Municipality of Sta. Maria
Municipal Officials
Municipal Mayor:
Hon. Claude Benjamin II D. Bautista
Vice Mayor:
Hon. Josephine B. Mariscal
Councilors:
Hon. Jestoni Tiwo
Hon. Lino V. Solo
Hon. Lea C. Abe
Hon. Ramilo F. Mangayao
Hon. Amel P. Vistal
Hon. Jubane M. Munsad
Hon. Maribel M. Aplacador
Hon. Rudy B. Mariscal Jr.
Ex-Officios:
Hon. Rogelio P. Mariscal (Liga ng mga Barangay)
Hon. Analyn D. Seva (IP Mandatory Representative)
Hon. Rogen Mark O. Dalama (Sangguniang Pangkabataan)
Brief Summary
Sta. Maria, sprawling under the southern blue skies of Davao del Sur, is a span of 22, 489 hectares of verdant forest, arable lands, beautiful beaches with white sand, cascading waterfalls, brackish waters, natural fish sanctuaries, winding streams and diverse flora and fauna. It is inhabited with a number of tribes that bonded together into a small community of persons. Majority of the people are from Kaolo tribe, and the rest are mixed cultures of Cebuano, llonggo and Muslims.
Four decades ago, Sta. Maria was formerly, named “KIBULAN” because of its beautiful streams & creeks. It became a Barrio by Virtue of Republic Act Number 3570-the famous Barrio charter authored by Hon. Pedro Orata. History has it that the Tagakaulo aborigines originally chose to name this place “DOOL”. However, the name gradually lost in the memory of the people and was changed to Sta. Maria which was then created as a municipality by virtue of Executive Order Number 104 in 1965 by his Excellency President Diosdado Macapagal However, Sta. Maria was reverted back to its original status as a Barrio when Executive Order Number 104 was declared through Congressman Ismael Veloso.
If there was anything among other great things that President Ferdinand E. Marcos has done to Sta. Maria, was the restoration of its status as a municipality on June 18, 1968 by his approval of Republic Act Number 4743 under which the stifling effect of creation of Sta. Maria as a town that was favorably considered.
The municipality of Sta. Maria is blessed with good weather and favorable climate. However, in some ways the municipality had experienced stagnation in significant aspects of community development. Political aspects have great impacts In it. Changing leadership during election means changing of prioritization and only a few projects remain tangible to give benefits to the people.
The municipality remained victorious against the damaging forces of human weakness in leadership and inevitable onslaught of disasters such as landslide and flashfloods. At present, the municipality is struggling to attain its ultimate vision of attaining a community that is progressive, self-sufficient, globally competitive, harnessing strengths in agriculture and industry within the context of a balanced and harmonious ecosystem. Sta. Maria is a municipality in the Philippine province of Davao Occidental. It is renowned for its dynamic community, stunning scenery, and rich cultural history. There are 22 barangays in all in Sta. For both inhabitants and tourists, Maria provides a vibrant and diversified atmosphere. Ranging from the serene beaches of its coastal regions to the verdant inland barangays, Sta. Maria displays Davao Occidental’s natural beauty and charm. The municipality is also home to a number of sectors, including as tourism, fishing, and agriculture, all of which support its thriving economy and provide employment opportunities for its citizens. With its kind people, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant neighborhoods, Sta. Maria is a charming resort in the southern Philippines where tradition meets modernity.
Not so long ago, Sta. Maria has witnessed incredible growth and advancement in a number of areas. The municipality has developed its infrastructure to a great extent, constructing new roads, connections, and civic structures to improve accessibility and connection for both locals and visitors.
In terms of resources, Sta. Maria boasts a diverse range of sectors, with tourism, fishing, and agriculture being the main drivers of the municipality’s economic growth. The municipality’s coastal regions offer an abundance of fishing grounds, while its lush fields sustain agriculture. Additionally, tourism has grown as a result of the area’s beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant cultural events.
In response to leadership, Sta. Maria has demonstrated strong strategic planning, leadership, and attention on environmental preservation, community empowerment, and sustainable development projects. Numerous sectors have acknowledged and supported the municipality’s dedication to equitable growth and good governance.
Gazing forward, Sta. Maria keeps moving forward in the aim of creating a community that is inclusive and resilient. The municipality is well-positioned to attain higher heights and offer a superior quality of life to its citizens while safeguarding its natural beauty and cultural history via strategic collaborations, sustainable practices, and citizen participation.
Features
Welcome to Sta. Maria, a charming municipality nestled in the province of Davao Occidental, Philippines. Known for its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm community spirit, Sta. Maria offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Situated near the sea, Sta. Maria is a great place for those who enjoy the beach and the ocean because of its gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear seas. The coastal regions provide peaceful escapes from the rush of city life and possibilities for swimming, fishing, and leisurely strolls along the coastline.
Beyond its natural beauty, Sta. Maria is steeped in cultural heritage, with traditions and customs that reflect the unique identity of its residents. The municipality celebrates various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional dances, music performances, and culinary delights that highlight the diversity of its heritage.
The Municipality of Sta. Maria in Davao Occidental boasts several notable features that contribute to its charm and appeal. Sta. Maria is endowed with lovely coastal regions that provide breathtaking views of the ocean and chances for outdoor pursuits like fishing, beachcombing, and swimming. Both residents and visitors wishing to relax and take in the scenery are drawn to the immaculate beaches and crystal-clear seas.
The municipality is well-known for having lush agricultural soil that can sustain a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, corn, and rice. A large portion of the local population depends on agriculture for their living, which also helps ensure the municipality’s food security.
Sta. Maria has a rich cultural heritage, with traditions and customs passed down through generations. The municipality celebrates various cultural events and festivals that showcase its cultural diversity, including traditional dances, music performances, and culinary delights. The people of Sta. Maria are known for their warmth, hospitality, and strong sense of community. Residents actively participate in community activities, volunteer work, and local initiatives that promote unity, cooperation, and mutual support.
Sta. Maria has immense economic growth potential, a government that works, the best culture and nature, and a quality of living. People are identified as sweet as its X-factor, with the people being friendly, hospitable, confident, and courageous. Indeed, you can “Experience the Sweet Life” in Sta. Maria.