Nueva Vizcaya Province, Philippines

About Nueva Vizcaya Province, Philippines

Nueva Vizcaya is a landlocked province located in the heart of Luzon, within Region II – Cagayan Valley. It is bordered by Ifugao, Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, and Benguet, forming a strategic gateway between the Cordillera and Sierra Madre mountain ranges. The provincial capital is Bayombong, a municipality known for its historical charm and civic institutions.

Population and Demographics

As of the 2024 census, Nueva Vizcaya has a population of approximately 530,106 residents, ranking 59th out of 81 provinces in the Philippines. With a land area of 4,813.88 km², the population density stands at 110 people per km², placing it 68th in density ranking.

Accessibility and Transportation

Nearest Airport: The closest commercial airport is Cauayan Airport in Isabela, roughly 90 km northeast of Bayombong. Travel time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by land.

Government Headquarters: Located in Bayombong, the provincial capitol is accessible via national highways and regional roads.

Common Modes of Transport:

Land travel is the most common, with buses and vans connecting Nueva Vizcaya to Metro Manila, Baguio, and neighboring provinces.

Private vehicles and motorcycles are widely used for inter-municipality travel.

Jeepneys and tricycles serve local barangays and town centers.

Economy and GDP

Nueva Vizcaya’s economy is driven by a mix of agriculture, mining, and services:

Agriculture: Known as the Citrus Capital of the Philippines, the province produces oranges, pomelos, and other highland crops.

Mining: Major contributors include OceanaGold Philippines, Inc. (Didipio, Kasibu) and FCF Minerals Corporation (Runruno, Quezon), which generate significant revenue through taxes and royalties.

Services and Tourism: Post-pandemic recovery has seen a resurgence in ecotourism and local enterprise.

GDP Performance

2021–2022 Growth: +13.1%

2022–2023 Growth: +8.7%

Sector Breakdown:

Services: 42.4%

Industry: 37.4%

Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing: 20.2%

Ranking: While exact national GDP rank is not published, Nueva Vizcaya is considered a mid-tier economic performer with robust post-pandemic recovery.

Current Elected Officials

Governor: Jose V. Gambito (PFP)

Vice Governor: Eufemia A. Dacayo (Aksyon)

Congresswoman: Luisa L. Cuaresma (Lakas-CMD)

Legislative Body: Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Board

Tourist Attractions

Nueva Vizcaya offers a rich blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and adventure destinations:

Nature & Adventure
Imugan Falls (Santa Fe): A 35-foot waterfall with crystal-clear waters

Capisaan Cave System (Kasibu): One of the longest cave systems in the Philippines, ideal for spelunking

Mt. Ugo (Kayapa): A challenging trek with panoramic views and historical significance

Dum-liing Falls (Kayapa): The tallest single-drop waterfall in the province

Eco-Tourism
Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Park (Diadi): Offers fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation

Solano Eco-Park: A hidden gem for nature lovers and families

Heritage & Culture
St. Dominic’s Cathedral (Bayombong): An 18th-century church with baroque architecture

Bayombong Church (San Vicente Ferrer Parish): A spiritual and historical landmark

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.