PHILIPPINE COAST PILOT

Volume 1: Batanes Islands, Luzon, Mindoro, and the Visayas Islands

7th Edition, 2019

National Mapping and Resource Information Authority

ISBN 978-971-91350-0-5
 Department of Environment and Natural Resources
NATIONAL MAPPING AND RESOURCE INFORMATION AUTHORITY
HYDROGRAPHY BRANCH

THE PHILIPPINE COAST PILOT

SEVENTH EDITION
VOLUME I
2019

Published by
National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA)

Prepared by
Hydrography Branch
Maritime Affairs Division

No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted for commercial purposes without prior permission from the
Administrator of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority.

www.namria.gov.ph
( (+632) 8810-4831
* oss@namria.gov.ph
 PREFACE
Great changes have occurred in the Philippine maritime sector since the publication of the 6th edition of the Philippine
Coast Pilot in 1995. Since then, the government embarked on various programs and activities that affected the maritime
sector, such as:

1. The improvement of existing national and municipal ports and the establishment of new port facilities;

2. Promotion of the nautical highway as means of connecting the islands and the use of Roll-on/Roll-off vessels in
transporting goods and people;

3. Amendment of existing laws (i.e. the Cabotage Law and the Fisheries Code) and the formulation of new policies;

4. The establishment of more traffic separation schemes to prevent accidents at sea;

5. Adherence to the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which gave the
Philippines sovereign rights in its maritime zones including the Philippine Rise Region and the West Philippine Sea.

Aside from the government, the private sector also paced up their activities, which include the development of tourist
spots particularly the beach fronts at the once pristine islands, increase in the number of fishing fleets, establishment of
offshore platforms for the extraction of oil and natural gas, and reclamation works particularly in Manila Bay and other
urbanized areas of the country.

According to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Philippine domestic merchant fleet comprises of 14,336
vessels in 2016; 63% (or 9,056) of which are passenger vessels, 27% (or 3,926) are cargo ships, and 2% (or 290) of which
are tankers. There are more than 16,000 registered fishing vessels.

It is projected that international maritime trade will grow in the foreseeable future. The Philippines, as the traditional
maritime cross road, will continue to serve as the path for vessels voyaging between the United States, China, Japan,
Korea, and ASEAN member countries. The projected increase of vessels passing through the Philippines increases the risk
of maritime accidents. In fact, there were recent incidents of vessels agrounding on shoals and reefs, the most popular of
which happened on Tubbataha Reef that caused inestimable environmental damages.

The Philippines is also at the apex of the Coral Triangle and is recognized by marine ecologists as the global center
of marine biodiversity. In a study funded by the Asian Development Bank (2014), about 40% of reef areas in the country
have poor coral cover while less than 1% have excellent coral cover. The degradation of coral cover is caused, in part, by
pollution coming from ships.

These developments in the maritime industry and the growing concern for marine environment necessitated the
publication of the 7th Edition of the Philippine Coast Pilot book.

The Philippine Coast Pilot is divided into two volumes. This is the first volume, which contains coast pilot information
for the Batanes Island Group, Luzon, Mindoro, and the islands of the Visayas Region. The second volume contains coast
pilot information for the islands in Sulu Sea, Palawan Island, Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and North Borneo. This book
is updated up to December 2016 edition of the Philippine Notices to Mariners. Much effort had been expended to make sure
that the most recent data are included in this book. However, mariners are advised to only use it as guide in making sound
decisions during navigation. Mariners should not solely rely on this book but also consult the nautical charts, the List of
Lights, the Tide and Current Tables, and other nautical publications.

This edition of the Philippine Coast Pilot was prepared by Lieutenant Aaron Andro V Ching, Hydrography Branch, and
reviewed by Commander Carter S Luma-ang, Hydrography Branch, Chief of the Maritime Affairs Division.

Readers are requested to share with us their comments and suggestions for the improvement of this publication and all
the nautical publications produced by NAMRIA.

Commander ANTONIO G VALENZUELA JR

Officer-in-Charge, Hydrography Branch

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

COAST PILOTING INDEX - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i

EXPLANATORY NOTES - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --- - - iii

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - iv

CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1

Topography - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
Flora and Fauna - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1
History and Government - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-2
Volcanic and Seismic Activities - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-3
Weather and Climate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-4
Tides and Currents - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-9
Tropical Cyclone Tracks Diagram - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-11
Currents and Winds Diagram - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-17

CHAPTER 2 - GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND MARITIME REGULATIONS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - 2-1

Hydrographic Services - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1

Ports and Port Services - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1
Customs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-2
Quarantine and Sanitary Procedures - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-3
Immigration and Deportation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-3
Weather Forecasts and Related Services - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-4
Maritime Communications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-4
Assistance for Vessels in Distress - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-5
Environment Protection Regulations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-8
Fisheries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-8
Aids to Navigation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-8

CHAPTER 3 - ROUTES AND SAILING DIRECTIONS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1

Sailing Directions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1

Table of Routes - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-4

CHAPTER 4 - THE ISLANDS AND CHANNEL NORTH OF LUZON - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1

Taiwan Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1

Batanes Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1
Balintang Channel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-6
Babuyan Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-6

CHAPTER 5 - LUZON ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

Cape Engaño to Cape Bojeador - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-1

Cape Bojeador to Lingayen Gulf - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-7
Lingayen Gulf - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-15
Reefs Westward and Northwestward of Luzon - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-22
Cape Bolinao to Manila Bay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-24
Manila Bay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-34
Manila Harbor - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-41
Pasig River and Laguna de Bay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-44
Limit Point to Locoloco Point - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-47
Locoloco Point to Bondoc Point - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-56
Marinduque Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-63
Ragay Gulf - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-68
 Burias Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-73
Cabarian Point to San Bernardino Strait - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-75
Cape Engaño to Digollorin Point - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-81
Digollorin Bay to Dingalan Bay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-85
Lamon Bay and Polillo Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-89
San Miguel and Lamit Bays - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-103
Lagonoy Gulf and Catanduanes Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-110
Albay Gulf and Part of Lagonoy Gulf - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-123
Philippine Sea - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5-132

CHAPTER 6 - MINDORO AND LUBANG ISLANDS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1

Lubang Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1

North and East Coasts of Mindoro - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-3
Semirara Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-18
Mindoro Strait - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-20
West Coast of Mindoro - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-22

CHAPTER 7 - VISAYAN ISLANDS AND WATERS NORTH OF PANAY - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-1

Sibuyan Sea - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-1

Tablas Strait - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-2
Tablas Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-4
Romblon Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-9
Sibuyan Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 7-11

CHAPTER 8 - MASBATE ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-1

Western Masbate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-1

Asid Gulf - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-3
Northeast Coast of Masbate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-6
Southeastern Masbate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8-12

CHAPTER 9 - PANAY ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - 9-1

Northwestern Panay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-1

Southwestern Panay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-3
Iloilo and Guimaras Straits - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-5
North Coast of Panay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-14
Northeastern Panay and Adjacent Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9-19

CHAPTER 10 - NEGROS ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10-1

Islands Northeast of Negros Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10-1

North Coast of Negros - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10-3
West Coast of Negros - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10-6
South Coast of Negros - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10-11
East Coast of Negros - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 10-16

CHAPTER 11 - CEBU ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11-1

North Coast of Cebu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11-1

West Coast of Cebu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11-1
Bulalaqui Point to Bagacay Point - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11-8
Cebu Harbor - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11-12
Lipata Point to Tañon Point - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 11-17

CHAPTER 12 - BOHOL ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-1

Reefs and Islands Off the North Coast of Bohol - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-1

 North Coast of Bohol - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-4
Western Bohol - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-7
South Coast of Bohol - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-13
Eastern Bohol - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-15
Siquijor Island - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12-17

CHAPTER 13 - SAMAR ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - 13-1

North Coast of Samar - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13-1

East Coast of Samar - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13-7
Southern Part of Samar - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13-17
West Coast of Samar - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13-22

CHAPTER 14 - LEYTE ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - 14-1

North Coast of Leyte - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14-1

Biliran and Adjacent Islands - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14-2
West Coast of Leyte - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14-4
South Coast of Leyte - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14-11
East Coast of Leyte - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 14-14

APPENDIX - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - App-1

Reporting Procedures in Manila Bay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - App-1

Procedures for the Entry and Exit of Vessels into the Port of Subic Bay - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - App-3
Practical Rules for Typhoons - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - App-5
Guidelines on Movement of Vessels During Heavy Weather - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - App-6

INDEX -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Index-1
Limits of Philippine Coast Pilot

VOLUME I
Luzon and the
Visayas Islands

VOLUME II
Palawan,
Mindanao, and
North Borneo

i
 Volume I Chapter Index

L U Z O N S TRAIT

4
INE SEA

P H I L I P P INE S
5
WEST PHILIPP

LUZON
PHILIPPINE RISE
L U Z O N SEA

BENHAM BANK

EA
6 MINDORO
7
MASBATE SAMAR 13
8

9 PANAY 10
LEYTE
14
CEBU

S U L U SEA
NEGROS
11 BOHOL

12

ii
 EXPLANATORY NOTES
The Philippine Coast Pilot is a publication of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA).
The publication; covering ports, harbors, rivers, islands and the Philippine waters, contains detailed information for features
present on nautical charts that can not be shown graphically and other information that are important to mariners. The
publication is divided into two volumes. This volume (Volume I) covers areas from the Batanes Group of Islands, to the
Island of Luzon and the Visayas.

Mariners should always take note that the positions given in this publication are for reference only so as to assist the
users in locating the features on nautical charts. This coast pilot should always be used in tandem with the latest nautical
charts issued by the NAMRIA. It is also advised that mariners always consult the Notices to Mariners and note the corrections
for the information contained in this publication.

Also, caution must also be applied when using the description of landmarks such as trees, buildings and other marks.
Changes may have occured on the the marks and the areas sorrounding it. New buildings may have been erected or the
buildings or trees were destroyed, so that marks, which might had been conspicuous on account of their shape, color or
isolation may no longer exist or difficult to identify.

Corrections for this publication are issued in the Notice to Mariners publication issued by NAMRIA. Users of the
Philippine Coast Pilot should always refer to the Notices issued after the publication date of this edition of the Coast Pilot.
Notices can be obtained from Hydrography Branch office located at 421 Barraca St., San Nicolas, Manila, Philippines.
It can also be requested via e-mail address: icsu_hd@namria.gov.ph or be downloaded from NAMRIA website at www.
namria.gov.ph/download.php.

Row numbers, located in the middle of the page between the two columns, were placed to facilitate the easy correction
of every sections from the Notices.

Nautical charts that are mentioned as reference for the features present in this publication are the nautical charts
issued by the NAMRIA.

Lights, lighted buoys, and other lighted aids to navigation are not be described in detail. The Philippine List of Lights
should always be consulted for complete information on lighted aids.

Tides and currents mentioned in this publication are approximate. Mariners are advised to refer to the Philippine Tide
and Current Tables for details.

Bearings are true and when given in degrees are reckoned clockwise from 000o (North) to 359o. Bearings of light
sectors are given as seen from the vessel.

Distances are expressed both in nautical miles and metric units. The value of distances are followed by the units used.
Metric units are usually expressed as abbreviation (e.g. meters as m, kilometer as km, etc.). The unit miles, as present in
this publication, should be understood as nautical miles with the word "nautical" being dropped off. Thus, 1 mile in this
publication actually means as 1 nautical mile. Distances that are less than 1 nautical mile are expressed in meters or in
fractions of a nautical mile.

Depths are given below chart datum and are both expressed in English units (e.g. fathom, feet, yard, etc.) and metric units.

Positions given in this publication are mostly referred to Luzon Datum. Positions referred to the WGS 84 Datum are
expressly stated as referring to that datum.

Time stated in this publication are all referred to the Philippine Standard Time which is the standard time at meridian
120o East of the Greenwhich Meridian.

List of References

Major references consulted in the preparation of this publication are: Philippine Shipping Guide published by the
PPA, Philippine Notices to Mariners, Philippine List of Lights, Tide and Current Tables, nautical charts, and other maps
and publications issued by NAMRIA. Other publications, documents, and online documents published and issued by the
Philippine Government. Foreign publications from UKHO and US-NGA,were likewise consulted.

iii
 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
AFP Armed Forces of the Philippines
AIS Automatic Identification System
AM Ante-meridian (morning)
ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations
BFAR Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic
Resources
Bldg. Building
Blvd. Boulevard
Brgy. Barangay (the smallest political unit under
the town or municipality, also Barrio)
CALABARZON Region IV-A consist of Cavite, Laguna,
Batangas, Rizal and Quezon provinces.
Char. Light characteristics
CEZA Cagayan Economic Zone Authority
CPA Cebu Ports Authority
DENR Department of Environment and Natural
Resources
DOE Department of Energy
DPWH Department of Public Works and
Highways
DWT Dead Weight Tonnage
E East
ESE East-Southeast
ETA Estimated Time of Arrival
fm fathom/s
ft foot/feet
GRP Glass Reinforced Plastic
GRT Gross Registered Ton
GT Gross Tonnage
HB Hydrography Branch
hp horsepower
hrs hours
IMB International Maritime Bureau
ICTSI International Container Terminal
Services, Inc
Int'l International
ITCZ Intertropical Convergence Zone
LOA Length overall
m meter/s
MHW Mean high water
MIA Manila International Airport
MICT Manila International Container Terminal
MLLW Mean lower low water
MRCC Maritime Rescue Coordinating Center
MRSC Maritime Rescue Sub-Center
N North
iv
NAIA Ninoy Aquino International Airport
NAMRIA National Mapping and Resource
Information Authority
NAPOCOR National Power Corporation
NCR National Capital Region
NE Northeast
NIPAS National Integrated Protected
Areas System
NNE North-Northeast
NNW North-Northwest
No./Nos. number/numbers
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
NPH North Pacific High
NTM Notices to Mariners
NW Northwest
PAGASA Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and
Astronomical Services Administration
PAR Philippine Area of Responsibility
PCG Philippine Coast Guard
PEZA Philippine Economic Zone Authority
PFDA Philippine Fisheries Development
Authority
PM Post Meridian (afternoon)
PMO Port Management Office
PNOC Philippine National Oil Corp.
PPA Philippine Ports Authority
QMO Quarantine Medical Officer
RoRo Roll-on Roll-off
S South
SBMA Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority
SE Southeast
sq m square meter/s
SRNH Strong Republic Nautical Highway
SSE South-Southeast
SSW South-Southwest
St. Saint/Street
Sta. Santa
SW Southwest
TEU Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit
TMO Terminal Management Office
TSS Traffic Separation Scheme
VHF Very High Frequency
VTMS Vessel Traffic Management System
W West
WGS 84 World Geodetic System of 1984
yd yard/s
 CHAPTER 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
THE PHILIPPINE ARCHIPELAGO comprises Central Luzon Valley. The mountains continue southeastward
of more than 7,100 islands with combined areas of over and may be traced all along the E coast of the Philippines
300,000 sq km. Luzon in the north and Mindanao in the as a fringe along the SE edge of the shelf or fold on which
south are the two largest islands; besides these two, there are these islands lie. There are no important rivers in SE Luzon,
only 28 more islands with areas greater than 259 sq km. Of 5 though there are several valleys of considerable sizes. Mount
this latter group, Samar, Negros, Palawan, Panay, Mindoro, Mayon, a typical volcanic cone, is in this section.
Leyte, Cebu, Bohol and Masbate are the next largest islands.
MINDORO ISLAND is high and mountainous with
Most of these islands lie within an elongated ellipse coastal plains on the E and on the SW sides of the island.
with the major axis extending NNW and SSE. Palawan 10
and Sulu Archipelago extend from this main body in SW VISAYAN ISLANDS are generally rugged, having one
direction toward Borneo forming the NW and SE boundaries or more mountain ranges with some coastal plains. Panay
of Sulu Sea. island has the greatest area of level and rolling country
and Cebu Island, the least. Negros Island has high central
TOPOGRAPHY 15 mountains with most of its level land to the west and NW.
Masbate, Samar, Leyte and Bohol Islands are more in the
The Philippines has almost every variety of topographical nature of rolling country and high plateaus. There are no large
feature from low marsh, a foot or two above high water, at the rivers in these islands, although several can be accessed by
head of Manila Bay to the high mountain masses culminating launches and small boats.
at Mount Apo in Mindanao at 2,953.5 m (9,690 ft) high 20
is considered the highest peak in these islands. However, PALAWAN ISLAND is high ridge with little level land
the largest mountainous areas, and also the most extensive and few rivers of importance.
valleys, are in the island of Luzon.
MINDANAO ISLAND has two large valleys, Agusan
THE CAGAYAN VALLEY of N Luzon extends 25 and Cotabato. The AGUSAN RIVER has its sources in the
S from Aparri for a distance of over 193.1 km with an comparatively low divide that separates this valley from the
average width of 64.4 km, while the Cagayan River with its one making north from Davao Gulf. The river is navigable
tributaries drains a basin approximately 25,900 sq km. The by small vessels with 2.7 m (9 ft) draft to Butuan, about 8
river is navigable for small steamers with 1.8 m (6 ft) draft km up from its mouth. Small boats and launches having 1.2
for 19.3 km and for launches and bancas of 0.9 m (3 ft) draft 30 m (4 ft) can ascend the river about 112.7 km.
for 120.7 km. During the wet season bancas can ascend the
river about 289.7 km from its mouth. The Cotabato Valley land basin is drained by the
MINDANAO (COTABATO) RIVER which empties into
THE SIERRA MADRE MOUNTAINS to the E are the Moro Gulf. Small vessels with 2.4 m (8 ft) draft cross
steep both from their Cagayan Valley and ocean sides and are 35 the bar and ascend the river 8 km to the city of Cotabato.
largely unexplored. The Cordillera Central Mountains lie to Launches with 1.1 m (3.6 ft) draft can ascend the river 96.6
the W of the valley and form the most extensive mountain km further. The area of the valley, not including Lake Buluan
area of the Philippines. and Liguasan Marsh, is about 4,662 sq km. The valley to the
N of Sarangani Bay is separated from the Cotabato Valley
MOUNT PULAG, 2,928 m (9,600 ft) high, is the 40 by a low divide. Western Mindanao is mountainous with a
second highest peak of the archipelago. Among these rather narrow coastal plain.
mountains there are many fertile valleys, several of which
open upon an extensive plain along the N and W coasts of BASILAN ISLAND, JOLO ISLAND and TAWI-
Luzon. TAWI ISLAND are rugged with comparatively little
45 coastal plain and no large valleys. The remainder of the Sulu
THE CENTRAL LUZON PLAIN or valley is Archipelago are mostly small islands.
drained by the AGNO RIVER and its tributaries emptying
into Lingayen Gulf in the N and by the PAMPANGA RIVER FLORA AND FAUNA
and its tributaries, where waters reach Manila Bay, in the S.
Their flows vary greatly with the seasons and they are not 50 The Philippines is rich in terms of biodiversity. It
navigable except by small launches and bancas. The extent of is located within the Coral Triangle, which is the global
this valley is about 10,360 km though the area drained by two epicenter of marine life abundance and diversity. The
rivers is much greater. The CARABALLO MOUNTAINS Philippines has 500 out of the 700 known coral species,
separate this valley from Cagayan Valley. These mountains 5 of the 7 known species of marine turtles, 2,818 species
continue to the SIERRA MADRE and lie to the E of the 55 of fish, and 5,000 species of clams, snails, and mollusks.

1-1
Among the popular marine animals that could be found in
the Philippines are pawikan, dugong, different species of
dolphins and whale sharks that occasionally visit the waters
off Bicol to feed on planktons.
Land animal species include the tamaraws of Mindoro,
the endangered Philippine eagle, reticulated pythons, tarsiers,
and the Philippine mouse deer. Different species of birds
could also be found and migratory birds visit the country
yearly. The Philippines is home to 928 species of vertebrate
animals, 109 species of amphibians, and 10,000 to 15,000
species of plants.
HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT
The Philippines, situated in the northern part of the East
Indian Archipelago, had been known previously under many
names. About 450 B.C., it was known according to ancient
writings by the name of “Mahi or Ma-yi”. Chinese merchants
who traded with the Filipinos about 300 B.C. called the 20
archipelago “Ma-yi-ya”. Later in 260 B.C., it was called
“Insulae Manilae” by geographers of that time.
The Philippines was brought to the notice of Europe by
the Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan in the employ
of Spain who discovered the islands on March 16, 1521, as
a result of the search for Spice Islands by sailing westward
from Spain. Magellan, who was in command of the Spanish
expedition, was the first European to pass through the South
American passage still bearing his name, approached the
Philippines from the east and entered through the Strait of
Surigao. The Philippines was given the name of “Isla de San
Lazaro” because it was the day of Saint Lazarus when it was
discovered. Another name given to the islands by Europeans
at that time was “Isla Poniente” or Western Island since it
was believed to lie W of Spain, having been discovered by
sailing W. Incidentally, the first Mass ever celebrated in the
Philippines was also held by Magellan’s expedition. He was
killed in 1521 in a skirmish with Lapu-Lapu and his men at
Mactan Island, E of Cebu.
The Philippines was officially annexed by Spain in 1565.
The name “Las Islas Filipinas” (or the Philippines Islands)
was given in honor of King Philip of Spain. The Spaniards
embarked on the colonization of the whole archipelago by
sending missionaries and troops from their settlements in
Manila and Cebu. The whole Spanish Colonial Period of
the Philippines was marked by several uprisings by the
natives and the Chinese and; the occasional raids by Moros
to coastal communities.
In the beginning of the 17th century, Manila became a
major port for the Galleon Trade, which transported goods
between China and Acapulco in Mexico. This century
was also marked by naval battles between the Dutch and
Spaniards for the control of the Archipelago.
In 1762, British forces attacked and looted Manila as part
of the Seven Years’ War between Spain and Great Britain.
The British occupation of Manila lasted until 1764.
1-2
From 1565 to 1899, when the last Spanish Governor-
General left the Philippines with the relinquishment of
Spanish sovereignty over the Islands, there had been 91
Spanish Governors-General. In the latter part of 19th
5 Century, the Spanish regime was characterized by several
uprisings and revolts against the Spanish government in the
Philippines, culminating in the proclamation of the Philippine
Republic on June 12, 1898. This Philippine Revolutionary
Government was, however, short-lived as about that time the
10 Spanish-American War, declared on April 21, 1898, was at
its height. In pursuance of this war, Commodore Dewey of
the American Navy, who was then stationed in Hong Kong,
engaged and defeated the Spanish Fleet in Manila Bay on
May 1, 1898. On August 13, 1898, American occupation
15 forces landed and received the surrender of Manila and the
authorities of Spain.
When the Spanish-American War was terminated and
the treaty of peace was signed in Paris on December 10,
1898, the Philippines together with Puerto Rico and Guam,
was ceded by Spain to the United States of America. With
the signing of the Treaty of Paris in which the revolutionary
government was neither recognized nor represented by
any delegate, the question of jurisdiction and delineation
25 of sovereignty arose between the United States Military
Government and the Philippine Republic. Following the
failure of negotiations to settle this dispute, open hostilities
ensued between the American and the Filipino forces led by
General Emilio Aguinaldo on February 4, 1899, that ended
30 with his capture on March 23, 1901.
The War was continued by the remaining generals and
officers of the revolutionary government. Notable holdouts
against the American invasion are Artemio Ricarte, General
35 Miguel Malvar, and Macario Sakay. Pulajanes, Muslims in
Mindanao, and other guerilla groups continued fighting the
Americans more than a decade after the capture of General
Aguinaldo.
40 About 12,000 Filipino soldiers and 200,000 civilians
died during the War. The Americans suffered about 4,000
casualties.
Amidst the Philippine-American War, The American
45 government established the civil government on July 4,
1901. The Congress of the United States of America enacted
a law, known as the Philippine Bill of 1902, which was
the first Organic Act enforced in the country from 1902 to
1916. The Jones Act or the Act of Congress of August 29,
50 1916 reorganized the Government of the Philippines giving
ample powers to the Filipinos with a view to preparing
them for self-government. On March 24, 1934 the American
Congress passed the Tydings-Mc Duffie Law which is an act
to provide for the complete independence, adoption of the
55 constitution, and a form of government for the Philippines.
With the approval of this Act, otherwise known as the
Philippine Independence Act, the Philippine Constitutional
Convention was convened and on February 8, 1935, adopted
the Constitution of the Philippines which was approved
60 by the President of the United States on March 23, 1935.
The constitution was finally ratified by the people of the Maundy Thursday ......... Date varies
Philippines in a national plebiscite held on May 14, 1935. Good Friday ......... Date varies
The Commonwealth of the Philippines was inaugurated on Araw ng Kagitingan ......... April 9
November 15, 1935, and the era of self-government began, Labor Day ......... May 1
with the United States retaining the rights of sovereignty 5 Independence Day ......... June 12
as represented by the American High Commissioner. The National Heroes Day ......... August 25
period between November 15, 1935 and July 4, 1946 was All Saints Day ........ November 1
interrupted, as a consequence of World War II, by the Bonifacio Day ........ November 30
Japanese occupation of the Philippines from January 1, Christmas Day ........ December 25
1942 to February 27, 1945, during which time a “de facto” 10 Rizal Day ........ December 30
Philippine Government existed. At the termination of World Election Day ........ Date varies
War II and in pursuance of the provisions of the Tydings- Ramadan (Eid’l Fitr) ........ Date varies
McDuffie Act, the Philippines attained her independence on
July 4, 1946 with the establishment of the Republic of the C O M M U N I C AT I O N S - Va r i o u s m o d e s o f
Philippines as a sovereign nation. 15 communication linking the islands with foreign ports are
available. These include telephones, mobile phone, internet
The Philippine Government is a representative republic. connection, radio and facsimile. There are numerous private
The Constitution recognizes the sovereignty of the people companies operating communication systems in addition to
and is patterned closely after that of the United States except the government owned telecommunication networks.
that it is of the central rather than federal type. The Executive, 20
Legislative and Judicial powers are separate and designed Regular passenger and cargo ferry services are
to check each other. The Central Government organization maintained between Manila and all the national ports
consists of a President, a Vice-President, and a bicameral nationwide. RoRo vessels connect the major islands while
Congress, all elected directly through the universal suffrage passenger boats of various sizes transport goods and people
of adult men and women. The President is assisted by an 25 to other parts of the archipelago. Air passenger and cargo
appointed Cabinet. The judiciary consists of a Supreme services are available between Manila and almost all
Court, Court of Appeals, Provincial Courts of First Instance, important cities. Numerous airlines provide international
and Municipal Justice of the Peace Courts. flights and freight services.

