MASBATECITY

Languages: Masbateňo Bikol Cebuano Hiligaynon

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATIONThe province of masbate is bounded on the north by Vurias and Ticao Pass, east by San Bernardio St. South by the Visayan sea, and west by the sibuyan sea.

The Province is composed of 21 municipalities politicaly subdivided into 3 Districts

HISTORYWhen captain Luis Enriquez de Guzman anchored on the shores of Masbate in 1569, he found tiny settlements spread along the coasts engaged in aflourishing trade w/ china.Chinese traders visited Masbate and found small settlements during the Shri – Vijaya and Madjapahit periods.

Historic accounts show that the Christianization of the Bicol Region actually began in Masbate 1569.The Americans came to Masbate in 1900 to extend their pacification campaign . In December 1908, Masbate was annexed to the province of Sorsogon. A bill declaring Masbate as an independent province was approved on February 1, 1992.The Japanese occupation reduced Masbate to Economic Shambles. Economic activities were limited to fishing, buying/selling. Food production ground to a halt.

Camote, pakol, banana, blossoms, pith, and even such obscure fruits as barobo were used as food substitutes. Lakan bulan served as cigarette, tea or coffee. Barter transaction prevailed for lack of nutrition and sanitation, many people succumbed to beri-beri or malaria. Lice and tick infestations spread to an unlucky few.Masbate was formally liberated on April 3, 1945.Access to the Province:The Province can be reached by air, sea and land travel from manila, the country’s international gateway.

TOURIST DESTINATIONSCultural:Limestone Hills Underwater Cave

Matangtubig Spring Bat- ongan Cave

NATURAL DESTINATIONS

Talisay Beach Kalanay Falls

Sombreno Island Cambatang & Cangcayat Beaches

Aroroy Beach

MAN - MADE

Jintotolo Lighthouse

FESTIVALS

Rodeo Filipino (Masbate; March 18)

Corn Festivals

Bantigue Festival

Products, Delicacies & Cuisines

• Masbate is the epitome of a rural cattle station, seafood is also abundant since it is surrounded by sea.