Circular Shape of Seal, represents the resiliency, versatility and cohesiveness of the municipality’s inhabitants.

Inner Circle, represents the municipality as apolitical unit, part and parcel of the Republic of the Philippines as represented by the official tri-color red, white and blue.

Sunburst, represents the inhabitants’ optimistic view, the hope for the future. The 31 rays denote the 31 barangays that compose the municipality. At the core is the map of Bangued.

In 1598, the place now known as Bangued was occupied by the first Spanish-Iloco forces who established a garrison to protect the Spanish missionaries from headhunters who frequently pillaged the settlement. The primary mission of the Spaniards was to christianize the natives and to locate the goldmines.

Historical records say that the word “Bangued” was an evolution of the word “Bangan” or roadblocks or blockades. Old people especially in the municipalities outside Bangued pronounce the word Bangued as Banged.

In 1692, Bangued was made an independent mission territory by the Augustinians under Pader Columbo. Earlier in 1615, Father Juan Pareja organized Bangued as a mission center and baptized 3,000 Tingguians with the help of Don Manuel Domaoal who was their chief.

The modern-day Bangued was formally organized in 1704 until it was decided to become the capital town of Abra in 1863.

The town fiesta of Bangued used to be celebrated every February. It was after the independence of the Philippines in 1946 when, as a gesture of nationalism, the newly installed local government of Bangued, through the leadership of the late Beato Alberto, resolved to move the town fiesta to February 23rd. Even the Roman Catholic Church of Bangued, whose patron saint is St. James the Greater and whose feast day falls on July 25, also observed February 23rd in honor of the good saint.

Before World War II, the town of Bangued was once a sprawling community of several sitios known then as Balliling, Linasin, Consiliman, Lallaud (Camposanto), Gunggo-ngugong, Sinapangan, Barikir and Baraca. Almost all the Spanish homes were razed to the ground during the March 10, 1945 massive bombing of Bangued by the Allied Forces.

The town of Bangued long existed before it was formally inaugurated to coincide with the feast day of Saint James the Greater on July 25 in the year 1861.

There was no road that connected the town of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur with that of Bangued. It was the Abra River tributary that provided the principal means of transportation by bamboo raft (balsa) from Caoayan, Ilocos Sur and from Banaoang, Ilocos Sur going upriver propelled by bamboo poles (tekkan) and oars (gaud). Rivermen or palmeros from different Ilocos towns settled for good in the towns of Bangued, La-Paz, Lagangilang, Dolores and Tayum.

Bangued has 31 barangays as follows: Agtangao, Angad, Bañacao, Bangbangar, Cabuloan, Calaba, Calot/Tablac, Cosili West, Cosili East, Dangdangla, Lingtan, Lipcan, Lubong, Macarcarmay, Macray, Maoay, Malita, Palao, Patucannay, Sagap, San Antonio, Santa Rosa, Sao-atan, Sappaac, Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6 and Zone 7. Barangay Zones 1–7 constitute the Poblacion and are the only urban barangays of the municipality.

Bangued is at the western portion of the province of Abra, about 408 kms. north of Manila. It is bounded on the north by the municipalities of Danglas and La-Paz, on the east by the municipalities of Tayum and Peñarrubia, on the west by the municipality of Langiden and the province of Ilocos Norte and on the south by the municipalities of San Isidro and Pidigan.

Bangued is generally mountainous at the northern and southern portions with elevations ranging from 60 to 1,000 meters above sea level. Slope inclination of hills and mountains in the northern side is 30% opposite the 15% inclination at the southern portion. At the mid-section of the municipality, it is predominantly flat and rolling with an average elevation of 45 meters above sea level.

The prevailing climate is characterized by two pronounced seasons, dry from October to April and wet during the remaining months. The peak of annual mean rainfall occurs within the month of August at 680mm from an average of 274mm during the remaining months. Typhoons, which usually occur during the month of August, regularly pass through the municipality causing the relatively high mean rainfall.

The municipality has two major rivers, the Sinalang and Abra River, which provide for the fish supply of the municipality complemented by privately-owned fish ponds and irrigated ricefields used as fish culture ponds.

Metal minerals are not present in the municipality. However, there is an abundance of limestone deposits in different locations. Gravel and sand are also available along the banks of the Abra River.

Shape and Color of the Seal, balitoc and bolaoan (pure gold earrings of the early Tingguians).

Eight Stars, represent the 8 barangays of the municipality.

Spear and Ax, represent the ancient Tingguian weapons.

Tree, represents the sturdiness, unity and cooperation of the boliney residents.

During the Spanish regime, Boliney was one of the barangays of the township of Manabo. It was only in 1918 that Boliney became municipal district. With the passage into law of a congressional bill in 1959, Boliney together with another municipal district, Danac,was merged into a single municipal district. The first election for the combined municipal districts was in December 1959.

Boliney has 8 barangays: Poblacion, Amti, Baoyan, Dumagas, Dao-angan, Kilong-olao, Danac East and Danac West.

Geographically, the municipality of Boliney is hilly and mountainous with all its 8 barangays situated along the Ikmin River.

The municipality is bounded on the east by the province of Kalinga, on the west by the municipalities of Manabo and Luba, on the north by the municipalities of Bucloc and Sallapan, and on the south by the municipality of Tubo.

Because boliney was once a part of Manabo, most of its first settlers around the 16th and 17th centuries are from Manabo belonging to the masadiit tribe. The masadiit tribe settled on mountains tops idenfied only by the presence of bamboo that they planted. By around 1700 however, the masadiit settlementswere abandoned due to an epidemic that decimited the population coupled with constant attacks from tribal enemies. It is believed that some of the settlers went down to manabo and Bucay with some going to Narvacan, Ilocos sur.

By 1800, the abundant wild life of Boliney attracted hunters not only from Bucloc, Daguioman and Manabo but also from other places as far as mt. province and kalinga. Instead of bringing their provisions during hunting expeditions, these hunters made kaingins in their camps and planted rice and vegetables for their sustenance. Later on, thje hunters brought along with them their families and began constructing small houses where they permanently settled.

At present, the residents are a mixture of 3 distinct tribes namely: the Masadiit Tribe, represented by barangays Poblacion, Baoyan and Dumagas; the Balatok Tribe, represented by barangays Amti, Danac East and Danac West and; the Oplai Tribe, represented by barangays Dao-angan and Kilong-olao. The Masadiit Tribe is comprised by the people coming from Bucloc and Sallapadan while the Oplai Tribe are those inhabitants coming from Belwang, Mountain Province. The Balatok Tribe are those coming from Kalinga.

Casa Real, the Spanish-built fortress made of bricks which still stand today in mute testimony to the once-upon-a-time glory and splendor of Bucay during the Spanish Era thus signifying stability.

Figures with Inscriptions Atop the Fortress, like a Roman tower, a lion and a crown signifies stability and prowess (tower), peace, order, security, justice and integrity (lion) and power for then Spanish friars (crown).

Eagle Grasping a Branch and Arrow with a Ribbon in Its Beak, signifying peace and order and strength. The eagle carries her the symbol of progress through peace, order and security, justice and integrity.

The first inhabitants of Bucay are the Tingguians, commonly known as Itnegs. The Itnegs noted for their handwork and resourcefulness, are jungle-dwelling, with their daily activities preoccupied with crude agriculture, hunting and fishing. The rolling and terraced rice fields in the hilly areas of the municipality attest to the Itnegs hard work and resourcefulness in agriculture. Aside form agriculture, fishing and hunting, the Itnegs also are noted for their quality woven cloths, moulded bamboo crafts and pottery items.

History records show that sometime in 1846, an expedition of Spanish conquistador led by Fr. Jesus Blanco arrived at a settlement in Bucay, now barangay Labon. The Spaniards found natives unbelligerent and submissive because they were afflicted with an epidemic close to Malaria. Fr. Blanco purportedly established rapport with them by initiating a cure for the epidemic. From out of a boiled juice of a vine called”makabuhay” a panacea was connected and afflicted natives were made to drink it for their recovery. It was said that the name “Bucay” is a corruption of the word “makabuhay”.

The influx of Ilocanos followed Fr. Blanco’s expedition and very soon, settlements grew, usually along the rivers and creeks. One suitable area where the Poblacion is now located is a wide strip of flat land immediately west of the Abra River.