As of 2019, the Philippines is composed of 17 regions, 30
divided politically into 1,489 municipalities and municipal the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines:
districts grouped into 81 provinces and 145 chartered
cities. The Barangay is considered the smallest political
subdivision. The provinces are governed by elective
governors and provincial boards whose jurisdiction are 35
subject to review and intervention by several departments
of the Central Government. The cities and municipalities are
governed by elective officials composed of Mayors, Vice
Mayors, and city/municipal councils. The barangay is also
run by elective officials called Barangay Chairpersons and 40
some councilors.
LANGUAGES - The official languages used in the
Philippines are: Filipino and English. There are numerous
native languages, the most prominent of which are Tagalog, 45
Ilocano, Visayan, Pangasinan, Bicol, Ibanag and Zambal.
The following are the International Airports listed by
1. Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte
2. Clark International Airport in Pampanga
3. Subic Bay International Airport in Zambales
4. Manila International Airport in Metro Manila
5. Kalibo International Airport in Aklan
6. Iloilo International Airport in Iloilo
7. Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan
8. Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu
9. Zamboanga International Airport in Zamboanga City
10. Davao International Airport in Davao City
11. General Santos International Airport in General
Santos City
VOLCANIC AND SEISMIC ACTIVITIES

Earthquakes of severe character have been experienced

STANDARD TIME - The standard time of the meridian in the Philippines. The archipelago lies between two major
120o E, or 8 hrs ahead of Greenwich mean time, is used in 50 tectonic plates: the Pacific Plate and the Eurasian Plate. These
the Philippines. plates slowly move in the NW and SE direction causing the
deepening of trenches particularly the Philippine Trench in
MONETARY SYSTEM - The official currency of the the east and the Manila Trench in the west. The Philippines
Philippines is the peso and is based on the decimal system. has five more trenches in its seas; the East Luzon Trench,
55 the Negros Trench, the Sulu Trench, the Cotabato Trench
LEGAL HOLIDAYS of the Philippines are the and the Davao Trench.
following:
The Philippine Fault is an active fracture line extending
New Year’s Day ......... January 1 from N to S of the country. Other faults in the Philippines
Chinese New Year ........ Date varies 60 are the Digdig Fault, Casiguran Fault, Lubang Fault,Tablas

1-3
Fault and the Mindanao Fault. carbon dating of buried wood samples in the area its earlier
eruption was dated at about 450 years ago. On April 2, 1991,
The earthquake of August 2, 1968, with epicenter at the volcano unleashed a series of small steam explosions. On
Casiguran, Quezon, caused considerable damage in lives June 12, the volcano erupted and sent an ash column 19,000
and property. During this particular tremor, the Ruby Tower 5 m into the air. The volcano’s major explosion occurred on
building in Santa Cruz, Manila was toppled. All in all, June 15 with ash ejected 40,000 m high. Volcanic ash and hot
270 persons died and 261 were injured in Manila and its sand rained down over many towns, worsened by the passing
neighboring areas. of a typhoon. The continuous eruption spread the volcanic
debris far and wide. The ash fell as far as Manila, Palawan
The August 17,1976 earthquake in Mindanao rocked 10 and Bicol. It drifted westward and reached Cambodia after
the Moro Gulf, and was felt as far north as Luzon and as far two days. After circling the globe the ash returned to the
south as Borneo. The trembler lasted for 20 seconds, which Philippines on July 8, 1991. It was estimated that 7 billion
afterwards created giant waves or tsunamis moving at 720 cu m. of sand and ash was ejected by the volcano. The ash,
kph, soaring as tall as the trees, crashing onto the shore up in the air, blocked the sunlight and made the weather
and penetrating 500 m inward washing away thousands of 15 temporarily cooler all over the world. Mt. Pinatubo, after the
people. The quake left more than 3500 dead, 8,256 injured eruption, was reduced in height from 1,745 m to 1,400 m
and 12,183 families homeless. high. The lahar buried farms, washed away bridges, almost
filled up rivers, killed about 700 people and left thousands
The most destructive earthquake in the Philippines in homeless. About ten years after the eruption, the crater of the
recent memory took place on July 16, 1990 affecting 23 20 volcano was formed into a fresh water lake, which is now a
provinces in six regions. Its strength of 7.7 in the open-ended popular tourist spot in Central Luzon.
Richter scale had its epicenter near Cabanatuan City. It left
a wide swatch of destruction over a radius of 100-200 km, There are other active volcanoes in Luzon, Negros and
damaging heavily the cities of Dagupan and Baguio. It left Mindanao whose activities are monitored by the Philippine
1,283 dead, 2,786 injured, and an estimated cost of damage 25 Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
at P 12.2 billion at that time. Other earthquakes have also
occurred in 1610, 1645, 1658, 1675, 1852, 1863, 1911, Tsunami is an earthquake-related phenomenon. It is
1955, and 1968. a series of sea waves commonly generated by undersea
earthquakes and whose heights could be greater than 5 m.
The most recent strong earthquakes include the 7.2 30 Tsunamis can occur when the earthquake is shallow-seated
magnitude earthquake in Bohol in 2013 that left 222 dead, 8 and strong enough to displace parts of the seabed and disturb
missing, and 976 injured. A 6.1 magnitude earthquake, with the mass of water over it. Vessels, specifically those anchored
epicenter in the province of Zambales, struck Luzon on April near the coast, are advised to be on alert for a possible
22, 2019. It left at least 18 dead, 3 missing and 256 injured. tsunami after an earthquake. Natural signs of an approaching
35 tsunami include a felt earthquake, unusual sea level change
Taal Volcano (14° 00’ 38”N., 120° 59’ 52”E.) has (sudden sea water retreat or rise), and the rumbling sound of
erupted nine times between 1707 and 1957. The most violent approaching waves. Owing to the risk caused by Tsunamis,
eruptions were in 1754 and 1911 when on January 30, there USA’s NOAA established the Pacific Tsunami Warning
was an explosion of gas in the water of Taal Lake, destroying Center (PTWC) in Hawaii to provide warnings of tsunamis
villages surrounding the lake and causing an estimated death 40 for countries in the Pacific Ocean. PHIVOLCS serves as
of 1,200 people. the country’s contact agency of the PTWC. Read about
PHIVOLCS in Chapter II of this publication for more
Mayon Volcano (13° 15’ 15”N., 123° 41’ 07”E.) was information about the issuance of tsunami warnings.
recorded to have 25 eruptions between 1800 and 1900. On
February 1814, a deadly avalanche of rocks mud and lava 45 WEATHER AND CLIMATE
roared down the volcano killing more than 1,200 people.
The eruption buried the Cagsawa Church, 8 km distance In the Philippines, the range of the temperature at sea
away, leaving only its belfry standing and served as the sole level varies from about 15.6oC to 37.8oC (60oF to 100oF)
witness of the devastation. Mayon Volcano's most recent with a mean annual temperature of about 26.7oC (80oF). The
eruption is in 2018. 50 year may be divided into three seasons: the first, cool and
dry, commences in November; the second, hot but still dry,
The volcano in Didicas Rock (19° 04’ 50”N., 122° 11’ commences in March, the greatest heat being experienced
59”E.), Babuyan Channel erupted several times in the past from April to the end of May; and the third which is
but in March of 1952, the volcano triggered a series of rapid exceedingly wet, continues from June to November. This
eruptions which built a peak of about 228 m high. However, 55 division of seasons does not apply to coasts exposed to the
over the year the sea gradually reduced its size. NE monsoon, where the wet and dry seasons are to some
extent reversed. In the southern portion of the archipelago
The verdant Mount Pinatubo (15° 08’ 32”N., 120° 20’ the wet season is also much less distinct.
58”E.) in Zambales was, for a long time, a sleeping volcano
before its recent eruption in 1991. Through radioactive 60 LINEAR SYSTEMS – To a certain extent, the

1-4
Philippines is affected by fronts, intertropical convergence the presence of a tropical cyclone, the wind speed generally
zones, and easterly waves which are referred to as linear depends on the distance from the cyclone and also to the local
systems. topography. The wind speed usually increases as the cyclone
gets nearer. Wind speed may also increase considerably
Fronts - Frontal systems affect the Northern portion of 5 during surges of the monsoons. Diurnal changes of the wind
the country during the winter season only. They are oriented speed are usually observed in most areas of the country.
WSW to ENE cutting across the island of Luzon during The wind speed has the usual maximum during the day and
January. The diffused tail ends of these systems move as far minimum during the night.
as Mindanao. These fronts are considered as the interfaces
between the NE Monsoon and the North Pacific Trades. 10 The North Pacific Trades (Trade Wind) is one of
Coupled with the effects of topography, they are responsible the most important factors that influence the climate of the
for the portion of rainfall and cloudiness over the country Archipelago, originates from the great sub-tropical high
where these are oriented. pressure area over the North Pacific Ocean. After traversing
practically the whole of the Pacific in a westward direction,
Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) - It is a 15 the trade wind reaches the Philippines from a northeast,
relatively low pressure zone which serves as the zone east, or southeast direction, depending upon the pressure
of discontinuity between the Northern and Southern distribution. While it may be frequent at almost any time of
Hemisphere air streams. It starts affecting the Southern the year, it is the most predominant wind in April, May, and
portion of the country during May, oriented generally East to October. It usually overlies the NE Monsoon air mass over
West and moving Northwards. It is at the Northern tip of the 20 the eastern sections of the country. On land, though by no
country during the month of July and well to the South during means dry, the trade wind is usually the least moist of the
November. The variations of the positions from day to day three air streams; aloft above the 2 km level it is generally dry.
are quite large and disorganized. Over this zone, the weather Quite brisk and fresh at its sources, the trade wind becomes
is quite disturbed consisting of widespread cloudiness and moderate in force as it reaches the Philippines.
precipitation usually along the orographic barriers on the 25
Eastern coastal portion of the country. During the prevalence of the trade wind, there is a
marked tendency for pleasant skies dotted with fair weather
Easterly Waves - These are wavelike perturbations cumuli. Nevertheless, since the trade wind is felt at the time
embedded in the easterly current which move from E to when the sun is high, thunderstorms are frequent on land
W. They affect the country with varying intensities being 30 in the afternoon and early evening due to the convection
more frequent during the summer months. These waves are initiated from the heated earth surface. Thunder storms may
accompanied by cloudiness and precipitation usually along occur over the sea at night when the water is warmer than
the orographic obstacles on the Eastern coastal portion of the air passing over it.
the country.
35 It must be noted, however, that not all of the Philippine
WIND SYSTEM - The winds in the Philippines are the thunderstorms are of the convection type. During October
usual composite of the major air currents, tropical cyclones, and November, when the NE Monsoon is gradually gaining
and local circulations produced by diurnal and topographic prominence, and May, June and July when the SW monsoon
effects. The climate of the Philippines is largely controlled meets the trade wind, “frontal” thunderstorms occur. This is
by the wind system affecting the country as a result of the 40 due to the interaction of two different air steams.
seasonal differential heating of neighboring continents and
oceans. The principal wind systems affecting the country are With the sun almost at zenith and the skies comparatively
the SW Monsoon, NE Monsoon, and the N Pacific Trades. clear during the prevalence of the trade wind, specifically
during the months of April and May, it is logical that the
In most areas, the prevailing wind direction conforms 45 highest temperatures should be recorded at this time.
with the dominant air streams during the various months. However, the cool ocean breezes tend to neutralize this
During November to March, the northeasterly wind flow excessive heat that would otherwise be expected, and,
prevails and is very evident throughout the archipelago. The except in those places which are more or less enclosed,
SW wind flow, on the other hand, prevails during June to temperatures as high as 37.8° C (100° F) are quite rare. It
September. However, local topography and diurnal effects 50 must be remembered that over some areas located to the east
can cause the prevailing winds to deviate from the expected of mountains in eastern Philippines, the highest temperatures
winds. During April and May, the N Pacific Trades are are observed in August, during the prevalence of the SW
evident over the northern and eastern coastal sections of Monsoon and with the sun also at zenith.
the country. Winds tend to be variable during this period
and the effect of local winds are more evident. The month 55 The “northers” rushing down over the ocean, very
of October also exhibits variable wind flows over the entire quickly, gather up moisture in their lower layers, while
country and is considered as the transition period from SW remaining exceedingly dry aloft. Turbulent uplifting of the
Monsoon to NE Monsoon. moist air over the ocean causes the widespread prevalence of
stratocumulus clouds. Over the land, the moist air is lifted as
The wind speed in the country is highly variable. During 60 it moves upslope the mountain ranges in the eastern portion

