Zamboanga City facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Zamboanga City
Highly urbanized city
City of Zamboanga
Zamboanga City Hall Zamboanga Cathedral Downtown Zamboanga Great Santa Cruz Island Pasonanca Natural Park
Flag Seal
Etymology: Malay "jambangan"
Nickname(s):  City of Flowers Asia's Latin City Sardines Capital of The Philippines
Motto(s):  Build Back Better Zamboanga
Anthem: Zamboanga Hermosa (Beautiful Zamboanga)
Map of Zamboanga Peninsula with Zamboanga City highlighted
OpenStreetMap
Zamboanga City Location in Philippines
Country	Philippines
Region	Zamboanga Peninsula
Province	Zamboanga del Sur (statistically only)
District	1st (West Coast) and 2nd (East Coast) districts of Zamboanga City
Founded	June 23, 1635
Chartered	October 12, 1936
Cityhood	February 26, 1937
Highly urbanized city	November 22, 1983
Barangays	98 (see Barangays)
Government
• Type	Sangguniang Panlungsod
Area
• Highly urbanized city	1,453.27 km2 (561.11 sq mi)
Area rank	3rd (city)
Elevation	96 m (315 ft)
Highest elevation	1,358 m (4,455 ft)
Lowest elevation	0 m (0 ft)
Population  (2020 census)
• Highly urbanized city	977,234
• Rank	5th
• Density	672.4380/km2 (1,741.606/sq mi)
• Urban	2,100,000
• Metro	4,710,000 (Regional)
• Households	227,352
Demonym(s)	Zamboangueño (Major Ethnicity)
Economy
• Gross domestic product (GDP)	₱139.47 billion (2022) $2.463 billion (2022)
• Income class	1st city income class
• Poverty incidence	3.30 % (2021)
• Revenue	₱ 4,121 million (2020)
• Assets	₱ 19,775 million (2020)
• Expenditure	₱ 3,116 million (2020)
Service provider
• Electricity	Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (ZAMCELCO)
Time zone	UTC+8 (PST)
ZIP code	7000
PSGC	[https://psa.gov.ph/classification/psgc/?q=psgc/barangays/{{#pro000&regcode={{&provcode= p {{#property:P988}} ]
IDD : area code	+63 (0)62
Native languages	Chavacano Other Languages: Cebuano Hiligaynon Sama Subanen Tagalog Tausug Yakan Filipino English

Zamboanga City, also known as the City of Zamboanga, is a big city in the Zamboanga Peninsula region of the Philippines. It's often called the "City of Flowers" or "Asia's Latin City" because of its unique language and culture. In 2020, almost a million people lived here, making it the fifth most populated city in the Philippines. It's also the third largest city by land area.

Zamboanga City is a very important place for business and industry in the Zamboanga Peninsula. It became an official city on October 12, 1936, and started operating as a city on February 26, 1937. Even though it's part of the Zamboanga Peninsula, it's a special independent city.

History of Zamboanga City

Early Settlements and Name Origin

The land where Zamboanga City now stands was first settled by the Subanen people a long time ago. Other groups like the Yakan and Sama-Bajau peoples also lived here. Some old Chinese records from the 11th century might even mention a place similar to Zamboanga called "Sanmalan."

Later, in the 13th century, the Tausūg people moved to this area. They became very important after they learned about Islam in the 14th century. They even started the Sultanate of Sulu.

The city's old name was Samboangan. This comes from a local word meaning "mooring place" or "place to tie up boats." Later, the Spanish changed the name to Zamboanga. The nickname "City of Flowers" comes from a popular story, but the real meaning of the name is about boats.

Spanish Rule in Zamboanga

Illustration of Zamboanga ("Samboangan") and Fort Pilar, detail from the Carta Hydrographica y Chorographica de las Yslas Filipinas, 1734

Spanish explorers arrived in the Philippines in 1521. In 1569, Zamboanga was chosen as a Spanish settlement. It became a key Spanish base in Mindanao. The Spanish built a fort to protect the area from pirates and other invaders.

In 1635, Spanish soldiers and workers built Fort Pilar. This fort was very important for defending the Christian settlers. Zamboanga became the main Spanish headquarters in the south on June 23, 1635. Many battles happened here between the Spanish and local groups.

The Spanish left Zamboanga for a short time in 1662. This was because of a threat from the Chinese. But they returned in 1718 and rebuilt the fort. Zamboanga became a busy port for trade with Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.

The Republic of Zamboanga

Inauguration of the Municipality of Zamboanga with Datu Kalun (1901)

After the Spanish left, the Republic of Zamboanga was formed on May 28, 1899. General Vicente Álvarez was its first president. This republic included Christians, Muslims, and other local groups. It lasted until 1903.

