Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental is within Region X – Northern Mindanao, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Gingoog City

• As of the 2020 Census, Gingoog City had a population of 136,698.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 124,648, reflecting a growth rate of over 9.6% in five years.
• Gingoog is historically home to the Manobo and Higaonon peoples, indigenous groups known for their forest-based traditions, oral epics, and ancestral domains in the highlands of Northern Mindanao. The name “Gingoog” itself is derived from the Manobo word “Hingoog,” meaning “good luck.”
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Manobo and Higaonon languages 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 Gingoog City

• Gingoog City is located in Northern Mindanao (Region X), on the northeastern coast of Misamis Oriental, facing Gingoog Bay. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 8.8246°N latitude and 125.1035°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 568.44 square kilometers, comprising 18.15% of Misamis Oriental’s total area. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river valleys, and forested mountains, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 1,000 meters. The climate is tropical, with rainfall distributed throughout the year and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• The Gingoog City Hall is located in Barangay 1, near the central plaza and civic center.
• Most people reach Gingoog via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Cagayan de Oro City (approximately 3–4 hours) and Butuan City (around 2–3 hours). The nearest airport is Butuan Airport, while the Port of Cagayan de Oro serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Gingoog by bus averaging 4 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Gingoog City

• Cebu Pacific Flight 387 Memorial Park: A solemn site commemorating the victims of the 1998 plane crash, located in Mount Sumagaya.
• Gingoog Bay: A scenic coastal area ideal for fishing, boating, and sunset viewing.
• Mount Balatukan Range Natural Park: A protected area rich in biodiversity, offering trekking and eco-tourism opportunities.
• Kaliga Festival: Celebrated every July, this cultural event honors the city’s founding and indigenous heritage through street dancing, tribal rituals, and agro-trade exhibits.

Economy of Gingoog City

• Gingoog’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The city is a major producer of coconut, rice, corn, banana, and root crops.
  • Agro-processing: Facilities process coconut oil, copra, and other agricultural products for regional distribution.
  • Retail and commerce: Local markets, cooperatives, and small businesses support daily trade.
  • Tourism and services: Cultural sites, eco-parks, and festivals contribute to seasonal income.
• Gingoog is classified as a 2nd-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it contributes significantly to Misamis Oriental’s economy, especially in agriculture and tourism.

Educational Institutions of Gingoog City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Community College of Gingoog City (CCGC): A local government-funded institution offering programs in education, business, and information technology. It participates in the Free Higher Education program under RA 10931.
  • Gingoog Christian College: A private institution offering programs in theology, education, and liberal arts.
  • Guevarra Institute of Technology: Offers degrees in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, and Business Administration, with a focus on hands-on learning and innovation.
  • Nearby universities: Students also attend universities in Cagayan de Oro, including USTP, Xavier University, and Capitol University.

History of Gingoog City

• Gingoog was founded by Spanish missionaries in 1750, making it one of the oldest settlements in Misamis Oriental—older even than Cagayan de Oro, which was founded in 1871. The name “Gingoog” comes from the Manobo word “Hingoog,” meaning “good luck,” reflecting the indigenous belief in fortune and harmony.
• The city was incorporated as a municipality in 1908 under American rule. It grew steadily through agriculture, trade, and migration, becoming a hub for coconut production and inter-island commerce.
• Gingoog was converted into a component city on June 18, 1960 through Republic Act No. 2668. Its cityhood marked a new phase of development, with investments in education, infrastructure, and public services.
• Today, Gingoog is known as the “City of Good Luck,” blending indigenous heritage, natural beauty, and civic pride. It continues to grow as a center for agriculture, eco-tourism, and cultural preservation in Eastern Misamis Oriental.

Elected Officials of Gingoog City

• As of the 2025 elections, Gingoog City is led by:
  • Mayor: Erick G. Cañosa
  • Vice Mayor: Thaddeus “Tadoy” Lugod
  • Representative (1st District of Misamis Oriental): Karen Lagbas
  • City Councilors: Evelyn G. Cañosa, Patpat Guanzon, Jerome Magan, Steph Kho, Jam Militante, Bebot Villahermosa, Agaw Motoomull, Alam Na Gomez, Judeline Bernaldez, Rodrigande Miole
• For full election results and updates, visit: Gingoog City Election Results.

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