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Pasacao
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Pasacao (/pɑːsəˈkaʊ/), officially the Municipality of Pasacao (Central Bikol: Banwaan kan Pasacao; Tagalog: Bayan ng Pasacao), is a 1st class municipality in the province of Camarines Sur, Philippines. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 50,708 people.[5] The area is noted for its brown sand beaches and is sometimes referred to as the "Summer Capital of Camarines Sur.[6]
Key Information
During the Spanish colonization in the 16th century, a settlement surrounded a port in what is now Pasacao, serving as a primary embarkation point in Camarines Sur and the only sea link to Manila.[7] This strategic location supported commerce and trade across the archipelago.
Colloquially, "Pasacao" refers to this former settlement, which is still recognized separately as the modern town center housing government and business hubs. The settlement was designated as a town in 1854 and expanded to incorporate neighboring barrios, leading to the establishment of a municipality during the American colonial period in the early 20th century.
Etymology
[edit]The town's name is derived from the Spanish-Tagalog portmanteau Pasa-Ikaw (English: Pass it on). This is because dock guards stationed at the Pasacao Port would regularly issue directions to passengers by shouting "Pasa ikaw, Pasa ikaw." Passengers mistook the phrase for the town's name, Pasacao.[7]
History
[edit]Early European travelers noted that Pasacao, located at the present-day town center, was seen as separate from nearby barangays like Dalupaon and Tinalmud. This suggests that these areas were independent villages before being formally organized. The current municipality of Pasacao, which now includes all its barangays, was officially established during the American colonial period, while the individual barangays existed earlier as separate communities.[citation needed]
Spanish colonization
[edit]From 1585 to the 19th century, Pasacao served as a crucial defense port against Moro pirate incursions. The raid in Caranan on October 4, 1779, is an example. Pasacao and 9 other towns and two missions were entirely destroyed.[8] In 1823, the town had an estimated population of only 200 people due to frequent attacks.[7] To defend Pasacao against these raids, Alcalde Jacinto Rodriguez Morales contributed material for a balwark. The fortification of Pasacao in 1848, which included Cabusao in Camarines Sur, Pantao (now Libon), and Donsol in Sorsogon, was motivated by these attacks.[7]
Between 1609 and 1616, during the governor generalship of Juan de Silva, two galleons, the Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe and Angel dela Guardia, were built in Barangay Dalupaon, as well as the Astillero de Dalupaon (English: Dalupaon Shipyard). Guadalupe was vital in the galleon commerce between Manila and Acapulco, as well as the defense of the Philippines against the Dutch at the Battle of Playa Honda.[7][9]
In 1627, an attempt was made to establish a canal linking a river in Pasacao[b] to the Bicol River,[10] which would have connected the town to Nueva Caceres (now Naga).[11][12] However, the project was abandoned due to concerns about the high costs involved. There was also uncertainty over whether the small boats that would utilize the canal would justify the expense,[13] and fears arose that seawater intrusion might threaten the town's rice fields.[11]
Japanese occupation
[edit]In World War II, the Tangcong Vaca Guerilla Unit, based near Mount Bernacci, carried out significant operations against Japanese forces. Notably, after Japanese ships docked at Pasacao Pier, they were bombed as part of the guerrilla resistance, marking Pasacao’s involvement in the region’s wartime activities.[7]
The Six Daughters of Charity arrived in Pasacao to establish Naga's first regular girls' school, Universidad de Santa Isabel.[7]
Post-colonization
[edit]On July 20, 1966, a major fire devastated the commercial and residential center of Pasacao. The blaze, ignited by sparks from a chimney, swept through approximately 13 blocks, resulting in damage estimated at PHP 3 to 4 million. The fire left about 700 families, or 3,000 individuals, homeless. Key structures, including the mayor's residence and a rural bank were destroyed.
Local firefighting efforts were hampered by inadequate equipment, and looting occurred amidst the chaos. In response, President Marcos allocated PHP 10,000 in initial aid, and Governor Armando B. Cledera provided PHP 10,000 worth of goods and materials. Various organizations, including the Philippine Red Cross and the Naga City Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, contributed food and supplies to support the affected residents.[14]
Geography
[edit]Pasacao is located on the northwest coast of Camarines Sur. It shares its northwestern border with Libmanan, marked by Mount Bernacci, while San Fernando lies to the east and Pamplona to the north. The town center is nestled in a valley[15] between the Ragay Hills, offering direct access to the Bicol Plains. Pasacao's 29.56 kilometres (18.37 mi) coastline lies on the southern part of the municipality, facing the Ragay Gulf, which is part of the Sibuyan Sea.

