Explore Philippines (Nueva Vizcaya)

  

Nueva Vizcaya - Watershed Haven Of The Valley

Brief Description
The history of Nueva Vizcaya could still be reflected from the culture and customs of its early settlers, which included the Ilongots (now called Bugkalots), Igorots, Ifugaos, Isinais, and Gaddangs. The influx of civilization and the infusion of modern technology to the lifestream of the province induced many immigrants from the adjacent provinces, primarily Ilocanos, Tagalogs, Pangasinenses, Kapampangans, among others.

Located about 268 north of Metro Manila, the province is tagged to be the new alternative destination for outdoor and environment enthusiasts. Considered a watershed haven, it is 70 percent forestland. It is strategically bounded by the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, Caraballo Mountains, and Cordillera Mountains. It is also the gateway to the Cagayan Valley Region and the Banaue Rice Terraces, eighth Wonder of the World.

Geography
Home of the Isinais, Nueva Vizcaya is located in the northcentral part of Luzon in Region 2. It is surrounded by notable mountain ranges such as the Sierra Madre on the east, Caraballo on the south, and Cordillera on the west. The province has several principal rivers: Magat, Matuno, Marang, Sta. Fe, and Sta. Cruz. All these rivers are tributaries of the Magat River which flows into the Cagayan River. The province is bounded on the north and northeast by the province of Ifugao and Isabela, on the east and southeast by Qurino and Aurora, on the south by Nueva Ecija, and on the west by Benguet and Pangasinan.

Political Subdivision
The province is considered as one congressional district and has 15 municipalities and 274 barangays. Bayombong is the provincial capital while Solano and Kayapa are its commercial and summer capital, respectively

Population
The year 2000 census of population for Nueva Vizcaya was registered at 366,692.

Language/Dialect
The majority of the people speak Ilocano, comprising 66.9 percent of households.

Climate
Nueva Vizcaya is relatively dry from November to April and relatively wet during the rest of the year. Maximum temperature ranges from 22-25 degrees Celsius. December and January are the coldest months when temperature falls to about 20 degrees Celsius while the warmest months are April and May. Nueva Vizcaya is often referred to as lowland Baguio because of its pleasant climate.

Industries
The province has basically an agricultural economy with commerce, trade, and industry contributing to its growth and development. Among other major economic activities are farming and cattle and swine raising. Primary crops are palay and corn. Minor crops are rootcrops, vegetables, and fruits. The province produces quality onions and vegetables often sold in Metro Manila. Oranges and mangoes are now major crops being exported fresh to Asian countries.