Camarines Sur is the largest province in the Bicol Region, both in population and land area. Its capital is Pili, while Naga City serves as its religious, cultural, and commercial hub. The province is home to Lake Buhi, where the smallest fish in the world, the sinarapan, can be found, as well as indigenous groups like the Agta. The annual Peñafrancia Festival in Naga is a major religious event. The province is known for its historic churches, Spanish-era landmarks, and rich cultural traditions.

History

The earliest settlers of Camarines Sur were the Isarog Agta and Iraya Agta, who have lived around Mount Isarog and Mount Iraya for thousands of years. Under Spanish colonization, Camarines Sur became a key settlement in the Bicol Region, with Naga developing into a religious and administrative center. The province’s people participated in the Philippine Revolution and the resistance during World War II. Today, Camarines Sur is both a cultural and economic hub of Southern Luzon.