Tabaco City, Albay, Philippines

Tabaco City, Albay is within Region V – Bicol, in the Republic of the Philippines.

Barangays of City Of Tabaco, in the Albay province, within Region V – BICOL in the Republic of The Philippines

Agnas (San Miguel Island) • Bacolod • Bangkilingan • Bantayan • Baranghawon • Basagan • Basud (Pob.) • Bogñabong • Bombon (Pob.) • Bonot • Buang • Buhian • Cabagñan • Cobo • Comon • Cormidal • Divino Rostro (Pob.) • Fatima • Guinobat • Hacienda (San Miguel Island) • Magapo • Mariroc • Matagbac • Oras • Oson • Panal • Pawa • Pinagbobong • Quinale Cabasan (Pob.) • Quinastillojan • Rawis (San Miguel Island) • Sagurong (San Miguel Island) • Salvacion • San Antonio • San Carlos • San Isidro (Boring) • San Juan (Pob.) • San Lorenzo • San Ramon • San Roque • San Vicente • Santo Cristo (Pob.) • Sua-Igot • Tabiguian • Tagas • Tayhi (Pob.) • Visita (San Miguel Island)

People of Tabaco City

As of the 2020 Census, Tabaco City had a population of 140,961.
In 2015, the city recorded a population of 128,618, reflecting a steady increase due to urban expansion and inter-island migration.
Tabaco is historically home to several indigenous groups, including the Agta Cimarron, Agta Tabangnon, and Tabo peoples. These communities once thrived in upland and coastal areas, practicing forest-based subsistence and oral traditions.
The dominant dialect spoken is Bikol, particularly the Tabaco variant of Central Bikol. While Bikol is widely used in daily life, English remains the official medium of instruction in schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness for students across all barangays.

Location of Tabaco City

Tabaco City is located in the province of Albay, within the Bicol Region (Region V). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 13.3592°N latitude and 123.7298°E longitude.
The city spans a land area of 117.14 square kilometers, with terrain ranging from flat coastal plains to volcanic slopes. Elevation varies from sea level to over 400 meters in the northwest, and its southwestern boundary reaches the crater of Mayon Volcano at 2,462 meters.
Tabaco City Hall is located along Ziga Avenue in Barangay San Roque, which serves as the administrative center.
Most people reach Tabaco via land and sea. It is approximately 25 kilometers from Legazpi City and 552 kilometers from Manila. Buses and vans connect Tabaco to major cities, while the Tabaco Port facilitates inter-island travel to Catanduanes and other destinations. The nearest airport is the Bicol International Airport, about 45 minutes away by road.

Tourist Attractions of Tabaco City

St. John the Baptist Parish Church: Built in 1864 using volcanic stone, this church is a National Cultural Treasure and a symbol of Tabaco’s colonial heritage.
Bahay na Bato: A Spanish-era ancestral house showcasing traditional architecture and local craftsmanship.
Mayon Skyline View Deck: Offers panoramic views of Mayon Volcano and surrounding landscapes.
Oras Falls: A hidden gem for nature lovers, located in the upland barangays.
Tabak Festival: Held every June 24, coinciding with the feast of St. John the Baptist. The festival features street dancing, cultural performances, the Mutya ng Tabak pageant, trade fairs, and the symbolic “Tabak” blade from which the city derives its name.

Economy of Tabaco City

Tabaco’s economy is anchored in agriculture, fisheries, trade, and light manufacturing. The city is known for abaca, coconut, and root crop production.
Its strategic location and port facilities make it a hub for inter-island commerce, especially with Catanduanes and the Lagonoy Gulf corridor.
Tabaco contributes to Albay’s overall GDP, which was estimated at ₱162.17 billion in 2024, growing by 5.5% from the previous year.

Educational Institutions of Tabaco City

Young residents pursue higher education at:
- Bicol University – Tabaco Campus: A state university offering programs in fisheries, education, and technology. Included under the Free Tuition Law.
- Tabaco College: A private institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and engineering.
- Amando Cope College: Located in Baranghawon, this college offers vocational and degree programs.

History of Tabaco City

The recorded history of Tabaco began in 1587, when Franciscan missionaries began converting the inhabitants of nearby Cagsawa to Catholicism. By 1616, Tabaco had its first permanent minister, Fr. Pedro de Alcareso, who built a stone church dedicated to St. John the Baptist.
In the mid-17th century, Tabaco became the largest and most strategic settlement in the region. The province of Albay was divided into two districts: Partido de Tabaco and Partido de Iraya. Tabaco’s prominence grew due to its coastal location and thriving trade.
Tabaco was officially converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 9020, signed on March 5, 2001. The act defined the city’s territorial jurisdiction and governance structure.
Today, Tabaco is known as the “City of Love,” blending historical charm with modern development. Its cultural heritage, vibrant economy, and strategic location continue to shape its identity in the Bicol Region.

Tabaco City, Albay Elected Officials for 2025 to 2028 term

Mayor: Rey Bragais
Vice Mayor: Glenda Bongao
Councilors:

Noel Arcenas
Reynaldo B. Burce
Nomer A. Balingbing
Armando C. Borlagdan
Nestor B. Martirez
Ethel I. Tablizo
Edwin C. Bongao
Luis Renir B. Burce
Rodolfo C. Buenconsejo
Nestor T. San Pablo

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.

List of Cities in the Philippines