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PROVINCIAL PROFILE OF LAGUNA
FAST FACTS
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LOCATION
Laguna is located some 30 km south of Manila. It is bounded on the north by Rizal, on the east and south by Quezon, and on the west by Cavite and Batangas.
THE LAND
The terrain is mainly narrow plains along the shores of Laguna de Bay but mountainous towards Sierra Madre in the east, Mt. Makiling in the west, and Mt. Banahaw in the south. Laguna has no distinct seasons. In the mountainous areas, climate is cool; the plains are somewhat warmer.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Laguna derives its name from " La Laguna" (the lake), referring to Laguna de Bay, the largest inland body of water in the Philippines, which forms the province's northern boundary. The province and surrounding areas were conquered for Spain in 1571 by Captain Juan del Salcedo.
Seven years later, Franciscan friars started the work of Christianization. Soon, towns around the lake were founded. In 1678, San Pablo de los Montes (now San Pablo City) was established. The town of Bay was the capital of the province until 1688, when it was tranferred to Pagsanjan and later in 1852, to Sta. Cruz. Laguna was one of hte first eight provinces to rise in revolt against Spain. It was also the home province of the national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, who was born in Calamba.
THE PEOPLE
Tagalog is spoken by 99% of the population. The remaining 1% is divided among those who speak Ilocano, Bicol, or Waray.
COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
Agriculture and fishing have always been the backbone of the provincial economy. Laguna is the country's second largest coconut producer after Quezon. Other important crops are rice, sugarcane, and fruits, especially citrus and lanzones. Fishing is important in the lakeshore towns. Fishpens cover large areas of Laguna de Bay as well as Sampaloc Lake in San Pablo City. Cottage industries also flourish in the province. It is noted for wood carvings, paper-mache figures from Paete, and barong materials and linen from Lukban.
Information gathered from:
League of
Provinces
by:Roberto C. Arellano
This page last revised:January 27, 1999.
