Ilagan facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Ilagan
Component city
City of Ilagan
Ilagan Rizal Park
Flag Seal
Nickname(s):  Center of Eco-Tourism Adventure in Region 2 Home of the World's Largest Wooden Lounge Chair (Butaka) Sports Tourism Hub of the North Corn Capital of the Philippines
Motto(s):  Sulong Pa! Lungsod ng Ilagan (More Progress! City of Ilagan)
Anthem: City of Ilagan Hymn (formerly, Martsa ng Ilagan (Ilagan March))
Map of Isabela with Ilagan highlighted
OpenStreetMap
Ilagan Location in Philippines
Country	Philippines
Region	Cagayan Valley
Province	Isabela
District	[[{{#property:P7938}} | — Lua error in Module:Wd at line 1804: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value).]]
Founded	May 4, 1686
Cityhood	August 11, 2012
Barangays	91 (see Barangays)
Government
• Type	Sangguniang Panlungsod
Area
• Total	1,166.26 km2 (450.30 sq mi)
Elevation	139 m (456 ft)
Highest elevation	1,388 m (4,554 ft)
Lowest elevation	24 m (79 ft)
Population  (2024 census)
• Total	164,020
• Density	140.638/km2 (364.250/sq mi)
• Households	39,663
Demonym(s)	Ilagueño (m) Ilagueña (f)
Economy
• Income class	1st city income class
• Poverty incidence	14 % (2021)
• Revenue	₱ 2,857 million (2022)
• Assets	₱ 6,137 million (2022)
• Expenditure	₱ 2,158 million (2022)
• Liabilities	₱ 2,051 million (2022)
Service provider
• Electricity	Isabela 2 Electric Cooperative (ISELCO 2)
• Water	Metro Ilagan Water
Time zone	UTC+8 (PST)
ZIP code	3300
PSGC	[https://psa.gov.ph/classification/psgc/?q=psgc/barangays/{{#pro000&regcode={{&provcode= p {{#property:P988}} ]
IDD : area code	+63 (0)78
Native languages	Ibanag Ilocano Tagalog
Patron saint	Saint Ferdinand of Castile

Ilagan, officially known as the City of Ilagan, is a city and the capital of the Isabela province in the Philippines. It is the most populated city in Isabela and the second most populated in the Cagayan Valley region, after Tuguegarao. In 2020, it had a population of 158,218 people. Ilagan is also known for having the most voters in the province, with 101,050 voters in 2022.

What's in a Name? The Story of Ilagan's Name

According to Fr. Julian Malumbres, the name Ilagan comes from the Ibanag word laga. This word means "smallpox", a disease that had an outbreak when the town was founded in 1686.

Ilagan's Journey Through Time

Early Days of Ilagan

Before the Spanish arrived, the Gaddang settlers called the town Bolo. It was a busy settlement and a major area for tobacco farming, making it an important economic spot in northern Luzon.

Spanish Rule and Ilagan's Founding

In 1581, Governor-General Gonzalo Ronquillo de Peñalosa sent Captain Juan Pablo Carreon to explore Cagayan Valley and set up missions. Pedro Jimenez, a Spanish missionary, founded Ilagan.

The Dominicans founded the town of Bolo in 1619, naming it after Saint Ferdinand of Castile. The original Bolo was on the west side of the Cagayan River. The native people rebelled against the Spanish rules and taxes in what was called the Gaddang Revolution. They burned their church and homes.

In 1622, the Spanish government forgave them and let them off from paying taxes for three years. After the revolt, the natives rebuilt their settlement in 1678 on the east side of the river. This is how Ilagan got its name, which is the reverse of nagali, meaning "move" or "transfer". The Dominicans then named it San Fernando de Ilagan.

On May 4, 1686, Ilagan was officially founded. Missionaries converted the natives to Catholicism. Ilagan became the capital of Cagayan Valley when Brig. Manuel Sanchez Mira was the governor.

In 1763, Ilagan was the site of a revolt led by Dabo and Juan Marayag. They protested against the collection of taxes and the strict tobacco rules during the Spanish colonization. On May 1, 1856, Ilagan became the capital of Isabela de Luzon when the province was founded.

American Period in Ilagan

Ilagan was once part of the old Nueva Vizcaya province. Rafael Maramag, the first municipal president (like a mayor) of Ilagan, became the first governor of Isabela after the Americans reorganized it in 1901.

On August 4, 1901, the American government passed a law that re-established Isabela and other provinces. Rafael Maramag was appointed as the first governor, and Ilagan was re-established as the provincial capital.

