Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines

Naga City, Camarines Sur is within Region V – Bicol, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Naga City

• As of the 2020 Census, Naga City had a population of 209,170.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 196,003, reflecting steady urban growth and regional migration.
• Naga is historically home to the Isarog Agta, an indigenous Negrito group residing around Mount Isarog. Though their population has dwindled, they remain a vital part of the city’s cultural heritage.
• The major dialect spoken is Central Bikol, locally known as Bikol Naga. While Bikolano is dominant in daily life, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Naga City

• Naga City is located in the province of Camarines Sur, within the Bicol Region (Region V). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 13.6244°N latitude and 123.1864°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 77.40 square kilometers, nestled at the foot of Mount Isarog. It is landlocked but surrounded by fertile plains and river systems. Elevation ranges from 8 to 905 meters above sea level, with a tropical climate marked by a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• Naga City Hall is located along J. Miranda Avenue in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña, which serves as the administrative center of the city.
• Most people reach Naga via land and air. It is approximately 377 kilometers south of Manila and accessible by bus through the Maharlika Highway. The Naga Airport in nearby Pili offers flights to Manila. The nearest seaport is in Pasacao, about 45 minutes away by road.

Tourist Attractions of Naga City

• Peñafrancia Basilica Minore: A major pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of Peñafrancia, the Patroness of Bicol.
• Naga Metropolitan Cathedral: One of the oldest cathedrals in the Philippines, showcasing Spanish colonial architecture.
• Porta Mariae: A triumphal arch commemorating the 300th year of devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia.
• Malabsay Falls: A scenic waterfall located within Mount Isarog National Park, ideal for eco-tourism.
• Peñafrancia Festival: Held every September, this is Southeast Asia’s largest Marian celebration, featuring fluvial parades, novenas, and cultural performances.

Economy of Naga City

• Naga is the commercial, educational, and religious center of the Bicol Region. It is known as the Queen City of Bicol and ranks among the most dynamic economies in southern Luzon.
• Key industries include:
  • Retail and trade: With malls, markets, and regional distribution hubs.
  • Education and services: Hosting major universities and government offices.
  • Tourism: Driven by religious pilgrimages and heritage landmarks.
  • Small-scale manufacturing: Including food processing, handicrafts, and garments.
• While city-specific GDP is not separately published, Naga contributes significantly to Camarines Sur’s economy, which posted a GDP of ₱201.03 billion in 2023, the largest in the Bicol Region.

Educational Institutions of Naga City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Ateneo de Naga University: A private Catholic university offering liberal arts, law, engineering, and graduate programs.
  • University of Nueva Caceres: The oldest university in southern Luzon, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Universidad de Sta. Isabel: A historic institution founded in 1868, offering education, nursing, and theology programs.
  • Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST): A public college specializing in engineering, architecture, and teacher education.
  • City College of Naga: Located in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña, offering affordable education to local students.

History of Naga City

• Naga’s history dates back to 1573, when Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo arrived and found a thriving settlement along the banks of the Bikol River. Two years later, in 1575, Captain Pedro de Chavez formally founded the city as Ciudad de Caceres, named after the Spanish city of Cáceres.
• During the Spanish colonial period, Naga became one of the five royal cities in the Philippines, alongside Cebu, Manila, Iloilo, and Vigan. It served as the religious and administrative center of the Bicol Region.
• On December 15, 1948, Naga was declared a chartered city through Republic Act No. 305, granting it administrative independence from the province of Camarines Sur. This milestone marked the beginning of its modern governance and urban development.
• Today, Naga is known as “An Maogmang Lugar” or “The Happy Place,” blending historical depth with progressive leadership. It continues to be a model city for innovation, transparency, and civic engagement in the Philippines.

Elected Officials of Naga City

• As of the 2025 elections, Naga City is led by:
  • Mayor: Nelson Legacion
  • Vice Mayor: Cecilia “Nene” de Asis
  • Representative (3rd District of Camarines Sur): Gabriel Bordado Jr.
  • City Councilors: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Naga City Election Results.

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