negritos), can still
be found roaming the mountains and forests of Eastern Isabela today. The Indonesians arrived 5,000
years ago, followed by three waves of Malays between 200 BC and 1,500 AD. These pagan
ancestors of the Ibanags, Gaddangs, Yogads, Kalingas and other indigenous tribes of the valley built
a civilization based on corn agriculture and organized around the fundamental political unit, the
barangay.
The Spaniards arrived in the late 16th and 17th centuries and introduced Christianity, encomienda
(forerunner of the municipality) and the tobacco monopoly. Spanish rule was extremely oppressive
so the natives rose in revolt on several occasions, most notably in the 18th century under the
leadership of Dabo and Marayag.
According to Fr. Ambrocio Manaligod, STD, from 1851, the Spanish conquistadores established the
“Ciudad de Nueva Segovia” in what is called Lallo today. Up to 1839, the entire Cagayan Valley was
one large province which the Spaniards called “La Provincia del Valle de Cagayan”. Out of this vast
territory, two new provinces were created in 1839. One retained the old name “cagayan” which
comprised all towns from Aparri to Tumauini. Its capital transferred from Lallo to Tuguegarao. The
one bearing the name “Nueva Vizcaya” was composed of all towns from Ilagan to the Caraballo del
Sur including Catalangan and Palanan, with Camarag (now Echague) as its capital.
A Royal Decree was created in May 1, 1856 creating “Isabela de Luzon” to distinguish it from other
“Isabela” in the Philippines. It comprised the town of Carig (now Santiago City), Camarag (now
Echague), Angadanan (now Alicia), Cauayan, Calanusian, (now Reina Mercedes) , Gamu and Ilagan
were detached from Nueva Vizcaya; while Tumauini and Cabagan were taken from the Province of
Cagayan. It was placed under the jurisdiction of a governor with capital seat at Ilagan up to the
present.
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A new wave of immigration began in the late 19th and 20th century with the arrival of the Ilocanos
who came in large numbers. They now constitute the largest group in the province. Other ethnic
groups followed and Isabela became the “melting pot of the north”.
Although the province did not play a major role in the revolt against Spain, it was in Palanan where
the final pages of the Philippine revolution was written when the American forces led by General
Frederick Funston captured General Emilio Aguinaldo on March 23, 1901.
The Americans built schools and other buildings and instituted changes in the overall political
system. The province’s economy, however remained particularly agricultural with rice replacing corn
and tobacco as the dominant crop. World War II stagnated the province’s economic growth but it
recovered dramatically after the war.
Isabela today is one of the premier provinces of the north, one of the more progressive in the country
and Santiago, the commercial center of Region 02 has been declared an independent-component city
thru a plebiscite last July 3, 1994 under RA 7720.
OVERVIEW
Isabela, the biggest province in the Cagayan Valley Region is now one of the premier provinces of
the north. It is called the Rice Granary of the North having been adjudged as the most Outstanding
Province in Food Security in the Gawad Sapat Ani Awards 2000 conducted by the Department of
Agriculture. It is also home to the famous Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park, a protected seascape
and landscape of exceptional biodiversity.
Santiago City, the commercial center of Region 02 has been declared an independent-component city
thru a plebiscite last July 3, 1994 under Republic Act 7720.
Cauayan City, the trading center in Isabela, is also a component city ratified in a majority vote on
March 30, 2001.
Geography
Home to the Yogads and Gaddangs, the province is divided into three physiographic areas. The
eastern area, straddled by the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, is rugged and thickly forested.
Substantial portion is uncharted and unexplored hinterlands and home to a rich variety of flora and
fauna while some are government reservations.
The western area is a sprawling fertile valley hemmed by the Central Cordillera and is criss-crossed
by the mighty Cagayan, Siffu and Magat Rivers. Its mountains rise to a peak of about 6,000 feet and
is home to one of the world’s largest remaining low-altitude rainforests with numerous unknown
endemic species of flora and fauna and exceptional biological diversity. The area is popularly known
as the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park (NSMNP).
Location
38
The province is located in the northeastern part of Luzon. It is bounded on the north by the Province
of Cagayan, on the south by Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino and Aurora, on the west by the Provinces of the
Cordillera Administrative Region and on the east by the Pacific Ocean.
Area and Population
Isabela comprises an aggregate land area of 10,665 square kilometers, representing almost 40 percent
of the regional territory. It is the largest province in the region and the second largest province in the
country in terms of land area. Based on the year 2000 census of population, the province has a
population of 1,287,575 with population density of approximately 120.73 persons per square
kilometer.
Climate
Generally, the province has two types of climate. The eastern and coastal areas experience moderate
rainfall more or less distributed throughout the year while Western Isabela has more pronounced wet
and dry seasons. The average temperature is recorded at 27.1 degrees Celsius.
Political Subdivision
The province has 35 municipalities and two cities, 1055 barangays and is divided into four
congressional districts. Santiago is an independent-component city while Cauayan is a component
city, Ilagan is the capital town while Cauayan is the industrial center.
Language/Dialect
Major dialects in Isabela are Ilocano followed by Ibanag, Yogad and Gaddang. People especially in
the capital and commercial centers speak and understand English and Pilipino.
Major Industries
Agriculture is the major industry of the people of Isabela. Farming is highly mechanized as most of
the agricultural lands are irrigated.
With the presence of the Isabela State University, joint ventures and other foreign assisted projects
are viable while the Magat Dam Tourism Complex contribute to the high productivity in agriculture.
It is also the hub of trade and commerce and other economic activities due to its central location in
the region. The wood industry used to be a top earner for the province but due to the logging ban
imposed in the Cagayan Valley Region, activities in this industry considerably declined. However,
furniture making using narra and other indigenous forest materials/products like Gmelina continue to
exist.
Potential investments are in fisheries and tourism. Isabela has a fertile fishing ground on the Pacific
Coast. The reservoir of the Magat Dam is utilized for fishcage operations for tilapia production for
domestic market. Tourism is relatively a new industry being developed in the province especially in
the coastal areas. Support services and accommodation facilities are likewise being developed.
39
ACCESSIBILITY BY AIR
1. Cauayan Airport is the base of CYCLONE Airways with routes to Palanan, Maconacon and
Dinapigue.
Contact Person: Capt. Honorio ‘Bong’ Camposagrado
President /Gen. Mngr
Address:
Cauayan Airport
Cauayan, Isabela
Tel. (078) 6520913
Fax. (078) 652-2368
REACT Frequency: 1650 Century
Contact: Monet
No. of Planes: 3; 6 Seater plane
Fare: P1,200.00/pax
2. CHEMTRAD Aviation Corportation
Tuguegarao Domestic Airport
Tel. (078) 844-3113
Address:
Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Natural
BONSAI FOREST at Sumanget, Dinapigue is about 20,000 hectares. The area is accessible by land
