Nueva Vizcaya Day is observed every May 24th to commemorate the official founding of the province of Nueva Vizcaya in the Philippines. The province was created in 1839 during the Spanish colonial period and was named after the province of Vizcaya in Spain.
Nueva Vizcaya is located in the Cagayan Valley region in Northern Luzon. It is a landlocked province bordered by several other provinces, including Benguet, Quirino, Ifugao, Isabela, and Pangasinan. It is known for its mountainous terrain, fertile agricultural land, and cultural diversity. The population includes various Indigenous groups such as the Gaddang, Isinay, Ifugao, and Ilongot.
On Nueva Vizcaya Day, the provincial government and local government units (LGUs), schools, and civil society groups organise various activities. These typically include:
- Flag-raising ceremonies and commemorative programs
- Parades featuring school and community groups
- Cultural presentations that highlight the traditions of the province’s indigenous communities
- Trade fairs showcasing local products and agricultural goods
- Recognition ceremonies for outstanding public servants and citizens
The celebration is held primarily in Bayombong, the province’s capital, but events may also take place in other municipalities.
Nueva Vizcaya Day is not a national holiday, but it is observed as a special non-working holiday in the province through Proclamation No. 789, signed in previous years to recognise the date.
The day is an opportunity to promote local culture, strengthen community involvement, and highlight the province’s contributions to regional development.
[Photo by Clifford Patricio]