It covers an area of approximately 149.54 square kilometres (57.74 sq mi). The municipality is characterized by flat lowlands in the north and east, consisting of silt,[16] and mountainous regions in the west. The western area mainly features rolling hills that are part of the highlands surrounding the Ragay Gulf, with the terrain primarily consisting of limestones,[16] sandstones, and marls.[13][17][18] The town's topography is characterized by steep slopes, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 400 metres (1,300 ft) above sea level. The highest point in the town is Mount Bernacci, which stands at 756 metres (2,480 ft) above sea level.
Pasacao is characterized by several rivers, notably including the Caranan, Cagbunini, Itulan, Balogo, and Tinalmud Rivers. All these waterways flow into the Ragay Gulf. Among them, the Tinalmud River is the longest, extending approximately 10.5 kilometres (6.5 mi).
Pasacao's coastline extends approximately 22 kilometres (14 mi). Its brown sand beaches, are used for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Balogo Beach, the most notable beach, is near Daruanak Island, the town's landmark and one of the major features of the official seal.[16]
Biodiversity & resources
[edit]Pasacao is home to 73 species across 64 genera and 41 families, including 10 mammals, 53 birds, 4 reptiles, and 6 amphibians.

Suminabang Cave, located in Caranan near Dalupaon, hosts insectivorous species such as the Caroline swiftlet (Aerodramus inquietus) and the Philippine forest roundleaf bat (Hipposideros obscurus). Another cave in Bahay, situated on the slopes of Mt. Tigbi, features a distinctive dog-head shaped entrance and is accessible after a one-hour hike. This cave is part of a limestone mountain range that forms the natural boundary between Bahay and Caranan.[16]
Coastal Pasacao is abundant in marine species, including sea urchins, seaweeds, shellfish, and sea cucumbers. Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) and Spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata) have been sighted in the town's coastal waters.[16]
On August 9, 1993, a fish sanctuary and marine reserve were established under Municipal Ordinance No. 93-007, covering 32 hectares in Calibayan, Dalupan, and 112 hectares in Sarimao, Caranan. The reserve includes a site in Suminabang, Dalupaon, where a Japanese warship wreck can be seen underwater.[16]
Barangays
[edit]Pasacao is politically subdivided into 19 barangays.
| Barangays[19] | Population (2020)[20] | |
|---|---|---|
| Antipolo | 1.78% | 953 |
| Bagong Silang | 1.03% | 550 |
| Bahay | 3.56% | 1,905 |
| Balogo | 10.82% | 5,785 |
| Caranan | 19.57% | 10,460 |
| Cuco | 3.75% | 2,004 |
| Dalupaon | 7.44% | 3,977 |
| Hubo | 1.46% | 780 |
| Itulan | 2.29% | 1,226 |
| Macad[c] | 3.41% | 1,823 |
| Odicon | 5.69% | 3,043 |
| Quitang | 5.59% | 2,991 |
| Salvacion | 1.86% | 995 |
| San Antonio | 1.15% | 613 |
| San Cirilo | 9.97% | 5,53 |
| Santa Rosa Del Norte | 7.74% | 4,136 |
| Santa Rosa Del Sur | 6.60% | 3,527 |
| Tilnac | 1.73% | 927 |
| Tinalmud | 4.55% | 2,435 |
| Total | 100% | 53,461 |
Climate
[edit]| Climate data for Pasacao | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 82 (28) |
84 (29) |
86 (30) |
88 (31) |
90 (32) |
90 (32) |
86 (30) |
88 (31) |
88 (31) |
86 (30) |
84 (29) |
84 (29) |
90 (32) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 75 (24) |
73 (23) |
75 (24) |
75 (24) |
79 (26) |
79 (26) |
79 (26) |
79 (26) |
77 (25) |
77 (25) |
77 (25) |
77 (25) |
73 (23) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 5.82 (147.9) |
3.56 (90.5) |
3.06 (77.8) |
3.08 (78.2) |
5.66 (143.8) |
8.31 (211.1) |
12.46 (316.4) |
10.05 (255.3) |
11.96 (303.9) |
10.10 (256.6) |
5.81 (147.7) |
8.85 (224.7) |
88.72 (2,253.9) |
| Average rainy days | 6 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 18 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 8 | 111 |
| Average ultraviolet index | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Source: World Weather Online (modeled/calculated data, not measured locally)[21] | |||||||||||||
According to the Köppen climate classification system, Pasacao has a tropical rainforest climate. The north-east monsoon dominates the area; therefore, rainfall is evenly spread throughout the year. From October to January, the wind blows from north to east, from east to southeast from February to April, and from May to September, it blows from east to southeast. From December to May, the area is rather dry, and the rest of the year is wet. The town is occasionally affected by typhoons during the wet season, which can cause flooding and landslides in some areas.
