Benito Soliven

Nestled in the scenic eastern heart of Isabela, Benito Soliven is a peaceful agricultural municipality that serves fresh rural charm with a side of adventure! This underrated gem might be small in population, but it’s big on heart, heritage, and harvest. If you’re chasing the kind of escape where you can breathe clean air, listen to folk music, eat authentic Ilocano food, and meet warm-hearted locals, then Benito Soliven deserves a stop on your travel map.

Benito Soliven is surrounded by lush plains and rolling hills, part of the great Cagayan Valley’s fertile land. The Dicamay River flows nearby, offering scenic views perfect for picnics, kayaking, or quiet reflection. While it’s not packed with commercial resorts, that’s the magic, its raw, untouched nature is its best asset.

Must-see:

• Dicamay View Deck – A peaceful spot for sunrise and golden hour views.
• Local farms – Try guided tours through rice fields and corn plantations.

The town is deeply rooted in Ilocano culture, with strong community values and a slow-paced lifestyle that reflects rural traditions. Expect smiles from every corner, simple joys, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like family.

Most locals speak Ilocano as their first language, with Filipino and some English also understood. Don’t be shy to greet them with a friendly “Kumusta kadi?” and you’ll earn instant smiles!

Benito Soliven offers authentic Ilocano cuisine that will fill your soul and belly. Local markets and homegrown eateries serve flavorful dishes like:

• Pinakbet – a veggie-packed favorite with fermented fish sauce
• Bagnet – crispy pork belly heaven
• Inabraw – boiled vegetables with bagoong
• Tupig and kakanin – sweet rice treats during local gatherings

Farm-to-table isn’t a trend here, it’s tradition.

Every year, the town comes alive during the Town Fiesta in May, celebrating San Mariano, the patron saint. Expect parades, church activities, beauty pageants, folk dancing, and agricultural trade fairs that showcase the pride of local produce. It’s a community gathering that blends faith, food, and fun!

Traditional Ilocano folk music fills the air during festivities. You’ll hear string instruments like the kutibeng and community choirs singing during church and civic events. The vibe? Pure nostalgia and local pride.

• Agriculture – Major producer of corn, rice, and tobacco
• Friendly rural atmosphere – Peaceful and people-centered living
• Cultural heritage – Preserving Ilocano values and community events
• Gateway to eco-tourism – Starting point to explore eastern Isabela’s natural wonders

Best time to visit? March to May, when the sun’s out, festivals are in full swing, and you can catch the rice fields turning golden before harvest.