REGIONAL BROCHURE

World’s Best

- Limestone Cliffs - Conde Nast, Awards, Citations for Palawan

- Tubbataha Reef - UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Butterfly Farms - Top Exporter of Butterfly
- Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Apo Reef Natural Park - Blue park Award

Rich Experiences

- Moriones Lenten Rites

- Cruise Tourism
- Marble Industry
- Jama Mapun Muslim Weaving
- Mangyan Tribes

Nature Lover’s Paradise

- Tabon Caves
- Kayangan Lake
- Calauit Safari Park
- Verde Island Passage
- Carabao Island

Panels

1. Mountains - Mt. Guiting-Guiting, Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape, Mt.

Halcon, Mt Iglit Baco National Park
2. Beaches - Bonbon Beach, Cresta de Gallo, Muelle Bay, Port Barton
3. Diving - “Sea Cow” Dugong
4. Adventure - Luzon Datum of 1911, Ungab Rock Formation, Carabao Cart Riding to
Tukuran Falls
5. Culture - Culion Museum and Archives, Marinduque Cuisines
6. Nature - Birdwatching, Cycling

Note: Pwede rin Ridge and Reef per panel.

For example: Up-Mt. Mantalingahan (Mountain) Down- Sea Cow (Diving)

ATTRACTION LOCATION WRITE UPS

1 Mt. Guiting-Guiting Sibuyan Island, Mt. Guiting-Guiting, also known as G2, is a

Romblon
prominent mountain in Sibuyan Island,
towering at an impressive height of
approximately 2,058 meters (6,752 feet) above
sea level. Due to its rugged terrain and
technical challenges, Mt. Guiting-Guiting has
earned a reputation as a favorite destination
among experienced mountaineers and
adventure seekers. It offers a thrilling and
 demanding climb, requiring rock scrambling,
river crossings, and steep ascents. Mt. Guiting-
Guiting is situated within the Mount Guiting-
Guiting Natural Park, a protected area that
covers around 15,300 hectares. The park is
recognized for its ecological significance and is
managed to preserve its biodiversity, promote
sustainable tourism, and protect its natural
resources.

2 Cresta de Gallo San Fernando, Cresta de Gallo is a small, uninhabited island

Romblon located in the Sibuyan Sea, off the coast of
Sibuyan Island in the Romblon province. Lying
approximately 10 kilometers east of Sibuyan
Island, it is known for its pristine white sandy
beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and
stunning natural surroundings. Largely
undeveloped and untouched by commercial
tourism, Cresta de Gallo offers a good camping
experience where visitors may set up tents and
spend the night under the stars, immersing
themselves in the island's natural beauty.

3 Bonbon Beach Romblon, Bonbon beach is renowned for its powdery

Romblon white sand, which stretches for about 200
meters (656 feet). The sand is incredibly fine
and soft, making it a pleasure to walk on and
creating a picturesque backdrop for
beachgoers. One of the unique features of
Bonbon Beach is its natural sandbar formation.
During low tide, a sandbar emerges, connecting
Bonbon Beach to a nearby small island called
Bang-og. This sandbar creates a scenic
pathway for visitors to walk or wade through the
shallow waters. The beach is an excellent spot
to witness breathtaking sunsets. As the sun
descends over the horizon, the sky transforms
into a palette of vibrant colors, creating a
magical and romantic ambiance.

4 Carabao Island San Jose, Also known as Hambil Island, Carabao Island
Romblon offers a serene and unspoiled tropical getaway
with its stunning beaches, natural landscapes,
and opportunities for water-based activities.
Also known for its diverse marine life, vibrant
coral reefs, and underwater caves, Carabao
Island offers excellent diving and snorkeling
spots. Compared to the neighboring tourist
hotspot of Boracay, Carabao Island has a more
relaxed and laid-back atmosphere allowing
travelers to experience a more tranquil and
authentic countryside of the MIMAROPA.
5 Marble Industry Romblon The Marble Industry is a significant economic
and cultural aspect of Romblon Island, dubbed
as the "Marble Capital of the Philippines" due to
its abundant and high-quality marble deposits.
The local industry produces a wide range of
marble products, including but not limited to
tiles, slabs, sculptures, furniture, decorative
items, and architectural elements like columns
and balusters. These products are renowned
for their craftsmanship, durability, and aesthetic
appeal.