1-5
of the Philippines. This is favorable to the condensation of
the abundant water vapor collected by the northers over the
ocean. Thus, clouds are formed resulting in heavy rains over
the eastern slopes of the mountains. By the time the air has
passed over the eastern coastal ranges, much of its moisture 5
has been given off as rain; therefore, it is comparatively drier
as it streams over the western portion of the archipelago.
Thus, in general the western part of the Philippines enjoys
cool and dry weather with little rain in winter, unless a
wind shift changes to bring moist air over this area without 10
previously passing over the eastern coastal ranges.
The South Pacific Trades originates from the S
Pacific Anticyclone in the S Hemisphere. It veers to the
right upon crossing the equator and reaches the country as a
southwesterly flow during July. It is warm and quite moist
at low levels and relatively dry at upper levels. It is difficult
to distinguish this air mass with SW Monsoon because their
characteristics are almost similar.
The Southwest Monsoon (Summer Monsoon), is
intermittent in character due to the storms occurring during
this season is really only the deflected SE trade wind of the
S Hemisphere. Originating from the high pressure areas
built up over the S Hemisphere during the winter season in
that hemisphere, the air stream gathers up moisture over the
sea as it passes across the heated equatorial regions. Thus,
by the time it reaches the Philippines, the SW Monsoon is
thoroughly replete with moisture causing a very cloudy and
rainy season, especially along the western coasts which are
fully exposed to the monsoon. Heavy rainfall concentrated
along the western coastal areas of the country during the
period from June to September is attributed to this air mass.
From May to October the prevailing wind is southwesterly.
May being the month in which the winds veer from E to
SW, while October is the transition month during which the
SW wind is gradually replaced by that from NE quadrant.
In some occasions, it may blow in surges and persists up to
the later part of October.
The Northeast Monsoon prevails in the Philippines
from November to early March. In September, as the land
begins to cool, the Siberian high pressure area starts to build
up and move southward over Northern China, inducing a
current of air to stream down the Asiatic Pacific coast from
a more or less northeasterly direction becoming steadily
stronger as the winter advances, the northeasterly wind
frequently reaches gale force in the Formosa Channel and
in the seas surrounding the Philippines, diminishing in force
as it reaches the lower latitudes. The coldest temperatures
in the archipelago are observed during the prevalence of the
NE monsoon, with the mean temperature ranging from about
16o C (60o F) for the northernmost part of the Philippines to
about 21o C (70o F) at the southernmost.
A resume of the general wind flow would be desirable:
northeasterly winds prevail over the Philippines from
November to March, more northerly in November, becoming
easterly by March. In April, southwesterly winds are nearly
as prevalent as the easterlies. From May to October may
1-6
be considered as transition months in that during May the
southwesterly winds gradually replace the easterlies, while
in October the wind changes direction from southwesterly
to northerly.
STORMS AND GALES of considerable intensities are
observed in the Philippines. With the exception of tornadoes
and waterspouts which very seldom occur, thunderstorms,
strong SW gales and tropical cyclone are observed every year.
Gale is an unusually strong wind, with velocities ranging
from 28 to 47 knots. In practice, a wind of or exceeding 8
on the Beaufort Scale is counted as gale.
15 Local tempests accompanied by thunder and lightning
are frequent during the rainy season; i.e., from May to
October. Usually occurring in the afternoon or night, the
rains, while sometimes fierce and in torrents, are frequently
of short duration.
20
In June and July strong SW gales are sometimes
observed. Known in the native tongue as “collas” these gales
are caused by the occurrence of an atmospheric depression
to the N or NE of Luzon. Frequently continuing for several
25 days, collas are accompanied by brisk or strong winds from
the S or SW with violent squalls at intervals. Collas are
particularly strong over the seas and along the W coast of
the Philippines.
30 Gale warning is issued by the Philippine Atmospheric
Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
(PAGASA) and is sent to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)
and MARINA.
35 Tornado - In the past, tornado sightings and subsequent
destruction were most commonly reported in Mindanao.
Although to a lesser extent, these have been reported in
Luzon and Visayas. However, most recently, particularly
in 1998, occurrences of tornadoes were observed over the
40 provinces of Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija
and mainly over Central Luzon, Panay Island, and Cebu
Islands.
Tropical Cyclones, collectively called “bagyo” in
45 the local dialect, are undoubtedly the most destructive of
storms in the archipelago. The Philippines is situated in a
region where the most number of tropical cyclones form
more than anywhere else in the world. Nearly every year, an
average of 20 tropical cyclones enters the Philippine Area of
50 Responsibility (PAR), with about 7 to 9 making a landfall.
About 50% of annual rainfall in the country is caused by
tropical cyclones. A major tropical cyclone may affect an
extensive area for a period from a few days to a week or
more. Its passage is associated with extremely heavy rainfalls
55 and extremely high velocity of winds. During its life, it may
vary in intensity and destructive power and move along a
variable path, affecting a number of countries.
At the boundaries or “fronts” separating the three great
60 air streams, a disturbed atmospheric condition frequently
prevails due to the fact that these air currents as a rule have
different thermodynamic properties. One air current will
react with another resulting in considerable rainfall and
general lowering of barometric pressure. When a closed
circular movement of air around the low pressure area is 5
attained, a so-called “tropical cyclone” is formed. Based
on the intensity of the greatest wind force caused by the
disturbance, tropical cyclones are classified into: (a) tropical
depression - maximum winds within the disturbance expected
to be 39 mph or less; (b) tropical storm - maximum winds 10
within the disturbance expected to be from 40 to 74 mph;
and (c) typhoon - maximum winds within the disturbance
expected to be 75 mph and over.
The winds around the tropical cyclone always blow
counterclockwise in the northern hemisphere; i.e. with the
observer facing direction from which the wind is blowing,
the center of the disturbance lies more or less directly to the
observer’s right. Starting from the outer rim of the tropical
cyclone, the winds steadily become remarkably stronger
as one approaches the center, becoming extremely strong
around the center. However, going deeper into the center,
a sudden decrease in wind speed to very light velocities,
sometimes calm, is felt at the center which is often referred
to as the “eye” of the tropical cyclone. It is at this eye that
the pressure is lowest.
Besides the rapid movement of the air around the
center of a tropical cyclone, the whole cyclone itself moves
relatively more slowly guided by the wind currents aloft; 30
i.e., above the rotating air in the lower levels. In the western
North Pacific the tropical cyclone usually moves W or NW
at an average speed of 19 to 24 kph (12 to 15 mph).
The major origins of tropical cyclones are found in 35
the three regions: the region to the E of the Philippines and
to the S of Guam, the central part of the Caroline Islands,
and the central part of the South China Sea. However, the
regions where tropical cyclones intensify into typhoon
intensity are different from their regions of origin. The major 40
intensification of tropical cyclones is located between 5o E
and 10o E to the E of the Philippines. In addition, the South
China Sea is also a region of intensification of tropical
cyclones.
The typhoon season extends from April through
December. The peak of the season is July through October,
when nearly 70% of all typhoons develop. Tropical cyclones
that developed in the Pacific Ocean generally track westward
and may later turn northwest, first affecting the Philippines
and then moving on to Asian mainland or re-curving
northeastward towards Japan. The following paragraphs
contain the general description and movements of tropical
cyclones for every quarter of the year:
First Quarter (January, February, March) - In
this quarter, the high pressure area or the Siberian High is
still persisting on the China Mainland. The Siberian high
pressure ridge extends southeastwards over Ryukyu Island
and the South China Sea; it also extends across the central
Pacific towards the sub-tropical high (North Pacific High
pressure area or NPH) situated NW of Hawaii. A deep low
pressure area is present over the E of northern Japan. During
this period, NE Monsoon and the tail end of the cold front
influence the tropical cyclone to track more to the southern
Philippines (N Mindanao and Central Visayas areas) or even
weaken before it made landfall and sometimes move to the N
and then recurve to the NE direction away from the country.
Second Quarter (April, May, June) - The Siberian
High is gradually displaced northward. The low pressure
E of Japan is weakened and the NPH starts to expand. The
ridge between 25o to 30o N latitude extends towards Japan
branching in the direction of the Ryukyu Islands and the
15 South China Sea. In May, the ridge recedes and heat lows
begin to be observed over China and the oscillation of the
ITCZ is observed over Mindanao and Visayas. The period
is the transition when the gradual shift of winds from NE
to E, S to SW, and also the start of the SW Monsoon. The
20 mean track of tropical cyclones is a little bit higher compared
with the first quarter and is located over central Visayas and
southern Luzon areas towards South China Sea. Re-curvature
occurs over the South China Sea as the mean track of tropical
cyclone re-enters the NW border of the PAR.
25
Third Quarter (July, August, September) - The NPH
center is displaced gradually farther N. The ITCZ located
over southern Philippines extending over the Caroline Islands
oscillates and reaches its northernmost position in August,
lying to the N of the Philippines. Areas of low pressure are
observed over China. In the Philippines, this is the second
half and the peak of SW Monsoon. In this quarter, tropical
cyclones track in WNW to NW directions at higher latitudes
which are located in Luzon, particularly over the northern
portion.
Fourth Quarter (October, November, December)
- The Siberian High build up and displaces the ITCZ
southward from its position in August. The ridge of the NPH
runs westward near 30o N, and then across southern Japan and
Korea. The situation influences the tropical cyclone to track
more from E to W directions directly toward the country.
STORM WARNINGS - The international system of
45 Visual Storm Warnings is adopted by PAGASA. This system
has the advantage of more definite meanings, as well as that
of international uniformity throughout SE Asia. There are 8
basic day signals in the system, each has a definite meaning.
The signals can be used in combination.
50
The visual signals are intended to give information to
shipmasters, fisherfolk, and other mariners as to the expected
direction and speed of the wind in the localities where the
signals are displayed. This display of signals will be the
55 primary means for advising small crafts of impending storm
conditions and will be supplemented by the worded warnings
which will be sent to all ships by radio. While these visual
signals will be hoisted mostly in connection with or under
the influence of tropical storms, they will also be displayed
60 in cases of intensified monsoon winds and strong gradients
1-7
winds. When the shipmasters see a signal displayed, they
should listen to the next regular broadcast of these warnings
or ask their commercial radio ship-to-shore station for the
latest warning issued by the PAGASA. The worded warnings
issued by PAGASA will give more detailed information 5
regarding the extent of the strong winds, the reason for the
strong winds and other aspects of bad weather. Besides these
special warnings, regular weather reports are furnished by
the PAGASA Forecasting Center through the different local
radio and TV stations. Storm warnings and advisories are 10
also sent to the threatened localities as broadly as possible.
In the Philippines, the visual storm warning signals are
displayed in some of the ports and harbors. Read Chapter II
for more information about PAGASA.
TYPHOON ANCHORAGES - During certain seasons
of the year destructive cyclonic storms or typhoons are
frequently encountered in the Philippines. Vessels seeking
shelter from stress of weather will find that the following
harbors offer excellent anchorage:
Luzon - West coast ---------- Bolinao Harbor (Chart 4238)
Port Matalvi (Chart 4266)
Olongapo Harbor (Chart 4255)
Manila Harbor (Chart 4236)
Luzon - South coast --------- Sorsogon Bay (Charts 1515, 1541)
Luzon - East coast ----------- Port San Vicente (Chart 4276)
Port Bicobian (Chart 4276)
Diapitan Bay (Chart 4227)
Casiguran Bay (Chart 4278)
Dahican Bay (Chart 4274)
Coal Harbor (Chart 4237)
Lamit Bay (Chart 4271)
Polillo Island ----------------- Hook Bay(Chart 4277)
Marinduque ------------------ Santa Cruz Harbor (Chart 4453)
Port Balanacan (Chart 4453)
Burias Island ---------------- Port Busin (Chart 4454)
Lubang Island --------------- Port Tilic (Chart 4338)
Mindoro ---------------------- Soguicay Bay (Chart 4339)
Port Galera (Chart 4344)
Tablas Island ---------------- Looc Bay (Chart 4339)
Romblon Island ------------- Romblon Harbor (Chart 4453)
Ticao Island ------------------ Port San Miguel (Chart 4454)
Panay -------------------------- Iloilo Harbor (Chart 4448)
Cebu --------------------------- Cebu Harbor (Chart 4446)
Samar ------------------------- Helm Harbor (Chart 4421)
Pambulan Harbor (Chart 4467)
Port Aguirre (Chart 4420)
These are the most important harbors of refuge, but
numerous other harbors offer shelter, and the master of
vessels should use discretion in their choice of a typhoon
harbor. Since typhoons usually give ample warnings of
their approach, together with their probable path, anchorage 55
should be chosen which offers best shelter from the winds
which will prevail during the coming typhoon. If in the
vicinity of any of the following harbors, they should be rises over the western tropical Pacific region. This is
given preference. A detailed description of these harbors accompanied by the relaxation in the Pacific trade winds. The
and directions for entering them are given in the Coast Pilot. 60 easterly winds in the western equatorial Pacific diminish, then
1-8
Typhoon anchorages located in Palawan Island and
Mindanao Island can be found in the second volume of this
publication.
THE EL NIÑO PHENOMENON - Drought, dry spell
or rainfall deficiencies are recurring events in the climate
system. Major drought events in the Philippines have been
associated with the warm episodes or El Niño occurrences
in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific.
In 1982, a scientist named Camilo Carillo reported that
Peruvian fisherman of the Port of Paita had coined the term
“Corriente del Niño” or “Current of the (Christ) Child” in
reference to an invasion of warm waters that occur around
15 Christmas and cause a sharp increase in fish catches for a
short period of time after which a sharp decline in the fish
population will ultimately be realized. Over the years the
term “current” was eventually dropped out leaving only El
Niño.
20
Today, El Niño can be thought of as a spectacular
oceanographic/meteorological phenomenon that develops in
the Pacific, mostly off Peru and is associated with extreme
climatic variability characterized by devastating rains, winds,
25 drought and other events that wreak havoc on the economy
and society in the global and local scale. During a severe El
Niño, sea surface temperatures are measurably higher than
normal over a large expanse of the equatorial Pacific which
can prevail for more than a year.
30
Recently, El Niño has become a major concern to
scientists, policy makers, the press, and politicians. This
is because of the global adverse impact of the unusual
anomalies that occurred simultaneously during El Niño
episodes like that of 1982-1983. Many of these climatic
35
anomalies were record-setting extremes; the worst hurricane,
the most intense rainfall, the warmest winters, longest
drought, and so forth. It was estimated that the 1982-1983
El Niño event has caused worldwide economic losses in the
order of more than 10 billion dollars.
40
Theories supported by recent observations indicated that
the El Niño in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific is
linked to the drought occurrence in the western equatorial
Pacific regions like Indonesia, portions of Australia and the
45
Philippines.
Some of the global atmospheric indicators of existence
of El Niño phenomenon include positive Sea Surface
Temperature (SST) anomalies in the central and eastern
50 equatorial Pacific, negative values of the Southern Oscillation
Index (SOI) for several months or more than a year; westerly
anomalies of the low level easterlies in the western equatorial
Pacific; positive outgoing long wave radiation anomalies in
the western equatorial Pacific; below normal sea level in the
western equatorial Pacific and others.
In a typical El Niño event with a falling SOI, pressure
change direction, blowing from W to E. The dramatic change
in the drag on the ocean surface which normally persists
for a period of several months, sets in motion a complex
dynamical response in the ocean resulting in major changes
in the equatorial current system and a change in sea level. 5
This complex interaction creates a much thicker mixed layer
and warm ocean surface off Ecuador/N. Peru which is the El
Niño anomaly. This brings in positive convection anomalies
(more cloud formation) bringing heavy intertropical rains
to the central and eastern Pacific and tends to leave the 10
rest of equatorial belt (western Pacific) relatively dry (less
convection) and to certain extent in drought conditions.
TIDES AND CURRENTS
CURRENT - The ocean currents affecting the country
is the N Equatorial Current moving westerly across the
North Pacific Ocean. The current splits into Northward and
Southward branches upon reaching the eastern coastal areas
of the country. The northward bound current becomes the
Kuroshio Current while the southward bound current flows
along the E coast of Southern Visayas and Mindanao, re-
curves to the E and becomes the Equatorial Counter Current.
Motions of ocean currents are attributed to the difference of
insulation the ocean receives due to the driving effects of
winds upon contact with the water surface. The temperature
of the sea surface in the vicinity of the country is relatively
high.
TIDES - In the inland waters and western coasts of the
Philippines, the tides are affected more by the declination
of the moon (tropic tides) than by the opposition and
conjunction of the sun and moon, or full and new moon
(spring tides). 35
Two or three days after the moon crosses the Equator
there are two tides a day of approximately equal heights.
One of the high waters increases, reaching its maximum
about two days after the moon’s greatest declination, N or
S. The other high water diminishes, and at Manila usually
disappears entirely from three to eight days near the time of
the moon’s greatest declination. During this period there is
therefore but one high water and one low water each lunar
day. From two to five days after the greatest declination the
second tide again appears, and the two high waters again
become nearly equal after the moon crosses the Equator.
The greatest range of tide occurs in June and December
and the least range in March and September. The high water,
when there is but one tide a day, or higher tide when there
are two high waters, follows the moon’s upper transit when
the moon is S of the Equator and follows the moon’s lower
transit when the moon is N of the Equator.
On the E coast of the archipelago, at points open to the
Pacific, the effect of the tropic tides is less marked, and there
are usually two high waters and two low waters each lunar
day throughout the month, though the tides are still affected
by some diurnal inequality.
Of the two high waters a day, the higher is called “higher
high water” and for the two low waters of a day, the lower
is called the “lower low water”. Mean higher high water
(MHHW) is the average of the higher high waters including
the single high water on days when the tide is diurnal. Mean
lower low water (MLLW) is the average of the lower low
waters including the single low water on days when the tide
is diurnal. The difference in height between mean higher
high water and mean lower low water is designated the
diurnal range.
TIDAL CURRENTS - Two tidal currents enter the Sulu
Sea and passages between the Philippines from opposite
directions: one from the West Philippine Sea (South China
15 Sea) through the western openings, the other from the Pacific
through the eastern straits, San Bernardino, Surigao and
Basilan. These currents meet in the many channels between
the southern islands.
20 The current from China Sea flows from N to S along the
western shores of Luzon and Palawan and through the Verde
Island Passage, Mindoro, Linapacan, and Balabac Straits.
The Verde Island current after passing along the coast
25 of Luzon and deflecting some of its waters in Manila Bay,
continues along the coast as far as Punas Point, where it
branches. One current runs NE around Tayabas Bay and N
and E of Marinduque through Mompog Pass, reunites with
the other branch, which passes SE along the Mindoro coast
30 as far as Dumali Point; and then eastward S of Marinduque as
far as the Bondoc Peninsula, where it meets the flood current
from the Pacific which has passed through San Bernardino
Strait. The N part of the Verde Island current which follows
round Balayan and Batangas Bays reunites the principal
current near Verde Island, producing violent tide rips and
eddies in the part of the channel between Malabrigo and
Escarceo Points.
The flood that enters Mindoro Strait follows the coast
40 of Mindoro, setting SE as far as Nasog Point, Panay, part
of it continuing round the coast of Mindoro northward of
Dumali Point, where it meets the current through Verde Island
Passage. The rest of the current divides at the NW point of
Panay Island. One branch flows along the N coast of Panay
45 past Balacaue Point and the Gigantes Island.
The other branch turning to the S from the NW point
of Panay, and being joined midway by the current setting
eastward from Cuyo Island and the Linapacan Strait,
50 continues, coasting Panay and Guimaras Islands and into
Iloilo Strait.
Between the Calamianes Group and the north end of
Palawan Island the flood current sets SE and the ebb NW. The
55 flood current entering by Balabac Strait, turning NNE along
the coast of Palawan, spreads itself like a fan over the Sulu
Sea from NE to E. It is said to meet the current from Surigao
Strait approximately in the meridian of the Cagayan Islands.
60 The current in Sibutu Passage, when the tide is rising,
1-9
sets northward and westward, and also sets generally in the
same direction in the Sulu Archipelago, but takes many local
directions among the islands. Through Basilan Strait, the
current, when the tide is rising, sets westward and passes
up to the W coast of Mindanao northward until it meets the
flood current from Surigao Strait about midway on the coast.
In some places the tidal current seems to be influenced
by a monsoon current. Along the Panay coast there is a
constant northerly current which varies but little in strength
with the change of tide. In the vicinity of Seco Island and
Batbatan Island this current changes direction to westward
and then southwestward through the Cuyo Islands, thus
forming a great eddy. A somewhat similar eddy exists in the
Bohol Sea southeastward of Bohol.
The time of high water of the wave that enters from
the China Sea seems to be from 10 to 12 hrs after the local
transit of the moon and that which comes from the Pacific
through the eastern and northern straits from 6 to 7 hrs after
the local transit of the moon.
1-10
Detailed information on tides and tidal currents can be
read in the Philippine Tide and Current Tables that is also
published by NAMRIA. In using the Tide and Current Tables,
slack water should not be confounded with high or low water.
5 For ocean stations there is usually little differences between
the time of high or low water and the beginning of ebb or
flood current; but for places in narrow channels, landlocked
harbors, or on tidal rivers the time of slack current may differ
by 2 or 3 hrs from the time of high and low water stand, and
10 local knowledge is required to enable one to make the proper
allowances for the delay in the condition of tidal currents.
To obtain the times of slack water, reference should be made
either to figures given for various places in the Coast Pilot
or in the Current Tables.
15
The effect of strong winds, in combination with the regular
tidal action, may, at times, cause the water to fall below the
plane of reference of the chart, MLLW. The water may also
rise about the same amount above mean high water, due to
20 similar causes.
Actual and Average Tropical Cyclone Tracks (1948 - 2005)

Source: PAGASA

1-11
 Actual and Average Tropical Cyclone Tracks (1948 - 2005)

Source: PAGASA

1-12
Actual and Average Tropical Cyclone Tracks (1948 - 2005)

Source: PAGASA

1-13
 Actual and Average Tropical Cyclone Tracks (1948 - 2005)

Source: PAGASA

1-14
Actual and Average Tropical Cyclone Tracks (1948 - 2005)

Source: PAGASA

1-15
 Actual and Average Tropical Cyclone Tracks (1948 - 2005)

Source: PAGASA

1-16
CURRENTS AND WINDS

Note: Monthly circulations of the surface waters are shown by black arrows with the expected velocities in tenths of
a knot. Monthly character of winds, shown by wind roses in red. As presented in the Beaufort Scale, the arrows fly with
the wind and the number of barbs on the arrow shaft give the average force of the wind. The length of the arrow measured
from the center of the circle, when placed on the attached scale, will give the average percent of time the winds will blow
from or near a given point and the figure in the center will give the percent of time calms may be expected.
1-17
CURRENTS AND WINDS

Note: Monthly circulations of the surface waters are shown by black arrows with the expected velocities in tenths of
a knot. Monthly character of winds, shown by wind roses in red. As presented in the Beaufort Scale, the arrows fly with
the wind and the number of barbs on the arrow shaft give the average force of the wind. The length of the arrow measured
from the center of the circle, when placed on the attached scale, will give the average percent of time the winds will blow
from or near a given point and the figure in the center will give the percent of time calms may be expected.
1-18
CURRENTS AND WINDS

Note: Monthly circulations of the surface waters are shown by black arrows with the expected velocities in tenths of
a knot. Monthly character of winds, shown by wind roses in red. As presented in the Beaufort Scale, the arrows fly with
the wind and the number of barbs on the arrow shaft give the average force of the wind. The length of the arrow measured
from the center of the circle, when placed on the attached scale, will give the average percent of time the winds will blow
from or near a given point and the figure in the center will give the percent of time calms may be expected.
1-19
 CHAPTER 2
GOVERNMENT AND LOCAL SERVICES
HYDROGRAPHIC SERVICES
The National Mapping and Resource Information
Authority (NAMRIA) is the country’s central mapping
agency. The core functions of NAMRIA are topographic
base mapping, development of the national geodetic
network, land classification, hydrographic surveys and
nautical charting, delineation of maritime boundaries, and
geographic information management.
Visit the NAMRIA website at www.namria.gov.ph
for more information. The Agency may be contacted at
telephone no. (+632) 8810-4831 and e-mail address: oss@
namria.gov.ph.
The Hydrography Branch (HB) is the unit of
NAMRIA that serves as the Philippines' hydrographic
office. The Branch conducts hydrographic surveys, tides
and currents observations, magnetic surveys, and the
updating of nautical charts (in paper and electronic form)
and nautical publications.
Maritime-related products offered by the Branch
include nautical charts, isogonic charts, electronic
navigational charts (ENC), notices to mariners, navigational
warnings, tide and current tables, coast pilot, list of lights,
and bathymetric data.
Mariners who wish to receive copies of notices to
mariners and navigational warning should send a request
through e-mail at: maritime.affairs@namria.gov.ph.
The Branch may be contacted at telephone no. (+632)
8241-3494 and e-mail address at icsu_hd@namria.gov.ph.
The Map Sales Offices (MSOs), are the units of
NAMRIA that sell maps, nautical charts, and other
publications produced by NAMRIA. There are 20 MSOs
located in the regional centers around the country. Visit the
NAMRIA website at www.namria.gov.ph for the address
and contact details of the MSOs.
PORTS AND PORT SERVICES
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is a government
corporation charged with the finances, management and
operations of public ports throughout the country. For
ease in port administration and control, the country has
been divided into 5 geographical areas called port district
offices (PDO), namely: PDO Manila/Northern Luzon, PDO
Southern Luzon, PDO Visayas, PDO Northern Mindanao,
and PDO Southern Mindanao. Under the PDOs are smaller
geographical groupings called Port Management Offices
(PMO). The PMOs consist of frontline operating units
called Terminal Management Offices (TMO). The TMOs
2-1
manage the day-to-day operation of the PPA ports.
Information on the PDO, PMO, and TMO can be seen
at the PPA website www.ppa.com.ph. PPA may be contacted
5 at telephone no. (+632) 8527-8356.
Cebu Ports Authority (CPA), a separate agency from
the PPA, manages the government ports in the Province of
Cebu. Visit the CPA website at www.cpa.gov.ph. CPA may
10 be contacted at telephone nos. (+6332) 232-1461 to 63 and
e-mail address: cpa@cpa.gov.ph.
The government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous
Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) manages all the
15 major government ports in the municipalities and cities of
BARMM.
Ports and other berthing facilities in special economic
zones are managed by the Philippine Economic Zone
20 Authority (PEZA), which may contacted at e-mail: info@
peza.gov.ph.
National ports comprise all ports with primary
importance to foreign, interisland, and interprovincial
25 commerce. Other ports, on account of their geographical
locations, become necessary for enforcing customs
regulations or for national defense, and may also be classified
as national ports. The improvement and maintenance of
national ports are financed by the National Government;
30 and their administration and operation as national ports are
under the direct supervision and control of PPA and CPA.
The following are the national ports:
Manila International Container Terminal
35 Manila North Harbor Manila South Harbor
Port of Limay Port of San Fernando
Port of Batangas Port of Calapan
Port of Legazpi Port of Puerto Princesa
Port of Dumaguete Port of Iloilo
40 Port of Cebu Port of Ormoc
Port of Pulupandan Port of Tacloban
Port of Tagbilaran Port of Zamboanga
Port of Iligan Port of Nasipit
Port of Ozamiz Port of Surigao
45 Port of Davao Port of General Santos
Port of Cotabato Port of Dapitan
Port of Cagayan de Oro
The Municipal ports comprise all other ports not
50 classified as national ports. The administration and
operation of municipal ports are either under the local
government units or the PPA.
Any municipal port may be declared as a national port,
55 or any national port declared as a municipal port, when it is
considered necessary to do so in the interest of commerce, Sub-port of Claveria
for the enforcement of customs regulations, or of national Sub-port of Sual
defense purposes. Sub-port of Salomague

Wharfage are charged to vessels engaged in overseas 5 Collection District II-A: Port of Manila
trade and vessels engaged in coastwise trade berthing Sub-port of Masinloc
at national ports. Fees are also charged at many of the Customs Postal Office
municipal ports. The rates are not uniform and are subject Sub-port of EPZA - Cavite
to frequent changes. Sub-port of EPZA - Laguna
10
Towboats are available at major ports including Collection District II-B: Manila Int’l. Container Port
Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, and Surigao. Sub-port of North Harbor

Salvage equipment for extensive operations can be Collection District III: Ninoy Aquino Int’l. Airport
secured at Manila. Tugs, lighters and diving apparatus are 15 Manila Domestic Airport
available at major ports. Airmail Distribution Center

Repair facilities for repair works, drydocking and Collection District IV: Port of Batangas
related services are also available at the major ports. A Sub-port of Siain
more detailed treatment will be found throughout the text 20 Sub-port of Puerto Princesa
in the description of the various ports.
Collection District V: Port of Legazpi
Supplies of all kinds can be obtained in most of the Sub-port of Tabaco
national ports. Some supplies may be obtained in an Sub-port of Jose Panganiban
emergency at several other places, but they are usually 25
limited both in kind and quantity. A more detailed treatment Collection District VI: Port of Iloilo
will be found throughout the text in the description of the Sub-port of Pulupandan
various ports.
Collection District VII: Port of Cebu
Pilotage, with certain exceptions in the pilotage districts, 30 Sub-port of Mactan
is optional in the Philippines. The principal ports have pilot Sub-port of Dumaguete
associations, where the chief pilot usually acts as the harbor
master. Special regulations and fee schedules for pilotage Collection District VIII: Port of Tacloban
in the Philippines are prescribed by the port authority. Sub-port of Isabel
Description of pilotage and the location of pilot boarding 35 Sub-port of San Jose
stations for major ports are discussed in the next chapters. Sub-port of Catbalogan
CUSTOMS Collection District IX: Port of Surigao
Sub-port of Bislig
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is charged with the 40
Sub-port of Nasipit
supervision and control over the entrance and clearance of
vessels, whether engaged in domestic or foreign commerce. Collection District X: Cagayan de Oro
The bureau enforces collecting or securing of lawful Sub-port of Iligan
revenues from dutiable merchandise under the custom laws. Sub-port of Ozamis
The bureau can be contacted at telephone number (+632) 45
Mindanao Container Terminal
8917-3200 or through e-mail address info@customs.gov.
ph. Visit their website at customs.gov.ph. Collection District XI: Port of Zamboanga
Zamboanga Int’l Airport
Ports of entry for foreign vessels, as well as ports Sub-port of Jolo
open to coastwise trade only, are named and defined in 50
Sub-port of Tawi-Tawi (Bongao)
Executive Orders which may be issued by the President Sub-port of Basilan
of the Philippines from time to time. However, other ports
without customs facilities may be opened to overseas Collection District XII: Port of Davao
shipping upon issuance of special permits. Sub-port of Dadiangas (General Santos)
55
Sub-port of Parang
The following Customs Collection Districts and their Sub-port of Mati
sub-ports are considered as ports of entry for the Philippines:
Collection District XIII: Port of Subic
Collection District I: Port of San Fernando
Sub-port of EPZA - Baguio 60
Collection District XIV: Clark Int’l Airport