Based on PAGASA’s Climate Projections, the temperature in Pasacao is estimated to rise ranging from 0.9 °C to 1.1 °C in year 2020, and will continue to rise in 2050 ranging from 1.8 °C to 2.2 °C. This will affect vital ecosystems such as forest, agriculture, and coastal and marine. The agricultural sector may experience loss as studies reveal that 1 °C increase in temperature causes 10% decrease in rice yield.[16]
Demographics
[edit]
In the 2020 census, the population of Pasacao was 53,461 people,[22] with a density of 360 inhabitants per square kilometre or 930 inhabitants per square mile.
|
|
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Source: Philippine Statistics Authority[23][24][25][26][27] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Poverty incidence of Pasacao
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
2000
62.56 2003
56.96 2006
50.00 2009
48.74 2012
44.55 2015
41.62 2018
32.75 2021
44.87 Source: Philippine Statistics Authority[28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35] |
Language
[edit]The primary language spoken in Pasacao is Bikol, specifically the Central Bikol dialect. However, many residents also speak Tagalog and English, which are the official languages of the Philippines.
Religion
[edit]Despite the presence of a single church, Saint Rose of Lima Parish, and a few chapels, Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion in the municipality. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Iglesia ni Kristo, Born Again denominations, Jehovah's Witnesses, and other Christian denominations are also present across the municipality.
Economy
[edit]Pasacao’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, which occupies approximately 59.6% of the municipality’s total land. Key activities include crop cultivation, livestock and poultry raising, and fishing, which provide the main sources of livelihood for residents. Trade and commerce are concentrated around the Public Market, the town’s main commercial hub, which attracts both local residents and visitors from neighboring areas. Its proximity to Pasacao Port further facilitates the movement of goods and contributes to local revenues.
Forestry is another important component of the local economy, with around 383 hectares of land dedicated to forest production. Industrial activity remains limited, with establishments operating across sectors such as construction, utilities, and mining. Most of these are concentrated in Barangay Santa Rosa del Sur, followed by Santa Rosa del Norte, San Cirilo, and Caranan.
Despite possessing natural and cultural resources, the municipality’s tourism sector is relatively underdeveloped. The industry primarily serves short-term or passing visitors, reflecting the limited development of tourism sites and supporting facilities.[16]
The town was formerly included in the Metro Naga area before the designation was discontinued in 2017.
Culture
[edit]Pasacao holds its annual fiesta and Pasa-Pasa Ikaw Festival on August 29–30 in honor of Saint Rose of Lima, the town's patron saint.[36][37] The municipal government organizes various events, including pageant competitions, civic parades, and other activities. These festivals are key to Pasacao's cultural calendar, showcasing the town's heritage and offering opportunities for local celebration. Additionally, the Daruanak Summer Festival takes place during the summer season.[16]
Infrastructure
[edit]Pasacao is served by 21 healthcare facilities, including 19 barangay health, two clinics and the Municipal Health Office in Barangay Santa Rosa del Norte.[16]
Solid waste management in the municipality is handled through three Materials Recovery Facilities located in Caranan, San Cirilo, and Santa Rosa del Sur, which support recycling and materials recovery.[16]
Commercial and civic center
[edit]The Public Market in Barangay Santa Rosa del Sur serves as the main hub for trade, facilitating the sale of agricultural, fishery, and general goods for residents. Signature Park in Barangay Santa Rosa del Norte functions as a civic and recreational area, encompassing the Central Business District, an evacuation court, and an eco-park plaza. [38]The park is also designated to host the municipal office, which is under construction.
Roadways
[edit]Pasacao is primarily accessible via the Danao-Pasacao Road, a 8.89 km (5.52 mi)[39] road which extends from a junction with the Pan-Philippine Highway in Tambo, Pamplona, to various local road networks within the town's barangays. This road serves as the main route connecting Pasacao to surrounding areas and facilitates internal transportation. Complementing this, the 40.69 km (25.28 mi) Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway, developed under the Build, Build, Build program, links the municipality with neighboring towns including San Fernando, Minalabac, Bula, and Balatan, integrating 15 barangays along the route.[40] These roadways are critical for regional connectivity, the movement of goods, and access to local services.
Ports
[edit]
Pasacao Seaport, also known as the Port of Pasacao, locally known as Pier, is a fishing, passenger, and cargo port managed by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in Camarines Sur. It is situated in Barangay Sta. Rose del Sur. The port serves passengers traveling from Pasacao to Burias and Mobo in Masbate Province.
The nearby smaller Pasacao Fishport is primarily utilized for fishing and unloading fish, as well as pump boats and fastcrafts for short trips.