transport from Baler in Aurora Province and by air from Cauayan Airport.
STA. VICTORIA CAVES Environmental School (SaVES) is the former Fuyo National Park which features naturally
formed lattices and sparkling rock formations. Visitors are given lectures, allowed to plant their own seedlings and given
certificates. Within the area is the Pinzal Falls conducive for swimming. The park is 15 kilometers from Ilagan town
proper.
Members of the National media posing upon arrival beside a Cyclone Airways lightplane at Palanan Airstrip
NORTHERN SIERRA MADRE NATURAL PARK is the largest protected area in the country with
more than 300,000 hectares of rainforest and is the lowest at 800 feet above sea level. Declared
number 1 in biodiversity but also one of the 10 biodiversity “hotspots” in the world. Researches
conducted in the Park by national and international organizations concerned with environmental
preservation showed the existence of unknown and unnamed species of flora and fauna. A confirmed
habitat of the Philippine Eagle and the Cloud Rat. Its coastal areas host whales and dolphins and
other cetaceans. Ideal for scuba diving and other water sports. A mountaineering/trekking challenge!
The place is accessible by light aircraft from Cauayan Airport, pumpboat from Sta. Ana in Cagayan
40
and Baler in Aurora Province and trekking from San Mariano, Cauayan and Ilagan in Isabela. It is
also accessible by air transportation from Tuguegarao Airport through CHEMTRAD.
Man-Made
SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF THE VISITATION IN GUIBANG, GAMU houses the Miraculous
Lady of the Visitation. Guibang Church is located along the national highway of Gamu, Isabela and
frequently visited by travelers passing along Maharlika Highway. It is now as famous as the the
Shrine of Piat Basilica Minore because it comes alive on July of every year when religious pilgrims
from all walks of life come to offer the prayers of thanks to God through Mary and to ask for another
year of good health, peace and abundance. The image of Our Lady of the Visitation was canonically
crowned by the Most Rev. Carmine Pocco, papal Nuncio to the Philippines on May 26, 1973 at the
St. Ferdinand Cathedral in Ilagan, Isabela. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines at its
52nd Bishop’s Annual meeting held in Tagaytay City on January 24-26, 1986 have approved the
petition of His Excellency, Most Rev. Miguel Purugganan, Bishop of Ilagan, for the church of Our
Lady of the Visitation of Guibang to be called a National Shrine.
PARISH CHURCH OF ST. MATHIAS IN TUMAUINI was built in 1753 under Dominican
Supervision and was completed in 1805. It is an ultra-baroque church unique for its extensive use of
baked clay both for wall finishing and ornamentation. Clay bricks come to life in concentric circles
on the façade, spiral curves on the finial serpentine reliefs and many finely molded details – flowers,
foliage, surfaces, cherubs and saints. Its architecture bears Chinese ancestry. This church of stone
features a unique cylindrical bell tower that is the only one of its kind in the Philippines. By virtue of
Presidential Decree No. 260 11 August 1973 as amended by Executive Order No. 357 14 January
1974 and No. 1505 11 June 1978, the church of Tumauini was declared a National Historical
Landmark on February 24, 1989.
OUR LADY OF ATOCHA CHURCH OF ALICIA – the first thing that the missionaries did in
coming to a place is to build a church and convent, generally, of light materials, which they improve
to become in later years massive structures of mortar, stones and bricks. Passing by Angadanan town
on February 12, 1805, Fr. Manuel Mora, OP wrote that “Angadanan has a convent of bricks, though
not totally finished. Its church is timber, wood and bamboo. The number of inhabitants is 791”. The
Church and convent which we see today in the town of Alicia, beautiful and solid, was built by Fr.
Tomas Calderon, OP and was inaugurated in 1849, with Fr. Francisco Gainza, OP, then vicar of Carig
(now Santiago City) famous for their antique Spanish architectural designs. These churches are along
the national highway and are very accessible by land transport
MAGAT DAM TOURISM COMPLEX (MAGAT HYDRO ELECTRIC POWER PLANT) is Asia’s
biggest dam project at the time of its construction. It serves the primary function of power
generation and irrigation. Construction started in the 70’s, the dam’s total cost is Php 6.5B (approx
$130 M) to include the dam itself, the powerhouse, office buildings and other related facilities. The
plant can generate a power of 360 megawatts for the entire Luzon Grid and is capable of irrigating
102,000 hectares of agricultural land, Its reservoir area of 4,450 hectares has a great potential for
water-based recreation like fishing, swimming, boating and water skiing among others. The plant is
accessible by passenger jeepneys and buses from Santiago City.
41
ST. CLAIRE MONASTERY, Gamu, Isabela is a contemplative community of the Poor Claire sisters
from Cabuyao, Laguna established in 1991. The Poor Claire Monastery of Our Lady of the Eucharist
is located along the Maharlika Highway, a few meters from the National Shrine of Our Lady of the
Visitation of Guibang.
SAN PABLO CHURCH. The church was built in 1624; its lofty bell tower of six layers including the
circular apex is made of adobe and is said to be the oldest in the province and its bell tower is the
tallest in the Cagayan Valley. San Pablo, the oldest town of Isabela was founded by Padre de Sto.
Tomas, 210 years before Isabela was made a province.
St. ROSE DE LIMA CHURCH in GAMU, ISABELA is famous for its Spanish Architectural
designs. Built in 1726 during the Spanish times. The church façade was made of layered bricks and
stones dating back during the 17th century and is considered a pilgrimage church because of its
antiquity. The feast of the Patronal Saint of Gamu is celebrated every August 23 of the year
ISABELA MUSEUM AND LIBRARY was inaugurated last May 11, 1999 and is housed at the old
capitol building in Ilagan. It is the repository and custodian of the rich historical and cultural heritage
of Isabelinos. It features a gallery exhibit-collection of antiques such as artifacts, fossils, ethnographic
items, heirloom pieces, visual arts (photographs, paintings, sculpture, graphic arts); dioramas
depicting the history and cultural heritage of Isabela, miniature models of provincial landmarks and
other historical documents and materials relative to the cultural heritage of the Isabelinos. It is open
from Mondays to Saturdays at 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
ISABELA SPORTS COMPLEX was used during the staging of the 1993 Palarong Pambansa
ISABELA PROVINCIAL CAPITOL stands beside the Isabela Sports Complex located along the
National Highway, Alibagu, Ilagan. Boasts of modern architecture and was built in 1992 at a cost of
Php 150 M.
WORLD’S LARGEST BUTAKA built at a cost of Php 175,000 for 29 days using a total of 1,762
board feet of seasoned narra, 1,740 feet – 1 inch diameter rattan. It is 11.4 feet tall; 9.7 feet wide and
20.8 feet long and weighs 2,368 kilos.
ST. FERDINAND CATHEDRAL of Ilagan, Isabela is located along the national highway, its
premises is a good venue for wedding receptions.
Historical
AGUINALDO SHRINE in Palanan, Isabela is the historical place where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo was
captured by the American forces, thus ending the Philippine Revolution in 1901. It is accessible by
aircraft, pumpboat or trekking thru Sta. Ana, Cagayan, San Mariano/Cauayan and Ilagan, Isabela
respectively.
LONG LIST OF TOURISM ATTRACTIONS/ DESTINATIONS
Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park
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a. Dinapigue
 Bonsai Forest
 Dibulo Falls
b. San Mariano

