The City of Gentle People
Dumaguete City, known as the “City of Gentle People,” is a charming locality in Negros Oriental. As a component city and the provincial capital, Dumaguete serves as the economic, educational, and cultural center of the province.
Dumaguete City is a third-class component city and the capital of the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. According to a 2020 census by the Philippine Statistics Authority, Dumaguete City has a population of 134,103 people.
While it is the smallest city in terms of land coverage, it actually has the highest population compared to other cities and municipalities in Negros Oriental according to the city government.
A University City
Dumaguete City has also been monikered the “University City” owing to the four large universities and a number of other colleges that serve as magnet for students in neighboring cities, towns and municipalities. It has also been attracting students from surrounding provinces like Visayas and Mindanao as well as those from abroad.
The city is best known for the first Protestant and American university in the country as well as in Asia, called the Silliman University. Moreover, Dumaguete City has a portfolio of 18 public elementary schools and 8 public high schools.
Steady Growth and Development
Over the years, Dumaguete City saw steady growth and development, thanks to various infrastructure projects by the city government and other stakeholders.
As a developing economy in the Central Visayas region, infrastructure projects are vital to its growth. It enhances overall quality of life of the population and, by extension, its local economy. With these come more commercial centers, housing developments, and more employment opportunities for the local population.
But more importantly, improved infrastructure makes life more convenient and practical. It also adds to the appeal of Dumaguete as an ideal place to start a family or retire (one of the best places to do so, according to the Philippine Retirement Authority).
Here are the three most important infrastructure projects that make this possible in Dumaguete.
Accessible road network through infrastructure projects
The collaboration between the local government units, the city government and other government agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Negros Oriental brought multiple road development projects that enhanced accessibility in the region.
Some of the most notable ones are the national and provincial roads, and the Metro Dumaguete Diversion Road, which facilitate smoother transportation and trade with neighboring towns, cities, and municipalities throughout the Negros Island.
These new routes also help locals get to essential services and facilities like healthcare faster. For instance, hospitals like the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital and Holy Child Hospital, being vital healthcare institutions in the city, have become more accessible to the residents.
Dumaguete’s improved road network also benefits educational institutions. The city becomes even more attractive for students from other parts of the Philippines with more reliable transportation options to complement its quality education offering.
Moreover, businesses of all sizes now have greater growth opportunities as transportation networks improve. Consequently, the markets also become more accessible, and logistics become simpler.
Overall, the developments in Dumaguete’s road infrastructure improve the lifestyle of its residents. Shopping centers like the Lee super plaza, parks, restaurants, and other leisure spots are closer than ever. As a result, there are more arenas for socialization and community engagement that defines the vibrance of Dumaguete City.
Airport and seaport
In addition to Dumaguete’s adequate road network and diversion road, it also has a busy airport and a seaport that services millions of passengers every year.
The Port of Dumaguete
The Port of Dumaguete, owned and managed by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is the main point of entry via sea to Negros Oriental. Recently upgraded, the port has multiple ferries that service people going to and from neighboring islands like Siquijor, Cebu, and Bohol.
Moreover, it is part of the “Strong Republic Nautical Highway” and a major link to Mindanao. In fact, passenger and cargo vessels originating from Dumaguete’s port travel as far south as Dapitan and Surigao.
The Dumaguete – Sibulan Airport
Aside from the seaport, the city also has its local airport, the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport. It is one of the two major airports serving the entire island of Negros, with regular flights to NAIA in Metro Manila and Mactan in Cebu via Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.
After its recent major upgrade expanding its facilities, the airport is expected to welcome more tourists and boost trade and tourism for the entire region.
In summary, the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport and private airports in the region play a crucial role in making life in Dumaguete City more accessible. It provides residents convenient air travel options, connecting them to various destinations in the Philippines and beyond.
Additionally, the augmentation of the seaport further enhances accessibility, offering alternative modes of travel for inter-island trips. The presence of these transportation options strengthens connectivity and facilitates smoother and more efficient travel for locals and tourists in Dumaguete City.
Renewable energy source
The availability of renewable energy, particularly geothermal energy, has ensured a reliable and continuous power supply for Dumaguete City and the province’s population. Due to its proximity, Dumaguete City benefits from the Palinpinon Geothermal Power Plant in Valencia, Negros Oriental, which produces 192.5 MW of clean energy. The Palinpinon Geothermal Power Plant is now owned and operated by a private company called Energy Development Corp. (EDC), the largest geothermal energy developer in the Philippines.
Unlike the fluctuating fossil fuel-based power sources, this renewable energy plant in Valencia is stable and sustainable. As such, it has become a reliable source of power for Dumaguete City and the surrounding cities, towns, and municipalities.
Moreover, this renewable energy access has brought about cost benefits for residents in Dumaguete City. Geothermal power has relatively lower operational costs compared to conventional energy sources like fossil fuels.
This translates into lower electricity costs for consumers in Dumaguete compared to neighboring cities like Cebu.
This use of renewable energy aligns with Negros Oriental’s Renewable Energy Code, which is the first of its kind in the country. Under the ordinance, renewable energy investors get incentives through carbon credits.
Furthermore, it also bans the construction of any coal-fired power plants in the province. As a result, residents can enjoy the convenience of renewable energy, knowing that their consumption supports a greener and more sustainable future.
Other infrastructure projects in Dumaguete City
Given the capabilities of its current infrastructure projects, Dumaguete City is confident in creating an even more competitive economy for its residents. One of its biggest initiatives so far is the plan to build a 174-hectare township called “Smart City.”
The proposed Smart City’s central development is a mixed-use business district with environment-friendly infrastructure. Positioned around the scenic Rizal Boulevard, the township will include a command center, a medical city, and a university town.
Overall, the idea is to transform Dumaguete into a new economic and tourism hub in the central Philippines.
If realized and completed, the Smart City in Dumaguete City will reshape the local economy by attracting investment, promoting sustainability, and fostering innovation. Furthermore, it will also enhance key sectors such as business, education, and healthcare and elevate the city’s economic classification.
With this ambitious initiative, Dumaguete City aims to establish itself as a model for smart and sustainable urban development that benefits both its residents and stakeholders.
Be at the center of convenience in Dumaguete.
Live in the close vicinity of convenience and accessibility in Dumaguete with Camella Negros Oriental. Located along Diversion Road, Cantil-e, Dumaguete City, this Italian and Mediterranean-inspired community is the ideal place to start a family, retire, and invest in.
Moreover, Camella in Dumaguete is nestled only a few minutes away from healthcare facilities, the best universities, shopping malls, parks, and other essential establishments.
Amenities that enhance life and style
Also complete with lifestyle amenities like parks, open spaces, a clubhouse, and a swimming pool, Camella’s community provides you with all the means to experience a high-quality lifestyle.
Come home to the most livable neighborhood in one of the Philippines’ most livable cities. Start your journey by visiting the property page for Camella in Dumaguete City.
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