In 1925, a resolution was approved by all municipal presidents of Isabela to build a monument for the country's National Hero, José Rizal, in Ilagan's public plaza.

Japanese Occupation and Liberation

During World War II, Ilagan, like the rest of the Philippines, was occupied by the Japanese Army. A man-made tunnel was built by detained Ilagueños. This tunnel is now a tourist spot and is believed to have been a Japanese military headquarters.

On June 19, 1945, Ilagan was freed from the Japanese Army by combined forces of the 14th Infantry, United States Army Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL), and the 37th Division of the U.S. Sixth Army.

After the War

By the 1950s, the main town area moved uphill from the old Saint Ferdinand Parish Church to Barangay San Vicente, where the current City Hall is located.

Becoming a City

On February 2, 1998, a law was passed to make Ilagan a city. However, in a vote on March 14, 1999, the people said "no" to cityhood.

On February 27, 2012, Ilagan tried again to become a city. Local officials supported this move. On May 22, 2012, the cityhood bill was approved by Congress and signed by President Benigno Aquino III on June 21, 2012.

A vote was held on August 11, 2012, and most people voted "yes". Because of this, Ilagan was officially declared a new city. It became the third city in Isabela province and the fourth in Cagayan Valley.

2012 Ilagan Cityhood Plebiscite

Choice	Votes	%
Yes	54,512	95.51
No	2,386	4.18
Valid votes	56,898	99.69%
Invalid or blank votes	177	0.31%
Total votes	57,075	100.00
Registered voters and turnout	83,511	68.34%
Source: Plebiscite result from the COMELEC via Inquirer.

Recent Developments in Ilagan

On August 28, 2019, the city government created the Ilagan Development Authority (ILAGANDA). Its goal is to make Ilagan a great city to live in by 2030.

In November 2023, Ilagan hosted the "Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair". This was a huge event that brought government services closer to the people. Many agencies participated, offering services like financial aid, business registration, and health programs. Over 100,000 people benefited from this fair.

Ilagan's Location and Landscape

Ilagan is in the middle of Isabela province. It shares borders with nine other towns. To the north are Divilacan, Tumauini, and Delfin Albano. To the west is Quirino. To the east are Divilacan, Palanan, and the Pacific Ocean. To the south are Gamu, Naguilian, Benito Soliven and San Mariano.

Ilagan covers about 1,166.26 square kilometers. This makes it the largest city on Luzon island and the fourth largest in the Philippines by land area. It is about 437.52 kilometers north of Manila.

Barangays: Ilagan's Local Communities

Ilagan City has 91 barangays, which are its local communities. This is the highest number of barangays in the province. Each barangay has smaller areas called puroks and some have sitios.

Currently, 13 barangays are considered urban areas. These are: Alibagu, Baculud, Bagumbayan, Baligatan, Calamagui 1st, Calamagui 2nd, Centro Poblacion, Guinatan, Imelda Bliss Village, Osmeña, San Vicente, Santa Barbara, and Santa Isabel Sur.

Ilagan's Climate

Ilagan has a tropical savanna climate. This means it has hot temperatures all year. There is a dry season from January to April and a wet season from May to December.

Land Use in Ilagan

Out of Ilagan's total land area, 31% is used for agriculture. About 36% are forest areas. The remaining 33% are developed areas and open grasslands. These areas can be used for factories, businesses, and homes.

People of Ilagan

Who Lives in Ilagan?

The people of Ilagan, called Ilagueños, have a mix of backgrounds. These include native groups, Chinese, and Hispanic (Spanish) roots. The first communities were made up of tribes like the Agta, Ibanag, Gaddang, Yogad, and Kalinga. Later, Ilocanos moved to the area in the 1800s.

Languages Spoken in Ilagan

Ilagan is a city where many languages are spoken. The three main native languages are Ibanag, Ilocano, and Tagalog. English is also used for government, news, and business.

Population Growth in Ilagan

As of the 2020 census, Imelda Bliss Village is the most populated barangay with 7,951 people. Carikkikan Sur is the least populated with only 208 people.

Ilagan's population has grown quickly because of more business activities. These include trade, industry, farming, and housing. Ilagan is one of the 145 growing cities in the Philippines with over 100,000 residents. In 2020, Ilagan had 158,218 people.

Religions in Ilagan

Most people in Ilagan are Roman Catholic. The Diocese of Ilagan has 39 Catholic churches in Isabela province. The Saint Ferdinand Parish, built in 1612, is one of the oldest churches in Isabela.

