Laguna Province, Philippines

People of Laguna Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Laguna Province had a population of 3,382,193 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 3,035,081, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 2.2% annually.
• Historically, Laguna was inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Katutubong Tagalog and Aeta communities, particularly in upland areas near Mount Banahaw and Sierra Madre. While urbanization has reshaped much of the province, some indigenous traditions remain embedded in local culture.
• The dominant language spoken today is Tagalog, with regional accents and expressions unique to Laguna. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Laguna Province

• Laguna is a landlocked province in the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A), located southeast of Metro Manila. It is bordered by Rizal to the north, Quezon to the east, Batangas to the south, and Cavite to the west. Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines, lies to its north and east.
• Travel access:
  • Land: Laguna is accessible via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Manila East Road, and the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX). Buses, jeepneys, and vans connect the province to Metro Manila and neighboring regions.
  • Air: The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), approximately 1.5–2 hours away by land.
  • Sea: Being landlocked, Laguna has no direct access to seaports. The closest major port is in Manila, about 2–3 hours away by bus or car.

Tourist Attractions of Laguna Province

• Pagsanjan Falls: A majestic waterfall known for its thrilling boat rides through scenic rapids and lush forest.
• Rizal Shrine (Calamba): The ancestral home of Philippine national hero Dr. José Rizal, now a museum and heritage site.
• Mount Makiling: A dormant volcano and biodiversity hotspot ideal for hiking and ecological research.
• Los Baños Hot Springs: Renowned for therapeutic resorts and wellness retreats.
• Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: A Spanish-era crypt and national historical landmark.
• Festivals:
  • Anilag Festival: Known as the “Mother of All Festivals,” held every March in Santa Cruz to showcase the province’s culture, agriculture, and industries.
  • Bañamos Festival (Calamba): Celebrated every September to honor the city’s patron saint and promote tourism.
  • Paete’s Carving Festival: Highlights the town’s woodcarving heritage with exhibits and workshops.

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Economy of Laguna Province

• Laguna is the largest provincial economy in the Philippines, posting a GDP of ₱1.08 trillion in 2024, representing 33.3% of CALABARZON’s total output.
• Key industries include:
  • Manufacturing: The province hosts numerous industrial estates and PEZA-accredited zones, including Calamba Premiere International Park and Light Industry & Science Park.
  • Services: Retail, education, healthcare, and tourism contribute significantly to the local economy.
  • Agriculture: Laguna produces rice, coconut, fruits, and ornamental plants, with growth in agri-tech and organic farming.

Educational Institutions of Laguna Province

• Laguna is home to several top-tier universities and colleges:
  • University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB): A premier public university known for agriculture, forestry, veterinary medicine, and environmental science.
  • Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU): Offers programs in engineering, education, and technology across multiple campuses.
  • De La Salle University – Canlubang: A private institution offering programs in science, business, and liberal arts.
  • Lyceum of the Philippines University – Laguna: Known for hospitality, business, and maritime education.
  • Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa): Offers engineering, IT, and multimedia arts programs.

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History of Laguna Province

• Laguna was officially founded on July 28, 1571 by Spanish colonizers as “La Laguna,” named after the nearby Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the Philippines.
• It was established as an encomienda and later became a province under Spanish rule. Towns like Pagsanjan, Santa Cruz, and Bay played key roles in evangelization and agriculture.
• Laguna was a center of revolutionary activity during the Philippine Revolution and later contributed to the resistance during World War II.
• Today, it is one of the most dynamic provinces in the country, blending historical heritage with modern development.

Elected Officials of Laguna Province

• As of the 2025 elections, Laguna Province is led by:
  • Governor: Marisol C. Aragones-Sampelo
  • Vice Governor: Magtangol Jose C. Carait III
• For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Laguna Election Results.

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