Caraga / Agusan del Norte
Cabadbaran
The Atega Ancestral House in Cabadbaran has 36 rooms and was built in 1904 by Don Andres Atega, a revolutionary leader in Agusan. Casa Alburo from 1935 has an intricate ceiling mural and operates today as a pension house and restaurant. Higanteng Bato, the largest boulder in northern Mindanao at 54.13 meters tall with a 124-meter circumference, has a waterfall at its base. Mount Hilong-Hilong at 2,012 meters is the highest peak in Caraga and takes four days via the Malvar Trail, with seven waterfalls, ancient rock art, and a field of giant white anthuriums. Twelve PAMANA projects worth ₱455 million launched in February 2026.
Cabadbaran City at a Glance
- Location:
- Northern Agusan del Norte coast, 30km north of Butuan City
- Province:
- Capital of Agusan del Norte province (Region XIII)
- Mayor:
- Judy Chin-Amante
- City features:
- Agusan del Norte Provincial Capitol, prewar heritage houses, and Mount Hilong-Hilong expeditions
- Heritage:
- Home to several American period houses, notably the 1904 Atega Ancestral House in Brgy. Poblacion 6
- Highest Peak:
- Gateway to Mount Hilong-Hilong (2,012m), the highest point in Caraga
- Barangays:
- 31
- Cabadbaran city center
- Agusan del Norte capitol
- Mount Hilong-Hilong routes
Local context
Cabadbaran's current mayor reference on this page is Judy Chin Amante. PIA and CPD Caraga coverage in 2025 identify Judy Chin Amante as Cabadbaran City mayor.
Cabadbaran is linked to local place pages including Cabadbaran city center, Mount Hilong-Hilong routes. Those pages help separate the city guide from a generic location summary by giving readers concrete markets, parks, transport corridors, civic districts, and visitor routes to compare.
The city profile emphasizes Cabadbaran city center, Agusan del Norte capitol, Mount Hilong-Hilong routes. These points give the page a practical local frame instead of treating the city as only a name on a regional map.
Landmarks and orientation points
- Cabadbaran city center
- Agusan del Norte capitol
- Mount Hilong-Hilong routes
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabadbaran City
What is Cabadbaran City and how is it different from Butuan?
Cabadbaran officially became the capital of Agusan del Norte in 2000. While Butuan is the regional center and a highly urbanized city, Cabadbaran serves as the provincial administrative core, hosting the capitol and government agencies. It is smaller and quieter, focusing on provincial governance and heritage preservation.
How do you get to Cabadbaran from Butuan?
The most practical route is by bus or van from Butuan’s Langihan Terminal. The 30 to 45 minute trip north along the coastal highway costs approximately ₱40 to ₱50. Most transport heading toward Surigao City will pass through Cabadbaran.
Can you visit the Atega Ancestral House?
Located in Barangay Poblacion 6, the 1904 Atega Ancestral House is a private residence but remains a prominent historical landmark. Its American era architecture reflects the city’s early 20th century prominence and is a central feature of the city’s heritage identity.
What is required to climb Mount Hilong-Hilong?
Climbing the 2,012 meter Mount Hilong-Hilong requires prior coordination with the Cabadbaran City Tourism Office. As a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) and critical watershed, hikers must secure permits and hire accredited local guides for safety and environmental protection.
When is the Dagkot Festival?
The Dagkot Festival is held annually in August to honor Saint James the Greater and celebrate the city’s founding. The celebration is known for the symbolic lighting of candles ("dagkot") and features cultural street dancing that reflects Cabadbaran’s devotional traditions.
Does Cabadbaran have its own airport?
No commercial airport serves Cabadbaran directly. Travelers typically use Bancasi Airport in Butuan, which is about 45 minutes to an hour away by road.
Source note
PIA and CPD Caraga coverage in 2025 identify Judy Chin Amante as Cabadbaran City mayor.