The Spanish authorities at the same time saw it suitable for development and proclaimed Bucay on October 29, 1946 the first capital town of Abra. Poblacion streets were constructed in a nice criss-crosing pattern that residential blocks and institutional blocks were cut out almost identical ti one another. Like all other early Spanish settlements, the church, townhall and plaza were successively put up including footpaths leading nearby settlements with provisions of deterrent structures against the hostile headhunting tribes from nearby settlements. One evidence of such structure is the presence of the Casa Real façade in the municipality.

Bucay maintained its stature as Abra’s capital for 13 years, from 1846 to 1861. The Spanish Military Governor. Don Jooaquin de Pratt, convinced of the greater potential and accessibility of Bangued decreed the transfer of the capital of Abra to Bangued sometime in 1862. Bucay was then left in the stewardship of its local leaders. The first Gobernadorcillo of Bucay was Don Esteban Alzate was followed by 12 other rich and educated persons who served as Gobernadorcillo up to 1893. All that the officials can do at that time was to maintain peace and order and initiate the cultivation and development of agricultural lands. The vast prime agricultural lands west of the Poblacion, terracing up to the foot of the mountains, may have been owned by the few that at the time that it is now the site of the Bucay Corporate Farm, known in Abra as the showcase of the modern rice farming.

With the coming of the Americans, the educational system was improved and the first attempt to link Bucay with the other municipalities that came into existence was made. The attempt saw socio-cultural enrichment of the town until World War II broke out.

The Japanese invading forces proved to be the exact opposite of what the Spaniards and Americans did to the town. The former set up their own educational system, side by side with their hostility and abuses causing the residents to evacuate and take refuge in the mountains.

Then came liberation. People became conscious of the government thus development and reconstruction began. Various settlements grew in a desperate pattern consisting of the municipality’s 21 barangays namely: Abang, Bangbangcag, Bangcagan, Banglolao, Bugbog, Calao, Dugong, Labon, Layugan, Madalipay, North Poblacion, Pagala, Pakiling, Palaquio, Patoc, Quimloong, Salnec, San Miguel, Siblong, South Poblacion and Tabiog.

Nestling on the western side of the Cordillera ranges, approximately 17km. southeast of Bangued and approximately 20◦75” latitude and 40◦longitude,Bucay is bounded on the north by the municipalities of Tayum and Lagangilang, on the east by the municipalities of Licuan-Baay and Sallapadan, on the south by the municipality of Manabo, and on the west by the municipalities of Villaviciosa, San Isidro, Peñarrubia and Bangued. Bucay’s deep valleys, wide plains and sloping hills are shut off by rugged mountains, except on the northern side where Abra River meanders towards the coastal plains of Ilocos Sur.

Topographically, Bucay is bounded on the eastern and western regions with secondary mountain ranges and with two rivers- the Baay River on the north and the Ikmin River on the south. It is dotted with moderately rolling hills with the barangays commonly situated on the available plains, usually near creeks and other water bodies.

The only mineral found in the municipality is limestone which is a basic ingredient in the manufacture of cement. The mineral was temporarily quarried by the Cellophil Corporation during its short existence in the municipality.

The people of Bucay originated from the western lowland tribes of southern Ilocos Norte who are also referred to as Ilaud Itnegs or Western Tingguians. They were the first settlers of Bucay. However, 95.53% of the municipality’s population speak Ilocano while only 3.80% speak Tingguian with the remaining 0.67% speaking other dialects.

On religious affiliations, 96.23% of the populace belong to the Roman Catholic Church with Iglesia ni Cristo having a 2.32% following and other religious sects comprising the remaining 1.45%.

The Sun, representing the Divine Creator, the Supreme Being that holds the destinies of man and nations.

The Four Rays, represent the original 4 barangays of Bucloc.

The River, speaks of Bucloc River that traverses the municipality upstream to the municipality of Daguioman receiving numerous creaks and brooks as tributaries, hence; it is called the “land of living streams”.

The Mountains with Verdant Forest and Minerals Underneath, swarms of honeybees do seasonal migration to the valley making the municipality unique from the rest of the municipalities with their beehives and honey for the residents ready for food as source of income; this resource also signify the popularity of its leader’s generosity, stings when disturbed and amused.

The Eagle, speaks of the tactful leadership and cleverness of municipal officials for all seasons.

The Rice Terraces along Bucloc River and in Mountain Sides, signify the chief source of livelihood of the residents.

Among the early known settlers of Bucloc is Capitan Daodawen of Cabaruyan, Daguioman. He was the only son of Maday-acan, who migrated from “Vhotloc”, Dao-angan, Kalinga-Apayao. Later on, Maday-acan migrated to Bingtitan, Bacao, Sallapadan where he married Ao-wanen of Masadiit who was of Masadi-iy and Binongan parentage.

In January 1952, Capitan Daodawen celebrated his 115th birth year, based on record of a citation in his honor given during the Spanish regime. The would fix his birth year somewhere in 1837. He died in 1957.

At the turn of the 19th century, Maday-acan and his brothers Wanawan and Wadwadan from Vhotloc, Dao-angan together with Siddayao and his brothers Gaddawon and Cagayongan from Longwa-an, Balbalasang, Kalinga migrated to the lowlands called “day-as” in Kalinga. Madayacan proceeded to Bangtitan, Bacao but Siddayao and company stopped at Nagasasan. Presumably, they had previous contact with the people of Bacao or that they had relatives among them. During their stay in these places, they took time to explore the adjacent territories and they discovered a valley (now Bucloc-Daguioman), a very good place for settlement. Maday-acan and his group later moved to Codal, Ud-udiao, Sallapadan where his only son, Daodawen,was born.

One day, Siddayao visited his cousins Bayay and Puglay at Pacsal, Sallapadan and proposed to them that they all moved down to the valley. In honor of the occasion, Puglay butchered a big fat pig and drunk wine from a bamboo tube 7-8 meters long. Looking at the bile of the pig butchered, they foresaw the success of their planed move down the valley. For their own convenience and protection from other tribes, Siddayao and his group occupied the eastern part of the valley from Lingey upstream.

Peglay and group were awarded the lower part of the land from Lamao westward. The early settlers named their own abode “Vhotloc” which was the name of the former abode of Maday-acan and family at Kalinga. “Vhotloc” means the “land of flowing or living streams” describing the new settlement which has a river with numerous brooks or creeks. To the early settlers, Vhotloc was the land of promise, if not “Beulah land”. Siddayao and his group of families settled first at Baniwas, then at Cadacad and finally at Lingey during the third or fourth year since moving into the valley. Peglay with the group of the same number of families moved in two groups at Daldalao and Lamao.

In a decade or more, Siddayao became a widower. He married an Amazonian beauty from Guina-ang, Pasil, Kalinga by the name of Danny. When Siddayao went to Guina-ang to consummate his marriage to Danny, he went to Balatoc and invited the relatives of Danny to migrate to Danac. Danac was explored by Siddayao a few years before his second marriage. Passing through Banao, now Pantikian, Kalinga, he invited his relatives to come down to ”Vhotloc”. Siddayao with his new bride moved and settled finally in Lamao where they died of old age.

In the meantime, the group of men went headhunting at Bangkagan, Luba. Bayay, as a leader, is with the group looking for a victim. They saw instead a beautiful lady taking a bath in a spring above her village. Bayay fell in love with the woman that he negated his initial purpose. What followed was a marriage between Bayay and the lady namedTannao. Tannao was said to be a beautiful lady with aquiline nose, fair complexion and and golden hair. The marriage of Tannao and Bayay ended the feud and headhunting between the Bannao and Maleng clans of Luba and Tubo. Bayay finally settled in Luba, but two of his immediate progeny were married later in Lamao, Catimban and Banawa. Banawa is remembered in local history as the runner who warned the people of Tiempoof the headhunters from Banao. As a result, Daluping of Danao was killed and several men of Banao group were wounded.

When Spanish sovereignty was establish, the seat of government was in San Andres now Lingoy. Siddayao as the Gobernadorcillo invited many of his clansmen from Banao. The migrants later populated Cabaruyan, Pikek, Tui and Ableg. Among the migrants who became officials were; Andomang, Gaddawan, Salabao, Di-ig, Cagayongan and Daodawen. Daodawen served as Gobernadorcillo from the Spanish Era until the arrival of the Americans. With the coming of the Americans, the first official to be appointed was Daligdig, which was a reward for helping the Americans against the “insurrectors”. Daligdig was succeeded by Bitakong, Sagmayao, Quelang and Lumawig among others.

