Lanao del Norte Province, Philippines

People of Lanao del Norte

• As of the 2020 Census, Lanao del Norte had a population of 722,902.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 676,395, reflecting steady growth over five years.
• Lanao del Norte is historically home to the Maranao people, whose name means “people of the lake,” referring to their ancestral ties to Lake Lanao. The province also has Subanen communities in upland areas and a significant Visayan settler population.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, especially in coastal and lowland municipalities, while Maranao is widely spoken in interior towns. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Lanao del Norte

• Lanao del Norte is located in Northern Mindanao (Region X), bordered by Iligan Bay to the north and Lanao del Sur to the south. Its geographic coordinates center around 8.0°N latitude and 124.2°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 3,354.16 square kilometers, excluding Iligan City. Its topography includes coastal plains, river valleys, and mountainous interiors. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Lanao del Norte is Tubod, and the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Sagadan, which houses the main government offices and civic institutions.
• Most people reach Lanao del Norte via land and sea. From Cagayan de Oro, travelers can take buses to Iligan and onward to Tubod. The Port of Iligan and Port of Ozamiz serve inter-island vessels. The nearest airport is Laguindingan Airport, approximately 2–3 hours away by bus.

Tourist Attractions of Lanao del Norte

• Timoga Springs: A series of natural spring pools located in Iligan City, popular for swimming and recreation.
• Maria Cristina Falls: A majestic waterfall on the Agus River, also a source of hydroelectric power.
• Lake Nunungan: A highland lake surrounded by pine forests, ideal for camping and eco-tourism.
• Pagayawan Ridge: Offers panoramic views of the province and nearby towns.
• Kalimudan Festival: Celebrated every July in Tubod, this cultural event showcases the unity of Muslim, Christian, and Lumad communities through dance, music, and rituals.

Economy of Lanao del Norte

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, coconut, and banana.
  • Fisheries: Coastal towns engage in aquaculture and marine fishing.
  • Energy: Hydroelectric plants along the Agus River contribute to Mindanao’s power grid.
  • Trade and services: Iligan and Tubod serve as commercial hubs for the province.
• Lanao del Norte contributes significantly to Northern Mindanao’s regional GDP, which exceeded ₱600 billion in 2024. The province ranks mid-tier in terms of economic output, with strong potential in agro-industrial development.

Educational Institutions of Lanao del Norte

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT): A premier institution offering engineering, science, and liberal arts programs.
  • Lanao del Norte National Comprehensive High School: A leading secondary school in Tubod.
  • College of Arts and Sciences of Lanao del Norte: Offers programs in education, business, and IT.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, agriculture, and other trades.

History of Lanao del Norte

• Lanao del Norte was originally part of the undivided Lanao Province. The name “Lanao” comes from the Maranao word “Ranao,” meaning lake, referencing Lake Lanao’s cultural and geographic significance.
• On May 22, 1959, Lanao Province was divided into Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur through Republic Act No. 2228. The division aimed to improve governance and address the distinct cultural and geographic needs of each region.
• Tubod was designated the capital of Lanao del Norte, while Iligan City remained administratively independent. The province became a focal point for interfaith dialogue and development, balancing Muslim, Christian, and Lumad interests.
• Today, Lanao del Norte is known as the “Land of Beauty and Bounty,” with a diverse population, rich cultural heritage, and growing economic potential. It continues to play a vital role in regional peacebuilding and sustainable development.

Elected Officials of Lanao del Norte

• As of the 2025 elections, Lanao del Norte Province is led by:
  • Governor: Khalid Dimaporo (Lakas)
  • Vice Governor: Allan Lim (Lakas)
  • Representative – 1st District: Angging Dimaporo (PFP)
  • Representative – 2nd District: Aminah Dimaporo (Lakas)
  • Board Members – 1st District: Grecille Matalines, Sidick Dibaratun, Eleuterio Obial Jr.
  • Board Members – 2nd District: Djam Macarambon, Bob Andot, others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Lanao del Norte Election Results.

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