People of Batangas Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Batangas Province had a population of 2,908,494 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 2,694,335, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 1.5% annually.
• Batangas was historically inhabited by the Tagalog ethnolinguistic group, with early settlements concentrated around Taal Lake. Indigenous groups such as the Aeta also lived in the upland areas, though their presence has diminished due to urbanization and migration.
• The dominant language spoken today is Batangueño Tagalog, a regional variant known for its distinct accent and vocabulary. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Batangas Province

• Batangas is a coastal province in the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A), located southwest of Metro Manila. It is bordered by Cavite to the north, Laguna to the northeast, Quezon to the east, and the Verde Island Passage to the south.
• Travel access:
  • Land: Batangas is accessible via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), STAR Tollway, and Maharlika Highway. Buses and vans from Metro Manila regularly serve the province.
  • Sea: The Batangas International Port in Batangas City is a major gateway to Mindoro, Romblon, and other southern islands. It is approximately 2–3 hours from Manila by land.
  • Air: The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), about 2 hours away by car. A domestic airport in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, is accessible via ferry from Batangas Port.

Tourist Attractions of Batangas Province

• Taal Volcano and Lake: One of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Philippines, offering scenic views and trekking opportunities.
• Taal Heritage Town: A well-preserved colonial town with ancestral houses, museums, and the majestic Taal Basilica.
• Fortune Island (Nasugbu): Known for its Greek-inspired ruins and turquoise waters.
• Anilao (Mabini): A world-class diving destination with vibrant coral reefs and marine biodiversity.
• Festivals:
  • Ala Eh! Festival: Celebrated every December to showcase Batangueño culture, cuisine, and crafts.
  • Parada ng Lechon (Balayan): Held every June 24 in honor of St. John the Baptist, featuring a parade of roasted pigs dressed in costumes.
  • Balsa Festival (Lian): A water-based celebration with floating bamboo rafts and cultural performances.

Economy of Batangas Province

• Batangas posted a GDP of ₱645.78 billion in 2023, up from ₱615.72 billion in 2022, reflecting a growth rate of 4.9%.
• Key industries include:
  • Manufacturing: Batangas hosts several industrial parks and export processing zones, particularly in Lipa, Tanauan, and Batangas City.
  • Construction: Grew by 15.6% in 2023, driven by infrastructure and real estate development.
  • Accommodation and food services: Increased by 18.9%, reflecting tourism recovery and hospitality expansion.
  • Other services: Experienced the fastest growth at 20.5%, including education, health, and professional services.

Educational Institutions of Batangas Province

• Batangas is home to several major universities and colleges:
  • Batangas State University: A leading public university with multiple campuses offering engineering, education, business, and fisheries programs.
  • University of Batangas: A private institution known for law, nursing, and liberal arts.
  • De La Salle Lipa: Offers programs in business, IT, and health sciences.
  • Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas: Known for hospitality, maritime, and international studies.
  • First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities (Tanauan): Offers interdisciplinary programs in tech and humanities.

History of Batangas Province

• Batangas was officially founded on December 8, 1581 by the Augustinian Order, with Balayan as its first capital.
• Spanish expeditions led by Martín de Goiti and Juan de Salcedo reached the area between 1570 and 1572, establishing pueblos through the colonial system of reducción.
• The name “Batangas” is derived from “batang,” referring to the large logs found along the Calumpang River. The area was originally called “Batangan” before being renamed in 1601.
• Batangas played a key role in trade with China, Japan, and India during the pre-colonial period, and later became a center of revolutionary activity against Spanish rule.

Elected Officials of Batangas Province

• As of the 2025 elections, Batangas Province is led by:
  • Governor: Hermilando I. Mandanas
  • Vice Governor: Mark Leviste
• For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Batangas Election Results.

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