Tanjay City, the “City of Professionals”

Tanjay City Hall by RC Ramz

Nestled along the Tañon Strait in Negros Oriental, the component city of Tanjay is a vibrant locale brimming with centuries of history, scenic beauty, and colorful traditions. Here’s a blog‑style guide to everything that makes Tanjay something truly special:

A Glimpse at Tanjay’s Roots

Founded on June 11, 1580, as the Mission of Santiago de los Ríos de Tanay, Tanjay is one of the oldest ecclesiastical centers in eastern Negros. It later became an administrative hub under Spanish rule and has deep ties to Catholic heritage—its parish church, under St. James the Greater, dates back to 1589.

On April 1, 2001, Tanjay transitioned from a municipality into a component city via Republic Act 9026.  Today, it spans roughly 27,605 hectares and is home to around 82,600 residents.

 by Tanjay City Rocks

Tanjay at a Glance

by Manyong Valencia vlog

Nature & Landscapes

Tanjay is unique in its geographic diversity: flat lowlands by the coast and rolling hills inland—especially in barangays like Santo Niño, Pal‑ew, Bahi-an, and Sta. Cruz Nuevo.

Adventure seekers and nature lovers will find much to explore:

• Luparan Falls and nearby caves nestled within lush forest.
• Rice terraces in Barangay Pal‑ew and Mambulong Lakes for tranquil hikes.
• Mounts Malatapay and Talinis, part of the surrounding volcanic highlands—ideal for birdwatching and adventurous trekking.
• The scenic Tanjay City Boardwalk and Rizal Park, offering peaceful sunset views over mangroves and the river.

 Festivals & Foodie Finds

Cultural Highlights

• Sinulog de Tanjay (also known as Saulog de Tanjay): Held every July 24, this distinct religious street dance reenacts the legendary battle between Christians and Moros, with spectacular costumes and choreography. Its roots trace back to 1814.
• Budbud Festival in December celebrates the city’s signature sticky rice delicacy, “bod‑bod,” wrapped in banana leaves and often paired with rich local chocolate. Highlights include giant bodbud creations and fun eating contests
• Pasko sa Tanjay, a festive month‑long Christmas celebration filled with lights, music, lantern parades, and community contests.
• Other celebrations include the Children’s Festival in January, Festival of Hearts in February, and the dramatic Paaway sa Kabayo (horse fights) in July.

Local Cuisine & Market Life

• Be sure to taste the bod-bod, Tanjay’s famed glutinous rice treat—best served with mango and tablea chocolate.
• Visit the town Mercado (market) to experience fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and handmade crafts—all central to daily life here.

Culture, Education & Local Life

• The city is affectionately called the “City of Professionals” thanks to its dense concentration of professionals and musical talents in the province.
• Diaz College (est. 1947) and Tanjay City Science High School (est. 2003) are notable education institutions fostering new generations here.
• For local radio and news, tune into Radio DYIB 96.1 FM, offering music, talk, and daily updates in Cebuano and Filipino.

Best Time to Visit & How to Get There

Climate

Tanjay experiences a tropical climate with a wet season from May to February and a short dry period between March and April. Rainfall peaks in July and August, and typhoons can affect the area between June and November.

Getting There

From Dumaguete City (~30–31 kilometers to the south), travelers can ride air-conditioned buses or vans-for-hire—journey time is about an hour and fares range from ₱35 to ₱50.

Final Thoughts

Tanjay City masterfully blends the charm of a small coastal community with a dynamic cultural life and rich history. Whether you’re drawn to its sacred traditions, local flavors, or nature’s embrace, this city offers a compelling journey off the beaten tourist path.

by Life in Pinas