Santander, Cebu

History

Santander is at the southernmost tip of Cebu. The town was originally called Tañong, but with the coming of the Spaniards, it was renamed Santander, after the city on the northern (Atlantic) coast of Spain.

The town was established in 1867; the parish in 1897.

Geography

Santander's terrain is dominated by a backdrop of rugged ranges which raise from a flat narrow coastal plain to an average elevation of 200 metres (660 ft). Strongly sloping to sleepy sloping contours are scattered throughout the municipality.

Barangays

Santander comprises 10 barangays:

Demographics

In the 2016 electoral roll, it had 11,577 registered voters, meaning that 65% of the population are aged 18 and over.

The death rate is 3.06 per 1000 people, or 0.306%.

Language

Most of the Tañonganons (people living in Santander) speak Cebuano (Santander Version). In schools, Filipino and English languages are taught and used as a major instruction in all subjects.

Economy

Santander may be a smallest town in Cebu, but it has turned out many professionals. Majority of the people depend on the sea for livelihood – fishermen who continually explore the vast Palawan and East Philippine seas in search for rich fishing grounds. The method of fishing used is the destructive muro-ami technique, which has been banned on several occasions due to its negative effects on marine life.

Before, there were four wholesale enterprises, one superstore and few sari-sari stores. An improvised market composed mostly of "talipapas" serves as satellite mater. This were located along Jose Rizal Street beside the Municipal building. By the year 2001, the business establishments began to grow and develop. Many larger businesses have been established in Santander such as LGC Marketing. The major agricultural produce in Santander is corn, copra, and root crops (cassava and sweet potato). Most people especially those living in mountain barangays plant corns as a source of their income and livelihood.

Santander was the only 5th class municipality in Cebu that was promoted its income class from 5th to 4th class.

Transport

Before, there were only two ports in Santander serving barges and boats bound for Dumaguete City. Now there are 4 ports connecting to Negros Island – three are located at Liloan and one at Talisay.

Education

There are 8 elementary and 3 high schools in Santander. Two of these schools are private located in Looc. Most of the Tañonganon students are enrolled in public schools especially in Santander Central Elementary School and Santander National School.

Sports

Basketball is the most popular sport in Santander. This game is usually played in the afternoons where school time is over and also for the adults whose work hours is done (specially construction works). During summer, a lot of basketball competitions between different barangays. This was done in order that youths avoid vices and illegal drugs. Volleyball is also played in summer competitions but it is more usually participated in by women. Other sports such as baseball and football are also played in Santander.

Tourism

Santander's popularity as a tourist destination has increased in the past few years, since it serves as the hub for some world-renowned dive spots like Apo Island, Balicasag, Pescador Island, Sumilon and Siquijor. This is also reflected in the growth of Santander in the tourism industry. 6 years ago there were only two resorts, still open today. Today there are eleven.