When the town was re-organized, Sallapadan became a town in 1917 including in its territory barangays Lamao down to Ducligan. Lingey up to Ableg remained as territory of San Andresdue to the anomalous conduct of elections in Sallapadan, Lubuagen and some of the leaders of Bucloc petitioned the national government for a new town. In 1920, Bucloc was founded covering the barrios of Ducligan, Labaan,Lamao and Lingey. The first “President” was Lubuagen.

Up to the time, Bucloc is still composed of 4 barangays, namely: Ducligan, Labaan,Lamao (poblacion), and Lingey.

Bucloc, 51 kilometers away from Bangued, is sandwiched between the municipalities of Daguioman on the east, Boliney on the south, Sallapadan on the north and Boliney-Sallapadan on the west. With its estimated land area of 4,000 has., it is predominantly mountainous with valleys and creeks. Existing land use classification are: agricultural – 216has., residential – 21.7has., institutional – 6.7has., communal forest-710has., pasture land – 400has., and unclassified public land – 2,626has. Minerals such as cooper, iron, gold and silver are said to be rich in the municipality. Placer mining is done along river banks especially at the mouth of Mangotmog and Malanas creeks.

Farm Land, represent the main source of income of the people of Daguioman.

Mountain, symbolizes unity among the people.

Deer, symbolizes the town’s peace loving people.

Trees, represents the ecosystem forest with a giant tree which Daguioman is dearly proud of, and which is a source of livelihood to many.

The people of Daguioman belong to a cultural tribe called “Tinguians”, a word derived from Malay term “Ingue”, which means mountain. Hence, to be a Tingguian is to be a man of the mountains. Traditionally, the Tinguans referred to as non Christian tribes. Today, this no longer holds true as many of them have already embraced the Christian faith. It is therefore more accurate to refer to the Tinguans as indigenouspeople living in the mountains of Abrairrespective of heir religious persuasion or affiliation.

The Tinguians are of average Filipino height, generally measuring 5 feet and 4 inches. They have a well built athletic figure with impressive sturdy features. Their hair is glossy dark, generally straight but at slightly wavy. Their foreheads elevated, nose aquiline, prominent and complexion varies from light to dark-reddish brown. Traditionally, they wear g-strings. Women wear characteristic bands on their forearms up to their elbows and around their heads – a mark of beauty among them. They go about their chores bare-chested.

The present day Tingguians, however, have already abandoned traditional g-string attire among men and the bared-chested outlook among, in favor of the full attire of the lowlanders.

The Tinguians are a peaceful tribe and well-disposed to other people. They are now living in well-organized communities scattered all over the mountain ranges of Abra with concentration on the eastern slopes of the Ilocos mountains, the banks of the Abra river pushing their way to the northeast and southern corners of the province. They were traditionally grouped into tribes, a kind of political subdivision of the indigenous people. These small settlements of the various ethnic groups were erroneously referred to by the Spaniards as negrito villages.

For their origin, it is believed that the Tinguians came with the first wave of the last Asian immigrants through the western coast of Borneo. They settled on the fertile valleys and plains of Abra long before the coming of Spaniards. Certain circumstances inimical to their interest and lifestyle forced the Tinguians to move up to the mountains and hinterlands. They were irritated by the Spaniards way or method of converting them to Roman Catholics. Worse, they were driven out by the so-called more highly cultured lowlanders.

They sought refuge and haven in the interior fastnesses where they continue their own lifestyles, fortifying themselves with their ancestral traditions and practices. Many of them significantly influenced their way of thinking and ways of life. For many years, they practiced and persisted on their way of life, characterized by timidity, illiteracy and simplicity dictated by the Requirements of their environment which were both hostile and friendly at the same time.

Daguioman has 4 barangays, namely: Ableg, Cabaruyan, Pikek and Tui (Poblacion).

Daguioman is located on the northeasthern part of the province of Abra. Passing through the Bangued-Bucay route, it is about 56.8km from the capital town of Bangued. While taking the route of Lamunan, It is about 116km. from Bangued.

Among its boundaries, Daguioman is bounded on the north by the municipalities of Licuan-Baay and Malibcong, on the west by the municipalities of Bucloc and Sallapadan, on the east by the mountain ranges of the province of Kalinga and on the south by the municipality of Boliney.

Sun and three stars, symbolize the nation. Danglas is an integral part of the Philippines and is committed to support and implement appropriate national programs/projects/activities.

Mountains and fields, the municipality has vast mountain areas. It has rice fields which are the main source of livelihood of the municipality.

Seven Trees, represent the seven component barangays of the municipality. Also, they represent the vast forest resources of the municipality.

Carabao Head, symbolizes the primary source of income which is farming.

Laurel Leaves, symbolize life and hope. The people of Danglas are full of energy and hope despite the present low income classification of the municipality. The people hold firm belief that they can attain progress when they unite and work hand-in-hand.

Danglas was formerly called “Padayog”, a tinguian term for cradle.it was later on given the name Danglas presumably after Barangay Danglas in the northernmost portion of the municipality.

It was said that in the area, “Dangla” plants which were excellent as firewood grew in abundance. It was customary in the place for people to gather around a bonfire in the morning to warm themselves from the cold climate. The people usually burned dried dangla woods for the purpose.

One morning, while the people were gathered around a bonfire warming themselves, the Spaniards came. One of the Spaniards asked what the woods being burned were. One of the old men around the fire bending himself down to fix the firewood, answered “Dangla”, with an ended tail sound of ”as…” because the smoke from the burning wood irritated his eyes. The Spaniards repeated the word. Thereupon, the name danglas came into being.

When Abra was separated from Ilocos Sur in 1846, the elderly folks recalled that among the first able leaders to govern the municipality were Ruedo, Callibag, Cadangyao, Gettap, Cayabo and Balao-as. It is to be noted that tinggians before the Spanish Colonization had only a single name. The first seat of government then was located in Danglas, Danglas.

In 1902, Danglas was established into a township. Among the early leaders during the time were Balit, Gadgad, Bilaneg, Sibayan, Cayabo, Damase Layugan, Malangen and Baingan.

Danglas became a municipal district in 1921 and was raised to a regular municipality in 1937 with Agcalis as its first president. The first seat of government at Danglas, Danglas was later transferred to Barangay Caupasan. When Mayor Braulio Abbago assumed office, he transferred the seat of government from Caupasan proper to sitio Dumegiuay where the Abra Ilocos Norte road pass through. Upon the assumption into office of mayor Wilmer Borbon, the town hall was established at Cabaruan. The town hall is presently located in this barangay traversed by the Abra Ilocos Norte road.

Presently, the municipality is politically subdivided into 7 Barangays, namely: Nagaparan, Danglas, Abaquid, Pangal, Padangitan, Caupasan and Cabaruan.

Shield, derived from the provincial seal of Abra where the town is located.

The rising sun, signifies hope and new beginnings.

The mountains, typify the hilly and mountainous local terrain.

The Verdant Rice fields, depict that 65% of the land area is devoted to agriculture and most of the working households are farmers.

The Prancing Stallion, symbolizes hard work and sturdiness of the townspeople.

Fifteen Stars, represent the 15 barangays of the municipality affirming unity and cooperation among the component sectors of the municipality.

Bridge, shows the Don Mariano Marcos Bridge as a landmark in approaching the town of Bangued.

More than a hundred years ago, Dolores then known as Bucao the neighboring barrio of the municipality of Tayum. The Spanish sovereign’s objective of spreading Christianity made the birth of a new town imminent.

In 1884, Bucao and its adjacent sitios were combined into a new municipality which was later named Dolores, in honor of image of patron saint, Nuestra Señora de Dolores.

Don Rosalio Eduarte was the founding Gobernadorcillo. He saw the growth of Dolores from the Phillipine Revolution to the American Era, extending from World War I to the Commonwealth period. His colorful career was highlighted by his term as Governor of the sub-province of Abra.

In the advent of American rule, a structural plan was laid out in the Poblacion. A plaza stood at the center with a school building erected to its east and its north, a church and a town hall.

