Santa Rosa City, Laguna, Philippines

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

People of Santa Rosa City

• As of the 2020 Census, Santa Rosa City had a population of 414,812 residents.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 353,767, reflecting a strong growth rate driven by industrial expansion, real estate development, and migration from Metro Manila.
• Santa Rosa was historically part of Biñan and Cabuyao, inhabited by Tagalog-speaking communities. 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 nuances. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Santa Rosa City

• Santa Rosa is a landlocked component city in the province of Laguna, located in the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A). It lies approximately 38 kilometers south of Metro Manila and is bordered by Biñan, Cabuyao, Silang (Cavite), and Laguna de Bay.
• Travel access:
  • Land: Santa Rosa is accessible via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Cavite–Laguna Expressway (CALAX), and Santa Rosa–Tagaytay Road. Public transportation includes buses, jeepneys, UV Express vans, and PNR trains connecting the city to Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
  • Sea: The nearest major port is the Manila North Harbor, approximately 1.5 hours away by land.
  • Air: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is about 1 hour away by car, depending on traffic conditions.

Tourist Attractions of Santa Rosa City

• Enchanted Kingdom: The Philippines’ premier theme park offering rides, shows, and family entertainment.
• Santa Rosa de Lima Parish Church: A historic church dating back to the Spanish colonial period, located in the city center.
• Cuartel de Santo Domingo: A Spanish-era military structure now used by the Philippine National Police.
• Nuvali Eco-City: A mixed-use development with lakeside parks, biking trails, and retail centers.
• Festivals:
  • Santa Rosa Cityhood Anniversary: Celebrated every July 10, commemorating the city’s conversion in 2004.
  • Santa Rosa de Lima Feast Day: Held every August 30, honoring the city’s patron saint with religious processions and cultural events.

Economy of Santa Rosa City

• Santa Rosa is one of the most economically vibrant cities in Southern Luzon, often referred to as the “Lion City of the South.”
• Key industries include:
  • Manufacturing: Home to major industrial parks such as Laguna Technopark and Greenfield Automotive Park, hosting companies like Toyota, Nissan, and Coca-Cola.
  • Real Estate and Commerce: Rapid urbanization has led to the rise of residential subdivisions, malls, and mixed-use developments.
  • Technology and Services: Santa Rosa is emerging as an ICT and BPO hub, with business parks and tech campuses.
• Santa Rosa contributes significantly to Laguna’s provincial GDP of over ₱1.08 trillion in 2024, ranking among the top economic performers in CALABARZON.

Educational Institutions of Santa Rosa City

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Santa Rosa Campus: Offers affordable programs in engineering, education, and business.
  • Adventist University of the Philippines: A private Christian university offering health sciences, theology, and liberal arts.
  • Malayan Colleges Laguna – Mapúa School of Technology: Located nearby, offering engineering, architecture, and multimedia programs.
  • National University – Santa Rosa Campus: Offers programs in IT, business, and allied health sciences.
  • Toyota Motor Philippines School of Technology: A technical training school focused on automotive and industrial skills.

History of Santa Rosa City

• Santa Rosa was originally known as Barrio Bukol, part of Biñan and Cabuyao during the Spanish colonial period. It was politically emancipated and established as an independent municipality on January 18, 1792, named after Saint Rose of Lima.
• During the Philippine Revolution, Santa Rosa played a role in the proclamation of independence from Spain, with local revolutionaries signing the Act of Independence on June 12, 1898. The town also contributed forces during the Filipino-American War.
• Santa Rosa was converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 9264, signed on March 10, 2004 and ratified via plebiscite on July 10, 2004. The city charter established Santa Rosa as a dynamic urban center with expanded governance and economic autonomy.
• Today, Santa Rosa is a first-class city known for its industrial strength, cultural heritage, and strategic location. It continues to grow as a residential, commercial, and technological hub in Southern Luzon.

Elected Officials of Santa Rosa City

• As of the 2025 elections, Santa Rosa City is led by:
  • Mayor: Arlene B. Arcillas
  • Vice Mayor: Arnold B. Arcillas
  • Representative (Lone District of Santa Rosa): Roy M. Gonzales
  • City Councilors: Ma. Janine Cydner R. Aala, Ma. Theresa C. Aala, Luisito B. Algabre, Manuel G. Alipon, Eusebio C. Batitis Jr., and others
• For full election results and updates, visit: Santa Rosa Election Results.

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