Calamba, Laguna Explained

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Pushpin Map:Philippines
Pushpin Label Position:left
Pushpin Map Caption:Location within the
Subdivision Type:Country
Subdivision Name:Philippines
Subdivision Type1:Region
Subdivision Type2:Province
Motto:Mabuhay ang Calamba!
("Long live Calamba!.")
Anthem:"Calamba Hymn"
Subdivision Type3:District
Established Title:Founded
Established Date:August 28, 1742
Established Title1:Cityhood
Established Date1:April 21, 2001
Parts Type:Barangays
Parts Style:para
P1: (see Barangays)
Leader Name:Roseller "Ross" H.Rizal
Leader Title1:Vice Mayor
Leader Name1:Angelito S. Lazaro Jr.
Leader Name2:Charisse Anne C. Hernandez
Leader Title3:City Council
Leader Title4:Electorate
Leader Name4:332,844 (2022)
Elevation Max M:1095
Elevation Min M:2
Population Density Km2:auto
Population Blank1 Title:Households
Population Demonym:Calambeño (Male),
Calambeña (Female),
Calambenean
Population Rank:20th
Timezone:PST
Utc Offset:+8
Postal Code Type:ZIP code
Demographics Type1:Economy
Demographics1 Title2:Poverty incidence
Demographics1 Info2:%
Demographics1 Title3:Revenue
Demographics1 Title4:Revenue rank
Demographics1 Title5:Assets
Demographics1 Title6:Assets rank
Demographics1 Title7:IRA
Demographics1 Title8:IRA rank
Demographics1 Title9:Expenditure
Demographics1 Title10:Liabilities
Demographics Type2:Service provider
Demographics2 Title1:Electricity
Demographics2 Title2:Water
Demographics2 Info2:Calamba Water District
Demographics2 Title3:Telecommunications
Demographics2 Title4:Cable TV
Blank1 Name Sec1:Native languages
Blank2 Name Sec1:Crime index
Blank1 Name Sec2:Major religions
Blank2 Name Sec2:Feast date
Blank3 Name Sec2:Catholic diocese
Blank4 Name Sec2:Patron saint
Blank4 Info Sec2:Saint John the Baptist

Calamba, officially the City of Calamba (Filipino; Pilipino: Lungsod ng Calamba), is a 1st class component city in the province of Laguna, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 539,671 people making it the largest city in the province.

Calamba is the regional center of the Calabarzon region. It is situated 50km (30miles) south of Manila and 37km (23miles) west of Santa Cruz. The city is known as the "Spring Resort Capital of the Philippines"[1] because of its numerous hot spring resorts, which are mostly located in Barangays Pansol, Bucal, Bagong Kalsada, and Lingga.

According to the 2020 census, Calamba has a population of 539,671 people, making it the most populous local government unit in Laguna. It is the fifth-densest city in the province with more than 2,600 people per square kilometer after San Pedro, Biñan, Cabuyao, and Santa Rosa. Based on the overall rankings of the 2014 Cities and Municipalities Index, the city ranked 18th in the overall competitiveness (cities ranking) and first among cities in the Calabarzon region. Calamba is known to be Calabarzon's richest city because of its numerous industries.[2] [3]

Calamba is the hometown of the de facto Philippine national hero, José Rizal.[4] [5]

Etymology

The name of the city is derived from Tagalog kalamba, meaning a wide-mouthed earthen water jar (also called balanga or banga).[6] [7] [8] The origin of the name is reflected in the Calamba Jar landmark in city plaza, as well as the city's seal which depicts a water jar superimposed with a profile of José Rizal.[9] [10]

History

Early history

The oldest part of Calamba is believed to be Barangay Sucol where its first settlers remained. With the arrival of Spaniards, the whole area was converted into a hacienda, then a part of Tabuco (present-day Cabuyao). In 1639 Calamba was the site of a rebellion of Chinese farmers, who had been forcibly resettled there by Governor Sebastián Hurtado de Corcuera. This rebellion spread north of the Pasig River and eventually culminated in the deaths of over 20,000 Chinese in the whole region surrounding Manila. Calamba became an independent pueblo on August 28, 1742, and formed into the town of Calamba in 1770. In 1813, Calamba was placed in the hands of "encargados" by the Dominican Brothers, who divided it into portions and sold the haciendas to the natives during the American regime.[11] [12]

World War II

During the Japanese occupation in World War II, Calamba was the location of a massacre committed by the Imperial Japanese Army, in which at least 2,000 civilians were killed.[13] The St. John the Baptist Church, established in 1859, was burned by the Japanese during World War II. It was reconstructed by Fr. Eliseo Dimaculangan. It was the christening site of José Rizal. The original baptismal font has been preserved and refurbished.

