Hubbry Logo
Calamba, LagunaCalamba, LagunaMain
Open search
Calamba, Laguna
Community hub
Calamba, Laguna
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Calamba, Laguna
Calamba, Laguna
Calamba, Laguna
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Calamba, officially the City of Calamba (Filipino: Lungsod ng Calamba), is a component city in the province of Laguna, Philippines. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 575,046 people.[6]

Key Information

Calamba is the regional center of the Calabarzon region. It is situated 50 kilometers (31 mi) south of Manila and 37 kilometers (23 mi) 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 2024 census, Calamba has a population of 575,046 people, making it the second most populous local government unit in Laguna.[7] 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.[8][9]

Calamba is the hometown of the de facto Philippine national hero, José Rizal.[10][11]

Etymology

[edit]

The name of the city is derived from Tagalog kalamba, meaning a wide-mouthed earthen water jar (also called balanga or banga, cf. Balanga, Bataan).[12][13][14] 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.[15][16]

History

[edit]

Early history

[edit]
Aerial view of Calamba landing field, circa 1940s

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.[17][18]

World War II

[edit]

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.[19] 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.[citation needed]

Cityhood

[edit]
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."[20] 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.[21]

Events leading to Cityhood

[edit]

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-Representative 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.[21]

Designation as regional center

[edit]

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.[22]

Geography

[edit]
Aerial view of Calamba

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, and by the province of Batangas to the south, specifically the cities of Tanauan and Santo Tomas. Laguna de Bay, the country's largest lake, forms the city's northeast border. The provincial capital, Santa Cruz, is located 37 kilometers (23 mi) by road to the east.

Calamba covers a total land area of 14,950 hectares (36,900 acres), making it is the second-largest city in Laguna province in terms of land area after San Pablo.

Land uses

[edit]
Classification[23] 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

[edit]
"Barandal" redirects here. For the Mexican literary journal, see Barandal (magazine).
Subdivision/Barangay map of Calamba.
Subdivision/Barangay map of Calamba based on Area Classification, green areas are Poblacion District in Calamba.

Calamba is politically subdivided into 54 barangays, as indicated in the matrix below.[24] Each barangay consists of puroks and some have sitios.

Barangays of Calamba
No. Barangay Barangay chairman Land Area (hectares) Population (2024) Population (2020) Classification Zoning Classification
1 Bagong Kalsada Clemente M. Manato 157.8 3,600 3,892 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
2 Bañadero Aries B. Hizon 190.0 14,957 12,647 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
3 Banlic January Y. Paraso 274.9 20,379 18,335 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
4 Barandal Cristina H. Rosales 189.3 19,326 18,076 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
5 Barangay 1 (Poblacion) Marcelino T. Tuballas 29.2 4,767 5,823 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
6 Barangay 2 (Poblacion) Joanne M. De Mesa 17.1 11,053 10,627 Urban Redevelopment Zone
7 Barangay 3 (Poblacion) Donnie P. Alvarez 29.8 4,060 4,537 Urban Redevelopment Zone
8 Barangay 4 (Poblacion) Joseph L. Emergo 4.5 3,230 3,301 Urban Redevelopment Zone
9 Barangay 5 (Poblacion) Matthew B. Rizal 25.6 5,384 5,858 Urban Redevelopment Zone
10 Barangay 6 (Poblacion) Juan Carlo C. Lazaro 42.3 2,757 1,693 Urban Redevelopment Zone
11 Barangay 7 (Poblacion) Victor A. Opaco 81.8 2,160 2,357 Urban Redevelopment Zone
12 Batino Pio C. Dimapilis 110.5 1,773 1,616 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
Urban Redevelopment Zone
13 Bubuyan Madell Donna C. Manaig 196.0 6,255 3,193 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
14 Bucal Gil B. Rimas 265.0 14,526 14,289 Urban Upland Conservation Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
15 Bunggo George F. Cabrera 556.6 4,694 4,437 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
16 Burol John Kenneth Vence L. Evangelista 258.2 5,524 3,551 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
17 Camaligan Victor E. de Castro 106.5 1,360 1,345 Rural Growth Management Zone 2
18 Canlubang Larry O. Dimayuga 3,912.0 68,780 60,292 Urban Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
19 Halang Aries O. Silva 166.7 8,776 8,582 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
20 Hornalan June M. Oña 22.0 1,945 2,053 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
21 Kay-Anlog Nemar G. Mendoza 272.0 21,095 20,487 Rural Growth Management Zone 2
22 La Mesa Eduardo R. Silva 294.1 18,808 17,569 Urban Upland Conservation Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
Growth Management Zone
23 Laguerta Eduardo M. Sanque 314.9 8,455 5,461 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
24 Lawa Emmanuel F. Nido 146.6 13,508 12,245 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
25 Lecheria Rommel P. Casintahan 157.5 12,194 10,907 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
26 Lingga Darwin C. Retusto 45.0 6,662 6,193 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
27 Looc Rustan T. Miranda 179.1 29,364 26,819 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
28 Mabato Luisito G. Manguiat 273.1 844 724 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
29 Majada Labas Rowel G. Fajardo 180.2 11,231 10,571 Urban Growth Management Zone 1
30 Makiling Aigrette P. Lajara 465.7 13,691 12,508 Rural Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
31 Mapagong Gil N. Naredo 320.8 7,057 7,254 Rural Urban Redevelopment Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
Growth Management Zone 1
32 Masili Rhonell C. Malabanan 32.1 3,863 3,827 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
33 Maunong Joselito S. Estrada 399.2 4,549 4,395 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
34 Mayapa Victoria T. Sumbillo 116.3 15,309 28,302 Urban Growth Management Zone 1
35 Milagrosa Randy M. Sulit 209.4 12,557 9,687 Urban Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
36 Paciano Rizal Napoleon V. Baradas 126.8 17,398 15,679 Urban Growth Management Zone 2
37 Palingon Jeffrey Q. 15.3 6,046 5,249 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
38 Palo-Alto Nelson C. Unico 273.7 19,279 18,874 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
39 Pansol Joel DR. Martinez 528.2 12,099 11,623 Urban Upland Conservation Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
Forest Buffer Zone
Agricultural Development Zone
40 Parian Rodnie P. Perez 112.0 27,378 25,558 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
Urban Redevelopment Zone
41 Prinza Marvin D. Atienza 95.3 5,034 5,284 Rural Urban Redevelopment Zone
Growth Management Zone 1
42 Punta Justino P. Carandang 331.0 8,639 7,321 Rural Growth Management Zone 1 & 2
43 Puting Lupa Allan S. Pedraja 542.0 2,390 2,389 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
Growth Management Zone 2
Forest Buffer Zone
44 Real Florencio A. Morales, Jr. 132.9 18,607 16,371 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
45 Saimsim Apolonio P. Manalo Jr. 194.5 6,776 6,166 Rural Growth Management Zone 1
46 Sampiruhan James Philip C. Dumalaon 81.0 9,740 9,466 Urban Agricultural Development Zone
47 San Cristobal Irineo T. Logo 119.0 15,096 14,881 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
48 San Jose Reginald C. Oliva 89.6 4,393 4,061 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
49 San Juan Danilo Q. Amparo 15.3 6,455 4,826 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
50 Sirang Lupa Ronaldo M. Contreras 198.4 12,636 12,938 Urban Growth Management Zone 1
51 Sucol Edgar A. Balagtas 31.6 5,255 5,233 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
52 Turbina Rodel V. Manalo 51.5 5,541 6,268 Urban Urban Redevelopment Zone
53 Ulango Andro M. Evangelista 227.6 1,067 1,060 Rural Upland Conservation Zone
54 Uwisan Catalina P. Aldabe 78.0 6,724 2,971 Urban Agricultural Development Zone

Climate

[edit]

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.

Climate data for Calamba (averages 1982–2012)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 29.3
(84.7) 		30.3
(86.5) 		31.9
(89.4) 		33.3
(91.9) 		33.5
(92.3) 		32.4
(90.3) 		31.4
(88.5) 		31
(88) 		31.1
(88.0) 		30.9
(87.6) 		30.3
(86.5) 		29.3
(84.7) 		31.2
(88.2)
Daily mean °C (°F) 25.4
(77.7) 		25.9
(78.6) 		27
(81) 		28.5
(83.3) 		28.9
(84.0) 		28.2
(82.8) 		27.5
(81.5) 		27.3
(81.1) 		27.3
(81.1) 		27.1
(80.8) 		26.6
(79.9) 		25.7
(78.3) 		27.1
(80.8)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 21.5
(70.7) 		21.5
(70.7) 		22.2
(72.0) 		23.5
(74.3) 		24.2
(75.6) 		24
(75) 		23.6
(74.5) 		23.6
(74.5) 		23.5
(74.3) 		23.3
(73.9) 		22.9
(73.2) 		22.2
(72.0) 		23.0
(73.4)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 54
(2.1) 		26
(1.0) 		29
(1.1) 		36
(1.4) 		160
(6.3) 		199
(7.8) 		290
(11.4) 		265
(10.4) 		245
(9.6) 		248
(9.8) 		141
(5.6) 		79
(3.1) 		1,772
(69.6)
Source: Climate-data.org[25]

Demographics

[edit]

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 census of Calamba
YearPop.±% p.a.
1903 8,058—    
1918 18,062+5.53%
1939 32,363+2.82%
1948 36,586+1.37%
1960 57,715+3.87%
1970 82,714+3.66%
1975 97,432+3.34%
1980 121,175+4.46%
1990 173,453+3.65%
1995 218,951+4.46%
2000 281,146+5.51%
2007 360,281+3.48%
2010 389,377+2.87%
2015 454,486+2.99%
2020 539,671+3.68%
2024 575,046+1.54%
Source: Philippine Statistics Authority[26][27][28][29][30]
Population density
Year Density
1990 1,160/km2
1995 1,460/km2
2000 1,900/km2
2007 2,400/km2
2010 2,600/km2
2015 3,000/km2
2020 3,600/km2

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%).[17]

Economy

[edit]

Poverty incidence of Calamba

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
2000
8.28
2003
3.12
2006
2.40
2009
2.01
2012
3.42
2015
2.99
2018
1.87
2021
3.97

Source: Philippine Statistics Authority[31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38]

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.[39] Calamba is also considered one of the "Next Wave Cities" for outsourcing firms.[40]

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

[edit]
Year Total income (COA)[41] Growth % Total Income (BLGF)[42] Growth %
2002 ₱810,569,652.58 ₱809,806,000.00
2003 ₱847,402,297.32 Increase 4.54% ₱1,046,621,000.00 Increase 29.24%
2004 ₱872,473,683.19 Increase 2.96% ₱921,272,904.23 Decrease −11.98%
2005 ₱1,035,488,459.60 Increase 18.68% ₱1,094,639,552.79 Increase 18.82%
2006 ₱1,110,330,981.73 Increase 7.23% ₱1,110,330,981.73 Increase 1.43%
2007 ₱1,161,438,445.76 Increase 4.60% ₱1,162,050,643.28 Increase 4.66%
2008 ₱1,338,299,724.69 Increase 15.23% ₱1,338,769,422.02 Increase 15.21%
2009 ₱1,580,699,818.00 Increase 18.11% ₱1,586,541,340.26 Increase 18.51%
2010 ₱1,634,025,898.00 Increase 3.37% ₱1,699,391,678.99 Increase 7.11%
2011 ₱1,952,122,303.00 Increase 19.47% ₱1,887,800,323.68 Increase 11.09%
2012 ₱2,023,350,771.00 Increase 3.65% ₱2,023,350,600.11 Increase 7.18%
2013 ₱2,191,286,734.00 Increase 8.30%
2014 ₱2,501,048,126.00 Increase14.14%

Banking

[edit]

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.[43]

Industries and manufacturing

[edit]
Calamba Premiere International Park

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:[44]

In 2019, a 2.16 MWp rooftop solar installation at New Zealand Creamery, located in Carmelray Industrial Park 1, was recognized with the Asian Power Award for Solar Power Project of the Year (Philippines).[45]

  • Allegis IT Park (Barangay Milagrosa)
  • Calamba Premiere International Park (Barangays Batino, Barandal and Prinza)
  • Canlubang Industrial Estate (Barangay Canlubang)
  • Carmelray Industrial Park 1 (Barangays Canlubang)
  • Carmelray Industrial Park 2 (Barangays Milagrosa & Punta)
  • Carmelray International Business Park (Barangay Canlubang)
  • Filinvest Technology Park (Barangays Punta, Burol, and Bubuyan)
  • Light Industry and Science Park of the Philippines II (Barangays Real and La Mesa)
  • NYK-TDG IT Park (Barangay Canlubang)
  • SMPIC Special Economic Zone (Barangay Paciano Rizal)
  • YTMI Realty Special Economic Zone (Barangay Makiling)

Information technology

[edit]

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

Commerce and trade

[edit]
Shopping malls
Checkpoint Mall in Paciano Rizal
iMall in Canlubang
SM City Calamba in Real

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 iMall Canlubang among others.

