Municipality of Lugait – Misamis Oriental
Welcome to Lugait, the welcoming handshake of Misamis Oriental to the west. Often recognized for its industrial skyline, this municipality is more than just factories and cement plants. It is a town rich in history, thriving with local flavors, and home to a resilient community.
Situated approximately 80 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro City, Lugait holds a strategic geographic position as the vital boundary between Region X’s two major provinces.
Neighbors & Boundaries
Lugait is strategically located at the westernmost tip of Misamis Oriental, making it a bustling transit point.
- To the West (Iligan City): Lugait shares its western border with Iligan City (Lanao del Norte). The boundary is marked by the Lugait River. This proximity allows residents easy access to Iligan’s major commercial centers, hospitals, and universities, which are just a 15-20 minute ride away.
- To the East (Manticao): On its eastern side lies the municipality of Manticao, its “mother town” from which it separated in 1961.
- To the North (Iligan Bay): The town faces the expansive Iligan Bay, providing rich fishing grounds and cool coastal breezes.
- To the South: The southern hinterlands border the mountainous areas of both Iligan City and Manticao.
The Barangays of Lugait
Lugait is politically subdivided into 8 barangays. Each plays a unique role in the town’s industrial and agricultural landscape:
- Aya-Aya
- Betahon
- Biga
- Calangahan
- Kaluknayan
- Lower Talacogon
- Poblacion (The commercial and administrative center)
- Upper Talacogon
Political History: Leaders of the Last Decades
Lugait was officially created as an independent municipality on March 16, 1961 (Executive Order No. 425). Since then, it has been led by various leaders who navigated its transition from a quiet coastal town to an industrial powerhouse.
The town’s leadership in the last few decades has largely been defined by the service of prominent local families, particularly the Lim and Perez families.
Recent Mayoral Timeline:
- 2025 – Present: Wellie “Toto” G. Lim
- 2022 – 2025: Zosimo “Bebot” A. Perez
- 2019 – 2022: Wellie G. Lim
- 2016 – 2019: Zosimo “Bebot” A. Perez
- 2010 – 2016: Wellie G. Lim
- 2001 – 2010: Wellie G. Lim
Economy: The Industrial Hub
Lugait is often called the “Industrial Hub of Misamis Oriental”.
- Cement & Steel: The town is home to major heavy industries, including Holcim Philippines, which is a significant driver of the local economy.
- Agriculture & Fishery: Despite its industrial facade, the coastal areas and hinterlands remain lush. The town produces coconuts, bananas, and boasts a rich supply of fresh seafood from Iligan Bay.
Must-Try: The Famous Lugait Bibingka
You cannot visit Lugait without trying its most famous delicacy.
- The Lugait Bibingka: Known across the region, this rice cake is celebrated for its perfect balance of sweetness and soft texture.
- Where to find it: Vendors line the national highway, making it the perfect pasalubong stop for travelers heading to or from Iligan.
Tourism & Attractions
- Lugait Eco-Tourism Park: Features a mangrove area and aquaculture, offering a breezy spot for relaxation.
- Luga-Hait Monument: A landmark symbolizing the town’s history.
- Proximity to Adventure: Being the neighbor of Iligan City, Lugait is the perfect base camp before heading to nearby wonders like Maria Cristina Falls or Tinago Falls.
Festivals and Culture
- Luga-Hait Festival: Held annually (March), featuring street dancing that showcases the town’s history.
- Town Fiesta: Dedicated to their patron saint, Nuestra Señora dela Paz y Buen Viaje.
How to Get There
Lugait is highly accessible via the Butuan-Cagayan-Iligan Road.
- From Cagayan de Oro: Go to the Bulua Westbound Terminal. Take any bus heading to Iligan City. Ask the conductor to drop you off at the Lugait Municipal Hall. (Travel time: approx. 1.5 – 2 hours).
- From Iligan City: It is a very quick jeepney or bus ride heading east (approx. 30 mins).