Information about Quirino

Quirino

Photo by Tourism Quirino

Located in the Cagayan Valley region, Quirino is a landlocked province that is named after the sixth president of the Philippines, Elpidio Quirino. The province only has six municipalities: the capital Cabarroguis, Diffun, Saguday, Aglipay, Maddela and Nagtipunan. It is the youngest province in the region, officially becoming one after a law was passed in 1971 designating it as such.

Before it became a province, it used to be the forest region of Nueva Vizcaya, giving it its nickname, the Forest Heartland of Cagayan. It used to be inhabited by the Ilongots and the Dinagats. The Ilongots used to live around the headwaters of the Cagayan River, but with the arrival of Christian settlers, these indigenous tribes retreated deeper into the forest.  

Currently, it is known as one of the agro-industrial and eco-tourism destinations in the north, with tourist attractions including the Aglipay Caves, Bisangal Cave, Diamond Cave, Sinipit Falls, Ganano Falls, and the Siitan Nature Park.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Quirino Province is during the dry season, which is usually from December to May. Note that the warmest months are usually March and April, so it might be a good idea to visit at a different time if you're not comfortable with hot temperatures. 

Weather in Quirino

The weather in Quirino varies per season. During the dry season, temperatures can reach a high of 38°C. You can still visit during the rainy season, which usually lasts from June to November, but note any coming typhoons as these can significantly affect your trip.

Peak Season in Quirino

Many travelers visit Quirino during the months of March and April, with the peak season usually coinciding with the Holy Week.

Main festival/events in Quirino

Despite it being a relatively new and small province, Quirino celebrates several festivals, including the annual Panagdadapun Festival. The main event of this festival is the grand parade where people from all over the province join in to showcase the history and different cultures of the province. It is celebrated every September and coincides with the province's foundation day.

Other festivals in the province include the Penenkakasisit Festival, the Pagay-Pagay Festival, the Panagsasalog Festival, the Ginnamuluan Festival, the Pammadayaw Festival, and the Panagsalukag Festival.

How to get to Quirino

If you are using a private car from Metro Manila, you may take NLEX and SCTEX and take the exit to Tarlac City. From there, take Sto. Domingo Licab Road to Pangasinan and then Nueva Ecija Road in Santo Domingo. You can follow the Pan-Philippine Highway to your destination in Quirino. You can also go there via Baler. From the Tarlac City exit, you can take the Guimba - Allaga Road to Cabanatuan City, and then Baler. From there, follow the Baler - Dipaculao - Casiguran Road, and then follow the Nagtipunan Road to your destination in Quirino.

Safety in Quirino

Quirino and its attractions are generally safe for tourists, but it wouldn't hurt to be alert and aware of your surroundings when exploring the province.

Getting around Quirino

There aren't a lot of options when it comes to public transportation in the province, so it's best to hire private transportation or bring your own vehicle.

Food and Drinks

There are many good eateries and restaurants scattered across the six municipalities so you won't run out of options when it comes to dining. While you’re there, try the famous Cagayan dish, pancit batil patung, or Ilocano dishes like dinakdakan.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Quirino

While you can find homestays, lodges, and guest houses in other municipalities, most accommodations in the province can be found in its capital, Cabbaroguis. You can book your stay at a hotel, hostel, dorm, or homestay.