BARANGAY BALUARTE MUNICIPALITY OF TAGOLOAN, MISAMIS ORIENTAL, NORTHERN MINDANAO PHILIPPINES ITS LANDSCAPE SETTLEMENT PATTERN: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL LIVED EXPERIENCES
GSJ: Volume 13, Issue 10, October 2025, Online: ISSN 2320-9186
www.globalsciencjournal.com
BARANGAY BALUARTE MUNICIPALITY OF TAGOLOAN, MISAMIS ORIENTAL,
NORTHERN MINDANAO PHILIPPINES ITS
LANDSCAPE SETTLEMENT PATTERN: A
PHENOMENOLOGICAL LIVED
EXPERIENCES
by:
Frederick W Gomez, PhD Josie M Sardido, PhD
Dean – College of Education Chairman – Social Studies
gomez_072364@yahoo.com josiesardido4@gmail.com
Shyla E. Pastrana KC B. Tongon
Social Studies Researcher Social Studies Researcher
shylapastrana@gmail.com Tongon.kc24@gmail.com
Abstract
Barangay Baluarte is in the Municipality of Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental,
Northern Mindanao, Philippines, and is located at 8.5438, 124.7411 (8° 33' North,
124° 44' East) with an estimated sea level of 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) and a land span
of 289 hectares of flat lowland terrain, providing an ideal topography for
infrastructure development and settlement patterns. The geography of Barangay
Baluarte makes it accessible and favorable for industrial development, business
operations, and stable residential growth. Researchers identified the settlement
pattern through its land classification by using phenomenological, ethnographic,
and anecdotal recording techniques, along with visual and audio aids. The
PHIVIDEC industrial estate covers a large area of the Barangay, leading to its
classification as an industrial district. This disparity has prompted local
government initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and services in
underdeveloped areas. As a result, there is a growing interest from investors
looking to capitalize on the geographical region's potential, further enhancing its
appeal for both businesses and residents.
Keywords: Barangay Baluarte_ Landscape_ Settlement Pattern
Introduction
Barangay Baluarte in the Municipality of Tagoloan Misamis Oriental Northern Mindanao
Philippines is transectorally revisited. As transectorized the location situated at
8.5438, 124.7411 (8° 33' North, 124° 44' East) with an estimated sea level on 3.5 meters (11.5 feet)
by its land spans of 289 hectares of flat lowland terrain, providing an ideal topography for
infrastructure development and human settlement pattern. Its plain geography has made it
accessible and favorable for industry, company, businesses and residential growth stability.
GSJ: Volume 13, Issue 10, October 2025
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It’s inviting view on the panoramic and historic sceneries of Macabalan (Macajalar Bay)
Cagayan de Oro City of Northern Mindanao Philippines. It extended its breath and looks to the
promising coastal area to the southwest and west of Gracia, Casinglot, Bugo, Puerto, Agusan,
Tablon, Cugman, Gusa, Lapasan, Macabalan, Kauswagan, Bonbon, Bulua, Barra, Opol stretching
to the line coast of Laguindingan International Airport. And, to the northeast and east to Villanueva,
Jasaan and Balingasag. Baluarte’s coastal proximity enhances its role in fishing and trade,
reinforcing its position as a commercial hub within the Municipality of Tagoloan, Misamis
Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Philippines. Thus, it is likely to have a sea port or any maritime hub
for some reason.
The deepness of its archaic sea bed on the sea floor of the “Macajalar Bay made it favorable
to hide the blow of the wind called Chubasco (habagat) the southwest-south blow of the wind),
current of the sea “dugso” (current of the sea water from Pacific entering the inland water of the
island) and “bugwas” (current of the sea water from the island water going out and entering the
body of water in the Pacific) and “dumagsa” (turbulent water of the sea due to the north-northeast
blow of the wind) it is Tagoloan (Hiding Place of the seafarer). The crescent shape of the coastal
area covering those mentioned geophysical landscape covers the archaic insular shelves of the
internal water to be known as Cagayan de Oro City Development Authority (a project known as
Metro Cagayan). Wherein the maritime docking deepness is commendable.