Food processing plants in Calamba like Zenith Foods Corporation (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

[edit]

Transportation

[edit]
Jeepneys at the Calamba Central Terminal
Calamba PNR Station

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

[edit]

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).[46]

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).[47]

  • Stop Light in Halang
    Stop Light in Halang
  • South Luzon Expressway (view from northbound) approaching Calamba Exit
    South Luzon Expressway (view from northbound) approaching Calamba Exit
  • Checkpoint, captured at Paseo De Calamba in Paciano Rizal
    Checkpoint, captured at Paseo De Calamba in Paciano Rizal

Health care

[edit]
CMC Medical Center & Tower in Barangay Real.

There are 9 private and 1 government-run hospitals in Calamba.[citation needed] 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

[edit]

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

[edit]

Local government

[edit]
Main article: Calamba City Council
City Mayor of Calamba, Laguna
Incumbent
Roseller H. Rizal
since June 30, 2022
Style(Mr.) Mayor, Mayor
ResidenceNew Calamba City Hall Building, Real, Calamba, Laguna
AppointerElected via popular vote
Term length3 years (maximum of three consecutive terms)
Inaugural holderMateo Elojorde
Formation1901

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.[48]

Elected officials

[edit]

The 2025 local elections in Calamba, held on May 2025, 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 2025–2028 term are:

Calamba city officials (2025–2028)
Name Party
House of Representatives
Charisse Anne C. Hernandez-Alcantara Lakas
City Mayor
Roseller "Ross" H.Rizal Lakas
City Vice Mayor
Angelito S. Lazaro, Jr. Lakas
City Councilors
Soliman B. Lajara PFP
Joselito G. Catindig Lakas
Leeanne P. Aldabe-Cortez Lakas
Doreen May F. Cabrera-Silva Lakas
Gerard Raymund R. Teruel Lakas
Maria Kathrina V. Silva-Evangelista Lakas
Christian Niño S. Lajara Lakas
Pursino C. Oruga Lakas
Arvin L. Manguiat Lakas
Pio C. Dimapilis Lakas
Moises E. Morales Lakas
Juan Carlo C. Lazaro Lakas
Ex Officio City Council Members
ABC President Eduardo R. Silva (La Mesa)
SK President Rally R. Bustria (Barangay 5)

List of former chief executives

[edit]

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.[49] Their names were:

  • Juan de la Cruz (1742–1743)
  • Juan Macasadia (1743–1744)
  • Marcos de los Santos (1744–1745)
  • Santiago de Leon (1745–1746)
  • Balthazar Hocson (1746–1747)
  • Ygnacio Hilario (1747–1748)
  • Andres de Ocampo (1748–1749)
  • Domingo de los Santos (1749–1750)
  • Melchor de los Reyes (1750–1751)
  • Juan de la Cruz Punga (1751)
  • Cristobal de Leon (1752)
  • Francisco Kalangitan (1753)
  • Pedro Blas (1754)
  • Francisco Alipio (1755)
  • Juan Ariliano (1756)
  • Martin de los Santos (1757)
  • Fernando de los Santos (1758)
  • Apolinario de Ribera (1759; 1766; 1779–1780)
  • Jose Acagada (1760)
  • Luis Rufino (1761; 1763)
  • Antonio Matangihan (1762)
  • Mariano Alcantara (1764)
  • Pedro Atanacio Bance (1765)
  • Tomas de la Cruz (1767)
  • Manuel de la Cruz (1768)
  • Jose del Espiritu Santo (1769–1770)
  • Mateo (Lis.), Melchor (Alv.), Alejo (Ale.), de Torres, Domingo Feliciano (Ale. Ll.) – (1770–1771)
  • Baltazar Paseo (Pacio) – (1771–1772)
  • José de Sta. Ana (Alv.) de Sta. María (Ale.) – (1772–1773)
  • Pablo de S. José (1773–1774)
  • Pedro Claudio (1774–1775)
  • Juan Mariano Rufino (1775–1776)
  • Salvador José Montero (Ale.) Monterey (Alv.) Alontereyes (Ll.) – (1776–1777)
  • Mateo Marcos (1777–1778)
  • Ygnacio de los Santos (1778–1779)
  • Antonio Matangihan (1780–1781)
  • Mateo Marcos (1781–1782)
  • Santiago Rufino (1782–1783)
  • Juan Francisco (1783–1784)
  • José Diego (1784–1785)
  • Pedro Pablo de San José (1785–1786)
  • Antonio Villanueva (1786–1788)
  • Baltazar Paseo (1787–1789)
  • José de los Reyes (1788–1790)
  • Vicente Feliz Cocson (1789–1791)
  • Agustín Tolentino (1790–1792)
  • Manuel de Santo Tomás (1791–1793)
  • Agustín de la Cruz (1793–1794)
  • Feliz de la Cruz (1794–1795)
  • Feliciano Celisuerte (1795–1796)
  • Ventura del Espíritu Santo (1796–1797)
  • Manuel Jauregui (1797–1798)
  • Alejandro Gatsalian (1798–1799)
  • Eugenio de San Gabriel (1799–1800)
  • Esteban de los Santos (1800–1801)
  • Romualdo Roberto (1801–1802; 1809–1810)
  • Leonardo Feliciano (1802–1803)
  • Juan Rufino Manuel (1803–1804)
  • Agustín Alejandro (1804–1805)
  • Juan Aragón (1805–1806)
  • Vicente Pabalan (1806–1807)
  • Bernardino Antonio (1807–1808)
  • Eugenio de San Gabriel (1808–1809)
  • Juan Manuel Rufino (1810–1811)
  • Policarpo Cuevas (1811–1812)
  • Adriano Felix (1812–1813)
  • Zacarias Sarmiento (1813–1814)
  • Carlos de Leon (1814–1815)
  • Leonardo Feliciano (1815–1816)
  • Gaspar de los Reyes (1816–1817)
  • Pedro Francisco (1817–1818)
  • Francisco Eugenio (1818–1819)
  • Ysidoro de la Cruz (1819–1820)
  • Adriano Felix (1820–1821)
  • Juan Ygnacio (1821–1822)
  • Mariano Quintero and Juan Aragón (1822–1823)
  • Santiago Eulalia and Florentino Ustaris (1823–1824)
  • Atanasio Jauregui and Pedro Eugenio (1824–1825)
  • Joseph Salgado (1825–1826)
  • Mariano Quintero (1826–1827)
  • Atanasio Jauregui (1827–1828;1831–1832)
  • Pedro Francisco (1828–1829)
  • Santiago Eulalia (1829–1830)
  • Elias Ustaris (1830–1831)
  • Juan de Villanueva (Alv.) (1832)
  • Florentino Ustaris (1833; 1841)
  • Juan Villanueva de Aragón (1834)
  • Francisco de San Diego (1832–1834)
  • Juan de los Angeles (1835; 1840; 1843; 1855)
  • Ysidoro Villanueva (1836)
  • Mariano Quintero (1837)
  • Aniceto Julian (1838)
  • Domingo Feliciano (1839)
  • Crispín Gabino (1842)
  • Ambrosio Pabalan (1844; 1858)
  • Elias Ustaris (1845)
  • Juan de Villanueva (1846)
  • Paulino Quintero (1847;1852)
  • Bruno de San Gabriel (1848)
  • Juan Bernaldo (1849–1850)
  • Tranquilino Gonzalez Hervosa (1851;1856)
  • Gisberto Jauregui (1853)
  • Juan Salgado (1854; 1857; 1863–1864)
  • Francisco Elefaño (1859;1861; 1865–1866; 1875–1876)
  • Estanislao Hervosa (1860)
  • Juan Banatin (1862; 1867–1868)
  • Gervasio Alviar (1869–1870; 1883)
  • Calixto Llamas (1871)
  • Andres Salgado (1872)
  • Lucas Quintero (1873–1874; 1891)
  • Francisco Salgado (1877–1878)
  • Luis Elásegui (1879–1880)
  • Matias Belarrnino (1881–1882)
  • Lucas Quintero (1884)
  • Luis Habaña (1885–1886)
  • Nicolas Llamas (1887)
  • Francisco Elefaño (1888)
  • Eusebio Elefaño (1889)
  • Matias Belarmino (1889–1890)

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:[18]

  • Mateo Elejorde (1901–1904)
  • Isidoro Cailles (1904–1907)
  • Ramon Santos (1907–1910)
  • Rafael Pabalan (1910–1917)
  • Anastacio Rubio[50] (1917–1919)
  • Roman D. Lazaro (1919–1922; 1931–1934; 1938–1941; 1945–1946[50])
  • Felipe Belarmino (1923–1925; 1926–1928; 1929–1931; 1941–1942[50])
  • Eduardo A. Barretto (1935–1937)
  • Enrique G. Shinyo (1942)
  • Artemio M. Elepano (1942–1943)
  • Sisenando V. Rizal Sr. (1943–1944;[50] 1948–1951;1952–1954)
  • Exequiel Geneciran (1944–1945)
  • Severino Q. Arambulo (1946–1947; 1956–1959; 1967–1971)[51]
  • Pantaleon Alihan (1954–1955)
  • Taciano V. Rizal (1960–1967; 1971–1975)
  • Eduardo T. Yu Jr. (1975–1980)
  • Salvador E. Delmo (1980–1986)
  • Apolonio A. Elazegui (1986–1987)
  • Victoriano Chipeco (1987–1988)
  • Jesus Miguel Yulo (1988–1994)
  • Severino J. Lajara (1994–2004)
  • Joaquin M. Chipeco Jr. (2004–2013)
  • Justin Marc S.B. Chipeco (2013–2022)
  • Roseller H. Rizal (2022–present)

City seal

[edit]
Official Calamba city seal
Official Calamba 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.[52]

  • Shield shape – The shield shape in the center, with a slight circular bottom, flat top and curved edges at the top corners project solidity and congruence.
  • Banga shaped twined with Dr. Jose Rizal's image – The historical ambience is depicted in this twin image. The abstract represents the influence of Dr. Jose Rizal and the Banga in the history of the City of Calamba.
  • Numbers – the engraved "1742" mentions the year when Calamba was founded and seceded from the town of Cabuyao, while "2001" was identified as the year of Calamba's cityhood.
  • Objects – the mountain in the background and the water current at the bottom part relate to land and water resources of the city pertain to the vast natural resources of Mount Makiling and the aquatic benefits of Laguna de Bay. The water beneath Mt. Makiling shows that Calamba touches a body of water notably Laguna de Bay, the largest lake in the country, and that's why Calamba is also known as the "City by the Lake". The silhouette image of rice field on the left and the industrial buildings on the right symbolizing Calamba's rapid modernization, urbanization, and industrialization. With both signs located beside each other, it shows everyone that nature and progress can efficiently coexist in Calamba.
  • Colors – Except for silver grey and metallic gold, all others are similar with the national seal. However, additional meanings are attached to each.
  • Metallic gold – This represents the radiating image of Dr. Jose Rizal and Banga that reflects in the minds and deeds of Calambeños.
  • Red – This symbolizes the burning patriotism of residents as exemplified by Rizal.
  • Blue – As land and water represent wealth and prosperity, the color blue signifies productivity and tranquility of the constituents.
  • Silver grey – This represents the transformation of development from an agricultural pueblo in the 1700s to an agro-industrial town in the 1900s and finally to an industrial city.
  • White – This projects purity, transparency, efficiency and prudence pertaining to governance.
  • Calamba has a golden edge etched at the upper half with the words Lungsod ng Calamba depicting Calamba as a Philippine component city. Laguna at the bottom part means that Calamba is still part of Laguna province.

