word “kuyapo” (or kiapo / quiapo in Tagalog), an
aquatic water plant that closely resembles a flower and grew
abundantly across the region during the early days. Long before its
formal organization, the land’s rich flora lured cow tenders from
Paniqui, Tarlac, and parts of Pangasinan to pasture their herds,
later becoming the town’s early settlers. In 1849, the settlement
was segregated from Nueva Ecija and briefly became a barrio of
Rosales, Pangasinan. On October 29, 1859, Cuyapo was officially
established as a separate, full-fledged town, playing an integral
historical role during the Philippine Revolution when local
Cuyapeños courageously ambushed a heavily armed contingent of
Spanish forces.
Cuyapo is strategically tucked in the northwesternmost section of
Nueva Ecija, sitting right at the crossroads of Tarlac and
Pangasinan. Based on the Philippine Statistics Authority census, the
municipality records a population of 70,919 residents. It serves as
a prime eco-tourism and heritage destination in Central Luzon,
widely visited for its scenic nature trails like the
Colosboa Hills. To celebrate its cultural heritage,
the town honors its deep roots, showcasing a harmonious blend of
Ilocano and Pangasinense traditions that shape its vibrant local
community.
Local Officials
Mayor: Jose S. Hidalgo Jr.
Vice Mayor (SB Presiding Officer): Florida “Flor” Paguio Esteban, M.D.
Councilors:
- John Paul A. Carbonel
- Jen Agustin
- Candy Andres
- Edwin Magaoay
- Kheyo Gines
- Jerry Marcos
- Julius Gines
- Ter Corpus
