Camarines Sur Province, Philippines

People of Camarines Sur

• As of the 2020 Census, Camarines Sur had a population of 2,068,244.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,952,544, reflecting a growth rate of 1.22% annually over five years.
• The province is home to indigenous groups such as the Isarog Agta and Iraya Agta, who have lived for centuries around Mount Isarog and Mount Iraya. These communities maintain distinct languages, spiritual practices, and forest-based traditions.
• The major dialects spoken are Central Bikol (Bikol Naga) and Rinconada Bikol, part of the Inland Bikol group. While Bikolano is dominant, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Camarines Sur

• Camarines Sur is located in the Bicol Region (Region V), southeastern Luzon. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 13.67°N latitude and 123.33°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 5,511.90 square kilometers, making it the largest in the Bicol Region. Its topography includes coastal plains, river valleys, and volcanic highlands, with elevations ranging from sea level to 2,293 meters at Mount Isarog.
• The capital of Camarines Sur is Pili, and the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Cadlan.
• Most people reach Camarines Sur via land transport. It is accessible from Metro Manila by bus through the Maharlika Highway. The nearest airport is Naga Airport in Pili, while the closest major seaport is in Pasacao, connecting to island destinations and cargo routes.

Tourist Attractions of Camarines Sur

• Caramoan Peninsula: A world-class island destination known for limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and its role as a filming site for international editions of “Survivor.”
• Mount Isarog National Park: A biodiversity hotspot with waterfalls, hot springs, and endemic species.
• Peñafrancia Basilica: Located in Naga City, it is the center of the largest Marian pilgrimage in Southeast Asia.
• Lake Buhi: Home to the world’s smallest commercial fish, the sinarapan.
• Cimarrones Festival: Celebrated every October 23–24 in Pili, honoring the indigenous Cimarrones warriors and the town’s patron saint, San Rafael Archangel.
• Peñafrancia Festival: Held every September in Naga City, featuring fluvial parades, novenas, and cultural performances.

Economy of Camarines Sur

• In 2023, Camarines Sur posted a GDP of ₱201.03 billion, up from ₱194.80 billion in 2022, making it the largest economy in the Bicol Region.
• Key industries include:
  • Agriculture: Rice, corn, coconut, abaca, and freshwater fish.
  • Handicrafts and small-scale manufacturing: Including abaca products, mats, hats, and slippers.
  • Tourism: Driven by Caramoan, Mount Isarog, and religious pilgrimages.
  • Trade and services: Concentrated in Naga City and surrounding municipalities.

Educational Institutions of Camarines Sur

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Ateneo de Naga University: A private Catholic university offering liberal arts, law, engineering, and graduate programs.
  • Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST): A state college specializing in engineering, architecture, and teacher education.
  • Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges: With campuses in Nabua and Naga, offering programs in technology, business, and education.
  • University of Northeastern Philippines: Located in Iriga City, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Partido State University: Serving the Partido area with campuses in Goa and other municipalities.

History of Camarines Sur

• Camarines Sur traces its roots to the pre-colonial settlement of the Ibalon people, believed to be descendants of the Tabon Man. The region was known as “Kabikolan,” derived from “biko,” meaning bent or twisted, referencing the Bicol River’s winding path.
• During Spanish colonization, the area was part of the province of Ambos Camarines, which was divided and reunited multiple times. The final separation occurred on March 19, 1919, officially creating Camarines Sur as a distinct province.
• The province played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution and the resistance against Spanish and American colonizers. Naga, formerly the capital, was declared a chartered city in 1948 through Republic Act No. 305.
• Today, Camarines Sur is a dynamic province known for its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and economic leadership in the Bicol Region. Its blend of tradition and innovation continues to shape its identity and development trajectory.

Elected Officials of Camarines Sur

• As of the 2025 elections, Camarines Sur is led by:
  • Governor: Luis Raymund “LRay” Villafuerte Jr.
  • Vice Governor: Salvio Patrick Edmund F. Fortuno Jr.
  • Representatives:
    • 1st District: Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata
    • 2nd District: Luis Raymund Villafuerte Sr.
    • 3rd District: Gabriel Bordado Jr.
    • 4th District: Arnulf Bryan Fuentebella
    • 5th District: Miguel Luis Villafuerte
  • Provincial Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Camarines Sur Election Results.

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