THE Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) officially launched its first historical publication, Samal Historical Narratives, on June 23, 2025, at the New City Hall.
The book marks a significant milestone as the city's first official historical volume, intended to serve as a foundational reference for preserving and promoting local heritage. Copies will be available through the City Investment and Tourism Office (CITO).
“This book is the product of a multi-year initiative to conserve, compile, and document the rich history of the Island Garden City of Samal. It translates oral traditions and fragmented archival records into a cohesive written account of the island’s past,” read a post by Samal Island Information on Facebook, June 25.
The project was led by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Samal in partnership with CITO, with key contributions from local writers, researchers, and historians from Samal Island City College (SICC) and CITO.
The project was spearheaded by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Samal in collaboration with CITO and brought to life by the contributions of local writers, researchers, and historians from Samal Island City College (SICC) and CITO.
Each chapter was written by individuals specializing in different historical periods. Jollie Grace Mendoza tackled the Pre-Colonial Period, followed by Leomar Jay Oblianda and Clark Jasper Montebon, who wrote about the Spanish Colonization. Oscar Baslao and Virginia Ibo covered the American Period, while Jonathan Pacete focused on the Japanese Occupation. Welvin Orantes and Moses Manubag documented the Post-War Period. Antonio Apat also contributed historical insights and editorial support, playing a significant role in completing the book.
Samal Historical Narratives traces the island’s evolution from its early years—when it was inhabited by indigenous groups including the Mansakas, Mandayas, and Muslims—to its present-day status as a premier tourist destination. The creation of Igacos was made possible through Republic Act No. 8471, signed into law by then-President Fidel V. Ramos on March 7, 1998, which merged the municipalities of Babak, Samal, and Kaputian, making it the first amalgamated city in Philippine political history.
Today, Igacos is known for its white sand beaches, marine biodiversity, and vibrant local culture, firmly establishing itself as one of the top tourist destinations in the Davao Region. DEF