Digos City, Davao del Sur, Philippines

Digos City, Davao del Sur is within Region XI – Davao, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Digos City

• As of the 2020 Census, Digos City had a population of 188,376.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 169,393, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 11.2% over five years.
• Digos was historically inhabited by the Bagobo-Tagabawa and Kalagan peoples, indigenous communities known for their rich oral traditions, weaving, and forest-based livelihoods. These groups lived along the foothills of Mount Apo and the coastal zones of the Davao Gulf.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Bagobo and Kalagan 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 Digos City

• Digos City is located in southeastern Mindanao, within the province of Davao del Sur and Region XI (Davao Region). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 6.7453°N latitude and 125.3559°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 287.10 square kilometers, comprising 26 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river valleys, and the lower slopes of Mount Apo. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• Digos serves as the capital of Davao del Sur. The City Hall is located in Barangay Zone I, while the Provincial Capitol is situated in Barangay Matti.
• Most people reach Digos 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 by bus averaging 2 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Digos City

• Mount Apo Natural Park: The city serves as one of the main gateways to Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, ideal for trekking and biodiversity tours.
• Camp Sabros: A mountain resort in nearby Kapatagan offering zipline adventures, horseback riding, and panoramic views of Mount Apo.
• Digos City Baywalk: A coastal promenade along the Davao Gulf, popular for sunset viewing and leisure walks.
• Digos City Fiesta: Celebrated every September 8 in honor of the Virgin Mary, featuring religious processions, cultural shows, and street dancing.

Economy of Digos City

• Digos City’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include mango (for which the city is nicknamed the “Mango Capital of the Philippines”), coconut, rice, corn, and sugarcane.
  • Agro-industrial processing: Facilities process mangoes, coconut oil, and other agricultural products for regional distribution.
  • Retail and services: Digos serves as a commercial hub for southern Mindanao, with malls, markets, and logistics centers.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, mountain resorts, and cultural festivals contribute to seasonal income.
• While city-specific GDP data is limited, Digos contributes significantly to Davao del Sur’s economy, especially in agriculture and tourism. It is classified as a 2nd-class component city.

Educational Institutions of Digos City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Mindanao – Digos College: Offers programs in education, business, engineering, and health sciences.
  • Cor Jesu College: A private Catholic institution offering liberal arts, nursing, and graduate studies.
  • 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.
  • Public and private secondary schools: The city has over two dozen barangays with access to DepEd-supported schools and senior high programs.

History of Digos City

• Digos was originally a frontier barrio inhabited by Bagobo and Kalagan tribes. Its name is believed to have come from the word “Padigos,” meaning “to take a bath,” referencing the river where early settlers bathed and gathered water.
• During the American period, Digos became a settlement area for migrants from the Visayas and Luzon. It was officially organized as a municipality on July 19, 1949 under Executive Order No. 100 issued by President Elpidio Quirino.
• Digos was converted into a component city on September 8, 2000 through Republic Act No. 8798. It was designated the capital of Davao del Sur and became a center for governance, commerce, and education.
• Today, Digos is known as the “Gateway to the South,” balancing agricultural vitality, cultural diversity, and proximity to Mount Apo. It continues to grow through infrastructure development, education, and eco-tourism initiatives.

Elected Officials of Digos City

• As of the 2025 elections, Digos City is led by:
  • Mayor: Josef F. Cagas
  • Vice Mayor: Johari G. Baña
  • Representative (Lone District of Davao del Sur): John Tracy F. Cagas
  • City Councilors: Gary R. Cagas, Reynaldo T. Aballe, Millennium P. Garcia, Rey Q. Ayo, Xymber M. Latasa, Ramil Ian C. Llanos, Francisco B. Tongcos, Salvador L. Dumogho III, Marc Dominic R. Fernandez, Concepcion R. Cadungog
• For full election results and updates, visit: Digos City Election Results.

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