Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Bago City, Negros Occidental is within Region XVI – Negros Island, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Bago City

• As of the 2020 Census, Bago City had a population of 191,210.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 170,981, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 11.8% over five years.
• Bago was historically inhabited by the Ati and Bukidnon peoples, indigenous groups who lived along the riverbanks and forested areas. Over time, Ilonggo-speaking settlers became the dominant population, shaping the city’s cultural and linguistic identity.
• The major dialect spoken is Ilonggo (Hiligaynon), with Cebuano and Tagalog also present. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Bago City

• Bago City is located in the western part of Negros Island, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.5389°N latitude and 122.8366°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 371.80 square kilometers, comprising 24 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river valleys, and upland forests. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Bago City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, along A. Gonzaga Street, which also houses key government offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach Bago via land transport. It is approximately 21.5 kilometers south of Bacolod City, accessible by bus, jeepney, or private vehicle. The nearest airport is Bacolod–Silay Airport, while the closest major seaport is Bacolod Port, both reachable within 1–1.5 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Bago City

• Rafael Salas Park and Nature Center: A 296-hectare ecological and recreational area offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and panoramic views of Mt. Kanlaon.
• Kipot Twin Falls: A natural cascade nestled in the forested highlands, ideal for trekking and nature photography.
• Balay ni Tan Juan: A heritage house museum showcasing the life and legacy of revolutionary leader General Juan Araneta.
• Bantayan Park: A riverside park and promenade popular for family outings and cultural events.
• Babaylan Festival: Celebrated every February, this festival honors the city’s indigenous roots and spiritual heritage through street dancing, rituals, and cultural exhibits.

Economy of Bago City

• Bago’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The city is a major producer of rice, sugarcane, corn, and vegetables. It is known as the “Rice Granary of Negros Occidental.”
  • Agri-industrial processing: Rice mills, sugar centrals, and food processing facilities contribute to employment and local revenue.
  • Eco-tourism and heritage tourism: Natural parks, waterfalls, and historical landmarks attract visitors from across the region.
  • Trade and services: Local markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
• In the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, Bago ranked 111th among component cities nationwide. Negros Occidental’s economy, which includes Bago, posted a GDP of ₱263.52 billion in 2023, accounting for 25.7% of Western Visayas’ regional output.

Educational Institutions of Bago City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Bago City College: A local government-run institution offering programs in education, business, public administration, and liberal arts. It is covered under the Free Tuition Law (RA 10931).
  • Negros Occidental Language and Information Technology Center (NOLITC): Offers tech-based and vocational programs in nearby Bacolod.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide 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 Bago City

• Bago was founded on June 24, 1575 by Augustinian priest Father Geronimo Marin, coinciding with the feast of St. John the Baptist. Spanish historian Diego de Povedano noted that the community was named after a large tree called “bago,” under which a native prince named Mapagic died.
• During the 17th and 18th centuries, settlers from Molo, Iloilo formed a village at the mouth of the Bago River. The village grew rapidly and was granted pueblo status in 1800.
• Bago played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution. General Juan Araneta, a native of Bago, led the Negrense forces in the 1898 uprising against Spanish rule. His legacy is preserved in local monuments and museums.
• Bago was officially converted into a component city on February 19, 1966 through Republic Act No. 4382. Today, it is known as the “Boxing Capital of the Philippines” and “Home of Historical and Natural Treasures.”

Elected Officials of Bago City

• As of the 2025 elections, Bago City is led by:
  • Mayor: Mayette Javellana (PFP)
  • Vice Mayor: Andrew Torres (NUP)
  • Representative – 4th District of Negros Occidental: Jeffrey Ferrer (NUP)
  • City Councilors: Jovito Gahaton, Julianae Lavadia, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Bago City Election Results.

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