Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines

Calapan City, Mindoro Oriental is within Region IV-B (Mimaropa), in the Republic of the Philippines.

Barangays of Calapan City, in the Mindoro Oriental province, within Region IV-B (Mimaropa) in the Republic of The Philippines
Balingayan • Balite • Baruyan • Batino • Bayanan I • Bayanan II • Biga • Bondoc • Bucayao • Buhuan • Bulusan • Calero (Pob.) • Camansihan • Camilmil • Canubing I • Canubing II • Comunal • Guinobatan • Gulod • Gutad • Ibaba East (Pob.) • Ibaba West (Pob.) • Ilaya (Pob.) • Lalud • Lazareto • Libis (Pob.) • Lumang Bayan • Mahal Na Pangalan • Maidlang • Malad • Malamig • Managpi • Masipit • Nag-Iba I • Nag-Iba II • Navotas • Pachoca • Palhi • Panggalaan • Parang • Patas • Personas • Putingtubig • Salong • San Antonio • San Vicente Central (Pob.) • San Vicente East (Pob.) • San Vicente North (Pob.) • San Vicente South (Pob.) • San Vicente West (Pob.) • Santa Cruz • Santa Isabel • Santa Maria Village • Santa Rita (Bungahan) • Santo Niño • Sapul • Silonay • Suqui • Tawagan • Tawiran • Tibag • Wawa

People of Calapan City

As of the 2020 Census, Calapan City had a population of 145,786 residents.
In 2015, the city recorded a population of 133,893, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 1.7% annually.
The indigenous people historically associated with the area are the Iraya Mangyan, one of the eight Mangyan ethnolinguistic groups. They traditionally inhabit the northern highlands of Mindoro, including parts of Calapan’s hinterlands.
While Tagalog is now the dominant language spoken by over 93% of the population, the original dialects of the Mangyan—such as Iraya and Alangan—are still preserved in upland communities.

Location of Calapan City

Calapan City is located on the northeastern coast of Mindoro Island and serves as the capital of Oriental Mindoro. It is the main gateway to the province and the regional center of MIMAROPA.
Most travelers reach Calapan via:
- Sea: Fast craft and RoRo ferries from Batangas Port arrive at Calapan Port in 1–2 hours. It is the busiest port in the province.
- Land: Buses from Metro Manila travel to Batangas, then transfer via ferry to Calapan. Local vans and jeepneys connect Calapan to other towns.
- Air: The nearest airport is in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, about 4–5 hours away by land and sea. Calapan does not have its own commercial airport.

Tourist Attractions of Calapan City

Sto. Niño Cathedral: A historic Roman Catholic cathedral and seat of the Diocese of Calapan.
Calapan City Museum: Located at the New City Hall, showcasing local history, culture, and Mangyan heritage.
Harka Piloto Fish Sanctuary: A coastal marine reserve ideal for snorkeling and eco-tourism.
Lamesang Bato: A scenic trekking destination offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Festivals:
- Kalap Festival: Held every March to celebrate Calapan’s cityhood and cultural identity. The name “Kalap” refers to the gathering of logs, symbolizing unity and progress.
- Sinukwan Festival: A local celebration of indigenous traditions and agricultural abundance.

Economy of Calapan City

Calapan’s economy is driven by agriculture, trade, and services. It is a major rice and coconut-producing area and a commercial hub for northern Mindoro.
As the capital of Oriental Mindoro, Calapan contributes significantly to the province’s GDP, which reached ₱120.97 billion in 2024, growing 5.3% from the previous year.
Top growth sectors include:
- Construction (+16.4%)
- Transportation and storage (+13.8%)
- Electricity, water, and waste management (+11.8%)

Educational Institutions of Calapan City

Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
- Mindoro State University – Calapan Campus: Offers programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and business.
- Divine Word College of Calapan: A private Catholic institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in liberal arts, sciences, and theology.
- City College of Calapan: A local government-run college established in 2008, offering affordable education in various disciplines.

History of Calapan City

Calapan was originally a small village under the jurisdiction of Baco. In 1733, it became the seat of the Northern Mindoro Ecclesiastical District.
It was declared the capital of Mindoro in 1873, replacing Puerto Galera. The capital was briefly moved back to Puerto Galera in 1902 but returned to Calapan in 1903 for logistical reasons.
Calapan became a component city through Republic Act No. 8475, signed on February 2, 1998 and ratified via plebiscite on March 21, 1998.

Elected Officials of Calapan City

As of the 2025 elections, Calapan City is led by:
- Mayor: Paulino Salvador Cueto Leachon
- Vice Mayor: Rommel Rodolfo A. Ignacio
- Representative: Arnan C. Panaligan
- City Councilors: Charles O. Pansoy, Rius Anthony C. Agua, Marian Teresa G. Tagupa, Rafael E. Panaligan Jr., Genie R. Fortu, Ronalee E. Leachon, Ricka Marie P. Goco, Federico A. Cabailo Jr., Jelina Maree D. Magsuci, Roberto L. Concepcion
For official results and updates, visit the Halalan 2025 page: Calapan City Election Results.

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.

List of Cities in the Philippines

The move towards Federalism in the Philippines is simply a ploy to create political dynasties and establish a Bangsamoro State (an autonomous Islamic State).