Carmen Carmen, Davao del Norte | |
|---|---|
Urban Town | |
| Municipality of Carmen | |
 Flag  Seal | |
Nicknames:
| |
| Motto(s): Basta Carmen, Trabaho Pa | |
| Anthem: Carmen Hymn | |
 Map of Davao del Norte with Carmen highlighted | |
 Interactive map of Carmen | |
.svg)  Carmen | |
| Coordinates:7°21′23″N125°42′19″E / 7.356278°N 125.705294°E /7.356278; 125.705294 | |
| Country | Philippines |
| Region | Davao Region |
| Province | Davao del Norte |
| District | 2nd district |
| Founded | May 6, 1966; 59 years ago (May 6, 1966) |
| Named after | Doña Carmen Veloso |
| Barangays | 20 (seeBarangays) |
| Government | |
| • Type | Sangguniang Bayan |
| • Mayor | Leonidas R. Bahague |
| • Vice Mayor | Marchell J. Perandos |
| • Representative | Jose Manuel "JM" Lagdameo |
| • Municipal Council |
|
| • Electorate | 52,421 voters (2025) |
| Area | |
• Total | 166.00 km2 (64.09 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 16 m (52 ft) |
| Highest elevation | 135 m (443 ft) |
| Lowest elevation | 0 m (0 ft) |
| Population (2024 census)[3] | |
• Total | 88,745 |
| • Density | 534.61/km2 (1,384.6/sq mi) |
| • Households | 19,872 |
| Demonym(s) | Carmen is named after Doña Carmen Veloso, the wife of then Congressman Ismael Veloso |
| Economy | |
| • Income class | 1st municipal income class |
| • Poverty incidence | 14.05 |
| • Revenue | 645.23 million (2025) |
| • Assets | 1,650 million (2025) |
| • Expenditure | 523.3 million (2025) |
| • Liabilities | 275.2 million (2025) |
| Service provider | |
| • Electricity | Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) |
| Time zone | UTC+8 (PST) |
| ZIP code | 8101 |
| PSGC | |
| IDD : area code | +63 (0)84 |
| Native languages | Davawenyo Cebuano Ata Manobo Kalagan Tagalog |
| Patron saint | Our Lady of Mount Carmel |
Carmen (Tagalog:['kaɾmɛn]), officially theMunicipality of Carmen (Cebuano:Lungsod sa Carmen;Tagalog:Bayan ng Carmen), is a dynamic and steadily progressing first-classmunicipality in theprovince ofDavao del Norte,Philippines, and positioned betweenPanabo City,Tagum City, and within easy reach of Davao City, making it a key transit, trade, and growth corridor in the province. As part of the expandingDavao Metropolitan Area, its strategic location, fertile agricultural lands, and access to both inland and coastal resources have driven rapid development and increasing economic activity. Because of these advantages and its continuous urban growth, Carmen is widely regarded as the next city ofDavao del Norte, reflecting its rising importance as both an agricultural center and an emerging commercial hub. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 88,745 people.[4]
Carmen’s history is closely tied to its development as a community shaped by resilience, leadership, and local identity. Before becoming an independent municipality, the area that is now Carmen was once a sitio of the Municipality of Panabo and consisted mainly of agricultural settlements where farming and fishing sustained early residents. It was on by virtue of Republic Act 4745 enacted by the defunct Philippine Congress created the new municipality on June 18, 1966. Carmen was named afterDoña Carmen Veloso, the wife of Congressman Ismael Veloso, who played a key role in its creation.
One of the most significant chapters in Carmen’s history occurred duringWorld War II, particularly inBarangay Ising, where local guerrilla fighters and residents bravely resisted Japanese occupation in what became known as theBattle of Ising—a symbol of the town’s courage and patriotism that is now commemorated through historical markers and memorials. TheBattle of Ising is being remembered with a 30 feet (9.1 m) high monument built on the same spot the deadliest and heaviest battle took place, which was just a few meters away from the Japanese garrison. The Veterans Memorial Shrine, just along the national highway, has a brief history and some of the names of those who participated, and has become a tourist attraction in Carmen.
After the war, Carmen gradually rebuilt and expanded, with agriculture becoming the foundation of its economy and migration contributing to population growth and cultural diversity. Over the decades, improvements in infrastructure, governance, and commerce transformed Carmen from a quiet rural town into a progressive municipality, laying the historical groundwork for its present-day development and its growing recognition as a future city of Davao del Norte.
Carmen is geographically bounded by Braulio E. Dujali to the north, Tagum City to the east, Panabo City to the west, and the Davao Gulf to the south, giving it both inland and coastal significance within Davao del Norte. This strategic location allows Carmen to serve as a vital link between agricultural hinterlands, coastal resources, and nearby urban centers, positioning it as an important hub for trade, transport, and economic growth in the province.
