Marinduque Province, Philippines

People of Marinduque

• As of the 2020 Census, Marinduque had a population of 239,207 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 234,521, reflecting a modest growth rate of approximately 0.4% annually.
• Historically, the island was inhabited by Malay settlers and indigenous groups who engaged in trade with Chinese merchants as early as the Song Dynasty. Archaeological finds such as porcelain shards and burial jars attest to this early contact.
• The dominant language spoken today is Tagalog, although local variants and accents reflect the island’s unique cultural evolution. Indigenous dialects have largely faded, but oral traditions and folk expressions persist in rural communities.
• English is the primary medium of instruction in all schools, as mandated by the national education system, ensuring that students are equipped for both local and global engagement.

Location of Marinduque

• Marinduque is a heart-shaped island province in the MIMAROPA Region, situated between Tayabas Bay and the Sibuyan Sea. It lies south of Quezon Province, east of Mindoro, and north of Romblon.
• The provincial capital is Boac. Most travelers reach Marinduque via:
  • Sea: Ferries from Lucena Port (Quezon Province) arrive at Balanacan Port in Mogpog, Buyabod Port in Santa Cruz, and Cawit Port in Boac. Travel time ranges from 3 to 5 hours depending on the vessel.
  • Air: Marinduque Airport in Gasan offers direct flights from Manila, with travel time under 1 hour.
  • Land: RoRo buses from Metro Manila travel via Lucena and connect to ferry services bound for Marinduque.

Tourist Attractions of Marinduque

• Boac Cathedral: A 1792 Baroque-style church that served as a refuge during pirate raids and revolutions.
• Maniwaya Island: A pristine beach destination known for white sand, clear waters, and coral reefs.
• Bathala Cave: A mystical cave system in Sta. Cruz with chambers named after deities and folklore.
• Paadjao Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall in Mogpog surrounded by lush forest.
• Festivals:
  • Moriones Festival: Held every Holy Week, this iconic celebration features masked penitents reenacting the story of Longinus. It is one of the oldest and most visually striking religious festivals in the Philippines.
  • Gasang-Gasang Festival: Celebrated in Gasan every Easter Monday, showcasing dance rituals and community pride.
  • Kangga Festival: A tribute to the traditional wooden cart used in farming, celebrated in Torrijos.

Economy of Marinduque

• Marinduque’s economy is predominantly services-based, contributing 60.2% of its total output in 2023. Agriculture and industry follow at 25.4% and 14.4%, respectively.
• In 2023, the province posted a GDP of approximately ₱22.3 billion, with a per capita GDP of ₱93,348, up 5.2% from the previous year.
• Key industries include:
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Fishing and coconut farming
  • Handicrafts and local manufacturing

Educational Institutions of Marinduque

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Marinduque State University (MarSU): Formerly Marinduque State College, with campuses in Boac, Gasan, Torrijos, Sta. Cruz, and an extramural center in Mogpog. Offers programs in agriculture, science, technology, education, and trades.
  • St. Mary’s College of Marinduque: A private Catholic institution in Boac offering liberal arts and teacher education.
  • Midwest College: Located in Gasan, known for business and vocational programs.

History of Marinduque

• Marinduque was originally part of Tayabas Province (now Quezon) and was reestablished as an independent province through Act No. 2880 on January 21, 1920.
• Its capital, Boac, was founded in the 16th century and played a central role during Spanish colonization, American rule, and World War II.
• Artifacts found in caves suggest early trade with Chinese merchants during the Song Dynasty, making Marinduque one of the oldest inhabited islands in the region.

Elected Officials of Marinduque

• As of the 2025 elections, the province is led by:
  • Governor: Presbitero J. Velasco Jr.
  • Vice Governor: Adeline M. Angeles
• For municipal-level officials and councilors, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Marinduque Election Results.

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