6 Mt. Mantalingahan Palawan Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape

Protected Landscape (MMPL) is a vast and ecologically significant
protected area located in southwestern
Palawan, covering portions of the municipalities
of Rizal, Brooke's Point, Bataraza, and Quezon
in a span of over 120,457 hectares. The
protected area showcases a diverse range of
ecosystems, including lowland rainforests,
montane forests, mossy forests, and peatlands.
The landscape supports an incredible variety of
flora, including rare and endemic species. It is
also inhabited by numerous animal species,
such as the Palawan hornbill, Palawan bearcat,
Palawan peacock-pheasant, and the critically
endangered Philippine eagle. Home to
indigenous communities, including the
Palaw'an and Batak tribes, MMPL offers
opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor
activities. Visitors can explore the pristine
natural landscapes, hike through the mountain
trails, birdwatch, and engage in wildlife
observation

7 Mt. Halcon Baco, Oriental Mt. Halcon, is a majestic peak situated in the
Mindoro province of Oriental Mindoro, between the
municipalities of Baco and Naujan. Standing at
approximately 2,582 meters (8,471 feet) above
sea level, Mt. Halcon is renowned for its
reputation as one of the most challenging
mountains to climb in the country and dubbed
as "Mountain of Death" due to its steep and
treacherous terrain. Despite the challenging
climb, Mt. Halcon rewards climbers with breath-
taking natural beauty. The mountain features
stunning landscapes, dense forests, cascading
waterfalls, and panoramic views of Mindoro
Island and the surrounding seas. Considered
sacred, Mt. Halcon holds cultural significance
for the indigenous Mangyan communities.

8 Puerto Princesa Puerto Princesa The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River

Subterranean River City National Park, often referred to as the Puerto
 National Park Princesa Underground River, is a renowned
natural attraction is situated approximately 50
kilometers north of the city of Puerto Princesa.
Covering an area of around 22,202 hectares,
the park is designated as a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. It is recognized for its
outstanding universal value, featuring a unique
subterranean river that stretches for
approximately 8.2 kilometers (5.1 miles), which
is one of the longest navigable underground
rivers in the world and flows directly into the
South China Sea. The underground river offers
visitors its impressive limestone karst
formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and
chambers.

9 Apo Reef Natural Park
Sablayan, Apo Reef Natural Park is a marine protected
Occidental area located in the Mindoro Strait, off the coast
Mindoro of Occidental Mindoro. Situated approximately
33 kilometers off the western coast of Mindoro
Island, the park covers a vast area of about
27,469 hectares (67,900 acres) and consists of
two main coral reefs: Apo Island and Apo
Menor. Considered the largest coral reef
system and atoll-like formation in the country,
Apo Reef is known for its vibrant coral gardens,
diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters.
Apo Reef offers exceptional opportunities for
snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The
underwater world of the park is teeming with
colorful coral formations and a variety of marine
life, including reef sharks, sea turtles, stingrays,
and an abundance of tropical fish. Divers can
explore the walls, drop-offs, and underwater
caves that offer breath-taking diving
experiences. In addition to its marine
biodiversity, Apo Reef serves as a sanctuary for
a variety of bird species, being an important
breeding ground and resting place for migratory
birds, including the rare and endangered,
Black-faced Spoonbill and Chinese Egret.

