Abra Province, Philippines

An Overview of Abra, Philippines

Abra is a landlocked province within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) of Luzon. Its capital is Bangued, the largest municipality. Abra is surrounded by the provinces of Ilocos Norte to the northwest, Apayao to the northeast, Kalinga to the east, Mountain Province to the southeast, and Ilocos Sur to the southwest. The province is recognized for its dramatic mountain landscapes, river valleys, resilient communities, and unique blend of indigenous and Ilocano heritage.

Geography

Abra covers approximately 4,200 square kilometers, making it one of the more spacious provinces of Northern Luzon. The province is characterized by rugged terrain and deep river valleys, with the Abra River running as the central waterway. There are 27 municipalities and over 300 barangays spread across the province. Abra is situated at roughly 17°35′N latitude and 120°45′E longitude.

People of Abra

As of the 2020 census, Abra has a population of around 250,985. The majority of residents are Ilocano, along with a significant Tingguian (Itneg) population. While Ilocano is the most widely spoken language, various Tingguian dialects, Tagalog, and English are also commonly used, especially in schools and government offices.

What Attracts Tourists to Abra?

Abra offers a range of natural and cultural attractions to visitors. Kaparkan Falls in Tineg is known for its multi-terraced, breathtaking pools during the rainy season. Apao Rolling Hills provide sweeping vistas reminiscent of the famed highland grasslands in Batanes. Notable historic sites include the Tangadan Tunnel and several Spanish-era churches and ancestral homes. Visitors also seek out local craftsmanship in bamboo, rattan, and handwoven textiles, as well as adventure activities like hiking, caving, and exploring natural parks and hot springs.

Elected Officials of Abra (2025–2028)

Governor: Takit Bersamin (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)
Vice Governor: Anne Bersamin (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

Provincial Board Members
The Provincial Board of Abra is composed of representatives from two districts, along with ex-officio members. The current composition is led by the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, with additional members from other parties.

1st District

• Jane M. Cecilia (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

• Rodolfo S. De la Paz (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

• Rudolfo A. Bernadez III (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

• Bruno O. Domingo Jr. (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

2nd District

• Patrocinio B. Abaya Jr. (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

• Byrone B. Alzate (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

• Mark Froilan P. Seares (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas)

• Luis Jorobots B. Bersamin IV (Nationalist People’s Coalition)

• Francis Cesar B. Bringas (Asenso Party)

• Vladimir Ivan Q. Benwaren (Asenso Party)

Ex-Officio Members

• ABC: Fidel B. Belena (Nonpartisan)

• PCL: Jason A. Cantil (Lakas)

• SK: Cynlai Osorio (Nonpartisan)

• IPMR: Romero Daoaten (Nonpartisan)

History of Abra

Abra was first settled by indigenous peoples, notably ancestors of the Tingguian or Itneg groups. Spanish colonizers built a garrison in Bangued around 1598, using the province as a stronghold during their campaigns. Abra became a separate political-military province in 1846, after some years as part of the larger Ilocos region. The province played roles during the Philippine Revolution and was also the base of revolutionary leader Gabriela Silang following her husband’s assassination. Abra was briefly reverted to Ilocos Sur in 1908, regaining its provincial status in 1917. Today, Abra is known for preserving indigenous traditions while embracing the vibrancy of Ilocano culture.

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