Iriga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines

Iriga City, Camarines Sur is within Region V – Bicol, in the Republic of thePhilippines.

People of Iriga City

• As of the 2020 Census, Iriga City had a population of 114,457.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 111,757, reflecting a modest growth rate of approximately 0.78% annually.
• Iriga is home to the indigenous Agta people, specifically the Mt. Iriga Agtas, part of the Negrito ethnolinguistic group. They reside west of Lake Buhi and maintain traditional practices such as scarification, herbal medicine, and oral storytelling.
• The major dialect spoken is Rinconada Bikol, an Inland Bikol language distinct from the Coastal Bikol spoken in Naga. While Bikolano is dominant in daily life, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Iriga City

• Iriga City is located in the province of Camarines Sur, within the Bicol Region (Region V). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 13.4231°N latitude and 123.4122°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 137.35 square kilometers, characterized by fertile plains, river systems, and volcanic slopes. It is nestled at the foot of Mount Iriga (also known as Mount Asog), an extinct stratovolcano rising to 1,196 meters above sea level. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The Iriga City Hall is located in Barangay San Miguel, near Plaza Rizal and the central business district.
• Most people reach Iriga via land transport. It is approximately 35 kilometers south of Naga City and 478 kilometers from Manila. Buses and vans connect Iriga to major cities, while the nearest airport is Naga Airport in Pili, about 45 minutes away. The closest seaport is in Pasacao, accessible by road within 1.5 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Iriga City

• Mount Iriga: A scenic hiking destination with panoramic views of Lake Buhi and surrounding towns.
• Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto: A pilgrimage site built into the slopes of Mount Iriga, featuring a chapel and meditation areas.
• Inorogan Chapel: A historic chapel commemorating the miraculous escape of locals during a volcanic eruption.
• Iriga Plaza Rizal: A central park and civic space honoring Dr. José Rizal, surrounded by government buildings and heritage structures.
• Tinagba Festival: Held every February 11, this annual harvest festival features a parade of carabao-drawn carts, street dancing, and thanksgiving rituals rooted in pre-colonial traditions.

Economy of Iriga City

• Iriga’s economy is anchored in agriculture, with rice, corn, root crops, and vegetables as major products. The city also serves as a commercial hub for the Rinconada district.
• Emerging sectors include retail, education, and small-scale manufacturing. The city’s strategic location and growing population support a vibrant service economy.
• While city-specific GDP data is limited, Iriga contributes to Camarines Sur’s overall economic output, which reached ₱201.03 billion in 2023, the highest in the Bicol Region.

Educational Institutions of Iriga City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Saint Anthony (USANT): A private university offering programs in law, engineering, education, and health sciences.
  • University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP): A comprehensive institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in business, criminology, and liberal arts.
  • La Consolacion College – Iriga: A Catholic college offering programs in education, IT, and hospitality management.
  • Ceguera Technological Colleges: Focused on vocational and technical education.

History of Iriga City

• Iriga began as a visita (mission station) of Nabua in 1578, established by Franciscan missionaries. The name “Iraga” means “there is land,” referring to its fertile plains and safe elevation from floods.
• In 1683, Iriga was formally recognized as a pueblo under the Spanish colonial administration. The settlement grew rapidly due to its agricultural productivity and strategic location near Mount Asog.
• During the American period, Iriga became a center for education and commerce in the Rinconada district. The Manila Railroad Company established a station in 1913, boosting trade and mobility.
• Iriga was officially converted into a component city on September 3, 1968, through Republic Act No. 5261. Today, it is known as the “City of Springs,” blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and civic pride.

Elected Officials of Iriga City

• As of the 2025 elections, Iriga City is led by:
  • Mayor: Wilfred Rex C. Oliva
  • Vice Mayor: Edsel S. Dimaiwat
  • Representative (5th District of Camarines Sur): Miguel Luis R. Villafuerte
  • City Councilors: Angelica Paula P. Vargas, Santos A. Audal Jr., Melnan R. Murallo, Katherine Dominique C. Lagrimas, Jose S. Villanueva Jr., Dandreb N. Aboni, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Iriga City Election Results.

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