Dibulo Falls

Rapids and Hydro Power Site
c. Palanan

Aguinaldo Park/Shrine

Digoyo Cave

Digoyo Point

Dicangrayan Falls

Dominalno Lake

Disadsad Falls

Hagdan na Bato

Ancient Burial Site at Brgy.
Dimolit (Archeological Site)

Palanan Wilderness/Rainforest

Payong na Bato

Sabang Area/Island

Sisangkilan Falls

Tatlong Bato

Tumarindik

White Beach

Culasi Beach
d. Divilacan

Bicobian Cove

Honeymoon Island
e. Tumauini
 Antagan Caves
f. Ilagan
 Sta. Victoria Caves
 Fuyot Springs
SPECIAL INTEREST
Trekking, mountaineering, camping and exploration at Palanan, Dinapigue, Maconacon and
Divilacan forest area
Diving and snorkeling at Dicotcotan Beach
43
River Cruise at Palanan River
Crocodile Watching (Crocodylus Mindorensis) at San Mariano at night.
Marine Habitat Appreciation: Pristine Mangrove, coral reefs, diving, snorkeling and swimming
Terrestrial Habitat Appreciation: trekking and bird watching (Philippine eagle and cloud rat, golden
crowned flying fox)
Festivals
a. Isabela Day: Bambanti Festival – May 10
Bambanti Festival (Araw ng Isabela, 1856)-May 10-11 was derived from the Ilocano word
“Bambanti” which means Scarecrow which is aplenty in the vast rice and cornfields of Isabela.
Bambanti is an object made of rice and corn straw molded, shaped and dressed up to look like a
person set up to scare birds away from the crops. The Isabelinos believe that the presence of
scarecrows in the fields helped them reap bountiful harvest. Dancers move to the beat of drums,
gongs and other musical instruments imitating the movement of Scarecrows being swept by the
wind or sometimes tied to a string and moved by the farmer.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
Sabutan Festival, Palanan – March 23
Binallay Festival, Ilagan – May 29
Feast of Our Lady of Guibang – July 1-2
Baka Festival, San Pablo –January 15
Panci’ Festival, Cabagan – January 24
Pinilisa Festival, Jones –March 17
Bacao Festival, Echague – March 20
Nuang Festival, San Agustin – September 26
Pagay Festival, Roxas – July 4
See Attachments for ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES
BEST BUYS
Rice cakes (Ilagan: Binallay and Patupat, Naguilian: Bibingka, Cabatuan: Muriekos, Jones: Red –
upland Rice… etc)
SUPPORT SERVICES
Health Services
There are 34 hospitals and clinics in the Province of Isabela
1. De Vera Hospital
44
Santiago City
2. Callang Gen. Hospital
Santiago City
3. Ester Garcia General Hospital
Cauayan, Isabela
4. Dumlao Hospital
Osmeña St., Vira, Roxas, Isabela
Tel. (078) 642-8266
5. Flores Clinic & Hospital
16 Abauag St., Villasis, Santiago City
Tel. (078) 682-6473
6. Gines Hospital
Roxas St., Cauayan City, Isabela
Tel. (078) 634-5216
Police Stations
All the municipalities of the province have Police Stations and are located in conspicuous places.
Communication Facilities
1. Government Regional Telephone System in the towns of Ilagan, Cabagan, Tumauini, Cabatuan,
San Mateo and Cauayan
2. PLDT Stations are available at Ilagan, Cauayan and Echague
3. PT&T stations are avilable at Cauayan, Ilagan, San Mateo and Roxas
4. RCPI Stations are available at Ilagan, Cauayan and Roxas
5. All municipalities have Butel Stations , PT & T and RCPI servicing nearby towns with additional
messengerial fee
Banks
1. Allied Bank – Cauayan
Tel.652-2243
With ATM Facility
2. DBP- Ilagan
Tel. 624-2231
3. Bank of Commerce- Cauayan
4. Equitable PCI Bank - Cauayan
45
5. Metro Bank & Trust Co.- Cauayan
Tel. 634-2201
Metro Bank & Trust Ilagan
6. First Bank- Cauayan
Tel. 634-2075
7. RCBC- Cauayan
8. PCI Bank-Cauayan
9. United Coconut Planters Bank- Cauayan
10. Philippine National Bank- Ilagan
Tel. 624-2045
PNB-Cauayan
Tel. 634-2025
PNB- Roxas
11. Land Bank of the Phils. – Cauayan
Tel.652-2071
ELECTRIC AND WATER SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE IN ALL MUNICIPALITIES
TOURISM ORGANIZATION
1. Provincial Tourism Council
Atty. Bagnos Tactay-President
Tels (078) 652-22-65
2. Homestay Association in Isabela
See Annex
3. Provincial Tourism Office
C/o Ma. Rosario Oliva M. Olaño
Provincial Tourism Officer
Ilagan, Isabela
Tel (078) 624-0325
CP# 0920-287-5403
Telefax: (078) 622—0955
Email: boots3019@yahoo.com
MS. ALMA BELLA CASTILLO
Executive Assistant to Gov. Grace PADACA
Email: alge0303_tutsy@yahoo.com
Telefax: (078) 622-0955
46
4. Municipal Tourism Office of Divilacan
Ms. Natalie C. Bombarda
CP # 0921-269-4026
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
o RENT-A-CAR
Name of Owner:
Romac or
contact Jhun Rivero
Telephone No: (078)634-5020/52486
Kind of Vehicle:
L-300 Van
Manila Office: 41 Scout Limbaga,
Quezon City
Telephone No: 995150/966612
Kind of Vehicle:
Pajero; Toyota
Coaster, Toyota Corolla & Mitsubishi
Lancer
o ROMAC Rent-A-Car
Contact Person:
Mr. Jhun Rivero
Isabela Hotel
Cauayan Isabela
Telephone N.: (076) 634-5020-652-2486
Unit Available:
L-300
Particulars:
24hrs. =P3,000.00
Exceeding Hours = P200.0/hour
With Driver-excluding gasoline
Other Units:
Toyota Coaster for 30 pax
Toyota Corolla
Mitsubishi Lancer
o Greg’s Rent-A-Car
Ilagan, Isabela
CP: 0919-354-8106
Vehicles: Vans
Santiago City
BRIEF HISTORY
SANTIAGO CITY is the first component- independent city in the Cagayan Valley Region.
47
Historically, the city was called “El Pueblo de Carig” by the Spanish Dominican Friars who started
colonizing and christianizing the natives of the pueblo in 1597.
The earliest reference to the existence of Santiago de Carig was contained in the documents found in
the Dominican Archives of the University of Sto. Tomas that mentioned the Iyogads as
contemporaries of Santiago de Carig’s early population which consisted mainly of Ibanags and
Gaddangs.
Another favorable point confirming the existence of Santiago de Carig before 1743 was the DECREE
of request issued on October 30, 1713 which required the inhabitants of Carig, together with those of
Cordon, Diffun and Sta. Barbara de Lappao to give rice and money to the missionaries of the
province of the Holy Rosary run by the Sacred Orders of preachers with headquarters in Ituy and
Paniqui.
The term Pueblo ascribed to Santiago de Carig in the foregoing statement refers to the pre 1743 status
as a mission pueblo and not as a Spanish name of “Santiago de Carig” in honor of St. James the
Apostle whose feast day is celebrated July 25, back in 1743 and most probably earlier than that.
Further, historical records show that the Municipality of Santiago was officially created by Royal
Decree on May 1743.
Santiago became the first city in the region through the enactment of RA No. 7720 on May 5, 1994
converting the then municipality of Santiago into independent-component city.
OVERVIEW
Santiago City is the Premiere City in Cagayan Valley Region. Considered as the “Trade and
Commercial Center of Cagayan Valley Region”. Its strategic location makes it an important
destination for businessmen or would-be investors and tourist.
Santiago City, the Queen City of the North, is situated in the Province of Isabela and some 326
kilometers from Metro Manila. It is about an hour;s flight from Taiwan. Santiago City is generally
flat terrain. Flatlands with slopes ranging from 0-3 percent cover 80 percent of the land with gently
sloping to undulating terrain comprise about 17 percent of the city’s total land area.
Cultural Heritage
The Aborigines. Long before the Spanish conquistadors came to Isabela, the natives had already
woven a rich tapestry of culture from the strong and beautiful threads of beliefs, practices and
folkways that have been handed down from one generation to another.
The Ybanags and the Gaddangs were the first inhabitants of Carig. The former were dwellers along
the river (bannag) and the latter came from Paniqui, a barrio near Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya.
The Ilongots and the Aetas were also among the first dwellers of the old Carig. They were people
whose life centered on nature. They offered “atang” to the gods and were governed by the
48
movements of the moon and the sun. They believed that the rivers and trees spoke messages from the
anitos or spirits of their ancestors.
Geography
The land of Santiago City is gently rolling and is traversed by four major rivers. On the south, it is
bounded by the Municipality of Cordon, on the north by the Municipality of San Isidro, on the west
by the Municipality of Ramon and on the east by the Province of Quirino.
Location
Santiago City is 328 kilometers from Metro Manila and is accessible by land from any point in
Luzon. The city is strategically located in the Province of Isabela, one of the country’s main food
granaries and second largest province. Considered a melting pot, all roads in the four provinces of
Cagayan Valley lead to and out of it. And the influx of people and goods make the city the center of
trade and commerce in the region.
Climate
The climate of Santiago City is moderate (Type III), with an average of 1,049.9 mm rainfall and 127
rainy days per year. Relative humidity is 68% to 84% with the hottest temperature in June at 39
degrees Celsius and the coldest at 24 degrees Celsius in December and January.
Area and Population
The latest mid-decade census of population of Santiago City as of 1995 is 98,542 of which more than
half are living in the urban areas. The city has an annual growth rate of 2.5 percent. The city covers
an area of 255 square kilometers with 37 barangays.
Major industries
Santiago City has a total of 166.70 square kilometers of land devoted to agriculture with rice yielding
