Catanduanes
Catanduanes is an island province in the Bicol Region (Region V) in southern Luzon, Philippines. It is often called the 'Land of the Howling Winds' because it lies along the typhoon belt of the Pacific. The province covers 1,492.16 square kilometers and is composed of 11 municipalities and 315 barangays. The capital of the province is Virac. The name Catanduanes is believed to have come from the native word samdong tree (Antidesma platyphyllum), which once thrived abundantly in the area, and the Spanish suffix -anes, used for places. Today, Catanduanes is known for its unspoiled beaches, surfing spots like Puraran Beach, rolling hills, and its strong agricultural and fishing industries.
HISTORY
Catanduanes was first inhabited by Austronesian settlers who thrived on farming, fishing, and weaving. When the Spaniards arrived in the late 16th century, the island was placed under the jurisdiction of Albay. Christianity spread during this time, but the people also endured frequent Moro pirate raids, which led to the construction of watchtowers and fortifications. During World War II, Catanduanes became one of the first provinces in the Bicol region to be liberated from Japanese occupation in 1945, largely due to the efforts of local guerrillas. On September 26, 1945, the island was officially separated from Albay and declared an independent province through Commonwealth Act No. 687, marking the beginning of its distinct political and cultural identity.
QUICK FACTS | |
| Population (2024) | 261,169 |
| Land Area (sq.km) | 1,492.16 |
| No. of Households | 60,352 |
| Average Household Size | 4.49 |
| Registered Voters | 396,583 |
| Major Landmarks | Binurong Point, Our Lady of Sorrows Shrine in Batong Paloway (Virac) |
| Coastal Access | Yes |
| Elevation (above sea level) | 803 meters (2,635 feet) |
Map
Catanduanes is located in the Bicol Region (Region V) in the southern part of Luzon. It is an island province situated to the east of Camarines Sur, separated by the Maqueda Channel and Lagonoy Gulf. It is bounded by the Philippine Sea on the north and east, and the Cabugao Bay on the south.
MUNICIPALITIES POPULATION DATA
Catanduanes has 11 municipalities and 315 barangays.
| name | type | barangay_count | population_2020 | population_2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bagamanoc | Municipality | 18 | 11086 | 10403 |
| Baras | Municipality | 29 | 13484 | 12992 |
| Bato | Municipality | 27 | 21748 | 12325 |
| Caramoran | Municipality | 27 | 32114 | 30124 |
| Gigmoto | Municipality | 9 | 8712 | 8348 |
| Pandan | Municipality | 26 | 21473 | 20796 |
| Panganiban | Municipality | 23 | 9713 | 8348 |
| San Andress | Municipality | 38 | 38480 | 37157 |
| San Miguel | Municipality | 24 | 15680 | 14578 |
| Viga | Municipality | 31 | 22869 | 21364 |
| Virac | Municipality | 63 | 76520 | 75135 |
DEMOGRAPHICS
Population by Age Group (2020)
Based on the 2020 Census, the largest age group is 5–9, with 30,670 individuals, followed closely by those aged 10–14 years (30,531) and 15–19 years (29,894). The smallest population is found in the 75–79 years group, with only 3,407 individuals.
| age | population_2020 |
|---|---|
| 5–9 | 30670 |
| 10–14 | 30531 |
| 15–19 | 29894 |
| 75–79 | 3407 |
Population by Gender (2020)
In 2020, Catanduanes’ population was composed of approximately 51.19% males and 48.81% females, indicating a slightly higher number of males than females.
ECONOMY
Agriculture
From 2018 to 2023, crop production in Catanduanes fluctuated, peaking at 2,881 units in 2018 and declining to 1,843 units by 2023. Livestock production decreased overall, from 882 units in 2018 to 369 units in 2023, despite a slight increase in 2020. Poultry production steadily grew, rising from 77 units in 2018 to 136 units in 2023. Fisheries production declined from 546 units in 2018 to 365 units in 2023.
| title | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Crops | 1921 | 1843 |
| Livestock | 530 | 369 |
| Poultry | 124 | 136 |
| Fisheries | 410 | 365 |