Other religious groups in the city include Protestants, Baptist, Church of Christ, Adventists, Born Again groups, Victory Christian Fellowship, Latter Day Saints, Jehovah's Witnesses, Islam, and Philippine-based groups like Iglesia ni Cristo. These groups have their own places of worship in the city.

Ilagan's Economy

Source: Philippine Statistics Authority

Ilagan has one of the fastest-growing economies in Isabela and the entire Cagayan Valley. It is a main center for growth and investment in the region. This is due to fast growth in business, industry, farming, and housing.

The city's economy grew a lot when Josemarie L. Diaz became mayor. He made the city more business-friendly, which attracted many companies. For example, eight new banks and financial groups opened in just a few months.

The local government helped by creating laws that offer tax breaks for new businesses. This brought in big investments, like the Xentro Mall and Talavera Square Mall. Thousands of other businesses, like shops, pawnshops, and insurance agencies, are also in the city.

Farming, Fishing, and Animal Raising

Agriculture and fishery are still the most important parts of Ilagan's economy. About 23,803 hectares are used for farming, and 314 hectares for fish farming. Ilagan has a total of 32,153.19 hectares suitable for crops, livestock, and fish.

Many businesses in Ilagan are based on farming. In the last ten years, there has been a lot of local investment in poultry (chicken farming) and hog raising. Ilagan has seven large poultry farms and 33 small to medium-sized hog farms.

Ilagan is the top producer of corn among all cities in the Philippines. As a farming city, it produces plenty of corn, rice, vegetables, and legumes. Fruits like bananas are available all year, especially in the city's mountains. Ilagan also grows seasonal fruits like mangoes and pomelo.

The Cagayan Valley Research Center (CVRC) helps with plant breeding in the region. It is located in Barangay San Felipe. Ilagan also has rich forest resources, which are protected by the government and other groups.

In 2018, the Department of Agriculture (DA) started promoting mushroom production in Cagayan Valley. They built a research center for the mushroom industry in Barangay San Vicente.

The DA and Ilagan city government agreed to build an i-Corn Complex worth P199.2 million. This complex will be a one-stop center for farming and business. It will help corn farmers with drying their crops, especially during the wet season. The Corn Innovation Center, part of this complex, started construction in August 2023 and is expected to be ready by early 2024.

In December 2020, a large swine breeding complex was opened in Barangay Santa Victoria. This was a partnership between a Thai company, Charoen Pokphand Foods Philippines, Inc., and a local company. In June 2023, they started building Phase II of this complex, worth about P1 billion.

A large animal feeds milling facility is also being built in Barangay Cabannungan 2nd. This P1.8 billion project is a partnership between Charoen Pokphand Group and Sagittarian Agricultural Philippines, Inc. It will be the biggest feed mill in Northern Luzon. Ilagan's large corn production will supply the raw materials needed for this mill. The groundbreaking for this project happened on May 17, 2024.

What Ilagan Produces

Ilagan, known as the Corn Capital, produces about 200,000 metric tons of corn each year from 33,500 hectares of land. The city also produces 80,000 metric tons of rice annually from 15,000 hectares of rice fields. Fisheries contribute 250 metric tons of fish per year from local rivers and fishponds. The dairy industry is also growing, with dairy farms producing 2,000 liters of milk per hour.

Banks and Financial Services

As of April 15, 2024, Ilagan has 22 banks. These banks hold a total of P15.7 billion in deposits. Government banks like Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) are in the city. Security Bank also opened a branch here.

Trade and Business

In 2006, there were 1,795 registered businesses in Ilagan. These businesses include wholesale, retail, and service-oriented companies. Most of the trade happens in the public markets. The commercial area has grown a lot, showing that Ilagan is becoming more commercialized.

Food and Drinks Industry

Ilagan has several food and beverage companies. The largest is Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc., which has a bottling plant in Barangay Guinatan. There is also a company called 'Best Choice' that makes vinegar and soy sauce. The city has 15 bakeries and one ice cream company. Many local cafes, restaurants, and international fast-food chains have also opened branches in Ilagan.

Sagittarian Agricultural Philippines, Incorporated (SAPI) is a local farming company. It started in 2016 with poultry, hog, fish, and grain trading. It has grown to include meat processing, trucking, and real estate. The company operates a modern meat processing plant and grain processing machinery. It also has "The Chicken Place" food outlets and distributes frozen poultry products.

On March 14, 2024, the city government and YCH Logistics Philippines, Inc. - IGLOO Supply Chain Philippines, Inc. signed an agreement to build a P1 billion cold storage facility in Ilagan City. This facility will help store food products safely and efficiently. The groundbreaking ceremony for this project was held on May 4, 2024.

