Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental is within Region XVI – Negros Islands, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Kabankalan City

• As of the 2020 Census, Kabankalan City had a population of 200,198.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 183,929, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 8.8% over five years.
• Kabankalan is historically home to indigenous groups such as the Magahat and Bukidnon peoples, who lived in the mountainous interiors of southern Negros. Over time, Ilonggo-speaking settlers became the dominant population, shaping the city’s cultural and linguistic identity.
• The major dialect spoken is Ilonggo (Hiligaynon), with Cebuano and Tagalog also present. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Kabankalan City

• Kabankalan City is located in the southern part of Negros Occidental, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.99°N latitude and 122.82°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 699.27 square kilometers, comprising 32 barangays. Its terrain includes river valleys, forested hills, and agricultural plains. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Kabankalan City Hall is located in Barangay 1, near the city plaza and Saint Francis Xavier Cathedral.
• Most people reach Kabankalan via land transport. It is approximately 100 kilometers south of Bacolod City, accessible by bus or van. The nearest airport is Bacolod–Silay Airport, while the closest major seaport is Himamaylan Port, both reachable within 2–3 hours by road.

Tourist Attractions of Kabankalan City

• Mag-aso Falls: A scenic waterfall located in Barangay Oringao, surrounded by lush forest and natural pools.
• Balicaocao Highland Resort: A hilltop retreat offering panoramic views of Kabankalan and nearby towns.
• Saint Francis Xavier Cathedral: A historic Catholic church and architectural landmark in the city center.
• Sinulog de Kabankalan Festival: Celebrated every January, this vibrant festival honors the Santo Niño through street dancing, cultural parades, and religious processions. It is one of the largest Sinulog celebrations outside Cebu.

Economy of Kabankalan City

• Kabankalan’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include sugarcane, rice, corn, banana, and coconut. Livestock and poultry farming are also practiced.
  • Trade and commerce: The city serves as a commercial hub for southern Negros, with markets, cooperatives, and retail centers.
  • Education and public services: Schools, government offices, and health centers contribute to employment and development.
  • Tourism: Natural sites and cultural festivals attract visitors from neighboring towns and provinces.
• Kabankalan is classified as a 1st-class component city. While specific GDP data is limited, it ranks among the top economic contributors in southern Negros Occidental.

Educational Institutions of Kabankalan City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Carlos Hilado Memorial State University – Kabankalan Campus: Offers programs in education, agriculture, engineering, and business. Included under the Free Tuition Law.
  • Central Philippines State University (CPSU): A public university offering programs in science, technology, and teacher education. Its main campus is located in nearby Barangay Camingawan.
  • Kabankalan Catholic College: A private institution offering CHED-accredited programs in liberal arts, business, and religious studies.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public high schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs.

History of Kabankalan City

• Kabankalan was originally inhabited by hill tribes along the Hilabangan River, including the Magahat and Bukidnon peoples. The area was later settled by migrants from Iloilo and Cebu, who founded a small community surrounded by “Bangkal” trees—hence the name Kabankalan.
• On March 14, 1907, Kabankalan was officially separated from the municipality of Ilog through Philippine Commission Act No. 1612. It was reconstituted as an independent municipality under American rule.
• During the early 1900s, Kabankalan developed a public school system and civic infrastructure. The economy grew through sugarcane production, trade, and migration from neighboring provinces.
• Kabankalan was converted into a component city on August 2, 1997 through Republic Act No. 8297. Today, it is known as the “Rising City of the South,” celebrated for its cultural pride, economic vitality, and grassroots governance.

Elected Officials of Kabankalan City

• As of the 2025 elections, Kabankalan City is led by:
  • Mayor: Benjie M. Miranda (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Divina Gracia S. Miranda (PFP)
  • Representative – 6th District of Negros Occidental: Mercedes Alvarez (NPC)
  • City Councilors: Anne Marie N. Zayco, Joan Daclan-Cagape, Joestarr B. Bandojo, Helen Q. Ibañez, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Kabankalan City Election Results.

Featured News of the Philippines