Carmen has a total land area of approximately 166 square kilometers, composed mostly of flat to gently rolling lowland plains that are highly suitable for agriculture. These fertile lands support extensive rice and corn fields, as well as banana and coconut plantations, which form the backbone of the municipality’s economy. The area is nourished by river systems, particularly the Libuganon River, which provides irrigation, water supply, and support for aquaculture. Along its southern boundary facing the Davao Gulf, one of its barangays, such as Brgy. La Paz, has a direct access to the sea, sustaining fishing, crab fattening, and other marine-based livelihoods that complement the municipality’s agricultural production. With a tropical climate featuring relatively consistent rainfall year-round, Carmen’s combination of productive plains, river systems, and coastal zones creates a geographically diverse, resource-rich, and development-ready municipality, supporting its growth and emerging importance as the next city of Davao del Norte.
| Climate data for Carmen, Davao del Norte | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 29 (84) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 31 (88) | 31 (88) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) | 30 (86) |
| Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | 22 (72) | 22 (72) | 22 (72) | 22 (72) | 23 (73) | 24 (75) | 24 (75) | 24 (75) | 24 (75) | 24 (75) | 23 (73) | 22 (72) | 23 (73) |
| Averageprecipitation mm (inches) | 98 (3.9) | 86 (3.4) | 91 (3.6) | 83 (3.3) | 133 (5.2) | 158 (6.2) | 111 (4.4) | 101 (4.0) | 94 (3.7) | 117 (4.6) | 131 (5.2) | 94 (3.7) | 1,297 (51.2) |
| Average rainy days | 16.4 | 14.3 | 16.3 | 18.5 | 25.3 | 25.0 | 23.8 | 21.9 | 20.8 | 24.4 | 24.3 | 18.7 | 249.7 |
| Source: Meteoblue(Use with caution: this is modeled/calculated data, not measured locally.)[5] | |||||||||||||
Carmen, Davao del Norte, experiences a tropical climate typical of the Davao Region, characterized by relatively high temperatures, humidity, and consistent rainfall throughout the year. The municipality does not have a pronounced dry or wet season, although rainfall may slightly increase from June to November, influenced by the southwest monsoon and occasional tropical disturbances. Average temperatures generally range from 24°C to 32°C, creating warm and humid conditions favorable for year-round agriculture, particularly rice, corn, banana, and coconut cultivation. The steady rainfall, combined with fertile lowland plains and river systems like the Libuganon River, supports both crop farming and aquaculture, while the coastal areas along the Davao Gulf benefit from marine resources. Carmen’s climate, with its combination of warmth, humidity, and reliable precipitation, plays a central role in sustaining its agricultural productivity, fisheries, and overall settlement patterns
The municipality of Carmen is politically subdivided into 20barangays. Each barangay consists ofpuroks while some havesitios.
The Case of Barangay Mabuhay as an Exclave Barangay
Barangay Mabuhay in Carmen, Davao del Norte, presents an unusual case of anexclave—a portion of the municipality physically separated from its main territory and surrounded by other local jurisdictions, such as Panabo City. This geographical irregularity means that to travel from the main part of Carmen to Mabuhay, one must pass through barangays like New Malaga, which belong to Panabo City. Such a boundary configuration often results from historical land divisions, settlement patterns, or administrative decisions.
In some cases, irregular boundaries like this may also raise questions aboutgerrymandering, a term usually used in political contexts to describe the manipulation of territorial boundaries to benefit particular groups or political interests. While gerrymandering typically applies to electoral districting, similar boundary irregularities at the municipal or barangay level could arise from political maneuvering—such as attempts to include or exclude certain communities for resource control, political support, or administrative convenience.
Whether the exclave status of Barangay Mabuhay stems from deliberate boundary drawing or natural historical circumstances, it creates practical challenges in governance, service delivery, and community integration. It also highlights how political and administrative boundaries, when irregularly drawn, can affect local populations, sometimes complicating their representation and access to resources.
