San Pablo City, Laguna, Philippines

San Pablo City, Laguna is within Region 4-A CALABARZON, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of San Pablo City

As of the 2020 Census, San Pablo City had a population of 285,348 residents.
In 2015, the city recorded a population of 266,248, reflecting a steady growth rate driven by urban expansion and migration from neighboring towns.
Historically, San Pablo was part of the village of Sampalok, inhabited by Tagalog-speaking communities and upland settlers. While no distinct indigenous group dominates today, the city shares cultural ties with the broader Tagalog ethnolinguistic heritage of Southern Luzon.
The major dialect spoken is Tagalog, with regional accents and expressions. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of San Pablo City

San Pablo is a landlocked component city in the province of Laguna, located in the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A). It lies approximately 87 kilometers southeast of Metro Manila and is bordered by the municipalities of Alaminos, Rizal, Nagcarlan, and Calauan.
Travel access:
- Land: San Pablo is accessible via Maharlika Highway and the San Pablo–Calauan Road. Buses and jeepneys connect the city to Manila, Batangas, and other parts of Laguna.
- Sea: The nearest major port is the Batangas International Port, about 1.5–2 hours away by land.
- Air: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is approximately 2.5 hours away by car, depending on traffic conditions.

Tourist Attractions of San Pablo City

Seven Lakes of San Pablo: The city is famously known as the “City of Seven Lakes,” which includes Lakes Sampaloc, Palakpakin, Bunot, Pandin, Yambo, Muhikap, and Calibato—each offering scenic views, eco-tourism, and cultural significance.
San Pablo Cathedral: Also known as the Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Paul the First Hermit, this historic church is the seat of the Diocese of San Pablo and showcases Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort: A heritage estate offering cultural shows, museum tours, and bamboo rafting beneath a waterfall restaurant.
Silva Hot Spring Resort and Hidden Valley Springs: Natural wellness destinations nestled in lush forest settings.
Festivals:
- Coco Festival: Celebrated every January, this week-long event honors the city’s coconut industry with street dancing, floats, and culinary showcases.
- Cityhood Anniversary: Observed every May 7, commemorating the city’s charter under Commonwealth Act No. 520.

Economy of San Pablo City

San Pablo contributes to Laguna’s provincial GDP of over ₱1.08 trillion in 2024, which ranks as the largest among all Philippine provinces.
Key industries include:
- Agriculture: Coconut farming, rice, and fruit production remain vital to the local economy.
- Tourism: The city’s lakes, resorts, and heritage sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
- Retail and services: Commercial centers, local markets, and hospitality businesses support the growing population.

Educational Institutions of San Pablo City

Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
- Laguna State Polytechnic University – San Pablo Campus: A public university offering programs in engineering, education, agriculture, and business.
- San Pablo Colleges: A private institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in health sciences, liberal arts, and criminology.
- Canossa College – San Pablo: A Catholic school providing basic and tertiary education with a focus on values formation.
- STI College – San Pablo: Offers tech-based programs in IT, business, and hospitality.
- Liceo de San Pablo: A private college offering programs in education, commerce, and computer studies.

History of San Pablo City

San Pablo traces its origins to the village of Sampalok, which was converted into a parish in 1586 and later into a municipality in 1647, renamed “San Pablo de los Montes” in honor of its patron saint, Paul the First Hermit.
In 1756, the town was placed under the jurisdiction of Batangas Province but was returned to Laguna in 1883. The city played a role in the Philippine Revolution and later became a center for education and agriculture in Southern Luzon.
San Pablo was officially converted into a chartered city on May 7, 1940 through Commonwealth Act No. 520. Dr. Potenciano Malvar was appointed as the first city mayor, and Cipriano B. Colago became the first elected mayor in 1955.
Today, San Pablo stands as a cultural and ecological gem in Laguna, known for its lakes, heritage architecture, and community spirit. Its blend of natural beauty and historical depth continues to attract visitors and scholars alike.

Elected Officials of San Pablo City

As of the 2025 elections, San Pablo City is led by:
- Mayor: Arcadio B. Gapangada Jr.
- Vice Mayor: Justin G. Colago
- Representative (3rd District of Laguna): Loreto S. Amante
- City Councilors: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
For full election results and updates, visit: San Pablo Election Results.

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.

List of Cities in the Philippines