Mr. Moo’s Dairy Products Incorporated, a dairy company from Metro Manila, operates a dairy farm and factory in Ilagan. They buy raw milk from local farmers to make their dairy products. They opened their first Mr. Moo’s Milk Planet outlet in Ilagan on February 1, 2024.

Furniture Making

Furniture making is a big industry in Ilagan. Many furniture shops along the National Highway in Barangays Alinguigan 2nd and Alinguigan 3rd make and sell furniture. These are made from quality narra and gmelina wood. These areas are known as "Butaka City" because the world's largest wooden lounge chair, the Butaka, was made here.

Vehicle Body Building

Ilagan has nine vehicle assembly shops. Five of these build jeepneys, and four make tricycle side-cars. These shops help meet the city's need for transportation.

Car Dealerships

On May 4, 2021, Mitsubishi Freeway Motors opened its first sales office and showroom in Ilagan, located in Barangay Baligatan.

Public Markets

The city has two main public markets: the old Pamilihang Bayan ng Ilagan (now Xentro Market) and the new Ilagan Public Market Complex in Barangay Baligatan. In front of the new market is the "Ilagan City Mall", which is the first mall owned and operated by the local government.

On November 23, 2023, the city government started building two new public markets. These are the San Antonio Public Market and the Marana 1st Public Market. These markets will serve residents in far-off barangays.

Real Estate Development

Ilagan has many housing subdivisions. These include Francisca Village, City Homes Subdivision, and Richmond Hills Subdivision. These projects are developed by local real estate companies. On March 5, 2024, Ayala Land launched Greenlane Settings, its first development in Isabela.

Retail Industry

On March 19, 2021, Talavera Group of Companies opened Talavera Hypermart and Homebuilders Depot in Barangay Calamagui 2nd.

On April 8, 2024, CitiHardware opened its 103rd store in Ilagan. This is the company's largest store in Luzon.

Textile Industry

On June 23, 2023, a P40 million Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center was opened at the Isabela State University (ISU) - City of Ilagan Campus. This center is the first of its kind in Northern Luzon. It aims to improve the local textile industry by turning natural materials like abaca, banana, and pineapple leaves into yarn.

Tobacco Industry

Ilagan was once a major producer of tobacco during the Spanish era. The tobacco monopoly caused hardship for the people from 1785 to 1797. When the monopoly ended, foreign investors came to the country.

The Compañía General de Tabacos de Filipinas, also known as La Tabacalera, was founded in Ilagan in 1881. It produced the famous La Flor de la Isabela. This was the largest company of its kind in the world at that time. Many western barangays in Ilagan still plant tobacco. The National Tobacco Administration helps farmers with new farming methods.

Fun Things to See and Do in Ilagan

Ilagan has many natural and man-made attractions for visitors.

Nature's Wonders in Ilagan

Ilagan Sanctuary is a large protected area of 200 hectares. It is located within the Fuyot Springs National Park in Barangay Santa Victoria. Here, you can find a prayer mountain, a butterfly park, a mini zoo, a natural spring pool, and do activities like boating, wall-climbing, and ziplining. You can also hike to Pinzal Falls and explore limestone caves.

Abuan River is the main river of the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park. It is a great place to see diverse animals and plants in one of the country's remaining untouched forests. On January 9, 2024, the city government temporarily closed the river for rehabilitation. It reopened on March 11, 2024, as the Abuan River Adventure and Eco-Tourism Park, with new facilities for water activities.

Burmurbur Falls and Disupi Falls are small waterfalls in a quiet area within Barangay Sindon Bayabo.

Kimmul-ong Falls and Kimmiskisan Falls are found in a remote area near the Sierra Madre mountains in Barangay Capellan. These waterfalls can be reached by small vehicles or by hiking.

Man-Made Attractions in Ilagan

Ilagan Japanese Tunnel is a former war tunnel in Barangay Santo Tomas. It was used as a Japanese military headquarters during World War II.

The Old Capitol Building, now the Isabela Museum and Library, is in Barangay Osmeña. It shows artifacts that tell the story of Isabela's history and culture.

Queen Isabela Park, also known as Skypark, is in Barangay Alibagu. It features a monument of Queen Isabela II of Spain and sculptures of Isabelan leaders.

Century Park is a triangular park in Barangays Osmeña and Calamagui 2nd. Next to it is Banchetto Ilagan, a popular spot that becomes a Christmas village during the holidays.

The Mammangi Park is in Barangay Osmeña. It was built in 2018 to honor Ilagan's corn farmers, who are very important to the city's economy.