And, to the wide PHIVIDEC (Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation)
holdings in the area dominantly classified the land as industrialized. Baluarte is a proactive
dynamic center of industry, company, businesses and residency. Its industrial and commercial hub
contributing a lucrative vibrant economy. Its streets offer the lined with establishments offering
essential services, while industrial corporations like Kitrol and Sanjia Steel Holdings offers local
employment. Although alongside with Petron Corporation (Casinglot) and Jetti Petroleum
Incorporated (Sugbongcogon & Gracia) are also substantiating its social obligation for
employment and community development in the area.
These fuel depository stations established alongside with the favorable deepness of the sea
water for refilling or refueling. This growth has led to an increase in residential areas, allowing
settlements to flourish alongside economic development. Public markets and commercial hubs
serve both residents and visitors, while ongoing infrastructure improvements reflect the barangay's
balanced growth.
The settlement patterns in Barangay Baluarte, Tagoloan Misamis Oriental Northern
Mindanao Philippines emerged from its historical roots and environmental adaptations. Originally,
it is composed of sitios such as Ilaya, Pulot, Lagnasan, Nabulod, and Centro, each had distinct
geographical traits, ranging from swampy soils to stony lands that influenced livelihood activities,
such as fishing, agriculture, and trade. Over time, these dispersed communities consolidated into
structured zones, driven by migration, wartime rebuilding, and economic opportunities. The influx
of Camiguignon (people from Camiguin Island) families after the 1871 volcanic eruption and the
resilience shown during the World War II it comes to a rapid transformation.
During the qualitative research made by the social studies researcher in Tagoloan
Community College they found out after doing the archaeological and anthropological
fossilization on the excavated “paleo’s” that the area revealed a “forestal” evidence after doing the
random sampling of archaeological excavation. Thus, the sitios named “Ilaya” mean “upland or
highland;” Pulot mean “sticky;” Lagnasan mean “gravel area” and Nabulod mean “portion of
dryland.” These sitios name has its own etymological meaning according to its own geophysical
GSJ: Volume 13, Issue 10, October 2025
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2006
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landscape. One thing in common to them the area is covered by “trees.” Later, were cut for housing
materials and relative purposes. Wherein Tagoloan river before has a narrow and deep running
water from Siloo Malitbog Bukidnon and some of its draining water coming from Tankulan
(Manolo Fortich Bukidnon). Maluko, Dalirig, Minsoro, Sankanan, Lindaban, Kalugmanan and
Mambatangan thus, this running water coming from the mentioned rivers landscape reached the
area of Tagoloan river and some of its water beseech the area of traffic flow from the upland to
the coastal area called Baluarte as the established watch and fortress place of choke point.
Thus, before water was used as the best means for transportation. And, Baluarte was the
usual place where the boat with oar, vinta and praws (sailboat) were usually gathered in Baluarte
(Bulwark) would mean stronghold or fortress against the geolocation on geophysical (the sea wind,
turbulent water, sea current and relative sea unlikelihood and unfavorable or unpleasant journey)
forces. Today, Barangay Baluarte, Tagoloan Misamis Oriental Northern Mindanao Philippines
was divided into eight zones with specialized functions. For example, Zone 1 (Sitio Nabulod)
features a mix of fisher folk and factory workers, Zone 2A houses the health and evacuation centers,
and Zone 6B hosts Tagoloan Community College surrounded by food businesses and service
centers. This spatial organization reflects the barangay’s evolution from scattered settlements to
an interconnected urban layout, shaped by geographic, social, and economic forces.
