Dilasag is a young municipality with deep indigenous roots, natural wealth, and untapped tourism potential. Despite its isolation, it is steadily emerging as a destination for those seeking off-the-beaten-path nature experiences in Northern Aurora.

General Information About Dilasag

• Location – Northernmost tip of Aurora Province, facing the Philippine Sea
• Region – Central Luzon (Region III)
• Province – Aurora
• Land Area – Approximately 306.25 km²
• Population – Around 17,102 (2020 Census)
• Founded – June 21, 1959
• Barangays – 11 barangays
• Languages – Tagalog, Ilocano, and Dumagat dialects
• Economy – Agriculture (palay, coconut, root crops), fishing, and emerging eco-tourism
• Meaning of Name – Derived from local terms “dila” (tongue) and “sag” (point), meaning “tongue-like point” – referring to its land shape

Geographic Features

• Located at the northern edge of Aurora, bordering Dinapigue, Isabela to the north.
• Features rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, dense forests, and the Sierra Madre Mountains.
• Home to protected natural areas, such as mangrove forests and marine reserves.

Historical Background of Dilasag

Early Inhabitants

• The area was originally inhabited by Dumagat/Agta indigenous peoples, who practiced traditional hunting, gathering, and coastal fishing.
• These groups still maintain a presence in remote barangays and upland communities.

Colonial and Post-Colonial Era

• Dilasag remained largely untouched during the Spanish era, due to its isolation and rugged geography.
• Administrative control was loose, and the area was often considered part of broader missionary territories from Baler and Casiguran.

Municipal Establishment

• Dilasag was officially established as a municipality on June 21, 1959, under Executive Order No. 419, signed by then-President Carlos P. Garcia.
• It was originally a barangay of Casiguran, but its remote location and growing population warranted separate governance.

Development History

• Like other northern Aurora towns, Dilasag has struggled with limited infrastructure, especially in transportation and education.
• It remains largely rural, but with growing interest in eco-tourism, due to its pristine beaches, waterfalls, and forests.
• Government and NGO projects aim to improve roads, sustainable livelihoods, and indigenous integration into local development.

Natural Attractions

• Dilasag is known for its raw natural beauty, including:
• Parang Hills – rolling hills with panoramic coastal views
• Singep Falls – a picturesque waterfall tucked in the forest
• Diniog Beach – a long, quiet stretch of white sand
• Canawer Beach – known for its rock formations
• Paninirongan Beach – ideal for camping and local recreation

Culture and Community

• A tight-knit rural community blending Tagalog and Ilocano settlers with Dumagat indigenous groups.
• Catholic traditions dominate town festivities, while indigenous customs continue in some areas.
• Livelihoods are centered around farming, fishing, and small trade, with eco-tourism gaining momentum.

Timeline of Major Events

• Pre-1900s – Inhabited by Dumagat/Agta indigenous communities
• 1959 – Officially became a municipality (separated from Casiguran)
• 1979 – Became part of the newly established Aurora Province
• 2000s – Present – Focus on eco-tourism, indigenous development, and conservation