In 1927, the largest barrio of Dolores and its surrounding sitios seceded to form the town of San Juan. The historical change adversely affected Dolores, losing more than half of its land area, natural resources and population. The pre-war years, 1920-1940 were characterized by factionalism. Two feuding political parties, Barbero of the west and Buenafe of the east literally divided the town into two. The first Abra strongman, Don Quintin Paredes, Filipino senator and an eminent statesman, came to the town’s rescue. He successfully convinced the feuding parties to come into peace terms. In 1939, the reconciled factions built a bust of Don Quintin Paredes at the town plaza. This bust became a symbol of reconciliation and brotherhood.

During World War II, the town suffered under the siege of Japanese troops. Economic depression hit the people more acutely than other past upheavals. Wanton massacres, rape of women and plunder of natural resources were the order of the day.

The municipality is composed of 15 barangays: Bayaan, Cabaroan, Calumbaya, Cardona, Isit, Kimmalaba, Libtec, Lublubba, Mudiit, Namitingan, Pacac, Poblacion, Salucag, Taping, and Talogtog.

Man, symbolizes the people who move forward to look for better opportunities to improve their lot from the utilization of the natural resources of the municipality.

Mountains, represent the location of natural resources, more particularly hard metals like gold which are expected to improve the lives of the people.

Green Color, indicates the richness of mineral resources and natural vegetation.

Yellow Color, stands for gold found in the market.

The inhabitants of the municipality of lacub are predominantly tinguians coming from the three tribes, namely: Mabacas, Adasens, and the Binongans. The Binongans originated from Abulan, San Juan, Abra. The Mabacas came from Lubuagan, Kalinga. The Adasens were from Tineg, Abra and the western part of Apayao.

The first settlement in the area was precluded by fierce fighting between the Iballatocs of Alzados and the Adasens. The latter came out victorious in the battle and occupied the area which they first called Adasen territory that included the eastern part of Apayao and the Tineg district.

The dispute between the two tribal groups worsened as the Alzados tried hard to force the Adasens westward until they succeeded in capturing more than half of the territory. The Iballatocs took position at Bacag, now the largest barangay of Lacub. The Iballatocs named the territory Mabaca in honor of their chieftain Mabaca at the time of the conquest. Years later it was named Bacag.

Highly esteemed among the capitans of the locality during the Spanish Regime was Capitan Apo Guyang who contributed much to peace and order. Other great leaders of Lacub were Capitan Legnasen, Capitan Saboy, Capitan Cayyong.

When Lacub became a Rancheria, those who became presidents were: Balani, Balucas, Alunday, Gaboy, Dalingay, Danao, Ortega, Bawalan, Lumidao, Aggoy, Bersamina and Ferraren.

Lacub became a regular municipality in 1948. At present, it has 6 barangays as follows: Bacag, Buneg, Guinguinabang, Lanag, Pacoc/Talampac and Poblacion.

Carabao Head, symbolizes a beast of burden declared as the national animal of the Philippines.

Hill, represents the terrain of the municipality suitable for agro-livestock forestry.

Rice Paddies, means extensive farmlands.

River, stands for life, usually tapped for irrigation facilities and water supply for farm animals.

Rice, represents the staple crop of the municipality.

Trees, symbolizes the eco-system.

According to legend, Lagangilang derived its name from combining the words ‘ilang-ilang” and “lagam”. Ilang-ilang, predominant in the municipality, is a tree whose flowers emit a distinctively sweet scent especially at night. Lagam, meaning bravery, is the name of a famous Tinguian leader who once ruled and defended the original Tinguian village of Lagangilang along the eastern bank of the Abra River from adversaries.

In 1908, Lagangilang became a municipality district from a small settlement of Tinguians called Itnegs. In 1910, the first missionary station was established and in 1918, Lagangilang became a full-fledge municipality. During the latter part of the Spanish regime, traders from Ilocos Sur, using the Abra River as route, sailed upstream to barter goods for land. The Ilocanos first settlement was barangay Aguet, half kilometer west of the Poblacion. Ever searching for a better place to live in, the Ilocano immigrants spread eastward along the bay river founding the communities of Presentar, Nagtupacan, Dalaguisen, Taping, Bio and San Isidro.

An important institution that helped shape the municipality is the 82 year old school established in 1908 during the American regime by an American named Amos E. Allen. The Americans took turn in its administration until 1917, when the first Filipino administrator, Jose Reyna, took over. The school became an agricultural college on June 6,1966, by virtue of Republic Act No. 4647. During World War II, the school served as the seat of the military government of Abra.

As it was in its olden days, the municipality is one of the major learning centers of the province catering not only to the educational needs of Abra but also to neighboring provinces such as Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, La Union, and Mountain Province.

At present , Lagangilang is subdivided into 17 Barangays: Aguet, Bacooc, Balais, Cayapa, Dalaguisan, Laguiben, Lagben, Laang, Nagtupacan, Nagtipulan, Pawa, Presentar, Tagodtod, Taping, Poblacion, Paganao, and San Isidro.

Five Stars, represent the 5 barangays of the municipality.

Rivers Emerging between Mountains, stands for the palsuguan and Tineg Rivers which bisects the barangays of Lagayan.

Fish, Symbolizes the fresh water fishes that thrive in the bodies of water that flow through Lagayan. It is one of the major products upon which the population depend as a source of livelihood.

Lagayan was coined from the word “laga” which means to weave. According to old folks, there was once a place where a big tree stood. Under the tree were basket weavers. These weavers used to weave container baskets such as “dapilag”, a small hamper used as container for vegetables, “alat”, a container for fish catch, “barekbek”, a fish trap, and other utility baskets which were woven out of bamboo or the native “puser”.

One time, a visitor came to where the weavers were weaving, inquiring about the name of the place. When nobody answered, the visitor aptly called the place “laga” which was later on refined to its present name with the passing of time as “Lagayan”, a term implying a lalagyan or container.

Another source of the name of the municipality is from the word “Laga” because it is where its important bodies of water crisscross each other, the Tineg and Palusuguan Rivers.

Lagayan was created(1926) by virtue of a Spanish Decree to serve as a general purpose political unit for the coordination and delivery of basic, regular, direct services and for the effective governance of its inhabitants by the Spaniards during the time.

At present, Lagayan has 5 barangays as follows: Ba-I, Collago, Pang-ot, Poblacion and Pulot.

Mountains and Rivers, Signify that Langiden is mountainous criss-crossed by rivers and creeks.

Ricefields with Crops, stand for the main source of livelihood of the people of Langiden which is agriculture with corn as the main crop.

Fish, represents fishing as the secondary source of income especially during summer when farming activities are minimal.

Plow and Carabao, symbolize the basic implement used in farming with the carabao as the beast of burden.

The word Langiden originated from an Ilocano term “langi” meaning the outgrowth of a plant as in the development of a bamboo shoot. Langiden was considered a shoot which grew from an old small village to a new town. To add beauty and color, the word “den” was added to the word “langi” forming the word langiden.

Langiden is one of the oldest inhabited localities of Abra. Its natives originated from the second wave of malay immigrants who came to the philippines and and landed on the shores of Northern Luzon specially Ilocos Sur where the Abra River emptied its overflow. With the coming of the Spaniards, many Malay immigrants resited their conversion to Christianity. They were then driven upstream of the Abra River into the hinterlands of Abra by the Spaniards calling them Itnegs or Tinguians. Most of the Tinguians settled on the eastern bank of the Abra River at sitio Calawag now called Nagbabayan. Some of them however, went further upstream giving birth to other settlements with some settling on what is now Langiden. Some of the early settlements which grew as Barangays forming Langiden were: Baac, Dalayap, Quillat, Malapaao and Poblacion.

At present, Langiden has 6 barangays namely: Poblacion, Dalayap, Mabungtot, Malapaao, Baac, Quillat. Among the barangay only Mabungtot has a legend. According to old folks, Mabungtot derive from the word Nabungtot an Ilocano term which means foul odor of a decaying animal. Then animal in the early days drowned by flood usually landed in Mabungtot and emmited and emitted a foul odor. Because of the foul smell, the place was then called Mabungtot.

The official flower of the town is orchid due to its unique beauty and fragrance, a characteristic the people associate with Langiden, being the oldest and widest among the municipalities of Abra.

The 12 stars at the center and the 12 leaves stand for the 12 barangays of the municipality.

The green color of the leaves represents peace.

The year 1832, the year the municipality was founded.

Sitio Ababeng of Poblacion located south of the barangay was the place where the first group of tinguian settlers stayed. During those days, the Tinguians were in constant war with the Itnegs of Gabuakan in the north.