2-2
 Collection District XV: Port of Aparri mooring lines shall be provided with prescribed rat guards
Laoag Int’l Airport not less than 1m in diameter and so fixed as to be always
Sub-port of Currimao at right angle to the line to which it is attached. A vessel
Sub-port of Irene which shall tie alongside another vessel moored to a dock
5 shall institute all necessary measures to prevent the access
Collection District XVI: Port of Limay of rats from one vessel to another. All cargo nets should be
Sub-port of Mariveles hauled up when not in use. The gangway and ramp shall be
lifted up when not in operation and well lighted throughout
the night to prevent the access of rodents.
10
QUARANTINE AND SANITARY Fumigation may also be required by the Bureau of
PROCEDURES Quarantine to vessels while in the harbor. Fumigation are
required of any vessel with human or rodent plague on
The Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) promulgates board, any vessel moderately or heavily infested with rats or
and enforces quarantine regulations for all ports in the 15 other pests and vermins, cargoes in a vessel from a plague-
Philippines. The examination of vessels at the ports of infected port which are vulnerable to harbor rats, fleas, and
entry, the surveillance over their sanitary conditions, as inter-island vessels for their periodic annual fumigation.
well as issuance of quarantine certificates, bills of health, Fumigation of vessels may be done at the major ports.
or other equivalent documents are conducted by the Bureau
of Quarantine. 20 The Plant Quarantine Service (PQS) enforces
quarantine and restrictive orders which regulate the
All vessels coming from foreign ports are subject importation or inter-provincial movement of injurious
to quarantine inspections. Domestic vessels may also be insects, plant materials, plant products, or parts thereof of
subjected to quarantine inspections if the vessels came soil or any materials, which may be a source or medium
from domestic ports with the presence of infectious diseases 25 infections, or infestations of diseases by insects, or other
subject to regulations, emerging diseases, public health animals destructive to agriculture, or a medium for the
emergencies of international concern or death on board. introduction of noxious seeds, new to or not widely
prevalent within the Philippines.
In all ports of the Philippines, all vessels subject to
quarantine inspections are required to fly the yellow flag at 30 PQS inspects plants, plant products and animals
its foremast, drop anchor at the quarantine anchorage, and other than domestic animals at the ports of entry by plant
wait for the Quarantine Medical Officer (QMO). Vessels quarantine officers. Imported plant materials and animals
that have been cleared in one port of the Philippines are not other than domestic animals may only be admitted through
required to undergo quarantine inspections at succeeding the ports of entry.
ports of call in the Philippines except in cases of vessels 35
with infectious diseases subject to the regulations, emerging Contact information for the Plant Quarantine Service
diseases, public health emergencies of international concern, can be found at their website at www.pqs.da.gov.ph.
or death on board. In case of death on board, the master of
vessel shall advise the QMO of the time of arrival and of The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) supervises
death aboard. No person is allowed to embark the vessel 40 the importation into the country of domestic animals.
under quarantine except the QMO and his/her duly accredited To prevent the entry or spread within the Philippines of
assistants. Disembarkation of the passengers and crew from domestic animal diseases, the bureau enforces quarantine
the vessel under quarantine is not allowed until such time and restrictive orders which regulate the importation or
that the vessel has been granted a quarantine clearance. interprovincial movement of these domestic animals.
The quarantine clearance is prerequisite to Customs and 45 Domestic animals may only be admitted through the
Immigration clearance. ports of entry upon the issuance of Veterinary Quarantine
Clearance.
Vessels may also be subjected to Rat Inspection, which
is also supervised by the QMO. Vessels that are subject IMMIGRATION AND DEPORTATION
to rat inspections are vessels without deratting exemption 50
certificates, vessels with expired deratting exemption The Bureau of Immigration controls the admission,
certificates, and vessels with valid deratting exemption registration, exclusion and deportation of aliens in the
certificates but with moderate to heavy rat infestation aboard Philippines.
or have visited plague-infected ports.
55 The master, agent, owner or consignee of any vessel
Requirements of Vessels while in Port – within all arriving in the Philippines from a foreign port, or departing
ports in the Philippines, the Bureau of Quarantine requires from the Philippines for a foreign port, shall furnish the
vessels to observe the necessary measures in preventing Immigration Officer in charge of the port of arrival or the
the spread of rats. If the vessel docks alongside the piers, port of departure such crew lists and passenger manifests
its distance from the dock should at least be 1.5 m and all 60 and such other information concerning the persons arriving

2-3
or departing on the vessel as shall be required in the
regulations prescribed by the Bureau.
No alien may enter the Philippines until inspected and
allowed entry by an immigration officer. The examining
immigration officer may order such aliens detained on
board the vessels or bring them or temporarily remove
them from the vessel for examination at the expense of the
vessel bringing them. Any alien entering to the Philippines
who is excluded from entry into the Philippines may be
immediately sent back to the country where he came from,
the same vessel bringing him or in any other vessel, but in
all cases, the expenses for the return of such alien shall be
borne by the owner or owners of such vessel bringing the
alien into the Philippines. Administrative fines are levied
against vessels which fail or refuse to obey the immigration
laws regarding the disembarking or embarking of aliens.
WEATHER FORECASTS AND RELATED
SERVICES
The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical
Astronomic Service Administration (PAGASA)
is mandated to collect and disseminate weather and
climatological information. It operates weather stations
all over the country. PAGASA prepares and disseminates
general weather advisories and warnings for the public,
ships at sea, commercial and industrial enterprises, etc.,
and the special routes and terminal forecasts for aviation
purposes.
Precise determination of time by astronomical
computations and observations and the dissemination of
this time by phone, siren and radio broadcast; the accurate
rating of chronometers, especially those used in air and
sea navigation, with the aid of precision master clocks are
among the varied functions of the PAGASA that may be
availed of by the mariners.
Latest weather bulletins, and advisories on typhoons
and gale can be accessed at the PAGASA website: www.
pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology & Seismology
(PHIVOLCS) is the government agency mandated to
mitigate disasters that may arise from volcanic eruptions,
earthquakes, tsunami and other related geotectonic
phenomena. PHIVOLCS monitors earthquakes, volcanoes
and tsunamis; and issues public advisories regarding these
phenomena.
The agency serves as the country’s contact agency of
the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and monitors tsunami
in the country and issues tsunami advisories. In case of a
tsunami, PHIVOLCS will issue warning and advisories to
the public through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). The
OCD, through its channels, will be the one that will forward
the tsunami advisories and warnings to the affected coastal
communities and ports. PHIVOLCS website at www.
phivolcs.dost.gov.ph contains latest tsunami bulletin.
MARITIME COMMUNICATIONS
Radio communications in the Philippines are under
the regulation of the National Telecommunication
5 Commission (NTC). Licensing of radio transmitters and
the regulation of radio operators are few of the services
that are under the NTC, which concerns the maritime
community. Visit the NTC website at ntc.gov.ph for more
information.
10
Appendix V of this Publication contains the required
radio equipment and radio operators for vessels navigating
within Philippine waters.
15 Radio Inspectors enforce the regulations governing
radio communication in the Philippines through radio
inspectors and other officers duly authorized by the
government. Radio inspectors may visit vessels subject
to the regulations before they leave port and ascertain if
20 they are equipped with the necessary apparatus and under
the charge of duly licensed operators prescribed by the
regulations.
Responsibility of Shipmasters - Shipmasters have
25 the responsibility of seeing that the radio regulations are
carried out by their radio operators. Violation by any person
of the regulations governing radio communication in the
Philippines may result in the application of penalties and
forfeitures. Every willful failure on the part of the master of
30 a ship of Philippine registry to comply with the regulations
of the NTC, as to equipment, operators and regulation of
their watches, transmission of messages, or radio services,
subjects him to penalties and forfeitures.
35 Authority of Shipmasters - Shipmasters have full
authority over the radio equipment, the radio operators and
the regulation of their watches, the transmission and receipt
of messages (including distress and emergency), and the
radio service of the ship except as they are regulated by
40 international agreements, or by rules and regulations of the
NTC.
Reports from Ships - The master of every ship
equipped with radio transmitting apparatus, on meeting
45 with a tropical storm, derelict, or any other direct danger
to navigation, should communicate the information, by all
the means of communication at his disposal, to ships in the
vicinity and also to the appropriate government agencies.
50 When practicable, these reports should be sent through
government facilities; if not, any radio station in the mobile
service will forward the messages without charge to the
addressed agencies. The attention of shipmasters is called
again to the fact that reports should be addressed directly to
55 the government agency that is principally concerned. Much
of the value of these reports is lost by delays which occur
when the message is wrongly addressed.
Weather reports should not be sent regularly except
60 from ships with which specific arrangements have been
2-4
made by PAGASA but masters of all ships encountering
tropical or other severe storms should send special
observations by radio. The information needed by the
PAGASA are as follows:
Ship’s position (latitude and longitude)
Greenwich time of observation
Direction and force of wind
State of present weather
Barometric sea level pressure
When in the area by 5o and 25o N and 120o and 180o E,
all ships sending weather messages should address them to
PAGASA Manila.
These reports should be sent in the new International
Weather Code for Ships, preceded by the ship’s name and
checked collect. If the code is impracticable, the message
may be sent in plain language.
Reports should be sent when a storm is encountered
or when the presence of or formation of one is suspected.
All ships within a limited area as specified by the PAGASA
Forecasting Center in Manila, will be requested to take extra
3-hourly observations in order to ensure greater accuracy 25
of forecasts and warnings during times of approach and
passage of storm conditions. The nearer the ship is to the
center of the storm, the more valuable is the radio weather
report. It is realized that in such a situation the master and
his officers are occupied with the duties of navigating the 30
ship, but the dispatch of an observation by radio under those
weather conditions may result in timely advices to other
ships at sea and in warnings to the inhabitants of islands
and coastal communities where life and property may also
be in jeopardy.
Reports Affecting Aids to Navigation - Reports of any
buoys adrift or any deficiencies noted in Aids to Navigation
affecting the waters of the Philippines should be sent
direct to the Aids to Navigation Services of the Philippine
Coast Guard at e-mail address: aton_mssc@yahoo.com.
ph. The Aids to Navigation Services may be contacted at
telephone nos. (+6346) 686-1965 and (+6346) 431-0114
local 4403.Reports should also be sent to the Hydrography
Branch via telephone/fax no. (+632) 8242-2090 or e-mail
address: maritime.affairs@namria.gov.ph. Information
received regarding the aids to navigation will be used in the
updating of the nautical charts and publications. The form
that mariners may use in sending their reports may be found
in Appendix V of this publication.
Reports Concerning Dangers, Changes in Channels,
Shoals, Etc. - Reports of an urgent character affecting the
charts and nautical publications should also be sent to the
Hydrography Branch. Use the form in Appendix V of this
publication when sending the reports to the Hydrography
Branch.
Reporting Derelicts - Reports concerning derelicts
encountered within the waters of the Philippines should
2-5
also be sent to the Philippine Coast Guard.
Frequently, essential data relating to the position and
condition of the derelicts are omitted in the radio report.
5 These data are necessary before a search can be commenced
or pieces of advice given to the public. To be complete,
information concerning a derelict should state:
1. The position by latitude and longitude, confirmed if
10 possible by the approximate bearing and distance
from a fixed point on land.
2. The general condition of the derelict.
3. Whether bottom up or awash.
4. The trim of the derelict.
15 5. Height of hull above water and any abnormal
condition to buoyancy.
6. As to whether masts are standing, sail set or
otherwise.
7. Approximate heading of derelict.
20 8. Force and direction of wind.
9. Any observed current, its set and drift.
10. The name of the derelict, if possible.
This information is necessary in order to determine
roughly the direction and speed of drift of the derelict or
vessel, and also to give an idea of the appearance of the
object.
ASSISTANCE FOR VESSELS
IN DISTRESS
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is the government
agency that enforces Philippine maritime laws and
administers regulations for the promotion of safety of life
35 at sea and the protection of the marine environment. PCG is
tasked to operate aids to navigation, particularly lighthouses
and buoys.
PCG broadcasts maritime safety information such
40 as weather forecasts, notices to mariners, and notices
and emergencies not involving the distress messages in
accordance to the Global Maritime Distress Safety System
(GMDSS) regulations. All ships equipped with Navigational
Telex (NAVTEX) receiver can receive the regular broadcast
45 within the area coverage of the 1 kW medium frequency
(MF) band.
The PCG is the national maritime search and rescue
service of the country. The Coast Guard Action Center
50 (CGAC) at the PCG Headquarters in Manila serves as the
coordinating center for all search and rescue operations. The
CGAC may be contacted at telephone no. (+632) 8527-3877.
The 13 Coast Guard Districts are designated as Maritime
55 Rescue Coordinating Centers (MRCCs) within their areas of
responsibility while the Coast Guard Stations are designated
as Maritime Rescue Sub-Centers (MRSC). The detachments
under these stations are designated as Search and Rescue
(SAR) units.
60
 The PCG’s SAR organization maintains constantly-
operated watch centers that operate 24 hours a day,
continuously monitoring distress frequencies and conducting
coastal foot and seaborne patrol within their area of
responsibility. There is at least one division or squadron of 5
Coast Guard Auxiliary in each MRSC where watch can be
set and assistance can be obtained when required. Likewise,
at least one Deployable Response Team composed of Special
Operations Group, Medical Team, K-9 and rescue swimmers
is organized at each Coast Guard District or MRCC which 10
can be dispatched immediately to any maritime and land
base search and rescue operation.
Philippine Navy (PN) is charged with the mission of
carrying out sea patrol operations and defense action in
Philippine waters. Whenever properly authorized, it may
render assistance in the enforcement of laws and regulations
pertaining to customs revenue, navigation, immigration,
fishing, quarantine and the neutrality of the Philippines.
Whenever requested, vessels of the Philippine Navy render
assistance to vessels in distress in Philippine waters.
The Philippine Navy as a matter of policy and as far
as the distribution and condition of its facilities will permit,
will respond promptly to all proper requests for assistance to
vessels in distress even if such requests are only referred to
it. The degree of assistance, however, is confined to rescue
and fire-fighting measures as well as relieve the conditions
surrounding such actual or potential distress. Subsequent
ordinary towing and salvage operations are normally taken
over by commercial enterprises.
PNP Maritime Group is the unit of the Philippine
National Police (PNP) concerned in securing the Philippine
territorial waters, ports, ferry terminals and coastal areas
against terrorism, piracy, smuggling, poaching and other
forms of criminal activities. The maritime group conducts
search and rescue operations, in coordination with the
Philippine Coast Guard, for vessels in distress.
Piracy & Armed Robbery - piracy and attacks of
armed groups had been reported by vessels plying the
Philippine territorial waters, particularly in the southern
portion of the Sulu Sea. Master and crews of vessels are
advised to be vigilant of suspicious vessels and persons
either when the vessel is docked or afloat. In case of an
attack, the master should contact the Philippine Coast Guard
or, if that is not possible, other ships within the vicinity. If a
suspicious vessel or activity had been observed, the master
should notify the Philippine Coast Guard. The Philippine
Navy and the Maritime Group of the Philippine National
Police, other than the PCG, will answer calls from vessels
under piratical attacks.
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
(GMDSS) is an international system that uses terrestrial
and satellite technology and ship-board radio systems
to ensure, in the event of a marine distress, the rapid,
automated alerting of shore-based communication and
rescue authorities in addition to other ships in the immediate
vicinity.
For GMDSS purposes, the world’s oceans are divided
into the following categories of Sea Area:
Sea Area A1 - Within the radiotelephone coverage
of at least one very high frequency (VHF) coast station
in which DSC alerting is available. Such coverage could
typically extend 20 to 50 miles from the coast station.
Sea Area A2 - An area, exluding Sea Area A1, within the
radiotelephone coverage of at least one medium frequency
(MF) coast station in which continuous DSC alerting is
available. For planning purposes, this area typically extends
15 up to 150 miles offshore, but would exclude any Sea Area
A1 designated areas. In practice, satisfactory coverage may
often be acheived up to 250 miles offshore.
Sea Area A3 - An area, excluding Sea Areas A1 and
20 A2, within the coverage of an Inmarsat geostationary
satellite in which continuous alerting is available. This area
lies approximately between latitudes 70o N. and 70o S.
Sea Area A4 - Any area outside Sea Areas A1, A2, or
25 A3. This is essentially the polar regions, N and S of 70o
latitude.
The PCG operates the following coast stations for Sea
Area 1:
30
Position
Manila MRCC 14° 34.93’ N., 120° 58.28’ E.
Remotely controlled stations:
35 Aparri 18° 21.58’ N., 121° 37.82’ E.
Bacolod 10° 28.68’ N., 123° 25.33’ E.
Basco 20° 26.88’ N., 121° 58.07’ E.
Bataan 14° 38.50’ N., 120° 28.90’ E.
Batangas 13° 45.00’ N., 121° 02.62’ E.
40 Bislig 08° 12.90’ N., 126° 18.67’ E.
Brooke’s Point 08° 46.33’ N., 117° 49.95’ E.
Calapan 13° 25.67’ N., 121° 11.70’ E.
Caticlan 11° 56.28’ N., 121° 57.05’ E.
Cebu 10° 16.30’ N., 123° 53.88’ E.
45 Coron 11° 59.48’ N., 120° 12.70’ E.
Currimao 17° 59.20’ N., 120° 29.33’ E.
Cuyo 10° 50.13’ N., 121° 00.40’ E.
Davao 07° 08.00’ N., 125° 40.00’ E.
General Santos 06° 05.57’ N., 125° 09.27’ E.
50 Iloilo 10° 41.37’ N., 122° 34.32’ E.
Legazpi 13° 08.58’ N., 123° 45.52’ E.
Liminang Cong 10° 49.62’ N., 119° 31.05’ E.
Lucena 13° 54.00’ N., 121° 38.00’ E.
Masbate 12° 22.20’ N., 123° 36.95’ E.
55 Mati 06° 57.10’ N., 126° 12.90’ E.
Puerto Real 14° 40.25’ N., 121° 36.78’ E.
Romblon 12° 34.67’ N., 122° 16.13’ E.
Roxas 11° 36.25’ N., 122° 42.57’ E.
San Fernando 16° 36.52’ N., 120° 17.70’ E.
60 San Jose 12° 20.00’ N., 121° 05.00’ E.
2-6
 Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Limits of Sea Areas
!
Basco
Sea Area A1
Sea Area A2
Sea Area A3

Aparri !

! Currimao

! San Fernando

!
Sual

Subic Puerto
!
Real
Bataan ! Manila !
!

Lucena
Batangas !
!

!
Calapan
Legazpi
! Sorsogon
!

Romblon
!
San Jose !
!
Masbate
!
Coron !
Caticlan Roxas ! Catbalogan
!

Tacloban
San Jose de !

Liminangcong ! Cuyo ! Buenavista Iloilo

! !
Bacolod
!
Cebu
! Maasin
!

!
!Tagbilaran Surigao

Butuan
!
! Brooke’s Point
Dapitan ! Cagayan de Oro
!

Ozamis ! Iligan Bislig !

!
Pagadian
!

!
Cotabato Davao ! Mati
! Zamboanga !
Mapun !

General Santos
!
Jolo !

Sarangani !

2-7
 San Jose Buenavista 10° 44.28’ N., 121° 56.27’ E.
Sarangani 05° 24.75’ N., 125° 25.53’ E.
Sorsogon 12° 58.02’ N., 124° 00.23’ E.
Sual 16° 03.72’ N., 120° 06.17’ E.
Subic 14° 52.57’ N., 120° 17.42’ E.
Tacloban MRSC 11° 03.90’ N., 125° 01.40’ E.
Butuan 08° 57.00’ N., 125° 32.65’ E.
Cagayan de Oro 08° 29.78’ N., 124° 39.63’ E.
Catbalogan 11° 46.45’ N., 124° 52.80’ E.
Cotabato 07° 12.28’ N., 124° 09.77’ E.
Remotely controlled stations:
Dapitan 08° 37.66’ N., 123° 23.73’ E.
Iligan 08° 13.83’ N., 124° 13.98’ E.
Jolo 06° 03.22’ N., 121° 00.00’ E.
Maasin 10° 07.90’ N., 124° 50.13’ E.
Mapun 06° 58.35’ N., 118° 30.55’ E.
Ozamis 08° 08.38’ N., 123° 50.72’ E.
Pagadian 07° 49.10’ N., 123° 26.33’ E.
Surigao 09° 46.92’ N., 125° 30.00’ E.
Tagbilaran 09° 38.93’ N., 123° 50.83’ E.
Zamboanga 06° 54.22’ N., 122° 04.27’ E.
conduct fishery research and development program;
and enforce fishery laws on Philippine waters. For more
information, visit the BFAR website at www.bfar.da.gov.
ph.
5
The Philippine Fisheries Development Authority
(PFDA) is the government agency that manages the
national fish ports. It also operates fish markets and other
infrastructure necessary for the advancement of the fishing
10 industry. PFDA operates the national fish ports in Camaligan
(Camarines Sur), General Santos City, Davao City, Iloilo
City, Lucena City, Navotas City, Sual (Pangasinan), and
Zamboanga City. Visit the PFDA website at www.pfda.
da.gov.ph for more information.
15
AIDS TO NAVIGATION
The Aids to Navigation Services of the Philippine
Coast Guard maintains the lighthouses, buoys, beacons,
20 navigation marks and other aids to navigation being
operated by the government.

