Olongapo City, Zambales, Philippines

Olongapo City, Zambales is within Region III – Central Luzon, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Olongapo City

• As of the 2020 Census, Olongapo City had a population of 260,317 residents.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 233,040, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 2.2% annually.
• Olongapo was originally inhabited by the Aeta people, one of the earliest indigenous groups in Luzon. They lived in the surrounding forests and coastal areas, practicing hunting, fishing, and small-scale agriculture.
• Today, the dominant language is Tagalog, though English is widely spoken and used as the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring that students are equipped for both national and international engagement.

Location of Olongapo City

• Olongapo City is a highly urbanized coastal city in the province of Zambales, located in Central Luzon. It sits on the northeastern edge of Subic Bay and is geographically independent from the province, though commonly associated with Zambales.
• Travel access:
  • Land: Olongapo is accessible via the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and Olongapo-Gapan Road. Buses from Manila and Pampanga regularly serve the city.
  • Sea: The Subic Bay Freeport Zone has a major seaport that handles cargo and passenger vessels. It is approximately 15 minutes from the city center.
  • Air: The nearest airport is Subic Bay International Airport, with Clark International Airport about 1.5 hours away by land.

Tourist Attractions of Olongapo City

• Subic Bay Freeport Zone: A major leisure and business district offering beaches, water sports, shopping, and eco-parks.
• Marikit Park: A central public park known for its greenery and community events.
• Olongapo Lighthouse: A historic landmark overlooking Subic Bay.
• Kalapati Monument: Also known as the Dove Monument, symbolizing peace and unity.
• Festivals:
  • Ulo ng Apo Festival: Celebrated every October, this festival honors the city’s founding and cultural heritage with street dancing, parades, and civic activities.
  • Subic Bay Festival: A regional celebration of maritime culture and tourism held in partnership with the Freeport Zone.

Economy of Olongapo City

• Olongapo’s economy is anchored in commerce, tourism, logistics, and light manufacturing. Its proximity to Subic Bay Freeport Zone makes it a strategic hub for trade and investment.
• Key industries include:
  • Retail and wholesale trade
  • Port services and logistics
  • Hospitality and eco-tourism
  • Education and public administration
• While city-specific GDP data is limited, Olongapo contributes significantly to Zambales’ economic output, which is part of Central Luzon’s regional GDP of over ₱1.2 trillion in 2024.

Educational Institutions of Olongapo City

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Gordon College: A city-run institution offering programs in education, business, IT, and health sciences.
  • Columban College: A private Catholic college offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • AMA Computer University – Olongapo Campus: Specializes in IT, engineering, and business courses.
  • Lyceum of Subic Bay: Offers programs in hospitality, maritime studies, and tourism.
  • Comteq Computer and Business College: Focused on tech and business education.

History of Olongapo City

• Olongapo began as a fishing village under the municipality of Subic. It became a U.S. naval base settlement in the early 20th century and was officially established as a municipality through Executive Order No. 366 on December 7, 1959.
• It was converted into a chartered city on June 1, 1966 through Republic Act No. 4645.
• Olongapo was declared a highly urbanized city on December 7, 1983, gaining administrative independence from Zambales.
• The city played a key role in post-Pinatubo recovery and the transformation of Subic Bay into a freeport zone after the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 1992.

Elected Officials of Olongapo City

• As of the 2025 elections, Olongapo City is led by:
  • Mayor: Rolen C. Paulino Jr.
  • Vice Mayor: Kaye Ann S. Legaspi
  • Representative (1st District): Jefferson F. Khonghun
• For a full list of councilors and barangay officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Olongapo City Election Results.

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