an average of 101,361 metric tons annually. The city is considered Isabela’s food basket. Livestock
production and poultry raising is also a major source of revenue. Burgeoning commerce saw the
number of business establishments go up to 2,525 including colleges and other educational
institutions, six movie houses and 18 banks capitalized at P121 Million. The four Investment Priority
Areas of the city are identified as follows:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Agro-Industrial Ventures
Construction Development & Support Facilities
Light & Medium Industries
Service-Oriented Industries
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
CALVARY HILLS and the CHURCH OF TRANSFIGURATION – located at Dariok Hills,
Barangay Balintokatok in Santiago City. The place offers a pilgrimage venue for the Holy Week
49
where life-size Stations of The Cross are presented from the foot of the hill going all the way up to
the top where a 19th century Chapel was so designed to face the rising sun. The chapel offers
pilgrims a commanding silence befitting a place of worship and can also be utilized for masses and
retreat venues.
BALAY NA SANTIAGO – houses the remnants of the present day urban glory that is Santiago
City. The museum showcases a collection of the ethno-linguistic lifestyle of those who made
Santiago the melting pot of culture that is today. It shows a glimpse of the past customs and traditions
that have united the multi-race Santiagueños. Balay na Santiago is located at the heart of the city
along Miranda Street. Contact Dr. Mila Ancheta at 0917-976-5320 for particulars
FESTIVALS:
1. Pattaraday Festival – is araw ng Santiago. Pattaraday which means UNITY in Ibanag Dialect is
celebrated on the occasion of the founding anniversary of the city of Santiago. It celebrates the ethnolinguistic groups that have emerged in the city to make it the melting pot of culture of Region 02 and
contributed to the city’s progress and development. Pattaradday 2006 won for Santiago City the 1st
Place in the National Search for Best Tourism Event conducted by the Association of Tourism
Officers of the Philippines in September 2006.
Accredited Dining Facilities
1. 48 House
#48 Daisy Street
Baptista Village
Calao East, Santiago City
Tel (078) 682-1148
2. Big Brothers Grill
National Highway Cor Carreon St.
Centro East, Santiago City
Tel. (078) 682-8187
REST AREA
1. DUBINAN PETRON SERVICE STATION
National Highway, Santiago City
Contact Person: Mr. Vicente Chai
2. FIVE J PETRON SERVICE CENTER
National Highway, Rizal
Santiago City
Contact Person: Mr. Jolly Zapata
3. AGUSTIN MEGA STAR SHELL SERVICE STATION
National highway (beside Jollibee)
Santiago City
50
SUPPORT SERVICES
Adequate telephone lines are provided by BUTEL, PLDT and Philphone with direct dialing facilities.
Domestic and inernational telegraph and telex are offered by RCPI, PT&T and the Bureau of
Telecommunications. LBC & JRS, both nationally reputable, provide parcel/package delivery
services.
Dependable and reliable utilities are basic to Santiago City: light and power from the Isabela Electric
Cooperative I (ISELCO I) AND water from the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA). The
Magat Dam delivers 360 megawatts of hydroelectric power to 3,700 concessionaires. Comprising the
media are two regular local newspapers, the Valley Times and Isabela Profile. There are three radio
stations – DWIP-FM, DWSI and DZYS both on the AM band and a local cable TV Station, CATV.
An added facility that can meet a variety of requirements is an oval-shaped coliseum that can
accommodate about 15,000 people. Initially designed as a sports complex it is also ideal for socials,
trade exhibitions, product launching, marketing promotions and other mass-based activities.
Banks
1. Far East Bank & Trust CO.
Tel. (078) 682-8376
2. Asia Trust Bank
Tel 9078)682-2855
3. Security Bank
Tel (078) 682-8142; 8590
4. PCI Bank
Tel (078) 682-8245
5. Bank of the Phil. Islands
Tel (078) 682-7219
6. Westmont Bank
Tel. (078) 682-7223
7. Philippine National Bank
Tel (078) 682-8196;682-7216
Hospitals
1. De Vera Hospital
2. Callang General Hospital
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
Mayor’s Office: TeleFax: (078) 682-8110; Tel: (078) 682-8342; 682-8367; 682-1819; 682-1817
DR. MILA ANCHETA
City Tourism Officer
51
City of Santiago
CP: 0917-976-5320
Tel: ()78) 682-4930
Email: mila1824@yahoo.com
Cauayan City
BRIEF HISTORY
Cauayan City is situated in the center of the big and naturally endowed Province of Isabela. The
town got its name from the word “Cauayan” meaning bamboo in the dialect of Gaddang, the early
settlers of this place. How it got its name is told vaguely by the natives in the tale about how the
early Spaniards who reached the place found abundant growths of bamboo plant along the creeks that
circled the town site namely Bulod, Sipat, Bungkol and Marabulig creeks where few families lived.
It was also a common sight to see crocodiles basking under the cluster of bamboo along the creeks in
the early morning sun.
Another version of how the town was named is this way: One day the miraculous image of the
Blessed Virgin Mary disappeared. For many weeks, a tireless search was undertaken but it was
nowhere to be found. Then one day in October the image was found along the bamboo groves. Not a
single sign of mishandling or scratch was detected on the image.
Cauayan used to be a big municipality in terms of land area. However, with the creation of the
neighboring municipalities of Luna (Antatet), Cabatuan, Reina Mercedes (Callering), Aurora and San
Mateo, its land areas was reduced to about 336.40 square kilometers.
Cauayan was an original town of the Province of Cagayan,. It was transferred to Nueva Vizcaya when
it became a province in 1839. Upon the creation of Isabela as a province by a Royal Decree issued in
May 1856, it was reverted as a town of the province. The town site was first located in a place called
Calanusian along the Cagayan River, but after a series of disastrous floods, the town site was
transferred to its present location.
Vague and little information gathered from living descendants of the early inhabitants tell that few
families lived in the place and three of the early natives were Enrique Baligod, Sebastian Canciller
and Salvador Macaballug. Enrique Baligod was the head of the group of the early settlers. He was
succeeded by Sebastian Canciller who served for two terms as “Gobernadorcillo”.
In 1866, a friar by the name of Father Paulino became the Curate of the town. He put up “guita” or
chapel, preached God’s words and baptized the people. He put semblance of government by
appointing Fructoso Gannaban as Gobernadorcillo. Sparse settlements are found along the Cagayan
river and these barrios were Turayong, Labinab, Duminit, Baringin and Culalabat, believe to be the
first barrios of Cauayan. Father Miguel Bonnet replaced Father Paulino who left for Manila. He
proved to be a good missionary of God and leader. It was during his leadership that a big adobe and
stone church was constructed. As the years passed, the town became well-known for its tobacco
farmlands of the Tabacalera’s Hacienda de San Luis.
52
Historical structures still visible to this day are the big adobe stone church located at the Poblacion
and the Tabacalera warehouse and La Insular bodegas found at Barangay Turayong that date their
construction during Spanish rule.
With the establishment of the government under the United States of America, Don Domingo
Damatan was appointed as the first “presidente municipal”. During the Commonwealth, or transitory
period before independence the town had the following elected municipal mayors: Guillermo Blas
and Federico Acio. The first elected municipal mayor after the inauguration of the Republic of the
Philippines was Mayor Jose Africano.
It was during the administration of Mayor Faustino N. Dy, from 1964 to 1972, that the municipality
started to bounce from a rather slow development. The town’s development continued at an even
faster pace under Mayor Benjamin G. Dy (1983-1992) who envisioned the municipality to become a
city. The vision became a reality under Mayor Faustino G. Dy, III who saw through the introduction
of House Bill No. 9017 and which was signed by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal
Arroyo on February 28, 2001. Cauayan became a component city of the Province of Isabela after it
was ratified in a plebiscite by a majority vote on March 30, 2001.
Geography
One of the two cities of the Province of Isabela, it is centrally located and is bounded by eight
municipalities: on the north by Reina Mercedes; on the northeast by Naguilian (15.04 kms); on the
east by Benito Soliven; on the Southeast by San Guillermo; on the south by Angadanan; on the
southwest by Alicia; and on the northwest by Luna (7.19 kms) and Cabatuan (11.7 kms). From
Cauayan City, Ilagan is 34.5 kms away and San Mateo is 23.50 kms away. From the regional center,
Tuguegarao City, it is 117 kms away and Manila is approximately 375 kms or seven hours by land
and less than an hour by plane.
Land Area
Cauayan City has an area of 336.40451 sqaure kilometers and ranks as the tenth highest in terms of
land area among the 38 Local Government Units of the Province of Isabela.
Topography
The southeastern portion of the City is mountainous while the western and central portion are plains.
Portions of the north and the northeastern areas have gently sloping relief. Moderately undulating and
gently rolling areas are found on the eastern portion of the city
