San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

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

People of San Carlos City

• As of the 2020 Census, San Carlos City had a population of 132,650.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 132,536, showing a relatively stable demographic trend over five years.
• San Carlos was originally inhabited by the Negrito groups, including the Ati, who settled in the forested and coastal areas. The city’s name traces back to Nabingkalan, a settlement named after a chieftain’s daughter. Over time, migrants from Cebu and Iloilo shaped 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 San Carlos City

• San Carlos City is located on the northeastern coast of Negros Occidental, facing the Tañon Strait. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.48°N latitude and 123.42°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 451.50 square kilometers, comprising 18 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, river valleys, and forested hills. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The City Hall is located in Barangay Palampas, along FC Ledesma Avenue, which also houses key government offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach San Carlos via land and sea. It is approximately 85 kilometers east of Bacolod City, accessible by bus or van. The nearest airport is Bacolod–Silay Airport, while the San Carlos Port connects the city to Cebu and other Visayan destinations.

Tourist Attractions of San Carlos City

• San Carlos Eco-Center: A model facility for solid waste management and environmental education.
• People’s Park: A landscaped civic space with fountains, playgrounds, and cultural installations.
• Sipaway Island: A serene beach destination just off the coast, ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.
• San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral: A historic Catholic church and spiritual center of the city.
• Pintaflores Festival: Celebrated every November, this vibrant festival features street dancing, floral body art, and cultural parades that blend the city’s religious and tribal traditions.

Economy of San Carlos City

• San Carlos City’s economy is anchored in:
  • Sugarcane production: The city is part of the sugar-producing belt of Negros Occidental.
  • Renewable energy: Known as the “Renewable Energy Hub of Asia,” San Carlos hosts solar and biomass power plants.
  • Trade and services: Local markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
  • Eco-tourism and manufacturing: The city promotes sustainable tourism and light industries.
• In the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, San Carlos ranked 104th among component cities nationwide, with strong scores in government efficiency and resiliency.

Educational Institutions of San Carlos City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Central Philippines State University – San Carlos Campus: Offers programs in agriculture, education, engineering, and business. Included under the Free Tuition Law.
  • Colegio de Sta. Rita: A Catholic institution founded by the Augustinian Recollect Sisters, offering programs in liberal arts, education, and religious studies.
  • Colegio de Sto. Tomas – Recoletos: The first Recollect school in the Philippines, offering basic and tertiary education.
  • Julio Ledesma National High School: A public secondary school known for its child-friendly and eco-conscious campus.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of San Carlos City

• San Carlos traces its origins to the settlement of Nabingkalan, named after a Negrito chieftain’s daughter. In the mid-1800s, Carlos Apurado and his men from Cebu purchased the land from the indigenous inhabitants and established a Christian village.
• Under Spanish rule, Nabingkalan was part of Calatrava and was later renamed San Carlos in honor of St. Charles Borromeo. A mission was established in 1895, and the settlement grew into a pueblo with religious and civic institutions.
• San Carlos was officially converted into a component city on July 1, 1960 through Republic Act No. 2643, signed into law by President Carlos P. Garcia. The city was then the largest municipality in the country by land area.
• Today, San Carlos is known for its environmental initiatives, cultural heritage, and economic resilience. It continues to grow through inclusive governance, renewable energy investments, and grassroots development.

Elected Officials of San Carlos City

• As of the 2025 elections, San Carlos City is led by:
  • Mayor: Renato Y. Gustilo (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Christopher Paul S. Carmona (NPC)
  • Representative – 1st District of Negros Occidental: Jules Ledesma (NPC)
  • City Councilors: Benito Y. Gustilo Jr., Mark E. Cui, Armando L. Laguda Jr., Victoriana C. Cabili, Carlos Manuel L. Valmayor, Wilmer L. Yap, Jose Carlos L. Villarante, and others as listed on the official city website.
• For full election results and updates, visit: San Carlos City Election Results.

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