Mercedes is a world class tourism hub and a key player for the production of renewable energy in Camarines Norte, and the center of excellence for fisheries in Bicol Region, where God-loving, empowered and healthy citizenry are living in a preserved and protected natural environment, with well-planned and functional infrastructure and a vibrant economy under a dynamic and transparent leadership where everyone adheres to the principles of sustainable development.

 

Tourism

Nature

• Agri-Tourism

Fishery plays a significant role in the economic activity of Mercedes, being the largest fishing bowl in the Bicol Region. In Mercedes, the traditional fish trading is called “bulungan” which literally translates to whispering. The buyer whispers his offer/bid for the fish, the seller sells it to the highest bidder. Bulungan happens early in the morning at Mercedes Fish Port.

The famous processed fish produce of Mercedes known throughout the country is the delectable “tinapa” or smoked fish. Promoted and accredited by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as the OTOP (One Town One Product) of Mercedes. Savory and fresh, Tinapa is available daily from various tinapa processors within the locality. Traditional smoked fish processing are still being practiced today. Available in vacuum-packed containers, tinapa can nave a three-month shelf life.

Organic farming in barangay Catandunganon is a project to help boost the agriculture sector of the municipality. The farm is being developed as a learning site for students and farming enthusiasts to the benefits of organic farming. Among the farm produce are tomatoes, okra, Chinese spinach, ginger, butternut squash, and papaya fruit.

• Marine Life

Mercedes, having seven islands and covering a total area of municipal water of around 53, 850 hectares is home to five fish sanctuaries. The local government, through the assistance of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, has conducted evaluation of potential dive and snorkeling sites in preparation for the inclusion of these activities in the eco-tourism plan.

According to the evaluation, the coral reef in the northern portion of Canimog Island is a fringing reef that grows from the reef flat at a depth of 15ft and gradual slope down to 75ft to the bottom.  At the reef flat, there are massive and branching corals. Inhabitants of this dive and snorkeling sites are sea anemones and sponges while bubble corals (Plerogyra sinuosa), seawhips and sea fans intersperse with the corals along the reef walls.

Fish that are seen in this area are surgeon fish, butterfly fish, Moorish idol, parrot fish, and clown fish. Groups of common fish that can be seen here are schools of red belly yellow tail fusiliers, snappers, Siganids, and yellow stripe scad.

With the conservation efforts of the local government and non-government organizations, it is expected that the marine life forms of Mercedes shall continue to flourish with sustainable development.

• Mountains

The Municipality of Mercedes covers part of the Bicol Natural Park, covering an area of 5,201 hectares of protected forest. Famous mountains in Mercedes are Mt. Balagbag, 3,000 feet above sea level. Mt. Balagbag in Hinipaan is a perfect site for amateur climbers and nature lovers. Also known as “Hunter’s Peak,” the trail up to the mountain offers various natural scenic views. Blessed with an abundant variety of trees and orchids, the forest is a  sanctuary to endangered species of migratory birds.  A trek up to Mt. Balagbag is every adventurer’s inspiration.

Go on a mountain climbing and trekking adventure in Mt. Man Asupre and enjoy the cool mountain waters of Colasi Falls. It is an attractive falls amid a pristine forest in Colasi, Mercedes.  The falls is about 70 feet high with flashing, blue, cool water for swimmers, bathers and nature lovers.  It is about 1½ -hours ride by jeepney from Daet to Colasi and 3-hours hike from the barangay proper to the falls.

• The Seven Islands

The seven islands of Mercedes are Canimog, Apuao Grande, Apuao Pequeña, Caringo, Quinapaguian, Malasugui and Canton. Take the 104 steps leading to the historical Canimog Lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic view of the vast Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse was erected June 26, 1927 and until now serves as a beacon for seafarers.

Malasugui is the smallest among the seven islands of Mercedes.  It can be explored within an hour's hike along the rock and white sandy beach. Strategically located at the center between the islands of Mercedes, one can enjoy the scenic view that only Malasugui can offer.

Experience sunset at Caringo Beach and be blown away by the spectacular colors that paint the sky. The gold and orange sunset is the perfect backdrop to the white sandy beach. At the tip of the island lies Falconete Point (Falcons' Nest), where one can see the face of the Sleeping Giant and the breathtaking view of San Miguel Bay.

