Tabaco is
the fourth largest town in Bicol. It is a coastal town located
approximately 26km (16mi) northwest of Legazpi. Tourists going
to the Mayon Volcano via the Buang Trail or heading further north
to Tiwi pass the place. Those wishing to visit nearby San Miguel
island can take a boat from the pier. An example of the damage
brought by Typhoon Sisang are gapping holes in the city's large
cement pier. Another casualty of the storm was the once popular
Tabaco resort called 'Roca Monte' which has closed down due to
damage.
Tabaco's
main product appears to be abaca. Abaca is a stalk plant which
looks very similar to the banana tree. The coarse blonde fibers
are extracted and dried in the sun. The finished raw material
is used to make ropes, woven products and hand-icrafts. The visitor
will often see abaca dried and being transported around in the
area. Jeepneys and mini-buses between Tabaco and Legazpi usually
only operate between 5:00 and 17:00.
Accommodation
Ziga Arcade
Hotel (10) - Berces St/Ziga Ave Tel 214; rm 88-220; rest
Tony's Hotel (4) - Riosa St
rm 50-150; simple; near public market
Guilermo's Pension House (11) - San Antonio
on main road leading to Mayon Volcano
Roca Monte Resort (12) - closed indefinitely due to damage
by typhoon Sisang
Transportation
Buses to
Naga and Manila do not go north through Tiwi, but south through
Legazpi, even though this is the longer route. The northern route
past Tiwi is shorter, but the road is too rough.
Philtranco Bus Terminal (7) - beside market
daily 9 buses to Manila, btw 7:00 to 17:00
Jeepney Terminal (5) - behind the market to Tiwi, Buang,
Legazpi
Ferry to Catanduanes (1) - daily ferry link between Tabaco
and Virac, the capital of Catanduanes island
