Davao de Oro Province, Philippines

People of Davao de Oro

• As of the 2020 Census, Davao de Oro had a population of 767,547.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 736,403, showing steady growth across its municipalities.
• Davao de Oro is historically home to several indigenous groups, including the Mandaya, Manobo, and Kalagan peoples. These tribes have deep ancestral ties to the forests, rivers, and mountains of southeastern Mindanao, with rich traditions in weaving, music, and oral storytelling.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though indigenous languages such as Mandaya and Manobo are still used in tribal communities. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Davao de Oro

• Davao de Oro is located in the southeastern part of Mindanao, within Region XI (Davao Region). Its geographic coordinates center around 7.35°N latitude and 126.05°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 4,560.09 square kilometers, comprising 11 municipalities. Its topography includes coastal plains, river valleys, and mountainous interiors, with Mount Candalaga and Mount Diwata among its prominent peaks. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Davao de Oro is Nabunturan. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Cabidianan, which also houses the main government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach the province via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Davao City (approximately 3–4 hours) and Tagum City. The nearest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. The Port of Davao serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Nabunturan by bus averaging 4–5 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Davao de Oro

• Mount Candalaga: A popular trekking destination in Maragusan, known for its mossy forests and biodiversity.
• Tagbibinta Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for nature trips and photography.
• Lake Leonard: A crater lake in Maco, offering scenic views and eco-tourism activities.
• Maragusan Highlands: A cool-climate retreat with resorts, gardens, and panoramic mountain views.
• Bulawan Festival: Celebrated every March in Nabunturan, this festival honors the province’s gold mining heritage through street dancing, cultural exhibits, and trade fairs.

Economy of Davao de Oro

• Davao de Oro’s economy is anchored in:
  • Mining: The province is rich in gold and other mineral resources, with mining operations in Maco, Monkayo, and Compostela.
  • Agriculture: Major crops include banana, coconut, rice, corn, and cacao.
  • Agro-processing: Facilities process agricultural products for regional and export markets.
  • Tourism and eco-development: Highlands, waterfalls, and cultural sites attract visitors year-round.
• Davao de Oro is classified as a 1st-class province. While province-specific GDP data is limited, it ranks among the top contributors in the Davao Region, especially in mining and agriculture.

Educational Institutions of Davao de Oro

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Compostela Valley State College: A state institution offering programs in education, agriculture, and business, with campuses in Compostela and Montevista.
  • Assumption College of Nabunturan: A private Catholic college offering liberal arts, education, and health sciences.
  • Legacy College of Compostela: Offers programs in criminology, hospitality, and information technology.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Nearby universities: Students also attend universities in Davao City, including USTP, Ateneo de Davao, and UP Mindanao.

History of Davao de Oro

• Davao de Oro was formerly known as Compostela Valley. It was created on July 1, 1998 through Republic Act No. 8470, separating it from Davao del Norte. The law was ratified by a plebiscite held on March 7, 1998, and the province officially began operations later that year.
• The name “Compostela” traces back to early settlers who named the area after Compostela in Spain. The province was carved out to improve governance, resource management, and development in the mineral-rich and agriculturally productive region.
• On December 2, 2019, the province was officially renamed to Davao de Oro through Republic Act No. 11297, following a successful plebiscite. The new name reflects its geographic identity within the Davao Region and its reputation as a gold-producing province.
• Today, Davao de Oro is known as the “Golden Province of Mindanao,” balancing natural wealth, cultural heritage, and sustainable development. It continues to grow through infrastructure, education, and eco-tourism initiatives.

Elected Officials of Davao de Oro

• As of the 2025 elections, Davao de Oro Province is led by:
  • Governor: Raul “RM” Mabanglo
  • Vice Governor: Dorothy M. Gonzaga
  • Representative – District I: Maria Carmen S. Zamora
  • Representative – District II: Ruwell Peter S. Gonzaga
  • Board Members: Harold Gane Postrero, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Davao de Oro Election Results.

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