Tubo

Tucked away in the southernmost part of Abra lies Tubo, a municipality brimming with raw natural charm, untouched traditions, and peaceful mountain life. Often overshadowed by mainstream tourist spots, Tubo is a treasure waiting to be explored, from its majestic terrains to its rich indigenous culture.

Tubo is a remote upland municipality that borders Mountain Province and Kalinga, making it a bridge of diverse Cordilleran heritage. It’s known for its vast forests, cascading rivers, and lush mountain ranges, ideal for off-the-grid adventures. The town thrives with simplicity, clean mountain air, and tranquil scenery.

• Mount Poswey – A hiking haven with panoramic views and crisp highland breeze.
• Agtangao Hot Spring – A natural hot bath where locals and visitors enjoy therapeutic dips.
• Banao River – A serene river surrounded by massive stones and pristine waters, perfect for nature walks.
• Anito Cave – A mystical cave that’s both a cultural and spiritual site for indigenous communities.

The people of Tubo belong mostly to the Maeng tribe, one of the indigenous groups in Abra. The Maeng culture is rich in oral traditions, tribal customs, and unique rituals that connect them to nature and ancestors. Locals speak Maeng and Ilocano, but many are fluent in Filipino as well.

Expect farm-to-table freshness! While Tubo doesn’t have mainstream restaurants, you’ll be blessed with native Abra dishes such as:

• Pinikpikan – A traditional Cordilleran chicken soup with deep cultural roots.
• Etag – Salted and smoked meat, often paired with rice and vegetables.
• Inabel Rice Cake – Locally made rice delicacies using native woven fabrics as wraps.

The Tubo Foundation Day in March is a lively celebration of tribal unity, showcasing traditional dances, gong music, and indigenous attire. Expect dance rituals, parades, and communal feasts that display the Maeng people’s heritage and pride.

Music in Tubo is a rhythmic blend of gongs, nose flutes, and chants used during rituals and festivities. Tribal dances often accompany these sounds, passed down through generations as both celebration and sacred performance.

Tubo is celebrated for its:

• Preserved indigenous culture
• Peaceful mountain life
• Hot springs and rivers
• Authentic tribal experiences
• Undiscovered adventure trails

If you’re craving a deep dive into ancestral roots, raw nature, and off-the-beaten-path exploration, Tubo is calling