Caloocan City, Philippines

Caloocan City is a highly urbanized city within the National Capital Region, in the Republic of the Philippines. It is a key part of the “CAMANAVA” sub-region, along with Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela. The city is geographically unique, as it is divided into two separate areas: a southern portion that borders Manila and a northern portion that extends to the province of Bulacan. This strategic location has made it a vital hub for commerce, transportation, and industry.

People of Caloocan City

• As of the 2020 Census, Caloocan City had a population of 1,661,584.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 1,583,978, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 4.9% over five years.
• Caloocan was historically part of the Kingdom of Tondo and later the Spanish-era pueblo of San Juan del Monte. Indigenous groups such as the Tagalog-speaking natives lived in the area before colonial expansion.
• The major dialect spoken today is Tagalog, with English widely used in education, government, and commerce. As in all Philippine cities, English is the official medium of instruction in schools, supporting national integration and global engagement.

Location of Caloocan City

• Caloocan City is located in the northern part of Metro Manila, within the National Capital Region (NCR). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.65°N latitude and 120.97°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 55.80 square kilometers and comprises 188 barangays divided into North and South Caloocan. The terrain is mostly flat and urbanized, with a tropical climate marked by a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Caloocan City Hall is located in Barangay 14, along A. Mabini Street in South Caloocan. North Caloocan has a satellite government center in Barangay 178.
• Most people reach Caloocan via land transport. It is served by major roads such as EDSA, Rizal Avenue, and Quirino Highway. The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), approximately 25 kilometers south, while the Port of Manila is reachable within 1 hour by road.

Tourist Attractions of Caloocan City

• Bonifacio Monument: A national landmark commemorating the life and legacy of revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio, located at the intersection of EDSA and Rizal Avenue.
• La Mesa Watershed and Eco Park: A nearby nature reserve offering trails, boating, and environmental education.
• San Roque Cathedral: A historic church and spiritual center in South Caloocan.
• Caloocan City Foundation Day: Celebrated every February 16, featuring parades, concerts, and civic activities honoring the city’s history and progress.

• National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima: A popular religious site for pilgrimage.

• Museo ng Caloocan: Showcases the city’s history and cultural heritage.

• Gubat sa Ciudad Resort: A nature-themed resort offering a quick escape from the urban environment.

• Luzviminda Resort: A well-known resort in the city, popular for its water slides and recreational facilities.

• Caloocan City People’s Park: A well-maintained public park for community events and relaxation.

Economy of Caloocan City

• Caloocan’s economy is anchored in:
  • Retail and commerce: The city hosts numerous markets, malls, and commercial centers, especially along Rizal Avenue and Monumento.
  • Manufacturing and light industry: North Caloocan is home to industrial zones and small-scale factories.
  • Transport and logistics: Its strategic location supports warehousing, distribution, and transit operations.
  • Public services and education: Schools, hospitals, and government offices contribute to employment and development.Retail and Commerce: The city has a strong retail presence with numerous shopping centers and businesses.
  • Real Estate: The development of commercial and residential properties contributes to economic growth.
  • Services: A growing IT sector and professional services are emerging as key drivers.

    Caloocan’s economy is vibrant and diverse, with a strong foundation in both traditional and modern sectors. Historically, it has been a residential and industrial hub, and that legacy continues to this day. The main contributing industries to its economy are:

  •  
• Caloocan is classified as a 1st-class highly urbanized city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it ranks among the top contributors to Metro Manila’s economy, which accounts for over 36% of the national GDP.
• According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Caloocan was estimated at ₱235.54 billion in 2023, with a growth rate of 3.2%. While it may not be the wealthiest city in the NCR in terms of per capita GDP, it is a significant contributor to the regional economy.

Educational Institutions of Caloocan City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Caloocan City: A city-run institution offering programs in education, business, public administration, and technology.
  • La Consolacion College – Caloocan: A private Catholic school offering basic and tertiary education.
  • World Citi Colleges – Caloocan: Offers programs in health sciences, business, and IT.
  • Access Computer College: Specializes in tech-based and vocational programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Caloocan City

• Caloocan was originally part of the Kingdom of Tondo and later the Spanish colonial pueblo of San Juan del Monte. The name “Caloocan” comes from the Tagalog word “lo-ok,” meaning bay or inlet, referring to its proximity to Manila Bay.
• During the Philippine Revolution, Caloocan played a key role as the site of the Battle of Caloocan in 1899, where Filipino forces clashed with American troops. The Bonifacio Monument, erected in 1933, commemorates this revolutionary spirit.
• Caloocan was officially established as a city on February 16, 1962 through Republic Act No. 3278. It was later classified as a highly urbanized city and became part of Metro Manila in 1975.
• Today, Caloocan is known as the “Gateway to the North,” serving as a vital transit and commercial hub. It continues to grow through infrastructure development, public service innovation, and community empowerment.

Elected Officials of Caloocan City

• As of the 2025 elections, Caloocan City is led by:
  • Mayor: Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan (Nacionalista)
  • Vice Mayor: Anna Karina Teh-Limsico (Nacionalista)
  • Representatives:
    • District 1: Oscar “Oca” Malapitan
    • District 2: Mitch Cajayon-Uy
    • District 3: Dean Asistio
  • City Councilors:
    • District 1: Vincent Ryan Malapitan, Leah Bacolod, Ray Christopher Adalem, Orvince Howard Hernandez, Jacqueline Nubla, Alexander Caralde
    • District 2: Eduardo Aruelo, Carolyn Cunanan, Luis Asistio III, Emmanuel De Leon, Jose Lorenzo Almeda, Arnold Divina
    • District 3: Merwyn Lennon Abel, Aurora Henson Jr., Kingjohn Ericson Echiverri, Caliza May Africa-Del Rosario, Patrick Prado, Theresita Ceralde
• For full election results and updates, visit: Caloocan City Election Results.

Featured News of the Philippines