Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, Philippines

Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur is within Region XIII – (CARAGA), in the Republic of the Philippines.

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People of Bayugan City

• As of the 2020 Census, Bayugan City had a population of 109,499.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 98,869, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 10.7% over five years.
• Bayugan is historically home to the Manobo and Mamanwa peoples. These indigenous communities have ancestral ties to the forests and river systems of Agusan del Sur, with rich traditions in oral storytelling, music, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Tagalog and Hiligaynon are also widely used due to migration. Indigenous languages such as Manobo and Mamanwa are still spoken in tribal barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Bayugan City

• Bayugan City is located in northeastern Mindanao, within the province of Agusan del Sur and Region XIII (Caraga). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 8.7143°N latitude and 125.7481°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 688.77 square kilometers, comprising 43 barangays. Its terrain includes river valleys, agricultural plains, and forested uplands. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with an annual average temperature of 29.65°C and rainfall spread throughout the year.
• Bayugan is a component city and serves as a key urban center in Agusan del Sur. The City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, which also houses major government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach Bayugan via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Butuan City (approximately 45 minutes) and Davao City (around 5–6 hours). The nearest airport is Bancasi Airport in Butuan, and the Port of Nasipit serves as the nearest major seaport, located about 1 hour away by road.

Tourist Attractions of Bayugan City

• Bayugan Rotunda: A landscaped roundabout symbolizing the city’s growth and modernization, located at the heart of the city.
• Green Haven Adventure Farm: A nature park offering zip lines, swimming pools, and a mini zoo—ideal for family outings and eco-tourism.
• Gethsemane Falls: A scenic waterfall nestled in the forested areas of Bayugan, popular for nature treks and photography.
• Bayugan City Plaza: A central park for civic events, leisure walks, and cultural gatherings.
• Charter Day Festival: Celebrated every June 21, this festival commemorates Bayugan’s cityhood through street dancing, floral exhibits, and community parades.

Economy of Bayugan City

• Bayugan’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Known as the “City of Rice, Corn, and Flowers,” Bayugan produces rice, corn, banana, and cut flowers for local and regional markets.
  • Horticulture: The city is a leading producer of ornamental plants and blooms, with flower farms contributing to tourism and trade.
  • Retail and services: Local markets, cooperatives, and small businesses support daily economic activity.
  • Education and government services: Schools, hospitals, and civic institutions contribute to employment and development.
• In the 2022 Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, Bayugan ranked 96th among component cities nationwide. It placed 78th in economic dynamism and 77th in government efficiency.

Educational Institutions of Bayugan City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Father Saturnino Urios College of Bayugan: Offers programs in education, business, and liberal arts.
  • Agusan del Sur College: Offers programs in health sciences, computer studies, and hospitality management.
  • Caraga School of Business: Offers business administration, marketing, and finance programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public and private secondary schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs.

History of Bayugan City

• Bayugan was originally a sitio of Barangay Maygatasan in the municipality of Esperanza. The name “Bayugan” comes from the Manobo word for “pathway,” as the area served as a crossing point for travelers heading to Esperanza. Another version attributes the name to the “Bayug” tree, which grew abundantly in the area.
• In 1948, the Department of Public Works and Highways surveyed a national highway connecting Butuan to Davao. The road passed through Bayugan, prompting settlers to relocate and establish a townsite. By 1961, Bayugan was formally founded as a municipality.
• Bayugan was converted into a component city on June 21, 2007 through Republic Act No. 9405. However, its cityhood was challenged and temporarily revoked in 2008 and 2010. The Supreme Court later affirmed its city status, and Bayugan resumed full city operations.
• Today, Bayugan is known for its agricultural vitality, floral industry, and quiet resilience. It continues to grow through infrastructure, education, and sustainable planning, serving as a gateway to Agusan del Sur’s upland and lowland communities.

Elected Officials of Bayugan City

• As of the 2025 elections, Bayugan City is led by:
  • Mayor: Kirk A. Asis
  • Vice Mayor: Kim Lope A. Asis
  • Representative – 1st District of Agusan del Sur: Alfel Bascug
  • City Councilors: Juvy L. Asis, Ramil O. Asis, Marilou B. Asis, Roderick M. Asis, Jayson C. Asis, Marivic L. Asis, Glenn D. Asis, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Bayugan City Election Results.

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