Dagupan City, Philippines

Dagupan City, Pangasinan is within Region 1-Ilocos, in the Republic of the Philippines.

Barangays of Dagupan City, in Pangasinan Province, within Region 1 – Ilocos Region in the Republic of The Philippines
Bacayao Norte • Bacayao Sur • Barangay I (T. Bugallon) • Barangay II (Nueva) • Barangay IV (Zamora) • Bolosan • Bonuan Binloc • Bonuan Boquig • Bonuan Gueset • Calmay • Carael • Caranglaan • Herrero • Lasip Chico • Lasip Grande • Lomboy • Lucao • Malued • Mamalingling • Mangin • Mayombo • Pantal • Poblacion Oeste • Pogo Chico • Pogo Grande • Pugaro Suit • Salapingao • Salisay • Tambac • Tapuac • Tebeng

Population of Dagupan City

According to the 2020 Census, Dagupan City had a population of 174,302 residents.
In 2015, the city recorded a population of 171,271, reflecting a modest growth rate of 0.34% annually.

Location of Dagupan City

Dagupan City is a coastal independent component city in the province of Pangasinan, situated in the Ilocos Region of Luzon. It lies along the Lingayen Gulf and is traversed by seven rivers, making it a strategic hub for trade and aquaculture.
Most travelers reach Dagupan via:
- Land: Approximately 212 kilometers north of Manila, accessible via NLEX, SCTEX, and TPLEX. Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours by bus.
- Air: The nearest airport is Clark International Airport, about 3.5 hours away by land. Loakan Airport in Baguio is also accessible within 2 hours.
- Sea: Dagupan has a modest port facility for local fishing and cargo, but major seaport access is via San Fernando, La Union, approximately 2.5 hours away.

Tourist Attractions of Dagupan City

Bonuan Blue Beach: A serene coastal destination known for its white sand and calm waters.
Dawel River Cruise: A scenic eco-tourism experience showcasing mangroves, birdlife, and Dagupan’s aquaculture heritage.
Tondaligan Beach Park: A family-friendly area with picnic spots and play zones.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist: A historic religious site in the city center.
Bangus Festival: Held annually in April, this vibrant celebration honors Dagupan’s title as the “Bangus Capital of the Philippines” with street dancing, grilling contests, and cultural parades.

Economy of Dagupan City

Dagupan’s economy is anchored in aquaculture, retail trade, and education. The city is renowned for its pond-raised bangus (milkfish), which is exported nationwide.
Key economic sectors include:
- Bangus aquaculture: Over 900 hectares of fishponds and cages producing thousands of metric tons annually
- Retail and commerce: Dagupan serves as a commercial hub for central Pangasinan
- Education and healthcare: Numerous schools and hospitals attract residents from neighboring towns
While city-level GDP is not publicly available, Dagupan ranks among the top-performing component cities in Region I due to its strategic location and diversified economy.

Educational Institutions of Dagupan City

Dagupan is home to several major universities and colleges:
- Universidad de Dagupan (formerly Colegio de Dagupan) – ISO-certified and ranked as the top private HEI in Pangasinan
- Lyceum-Northwestern University – Offers programs in medicine, law, engineering, and business
- University of Pangasinan (PHINMA) – Known for its business, IT, and education programs
- University of Luzon – One of the oldest private universities in the region, founded in 1948

History of Dagupan City

Dagupan was originally named Bacnotan by Augustinian missionaries in the late 1500s. It became a major trade center during the Spanish era.
In 1660, Andres Malong led a revolt against Spanish rule. After the uprising, the town was renamed Nandaragupan, meaning “where people meet”.
The name was later simplified to Dagupan in 1780. The city played a key role in the Philippine Revolution and was liberated from Spanish rule in 1898.
Dagupan became an independent component city on June 20, 1947, through Republic Act No. 170.

Elected Officials of Dagupan City

As of the 2025 elections, Dagupan City is led by:
- Mayor: Belen T. Fernandez
- Vice Mayor: Dean Bryan L. Kua
- Representative: Gina de Venecia
For a full list of councilors and barangay officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Dagupan 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).