Canton Island, a mysterious rocky island that is locally known for its underwater cave that can only be seen during low tide.

Apuao Grande and Pequeña, world famous for its fine sand beach. Camp beneath the pine trees and experience total relaxation. Solar powered beach houses are also ready for rent with complete amenities such as toilet and bath, kitchen and bedroom.

Recreation

• Skimboarding

Skimboarding is being introduced in Mercedes Camarines Norte. Baybay Beach has a perfect shore break.  The peak season for wave riding is from August to December. The locals has taken to the sport quite well.

• Kayak Surfing

In Mercedes Camarines Norte, 10 minutes' travel from the town proper of Daet Camarines Norte you can find a perfect spot for Kayak Surfing. The beach is called Baybay Beach located at the back of the Municipal Hall. The beach has a perfect wave for Kayak surfing.   Seat on top Kayaks are available for rent at the Municipal Tourism Development Operation Center (MTDOC). Life vest and helmets are provided for the safety of the rider and competent kayak attendants are available to teach you on the basics and safety of surf kayaking. Best time to go is between the months of August to December.

If you’re not sure of doing kayak surfing, you can also try kayaking in Cayucyucan Beach. Famous for its white sand and beach resorts, one can enjoy kayaking on the shallow waters of Cayucyucan. For the more adventurous, you can also explore the mangroves of Cayucyucan.  Located in an inlet, you can enjoy the beach year-round in Cayucyucan.

Another spot that Mercedes is proud to have is the Catandunganon River, ideal for kayak touring along the mangroves; it has beautiful scenery, especially at sunset. You can catch a glimpse of wild ducks and birds on flight. Once you get the rhythm, the only sound that you can hear is the splash of water as the paddle hits the water and the chirping of the birds that make their home in the mangroves.  It is then that you can say that you are one with nature.

 

Festivals

Kadagatan Festival is a celebration of thanksgiving for the blessings and bounty during seafaring, fishing expedition and fish farming endeavors not just of the fishermen but the entire populace of the Municipality. The festival recognizes Mother Nature for its gift of vast fishing resources, magnificent shorelines and other aquatic potentials.

It’s original name was Mercedes Kadagatan Fishtival, conceived during the administration of Mayor Jimmy P. Lo, Fiscal year 1997. It is a weeklong activity embodied in the founding anniversary of the municipality. Mercedes Kadagatan Fishtival is highlighted by Streetdancing and Mascot competition every 7th day of August. Streetdancing and Mascot Competition is a showcase of Mercedes’ bountiful harvest of marine resources blended with the creativity and ingenuity of its townfolks. The first Streetdancing and Mascot Competition was funded and initiated by the Sangguniang Bayan under the helm of Vice Mayor Melchor C. Ibasco with the able leadership of Sangguiniang bayan Members Ruel A. Santelices and Daniel T. Garcia and chaired by Mary Antonette N. Ibasco, Municipal Budget Officer.

The Mercedes Kadagatan Fishtival is among the registered festivals in the Bicol Region under the Department of Tourism which has become a yearly activity. It was then featured in the calendar of Mercury Drug Corporation for three editions covering the month of August. The Mercedes Kadagatan Fishtival was renamed to Kadagatan Festival in August 2003.

 

Where to stay?

• Villa Criselda’s Hotel, Resto Bar and Resort - Brgy. 1, Mercedes, Camarines Norte
• Palms Farm Resort - Brgy. Cayucyucan, Mercedes, Camarines Norte
• Khrystal Beach Resort - Brgy. Cayucyucan, Mercedes, Camarines Norte
• San Miguel Bay Resort - Brgy. Matoogtoog, Mercedes, Camarines Norte
• Apuao Grande Residential Houses - Apuao Grande Island, Mercedes, Camarines Norte

 

How to get there

From Cubao it will take 7 to 8 hours' travel time going to Daet. At the town proper of Daet, the landmark going to Mercedes is Greenwich besides Mercury Drug where you can ride a jeep going to Mercedes. The distance of Daet to Mercedes is 6.5km. It will take 10 to 15 minutes' travel time going to Mercedes.