Cityhood

See main article: Cities of the Philippines. After a process of more than seven years, Calamba became the second component city of the Laguna by virtue of Republic Act No. 9024, "An Act Converting the Municipality of Calamba, Province of Laguna into a Component City to be known as the City of Calamba."[14] R.A. 9024 was signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on March 5, 2001, at the Malacañan Palace. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) then set the plebiscite for Calamba's cityhood on April 21, 2001, where 15,056 residents participated. 3,413 or 22.67% voted "No" while the remaining 77.33% voted "Yes" to Calamba's conversion into a component city.

Events leading to Cityhood

As early as 1994, the town's Sangguniang Bayan approved Resolution No. 60, Series of 1994 requesting the Senate of the Philippines through its president and the House of Representatives through its speaker to co-sponsor a bill for Calamba's conversion into a city. It was only after two years that another resolution, Resolution No. 115 was passed requesting then Congressman Joaquin M. Chipeco Jr, to co-sponsor a bill for Calamba's cityhood and requesting the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for their comments and recommendations regarding the matter. Another two years passed before House Bill No. 986 and Senate bill Nos. 1630 and 1791 were filed in the House of Representatives by Congressman Chipeco and Senate of the Philippines by Senators Franklin M. Drilon and Sergio Osmeña III, respectively.

It was only in the year 2000 that the motion for Calamba's cityhood was fast-tracked. Then Mayor Severino J. Lajara requested favorable endorsement of House Bill No. 986 from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on January 3, 2000. The Sangguniang Bayan also endorsed House Bill No. 986 and Senate Bill Nos. 1630 and 1791 and also requested favorable endorsement from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in the same month. A month passed and Mayor Lajara sent a follow-up letter to then Vice Governor Teresita "Ningning" Lazaro on updates regarding the matter.

On March 8, the House Committee on Local Government approved House Bill No. 986 on 2nd reading at a hearing held at Hotel Rembrandt, Quezon City. The same House Committee conducted a public hearing on House Bill No. 986 at the Calamba Elementary School (Central II) gymnasium on March 23, approving the House Bill in principle. House Bill 986 was deliberated in April by the House of Representatives in plenary session and approved as House Bill No. 10661, which was then filed with the Senate of the Philippines in June.

The year 2001 came and brought about approval on 2nd reading of Senate Bill Nos. 1630 and 1791 and House Bill No. 10661 in a hearing held on February 5 at the Ambrocio Padilla Hall, Senate of the Philippines. Three days later, February 8, Senate Bill Nos. 1630 and 1791 and House Bill No. 10661 was deliberated in Plenary Session and was approved as Republic Act No. 9024.[15]

Designation as regional center

Calamba was declared the regional center of the Calabarzon region by then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo by virtue of Executive Order No. 246, dated October 28, 2003.[16]

Geography

Calamba lies on the northern slopes of Mount Makiling, a dormant volcano. The southern terminus of the South Luzon Expressway is in Calamba and this geographic position makes the city a gateway to the southern provinces of Luzon. The highway at the end of the South Luzon Expressway leads east to the other towns of Laguna and south towards the provinces of Batangas and Quezon.

The city is bordered by Cabuyao to the north, by the province of Cavite to the west, specifically Silang and Tagaytay, Los Baños to the east, by the province of Batangas to the south, specifically the cities of Tanauan, Santo Tomas, Laguna de Bay, the country's largest lake, forms the city's northeast border. The provincial capital, Santa Cruz, is located 37km (23miles) by road to the east.

Calamba covers a total land area of, making it is the second-largest city in Laguna province in terms of land area after San Pablo.

Land uses

Classification[17] Land Area (hectares)
Urban Redevelopment Zone 2,080
Growth Management Zone 1 4,199
Growth Management Zone 2 2,460
Upland Conservation Zone 3,401.22
Forest Buffer Zone 333
Makiling Forest Reservation Zone 579.78
Agricultural Development Zone 1,427
Shoreland Area
Total Land Area 14,480
Urban Expansion Area 8,562.7 ha

Barangays

Calamba is politically subdivided into 54 barangays.[18] Each barangay consists of puroks and some have sitios.

