Cagayan Province, Philippines

Population of Cagayan Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Cagayan Province had a population of 1,268,603 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,199,320, reflecting an annual growth rate of approximately 1.19%.

Location of Cagayan Province

• Cagayan is located in the northeastern tip of Luzon Island, within Region II (Cagayan Valley). It is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Cordillera Mountains to the west, and the Babuyan Channel to the north.
• The provincial capital is Tuguegarao City, which serves as the region’s administrative and transportation hub.
• Travel access:
  • Air: Tuguegarao Airport offers flights to and from Manila and Cebu. Travel time from Manila is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  • Land: Buses from Metro Manila (e.g., Victory Liner, Florida Bus) take 10–12 hours via Maharlika Highway.
  • Sea: The nearest major seaport is in Aparri, which connects to coastal towns and fishing routes. However, commercial sea travel is limited.

Tourist Attractions of Cagayan Province

• Callao Cave: A seven-chamber limestone cave in Peñablanca, famous for its natural cathedral and sunlit openings.
• Palaui Island: A marine reserve and eco-tourism site in Santa Ana, known for pristine beaches and hiking trails.
• Buntun Bridge: One of the longest river bridges in the Philippines, offering panoramic views of the Cagayan River.
• Portabaga Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall in Claveria, ideal for nature trips and swimming.
• Aggao Nac Cagayan Festival: Held annually around June 23–29, this province-wide celebration commemorates Cagayan’s founding with parades, cultural shows, and thanksgiving rituals.

Economy of Cagayan Province

• Cagayan’s economy is driven by agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and construction. Major crops include rice, corn, tobacco, and peanuts.
• In 2023, the Cagayan Valley Region posted a GDP of ₱447.07 billion, with Cagayan contributing significantly through agriculture and services.
• Top growth sectors:
  • Accommodation and food services: +19.0%
  • Construction: +14.5%
  • Wholesale and retail trade

Educational Institutions of Cagayan Province

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Cagayan State University (CSU): A multi-campus state university with sites in Tuguegarao, Aparri, Gonzaga, Lallo, Lasam, Sanchez Mira, and Piat.
  • University of Cagayan Valley: Offers engineering, maritime, and business programs.
  • St. Paul University Philippines: A private Catholic university known for health sciences and liberal arts.
  • Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines: Specializes in nursing, medicine, and allied health courses.

History of Cagayan Province

• Cagayan was formally established as a Spanish province in 1583, originally encompassing present-day Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, and Batanes.
• The early capital was Ciudad Nueva Segovia (now Lal-lo), which also served as the seat of the Diocese of Nueva Segovia during Spanish rule.
• The name “Cagayan” is believed to derive from the Ilocano word karayan, meaning river, referring to the mighty Cagayan River that traverses the province.

Elected Officials of Cagayan Province

• As of the 2025 elections, the province is led by:
  • Governor: Manuel N. Mamba
  • Vice Governor: Melvin V. Vargas Jr.
• For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Cagayan Election Results.

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