Davao del Sur Province, Philippines

People of Davao del Sur

• As of the 2020 Census, Davao del Sur had a population of 680,481.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 632,588, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 7.6% over five years.
• Davao del Sur is historically home to several indigenous groups, including the Bagobo-Tagabawa, Obo-Manobo, and Kalagan peoples. These tribes have deep ancestral ties to the mountains, rivers, and coastal areas of southeastern Mindanao, with rich traditions in weaving, oral epics, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Bagobo and Kalagan languages 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 del Sur

• Davao del Sur is located in Region XI (Davao Region), occupying the southeastern section of Mindanao. Its geographic coordinates center around 6.8°N latitude and 125.4°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 2,163.98 square kilometers, bordered by Davao City to the north, Davao Occidental to the south, and the Davao Gulf to the east. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river valleys, and the forested slopes of Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines.
• The capital of Davao del Sur is Digos City. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Matti, which also houses the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and other government offices.
• Most people reach Davao del Sur via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Davao City (approximately 1.5–2 hours). 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 Digos City by bus averaging 2 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Davao del Sur

• Mount Apo Natural Park: A UNESCO-declared ASEAN Heritage Park and the country’s tallest mountain, ideal for trekking and biodiversity tours.
• Passig Islet Aqua-Eco Park: A small coral island off the coast of Sta. Cruz, popular for swimming and family outings.
• Camp Sabros: A mountain resort in Kapatagan offering zipline adventures, horseback riding, and panoramic views of Mount Apo.
• Digos City Fiesta: Celebrated every September 8 in honor of the Virgin Mary, featuring religious processions, cultural shows, and street dancing.

Economy of Davao del Sur

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include banana, coconut, rice, corn, and sugarcane.
  • Agro-industrial processing: Facilities process bananas, coconut oil, and other agricultural products for export.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, mountain resorts, and coastal destinations contribute to seasonal income.
  • Retail and services: Digos City and Sta. Cruz serve as commercial hubs for trade and logistics.
• Davao del Sur is classified as a 1st-class province. While province-specific GDP data is limited, it contributes significantly to the Davao Region’s economic output, especially in agriculture and tourism.

Educational Institutions of Davao del Sur

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Mindanao – Digos College: A state university offering programs in education, business, engineering, and health sciences.
  • Cor Jesu College: A private Catholic institution in Digos City offering liberal arts, nursing, and graduate studies.
  • Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST): A state college with campuses in Malita and Sta. Maria, offering agriculture, fisheries, and technology programs.
  • Holy Cross of Digos: Offers programs in education, criminology, and hospitality management.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Davao del Sur

• Davao del Sur was originally part of the undivided Davao Province. The name “Davao” is believed to have come from the phonetic blending of the words used by Bagobo subgroups to refer to the Davao River—“Davoh” (Obo), “Duhwow” (Clatta), and “Dabu” (Tagabawa). These terms all pointed to a place “beyond the high grounds.”
• The province was officially created on May 8, 1967 through Republic Act No. 4867, which divided the original Davao Province into Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Oriental. Digos was designated as the capital of Davao del Sur.
• In 2013, the southern municipalities of Malita, Sta. Maria, and Don Marcelino were separated to form the new province of Davao Occidental, reducing Davao del Sur’s land area and administrative scope.
• Today, Davao del Sur is known for its agricultural vitality, cultural diversity, and proximity to Mount Apo. It continues to grow through infrastructure development, education, and eco-tourism initiatives.

Elected Officials of Davao del Sur

• As of the 2025 elections, Davao del Sur Province is led by:
  • Governor: Yvonne Roña Cagas
  • Vice Governor: Marc Douglas Cagas IV
  • Representative (Lone District): John Tracy Cagas
  • Board Members – District I: Erwin Llanos, Shiela Cagas, Reynaldo Aballe, Rey Ayo, Maria Almendras
  • Board Members – District II: Dyan Giduquio-Idulsa, Carmelo Delos Cientos III, Gladys Razonable-Gascon, Mark Joel Gallardo, Kyra Angela Valentin
• For full election results and updates, visit: Davao del Sur Election Results.

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