Barangays of Calamba
No.BarangayBarangay ChairmanLand Area (hectares)Population (2020)Population (2015)ClassificationZoning Classification
1 Bagong Kalsada Clemente M. Manato 157.8 3,892 3,488 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
2 Bañadero Aries B. Hizon 190.0 12,647 10,412 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
3 Banlic January Y. Paraso 274.9 18,335 13,681 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
4 Barandal Cristina H. Rosales189.3 18,076 12,526 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
5 Barangay 1 (Poblacion) Marcelino T. Tuballas 29.2 5,823 5,834 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
6 Barangay 2 (Poblacion) Joanne M. De Mesa 17.1 10,627 7,788 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
7 Barangay 3 (Poblacion) Donnie P. Alvarez 29.8 4,537 4,775 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
8 Barangay 4 (Poblacion) Joseph L. Emergo 4.5 3,301 3,238 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
9 Barangay 5 (Poblacion) Matthew B. Rizal 25.6 5,858 6,486 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
10 Barangay 6 (Poblacion) Juan Carlo C. Lazaro 42.3 1,693 2,250 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
11 Barangay 7 (Poblacion) Victor A. Opaco 81.8 2,357 3,086 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
12 Batino Pio C. Dimapilis 110.5 1,616 1,274 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
Urban Redevelopment Zone
13 Bubuyan Madell Donna C. Manaig 196.0 3,193 2,164 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
14 Bucal Gil B. Rimas 265.0 14,289 12,818 Urban Upland Conservation Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
15 Bunggo George F. Cabrera 556.6 4,437 3,261 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
16 Burol John Kenneth Vence L. Evangelista 258.2 3,551 2,296 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
17 Camaligan Victor E. de Castro 106.5 1,345 1,235 Rural Growth Management Zone 2
18 Canlubang Larry O. Dimayuga 3,912.0 60,292 54,943 Urban Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
19 Halang Aries O. Silva 166.7 8,582 7,169 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
20 Hornalan June M. Oña 22.0 2,053 1,736 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
21 Kay-Anlog Nemar G. Mendoza 272.0 20,487 13,946 Rural Growth Management Zone 2
22 La Mesa Eduardo R. Silva 294.1 17,569 14,892 Urban Upland Conservation Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
Growth Management Zone
23 Laguerta Eduardo M. Sanque 314.9 5,461 2,332 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
24 Lawa Emmanuel F. Nido 146.6 12,245 11,186 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
25 Lecheria Rommel P. Casintahan 157.5 10,907 9,108 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
26 Lingga Darwin C. Retusto 45.0 6,193 6,056 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
27 Looc Rustan T. Miranda 179.1 26,819 21,754 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
28 Mabato Luisito G. Manguiat 273.1 724 687 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
29 Majada Labas Rowel G. Fajardo 180.2 10,571 6,471 Urban Growth Management Zone 1
30 Makiling Aigrette P. Lajara 465.7 12,508 10,760 Rural Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
31 Mapagong Gil N. Naredo 320.8 7,254 6,014 Rural Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
Growth Management Zone 1
32 Masili Rhonell C. M.32.1 3,827 3,680 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
33 Maunong Joselito S. Estrada 399.2 4,395 2,164 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
34 Mayapa Victoria T. Sumbillo 116.3 28,302 26,211 Urban Growth Management Zone 1
35 Milagrosa Randy M. Sulit 209.4 9,687 6,904 Urban Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
36 Paciano Rizal Napoleon V. Baradas 126.8 15,679 15,081 Urban Growth Management Zone 2
37 Palingon Jeffrey Q. 15.3 5,249 5,685 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
38 Palo-Alto Nelson C. Unico 273.7 18,874 15,208 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
39 Pansol Joel DR. Martinez 528.2 11,623 10,171 Urban Upland Conservation Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
Forest Buffer Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
40 Parian Rodnie P. Perez 112.0 25,558 22,082 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
41 Prinza Marvin D. Atienza 95.3 5,284 3,741 Rural Urban Redevelopment Zone
Growth Management Zone 1
42 Punta Justino P. Carandang 331.0 7,321 4,175 Rural Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
43 Puting Lupa Allan S. Pedraja 542.0 2,389 1,783 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
Growth Management Zone 2
Forest Buffer Zone
44 Real Florencio A. Morales, Jr. 132.9 16,371 14,394 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
45 Saimsim Apolonio P. Manalo Jr. 194.5 6,166 5,828 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
46 Sampiruhan James Philip C. Dumalaon 81.0 9,466 9,410 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
47 San Cristobal Irineo T. Logo 119.0 14,881 13,690 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
48 San Jose Reginald C. Oliva 89.6 4,061 3,718 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
49 San Juan Danilo Q. Amparo 15.3 4,826 4,403 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
50 Sirang Lupa Ronaldo M. Contreras 198.4 12,938 8,807 Urban Growth Management Zone 1
51 Sucol Edgar A. Balagtas 31.6 5,233 5,146 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
52 Turbina Rodel V. Manalo 51.5 6,268 5,252 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
53 Ulango Andro M. Evangelista 227.6 1,060 768 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
54 Uwisan Catalina P. Aldabe78.0 2,971 2,519 Urban Agricultural Development Zone

