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Philippines

South Luzon / Tabaco

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

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