Davao del Norte Province, Philippines

People of Davao del Norte

• As of the 2020 Census, Davao del Norte had a population of 1,143,931.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,016,332, reflecting a growth rate of over 12.5% in five years.
• Davao del Norte is historically home to several indigenous groups, including the Mandaya, Ata-Manobo, and Kalagan peoples. These tribes have deep ancestral ties to the forests, rivers, and highlands of southeastern Mindanao, with rich traditions in weaving, music, and oral storytelling.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though indigenous languages such as Mandaya and Ata-Manobo are still used in tribal communities. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Davao del Norte

• Davao del Norte is located in Region XI (Davao Region), in southeastern Mindanao. Its geographic coordinates center around 7.35°N latitude and 125.7°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 3,422.61 square kilometers, comprising 3 cities and 8 municipalities. Its topography includes coastal plains, river valleys, and upland areas, with the Davao Gulf to the east and the Talomo-Lipadas watershed to the south. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Davao del Norte is Tagum City. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Mankilam, which also houses the main government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach the province via land and air. It is accessible by bus from Davao City (approximately 1.5–2 hours). The nearest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. The Port of Davao (Sasa Wharf) serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Tagum City by bus averaging 2 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Davao del Norte

• Island Garden City of Samal: Famous for white-sand beaches, diving spots, and the Monfort Bat Sanctuary, home to the world’s largest colony of fruit bats.
• Kaputian Beach: A serene coastal destination known for its powdery white sand and clear waters.
• Hagimit Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush forest, ideal for swimming and picnics.
• Giant Clam Sanctuary: A marine conservation site in Samal that protects endangered clam species.
• Banana Festival: Celebrated every March in Tagum City, this festival honors the province’s status as the “Banana Capital of the Philippines” through parades, exhibits, and cultural performances.

Economy of Davao del Norte

• Davao del Norte’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The province is the top banana producer in the Philippines, with vast plantations in Panabo, Sto. Tomas, and Carmen. Other major crops include rice, coconut, and cacao.
  • Services: The largest contributor to the provincial economy, including trade, finance, education, and tourism.
  • Construction and logistics: Infrastructure development and inter-island shipping support regional growth.
  • Manufacturing: Agro-processing and packaging industries are concentrated in Tagum and Panabo.
• In 2024, Davao del Norte posted a GDP of ₱188.46 billion, up from ₱178.75 billion in 2023, ranking it among the top-performing provinces in Mindanao.

Educational Institutions of Davao del Norte

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Davao del Norte State College (DNSC): A state institution in Panabo offering programs in fisheries, agriculture, education, and IT.
  • University of Mindanao – Tagum College: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, criminology, and liberal arts.
  • St. Mary’s College of Tagum: A Catholic institution offering nursing, education, and health sciences.
  • North Davao College – Panabo and Tagum campuses: Provide programs in engineering, hospitality, and teacher education.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Offer vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Davao del Norte

• Davao del Norte was created on May 8, 1967 through Republic Act No. 4867, which divided the original Davao Province into three: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Oriental. The law was authored by Congressman Lorenzo S. Sarmiento Sr. and signed by President Ferdinand Marcos.
• Upon its creation, Davao del Norte comprised 13 municipalities, including Tagum, Panabo, Samal, Compostela, and Kapalong. Six additional municipalities were added in 1970, and by 1996, the province had 22 municipalities, including Talaingod and Laak.
• In 1998, Compostela Valley (now Davao de Oro) was carved out of Davao del Norte, reducing its land area and administrative scope. Despite this, the province continued to thrive, focusing on agriculture, infrastructure, and education.
• Today, Davao del Norte is known as the “Banana Capital of the Philippines,” balancing agricultural strength, urban development, and cultural diversity. It remains a key player in Mindanao’s economic and political landscape.

Elected Officials of Davao del Norte

• As of the 2025 elections, Davao del Norte Province is led by:
  • Governor: Edwin I. Jubahib (PFP)
  • Vice Governor: Clarice T. Jubahib (PFP)
  • Representative – 1st District: De Carlo Oyo Uy
  • Representative – 2nd District: Jose Manuel Lagdameo
  • Board Members – 1st District: Lou Suaybaguio, Prospero Estabillo Jr., Tristan Royce Aala, Mary Jane Ang, Ronald Eliot
  • Board Members – 2nd District: Janris Jay Relampagos, Flopone Royle Catalan, Al David Uy, Orly Amit, Poloy Enad
• For full election results and updates, visit: Davao del Norte Election Results.

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