Catarman

Welcome to Catarman, the capital of Northern Samar and a charming gem in Eastern Visayas where rural beauty meets unexpected adventures! Nestled between lush mountains and the gentle tides of the Philippine Sea, Catarman offers a peaceful, laid-back vibe, but don’t be fooled! This town is brimming with stories, flavors, and cultural treasures waiting to be explored.

Catarman is home to the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP), the oldest state university in the Visayas, and a proud symbol of education and resilience. The iconic Catarman Cathedral (Nuestra Señora de la Anunciación) is a must-visit heritage site, radiating Spanish colonial charm at the heart of town. Don’t forget the White Beach in Barangay Makiwalo, a local secret for those chasing serenity and sun.

Explore the unique Biri Rock Formations, just a boat ride away, featuring colossal natural sculptures shaped by wind and waves over thousands of years. Nature-lovers and adventurers will love trekking through Mount Bubuya or dipping in the refreshing waters of Caohagan Cold Spring. For a cultural dive, try visiting local farms and seaside villages where life remains simple and authentic.

Catarman is predominantly Waray-speaking, with locals also fluent in Filipino and English. Their culture is rooted in strong Catholic traditions, warm hospitality, and a deep sense of bayanihan (community spirit). Expect welcoming smiles and genuine conversations wherever you go.

Satisfy your cravings with Tinolang Isda (fish ginger soup), kinilaw na Tanigue, and sweet native snacks like moron and Binagol. Street food is a vibe here, don’t miss the banana cue, pancit, and local barbecue at the town plaza.

The town bursts with color during the Sarakiki Festival, a lively celebration filled with street dancing, drumbeats, and rituals honoring St. Bartholomew. It’s an annual showcase of Waray culture, folklore, and faith pure festive energy!

Local music ranges from traditional kuratsa dance beats to modern acoustic covers by local youth bands and campus musicians. The town also has budding spoken word poets and visual artists who often showcase works during town fiestas or university events.

Aside from being a university town and the provincial capital, Catarman is known for its strategic access point to Biri Island, its rich cultural and educational heritage, and the balance of provincial calmness with academic vibrance. It’s a place where every visit feels like home, and every road leads to a story.