The Ibanags are among the oldest inhabitants of the Cagayan Valley region in northern Luzon, Philippines. They are considered one of the indigenous peoples of the Cagayan Valley region, particularly the riverine areas of Cagayan and Isabela provinces. Historical records indicate they have occupied the region since pre-colonial times.

Before colonization, they were already well-organized into communities with their own traditions, governance, and language. Their livelihood was predominantly based on rice farming, supplemented by hunting, fishing, and trade with neighboring Asian communities such as the Chinese, Indians, and Japanese.

The Ibanags, Gaddangs, and Aetas were the original settlers of the Cagayan Valley region.