Sagay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Sagay City, Negros Occidental is within Region XVI – Negros Islands, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Sagay City

• As of the 2020 Census, Sagay City had a population of 148,894.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 140,740, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 5.8% over five years.
• Sagay is historically home to the Ati and Bukidnon peoples, indigenous groups who once inhabited the forested and coastal areas of northern Negros. Over time, Ilonggo-speaking settlers became the dominant population, shaping the city’s cultural and linguistic identity.
• The major dialect spoken is Ilonggo (Hiligaynon), with Cebuano and Tagalog also present. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Sagay City

• Sagay City is located in the northern part of Negros Occidental, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.9°N latitude and 123.42°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 330.34 square kilometers, comprising 25 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, mangrove forests, and rolling hills. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Sagay City Hall is located in Barangay Rizal, which also houses key government offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach Sagay via land transport. It is approximately 85 kilometers north of Bacolod City, accessible by bus or van. The nearest airport is Bacolod–Silay Airport, while the closest major seaport is Sagay Port, which serves inter-island cargo and passenger vessels to Cebu and other Visayan destinations.

Tourist Attractions of Sagay City

• Sagay Marine Reserve: A protected marine sanctuary covering 32,000 hectares, including Carbin Reef and Panal Reef, ideal for snorkeling and eco-tourism.
• Carbin Reef: A white-sand island surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
• Margaha Beach: A black-sand beach located near Old Sagay, popular for family outings and sunset views.
• Sagay City Public Plaza: A landscaped civic space with heritage markers and cultural installations.
• Sinigayan Festival: Celebrated every March, this vibrant festival showcases Sagay’s marine heritage, featuring street dancing, eco-parades, and cultural exhibits.

Economy of Sagay City

• Sagay’s economy is anchored in:
  • Fisheries and aquaculture: The city is a major producer of fresh seafood, dried fish, and marine products.
  • Agriculture: Key crops include sugarcane, rice, corn, and root vegetables. Livestock and poultry farming are also practiced.
  • Eco-tourism: Marine reserves, reefs, and cultural festivals attract both domestic and international visitors.
  • Trade and services: Local markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
• Sagay is classified as a 2nd-class component city. While specific GDP data is limited, it plays a vital role in Negros Occidental’s northern corridor and contributes significantly to the province’s agricultural and maritime economy.

Educational Institutions of Sagay City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • State University of Northern Negros (SUNN): Formerly Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology, SUNN offers programs in fisheries, education, nursing, engineering, agriculture, and business. Located in Barangay Rizal, it is the city’s flagship public university.
  • USAT College Sagay City: A private institution offering bachelor’s degrees, senior high school TVL tracks, and TESDA-accredited vocational programs.
  • Colegio del Sagrado Corazon de Jesus: A Catholic institution offering programs in education, liberal arts, and religious studies.
  • Mount Carmel College: Offers CHED-accredited programs in business, IT, and teacher education.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Sagay City

• Sagay was originally known as Arguelles, founded in 1860 by Teniente Francisco Rodriguez and Basilio Cordova at the mouth of the Bulanon River. The town was later moved to what is now Old Sagay, then called Pueblo de Magallanes, in honor of Ferdinand Magellan.
• In 1906, the town was officially renamed Sagay, derived from the semi-spherical shell called “sigay,” which was abundant in the area. After World War II, the seat of government was transferred to Dalusan due to its accessibility to land transportation.
• Sagay was converted into a component city on June 11, 1996 through Republic Act No. 8192. The law was enacted by Congress and signed by President Fidel V. Ramos, officially establishing Sagay as a city with administrative autonomy.
• Today, Sagay is known as the “Garden City of the North,” celebrated for its marine conservation efforts, cultural pride, and grassroots development. It continues to grow through inclusive governance, eco-tourism, and sustainable fisheries.

Elected Officials of Sagay City

• As of the 2025 elections, Sagay City is led by:
  • Mayor: Leo Rafael M. Cueva (NUP)
  • Vice Mayor: Narciso L. Javelosa Jr. (NUP)
  • Representative – 2nd District of Negros Occidental: Alfredo D. Marañon III (NUP)
  • City Councilors: Exequiel J. Marañon, Perfecto B. Marañon, Christopher U. Javelosa, Lura A. Javelosa, Benson P. Fernandez, Roldan A. Gamao, Mel Alexis T. Serondo, Concepcion O. Javellana, Eddie R. Lobaton Jr.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Sagay City Election Results.

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