Davao Oriental Province, Philippines

People of Davao Oriental

• As of the 2020 Census, Davao Oriental had a population of 576,343.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 558,958, reflecting a growth of 17,385 people over five years.
• Davao Oriental is the traditional homeland of the Mandaya and Kagan peoples. The Mandaya are known for their intricate weaving, oral epics, and forest-based traditions, while the Kagan have deep roots in coastal and riverine communities with Islamic influences.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Mandaya and Kagan languages are still used in tribal barangays. 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 Oriental

• Davao Oriental is located in the southeastern section of Mindanao, within Region XI (Davao Region). Its geographic coordinates center around 7.0°N latitude and 126.2°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 5,679.64 square kilometers, bordered by Davao de Oro to the west, Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur to the north, and the Philippine Sea to the east. Its terrain includes coastal plains, rugged mountains, and river valleys. The climate is tropical, with rainfall distributed year-round and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• The capital of Davao Oriental is Mati City. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Dahican, which also houses the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and other government offices.
• Most people reach Davao Oriental via land transport. Mati City 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 serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Mati by bus averaging 5 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Davao Oriental

• Aliwagwag Falls: Located in Cateel, this multi-tiered waterfall is one of the tallest and most scenic in the Philippines.
• Dahican Beach: A white-sand beach in Mati known for surfing, skimboarding, and sea turtle conservation.
• Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and ASEAN Heritage Park, home to endangered species and bonsai forests.
• Subangan Museum: A cultural and natural history museum in Mati showcasing Mandaya heritage and the province’s biodiversity.
• Mandaya Festival: Celebrated every June, this festival honors the Mandaya people through traditional dances, rituals, and crafts.

Economy of Davao Oriental

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include coconut, banana, rice, corn, and abaca.
  • Fishing and aquaculture: Coastal communities contribute to seafood production and trade.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, beaches, and cultural sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Small-scale manufacturing: Copra processing, handicrafts, and food products support local livelihoods.
• While province-specific GDP data is limited, Davao Oriental contributes significantly to the Davao Region’s economy, especially in agriculture and eco-tourism. It is classified as a 2nd-class province.

Educational Institutions of Davao Oriental

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU): A state university in Mati offering programs in agriculture, education, engineering, and IT.
  • St. Mary’s College of Baganga: A private Catholic institution offering liberal arts and teacher education.
  • Mindanao Polytechnic College: Offers maritime, engineering, and business programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public and private secondary schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs.

History of Davao Oriental

• Davao Oriental was originally part of the undivided Davao Province. The name “Davao” is derived from the phonetic blending of tribal terms for the Davao River—“Davoh,” “Duhwow,” and “Dabu”—used by the Obo, Clatta, and Tagabawa peoples respectively.
• 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. Mati was designated as the capital.
• During the Martial Law era, Davao Oriental became a center for agrarian reform and rural development, with coconut plantations and coastal fisheries driving the local economy. Infrastructure projects expanded access to remote municipalities.
• Today, Davao Oriental is known for its natural wonders, indigenous heritage, and commitment to environmental conservation. It continues to grow through sustainable tourism, education, and agricultural innovation.

Elected Officials of Davao Oriental

• As of the 2025 elections, Davao Oriental Province is led by:
  • Governor: Niño Sotero Uy Jr.
  • Vice Governor: Nelson Dayanghirang
  • Representative – District I: Corazon Nuñez-Malanyaon
  • Representative – District II: Joel Mayo Almario
  • Board Members: Official list available via Davao Oriental Election Results.

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