Sarangani, Davao Occidental


Sarangani, officially the Municipality of Sarangani, is a municipality in the province of Davao Occidental, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 22,515 people, making it the least populated municipality in the province.

History

On June 11, 1978, the islands of Sarangani and Balut were carved out from the municipality of Jose Abad Santos to form the new municipality of Sarangani, then in Davao del Sur, through Presidential Decree No. 1550 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos. On October 28, 2013, the municipality was ceded to Davao Occidental as a result of a plebiscite, in which the majority of voters approved the creation of the new province.

Geography

The municipality consists of two major islands and one minor islet, collectively called the Sarangani Islands, located just south of mainland Mindanao island in the Celebes Sea. The municipality shares a maritime border with Sangihe Islands Regency of Indonesia.

Climate

Sarangani has a tropical rainforest climate with moderate to heavy rainfall year-round.

Barangays

Sarangani is politically subdivided into 17barangays. Each barangay consists of puroks while some have sitios.
Balut Island
  • Batuganding
  • Batugan
  • Daguioman
  • Gabon
  • Higug-mang
  • Konel
  • Lipol
  • Mabila
  • Tinina
  • Gomtago
  • Tagen
  • Tucal
  • Abila
Sarangani Island
  • Patuco
  • Laker
  • Camahual
  • Camalig
  • Pasikao

Demographics

Due to its proximity to Indonesia, the town also has a significant population of migrants from the Sangihe-Talaud region, including several generations of Indonesian families. As early as 1918, Indonesians extensively planted coconuts in the municipality. Sarangani is also used by Indonesians as a transit point on their way to mainland Mindanao.

Government

Municipal officials 2022-2025:
  • Mayor: Adelan B. de Arce
  • Vice Mayor: Mariano C. Lagudas
  • Councilors:
  • * Arthon M. Gantongan
  • * Dionisio D. Wao Jr.
  • * Alexis C. Forones
  • * Jay William J. Olarte
  • * Biyal A. Malong
  • * Rodilo P. Dalumpines
  • * Steven A. Olarte
  • * Jomarie A. Olarte