Climate

Calamba has a tropical monsoon climate (type Am), with a short dry season and a longer rainy season. The dry season lasts only from January to April, and the rest of the year is characterized by high levels of rainfall.

Demographics

The population of Calamba is fast-growing with an intercensal growth rate of 5% from 1995 to 2000, repeated and more in subsequent decades (except for 2007 to 2010 census).

Population density
Year Density
1990 /km
1995 /km
2000 /km
2007 /km
2010 /km
2015 /km
2020 /km
According to the 2020 census, Calamba has a population of 539,671 inhabitants, making it the most populated city in Laguna province, followed by Santa Rosa, Biñan, San Pedro City, Cabuyao, and San Pablo. Calamba is the 24th most populated city in the Philippines.

Calamba is predominantly Roman Catholic (84.22%), followed by Members Church of God International (MCGI or ADD)(4.5%), Protestants (3.43%), Iglesia ni Cristo (3.14%), and Islam (0.26%).

Economy

Calamba is known today as the "Richest City in Calabarzon", (according to the 2014 Commission on Audit Annual Audit Report), as it registered a total income of ₱2,501,048,126.00.[19] Calamba is also considered one of the "Next Wave Cities" for outsourcing firms.[20]

The major income sources comes from manufacturing and economic plants, tourism, agriculture and services. There are many manufacturing and economic plants located in upland barangays like Canlubang, Real, La Mesa, Milagrosa, Makiling, Punta, Barandal, Batino and Prinza.

Income

Year Total income (COA)[21] Growth %Total Iincome (BLGF)[22] Growth %
2002 ₱810,569,652.58 ₱809,806,000.00
2003 ₱847,402,297.32 4.54% ₱1,046,621,000.00 29.24%
2004 ₱872,473,683.19 2.96% ₱921,272,904.23 −11.98%
2005 ₱1,035,488,459.60 18.68% ₱1,094,639,552.79 18.82%
2006 ₱1,110,330,981.73 7.23% ₱1,110,330,981.73 1.43%
2007 ₱1,161,438,445.76 4.60% ₱1,162,050,643.28 4.66%
2008 ₱1,338,299,724.69 15.23% ₱1,338,769,422.02 15.21%
2009 ₱1,580,699,818.00 18.11% ₱1,586,541,340.26 18.51%
2010 ₱1,634,025,898.00 3.37% ₱1,699,391,678.99 7.11%
2011 ₱1,952,122,303.00 19.47% ₱1,887,800,323.68 11.09%
2012 ₱2,023,350,771.00 3.65% ₱2,023,350,600.11 7.18%
2013₱2,191,286,734.00 8.30%
2014₱2,501,048,126.0014.14%

Banking

As of December 31, 2013, there are 83 banking offices operating in the city that offers banking services to businesses and residents according to Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation. Calamba is the top city in Calabarzon with total deposits amounting to 29,632,884 in thousand pesos from 374,122 accounts.[23]

Industries and manufacturing

The city is a haven for industries. Considered the heart of Calabarzon due to the number of companies housed in its area, Calamba is one of the premiere industrial hubs outside of Metro Manila. Some of the industrial parks located in the city are:[24]

Information technology

Calamba is also considered one of the "Next Wave Cities" for outsourcing firms and call centers, among them are Accenture and SPi Technologies.

Commerce and trade

Aside from the Crossing area in Barangay Uno, Barangays Real and Parian are also bustling with business structures, including SM City Calamba, and Liana's Discount Center Calamba.

Notable shopping centers and travel agencies in Calamba also include Southern Sky Travel & Tours (Calamba Headquarters), Walter Mart Makiling, Puregold Halang, Puregold Calamba-Crossing, Puregold Calamba-Bayan, Checkpoint Mall, and among others.

