Sorsogon is the southernmost province in the island of Luzon in the Philippines. It is in the southern tip of the Bicol Region and is the entry point to the north from the islands of the Visayas Region. The province’s capital is Sorsogon City with the province of Albay on its northern boundaries.
Most of the towns in Sorsogon are characteristically coastal being bounded by seas except for the town of Irosin. All towns are accessible by either concrete or asphalt roads. Mount Bulusan, a volcano, is the province’s highest peak rising at a height of 1,560 meters.
Cultural Events
There are many festivals that are celebrated here during the course of an entire year. Each town in Sorsogon has its own set of festivities. However, there are some that are quite notable even among the local folk. For instance the Kasangyahan Festival is the annual celebration of the province’s founding, which is held on the month of October. It is celebrated by the entire province with the main activities being held in Sorsogon City.
Pili nuts are a particular produce of the province, which is also exported to other Asian countries. The Pili Tree is a source of livelihood for many of the local folks and is thus celebrated as an endowment from nature. Thus Sorsogon City holds the Pili Festival in June of every year. Festivities last for a week with street dancing serving as main highlights of the celebration.
The town of Bulan comes alive in the month of May through the Padaraw Festival with ethnic music being heard during the celebration. The Butanding Arribada Festival in March is a festival that welcomes the return of whale sharks in the town of Donsol. These and other festivals provide moments to appreciate the province’s local heritage.
Whale Shark Interaction
No ecological tour of the province of Sorsogon will be complete without trying to swim with the whale sharks of Donsol. These gentle species of shark visit the waters of Donsol during the months of October to May, though February to May would be the peak months for such interaction. If you want to try it you should visit the tourism office in Donsol to become acquainted with their whale shark interaction guidelines.
Places of Interest
Mateo Hot and Cold Springs Resort: You’ll be in for a soothing and relaxing treat in this hot and cold springs resort in the quiet town of Irosin. The natural hot spring flows from mount Bulusan giving tepid to hot water. The resort also has various pools and dormitory-like accommodations.
Barcelona Church: It is interesting to see this 19th century church built by Spanish colonizers. This is especially true for those who like to look into a place’s early history. Some of its interiors are already altered to fit modern-day building standards though the exterior remains virtually what it once was.
Island Hopping in Matnog: If you’re looking for pristine white sand adventures then this is a must. The adventure begins off the ferry in the town of Matnog. You’ll be hiring a motorized boat that will take you to the islands of Calintaan, Tikling, Subic, and Juag. It is also a favorite destination among divers with various dive sites among the islands.
A trip to Sorsogon Province is an ecological package in itself. The province offers some of the unique cultural celebrations and exotic natural sights in the Philippines. It is an unsullied treasure at the southern tip of the island of Luzon in the Philippines.
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