Tourism

[edit]
  • Calamba City Hall
    Calamba City Hall
  • Calamba Claypot
    Calamba Claypot
  • Republic Wakepark Canlubang
    Republic Wakepark Canlubang
  • Rizal Shrine
    Rizal Shrine
  • Calamba City Plaza
    Calamba City Plaza
  • Calamba Veteran's Monument
    Calamba Veteran's Monument

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 22 feet (6.7 m) 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,[53] 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

[edit]

Festivals

[edit]

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.[citation needed]

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.[citation needed]

Education

[edit]
City College of Calamba

Calamba has a literacy rate of 98.9%. As of 2007, 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.[17]

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

[edit]

Sister cities

[edit]

Local

[edit]

International

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Calamba, Laguna

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Calamba, officially the of Calamba, is a 1st class component in the province of Laguna, region, . As of the 2020 , it had a population of 539,671 residents across 54 barangays. The , established as a pueblo in 1742 and converted to a city in 2001, lies approximately 50 kilometers south of and functions as a key economic center in the region, driven by manufacturing industries, services, and . Calamba is renowned as the birthplace of , the , born there on June 19, 1861. This historical association draws visitors to sites such as the Rizal Shrine, his ancestral home preserved as a national landmark, alongside natural attractions including hot springs and views of . Economically, the city hosts numerous industrial estates and factories, contributing significantly to Laguna's status as the top provincial economy in the , with major income sources from , like and , and burgeoning service sectors including . Despite rapid urbanization and population growth, Calamba maintains a focus on green development and resilience, as outlined in its municipal vision.

Etymology

Name derivation and historical usage

The name Calamba derives from the Tagalog term kalamba, denoting a wide-mouthed earthen water also known as balanga or banga. A prevalent attributes the name to a misunderstanding during early Spanish contact: two soldiers, seeking directions, asked a local woman the place's name; she reportedly pointed to her clay (kalan) and (banga), replying "kalan-banga," which the rendered as "Calamba." Alternative theories propose origins from calambâ, a resinous wood (Lignum aloes), aligning with East Indies naming conventions based on local flora, though evidence for its prevalence in the area is limited. No primary historical documents definitively confirm the etymology, with accounts relying on oral traditions rather than written records. The name entered official records by August 28, 1742, when Calamba was constituted as an independent pueblo, separating from Cabuyao in Laguna province. It has persisted through Spanish, American, and postcolonial eras, symbolized in the city's seal by a superimposed water jar and in the central plaza's Banga landmark commemorating the jar motif.

History

Pre-colonial and early Spanish settlement

Prior to Spanish colonization, the area encompassing modern Calamba featured indigenous Tagalog settlements along the shores of , where communities engaged in , , and networks extending to Chinese merchants. The earliest known settlement within Calamba's bounds is believed to have been in Sucol, located approximately six kilometers from the current city proper, reflecting the dispersed structure typical of pre-colonial Tagalog society. Spanish forces first encountered established Tagalog populations in the Laguna region during explorations in 1571, including communities trading along Laguna de Bay's fertile coastal areas. Upon conquest, the lands were incorporated into the and systems, with Calamba's territory initially administered as part of Tabuco (present-day ). This early colonial phase emphasized resource extraction from the volcanic soils, supplying food and goods to , while friars and secular authorities oversaw land distribution. Calamba gained autonomy as an independent on August 28, 1742, separating from amid growing population and administrative needs. The formal establishment of the town occurred in , marking the consolidation of Spanish municipal governance. By 1813, Dominican friars placed the area under encargados for management, intensifying operations but also sowing seeds for later agrarian disputes over .

Colonial agrarian conflicts

The Hacienda de Calamba, encompassing much of present-day Calamba and surrounding areas in Laguna province, was acquired by the Dominican Order through royal grants and purchases dating back to the early Spanish colonial era, forming a vast estate worked by local tenants under usufruct arrangements. By the late 19th century, the Dominicans controlled approximately one-tenth of improved arable land in the Philippines alongside other orders, with tenancy in Calamba marked by escalating rents amid stagnant agricultural yields. Tensions intensified in 1883 when friar administrators began demanding rental payments without issuing customary receipts, prompting complaints from tenants including the Mercado-Rizal family, who held cultivated plots under long-standing claims. These practices persisted into 1885, as tenants withheld payments citing unacknowledged arrears and arbitrary fee hikes, which the friars attributed to covering estate maintenance and religious endowments. The dispute formalized between 1887 and 1891, evolving into a legal over land titles, where tenants petitioned Spanish authorities to validate indigenous possession predating friar claims, while the Dominicans defended their ownership via documented transfers from secular estates. In February , Calamba tenants collectively refused rent payments, leading the friars to initiate lawsuits for recovery; , responding to his brother Paciano's appeals, compiled a detailed report for Emilio Terrero in , enumerating production shortfalls, rent escalations from fixed hereditary rates to variable assessments, and alleged administrative graft. Despite appeals to bodies like the Spanish Cortes and , the colonial administration under Valeriano ruled in favor of the friars in 1890, validating their titles and ordering evictions. Evictions commenced in December 1890, displacing over 400 families—including the Rizals, whose properties were demolished—resulting in socioeconomic upheaval and migration, with affected parties relocating to nearby towns or abroad. The conflict highlighted systemic land monopolies, where tenants bore fixed obligations regardless of harvests or market conditions, exacerbating grievances amid a tobacco monopoly collapse and cash-crop shifts. While advocates cited historical endowments for support, tenant records indicated de facto hereditary cultivation rights eroded by post-1860s rent revisions, fueling broader anti-clerical agitation without resolution until the disrupted colonial enforcement.

American era and World War II

Following the Treaty of Paris in December 1898, which ceded the Philippines from Spain to the United States, Calamba came under American military governance as part of Laguna province, with pacification efforts concluding local resistance by early 1900. The American colonial administration prioritized infrastructure and education, establishing public schools and improving road networks to connect Calamba to Manila and surrounding areas, fostering agricultural exports like sugar from local haciendas. A pivotal development addressed the Dominican Order's longstanding control over the vast de Calamba, which had fueled tenant disputes since the Spanish era; under the Friar Lands Act (Act No. 1120) of 1904, the U.S. government purchased estates nationwide, including the Calamba hacienda, for resale to occupants, with surveys and subdivisions completed by 1905 to enable individual landownership. This policy distributed approximately 166,000 acres of former Dominican lands in Laguna to Filipino tenants on installment terms, reducing influence and promoting economic stability through private farming. The saw military buildup at Camp Paciano Rizal (later renamed Camp Vicente Lim) in Calamba, established as a training facility in the 1930s under U.S. oversight, where Filipino officers like Brigadier General —born locally in 1888—prepared forces amid rising tensions. Japanese forces occupied Calamba in January 1942 following the invasion of Luzon, imposing harsh control with forced labor and resource extraction, while local guerrillas conducted sabotage against Imperial Army supply lines in Laguna. As U.S. Sixth Army units, including the 11th Airborne Division, advanced southward in early 1945, retreating Japanese troops escalated reprisals; on February 12, 1945, soldiers rounded up and executed around 2,000 male civilians in Barangay Real in the Doce de Pebrero massacre, one of multiple atrocities amid their withdrawal toward Manila. This event preceded the February 23 raid on nearby Los Baños internment camp by 11th Airborne paratroopers and Filipino guerrillas, after which further civilian killings occurred in Laguna amid battles on Mount Makiling's slopes. Calamba was fully liberated by April 1945, with a monument later erected honoring local World War II veterans.

Post-independence development

Following Philippine independence in 1946, Calamba underwent post-war reconstruction amid widespread devastation from , with local leadership under figures such as Severino Q. Arambulo (1946–1947) focusing on rebuilding infrastructure like the municipal building and cemetery initiated earlier but maintained into the period. remained the economic backbone, centered on , corn, vegetables, and a sugar cane mill that operated until its closure amid the national sugar industry's decline in the 1970s and 1980s. The 1970s marked a pivot toward industrialization as part of the national development strategy to alleviate Metro Manila's congestion, bolstered by the opening of the in 1976, which enhanced connectivity and spurred the establishment of the area's first by 1980. Under mayors like Taciano V. Rizal (1972–1975) and Eduardo T. Yu, Jr. (1975–1980), Calamba attracted manufacturing investments, transitioning from agrarian reliance to an emerging industrial hub with factories in , automotive parts, and . By the 1980s and 1990s, economic momentum accelerated, with business establishments recording an average annual growth rate of 7.85% from 1988 to 1996 and municipal income rising at 40% annually starting in 1988, reaching P45.3–54.5 million. Key projects included the Carmelray Industrial Park in 1990, developed on former , alongside sustained from hot springs resorts and the reconstructed Rizal Shrine (1950), drawing visitors and supporting service sector expansion under leaders like Severino J. Lajara (1994–2004). This period saw rapid population influx driven by job opportunities, laying the groundwork for urban expansion while persisted in rural barangays.

Path to cityhood and regional center status

Calamba's pursuit of cityhood involved legislative advocacy lasting over seven years, driven by local leaders seeking enhanced administrative autonomy and economic development. House Bill No. 10661, introduced on April 10, 2000, proposed converting the municipality into a component city. This effort resulted in Republic Act No. 9024, enacted on March 5, 2001, which officially converted Calamba into the City of Calamba, making it the second component city in Laguna province after San Pablo. The conversion required ratification via plebiscite, scheduled by the Commission on Elections and conducted on April 21, 2001, following intensive public campaigns to inform residents of the benefits, including improved and . The measure passed, marking a pivotal shift that enabled Calamba to address rapid and more effectively, with the city's land area encompassing 149.50 square kilometers supporting over 539,000 residents by recent counts. Subsequently, Calamba attained regional center status for Region IV-A () through No. 246, issued by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on October 28, 2003. This designation aimed to streamline inter-agency coordination and service delivery across , Laguna, , Rizal, and provinces by centralizing regional offices in Calamba, leveraging its strategic location 50 kilometers south of and proximity to major economic corridors. The move facilitated the development of the Regional Government Center, established as the ' first integrated one-stop government hub housing over 50 agencies.

Contemporary events and achievements

In 2024, Calamba City was honored with a national award for outstanding financial growth, securing a position among the top five local government units in the based on revenue performance and fiscal management metrics. Mayor Roseller Rizal credited this and other recent accomplishments to enhanced peace and order initiatives, which reduced crime rates and supported business expansion as of August 2024. The city's Public Employment Service Office (PESO) received an international award in April 2025 for exemplary delivery, highlighted at a global conference for efficient job matching and labor programs serving over 10,000 residents annually. In healthcare, Calamba Medical Center was named "Hospital of the Year" at the 2025 Metro Pacific Health CEO Summit, recognizing its advancements in patient care and operational efficiency amid a 15% increase in service volume since 2023. A collaborative initiative between Calamba City and the Los Baños earned the 2025 Partnership of the Year Award, presented in for joint efforts in sustainable and projects impacting 5,000 local farmers. Infrastructure developments include the ongoing Calamba-Bay Bypass Road project, approved in regional plans to cut travel times by up to 45 minutes and boost connectivity for industrial zones as part of CALABARZON's 2023-2028 growth strategy. Culturally, the Buhayani Festival, an annual event commemorating Jose Rizal's heroism, has garnered national acclaim, including the Department of Tourism's "Best Tourism Cultural Festival" recognition for promoting local heritage and drawing over 50,000 visitors in recent editions. In 2025, the city revived the Ginoo at Binibining Calamba pageant after a nine-year hiatus, integrating it into festival programming to highlight youth leadership and community values.

