Quezon Province, Philippines

People of Quezon Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Quezon Province had a population of 1,950,459 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,856,582, reflecting a modest growth rate of approximately 1% annually.
• Quezon is home to indigenous groups such as the Dumagat-Remontado, who reside in the Sierra Madre mountain range and maintain traditional practices rooted in forest stewardship and oral heritage.
• The dominant language spoken is Tagalog, with regional variations and accents. In some upland areas, the Dumagat language is still used. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Quezon Province

• Quezon is a coastal province in the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A), located southeast of Metro Manila. It is bordered by Aurora to the north, Bulacan and Rizal to the northwest, Laguna to the west, Batangas to the southwest, and Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur to the east.
• The provincial capital is Lucena City, which serves as the administrative and commercial center.
• Travel access:
  • Land: Quezon is accessible via the Maharlika Highway (Pan-Philippine Highway). Buses from Metro Manila regularly serve Lucena and other towns.
  • Sea: The Port of Lucena connects Quezon to Marinduque and other island provinces. Travel time from Manila to Lucena by bus is approximately 4–5 hours.
  • Air: The nearest major airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), about 5 hours away by land. A domestic airport in Tayabas is under development.

Tourist Attractions of Quezon Province

• Kamay ni Hesus Shrine (Lucban): A pilgrimage site featuring a 50-foot statue of Christ and a healing church.
• Mt. Banahaw: A mystical mountain revered by spiritual groups and hikers, straddling Quezon and Laguna.
• Villa Escudero (Tiaong): A heritage plantation resort offering cultural shows, museum tours, and bamboo rafting.
• Alibijaban Island (San Andres): A pristine island known for mangrove forests and white-sand beaches.
• Festivals:
  • Pahiyas Festival (Lucban): Held every May 15 in honor of San Isidro Labrador, showcasing vibrant displays of agricultural bounty on homes.
  • Niyogyugan Festival: A province-wide celebration of coconut farming, held every August in Lucena City.
  • Araw ng Quezon: Celebrated every August 19 to honor President Manuel L. Quezon’s birth anniversary.

Economy of Quezon Province

• Quezon’s economy is driven by agriculture, energy, tourism, and services. It is one of the top coconut-producing provinces in the Philippines.
• Key industries include:
  • Coconut and copra production
  • Power generation: Quezon hosts major power plants in Mauban and Pagbilao.
  • Fishing and aquaculture
  • Tourism and eco-adventure services
• Quezon is part of the CALABARZON region, which posted a GDP of over ₱3.2 trillion in 2024. Quezon contributes significantly through agriculture and energy.

Educational Institutions of Quezon Province

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Southern Luzon State University (SLSU): A state university with campuses in Lucban, Tiaong, and other towns, offering programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and business.
  • Quezon Science High School: A specialized public high school for science and technology education.
  • Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (Lucena): A private institution offering law, health sciences, and liberal arts.
  • Dalubhasaan ng Lungsod ng Lucena: A city-run college offering affordable education in various disciplines.

History of Quezon Province

• Quezon was originally known as Tayabas Province during the Spanish colonial period. It was renamed in honor of President Manuel L. Quezon through Republic Act No. 14 on September 7, 1946.
• The province played a key role in the Philippine Revolution and later in World War II resistance efforts.
• Lucena became the capital in 1901 and was declared a chartered city in 1961.
• Quezon now comprises 39 municipalities and 2 cities, with Lucena as the capital and Tayabas as a component city.

Elected Officials of Quezon Province

• As of the 2025 elections, Quezon Province is led by:
  • Governor: Angelina “Helen” Tan
  • Vice Governor: Anacleto “Third” Alcala III
• For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Quezon Election Results.

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