Education
[edit]The Pasacao Schools District Office governs all educational institutions within the municipality. It oversees the management and operations of all private and public, from primary to secondary schools.[41]
The municipality has several educational institutions catering to different levels of education. For elementary education, the town has 16 public schools and 2 private schools. At the secondary level, there are 6 public high schools and 2 private high schools. Students can continue their studies in nearby cities like Naga and Legazpi.
A key institution in Pasacao is the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) - Pasacao Campus, which offers undergraduate programs in education. The town also supports non-formal education through the Alternative Learning System (ALS) for out-of-school youth and adults, and technical and vocational training through the Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CASIFMAS), which offers courses in various vocational fields.
Below is the list of the tertiary and secondary level existing schools on the municipality.
Primary and elementary schools
[edit]- Arborvitae Plains Montessori
- Bagong Silang Elementary School
- Bahay Elementary School
- Balagon Elementary School
- Balogo Baptist Christian School
- Balogo Elementary School
- Caranan Elementary School (North)
- Caranan Elementary School (South)
- Compra Elementary School
- Cuco Elementary School
- Dalupaoon Elementary School
- Hubo Elementary School
- Itulan Elementary School
- La Florianne Institute of Learning
- Lyceo de Pasacao
- Macad Elementary School
- Odicon Elementary School
- Pasacao Academy
- Pasacao Central School
- Quitang Elementary School
- Salvacion Elementary School
- San Antonio Elementary School
- Tilnac Elementary School
- Tinalmud Elementary School
Secondary schools
[edit]- Antipolo Heights Integrated School
- Arbovitae Plains Montessori
- Balogo Baptist Christian School (Junior High School)
- Dalupaon National High School
- Dr. Lorenzo P. Ziga Memorial High School
- Juan F. Triviño Memorial High School
- La Florianne Institute of Learning (Junior High School)
- Lyceo de Pasacao
- Pasacao Academy
- Pasacao Municipal High School
- Rolando R. Andaya Memorial High School
Higher educational institutions
[edit]- Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries & Marine Sciences
- Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries & Marine Sciences (Caranan Campus)
- Central Bicol State University for Agriculture
Notable people
[edit]Notes
[edit]- ^
- Malinig (English: Clean)
- Asensado (English: Prosperous)
- Trangkilo (English: Peaceful)
- Areglado (English: Organized)
- Tarabangan para sa aktibong pag gobernar (English: Cooperated for an active governance)
- ^ The river mentioned is not specified, but it could be the Tinalmud River, given its proximity to the Bicol River. [citation needed]
- ^ Formerly Hebrio Lourdes
References
[edit]- ^ Municipality of Pasacao | (DILG)
- ^ "2015 Census of Population, Report No. 3 – Population, Land Area, and Population Density" (PDF). Philippine Statistics Authority. Quezon City, Philippines. August 2016. ISSN 0117-1453. Archived (PDF) from the original on May 25, 2021. Retrieved July 16, 2021.
- ^ "2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) Population Counts Declared Official by the President". Philippine Statistics Authority. 17 July 2025. Retrieved 18 July 2025.
- ^ "PSA releases the 2015 Municipal and City Level Poverty Estimates". Quezon City, Philippines. Retrieved 1 January 2020.
- ^ "2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) Population Counts Declared Official by the President". Philippine Statistics Authority. 17 July 2025. Retrieved 18 July 2025.
- ^ Barrameda, Shiena M. (2013-06-12). "Saving Pasacao as summer capital". INQUIRER.net. Retrieved 2022-05-15.
- ^ a b c d e f g "History of Pasacao | LGU Pasacao Official Website". Retrieved 2022-05-13.
- ^ Abella, Domingo (1954). Bikol annals: A Collection of Vignettes of Philippine History.. Manila.
{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link) - ^ Jr, Juan Escandor (2012-06-20). "Camarines Sur village relives days of galleons". INQUIRER.net. Retrieved 2024-09-09.
- ^ Best, Elsdon (1892). "The Races of the Philippines". The Journal of the Polynesian Society. 1 (1): 7–19. ISSN 0032-4000. JSTOR 20701225.
- ^ a b "133rd Parish Fiesta Celebration in honor of Saint Rose of Lima". Diocese of Libmanan.
- ^ Abella, Domingo (1954). Bikol Annals: The see of Nueva Cáceres.
- ^ a b The Philippine Journal of Science. Bureau of Science. 1911.
- ^ Milano, Ben H. (July 28, 1966). "4M fire razes Pasacao". The Bicol Mail.