Bonifacio Park is another triangular park in Barangay Baligatan. It has a dancing fountain and the Giant Butaka, the world's largest wooden lounge chair.

Ilagan's Rizal Park is a smaller version of the famous Rizal Park in Manila. It is in Barangay Centro Poblacion and has a replica of the Rizal Monument, a dancing fountain, and old church bells.

Saint Ferdinand Parish Proto-Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Isabela. It was built between 1696 and 1700. On April 22, 2024, a fire damaged most of its interior. The city government quickly set up a temporary altar for masses while the church is being restored.

Balai na Ilagan, also known as Friendship Hall, is a multi-purpose hall in Barangay Bagumbayan. It is a place for Ilagueños to develop their artistic talents and celebrate art and culture.

Ilagan's Culture and Celebrations

Ilagan is known as the corn capital of the country. Its strong farming economy also adds to its lively trade, business, and cultural life.

Aggaw na Ilagan

Aggaw na Ilagan (meaning "Ilagan Day") is celebrated every year on May 4. This date marks the founding of Ilagan as a town.

Cityhood Anniversary

Ilagan celebrates its cityhood anniversary every August 11. In 2015, the Department of Agriculture officially declared Ilagan as the new Corn Capital of the Philippines during its third cityhood anniversary.

Delicious Ilagan Cuisine

The city is famous for its food. A popular local delicacy is binallay. This is a rice cake made from glutinous rice flour, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then steamed. Binallay is sold all year round at the City of Ilagan Pasalubong Center.

Mammangi Festival

The Mammangi Festival is celebrated during the last week of May. Mammangi is an Ibanag word that honors Ilagan's corn farmers. It celebrates the entire farming process, from planting to harvesting. Ilagan is proud to be the Corn Capital of the Philippines, a title given by the Department of Agriculture (DA) in 2015. The festival is a joyful way to give thanks for good harvests and the city's progress. It includes events like Agri-Eco Tourism Tienda Ilagan Booths, cultural games, and a street dance competition.

Patron Saint and Town Fiesta

Like many places in the Catholic Philippines, Ilagan celebrates the feast day of its patron, Saint Ferdinand of Castile, every May 30. This is also when the town fiesta is held.

Sports in Ilagan

Ilagan has hosted many sports events, including international, national, and regional competitions. These events usually take place at the City of Ilagan Sports Complex.

In January 2019, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) announced that Ilagan would host the "2019 Batang Pinoy Luzon" sports competition. This event for athletes under 15 years old was held from March 16–23, 2019.

In May 2022, Ilagan hosted the "Philta National Youth Tennis Circuit 2022" and the "Little League North Luzon" baseball championship. In February and April 2023, Ilagan also hosted the "Baseball Little League Philippine Games" and the "2023 Little League Philippines National Finals".

In March 2023, the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA), Inc. chose Ilagan to host the Philippine Athletic Championships. Athletes from Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, and Iraq competed in this 5-day event. Ilagan also hosted the 2023 Cagayan Valley Regional Association of State Universities and Colleges (CaVRASUC) games and the 2023 Cagayan Valley Regional Athletic Association (CAVRAA) meet.

Ilagan hosted the 2024 CAVRAA meet for the fifth time. The opening ceremony was held at the City of Ilagan Sports Complex on April 26, 2024.

On January 16, 2025, it was announced that Ilagan would have an expansion team in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League for the 2025 season.

City of Ilagan Sports Complex

The City of Ilagan Sports Complex is a modern sports facility. It has rubber tracks, courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and tennis, and a new swimming pool. It has hosted major events like the CAVRAA meet and the Ayala Philippine Athletics Championships. It is the first city outside Metro Manila to host these championships for two years in a row.

City Sports and Convention Center

The City Sports and Convention Center is an air-conditioned facility for indoor events. It hosts basketball games, badminton and volleyball tournaments, and concerts. It was also used as a vaccination site during the COVID-19 pandemic. The newly renovated center was reopened on June 12, 2023.

Isabela Sports Complex

In 1993, Ilagan hosted the Palarong Pambansa (National Games). In 2011, it hosted the SCUAA National Olympics. These events were held at the Isabela Sports Complex in Barangay Alibagu. This large facility has a stadium with 39,000 seats and a village for athletes. It also has courts for various sports, a swimming pool, and a baseball field.

Isabela Golf Club

Ilagan has the only golf course in Isabela. Built in the early 1960s, it has nine holes and well-kept fairways. The club has a clubhouse, pro shop, and restaurant. This golf course has produced several World Junior Golf Champions.