10 Tubbataha Reef Natural Cagayancillo, Tubbataha Reef Natural Park is a world-

Park Palawan renowned marine protected area situated in the
middle of the Sulu Sea, approximately 150
kilometers (93 miles) southeast of Puerto
Princesa City, Palawan. It covers a vast area of
about 97,030 hectares (239,540 acres), making
it one of the largest marine protected areas in
the Philippines. Designated as a UNESCO
World Heritage Site and is recognized for its
exceptional biodiversity and pristine coral reefs,
Tubbataha Reef Natural Park is considered one
of the top diving destinations in the world.
 Divers can explore the underwater walls, drop-
offs, and vibrant coral gardens, encountering an
array of marine life. The park's remote location
adds to its allure and ensures a sense of
untouched beauty. Recognized as an Important
Bird Area, the park serves as a resting and
breeding ground for numerous migratory bird
species.

11 “Sea-Cow” Dugong Busuanga, Dugong watching in Busuanga, Palawan offers

Watching Palawan a fantastic opportunity to witness and
appreciate these fascinating marine mammals
in their natural environment. Dugongs, a local
term for "sea cows," are large marine mammals
closely related to manatees. They have a
unique appearance, with a rotund body, paddle-
like flippers, and a snout adapted for grazing on
seagrass. During a Dugong watching tour,
visitors have the chance to witness Dugongs as
they swim, graze on seagrass, and engage in
social behaviors.

12 Lime-stone Cliffs Coron and El The limestone cliffs in Coron and El Nido in
Nido, Palawan Palawan are a defining feature of this
picturesque destination, renowned for their
awe-inspiring beauty. The limestone cliffs can
reach impressive heights, with some towering
up to 100 meters (330 feet) above sea level.
The sheer vertical walls create a dramatic and
striking landscape that is a sight to behold. The
cliffs showcase karst topography, characterized
by intricate formations, jagged edges, and
rugged textures. The erosion caused by waves
and weathering has carved out caves, tunnels,
and hidden lagoons within the cliffs, adding to
the area's mystique.

13 Tabon Cave Quezon, Palawan Tabon Cave is known as the "Cradle of

Philippine Civilization" due to its rich
archaeological findings. The cave complex has
been inhabited by humans for at least 50,000
years, making it one of the oldest known
habitation sites in the country. The Tabon Cave
complex consists of several interconnected
limestone caverns, with Tabon Cave being the
most notable and extensively studied. It
features large chambers, narrow passages, and
intricate rock formations. The complex also
includes other smaller caves, such as Diwata
Cave and Liyang Cave. Excavations in Tabon
Cave have yielded a wealth of artifacts,
including ancient tools, pottery shards, jewelry,
and human remains. In 2019, an exciting
discovery was made in Tabon Cave when a
 new human species, Homo luzonensis, was
identified based on fossil remains. Tabon Cave
is closely associated with the discovery of the
"Tabon Man" in the 1960s. The Tabon Man
refers to the remains of a human skeleton
estimated to be 22,000 years old, making it one
of the oldest Homo sapiens fossils found in the
country.

14 Mt. Iglit-Baco National Mindoro Island Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park is situated in the
Park and Tamaraw province of Occidental Mindoro, covering parts
of the municipalities of Sablayan, Calintaan,
and Rizal. Covering a vast area of
approximately 75,445 hectares (186,607
acres), Mt Iglit-Baco serves as a sanctuary for
tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis), a critically
endangered species found only in Mindoro.
These bovine mammals, which are smaller than
carabaos are known for their distinctive V-
shaped horns. Showcasing stunning natural
landscapes, with rolling hills, lush valleys, and
dense forests, Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park
offers opportunities for trekking and nature
exploration, as well as an encounter with the
famed tamaraws.

15 Mangyan Tribes Mindoro Island The Mangyans are indigenous peoples

inhabiting the island of Mindoro. Composed of
several distinct groups, each with their own
language, customs, and traditions the main
Mangyan groups include the Iraya, Alangan,
Tadyawan, Tau-Buid, Bangon-Buid, and
Hanunuo. Despite their diversity, they share
some common cultural elements and a strong
connection to their ancestral lands. The
Mangyans are known for their exceptional
craftsmanship. They create intricate handicrafts
using materials sourced from their
surroundings, such as bamboo, rattan, and nito
vines. Mangyan artisans produce beautiful
baskets, mats, textiles, and jewelry,
showcasing their traditional weaving and
carving skills.

