Lamitan City, Basilan, Philippines

Lamitan City, Basilan is within Region XV – BARMM, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Lamitan City

• As of the 2020 Census, Lamitan City had a population of 100,150.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 74,782, reflecting a significant growth rate of over 34% in five years.
• Lamitan is historically home to the Yakan people, an indigenous ethnolinguistic group known for their vibrant weaving traditions, music, and oral storytelling. The city also includes communities of Tausug, Chavacano, and Christian settlers, contributing to its multicultural identity.
• The major dialect spoken is Yakan, followed by Tausug and Chavacano. Filipino and English are widely used in education and governance. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Lamitan City

• Lamitan City is located in the island province of Basilan, within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 6.6580°N latitude and 122.1370°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 354.45 square kilometers, comprising 45 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, rolling hills, and river systems. The climate is tropical, with a pronounced wet season and moderate temperatures year-round.
• Lamitan serves as the capital of Basilan Province. The City Hall is located in Barangay Maganda, which also houses the Provincial Capitol and other government offices.
• Most people reach Lamitan via sea and land transport. From Zamboanga City, travelers take ferries to Isabela City or Lamitan Port. The nearest airport is Zamboanga International Airport, approximately 1.5 hours away by sea and land. Bus and van services connect Lamitan to other municipalities in Basilan.

Tourist Attractions of Lamitan City

• Yakan Heritage Village: A cultural center showcasing traditional Yakan weaving, music, and crafts.
• Kalun Park: A historical site honoring Pedro Javier Cuevas, also known as Datu Kalun, a key figure in Lamitan’s founding.
• Lamitan River: A scenic river ideal for eco-tours and community-based tourism.
• Lami-Lamihan Festival: Celebrated every June, this festival honors Yakan culture through street dancing, traditional rituals, and agro-industrial exhibits. It coincides with the city’s founding anniversary.

Economy of Lamitan City

• Lamitan’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include coconut, rubber, banana, and corn. The city also produces abaca and other fiber crops.
  • Fisheries: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and aquaculture.
  • Trade and commerce: Lamitan serves as a commercial hub for eastern Basilan, with markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises.
  • Crafts and tourism: Yakan weaving and cultural tourism support local livelihoods.
• As of 2025, Lamitan is classified as a 3rd-class component city. It ranked 113th in the Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, with notable improvements in economic dynamism and government efficiency.

Educational Institutions of Lamitan City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Basilan State College – Lamitan Campus: Offers programs in education, agriculture, business, and technology. It is included in the Free Tuition Law and serves as the city’s flagship public college.
  • Hardam Furigay Colleges Foundation: A private institution offering programs in criminology, hospitality, and teacher education, with campuses in Lamitan and nearby towns.
  • Technical-vocational schools: TESDA-accredited centers provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public and private secondary schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs.

History of Lamitan City

• Lamitan’s earliest historical accounts trace back to the settlement of the Yakan people, who migrated from the Sulu Archipelago and established communities along the riverbanks. The area was later named “Lamitan” after the legendary figure Pedro Javier Cuevas, a Christian convict who escaped to Basilan and became known as Datu Kalun.
• Under Spanish, American, and Japanese rule, Lamitan evolved into a municipal district of Basilan, then part of Zamboanga Province. It gained prominence for its strategic location and agricultural productivity.
• Lamitan was officially converted into a component city on June 8, 2007 through Republic Act No. 9393. Although its cityhood was challenged and temporarily revoked in 2008 and 2010, the Supreme Court affirmed its status on February 15, 2011.
• Today, Lamitan is known as the “Cultural Capital of Basilan,” balancing heritage preservation, civic development, and peacebuilding efforts. It continues to grow through education, infrastructure, and inclusive governance.

Elected Officials of Lamitan City

• As of the 2025 elections, Lamitan City is led by:
  • Mayor: Roderick H. Furigay
  • Vice Mayor: Hegem C. Furigay
  • Representative – Basilan Lone District: Mujiv S. Hataman
  • City Councilors: Kennybel P. Flores, Arleigh W. Eisma, Erwin B. Cervantes, Regine M. Antonio, Nur-in A. Akbar, Ibrahim H. Hassan Jr., Abubakar K. Gunong, Enrico Jay C. Dalipe, Ajid O. Dalawis, Joaquin P. Puri Jr.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Lamitan City Election Results.

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