Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, Philippines

Tanjay City, Negros Oriental is within Region XVI – Negros Islands, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Tanjay City

• As of the 2020 Census, Tanjay City had a population of 82,642.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 76,110, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 8.6% over five years.
• Tanjay is historically home to indigenous groups such as the Ata and Agta, who lived along the riverbanks and forested areas of eastern Negros. Over time, Visayan settlers—primarily Cebuano-speaking—became the dominant population, shaping the city’s cultural and linguistic identity.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, with Hiligaynon and Tagalog also present. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Tanjay City

• Tanjay City is located on the eastern coast of Negros Island, within the province of Negros Oriental and Region VII (Central Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.52°N latitude and 123.16°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 276.05 square kilometers, comprising 24 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river systems, and low hills. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, adjacent to Rizal Park and the historic Saint James the Greater Parish complex.
• Most people reach Tanjay via land transport. It is approximately 31 kilometers north of Dumaguete City, accessible by bus or van. The nearest airport is Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport, while the closest major seaport is Dumaguete Port, both reachable within 1 hour by road.

Tourist Attractions of Tanjay City

• Rizal Park: A central civic space beside City Hall, used for public gatherings, concerts, and community events.
• Saint James the Greater Parish: A historic Catholic church dating back to the Spanish era, surrounded by statues and heritage buildings.
• Luparan Falls and Caves: Located in the upland barangays, these natural retreats offer scenic landscapes and quiet escapes.
• Tanjay City Boardwalk: A peaceful seaside promenade ideal for walking, biking, and sunset viewing.
• Sinulog de Tanjay Festival: Celebrated every July in honor of Saint James the Greater, featuring street dancing, religious processions, and cultural performances. It is one of the oldest Sinulog traditions in the Visayas.

Economy of Tanjay City

• Tanjay’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, sugarcane, and coconut. Livestock and poultry farming are also practiced.
  • Trade and services: Local markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
  • Education and public services: Schools, government offices, and health centers contribute to employment and development.
  • Tourism: Cultural festivals and heritage sites attract visitors from neighboring towns and provinces.
• In the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, Tanjay ranked 116th among component cities nationwide, with notable scores in resiliency and government efficiency.

Educational Institutions of Tanjay City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Diaz College: A private non-sectarian institution founded in 1947, offering programs in education, business, and liberal arts. Located on Nono Limbaga Street, it serves over 4,000 students.
  • Villaflores College: A private college offering undergraduate programs in teacher education, criminology, and information technology.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public high schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs.

History of Tanjay City

• Tanjay was founded on June 11, 1580 as the Mission of Santiago de los Ríos de Tanay, making it one of the oldest ecclesiastical centers in eastern Negros. It later became an administrative hub under Spanish rule, with deep ties to Catholic heritage and missionary activity.
• During the American period, Tanjay developed as a municipality with growing infrastructure, schools, and civic institutions. It became known for its cultural traditions, particularly the Sinulog de Tanjay, which dates back centuries.
• On March 5, 2001, Republic Act No. 9026 was signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, converting the Municipality of Tanjay into a component city. The law was ratified through a plebiscite held on April 1, 2001, officially establishing Tanjay as the fifth city of Negros Oriental.
• Today, Tanjay is known as the “City of Professionals” due to its high density of educators, civil servants, and skilled workers. It continues to grow through grassroots governance, cultural pride, and educational excellence.

Elected Officials of Tanjay City

• As of the 2025 elections, Tanjay City is led by:
  • Mayor: Josepepe Orlino (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Atty. Reynil C. Arcide (Lakas)
  • Representative – 2nd District of Negros Oriental: Ma. Isabel L. Sagarbarria (Lakas)
  • City Councilors: Josef James T. Gara, Gerald Jun L. Borromeo, Agapito R. Silva, Ramir R. Mira, Meriam N. Busmion, Jovencio S. Bumanglag Sr., Jocelyn C. Oñez, Joven C. Sagario, Yul Yarden R. Yee, Edmond B. Vergara, Feliciano R. Torres Jr., Jaf V. Catubig
• For full election results and updates, visit: Tanjay City Election Results.

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