Ping-Pong Central

Table tennis is also popular in Ilagan. It is played regularly at Ping-Pong Central in Francisca Village. The Table Tennis Association of Ilagan (TATAC-Ilagan) hosts monthly tournaments for residents and an annual open tournament.

How Ilagan is Governed

Local Government Structure

As a component city and the capital of Isabela, Ilagan's local government works with the provincial government. The city is led by a city mayor and a city council. The mayor, vice mayor, and councilors are elected by the people every three years.

Barangays are also led by elected officials: a Barangay Captain and Barangay Councilors. The barangays also have an SK federation for the youth, led by an SK chairperson. All these officials are elected every three years.

City Symbols

Ilagan's City Seal

The city seal has the words "City of Ilagan" and "Isabela". It also shows the founding year 1686 and the cityhood year 2012.

Inside the seal, there is a mountain representing the Sierra Madre mountain ranges. Two rivers, the Cagayan River and Ilagan River, are also shown. The yellow figures represent the citizens, and the buildings and red gear show city growth.

On the upper right, there are symbols of farming: a carabao horn, a kamote, maize (corn), and palay. These represent Ilagan as the Corn Capital.

At the bottom, the Latin phrase Vox populi, Vox Dei means "the Voice of the People, the Voice of God." Each barangay in the city also has its own seal.

Ilagan's City Flag

The city flag is light blue, which is Ilagan's unofficial city color. The city seal is placed in the middle of the flag.

City Anthem

The current city anthem is the City of Ilagan Hymn. It was composed by Ato Del Rosario with lyrics by Nilo Agustin. The previous anthem was the Martsa ng Ilagan (Ilagan March).

Other City Symbols

Corn is the unofficial city crop, symbolizing Ilagan's title as the Corn Capital of the Philippines. Light blue and golden yellow are also unofficial city colors, often seen around the city.

Elected Leaders

Before Ilagan became a city, it had 28 municipal mayors since 1904. Rafael Maramag was the first mayor from 1904 to 1906. Josemarie L. Diaz was the first city mayor, serving from 2012 to 2016.

Mayor of the City of Ilagan
Seal of the City of Ilagan
Incumbent Josemarie L. Diaz since June 30, 2019 (2nd term)
Appointer	Elected via popular vote (maximum of three consecutive terms)
Term length	3 years
Formation	1904

Members of the Ilagan City Council
(2022–2025)

Position	Name
District Representative (1st Legislative District of the Province of Isabela)	Antonio T. Albano
Chief Executive of the City of Ilagan	Mayor Josemarie L. Diaz
Presiding Officer of the City Council of Ilagan	Vice Mayor Kiryll S. Bello
Members of the City Council	Jay Eveson C. Diaz
	Jessamyn Uy Ligan
	Rachel V. Garcia
	Harold P. Olalia
	Antonio R. Montereal, Jr.
	Lilian Q. Bringas
	Joey L. Ramos
	Rolando L. Tugade
	Rommel B. Ballesteros
	Daniel Joseph A. Mata

Representation in Congress

Ilagan is part of the first legislative district of Isabela province. Currently, Antonio T. Albano represents the city in the House of Representatives.

Getting Around Ilagan

Transportation Options

In Ilagan, you can get around using jeepneys, tricycles, buses, and taxis. The local government is also working on new transport systems like the Hybrid Electric Road Train and Podcar Public Transportation System.

Jeepneys

Ilagan is one of the few places in Cagayan Valley where jeepneys are a main way to get around. There are 432 jeepneys that travel on different routes within the city and to nearby towns.

Tricycles

About 4,000 tricycles operate in the city. Like jeepneys, they have specific routes to different parts of Ilagan.

Bus Terminals

Several bus companies have terminals in Ilagan. They offer daily trips to Manila and other places like Dagupan and Baguio. Bus companies like Victory Liner and GV Florida Transport have terminals in the city.

The Ilagan City Integrated Central Terminal opened on November 28, 2011. It is the main transport hub for all public vehicles in Ilagan. On July 17, 2023, it became the first accredited central terminal in Cagayan Valley.

Taxis

On May 4, 2022, the city government launched eleven taxi units. These taxis serve the entire Cagayan Valley region and were the first of their kind there. The city also launched 58 new public utility vehicles as part of its modernization plan.

Podcar System

On November 24, 2023, the groundbreaking ceremony for the FUTRAN Green Energy Podcar Public Transportation System took place. This multi-billion project is the first of its kind in Northern Philippines. The first phase, a 10-kilometer route from Barangay Alibagu to Centro Poblacion, is expected to be ready by March 2024.

