Isabela Province, Philippines

Population of Isabela Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Isabela Province had a population of 1,697,050 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,593,566, reflecting a steady growth rate of approximately 1.25% annually.

Location of Isabela Province

• Isabela is located in the northeastern part of Luzon Island, within Region II (Cagayan Valley). It is the second-largest province in the Philippines by land area, bordered by Cagayan to the north, Kalinga and Mountain Province to the west, and Aurora and Quirino to the south. The Pacific Ocean lies to its east.
• The provincial capital is Ilagan City. Most travelers reach Isabela via:
  • Air: Cauayan Airport offers flights from Manila, with travel time of approximately 1 hour.
  • Land: Buses from Metro Manila (e.g., Victory Liner, Florida Bus) take 9–12 hours via Maharlika Highway.
  • Sea: The nearest coastal access is through Dinapigue, but commercial sea travel is limited. The closest major seaport is in Aparri, Cagayan, approximately 4–5 hours away by land.

Tourist Attractions of Isabela Province

• Magat Dam: One of Southeast Asia’s largest dams, offering scenic views and hydroelectric tours.
• Our Lady of the Pillar Parish Church: A centuries-old church in Cauayan City, known for its heritage architecture.
• Ilagan Japanese Tunnel: A preserved World War II site located in Ilagan City.
• Fuyot Springs National Park: A nature reserve with caves, waterfalls, and wildlife trails.
• Bambanti Festival: Held every fourth week of January in Ilagan City, this award-winning festival celebrates Isabela’s agricultural heritage. “Bambanti” means scarecrow in Ilocano, symbolizing the province’s farming roots.

Economy of Isabela Province

• Isabela is known as the Corn Capital of the Philippines and a top rice producer. Agriculture remains the backbone of its economy, contributing 29.8% of its GDP in 2023.
• In 2023, Isabela posted a GDP of ₱197.55 billion, up from ₱188.82 billion in 2022, reflecting a growth rate of 4.6%.
• Top growth sectors include:
  • Construction (+15.9%)
  • Accommodation and food services (+14.8%)
  • Other services (+13.0%)
• Isabela contributes the largest share to the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) of Cagayan Valley.

Educational Institutions of Isabela Province

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Isabela State University (ISU): A multi-campus state university with sites in Echague, Cabagan, Cauayan, Roxas, and more. Offers programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and health sciences.
  • University of La Salette: A private Catholic university in Santiago City offering liberal arts, business, and medical programs.
  • AMA Computer University – Santiago Campus: Specializes in IT and business courses.
  • Saint Ferdinand College: Offers programs in education, nursing, and criminology.

History of Isabela Province

• Isabela was officially established on May 1, 1856 through a Spanish Royal Decree issued by Governor General Manuel Crespo y Cebrián.
• The province was named after Queen Isabella II of Spain and originally included towns from Cagayan and Nueva Vizcaya.
• Before colonization, indigenous groups such as the Ibanag, Gaddang, Yogad, and Ilongot thrived in the region. Spanish missionaries introduced Christianity and tobacco farming in the 17th century.
• Today, Isabela is recognized as one of the most progressive provinces in Luzon, known for its agricultural strength and cultural resilience.

Elected Officials of Isabela Province

• As of the 2025 elections, the province is led by:
  • Governor: Rodolfo T. Albano III
  • Vice Governor: Francis Dy
• For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Isabela Election Results.

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