From Sad News to Sudden Cravings

I got sad news about my health so I moped for about an hour and continued working and talking with my boyfriend. He was out yesterday because he went to our friend’s house- Te Bik and Mackie. After a few minutes of talking, he mentioned that Te Bik told him about a seafood trip in Catarman, Liloan. I had no idea about this place and what they offer so he showed me the reels about the place. 

I was hooked. 

A few minutes ago, I was sad because of my health. But now, I’m still sad AND hungry. I’m sad because I can’t go to this place right away because I have work. 

So I chatted with Te Bik and told her that I’m craving for seafood.

She happily replied “Adto tag Catarman na!” (“Let’s go to Catarman!”). And set a date on May 18, 2025 – a Sunday. Both our free days! 

Early Start and Excitement

The day has finally arrived and I’m giddy!

We woke up at 3AM on a Sunday and prepared ourselves. We drove using our motorcycle and headed to McDonalds facing SM Consolacion- our meetup place. It was kind of chilly so I’m thankful for my cardigan and my warm boyfriend. After few minutes, Te Bik, Mackie, and little Nat-nat, arrived. 

We didn’t know the place so we used Google Map and searched “Catarman, Liloan”. We just followed it and had a minor missed but we found our way again and asked locals for further directions. 

Until we arrived in a Barangay Hall and went further inside in an alley. 

Finding the Hidden Coastal Gem

We parked our motorcycles in an open basketball court and paid 20 pesos for the parking fee. 

We weren’t sure if we were still on the right track, but the salty breeze and the sound of waves gave us hope.

Soon, we spotted a cluster of small huts and makeshift eateries lined up near the shore. A few locals were already setting up—grilling, chopping, steaming. The air smelled like buttered garlic, lechon and ocean. It was still early, but the place was slowly coming to life.

The table was literally a few steps away from the sea and some even are stationed IN the sea. It’s low-tide so no problem there. I could feel the sand under my slippers and hear the gentle splash of water nearby. It felt like we stumbled into a secret.

Market Stroll and Mouthwatering Choices

We did a quick tour and checked the place before requesting a table. There were lots of vendors selling:

• Swaki and Tuyom (both sea urchin in different varieties)
  
• Saang (spider conch)
  
• Lato (sea grapes)
  
• Guso (spiny seaweed)
  
• A variety of fresh fish
  
• Lukot (green thread algae or sea worm algae)
  
• Puto balanghoy (steamed cassava cake)
  
• Puso (hanging rice)
  
• Lechon
  …and many more!
  

We bought swaki (200 pesos per plastic), tuyom (200 pesos per plastic), saang (250 pesos), scallops (100 pesos per plastic), lechon (450 pesos per half kilo), crabs (100 pesos per plastic), puto balanghoy, spicy vinegar (50 pesos per bottle), and two bottles of water.

While waiting for all the food we bought, we took pictures and stared at the horizon. There were small fishing boats anchored near the shore. While the shore was buzzing with vendors, the sea was calm and at peace. It felt like time slowed down for a bit.

Time to Feast

Then the food arrived. Oh. My. God.

Okay, real talk—the first thing I dove into was the lechon. LOL. I know I hyped up the swaki and tuyom, but let’s be honest, those weren’t the easiest to eat right away. After cracking open the shells, you still had to remove the black stuff and rinse them properly. So we set them aside for later and went straight for the easier (and hotter!) dishes first.

The lechon was OK. Crispy skin, juicy meat but kinda bland – not so commendable since I was used to eating flavorful lechon. I wrapped it in puso and dipped it in spicy vinegar. That combo alone made me forget all my worries for a moment.

Then came the crabs—messy, sweet, and absolutely satisfying. We all had crab hands at one point, laughing while cracking them open and stealing bites off each other’s plates. The Saang was chewy and briny, perfect while watching the waves crash just a few meters away. And the scallops were divine!

The scallops? It was good. And the Puto Balanghoy was that soft, slightly sweet ending we didn’t know we needed. That cassava goodness just melts in your mouth—like a gentle hug after a flavorful riot.

Swaki, Tuyom, and a Seafood Round Two

As for the Swaki and Tuyom, we packed them up and saved them for round two at Te Bik’s house later that day. They needed a little more love (and cleaning), and let’s be real—we were already too full to appreciate them properly.

Sitting there, while appreciating the beauty of the sea and the horizon, hands sticky from crab, scallops and lechon oil, I felt full—not just in my stomach, but in my heart. This trip wasn’t just about food. It was about slowing down, reconnecting, and reminding myself that even when life throws a curveball… there’s still space for joy.

Wrapping Up with Poppers and Peace

We  Clay Go (clean as you go), we tidied up our table and gathered our trash before leaving. It’s such a simple rule, but it felt good doing our part—especially in a place this special. It deserves to stay that way.

By the time we finished packing up and washing our hands, the sun had fully risen. The soft morning glow turned into warm, golden light, and the whole place started buzzing. More people were arriving, vendors were grilling, and that delicious smell of seafood just lingered in the air.

Before hopping back on the motorcycle, I made one last stop—I bought a bag of lato.

Why?
Because my mouth was still craving poppers. LOL. That crunchy, juicy burst from every bite of those sea grapes? Dip it in vinegar with chili, and I’m in my happy place again.

Until Next Time, Catarman

We rode off with full bellies, sea breeze in our hair, and salty smiles on our faces. What started as a heavy week turned into one of the most heartwarming Sundays I’ve had in a while.

Catarman, we’ll definitely be back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Catarman, Liloan located?

Catarman is a coastal barangay in Liloan, Cebu, known for its affordable and fresh seafood by the sea.

What kind of seafood can I find in Catarman?

You’ll find swaki (sea urchin), tuyom (another variety of sea urchin), saang (spider conch), crabs, scallops, lato (sea grapes), guso (spiny seaweed), lukot (green thread algae), and more.

Is there an entrance fee or parking fee in Catarman?

There’s no entrance fee, but parking at the basketball court costs ₱20.

What’s the best time to visit Catarman for seafood?

Early mornings are best to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, fresher catches, and fewer crowds.

Do I need to bring my own utensils or tables?

It’s better to bring your own utensils, especially if you want to avoid using disposables. But if you forget, no worries—some vendors also sell disposable ones on-site. Tables are provided by the vendors for 150 pesos (1 table and 4 chairs).

Is it beginner-friendly to eat swaki and tuyom?

They can be a bit tricky for first-timers. You’ll need to crack the shell, remove the black parts, and rinse them before eating. It’s best to have someone experienced help prepare them. AND bring water to rinse the black gooey stuff.

Can I take seafood home from Catarman?

Yes! Many vendors offer seafood for takeaway. You can buy items like swaki, tuyom, or lato to enjoy later at home or with friends.