- ^ Jagor, Fedor. Travels in the Philippines (Volume IX ed.). Filipina Book Guild.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k "Final Draft Pasacao CLUP Volume III". pdfcoffee.com. Retrieved 2024-09-09.
- ^ Wernstedt, Frederick L.; Spencer, Joseph Earle (1967-01-01). The Philippine Island World: A Physical, Cultural, and Regional Geography. University of California Press. ISBN 978-0-520-03513-3.
- ^ Gula, Louie P. (2022-07-18). Philippine Culture: Kultura ng Pilipinas. Amazon. ISBN 979-8-8391-6558-8.
- ^ "Barangays | LGU Pasacao Official Website". Retrieved 2022-05-15.
- ^ "Municipality of Pasacao | Philippine Statistics Authority | Republic of the Philippines". psa.gov.ph. Retrieved 2024-09-09.
- ^ "Pasacao Climate Weather Averages". Retrieved May 13, 2022.
- ^ "2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) Population Counts Declared Official by the President". Philippine Statistics Authority. 17 July 2025. Retrieved 18 July 2025.
- ^ "2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) Population Counts Declared Official by the President". Philippine Statistics Authority. 17 July 2025. Retrieved 18 July 2025.
- ^ Census of Population (2015). "Region V (Bicol Region)". Total Population by Province, City, Municipality and Barangay. Philippine Statistics Authority. Retrieved 20 June 2016.
- ^ Census of Population and Housing (2010). "Region V (Bicol Region)" (PDF). Total Population by Province, City, Municipality and Barangay. National Statistics Office. Retrieved 29 June 2016.
- ^ Censuses of Population (1903–2007). "Region V (Bicol Region)". Table 1. Population Enumerated in Various Censuses by Province/Highly Urbanized City: 1903 to 2007. National Statistics Office.
- ^ "Province of". Municipality Population Data. Local Water Utilities Administration Research Division. Retrieved 17 December 2016.
- ^ "Poverty incidence (PI):". Philippine Statistics Authority. Retrieved December 28, 2020.
- ^ "Estimation of Local Poverty in the Philippines" (PDF). Philippine Statistics Authority. 29 November 2005.
- ^ "2003 City and Municipal Level Poverty Estimates" (PDF). Philippine Statistics Authority. 23 March 2009.
- ^ "City and Municipal Level Poverty Estimates; 2006 and 2009" (PDF). Philippine Statistics Authority. 3 August 2012.
- ^ "2012 Municipal and City Level Poverty Estimates" (PDF). Philippine Statistics Authority. 31 May 2016.
- ^ "Municipal and City Level Small Area Poverty Estimates; 2009, 2012 and 2015". Philippine Statistics Authority. 10 July 2019.
- ^ "PSA Releases the 2018 Municipal and City Level Poverty Estimates". Philippine Statistics Authority. 15 December 2021. Retrieved 22 January 2022.
- ^ "PSA Releases the 2021 City and Municipal Level Poverty Estimates". Philippine Statistics Authority. 2 April 2024. Retrieved 28 April 2024.
- ^ "Pasa-Pasa Ikaw Festival sa Pasacao, Camarines Sur –". Retrieved 2024-09-08.
- ^ pmbautista (2023-08-15). "Four Amazing August Festivals You Can Drive to From Manila". The Smart Ako Blog. Retrieved 2024-09-09.
- ^ "Pasacao Mayor cites economic gains". PIA. 2021-10-15. Retrieved 2024-09-08.
- ^ "Camarines Sur 2nd District Road Data".
- ^ "Groundworks for Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway now underway". ph.news.yahoo.com. Retrieved 2022-12-27.
- ^ "Masterlist of Schools" (PDF). Department of Education. January 15, 2021. Retrieved November 6, 2025.
