DumagueteInfo Archives

Dumaguete City – A Taste of the Past in the Present

The I love Dumaguete Sign
The City of gentle people, Dumaguete City is the capital of Negros Oriental and has the largest population in the province as well. Many tourists and expats love Dumaguete City because of its laid back atmosphere and cozy ambiance. Unlike any highly industrialized cities in the Philippines, Dumaguete City has maintained its gentleness amidst the advancement of technology and industry.
Dumaguete City was even included in Forbe’s list of Best places for retirees. Dumaguete City was chosen because the cost of living is relatively cheaper compared to other places and the lifestyle of the people are in a calm state making the retirees feel relaxed every day.
Other names for the City of Gentle People
Dumaguete City is also known as the “University Town” because of the presence of four Universities in the city. The universities are big enough to embrace the population of students in Dumaguete and even in the neighboring towns. There are three private universities in the city and these are Silliman University (Protestant University), St. Paul University Dumaguete (Catholic University) and Foundation University. The city also has one state university that goes by the name of Negros Oriental State University which has the biggest population of all the universities in the city.

University Town Dumaguete

Different Universities in Dumaguete

Famous Landmarks

When it comes to Dumaguete City, tourists should never miss to visit the overwhelming St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and the majestic Belfry alongside it. Dumaguete City’s Belfry is a popular attraction because of its imposing structure and historic presence in the middle of an urban city.

Dumaguete Belfry

The Dumaguete Belfry tower

Dumaguete City’s Belfry’s history can be traced back to the early 19th century having built on 1811. The looming structure served a greater purpose than being just a tourist destination. In the year 1811 when the city was in fear of the possible attacks of invaders, the Belfry was constructed to become the watchtower. Because it is a mid-rise structure, people coming from the shore of Rizal Boulevard can easily be detected and in turn the townsfolk will be informed immediately. The Belfry is there to warn the residents if there are any attackers attempting to enter the city. The Belfry was also used to announce daily mass schedules in the city. Dumaguete’s Belfry is the oldest Belfry in the whole Negros Oriental province having stood there for over 200 years. It is loved by most tourists because the old structure is still preserved up to the present. Although it underwent restoration, the elders said it still looked the same as before. This is really a touch of the past in the present day.

Other Landmarks of Dumaguete City
The city is also well known for its beautiful Rizal Boulevard. The Boulevard has a breezy and relaxing atmosphere where you can see the ships sailing back and forth the huge sea. The Boulevard is also a famous hangout place at night because there are vendors lined up selling street foods. Great lights illuminate the whole boulevard wand its huge acacia trees giving it a pleasing feel.

The Rizal Boulevard Dumagete

The Rizal Boulevard Dumagete