The town became the base of Spanish expeditions against the unconquered Isneg tribes of Apayao.

Many commercial establishments are now in the municipality such as: agricultural and construction supplies, banks, bookstores, drug stores, pawnshops, groceries, bakeries, car companies, hotels, boutiques, restaurants, convenience stores, shopping centers, appliance centers, review and training centers, courier companies and others.

Abulug is a municipality in the province of Cagayan, government officials in the provincial level are voted by the electorates of the town.

This change is formalized through a local resolution that re-designated the government center from its previous location in Barangay Centro, Abulug.

The Schools Division of Cagayan governs the town's public education system.