About the Municipality

Geography

• Location: Madridejos is a coastal municipality situated on the northernmost tip of Bantayan Island in the province of Cebu, Philippines. It is bordered by the Visayan Sea to the north and west, and shares a southern land border with the municipality of Bantayan.
• Land Area: The town covers approximately 23.95 square kilometers (9.25 square miles).
• Topography: The terrain is primarily flat and coastal, heavily defined by its proximity to the sea and its peninsular shape.
• Subdivisions: Madridejos is politically subdivided into 14 distinct barangays.

Demographics

• Population: According to the 2020 Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Census, Madridejos has a population of 42,039.
• Density: The municipality has a high population density of approximately 1,755 inhabitants per square kilometer (4,545 per square mile).
• Language and Culture: The locals are commonly referred to as Lawisanons, a name derived from "Lawis" (the Cebuano word for peninsula), which was the town's original name. The spoken language is a multilingual mix, featuring the local Linawis variety of the Bantayanon language, alongside Cebuano and Hiligaynon.
• Age Distribution: The population trends young, with the median age sitting roughly at 21 years old.

Economy

• Primary Industries: Madridejos is widely recognized as the "Fishing Village of Bantayan Island." Fishing, commercial deep-sea fishing, and marine-related industries are the primary economic drivers, providing the main source of livelihood for many households.
• Agriculture and Poultry: Alongside the rest of Bantayan Island, the town contributes to the region's robust poultry industry (specifically egg production) and engages in small-scale local agriculture.
• Commerce: The local economy is supported by retail trade, markets, and the daily distribution and processing of marine catches.
• Tourism: While more subdued compared to neighboring island towns, Madridejos draws visitors to historical and cultural landmarks such as Kota Park, the ruins of an old Spanish fort, and the boardwalk.