Dimataling, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines

About Dimataling, Zamboanga del Sur

Dimataling is a 4th income class municipality located on the Baganian Peninsula in the province of Zamboanga del Sur. Established on June 17, 1950, the town is situated along the western shores of Illana Bay, granting it access to rich marine resources. Its name is said to be derived from the Subanun term meaning “to be flat” or “to be leveled,” which refers to the relatively flat coastal plains where the town center is situated. The landscape transitions from these coastal areas to moderately rolling slopes inland, peaking at Mt. Buga.

Location and Access

Dimataling’s location on the Baganian Peninsula makes it accessible mainly via the provincial highway system. The town does not host a major commercial airport or deep-sea port. For air travel, residents utilize the nearest commercial airport in the provincial capital, Pagadian City. Land access is facilitated by inter-town buses and jeepneys that travel the coastal road. The main junction point for public transportation is the local **Bus and Jeepney Terminal**, generally located in the town’s administrative center, Poblacion. The municipality’s coastal location supports local fishing, with small wharves or docking areas used primarily by fishermen on Illana Bay.

Location of Municipality Hall

The **Dimataling Municipal Hall**, which serves as the seat of the local government, is prominently situated within the commercial and administrative heart of the town. This location is within the central barangay known as Poblacion.

Economy of Dimataling

The economy of Dimataling is a 4th income class economy heavily anchored in **agriculture** and **fishing**. The vast majority of its land area is dedicated to farming, with major crops including rice, corn, coconuts, cassava, and various fruit trees. The rich marine ecosystem of Illana Bay supports a large fishing sector, which is a major source of livelihood for coastal communities. The cultivation of *agar-agar* (seaweed) also contributes significantly to the local economy. Commerce is generally concentrated in the Poblacion area, centered around the local **Public Market**, which serves as the primary trading hub for agricultural and marine products. The local economy is boosted by town fiestas and smaller agricultural events, though no specific major yearly festival is internationally promoted.

Natural Resources and Rivers

Dimataling is endowed with two key natural resources: **fertile agricultural land** and **rich marine resources**. The soil, which includes clay loams and hydrosols, is ideal for cash crops and for constructing fishponds. The coastline provides access to the biodiversity of Illana Bay. While the town is situated amidst rolling hills, no major named rivers are central to its boundaries, but numerous streams and tributaries crisscross the agricultural plains, providing essential water for irrigation. The local **Rizal Park**, located in Poblacion, serves as a key public space and recreational landmark.

Power, Water, and Utilities

Electric power service throughout the municipality is provided by the **Zamboanga del Sur 1 Electric Cooperative (ZAMSURECO 1)**. For water, there is no formal water district in Dimataling. Water systems are generally managed by the municipal government’s relevant department or are community-based. Residents in the town center likely access a centralized system, while those in rural areas rely on deep wells and natural springs.

Banking, Commerce, and Health Services

General commerce is robust, centered in the Poblacion barangay through the main **Public Market** and numerous *sari-sari* stores. However, the municipality does not host any prominent commercial bank branches. For major banking and financial services, residents typically travel to the larger commercial center of Pagadian City. Health services are provided locally by the **Rural Health Unit (RHU)**, which manages primary healthcare for the town. This RHU is supplemented by various **Barangay Health Stations (BHS)** scattered across the municipality. For hospital-level care or specialized medical services, residents must travel to hospitals located in nearby cities, such as Pagadian City.

Education in Dimataling

The education system in Dimataling ensures widespread access to basic education. Most, if not all, of the rural barangays are served by an elementary or primary school. Secondary education is provided by the main public high school, the **Laureano Salusod National High School**, which is situated in the town center, Poblacion. Dimataling does not have a college or university. Students pursuing tertiary or vocational education must travel to nearby academic centers, most notably to Pagadian City, which hosts several universities and colleges.

Local Transportation

Local travel within the town center, or Poblacion, is predominantly serviced by **tricycles**, which are the main everyday mode of transport for short distances. **Jeepneys** remain the vital link for connecting the more distant, rural barangays with the town proper and for inter-municipal travel along the national highway. **Pedicabs** may also operate in the flat, congested areas near the market. **Taxicabs** do not operate as local public transportation within the municipality.

Municipalities in the Zamboanga Del Sur Province within Region IX (zamboanga peninsula) in the Republic of The Philippines
Aurora • Bayog • Dimataling • Dinas • Dumalinao • Dumingag • Guipos • Josefina • Kumalarang • Labangan • Lakewood • Lapuyan • Mahayag • Margosatubig • Midsalip • Molave • Pitogo • Ramon Magsaysay • San Miguel • San Pablo • Sominot • Tabina • Tambulig • Tigbao • Tukuran • Vincenzo A. Sagun
Cities in the Province of Zamboanga del Sur: Pagadian City

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.