Food processing plants in Calamba like Zenith Foods Corp. (central commissary of Jollibee Foods Corporation), where its sauces and food products (i.e. burger, pies, fries, etc.) are first made before distributing to Jollibee outlets is currently the most advanced food processing plant in the Philippines and one of the best in Asia. Other food and beverage processing plants in Calamba are Rebisco, RC Cola, Monde M.Y. San Corporation and Zest-O Corporation.

Some of the semiconductor companies are also located in Calamba. To name a few, they are Samsung Electro-Mechanics Philippines, Continental Temic Electronics Philippines, Toshiba Storage Device Philippines Inc., ST Microelectronics (formerly Philips Electronics), Fuji Electric Philippines, NEC Tokin Electronics, NEC Toppan Circuit Solutions and Austriamicrosystems Phils.

Automobile manufacturers that have plants located in Calamba are Asian Transmission Corporation and Suzuki Philippines Inc.

Avon, the leading global beauty company has a manufacturing plant (Avon Products Manufacturing), is located at Calamba Premiere International Park.

Infrastructure

Transportation

Tricycles, buses, jeepneys, and UV Express are popular modes of transportation in Calamba.

Calamba is served by the Philippine National Railways (PNR) Metro Commuter Line. Stations include:

Roads

The only expressway currently operational in Calamba is the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), which passes through the city with four exits. SLEX is part of AH26 up to Calamba Exit.

Main national highways include the Manila South Road, the Pan-Philippine Highway (also known as Maharlika Highway, Daang Maharlika, or National Highway), which passes through the city and curves toward Santo Tomas in Batangas, and Calamba–Pagsanjan Road (also called "National Highway") links Calamba with Los Baños and Santa Cruz.

Other arterial roads includes Chipeco Avenue and its Extension, which passes near the city hall, Tagaytay–Calamba Road, which picks up near Tagaytay Highlands, and Mayapa–Canlubang Cadre Road, a spur of Maharlika Highway serving Canlubang and Canlubang/Mayapa Exit (Exit 47)[25]

Proposed expressways include the Calamba–Los Baños Expressway, which spurs from SLEX, traverses along Laguna de Bay and ends on a national highway at Bay, and Laguna Lakeshore Expressway Dike, an expressway and dike that will run on the coast of Laguna de Bay. The projects will cost an estimated 5.9 billion ($131.11 million) and 18.59 billion ($413 million).[26]

Health care

There are 9 private and 1 government-run hospitals in Calamba. Some of the health centers in the city are the Calamba Medical Center, Calamba Doctors' Hospital, Pamana Golden Care Hospital, St. John the Baptist Hospital, San Jose Hospital and Trauma Center, St. Marks Hospital Medical Center, Holy Angel General Hospital, CH Garcia Medical and Diagnostic Center, Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial Hospital, and Jose Yulo Foundation Canlubang Industrial Hospital...

Utilities and communication

Communication concerns are managed by different agencies found in the city: postal affairs rests on the Philippine Postal Corp. with three operating offices located in Barangays. Canlubang, Mayapa and the main office located at the back of City Hall. Telecommunications as well as internet connections are under the four major telecom companies such as PLDT (Smart Communications), Globe Telecom, Dito Telecommunity and Converge ICT Solutions Inc., commonly referred to as Converge Aside from these, print and radio services are also present, with Calambalita DZLN-AM and DZJV – a local radio station catering to the whole Calabarzon area.

A major part of the city is currently served by Meralco, with two substations of the company located in Brgys Mayapa and Brgy 1 facilitate the flow of power throughout the entire city. All the 54 barangays are equipped with electricity, with only a few barangays such as part of Canlubang, Pansol, Bucal and Lecheria under NAPOCOR.

A big part of the city is served by the Calamba Water District, providing water to 23,655 households, 1,238 commercial establishments and 53 public buildings. Most of the city's water supply comes from the faucet community water system.

Government

Local government

See main article: Sangguniang Panglungsod.