External links
[edit]Pasacao
View on GrokipediaName and etymology
Etymology
The name Pasacao is believed to derive from several Spanish-Tagalog or Spanish-Bikol folk etymologies rooted in the town's early maritime activities during the Spanish colonial period.[2] One prominent origin story attributes it to the phrase "pasa ikaw," meaning "pass, you," which dock guards reportedly shouted to passengers and workers handling cargo along the shore, leading settlers to adopt the term as the place name over time.[2] Another variation suggests "pasa-pasa ikaw," stemming from a fisherman's response to a Spanish sentry inquiring about his catch—"pasa-pasa" referring to a type of small fish, combined with "ikaw" meaning "you"—which was misinterpreted as the locale's designation.[2] Additional folk explanations further emphasize the port's role in daily interactions. The phrase "pasok kayo," or "come in," is said to have arisen when a native invited Spanish soldiers into a dwelling, only for the words to be misconstrued as the settlement's name.[2] Similarly, "pasangkay," a request meaning "let me ride" or "give me passage" made by travelers seeking to board sailboats, is thought to have evolved into "Pasacao" through repeated usage and linguistic shortening.[2] These etymologies collectively reflect the town's historical function as a key embarkation point, where such verbal exchanges were commonplace.[2] The name was officially established as "Pueblo de Pasacao" in 1872, when the settlement was formally recognized as an independent pueblo under Spanish administration, according to canonical records of the Diocese of Caceres.[2]Nicknames and symbols
Pasacao is informally known as the Summer Capital of Camarines Sur, a nickname earned due to its distinctive brown sand beaches, scenic coastal resorts, and appeal as a prime summer getaway destination within the province.[5][6][7] The municipality's official motto, Matatag na Bayan ng Pasacao, embodies the community's resilience, orderly governance, and active participation in local development, with "MATATAG" standing for Malinig, Asensado, Trangkilo, Areglado, Tarabang Para sa Aktibong Pag-govern.[5] No specific anthem or adopted floral or arboreal symbols, such as a town flower or tree linked to local flora, are officially documented in available municipal records.[2]History
Colonial era
Prior to Spanish colonization, the area now known as Pasacao served as a strategic port in the Bicol Region, facilitating trade and navigation among indigenous communities, a role noted by early Spanish explorers in the late 16th century.[2][8] From 1585 through the 19th century, Pasacao functioned as a key defense outpost against frequent Moro pirate raids originating from Mindanao, which targeted coastal settlements for slaves and plunder. A particularly devastating attack occurred on October 4, 1779, at Barangay Caranan, where pirates killed residents and burned homes; earlier raids in the region, such as those around 1757, were described in a June 29, 1758, letter to the King by Bishop Manuel dela Concepción y Matos as "undoubtedly greater at any other time," noting around 8,000 inhabitants captured in Kabikolan. These incursions reduced the local population to around 200 by 1823, prompting fortifications including a baluarte (stone watchtower) built in 1834 under Alcalde Jacinto Rodriguez Morales to bolster coastal defenses.[2][8][9] During the early 17th century, under Governor-General Juan de Silva, Barangay Dalupaon in Pasacao hosted a royal shipyard (astillero) where two galleons essential to the Manila-Acapulco trade were constructed between 1609 and 1616 using abundant local hardwoods like molave. These vessels, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and Angel de la Guardia, supported Spanish maritime commerce and defense against Dutch threats, drawing on the port's sheltered location amid low-lying mountains.[10][2][8] Pasacao was formally established as the Pueblo de Pasacao in Ambos Camarines on May 1, 1872, marking its transition from a visita (mission outpost) to an independent municipality. In 1885, Bishop Casimiro Herrero, O.S.A., of Nueva Cáceres decreed the creation of an independent parish dedicated to Saint Rose of Lima, leading to the construction of the town's iconic stone church.[2][11] In a pivotal moment for education in the region, six Daughters of Charity from Spain arrived at Pasacao's shore on April 4, 1868, en route to Nueva Cáceres, where they established the Escuela-Colegio de Santa Isabel—the first normal school for girls in the Philippines and Far East—under a royal decree of November 5, 1867. The sisters' landing, welcomed by local crowds, underscored Pasacao's role as a vital entry point for colonial religious and educational initiatives.[12][2]World War II and Japanese occupation
