Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, Philippines

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

People of Cabadbaran City

• As of the 2020 Census, Cabadbaran City had a population of 80,354.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 73,639, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 9.1% over five years.
• Cabadbaran is historically home to the Manobo and Mamanwa peoples. These indigenous communities have deep ancestral ties to the forests and river systems of northeastern Mindanao, with rich traditions in oral storytelling, music, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Surigaonon and Tagalog are also widely used. Indigenous languages such as 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 Cabadbaran City

• Cabadbaran City is located in northeastern Mindanao, within the province of Agusan del Norte and Region XIII (Caraga). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.1228°N latitude and 125.5353°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 311.02 square kilometers, comprising 31 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river valleys, and the forested slopes of Mount Hilong-Hilong. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with rainfall distributed year-round and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• Cabadbaran is the official capital of Agusan del Norte, although many provincial offices remain in Butuan City. The City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, which also houses key government offices.
• Most people reach Cabadbaran via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Butuan City (approximately 30 minutes). The nearest airport is Bancasi Airport in Butuan, and the Port of Nasipit serves as the nearest major seaport, located about 45 minutes away by road.

Tourist Attractions of Cabadbaran City

• Mount Hilong-Hilong: The highest peak in the Caraga Region, ideal for trekking, camping, and biodiversity tours.
• Casa Real Ruins: Historical remnants of the old Spanish government building, symbolizing Cabadbaran’s colonial past.
• Cabadbaran Heritage Houses: A collection of well-preserved ancestral homes showcasing American-era architecture.
• Toong Falls: A scenic waterfall nestled in the forested areas of Barangay Caasinan.
• Cabadbaran City Charter Day: Celebrated every July 28, this festival features street dancing, cultural exhibits, and civic parades commemorating the city’s founding.

Economy of Cabadbaran City

• Cabadbaran’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, coconut, banana, and root crops. The city also supports livestock and poultry farming.
  • Forestry: Timber and non-timber forest products contribute to local livelihoods, especially in upland barangays.
  • Trade and commerce: Local markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises support daily economic activity.
  • Tourism and services: Heritage sites, eco-parks, and festivals contribute to seasonal income and employment.
• Cabadbaran is classified as a 6th-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it plays a vital role in Agusan del Norte’s agricultural and cultural economy.

Educational Institutions of Cabadbaran City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Cabadbaran Campus – Caraga State University: Offers programs in agriculture, education, and technology.
  • Saint Thomas More College: A private institution offering programs in liberal arts, business, and teacher education.
  • Agusan Colleges Inc.: Offers programs in criminology, hospitality, and health sciences.
  • 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 Cabadbaran City

• Cabadbaran traces its origins to a pre-colonial settlement along the banks of the Cabadbaran River. The area was inhabited by the Manobo and Mamanwa tribes, who lived in harmony with the forest and river ecosystems.
• During the Spanish period, Cabadbaran became a mission center and was formally established as a pueblo in the late 1800s. The construction of the Casa Real and other colonial structures marked its importance as a regional hub.
• The municipality of Cabadbaran was officially created on January 31, 1901 under American rule. It served as the capital of Agusan del Norte until Butuan City was declared a highly urbanized city in 1995, although Cabadbaran retained its status as the official provincial capital.
• Cabadbaran was converted into a component city on July 28, 2007 through Republic Act No. 9434, ratified by a plebiscite held on July 28, 2007. Today, Cabadbaran is known for its heritage architecture, natural beauty, and quiet resilience as a provincial capital.

Elected Officials of Cabadbaran City

• As of the 2025 elections, Cabadbaran City is led by:
  • Mayor: Judy Amante (Lakas)
  • Vice Mayor: Jamjam Corvera (Lakas)
  • Representative – Lone District of Agusan del Norte: Dale Corvera (Lakas)
  • City Councilors: Lalaine J. Montilla, Jose A. Lim V, Harvey P. Legas, Carlos Borromeo P. Segura Jr., Geronimo P. Arzagon, Bernardino L. Umadhay Jr., Geraldine L. Collado, Nestor D. Calvo
• For full election results and updates, visit: Cabadbaran City Election Results.

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