Post:City Mayor
Body:Calamba, Laguna
Insigniasize:220px
Insigniacaption:The 22nd Mayor of Calamba
Incumbent:Roseller H. Rizal
Incumbentsince:June 30, 2022
Style:(Mr.) Mayor, Mayor
Residence:New Calamba City Hall Building, Real, Calamba, Laguna
Appointer:Elected via popular vote
Termlength:3 years (maximum of three consecutive terms)
Formation:1901
Inaugural:Mateo Elojorde

Like other cities in the Philippines, Calamba is governed by a city mayor and city vice mayor who are elected to three-year terms. The city mayor is the executive head who leads the city's departments in the execution of city ordinances and in the delivery of public services. The city vice mayor heads a legislative council that is composed of 14 members: 12 councilors and two ex-officio offices: one for the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President, representing the youth sector, and one for the Association of Barangay Chairmen President as the barangay sectoral representative. The council is in charge of creating the city's policies in the form of ordinances and resolutions.

By virtue of Republic Act no. 11078, Calamba has been separated from the 2nd District of Laguna to form its own, the Lone district of the City of Calamba.[27]

Elected officials

The 2022 local elections in Calamba, held on May 9, 2022, replaced some members of the city government, primarily on the members of the city council. The mayor and vice mayor are term limited.

Elected officials for the 2022–2025 term are:

Calamba city officials (2022–2025)
Name Party
House of Representatives
Charisse Anne C. Hernandez-Alcantara
City Mayor
Roseller "Ross" H.Rizal
City Vice Mayor
Angelito S. Lazaro, Jr.
City Councilors
Joselito G. Catindig
Saturnino J. Lajara
Leeanne P. Aldabe-Cortez
Dyan DV. Espiridion
Juan C. Lazaro
Pursino C. Oruga
Moises E. Morales
Doreeen May F. Cabrera-Silva
Gerard R. Teruel
Arvin L. Manguiat
Edison M. Natividad
Maria Kathrina V. Silva-Evangelista
Ex Officio City Council Members
ABC PresidentPio C. Dimapilis (Batino)<-- -->
SK PresidentRally E. Bustria (Barangay 5)<-- -->

List of former chief executives

Jose Rizal wrote a manuscript called Jefes del pueblo de Calamba (ang nangagsipagpuno sa bayan ng Calamba: sapol ng maging bayan, hangan sa panahon, 28 de Agosto, 1742 - hasta 1891) that is now kept in the National Library of the Philippines. It lists the names of local chief executives of Calamba since its founding as a town independent from Cabuyao.[28] Their names were:

The following are the individuals that served as local chief executive of Calamba since the American occupation of the Philippines up to the present-day:[12]

City seal

The seal of the City of Calamba has evolved and has been modified throughout the years. From being a municipality to a component city, a new seal was necessary to symbolize the new thrust of Calamba. In a citywide seal-making contest, Reyjon de Guzman emerged as winner, for his work best symbolized the ideals, pride and achievements of the city. Each color, shape, number and object has its own meaning relative to what is Calamba in the past, present and future.[29]

Tourism

Calamba is the location of José Rizal's birthplace, Rizal Shrine, found in the poblacion (city proper), and St. John the Baptist Parish Church, the location of Rizal's baptism. A park built to commemorate José Rizal, Rizal Park (or the Plaza) hosts a tall statue of Rizal, with the number symbolizing the 22 languages and dialects used by Rizal. The statue sits on top of a 15-step podium, symbolizing one decade since Rizal was born. The monument was once cited as the tallest Jose Rizal Monument in the world,[30] until a monument of Rizal was built in Santa Cruz, Laguna, for the Palarong Pambansa 2014. The monument was inaugurated by President Benigno Aquino III in preparation for the Jose Rizal's sesquicentennial birth anniversary on June 19, 2011.

Other tourist attractions include the Calamba Claypot (Banga or Calambanga), a large pot that is the namesake of the city, Republic Wakepark, a water sports park in the Nuvali mixed-use residential development in Canlubang, and Calamba Island, an islet off Laguna de Bay.

Being near to Mount Makiling, Calamba also hosts hot spring resorts, concentrated at barangays Pansol, Bucal and Bagong Kalsada near the boundary with Los Baños.

Culture

Festivals

The Buhayani Festival, the official festival of the City of Calamba was the brainchild of Mayor Justin Marc SB. Chipeco during his first year as Mayor in 2013. Mayor Timmy wanted the city to have a festival that will best characterize its culture, progress and tourism potential. He wanted to capitalize on the city's historical heritage as the birthplace of unofficial Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. Thus, the Buhayani Festival was born.

The term "Buhayani" was coined by joining two Filipino words, "buhay" meaning life or the state of being alive and lively and "bayani" or hero. The festival's tagline "Buhay ng Bayani, Buháy na Bayani" literally translates to "Life of the Hero"pertaining to the life of our famous kababayan, Dr. Jose Rizal and "Living Hero"which refers to the common man who has the capacity and potential to become everyday heroes in their own small ways.

