Zambales is a province of the Philippines located in the Central Luzon Region (Region III) of Luzon. The province covers roughly 3,046.49 square kilometers and is composed of 13 municipalities and 1 highly urbanized city with a total of 357 barangays. The capital of the province is Iba. The province was named after the indigenous Sambal people, and it is known as the “Home of the Sweetest Mangoes in the Philippines” due to its famous mango variety. It is also recognized for its long coastline along the West Philippine Sea, natural attractions such as Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, and the majestic Mt. Pinatubo which partially lies within its territory.

History

Zambales was originally inhabited by the Aetas and later by the Sambal people, from whom the province got its name. Before Spanish colonization, the area consisted of small coastal and inland communities engaged in farming and trade. The Spaniards arrived in 1572 and formally organized Zambales as a province in 1578, introducing Christianity and building towns. Despite this, locals often resisted colonial rule, joining various revolts throughout the Spanish period. Under American rule, schools and infrastructure were developed, while during World War II, Zambales endured Japanese occupation until its liberation in 1945. Subic Bay became a vital U.S. naval base until 1992, when it was transformed into the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, boosting the province’s economy. Today, Zambales is remembered for its rich history, cultural heritage, and role as a center for trade, tourism, and agriculture in Central Luzon.