The inverted-J-shaped Oriental Mindoro is endowed
with some of the Philippine Islands’ best naturescapes.
Choose your own beach among the many that abound, from fawn beige
to powdery white. Then match the experience with interesting mountain
lairs, lakes, rivers, rain forests, wild animals, rare flora and
fauna, and pocket communities of the existing ethnic groups. It
has maintained its unspoiled environment, all within a rustic
agricultural setting.
The province's foremost asset is Puerto Galera, blessed with
one of the world’s most beautiful natural harbors. Known
as the Pearl of Mindoro, it is world-famous for splendid beaches,
coral reefs, and exquisite dive sites for new and experienced
divers alike. There are shallow coral gardens, interesting rock
formations, and colorful species to watch, like crabs, shrimps,
sea anemones, moray, and trumpet fishes.
Alibatan Island in Baco, noted for its white sand, serves as
a breeding place for seagulls and turtles. Corals and oysters
can be found all around the area. Also in Baco is Mt. Halcon,
the country's third highest peak and a favorite destination for
nature tripping and mountain climbing. In Puerto Galera, 423-foot
Tamaraw Falls is a series of asymmetrical falls, leading to a
grand fall, dropping to the frothy waterbed below. Another attraction
within the area is Sabang Beach, a portion of which is tourist-flocked
for water sports and a cluster of nightspots popular for evening
socials. Beside Sabang Beach is Small La Laguna, with amazingly
beautiful coral reefs, and water ideal for snorkeling and scuba
diving.
Indulge in a number of special interest tours while in the province,
from mountain climbing to trekking, hiking, camping, butterfly
watching, game fishing, and adventure trips to the wilderness.
Enjoy active water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and
swimming. Visit the Mangyan settlement areas, and find it rewarding
to engage in natural cave and waterfall exploration and island
hopping."
The lifestyles of Mindoreños are basically simple and
rural. 70 percent of the populace engage in land and sea agriculture,
with only 30 percent living in urbanized centers. The ethnic tribes,
Mangyans, are gentle and withdrawn but many of them have managed
to integrate into the cultural mainstream, largely in the municipalities
of Mansalay, Baco, Puerto Galera, Roxas, and Bongabong. These
Mangyans are skilled weavers and craftsmen, producing intricate
tribal finery, including baskets, mats, and other items, both
functional and aesthetic.