Geography

Physical location and terrain

Calamba is positioned in Laguna province, Calabarzon region, southern Luzon island, Philippines, at coordinates 14°13′N 121°10′E. The city center lies approximately 54 kilometers south-southeast of Manila, with a total land area of 149.50 square kilometers. It functions as the regional government center for Calabarzon and borders Laguna de Bay to the north, Mount Makiling's foothills to the southwest, and other Laguna municipalities including Los Baños and Bay. The terrain consists primarily of flat to gently undulating plains suitable for urban and agricultural development, with elevations ranging from near in low-lying areas to an average of about 100 meters. Adjacent to the city, rises prominently to 1,090 meters, forming a forested volcanic massif with geothermal features including hot springs and part of the 4,244-hectare Mount Makiling Forest Reserve that extends into Calamba. This proximity to the dormant volcano of the influences local hydrology and provides a backdrop of hilly to mountainous relief contrasting the city's central lowlands.

Administrative divisions and land utilization

Calamba City is politically subdivided into 54 , the basic political or administrative divisions in the Philippines, of which 37 are classified as urban and 17 as rural. These serve as the primary units for local governance, community services, and development planning, with each typically led by an elected and council. The city encompasses a total land area of 14,480 hectares. As of 2015, existing land uses reflected a mix of urban expansion, , and conservation, with dominating at 31.45% of the total area, followed by residential at 28.16% and open/idle land at 20.83%. Industrial uses accounted for 7.82%, concentrated in economic zones such as the Canlubang Industrial Estate, while forest areas—including the Makiling Forest Reservation and buffer zones—comprised about 6.74%.
Land Use CategoryArea (hectares)Percentage
Residential4,078.1828.16%
Agricultural4,554.4531.45%
Open/Idle3,016.2220.83%
Industrial1,132.847.82%
Forest (Makiling Reservation)591.944.09%
Forest Buffer Zone384.432.65%
Commercial335.342.32%
Institutional144.721.00%
Parks & Recreation126.050.87%
Others (e.g., socialized , cemetery)~150~1.04%
This distribution, derived from the city's Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) 2017-2026, underscores ongoing pressures, with built-up areas expanding from prior decades due to industrial growth and population influx, while agricultural and forested lands face conversion risks. The CLUP designates zones like Urban Redevelopment (2,080 ha), Growth Management Areas (totaling ~6,659 ha), and Upland Conservation (3,401 ha) to balance development with preservation.

Climate patterns and natural resources

Calamba exhibits a characterized by high temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. Average annual temperatures range from a low of 22°C to a high of 34°C, with minimal seasonal variation due to its equatorial proximity. The , spanning June to October, brings heavy rainfall peaking at approximately 427 mm in July over 19 rainy days, driven by southwest monsoons and typhoons. In contrast, the dry season from November to May features lower precipitation, with February as the driest month, supporting agricultural activities amid consistent humidity levels around 80%. Natural resources in Calamba are predominantly geothermal and forest-based, leveraging its volcanic terrain. The area is renowned for hot springs, particularly in Barangay Pansol, sourced from geothermal activity beneath , which supplies mineral-rich waters for resorts and potential energy uses. These springs result from subsurface heat heating groundwater, with exploitation raising concerns over sustainable extraction rates amid resort development. Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, partially encompassing Calamba, serves as a key and watershed, covering dipterocarp, mid-mountain, and mossy forests that harbor endemic and , including rare dipterocarp . This reserve functions ecologically by preventing , regulating for domestic, agricultural, and industrial needs, though natural forest cover has declined to 1.92 kha by 2020, with ongoing losses of 4 ha in 2024 equivalent to 699 tons of CO₂ emissions. Agricultural resources include , coconuts, and bananas, integral to Laguna's output, though in Calamba limits extensive farming. Volcanic minerals contribute to the region's geothermal potential, but extraction remains underdeveloped compared to tourism-driven utilization.

Demographics

Population dynamics and census data

According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing by the , Calamba City had a total population of 539,671 persons, distributed across 54 barangays. This figure marked a 32% increase from the 408,928 residents recorded in the 2015 census, reflecting an average annual growth rate of approximately 5.4% over the five-year interval, driven primarily by net in-migration linked to industrial employment opportunities and urban expansion. Historical census data illustrate sustained population expansion, accelerating in the late 20th and early 21st centuries amid Laguna's integration into the economic corridor. From a modest base of 8,058 inhabitants in the 1903 , the reached 389,377 by 2010, representing a cumulative increase of over 4,700% across more than a century, with the most rapid phases post-1990 coinciding with the establishment of export-oriented manufacturing zones.
Census YearPopulationAbsolute ChangeAnnual Growth Rate (approx.)
19038,058--
2010389,377+381,3194.2% (1903–2010 average)
2015408,928+19,5511.0%
2020539,671+130,7435.7%
The table above summarizes key census benchmarks from records, highlighting deceleration during the 2010–2015 period possibly attributable to temporary economic slowdowns and out-migration for opportunities, followed by rebound through 2020 via sustained industrial inflows. Population density stood at 3,874 persons per square kilometer in 2020, underscoring intense pressures on the city's 139.3 km² land area. Recent projections estimate continued growth to around 595,000 by 2025, contingent on infrastructure expansions and job creation in adjacent sectors, though official mid-decade updates remain pending from the PSA.

Socioeconomic and cultural composition

Calamba's population is composed primarily of ethnic Tagalogs, reflecting the linguistic and cultural dominance of Tagalog speakers in Laguna province, where over 90% of residents identify with this ethnolinguistic group based on regional demographic patterns. This homogeneity stems from historical settlement patterns in southern Luzon, with minimal reported indigenous or migrant minorities altering the core composition. Religiously, the city remains overwhelmingly Roman Catholic, with 89.72% of residents affiliated as of 2010 municipal records, supplemented by small Protestant (approximately 10%) and Muslim (0.26%) communities. Cultural practices are deeply intertwined with Catholic traditions, including feast days and processions, alongside secular observances tied to national hero Rizal's birthplace, which emphasize themes of heroism and civic duty in local festivals and community gatherings. Socioeconomically, Calamba features a skewed toward and services, driven by proximity to industrial zones, resulting in elevated income levels relative to rural Philippine averages. The encompassing region reported a 10.9% poverty incidence among families in 2023, a decline from prior years and well below the national rate, indicative of Calamba's contributory urban dynamics. aligns with regional highs, where basic reaches 90% and functional 80% among ages 10-64, supporting skilled labor participation despite uneven access in peripheral barangays. Household incomes benefit from Laguna's robust GDP growth of 5.0% in 2024, fostering a burgeoning middle class amid ongoing urbanization.

Economy

Overall growth and sectoral contributions

Calamba City's economy has demonstrated steady expansion, with local government revenues increasing from PHP 1.7 billion in 2012 to PHP 2.59 billion in 2015, reflecting robust fiscal growth driven by industrial and commercial activities. As one of Laguna province's leading urban centers, Calamba contributes significantly to the province's overall economic output, which recorded a 5.0 percent GDP growth in 2024, up from 3.9 percent in 2023, with the city ranking among the top municipal contributors alongside Santa Rosa and . This growth aligns with Calamba's classification as a first-class component city and its top ranking in economic dynamism among CALABARZON's component cities as of 2020 assessments. The manufacturing sector forms the cornerstone of Calamba's economic structure, hosting numerous industrial companies and 234 registered manufacturing establishments as of December 2015, which leverage the city's strategic location in the region for export-oriented production. This mirrors Laguna's broader industry dominance, accounting for 59.2 percent of provincial output in recent data, fueled by , , and assembly operations that attract foreign and domestic investments. Services, including retail, manpower supply, and metal crafting, provide supplementary contributions, while tourism—bolstered by sites like the Rizal Shrine and resorts—adds to revenue diversification. Agriculture remains a smaller but foundational sector, centered on , corn, , and root crops, supporting security and rural livelihoods amid urban encroachment. Overall, these sectors underpin Calamba's role in Laguna's 1.08 trillion GDP share in 2024, with industry and services driving the majority of value addition despite agriculture's modest input.

Industrial and manufacturing base

Calamba's industrial and base is anchored in special economic zones registered with the (PEZA), which provide incentives such as tax holidays and streamlined regulations to attract in light and medium industries. The primary hubs include the 80.5-hectare Calamba Premiere International Park (CPIP), established in 1999 and focused on technology-based , and the newer 25-hectare Innovation Park Ciudad de Calamba (FIPC), launched in 2025 to support high-value sectors like semiconductors, electric vehicle components, and precision engineering. Key sectors encompass electronics assembly, automotive parts production, and consumer goods , contributing to Laguna province's industry-led economic expansion, which accounted for 49% of CALABARZON's in recent years. Prominent locators in CPIP include Philippines Manufacturing Corporation, specializing in and electronics production, and Avon Products Manufacturing Inc., which operates a and skincare facility producing millions of units annually and featuring Asia's first solar-powered Avon plant, reducing carbon emissions by 160 tonnes yearly. Automotive suppliers such as THN Autoparts Philippines Inc., Asaba Manufacturing Phils. Inc., and Philippines also maintain operations, focusing on components and assembly for export markets. These facilities employ thousands in skilled labor, driving local GDP contributions amid challenges like rising power costs that constrained sector growth to below 5% in 2024-2025, yet new developments in the Calamba-Laguna corridor signal ongoing expansion with 400 hectares of additional industrial space planned through 2027. PEZA-registered enterprises in Calamba emphasize environmental compliance, with studies highlighting green governance practices among locators to align with goals.

Agricultural and service sectors

Agriculture in Calamba occupies approximately 7,785 hectares, representing 69.1% of the city's total land area of 11,254 hectares, though much of this has shifted toward and industry. Crop production spans 5,657 hectares, with cultivated on 142 hectares, corn on 260 hectares, and other crops—including as a major product, fruit trees, , and root crops—covering 4,785 hectares; root crops alone account for 475 hectares. The city's One Town One Product (OTOP) initiative promotes production through marketing partnerships, such as with , while irrigation coverage has expanded to 92 hectares. The service sector in Calamba encompasses , (BPO), and local commerce, supplementing the dominant manufacturing base. draws visitors to historical sites like the Rizal Shrine, St. John the Baptist Church, and resorts, with the city receiving 103,503 domestic tourists annually—28.9% of Laguna province's total—and earning recognition as CALABARZON's Tourism Destination of the Year in 2024 for its cultural and recreational offerings. BPO operations provide significant employment, with multiple firms like NEXTVAS Inc. and Staff Callture Incorporated based in the city, supporting , sales, and back-office functions amid thousands of local job openings in the sector. Additional services include manpower services and metal crafting, contributing to the city's economic diversification.

Recent expansions in technology and infrastructure

In 2023, Land Inc. announced the expansion of its Technology Park in Ciudad de Calamba, Laguna, adding the 25-hectare Innovation Park – Ciudad de Calamba (FIP-CDC), a PEZA-registered ecozone designed for technology, light manufacturing, and operations. This development, inaugurated on August 28, 2025, builds on the original 50-hectare park established in 2002 and aims to attract locators in high-tech industries by offering modern facilities, sustainable design features, and proximity to major transport links like the . Calamba's role as a hub for and (IT-BPM) has been bolstered by its two PEZA-recognized IT parks, including the Allegis IT Park and NYK-Treasury Management Center, which support the Laguna cluster's designation under the government's Digital Cities 2025 initiative for fostering growth. In September 2025, InfiniVAN Inc. partnered with Calamba International Park (CPIP), an 80.5-hectare industrial estate focused on technology-based enterprises, to deploy fiber optic infrastructure, enhancing high-speed internet connectivity for tenants and enabling advanced digital services such as and . These expansions align with broader Laguna provincial efforts to upgrade and digital , including ongoing investments in widening and bridge construction under national programs, which have improved for Calamba's tech and industrial sectors since 2020. However, challenges persist, such as the need for sustained power reliability and skilled labor pipelines, as noted in plans prioritizing inclusive innovation over rapid but uneven growth.

