Pasacao

Pasacao
Municipality
Municipality of Pasacao
Aerial shot of Pasacao with its port and oil depot
Flag Seal
Nickname: Summer Capital of Camarines Sur
Motto: Matatagna Bayan ng Pasacao
Map of Camarines Sur with Pasacao highlighted
OpenStreetMap
Pasacao Location within thePhilippines
Coordinates:13°30′37″N123°02′31″E
Country	Philippines
Region	Bicol Region
Province	Camarines Sur
District	2nd district
Founded	1872
Barangays	19 (seeBarangays)
Government
• Type	Sangguniang Bayan
•Mayor	Jorge R. Bengua
•Vice Mayor	Maryol O. Tayco
•Representative	Luis Raymund F. Villafuerte Jr.
•Municipal Council	Members Hercules S. Bihag Virginia O. Obordo Melinda T. Sambajon Edgardo B. Tayco Junard Joel M. de Alday Randolph Lee O. Reyes Mariano R. Parco Jr. Carlo B. Bañas Julio L. Remo
•Electorate	31,618 voters (2022)
Area
• Total	149.54 km2(57.74 sq mi)
Elevation	36 m (118 ft)
Highest elevation (Mount Bernacci)	756 m (2,480 ft)
Lowest elevation (Ragay Gulf)	0 m (0 ft)
Population (2020 census)
• Total	53,461
• Density	360/km2(930/sq mi)
•Households	11,971
Demonym	Pasaqueño (Masculine) Pasaqueña (Feminine)
Economy
•Income class	3rd income class municipality
•Poverty incidence	41.62% (2015)
•Revenue	₱197,378,822.82
•Assets	₱ 528.4 million (2020)
•Expenditure	₱ 137.2 million (2020)
•Liabilities	₱ 168.3 million (2020)
Service provider
• Electricity	Camarines Sur 1 Electric Cooperative (CASURECO 1)
• Water	Pasacao Water District (PAWADI)
Time zone	UTC+8(PST)
ZIP code	4417
PSGC	051727000
IDD : area code	+63 (0)54
Native languages	Central Bikol Tagalog
Major religions	Roman Catholicism
Feast date	August 30
Catholic diocese	Diocese of Libmanan
Patron saint	Saint Rose of Lima
Website	pasacao.gov.ph

Pasacao,officially theMunicipality of Pasacao(Central Bikol:Banwaan kan Pasacao;Tagalog:Bayan ng Pasacao), is a 1st classmunicipalityin theprovinceofCamarines Sur,Philippines.According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 53,461 people.

It is famed for its stretch of brownish sand beaches, earning it the title "Summer Capital of Camarines Sur".The municipality's landmarks include the town's symbol, Daruanak Island, and the Port of Pasacao.

During theSpanish colonizationin the 16th century, Pasacao was one of the embarkation points inCamarines Surand was the only sea transportation link to Manila. It played a vital role in the development of commerce and trade in the province.

The town was formed in 1872, according to records from theArchdiocese of Cáceres.

Etymology

The town's name is derived from theSpanish-TagalogportmanteauPasa-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.

History

Spanish colonization

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; ten churches were robbed and torched; 8,000 residents were captured or slain; one priest was killed, two were captured; andCaceres,the capital, was placed on high alert one night.In 1823, the town had an estimated population of only 200 people due to frequent attacks.

To defend Pasacao against these raids, Alcalde Jacinto Rodriguez Morales contributed material for a balwark. He also gave watchmen rations. The fortification of Pasacao in 1848, which includedCabusaoin Camarines Sur, Pantao (nowLibon), andDonsolinSorsogon,was motivated by these attacks.

Between 1609 and 1616, during the governor generalship ofJuan de Silva,two galleons, the Nuestra Seora de Guadalupe and Angel dela Guardia, were built in Barangay Dalupaon, as well as theAstillero de Dalupaon(English: Dalupaon Shipyard). Guadalupe was vital in thegalleon commerce between Manila and Acapulco,as well as the defense of the Philippines against the Dutch at theBattle of Playa Honda.

Japanese occupation

When World War II broke out on December 8, 1941, Juan Q. Miranda and Elias Madrid, both fromCanamanand Leon Sa. Aureus fromLibmananfounded theTangcong Vaca Guerilla Unit.It was the province's first big guerilla unit, established on March 18, 1942. The TVGU took its name fromMount Bernacci,where they set up camp. Miranda commanded 67 men from multiple guerrilla squads in a two-and-a-half-hour convoy ambush near Taguild,Pamplona,on November 8, 1942. Colonel Susumo Takechi (the Japanese commander in Naga), two captains, two lieutenants, and 168 to 200 enlisted men were killed.Other significant historical events in Pasacao also left their mark. When the Japanese ships docked at Pasacao Pier, it was bombed. Until today, some Japanese ships have been visible in clear waters.

The SixDaughters of Charitylanded on Pasacao's shore to establish Naga City's first regular girls' school,Universidad de Santa Isabel.

