Valencia City, Bukidnon, Philippines

Valencia City, Bukidnon is within Region X – Northern Mindanao, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Valencia City

• As of the 2020 Census, Valencia City had a population of 216,546.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 192,993, reflecting significant growth over five years.
• Valencia is historically home to the Bukidnon and Manobo indigenous groups, whose ancestral domains span the highlands and river valleys of central Mindanao. Their traditions include oral epics, forest stewardship, and community rituals rooted in harmony with nature.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Binukid (the native language of the Bukidnon people) is still used in tribal communities. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Valencia City

• Valencia City is located in the central part of Bukidnon Province in Northern Mindanao (Region X). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 7.9028°N latitude and 125.0898°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 587.29 square kilometers, making it the sixth largest in Bukidnon. Its terrain includes fertile plains, rolling hills, and river systems, with a tropical climate marked by moderate rainfall and cool temperatures year-round.
• The Valencia City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, along Catarata Street, which also houses the city’s civic and administrative offices.
• Most people reach Valencia via land transport. It is accessible by bus from Cagayan de Oro (approximately 3–4 hours) and Davao City (around 5–6 hours). The nearest airport is Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental. Being landlocked, Valencia has no direct access to seaports, but it connects to the Port of Cagayan de Oro and the Port of Davao via highway networks.

Tourist Attractions of Valencia City

• Lake Apo: A crater lake located in Barangay Guinoyoran, known for its serene waters and scenic mountain backdrop.
• RR Family Spring Resort: A popular water park offering pools, slides, and picnic areas for families and tourists.
• Kasanayan Spring Resort: A natural spring resort nestled in the forested outskirts of the city.
• Valencia City Plaza: A landscaped civic space featuring fountains, monuments, and cultural installations.
• Pulangui River: A vital waterway for agriculture and recreation, with river cruises and fishing spots.
• Pulangui Festival: Celebrated every January, this annual event honors the river’s cultural and economic significance through street dancing, agro-trade fairs, and tribal rituals.

Economy of Valencia City

• Valencia’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The city is a major producer of rice, corn, sugarcane, and vegetables.
  • Agro-processing: Facilities process coffee, dairy, and fruit products for regional distribution.
  • Retail and commerce: Malls, markets, and cooperatives support daily trade and services.
  • Transport and logistics: Valencia serves as a transit hub for Bukidnon’s southern municipalities.
• In the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index, Valencia ranked 71st in Economic Dynamism and 68th overall among component cities nationwide.

Educational Institutions of Valencia City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Mountain View College: A private Seventh-day Adventist institution offering programs in education, agriculture, theology, and health sciences.
  • Valencia Colleges (Bukidnon), Inc.: A non-sectarian institution offering preschool to graduate school programs, including business, IT, and education.
  • San Agustin Institute of Technology: Offers technical and vocational courses, as well as degree programs in engineering and business.
  • Philippine College Foundation: A private college offering programs in criminology, education, and hospitality management.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Valencia City

• Valencia’s early history traces back to the Bukidnon natives who settled along the banks of the Pulangi River. The area was originally part of Malaybalay and consisted of thirteen barangays. The settlement was led by Datu Sebastian Manangkila and other tribal leaders who established Panglibatuhan, a sitio thickly forested with native trees.
• Valencia was officially founded as a municipality on October 11, 1959. It rapidly grew due to its fertile lands and strategic location, attracting migrants from Visayas and Luzon. The influx of settlers transformed Valencia into a bustling agricultural and commercial center.
• On December 5, 2000, Republic Act No. 8985 was signed into law, converting the municipality into a component city. Valencia was formally inaugurated as a city on January 12, 2001, becoming Bukidnon’s most populous urban center.
• Today, Valencia is known as the “City of Golden Harvest,” reflecting its agricultural abundance and dynamic economy. It continues to grow as a hub for education, commerce, and cultural preservation in Northern Mindanao.

Elected Officials of Valencia City

• As of the 2025 elections, Valencia City is led by:
  • Mayor: Amie G. Galario
  • Vice Mayor: Grezil “Cecil” G. Galario-Fernandez
  • Representative (4th District of Bukidnon): Laarni L. Roque
  • City Councilors: Karen M. Gamolo, Annalou Q. Zambrano, Alfredo P. Laviña, Jerusha Cadigal-Recla, Cecile Mabao-Caballero, Mark Anthonee T. Bernal, Mauricio S. Sistoso Jr., Rolando D. Centillas Jr., Rogelio P. Hera, Ryan Jay J. Rosa
• For full election results and updates, visit: Valencia City Election Results.

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