Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Philippines

Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental is within Region XVI – Negros Islands, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Dumaguete City

• As of the 2020 Census, Dumaguete City had a population of 134,103.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 131,377, reflecting a modest growth rate of approximately 2.1% over five years.
• Dumaguete is historically part of the ancestral domain of the Ata and Bukidnon peoples, though much of the current population are Visayan settlers. The city’s cultural identity has been shaped by centuries of migration, education, and trade.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, with English and Tagalog also widely used. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, contributing to Dumaguete’s reputation as a university town and center of learning in the Visayas.

Location of Dumaguete City

• Dumaguete City is located on the southeastern coast of Negros Island, within Region VII (Central Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.31°N latitude and 123.31°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 33.62 square kilometers, comprising 30 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, low hills, and river systems. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• Dumaguete is the capital of Negros Oriental. The City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion 3, while the Provincial Capitol is in Barangay Capitol Area.
• Most people reach Dumaguete via air and sea. The Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport serves domestic flights from Manila and Cebu. The Dumaguete Port connects the city to Cebu, Siquijor, and Mindanao. Bus terminals link Dumaguete to other towns and cities across Negros Island.

Tourist Attractions of Dumaguete City

• Rizal Boulevard: A scenic seaside promenade lined with cafes, historic markers, and views of the Bohol Sea.
• Silliman University: Founded in 1901, it is one of Asia’s oldest American-established universities, with a museum, heritage buildings, and a sprawling campus.
• Campanario de Dumaguete: A 1760s Spanish-era bell tower and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
• Quezon Park and Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria: A central civic and religious hub with colonial architecture and cultural significance.
• Sandurot Festival: Celebrated every September, this festival honors Dumaguete’s multicultural heritage through street dancing, parades, and historical reenactments.

Economy of Dumaguete City

• Dumaguete’s economy is anchored in:
  • Education: As a university town, the city hosts thousands of students from across the country and abroad.
  • Tourism: Heritage sites, diving spots, and cultural festivals attract both local and international visitors.
  • Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): Several call centers and IT firms operate in the city, contributing to employment and economic growth.
  • Trade and services: Retail, hospitality, and transport sectors thrive due to the city’s role as a regional hub.
• While city-specific GDP data is limited, Dumaguete plays a central role in Negros Oriental’s economy, contributing significantly to its estimated ₱178.36 billion GDP in 2023.

Educational Institutions of Dumaguete City

• Young residents and students from across the country pursue higher education at:
  • Silliman University: A premier private university offering programs in law, medicine, marine biology, business, and liberal arts.
  • Negros Oriental State University (NORSU): A public university with multiple campuses offering programs in education, engineering, and technology.
  • St. Paul University Dumaguete: A Catholic institution offering health sciences, business, and teacher education.
  • Foundation University: A private university offering architecture, IT, and business programs.
  • AMA Computer College – Dumaguete Campus: Offers IT and tech-based programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, culinary arts, automotive technology, and other trades.

History of Dumaguete City

• Dumaguete’s name is believed to have originated from the Cebuano word “dagit,” meaning “to snatch,” referencing the city’s history of Moro pirate raids. Despite this, it evolved into a peaceful settlement and a center of learning and spirituality.
• The town was formally established in the 1600s during the Spanish colonial period. It became a parish in 1620 and was later designated as the capital of Negros Oriental in 1890 when the island of Negros was divided into two provinces.
• In 1901, American missionaries founded Silliman Institute (now Silliman University), making Dumaguete the first site of Protestant education in the Philippines and Asia. This marked the beginning of the city’s transformation into a university town.
• Dumaguete was officially converted into a chartered city on June 15, 1948, through Republic Act No. 327. Today, it is known as the “City of Gentle People,” celebrated for its academic excellence, cultural vibrancy, and coastal charm.

Elected Officials of Dumaguete City

• As of the 2025 elections, Dumaguete City is led by:
  • Mayor: Manuel “Chiquiting” Sagarbarria (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Eslao Alviola (NPC)
  • Representative – 2nd District of Negros Oriental: Maisa Sagarbarria (Lakas)
  • City Councilors: Chessa Sagarbarria, Karissa Tolentino-Maxino, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Dumaguete City Election Results.

Featured News of the Philippines