16 Butterfly Farms Boac, Known for its beautiful landscapes and natural
Marinduque wonders, Marinduque is also famous for its
butterfly farms. These farms provide a unique
opportunity for visitors to witness the beauty
and diversity of butterflies up close. Visitors to
the butterfly farms can enjoy guided tours led
by knowledgeable staff who provide information
about butterfly behavior, life cycles, and
conservation efforts. They offer insights into the
different butterfly species found in the island
 and share interesting facts and stories about
their habits and characteristics. Visitors can find
butterfly-themed souvenirs and memorabilia in
the gift shops or stalls associated with the
butterfly farms. These may include butterfly-
themed accessories, artwork, educational
materials, and locally made products.

17 Marinduque Cuisines: Marinduque Marinduque cuisines represent the distinct

Arrowroot, Kari Kari, flavors and culinary traditions of the island
Ulang Ulang, Kagang, province. From the use of local ingredients like
Adobong manok sa arrowroot and ulang to the incorporation of
dilaw
traditional cooking techniques and flavors,
Marinduque's cuisine offers a unique and
delightful dining experience for both locals and
visitors. Exploring these dishes provides a
glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and
culinary diversity of the province.

1. Arrowroot: Arrowroot is a starchy tuber

widely grown in Marinduque and is a key
ingredient in many local dishes. It is used to
make a variety of delicacies, including the
popular arrowroot cookies and arrowroot
cakes. These treats have a delicate, slightly
sweet flavor and a soft, crumbly texture.
2. Kari Kari: Kari kari is a traditional
Marinduque dish made from a combination
of pork or beef offal, vegetables, and peanut
sauce. The meat and offal are typically
stewed until tender, while the peanut sauce
is thick and rich, providing a nutty flavor.
Kari kari is often served with bagoong
(shrimp paste) and rice.
3. Ulang Ulang: Ulang ulang is a seafood dish
unique to Marinduque, specifically the town
of Boac. It is a soup made from freshwater
river prawns, locally known as ulang,
combined with vegetables and spices. The
prawns are typically large and flavorful,
adding a distinct taste to the soup.
4. Kagang: Kagang is a dish made from edible
tree ferns that are native to Marinduque.
The ferns are harvested, cleaned, and
blanched before being sautéed with garlic,
onions, and other seasonings. Kagang has
a slightly crunchy texture and is often
served as a side dish or included in
vegetable stir-fries.
5. Adobong Manok sa Dilaw: Adobong manok
sa dilaw is a variation of the classic Filipino
adobo, where chicken is marinated and
simmered in a mixture of soy sauce,
vinegar, garlic, and spices. What sets this
Marinduque version apart is the addition of
turmeric (dilaw), which gives the dish a
vibrant yellow color and a subtle earthy
 flavor.

18 Moriones Lenten Rites Marinduque The Moriones Lenten Rites is a unique and
colorful religious festival celebration in
Marinduque. The festival takes place during
Holy Week, particularly from Holy Monday to
Easter Sunday, and is known for its vibrant and
elaborate re-enactments of the Passion of
Christ. The Moriones Lenten Rites have their
roots in Spanish colonial times and were
introduced to Marinduque in the 19th century.
The festival serves as a commemoration of the
story of Longinus, the Roman centurion who
pierced the side of Jesus with a spear during
the crucifixion. According to legend, Longinus
was blind but regained his sight after being
splattered with Jesus' blood. Highlight of the
Moriones Lenten Rites is the presence of men
and women wearing intricately carved and
painted Moriones masks. These masks, made
of papier-mâché, depict the fierce and sorrowful
Roman soldiers known as Moriones. The
participants don colorful costumes resembling
Roman armor, complete with helmets,
breastplates, and shields. The Moriones Lenten
Rites showcase the blending of Christian
traditions with local folklore and customs. It is a
fusion of religious devotion, theatrical
performances, and cultural expressions. The
festival serves as a platform for preserving and
promoting Marinduque's unique cultural
heritage and fostering a sense of community
and spirituality. Having gained recognition and
popularity, to both local and international
tourists, the festival has become a major
tourism draw for Marinduque.