Infrastructure

Transportation systems and connectivity

Calamba's road network forms the backbone of its transportation system, integrating national highways with local routes for regional connectivity. The city connects directly to the via the Calamba Exit (Exit 50), which serves as a primary gateway for travel to and from and southern provinces, spanning the expressway's extension toward Sto. Tomas, . Key national roads include the Maharlika Highway, part of the (N1), and the Calamba–Santa Cruz–Famy Junction Road (approximately 10.84 km, primarily concrete-surfaced), facilitating links to neighboring areas like and Santa Cruz. Local improvements, such as the 1.4 km widening of C.A. Yulo Avenue to 14 meters with four lanes completed in 2023, enhance urban mobility. Public transport options include jeepneys, vans, and buses operating from terminals like SM City Calamba and Turbina, alongside rail services at Calamba Station on the (PNR) South Main Line. PNR commuter trains connect Calamba to (via transfers at stations like San Pedro) and relaunched routes to , , with fares starting at ₱20 for short segments and trips to taking about 1 hour 40 minutes at ₱27–50. Bus services, such as from Turbina to 's Cubao, run hourly with journeys of 1 hour 38 minutes at ₱100–120. These modes support daily commuting but face challenges from high vehicle volumes on key arteries. Connectivity to major hubs emphasizes ground access, with Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) 47 km north, reachable in 1–2 hours via SLEX buses, PNR with transfers, or private vehicles. Ongoing infrastructure projects, including the 15.069 km Calamba–Bay Bypass Road (four-lane tollway from Canlubang to Bay, groundbreaking June 2025) and the Asian Development Bank-supported Laguna Lakeshore Road Network, aim to reduce congestion and bolster resilience in the southern Manila corridor by providing alternative express routes.

Healthcare and public services

Calamba hosts multiple private hospitals delivering a range of medical services, including care, diagnostics, and specialized treatments. The Calamba Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare from diagnostics to inpatient services. The Calamba Doctors' Hospital, established in 1994, operates an , and imaging facilities, and a 24-hour room. Other facilities include the Global Care Medical Center of , which focuses on elevating healthcare infrastructure in semi-rural settings, and the Pamana Medical Center, offering general medical consultations and services. Public health initiatives are managed by the Calamba City Health Office, which regulates healthcare facilities, administers assistance programs, and promotes services such as immunizations and maternal care. The office collaborates with national agencies like PhilHealth for coverage in accredited providers. In May 2024, Republic Act No. 12208 established the Calamba General Hospital as a public facility to expand access to affordable care, addressing gaps in specialized public services. Broader public services encompass social welfare, safety, and administrative support through city government departments. The City General Services Office oversees maintenance of public infrastructure and delivery of essential utilities-related assistance. The Public Order and Safety Office manages traffic enforcement, emergency response via its , and special operations to maintain civic order. Social services include benefits processing and senior citizen programs, often in partnership with entities like the for medical missions.

Utilities, energy, and digital access

Calamba's is primarily managed by the Calamba Water District (CWD), a local government-owned entity responsible for providing potable and services to residential, commercial, and industrial users across the city. Established under Presidential Decree No. 198, CWD operates treatment facilities and distribution networks sourced from local and , serving over 30,000 active connections as of recent reports. Electricity distribution in Calamba is handled by the Manila Electric Company (), which delivers power from the national grid managed by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) for transmission. The city benefits from infrastructure enhancements, including a P727 million NGCP substation approved in 2020 to alleviate congestion and reduce outage risks from overloaded facilities in nearby areas like Malamig and . Additionally, 's P35 million switching station, equipped with advanced circuit breakers and systems, was implemented to improve reliability for Calamba and adjacent zones such as . Despite these upgrades, scheduled maintenance and typhoon-related disruptions occasionally affect supply, as seen in NGCP's July 2025 interruptions impacting local cooperatives and 's October 2024 advisories for Laguna areas. Digital access in Calamba has expanded through competition among fiber-optic and broadband providers, including PLDT Home, , , and Royal Cable, offering plans with speeds up to 500 Mbps for residential users at prices starting around ₱1,299 monthly. These services leverage the city's proximity to Metro Manila's fiber backbone, enabling high-speed internet for households and businesses, though rural outskirts may rely on LTE backups or slower DSL alternatives. Public free hotspots, such as those at SM City Calamba, supplement private subscriptions, supporting and amid Laguna's growing .

Government and Politics

Structure of local administration

The local administration of Calamba City operates under the framework of the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7160), which delineates the powers and structure of Philippine local government units. Executive authority is vested in the city mayor, who enforces ordinances, manages administrative operations, and oversees the provision of essential services including public safety, health, and infrastructure development. The mayor is assisted by the city vice mayor and various department heads in executing these responsibilities. Legislative functions are performed by the , the city council, presided over by the vice mayor. This body comprises regularly elected councilors—typically twelve in cities of Calamba's population size—along with two ex-officio members: the president of the Association of Barangay Captains and the president of the Federation. The council enacts local legislation, approves the annual budget, and exercises oversight over executive actions to ensure alignment with community needs. The administrative apparatus includes specialized offices reporting to the , such as the City Accounting Office for , City Engineering Office for projects, City Health Office for services, City Planning and Development Office for urban growth strategies, and City Social Welfare and Development Office for community assistance programs. These entities facilitate efficient across sectors like environment, , and traffic management. At the base level, Calamba is divided into 54 barangays, each functioning as an autonomous political unit with a punong barangay as executive and a seven-member for legislative matters, handling administration, , and implementation of city-wide policies. Barangays serve as the primary interface between residents and higher tiers, promoting participatory .

Key elected officials and leadership transitions

The of Calamba is Roseller H. Rizal, who assumed on June 30, 2022, following his election victory in the 2022 local elections. The vice mayor is Angelito S. Lazaro Jr., serving concurrently in the city council's presiding role. Rizal's administration represents the current leadership, with the city council comprising 12 elected members, including Soliman Lajara, Joselito Catindig, and others, who handle legislative functions under the local government code. A significant leadership transition occurred in 2022 when Roseller H. Rizal succeeded Justin Marc S.B. Chipeco, ending nearly two decades of Chipeco family dominance in the mayoral position—Joaquin M. Chipeco Jr. held from to 2013, followed by his son from 2013 to 2022. This shift broke a pattern of familial succession that had persisted since the early 2000s, with Rizal's win attributed to voter preference for change after the Chipeco tenure. Rizal secured re-election on May 12, 2025, defeating former Justin Marc "Timmy" Chipeco with 194,351 votes, representing 74.02% of the tally in a that solidified his mandate for the 2025-2028 term. Prior notable transitions include Severino J. Lajara's tenure from 1994 to 2004, during which Calamba was chartered as a on April 24, 2001, via Republic Act No. 9021, expanding its administrative scope.

Political controversies and governance challenges

Calamba's political landscape has been dominated by multi-generational family dynasties, notably the Chipeco family, which held key positions including the mayoralty from the late through 2022, potentially fostering entrenched power structures that limited electoral and . Joaquin Chipeco Jr. served as mayor before transitioning to , succeeded by his son Justin "Timmy" Chipeco as mayor from 2013 to 2022. This dominance ended in the 2022 elections when Roseller "Ross" Rizal, a former Chipeco ally, secured the mayoralty with a platform emphasizing reform, marking a shift toward non-dynastic . The Chipeco family's attempted political resurgence in the 2025 elections has reignited debates over dynasty-driven governance, with Rizal asserting that constituents have experienced tangible improvements under his administration, reducing tolerance for a return to prior patterns. Specific controversies have included probes into financial mismanagement during the Chipeco era. In May 2010, the Calamba city government established a special to investigate allegations of involving local officials and contractors, amid public concerns over irregularities. A year later, in February 2011, then-Mayor Joaquin Chipeco Jr. publicly denied reports of facing graft charges related to the placement of approximately P555 million in city funds into investments deemed questionable by critics, emphasizing compliance with legal standards. These incidents underscored challenges in transparent fiscal oversight, though no convictions were reported from the investigations. Governance challenges persist in disaster risk management, particularly flooding exacerbated by inadequate and external factors like quarrying. In July 2025, severe flooding in Calamba was attributed by local officials to upstream quarrying operations that silted waterways and intensified water flow, highlighting regulatory lapses in enforcing environmental permits and coordinating with provincial authorities. Calamba's 2nd District Representative Charisse "Cha" Hernandez has publicly condemned systemic in national flood control projects, estimating potential losses of up to 1.089 trillion since 2023, which indirectly hampers local resilience efforts amid the city's vulnerability near . Such issues reflect broader tensions between rapid urbanization, resource extraction, and under-resourced public works, with Rizal's administration promoting measures as part of "Ramdam na Reporma" reforms to address service delivery gaps.

Environment

Achievements in air quality and sustainability

Calamba has achieved notable recognition for air quality, ranking first among Philippine cities and sixth in per the 2023 IQAir World Air Quality Report, with PM2.5 levels averaging 9.8 μg/m³ annually, below guidelines. This standing persisted into 2024, reflecting effective emission controls amid industrial activity in areas like the Laguna Technopark. Earlier accolades include topping 's cleanest cities in the 2018 IQAir report, attributed to regulatory enforcement and monitoring by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). In sustainability, the city's Greening Program drives ongoing tree-planting efforts via public-private partnerships, enhancing urban green cover and since its inception as a continuous initiative. Local governance aligns with a Sustainable City Vision, promoting green corporate practices among PEZA-registered firms, including for waste reduction and energy efficiency to support long-term environmental resilience. These measures, coupled with community-driven environmental awareness campaigns, have fostered reduced ecological footprints, as evidenced by resident participation in green initiatives.

Waste management failures and reforms

In July 2020, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) ordered the closure of the sanitary landfill facility in Barangay Kay Anlog, operated by S.B. Hain Enterprises & General Services, Inc., citing numerous violations of its environmental compliance certificate (ECC), including the failure to install functional drainage systems and leachate treatment facilities. These lapses allowed untreated leachate to potentially contaminate groundwater and surface water, exacerbating environmental risks in a facility handling waste from Calamba and nearby areas. Resident complaints highlighted persistent foul odors emanating from the site, affecting communities several kilometers away and underscoring operational deficiencies in odor control and waste containment. Improper waste disposal practices have compounded these issues, with reports of unsegregated garbage dumped into local waterways like San Cristobal Creek, contributing to blockages and that hinder drainage and promote vector breeding. Calamba's solid has faced broader systemic challenges, including low diversion rates from —often below national targets under Republic Act 9003—and inconsistent compliance with ten-year solid waste management plans, as noted in regional Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) assessments. By May 2024, unaddressed waste accumulation at the Category 4 in Kay Anlog had formed visible mounds, signaling ongoing capacity strains despite the 2020 shutdown, which was described as temporary pending remediation. Post-closure responses included DENR directives for waste reduction at the source to alleviate landfill pressures, emphasizing segregation and to comply with ecological solid waste management laws. The EMB organized cleanup drives, such as one along the San Juan River in Poblacion II in coordination with local stakeholders, collecting waste for proper disposal and raising awareness on pollution prevention. City initiatives have targeted plastic dependency reduction through public campaigns and behavioral change programs, aiming to curb single-use s that constitute a significant portion of unmanaged waste. School-based eco-centers in elementary institutions have promoted hands-on segregation and composting, though evaluations indicate variable effectiveness due to limited and . Despite these measures, governance studies highlight persistent gaps in Calamba's waste oversight, including inadequate barangay-level across its 54 administrative units, limiting overall progress.