Geography

Daruanak Island

Pasacao is situated on the northwest coast of theCamarines Sur.The town is bordered byMount Bernaccithat it shares a border with Libmanan in the northwest,San Fernandoin the east, andPamplonain the north..

The total land area of Pasacao is approximately 149.54 square kilometres (57.74 sq mi), with much of the terrain consisting of rolling hills and mountains. 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 also home to several rivers and creeks, including the Itulan River and Tinalmud River, which flows intoRagay Gulf.Other rivers and creeks in the town include the Caranan River and Dalupaon River.

Pasacao is also known for its rich natural resources, particularly its abundant fishery and marine life. The town has a sanctuary and a marine protected area, the Stampa Beach, which are home to a wide variety of marine species including fish, corals, and sea turtles.

The town has a long coastline stretching for about 22 kilometres (14 mi), making it a popular destination for beach lovers. Pasacao's beaches are known for their fine brown sand and crystal-clear waters, and they offer a variety of water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The most popular beach in Pasacao is Balogo Beach, where the Daruanak Island is situated, which is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

In summary, Pasacao is a municipality characterized by a rugged terrain, a long coastline, and a tropical climate. Its natural features make it an attractive destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation by the beach.

Barangays

Pasacao is politically subdivided into 19barangays.Each barangay consists ofpuroksand some havesitios. Poblacion

Barangays	Population (2020)		Feast Date	Political Zones
Antipolo	1.78%	953	May 24	6
Bagong Silang	1.03%	550	April 28	7
Bahay	3.56%	1,905	October 25	6
Balogo	10.82%	5,785	July 16	7
Caranan	19.57%	10,460	June 13	14
Cuco	3.75%	2,004	October 15	7
Dalupaon	7.44%	3,977	June 24	14
Hubo	1.46%	780	May 22	7
Itulan	2.29%	1,226	October 4	5
Macad	3.41%	1,823	February 11	7
Odicon	5.69%	3,043	May 16	7
Quitang	5.59%	2,991	July 25	7
Salvacion	1.86%	995	April 25	—
San Antonio	1.15%	613	May 12	7
San Cirilo	9.97%	5,53	May 1	8
Santa Rosa Del Norte	7.74%	4,136	October 24	8
Santa Rosa Del Sur	6.60%	3,527	January 19	7
Tilnac	1.73%	927	January 28	7
Tinalmud	4.55%	2,435	—	—
Total	100%	53,461

Climate

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)
Averageprecipitationinches (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
Averageultraviolet index	6	6	6	7	7	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6
Source: World Weather Online(modeled/calculated data, not measured locally)

According to theKöppen climate classificationsystem, Pasacao has atropical 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.

Pasacao experiences a hot and dry season from February to May. Most visitors and tourists come to Pasacao to relax during these months. Most resorts and beaches are packed with people onEaster Sunday,especially from local communities and other parts of the country.

Demographics

Pasacao municipal hall

In the 2020 census, the population of Pasacao was 53,461 people,with a density of 360 inhabitants per square kilometre or 930 inhabitants per square mile.

Population census of Pasacao

Year Pop. ±% p.a. 1903 2,431 — 1918 2,308 −0.35% 1939 5,594 +4.31% 1948 8,128 +4.24% 1960 14,327 +4.84%	Year Pop. ±% p.a. 1970 19,355 +3.05% 1975 21,809 +2.42% 1980 25,303 +3.02% 1990 31,960 +2.36% 1995 36,070 +2.29%	Year Pop. ±% p.a. 2000 38,423 +1.36% 2007 41,533 +1.08% 2010 45,946 +3.74% 2015 49,035 +1.25% 2020 53,461 +1.71%
Source:Philippine Statistics Authority

Poverty incidence of Pasacao

10 20 30 40 50 2006 50.00 2009 48.74 2012 44.55 2015 41.62 2018 32.75 2021 44.87 Source:Philippine Statistics Authority

Language

The primary language spoken in Pasacao is Bikol, specifically theCentral Bikoldialect. However, many residents also speak Tagalog and English, which are the official languages of the Philippines.

Religion

Despite the presence of a single church, Saint Rose of Lima Parish, and a few chapels,Roman Catholicismis the dominant religion in the municipality.The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,Iglesia ni Kristo,Born Againdenominations,Jehovah's Witnesses,and otherChristian denominationsare also present across the municipality.

Economy

The economy of Pasacao is largely based on agriculture and fishing, with rice, corn, and coconut being the main crops grown in the area. Fishing is also an important industry, with the town's coastal location providing abundant fishing grounds. Many schools and a growing number of local businesses give additional work opportunities for people. Other locals work at the oil depots in Barangay Sta. Rosa Del Sur (the area is also claimed by Barangay Caranan), as well as some labor in Naga and theMetropolitan Manilaarea. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in eco-tourism, with the municipality's pristine beaches and scenic spots attracting both local and foreign visitors.