19 Cycling Marinduque Cycling in Marinduque offers a wonderful

opportunity to explore the island's scenic
landscapes, charming towns, and cultural
heritage. With its relatively peaceful roads and
diverse terrain, Marinduque provides a
conducive environment for both leisurely bike
rides and more challenging cycling adventures.

20 Verde Island Passage MIMARO Verde Island Passage is a strait located

between the islands of Luzon and Mindoro,
known for its incredible marine biodiversity and
is often referred to as the "center of the center"
of marine shorefish biodiversity in the world.
Spanning approximately 1.14 million hectares,
the passage connects the West Philippine Sea
to the west with the Sibuyan Sea to the east.
 Verde Island Passage is renowned for its
exceptional marine biodiversity; being home to
an incredibly diverse range of marine species,
including over 1,000 species of fish, numerous
coral species, and an abundance of other
marine organisms. The area's remarkable
diversity has attracted scientists and
researchers from around the world, making it a
significant site for marine conservation and
study.

21 Cruise Tourism MIMAROPA Cruise tourism in the MIMAROPA offers visitors

a unique and immersive way to explore the
stunning islands and coastal destinations in the
region. MIMAROPA is home to numerous
beautiful islands and coastal areas, making it
an ideal region for cruise tourism. Major cruise
destination of the region include Palawan,
Sibuyan Island and Cresta de Gallo in
Romblon.

22 Jama Mapun Muslim Brooke’s Point Jama Mapun Muslim weaving is a traditional
Weaving and Bataraza, craft practiced by the Jama Mapun community,
Palawan an ethnic group residing in the southernmost
part of Palawan. The Jama Mapun people are
known for their exceptional skills in weaving
and creating intricate and colorful textiles using
traditional methods passed down through
generations. Jama Mapun Muslim weaving
utilizes traditional techniques that have been
practiced for centuries. The process involves
the use of a backstrap loom, where the weaver
manually controls the tension of the threads.
This technique allows for intricate patterns and
designs to be created with precision and
attention to detail. Jama Mapun Muslim
weaving is known for its intricate patterns and
geometric designs. These designs often
symbolize cultural motifs, spiritual beliefs, and
elements from nature.

23 Carabao Cart Riding to San Teodoro and Carabao cart riding to Tukuran Falls offers a
Tukuran Falls Puerto Galera, unique and traditional way to experience the
Oriental Mindoro natural beauty of rural life. Carabao carts are
traditional carts pulled by carabaos. These
carts have a rustic charm and provide a
leisurely and nostalgic mode of transportation.
Riding on a carabao cart allows visitors to
connect with the local culture and experience
the traditional way of moving through the
countryside.

24 Port Barton San Vicente, Port Barton is a small coastal village located on
Palawan the northwest coast of Palawan. Known for its
 pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and
picturesque landscapes the village is nestled
between lush green hills and the turquoise
waters of the Sulu Sea. A gateway to numerous
beautiful beaches and islands, Port Barton
offers tours are a popular activity, allowing
visitors to explore nearby islands, snorkel in
vibrant coral gardens, and relax on secluded
beaches.

25 Bird watching Palawan Bird watching in Palawan, Philippines offers

enthusiasts a remarkable opportunity to
observe a diverse array of bird species in their
natural habitats. Known for its rich biodiversity,
Palawan is home to numerous endemic and
migratory bird species, making it a prime
destination for bird watchers.

26 Luzon Datum of 1911 Mogpog, The Luzon Datum of 1911, also known as the
Marinduque Old Triangulation System of Luzon, is a
geodetic reference system used in the
Philippines to establish elevation and
geographic coordinates for mapping and
surveying purposes. Established by the U.S.
Coast and Geodetic Survey in the early 20th
century during the American colonial period in
the Philippines, the datum’s purpose was to
provide a consistent reference framework for
mapping and surveying activities across Luzon.
The site in Marinduque also known as Station
Balanacan, is recognizable through an iconic
stone marker with a hole of 6cm deep and
1.5cm in diameter, located at the summit of Mt.
Mataas, around 220 meters above sea level.

