Catanduanes is the 12th largest island in the Philippines. Located east of Camarines Sur, it is accesible by air or sea transportation. Ferry services are available in crossing the Lagonoy Gulf that separates the Port of Virac from the Port of Tabaco in Tabaco City in the province of Albay. Topography consists mostly of hills and low lying mountains. In fact, the highest peak is only 803 meters. It has Type II climate which is characterized by no dry season with a very pronounced maximum rainfall from November to January.

Catanduanes Provincial Capitol

Agriculture is the main economic activity in the province. Farm and fishery production in 2007 are as follows (figure in thousand metric tons, rank among 79 provinces)

Animal inventory of Catanduanes in 2007 are as follows (figure in thousand, rank among 79 provinces)

Cottage industries include handicraft, There were 7 banks serving the province in 2007 with deposits of over 1.5 billion pesos. Poverty incidence stood at 49.9 % in 2006, very high compared to the national average of 32.9%.

Tourism and the production of high value but typhoon-resistant crops are two industries that hold great promise of thriving in this part of the Philippines.

1. Talisoy and Batag - excellent spots for snorkeling and scuba diving
2. Luyang Cave in San Andres
3. Puraran Bay - unspoilt surfing area
4. Beaches at Igang and San Andres
5. Picturesque Palauig Hills that reminds one of Bohol's Chocolate Hills

Capitol photo credit to planetvirac.blogspot.com

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