Culture

Town Fiesta and Pasa-Pasa Ikaw Festival

August 29-30, the town celebrates its fiesta as well as the Pasa-Pasa Ikaw Festival. The festival is held in honor of Saint. Rose of Lima, the town's patroness. The municipal government organizes an annual calendar of events that includes pageant competitions, civic and military parades, and other activities.

Overall, the town fiesta and Pasa-Pasa Ikaw Festival are significant events in Pasacao's cultural calendar. These festivals showcase the town's rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for residents to celebrate and express themselves. They also attract visitors from neighboring towns and cities, boosting the town's tourism industry and promoting local businesses.

Daruanak Summer Festival

TBE

Attractions

Signature Park

(stylized asSigNATURE Park) is an 1,145 square metres (12,320 sq ft) reclaimed property owned by the Pasacao - Local Government Unit. It's located along Acacia Drive, Zone 1B, Barangay Sta. Rose Del Norte-Balogo Junction. The park serves as both a recreational space and acivic center,which makes it a hub for community activities and events. One of the buildings in the complex is StrEat Park, which is a food park and an outdoor dining area.

The CBD (Central Business District) Complex is another part of Signature Park, and it houses several important offices and facilities. The Central Business District Terminal, a transportation hub for the area, providing easy access to Naga City. The Tourism office could offer information about local attractions and events, while the PSO and PNP substation provide public safety and police services. The Pasalubong Center is a place where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local products, which can help support the local economy.

The DRRM Complex is another notable feature of Pasacao Signature Park, which includes a covered court and the MDDRMC Office. The MDDRMC Office is responsible for managing disaster risk reduction and management in the area. The park also features an Eco-park Complex, which offers green spaces and features such as an eco-park and plaza. Visitors can relax and unwind in the serene environment of the Eco-park Complex, which also houses the Municipal Police Office Station, serving as a local police station for the area.

Pasacao Boulevard

is a waterfront road located in barangay San Cirilo. It is part of the Circumferential Road and Proposed Esplanade that connects San Cirilo to Santa Rosa del Norte and Balogo Road.

Infrastructure

Pasacao Port

Ports

Pasacao Seaport, also known as the Port of Pasacao, locally known as Pier, is a fishing, passenger, and cargo port in Camarines Sur. It is situated in Barangay Sta. Rose del Sur. The port serves passengers traveling from Pasacao toBuriasinMasbate Province.

The nearby smaller Pasacao Fishport is primarily utilized for fishing and unloading fish, as well as pump boats and fastcrafts for short trips.

Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway

The Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway is a 40.69 kilometres (25.28 mi) project of theNational Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)and theBuild, Build, Buildprogram. It connects the municipalities of Pasacao,San Fernando,Minalabac,Bula,andBalatan,as well as 15 barangays within the aforementioned towns, with the goal of promoting ecotourism in Camarines Sur. There are 13 bridges in the network of roads, as well as intersections, service roads, and other infrastructure.

Education

The town has several schools and educational institutions that offer quality education to its residents.

At the elementary level, there are 16 public elementary schools and 2 private schools that cater to the educational needs of children in Pasacao. The public elementary schools are operated by the Department of Education (DepEd) and offer the government's K-12 program. At the secondary level, there are 6 public high schools and 2 private schools in Pasacao. Students who complete high school can pursue higher education in colleges and universities in nearby cities such asNagaand Legazpi.

One notable educational institution in Pasacao is the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) - Pasacao Campus. It was established in 1982 and is one of the satellite campuses of CBSUA in the province. The Pasacao Campus offers undergraduate course in education.

Aside from formal education, Pasacao also promotes non-formal education through the Alternative Learning System (ALS). The ALS is a program offered by the DepEd that provides out-of-school youth and adults an opportunity to complete their elementary or high school education through flexible learning modes such as distance learning, modular learning, and face-to-face classes.

In addition, Pasacao also supports technical and vocational education and training (TVET) through the Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CASIFMAS). CASFIMAS offers various vocational courses in fields such as automotive, welding, food and beverage, and electronics, among others. These courses provide residents of Pasacao with the necessary skills to pursue employment opportunities or start their own businesses

Below is the list of the tertiary and secondary level existing schools on the municipality.

Tertiary

• Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences
• Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences - Caranan Campus
• Central Bicol State University for Agriculture (CBSUA) - Pasacao Extension Campus

Secondary

• Antipolo Heights Integrated School
• Arbovitae Plains Montessori Inc. (APMI) - Pasacao Branch
• Balogo Baptist Christian School, Inc.
• Dalupaon National High School
• Dr. Lorenzo P. Ziga Memorial High School
• Juan F. Triviño Memorial High School
• La Florianne Institute of Learning, Inc.
• Lyceo de Pasacao
• Pasacao Academy, Inc.
• Pasacao Municipal High School
• Rolando R. Andaya Memorial High School

External links

• Official Website of Pasacao, Camarines Sur
• Philippine Standard Geographic Code
• Philippine Census Information
• Official Site of the Province of Camarines Sur
• Barangays of Pasacao, Camarines Sur