Catarman

Catarman is the capital municipality of Northern Samar, a province in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. Located on the island of Samar, Catarman serves as the provincial capital and seat of government, hosting the provincial capitol and other government offices. The municipality lies in a low-lying coastal and riverine area surrounding the Catarman River and adjacent to the province’s coastal landscape. It has a tropical climate with a pronounced wet season.

The economy of Catarman is predominantly agricultural, with rice, coconut, and root crops forming the core of local farming. Fishing along rivers and near the coast also supports livelihoods. Small-scale commerce and government services provide additional employment in the town.

Demographically, Catarman is largely Waray-speaking and Catholic, reflecting the broader cultural and religious patterns of the region. Local traditions, festivals, and religious activities are important aspects of community life.

Education and infrastructure: Catarman hosts campuses of the Northern Samar State University and other educational institutions, serving as an educational hub for the province. The town is connected by regional roads and functions as a center for commerce and services in Northern Samar.

History: Northern Samar was established as a separate province in 1965, carved from Samar province, with Catarman designated as its capital. The area has historical ties to early colonial administration and the development of provincial governance.

Notable features: In addition to administrative facilities, Catarman includes urban centers, parks, and public amenities that reflect the rural-urban character of the province while serving as a gateway to Northern Samar’s coastal and riverine environments.