VHF DSC is available up to 25 miles from the above
coast stations. The Manila MRCC is the only coast station
for Sea Area A2 in the Philippines. MF DSC is available up 25
to 300 miles from Manila MRCC.
ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION
REGULATIONS
30
Garbage and Wastes - Throwing garbage or refuse,
which might impede or obstruct navigation and pollute the
Philippine waters are strictly prohibited. As stated in the
Philippine Clean Waters Act, activities such as unauthorized
transport or dumping of sewage sludge or solid waste into the 35
seawaters; and transport and dumping of toxic substances,
hazardous, and nuclear wastes are strictly prohibited.
Disposal of potentially infectious medical waste into the sea
is also prohibited, unless the crew of the vessel is threatened
by great and imminent peril. 40
Marine Protected Areas - Some portions of Philippine
waters were established as protected areas. Vessels
transiting in the vicinity of the protected areas should
take utmost caution to prevent incidents that may cause 45
pollution or destruction to the marine environment in the
area. Entering and fishing within the marine protected areas
may be prohibited. Marine protected areas on Philippine
waters are described throughout this publication.
50
FISHERIES
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
(BFAR) is the government agency responsible for the
development, improvement, management and conservation 55
of the country’s fisheries and aquatic resources. The bureau
is under the Department of Agriculture.
Some of the bureau’s functions include the issuance
of licenses for the operation of commercial fishing vessels; 60
The lights and buoys are the principal guides and mark
the routes throughout the archipelago and the approaches
and channels to the various ports. These aids to navigation
are constantly being improved and extended. There are
a number of automatic (unwatched) lights in isolated
locations, and navigators should consider the possibility of
their being non-operational, if they fail to make the light
when expected. The principal coast lights within the area
covered by this volume are briefly described. There are no
navigation lightships nor buoys equipped with bells, gongs
or whistles.
Private aids to navigation, such as stakes and small
floats, are not supervised by the Government, and therefore
may not be listed or indicated on the charts. When private
aids are established similar to those maintained by the
Government, they must be authorized by the Philippine
Coast Guard. Such aids are usually shown on the charts and
noted “private.” A complete description of all government-
maintained and some privately-maintained aids is found
in the Philippine List of Lights published and sold by the
NAMRIA.
Systems of buoyage, color, shapes, and numbers -
The buoyage system being applied in the Philippines is the
IALA Buoyage System “B”. On the right or starboard side
of the channel for the entering vessels are placed conical or
nun buoys, painted red, and with even numbers, and on the
left or port side, cylindrical or can buoys, painted green,
and with odd numbers. The numbers for each side increase
from seaward.
Obstructions, with channel ways on either side, are
marked with buoys painted with red and black horizontal
bands, which may be left on either side, with due caution as
to the position of the buoy with relation to the obstruction,
as shown on the chart. In general, obstruction buoys have no
distinctive shape, but in the case of buoys with horizontal

2-8
bands making obstructions or bifurcations of channels,
when it is desired to indicate the main channels, a can
buoy with black band at the top is used when the important
channel is to the starboard for the entering vessel, and nun
buoy with red band at the top when important channel is to
the port.
Fairways are indicated, where necessary, by buoys
painted with black and white vertical stripes. Such buoys
are placed in good water in mid-channel or approaches, and
may be passed close to on either side. Mid-channel buoys
have no distinctive shape at present. Anchorage buoys are
painted white. Quarantine buoys are painted yellow. There
are other buoys that may be installed for other purposes.
Such buoys have no standard color or shape.
Colors of Lights for Buoys and Beacons - Red or
white lights are placed on the starboard side of a channel
for the entering vessels and white or green lights on the
port side. White lights may be on either or both sides of
the channel, but colored lights are usually on the sides
indicated respectively. The same rules apply to lights on
fixed structures serving a purpose similar to that of buoys.
Coast lights near the channels or entrances may not conform
to this system.
2-9
Caution regarding Buoys - Buoys are liable to be
carried away, shifted, capsized, or sunk; lighted buoys may
be extinguished, as the result of storms or other natural
causes, collisions or other accidents. Mariners are further
5 cautioned to observe that in many cases where buoys are
moored on the edge of coral reefs, the water may shoal
suddenly to within distance of a boat’s length.
Day beacons are constructed and distinguished with
10 special reference to each locality and particularly with
regard to the background upon which they are projected.
Beacons on the sides of channels are, when practicable,
colored to conform to the coloring of buoys, subject to the
above conditions as to background.
15
Defects in Aids to Navigation - Aids to navigation are
protected by law, and mariners in their own interest should
use every precaution to avoid collisions with them. Mariners
are requested to report defects in the aids to navigation
20 direct to the NAMRIA or to the Aids to Navigation Services
by commercial radio or other prompt means. Reports to the
NAMRIA Hydrography Branch should be sent through
e-mail address: maritime.affairs@namria.gov.ph.
25
 CHAPTER 3
ROUTES AND SAILING DIRECTIONS
The Navigation on coral sea demands constant Whales and other marine mammals are under the protection
vigilance; aside from this, the waters described in this of the government and one of the focuses of environmental
publication, present no unusual difficulty to the mariner. conservation programs of the country.
The soundings give little or no warning of the approach into
danger, and the effect of uncertain or irregular currents is a 5 Piracy & Armed Robbery - piracy and attacks of armed
constant source of danger on the longer courses. Over rocky men had been reported by vessels plying the Philippine
bottom and on shoals the coral boulders frequently rise from territorial waters, particularly in the southern portion of the
10.9 m to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm) above the general level of the Sulu Sea. Master and crews of vessels are advised to be
shoal, and the surveys, in the absence of an investigation by vigilant of suspicious vessels and persons either when the
means of the wire drag, may not have found the least water 10 vessel is docked or afloat. In case of an attack, the master
in every case. should contact the Philippine Coast Guard or, if that is not
possible, other ships within the vicinity. If a suspicious
Sections of the west coast of Palawan and the adjacent vessel or activity had been observed, the master should
waters south of Malampaya Sound, and the waters northward notify the Philippine Coast Guard. The Philippine Navy
of Borneo have not been adequately surveyed, and charts of 15 and the Maritime Group of the Philippine National Police,
these areas are still based on reconnaissance surveys. These other than the PCG, will answer calls from vessels under
areas are more or less foul and great care should be used if piratical attacks.
obliged to enter them.
Overhead Cables and Bridges – warning is given to
The tabulated courses and directions given in this 20 mariners about overhead cables and bridges in some areas
chapter are for the convenience of the navigator and solely as covered in this publication. Overhead cables and bridges
an indication of the routes followed. They are a compilation are present in various navigable rivers and narrow straits.
and combination of the courses, uncorrected for the effect Mariners should be cautious when passing beneath these
of currents, as steered by the local ship captains and should features and must ensure that there is sufficient allowance
be used by a stranger only after considerable study of the 25 between the vessel and these overhead features to avoid
information given in the Pilot concerning the currents, collision. Overhead cables may carry electricity and mariners
depths, cautions and harbors of refuge in case of a typhoon. are cautioned about possible electric discharge coming from
Careful judgement must be exercised in attempting the more these cables.
involved sections of the routes and deep draft vessels without
local knowledge will find it advisable to follow the wider 30 Submarine Cables - Mariners are advised not to
and deeper passages. anchor or trawl in the vicinity of submarine cables or they
risk prosecution if they so damage it. Submarine cables may
Fishing - Due to the richness of its marine environment, carry electricity and could release electric discharge when
all waters encompassing the Philippines may be considered fishing gears and anchors snag it.
as potential fishing grounds. Different modes of fishing are 35
employed and fishing crafts with sizes varying from the small Submarine Pipelines - Mariners are advised not to
rowing or sailing boats to modern trawlers. Mariners should anchor or trawl in the vicinity of submarine pipelines. Gas
be extra cautious when passing through fishing grounds from a damaged oil or gas pipeline could cause an explosion,
within the Philippine waters, especially at night when lone loss of vessel’s buoyancy or other serious hazards. Pipelines
fishing boats are hardly visible. 40 are not always buried and may effectively reduce the charted
depth by up to 2 m. They may also span seabed undulations
Mariners are also warned of fish traps, fish nets, and and cause fishing gear to become irrecoverably snagged,
fish pens that could be found near coastal communities. putting a vessel in severe danger.
These structures usually do not have proper warning devices
and mariners should be alert when navigating near these 45 Traffic Separation Schemes (TSS) were established in
structures. important passages and channels considered constricted for
the growing volume of seacrafts navigating on Philippine
Whales and Other Marine Creatures – various whales waters. All mariners are strictly advised to comply with the
and other large marine creatures like dolphins, dugongs, rules and regulations when navigating along the TSS. Details
and the whale sharks inhabit the waters of the Philippines. 50 of the TSS for areas covered by this publication can be found
Due to their size, there are incidents where vessels collide in their respective chapters.
with these marine creatures. Mariners are advised to keep
a constant look-out for these creatures when they are in the MANILA TO APARRI AND WESTERN LUZON
Philippine seas, especially when traversing areas known to PORTS - Vessels en route to the western Luzon ports and
be habitat of these creatures, to avoid collision with them. 55 Aparri follow the west coast of Luzon by running from

3-1
point to point and light to light. This coast is exposed to the long course down the W coast of Mindoro through Apo
the monsoon, and an even wider berth than is indicated East Pass, and thence across Cuyo East Pass is particularly
in the table of Courses and Distances may be advisable in recommended to strangers and the deep-draft vessels.
unfavorable weather in order to avoid danger arising from When the NE monsoon is blowing strongly, a beam sea is
the irregularities of set caused by squalls and the prevailing 5 encountered after leaving the lee of Mindoro Island.
strong winds. Vessels en route to China, Japan and to Guam
via Babuyan Channel follow this track to their points of MANILA TO ZAMBOANGA - Vessels en route
departure. directly to Zamboanga from Manila follow either the track
via Calavite Pass or via Verde Island Passage and Tablas
During the course of the NE monsoon navigators 10 Strait to Nogas Light, at the southern extremity of Panay
with local knowledge follow the coast as near the shore as Island; thence 180.5° for 198 miles to a position 1.5 miles
possible at places approaching to 0.5 miles off the beach in westward of Batorampon Point. From there the route given
order to avoid the heavy seas and northerly winds offshore. in the table “Iloilo to Zamboanga” is followed.
It is reported that the track of the interisland vessels on the
regular run to Vigan and Currimao lies among the shoals off 15 ILOILO TO ZAMBOANGA - This route passes
Salomague, between Salomague Island and the mainland, southward through Panay Gulf, off the west coast of Negros,
between Badoc Island and Solot Point, and from about 0.5 through the Sulu Sea, and then along the W coast of the
miles off Culili Point on a direct course to pass about 2.5 Zamboanga Peninsula. The track is exposed to the SW
miles of Cape Bojeador. On this last course the NE winds monsoon.
are reported felt in sufficient strength to keep a vessel from 20
setting onto the coast. ILOILO TO CEBU, VIA SOUTH COAST OF
NEGROS - Deep draft vessels and those desiring to stop at
MANILA TO LEGAZPI AND EASTERN LUZON Dumaguete usually follow this route.
PORTS VIA SAN BERNARDINO STRAIT - This route
passes southward along the W coast of Luzon and then 25 ILOILO TO CEBU, VIA THE VISAYAN SEA - This
through Verde Island Passage, across the Sibuyan Sea, and route passes among the shoals studding the Visayan Sea. The
through Ticao Pass to San Bernardino Strait. Vessels bound controlling depth for the given track is 8.5 m (28 ft), found
for the eastern Luzon route to Guam deviate from the track in the northern entrance to Iloilo Strait.
after passing through San Bernardino Strait. Vessels bound
to the eastern Luzon ports either enter Albay Gulf, Lagonoy 30 MANILA TO CEBU, VIA VERDE ISLAND
Gulf or pass through Maqueda Channel en route to the more PASSAGE AND THE VISAYAN SEA - The route follows
northern ports. the main track for vessels bound to the southern island ports
via Verde Island Passage and Romblon Pass to Jintotolo Light
MANILA TO ILOILO, VIA VERDE ISLAND from where there is a choice of two routes. The interisland
PASSAGE - This is the most usually traveled route as it 35 vessels en route direct to Cebu usually pass northward of
permits deviation to a number of minor ports of call. It is Gigantes Light, southward of Tanguingui Light, and through
followed as far as Dumali Point, the NE tip of Mindoro the passage between Cebu and Malapascua Islands. This
Island, where a choice of two routes is offered. track leads through depths of 16.5m (9 fm). The outer route
passes through the deeper channels of the Visayan Sea,
The deeper and more easily traversed is by way of 40 northward of Malapascua Island and, joining the inner route
Tablas Strait and the W coast of Panay. This route is used off Bogo Harbor Light, passes southward along the E coast
extensively during the strength of the NE monsoon when of Cebu Island.
there is a following wind and sea on the southern passage.
This alternate route is the one recommended to strangers and CEBU TO ZAMBOANGA - The course leads
vessels of deep draft. 45 southward through Cebu Strait, passes Dumaguete and
continues via the W coast of Mindanao Island.
The course more usually traveled by the interisland
vessels passes through Romblon Pass, and the Sibuyan and CEBU TO SURIGAO - The route to Surigao leaves
Visayan Seas. This track is used particularly during the SW Cebu by the N channel, skirts Danajon Bank on the S side
monsoon; the only exposed run being across Tablas Strait. 50 of the Camotes Sea at a distance of about 2.5 miles, and
After passing through Jintotolo Channel, vessels, weather passes through Canigao Channel between Canigao Island
permitting, follow the passes inside the islands off the E and Leyte. The SW coast of Leyte Island is then followed to
coast of Panay. An alternate route, outside of and close to Binit Point, passing between Limasawa Island and Tancaan
the island chain, is also followed. Much thick weather and Point. Surigao Strait is then crossed to Surigao.
rain are encountered off the E coast of Panay during the NE 55
monsoon. MANILA TO PUERTO PRINCESA - The route along
the W coast of Mindoro is the shorter and direct route to
MANILA TO ILOILO, VIA CALAVITE PASS - This Puerto Princesa, although commercial lines normally use
route is favored during the change of the monsoon or when the circuitous route through Tablas/Romblon to pick up
the NE monsoon is blowing lightly. The deep water and 60 passengers and cargoes on the way.

3-2
 CEBU TO BISLIG - The route passes through Hinatuan
Passage where strong current upward of 7 knots have been
observed particularly in the vicinity of Rasa Island.
The following tabulated courses and distances give, in
general, the routes followed at the present time by interisland
vessels plying between the main Philippine ports within the
area described in this Coast Pilot volume and also to those
ports in the area immediately contiguous thereto. It is not
to be understood that these routes are rigidly adhered to, as
officers with local knowledge and the draft of whose vessel
5 permits minor deviations from the routes do so, in order to
save time in their passage, by passing across shoals that might
be dangerous to a stranger.
3-3
A. TRAFFIC SEPARATION SCHEME ROUTES

TABLE 1A - Manila to Mouth of Manila Bay (Entrance of North Channel)

CHARTS 4236, 4243, 4255 & 4211
True Course Distance
Position Direct Degrees Nautical Miles

1a. Radio Tower Light atop the northerly of the two towers, 387 feet
(118 m) high, northward of Manila North Harbor, bearing 052°,
distant 3.9 miles, Custom Tower Light, Manila South Harbor,
bearing 104°, Charts 4243, 4255. 233 12.3
b. Manila South Harbor Breakwater, midway between the
breakwaters for entrance lights. 246 13.4
c. Manila South Harbor green entrance light, bearing 060o distant
3.5 miles. 248 9.9
2. San Nicolas Shoals Light, bearing 159°, distant 3 miles. 247 15.5
3. La Monja Light, bearing 120°, distant 1.3 miles.

TABLE 1B - Manila to Mouth of Manila Bay (Entrance of South Channel)

CHARTS 4236, 4243, 4255 & 4211
True Course Distance
Position Direct Degrees Nautical
Miles
1a. Radio Tower Light atop the northerly of the two towers, 387 feet
(118 m) high, northward of Manila North Harbor, bearing 052°,
distant 3.9 miles, Custom Tower Light, Manila South Harbor,
bearing 104°, Charts 4243, 4255. 233 12.3
b. Manila South Harbor Breakwater, midway between the
breakwaters for entrance lights. 246 13.4
c. Manila South Harbor green entrance light, bearing 060o distant
3.5 miles. 248 9.9
2. San Nicolas Shoals Light, bearing 159°, distant 3 miles. 220 17.3
3. Limbones Island N tangent, bearing 122o distant 2.5 miles. 201 4.9
4. Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 4.1 miles.

TABLE 1C - Mouth of Manila Bay (Entrance of North Channel) to Manila

CHARTS 4236, 4243, 4255 & 4211
True Course Distance
Position Direct Degrees Nautical
Miles
1. La Monja Light, bearing 084o distant 1.3 miles. 068 16.8
2. San Nicolas Shoals Light, bearing 178°, distant 2.7 miles. 050 (to 3a) 11.6
065 (to 3b) 12.6
066 (to 3c) 9.0
3a. Radio Tower Light atop the northerly of the two towers, 387 feet
(118 m) high, northward of Manila North Harbor, bearing 052°,
distant 3.9 miles, Custom Tower Light, Manila South Harbor,
bearing 104°, Charts 4243, 4255.
b. Manila South Harbor Breakwater, midway between the
breakwaters for entrance lights.
c. Manila South Harbor green entrance light, bearing 060o distant
3.5 miles.

3-4
 TABLE 1D - Mouth of Manila Bay (Entrance of South Channel) to Manila
CHARTS 4236, 4243, 4255 & 4211
True Course Distance
Position Direct Degrees Nautical Miles

1. Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant 3.3 miles. 020 4.8

2. Limbones Island N tangent, bearing 122°, distant 1.6 miles. 040 17.8
3. San Nicolas Shoals Light, bearing 178°, distant 2.7 miles. 050 (to 4a) 11.6
065 (to 4b) 12.6
066 (to 4c) 9.0
4a. Radio Tower Light atop the northerly of the two towers, 387 feet
(118 m) high, northward of Manila North Harbor, bearing 052°,
distant 3.9 miles, Custom Tower Light, Manila South Harbor,
bearing 104°, Charts 4243, 4255.
b. Manila South Harbor Breakwater, midway between the
breakwaters for entrance lights.
c. Manila South Harbor green entrance light, bearing 060o distant
3.5 miles.

TABLE 2A – Verde Island Passage (Eastward Route)

CHARTS 4214 & 4256A
True Course Distance
Position Direct Degrees Nautical Miles

1. West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 096 10.4
miles.
2. Escarceo Point Light, bearing 226o distant 2.3 miles. 142 4.0
3. Escarceo Point Light, bearing 290o distant 4.3 miles. 081 9.2
4. Highest point of Baco Chico Island, bearing 219o distant 2.6 miles. 126 3.5
5. Highest point of Baco Chico Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles.

TABLE 2B – Verde Island Passage (Westward Route)

CHARTS 4214 & 4256A
True Course Distance
Position Direct Degrees Nautical Miles

1. Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o distant 5.0 miles. 306 5.2
2. Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 057o distant 3.0 miles. 275 22.1
3. West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 081 9.2
miles.

3-5
B. SAILING DIRECTIONS

TABLE 3 - Manila to Aparri

CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4210, 4209, 4208, 4207, 4206, 4229 & 4705
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Aparri, continue from Table 1A. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1C upon
reaching the vicinity of La Monja Light.
2a. La Monja Light. For vessels going to Aparri, bearing 120°,
distant 1.3 miles. 289 8.2
b. For vessels going to Manila, bearing 084o distant 1.3 miles (True
direct course and distance from the vicinity of Luzon Point). 115 8.4
3. Luzon Point, bearing 032°, distant 2.0 miles. 314/134 25.5
4. Los Frailes, bearing 044°, distant 2.0 miles. 336/156 12.3
5. Capones Light, bearing 090°, distant 2.0 miles. Chart 4210. 341/161 32.6
6. Palauig Point Light, bearing 090°, distant 6.0 miles. 349.5/169.5 32.1
7. Tambobo Point, bearing 079°, distant 3.0 miles. Chart 4209. 008/188 21.4
8. Cape Bolinao Light, bearing 090°, distant 2.0 miles. Charts
4705, 4209, 4208, 4207 018/198 141.0
9. Cape Bojeador Light, bearing 109°, distant 5.0 miles. Chart
4206. 062/242 21.3
10. Mayraira Point, bearing 180o, distant 3.5 miles. 097/277 18.1
11. Pata Point Light, bearing 187o, distant 3.0 miles. Chart 4229. 122/302 32.0
12. Anchorage off Aparri, Linao Light, bearing 247o, and Aparri
Church bearing 180o.

TABLE 4 - Manila to San Fernando

CHARTS 4255, 4210, 4209 & 4246
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Aparri, continue from Table I-A. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1C upon
reaching the vicinity of La Monja Light.
2a. La Monja Light. For vessels going to Aparri, bearing 120°,
distant 1.3 miles. 289 8.2
b. For vessels going to Manila, bearing 084o distant 1.3 miles.
(True direct course and distance from the vicinity of Luzon 115 8.4
Point).
3. Luzon Point, bearing 032°, distant 2.0 miles. 314/134 25.5
4. Los Frailes, bearing 044°, distant 2.0 miles. 336/156 12.3
5. Capones Light, bearing 090°, distant 2.0 miles. Chart 4210. 341/161 32.6
6. Palauig Point Light, bearing 090°, distant 6.0 miles. 349.5/169.5 32.1
7. Tambobo Point, bearing 079°, distant 3.0 miles. Chart 4209. 008/188 23.2
8. Cape Bolinao Light, bearing 135°, distant 2.5 miles. 041/221 11.2
9. Silaqui Island, bearing 131°, distant 3.0 miles. 066.5/246.5 25.6
10. San Fernando Point, bearing 198°, distant 1.9 miles, and San
Fernando Range Lights, bearing 144 1/2°. Chart 4246. 144.5/324.5 1.2
11. Largest and Tallest of the westernmost group of tanks, bearing 198.5/018.5 1.0
198 1/2°.
12. To docks at Poro.

3-6
 TABLE 5 - Manila to Legazpi
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4706, 4218, 4219, 4220, 4221 & 4237
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Legazpi, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Legazpi: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant
4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Legazpi: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Legazpi: Highest point of Baco Chico Island,
bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and distance to 119 37.0
No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 304 36.6
8. Baltazar Island Light, bearing 028° distant 2 miles, Chart 4218. 100/280 12
9. Elefante Island, bearing 000°, distant 2 miles. 110.5/290.5 86.6
10. Aguja Point, bearing 000°, distant 2 miles, Chart 4219. 064/244 13.2
11. San Miguel Light, bearing 180°, distant 1.8 miles. 121.5/301.5 30.7
12. Capul Light, bearing 090° distant 6.6 miles. 090/270 4.6
13. Calantas Rock Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles; Capul
Light bearing 090°, distant 2 miles, Chart 4220. 032.5/212.5 7.1
14. Ticlin Island, bearing 270°, distant 2.8 miles and Capul Light,
bearing 197°. 010/190 29.4
15. Bingay Point, bearing 270°, distant 4.2 miles. 290/110 4.5
16. Bingay Point, bearing 180°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4221 287/107 17.9
17. Port Sula Light, bearing 330°, distant 3.4 miles. Steer for center
of Mount Linguion (555), Chart 4237. 264/084 7.4
18. Legazpi Light, bearing 246°, distant 1.3 miles. Proceed to
wharves.

3-7
 TABLE 6 - Manila to Batangas
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214 & 4257
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Batangas, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Batangas: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant
4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant 178 16.8
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3).
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. 124/304 14.4
6. West Peak (308), Maricaban Island bearing 030°, distant 2.5
miles. Chart 4214. 092/272 8.2
7. Malajibomanoc Island Light, bearing 320°, distant 1.1 miles.
Follow established sea lane in Batangas Bay to reach Batangas
Wharf and other ports inside the bay.

TABLE 7 - Manila to Calapan

CHARTS 4255 & 4214
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Calapan, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Calapan: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant
4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6e.
6. For vessels going to Calapan:
a. West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 096 10.4
miles.
b. Escarceo Point Light, bearing 226o distant 2.3 miles. 128 9.9
c. Calapan Light, bearing 112o distant 3.2 miles. various
d. Anchorage or proceed to pier.

7. For vessels going to Manila:

a. Anchorage or alongside pier. various
b. Calapan Light, bearing 112o distant 3.2 miles. 285 8.6
c. Escarceo Point Light, bearing 337o distant 2.4 miles. 350 6.8
d. Malajibomanoc Island Light, bearing 328 distant 2.5 miles. 275 8.1
e. West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban Island bearing 010o distant 3.0
miles. Continue reverse course at No. 5.

