Masbate Province, Philippines

People of Masbate

• As of the 2020 Census, Masbate Province had a population of 908,920.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 892,393, reflecting a modest growth rate over five years.
• Masbate is home to the Masbateño people, who are part of the wider Visayan ethnolinguistic group. Historically, the province also hosted indigenous Negrito communities, particularly in its forested interiors and coastal fringes.
• The major dialect spoken is Masbateño (also called Minasbate), a member of the Central Bisayan language family. While Masbateño is dominant in daily life, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness for students across the province.

Location of Masbate

• Masbate is located in the Bicol Region (Region V), at the heart of the Philippine archipelago. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 12.3717°N latitude and 123.6249°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 4,138.56 square kilometers, composed of three major islands: Masbate, Ticao, and Burias. Its topography ranges from rolling hills and coastal plains to rugged mountains, with elevations reaching up to 2,293 meters.
• The capital of Masbate Province is Masbate City, and the Provincial Capitol is located along J.T. Fernandez Avenue in Barangay Centro.
• Most people reach Masbate via sea and air. The Masbate Airport offers flights to and from Manila, while the Port of Masbate connects the province to Luzon and Visayas. Travelers from Manila typically take a bus to Pio Duran or Pilar in Sorsogon, followed by a ferry to Masbate City.

Tourist Attractions of Masbate

• Catandayagan Falls: A stunning waterfall that plunges directly into the sea, accessible by boat from Masbate City.
• Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary: A protected area with a sandbar and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and eco-tours.
• Tinalisayan Island: A pristine island in Burias with turquoise waters and white sand beaches.
• Bat-ongan Cave: A limestone cave with chambers and underground pools, located in Mandaon.
• Rodeo Masbateño Festival: Held every April, this nationally recognized event celebrates Masbate’s cattle industry with rodeo competitions, parades, and cultural showcases. Masbate is officially the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines.

Economy of Masbate

• Masbate’s economy grew by 3.5% in 2023, with a Gross Provincial Domestic Product (GPDP) of approximately ₱82.99 billion at constant 2018 prices.
• Key industries include:
  • Agriculture: Rice, corn, coconut, and root crops are widely cultivated.
  • Cattle raising: Masbate ranks second only to Bukidnon in livestock production, supplying beef to Metro Manila and other provinces.
  • Fishing: Coastal communities rely on rich marine resources for commercial and subsistence fishing.
  • Mining: Gold and other minerals are extracted in towns like Aroroy and Mobo.
  • Tourism: Eco-tourism and cultural festivals are emerging economic drivers.

Educational Institutions of Masbate

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT): Located in Masbate City, this state college offers programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and business.
  • Masbate College: A private institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, education, and health sciences.
  • Southern Bicol College: Known for its teacher education and criminology programs.
  • Osmeña Colleges: Offers business, IT, and vocational courses.
  • Municipal Colleges: Located in Balud and Cataingan, providing accessible education to rural communities.

History of Masbate

• Masbate’s history dates back to pre-colonial times, with archaeological evidence of early human settlement and maritime trade. The islands of Masbate, Ticao, and Burias were explored by Spanish expeditions in the late 16th century, notably by Captain Luis Enriquez de Guzman in 1569.
• During the Spanish era, Masbate was under the jurisdiction of the Province of Ibalon (now Albay). It became a center for shipbuilding and cattle trading, with Mobo and Palanog serving as early government seats.
• Masbate was officially established as a province on March 18, 1901, under the American colonial government. This date is commemorated annually as the Masbate Founding Anniversary, declared a special non-working holiday through presidential proclamations.
• Today, Masbate is known for its rich cultural heritage, resilient communities, and growing reputation as an eco-tourism and livestock hub. Its strategic location between Luzon and Visayas makes it a vital link in the Philippine archipelago.

Elected Officials of Masbate

• As of the 2025 elections, Masbate Province is led by:
  • Governor: Antonio T. Kho
  • Vice Governor: Arao R. Tuplano
  • Representatives:
    • 1st District: Richard Kho
    • 2nd District: Elisa T. Kho
    • 3rd District: Wilton T. Kho
  • Provincial Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Masbate Election Results.

Featured News of the Philippines