— The Davao Region marks a significant milestone with the creation of its newest province, Davao Occidental, under Republic Act No. 10360. The law was signed by former President Benigno Aquino III on January 14 and is set to take effect 15 days after its publication in national newspapers on Monday, January 21.
The establishment of Davao Occidental represents a major step toward strengthening local governance and accelerating development in the western part of Davao del Sur. The new province was formed through the division of Davao del Sur, with five municipalities from its second district now officially constituting Davao Occidental. These municipalities are Malita, Santa Maria, Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani.
Meanwhile, the remaining municipalities previously under the second district like the Kiblawan, Malalag, and Sulop will be realigned with the first district of Davao del Sur, ensuring balanced representation and continued administrative efficiency.
The creation of Davao Occidental brings renewed hope for its people, as provincial status is expected to improve access to government services, enhance local autonomy, and open greater opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure development. With its rich natural resources, strong agricultural base, and resilient communities, the new province is poised to chart a future of inclusive progress and sustainable development.
As Davao Occidental begins this new chapter, local leaders and residents alike look forward to a province built on unity, opportunity, and a shared vision for a better tomorrow.
Quick Facts: Creation of Davao Occidental
Under Section 450 of the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended by Republic Act No. 9009, the creation of a province is subject to specific legal requirements. These include a minimum land area of 2,000 square kilometers, as certified by the Land Management Bureau; a population of at least 250,000, as certified by the National Statistics Office; and a minimum average annual income of ₱20 million.
Davao Occidental met and exceeded all these requirements. The new province has a total land area of 2,183.97 square kilometers, a population of 293,780 based on the 2010 census, and an average annual income of ₱113.22 million for the years 2008 and 2009.
As of 2012, the Philippines had a total of 80 provinces, while the Davao Region was composed of four provinces.
With the official creation of Davao Occidental, the total number of provinces in the country has increased to 81, and the Davao Region now has five provinces. These are Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, and the newly established Davao Occidental.
The addition of Davao Occidental underscores the government’s commitment to decentralization, improved local governance, and inclusive regional development, marking a hopeful step forward for both the Davao Region and the nation as a whole.
| via SouthernDC Blog
No comments:
Post a Comment