Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

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

People of Bislig City

• As of the 2020 Census, Bislig City had a population of 99,290.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 94,535, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 5% over five years.
• Bislig is historically home to the Manobo and Mamanwa peoples. These indigenous communities have ancestral domains in the forests and river systems of Surigao del Sur, with rich traditions in oral storytelling, music, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Kamayo, a regional language unique to southern Surigao del Sur. Cebuano and Tagalog are also widely used. Indigenous languages such as Manobo are still spoken in tribal barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Bislig City

• Bislig City is located on the southeastern coast of Mindanao, within the province of Surigao del Sur and Region XIII (Caraga). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 8.2133°N latitude and 126.3161°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 331.80 square kilometers, comprising 24 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river deltas, and forested uplands. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with rainfall distributed year-round and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• Bislig is a component city and the largest urban center in Surigao del Sur. The City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, which also houses major government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach Bislig via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Davao City (approximately 6–7 hours) and Butuan City (around 5 hours). The nearest airport is Bancasi Airport in Butuan, and the Port of Bislig serves as a local seaport for cargo and limited passenger vessels.

Tourist Attractions of Bislig City

• Tinuy-an Falls: Often dubbed the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines,” this multi-tiered waterfall is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Mindanao.
• Lawigan Beach: A serene coastal destination ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and sunset viewing.
• Baywalk Park: A landscaped promenade along the Bislig Bay, popular for leisure walks and community events.
• Bislig City Museum: A cultural center showcasing the city’s history, indigenous heritage, and industrial legacy.
• Charter Day Festival: Celebrated every September 18, this festival commemorates Bislig’s cityhood through street dancing, civic parades, and cultural exhibits.

Economy of Bislig City

• Bislig’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agro-industrial processing: Historically driven by the Paper Industries Corporation of the Philippines (PICOP), which once made Bislig a major industrial hub.
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, banana, coconut, and root crops.
  • Fishing and aquaculture: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and trade.
  • Tourism and services: Natural landmarks and festivals contribute to seasonal income and employment.
• Bislig is classified as a 3rd-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it remains a vital contributor to Surigao del Sur’s economy, especially in tourism and agriculture.

Educational Institutions of Bislig City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • North Eastern Mindanao State University – Bislig Campus: Offers programs in education, agriculture, business, and technology.
  • Bislig City Colleges: A private institution offering programs in criminology, hospitality, and health sciences.
  • St. Vincent’s College of Bislig: Offers programs in liberal arts, teacher education, and business administration.
  • 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 Bislig City

• Bislig’s name is believed to have originated from a forest vine of the rattan family that grew abundantly along its rivers. According to legend, a royal couple was saved from drowning by clinging to this vine, which later became symbolic of the area’s strength and resilience.
• By 1624, Bislig was already a missionary outpost under Spanish rule. It became a town on January 1, 1921 by virtue of Executive Order No. 62, signed on December 28, 1920. The town grew steadily through logging, agriculture, and trade.
• Bislig was converted into a component city on September 18, 2000 through Republic Act No. 8804, ratified by a plebiscite held on the same day. The cityhood marked a new phase of development, with investments in infrastructure, education, and tourism.
• Today, Bislig is known as the “Booming City by the Bay,” balancing natural beauty, cultural heritage, and quiet resilience. It continues to grow through sustainable planning, civic engagement, and regional cooperation.

Elected Officials of Bislig City

• As of the 2025 elections, Bislig City is led by:
  • Mayor: Hon. Florencio C. Garay
  • Vice Mayor: Hon. Conrad C. Cejoco
  • City Councilors: Hon. Pedrito R. Sulapas, Hon. Alfredo J. Carmelo, Hon. Bernadeth May A. Balondo, Hon. Jonas A. Cacayan, Hon. Paul E. Vicencio, Hon. Victor B. Alvar Jr., Hon. Reynaldo V. Dominguez, Hon. Romeo F. Cacayan, Hon. Winston Y. Sia, Hon. Apolio C. Alvar
  • Ex-Officio Members: Hon. Eladio A. Galano, Hon. Florio S. Josafat Jr., Hon. Ana Mae M. Agusa
• For full election results and updates, visit: Bislig City Election Results.

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