American Period

When the Americans took control in 1903, Zamboanga became the capital of the Moro Province. This was a special government area. Zamboanga grew into a major center for business and trade in Mindanao. Famous American generals, like John J. Pershing, served here.

In 1920, Zamboanga became part of a larger province also called Zamboanga. This province included areas like Basilan.

Becoming a Chartered City

President Manuel L. Quezon signing the City Charter of Zamboanga in a ceremony held at the Malacañang Palace in (1936)

In 1935, people wanted Zamboanga to become a city. On September 23, 1936, a law was passed to make Zamboanga a chartered city. President Manuel Quezon signed this law on October 12, 1936. This made Zamboanga City one of the largest cities in the world by land area at that time. It was also a leading city for business in Mindanao.

World War II in Zamboanga

During World War II, Japanese forces landed in Zamboanga City on March 2, 1942. The city was under Japanese control until American and Filipino forces fought to take it back in March 1945. The Philippine Commonwealth Army then made Zamboanga City its headquarters.

Modern Zamboanga City

After World War II, Basilan Island became a separate city in 1948. This made it easier for people from Basilan to access government services. In 1953, Zamboanga was classified as a first-class city.

In 1955, the city's government changed. The mayor and city council members were now elected by the people. Cesar Climaco became the first elected mayor.

Zamboanga City Crisis of 2013

On September 9, 2013, a group of fighters from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) took hostages in Zamboanga City. They tried to raise the flag of a new state. The Philippine military stepped in to free the hostages. This led to fighting in the city, which stopped parts of it for several days.

After the crisis, Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco Salazar worked to help people who lost their homes. Her plan, called "Zamboanga City Roadmap to Recovery and Rehabilitation (Z3R)," aims to rebuild the city.

Geography of Zamboanga City

Land and Islands

Zamboanga City has a long, uneven coastline. It has rocky areas and some sandy beaches. Where rivers meet the sea, there are flat plains. The city's land is mostly hilly, with some very steep parts. There are also narrow flat areas along the east coast.

The city includes many islands, like Great and Little Santa Cruz, Tictabon, Sacol, and Vitali. The total land area of Zamboanga City is about 1,453 square kilometers. This makes it a very large city.

Climate in Zamboanga

Zamboanga City has a tropical monsoon climate. This means it's generally hot and humid all year round. It has a wet season with lots of rain and a drier season.

People and Culture

Population and Ethnic Groups

Zamboanga City is home to many different groups of people. The main group is the Zamboangueño. Other groups like the Samal, Yakan, Tausug, and Badjao also live here.

Languages Spoken

The main language in Zamboanga City is Chavacano. It's a unique language that mixes Spanish words with grammar from local Philippine languages. While the original language of the area was Subanon language, many people now speak Chavacano.

Besides Chavacano, people also widely use Filipino and English. These are official languages in the Philippines. You can also hear other languages like Tausug, Cebuano, and Hiligaynon because many people from different parts of the Philippines have moved to Zamboanga City.

Religions in Zamboanga

The most common religion in Zamboanga City is Roman Catholicism. Many people also practice Islam. Other religions like Evangelical Protestantism, Buddhism, and Sikhism are also present.

Catholicism in Zamboanga

Zamboanga Cathedral

More than half of the city's population is Roman Catholic. The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is the main Catholic church. It was rebuilt after being damaged in World War II. The city's patroness is Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar de Zaragoza.

Islam in Zamboanga

Sadik Grand Mosque, still under construction, will become the largest mosque in Southeast Asia once completed.

Muslims are also a big part of Zamboanga City, making up a large portion of the population. Many Muslims from Sulu and Basilan have moved here. Muslim communities celebrate holidays like Hari Raya instead of traditional fiestas.

Economy of Zamboanga City

La Purisima Street at Night

Zamboanga City's economy has been growing steadily. In 2022, its economy reached about P139.47 billion. This shows a good recovery after a small dip during the pandemic in 2020. Zamboanga City contributes a big part to the economy of the Zamboanga Peninsula region. It has the third-largest economy in Mindanao.

Sardine Industry

Zamboanga-made Sardines in supermarket shelves

Zamboanga City is known as the "Sardines Capital of the Philippines." Most of the country's sardine companies are located here. Sardine fishing and processing are a huge part of the city's economy. This is because Zamboanga is close to rich fishing areas in the Sulu Sea. The city supplies most of the Philippines' canned sardines. It also exports sardines to other countries.

Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone

The administrative building of the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority

The Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority and Freeport (ZamboEcoZone) was created in 1995. It's a special area designed to attract businesses and investments. It helps boost trade and create jobs in the city.

