Catanduanes is known as “The Abaca Capital of the Philippines,” “Land of the Howling Winds,” and “The Happy Island.” It lies in the easternmost tip of Luzon. It is the biggest producer of Abaca in the country. There are beaches, churches, cliffs, hills, waterfalls, parks, ruins, shrines, museums, resorts, and other natural and man-made attractions that promote its tourism industry. The Catandungan Festival and Abaka Festival, along with other folk festivals, showcase the rich culture and history of the province and the talents of its residents.
Catanduanes Postal Codes, Zip Codes, and Area Code
Here are the postal codes (zip codes) and area codes of eleven municipalities in Catanduanes. Its postal code (zip code) is 4800 – 4810, and the area code is 052.
| City / Municipality | Postal Code / Zip Code | Area Code |
| Bagamanoc | 4807 | 052 |
| Baras | 4803 | 052 |
| Bato | 4801 | 052 |
| Caramoran | 4808 | 052 |
| Gigmoto | 4804 | 052 |
| Pandan | 4809 | 052 |
| Panganiban | 4806 | 052 |
| San Andres | 4810 | 052 |
| San Miguel | 4802 | 052 |
| Viga | 4805 | 052 |
| Virac | 4800 | 052 |
Key Areas of Catanduanes
The key areas of Catanduanes highlight its diverse attractions and cultural heritage. These are also the go-to destinations of tourists, as their attractions offer various activities for adventure, new experiences, and relaxation.
1. Virac. Virac is the capital of Catanduanes. It is also the most populous town in the province. Agriculture is the primary sector of its economy. The other essential industries in its economy are fishing, mining, lumber, government, and commercial establishments. The tourist spots in this town are Virac Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Marilima Beach, and Batag Beach.
2. Bato. It lies in the southeastern part of the province. This town consists of 27 barangays. Some tourist attractions are Bato Church, Poseidon Rock Formation, Sakahon Beach, Bote Lighthouse, and Maribina Falls. It is also known for its Bato Bridge, the longest bridge in the Bicol region.
3. Pandan. This municipality is located in the northern tip of the province. It is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on the north, Bagamanoc municipality on the east, Caramoran municipality on the south, and Maqueda Channel on the west. The attractions in this town are Tuwad-Tuwadan Lagoon, Cagnipa Rolling Hills, and Hiyop Highlands. The beaches and waterfalls in this area showcase its natural beauty.
4. Baras. Baras is located 24 kilometers from Virac, the capital of Catanduanes. Its land is classified as Forest Lands and Alienable and Disposable Lands. This town has a tropical rainforest climate. Some attractions in Baras are Binurong Point, Balacay Point, and Puraran Beach.
5. San Andres. It is formerly known as Calolbon. There are 38 barangays in this municipality. The tourist spots in this town are Our Lady of Sorrows Miraculous Stone, Luyang Cave Park, Sitio Kapagatpatanan Mangrove Eco-Park, Kawali Falls, Consad of Datag, Minabaruto Falls, and Hilawan Mermaid Pool.
FAQs
What is the capital of Catanduanes?
Virac, a first-class municipality, is the capital of Catanduanes.
What dialect is spoken in Catanduanes?
The dialects in Catanduanes are Central Bikol, Northern Catanduanes, Southern Catanduanes, Tagalog, and English.
How many towns are there in Catanduanes?
Catanduanes comprises 11 towns, namely, Bagamanoc, Baras, Bato, Caramoran, Gigmoto, Pandan, Panganiban, San Andres, San Miguel, Viga, and Virac.
What are the main sources of livelihood in Catanduanes?
The main sources of livelihood in Catanduanes are abaca, tourism, farming, fishing, handicrafts, small and medium enterprises, and cottage industry.