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Pagadian History, Philippines

Have you ever heard of the Little Hong Kong of the South? This wonderful place is also awarded as the Cleanest and Greenest City for Region IX. That’s how the city is known. Pagadian is one of the first class cities in Zamboanga del Sur in the Philippines. It is at the crossroad between Ozamis City and Iligan City for the east side, Zamboanga City for the west side, Dipolog City for the west and Cotabato City for the south.

Dating back to history, Pagadian was once a barrio of Labangan, a municipal district in the province of Zamboanga. It was originally called “PANGADYE-AN” meaning “a place that needs to be prayed”. This was called such because at that time, early Christian settlers got sick of Malaria. It was so dreaded at that time due to lack of medical attention and the modern facilities to aid the poor natives. Stories also said that there was a person from Luzon who happened to arrive in Zamboanga asking about the name of the place. The Subanons, not understanding him, answered “GAGADIAN” referring to a flock of birds, thus the name PAGADIAN derived.

Nature lovers would surely enjoy visiting this place with tranquil mountains and alluring scenery. Pagadianons are very friendly people. Being one of the first class cities in Zamboanga, you will see numerous commercial establishments. Adventure lovers will surely have fun trekking this mountainous part of the Philippines.

Pagadian City’s main transportation is mostly via tricycle. You’d probably enjoy riding it since all of the tricycles are built in a slanting position to blend with the city’s sloping terrain and steep hills.

Agriculture is the main economic activity of the city since the early times ranking the foremost in the city’s priorities which include crop production, livestock, poultry breeding and fishing. There’s also rice and corn milling, construction firms, and community services.

The city also produces lots of rubber, being the primary commercial crop. It is geographically located surrounding the Sulu Sea, Moro Gulf and Celebes Sea. Fishing gets to be one of the major means of livelihood too. In fact, it is in Pagadian City that you will get to find the famous Zaragoza Spanish Sardines. You’ll get plenty of fresh seafood and have your mouth’s fill when you visit this wonderful place.

The city itself will show you a bit of its history. You’ll get to know more and appreciate its beauty once you get here.

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