Mati City, Davao Oriental, Philippines

Mati City, Davao Oriental is within Region XI – Davao, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Mati City

• As of the 2020 Census, Mati City had a population of 147,547.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 133,500, reflecting a growth rate of over 10.5% in five years.
• Mati is historically home to the Mandaya people, an indigenous group known for their intricate weaving, oral epics, and forest-based traditions. The Kagan and Kalagan communities also have ancestral ties to the coastal and riverine areas of the city.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Mandaya and Kalagan languages are still used in tribal barangays. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Mati City

• Mati City is located in southeastern Mindanao, within the province of Davao Oriental and Region XI (Davao Region). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 6.9614°N latitude and 126.2147°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 588.63 square kilometers, comprising 26 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, rolling hills, and the rugged interior of Mount Hamiguitan. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with rainfall distributed year-round and average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C.
• Mati serves as the capital of Davao Oriental. The City Hall is located in Barangay Central, while the Provincial Capitol is situated in Barangay Dahican, near the coastline.
• Most people reach Mati via land transport. It is accessible by bus or van from Davao City (approximately 4–5 hours). The nearest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. The Port of Davao serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Mati by bus averaging 5 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Mati City

• Dahican Beach: A white-sand beach known for surfing, skimboarding, and sea turtle conservation.
• Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and ASEAN Heritage Park, home to endangered species and bonsai forests.
• Pujada Bay: A protected marine area offering diving, snorkeling, and island-hopping experiences.
• Sleeping Dinosaur Viewpoint: A scenic overlook in Barangay Badas offering panoramic views of a land formation resembling a sleeping dinosaur.
• Mati City Founding Anniversary: Celebrated every June 19, this festival features street dancing, Mandaya cultural showcases, and civic parades.

Economy of Mati City

• Mati’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include coconut, banana, rice, corn, and abaca.
  • Fishing and aquaculture: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and trade.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, beaches, and cultural sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Small-scale manufacturing: Copra processing, handicrafts, and food products support local livelihoods.
• Mati is classified as a 5th-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it contributes significantly to Davao Oriental’s economy, especially in agriculture and eco-tourism.

Educational Institutions of Mati City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU): A state university offering programs in agriculture, education, engineering, and IT.
  • Mindanao Polytechnic College: Offers maritime, engineering, and business programs.
  • St. Mary’s College of Mati: A private Catholic institution offering liberal arts, teacher education, and health sciences.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational 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 Mati City

• Mati traces its origins to the Mandaya settlement of Maa-ti, meaning “that which dries up quickly,” referring to a local creek. Spanish missionaries arrived in the mid-19th century, establishing the town as a mission center in 1861.
• The municipality of Mati was formally established on October 29, 1903 under American rule. It became the capital of Davao Oriental when the province was created through Republic Act No. 4867 on May 8, 1967.
• Mati was converted into a component city on June 16, 2007 through Republic Act No. 9408. However, its cityhood was briefly revoked in 2008 and 2010 due to legal challenges. On February 15, 2011, the Supreme Court affirmed its cityhood permanently.
• Today, Mati is known as the “City of Beautiful Bays” and the “Coconut Capital of the Philippines,” balancing natural beauty, indigenous heritage, and sustainable development. It continues to grow through eco-tourism, education, and agricultural innovation.

Elected Officials of Mati City

• As of the 2025 elections, Mati City is led by:
  • Mayor: Joel Mayo Zosa Almario
  • Vice Mayor: Glenda R. Rabat-Gayta
  • Representative – 2nd District of Davao Oriental: Joel Mayo Almario
  • City Councilors: Ramil Rabat, Dennis Rabat, Arvin Odoy, Jessa Mae Rabat, Michael Dayanghirang, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Mati City Election Results.

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