Region XIII – Caraga

Provinces, Cities, Municipalities of Region XIII

Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Dinagat Islands

People of Caraga

• As of the 2020 Census, Caraga Region had a population of 2,804,788.
• In 2015, the region recorded a population of 2,596,709, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 8% over five years.
• Caraga is home to several indigenous groups including the Manobo, Mamanwa, Higaonon, and Mandaya. These communities have ancestral domains in the forests, mountains, and river systems of northeastern Mindanao, with rich traditions in weaving, music, and oral storytelling.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Surigaonon and Butuanon are also widely used in specific provinces. Indigenous languages such as Mamanwa and Manobo are still spoken in tribal barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Caraga

• Caraga is located in northeastern Mindanao, within Region XIII. Its geographic coordinates center around 9.0°N latitude and 125.5°E longitude.
• The region spans a land area of 21,478.00 square kilometers, comprising five provinces—Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and the Dinagat Islands—and six cities including Butuan, Surigao, and Bislig. The terrain includes coastal plains, mountain ranges, river systems, and mineral-rich uplands. The climate is tropical rainforest (Af), with rainfall distributed year-round.
• The regional center is Butuan City, located in Barangay Doongan, where most regional offices and administrative centers are based.
• Most people reach Caraga via land, air, and sea. Butuan City is served by the Bancasi Airport, while Surigao City has the Surigao Airport. Major seaports include the Port of Surigao and Nasipit Port. Bus terminals connect the region to Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and other parts of Mindanao.

Tourist Attractions of Caraga

• Siargao Island: A world-renowned surfing destination in Surigao del Norte, famous for Cloud 9 waves and pristine lagoons.
• Tinuy-an Falls: Located in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, this multi-tiered waterfall is often called the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines.”
• Enchanted River: A deep blue river in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, known for its mysterious depth and clarity.
• Lake Mainit: The fourth largest lake in the Philippines, shared by Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Norte.
• Kahimunan Festival: Celebrated every July in Butuan City, this festival honors Santo Niño and showcases indigenous dances, crafts, and rituals.

Economy of Caraga

• Caraga’s economy is anchored in:
  • Mining: The region is rich in gold, nickel, chromite, and other minerals, with active mining operations in Surigao and Agusan provinces.
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, coconut, banana, and abaca. The region also supports livestock and aquaculture.
  • Forestry: Timber and non-timber forest products contribute to local livelihoods, especially in upland communities.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, beaches, caves, and cultural sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
• In 2024, Caraga posted a regional GDP of approximately ₱240 billion, with a growth rate of 6.2%. It ranks as one of the fastest-growing regions in Mindanao, driven by mining, construction, and tourism.

Educational Institutions of Caraga

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Caraga State University (CSU): Located in Butuan City, offering programs in engineering, forestry, IT, and environmental science.
  • Surigao State College of Technology: Offers programs in mining engineering, maritime studies, and teacher education.
  • North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU): Located in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, offering programs in agriculture, education, and business.
  • Father Saturnino Urios University: A private Catholic institution in Butuan offering liberal arts, law, and health sciences.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades across the region.

History of Caraga

• Caraga Region was officially created on February 23, 1995 through Republic Act No. 7901, separating the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur from Region X (Northern Mindanao) to form Region XIII. Dinagat Islands was added in 2006 as a separate province.
• The name “Caraga” is derived from the Kalagan people, an early Visayan ethnic group known for their bravery and seafaring skills. Spanish records from the 17th century referred to the area as “Provincia de Caraga.”
• During the Spanish and American periods, the region was a frontier zone for missionary work, logging, and mining. Butuan, once the capital of Agusan del Norte, became the regional center due to its strategic location and historical significance.
• Today, Caraga is known as the “Gateway to Eastern Mindanao,” balancing natural beauty, indigenous heritage, and economic development. It continues to grow through infrastructure, education, and sustainable resource management.

Elected Officials of Caraga Region

• As of the 2025 elections, Caraga Region is led by:
  • Agusan del Norte Governor: Angelica Amante (Nacionalista)
  • Agusan del Sur Governor: Santiago Cane Jr. (PDP)
  • Surigao del Norte Governor: Lyndon Barbers (NP)
  • Surigao del Sur Governor: Alexander Pimentel (NUP)
  • Dinagat Islands Governor: Nilo Demerey Jr. (PFP)
  • Butuan City Mayor: Ronnie Vicente Lagnada (Nacionalista)
• For full election results and updates, visit: Caraga Election Results.

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