Climate
Type III climate prevails in Cauayan City with no pronounced season (wet from July to January) and
Type IV with even distribution of rainfall throughout the year.
Population
53
As of May 1, 2000, the registered population of the City is 103,952 with an annual growth rate of
2.43%
Languages
Most of the Cauayanos speak Ilocano (74.91%) while the rest speak Tagalog (14.14 %); Gaddang
(6.38%) and Ibanag (1.59%).
SUPPORT SERVICE
Although not a tourist destination, Cauayan City is proud to be a tourist stopover. It has 10 clean
hotels, 2 movie theaters, a bowling alley; 6 billiard halls, 7 resorts, 10 gasoline refilling stations with
clean restrooms, 11 pawnshops, 6 disco houses, 3 lotto outlets, one cable TV supplier, inter facilities
and considerable number of restaurants and fastfoods outlets. There are also shopping centers,
supermarkets, an airport plus unequalled hospitality of Cauayenos.
See ATTACHMENTS for DOT-ACCREDITED ESTABLISHMENTS
FESTIVAL:
1. Gawagaway-yan Festival of Cauayan City is a celebration of the city’s bountiful livelihood and
merriment for the ethno-linguistic groups residing in Cauayan. It also traces and gives due
recognition to the ancestry of Cauayenos from the ethno linguistic group called Gaddang and
recognizes the diversity of the cultural groups residing in Cauayan City through streetdancing, float
parade and other indigenous activities.
Peace and Order
Peace and order is maintained by an efficient two-time national awardee police force, and three-time
national awardee as outstanding police station. The LGU also won twice as Outstanding Peace and
Order Council of the Philippines. Assisting them are the barangay tanod brigades, the 133rd Mobile
Force Company, the Philippine Public Safety College, and the composite Air Support Force of the
Philippine Air Force. Other NGOs who are likewise involved are the PARAC, IVAC, MACHO,
REACT and PUGAD LAWIN.
Education/Literacy
Literacy rate in the City is 94.07 %. There are five public primary schools, 65 elementary schools and
13 secondary schools. Colleges include Our Lady of the Pillar University; Isabela Colleges; Isabela
College of Arts and Technology; AMA Computer Learning Center and Isabela State University
Cauayan City Campus.
Employment
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The total labor force of the City of Cauayan as of 2001 is 63,525 with agriculture representing
34,816 workers or 66.15%; service sector = 11,200; Trade and Commerce = 3,395; Construction
workers = 1,463; Manufacturing = 1,321 and Fishing = 274.
Transportation and Communication
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Public Utility jeeps and tricycles especially in the poblacion and nearby barangays
Buses to and from Metro Manila passes through Cauayan City round the clock
Telephone service providers: Smart; Globe; PLDT, RCPI, DIGITEL, PT&T and Bayantel
Express Mail: Philpost; JRS Express; LBC; DCI Express and EXL Express
Five broadcast stations including GMA TV Arts
PNP Hotline:
NBS Stations: DWND FM & DWDY AM
Mr. Ysmael Atienza
Station Manager
Minante I. Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-2047
BAY RADIO
Baycomms Broadcasting Corp
Rowena Gumiran
Station Manager
Rizal Avenue, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-0680
DWWC AM Vanguard Station
Ms. Emmy T. Matias
OIC Station Manager
National Highway, Cauayan City
Tel (078) 652-2791
Star FM & DZNC AM
Bombo Radyo Philippines
Ms. Charmie Sabigan
Station Manager
Minante II, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-3340; 652-3341
Water and Electricity
Metro Cauayan Water District (MCWD) provides potable water while power is supplied by ISELCO
I. 64 out of 65 or 90.70 % of the barangays are energized.
CAUAYAN CITY WATER DISTRICT
Africano cor Burgos Street
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Cauayan City
Engr. Artemio Quintero
General Manager
Tel No. (078) 652-2196
ISELCO I
Pilar Street, Cauayan City
Mr. Rosario Cadiente
Branch Manager
Tel: (078) 652-2159
Agricultural Resources
The area covered for agricultural resources is 19,959.7065 hectares or 59.33% of the total land area
of Cauayan City. Crops include palay, corn, cassava and camote, vegetables and fruit bearing trees
Livestock and Poultry
The area being utilized for livestock and poultry is 1,122.61 hectares and the year 2001 production in
metric tons are as follows: Beef = 417.096MT ; Swine = 1,559.113MT; poultry meat = 1,082.82 MT
Fishery
The fishery area of Cauayan City is 112 hectares and with a production of 549.84 metric tons of
tilapia valued at Php 30,241,200. 55 Fishpond cooperators of Cauayan City are maintaining 110,500
square meters of inland fishponds and 6 fish processing establishments are engaged in smoke-fish
making.
Commerce and Trade
One of the financial centers of Region 02, it has 16 banks catering to the needs of commerce, trade
and industry and home to the only all-Filipino soft drinks company – the Cosmos Bottling
Corporation. The city is also the host of the regional sales office of the San Miguel Corporation,
Nestle and Magnolia. Cauayan Public Market is a recipient of the prestigious Philippine Health
Promotions Program Award after having been adjudged as “The Healthiest Public Market” for the
provincial and regional level, and also received the “Cleanest Wet Section” Award Provincial and
regional category on March 2001.
Tourism
Cauayan City boasts of abundant farm produce ranging from cultured mushrooms, high value crops,
vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants and the first freshwater prawn hatchery farm in the Cagayan
Valley Region.
Visit the Our Lady of the Pillars Church of Cauayan City and be awed by its modern interiors and
preserved brick exteriors. Be prepared for a day of sightseeing, food trip and shopping starting at the
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mushroom center in Barangay Tagaran where mushrooms can be bought from mushroom farms and
learn about its scientific production and the various by-products produced from mushrooms. Drive to
the “Gulayan ng Bayan” at Barangay Gagabutan where homeowners have hectares upon hectares of
vegetable farms; learn to harvest and pay for your own ampalaya, eggplant, patola, okra and other
vegetables. Pick and pay your way at the Cortez Fruit Farm for pineapples, mangoes, papaya, and
bananas and enjoy an al-fresco lunch of freshly caught tilapia from the Cortez fishpond and eat-allyou can fresh fruits. Enjoy another outdoor trip in the afternoon at the Dacuycuy Farms where
imported ornamental plants (orchids and bromeliads ), and fruit trees (mango, tamarind, santol) and
bring home aromatic and green dwarf Philippine coconut tree seedlings. Learn the basics of giant
freshwater prawn production at the region’s first prawn hatchery farm. Guided city tours require
advance notice. Contact Ms. Maribel D. Eugenio, Mayor’s Office at 0926-204-4429.
Health Services and Facilities
1. Gines Hospital
Dr. Romulo Gines, Jr.
Roxas St., Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-2452
2. Cauayan Family Hospital
Dr. Marlene Aquino
District I, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-3399
3. Esther Garcia Gen Hospital
Dr. Esther Garcia
San Fermin, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-2694
4. Bucag General Hospital
Canciller Avenue, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-2350
5. EBM Lying in for Sick Children
Dr. Edwin B. Mauricio
Quezon Street, Cauayan City
6. City District Hospital
Dr. Manuel Beltran
Chief of Hospital
District 1, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-1100
7. Uy Medical Clinic
Dr. Edna B. Uy
District 3, Cauayan City
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Tel: (078) 652-2944
8. Cauayan OB-Gyne Medical Clinic
Dr. Susan Tan Calzada
Roxas Street, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-2980
9. Sto. Niño Pediatric Clinic
Dr. Wilda Binua
Roxas Street, Cauayan City
Tel : (078) 652-3334
10. Foronda’s Clinic
Dr. Rocky Foronda
Brgy. Turayong, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-2012
11. Segundo Medical Clinic
Dr. Flaviano Segundo
Puzon, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-3150
12. Cauayan Multi-Specialist Clinic
Dr. Sylvan Lorenzo
Rizal Avenue, Cauayan City
Tel: (078) 652-3306
13. City Health Centers I & II and its 30 BHS
14. Six private medical clinics
15. Twelve Private Dental Clinics
16. Seven Optical Clinics
17. A rehabilitation center for the disabled
18. Tuberculosis Microscopy Center
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE:
Ms. Maribel Dulin-Eugenio
City Tourism Officer
City of Cauayan
Telefax: (078) 652-2017
CP: 0926-204-4429
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Email: maribeldeugenio@yahoo.com
Nueva Vizcaya
BRIEF HISTORY
The Province of Nueva Vizcaya was named after the people living in the coast of Mar de Vizcaine in
Spain. From the beginning of the 19th century, it was a part of the vast “ Territorio de Missiones” of
the Spanish controlled government of Cagayan covering the eastern half of Northern Luzon from
Nueva Vizcaya to Aparri, including Batanes Islands which was one integral political unit with one
governor. In May 24, 1839, then Governor Luis Lardizabal upon the advice of the Alcalde Mayor of
Cagayan issued an order creating Nueva Vizcaya as a separate politico-military province. The order
was approved by a Royal Decree on April 10, 1841. Gov. Pedro Menchaca was the first appointed