3-8
 TABLE 8- Manila to Virac
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4218, 4219, 4220, 4221 & 4269
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Virac, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Virac: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 4.1 174 17.1
miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant 178 16.8
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3).
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct 134/125 16.7/15.3
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Virac: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Virac: Highest point of Baco Chico Island,
bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and distance to 119 37.0
No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 304 36.6
8. Baltazar Island Light, bearing 028° distant 2 miles, Chart 4218. 100/280 12
9. Elefante Island, bearing 000°, distant 2 miles. 110.5/290.5 86.6
10. Aguja Point, bearing 000°, distant 2 miles, Chart 4219. 064/244 13.2
11. San Miguel Light, bearing 180°, distant 1.8 miles. 121.5/301.5 30.7
12. Capul Light, bearing 090° distant 6.6 miles. 090/270 4.6
13. Calantas Rock Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles; Capul
Light bearing 090°, distant 2 miles, Chart 4220. 032.5/212.5 7.1
14. Ticlin Island, bearing 270°, distant 2.8 miles and Capul Light,
bearing 197°. 010/190 29.4
15. Bingay Point, bearing 270°, distant 4.2 miles. 000/180 26.0
17. Virac Light, bearing 344°; & Virac Point, bearing 297°. Chart 344/164 4.5
4269
18. Virac Light, bearing 344°, distant 0.7 mile. Anchor or proceed to
pier.

3-9
 TABLE 9 - Manila to Balanacan
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305 & 4218
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Balanacan, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Balanacan: Fuego Point, bearing 141o
distant 4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Balanacan: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Balanacan: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 86 35.6
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 270 33.7
8. Balanacan Light, bearing 076°, distant 1.1 miles. various 1.1
9. Anchorage or proceed to pier.

3-10
 TABLE 10 - Manila to Masbate
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4218, 4219, 4412 & 4455
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Masbate, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Masbate: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant
4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Masbate: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Masbate: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 118 37.3
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 303 36.9
8. Baltazar Island Light, bearing 000°, distant 2.5 miles. Charts 111/291 91
4218.
9. Bugui Point Light, bearing 180°, distant 3.1 miles. Charts 4412.
Pass 1.8 miles, 030° of Colorado Point Light. 119/299 22.3
10. Bagubaut Point, bearing 240°, distant 1 mile. Chart 4219. 145/325 5.8
11. Northwest Point Light, bearing 221°, distant 1 mile. Chart 4455. 208/028 1.2
12. Northwest Point Light, bearing 345°, distant 0.3 mile. various 0.5
13. Anchorage or proceed to wharf.

3-11
 TABLE 11 - Manila to Romblon
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305, 4218, 4410 & 4453
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Romblon, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Romblon: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant
4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Romblon: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Romblon: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 136 27.9
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 322 28.4
8. Dumali Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 2.5 miles. 135.5/315.5 33.7
9. Corcuera Point Light, bearing 015°, distant 4 miles. Chart 4218. 115.5/295.5 10.5
10. Gorda Point Light, bearing 203°, distant 2 miles. 156/336 8.1
11. Bangud Island, S tangent, bearing 094°, distant 1 mile. Chart 063/243 2.4
4410.
12. Sabang Point Light, bearing 036°, distant 0.8 mile. Chart 4453. various 0.8
13. Romblon Wharf.

3-12
 TABLE 12 - Manila to Coron
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305 & 4251
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Coron, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Coron: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 188 35.5
4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 010 35.4
3. Golo Island Light bearing 325°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4305. 236/056 12.0
4. Calavite Light, bearing 155°, distant 3 miles. 174.5/354.5 50.3
5. Apo Island Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. 177/357 28.2
6. Calanhayaun Island, S tangent, bearing 270°, distant 1 mile. 188/008 11.3
7. Mataya Island, highest point, bearing 290° distant 1.2 miles. 245.5/065.5 4.6
Chart 4351.
8. Dibatuc Island, northernmost tip, bearing 249°, distant 0.6 mile. 259/079 2.6
9. Dibatuc Island, S tangent, bearing 094°, distant 2.1 miles. 303.5/123.5 2.65
10. Limaa Point, bearing 182°, distant 0.25 mile. 227/047 1.4
11. East Maguinit Island, highest point, bearing 056°, distant 0.7 various 1.2
mile.
12. Anchorage

TABLE 13 - Manila to Puerto Princesa

CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4716 & 4333
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Puerto Princesa, continue from Table 1B.
For vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Puerto Princesa: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 187 35.5
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 008 35.3
* CAUTION - Avoid being set by currents onto the reefs extending
Southeastward of Golo Island.
3. Golo Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4305. 245/065 11.8
4. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 154°, distant 4.3 miles. 180/000 3.9
5. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4706. 152/332 91.3
6. Ambulong Light, bearing 014°, distant 5.8 miles. 211/031 93.4
7. Maducang Island (965), bearing 131°, distant 7 miles. 180/000 17.0
8. Langoy Island Light, bearing 270°, distant 11 miles. Chart 4716. 240/060 95.2
9. Bancao-bancao Light, bearing 325°, distant 2.1 miles. Chart 304/124 1.6
4333.
10. Bancao-bancao Point, E tangent, bearing 013°. 290/110 2.5
11. Tidepole Light, bearing 040°, distant 0.6 mile. Steer for Caña 349/169 1.2
Island.
12. Puerto Princesa Wharf, NW end, bearing 079o distant 500 yards.
Proceed to wharf.

3-13
 TABLE 14 - Manila to Catbalogan
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4218, 4219, 4418 & 4420
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Catbalogan, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Catbalogan: Fuego Point, bearing 141o
distant 4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Catbalogan: West Peak (1003 ft),
Maricaban Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue
course in Table 2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Catbalogan: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 118 37.3
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 303 36.9
8. Baltazar Island Light, bearing 000°, distant 2.5 miles. Charts
4706 & 4218. 109/289 96.5
9. Aguja Point, bearing 030°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4219. 072/252 13.5
10. San Miguel Island Light, bearing 180°, distant 1.5 miles. 126/306 11.5
11. San Jacinto Light, bearing 191°, distant 3.5 miles. Pass 6.6
miles 060° of Matabao Light. 149/329 43.5
12. Tagapala Island, Tanglan Point, bearing 060°, distant 3 miles.
Chart 4418. 135/315 11.2
13. Cabilison Island Light, bearing 045°, distant 1mile. Pass 3.8
miles 225° of a prominent peak at Olo Point, Santo Niño Island. 114/294 28.6
14. Sampotan Island, highest point, bearing 000°, distant 1 mile. 091/271 7.2
Chart 4420.
15. Catbalogan Light, bearing 059°, distant 1.6 miles. various 1.4
16. Catbalogan Pier

3-14
 TABLE 15 - Manila to Tacloban
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4218, 4219, 4418, 4420 & 4464
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees

1. For vessels going to Tacloban, continue from Table 1B. For

vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Tacloban: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant
4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Tacloban: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Tacloban: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 118 37.3
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 303 36.9
8. Baltazar Island Light, bearing 000°, distant 2.5 miles. Charts
4706 & 4218. 109/289 96.5
9. Aguja Point, bearing 030°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4219. 072/252 13.5
10. San Miguel Island Light, bearing 180°, distant 1.5 miles. 126/306 11.5
11. San Jacinto Light, bearing 191°, distant 3.5 miles. Pass 6.6
miles 060° of Matabao Light. 149/329 43.5
12. Tagapala Island, Tanglan Point, bearing 060°, distant 3 miles.
Chart 4418. 135/315 11.2
13. Cabilison Island Light, bearing 045°, distant 1mile. Pass 2.7
miles 214° the E tangent of Maripipi Island. Chart 4418. 122/302 20.5
14. Boliran Island, highest peak of Mt. Nalitawan, bearing 246°,
distant 6.6 miles. Amambahag Point, bearing 225°, distant 2 133.5/313.5 22.4
miles. Chart 4420.
15. Canauay Island Light, bearing 133.5°, distant 1mile. Seek pilot
assistance at nearby station. various
16. Tacloban Pier.

3-15
 TABLE 16 - Manila to Borongan
CHARTS 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4218, 4219, 4220, 4421 & 4422
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Borongan, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Borongan: Fuego Point, bearing 141o
distant 4.1 miles. 174 17.1
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Borongan: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Borongan: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 118 37.3
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 303 36.9
8. Baltazar Island Light, bearing 000°, distant 2.5 miles. Charts
4706 & 4218. 109/289 96.5
9. Aguja Point, bearing 030°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4219. 072/252 13.5
10. San Miguel Island Light, bearing 180°, distant 1.5 miles. 126/306 11.5
11. San Jacinto Light, bearing 191°, distant 3.5 miles. Chart 4219. 115.5/295.5 22.4
12. Calantas Rock Light, bearing 328°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4220. 042/222 19.7
13. San Bernardino Island Light, bearing 307°, distant 2.5 miles. 091/271 43.9
14. Batag Island Light, bearing 180°, distant 2.8 miles. Charts 128/308 10.2
4421.
15. Bacan Island, N tangent, bearing 270°, distant 3.4 miles. 139.5/319.5 31.7
16. Apiton Island, S tangent, bearing 207°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 155/335 6.7
4220.
17. Tubabao Island, S tangent, bearing 270°, distant 1.7 miles. 180/000 5.5
18. Fulin Island, S tangent, bearing 270°, distant 2.2 miles. 192/012 23.6
19. Divinubo Island Light, bearing 192°, distant 1.5 miles. 263/083 4.0
20. Borongan Light, bearing 263°, distant 0.7 mile. various 0.5
21. Borongan Pier

3-16
 TABLE 17A - Manila to Iloilo
(Via Verde Island Passage , Tablas Strait & West Coast of Panay)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4218, 4305, 4706, 4415 & 4448
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Iloilo, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Iloilo: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 4.1 174 17.1
miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Iloilo: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Iloilo: Highest point of Baco Chico Island,
bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and distance to 136 27.9
No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 322 28.4
8. Dumali Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4706. 173/353 165.5
* Note: For directions via Romblon Pass and North Coast of
Panay see Table 17B.
9. Nogas Island Light, bearing 062°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 104/284 3.9
4415.
10. Juraojurao Island, bearing 000°, distant 1.0 miles. 069.5/249.5 34.8
11. Pangasinan Point Hill, bearing 085°, distant 0.6 mile; Bondulan
Point, bearing 036°, Chart 4448. 036/216 3.2
12. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°, Bondulan Point,
bearing 049°. Steer for the roof of the marginal wharf on the S 005.5/185.5 0.7
side of the entrance to Iloilo River.
13. Bondulan Point, N tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. Steer
mid-channel courses. 044/124 2.1
14. Bondulan Point, N tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. Steer
mid-channel courses. various 2.0
15. Anchorage or into Iloilo River.

3-17
 TABLE 17B - Manila to Iloilo (continued)
(Via Verde Island Passage , Romblon Pass & North Coast of Panay , inside route)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4218, 4410, 4411, 4718, 4405, 4416, 4417& 4448
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
24. Bulubadiangan Island, S point, bearing 059°distant 0.6
mile. Steer with the S point of 239/059 2.6
Bulubadiangan Island astern.
25 Dongon Point, bearing 149°distant 0.4 mile. 214/034 7.4
26. Calabazas Light, bearing 324°distant 1.9 miles. Chart 4416. 234/054 10.9
27. Stack at Hawaiian Sugar Central, bearing 135 1/2° ; Bagalayog
Point bearing 358°, and Tomonton Point Shoal Gas Buoy,
bearing 129°distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4416. 208/028 11.6
28. Siete Pecados Light, bearing 268°; and Colau Hill (265), bearing
293°. Chart 4448. 266/086 5.1
29. Navalas Point, bearing 183°distant 3 miles. 272/092 1.8
30. Cabugao Point, bearing 247°; and Siete Pecados Light, bearing
270°, distant 0.6 mile. 247/067 0.9
31. Siete Pecados Light, bearing 036°, distant 0.45 mile. 270/090 1.0
32. Dapdap Point and Bondulan Point on range. 249/069 1.2
33. Bondulan Point and Iloilo Strait Wharf cargo shed on range. 220/040 2.4
34. Dapdap Point, S tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. various 2.3
35. Mouth of Iloilo River or anchorage.

TABLE 17C - Manila to Iloilo

(Via Cape Calavite & W Coast of Panay)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4415 & 4448
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Iloilo, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Iloilo: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 4.1 187 35.5
miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 008 35.3
* CAUTION - Avoid being set by currents onto the reefs extending
Southeastward of Golo Island.
3. Golo Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4305. 245/065 11.8
4. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 154°, distant 4.3 miles. 180/000 3.9
5. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4706. 152/332 205.0
6. Nogas Light, bearing 062°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4708. 104/284 3.9
7. Juraojurao Island, bearing 000°, distant 1mile. 069.5/249.5 34.8
8. Pangasinan Point (260), bearing 085°, distant 0.6 mile;
Bondulan Point, bearing 036°. Chart 4448. 036/216 3.2
9. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°; Bondulan Point,
bearing 036°. 005.5/185.5 0.7
10. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°; Bondulan Point,
bearing 049°. Head for the roof of Iloilo Strait Marginal Wharf. 044/224 2.1
11. Bondulan Point, N tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. various 2.0
12. Anchorage or to the Mouth of Iloilo River.

3-18
 TABLE 18 - Manila to Zamboanga
(Via Calavite Pass)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4708, 4511 & 4645
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Zamboanga, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Zamboanga: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 187 35.5
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 008 35.3
* CAUTION - Avoid being set by currents onto the reefs extending
Southeastward of Golo Island.
3. Golo Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4305. 245/065 11.8
4. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 154°, distant 4.3 miles. 180/000 3.9
5. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4706. 152/332 205.0
6. Nogas Light, bearing 062°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4708. 180.5/000.5 198
7. Batorampon Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4511. 165/345 7.4
8. San Ramon Penal Colony, bearing 075°, distant 1.1 miles. 148/328 3.0
9. Caldera Point, bearing 090°; Sta Cruz Light, bearing 119°. 112.5/292.5 8.8
10. Zamboanga Light, bearing 036°, distant 0.9 mile. Chart 4645. various 0.9
11. Zamboanga Wharf.
* NOTE - For route via Verde Island Passage & Tablas Strait, Use table 17A - Manila to Nogas Light
(F2332) & continue from no. 6.

3-19
 TABLE 19 - Manila to Polloc & Cotabato
(Via Calavite Pass)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4708, 4511, 4645 & 4654
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees

1. For vessels going to Cotabato, continue from Table 1B. For

vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Cotabato: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 187 35.5
4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 008 35.3
* CAUTION - Avoid being set by currents onto the reefs extending
Southeastward of Golo Island.
3. Golo Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4305. 245/065 11.8
4. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 154°, distant 4.3 miles. 180/000 3.9
5. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4706. 152/332 205.0
6. Nogas Light, bearing 062°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4708. 180.5/000.5 198
7. Batorampon Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4511. 165/345 7.4
8. San Ramon Penal Colony, bearing 075°, distant 1.1 miles. 148/328 3.0
9. Caldera Point, bearing 090°; Sta Cruz Light, bearing 119°. 106/286 16.5
10. Tictuan Island, west tangent, bearing 000°, distant 0.75 miles. 094/274 10.0
11. Little Malanipa Island, east tangent, bearing 000°, distant 1.3
miles. Chart 4708. Continue to 12a for the course to Polloc and 077/257 107.0
12b for the course to Cotabato.
12a. For vessels going to Polloc. Talaya Point, Bongo Island, bearing
347°, distant 3.3 miles. Chart 4654. 058/238 12.0
13a. Marigabato Point, bearing 150°, distant 0.4 mile. 075/255 1.6
14a. North end point of Polloc Island, bearing 220°, distant 0.5 mile.
Proceed to pier or anchorage.
12b. For vessels going to Cotabato. Talaya Point, Bongo Island, 087/267 9.7
bearing 347°, distant 3.3 miles. Chart 4654.
13b. Cotabato Light, bearing 180o distant 0.4 mile.
14b. Follow middle courses on Cotabato River to reach wharves of
Cotabato.
* NOTE - For route via Verde Island Passage & Tablas Strait, Use table 17A - Manila to Nogas Light
(F2332) & continue from no. 6.

3-20
 TABLE 20 - Manila to General Santos
(Via Calavite Pass)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4708, 4645, 4511, 4607 & 4608
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to General Santos, continue from Table 1B.
For vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to General Santos: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 187 35.5
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 008 35.3
* CAUTION - Avoid being set by currents onto the reefs extending
Southeastward of Golo Island.
3. Golo Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4305. 245/065 11.8
4. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 154°, distant 4.3 miles. 180/000 3.9
5. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4706. 152/332 205.0
6. Nogas Light, bearing 062°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4708. 180.5/000.5 198
7. Batorampon Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4511. 165/345 7.4
8. San Ramon Penal Colony, bearing 075°, distant 1.1 miles. 148/328 3.0
9. Caldera Point, bearing 090°; Sta Cruz Light, bearing 119°. 106/286 16.5
10. Tictuan Island, west tangent, bearing 000°, distant 0.75 miles. 123/303 16.9
11. Sibago Light, bearing 045°, distant, 2.0 miles. Chart 4708. 110/290 165.8
12. Green Peak, bearing 356°, distant 8.3 miles, Balanting Point,
bearing 043°, Chart 4607; Pass 1.0 mile east of Tampuan Point. 049/229 7.4
13. Tampuan Point, bearing 330°, distant 0.6 mile. Chart 4608.
Steer towards General Santos. 020/200 15.5
14. General Santos pier or anchorage.
* NOTE - For route via Verde Island Passage & Tablas Strait, Use table 17A - Manila to Nogas Light
(F2332) & continue from no. 6.

3-21
 TABLE 21 - Manila to Davao
(Via Calavite Pass)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4708, 4645, 4511, 4607 & 4608
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Davao, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Davao: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 187 35.5
4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 008 35.3
* CAUTION - Avoid being set by currents onto the reefs extending
Southeastward of Golo Island.
3. Golo Light, bearing 315°, distant 2.5 miles. Chart 4305. 245/065 11.8
4. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 154°, distant 4.3 miles. 180/000 3.9
5. Cape Calavite Light, bearing 090°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4706. 152/332 205.0
6. Nogas Light, bearing 062°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4708. 180.5/000.5 198
7. Batorampon Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4511. 165/345 7.4
8. San Ramon Penal Colony, bearing 075°, distant 1.1 miles. 148/328 3.0
9. Caldera Point, bearing 090°; Sta Cruz Light (F2218), bearing 106/286 16.5
119°.
10. Tictuan Island, west tangent, bearing 000°, distant 0.75 miles. 123/303 16.9
11. Sibago Light, bearing 045°, distant, 2.0 miles. Chart 4708. 112/292 191
12. Tinaca Point Light, bearing 000°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4608. 090/270 5
13. Bukid Point, bearing 000°, distant 2.6 miles. Dome Peak
(1950), bearing 315°. Balot Island Volcano (2895), bearing
196°. Pass about 1.5 miles southeastward of Banos Point. 035/215 31.4
* Note - Banos Point is easily recognized from the southward and
has the appearance of a small island from a distance.
14. Banos Point, (265) bearing 234 1/2°, distant 3.9 miles and
Taller, bearing 305°. 011/191 9.3
15. Calian Point, bearing 270°, distant 1.8 miles. Pass about 1.8
miles west of Talikud Island. 353/173 55.3
16. Dumalag Point, bearing 270°, distant 3.4 miles. 000/180 3
17. Davao Wharf, bearing 270, distant 0.2 mile. Proceed to the
wharf or anchorage. Chart 4656.
* NOTE - For route via Verde Island Passage & Tablas Strait, Use table 17A - Manila to Nogas Light
(F2332) & continue from no. 6.

3-22
 TABLE 22A - Manila to Cebu
(Via Verde Island Passage, Visayan Sea, inner route)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4218, 4411, 4405, 4410, 4427, 4447, 4446 & 4706
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Cebu, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Cebu: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 4.1 174 17.1
miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Cebu: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Cebu: Highest point of Baco Chico Island,
bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and distance to 135 63.1
No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 317 63.4
8. Corcuera Point Light, bearing 029°, distant 2 miles. 115.5/295.5 10.5
9. Gorda Point Light, bearing 203°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4410. 159/339 14.5
10. Apunan Point Light, bearing 069°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4411. 131/311 31.1
11. Cresta de Gallo Island, bearing 039°, distant 4 miles. 125.5/305.5 32.8
12. Jintotolo Light, bearing 035 1/2°, distant 1.9 miles. Chart 4405. 125.5/305.5 15.6
* NOTE - For outer route, see Table 22B.
13. Gigantes Light, bearing 125 1/2°, distant 2.8 miles. 090/270 2.3
14. Gigantes Light, bearing 180°, distant 1.6 miles. 120/300 25.1
15. Tanguingui Light, bearing 000°, distant 2 miles. 090/270 4.0
16. Tanguingui Light, bearing 296°, distant 4.5 miles. 110/290 15.5
17. Chocolate Light, bearing 225°, distant 0.8 mile. Follow the route
established between Chocolate Island and Malapascua Island.
Check Chart 4218 for details. various
18. Bogo Harbor Light, bearing 287°, distant 5 miles; Capitancillo
Light, bearing 184°, distant 4.3 miles. Chart 4427. 201/021 4.6
19. Capitancillo Light, bearing 090°, distant 1.4 miles. 180/000 26.0
20. Bagacay Light, bearing 199 1/2°, distant 11 miles; center of
town of Carmen, bearing 295°. 195/015 11.5
21. Bagacay Light, bearing 315 1/2°, distant 1 mile; Chart 4447. 230/050 2.2
22. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. 237/057 1.1
23. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Follow mid-
channel courses. Chart 4446. various 5.0
24. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage.

3-23
 TABLE 22B - Manila to Cebu
(Via Verde Island Passage &Visayan Sea, outer route)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4218, 4411, 4405, 4410, 4427, 4447 & 4446
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Cebu, continue from Table 1B. For vessels
going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D upon
reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Cebu: Fuego Point, bearing 141o distant 4.1 174 17.1
miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Cebu: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Cebu: Highest point of Baco Chico Island,
bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and distance to 135 63.1
No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 317 63.4
8. Corcuera Point Light, bearing 029°, distant 2 miles. 115.5/295.5 10.5
9. Gorda Point Light, bearing 203°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4410. 159/339 14.5
10. Apunan Point Light, bearing 069°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4411. 131/311 31.1
11. Cresta de Gallo Island, bearing 039°, distant 4 miles. 125.5/305.5 32.8
12. Jintotolo Light, bearing 035 1/2°, distant 1.9 miles. Chart 4405. 097/277 20.2
13. Gigantes Light, bearing 211°, distant 9.5 miles. Pass 6 miles
Northeastward of Tanguingui Light. 121.5/301.5 48.7
14. Malapascua Light, bearing 258°, distant 2.2 miles. 188/008 17.5
15. Bogo harbor Light, bearing 287°, distant 5 miles. Capitancillo
Light, bearing 184°, distant 4.3 miles. Chart 4427. 201/021 4.6
16. Capitancillo Light, bearing 090°, distant 1.4 miles. 180/000 26.0
17. Bagacay Light, bearing 199 1/2°, distant 11 miles. Center of
town of Carmen bearing 295°. 195/015 11.5
18. Bagacay Light, bearing 315°, distant 1.0 mile. Chart 4447. 231/051 2.2
19. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. 237/057 1.1
20. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Follow mid-
channel courses. Chart 4446. various 5.0
21. Cebu Wharves or anchorage.