Vulnerability to flooding and deforestation

Calamba's vulnerability to flooding stems primarily from its low-lying and proximity to , the ' largest lake, which frequently overflows during typhoons and southwest rains known as habagat. Barangays such as and Sucol have been identified as high-risk zones through public-access flood hazard mapping, where inadequate drainage, rapid , and lake exacerbate water accumulation. Historical data indicate severe impacts from events like Typhoon Ulysses in November 2020, which caused to overflow and thousands of residents across multiple barangays, prompting the establishment of GIS-based evacuation centers. More recently, in July 2025, the lake's water level reached 12.51 meters—exceeding the critical threshold of 12.5 meters—leading to inundation in coastal areas, with ongoing challenges persisting into August 2025 due to -enhanced rainfall. From 1990 to 2012, the broader region recorded 221 occurrences affecting over 20,000 people and causing damages estimated at 109 million, underscoring recurrent risks tied to upstream and insufficient flood control infrastructure like the Manggahan Floodway. compounds ing vulnerability by reducing natural water absorption in upland areas, particularly within the Forest Reserve (MMFR), which borders Calamba and serves as a critical watershed for . Satellite monitoring by Global Forest Watch reveals that Calamba lost 158 hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2024, representing a 6% decline from 2000 levels and emitting 81.6 kilotons of CO₂ equivalent, with 4 hectares of natural forest cleared in 2024 alone. While some studies from the 1990s to early 2000s noted localized forest regrowth in MMFR buffer zones amid low-density development, recent assessments highlight ongoing conversion of forest lands to built-up areas, driven by industrialization and urban expansion, leading to and heightened runoff into the lake. A 2025 Philippine House Resolution emphasized MMFR's susceptibility to , warning of and ecosystem disruption that could intensify downstream ing. Urban landscape changes, including a 29% drop in agricultural lands offset by built-up growth between 1993 and 2002, have fragmented habitats and diminished the reserve's role in mitigating flood peaks, as evidenced by increased reducing the lake's retention capacity.

Culture and Tourism

Local festivals and traditions

The Buhayani Festival, Calamba's official annual celebration, occurs from June 12 to 19, aligning with Philippine Day and the June 19 martyrdom of national hero , born in the city in 1861. The event features street dances, historical reenactments of Rizal's life, cultural performances, and awards like the Calambagong Bayani to honor local contributors, fostering patriotism and community engagement. The Banga Festival coincides with the city's cityhood anniversary, commemorating Calamba's conversion to component city status in 2001. It highlights the traditional craft of crafting banga (earthen clay pots) from local clay deposits, a practice rooted in a of Spanish soldiers discovering the site's suitability for settlement due to abundant clay and hot springs; artisans demonstrate molding, firing, and glazing techniques during exhibitions and competitions. Religious traditions center on the feast of Saint John the Baptist, patron of the historic Calamba Parish Church established in the 19th century, observed on June 24 with solemn high masses, processions carrying the saint's image through city streets, and communal prayers for protection and prosperity. These events underscore the predominantly Catholic heritage, blending devotion with family gatherings and traditional feasts featuring local dishes like kusina ng Kalambenyo (Calamba-style cuisine). Ongoing customs include veneration at the Rizal Shrine, where residents and pilgrims annually mark his birth on June 19 with wreath-layings and recitations of his works, preserving his reformist ideals amid the city's growth. Pottery remains a living tradition, with families in areas like Halang producing banga for cooking and storage, symbolizing resilience and tied to pre-colonial Tagalog practices adapted under Spanish influence.

Major attractions and heritage sites

The Rizal Shrine, officially known as Museo ni Jose Rizal, serves as the primary heritage site in Calamba, replicating the original bahay na bato where Philippine national hero Jose Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, as the seventh child of Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonso. The original structure, built in 1848, was destroyed during World War II, with the current replica reconstructed in 1950 under the supervision of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines to preserve Rizal's early life artifacts, including family heirlooms and period furnishings that illustrate 19th-century Filipino-Spanish colonial domestic life. Located along Jose Rizal and Mercado Streets in Poblacion, the shrine draws visitors for its historical exhibits and its role in commemorating Rizal's formative years amid the family's agricultural prosperity from hacienda lands. The Saint John the Baptist Parish Church, the oldest Roman Catholic church in Calamba, stands adjacent to the Rizal Shrine and was the site of Rizal's on June 22, 1861. Constructed in style with stone materials starting in 1859 after earlier wooden versions were relocated due to flooding near , the church features a single-nave layout and has endured reconstructions following damages from earthquakes and wars, maintaining its role as a central religious and communal landmark under the Diocese of San Pablo. Other notable heritage elements include the Calambanga, a giant clay pot at the city plaza symbolizing Calamba's traditional heritage and serving as a near the church and shrine since its erection to represent local artisanal history. These sites collectively highlight Calamba's 19th-century tied to Rizal's legacy, with preservation efforts by national agencies ensuring their integrity against urban development pressures.

Cultural impacts and preservation efforts

Calamba's cultural identity is markedly shaped by its status as the birthplace of José Rizal on June 19, 1861, embedding themes of heroism, reform, and nationalism into local consciousness and annual observances. The Buhayani Festival, conducted from June 12 to 19 each year, honors Rizal's legacy through performances and events that evoke his ideals, strengthening communal bonds and historical awareness among the 540,000 residents as of the 2020 census. Similarly, the Banga Festival on April 21 commemorates the city's 2001 charter anniversary by reenacting legends of the "banga" clay pot, preserving oral traditions and pottery craftsmanship central to Calambeño folklore. These traditions counteract the homogenizing effects of industrialization, as Calamba's proximity to has spurred economic growth but risked diluting indigenous practices. Rizal's early life in Calamba, amid a landscape of hot springs and , influenced his writings on social inequities, which continue to inform local discourse on governance and equity. Preservation initiatives gained momentum in 2017 with an inventory of cultural properties, formalized in 2018 by the Culture and Arts Council under Mayor Justin Marc Chipeco, in alignment with Department of the Interior and guidelines. The council, comprising stakeholders like the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Museo ni curator, and educators, pursues a memorandum of agreement with NCCA for comprehensive to document tangible and intangible heritage. Objectives include establishing a community museum, delivering heritage lectures, publishing historical materials, and integrating preservation into tourism, education, and . The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) administers the Rizal Shrine as a Level I National Shrine, reconstructing Rizal's bahay na bato ancestral home—originally built by his father Francisco Mercado over two years and confiscated by Spanish authorities—and curating artifacts like memorabilia and a hologram exhibit to illustrate his childhood influences. These measures, averaging 270,000 annual visitors to the shrine, sustain educational outreach while addressing threats from urban expansion.

Education

Primary and secondary institutions

Calamba City provides primary and secondary education through a network of public institutions managed by the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Office of Calamba City and numerous private schools. Primary education, encompassing and elementary grades 1–6, is offered by 51 public elementary schools and 69 private elementary institutions. Public elementary schools include Calamba Elementary School and Bucal Elementary School, which serve students across various barangays and focus on foundational and under the DepEd curriculum. Secondary education, including junior high school (grades 7–10) and senior high school (grades 11–12), is available at 21 public high schools and 39 private secondary schools. Public secondary institutions such as Calamba Bayside National High School and Camp Vicente Lim National High School offer aligned with national standards, with some providing specialized tracks like or vocational programs. Private secondary schools often emphasize religious or international curricula; notable examples include Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba, a established in 1979 offering programs with a focus on holistic formation, and Saint Benilde International School (Calamba), Inc., which provides tracks in accountancy, business, management, humanities, STEM, and technical-vocational livelihoods.
Institution TypePublicPrivateTotal
Elementary Schools5169120
Secondary Schools213960
These figures reflect the city's emphasis on accessible , though enrollment pressures and vary by institution, with schools handling larger student populations under DepEd oversight.

Higher education and vocational training

Calamba hosts several private and public higher education institutions offering undergraduate and graduate degrees, primarily in , , sciences, and . The City College of Calamba, a public institution established in 2006, specializes in , , and programs designed to produce job-ready graduates. The Laguna College of Business and Arts, founded in June 1930 as the Laguna Institute—the first private secondary school in Calamba—expanded to higher education and adopted its current name in 1979, focusing on business, accountancy, and arts-related degrees. Lyceum of the Philippines University-Laguna, established on January 18, 2000, as the third campus of the national LPU system, operates from its site in Makiling and provides over 40 programs ranging from bachelor's to doctoral levels in fields such as , , and liberal arts. National University Laguna, a satellite campus located along the Pan-Philippine Highway in Barangay Milagrosa, delivers degrees in business and accountancy, computing and information technology, education, engineering, and architecture, emphasizing innovation and industry partnerships. Vocational training in Calamba emphasizes technical skills aligned with local industries like manufacturing and services, often through TESDA-accredited programs combining classroom instruction with on-the-job experience. Dualtech Training Center, founded in 1982 in Barangay Canlubang, pioneered the German dual training system in the Philippines, offering a 24-month electromechanics technology program—including six months of in-school basics followed by industry apprenticeship—along with shorter certifications in electrical installation and maintenance (NC II) and machining (NC I). The Calamba Manpower Development Center, an LGU-operated facility established in 1984, provides TESDA-registered courses in areas such as automotive servicing, caregiving, and servicing to support in regional sectors. Additional options include TESDA courses at institutions like of Perpetual Help System Laguna in Calamba, covering agricultural crops production (NC I), animal production (NC II), and (NC II), targeting practical entry.

Literacy rates and educational outcomes

In the CALABARZON region, which encompasses Calamba City, the Philippine Statistics Authority's 2024 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) estimated a basic literacy rate of 90% among individuals aged 5 years and older, defined as the ability to read and write a simple message with understanding in any language or dialect. Functional literacy, encompassing basic literacy plus numeracy and comprehension skills sufficient for workplace and community participation, stood at approximately 80% for the region among those aged 10 to 64, marking the third-highest rate nationwide. Laguna province, where Calamba is located, reported a functional literacy rate of 71.5% for the 10-64 age group, exceeding the national average of 70.8%. Calamba's urban-industrial character, with access to over 100 primary and secondary schools plus proximity to higher education hubs, supports elevated outcomes relative to rural areas, though city-specific FLEMMS disaggregation remains unavailable in public releases. data from the 2020 of and indicate a population skewed toward secondary and tertiary completion in urban Laguna centers like Calamba, driven by economic demand for skilled labor in and services. Student performance in Calamba public schools reveals persistent challenges in core competencies, particularly , with Grade 7 learners at institutions like Calamba Bayside Integrated School exhibiting frustrations in oral and silent reading tasks amid post-pandemic recovery. A study of Grade 11 science students in a Calamba private high school identified significant difficulties in comprehending science texts, attributing gaps to limited prior exposure and instructional strategies. Division-wide assessments in Calamba highlight low reading attitudes among Grade 7 public school pupils, correlating with suboptimal abilities in literal and inferential comprehension. Efforts to bolster outcomes include expansion in Laguna, which empirical links to improved public high school metrics such as graduation rates and test scores, with Calamba benefiting from infrastructure investments reducing . -based management reforms in Calamba elementary schools have enhanced performance indicators during in-person class resumption in SY 2022-2023, emphasizing localized accountability over centralized directives. Despite these advances, outcomes lag national benchmarks in standardized tests like the , reflecting broader Philippine systemic issues in foundational skills amid resource constraints.

