Epic Masbate Adventure: Discovering Cataingan

The Balangingi Island From Island Hopping in Cawayan , we ventured to the eastern municipality ...

The Balangingi Island

From Island Hopping in Cawayan, we ventured to the eastern municipality of Cataingan in Masbate, staying at the Bahia Vista Resort for a couple of nights. This served as a great base to explore the destination's top attractions. On our fourth day in Masbate, we visited a bustling livestock market, expansive dragon fruit farms, a tropical island, and a scenic man-made lagoon.

Livestock Auction Market in Curvada

More scenes from the market

Curvada: Bustling Livestock Auction Market

Our morning began at the lively livestock auction market at Curvada. Locals brought pigs, goats, cows, horses, and chickens to trade in a unique “Bulungan” style—where buyers whisper their bids to the seller, haggling until a deal is struck. It was a fascinating blend of tradition and commerce.

Sprawling dragon fruit farm in Kalasangan Hills

Koi Pond (left) and a cactus garden (right)

Kalasangan Hills: Nature Trails and Vast Farms

We then headed up to Kalasangan Hills, known for its sprawling dragon fruit farm, cactus garden, and mini zoo featuring exotic birds and animals. The area also has koi-filled man-made lagoons and nature trails, offering a perfect escape into nature.

The white sand beach of Balangingi Island

Clear waters of Balangingi Island

Balangingi Island: Shaped by Tremors

A highlight of Cataingan is Balangingi Island, just 15 minutes from the coast of Pio V. Corpus. This 4.9-hectare island has experienced over 230 earthquakes since the 1900s, with seven registering above magnitude 7.0. Now, the island is being developed into an ecotourism zone. Known as Avila Island Resort, it boasts a strip of white sand beach, clear waters for swimming, mangrove forests, and striking limestone formations.

Matayum Lagoon: Events Venue Amidst Nature

In the afternoon, we visited Matayum Lagoon at the southeastern protrusion of the island. With its sandy shores and tranquil lagoon, this spot is perfect for swimming, fishing, and boat rides. It's also the venue for water sports and events like the Bagat Dagat festival. Still, on regular days, it’s a serene place for picnics and leisure.

The Matayum Lagoon

Cataingan revealed itself as a wonderful ecotourism destination, offering a mix of hilltop views and pristine beaches—ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

For tour assistance and information, contact the Masbate Provincial Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office.

Boat ride around the lighthouse.