Tagum City, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Tagum City, Davao del Norte is within Region XI – Davao, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Tagum City

• As of the 2020 Census, Tagum City had a population of 296,202.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 259,444, reflecting a growth rate of over 14% in five years.
• Tagum was originally inhabited by the Mandaya and Kalagan peoples, who lived along the rivers and coastal areas of southeastern Mindanao. These indigenous groups practiced fishing, weaving, and animist rituals long before Visayan settlers arrived.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Mandaya and Kalagan languages are still used in tribal communities. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Tagum City

• Tagum City is located in southeastern Mindanao, within the province of Davao del Norte and Region XI (Davao Region). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 7.4478°N latitude and 125.8076°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 195.80 square kilometers, bordered by Asuncion to the north, Carmen to the west, and the Davao River to the south. Its terrain includes flatlands, river systems, and agricultural plains. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• Tagum is the capital of Davao del Norte. The City Hall is located in Barangay Apokon, which also houses the Provincial Capitol and other regional government offices.
• Most people reach Tagum via land transport. It is accessible by bus or van from Davao City (approximately 1.5 hours). The nearest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. The Port of Davao serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Tagum by bus averaging 2 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Tagum City

• Tagum City Historical and Cultural Center: A modern civic complex featuring a museum, library, and performance hall.
• Tagum City River Cruise: A guided boat tour along the Libuganon River, showcasing mangroves and birdlife.
• Energy Park: A landscaped recreational area with biking trails, gardens, and open-air venues.
• Banana Festival: Celebrated every March, this event honors Tagum’s role in the banana industry through street dancing, agri-trade exhibits, and culinary showcases.
• Musikahan Festival: Held every February, this international music festival features orchestras, choirs, and solo performances from across the Philippines and abroad.

Economy of Tagum City

• Tagum’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The city is a major producer of banana, rice, coconut, and cacao.
  • Trade and commerce: Tagum serves as a regional hub for retail, finance, and logistics.
  • Construction and real estate: Rapid urbanization has led to growth in housing, malls, and infrastructure.
  • Education and services: Schools, hospitals, and government offices contribute to employment and development.
• Tagum is classified as a 1st-class component city. In 2024, its estimated GDP exceeded ₱45 billion, ranking it among the top-performing cities in Mindanao.

Educational Institutions of Tagum City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Mindanao – Tagum College: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, criminology, and liberal arts.
  • St. Mary’s College of Tagum: A Catholic institution offering nursing, education, and health sciences.
  • Tagum Doctors College: Specializes in allied health programs including medical technology and pharmacy.
  • Tagum City College of Agriculture and Sciences: A local government-funded institution offering programs in agriculture, education, and IT.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Tagum City

• Tagum was originally a swampy area inhabited by the Mandaya and Kalagan peoples. The name “Tagum” is believed to have come from the word “tagumpay,” meaning victory, or from “tagom,” meaning dark water, referencing the river’s color.
• During the American period, Tagum became a settlement area for migrants from the Visayas and Luzon. It was officially organized as a municipality in 1941 and grew rapidly due to agricultural development, especially in banana and coconut production.
• Tagum was converted into a component city on March 7, 1998 through Republic Act No. 8472. It was designated the capital of Davao del Norte, replacing Panabo, and became a center for governance, commerce, and education.
• Today, Tagum is known as the “Palm City of the Philippines” and the “Music Capital of the South,” balancing cultural vibrancy, economic strength, and civic innovation. It continues to lead in regional development and inter-city cooperation.

Elected Officials of Tagum City

• As of the 2025 elections, Tagum City is led by:
  • Mayor: Rey Uy (Lakas)
  • Vice Mayor: Eva Lorraine Estabillo (PDR)
  • Representative – 1st District of Davao del Norte: De Carlo Uy (Lakas)
  • City Councilors: Allan Rellon, Ester Angoy, Kap Allan Pereyras, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Tagum City Election Results.

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