Notable Personalities

Historical figures and their legacies

, known as José Rizal, was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, to landowner Francisco Mercado and educated . His family's in Calamba provided the backdrop for his formative years, where he demonstrated early intellectual prowess, learning to read by age three under his mother's tutelage and composing poems by five. Rizal's exposure to Spanish colonial abuses in Laguna, including friar land disputes affecting his family, shaped his critique of colonial rule, though he initially advocated assimilation and reforms rather than outright separation from . Rizal's literary works, including the novels Noli Me Tángere (1887) and El filibusterismo (1891), exposed graft, clerical abuses, and social injustices, galvanizing Filipino nationalism despite his non-violent stance. Exiled to Dapitan in 1892 for sedition, he returned in 1896 and was executed by firing squad on December 30 in Manila, an event that catalyzed the Philippine Revolution against Spain. His Calamba birthplace, now the Rizal Shrine, preserves his ancestral home and artifacts, symbolizing his legacy as the Philippines' foremost national hero, with annual commemorations drawing pilgrims and underscoring his role in fostering education, civic virtue, and anti-colonial sentiment. Rizal's elder brother, , born in Calamba in 1851, influenced his reformist ideas through involvement in the and later supported revolutionary efforts, serving as a brigade commander in the 1896 uprising before his death in 1930. Their mother, , endured imprisonment from 1871 to 1874 on fabricated poisoning charges—allegedly linked to her teaching skills threatening friar influence—yet continued educating her children, embodying resilience against colonial repression. General , born in Calamba on May 24, 1888, became the first Filipino graduate of West Point in 1914 and commanded forces against Japanese invasion in 1941–1942, earning posthumous recognition as a WWII hero after capture and execution in 1944. These figures' legacies, tied to Calamba's of agrarian struggles and resistance, highlight the town's contributions to Philippine and valor, though Rizal's preeminence stems from his intellectual over action.

Modern contributors from Calamba

Dolores A. Ramirez (born September 20, 1931), a and plant geneticist, advanced Philippine through her research on rice cytogenetics and , earning designation as a National Scientist in 1997 for contributions that enhanced crop improvement techniques. Ronato Alcano (born July 27, 1972), a professional billiards player known as "Ronnie Calamba," achieved international prominence by winning the 2006 World Pool-Billiard Association World Nine-ball Championship and multiple regional titles, establishing himself as one of the ' top athletes with over 20 professional victories. In entertainment, Jhoanna Robles (born January 26, 2004), lead vocalist of the P-pop group BINI, debuted in 2021 and contributed to the band's chart-topping albums, including hits like "Pantropiko," while appearing in television series such as . Jeric Gonzales (born August 7, 1992), an actor and singer, gained recognition through roles in dramas like Tween Hearts and Kare-Kare Zarda, alongside musical releases with the group 3logy, amassing a following in Philippine media since 2011.

International Relations

Domestic partnerships

Calamba City maintains domestic partnerships primarily through sister city agreements aimed at fostering cultural, economic, and tourism exchanges with other Philippine localities. A notable such agreement was formalized with Naga City in on October 24, 2022, emphasizing shared historical significance—Calamba as the birthplace of national hero and Naga as a center of Peñafrancia devotion—and potential cooperation in heritage preservation and local development. These partnerships support regional connectivity within the , though official documentation from Calamba's city government focuses more extensively on international ties. No additional formalized domestic twinning agreements are prominently detailed in recent public records from verifiable sources.

Global sister city agreements

Calamba has formalized international sister city partnerships primarily to foster cultural, educational, and economic exchanges, often tied to historical connections with national hero . Confirmed agreements include those with in the and in , , as listed on the city's official profile. The partnership with draws from Rizal's European travels and exile experiences, emphasizing shared historical narratives. In 2018, Calamba established ties with Jinjiang City in Fujian Province, , recognizing the city's role as the ancestral origin of Rizal's great-great-grandfather through documented genealogical research. This agreement aims to promote , , and cultural preservation, including initiatives like Rizal monuments in Jinjiang. Other purported international links, such as with cities in and , appear in unofficial directories but lack verification from primary government sources and are not acknowledged in Calamba's official records. These unconfirmed associations may stem from informal exchanges rather than binding sisterhood pacts.

