Region XIV – CAR

Provinces, Cities and Municipalities of Region XIV – CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region)

Abra

Apayao

Benguet

Ifugao

Kalinga

Mountain

People of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• As of the 2020 Census, CAR had a population of 1,797,660.
• In 2015, the region recorded a population of 1,722,006, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 4.4% over five years.
• CAR is home to several indigenous groups collectively known as the Igorot, which include the Kankanaey, Ibaloi, Ifugao, Bontoc, Kalinga, Apayao, and Tingguian peoples. These communities have rich traditions in rice terracing, weaving, wood carving, and oral epics.
• The major dialects spoken are Ilocano and Kankanaey, with Ibaloi, Ifugao, and other tribal languages used in specific provinces. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• CAR is located in northern Luzon, Philippines. Its geographic coordinates center around 16.5°N latitude and 121.0°E longitude.
• The region spans a land area of 18,294.79 square kilometers, comprising six provinces—Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province—and two cities: Baguio (highly urbanized) and Tabuk (component city). The terrain is mountainous, with deep valleys, pine forests, and rice terraces. The climate is subtropical highland, with cooler temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons.
• The regional center is Baguio City, located in Barangay Cabinet Hill-Teacher’s Camp, where most regional offices and administrative centers are based.
• Most people reach CAR via land transport. Baguio is accessible by bus from Manila (approximately 4–6 hours). The nearest major airport is Clark International Airport in Pampanga, while the Port of San Fernando, La Union serves as the nearest seaport, located about 2–3 hours away by road.

Tourist Attractions of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• Banaue Rice Terraces: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ifugao, carved by indigenous hands over 2,000 years ago.
• Mount Pulag: The third highest peak in the Philippines, located in Benguet, known for its sea of clouds and dwarf bamboo grasslands.
• Hanging Coffins of Sagada: A cultural burial tradition practiced by the Igorot people in Mountain Province.
• Burnham Park and Mines View Park: Iconic leisure spots in Baguio City offering scenic views and cultural souvenirs.
• Panagbenga Festival: Celebrated every February in Baguio City, this “Festival of Flowers” features grand floats, street dancing, and floral exhibits.

Economy of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• CAR’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The region produces highland vegetables, rice, coffee, and root crops.
  • Mining: Benguet is known for gold and copper mining, with other provinces contributing to mineral exports.
  • Tourism: Cultural heritage sites, cool climate, and natural landscapes attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Handicrafts and weaving: Indigenous textiles, wood carvings, and silverwork support local livelihoods.
• In 2024, CAR posted a regional GDP of approximately ₱220 billion, with a growth rate of 5.8%. It ranks mid-tier among Philippine regions, with strong performance in agriculture and tourism.

Educational Institutions of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of the Philippines Baguio: Offers programs in arts, sciences, and indigenous studies.
  • Saint Louis University: A private Catholic university offering engineering, business, law, and health sciences.
  • University of the Cordilleras: Offers programs in criminology, IT, and education.
  • Mountain Province State Polytechnic College: Offers agriculture, forestry, and teacher education programs.
  • Abra State Institute of Science and Technology: Offers programs in engineering, agriculture, and technology.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in crafts, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades across the region.

History of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• CAR was officially created on July 15, 1987 through Executive Order No. 220 signed by President Corazon Aquino. The order grouped the provinces of Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga-Apayao, and Mountain Province into a single administrative region to promote development and preserve indigenous culture.
• The region has a long history of resistance to colonization. The Igorot peoples successfully resisted Spanish conquest for centuries, maintaining their autonomy and cultural practices. American and Japanese forces later established footholds in the region, but indigenous governance remained strong.
• In the 1980s, the Cordillera Peoples Liberation Army (CPLA) advocated for regional autonomy, leading to peace talks and the eventual formation of CAR. While autonomy remains a goal, several plebiscites have failed to ratify a formal autonomous region.
• Today, CAR is known for its cultural resilience, environmental stewardship, and heritage preservation. It continues to advocate for indigenous rights, sustainable development, and regional identity within the Philippine republic.

Elected Officials of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)

• As of the 2025 elections, CAR is led by:
  • Abra Governor: Dominic Valera (Asenso Abrenio)
  • Apayao Governor: Elias Bulut Jr. (NPC)
  • Benguet Governor: Melchor Diclas (PFP)
  • Ifugao Governor: Glenn Prudenciano (NPC)
  • Kalinga Governor: James Edduba (PFP)
  • Mountain Province Governor: Bonifacio Lacwasan Jr. (Lakas)
  • Baguio City Mayor: Benjamin Magalong (Independent)
• For full election results and updates, visit: CAR Election Results.

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