governor. The province had its first taste of civil government in 1902 when it was reorganized by the
Philippine Commission.
The present territory of Nueva Vizcaya was the result of changes emanating from the formal creation
of the Province of Isabela in May 1856, wherein a great portion of its northern territory was ceded to
the newly born province.
The organization of the Province of Ifugao in 1908 further reduced the area of Nueva Vizcaya which
was forced to give up its northwest territory. The survey executed by the Bureau of Lands in 1914
further caused the diminution of its area again upon the enactment of Administrative Code of 1917.
Even with those slices of land given away to the new emerging territory, the Province of Nueva
Vizcaya still held a wide territory. But in 1971, with the passage of Republic Act No. 6394, Quirino,
which was then a sub-province of Nueva Vizcaya, was separated from its mother province and made
into a regular province.
OVERVIEW
Since its birth as a province its history could still be reflected from the culture and customs of the
early settlers, which included the Ilongots now called Bugkalots, Igorots, Ifugaos, Isinais and the
Gaddangs. The influx of civilization and the infusion of modern technology to the lifestream of the
province induced many immigrants from the adjacent provinces primarily Ilocanos, Tagalogs,
Pangasinenses, Kapampangans, and others to migrate to this province.
Located about 268 kilometers north of Metro Manila, the province is tagged to be the new
alternative destination for outdoor and environment enthusiasts. Considered a watershed haven, it is
70 percent forestland. It is strategically bounded by the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, Caraballo
Mountains and Cordillera Mountains and is also the gateway to the Cagayan Valley Region and the
eighth Wonder of the World, the Banaue Rice Terraces.
Geography
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Home of the Isinais, the Province of Nueva Vizcaya is located in the north-central part of Luzon in
Region 02, the southern gateway to Cagayan Valley. The terrain is characterized by numerous
mountains, forests and a considerable number of rolling hills, plains and valleys. Nueva Vizcaya is
surrounded by notable mountain ranges such as the Sierra Madre on the east, Caraballo on the south
and the Cordillera on the west. The province has several principal rivers: Magat, Matuno, Marang,
Sta. Fe and Sta. Cruz. All these rivers are tributaries of the Magat River which flows into the
Cagayan River.
Location
The province is bounded on the north and northeast by the province of Ifugao and Isabela on the east
and southeast by Qurino and Aurora, respectively, on the south by Nueva Ecija and on the west by
Benguet and Pangasinan.
Area and Population
Nueva Vizcaya occupies a land area of approximately 3,903.90 square kilometers which is about
10.72 percent of the regional land area and 1.30 percent of the total land area of the country. The
year 2000 census of population for Nueva Vizcaya was registered at 366,692
Climate
Nueva Vizcaya is relatively dry from November to April and relatively wet during the rest of the
year. Maximum temperature ranges from 22-25 degrees Celsius. December and January are the
coldest months when temperature falls to about 20 degrees Celsius while the warmest months are
April and May. Nueva Vizcaya is oftentimes referred to as lowland Baguio because of its pleasant
climate.
Political Subdivision
The Province of Nueva Vizcaya is considered as one congressional district. The province has 15
municipalities and 274 barangays. Bayombong is the provincial capital while Solano and Kayapa are
its commercial and summer capital, respectively.
Language/Dialects
Majority of the people speak Ilocano comprising 66.90 percent of the households.
Major Industries
The Province of Nueva Vizcaya has basically an agricultural economy with commerce, trade and
industry contributing to its growth and development. Among other major economic activities are
farming and cattle and swine raising. Primary crops are palay and corn. Minor crops are rootcrops,
vegetables and fruits. The province produces quality onions and vegetables which are often sold in
Metro Manila. Oranges and mangoes are now major crops being exported fresh to Asian countries.
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Best Time To Visit
Nueva Vizcaya experiences favorable climate year round. Because of this it is oftentimes referred to
as lowland Baguio. The province may therefore, be visited anytime of the year. Passenger jeepneys
and tricycles are the most common mode of trasport around the province.
Accessibility By Air
Bagabag Airport is accessible for all types of light aircraft.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Natural
MT. PULAG NATIONAL PARK, KAYAPA AND AMBAGUIO – the gateway to Mt. Pulag, the
country’s second highest peak at 2,922 meters above sea level. It is accessible by foot from the
capital town of Bayombong and is located west towards the boundary of Nueva Vizcaya and
Benguet Province. Using the trail of Ambaguio town which is 20 kilometers from Bayombong a
mountaineer will experience a different kind of terrain from gradual ascent to rugged trail under
mossy forests and cold temperature. Before reaching the peak, walk through an area of Bonzai
Forests and on top , grasslands of dwarf bamboos over a horizon of clouds. Mt. Pulag National Park
is a perfect eco-tourism destination and is home to rare plants such as the pitcher plant and animals
like the giant cloud rat and the whiskered pitta. Mt. Pulag also provides resources to four indigenous
tribes namely the Kalanguya, Ibaloy, Kankanaey and the Karao.
Mt. PALALI – at 1,705 meters asl, the municipalities of Quezon and Bayombong bound Mt. Palali.
Once the hunting ground of the Bugkalots, Gaddangs and the Ifugaos, this majestic mountain range
offers a magnificent view of the low-lying municipalities of the province. Its diptherocarp forest
contains unique diversity of flora and fauna (bonsai forest, wild orchids and flowers) and is
historically the crash site of a WWII tora-tora plane.
Mt. UGU – located at Kayapa town, this beautiful mountain offer trails that pass through native
communities of the Kalanguya tribes. This mountain is now becoming a new and favorite
mountaineering destination among outdoor enthusiasts both from Manila and locally based outdoor
and mountaineering organizations.
CAPISAAN CAVE SYSTEMS - the FIFTH LONGEST cave system in the country. Measuring 4.2
kilometers, the Lion and Alayan Caves in Malabing Valley, Kasibu are relatively new spots
frequented by an increasing number of cavers and mountaineers. Located in Brgy. Capissaan, in the
town of Kasibu, the two caves which are only a part of a cave network, has layers of chambers with
unique formations of stalagmites and stalactites. Geologists and speleologists have called it a
Geologists paradise because of the varying rare calcite formations inside these caves (helictites,
speleothems, straws, capers, columns, flowstones, etc.). Within 4 km length of this multi-chambered
cave is a subterranean river which doubles as a passageway to the best part of the cave. Ranked as
one of the best in the country. Tours can be arranged with the Sang-at Salug Mountaineering Club or
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the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya. Kasibu is about two hours from Bayombong by fourwheel drive vehicle. The Spelunking adventure tour also includes an orchard tour at Brgy. Malabing,
Kasibu, the citrus capital and where the famous perante oranges grow.
HEAVEN CAVE Brgy. Capisaan, Kasibu has two big chambers of various calcite formations and a
mezzanine of pure white limestones where one has to take off their footwear before exploration.
Brgy. Capisaan is about two hours by jeep from Solano on feeder and clay type soil road curved out
of mountain sides. Other caves in the area are Alayan, Lion and Sabrina caves.
IMUGAN WATERFALLS, Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya is a 35-feet two level falls with shallow catch
basin of refreshing mountain spring interestingly located between two mountains. Trek over streams
and rivers emanating from the falls. Enjoy trekking, exploration, swimming, fishing and cultural
immersion. The place is a 30 minute hike from the Imugan Poblacion. Imugan Poblacion and
Mountain Fresh Factory is about 30 minutes from the National Highway.
Historical
BALETE PASS/DALTON PASS is a rugged piece of terrain where a part of the Caraballo Sur
reach south and joins with the Sierra Madre. Because of its strategic importance as the only access
between Pampanga and Cagayan Valley, the pass became the scene of a much bloody fighting
during the final stages of World War II. Japanese soldiers tried to hold their positions while Filipinos
and Americans determined to dislodge them for half a year from January 1945. By the close of
hostilities, the blood of almost seventeen thousand Japanese fighting units and the US-Filipino allied
forces mingled with the soil. Markers that commemorate their sacrifice stand by the road’s highest
point, with good view into the headlands. Dalton Pass National Shrine is the reminder of the great
General Dalton who was killed by a sniper’s bullet during World War II. Located 3,000 feet above
sea level, Dalton Pass is also the gateway to the Cagayan Valley Region and the Ifugao Rice
Terraces.
