Calauag

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Calauag, officially the Municipality of Calauag, is a coastal town in Quezon province, Philippines. It sits on the northeastern end of the Tayabas Isthmus, covers about 324.71 square kilometers, and has 81 barangays. As of 2024, it has a population of 68,999 people.

History
Calauag has records dating back to 1584. The town’s formal founding is dated to 1851, when the settlements of Apad and Calauag joined. It endured fires during the 20th century and was liberated from Japanese occupation in 1945. The town was also involved in a long boundary dispute with Santa Elena in Camarines Norte. After legal proceedings, some disputed areas were awarded to Camarines Norte, and Calauag’s jurisdiction was adjusted accordingly.

Geography and transport
Calauag lies along Daang Maharlika (the Pan-Philippine Highway) and Quirino Highway. It is about 227 kilometers southeast of Manila and 97 kilometers east of Lucena. It is bordered by Calauag Bay to the northwest, Lopez to the southwest, Guinayangan to the east, and by several bays and the nearby island of Alabat. The PNR Calauag Station is currently idle, and intercity train service is not active. Most travel is by bus or tricycle. Major bus lines serving the town include AB Liner, Barney Auto Lines, Superlines, Daet Express, DLTBCo, and Raymond Transportation. Toll roads are planned to improve access.

Economy and services
Calauag’s economy is mainly agricultural, with coconuts, rice, corn, fish, and other seafood as key products. It is classified as a first-class municipality. The poverty rate was about 21% in 2021. Utilities include Quezon 1 Electric Cooperative (electricity) and Calauag Water District (water). Telephone and internet services come from PLDT, Smart, Globe, and DITO, while local cable TV is provided by Calauag CATV System.

Government and people
The current mayor (2022–2025) is Rosalina O. Visorde, and the vice mayor is Leah M. dela Cruz. Calauag is part of Quezon’s 4th congressional district and is represented by Keith Micah Tan. The town observes major local holidays and celebrates Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim communities.

Climate and culture
Calauag has a tropical Type IV climate with rainfall spread throughout the year. The town’s official language includes Tagalog, and residents are called Calauagenian (or Calauagin in Tagalog). The feast day is celebrated on June 29, and sister towns include Guinayangan, Tagkawayan, and Buenavista.