Buguey

Nestled along the northeastern coastline of Luzon, Buguey, Cagayan is a charming coastal municipality where mangroves dance with the tides, and crabs reign supreme. Known as the Crab Capital of the Philippines, Buguey is a delightful destination packed with natural wonders, cultural gems, and a seafood scene that will make your taste buds sing.

Buguey is part of the province of Cagayan in Region II (Cagayan Valley), facing the vast Babuyan Channel. Its coastline is dotted with scenic fishing villages, rich wetlands, and estuaries that are home to diverse marine life. A haven for nature lovers and those craving slow, soulful travel.

If Buguey had a crown, it would be made of claws! This town is best known for its blue swimming crabs (alimasag), harvested fresh from its sprawling mangrove ecosystems. Locals take pride in their catch, exporting Buguey crabs both locally and internationally. If you’re a seafood fan, this place is a paradise on a plate.

• Lalawigan Beach – A serene and uncrowded beach where golden sands meet gentle waves. Perfect for quiet getaways.
• Manoray Lagoon – Ideal for kayaking or bird watching, this lagoon is surrounded by lush mangrove forests.
• Buguey Wetlands – An eco-tourism zone with scenic boat rides, birdwatching, and—yes—crabbing!
• St. Anne Parish Church – A historic Spanish-era church built with coral stones, showcasing the town’s colonial past.

The people of Buguey are warm, hardworking, and deeply connected to the sea. Life here revolves around fishing, farming, and community fiestas. Storytelling, folk dances, and traditional crafts are preserved through generations.

Locals speak Ilocano, with a splash of Ibanag and Tagalog. English is also understood, especially in town centers and schools.

You can’t visit Buguey without diving into its seafood bounty:

• Adobong Alimasag – Crab simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and love.
• Inihaw na Bangus – Grilled milkfish, fresh from local ponds.
• Katuray Salad – A healthy salad made from native katuray flowers and tomatoes.
• Crab Sisig – Buguey’s own take on the sizzling favorite!

Held every July, the Kurit Crab Festival is a must-experience celebration. With colorful parades, street dancing in crab costumes, crab-cooking contests, and a giant seafood feast, the town bursts into joyful chaos. The festival’s highlight? The Kurit Queen pageant and the Longest Crab Line Cook-Off.

Local music is a mix of folk ballads and Ilocano songs, often performed live during barangay gatherings and festivals. Traditional instruments like the kulintang and rondalla add rhythm to the town’s cultural flair.

Come to Buguey for the crabs, stay for the peaceful beaches, eco-adventures, and rich traditions. Whether you’re a foodie, explorer, or someone who just wants to escape the noise, Buguey offers a refreshing coastal experience unlike any other.