3-24
 TABLE 23 - Manila to Roxas City
(via Verde Island Passage, Tablas Strait & N Coast of Panay)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4410, 4414 & 4413
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Roxas City, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Roxas City: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 174 17.1
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Roxas City: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Roxas City: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 136 27.9
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 322 28.4
8. Dumali Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 2.5 miles. 180/000 56.5
9. Sibolon Island Light, (left tangent), bearing 190°, distant 6.2 120/300 20.2
miles.
10. Lapuz-Lapuz Point, (left tangent), bearing 145°, distant 2.9
miles. Chart 4410, 4414. 115/295 33.1
11. Agpa Point, bearing 265°, distant 9.0 miles. Chart 4413. 125/305 19.8
12. Culasi Point, bearing 125°, distant 1.25 miles. Proceed to Capiz
Bay Mouth or Anchorage.

3-25
 TABLE 24 - Manila to Bacolod City
(via Verde Island Passage, Tablas Strait & N Coast of Panay)
CHARTS 4243, 4225, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4410, 4411, 4718, 4405, 4417 & 4416
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Bacolod City, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Bacolod City: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 174 17.1
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Iloilo: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue course in Table
2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Bacolod City: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 136 27.9
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 322 28.4
8. Dumali Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 2.5 miles Chart 4706. 133.5/313.5 33.7
9. Corcuera Point Light, bearing 029°, distant 2.0 miles 115.5/295.5 10.5
10. Gorda Point Light, bearing 203°, distant 2.0 miles. Chart 4410 159/339 14.5
11. Apunan Point Light, bearing 069°, distant 2.2 miles. Chart 4411 131/311 31.1
12. Cresta de Gallo Island, bearing 039°, distant 4.0 miles. Chart 125.5/305.5 44.0
4718
13. Manigonigo Light, 215 1/2°, distant 7.7 miles. Chart 4405, 4417 170/350 5.7
14. Gigantes Light, bearing 076°, distant 5.3 miles. 185.5/005.5 3.4
15. Tulunanaun Island, (N tangent), bearing 270°, distant 1.6 miles. 165/345 7.0
16. Tumaguin Island, (N tangent), bearing 312°, distant 0.9 mile. 222.5/042.5 5.1
17. Magalumbi Island, bearing 270°, and E tangent of Sicogon and
Tumaguin Island on range. 183/003 8.7
18. Malangahon Island, (N tangent), bearing 301°, distant 1.0 mile. 211/031 4.5
19. Dunao Island, bearing 301°, distant 1.0 mile. 215/035 6.8
20. Payong Point, bearing 326°, distant 1.3 miles. Chart 4417, 4416 238/058 16.2
21. Bugalayog Point, bearing 358°, distant 4.8 miles. 176/356 14.1
22. Magsungay Point, bearing 157°, distant 2.9 miles. Steer for the various
pier.

3-26
 TABLE 25 - Manila to Dumaguete City
(via Verde Island Passage, Tablas Strait , N Coast of Panay & Tañon Strait)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4410, 4414, 4413, 4405, 4428 & 4430
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Dumaguete City, continue from Table 1B.
For vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Dumaguete City: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 174 17.1
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Dumaguete City: West Peak (1003 ft),
Maricaban Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue
course in Table 2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Dumaguete City: Highest point of Baco
Chico Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 136 27.9
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 322 28.4
8. Dumali Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 2.5 miles. 180/000 56.5
9. Sibolon Island Light, left tangent, bearing 190°, distant 6.2 120/300 20.2
miles.
10. Lapuz-Lapuz Point, left tangent, bearing 145°, distant 2.9 miles.
Chart 4410, 4414. 115/295 33.1
11. Agpa Point bearing 265°, distant 9 miles. Chart 4413, 4405. 180/270 57.8
12. North Gigante Light, bearing 190°, distant 10.2 miles. 122/302 28.2
13. Tanguigui Island Light bearing 225°, distant 3 miles. 165/345 26.3
14. Hagnaya Light, bearing 081o distant 4.5 miles. 205/025 76.7
16. Pescador Island Light, bearing 126°, distant 1.8 miles. 186/006 30.2
17. Liloan Point, bearing 125°, distant 2.4 miles. 150/330 7.5
18. Dumaguete Light, bearing 227°, distant 1.7 miles. Steer for
Dumaguete Pier. 227/047 1.7

3-27
 TABLE 26 - Manila to Ozamiz City
(via Verde Island Passage, Tablas Strait , N Coast of Panay & Tañon Strait)
CHARTS 4243, 4255, 4214, 4305, 4706, 4410, 4414, 4413, 4428, 4430, 4604 & 4640
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. For vessels going to Ozamiz City, continue from Table 1B. For
vessels going to Manila, follow sailing directions in Table 1D
upon reaching the vicinity of South Channel entrance.
2a. For vessels going to Ozamiz City: Fuego Point, bearing 141o 174 17.1
distant 4.1 miles.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Fuego Point, bearing 150o distant
3.3 miles (True direct course and distance from No. 3). 178 16.8
3. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 142°, distant 10.0 miles. 163/343 5.8
4. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 118°, distant 5.0 miles. 136/316 4.9
5. Cape Santiago Light, bearing 040°, distant 1.5 miles. Direct
course and distance to 6a. Reverse course and distance from 134/125 16.7/15.3
6b.
6a. For vessels going to Ozamiz City: West Peak (1003 ft),
Maricaban Island, bearing 010o distant 5.7 miles. Continue
course in Table 2A and then continue at 7a.
b. For vessels going to Manila: West Peak (1003 ft), Maricaban
Island bearing 010o distant 3.0 miles True direct course and
distance to No. 5.
7a. For vessels going to Ozamiz City: Highest point of Baco Chico
Island, bearing 270o distant 4.4 miles. Direct course and 136 27.9
distance to No. 8.
b. For vessels going to Manila: Malabrigo Point Light, bearing 340o
distant 5.0 miles. Continue course in Table 2B and then continue
at 6b. True direct course and distance from No. 8. 322 28.4
8. Dumali Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 2.5 miles. 180/000 56.5
9. Sibolon Island Light, (left tangent), bearing 190°, distant 6.2 120/300 20.2
miles.
10. Lapuz-Lapuz Point, (left tangent), bearing 145°, distant 2.9
miles. Chart 4410, 4414. 115/295 33.1
11. Agpa Point bearing 265°, distant 9 miles. Chart 4413, 4405. 180/270 57.8
12. North Gigante Light, bearing 190°, distant 10.2 miles. 122/302 28.2
13. Tanguigui Island Light bearing 225°, distant 3 miles. 165/345 26.3
14. Hagnaya Light, bearing 081o distant 4.5 miles. 205/025 76.7
15. Pescador Island Light, bearing 126°, distant 1.8 miles. 186/006 30.2
16. Liloan Point, bearing 125°, distant 2.4 miles. Chart 4430, 4604. 150/330 71
17. Tabu Point Light, bearing 190°, distant 5.7 miles. 171/351 12.1
18. NE of the 2 leading lights located on Macaniguing Point, bearing
192°, distant 6.5 miles. 186/006 2.6
19. Port Ozamis Light, bearing 250°, distant 3.5 miles. Proceed to
Ozamiz City Pier Chart 4640. various

3-28
 TABLE 27 - Iloilo to Zamboanga
CHARTS 4448, 4708, 4511 & 4645
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Mouth of Iloilo River or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses
to pass 300 yards Northward of Bondulan Point. Chart 4448. various 2.0
2. Bondulan Point, N tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. 224/044 2.1
3. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°; Bondulan Point,
bearing 049°. 185.5/005.5 0.7
4. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°; Bondulan Point,
bearing 036°. 216/036 11.3
5. Lusaran Light, bearing 090°, distant 2.9 miles. Chart 4708. 189.5/009.5 206
6. Batorampon Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4511. 165/345 7.4
7. San Ramon Penal Colony, bearing 075°, distant 1.1 miles. 148/328 3.0
8. Caldera Point, bearing 090°, Santa Cruz Light (F2218), bearing 112.5/292.5 8.8
119°.
9. Zamboanga Light, bearing 036°, distant 0.9 mile. Proceed to
Zamboanga Wharf. Chart 4645.

TABLE 28A - Iloilo to Cebu

CHARTS 4448, 4718, 4447 & 4446
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Mouth of Iloilo River or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses
to pass 300 yards N of Bondulan Point. Chart 4448. various 2.0
2. Bondulan Point, N tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. 224/044 2.1
3. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°; Bondulan Point,
bearing 049°. 185.5/005.5 0.7
4. Molo Church (twin spires), bearing 005 1/2°; Bondulan Point,
bearing 036°. 216/036 11.3
5. Lusaran Light, bearing 090°, distant 2.9 miles. Chart 4718. 189.5/009.5 47.0
6. Matatindoc Point, bearing 090°, distant 4.8 miles. 147.5/327.5 20.0
7. Daog Point, bearing 045°, distant 4 miles. 130/310 35.0
8. Mouth Malbog (2755), bearing 042 1/2°; distant 5 miles. 118/298 8.0
9. Siaton Point on range with Mouth Malbog (2755), distant 2.5
miles from Siaton Point. 084/264 6.0
10. Bonbonon Point, W tangent, bearing 342°, distant 2.3 miles. 050/230 5.0
11. Apo Island Light, bearing 126°, distant 1.3 miles. 029/209 78.0
12. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. Follow the
established TSS on the southern entrance of Cebu Harbor to
reach the wharves. See Chart 4447.

3-29
 TABLE 29B - Iloilo to Cebu via N Coast of Negros Island
CHARTS 4448, 4718, 4405, 4416, 4427, 4447 & 4446
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Mouth of Iloilo River or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses
to pass 0.4 mile Northwestward of Dapdap Point. Chart 4448. various 2.3
2. Dapdap Point S tangent, bearing 135°, distant 0.4 mile. 040/220 2.4
3. Bondulan Point and Iloilo Strait Wharf Cargo Shed on range. 069/249 1.2
4. Dapdap Point and Bondulan Point on range. 090/270 1.0
5. Siete Pecados Light, bearing 036°, distant 0.45 mile. 067/247 0.9
6. Cabugao Point, bearing 247°; Siete Pecados Light, bearing 270°,
distant 0.6 mile. 092/272 1.8
7. Navalas Point, bearing 183°, distant 3 miles. 086/266 5.1
8. Siete Pecados Light bearing 268°; Colau Hill (265), bearing
293°, Chart 4405. 028/208 11.6
9. Stack at Hawaiian Sugar Central, bearing 135 1/2°; Bagalayog
Point, bearing 358° Tomonton Point Shoal Gas Buoy, bearing
129°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4416. 059/239 16.2
10. Payong Point, W tangent, bearing 329°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 048/228 19.2
4405.
11. Baliguian Island Light, bearing 197°, distant 5.6 miles. 061.5/241.5 20.3
12. Tanguingui Light, bearing 061 1/2°, distant 4.0 miles. 090/270 7.6
13. Tanguingui Light, bearing 296°, distant 4.5 miles. 110/290 15.5
14. Chocolate Island Light, bearing 225°, distant 0.8 mile. Follow
the route established between Chocolate Island and Malapascua
Island. Check Chart 4218 for details. various
15. Bogo Harbor Light, bearing 287°, distant 5 miles; Capitancillo
Light, bearing 184°, distant 4.3 miles. Chart 4427. 201/021 4.6
16. Capitancillo Light, bearing 090°, distant 1.4 miles. 180/000 26.0
17. Bagacay Light, bearing 199 1/2°, distant 11 miles; center of
town of Carmen, bearing 295°. 195/015 11.5
18. Bagacay Light, bearing 315 1/2°, distant 1 mile; Chart 4447. 230/050 2.2
19. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. 237/057 1.1
20. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Follow mid-
channel courses. Chart 4446. various 5.0
21. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage.

3-30
 TABLE 30 - Cebu to Zamboanga
CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4718, 4708, 4605, 4511 & 4645
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow the established TSS in the
southern channel of Cebu Harbor. various
2. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. 208/028 64.3
3. Dumaguete Light, bearing 298°, distant 4.5 miles. 190/010 11.6
4. Apo Island Light, bearing 270°, distant 4.4 miles. Chart 4708. 228/048 95.0
5. Coronado Point, bearing 138°, distant 5.0 miles. Chart 4605. 212/032 16.7
6. Duluguin Point, bearing 122°, distant 4.7 miles. 192.5/012.5 41.2
7. Batorampon Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.5 miles. Chart 4511. 165/345 7.4
8. San Ramon Penal Colony, bearing 075°, distant 1.1 miles. 148/328 3.0
9. Caldera Point, bearing 090°; Sta. Cruz Light, bearing 119°. 112.5/292.5 8.7
10. Zamboanga Light, bearing 036°, distant 0.9 mile. Proceed to
Zamboanga Wharf. Chart 4645.

TABLE 31 - Cebu to Surigao

CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4427, 4426, 4425, 4603 & 4629
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses. various
Chart 4446.
2. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Chart 4447. 057/237 1.0
3. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. Chart 4427. 084/264 20.6
4. Pacijan Island Peak (811), bearing 000°. 090/270 6.1
5. Mount Three Peaks (1282), Poro Island, bearing 000°. Chart 110/290 20.0
4426.
6. Canigao Light, bearing 200°, distant 1.4 miles. Chart 4425. 185/005 3.8
* Note-Vessels may also pass through Canigao Channel in
daytime between Tood Island and Adam Reef on course 196°,
heading for Tinuibo Island.
7. Canigao Light, bearing 357°, on range with Mount Bontoc;
Tinuibo Island bearing 232°. 232/052 0.8
8. Canigao Light, bearing 010°, and Tinuibo Island, bearing 232°. 190/010 4.7
9. Tinuibo Island, bearing 270°, distant 5.1 miles. Chart 4603. 114/294 34.4
10. Mount Nilongcapan (2354), Panaon Island, bearing 024°, distant
2.7 miles. Steer for Mt. Conico (1100), Nonoc Island. 096.5/276.5 7.7
11. Basol Island on range with Telegraph Mountain (827), on
Bayagnan Island; Mt. Conico, bearing 096 1/2°. 112/292 3.9
12. Basol Island, bearing 112°, distant 2.8 miles; Bilas Point bearing
180°, distant 2 miles. Chart 4629. 132/312 5.9
13. Surigao Light, bearing 226°, distant 0.5 mile. various 0.7
14. Surigao Wharf or anchorage.

3-31
 TABLE 32 - Cebu to Tacloban
CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4427, 4426, 4425, 4603 & 4629
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses. various
Chart 4446.
2. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Chart 4447. 057/237 1.0
3. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. Chart 4427. 084/264 20.6
4. Pacijan Island Peak (811), bearing 000°. 090/270 6.1
5. Mount Three Peaks (1282), Poro Island, bearing 000°. Chart 110/290 20.0
4426.
6. Canigao Light, bearing 200°, distant 1.4 miles. Chart 4425. 185/005 3.8
* Note-Vessels may also pass through Canigao Channel in
daytime between Tood Island and Adam Reef on course 196°,
heading for Tinuibo Island.
7. Canigao Light, bearing 357°, on range with Mount Bontoc;
Tinuibo Island bearing 232°. 232/052 0.8
8. Canigao Light, bearing 010°, and Tinuibo Island, bearing 232°. 190/010 4.7
9. Tinuibo Island, bearing 270°, distant 5.1 miles. Chart 4603. 114/294 34.4
10. Mount Nelangcapan (2354), Panaon Island, bearing 024°,
distant 2.7 miles. Chart 4603. 090/270 2.8
11. Bolobolo Point, bearing 000°, distant 2.0 miles. 043/223 3.1
12. Bolobolo Point, bearing 270°, distant 2.0 miles. 356/176 28.4
13. Pandan Point, bearing 000°, distant 3.8 miles. Chart 4424. 336/156 19.6
14. Taytay Point, bearing 270°, distant 3.0 miles. Pass 1.6 miles W
of Mariquitdaquit Island. Chart 4423. 354/174 24.8
15. Mariquitdaquit Light, bearing 140°, distant 2.8 miles; Mount
Guinhandang bearing 294°, Chart 4468. 294/114 3.4
16. Vigia Point, Mount Tolosa (384) bearing 209°, distant 4.3 miles. 355/175 5.2
17. Dio Island, bearing 270°, distant 1.0 mile; Basey Church 004/184 1.9
bearing 004°.
18. Jinamoc Light, bearing 043°, distant 0.8 mile. Steer for Catinic 307/127 1.0
point.
19. Jinamoc Light, bearing 089°, distant 1.3 miles, pass between
buoys “2” and ‘5”. 269/089 2.9
20. Tacloban Light, bearing 180°, distant 0.3 mile. Proceed to
Tacloban Wharf or anchorage.

TABLE 33 - Cebu to Cagayan de Oro

CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4429, 4708 & 4639
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow the established TSS in the
southern channel of Cebu Harbor. various
2. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. 204/024 22.2
3. Baluarte Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.4 miles. Pass 1.5 miles
W of Balicasag Light. 192/012 23.9
4. Balicasag Light, bearing 060°, distant 2.0 miles. Chart 4708. 134/314 84.7
5. Macabalan Point Light, bearing 225°, distant 1.0 mile. various 1.3
6. Cagayan de Oro Wharf or anchorage. Chart 4639.

3-32
 TABLE 34 - Cebu to Iligan
CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4429, 4708 & 4639
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow the established TSS in the
southern channel of Cebu Harbor. various
2. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. 204/024 22.2
3. Baluarte Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.4 miles. Pass 1.5 miles W
of Balicasag Light. 192/012 23.9
4. Balicasag Light, bearing 060°, distant 2.0 miles. Chart 4708. 156/336 84.0
5. Iligan Light, bearing 105°, distant 0.5 mile. Chart 4639. various 0.4
6. Iligan Wharf.

TABLE 35 - Cebu to Nasipit

CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4427, 4426, 4429, 4430 & 4466
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses. various
Chart 4446.
2. Bantolinao Light (F2400), bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. 057/237 1.0
Chart 4447.
3. Bantolinao Light (F2400), bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. Chart 084/264 20.6
4427.
4. Pacijan Island Peak (811), bearing 000°. 090/270 6.1
5. Mount Three Peaks (1282), Poro Island, bearing 000°. Chart 110/290 20.0
4426.
6. Canigao Light (F2434), bearing 200°, distant 1.4 miles. Chart 185/005 3.8
4425.
* Note-Vessels may also pass through Canigao Channel in
daytime between Tood Island and Adam Reef on course 196°,
heading for Tinuibo Island.
7. Canigao Light (F2434), bearing 357°, on range with Mount
Bontoc; Tinuibo Island bearing 232°. 232/052 0.8
8. Canigao Light (F2434), bearing 010°, and Tinuibo Island, 190/010 4.7
bearing 232°.
9. Tinuibo Island, bearing 270°, distant 5.1 miles. Chart 4603. 114/294 34.4
10. Mt. Nelangcapan (2354 ft.) Panaon Island, bearing 024°, distant
2.7 miles. Chart 4603. 164/344 45.0
11. Cabadbaran Light (F2254), bearing 122°, distant 4.7 miles;
Nasipit Harbor Light (F2258), bearing 215°, distant 13.0 miles. 215/035 13.5
12. Nasipit Harbor Light (F2258), bearing 215°, distant 0.4 mile;
Rocky bluff on W side of entrance, bearing 345°; Marker bears 167/347 0.2
104°.
13. Pier or Anchorage.

3-33
 TABLE 36 - Cebu to Larena
CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4429, 4430 & 4466
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow the established TSS in the
southern channel of Cebu Harbor. various
2. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. 204/024 22.2
3. Baluarte Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.4 miles. Pass 1.5 miles
W of Balicasag Light. 192/012 23.9
4. Balicasag Light, bearing 060°, distant 2.0 miles; Pass 1.0 mile
W of Sandugan Pt. Chart 4430. 199/019 16.2
5. Sandugan Pt., bearing 037°, distant 3.0 miles; Range lights in 115/295 1.4
range.
6. Larena Pier or Anchorage.

TABLE 37 - Cebu to Tagbilaran

CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4429 & 4429A
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow the established TSS in the
southern channel of Cebu Harbor. various
2. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. 205/025 22.3
3. Baluarte Point, bearing 090°, distant 1.7 miles. Pass 1.0 mile W
of Cruz Point. Chart 4429. 165/345 0.7
4. Cruz Point, bearing 090°, distant 10.0 mile. Pass 0.1 mile W
Tagbilaran Entrance Light. Chart 4429-A. 147/327 5.5
5. Tagbilaran Entrance Light, bearing 090°, distant 0.1 mile.
Bamboo poles bearing 152°, distant 0.1 mile. Steer towards
middle of Beacon 7 and Beacon 8. Chart 4429-A. 120/320 0.9
6. Middle of Beacon 7 and Beacon 8. Proceed to Tagbilaran Pier or
Anchorage.

TABLE 38 - Cebu to Getafe

CHARTS 4446, 4447 & 4429
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow the established TSS in the
southern channel of Cebu Harbor. various
2. Lauis Ledge Light, bearing 037°, distant 0.5 mile. 120/300 6.9
3. Hilutangan Island (W tangent), bearing 000°, distant 2.1 miles. 075/255 3.3
4. Cabulan Island (W tangent), bearing 180°, distant 1.3 miles. 116.5/296.5 4.1
5. Cabulan Island (S tangent), bearing 270°, distant 3.5 miles;
Getafe Point bearing 090°. 087/267 3.3
6. Getafe Pier or Anchorage.

3-34
 TABLE 39 - Cebu to Bislig
CHARTS 4664, 4627, 4628, 4629, 4603, 4425, 4426, 4427, 4447 & 4446
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorages. Follow mid-channel courses. various
Chart 4446.
2. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Chart 4447. 057/237 1.0
3. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. Chart 4427. 084/264 20.6
4. Pacijan Island Peak (811), bearing 000°. 090/270 6.1
5. Mount Three Peaks (1282), Poro Island, bearing 000°. Chart 110/290 20.0
4426.
6. Canigao Light, bearing 200°, distant 1.4 miles. Chart 4425. 185/005 3.8
* Note-Vessels may also pass through Canigao Channel in
daytime between Tood Island and Adam Reef on course 196°,
heading for Tinuibo Island.
7. Canigao Light, bearing 357°, on range with Mount Bontoc;
Tinuibo Island bearing 232°. 232/052 0.8
8. Canigao Light, bearing 010°, and Tinuibo Island, bearing 232°. 190/010 4.7
9. Tinuibo Island, bearing 270°, distant 5.1 miles. Chart 4603. 114/294 34.4
10. Mt. Nelangcapan (2354 ft.) Panaon Island, bearing 024° distant
2.7 miles; Steer for Mt. Conico (1100 ft.) Nonoc Island. 096.5/276.5 20.0
11. Basol Island (E tangent) bearing 180°, distant 1.7 miles; Mt.
Conico, bearing 096.5°. Steer for Rasa Island Light. Chart 125/305 7.3
4629.
12. Bilaan Point, bearing 272°, haul southward to pass 0.5 to 0.8
mile westward of the light, and rounding it at about the same
distance. Steer north-easterly mid-channel courses. various 5.5
13. Rasa Island Light, bearing 246°, distant 3.9 miles; Bitogon
Point, Bayagnan Island, bearing 200°. Steer for middle of Banug 137/317 22.5
Strait.
* Note: Vessel drawing more than 15 ft. (4.6 m) should make
a slight deviation on this course to avoid Hinatuan Rock, an
unmarked rock with a depth of 3 1/2 fathom (6.4 m)
14. Amaga Islet, in range with Dahakit Point Light, Chart 4628. 127/307 23.5
15. Cauit Point Light, bearing 270°, distant 1.0 mile. 160/340 27.2
16. Arangasa Island Light, bearing 270°, distant 2.4 miles. Chart 169/349 20.4
4627.
17. Bakulin Point (N tangent) bearing 274°, distant 5.3miles. 180/000 15.7
18. Beacon “A” and Beacon “B” in range, bearing 204°, Beacon 15,
bearing 180°. Chart 4664. 204/024 1.4
19. Red Nun Buoy in range with Beacon 15, distant 0.2 mile; Pass
200 m. NW of Black Nun Buoy. 230/050 5.4
20. Bislig Pier or Anchorage.

