Camarines Sur, Administrative province in Bicol Region, Philippines
Camarines Sur is a province in the Bicol Region on the main island of Luzon, positioned between the Pacific Ocean to the east and forested volcanic mountains to the west. The two cities of Naga and Iriga serve as commercial and cultural hubs for the smaller municipalities and rural areas spread across the province.
Spanish colonial administrators arrived in the late 16th century and established missions and military posts along the coast and rivers. The region was split in 1829 when separate civil administrations were created for northern and southern Camarines to better manage the growing population.
The province maintains its indigenous heritage through the Isarog Agta and Iraya Agta tribes, who speak distinct languages and follow traditional practices.
Overland buses connect the two cities with Manila and take about nine hours for the journey, while Naga Airport offers domestic flights. The best time to visit is between December and May, when roads are dry and coastal areas remain accessible.
Lake Buhi is home to the smallest commercially used fish in the world, a native species that faced threats in recent decades. The Caramoan Peninsula consists of steep limestone formations shaped by waves and wind over thousands of years, enclosing several hidden coves with white sand.
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