Zamboanga del Sur is a province in Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), covering about 4,484.2 square kilometers. It has 26 municipalities, 1 component city, and 681 barangays. The capital is Pagadian City, which also serves as the provincial center. Zamboanga del Sur is known for its natural landmarks such as Mount Pinukis, Lake Wood, and the scenic Pagadian Bay, often called the 'Little Hong Kong of the South.'

History

Zamboanga del Sur was originally part of the larger province of Zamboanga, which covered the entire Zamboanga Peninsula. In 1940, through Commonwealth Act No. 39, Zamboanga was divided into two provinces: Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur, with Dipolog and Pagadian as their respective capitals. After World War II, Zamboanga del Sur officially became a separate province on June 6, 1952, by virtue of Republic Act No. 711, which created more municipalities and established Pagadian City as the provincial capital. The province later became one of the most important administrative centers in Mindanao due to its strategic coastal location and fertile agricultural lands. Over the years, Zamboanga del Sur has developed both economically and culturally, influenced by its diverse population of Subanen indigenous people, Visayan settlers, and Muslim communities. The province is known for its rich cultural traditions, agriculture, and fisheries, making it a vital contributor to the region. Pagadian eventually became a chartered city in 1969 and was later designated as the regional center of Zamboanga Peninsula. Today, Zamboanga del Sur is recognized for its mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with landmarks like Mount Pinukis, Lake Wood, and Pagadian Bay reflecting its unique identity in Mindanao.