Overview
Daet is the capital municipality of Camarines Norte in the Philippines, known as a commercial hub and tourist destination, especially for surfing. It has a rich historical background, diverse economy, and plays a central role in governance and culture in the province.
General Information
- Daet is the capital and most populous municipality of Camarines Norte, with a population of 111,700 as of 2020.
- It covers an area of 46 km² and consists of 25 barangays.
- Located in the Bicol Region, 342 km from Manila, it sits at an average elevation of 10 meters above sea level.
- Official languages are Central Bikol and Tagalog.
- It is governed by a mayor, vice mayor, and a municipal council.
History
- Daet's name derives from local Bikol words related to closeness and friendship.
- It existed as a settlement before the Spanish arrived in 1521; official founding was in 1583.
- Became an early center of Spanish religious missions and later a focal point of anti-colonial resistance.
- The American colonial period saw peaceful transition; major historical events include Martial Law under Marcos and the 1981 Daet massacre.
Geography and Climate
- Surrounded by other municipalities and the Pacific Ocean, Daet is mainly flat without significant mountains.
- Experiences warm and humid tropical climate with significant annual rainfall (3,563 mm).
Administrative and Political Structure
- Divided into 25 barangays, each with local leadership (Punong Barangay).
- Electorate number was 65,566 as of the 2025 elections.
- Police to population ratio is slightly below the ideal standard.
Economy and Infrastructure
- Classified as a first-class income municipality, with revenues of ₱525 million and assets of ₱893.8 million in 2022.
- Major industries include mineral resources (notably diatomaceous earth), sand, gravel, and agriculture (notably pineapples).
- Commercial center features major banks and is developing multiple business districts, including SM City Daet.
Transportation and Utilities
- Accessible via Maharlika Highway and several major local roads.
- Main transportation modes are road and air; Bagasbas Airport serves the area.
- Main utilities providers are CANORECO (electricity), Camarines Norte Water District, and PrimeWater (water).
- Telecommunications are provided by Smart, Globe, and DITO.
Education
- Hosts several higher education institutions, including University of Camarines Norte and La Consolacion College Daet.
Tourism and Culture
- Known for Bagasbas Beach, a popular surfing and kiteboarding spot.
- Hosts the annual Daet International Aerosports Show and Pineapple Festival.
- Home to the first monument dedicated to Jose Rizal, and several historic and religious sites.
Festivals and Heritage
- Pineapple Festival (Pinyasan) is held every June 22-26, celebrating local produce.
- Bantayog Festival marks the province's founding, usually held in March or April.
Notable Personalities
- Includes National Artists Manuel Conde and Ricky Lee, actor Robin Padilla, and others from arts and media.