In one of the encounters of the warring tribes, a cock with shiny feathers flew from heaven to a tree near the warring tribes. The cock flapped its wings so strongly that the warriors stopped fighting, amazed. When the cock vanished, the earth quaked and all the men fell down unconscious on the ground. When the men regained consciousness, they made peace with each other and then named the place “Namagpagan” meaning “where the flapping of the wings occurred”.

The named Namagpagan remained until the colonization of the entire archipelago by the Spanish sovereignty. When a group of missionaries led by Father Bernardo Lago, an Augustinian friar came to this place, they were welcomed by the friendly inhabitants. The place was so peaceful that the missionaries changed the name of the place to “La Paz”, which means peace.

At present, La Paz has 12 barangay as follows: Benben, Bubulala, Buli, Canan, Liguis, Malabbaga, Mudeng, Pidipid, Poblacion, San Gregorio, Toon and Udangan.

Yellow Gold Star, represents the present administration’s glowing vision which is “Economic stability towards genuine peace and order and development”.

Rocky Mountains, symbolize the municipality’s rocky mountains suited for mining exploration and additional livelihood of the people.

Native, a typical Binongan Tribe characterized by being sturdy, patient, hardworking and peace loving.

Forest Mountains, proof of the existence of thick forest mountains teeming with natural resources reserved for the generations yet to come.

Vast Tracks of Meadows and Prairies, represent the vast tracks of meadows and prairies for grazing, but still available for farming.

Body of Water, represents the municipality’s fresh body of water which comes in abundance to provide irrigation to tracks of ricelands and for other purposes.

Rice Paddies, the usual scene of rice paddies during the months of October to December when the palay is ready for harvesting.

The word Baay came from the phrase “awan ti paay”, which means useless in Ilocano. The phrase came about when a long time ago, a goddess of beauty named Ayo visited the place now known as Baay. Ayo in her visit left a gift to the people, a musical instrument made of bamboo called “balimbing” by the inhabitants. Because of their joy in receiving the gift, the people held a feast. During their celebration, the people sang and danced, eager to hear the sound of the balimbing. The people expected that the instrument would produce a sweet sound, as sweet as its source. When the balimbing was played, the people were disgusted because it produced a harsh and unmelodious tone far from what they expected. Hearing the balimbing’s sound, one of the disgusted guests commented “awan ti paay”.

Licuan during the early times was called “Basakal”. The word Licuan came from the name Licuanan, a woman of extraordinary size and strength who once ruled the place. Licuanan, with her extraordinary characteristics, became a legend and a heroine. She was said to be bigger than anybody else in her time and had the strength of five men combined. Because the community was frequently bothered by headhunters from neighboring tribes living in the eastern mountains, Licuanan was the perfect choice to rule the place.

Baay-Licuan has 11 barangays as follows: Licuan, Bonglo, Bulbulala, Caoayan, Domenglay, Tumalip, Lenneng, Mapisla, Mogao, Nalbuan and Subagan.

The shield, derived from the provincial seal of Abra where the town is located.

Three Stars represent the three ethnic group composing the populace of the municipality – the Ilocos, Igorots and Tinggiuans.

Circle, divided into eight parts representing the eight barangays comprising the municipality.

Cattle Head, depicts Luba as a cattle producing municipality.

Rice fields, stands for the major product of the municipality.

Mountains, represent the mountainous town within the Cordillera ranges.

Three trees, represent the 3 major trees abounding in the town’s forest namely: narra, molave and lawan.

The first people of Luba were Tingguians belonging to the Maeng Tribe, considered the biggest tribe in the Cordillera. The places with the municipality of Luba where the early people settled were Tayab, Caonoan, Pasungan, Sasabtan and Cappini. As the number of people increased, the settlers spread to nearby places. Those who first occupied Caonoan moved to Lao-ingen, Nagbukel and Topika. The settler of pasungan moved to Gayaman while the early settlers of Sasabtan and Cappini occupied Luzong and Barit. Other places where also occupied by the early settlers such as Sabnangan, Bangcagan and later on in Pacpaca, Tabangao, Banoa-ao, Pega and Agumanay.

Luba was first called Barit-Amtuagan, because Amtuagan was then a part of the place. Later, the name was changed Barit-Lulluna because another district, Tiempo, claimed Amtuagan to be its part. From the first who letters of the words Barit and Lulluno, Balu become the name of the place.

Lulluno got its name from the word “rono” or “lono”, a plant prevalent during the early times. Gayaman got its name when during the consecration of the place, a large centipede, gayaman in the dialect, crawled around the place prompting the people who witnessed the event to name the place Gayaman. Bangcagan got its name from the setllers of Sabnangan who after crossing the Abra River had to got up or “Bumangcag” in the local dialect. Luzong was so called because of its appearance. It is a valley surrounded by hills. During heavy rains, the place easily flooded looking like a lake.

The first seat of government of the municipality was Luzong. Later on in the early part 1920 during the term of Apo Caoating, then President of Luba, the seat of government was transferred to Bangcagan. Bangcagan was chosen because of its centrality.

When the place became a regular municipality, the name was changed to its present name, Luba, actually the syllabic reverse of Balu.

Luba has 8 barangays: Ampalioc, Barit, Gayaman, Lulluno, Luzong, Nagtuquipa, Poblacion and Sabnangan.

Shield, represents the government and the tribes themselves as the defender and protector of the community from any enemy specially during the olden times when tribal war was prevalent.

Spear, represents the readiness and bravery of the warriors to fight against invaders.

Mountain, indicates that the municipality is mountainous and that the mountains are sources of wealth because of their forest products like timber, mines and wildlife.

Ricefields, indicate that the principal source of the livelihood of the people is rice and other crops.

Pine Trees, denote that the place is dominated by pine trees and they do not only add beauty to the place but also provide the people and wildlife with a cool refreshing atmosphere.

There were various ethnic groups who settled in Malibcong during the olden times. However, these settlers did not remain long in the area because of fierce fightings with other ethnic groups who wanted to occupy their territory. Their homes were built on mountain tops so that they could easily overlook and trace approaching enemies. Remains of old stone walls are still found in some mountaintops abandoned by the Adasens and Illaod groups who moved to other settlements.

Three distinct tribes the Banao, Mabaka, and the Gubang with distinct dialects and traditions were the early settlers of Malibcong. Apparently however, the three were in the relative peace and harmony, bound irrevocably by their common heritage and geography. To further strengthen these ties, intermarriages were entered into and peace treaties constracted with other tribes. The peace treaty or “Bodong” which is known among various tribes in the entire Cordillera operates for the maintenance of peaceful interrelations and a concerted defense against common enemies.

Bannao leaders named the place “Liwang” which means “entrance” in the local dialect. Years later however, it was renamed Malibcong. The presence of gongs, old Tinguian necklaces, old jars and porcelains, clearly indicated that the early inhabitants of Malibcong were once engaged in trade either directly or indirectly with other countries. Even before the coming of Spaniards in the Philippines, the early settlers had their own belief in God. They believed in “Kabunian” who is the Father and creator of everything, the heaven and the earth.

In September 1960, executive Order No. 1616 was issued, creating the municipality of Malibcong. It was formed from three Districts: Mataragan, Bangilo and Malibcong.

Malibcong is presently composed of 12 Barangays namely: Malibcong, Binasaran, Taripan, Duldulao, Gacab, Dulao, Bayabas, Pacqued, Mataragan, Lat-ey, Buanao and Umnap.

Eleven Stars, represent the 11 barangays of the municipality.

Rising Sun, symbolizes the vision, ideals and aspirations of the people.

Rice and Cornfields, show the principal products of the municipality.

Irrigation Canal Between the Rice and Corn Fields, shows that the municipality is fully irrigated.

“Welcome to Waray Country “ Inspiration, denotes that waray, locally known as malagkit is the primary commercial rice product of the municipality.

The name “Manabo” came from the word “Anabo”, a thorny herb used for making twines of rope, growing luxuriantly in the fields between San Jose Sur and Poblacion. One time during the Spanish regime, a group of Spaniards passed by the place and asked the name of the thorny herb. The people answered “Anabo”. From that time on, the Spaniards called the place Manabo.

The first inhabitants of Manabo were Tinguians who came from Mountain Province. They settled in the place before the arrival of the Spaniards and the Tinguians were known to be peace loving people.

