San Miguel Grande Island (Tabaco City, Albay)
Tabaco City is one of rich province of Albay laden with different attractions: historical, cultural, and natural showcases of the wealth of Albay.
An astounding name
Tabaco got its name from Tobacco, or "Tabaco" in Spanish, a primary product of the City in the pre-Hispanic period, unbeknownst to this fact, the Official Seal of the city was still conceived from the "Tabak Ko" legend, and was officially adopted through Municipal Council Resolution No. 29 on February 23, 1966.
A boosting economy
Tabaco’s economy is still heavily dependent on agriculture. Hardship had made the residents strive harder, and the people are making the most of their bountiful natural resources, the sea, and the wide fertile plains. Major crops include rice, corn, root crops, vegetables, coconuts and abaca. Poultry and swine raising as well as fishing and other major industries such as cutlery are very much alive.
Tabaco today is rapidly growing with a thriving commercial center and port area. The city has the sole International Seaport in the region contributing to the city's vibrant economy. Fishing is also the main livelihood of the locals
A rich heritage
The Church of San Juan Bautista in San Juan, Tabaco City is one of the most impressive religious structures in the province of Albay. The construction of the present church started in 1750. What make this church unique among other Philippine churches are the stones used to build the church as they bear the distinct marks of the Masons. It was designated as National Historical Landmark by PD. 260 on August 1, 1973.
Tabaco Cemetery Chapel is one of the landmarks of Bicol region. The cemetery is well preserved structures with an interesting bas relief details at its façade. There are lava stones abound in the area and it is similar to the construction material of an old church.
You’ve missed half of your life if you haven’t seen the captivating sunset as seen from San Miguel Island. Lying several miles east of Tabaco City, the small island is a natural breakwater to the waves crashing in from the eastern sea to the mainland shores.
There are also available beach and resorts abound the city frequented by many visitors to spend leisure together with their families.
- Dhio Endheka Spring Resort in Mayon Crossing, Buang
- Hacienda Long Beach Resort in Barangay Hacienda in San Miguel Island
- Jennifer’s Garden and Resort in Barangay Bantayan
- Natunawan Cove
- Punta Island Beach Resort in Barangay Rawis in San Miguel Island
- San Lorenzo Beach Resort in Barangay San Lorenzo
- Borcels Nature Springs in Barangay Marriroc
- Cassandra Spring Resort in Barangay Pinagbobong (near Borcels Nature Springs)
- Villa Azon in Barangay Matagbac
Getting to Tabaco City
The nearest airport is in Legazpi City - Legazpi Airport - about 30 kilometers (19 mi) from Tabaco City. Four commercial airline companies (Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, Zest Air and Philippine Airlines) operate in the airport.
The Port of Tabaco City is one of the ports of entry open to overseas shipping in the province of Albay. It also serves as a passenger and cargo movement facility to the islands of San Miguel, Cagraray, Batan and Rapu-Rapu as well as the Province of Catanduanes and the coastal town of Camarines Sur. The main Sea Transportation operators in the port are:
There is regular transportation to and from Manila and to the other main cities in the Bicol Region. Some bus companies with stations in Tabaco:
- Cagsawa Travel & Tours
- Gold Line Tours, Inc.
- Philtranco
- Raymond Transportation
- RSL Bus Transport Corporation
- Tawtrasco