Villanueva, Misamis Oriental: Industrial Heart of Northern Mindanao

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Villanueva is often recognized as the “Industrial Capital” of Misamis Oriental. Located just a short drive from Cagayan de Oro City, this second-class municipality has transformed from a quiet coastal town into a bustling economic powerhouse.

Whether you are a potential investor, a history buff, or a local tourist, here is what you need to know about Villanueva.

Local Leadership

The continuous development of Villanueva is steered by its local government leaders who focus on balancing industrial growth with social services.

  • Governor (Misamis Oriental): Juliette T. Uy
  • Mayor (Villanueva): Julio T. Uy

Major Companies and Industries

Villanueva is the backbone of the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate, a 3,000-hectare economic zone. It hosts some of the biggest multinational and local corporations in the Philippines.

Here are the top companies operating within the municipality:

Power and Energy

  • FDC Misamis Power Corporation: A subsidiary of Filinvest, operating a massive 405 MW circulating fluidized bed thermal power plant, one of the largest in Mindanao.
  • SPI Power Inc. (formerly STEAG State Power): A major power generation facility that has been a long-time supplier of reliable electricity to the Mindanao grid.
  • Kirahon Solar Energy Corp.: A large-scale solar farm located in Barangay San Martin, contributing renewable energy to the region.

Manufacturing and Heavy Industry

  • Philippine Sinter Corporation (PSC): A subsidiary of Kawasaki Steel, this landmark facility produces sintered ore and is one of the oldest and largest industrial locators in the estate.
  • Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc.: This massive bottling plant is a key production hub for Coca-Cola products distributed across Mindanao.
  • SteelAsia Manufacturing Corporation: The country’s flagship steel company operates a state-of-the-art rolling mill here, producing hundreds of thousands of tons of steel bars annually.
  • Jacobi Carbons Philippines: A global leader in activated carbon technology, processing coconut shells into high-value industrial carbon.
  • Philippine Sanjia-Steel Corporation: A significant steel manufacturing locator situated in the Katipunan area of the municipality.

Popular Places and Landmarks

While Villanueva is primarily industrial, it possesses hidden gems, historical sites, and resorts that locals and visitors enjoy.

  • Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Located in Barangay Looc, this church is the spiritual center of the municipality. It is a popular pilgrimage site, particularly during the feast day on December 12.
  • The Original Pugaan Riverbed: For history enthusiasts, this is considered a historical site offering a glimpse into the natural geography of the area before modern developments changed the landscape.
  • Mimbiga Spring: A natural attraction tucked away in the municipality, Mimbiga Spring is a favorite spot for locals looking to cool off.
  • Bongloy Trees (Town Plaza): The town has deep historical roots tied to the “Bongloy” trees. Legend states that the area was originally named “Bongloy” by the natives because of three gigantic trees that grew where the Catholic church and town plaza stand today.

Strategic Location

Villanueva offers a strategic advantage for businesses and residents alike:

  • Accessibility: It is easily accessible via the Butuan-Cagayan de Oro-Iligan Road (BCIR).
  • Proximity to CDO: Being roughly 25-30 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro, it offers access to city amenities while maintaining a distinct local government focus on industry.
  • Port Access: The coastline allows for industrial ports, crucial for the logistics of the companies operating within PHIVIDEC.

Fast Facts

  • Province: Misamis Oriental
  • Region: Northern Mindanao (Region X)
  • Classification: 2nd Class Municipality
  • Feast Day: December 12 (Our Lady of Guadalupe)

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