City of Calamba

Calamba, located in the core of Laguna province, exemplifies the Philippines’ swift urban growth and profound cultural legacy. Calamba, with a population of 539,671 according to the 2020 census, is the most populous city in Laguna and an essential part of the Calabarzon area. This first-class component city, situated 50 kilometers south of Manila and 37 kilometers west of Santa Cruz, has emerged as a vital economic and cultural hub, harmoniously integrating its historical significance with contemporary advancement.

The city’s advantageous position has been instrumental in its evolution as a prominent metropolitan center. As the regional hub of Calabarzon, Calamba has emerged as a center for business, manufacturing, and tourism. Its closeness to the capital region has enabled it to capitalize on the spillover effects of Manila’s expansion while preserving its distinct identity and allure. This excellent situation has greatly facilitated Calamba’s rise as one of the most competitive cities in the Philippines.

Calamba’s economic strength is demonstrated by its remarkable financial success. In 2014, the Commission on Audit Annual Audit Report designated Calamba as the “Richest City in Calabarzon,” with a total income of ₱2,501,048,126.00. The city’s financial prosperity stems from its varied economic foundation, encompassing manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, and services. The upland barangays of Canlubang, Real, La Mesa, Milagrosa, Makiling, Punta, Barandal, Batino, and Prinza contain numerous manufacturing and economic facilities, greatly enhancing the city’s industrial sector.

The city’s economic panorama is further augmented by its classification as one of the “Next Wave Cities” for outsourcing enterprises. This acknowledgment underscores Calamba’s potential as a premier site for business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, enhancing its already multifaceted economy. The establishment of these enterprises has enhanced the city’s economic status and generated numerous job opportunities for its inhabitants, hence improving the overall living standards in the region.

Tourism is integral to Calamba’s economy, as the city is renowned as the “Spring Resort Capital of the Philippines.” This appellation is warranted, as Calamba features a multitude of hot spring resorts, especially in the barangays of Pansol, Bucal, Bagong Kalsada, and Lingga. The natural charms of Calamba have rendered it a favored destination for both domestic and foreign tourists in pursuit of relaxation and rejuvenation in the therapeutic waters of Mount Makiling.

In addition to its economic accomplishments, Calamba is historically significant as the birthplace of José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. The Rizal Shrine, situated in the city center, serves as a tribute to its historical importance. This landmark, in conjunction with the St. John the Baptist Parish Church where Rizal was baptized, draws many people seeking to engage with the origins of Philippine nationalism and independence.

The city’s dedication to commemorating its most renowned figure is further illustrated by the remarkable Rizal Park, which boasts a 22-foot tall statue of José Rizal. This monument is laden with symbolism; the statue’s elevation signifies the 22 languages and dialects in which Rizal was adept, while the 15-step pedestal represents one decade since his birth. For many years, this statue was recognized as the tallest José Rizal memorial globally, a designation it retained until the erection of a new monument in Santa Cruz, Laguna.

The cultural landscape of Calamba is further enhanced by additional significant attractions. The Calamba Claypot, or Calambanga, represents the city’s namesake and serves as a distinctive emblem of local heritage. The Republic Wakepark in the Nuvali development provides exhilarating water sports activities for individuals pursuing contemporary enjoyment. Nature aficionados may discover Calamba Island, an islet in Laguna de Bay, offering a tranquil retreat from urban life.

The city’s swift advancement has not compromised its natural splendor. Calamba’s nearness to Mount Makiling has endowed it with a multitude of hot spring resorts, especially in the barangays of Pansol, Bucal, and Bagong Kalsada adjacent to the Los Baños border. These resorts enhance the local economy while offering locals and visitors opportunity for leisure and connection with nature.

Calamba’s success narrative is evident in its demographic and urban development metrics. It has a population density over 2,600 individuals per square kilometer, making it the sixth most densely populated city in Laguna, after San Pedro, Biñan, Cabuyao, and Santa Rosa. The high density signifies the city’s appeal as a residential and professional locale, attracting individuals from diverse regions of the country with its potential for economic prospects and quality of life.

The city’s competitiveness is highlighted by its exceptional performance in national rankings. In the 2014 Cities and Municipalities Index, Calamba attained the 18th rank in overall competitiveness among cities countrywide and achieved the highest position among cities in the Calabarzon region. These rankings indicate the city’s robust performance across multiple metrics, including economic vitality, governmental efficacy, and infrastructural quality.