Negros Oriental, officially the Province of Negros Oriental, is a province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Its capital is Dumaguete City, known as the “City of Gentle People.” The province occupies the southeastern part of Negros Island, which it shares with Negros Occidental, another province.
Negros Oriental is celebrated for its natural beauty and diverse attractions. It is a popular destination for both local and international tourists, offering activities like swimming with whale sharks in the town of Oslob, exploring stunning marine life in Apo Island, relaxing on white-sand beaches, and taking in the scenic beauty of the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao. The province is also rich in history and culture, with several heritage sites, local festivals, and vibrant arts and music scenes. Additionally, it is known for its educational institutions, including Silliman University, one of the Philippines’ oldest and most prestigious universities.
Demographics
1. Population by Age Group:
- The age group with the highest population in Negros Oriental is 5 to 9, with 145,512 individuals.
- Conversely, the age group with the lowest population is 80 and over, with 14,169 individuals.
2. Population Composition:
- Young Dependent Population (Aged 14 and Below): This group, which includes infants/babies, children, and young adolescents/teenagers, makes up an aggregate of 31.88% of the population, totaling 431,949 individuals.
- Economically Active Population (Aged 15 to 64): Roughly, the economically active population and potential workforce constitute 62.14% of the population, with a total of 842,060 individuals.
- Old Dependent Population (Aged 65 and Over): Senior citizens aged 65 and over make up 5.98% of the population, totaling 80,986 individuals.
3. Age Dependency Ratios:
- Youth Dependents: Among the population of Negros Oriental, there are 51 youth dependents for every 100 working-age individuals.
- Aged/Senior Citizens: There are 10 aged/senior citizens for every 100 working-age individuals.
- Overall Dependency: In total, there are 61 dependents (combining both the young and old-age) for every 100 working-age individuals.
4. Median Age:
- The median age of 25 indicates that half of the entire population of Negros Oriental is aged less than 25, while the other half is over the age of 25.
| Name | City/ Municipality | Population (2020) | Population (2015) | Annual Population Growth Rate (2015‑2020) | Area (km2) | Density (2020), per km2 | Brgy count |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amlan | municipality | 25,513 | 23,624 | 1.63% | 111.85 | 228 | 8 |
| Ayungon | municipality | 47,102 | 46,303 | 0.36% | 265.10 | 178 | 24 |
| Bacong | municipality | 41,207 | 36,527 | 2.57% | 40.30 | 1,023 | 22 |
| Bais | city (CC) | 84,317 | 76,291 | 2.13% | 319.64 | 264 | 35 |
| Basay | municipality | 28,531 | 26,566 | 1.51% | 162.00 | 176 | 10 |
| Bayawan | city (CC) | 122,747 | 117,900 | 0.85% | 699.08 | 176 | 28 |
| Bindoy | municipality | 40,308 | 39,819 | 0.26% | 173.70 | 232 | 22 |
| Canlaon | city (CC) | 58,822 | 54,509 | 1.62% | 170.93 | 344 | 12 |
| Dauin | municipality | 30,018 | 27,786 | 1.64% | 114.10 | 263 | 23 |
| Dumaguete | city (CC), capital | 134,103 | 131,377 | 0.43% | 33.62 | 3,989 | 30 |
| Guihulngan | city (CC) | 102,656 | 95,969 | 1.43% | 388.56 | 264 | 33 |
| Jimalalud | municipality | 32,256 | 30,945 | 0.88% | 139.50 | 231 | 28 |
| La Libertad | municipality | 41,089 | 38,602 | 1.32% | 174.64 | 235 | 29 |
| Mabinay | municipality | 82,953 | 78,864 | 1.07% | 319.44 | 260 | 32 |
| Manjuyod | municipality | 44,799 | 42,332 | 1.20% | 264.60 | 169 | 27 |
| Pamplona | municipality | 39,805 | 37,596 | 1.21% | 202.20 | 197 | 16 |
| San Jose | municipality | 21,956 | 20,413 | 1.55% | 54.46 | 403 | 14 |
| Santa Catalina | municipality | 77,501 | 75,756 | 0.48% | 523.10 | 148 | 22 |
| Siaton | municipality | 83,082 | 77,696 | 1.42% | 335.90 | 247 | 26 |
| Sibulan | municipality | 64,343 | 59,455 | 1.68% | 163.00 | 395 | 15 |
| Tanjay | city (CC) | 82,642 | 80,532 | 0.55% | 276.05 | 299 | 24 |
| Tayasan | municipality | 38,159 | 35,470 | 1.55% | 154.20 | 247 | 28 |
| Valencia | municipality | 38,733 | 34,852 | 2.25% | 147.49 | 263 | 24 |
| Vallehermoso | municipality | 40,779 | 38,259 | 1.35% | 101.25 | 403 | 15 |
| Zamboanguita | municipality | 29,569 | 27,552 | 1.50% | 85.86 | 344 | 10 |
| Negros Oriental Total | 1,432,990 | 1,354,995 | 1.19% | 5,420.57 | 264 | 557 | |
Economy
| Fiscal Year | Annual Regular Income | Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 1,092,300,718.73 | – |
| 2010 | 1,247,948,964.61 | 14.25% |
| 2011 | 1,288,510,282.56 | 3.25% |
| 2012 | 1,255,615,581.43 | -2.55% |
| 2013 | 1,399,999,159.65 | 11.50% |
| 2014 | 1,531,590,554.27 | 9.40% |
| 2015 | 1,791,030,570.23 | 16.94% |
| 2016 | 1,910,571,458.64 | 6.67% |
| End notes:Annual Regular Income = Locally Sourced Revenue + Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) Current Year + Other Shares from National Tax CollectionLocally Sourced Revenue = Real Property Tax (General Fund) + Tax on Business + Other Taxes + Regulatory Fees + Service/User Charges + Receipts from Economic Enterprises | ||
Tourism
Negros Oriental’s tourism industry thrives on its natural wonders, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can explore the enchanting Apo Island, marvel at the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao, and immerse themselves in the province’s vibrant festivals and cultural experiences.
Nature enthusiasts can embark on thrilling eco-adventures, while those seeking tranquility can find solace in the province’s serene landscapes. Negros Oriental’s cuisine offers a delightful culinary journey, with local flavors that tantalize the senses.