27 Ungab Rock Formation Sta. Cruz, The Ungab Rock Formation is one of the most
Marinduque iconic natural landmarks in Sta. Cruz,
Marinduque. Characterized by an arch formed
through years of erosion, at a height of several
meters. Situated on the eastern coast of the
island of Mongpong, the rock formation stands
next to a beach and is surrounded by clear blue
and turquoise waters of Mongpong Beach.

28 Muelle Bay Puerto Galera, Muelle Bay, also known as Puerto Galera Bay,
Oriental Mindoro is a natural harbor and bay located in Puerto
Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. It serves
as the main port and docking area for boats
and ferries arriving in Puerto Galera. Situated
on the northern coast of Oriental Mindoro,
facing the Verde Island Passage, the bay is
surrounded by lush green hills and offers
picturesque views of the sea. The surrounding
bay area is a bustling center of activity, with
 various facilities and services available to cater
to visitors. Travelers can find restaurants,
shops, dive centers, and accommodations near
the bay. It is also a starting point for exploring
the beaches and attractions of Puerto Galera.
Muelle Bay and its vicinity are known for their
vibrant nightlife scene. Numerous bars, clubs,
and entertainment venues can be found in the
area, offering live music, dancing, and a lively
atmosphere for those seeking night-time
entertainment.

29 Kayangan Lake Coron, Palawan Kayangan Lake is a breathtaking natural

wonder located in Coron, Palawan. It is one of
the most famous and iconic attractions in the
region, known for its crystal-clear turquoise
waters, limestone cliffs, and stunning scenic
beauty. Nestled amidst towering limestone cliffs
on Coron Island, visitors typically take a boat
ride from the town to a designated docking
area, followed by a short hike up a steep hill, to
reach the lake. The hike offers panoramic views
of the surrounding islands and adds to the
overall adventure of reaching the lake. What
sets Kayangan Lake apart is the incredible
clarity of its waters. The lake is often described
as one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in
Asia, allowing visitors to see the underwater
rock formations, coral gardens, and schools of
fish with remarkable clarity.

30 Culion Museum and Culion, Palawan The Culion Museum and Archives is a historical
Archives museum located on the island of Culion in
Palawan. It is dedicated to preserving and
showcasing the history, culture, and stories of
Culion, particularly its significant role in the fight
against leprosy and the efforts to eradicate the
disease. Culion Island was once known as the
largest leper colony in the world, where
individuals affected by leprosy were isolated
and treated. The Culion Museum and Archives
serves as a testament to the island's unique
history and the struggles faced by those
afflicted with the disease. It provides insight into
the lives of the patients, the medical
advancements made, and the eventual success
in eradicating leprosy from the island. The
Culion Museum and Archives offers educational
programs and guided tours for visitors to gain a
deeper understanding of the island's history
and its significance in the context of leprosy
treatment. Housed in a beautifully restored
building that reflects the architectural style of
the Spanish colonial era, the structure itself is a
 testament to the island's past and adds to the
charm and historical ambiance of the museum

31 Calauit Safari Park Busuanga, Calauit Safari Park is a unique wildlife

Palawan sanctuary located on Calauit Island in Palawan,
Philippines. It is a conservation area that aims
to protect and preserve endangered species
while providing opportunities for visitors to
observe and learn about these animals in their
natural habitat. Situated on Calauit Island, in
Palawan. The park was established in 1976 as
a result of a wildlife conservation initiative.
Visitors to the park have the opportunity to go
on a safari-like adventure. Guided tours allow
guests to observe the animals in their natural
habitat from designated viewing areas or while
riding on safari vehicles. This immersive
experience offers a unique chance to see these
majestic creatures up close and learn about
their behavior and conservation efforts.