Population growth has consistently mirrored this expansion, rising from 4,772 in 1990 to
11,304 in 2024 as a reflection to the 34 years old inhabitants at Baluarte. This increase indicates
growing interest in the barangay’s livability, job access, and infrastructure. Household structures
have evolved too, from an average of 4–5 members in 2024 to larger family units today, creating
higher demand for housing, education, and healthcare services across the zones (Barangay
Baluarte Profile, 2025). Demographic shifts show a balanced age distribution, with significant
groups under age five and between ages 41–50, supporting both child-centered programs and
workforce engagement (Barangay Baluarte Profile, 2025). Data from 2023–2024 highlights
employment disparities between men and women, emphasizing the need for inclusive economic
strategies (Barangay Health Workers, 2025). The blend of traditional rural values and modern
conveniences ensures the community remains adaptable and resilient (Tagoloan Municipal Profile,
2025).
Overall, Baluarte exemplifies how settlement patterns develop through geographical
advantages, historical migrations, and adaptive planning (Velasco, 2023). Its transformation from
scattered sitios to organized zones reflects a story of resilience, strategic development, and a
commitment to sustainable growth, making it a standout model of community evolution in
Northern Mindanao Philippines.
This paper transectorized the settlement patterns of Barangay Baluarte through the lens of
the landscape phenomenology, highlighting the interplay of geography through geolocation,
culture, and socio-economic factors in shaping human habitation. It offers also valuable insights
for residents, educators, and local officials by exploring the lived experiences of inhabitants to
understand how traditional practices and environment interacts and influence community structure.
Methods
Land and visual mapping associated with a flying drone landscape the area. Images
capturing serve as visual evidence to support the findings from the peoples, places, events and
interaction. Camera-based and audio-recording were also done as essential in the study for the
accurate and reliable research collected and gathered data and relative information. Validity also
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GSJ© 2025
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utilized for the accuracy of the captured images or videos being recorded in representing the
subject matter and its consistent occurrences, while reliability also was engaged to involve the
consistency and dependability on the repetitive occurrences in the people, places, events and
interactions. The key aspects also include the test-retest reliability, inter-rater reliability, and intra-
rater reliability were made until the collected data or information being saturated (Gomez, 2025).
Much challenge done was through the archaeological diggings and anthropological
fossilization. The randomization was made in every hundred meters away in a compasses with the
direction within fifty (50) isolated areas to determine the geophysical changes and variability. The
geolocation and every account in every station were recorded according to date, time, identified
fossils, location, area, distance and the situation on the discovered evidence.
Results and Discussions
The results revealed that Barangay Baluarte's settlement patterns are influenced by its
geography through geolocation, population growth, and industrial development. The barangay was
divided into eight zones. Each of with has a distinct characteristics tied to livelihood, accessibility,
and proximity to industries. Settlement pattern expansion closely follows to economic
opportunities, such as employment from company and industry. Industrial zones, particularly those
near Sanjia Steel Corporation and Kitrol Holdings, draw settlements closer due to convenience for
workers. This clustering effect reinforces the connection between livelihood sources and
residential areas (Gomez et al., 2025a).
Moreover, the population growth data from 1990 to 2024 shows a favorable increase of
livability, with the population rising from 4,772 to over 11,304. Younger demographics dominate
the population, a young future generation demand for educational facilities, job opportunities, and
family services. The dependency ratio and youthful median age highlight the need for long-term
planning in urban development and infrastructure (Municipality of Tagoloan Profile, 2025).
Settlement patterns are shaped by these demographics, with new households forming around areas
with accessible services. These trends indicate continuous expansion and densification in already
populated zones.
Residential areas are strategically placed for easy access to essential services like schools,
health centers, and businesses. Commercial zones are commonly found along major roads for
accessibility and economic activity. Industrial zones are located away from dense residential areas
to reduce environmental health risks (Municipal Planning Development Office, 2025). This
structured approach aids urban planners in managing Baluarte’s continuous expansion. The
barangay’s landscape is heavily influenced by the presence of industries, especially in Zone 1 Sitio
Nabulod. These industries provide jobs that attract workers to settle nearby, prompting further
residential development. Commercial activities thrive alongside these industries, offering goods
and services to both residents and employees. This creates a cycle where industrial growth supports
population growth, and vice versa. As a result, settlements pattern near industrial zones tend to
become denser over time.