Bridges Connecting Ilagan

Ilagan has several important bridges. The Malalam Bridge in Barangay Malalam, opened in 1995, connects Malalam to Alinguigan 2nd.

The Baculud Overflow Bridge connects the main town area to the northeastern barangays. It was damaged by a typhoon in 2016 but was reopened on May 4, 2019, after repairs.

The Lullutan Bridge opened in February 2015. It connects the city's western barangays and nearby towns to the rest of Ilagan. This bridge made travel much faster for farmers.

The Santa Maria (Cabisera 8) bridge was completed in 2015. The Cabisera 2 (Dappat) Bridge opened on November 23, 2023, making travel easier for residents in the San Antonio Region.

Road Networks

Ilagan is connected by the Maharlika Highway, a national highway. The city has 29.313 kilometers of concrete national roads.

Other roads include 33.005 kilometers of provincial roads, 8,909 city streets, and 269.713 kilometers of barangay roads. Ilagan is easily reached by all types of land transportation.

The Ilagan–Delfin Albano–Mallig (IDAM) Road became a national road in 2001. It is 38.78 kilometers long and serves as an important route for goods and services.

The Ilagan–Gamu Road is a bypass route connecting western Ilagan to Gamu.

The construction of an 82-kilometer Ilagan–Divilacan Road through the Sierra Madre mountains is ongoing. This road will open access to the coastal towns of Divilacan, Palanan, and Maconacon.

Communication Services

Ilagan has many internet cafes, and major Internet Service Providers (ISPs) like Globe Broadband, Converge Fiber, and PLDT Fiber are available. Cable TV provider Polaris Cable Vision also offers internet.

Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company provides landline services. Smart Communications and Globe Telecommunications offer mobile services. Dito Telecommunity is also available.

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPOst) is the main postal service. Express delivery services are provided by companies like LBC and FedEx.

Power Supply

Isabela Electric Cooperative II, Inc. (ISELCO II) provides electricity to homes and businesses. As of 2011, Ilagan is 100% energized. A sub-station of National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is in Barangay Baligatan.

Freeway Lighting System. Ilagan is one of the few places in Cagayan Valley with continuous highway lights. The city government installed lights along the national road.

Solar Power Plants. On May 27, 2015, the Department of Energy (DOE) approved a contract for the largest solar PV power plant in the Philippines. This P7-billion project will provide cheap solar energy to residents. The 100.0 MW solar power facility is being built on a 100-hectare land in Barangay Cabannungan.

In December 2022, the Department of Energy (DOE) approved a P18-billion solar farm project in Ilagan City. This project, a partnership between a Filipino-French company, will develop a 440 MWp/336 MWac solar PV project. Construction started in 2024, and it is expected to provide electricity by 2025.

On June 10, 2024, a connection contract was signed for the Isabela Ground Mounted Solar PV Project (IGMSP). This P18 billion project, located in Ilagan and Gamu, will generate 440 megawatts of clean energy by 2028 and create 4,000 jobs.

Water and Sewerage System

City of Ilagan Water District (CIWD) supplies water to residents. It has many pumping stations to meet the city's growing water needs. Some residents also have their own water pumps or deep wells.

Metro Ilagan Water. In 2018, the CIWD partnered with Filipinas Water Holdings Inc. to improve the water supply and manage sewage. This partnership formed Metro Ilagan Water. The City of Ilagan Bulk Water Supply Project, a P1.13 billion project, will supply an additional 36 million liters of water per day. The Metro Ilagan Water Treatment Facility in Barangay Calamagui 1st opened on November 24, 2023.

Pasa Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (PSRIP). This $21.7 million irrigation project in Barangay Pasa helps control floods and irrigate farmlands. It is expected to irrigate 800 hectares of farmlands and benefit 747 families.

Civic Center Development

On February 21, 2021, the city government started building a P250 million Multi-Purpose Sports, Commercial and Convention Center. This "Capital Arena" will have up to 10,000 seats and is the biggest of its kind in Northern Luzon. It is part of a new 10-hectare civic center in Barangay Alibagu, where many government offices are located.

On November 24, 2023, the groundbreaking ceremony for a housing project under the "Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH)" program took place. This project includes 20 high-rise condominium-type buildings with almost 5,500 units.

On November 22, 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority - Civil Registry System (PSA-CRS) Outlet opened in the new PSA Building within the City Hall Complex. This facility serves the Central Cagayan Valley Region, making it easier for people to get civil registry documents.

Healthcare in Ilagan

Ilagan has several hospitals and health centers.