During World War II, Pasacao became a focal point of resistance against Japanese forces in Camarines Sur, Philippines, as local fighters organized early guerrilla operations in response to the invasion that began on December 8, 1941.[2] On March 18, 1942, Juan Q. Miranda, Elias Madrid, and Leon S. Aureus from Libmanan established the Tangcong Vaca Guerilla Unit (TVGU), the first major guerrilla organization in the province, basing it in the Sierra Madre range near Tangcong Vaca, spanning Pasacao and Libmanan.[2] This unit drew on pre-war port fortifications in Pasacao to support defensive efforts against Japanese advances.[2] The TVGU conducted hit-and-run tactics, disrupting enemy supply lines and communications in the Bicol region. A pivotal action by the TVGU occurred on November 28, 1942, when the unit ambushed a Japanese convoy led by General Takano at Taguilid Pass in Pamplona, Camarines Sur, en route from Pasacao to Naga City.[2] The attack killed 186 Japanese soldiers, including General Takano, marking a significant blow to the occupiers and boosting local morale amid widespread resistance efforts.[2] Such operations exemplified the asymmetrical warfare waged by Filipino guerrillas in Camarines Sur, where underground units emerged even before the fall of Bataan and Corregidor.[13] The Japanese occupation imposed severe hardships on Pasacao's population, including brutal reprisals against civilians suspected of aiding guerrillas and forced labor to support military needs.[13] Economically, the town was repurposed as a dockyard for Japanese warships, with remnants of sunken vessels still visible in Suminabang, Barangay Dalupaon, reflecting the exploitation of local resources and coastal infrastructure for imperial logistics.[2] These measures contributed to broader regional suffering in the Bicol area, fostering both active resistance and reluctant collaboration among residents desperate for liberation.[13] Liberation came on April 27, 1945, when the American 1st Cavalry Brigade landed at Magtabid Beach in Barangay Caranan, Pasacao, initiating the recapture of Camarines Sur and adjacent provinces from Japanese control.[2] This amphibious assault, supported by local guerrillas, ended the occupation in the area and paved the way for the Allied victory in the Philippines.[2]Post-war development
Following the liberation of Pasacao by American forces on April 27, 1945, the municipality entered a phase of recovery and gradual modernization, transitioning from wartime devastation to rebuilding efforts aligned with the Philippines' independence in 1946.[2] In the post-independence era, infrastructure improvements played a key role in fostering connectivity and economic activity, notably the cementing of the Pamplona-Pasacao road, which shortened travel times from three days to approximately 20 minutes and facilitated trade and mobility.[2] These developments were complemented by the establishment of a coconut oil factory, a fishery school, and oil warehouses, diversifying the local economy beyond traditional agriculture and fishing.[2] Over time, Pasacao's economy shifted toward tourism, leveraging its brown sand beaches and coastal appeal to draw summer visitors and position the town as a regional destination, often called the "Summer Capital of Camarines Sur."[6] This pivot supported broader growth, with the municipality achieving 1st class status based on income and development indicators.[6] Recent infrastructure initiatives continue this trajectory, including the ongoing construction of the 40.69-kilometer Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway, funded under the government's Build, Build, Build program and aimed at reducing travel time between the two towns from over two hours to 41 minutes while enhancing tourism access; as of June 2025, the project was 12.93% complete with a target finish in November 2025.[14][15][16][17] Pasacao's population reflects steady long-term growth amid these changes, rising from 2,431 in 1903 to 53,461 in the 2020 census, though it experienced a slight decline to 50,708 by the 2024 census, indicating a recent annual growth rate of approximately -1.32% influenced by regional migration patterns.[1][6]Geography
Physical features
Pasacao is situated in the southwestern coastal part of Camarines Sur province in the Bicol Region of the Philippines, occupying a strategic coastal position along the southern edge of the province. It borders the municipalities of Pamplona to the north and San Fernando to the east, and faces the Ragay Gulf to the south, which forms part of the larger Sibuyan Sea. The municipality encompasses a total land area of 149.54 square kilometers, representing approximately 2.71% of Camarines Sur's overall area. Its coastline along the Ragay Gulf provides direct access to marine environments and has historically supported trade and defense activities.[1][18] The topography of Pasacao is diverse, characterized by coastal plains that extend inland from the shoreline, interspersed with rolling hills and elevated terrains. These plains, often gently sloping at 0-3% gradients, transition into steeper hills (3-8% slopes) and culminate in mountainous areas, including the prominent Mount Bernacci, which rises to an elevation of 756 meters and marks the boundary with Pamplona. Beaches along the coastline feature brown to golden sands, contributing to the area's appeal as a coastal destination, while the inland hills and plains support varied land uses.[1][18][19][20] Biodiversity in Pasacao is highlighted by its forest cover and marine ecosystems, which sustain a range of flora and fauna. Natural forests span about 1.36 thousand hectares, accounting for roughly 9.6% of the land area and serving as critical habitats amid ongoing conservation efforts. Marine resources include mangrove forests along the coastal zones, coral reefs, and fish sanctuaries in the Ragay Gulf waters, supporting local fisheries and ecological balance.[21][18][22]Climate and environment