"We want everyone who revere our kababayan, Dr. Jose Rizal to come to Calamba and join us in honouring him on his birthday and in celebrating the modern Rizal in us. We want to make our National Hero modern and relevant in today's challenging times and we want to celebrate the spirit of heroism that lives in each Filipino, not just in us Calambeños," Mayor Chipeco was quoted saying.

Different activities were lined up for this year's Buhayani Festival: Kuwentong Bayani for selected Grade 5 students, Talinong Rizal Quiz Bee, Buhayani Football Cup, Independence Day Job Fair, SayawIndak Street Dancing Competition, Marching Band Competition, Baile de Gala, Hawig Rizal (Rizal Look-a-Like), Buhayani Eye Care Mission, and a whole lot more. Highlighting this year's celebration is the Morning Program wherein Philippine National Police Chief, Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa is the Guest of Honor and Speaker. A special wreath-laying ceremony shall also commence at the Museo ni Rizal sa Calamba after a simultaneous floral offering at five different Rizal monuments around the city.

"Jose Rizal is not just the pride of Calamba, he is the pride of the entire country as he was the Greatest Malay to have lived. His works, teachings and ideals have inspired and will continue to inspire us as we strive to live up to his ideals of nationalism and love of country. In the Buhayani Festival, we celebrate an ideal and an advocacy that through this festival, we can rekindle the fire of patriotism and heroism in the hearts of every Filipino. Come to Calamba – retrace history's footsteps, rediscover the richness and uniqueness of our heritage, fire up our Filipino pride and be inspired to share and spread what you have experienced and be part of the force that will bring about a renewed love of country in every Filipino," Mayor Chipeco challenged.

Education

Calamba has a literacy rate of 98.9%., there are 120 elementary schools, 51 of which are public and 69 private. There are 50 secondary schools, 16 public and 34 private. Post-secondary education include 17 universities and colleges, and 9 technical and vocational schools.[11]

The city has four NCAA affiliate schools that set up branches in the city, namely as the Colegio de San Juan de Letran (Calamba Campus), Lyceum of the Philippines University (Laguna Campus), San Sebastian College – Recoletos (Canlubang Campus) and University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (Calamba Campus).

Some private schools that are also located in Calamba are City College of Calamba, Don Bosco College, Canlubang, Calamba Institute, Laguna College of Business and Arts, Saint Benilde International School, Asian Computer College, Inc., Asian Institute of Computer Studies, Inc. Active Community Contributor Calamba Churchitute, Inc., NU Laguna & INSPIRE Sports Academy, Philippine Women's University, Saint John Colleges, Maranatha Christian Academy. In Nuvali Calamba, there are two other schools located which are the Miriam College and Xavier School. In the near future, Everest Academy, a renowned Catholic and international school will also open its second campus in Nuvali.

The City College of Calamba is the only public college in the city.