KIRANG PASS is a monument in honor of the gallantry of the Japanese and Filipino soldiers during
World War II. It is located at Barangay Kirang, Municipality of Aritao, about 50 kilometers from
Bayombong. Built in 1978 by the Rakunsankai Society of Japan, it was recently rebuilt using a black
glazed stone. A memorial was engraved in the tablet in Japanese and English language. The Kirang
Pass has a breathtaking view of reforested mountains and hills.
Manmade
VILLA MARGARITA MOUNTAIN RESORT rests on rolling hills and has spring-fed pools and
water slides. The stress of a long travel is taken away by a well-deserved rest at the villa before
proceeding to one of the wonders of the world, the Banaue Rice Terraces which is still two hours
away. It is located some 260 kilometers from Manila along the Maharlika Highway at Barangay
Busilac, Bayombong.
ST. DOMINIC CATHEDRAL is a living vestige of the grandeur that was the old town. This
Catholic church was preserved to become the first cathedral in the province. Razed twice and rebuilt
in the same old site, it is now approximately twice its original size. The cathedral maintains the
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original 18th century Spanish style façade and as such a veritable treasure, a relic of the past for its
historic and aesthetic remains of a proud Christian past.
NUEVA VIZCAYA CAPITOL is decidedly a symbol of the noble aspirations, foresight and visions
of its builder, Gov. Patricio Dumlao. A study of architectural ingenuity, the capitol has a park with
exotic plant species, concrete benches and sidewalks lighted with giant mercury lamps, water pool
and a man-made lagoon ideal for rowing the colorful mini-boats that are offered for rent and managed
by a group of handicapables in the province. Located along the national highway, the 8-hectare area
houses all the provincial offices of national government.
St. VINCENT FERRER IN DUPAX DEL SUR is one of the oldest and biggest churches in North
Luzon constructed in the 18th century. It has a bell tower made of bricks and an underground museum
which houses centuries old church artifacts. Its construction was commissioned by two Augustinian
missionaries, Fathers Nicolas Norbante and Agustin de San Juan. The town has well-preserved
Spanish colonial monuments like the church’s belltower and the Dampol Bridge. In the ‘60’s the
Ilongots gave up head-hunting ways and started to call themselves Bugkalots in order to bury their
bloody but proud past. The Isinais, formerly called Mallats or Imaalats were gentle and easily
embraced Christianity. These facts were corroborated by the Nueva Vizcaya Heritage Foundation,
Inc. headed by former OIC Gov. Ruth Padilla. Beside the church is an acacia tree (semanea-Saman)
brought by some settlers from Nueva Ecija in 1880. It is one of the five mother trees planted in
Dupax del Sur and acclaimed as oldest acacia tree in Luzon. The church, declared by the National
Museum as a National Cultural Treasure is forty-five minute drive from Bayombong proper. It has
been declared by the National Museum as a National Cultural Treasure.
SPECIAL INTEREST
 Ecotourism Adventure (trekking/ spelunking) at Alayan Caves and Malabing Rainforest and
Citrus Farms, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya. and Ambaguio
 Trek Mt. Pulag Natural Park from Kayapa or Ambaguio; Mt. Palali from Quezon and Mt. Ugu
from Kayapa
BEST BUYS
Citrus fruits (oranges, mangoes, etc), Yakon, fresh vegetables, rattan crafts and furniture products
FESTIVALS
 Nueva Vizcaya Day – May 19-24
Panagyaman Festival (Nueva Vizcaya Day 1839) – May 19-24 celebrates the establishment of
the civil government of the Province with street dancing by the tribes, float parade, beauty
pageant, sports activities and an agri-industrial fair. Panagyaman Festival. The word
Panagyaman is an Ilocano word which means THANKSGIVING. Novo Vizcayanos are
thankful for the abundant blessings that the province has reaped for each year through its
awards, citations and also for abundant harvest in terms of agriculture. This is a week-long
festival featuring cultural presentations from the thirteen (13) identified indigenous tribes as
well as the conduct of special activities such as agro-industrial fair, street-dancing
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competitions, art exhibits for homegrown artists, concerts by local artists and promotion of
eco-tourism in the province.
 Citrus Festival, Kasibu – August or September (movable) The Citrus Festival of Kasibu is
celebrated to mark the abundant harvest of citrus products in Kasibu town. Visitors are invited to
pick –and – pay for the produce they fancy and are given a chance to observe the Kalanguya
Lifestyle.
 Kalanguya Festival - March
TRAVEL AGENCY
1. GOVERNOR’S HOUSE OF TRAVEL
Manzano St., Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. No. (078)326-5200/326-5166
Contact Person: Ms. Corina Ligot
Services Offered:
Inbound Tour Operator
Outbound/Travel Agency Operator
Local Tour Operator
Facilities:
Rent-a-Car
Coaster
Bus
See ATTACHMENTS for DOT-ACCREDITED ESTABLISHMENTS
REST AREA
1. CV PETRON SERVICE STATION
National Highway
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Contact Person: Mr. Cesar Valle
2. BAMBANG PETRON SERVICE STATION
National Highway, Bambang
Nueva Vizcaya
Contact Person: Mr. Ronald Bautista
3. SADDUL SHELL SERVICE STATION
National Highway, Bambang
Nueva Vizcaya
Contact Person: Ms. Zenaida Saddul
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SUPPORT SERVICES
Health Services
1. Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Hospital
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
2. Magsaysay District Hospital
Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya
3. Lt. Tidang Memorial Hospital
Kayapa del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya
4. Dupax District Hospital
Dupax del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya
5. Medical Mission Group
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
6. Veteran’s Regional Hospital
Magsaysay, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
7. Vicente Danguilan, M.D.
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Police Station
All municipalities have PNP Stations
Communication Facilities
1. Government Regional Telephone System
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
2. RCPI
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
3. International Communications Carrier (ICC)
4. Digitel Telecommunications (DIGITEL)
Banks
1. Metro Bank & Trust Comp
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078)326-5227
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2. Producers/First Bank
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078) 326-5577
3. Equitable PCI Bank
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078) 3264. Land Bank of the Philippines
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078)326-5672; 326-5673
5. Development Bank of the Phils.
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078)321-2170
6. Philippine National Bank
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078) 321-2270
Water and Electric Facilities are available
Newspapers and Magazines
1. Valley Journal
2. The Capitol News
TOURISM ORGANIZATIONS
1. Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Tourism Council
Chairman: Ms. Wilma Torralba
79 Dupan St., Brgy. Quirino
Solano, Nueva Vizcaya
Res. Tel. (078) 805-5517
2. Sang-at Salog Outdoor Club
Mr. Ulysis Paredes
President
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel/Fax (078) 805-2752
3. Sukisok Homegrown Hikers (SHH) and
Nueva Vizcaya Mountaineering Club
Mr. Leonardo Garlitos
Public Affairs & Information Assistance Division
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Province of Nueva Vizcaya
Capitol Bldg., Bayombong, N. Vizcaya
Tel. (078) 805-3898
4. Provincial Tourism Office
Province of Nueva Vizcaya
Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Museum & Library
Telefax (078) 805-3970
Email: nuevavizcayatourism@yahoo.com
GOOD BUYS:
Rattan crafts, fossilized flowers, gifts, toys and home decors, handmade clay jars.
Export quality mangoes and oranges, and other citurs fruits, vegetables, rice and seedlings of citrus
trees.
Contact: Mr. Joselito O. Garcia
Manager
Bambang Fruit & Vegetable Grower
MPCI, San Fernando Road
Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078)321-3171
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
RENT-A-CAR
Name of Owner: Magnolia or contact Romy Lo
Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya
Tel. (078) 321-3028/326-5332/326-5312
Vehicle: L-300 Van & Tamaraw FX
SECURITY SERVICES
Office of the Governor(078) 321-2551;2912
Fax
(078) 321-2758
Office of PPDO
(078) 321-2425
PIA Provincial Office (078) 321-2460
Fax
(078) 321-4063
Prov’l Tourism Office (078) 321-3970
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Quirino
BRIEF HISTORY
Quirino Province acquired its juridical personality as a result of the division of the Province of Nueva
Vizcaya and Isabela on June 18, 1966 under Republic Act 4734. Quirino was named in honor of the
late President Elpidio A. Quirino.
On June 21, 1969, RA 5554 was enacted amending RA 4734 creating the Municipality of
Cabarroguis taken from the portions of Diffun, Saguday and Aglipay. Finally, RA 6394 was passed
on September 10, 1971 further amending RA 5554 separating the subprovince of Quirino from its
mother province of Nueva Vizcaya constituting it into a regular province. Hon. Leonardo B. Perez