References

  1. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/
  2. https://dfa.gov.ph/images/AMabini/C__Managepoint_sessions_Diane_Rar1423.pdf
  3. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/TheCity/CityProfile
  4. https://business.inquirer.net/490281/lagunas-economy-hits-p1-t-mark-leads-provinces-in-gdp
  5. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/TheGovernment/vision_mission
  6. https://kids.kiddle.co/Calamba%2C_Laguna
  7. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041243
  8. https://pepealas.wordpress.com/2022/10/06/the-origin-of-the-name-calamba/
  9. https://tagacalamba.wixsite.com/calamba/single-post/2015/11/14/when-spaniards-came
  10. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/TheGovernment/Political_History
  11. http://kumusta2012.weebly.com/uploads/1/2/5/5/12550939/print_only_chapter_4-the_hacienda_de_calamba_agrarian_problem.pdf
  12. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/chapter6agrariandisputeshaciendadecalambaconflictguiapptx/257638378
  13. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/mandaue-city-college/beed-general-content/hacienda-de-calamba-conflict/31117451
  14. https://opinion.inquirer.net/54539/rizals-agrarian-dispute
  15. https://www.cliffsnotes.com/study-notes/15378790
  16. https://www.scribd.com/document/252958176/Calamba-Agrarian-Problems
  17. https://www.academia.edu/128671316/Re_examining_the_Root_Cause_of_the_Calamba_Agrarian_Unrest_of_1891
  18. https://www.quora.com/How-did-the-Hacienda-de-Calamba-become-a-site-of-agitation-in-the-late-nineteenth-century
  19. https://history.house.gov/Exhibitions-and-Publications/APA/Historical-Essays/Exclusion-and-Empire/The-Philippines/
  20. https://www.cliffsnotes.com/study-notes/7497103
  21. https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/trimex-colleges/bs-real-estate/legal-history-and-framework-of-friar-lands-in-the-philippines/139353636
  22. http://haciendadecalamba.blogspot.com/2012/06/chapter-iii-leasehold-system-at.html
  23. https://philsacra.ust.edu.ph/admin/downloadarticle?id=12A67EEFBDDC512E783826EC7E186A63
  24. https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/955/today-in-philippine-history-february-24-1888-general-vicente-lim-was-born-in-calamba-laguna
  25. https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/liberation-of-philippines-cecilia-gaerlan
  26. https://www.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/2025/4/27/up-student-makes-film-about-calamba-massacre-to-preserve-his-towns-history-0024
  27. https://mynstv.com/2025/02/12/mayor-ross-rizal-leads-the-80th-anniversary-of-doce-de-pebrero-in-calamba/
  28. https://www.positivelyfilipino.com/magazine/february-1945-the-massacre-of-civilians-after-the-famous-rescue-of-los-baos-pows
  29. https://www.cirje.e.u-tokyo.ac.jp/research/dp/2024/2024cf1237.pdf
  30. http://calamba.atspace.com/commerce.htm
  31. http://calambabookproject.blogspot.com/
  32. https://www.carmelray.com/about
  33. https://nhcp.gov.ph/meseums/mjrc/
  34. https://ldr.senate.gov.ph/bills/house-bill-no-10661-11th-congress-republic
  35. https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/2/5837
  36. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/TheCity/Cityhood
  37. https://www.philatlas.com/luzon/r04a/laguna/calamba.html
  38. https://lawphil.net/executive/execord/eo2003/eo_246_2003.html
  39. https://jur.ph/law/summary/designation-of-calamba-city-as-regional-center-of-region-iv-a-calabarzon
  40. https://mynstv.com/2024/10/10/calamba-city-honored-with-national-award-for-financial-growth/
  41. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1232156
  42. https://mynstv.com/2025/04/07/calamba-peso-wins-international-award-showcasing-world-class-public-service/
  43. https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/07/31/regions/calamba-medical-center-gets-award/2158943
  44. https://thepost.net.ph/news/campus/uplb-calamba-city-partnership-wins-2025-partnership-of-the-year-award-in-chicago/
  45. https://calabarzon.depdev.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/13-Chapter-Writeup-13-ao-7.9.25.pdf
  46. https://jontotheworld.com/buhayani-festival-of-calamba-laguna/
  47. https://www.facebook.com/piagovphlaguna/posts/%25F0%259D%2597%259A%25F0%259D%2597%259C%25F0%259D%2597%25A1%25F0%259D%2597%25A2%25F0%259D%2597%25A2-%25F0%259D%2597%2594%25F0%259D%2597%25A7-%25F0%259D%2597%2595%25F0%259D%2597%259C%25F0%259D%2597%25A1%25F0%259D%2597%259C%25F0%259D%2597%2595%25F0%259D%2597%259C%25F0%259D%2597%25A1%25F0%259D%2597%259C%25F0%259D%2597%25A1%25F0%259D%2597%259A-%25F0%259D%2597%2596%25F0%259D%2597%2594%25F0%259D%2597%259F%25F0%259D%2597%2594%25F0%259D%2597%25A0%25F0%259D%2597%2595%25F0%259D%2597%2594-%25F0%259D%2597%25A5%25F0%259D%2597%2598%25F0%259D%2597%25A7%25F0%259D%2597%25A8%25F0%259D%2597%25A5%25F0%259D%2597%25A1%25F0%259D%2597%25A6-in-celebration-of-the-2025-calambagong-buhay/1003345955246753/
  48. https://www.latlong.net/place/calamba-laguna-philippines-23660.html
  49. https://en-nz.topographic-map.com/map-7j6ft6/Calamba/
  50. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1387472/fast-facts-mt-makiling-forest-reserve
  51. https://artsandculture.google.com/story/mount-makiling-forest-reserve-asean-centre-for-biodiversity/KgXhoRMdf7LcFA?hl=en
  52. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/Barangay/Barangays_of_Calamba
  53. https://mail.calambacity.gov.ph/images/OtherAttachments/FinalDraftCLUP2017-2026.pdf
  54. https://weatherspark.com/y/136834/Average-Weather-in-Calamba-Philippines-Year-Round
  55. https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-Rainfall-Temperature-Sunshine%2Ccalamba-luzon-ph%2CPhilippines
  56. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214581815001469
  57. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/289994335_Hot_spring_resort_development_in_Laguna_Province_Philippines_Challenges_in_water_use_regulation
  58. https://asean.chm-cbd.net/mt-makiling-forest-reserve
  59. https://www.globalforestwatch.org/dashboards/country/PHL/40/5?category=forest-change
  60. https://www.voiceofthesouth.org/post/laguna-s-hot-springs
  61. https://www.citypopulation.de/en/philippines/luzon/admin/laguna/043405__calamba/
  62. https://worldpopulationreview.com/world-cities/calamba-population
  63. https://calabarzon.cpd.gov.ph/resources/population-statistics/regional-socio-demographic-profile/
  64. https://calabarzon.depdev.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Updated-2023-RDR_final_122024.pdf
  65. https://pia.gov.ph/news/calabarzon-records-third-highest-functional-literacy-rate-in-ph/
  66. https://www.facebook.com/PSALaguna34/posts/laguna-records-50-economic-growth-in-2024-remains-as-calabarzons-top-1-contribut/1129884795980459/
  67. https://rsso04a.psa.gov.ph/index.php/content/lagunas-economy-grows-50-percent-2024
  68. https://calabarzon.depdev.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Final-7.29_Regional-Development-Report-2020-Cover-Eval.pdf
  69. https://pia.gov.ph/news/laguna-tops-calabarzon-in-gdp-share/
  70. https://www.facebook.com/piagovph4a/posts/the-philippine-statistics-authority-psa-reported-that-laguna-posted-a-php108-tri/1257708803050137/
  71. https://cpip.com.ph/about-us/
  72. https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/08/18/filinvests-innovation-park-in-calamba-to-drive-phls-fourth-industrial-revolution/
  73. https://calabarzon.depdev.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/CALABARZON-2024-Full-Year-Regional-Development-Report.pdf
  74. https://www.peza.gov.ph/documents/list_electronicsandsemicon.xls
  75. https://www.mspectrum.com.ph/spectrum_energizes_avon_globals_first_solar_powered_facility
  76. https://www.dnb.com/business-directory/company-information.manufacturing.ph.laguna.calamba.html?page=2
  77. https://www.zoominfo.com/companies-search/location-philippines--bicol--laguna-industry-manufacturing
  78. https://www.bworldonline.com/property/2025/05/13/671936/high-power-costs-weigh-on-industrial-sector-growth/
  79. https://multidisciplinaryjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Full-Paper-Green-Corporate-Governance-Regulatory-Compliance-and-Environmental-Responsibility-of-PEZA-Companies-for-Calamba%25E2%2580%2599s-Sustainable-City-Vision.pdf
  80. https://www.calambamisocc.gov.ph/index.php/home/about-calamba-mainmenu-50/products-mainmenu-85
  81. https://mynstv.com/2024/12/03/calamba-city-named-tourism-destination-of-the-year-at-calabarzon-tourism-excellence-awards-2024/
  82. https://www.facebook.com/p/NEXTVAS-INC-100086512502836/
  83. https://staffcalltureinc.com/
  84. https://filinvest.com/news/filinvest-land-expands-filinvest-technology-park-in-laguna
  85. https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/28/filinvest-opens-innovation-park-in-calamba
  86. https://cms-cdn.e.gov.ph/DICT/pdf/Digital-Cities-2025-Primer.pdf
  87. https://www.facebook.com/InfiniVANofficial/posts/fiber-news-infinivan-inc-and-calamba-premiere-international-park-cpip-have-offic/819788567072186/
  88. https://www.dost.gov.ph/knowledge-resources/news/86-2025-news/4160-to-drive-regional-industrialization-and-inclusive-innovation-dost-opens-its-7th-advanced-manufacturing-center-in-laguna.html
  89. https://trb.gov.ph/index.php/toll-rates/slex-toll-rate
  90. https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/DPWH_ATLAS_2024/Road%2520Data%25202024/laguna_2nd.htm
  91. https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/news/29649
  92. https://pnr.gov.ph/fares-tickets-calamba-station.html
  93. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2081547/pnr-to-reopen-calamba-lucena-routes-starting-july-14-2
  94. https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Manila/Calamba
  95. https://airport.globefeed.com/philippines_Nearest_Airport_Result.asp?lat=14.2116667&lng=121.1652778&place=Calamba%2C%2520Laguna%252C%2520Philippines&sr=gp
  96. https://philippinesgraphic.com.ph/2025/06/12/groundbreaking-for-calamba-bay-bypass-road-development-project-held-in-bay-laguna/
  97. https://www.adb.org/news/adb-supports-regional-connectivity-resilient-infrastructure-laguna-lakeshore-project
  98. https://cmc.ph/
  99. https://www.calambadoctorshospital.com/
  100. https://canlubang.globalcarehospitals.com/
  101. https://www.facebook.com/pamanamedicalcenterhealthservicesofficial/
  102. https://calambacity.gov.ph/Users/Services/Health
  103. https://www.facebook.com/CalambaCHO/
  104. https://cmc.ph/philhealth/
  105. https://www.hospitalnews.ph/hospitals/a-major-leap-for-public-healthcare-in-lagunaa-major-leap-for-public-healthc
  106. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/DepartmentHome/City_general_services_office
  107. https://m.facebook.com/CalambaPOSO/about/
  108. https://www.pcso.gov.ph/ReadPost.aspx?read=9940
  109. https://cwd.com.ph/
  110. https://www.foi.gov.ph/agencies/clwd/
  111. https://www.philstar.com/business/2020/11/29/2060104/ngcp-cleared-start-works-p727-million-calamba-substation
  112. https://insiderph.com/meralcos-new-p35-m-switching-station-to-boost-energy-reliability-in-laguna
  113. https://www.facebook.com/philippinesnewstrends/posts/ngcp-announces-scheduled-power-interruption-in-laguna-province-on-july-12-2025in/1144510014363648/
  114. https://x.com/meralco?lang=en
  115. https://pldthome.com/
  116. https://www.convergeict.com/
  117. https://www.streamtech.com.ph/fiber-internet-in-laguna/
  118. https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1991/ra_7160_1991.html
  119. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/DepartmentHome/DepartmentList
  120. https://www.calambacity.gov.ph/Users/Home/officials
  121. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/elections/calamba-laguna-results-mayor-district-representative-2025/
  122. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/elections/video-chipeco-dynasty-seeks-comeback-calamba-challenges-ross-rizal-2025/
  123. https://mynstv.com/2025/05/30/a-historic-win-in-calamba-city-mayor-ross-rizal-secures-194351-votes-in-unprecedented-landslide-victory/
  124. https://www.philstar.com/nation/2010/05/04/571763/calamba-forms-task-force-investigate-alleged-corruption
  125. https://www.philstar.com/nation/2011/02/18/658030/calamba-mayor-denies-hes-facing-graft-raps
  126. https://www.philstar.com/nation/2025/07/21/2459427/calamba-flooding-blamed-quarrying
  127. https://southpostph.com/rep-cha-hernandez-blasts-corruption-calls-for-accountability-in-flood-control-projects/balitang-southern-tagalog/r-a-maico/
  128. https://mynstv.com/2025/09/13/mayors-ross-rizal-and-benjamin-magalong-highlight-good-governance-and-anti-corruption-efforts/
  129. https://www.esquiremag.ph/politics/news/calamba-clean-air
  130. https://staluciamarketing.com/articles/calamba-laguna-city-with-the-cleanest-air-in-the-philippines
  131. https://manilastandard.net/?p=314438920
  132. https://ditosapilipinas.com/luzon/news/article/04/16/2024/calamba-city-cleanest-air-ph/551
  133. https://industree.com.ph/calamba-city-laguna/
  134. https://www.jippublication.com/index.php/jip/article/download/1185/888
  135. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1110563
  136. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1313853/denr-closes-sanitary-landfill-in-calamba-over-numerous-ecc-violations
  137. https://charlietanalajournalism.substack.com/p/in-the-midst-of-rules-and-rubbish
  138. https://www.facebook.com/ayej.org/posts/improper-waste-disposal-at-the-san-cristobal-creek-in-calamba-city-laguna-has-po/1473431533009615/
  139. https://calabarzon.emb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024-Annual-Report.pdf
  140. https://pcij.org/2024/05/19/has-the-philippines-created-a-garbage-problem-too-big-to-dig-its-way-out-of/
  141. https://balikas.net/denr-calls-for-waste-reduction-at-source-to-ease-slfs/
  142. https://calabarzon.emb.gov.ph/clean-up-activity-along-san-juan-river-in-calamba-city/
  143. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/382018334_Initiatives_of_City_Government_of_Calamba_and_Awareness_of_City_on_Plastic_Dependency_Reduction_Basis_for_Action_Plan
  144. https://www.2017.iasc-commons.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/8K_Mariko-Matsumoto.pdf
  145. https://www.academia.edu/122273683/Solid_waste_management_governance_Calamba_City_and_Batangas_City_Philippines
  146. https://propertyreport.ph/news-and-events/2024/11/22/37173/calamba-where-history-culture-and-nature-come-alive/
  147. https://www.camella.com.ph/the-ultimate-locals-guide-to-calamba-laguna-festivals-and-events/
  148. https://mail.calambacity.gov.ph/index.php/ct-menu-item-3
  149. https://tagacalamba.wixsite.com/calamba/blog/categories/culture
  150. https://www.facebook.com/RomanCatholicLaguna/posts/june-24-happy-fiesta-the-roman-catholic-parish-church-of-saint-john-the-baptist-/1107571768073923/
  151. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZDGTblsIKc
  152. https://www.beautyofthephilippines.com/buhayani-festival/
  153. https://www.facebook.com/allenkyle.martinez/videos/kalan-at-banga-is-a-festival-celebrated-in-calamba-city-philippines-it-honors-th/913348577104889/
  154. https://choosehappiness101.wordpress.com/2018/03/19/saint-john-the-baptist-parish-church-in-calamba/
  155. https://historicalspotsincalamba.wordpress.com/st-john-the-baptist-parish/history/
  156. https://journeyunderblueskies.wordpress.com/2016/09/18/3-interesting-historical-landmarks-in-calamba-laguna/
  157. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350721477_Buhayani_Festival_A_Story_Made_for_the_Calambenos
  158. https://travelthroughparadise.com/destinations/articles/Calamba_Jose_Rizal_Shrine.php
  159. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1040527
  160. https://philhistoricsites.nhcp.gov.ph/registry_database/rizal-shrine-calamba/
  161. https://www.scribd.com/presentation/554675071/Promoting-and-Preserving-Historical-and-Cultural-Heritage-PPTX
  162. https://mail.calambacity.gov.ph/index.php/11-government/86-brgy-mayapa
  163. https://www.letran-calamba.edu.ph/
  164. https://www.saintbenilde.edu.ph/
  165. https://depedcalambacity.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/School.pdf
  166. https://www.ccc.edu.ph/this-is-ccc
  167. https://coursefinder.ph/universities/city-college-of-calamba
  168. https://lcba.edu.ph/founders_day_2025
  169. https://coursefinder.ph/universities/laguna-college-of-business-and-arts
  170. https://lpulaguna.edu.ph/
  171. https://gdap.org.ph/members/lyceum-of-the-philippines-university-laguna/
  172. https://www.national-u.edu.ph/nu-laguna/
  173. https://www.facebook.com/NULagunaPH/
  174. https://www.dualtech.org.ph/
  175. https://tesdacourse.com/Dualtech-Training-Center-Foundation-Inc-1372.html
  176. https://www.facebook.com/CMDC1984Official
  177. https://tesdacourse.com/Calamba-Manpower-Development-Center---Annex-formerly-Provincial-Training-Center---Laguna--758.html
  178. https://www.facebook.com/p/University-of-Perpetual-Help-Calamba-Tesda-Courses-100079186765531/
  179. https://www.facebook.com/newsroompilipinas/posts/calabarzon-literacy-rates-9-in-10-have-basic-literacy-8-in-10-functionally-liter/1306721451462839/
  180. https://psa.gov.ph/content/lagunas-population-reached-nearly-two-and-half-million-results-2007-census-population
  181. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354703749_The_oral_and_silent_reading_ability_of_grade_seven_students_of_Calamba_Bayside_Integrated_School
  182. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1364296.pdf
  183. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389129144_READING_ATTITUDE_AND_ABILITIES_OF_GRADE_7_LEARNERS_IN_DIVISION_OF_CALAMBA_BASIS_FOR_PROGRAM
  184. https://rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/articles/school-expansion-and-performances-of-public-high-schools-in-the-province-of-laguna/
  185. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373638093_SCHOOL-BASED_MANAGEMENT_PRACTICES_AND_SCHOOL_PERFORMANCE_OF_ELEMENTARY_SCHOOLS_IN_THE_DIVISION_OF_CALAMBA_CITY_IN_THE_NOW_NORMAL
  186. https://www.deped.gov.ph/iso-9001-2015-registration-and-schedule-certificate-sdo-calamba-city/
  187. https://www.kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/1190/today-in-philippine-history-june-19-1861-dr-jose-p-rizal-was-born-in-calamba-laguna
  188. https://www.davestravelcorner.com/journals/destination-asia/jose-rizal-in-calamba/
  189. https://www.pinoytravelogue.com/2017/11/jose-rizal-birthplace-calamba-laguna.html
  190. https://tagacalamba.wixsite.com/calamba/single-post/2016-1-9-notables-calambas-wall-of-fame
  191. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/639090/did-you-know-national-scientist-dolores-a-ramirez
  192. https://www.9ballpool.com/9ball_players/ronato_alcano.htm
  193. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12115853/bio/
  194. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/jeric-gonzales.html
  195. https://www2.naga.gov.ph/naga-and-calamba-now-sister-cities/
  196. https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/261765/rizal-bff-finds-czechoslovakia/
  197. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1026662
  198. https://mail.calambacity.gov.ph/images/sampledata/Balita/Calambalita/12thissue.pdf
  199. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020141
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.