MANILA, Philippines - The province of Quirino in the Cagayan Valley Region is regarded as one of the country’s tourism frontiers.
Inhabited by various ethno-linguistic groups and indigenous peoples from the north, the province is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions living in harmony.
Most notable among Quirino’s peoples are the Bugkalots, considered the last of the Philippine headhunting tribes, who live in the hinterlands of the eastern and central Caraballo and Sierra Madre mountain ranges.
To celebrate its unity and peaceful coexistence in the midst of diversity, the province recently marked its 44th founding anniversary with the Panagdadapun Festival.
Panagdadapun, which means “gathering” in the Ilocano language, brought together the municipal festivals of various towns which reflected the province’s rich cultural diversity.
Showcased were Penenkakasisit of Nagtipunan, Pagay-Pagay of Saguday, Panagsasalog of Maddela, Ginnamuluan of Cabarroguis, Pammadayaw of Diffun and Panagsalukag of Aglipay.
The festival featured various sporting events and was capped by a grand street parade which showcased the pride of the province’s six towns.
Quirino governor Junie Cua said that the celebrations highlighted the economic, political and governance gains the province has achieved since its creation in 1971.
This year’s festivity coincided with the 125th birth anniversary of the late president Elpidio Quirino, after whom the province was named. Cua said the ideals of Quirino, an educator who started from humble beginnings, serve as the guiding principles of the people of the province.
The festival showcased the natural charm of the province through its cottage industries and best-kept secret ecotourism attractions.
Among the province’s top tourist draws are the Aglipay Cave and Provincial Forest Park in Aglipay, Bimmapor Rock Formation and Siitian Nature’s Park in Nagtipunan, Nagbukel Cave in Diffun, Bisangal Falls and Jose Ancheta Falls, tucked in a virgin forestland in the interiors of Maddela.
Its iconic attraction is Governor Rapids in Maddela town which is known for its massive walls of limestone jutting out from one side of the Cagayan River framing the Sierra Madre Mountains. Its swift and deep blue waters is a venue for kayaking, whitewater rafting, swimming and fishing, while the riverside offers a relaxing picnic ground.
Quirino is also gaining popularity as a mecca for motocross with the challenging track the provincial government built in the capital town of Cabarroguis. It is part of the 111-hectare Quirino Tourism Complex, which includes the Wakeboarding Complex, a convention center and recreational facilities.
A first in Cagayan Valley, this is seen to bolster the province’s standing as the region’s adventure sport capital.
The province was created on Sept. 10, 1971 when it was separated from Nueva Vizcaya by virtue of Republic Act 6394.