authored RA 6394.
The Province of Quirino was formally established on February 10, 1972 upon assumption to office of
the first elected provincial and municipal officials headed by Dionisio A. Sarandi as Provincial
Governor.
Eventually, on February 25, 1983, Batas Pambansa Blg. 345 was enacted, creating the Municipality
of Nagtipunan, a division of the Municipality of Maddela.
OVERVIEW
Long before its creation, Quirino was the forest region of the Province of Nueva Vizcaya inhabited by
tribal groups known as the Negritos. These tribal groups roamed the hinterlands and built their huts
in the heart of the jungle area. Ilocano dialect is widely used in the lowlands of the various
municipalities while Ifugao is predominant in the upland parts. Other dialects are Bugkalot,
Pangasinense and Kankanai.
Geography
The Sierra Madre Mountain Range provides a natural barrier on the eastern and southern border and
the Mamparang Range on the western part of the province. The province is generally mountainous,
about 80 percent of the total land area is covered by mountains and highlands.
Location
Quirino Province lies in the southeastern portion of Cagayan Valley. It is situated within the upper
portion of the Cagayan River Basin bounded by Isabela on the north, Aurora on the east and southeast
and Nueva Vizcaya on the west and southwest.
Area and Population
The province occupies an aggregate land area of 3,057.18 square kilometers which is approximately
8.4 percent of the total regional area and about 1.02 percent of the total land area of the country.
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Small as it may be, the little province has its own promise of making it big in the field of tourism.
Part of the province’s comparative advantage is its accessibility to Aurora. The population of the
province as of year 2000 census of population was 148,575 roughly 49 persons per square kilometers
of land.
Climate
The province has a mean annual temperature of 26.6 degree Celsius. Warmest month is May and
least dry months are March to August while the rest of the year is neither too dry nor too wet. These
are the best times to visit the province – trek its mountains and explore its caves. Rainy days occur in
September to November.
Political Subdivision
Quirino has six municipalities and these are Cabarroguis, the capital town, Saguday, Diffun,
Maddela, Nagtipunan and Aglipay. The province has only one congressional district and 110
barangays.
Language/Dialect
The major dialect is Ilocano which is spoken by 71.46 percent of the total populace. Other dialects
are Ifugao, Bugkalot, Pangasinense and Kankanai.
Major Industries
Agriculture is the main industry with rice and corn as major crops. These are sold to supply the
demands of neighboring provinces and the metropolis. Banana and banana chips are major products
sold in Metro Manila and Pampanga. Small scale industries like furniture making, basketry, rattan
craft and dried flower production are prevalent in the province.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Natural
NAGBUKEL CAVES is a dome-shaped mountain usually visited by local tourists during the Holy
Week for picnics and is being developed by the lamplighter, a religious sect. Located along the
national highway at Diffun, it is four kilometers from Cabarroguis.
AGLIPAY CAVES promises a special venue for communing with nature. A series of 38 caves,
seven of which have been developed as tourist spots. Located in the midst of rolling hills and verdant
forests, the caves boasts of peculiar characteristics such as underground river and well preserved
stalagmites and stalactites. The caves interlink with each other and run to a depth of 20.0 meters. In
the area are six cottages, dorm type building and picnic huts for overnight tourists. The caves are ten
kilometers from Cabarroguis.
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GOVERNOR RAPIDS is famous for its gigantic perpendicular walls of limestone jutting out from
one side of the Cagayan River framing the Sierra Madre Mountain and its swift turbulent deep blue
water perfect for white river rafting, swimming and fishing. The riverside offers a suitable picnic
ground with magnificent view of the Cagayan River and is very accessible at Barrio Bisangal,
Divisoria Sur, Maddela some 34 kilometers from Cabarroguis.
AGLIPAY TOWN is a history-laden town having gotten its name from Fr. Gregorio Aglipay, a
Philippine Independent Church priest who rebelled against the Spanish colonizers in his time and
settled at the banks of Addalam River in Aglipay.
NAGTIPUNAN TOWN is home to virgin forests and perfect for adventure and ecotourism. It is
being developed as a gateway to Quezon Province in Barangay Sangbay. Nagtipunan is about 54
kilometers from Cabarroguis. The famous “Bimmapor” is also found in this town, a rock formation
similar to a sunken ship, of which only the upper decks are protruding from the ground.
VICTORIA FALLS at Barrio Sangbay, Nagtipunan is believed to be one of the sources of the mighty
Cagayan River which bisects the valley and ends at Aparri.
BISANGAL WATERFALLS in Maddela rests on a virgin forestland. It serves as a sanctuary for
endangered species of wildlife and is located 35 kilometers from the town of Cabarroguis.
MACTOL FALLS is a breathtaking site, with promising ecotourism potentials. Escape to this nature
retreat in the reaches of Nagtipunan, Quirino. The towering falls are about fifty (50) meters high and
spills into a shimmering basin twenty two (22) meters deep. The cool water invites visitors to swim or
explore its depths by scuba diving. This pristine falls is surrounded by rock formations and a lush
forest where wild fauna grow. All who can appreciate nature in her untouched rare form should make
the trip to Mactol Falls. The falls is located in San Pugo, Nagtipunan 22 kilometers from Ponggo and
approximately 2.5 hours ride from Cabarroguis, Quirino.
SPECIAL INTEREST
Spelunking at the Aglipay Caves and Nagbukel Caves
Trekking the towns of Nagtipunan and Maddela
White river rafting and kayaking at the Governor Rapids
See ATTACHMENTS FOR DOT-ACCREDITED ESTABLISHMENTS
FESTIVALS
1. Araw ng Quirino: Panagdadapun Festival – Sept. 8-10 commemorates the founding
anniversary of the civil government of Quirino Province. Special activities like parades, agriindustrial trade fairs, sports competition and street dancing competitions are being conducted
2. Christmas among the Tribes is observed when the different tribes of Quirino go streetdancing and house visit for Christmas presents from December 16- 25
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GOOD BUYS:
Banana chips, fossilized GTH products, flowers, preserved fruits, salabat, furniture and rattan wood
products
Furnitures: Mr Adolfo Caga – 0916-531-4607
Fossilized Flowers: Ms. Luz Aguas – 0917-363-4656
SUPPORT SERVICES
Health Services
1. Quirino Provincial Hospital
Cabarroguis Quirino
2. District Hospitals in the municipalities of Diffun, Aglipay and Maddela
3. Health Centers are located in all municipalities
4. Barangay Health Centers are located in 37 barangays of the provincc
Police Stations
PNP Stations in the municipalities of Cabarroguis, Aglipay, Diffun, Nagtipunan, Saguday and
Maddela
Communication Facilities
1. Butel, PT&T & Gov’t Regional telephone system at Cabarroguis, Quirino
2. BUTEL Facilities in the Municipalities of Aglipay, Diffun, Maddela, Nagtipunan and Saguday
3. DIGITEL in the Municipality of Diffun & Maddela
4. DIGITEL in Leonilyn’s Minimart, Gundaway, Cabarroguis, Quirino
5. DIGITEL in Aglipay, Quirino
Water and Electric Power
Electric power is available in all the municipalities while the water system is still being developed.
Water refilling stations are also availalable: Water Café Mineral Drinking Water, Icon J purified
Drinking Water and Watah Purified Drinking Water
Banks
1. Land Bank of the Philippines
Gundaway, Cabarroguis, Quirino
2. Consolidated Bank
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Diffun and Maddela, Quirino
3. PR Bank
Diffun, Quirino
4. Rural Bank of Bayombong, Inc.
Diffun & Maddela, Quirino
5. FICO Bank
Maddela, Quirino
6. Mallig Plains Rural Bank, Inc.
Cabarroguis, Quirino
7. Rural Bank of Maddela, Inc.
Maddela, Quirino
8. Rural Bank of Benito Soliven (Isa), Inc.
Maddela, Quirino
9. Banko Magsaysay
Saguday, Quirino
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Land Transportation is the only available mode of transport in the province. The main artery of
transportation that traverses the province is the national road from Cordon, Isabela to Dipaculao,
Aurora and Santiago City to Maddela via Jones and San Agustin, Isabela
Transportation facilities in the province include utility jeepneys, buses and tricycles. Santiago City to
Cabarroguis is P25.00 per pax by PUJ.
Maddela-Metro Manila route and vice versa is served by Royal Eagle, Nelbusco and Isabela Tours.
Jeep Hire: P1,500.00 to 1,800.00 with gas per day around Quirino.
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS:
Office of the Governor T/F(078) 692-5088
Office of Vice –Gov
(078) 692-5011
Maddela Mayor’s Office
(07) 692-5105
Provincial Tourism Office:
Aurea V. Martinez
0916-390-2309
VHF Frequency
- 148.325 MHZ
Capitol
- 170
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Aglipay
- 101
Cabarroguis - 102
Diffun
- 103
Maddela
- 104
Nagtipunan - 105
Saguday
- 106
KABALIKAT Base Numbers:
VHF Frequency
- 146.175 MHZ
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