Tabuk City, Kalinga, Philippines

Tabuk City, Kalinga is within Region XIV – CAR, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Tabuk City

• As of the 2020 Census, Tabuk City had a population of 121,033.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 110,642, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 9.4% over five years.
• Tabuk is home to the Kalinga people, an indigenous group known for their warrior heritage, tattoo artistry, and clan-based governance. The city also includes communities of Gaddang, Isneg, and Ilocano settlers, contributing to its cultural diversity.
• The major dialect spoken is Kalinga, with Ilocano and Tagalog also widely used. Indigenous languages are preserved in tribal barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Tabuk City

• Tabuk City is located in the northern Cordillera region of Luzon, within the province of Kalinga and Region XIV (CAR). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 17.471°N latitude and 121.458°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 700.25 square kilometers, comprising 43 barangays. Its terrain includes river valleys, rice fields, and forested hills. The climate is tropical highland, with cooler temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons.
• Tabuk is the capital of Kalinga Province. The City Hall is located in Barangay Bulanao, which also hosts the Provincial Capitol and other government offices.
• Most people reach Tabuk via land transport. From Manila, travelers take buses to Tuguegarao City, then transfer to vans or buses bound for Tabuk (approximately 1.5–2 hours). The nearest airport is Tuguegarao Airport, while the closest major seaport is the Port of Aparri, accessible by road in about 3–4 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Tabuk City

• Chico River: A vital waterway for agriculture and recreation, ideal for white-water rafting and river tours.
• Sleeping Beauty Mountain: A mountain range resembling a reclining woman, steeped in local legend and trekking appeal.
• Naneng Heritage Village: One of the oldest settlements in Kalinga, showcasing traditional houses and cultural practices.
• Bodong Festival: Celebrated every February, this city-wide festival honors the Kalinga peace pact system (bodong) through street dancing, rituals, and cultural exhibits.

Economy of Tabuk City

• Tabuk’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The city is a major producer of rice, corn, coffee, and bananas. Irrigation from the Chico River supports vast farmlands.
  • Trade and commerce: As the provincial capital, Tabuk hosts markets, cooperatives, and retail centers serving the region.
  • Tourism: Cultural heritage, eco-tourism, and festivals contribute to seasonal income and employment.
  • Crafts and services: Indigenous weaving, bamboo crafts, and local enterprises support community livelihoods.
• Tabuk is classified as a 5th-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it plays a vital role in Kalinga’s agricultural and cultural economy.

Educational Institutions of Tabuk City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Kalinga State University (KSU): Offers programs in agriculture, education, engineering, business, and public administration.
  • Technical-vocational schools: TESDA-accredited centers provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public and private secondary schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs, including science and technical tracks.

History of Tabuk City

• Tabuk was originally a settlement of the Kalinga people, known for their strong tribal governance and resistance to colonization. The area served as a strategic center for trade and agriculture, with the Chico River providing irrigation and connectivity.
• During the American period, Tabuk became a municipal district and later a regular municipality. It played a key role in the region’s development, especially in education and infrastructure.
• On June 23, 2007, Tabuk was converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 9404, ratified by a plebiscite. It became the first and only city in Kalinga Province, serving as its capital and administrative center.
• Today, Tabuk is known as the “Rice Granary of the Cordilleras,” balancing agricultural vitality, cultural heritage, and urban development. It continues to grow through sustainable planning, education, and civic engagement.

Elected Officials of Tabuk City

• As of the 2025 elections, Tabuk City is led by:
  • Mayor: Engr. Darwin C. Estrañero
  • Vice Mayor: Atty. Dick G. Bal-o
  • City Councilors: Luchie Sarol, Marc Rainier Duguiang, Ivan Yannick Bagayao, Zorayda Mia Wacnang, Juan Thomas Duyan, Eduardo Sacayle, Samuel Suma-al, Abraham Licaycay, Jayferson Bon-as, Martinez Vicente, Errol Comafay
• For full election results and updates, visit: Tabuk City Election Results.

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