| Year | Pop. | ±% p.a. |
|---|---|---|
| 1970 | 20,385 | — |
| 1975 | 23,163 | +2.60% |
| 1980 | 30,719 | +5.81% |
| 1990 | 49,507 | +4.89% |
| 1995 | 56,260 | +2.42% |
| 2000 | 55,144 | −0.43% |
| 2007 | 61,656 | +1.55% |
| 2010 | 69,199 | +4.29% |
| 2015 | 74,679 | +1.46% |
| 2020 | 82,018 | +1.99% |
| 2024 | 88,745 | +1.91% |
| Source:Philippine Statistics Authority[6][7][8][9][10] | ||
Poverty incidence of Carmen
Source:Philippine Statistics Authority[11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]
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Balutan sa Carmen is a famous roadside food destination in Carmen, Davao del Norte, widely recognized as the "Balut Capital of the Davao Region." Located along the National Highway in barangays like Ising and Tuganay, it attracts both locals and travelers from nearby cities such as Davao, Tagum, and Panabo who stop to enjoy freshly prepared balut (fertilized duck eggs) and related treats. The area is known for its affordable and flavorful balut, often served with spicy vinegar (sinamak) or eaten with drinks, and also features variations like penoy or grilled balut. Over the years, Balutan sa Carmen has become more than just a snack stop; it is a cultural and culinary landmark, highlighting Carmen's unique identity in the Davao Region as the top destination for balut lovers.[19]
Gaisano Grand Mall of Carmen is the first community mall in Carmen, Davao del Norte and the third in the province, following developments in Tagum City and Panabo City. Strategically located along the Pan‑Philippine Highway, it serves as a modern retail and lifestyle hub for residents and travelers, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and service options including supermarkets, clothing stores, food courts, banks, and other essential conveniences. Its establishment has significantly boosted the local economy by creating jobs, attracting business, and encouraging commercial growth in the municipality. As the first community mall in Carmen, it represents a milestone in the town's transition from a predominantly agricultural municipality to a thriving commercial center, reinforcing its status as the next city of Davao del Norte.[20]
Felcris Express Carmen is a branch of the Felcris retail chain located in Carmen, Davao del Norte, providing residents with a convenient place to purchase daily essentials, groceries, snacks, and household items. Strategically situated along a busy commercial area, it serves not only local residents but also travelers passing through the municipality, making it a key stop for quick and accessible shopping. Beyond convenience, Felcris Express Carmen contributes to the local economy by generating employment, supporting small suppliers, and enhancing retail services in the town, reflecting the municipality's ongoing growth as a developing commercial hub in Davao del Norte.
Maximus Structural Innovations, Inc. is one of the largest and most prominent companies in Carmen, Davao del Norte, specializing in structural steel fabrication, engineering design, and construction solutions. The company handles large-scale projects including industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and infrastructure developments, offering services such as steel fabrication and installation, detailed structural design, project management, and custom metal works like trusses, stairways, and railings. Its capacity to manage complex projects, provide employment opportunities, and support the local supply chain has made it a key player in Carmen's economic and infrastructure growth, serving not only local clients but also developers and contractors throughout Davao del Norte and the wider Davao Region, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted leader in structural engineering and construction services.
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Steniel Cavite Packaging Corporation (SCPC) – Carmen is a packaging and manufacturing company operating in Alejal, Carmen, Davao del Norte, engaged in the production of packaging materials, particularly for food and consumer goods industries. As part of the broader Steniel Cavite Packaging group, SCPC focuses on supplying high‑quality packaging solutions, which may include items like plastic and laminated packaging, flexible packaging films, bags, and related products used by local manufacturers, agriculture producers, and businesses requiring durable, efficient packaging materials. Its presence in Carmen supports the municipality's growing industrial profile by providing employment, contributing to local supply chains, and helping other businesses package and distribute their products effectively. As the area continues to develop commercially and industrially, SCPC's role highlights the diversification of Carmen's economy beyond agriculture into manufacturing and industrial services, further reinforcing its emergence as a key economic hub in Davao del Norte.
Bio Pulp Industry, Inc. is a manufacturing and industrial company located in Anibongan, Carmen, Davao del Norte that specializes in the production of bio‑based pulp and related eco‑friendly materials. As part of the emerging industrial sector in the municipality, Bio Pulp Industry focuses on processes that convert agricultural residues and renewable biomass into pulp products that can be used in packaging, paper production, and other sustainable applications. The company supports green manufacturing practices, contributing to environmental sustainability by utilizing renewable raw materials and producing products that reduce reliance on purely synthetic or non‑biodegradable inputs.
Located in Brgy. Alejal, Diamond Farms, Inc. is the largest banana plantation in Carmen, Davao del Norte, spanning more than 1,000 hectares dedicated exclusively to banana production. The farm not only supplies local and regional markets but also exports its bananas to international markets, contributing to global trade and positioning Carmen as a key player in the Philippines' banana industry. As the biggest agribusiness in the municipality, Diamond Farms provides significant employment opportunities, supports the agricultural supply chain, and boosts the local economy, while its large-scale, export-oriented operations exemplify Carmen's growing capacity for commercialized and internationally competitive agriculture, reinforcing its emergence as an economic hub in Davao del Norte.
