Ifugao Province, Philippines

People of Ifugao

• As of the 2020 Census, Ifugao Province had a population of 210,669.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 202,802, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 3.9% over five years.
• Ifugao is home to the Ifugao people, one of the most culturally distinct indigenous groups in the Philippines. Known for their rice terracing, wood carving, and oral epics such as the “Hudhud” and “Alim,” they have preserved their traditions through centuries of resistance and adaptation.
• The major dialect spoken is Ifugao, with regional variations across municipalities. Ilocano and Tagalog are also commonly used. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Ifugao

• Ifugao is located in the central Cordillera mountain range of northern Luzon, within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 16.83°N latitude and 121.17°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 2,628.21 square kilometers, comprising 11 municipalities and 176 barangays. Its terrain is mountainous, with steep valleys, pine forests, and the world-renowned rice terraces. The climate is subtropical highland, with cooler temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons.
• The capital of Ifugao is Lagawe. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Poblacion East, Lagawe.
• Most people reach Ifugao via land transport. From Manila, travelers take buses to Solano or Santiago City, then transfer to vans bound for Banaue or Lagawe. The nearest airport is Cauayan Airport in Isabela, approximately 3–4 hours away by road. The closest major seaport is the Port of San Fernando, La Union, accessible by land in about 6–7 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Ifugao

• Banaue Rice Terraces: A UNESCO World Heritage Site carved by hand over 2,000 years ago, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
• Batad and Bangaan Rice Terraces: Amphitheater-like terraces offering breathtaking views and cultural immersion.
• Tappiya Falls: A majestic waterfall near Batad, ideal for trekking and nature photography.
• Kiangan Shrine and War Memorial: A historical site marking the surrender of Japanese General Yamashita in World War II.
• Gotad ad Ifugao Festival: Celebrated every June, this province-wide festival showcases indigenous dances, rituals, and crafts, honoring Ifugao heritage and unity.

Economy of Ifugao

• Ifugao’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Rice farming, particularly in the terraces, remains central to livelihood and culture.
  • Tourism: The rice terraces and cultural heritage sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Crafts and weaving: Wood carving, textile weaving, and basketry support local artisans.
  • Services: Education, local governance, and small-scale trade contribute to economic activity.
• In 2024, Ifugao posted a Gross Provincial Domestic Product (GPDP) of approximately ₱26.83 billion, with a growth rate of 5.3%, making it the second fastest-growing economy in CAR after Baguio City.

Educational Institutions of Ifugao

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Ifugao State University (IFSU): With campuses in Lamut, Potia, Lagawe, and Tinoc, IFSU offers programs in agriculture, education, engineering, business, and indigenous studies.
  • Technical-vocational schools: TESDA-accredited centers provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public high schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs, including science and technical tracks.

History of Ifugao

• Ifugao was originally part of the old Mountain Province, created during the American colonial period. The Ifugao people maintained their autonomy through centuries of resistance to Spanish and American rule, preserving their rituals, rice culture, and clan-based governance.
• On June 18, 1966, Ifugao was officially established as a separate province through Republic Act No. 4695, known as the “Division Law of Mountain Province.” This law also created Benguet, Kalinga-Apayao, and Mountain Province as distinct provinces within the Cordillera region.
• The province’s name is derived from “Ipugo,” meaning “from the hill,” or “Ifugao,” meaning “people of the earth.” Mythology links the term to a rice grain gifted by the god Matungulan, reinforcing the sacred role of rice in Ifugao culture.
• Today, Ifugao is a symbol of indigenous resilience and ecological wisdom. It continues to advocate for heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and inclusive development rooted in ancestral values.

Elected Officials of Ifugao

• As of the 2025 elections, Ifugao Province is led by:
  • Governor: Jerry Uyami Dalipog (Lakas)
  • Vice Governor: Omar Habawel (PDP-Laban)
  • Representative – Lone District: Solomon Chungalao (NPC)
  • Board Members: Jordan Gullitiw, Pedro Mayam-o, Jaweh Habbiling, Josel Guyguyon, Alberto Binlang Jr., Geronimo Bimohya, David Dumangeng, Julio Tindungan, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Ifugao Election Results.

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