Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

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

People of Sipalay City

• As of the 2020 Census, Sipalay City had a population of 72,448.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 70,070, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 3.4% over five years.
• Sipalay was historically inhabited by the Ati and Magahat peoples, indigenous groups who lived in the forested and riverine areas of southern 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 Sipalay City

• Sipalay City is located in the southwestern part of Negros Occidental, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 9.75°N latitude and 122.4°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 379.78 square kilometers, comprising 17 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, limestone hills, river systems, and forested interiors. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Sipalay City Hall is located in Barangay Gil Montilla, which also houses key government offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach Sipalay via land transport. It is approximately 175 kilometers south of Bacolod City, accessible by bus or private vehicle. The nearest airport is Bacolod–Silay Airport, while the Sipalay Seaport serves small vessels and fishing boats. Major ports like Dumaguete Port and Bacolod Port are reachable within 4–5 hours by road.

Tourist Attractions of Sipalay City

• Punta Ballo Beach: A white-sand beach known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
• Perth Paradise Resort: A hilltop resort offering panoramic views of islets and turquoise lagoons.
• Campomanes Bay: A protected marine area popular for scuba diving, kayaking, and eco-tourism.
• Tinagong Dagat: A hidden lagoon surrounded by limestone formations, accessible by boat or trek.
• Pasaway Festival: Celebrated every March, this festival showcases Sipalay’s mining heritage and transformation into a tourism hub. It features street dancing, cultural parades, and environmental exhibits.

Economy of Sipalay City

• Sipalay’s economy is anchored in:
  • Tourism: The city is known as the “Jewel of the Sugar Island,” with eco-resorts, dive sites, and coastal attractions drawing both domestic and international visitors.
  • Agriculture: Key crops include rice, corn, banana, and root vegetables. Coconut and sugarcane are also cultivated.
  • Fisheries: Coastal barangays contribute to seafood production and aquaculture.
  • Mining: Historically a mining town, Sipalay still hosts small-scale mineral extraction and quarrying operations.
• Sipalay is classified as a 4th-class component city. While specific GDP data is limited, it ranks among the top tourism-driven economies in southern Negros Occidental.

Educational Institutions of Sipalay City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Sipalay City College: A local government-run institution offering programs in education, business administration, and public service. It is covered under the Free Tuition Law (RA 10931).
  • Negros State College of Agriculture – Sipalay Extension: Offers programs in agriculture, fisheries, and environmental science.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public high schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs.

History of Sipalay City

• Sipalay’s earliest recorded settlement dates back to the early 1800s, when Bornean datus and indigenous leaders established communities along the Canman-og River, now known as the Sipalay River. The area was ruled by a chieftain named Basilio Debuyan.
• Due to flooding and river erosion, the original village was relocated to a flatland across the river, now known as Sipalay Diotay. This move marked the beginning of organized civic life in the area.
• Sipalay was officially founded as a municipality on December 20, 1948. It was converted into a component city on March 31, 2001 through Republic Act No. 9027, signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. The city charter was later amended by Republic Act No. 9353 to include accreted lands within its jurisdiction.
• Today, Sipalay is celebrated for its transformation from a mining town into a sustainable tourism destination. It continues to grow through eco-tourism, environmental stewardship, and inclusive governance.

Elected Officials of Sipalay City

• As of the 2025 elections, Sipalay City is led by:
  • Mayor: Maria Gina Montilla-Lizares (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Oscar C. Montilla Jr. (NPC)
  • Representative – 6th District of Negros Occidental: Mercedes Alvarez (NPC)
  • City Councilors: Dennis V. Galvan, Angelica G. Alvarez, Leslie C. Alejano, James Anthony M. Garrucho, Ulysses C. Hisona, Janewill L. Selga, Praem L. Mediodia, Rome A. Vargas, Claudio P. Bacatan, Annabelle C. Nobleza, Elir D. Borres, Pearl Ann C. Bloron
• For full election results and updates, visit: Sipalay City Election Results.

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