Manabo is politically subdivided into 11 barangays, namely: Ayyeng, Catacdegan Nuevo, Catacdegan Viejo, Luzong, San Jose Norte, San Juan Norte, San Juan Sur, San Ramon East, San Ramon west and Santo Tomas.

Spear and Shield, symbolized the cultural heritage of the municipality.

Golden Rice Fields and Thriving Bamboo Trees, signify the municipality’s agricultural productivity.

Mountains, indicate the abundance of water and minerals.

Like any other town, Peñarrubia has its own share of historical evolution. The events and circumstances leading to its creation were started by two Tinguian brothers, Etten and Daggualey.

With the arrival of the Spanish missionaries, many of the natives were converted. The conversion was celebrated by a mass baptismal rite where the native converts were given Christian names thus, one of the notable converts was Daggueley. Etten disliked the Christian faith and the persuasions of his brothet Daggueley. Etten’s refusal coupled with his dislike of the Christian faith spawned an irreconcilable difference with his brother.

To avoid an armed confrontation his tribe and his brother’s Etten led his men eastward, settling on a hill. Shortly Etten and his men established a new settlement of their own, Daggualey and the Spaniards followed them. This time, an armed conflict was inevitable. The battle which ensued ended with the two tribes losing the lives of some of their fiercest men. Etten fled father into the mountains. Some of Etten’s men followed, others surrendered and were made Christian converts.

Haunted by the treachery of his brother, Etten wandered through the forests and mountains until he settled on a place called “Patok”, the place which is now Peñarrubia. Some of Etten’s men became unsatisfied and moved to other places. Panabang and his group settled in Dumayco, while Manacdac and his men settled at Palacia. Kalugay and his band settled at Balanak but after sometime they moved to Namarabar, Dukinal. Kalugay’s wife Balugin and a group of Itnegs settled at Annay and then at Patiao.

These pioneer settlements finally were Christianized and were regrouped by the Spaniards in 1723 into two Rancherias: Rancheria Gravelinas and the Rancheria Patok. The two Rancherias were organized as a town which was then called Patok. For 161 years, the new town existed until 1884 when it was renamed Alfonso XII in honor of the king of Spain. The event transpired during the administration of Don Jose La Guardia.

In 1903, the Americans came and subdued the Spaniards. They changed the name of the community from Alfonso XII to Peñarrubia in honor of the Spanish Governor who was said to be the harshest to the Itnegs. Peñarrubia marked its creation as a municipality on the 5th of March, 1917.

Today, Peñarrubia is composed of 9 barangays: Poblacion, Lusuac, Malamsit, Sta.Rosa, Dumayco, Riang, Patiao, Namarabar and Tattawa.

It has its own important symbols. Its municipal flower is the wild cosmos (violet) which was chosen because of its abundance in the locality. Its municipal tree is acacia which denotes immortality. Its municipal hymn is Salidummay, Peñarrubia version. The municipal fruit is coconut.

Fifteen Stars, represent the municipality’s 15 barangays.

A Woman Riding a horse, the woman is Gabriela Silang, the municipality’s heroine and a resident of San Diego who revolted against the Spaniards.

The origin of the name of “Pidigan”is not well known. Some old people of the municipality say at first, the site of the Poblacion was then called “Bantay Lugnac”. Later, the places’ name became “Pidpideg” which became Pidigan. It was called Pidpideg when one time a group of people went down the river below the place in a bamboo raft and were brought close to the rocks on the riverbanks by strong current thus, the word pidpideg was used to describe the event. The word pidpideg came from an Ilokano term which means “forced close against”.

During the outbreak of World War II, Pidigan Was among the garrison centers of the Japanese Imperial Forces in Abra. The Japanese forces used school buildings and private large houses as barracks. When Liberation came in 1945, Pidigan was made the temporary seat of the Provincial Government of Abra. The house of Ex-Mayor Jeremias Bringas was used as the Provincial Capitol with Atty. Zacarias Crispin as Military Governor and Mr. Emilio Bringas as appointed Military Mayor up to September 1945.

Originally, Pidigan had 5 barangays. They were: Arab, Induyong, Caburao, Pamutic, and San Diego. In an attept to enhance the economic, social and cultural well-being of the people, the municipality was divided into 15 barangays: Alinaya, Arab, Poblacion East, Garreta, Immuli, Laskig, Monggoc, Naguirayan, Pamutic, Pantuc, Pangtud, San Diego, Sulbec, Suyo, West Poblacion and Yuyeng.

Plow and Fields symbolizes the main source of living which is farming.

Tobacco Plants: represents the secondary crop of the municipality, the famous Virginia Tobacco of great quality.

Mountains: depicts the terrain of the quality which is rolling and hilly.

Unlike other municipalities there are no legends to speak of about the origin of the name Pilar. The municipality’s name however, is derived from its Patron Saint, Nuestra Señora Del Pilar. On other hand, the municipality’s Poblacion or Baliwag is named after a merchant from Baliuag, Bulacan who settled early in the place engaging in commerce. The first settlers of Pilar were Tinguians from the province of Kalinga and Apayao.

In 1966, during the administration of Governor Don Joaquin de Paat y Prella, a pueblo was organized in southwestern portion of Abra due to necessity of establishing a Roman Catholic mission. The new pueblo was named Villavieja. Formerly, was barangay Bollilisong, an interior territory. First to become the governadorcillo of the town was Don Pedro Manuel Laoeng . Villavieja covered the territory now occupied by the municipality of Pilar, San Isidro and Villavisiciosa including the southwestern part of Luba. In 1884, due to the very extensive area covered by Villavieja, a new pueblo called Pueblo de Lumaba was established at Barangay Lumaba upon order of Governor Jose Diaz y Sala, a native of the place. Jose Prada Malaquiem was the first Governadorcillo of the new town thickly populated by Tinguans. Pueblo de Lumaba covered the ertswhlie portion of Villavieja town starting from San Juan, Baliwag and Maliplipit down north to Marcial and Dalimag.

In 1885, Juan Valear succeeded Jose Prada Malaquim as Governadorcillo. The center of government was transferred to a terrain west of Lumaba just accros the Sinalang River. The place was called Poblacion Del Pilar in honor of its patron saint Nuestra Señora del pilar. The people of the town, however, called the place Naguillan. As the seat of the new government, a presidencia, a military barracks, a church, and a school were constructed. Henceforth, the place was called Pilar.

In 1895, during the incumbency of Lorenzo Anioay of Villlavisciosa, the town of Naguillan was completely burned. In spite of the efforts of the President Furtunato Sotelo of Dalit, Pilar to reconstruct the site with his personal money, the government center was never put in place again. Building scattered villages within the land they tilled, the people preferred to stay where they evacuated.

In 1903, the pueblos of Villavieja and Pilar were to for the new town named Villa Pillar, through act no. 1001, in accordance with the policy of the Philippine Commision towards consolidation. In the same year, due to cultural reasons, the town of Villavisciosa was created out the Tigguan Barangays east and north of Pilar. From 1901 to 1923, the seat of Government of the town, now plainly called Pilar, was volatile. The practice of elected municipal presidents of establishing the seat of government in their respective barangays was done ten times within a period of 23 years. The practice ended only in 1924 when Governor General Leonard Wood, through the intercession of the incumbent provincial governor Vigilio Valera, ordered the transfer of the seat of government permanently to its present site, the Poblacion.

Pilar is politacally subdivided into 19 barangays, namely: Poblacion, Patad, Maliplipit, Tikitik, Narnarar, San Juan East, San Juan west, Kinabity, Kinnabiti, Bolbolo, Dintan, Villavieja, Ocup, Dalit, Brookside, Pang-ot, Nanangduan, Nagcanasan, Gapang and South Balioag.

Mountains, represent the mountains of the municipality where the people used to hide from headhunters.

Bamboo, represents the shield used by the people during sudden attacks.

River, stands for Ikmin and Abas river.

Mango and Rice Paddies, symbolize the agricultural products of the municipality which are the only source of income of the farmers.

Sal-lapadan was the first Tinguian settlement organized under the American regime in the highlands of Abra. The municipality got its name from the barrio where the seat of government originally was. The original inhabitants named their settlement “Sahipa-chan”, the name of a wild bush which was predominant at the time in the area.

