Cagayan Valley is the last region we have never been to—probably because of its distance from Manila and its accessibility. Occupying the eastern half of Northern Luzon, one of the region’s provinces is said to be one of the largest in the Philippines, often titled as “Queen Province” of the North—Isabela.

Isabela Province

The gargantuan size (in Philippine standards) of the province has divided it into two regions:

  • Mainland – towns along Cagayan River and Valley. Most of the population, urban centers, and agriculture are located here. Centuries old heritage sites are found mostly here.
  • Coastal – towns in the Pacific coast, isolated by the vastly unexplored Sierra Madre Mountains. You can only take the boat or a prop-plane. But Coastal Isabela has great potential in eco-tourism.
The new provincial capitol of Isabela

The new provincial capitol of Isabela in Ilagan City

For the weekender in Isabela, I chose to do the visita iglesia while the amihan wind was on full turbo at that time (Locals warned that during summer, mercury rises way beyond the usual in urban Manila). We do have to consider the vast distances of the towns here.

Tumauini Church

Tumauini Church is said to be the crown jewel of Isabela’s heritage churches.

We based ourselves in Cauayan City for the weekend, then head north towards Tuguegarao City in Cagayan Province, to finish the leg of the journey with the churches in Alicia, Gamú, Tumauini, and San Ramon in mind for visiting.

San Pablo Church Ruins of Isabela

San Pablo Church Ruins

And a road trip wouldn’t be complete without local delicacies alongside (it is our own personal policy not to eat fastfood on the road). Surprisingly affordable Isabeleño delicacies and that “Queen” Pancit Cabagan is a must try for ones visiting the province.

Pancit Cabagan

Pancit Cabagan! Too good, too affordable to be true!

We only had a weekender that amihan day in Isabela, but hoping we could explore more of it in the near future—especially the isolated coastal towns.

Isabela sign

This way or that way?

How to Get to Isabela?

There are two ways in going to the said province: by land or by air.

  • Buses bound for Tuguegarao from Manila pass by Isabela. This is the usual route. Bus companies such as Victory Liner and Florida Lines ply the said route. From Manila to Santiago City, it would take at least 8 hours, to Cauayan City by 9 hours, Ilagan City by 10 hours. It is highly advisable to take a trip at night, so you may not bore yourself. Fare ranges from PhP300-PhP800.
  • Isabela’s main airport is at Cauayan City, which is served several times weekly by Cebu Pacific. The trip usually lasts only an hour.
  • Tuguegarao City’s Airport north of the province is the region’s main gateway, with daily flights to and from Manila.

More about this province, soon. Thanks for reading!