Public Hospitals

• City of Ilagan Medical Center (CIMC) in Barangay Lullutan. This is a level-II hospital with 100 beds. It opened on August 11, 2021, and also serves as an isolation facility for patients.
• Gov. Faustino N. Dy, Sr. Memorial Hospital in Barangay Calamagui 2nd. It was established in 1939.
• San Antonio City of Ilagan Hospital. In 2014, a diagnostic center was opened here. On November 25, 2020, the city government opened its own Molecular Laboratory here, the first of its kind in Cagayan Valley.

Private Hospitals

• Isabela Doctors General Hospital
• Dr. Victor S. Villaroman Memorial Hospital

The city also has three City Health Units, dozens of dental clinics, maternity and pediatric clinics, derma clinics, and pharmacies. Citimed of Ilagan, Inc., a private Level-II hospital, is currently under construction in Barangay Alibagu.

Health Centers

• City Health Office I (San Vicente)
• City Health Office II (Marana 1st)
• City of Ilagan Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center

Education in Ilagan

Ilagan is a center for education in Isabela, serving students from nearby towns. Government agencies like Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Department of Education (DepEd) have offices in the city.

Schools for All Ages

The Schools Division of the City of Ilagan manages the city's public education system. It oversees public and private elementary and high schools.

Ilagan has six integrated high schools, ten public secondary schools, and three private secondary schools. There are 88 elementary schools, with the most populated ones in the main town area.

In 2013, the Schools Division of the City of Ilagan reorganized the school districts. There are now six school districts:

• Ilagan East District
• Ilagan North District
• Ilagan Northwest District
• Ilagan West District
• Ilagan South District
• San Antonio District

Technical and Vocational Training

Ilagan also has technical schools overseen by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). These schools offer short courses, usually one or two years long.

• Chronicles Institute of Isabela
• Colegio de Ilagan
• Far East Computer Technology - Ilagan
• Isabela Provincial Training Center
• Isabela School of Arts and Trades (ISAT)
• Isabela State University also offers two year courses
• Saint Ferdinand College also offers TESDA courses
• TESDA Regional Technical Vocational Education and Training Innovation Center

Colleges and Universities

Ilagan has two higher education institutions accredited by CHED. They offer college and graduate programs. The local government also provides scholarships for deserving students.

Saint Ferdinand College

The Saint Ferdinand College was founded in 1950. It is the only Catholic educational institution in Barangay Bagumbayan.

Isabela State University

The Isabela State University - Ilagan campus became part of the Isabela State University system in 1978. It is located in Barangay Calamagui 2nd.

City of Ilagan Colleges

In 2023, the city government completed plans for the City of Ilagan College (CIC). This new college will offer health-related courses like Nursing and Pharmacy. Construction started on May 4, 2023, and is expected to be finished by 2024.

Police Training Facility

On June 13, 2021, an agreement was signed to establish a Philippine National Police (PNP) Training Facility in Barangay Santa Barbara. This 3-hectare facility will serve as a recruitment and training center for police trainees from all over Luzon.

Images for kids

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  Ilagan Japanese Tunnel

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  Ilagan River

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  Ilagan Sports Complex

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  Rizal Park

Media in Ilagan

Ilagan's main media outlet is radio.

Radio Stations

AM

• 711 kHz DZYI Sonshine Radio
• 900 kHz DZSE Radyo Alerto Asean

FM

• 101.7 MHz Pacific Broadcasting Service
• 107.9 MHz Taps Radio Ilagan

Television Stations

• Channel 4 - People’s Television Network
• Channel 7 - GMA Network, Inc.
• Channel 41 - Interactive Broadcast Media, Inc.

Print Media

• New Valley Times Press

Famous People from Ilagan

Politics

• Silvestre Bello III - a former secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment.

Religion

• Miguel Purugganan - a bishop of the Roman Catholic Church.

Sports

• Ricci Rivero - a basketball player, actor, and TV host.
• Hezy Val B. Acuña II - a professional basketball player.
• Jackson Corpuz - a professional basketball player.

Sister Cities

Local Sister Cities

• Gamu, Isabela, since March 4, 2024
• Quezon City, Metro Manila
• Makati, Metro Manila
• Taguig, Metro Manila

International Sister Cities

• Taipei, Taiwan

More About Ilagan

• Ilagan Japanese War Tunnel
• Ilagan River
• Ilagan Sanctuary
• Ilagan Sports Complex
• List of barangays in Ilagan
• List of schools in Ilagan

See also

In Spanish: Ilagan para niños