Camarines Norte Province, Philippines

People of Camarines Norte

• As of the 2020 Census, Camarines Norte had a population of 629,699.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 583,313, reflecting steady growth driven by urbanization, migration, and agricultural development.
• The province is home to the indigenous Manide people, a Negrito group with a distinct language and cultural heritage. They primarily reside in the municipalities of Labo, Jose Panganiban, and Paracale, maintaining oral traditions and forest-based livelihoods.
• The major dialect spoken is Central Bikol, particularly the Coastal Bikol variant. However, there is a growing shift toward Tagalog in urban centers and inter-provincial communication. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Camarines Norte

• Camarines Norte is located in the Bicol Region (Region V), at the southeastern tip of Luzon. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.17°N latitude and 122.75°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 2,277.93 square kilometers, featuring coastal plains, rolling hills, and mountainous interiors. The highest elevation is Mount Labo, rising to 1,544 meters above sea level. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November.
• The capital of Camarines Norte is Daet, where the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Lag-on.
• Most people reach Camarines Norte via land transport. It is approximately 342 kilometers from Metro Manila and accessible by bus through the Maharlika Highway. The nearest airport is in Naga City (Camarines Sur), about 2–3 hours away by road. The closest seaport is in Mercedes, which connects to island destinations like Catanduanes.

Tourist Attractions of Camarines Norte

• Calaguas Islands: A pristine group of islands known for powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and eco-friendly camping.
• Bagasbas Beach: Located in Daet, this long stretch of beach is popular for surfing and kiteboarding.
• First Rizal Monument: Built in 1898 in Daet, it is the oldest known monument dedicated to Dr. José Rizal.
• Paracale Gold Mines: A historic mining town known for artisanal gold extraction and colonial-era churches.
• Pinyasan Festival: Celebrated every June in Daet, this festival honors the province’s thriving pineapple industry with street dances, agri-trade fairs, and cultural showcases.

Economy of Camarines Norte

• In 2023, Camarines Norte posted a GDP of ₱62.41 billion, up from ₱60.19 billion in 2022, reflecting a 3.7% growth rate.
• Key industries include:
  • Agriculture: Pineapple, coconut, rice, and root crops are major products.
  • Mining: Gold, silver, and copper extraction, especially in Paracale and Jose Panganiban.
  • Tourism: Driven by beach destinations, heritage sites, and eco-parks.
  • Services: Retail, education, and government services contribute significantly to the local economy.
• The province ranks mid-tier among Philippine economies, with strong potential for growth through its Special Economic Zone in Jose Panganiban.

Educational Institutions of Camarines Norte

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Camarines Norte State College (CNSC): A public institution with campuses in Daet, Labo, Mercedes, Jose Panganiban, and Sta. Elena. It offers programs in education, engineering, agriculture, business, and health sciences.
  • La Consolacion College – Daet: A private Catholic college offering liberal arts, education, and business programs.
  • Mabini College: One of the oldest private colleges in the province, offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Capalonga College: A local institution serving northern municipalities.
  • Holy Trinity College Seminary – Labo: Offers theological and pastoral training.

History of Camarines Norte

• From 1573 to 1829, Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur were part of a single political unit known as Ambos Camarines. The name “Camarines” comes from the Spanish word “camarín,” meaning granary, referring to the rice storage houses found in the region.
• In 1829, the province was first separated, only to be reunited and re-divided multiple times. The final separation occurred on March 3, 1919, through Act No. 2809 of the Philippine Legislature, officially creating Camarines Norte as a distinct province.
• Daet was designated as the capital, and the province initially included towns like Talisay, Indan (now Vinzons), Labo, Paracale, Mambulao (now Jose Panganiban), Capalonga, Ragay, Lupi, and Sipocot. In a later territorial adjustment, Sipocot, Lupi, and Ragay were transferred to Camarines Sur in exchange for Siruma.
• Camarines Norte is known for producing national heroes such as Jose Maria Panganiban, Gen. Vicente Lukban, and Wenceslao Vinzons, whose contributions to Philippine independence and nationalism are commemorated in local monuments and civic traditions.

Elected Officials of Camarines Norte

• As of the 2025 elections, Camarines Norte is led by:
  • Governor: Ricarte R. Padilla
  • Vice Governor: Joseph V. Ascutia
  • Representative (1st District): Marisol C. Panotes
  • Representative (2nd District): Rosemarie C. Panotes
  • Provincial Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Camarines Norte Election Results.

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