Smartflute Corrugated Packaging Company Inc. – Carmen is a manufacturing and industrial enterprise located in Brgy. Sto. Nino, Carmen, Davao del Norte that specializes in producing corrugated packaging products. As part of the packaging industry, Smartflute manufactures corrugated boxes, cartons, and related packaging materials used for shipping, storage, and protection of goods across various sectors including agriculture, retail, electronics, food production, and logistics. These packaging solutions are vital for companies that require durable, lightweight, and cost‑effective materials to ensure product safety and efficiency in handling and transport.
Carmen Auto Surplus is a local automotive dealership and surplus vehicle retailer based in Carmen, Davao del Norte that specializes in offering a variety of pre‑owned vehicles, spare parts, and automotive accessories. Catering to drivers, small business owners, and vehicle enthusiasts in the municipality and surrounding areas, it provides an accessible option for those seeking quality used cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and utility vehicles at competitive prices. The business also supports the local economy by creating jobs, supplying replacement parts, and meeting the transportation needs of residents who rely on affordable vehicles for daily commuting, logistics, and livelihood activities. As part of Carmen's growing commercial and service sector, Carmen Auto Surplus reflects the diversification of the local market beyond agriculture.
Yunhap Plastic Corporation – Carmen is a manufacturing company located in Carmen, Davao del Norte that specializes in the production of plastic products and packaging materials. As part of the local industrial and manufacturing sector, Yunhap Plastic Corporation focuses on producing a range of plastic goods that may include containers, packaging films, household plastic items, industrial plastic components, and other molded plastic products used by businesses and consumers alike.
UNAHCO, Inc. (Univet Nutrition and Animal Healthcare Company) in Carmen, Davao del Norte hoststhe largest feed mill plant in Mindanao, producing high-quality animal feeds and veterinary products for livestock and poultry across the region. The facility ensures farmers have reliable access to nutritional solutions that enhance productivity and farm sustainability. It also functions as a logistics hub, streamlining the delivery of feeds and healthcare products to surrounding communities. With advanced technology and large-scale production, the Carmen plant plays a crucial role in strengthening Mindanao's agricultural supply chain and modernizing local farming.
CitiHardware Warehouse in Carmen, Davao del Norte is one of the largest hardware warehouses in Mindanao, spanning an expansive 18 hectares. The facility offers a wide range of construction and home improvement materials, including tools, building supplies, plumbing and electrical products, paints, tiles, and garden equipment, catering to both professional builders and DIY enthusiasts. Its large-scale operations and extensive inventory make it a key hub for construction and development needs in the region. With ample space and organized logistics, the Carmen warehouse strengthens access to quality materials for communities across Mindanao.
Everlasting Cement Fixing Inc. is a cement and construction supplies business located in Carmen, Davao del Norte, Philippines that provides materials commonly used in building and construction projects, such as cement and related products. It is listed as an accredited provider for cement and concrete services and supports local construction needs in the area.
Chrono Pipe Group Corporation is a Philippine‑based manufacturer of large‑diameter spiral welded steel pipes with a major plant located in Purok 6‑B, Barangay Sto. Niño, Carmen, Davao del Norte, Philippines. The company produces high‑quality spiral steel pipes used in a variety of infrastructure projects — including potable water lines, irrigation systems, penstock piping for hydropower plants, piling support for bridges and ports, structural columns, and oil and gas distribution — and serves customers throughout Mindanao, Visayas, and beyond. Their operations emphasize rigorous quality control and international manufacturing standards to ensure durable, leak‑free products for construction and engineering applications.
Coconut King Corporation is a coconut products manufacturer based in Purok 7, Barangay Sto. Niño, Carmen, Davao del Norte, Philippines that specializes in processing fresh, locally sourced coconuts into a range of high‑quality food products. The company is registered as a food manufacturer with the Philippines Food and Drug Administration, reflecting its compliance with safety and quality standards. Coconut King Corporation focuses on producing value‑added coconut goods such as coconut milk, desiccated coconut, and other coconut‑based items that serve both domestic and export markets, contributing to the local agricultural economy while supporting ethical sourcing and sustainable practices.
Precision Structural Specialist Corp. is one of the largest steel fabrication and structural services company in Mindanao which is based in Purok 4‑A, Sto. Niño, Carmen, Davao del Norte, Philippines that specializes in producing and bending large‑diameter steel pipes and other structural steel components for civil and construction projects. The company's Four Roll Bending (FRB) plant in Carmen can fabricate pipes of various sizes and specifications and is designed to be mobile and reassembled where needed, giving flexibility for remote or on‑site projects. Their services include steel fabrication, manpower support for on‑site welding and installation, and supervision and training for structural works, making them a key local partner for infrastructure and industrial construction in Mindanao.
Elected officials of Carmen for the term of 2025 up to present
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Places adjacent to Carmen, Davao del Norte | |
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 Province ofDavao del Norte | |
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Tagum (capital and largest city) | |
| Municipalities | |
| Component cities | |
