Davao Occidental Province, Philippines

People of Davao Occidental

• As of the 2020 Census, Davao Occidental had a population of 317,159.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 293,780, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 8% over five years.
• Davao Occidental is historically home to several indigenous groups, including the Tagakaulo, Blaan, Bagobo, and Manobo peoples. These tribes have ancestral domains in the upland and coastal areas, with rich traditions in weaving, oral storytelling, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though indigenous languages such as Tagakaulo and Blaan 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 Occidental

• Davao Occidental is located in the southwestern part of Mindanao, within Region XI (Davao Region). Its geographic coordinates center around 6.08°N latitude and 125.67°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 2,163.45 square kilometers, bordered by Davao del Sur to the north and Sarangani Bay to the south. Its terrain includes coastal plains, rugged mountains, and forested interiors. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Davao Occidental is Malita. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Poblacion, which also houses the main government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach the province via land and sea. It is accessible by bus from Davao City (approximately 4–5 hours). The nearest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. The Port of Davao and Port of General Santos serve as the nearest major seaports, with travel time to Malita by bus averaging 3–4 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Davao Occidental

• Balut Island: A volcanic island in Sarangani Bay known for its pristine beaches, hot springs, and diving spots.
• Sarangani Island: A remote island with coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and rich marine biodiversity.
• Malita Baywalk: A coastal promenade ideal for sunset viewing and leisure walks.
• Araw ng Davao Occidental: Celebrated every October 28, this founding anniversary features cultural exhibits, street dancing, and civic parades. It was declared a special non-working holiday by virtue of Republic Act No. 11135.

Economy of Davao Occidental

• Davao Occidental’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include coconut, banana, corn, and root crops. Fishing and aquaculture are also vital in coastal municipalities.
  • Tourism: Island destinations and eco-parks contribute to seasonal income and local employment.
  • Small-scale manufacturing: Handicrafts, food processing, and local products support community enterprises.
  • Public services: Government employment and infrastructure projects drive local development.
• Davao Occidental is classified as a 4th-class province. While province-specific GDP data is limited, it ranks 65th out of 81 provinces in population and continues to develop its tourism and agricultural sectors.

Educational Institutions of Davao Occidental

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST): A state college with a campus in Malita offering programs in agriculture, fisheries, and technology.
  • Malita Institute of Technology: Offers vocational and technical programs in hospitality, electronics, and business.
  • Public secondary schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide training in welding, automotive repair, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Nearby universities: Students also attend universities in Davao City and General Santos, including USTP, University of Mindanao, and MSU-Gensan.

History of Davao Occidental

• Davao Occidental was officially created on October 28, 2013 through Republic Act No. 10360, which was signed into law on July 23, 2012. The law was ratified by a plebiscite held in Davao del Sur, where 76.57% of voters approved the creation of the new province.
• The province was carved out of the southern municipalities of Davao del Sur—Malita, Sta. Maria, Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani—to improve governance and development in the remote coastal areas. Malita was designated as the capital and seat of government.
• Before its creation, the area was part of the undivided Davao Province, which was split into three in 1967. Davao Occidental became the fifth province in the Davao Region, joining Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and Davao de Oro.
• Today, Davao Occidental is known for its island beauty, cultural diversity, and emerging eco-tourism. It continues to grow through infrastructure development, education, and sustainable resource management.

Elected Officials of Davao Occidental

• As of the 2025 elections, Davao Occidental Province is led by:
  • Governor: Franklin “Colin” Bautista
  • Vice Governor: Lorna Bautista-Bandigan
  • Representative (Lone District): Claude Bautista
  • Board Members: Official list available via Davao Occidental Election Results.

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