Notable personalities

Sister cities

Local

International

See also

External links

Notes and References

  1. News: Calamba resorts without accreditation face closure. Pa-a. Saul. April 6, 2019. Philippine News Agency. January 30, 2020.
  2. News: Overall Rankings (2014) – Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index. August 26, 2014. https://web.archive.org/web/20140822143247/http://www.competitive.org.ph/cmcindex/rankings.php. August 22, 2014. dead. mdy-all.
  3. Web site: 2014 Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index. National Econonmic Research and Business Assistance Center – Calabarzon. https://web.archive.org/web/20140827004623/http://nerbac-calabarzon.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2014%20CITIES%20AND%20MUNICIPALITIES%20COMPETITIVENESS%20INDEX%20RANKING.pdf. August 27, 2014. dead.
  4. News: Rizal is not a national hero Filipinos believed he was. Cabico. Gaea Katreena. The Philippine Star. April 16, 2022.
  5. Web site: National Heroes' Day in Philippines in 2021 . Office Holidays . June 17, 2021 . en.
  6. Book: Kirk . Kate . A Guide to Los Baños for IRRI International Staff & Families . 2001 . International Rice Research Institute . 17 . 9789712201608 .
  7. Book: Sta. Maria . Felice Prudente . In Excelsis: The Mission of Jose P. Rizal, Humanist and Philippine National Hero . 1996 . Studio 5 Designs . 9719135336 . 40.
  8. Web site: kalamba . Tagalog Dictionary . November 16, 2020.
  9. Book: Harper . Peter . Fullerton . Laurie . Philippines Handbook . 1994 . Moon Publications . 9781566910040 . 325.
  10. Web site: The Official Sea . City Government of Calamba Official Website . November 16, 2020.
  11. Web site: City profile . About the City . Official Website of the City of Calamba . November 12, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140603144106/http://calambacity.gov.ph/About-the-City/City-Profile/ . June 3, 2014 . dead .
  12. Web site: Political History . City Government . Official Website of the City of Calamba . November 12, 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20121023001341/http://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Government/Political-History/ . October 23, 2012 . dead .
  13. Jintaro Ishida, The Remains of War, 2001, p.238, citing the Barangay Real Memorial.
  14. An Act Converting the Municipality of Calamba, Province of Laguna Into A Component City to be Known as the City of Calamba. RA. 9024. The Official Gazette. 2001-03-05. 2023-11-29.
  15. Cityhood of Calamba http://www.calambacity.gov.ph/About-the-City/Cityhood-of-Calamba/
  16. Web site: Executive Order No. 246, s. 2003. Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. October 28, 2003. January 15, 2013. May 22, 2018. https://web.archive.org/web/20180522072112/http://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2003/10/28/executive-order-no-246-s-2003/. dead.
  17. Web site: City Profile. https://web.archive.org/web/20140603144106/http://calambacity.gov.ph/About-the-City/City-Profile/. June 3, 2014. dead.
  18. Web site: Barangay Names. https://web.archive.org/web/20140513000039/http://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Government/Barangay-Names/. May 13, 2014. dead. mdy-all.
  19. Web site: Commission on Audit – Cities. www.coa.gov.ph. May 19, 2016.
  20. News: List of 'next wave' cities for outsourcing firms released. GMA News.
  21. http://www.coa.gov.ph/ COA AAR
  22. Web site: Local Government Unit (LGUs) Financial Data . April 13, 2014 . October 17, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20131017024202/http://www.blgf.gov.ph/ . dead .
  23. http://www.pdic.gov.ph/files/BSDStats/DDD_PBS_ProvinceMunicipality.htm
  24. Web site: Operating Economic Zones. https://web.archive.org/web/20141025081045/http://www.peza.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=201&Itemid=161. October 25, 2014. dead.
  25. Web site: DPWH Road Data Laguna 2nd. Department of Public Works and Highways Website. DPWH. April 30, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20140110160541/http://www.dpwh.gov.ph/infrastructure/Road%20Data/2012%20Road%20Data%20for%20Ipad/laguna_2nd.htm. January 10, 2014. dead.
  26. Web site: PPP Road Projects. Public Private Partnership Center. March 1, 2013. Rogelio L. Singson. November 18, 2010.
  27. News: Aklan split into two legislative districts, Calamba City becomes lone. Placido. Darel. September 25, 2018. ABS-CBN News. September 25, 2018.
  28. http://nlpdl.nlp.gov.ph/RI01/NLPJRMN00350/datejpg1.htm/
  29. The Official Seal http://www.calambacity.gov.ph/About-the-City/The-Official-Seal/
  30. News: Rizal's birthplace now home to his tallest monument. ABS-CBN News.
  31. Web site: 2016-07-13. PESQUESA, Florencio S.. 2021-02-24. Bantayog ng mga Bayani. en-US.
  32. Web site: Dost-Stii | Spheres . April 20, 2021 . April 20, 2021 . https://web.archive.org/web/20210420113738/http://spheres.dost.gov.ph/sci-profile.php?i=000299#:~:text=Dr.,in%201918%20at%20the%20U.P.// . dead .
  33. https://nast.ph/images/pdf%20files/Publications/NAST%20Transactions/NAST%202001%20Transactions%20Volume%2023/BSD%201%20Directions%20of%20Systematic%20Entomology%20in%20the%20Philippines,%20Acd%20Clare%20R.%20Baltazar%202001.pdf.//
  34. http://philsciletters.net/2014/PSL%202014-vol07-no01-p241-244%20Flores.pdf/
  35. News: Ben Juliano, cereal chemist second to none . June 17, 2021 . Manila Bulletin . March 3, 2018.
  36. News: LEADER OF THE PACK: 8 STARTER-FACTS ABOUT BINI MEMBER JHOANNA . 26 July 2024 . Zeen Magazine . 25 June 2024.