Pudtol

Tucked in the serene landscapes of Apayao in the Cordillera Region, Pudtol is a hidden gem that invites adventurers, culture-seekers, and nature lovers to experience a unique slice of Northern Luzon. It’s not your typical tourist trap, it’s a peaceful haven where ancient ruins, untouched rivers, and Cordilleran heritage converge into one soulful journey.

Pudtol is one of Apayao’s oldest municipalities and was once a strategic Spanish mission center. It still whispers tales of its colonial past through the Pudtol Church Ruins, a 17th-century Spanish-era Catholic church made of adobe and stone. This historic site is not just a landmark but a memory etched into the roots of the town.

Prepare for nature’s calming embrace. Pudtol boasts immaculate rivers like the Apayao River, perfect for river cruising, kayaking, and scenic photo ops. Explore hidden waterfalls such as Maton River Falls and Nagbarangan Waterfalls, where locals often cool off and unwind. For a raw, untouched experience, the Calanasan Forests nearby host rich biodiversity and rare wildlife.

The people of Pudtol are primarily of the Isnag ethnolinguistic group, known for their strong sense of community and deep connection to the land. Traditional Isnag houses, built on stilts with cogon roofs, can still be seen in some barangays. Local craftsmanship includes woven rattan items and vibrant traditional attire worn during festivities.

The main language spoken in Pudtol is Isnag, though Ilocano and Tagalog are widely understood. Don’t be shy to learn a few phrases, locals are warm, welcoming, and love a friendly “Kumusta ka?”

Try sinursur, a native dish made of river fish cooked in bamboo with wild herbs. Local delicacies also include inanchila (glutinous rice snack wrapped in banana leaves) and freshly caught tilapia grilled by the riverside. Meals here are simple, hearty, and straight from nature.

Every May, Pudtol celebrates the Apayao Founding Anniversary, featuring cultural dances, traditional games, and showcases of Isnag music and rituals. It’s a lively moment to witness ancestral pride in full color and sound.

Isnag music is deeply rooted in chants and native instruments like the “pakgong” (bamboo percussion) and “kulibit” (a stringed instrument). These sounds are woven into rituals, storytelling, and ceremonies, an authentic vibe you won’t hear in mainstream playlists.

Pudtol is known for its Spanish ruins, untouched eco-tourism potential, and cultural heritage rooted in the Isnag people. It’s perfect for those seeking a calm retreat filled with meaning, scenery, and history.