Cagayan River

By: RONA SUMAUANG

Cagayan River, also called Rio Grande De Cagayan, longest stream in Luzon, Philippines. It begins its 220-mile (350-kilometer) course in a twisting pattern in the Sierra Madre in Northeastern Luzon. It then flows north into a 50-mile (80-kilometer) wide fertile valley that is important for the cultivation of rice and tobacco. Ilagan, Isabela, Tuguegarao, and Cagayan are major riverine towns. At Aparri, the Cagayan enters the ocean at Babuyan Channel of the Luzon Straight. The Chico, Magat, and Ilagan rivers are its main tributaries.

                Cagayan River is also a source of living. On January 11, 2008, the Cagayan Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) stated that tilapia production grew and Cagayan Valley is now the Philippines’ tilapia capital (Saint Peter’s fish). Production supply grew 37.25 % since 2003, with 14,000 metric tons (MT) in 2007.

                The recent aquaculture congress found that the growth of tilapia production was due to government interventions: provision of fast-growing species, accreditation of private hatcheries to ensure supply of quality fingerlings to newly constructed fishponds, and the dissemination of tilapia to Nueva Vizcaya (in Diadi town).

                 Cagayan River can also be a source of tourist attraction in the Philippines. Here, everyone can take selfies while riding on a boat. Everyone can have picnics at the riverbank anytime. But for me, the best time in going at the river is during afternoon or during sunset. At that time, you can really feel the fresh air and the cool water.

                Now is the time to experience Cagayan River! It’s more fun in Cagayan!