During the Spanish period Sal-lapadan was a part of Bucay. When the Americans came, it becomes a separate district. With the re-organization of Abra as a province in 1917, Sal-lapadan became a town occupying all the territories where the residents owned their land, like Abas and the lower parts of Bucloc. At the beginning of the reorganization of the town during the same year, its chief executives and councilors were elected for a three-year term. The presidencia or building housing the different local offices was located at Barrio Sal-lapadan. During the term of Guinaban Mustard, the presidencia was moved to Subusub. In 1931, during the term of Duquinal, it was relocated to its present site in Gangal (now Poblacion). When the government became a commonwealth, the term of office of the local chief executive was increased to four years.

In 1939, the municipal hall was built during the term of Laguyan Brillantes. Brillantes also was the one who initiated the construction of the first piped-in water system of Sal-lapadan in1938. Beside the presidencia is a multipurpose building housing the office of the municipal circuit judge, the police headquarters, the municipal main health center, a multipurpose pavement, and an auditorium. It was constructed during the term of Martinez Saluquen and was funded by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The public market was constructed during the terms of Alfredo Batoon and Gregorio Banawa. The municipal roads were constructed during the term of Balancad Mustard.

At present, Sallapadan consists of nine barangays, namely: Gangal (Poblacion), Subusub, Maguyepyep, Bazar, Barrio Sallapadan, Ud-udiao, Bilabila, Naguilian, and Sac-caang. These barangays are grouped into three zones: Zone I – Bazar, Barrio Sallapadan, and Ud-udiao, Babila, Naguilian and Sac-caang. These barabgays are grouped into three zones: Zone I – Bazar, Barrio sal-lapadan and Ud-udiao:Zone II- Gangal (Poblacion), Subusub and Maguyepyep: Zone III- Sac-caang, Naguilian and Bilabila.

Airplane, symbolizes the airplane of pilot Isidro Paredes, from whom the municipality was named.

Man and Carabao, represent the town’s hardworking people.

Tobacco and Rice Plants, stands for the major crops of the municipalty.

During the period 1866 to 1885, the Poblacion of San Isidro today was called Cagutungan. Cagutungan was then a part of barangay Villavieja in the municipality of Pilar. Cagutungan is an Ilocano term for “rough stone” which was aplenty in barangay Tangbao. In the year 1884, Cagutungan became a part of Pueblo de Lumaba, and later on, of Pilar in 1885 up to 1902. In 1903, Villavieja and Pilar were fused, forming Villa Pilar. Villa Pilar came to be known simply as Pilar with Cagutungan as its seat of government. Among those who became presidents of Pilar from Cagutungan at the time were Juan Benauro and Ramon Valera.

On April 10, 1950, Cagutungan became the municipality of San Isidro. This was through a bill authored by Senator Quintin Paredes which was enacted into law. The choice of San Isidro as its name was in fond memory of Senator Quintin Paredes’ son Isidro who died a hero during the world War II in Europe.

The first mayor of San Isidro when it became a municipality in 1950 was Jose Millan, a Spanish mestizo who was a native of the area. In his teens, Millan showed exemplary political leadership which caught the attention and confidence of Senator Paredes. It is through the insistent request of Millan that the bill creating the municipality was initiated and sponsored by the good senator.

San Isidro is presently subdivided into 9 barangays, namely: Cabayugan, Dalimag, Langbaban. Manayday, Olo, Pantoc, Poblacion, San Marcial and Tangbao.

Rice field, shows that the municipality is an agricultural community.

River, represents the Malanas River which continually and abundantly irrigates the agricultural lands.

Two Coconut Trees, symbolize the strength and flexibility of the people, that after adversities and calamities, the people and their leaders remain strong and standing tall.

Small Nipa Hut, represents the simplicity and hospitality of the marginal farmers in the barangays of San Juan.

The town of San Juan was once a Tinguians place belonging to the Inlaud Tribe. The natives were believed to have come from Indonesia. Before the coming of Spaniards, the natives were believed to have traded with the Indo-Chinese. They were believed to have bartered with the Indo-Chinese as evidenced by the presence of antique jars, big bowls, gongs, arrows and shields, beads, jewel and gems.

The first man to inhabit the place was a man named Ganagan. He was born at Nagbayogan and he had brothers named Omnas and Pongdasan. He was married to Agawa, the sister of Lobigay and Ligaya from a neighboring place called Agpara. He left home and lived independently as his family and descendants grew in number.

During the Spanish Regime, the church was established and many of the people got baptized as Christians. The Spaniards named the place San Juan.

During the year 1907 to 1929, San Juan was a barrio of Dolores. By virtue of the bill of the Philippine Legislature sponsored by then Representative Quintin Paredes, San Juan became a municipality. The new municipality was inaugurated on February 28, 1929.

San Juan was separated from Dolores thru the initiative of Manuel Magala, then Vice Mayor of Dolores, with the help of Quintin Paredes.

At present, San Juan is politically subdivided into 19 barangays, namely: Abualan, Baug, Badas, Cabcaburao, Colabaoan, Culliong, Daoidao, Guimba, Lam-ag, Lumobang, Nangobongan, Pattaoig, Poblacion North, Poblacion South, Quidaoen, Sabangan, Sillet, Tagaytay and Supiil.

Tunnel, represents the tangadan tunnel at the boundary of Abra and Ilocos Sur which is the gateway to the province. It shows the resident’s pride that San Quintin is the Way towards Abra’s civilization and development.

Concrete Road, represents the people’s aspiration for development for it has been the belief that the construction of an all-weather road is the key towards development.

Verdant Forest, San Quintin was once home to verdant forests denuded as a result of environmental abuse. The symbol is a reminder of San Quintin’s past and a challenge towards ecological renewal.

Mountain at the Background of Smoke, it is a reminder that San Quintin as a valley Tinguian settlement is not distinct from the rest of Abra’s mountainous terrain.

San Quintin was known to the outside civilization for the first time in 1926 through the mission report of Fr. Juan Pareja who organized several missions in Abra. Talamay, the early name of the adjacent village Palang were earlier known to have always been in continuous warfare with the villagers of Tayong (now Tayum) and Bukaw (now Dolores). This impression change only when in 1820, French Surgeon Paul de le Genereire made a stop-over in Palang in his visit to Abra in 1820, describing the settlement as peaceful and simple.

The first record on the Christianization of Talamey was in 1827 when Fr. Bernardo Lago received pagan-converts. Talamey become a mission station and later become a pueblo in 1868 with the name San Quintin. However it was a part of Pidigan and it was only in 1884 that it was officially separated.

As a newly separated pueblo, San Quintin was ruled by the Spaniards until the appointment of Don Hilario Pira in 1887 when San Quintin was fully considered to have its own government and six barangays.

San Quintin was created a town during the American Occupation under the Provincial Law or Act of February 6, 1901. At the time, Tinguian communities were turned into towns while the Christian were turned into municipalities.

At present, San Quintin is politically subdivided into 6 barangays, namely: Labaan, Palang, Pantoc, Poblacion, Tangadan and Villa Mercedes.

Tayum-tayum plant, the local name for the indigo plant from which the name of the municipality is derived.

Indigo Dye Vat, the big vat where tayum-tayum plants were allowed to decay into a blue-black dye called “ngila”.

Records show that Tayum got its name after the indigo plant which was commonly known to the Ilocanos as Tayum-Tayum. There was a time when indigo flourished in Tayum, then a source of wealth to the Ilocanos. In Barangays Deet, a half kilometer away from the town proper, there was a big vat (Pagtimbugan) used in decaying the plant into a blue black dye called “ngila”. The dye was used to color yams of cotton.

At the beginning of the century, however, a powder dye from the Anilino Factories of the Germany came into popular use among Ilocano weavers, causing the death of the indigo industry.

The earliest historical accounts of Tayum date back to 1626 when one adventurous priest, Father Juan Pareja, organized Tayum, also known as Bukaw. Sometime in 1569, another equally daring and adventurous Augustinian Priest, Father Gabriel Alvarez, constructed a temporary chapel in Tayum during the time of his expedition to Lepanto. It was however, in 1725 when Tayum was formally organized as a political unit under the Spanish Regime. Don Vidal Banganan served as the first Governadorcillo.

From a mere “visita” of bangued, Tayum metamorphosed into an independent mission in the year 1807 with the construction of the solid bricks walled church under the successive Augustinian missions. The church was dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandra whose feastday is celebrated every 25th day of November.