Shopping Malls

KCC Mall de Zamboanga

SM City Mindpro

Zamboanga City has become a popular place for new shopping malls. Big mall companies like KCC Malls and SM Supermalls have opened branches here.

• KCC Mall de Zamboanga opened in 2015. It is one of the largest malls in Mindanao.
• SM City Mindpro opened in 2020. It was previously Mindpro Citimall.
• SM City Zamboanga is a new SM Mall under construction. It is expected to open by 2025.

Major Malls in Zamboanga City

Seaweed Industry

Zamboanga City is also important for seaweed production. Along with other areas in the Philippines, it produces most of the world's supply of carrageenan. This is a product made from seaweed.

International Trade

Zamboanga City is part of the East ASEAN Growth Area. This is a group that helps countries in Southeast Asia work together on trade. Because of this, Zamboanga City has direct air and sea routes to places like Sandakan in Malaysia.

Transportation in Zamboanga City

Air Travel

The Zamboanga International Airport is in Barangay Canelar. It has a long runway that can handle international flights and large airplanes. There are plans to build a new airport in Barangays Mercedes and Talabaan. The current airport site might become a business district.

Land Travel

Around the city, people use taxis, jeepneys, and tricycles. Buses also travel from Zamboanga City to other parts of Mindanao and the Visayas. Taxis were introduced in 2018 and are becoming more common.

Sea Travel

Zamboanga City has many seaports and wharves. The main port is large and modern. It can handle many ships at once. Many shipping companies use the Port of Zamboanga. There are also fast boat services to Sandakan, Malaysia. The port is very busy, with millions of passengers passing through each year.

City Infrastructure

Townships

New townships are being developed in Zamboanga City.

• SR Township in Boalan is a large project. It includes the "Grand Sadik Mosque," which will be the biggest mosque in the Philippines. It will also have a mall, convention center, and hotel.
• Andaluz by Vista Estates is another township in Boalan. It aims to recreate the feel of Seville, Spain. This area will have homes, shops, and a business district.

Telecommunication

The telecommunication towers as can be seen over the downtown.

Major phone and internet companies operate in Zamboanga City. Companies like Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company and DITO have facilities here. This helps improve communication services for everyone.

Power Supply

Murga Station of the Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (ZAMCELCO).

The Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative provides electricity to the whole city. A new coal-fired power plant is being built. It will help meet the city's growing need for electricity.

Water Supply

Zamboanga City gets most of its water from the Tumaga River. The Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) manages the water supply. They are looking for new water sources to make sure everyone has enough water in the future.

Education in Zamboanga City

Ateneo de Zamboanga University façade

Zamboanga City has many schools, both public and private.

• Western Mindanao State University is a large public university.
• Ateneo de Zamboanga University is a well-known private school.
• Other universities include Universidad de Zamboanga and Southern City Colleges.

Culture and Fun

Local Food

Zamboanga City's food is a mix of different cultures. It has influences from various parts of the Philippines and other countries.

Some unique dishes include:

• Curacha Alavar: Crabs cooked with coconut milk and spices.
• Chupa kulo: Mangrove snails cooked with coconut milk and vegetables.
• Knickerbocker: A refreshing dessert with fruits, jelly, and ice cream.

You can also find many delicious Tausug and Sama dishes throughout the city.

Media and News

Zamboanga City has many radio stations and television channels. There are also several local newspapers. These include The Daily Zamboanga Times and The Mindanao Examiner Regional Newspaper.

Tourism in Zamboanga City

Pulverized Red Organ Pipe Corals gives that pinkish tint on Santa Cruz's Beach.

Zamboanga City is a top tourist spot in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Many local and foreign tourists visit each year.

• The famous Pink Sand Beach of Santa Cruz was named one of the "World's 21 Best Beaches" by National Geographic in 2018. You can visit this island for a day trip. You can also see Little Santa Cruz's white sandbar and the island's lagoon.
• Another popular place is the 11 Islands (also called Onçe Islas). This is a group of islands with beautiful white-sand beaches.

Even with some warnings, more and more tourists are coming to Zamboanga City.

Famous People from Zamboanga City

• Hidilyn Diaz – A famous weightlifter. She won the Philippines' first Olympic gold medal in 2021! She also won a silver medal in the 2016 Olympics.
• Eumir Marcial – A Filipino boxer who won a bronze medal in the 2020 Summer Olympics. He also has four gold medals from the South East Asian Games.
• Roseller T. Lim – The first person from Zamboanga to become a Philippine senator. He was known for talking for a very long time to stop a bill from passing.
• Buddy Zabala – A well-known Filipino musician. He was the bassist for the band Eraserheads.
• Ruru Madrid - A Filipino actor.

Sister Cities

Zamboanga City has special connections with other cities, called "sister cities."

See also

In Spanish: Zamboanga para niños