Apayao Province, Philippines

People of Apayao

• As of the 2020 Census, Apayao Province had a population of 124,366.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 119,184, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 4.3% over five years.
• Apayao is home to the Isnag people, one of the indigenous groups of the Cordillera region. The Isnags are known for their rich oral traditions, intricate weaving, and deep connection to the forest and river systems. Other indigenous groups such as the Kalinga and Ilocano migrants also reside in the province.
• The major dialect spoken is Ilocano, though Isnag remains actively spoken in upland communities. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration across Apayao’s municipalities.

Location of Apayao

• Apayao is located in the northernmost part of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Luzon. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 18.0°N latitude and 121.3°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 4,413.35 square kilometers, making it one of the largest in CAR. Its terrain includes vast lowland plains, forested mountains, and winding rivers such as the Abulog River. The climate is tropical, with a pronounced wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
• The capital of Apayao is Kabugao, while the administrative center is Luna. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay San Isidro Sur, Luna.
• Most people reach Apayao via land travel. From Manila, travelers can take buses to Tuguegarao City or Laoag City, then transfer to vans or buses bound for Luna or Kabugao. The nearest airports are in Tuguegarao and Laoag, both approximately 1–2 hours away by van. The closest major seaport is the Port of Aparri in Cagayan, accessible by road in about 3–4 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Apayao

• Lussok Crystal Cave and Underground River: Located in Luna, this cave system features stunning rock formations and a navigable underground river.
• Manacota Underground River and Caves: A hidden gem in Pudtol, ideal for spelunking and eco-tourism.
• Maton River and Hanging Bridge: A scenic spot in Kabugao offering river views and forest trails.
• Abulog River: One of the longest rivers in Northern Luzon, perfect for kayaking and river cruises.
• Kabinnulig Festival: Celebrated in Luna every February, this festival honors the carabao as a farmer’s partner and features street dancing, agro-industrial exhibits, and cultural performances.
• Panagbunga Festival: Held in Conner during harvest season (September–October), showcasing local fruits and agricultural bounty.

Economy of Apayao

• Apayao’s economy is primarily driven by:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, banana, pineapple, and cassava. Livestock and poultry farming also support rural livelihoods.
  • Forestry: The province is considered the last ecological frontier of the Cordillera, with vast forestlands supporting timber and non-timber forest products.
  • Construction: Infrastructure development contributed 26.2% to the province’s GDP in 2023.
  • Services: Wholesale and retail trade, education, and local governance make up 47.7% of the economic activity.
• In 2023, Apayao posted a Gross Provincial Domestic Product (GPDP) of ₱12.04 billion, up from ₱11.50 billion in 2022, with a growth rate of 4.6%. It ranks among the smaller economies in the Philippines but shows consistent upward trends in development.

Educational Institutions of Apayao

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Apayao State College (ASC): With campuses in Luna and Conner, ASC offers undergraduate and graduate programs in education, agriculture, technology, and public administration.
  • Technical-vocational schools: TESDA-accredited centers provide training in welding, electronics, automotive technology, and food processing.
  • Public high schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs, including science and technical tracks.

History of Apayao

• Apayao was originally part of the province of Kalinga-Apayao, created in 1966 through Republic Act No. 4695. The region was inhabited by the Isnag people, who maintained their cultural autonomy despite Spanish and American colonial efforts.
• Spanish missionaries first arrived in Apayao in 1608, establishing footholds in present-day Pudtol. The Isnags resisted colonization through uprisings and maintained their traditions in the uplands. Remnants of Spanish influence remain in church ruins in Mataguisi and Emilia.
• On May 8, 1995, Apayao was officially separated from Kalinga through Republic Act No. 7878, creating two distinct provinces. Kabugao was designated as the capital, while Luna became the administrative center.
• Today, Apayao is known for its ecological richness, cultural resilience, and commitment to sustainable development. It continues to advocate for indigenous rights, environmental protection, and inclusive growth.

Elected Officials of Apayao

• As of the 2025 elections, Apayao Province is led by:
  • Governor: Elias C. Bulut Jr. (NPC)
  • Vice Governor: Kyle Mariah Chelsea S. Bulut-Cunan (Lakas)
  • Representative – Lone District: Eleonor “Lea” Bulut-Begtang
  • Board Members: Arnold Bulut, Rolly Pancho, Marivic Bulut, Ronald Cunan, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Apayao Election Results.

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