In 1904, Tayum became a barrio of Bangued. This was due to the deterioration of peace and order at the time. Tayum ended as a barrio on December31,1907 with the designation of Don Pio Balmaceda y Belmonte as Teniente del barrio. Balmaceda organized his men in effectively curbing lawlessness thus restoring the town’s peacefulness. Shortly afterwards, it regained its town status with Don Manuel Brillantes as it first president.

Tayum is politically subdivided into 11 barangays, namely: Budac, Bagalay, Basbasa, Bumagcat, Cabaroan, Deet, Gaddani, Patucannay, Pias, Poblacion and Velasco.

Shield, derived from the official seal of Abra where the town is located.

Two circular lines, Emphasized the unity of the people of the town depicted as living in a quiet environment of the mountains and hills in the protective circle of its mother province.

Three Stars: symbolized the three islands of the Philippines.

Mountain, Creek and Small Farms: shows the topographical condition of the town. Green color depicts the forest, promising a bright future. The Creek symbolizes the people’s continuous struggle to make a daily living. The farm stands for farming as the main source of livelihood.

Line, depicts south and north of Tineg, divided and yet united as one people.

Deer, represents the town’s forest as abundant wildlife habitat.

Torch, represents the aspirations of the people for a better education to stabilize living condition

Prior to its creation as an independent municipality Tineg was composed of six districts namely: Agsimao, Alaoa, Anayan, Lanec, Caganayan and Naglibacan. Tineg became an independent municipality in 1958 with Sulyan Layugan and Vidal Baoalan as the first municipal mayor and vice mayor, respectively. At present, Tineg is composed of ten barangays, namely: Agsimao, Alaoa, Anayan, Apao, Belaat, Caganayan, Cogon, Lanec, Lapat-Balantay and Naglibacan.

Ten Stars, represent the ten barangays of the municipality.

Rice Fields, stand for the main source of livelihood of the people of the municipality.

Rising Sun, symbolized the undying and burning hope of the community for social, religious, political and economic advancement.

Mountains, show that the municipality is located in an upland area or high mountain range.

River, represents the Abra River which flows through the municipality as source of productivity as well as livelihood for the townfolks.

According to legend, the people of the municipality of Tubo originated from a single tribe known as the Maeng Tribe. The Maeng people came from a brother and sister couple named May-eng and Mayang who survived a great universal flood that destroyed all communities, fields and most living creatures. Many years passed and the offspring of May-eng and Mayang multiplied and scattered in search of sources of livelihood. The scattering gave rise to many communities, among them Lobo, Pesa, Kasangan, Kawangi, Balikwey, Tiking, Bacnono, Dataan, Maeng, Nomococan, Teeb, Tubo, Baococ, Becac and Pakya. It is from these communities that the present 10 barangays of the municipality are formed: the barangays are: Alangtin, Amtuagan, Dilong, Kili, Mayabo, Sopo, Tabacda, Tiempo, Tub-tuba and Wayangan.

During the long years of Spanish Occupation, the Maeng Tribe never recognized the foreign government establish. It only yielded to the American government by giving honey wax in lieu of the P2.00 residential tax imposed on them.

Before World War II, Tubo was composed of two districts called Tiempo and Tubo. On August 18, 1965, President Ferdinand Marcos approved into law Executive Order No. 164. The order merged the two districts to form the municipality of Tubo.

River, represents the river that irrigates the rice fields.

Rice fields, stand for the rice fields of the municipality.

Palay, symbolizes the primary produce of the municipality which is palay.

Tobacco, denotes tobacco as the secondary produce of the municipality.

Mountains, represents the forest reserve of the municipality.

Inner Circle, stands for unity that bonds together for progress.

Prior to the creation of the town of Villaviciosa, the barrios of Tamac, Bollilising, Tuquib, Cal-lao, Calao (Poblacion), Ap-apaya and Lumaba were said to have long been established as independent settlements. Each settlement was governed by a chieftain then known as “Lakay”. Lakay ruled over his constituents with absolute authority under the customs and beliefs of the people.

When the Spanish authorities came somethe during the last few decades of the 19th century, they discovered the existing settlements. While the Spaniards recognized the independence of each settlement, they deemed it worthwhile to change the nature of how these settlements was governed by giving the status of barrio to each settlement. Each barrio was to be governed by a qualified native given the title of Capitan.the Capitan was to rule in accordance with the laws that must have been enacted for the benefit of the people instead of in accordance with the beliefs and customs as previously practiced. On the other hand, the Spanish missionaries discovered that the native inhabitants belonged to a tribe of non-Christians and called them Tinguians, a named derived from an old ocological term, “Tingi”, or men of the hills. Seeing the inhabitant non-Christians, the missionaries believed it propitious to establish a mission in the area. In the year 1884, a parish was established to be used as a pivot area for the spread of the Christian gospel. The parish was called the Parish of Villaviciosa, centered at Barangay Calao knowing to its strategic location. The name of the parish was adopted from the name of a medieval city in Southern Spain particularly situated at the bank of a river known as the Rio de Villaviciosa. The parish which had 3,900 people, had its patron saint Saint Lawrence. The parish was listed as one of the parishes of the Prelature of Bangued, Abra. However, it was included within the jurisdiction of the Pueblo de Lumaba, a newly organized municipality temporarily centered in Lumaba barrio, particularly at sitio, Naguilian at the west bank of the Sialang River, west of the barrio proper. The pueblo was under the newly baptized Tinguian named Madagyen as the governadorcillo.

In the year 1885, the Pueblo de Lumaba became Poblacion del Pilar with the center of the town moving to Cagutongan further west of Lumaba barrio. Meanwhile, the parish of Villaviciosa remained a subsidary of the parish of Pilar under Fr. Jose Prada. Suddenly, the work of the mission was interrupted during the revolution against the Spaniards.

The Americans occupied Villaviciosa and the municipality of Pilar in 1901. In 1902, peace was declared between the Americans and the Filipinos. The Americans started their administration of the municipality in 1903 by ordering a census of the inhabitants of the barrios of Villaviciosa if the number is enough to form a town. So the leaders at the time adopted and signed a resolution drafted by Lorenzo Anioay of Poblacion, Villaviciosa who was a former municipal president of Poblacion del Pilar, for the creation of a new town reviving the former parish and recognizing it as a political unit. The leaders who adopted and signed the resolution included Malmatan of Tamac, Capitan Layao of Bollilising, Sad-ang of Tuguib, Mangadsil of Cal0lao, Capitam Culangan of Calao (Poblacion), Mamerto Paderes of Ap-apaya and Capitan Balanay of Lumaba. In 1904, as a result of the movement, the town of Villaviciosa was created.

The first center of Villaviciosa was at the former seat of the Pueblo de Lumaba, ast Sitio Naguilian. Later, in 1908, the center was transferred to its present site at Barangay Calao which, until now, is the Poblacion.

In 1917, under the Commonweath, the township status of Villaviciosa was changed into a regular municipality. Villaviciosa was among other townships of Abra who change status to municipality when the province ceased as a sub-province of Ilocosor Sur and became a regular province. With the addition of sitio Lagiosian, formerly part of Luba, and Mabilong, Forrmerly a part of San Isidro, the land area of Villavisciosa changed.

With coming of Japanese in 1942, soldiers were sent to a detachment at the town to capture American and Filipino soldiers who, instead of surrendering, resorted to guerilla tactics. In 1943, the Japanese soldiers returned to Bangued where they burned the Poblacion including Barrio Lumaba in retaliation to the killing of some of their members by the guerillas: At the end of 1943, guerilla soldiers occupied Villavisciosa. They ordered the inhabitants to come out hiding and return to rebuild their homes. They also ordered the available local officials to rebuild the town hall and to reconstruct the records of the town. However, they took time in rounding up some civilians whom they suspected of having collaborated with the Japanese and had them executed. Among those executed were Doming Pescozo, former municipal president; Angel Bañes, ex-teacher; Promitivo Nanangan, and TomasBañes.

With the expulsion of the Japanese in 1945, restoration of the municipality began. The first work of the municipal officials was to complete the reconstruction of the burned town hall and to put order to reconstituted records of the municipal office.

The municipality is politically subdivided into 8 barangays, namely: Ap-apaya, Bollilising, Callao, Lap-lapog, Lumaba, Poblacion, Tamac and Tuquib.