Location: Barangay Sta. Maria is situated in the northeastern part of Mabalacat City, Pampanga. It is a rural barangay characterized by expansive agricultural lands, small residential clusters, and a peaceful environment. Sta. Maria plays a vital role in the city’s agricultural production, with rice, corn, and vegetable farming as major activities. The barangay lies close to the boundary of Magalang town, providing connections to both rural and urban centers.
Coordinates: Approximately 15.2455° N, 120.6255° E
Elevation: Approximately 98 meters (322 feet) above sea level
Adjacent Barangays:
Barangay Sta. Maria shares borders with the following barangays:
Marcos Village
Dapdap
Mangalit
Paralayunan
Dolores (Magalang, Pampanga)
Population: As of the 2020 Census, Barangay Sta. Maria has a population of approximately 2,220 residents.
Households: The barangay has an estimated 500 households, with an average household size of about 4.4 members.
Historical Population Growth:
1990: 1,520
1995: 1,660
2000: 1,780
2007: 1,920
2010: 1,990
2015: 2,100
2020: 2,220
From 2015 to 2020, Barangay Sta. Maria grew by 120 residents, reflecting an average annual growth rate of approximately 1.11%.
Land Area & Topography:
Barangay Sta. Maria features flat, fertile land suited for rice fields, vegetable gardens, and residential expansion. It is accessible through farm-to-market roads and concrete barangay roads that link it to the Mabalacat city proper and neighboring municipalities.
Facilities:
Barangay Hall: The center for governance, public services, and community coordination.
Covered Court / Plaza: Venue for sports, assemblies, and barangay programs.
Chapel: A focal point for religious services, fiestas, and community gatherings.
Educational Access: Public elementary and secondary schools are located nearby, with higher education facilities accessible in the city proper and in Magalang.
Livelihood:
Residents are primarily engaged in farming, livestock raising, small-scale trading, and seasonal agricultural work. Some are employed in nearby Clark Freeport Zone or commercial establishments in Mabalacat and Magalang.
Cultural Note:
Barangay Sta. Maria celebrates its fiesta annually in September, in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with religious processions, masses, and cultural activities that promote community unity and devotion.