Traditional livelihoods such as fishing remain relevant, especially in coastal zones like
Nabulod riverside. Residents maintain fishing as a source of income despite the growth of
industrial activities are observable. Fishing communities often build homes close to the coastline,
shaping settlement patterns in these areas. The coexistence of traditional and industrial livelihoods
defines the unique character of Baluarte’s settlement pattern. These communities demonstrate
resilience and adaptability to environmental and economic changes. Infrastructure developments
have supported the barangay’s evolving settlement patterns. Roads, bridges, and transportation
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networks connect different zones, encouraging the growth of businesses and housing. Improved
infrastructure also facilitates access to schools, markets, and healthcare facilities. These
improvements influence residents' decisions on where to live and invest in property. Accessibility
remains a key driver in shaping the barangay’s spatial organization (Gomez et al., 2025b). Efficient
transportation networks correlate with higher property values and increased demand for housing
in previously isolated areas.
Household structures have changed over the years, with a shift from larger to smaller
family units. This change affects housing demand and the type of residential developments being
constructed. The increasing prevalence of smaller households correlates with a preference for
dwellings characterized by reduced spatial dimensions; this trend compels urban planners to
reassess existing land-use strategies to ensure efficient land utilization and resource distribution,
often leading to the development of higher-density residential areas (Zhang et al., 2022). Smaller
households often prefer more compact living spaces, prompting urban planners to adjust land use
strategies. Household distribution patterns contribute to the clustering of settlement patter within
designated residential zones. These evolving family structures reflect broader social and economic
trends within the barangay.
The economic contributions of companies like Sanjia Steel and Kitrol Holdings extend
beyond employment. These companies help stimulate the local economy through partnerships,
infrastructure projects, and community collaborative programs. Their presence has attracted
ancillary businesses such as retail stores (sari-sari), eateries, and service providers. This growth
strengthens the economic foundation of Barangay Baluarte and enhances its appeal to new settlers.
Economic vitality directly shapes the expansion and character of settlement pattern most specially
the boarder, the renter and the lessor. Environmental considerations, including disaster risk
reduction, influence settlement planning (Barangay Baluarte Profile, 2025). These environmental
safeguards also improve the quality of life for the inhabitants. Sustainable planning balances
population growth with environmental protection, risk management and spatial identity.
In summary, Barangay Baluarte’s settlement patterns are the result of interrelated factors:
geography geolocation, population growth, industry, and infrastructure. Organized zoning
supports sustainable development and efficient land use. Economic activities and demographic
changes continually reshape the community’s spatial layout. The barangay’s future hinges on
careful urban planning and environmental stewardship.
EXHAUSTIVE DISCUSSIONS
Barangay Baluarte demonstrates a complex interplay between industrial, commercial, and
residential zones, its growing population rising is a good sign for livability, reflecting the influence
of nearby industries like Sanjia Steel Corporation and Kitrol Holdings Inc. Settlement pattern
clusters around economic centers such as Wood Products Trading, underscoring commerce guides
land use patterns. Industrial zones are strategically placed to maintain maritime access and reduce
risk to residential areas such that of Sitio Nabulod. Sustainable urban planning, including green
spaces and mixed-use development, is vital for balancing growth with environmental resilience.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the settlement patterns of Barangay Baluarte deeply rooted interaction
between geography geolocation, industry, and community life, shaped by both historical legacy
and modern transformation. Its evolution from scattered sitios to strategically zoned community
underscores a livable community experienced with economic opportunities, and environmental
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concerns coalesce to influence urban growth. Ultimately, Baluarte's journey offers a powerful
example on how understanding culture and environment together can lead to more resilient and
equitable development.
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ooOoo
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