Creation of Sta. Maria Municipality in Davao

Sta. Maria comprises multiple barrios and sitios originally part of the municipality of Malalag, including Basiawan, Kidalan, Pongpong, Cogon, Kimatay, Pugad Buaya, Kadaatan, Sta. Maria, Culibao, Camasi, Kibulan, Kulungan, Longag Bato, Gandang, Sulok, Ogpao, Mamacao, Dool, Kisulad, Cabalantian, Tagbilaran, Boca, Dita, Malalag Tubig, Lagaylay, Tambo, and Magapisa.
Basiawan barrio is designated as the seat of government of Sta. Maria.

The boundary separating Sta. Maria from Malalag is precisely defined:
- Starts from the deepest inland point of Malalag Bay including barrio Bato.
- Follows the ridge of the Baculing Mountain range crossing the Malalag-Malita provincial road near Km. 342/000.
- Continues to the highest point above barrio Cadaatan.
- Extends in a straight line to the peak of Mt. Tangali and further until intersecting the Malalag-Malita boundary line.
The boundary description is based on technical data from the Office of the Highway District Engineer and official maps.

Malalag’s territory is reduced by the areas annexed to Sta. Maria.
The residual municipality retains its current status minus the separated portions.

The creation was sanctioned through House Bill No. 89, approved by the House of Representatives.
Sta. Maria becomes an official municipality upon:
- Appointment and qualification of the Mayor, Vice-Mayor, and majority of the councilors.
- Certification by the Secretary of Finance that Sta. Maria is financially capable of meeting statutory obligations and providing essential services.
- Certification that Malalag, after the territorial reduction, can still maintain its municipal government, fulfill obligations, and provide essential services.

The order was signed in Manila on September 28, 1964, by then President Diosdado Macapagal, with the Acting Assistant Executive Secretary Juan S. Cancio executing on behalf of the President.