Crab Capital

Crab Capital

By JULIUS P. VICENTE

MANILA, Philippines — Time stands still as soon as you set foot on the rustic island of Catanduanes.

Visitors to the island feel like they have travelled back in time because this slice of island paradise remains concealed due to its geographic location. Catanduanes is located in the easternmost part of Luzon and is isolated from the Bicol peninsula.

Even though the province of Catanduanes has a small land area of about 1,511 square kilometers, with 11 municipalities and 315 barangays, it has a large potential for eco-tourism. Nature has blessed the province with a long coastline and dazzling mountainous terrain.  

What To Do

Go beach-hopping. Try Puraran Beach in Baras which is known to surfers, both local and foreign, for its breathtaking waves that look like a long barrel of surfs. Waves are best in shape during the “ber” months as the town folks suggest.  

A must-see are the beaches in Igang, Virac. Twin Rock Beach Resort has two magnificent giant rock formations that are ideal for kayaking and spear fishing. Viracnons call the twin rocks as the two sentinels of the sea.  

Visit Catanduanes’ historical site — the Luyang Cave located in San Andres.  The cave was the hiding place of natives during the 17th century when Moro pirates attacked the island.

Go church-hopping as Catanduanes boasts of century-old churches, the oldest of which is the Bato Church. This 17th century church was made of coral stones and mortar and has a majestic view of the lake. The shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows in Batong Paluay in San Andres is believed to be miraculous because it grows in size every year.

Catanduanes is famous for its crabs. Kinis Festival was held recently in the municipality of Panganiban, the Mecca of crustaceans such as king crabs, mud crabs, prawns, and lobsters. Kinis means crabs in Catanduanes.

Panganiban Mayor Robert A. Fernandez expressed hope that the province of Catanduanes would be known worldwide as the crab capital of the Philippines.

Tourism Promotions Officer Carmel Bonifacio-Garcia says that through the years, the festivals in Catanduanes have evolved into bigger events to promote the tourism potentials of the island.

Mara na kamo sa Catanduanes
!