Pasacao experiences a tropical maritime climate classified as Type II under the Corona-Pagasa classification system, characterized by no distinct dry season but a pronounced maximum rainfall period from November to January.[23] Average annual temperatures range from 74°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C), with the hottest period occurring from April to June when highs often exceed 90°F (32°C) and the coolest from late November to February when highs remain below 85°F (29°C).[24] Rainfall is abundant year-round, totaling approximately 100-150 inches annually, with the wet season spanning June to January featuring over 46% probability of wet days and peaks in December at 12.9 inches (328 mm), while the relatively drier period from January to June sees lows in April at 3.2 inches (81 mm).[24] Humidity remains consistently high at around 100% "muggy" conditions throughout the year, contributing to an oppressive feel.[24] The municipality faces significant risks from typhoons, as the Bicol Region, including Camarines Sur, lies in a high-impact zone for tropical cyclones originating from the Pacific, with 10-15 typhoons affecting the area annually during the June-to-November rainy season.[23] These storms often bring extreme rainfall exceeding 150 mm in short periods, leading to flooding and landslides; for instance, Typhoon Goni in November 2020 caused widespread inundation across 295 km² of Camarines Sur, including coastal areas near Pasacao.[25] Topographical features such as coastal plains and nearby hills exacerbate these vulnerabilities by channeling runoff into low-lying zones. Pasacao's environment supports rich biodiversity, particularly along the Ragay Gulf, which features extensive mangrove forests, coral reefs, and intertidal mudflats that serve as critical habitats for marine life including fish species and seabirds like the Great White Egret (Ardea alba) and Chinese Egret (Egretta eulophotes). See "Physical features" for details on forest cover.[26] Protected areas in the region include small-scale marine sanctuaries and fish sanctuaries like Nabangka, with limited overlap into Pasacao's coastal zones, emphasizing the gulf's role as a key biodiversity area.[26] Environmental challenges in Pasacao include siltation from degraded hillsides and upland agriculture, which threatens marine habitats in Ragay Gulf, as well as ongoing mangrove harvesting for timber and conversion to aquaculture ponds, reducing coastal resilience.[26] Coastal erosion is a growing concern in low-lying barangays due to wave action and storm surges, compounded by deforestation rates that saw 2 hectares of natural forest lost in 2024 alone.[21] Pollution from silt and potential runoff further impacts seagrass beds and coral ecosystems essential for local fisheries. Conservation efforts focus on sustainability through initiatives like the 2023 Memorandum of Agreement between Pasacao's Local Government Unit and Vives University of Applied Sciences (Belgium), which promotes mangrove planting, marine protection, and coastal clean-ups in areas such as Barangay Balogo to enhance biodiversity and resilience.[22] These projects integrate eco-tourism practices, such as nature-based coastal protection and low-impact beach development, to support environmental advocacy while fostering community involvement in protected area management.[22] Historical establishment of six marine protected areas in Ragay Gulf between 1993 and 2005 has laid groundwork for ongoing participatory resource assessments to address threats like habitat loss.[27]Administrative divisions
Pasacao is administratively subdivided into 19 barangays, serving as the basic political and administrative units of the municipality. These divisions encompass both urban and rural areas, with urban barangays functioning as primary commercial and population centers, while rural ones support agricultural and fishing activities. According to the municipality's Comprehensive Land Use Plan, three barangays are classified as urban: San Cirilo (the former poblacion and main administrative hub), Santa Rosa del Norte, and Santa Rosa del Sur; the remaining 16 are rural.[18] As of the 2020 Census, Pasacao had a population of 53,461, distributed unevenly across the barangays, with higher concentrations in coastal and central areas. Detailed distribution from the 2020 Census shows significant variation, as summarized in the following table (populations rounded to the nearest whole number; source: Philippine Statistics Authority via PhilAtlas).[1]| Barangay | Population (2020) | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Antipolo | 953 | Rural |
| Bagong Silang | 550 | Rural |
| Bahay | 1,905 | Rural |
| Balogo | 5,785 | Rural |
| Caranan | 10,460 | Rural |
| Cuco | 2,004 | Rural |
| Dalupaon | 3,977 | Rural |
| Hubo | 780 | Rural |
| Itulan | 1,226 | Rural |
| Macad | 1,823 | Rural |
| Odicon | 3,043 | Rural |
| Quitang | 2,991 | Rural |
| Salvacion | 995 | Rural |
| San Antonio | 613 | Rural |
| San Cirilo | 5,331 | Urban |
| Santa Rosa del Norte | 4,136 | Urban |
| Santa Rosa del Sur | 3,527 | Urban |
| Tilnac | 927 | Rural |
| Tinalmud | 2,435 | Rural |
Demographics
Population statistics
According to the 2024 Census of Population and Housing conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Pasacao has a total population of 50,708 residents.[6] This marks a decline of 2,753 individuals, or approximately 5.15%, from the 53,461 recorded in the 2020 census.[1] The corresponding population density stands at 339.09 persons per square kilometer, based on the municipality's land area of 149.54 square kilometers.[1] Historical population trends indicate steady growth from the 1990s through 2020, followed by a recent downturn. The table below summarizes key census figures:| Year | Population | Annual Growth Rate (from previous census) |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 41,533 | - |
| 2000 | 45,717 | 0.97% |
| 2010 | 47,442 | 0.37% |
| 2015 | 49,035 | 0.67% |
| 2020 | 53,461 | 1.84% |
| 2024 | 50,708 | -1.32% |