3-35
 TABLE 40 - Cebu to Dapa
CHARTS 4446, 4447, 4427, 4426, 4425, 4603, 4629 & 4638
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Cebu Wharves or Anchorage. Follow mid-channel courses. various
Chart 4446.
2. Bantolinao Light, bearing 180°, distant 250 yards. Chart 4447. 057/237 1.0
3. Bantolinao Light, bearing 232°, distant 1.2 miles. Chart 4427. 084/264 20.6
4. Pacijan Island Peak (811), bearing 000°. 090/270 6.1
5. Mount Three Peaks (1282), Poro Island, bearing 000°. Chart 110/290 20.0
4426.
6. Canigao Light, bearing 200°, distant 1.4 miles. Chart 4425. 185/005 3.8
* Note-Vessels may also pass through Canigao Channel in
daytime between Tood Island and Adam Reef on course 196°,
heading for Tinuibo Island.
7. Canigao Light, bearing 357°, on range with Mount Bontoc;
Tinuibo Island bearing 232°. 232/052 0.8
8. Canigao Light, bearing 010°, and Tinuibo Island, bearing 232°. 190/010 4.7
9. Tinuibo Island, bearing 270°, distant 5.1 miles. Chart 4603. 114/294 34.4
10. Mt. Nelangcapan (2354) Panaon Island, bearing 024°, distant
2.7 miles. Steer for Mt. Conico, (1100), Nonoc Island. 096.5/276.5 1.0
11. Basol Island (E tangent) bearing 180°, distant 1.7 miles Mt.
Conico bearing 096 1/2°. Steer for Rasa Island Light, Chart 125/305 7.3
4629.
12. Bilaa Point, bearing 272°, haul southward to pass 0.5 to 0.8
mile westward of the light, and rounding it at about the same various 5.5
distance, steer north-easterly mid-channel courses.
13. Rasa Island Light, bearing 247°, distant 3.4 miles; Bitogan
Point, Bayagnan Island, bearing 180°. 084/264 4.7
14. Rasa Island Light, bearing 257°, distant 8.0 miles; Belisan Point
bearing 180°, Hinatuan Island. 104/284 17.5
15. Mt. Sibonga, Middle Bucas Island bearing 180°, distant 3.0
miles; San Miguel Point East Bucas Island bearing 121° Chart 110/290 2.0
4638.
16. San Miguel Point, bearing 202°, distant 0.3 mile; Mt. Sibonga
bearing 219°. 060/240 0.3
17. Middle of entrance to channel between Cambasac and Abanay
Island. Follow mid-channel courses towards Dapa Pier. various 1.7

TABLE 41 - Aparri to Basco

CHARTS 4260, 4229 & 4204
True Course Distance
Position Direct/Reverse Nautical Miles
Degrees
1. Linao Light, bearing 271° , distant 1.8 miles. Chart 4260 and
4229. Midway between two opposite buoys at river entrance. 000/180 67.2
2. Panuitan Island, highest peak (479), bearing 270°, distant 6.7
miles. Chart 4204. 008/188 55.5
3. Dequey Island, westernmost tip, bearing 329°, distant 1.5 063/245 13.0
miles.
4. Basco Church, bearing 063°, distant 1.0 mile. various
5. Anchorage.

3-36
 CHAPTER 4
THE ISLANDS AND CHANNELS NORTH OF LUZON
TAIWAN (FORMOSA) ISLAND
O-LUAN PI, previously mentioned as Garan Bi,
Goaram Pii or South Cape, and the S extremity of the island 5
of Taiwan, is the usual landfall of N bound vessels from the
Philippines. It is marked by the O-Luan Pi Light (21° 54’
06”N., 120° 51’ 10”E.) located on a white tower. An isolated
rock, with deep water around, stands up boldly close to the
SE point. At 6 miles NW of the cape is a peculiarly rugged 10
hill 327 m (1,073 ft) high, from which the land slopes down
gradually to the cape. The hill, with the exception of a few
clearings, is densely wooded. Further N is a double-peaked
mountain about 670 m (2,200 ft) high.
15
In answer to a vessel’s fog signal, 2 guns are fired with
an interval of 3 minutes between them. If the vessel’s fog
signal is still heard, the firing is repeated after an interval
of 8 minutes.
20
CH’I-HSING CHIAO (21 46’N., 120 49’E.),
o o
formerly called Shichisei Seki or Vele Rete Rocks, about 8.2
miles SSW of O-luan Pi are a group of rocks about 1 mile in
extent, above and below water. The 3 highest rocks, lying NW 25
and SE from each other, are 4.6 to 7.6 m (15 to 25 ft) high.
The depths near the rocks are from 71.3 to 142.6 m (39 to
78 fm) except off the S side, where at a distance of 0.5 mile
the depths are 31.1 m (17 fm). In bad weather, the sea breaks
heavily over these rocks. The channel between the rocks and 30
Taiwan is safe, but very heavy tide rips, resembling the sea
breaking over a shoal, are frequently observed throughout
the channel.
BASHI CHANNEL is between the Batan Islands and
the Island of Taiwan. This channel is frequently used by
sailing vessels when making the E passage to China and
Manila and sometimes by vessels trading between the United
States, Japan and Manila It is 53 miles wide NNW starting
from Mavulis (Y’ami) Island of the Batan Group to Hsiao-lan
Yu (21o 57.5’N., 121o 37.0’E.), previously called Sho Antau
Su or Little Botel Tobago Island, but its navigable width is
much contracted by the dangerous Kao-t’ai Shih (formerly
mentioned as Gadd Rock), which must be remembered when
sea room is necessary to avoid the track of a typhoon.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present in Bashi Channel. Anchoring, trawling, use of
explosives, and other activities that may harm the submarine
cables are strictly prohibited.
KAO-T’AI SHIH (21 o 43.7’N., 121 o 37.2’E.),
previously called Gadd Rock, is 13.6 miles S of Hsiao-lan
Yu (or Sho Antau Su) and in the fairway of Bashi Channel
is about 92 m across, with a least depth of 2.7 m (8.9 ft), and
55 to 73 m (180 to 240 ft) closed around, deepening to 126
and 232 m (414 to 762 ft) within 1 mile. A dangerous wreck
was reported on the N side of the rock with approximate
position 21°44.1›N., 121°37.4›E.
The sea probably breaks at low water, but the locality
is generally covered by violent tide rips and swirls, which
extend more or less 45 miles W, near or within Ch’i-hsing
Chiao. These indications of its position are not always visible,
and the vicinity of this danger should, therefore, be avoided.

Dangers - An 28 m (15.3 fm) isolated shoal, which the
existence is doubtful, is about 17.3 miles 160o of Ch’i-hsing
Chiao. About 27 miles SSW of O-luan Pi lies a detached
shoal with a depth of 24 m (74 ft). This was also the breaker
reported in 1927.
About 40 miles S of O-luan Pi is the central point of
numerous shoals which are scattered to a radius of 8 miles.
The area includes 2 banks with depths of less than 92 m (50.3
fm). A depth of 12.8 m (7 fm) was in the center of the area
and about 4.6 miles S of it lies a depth of 40 m (21.9 fm).
Shoal spots reported in 1965 showed a least depth of 16.4
m (9 fm) and 10.9 m (6 fm) about 4.3 miles WNW and 6.7
miles W, respectively, from the center.
LUZON STRAIT, located between the islands of
Taiwan and Luzon, connects the Philippine Sea and the West
Philippine Sea. It is composed of channels located around
the island groups N of Luzon.
35 Heavy overfalls and discolored water have been
observed about 11 miles S of Kao-t’ai Shih. A sounding of
7.6 m (25 ft) was reported in November 1961 about 10 miles
off Kao-t’ai Shih (Gadd Rock), but the bottom could not be
seen from aloft. From this, it seems probable that tide rips
40 and swirls extend S of Kao-t’ai Shih as well as W toward
Ch’i-hsing Chiao. Breakers have also been reported about
7 miles NW of this position. Breakers were also reported
in 1937 in approximate latitude 20o 07’ N., longitude 119o
28’E., in the China Sea approach to Luzon Strait.
45
THE BATANES ISLANDS
(CHARTS 4205 & 1506)
50
This group of islands is the country’s smallest province
and lies N of the Babuyan Islands. It consists of a chain
of islands extending S to N from latitude 20o 15.7’N. to
21o07.4’N., covering a distance of about 51.5 miles. The
physical characteristics of the larger islands indicate volcanic
55
origin while the smaller and generally low isles were of

4-1
coral formation. Earthquakes are frequent and typhoons are During the SW monsoon, a N current with a velocity of 1
at times extremely severe. to 3 knots in open areas, is reported to prevail in Luzon Strait.
Near the islands, his current is diverted and becomes erratic
in the passes between them. During the NE monsoon, the
Itbayat, Batan, and Sabtang are the 3 most significant
current sets in a general westerly direction through the strait.
islands in the Batanes Islands Group as they represent, in 5
their respective order, the biggest in terms of land area.
They are mountainous, with intervening valleys and plains Marine Protected Area - Various environmental laws
sloping to the shore and well-watered by small rivers. The proclaimed the whole province and surrounding seas as a
smaller islands are generally low and they rest on coral protected area. Hunting and disturbing of any wild plants
foundations. The climate of these islands is noted for its 10 or animals; engaging in commercial fishing within the
salubrity. The inhabitants call themselves Ivatans. They municipal waters; and fishing with the use of explosives,
possess many features akin to those ethnics from Taiwan, noxious substances, electricity or very fine fishnets are
and their peculiar language increases their exclusiveness. strictly prohibited.
This has been strengthened by the ocean currents and
consequent difficulties of intercourse with the mainland of 15
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact the
Luzon southward.
remotely controlled coast station with VHF DSC alerting in
Basco. The VHF DSC alerting system covers all the major
The chief industry is raising cattle, hogs, horses, islands of Batanes. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas
and goats, which grow to a large size and are sometimes 20 map in Chapter 2 for details.
exported to the mainland, on account of their superior quality.
Agriculture provides a major source of livelihood. Fishing
MAVULIS ISLAND, formerly named as Y’ami or
can only commence during the months of March to June
Amianan, is the northernmost known island of the Batan
when the sea is relatively calm.
Group. It is about 1.08 miles long in its N-S alignment with
25
an area of about 1.27 sq km and a peak of 219 m (719 ft). A
Communications - The 6 municipalities of Batanes, one storey fishermen's shelter and military barracks, painted
namely Basco, Mahatao, Ivana, Uyugan, Itbayat, and white, is on the island. Soldiers are stationed on the island.
Sabtang, have each own postal office. Since there is not much
volume received, the provincial post office in Basco sends
Major Light - Mavulis (Y’ami) Light (21° 07’ 04”N.,
out from the province letters and parcels only once per week. 30
121° 56’ 51”E.) is near the N end of Mavulis Island.
Mobile phone communication is available.

Some small islets, with rocks the highest being about 9.1
Air transportation is available between Basco and
m (30 ft) above water, lie close off its NE point. Detached
Manila. There are also flights between Tuguegarao City and 35
shoals with varying depths ranging from 22 m (12 fm) to 53
Basco, but subject to number of passengers or cargo load to
m (29 fm) exist NNW of the island starting 1.6 miles up to
and from Tuguegarao. Sea surface navigation is abundant for
5 miles away. A lone islet, formerly unnamed, is now called
cargoes and passengers alike using motorized boats. Cargoes
as Tomarok Island at 70.7 m (232 ft) high and lies about
usually ply their trade for Manila and Aparri. Passenger
0.3 miles W of the S end of Mavulis. A wreck, with 650 m
vessels ply between Basco and Itbayat from Monday to 40
of water over it, is located about 1.2 miles NE of the light
Saturday. Sea travel to Sabtang is available by motor bancas
on Mavulis Island.
in the town of Ivana.

MISANGA ISLAND, formerly known as North Island,

Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables, details
lies 2.2 miles SSW of Mavulis Island. It is about 268.5 m
of which may be best referred to the charts, pass between the 45
(881 ft) high and is steep except off its E side where 3 small
islands. Majority of the submarine cables are concentrated
islets (one of them 41 m (135 ft) high) and some rocks are
in Luzon Strait and Balintang Channel. Anchoring, trawling,
scattered less than 0.2 mile away from the shore. Another
use of explosives, and other activities that may harm the
rock above-water lies off the western extremity of the island.
submarine cables are strictly prohibited.
50 A rock 1.8 m (6 ft) high exists 0.2 mile off the island’s NE
extremity. The channel between Mavulis and Misanga Islands
Currents - The tidal current at flood sets W into the is safe and has a least depth of 48 m (26.2 fm) in the fairway
China Sea from the Pacific and the ebb E. They attain a with bottom characteristics of either rocks or corals.
strength of 5.5 knots at the NE and SW ends of the Batan
Islands Group. The local currents among the islands are 55
D'TAREM ISLAND, formerly known as Mabudis
greatly confused; inshore and offshore currents are frequently
Island, is 7.5 miles S of Misanga Island. It is about 1.3 miles
opposite in direction under similar tide. Weather conditions
long in a NW and SE direction. It is 231 m (758 ft) high and
and strong tide rips and swirls are found near the islands
steep-to. From the N side of the island is a reef containing
and shoals.
above-water rocks nearly 0.5 mile NE.
60

4-2
 The channel between it and Misanga Island is wide and
free from danger with the exception of a 10.6 m (5.8 fm)
shoal, 4.7 miles 215o from Misanga Island. This shoal is a
narrow sand ridge extending in a NW-SE direction along the
SW edge of a bank running in the same direction. The area
of the bank having a depth of less than 100 m (54.7 fm) is 2
miles long and 0.8 mile wide.
Currents - Heavy tide rips occur along the edge of the
bank even in fine weather, except at or near slack water.
The current sets N toward the shoal and the ebb set ESE.
Maximum strength of current occurs about 5 hours after the
high and low waters. Flood currents predominate. When the
moon is near its maximum N or S declination, the ebb current
following the higher high water is usually strong, attaining
a velocity of 5 knots.
A'LI ISLAND, formerly known as Maysanga Island, is
about 0.3 mile WSW off the W shore of Mabudis Island with
an elevation of about 31 m (102 ft). The water area between
this island and Mabudis is a foul ground. A detached rock,
about 20 m (66 ft) high, lies a short distance S of this island.
SIAYAN ISLAND, about 1.5 miles S-SW of D'tarem 25
Island, is about 0.5 mile in diameter with a hill 165.5 m (543
ft) high in the SE part. Several detached rocks off its NE
side render the channel between it and Mabudis unsafe. A
shoal with a depth of 23.5 m (12.8 fm) lies about 1.5 miles
30
SE of the island.
ITBAYAT ISLAND, the largest of the group, is 4.5
miles SSW of Siayan and 16 miles NNW of Batan. It is
about 9.5 miles long in a NNE and opposite direction, and
has an area of 33 sq miles. There is a radio station, postal
services, and mobile phone communication. An airport,
with irregular flights to Basco, is located at the S part of the
island. The government maintains a district hospital with a
physician-in-charge.
Mount Santa Rosa, at the N end, is 278.6 m (914 ft)
high, and Mount Riposet, in the SE part, is 230 m (755 ft)
Batan Islands (looking SW from a position about 30 miles of Diogo Island)
Batan Islands (looking eastward from a position about 30 miles westward of North Island)
high. The island presents a barren outline from the sea. The
interior, however, is highly cultivated and exhibits many
patches of good timber trees. The entire shoreline is formed
by rugged steep cliffs with no beaches or any protected
5 anchorage.
There are 4 places where landings can be made in
favorable weather. The landing on the E coast is about 1mile
NE of Mt. Riposet. Mauyen, at the SW extremity of the
10
island, and Chinapuliran and Mayan landings are about 0.8
mile apart on the NW coast. The landings on the W shore
have steps cut in stone leading up the steep cliff to the trail
and into the interior of the island.
15
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Itbayat
Island may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5856231 and +63917-8050468.
20
The channel between Itbayat Island and Siayan Island is
deep and clear of dangers, but a shoal, with a least depth of
23.5 m (12.8 fm), lies about 1.5 miles SE of Siayan Island.
The currents are strong in this area and rips are prevalent.
DI’NEM ISLAND, formerly known as Diogo Island,
is a small, somewhat round island about 513 m (1,683 ft)
high and 0.8 mile in diameter, 4 miles SE of Itbayat Island.
It is steep-to on the W side but from the NW rounding
clockwise to SE, it has several islets lying off, counted at
about 11 in numbers, with the outermost being nearly 0.15
mile distant. In 1903, Di’nem Island was observed to be
volcanic, discharging vapor and a dark material. It has several
small islets lying off the E side, the outermost being nearly
35 0.15 mile distant.
The channel between Di'nem Island and Itbayat Island
is deep and clear of dangers, but the currents are reported
to be strong.
40
Caution - A small bank, with a least depth of 12 m (6.6
fm), lies about 6.3 miles SE of Di'nem Island.
4-3
 BATAN ISLAND is the 2nd in size and the most
important of the group. MOUNT IRADA, apparently an old
volcano, thickly covered with trees, is at the NE end of the
island and 1,008 m (3,306 ft) high. The rest of the island is
mountainous and has several broad cultivated spots. There
are 4 municipalities and several villages. Imnajbu Point Light
(20° 22’ 12”N., 121° 58’ 06”E.), shown on the S part of the
island, is reported extinguished since 2009.
Tumaruk Rock is 38.7 m (127 ft) high and lies NE and
about 0.2 mile from the shore. A sunken wreck with unknown
depth, thought of as the Thai vessel M.V. Keung, is about
0.1 mile from the N coast and 1 mile NW from the rock.
Caution - Off-lying banks having least depths of 45
m (24.6 fm) and 126 m (68.9 fm), lie 6 miles W and WNW
respectively, of Batan Island, and farther at 23 miles away
W, there exists a depth of 138 m (75.5 fm).
BASCO (CHART 4280), the most important town
and the capital of Batanes Province, is on the W side of the
island, at the foot of Mount Irada. The houses are mostly
built of stones. The church and other government buildings
are prominent from the sea. Commercial ships from Manila 25
and Aparri call at Basco and the neighboring islands. Trade
and commerce consist mainly of products from the sea, like
edible fish, and other cargoes such as garlic, fuel, bottled
goods, rice, and cement. There is a post office, mobile phone
communication and internet connections. The 4 important 30
settlements of Mahatao, Ivana, Uyugan and Itbud are
connected by good roads. The Basco Airport is about 1 km E
of the town. Airmail and air passenger service are maintained
with Manila and Tuguegarao City. Batanes General Hospital
is being operated by the government. Basco has electricity 35
and a water system.
Typhoon Warning Signals visible from the anchorage
are displayed at the PAGASA Station.
Major Light - Basco Light (20° 27’ 05”N., 121° 57’
51”E.) is displayed from a white tower with dwelling located
about 500 m W of the church.
Distress & Rescue – The Coast Guard station in Basco
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5856229 and
+63917-8012545.
Berthing Facilities - There is a 50 m concrete pier
connected by a causeway to the head of Baluarte Bay having
a berthing head of 18 m and alongside depths of 3 to 4 m.
Pilotage - There is no regular pilot. Persons with local
knowledge of the islands may be employed as guides.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available
within the port. Bunkering services are available from
4-4
tankers.
Anchorage - There is an anchorage off Basco, the best
berth being off the N point of BALUARTE BAY, with the
5
convent barely open and the church bearing 060o, in 23.8 m
(13 fm), fine coral sand bottom. This, however, is not very
secure from the N wind. Anchorage for small vessels may
also be had closer in, about 0.1 mile offshore in 10.1 m (5.5
fm), fine sand bottom, with the S part of the town and the
10
SE foot of Mount Irada in line, bearing 090o. Although the
holding ground is good, this bay can be resorted to only in
the NE monsoon season.
15 MAHATAO (SAN CARLOS), a town 0.8 mile S of
Chawa Point, is the best place for obtaining a supply of water,
but this position is exposed, and watering can only be effected
in fine weather. The passage through the reef, however, is
quite safe for the largest pulling boats, which may land on a
20 sandy beach. This passage has been cut to admit schooners
of 50 tons, which are generally hauled up when they arrive
from Manila with the first onset of the SW monsoon. The
church, with white facade, and other buildings are prominent.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a wharf which is
partially protected by 2 breakwaters.
Anchorage - During inclement weather, vessels may
anchor between the mainland and the island located 0.3 mile
N of the church. A causeway, connecting the island to the
mainland, protects the anchorage from the N.
SAN VICENTE, a barrio of IVANA, and the landing
place for that town. Anchorage may be had off this barrio
but it should not be resorted to as it is very confined, with
sandy bottom close to the reefs, and must be left the moment
a N wind threatens. Several vessels have been driven off
and, being unable to weigh their anchors, have had to cut or
40
slip. A channel, in which there is a depth of 0.9 m (0.4 fm),
has been cut through the coral reef to facilitate the landing
of small boats. The church and other concrete buildings are
prominent. A 50 m concrete pier extends W from the barrio.
45
UYUGAN (SAN ANTONIO), a town about 1 mile E
of Mavien Point. Anchorage may be had in 14.6 m (8 fm),
about 0.1 mile offshore, with the church bearing 045o. The
church at Uyugan is partly obscured by trees and only the
50 top is visible. A channel 10 m wide and 100 m long, with a
depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) has been cut through the coral reef
for the use of small boats.
BALUGAN BAY, known as PORT CONTRA COSTA
55
(CHART 4280), is the N of the two large bays on the E side
of the island of Batan. It affords good sheltered anchorage
during the SW monsoon and vessels anchor here when it is
impossible to call at Basco due to rough seas at that place.
Desquid Point, the S side of the bay, is a prominent black buff,
60
S from which is a group of high rocks. A submerged pinnacle
rock on which there is depth of 3.7 m (2 fm) surrounded
by depths of 7.3 to 12.8 m (4 to 7 fm) is 198 m, 035o from
Desquid Point. Another detached rock with a least depth of
1.8 m (1 fm) lies about 0.4 mile SSE of the same point. The
beach at the landing, under the gap in the hills, is composed
of small water-worn rocks, slopes abruptly, and has 0.9 to
1.2 m (0.5 to 0.7 fm) of water close-to. From the landing,
a road leads to the town of Basco, about 1.2 miles distant.
Directions - Approaching from the N, round the N end
of the island at a distance of about 0.5 mile and steer for
the prominent black bluff on the S entrance point until a
conspicuous gap in the hills W bears 285o, when it should
be steered for the anchorage in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm)
rocky bottom, will be found about 0.5 mile from shore; from
this anchorage, the group of rocks S of the bluff will be just
open of it, bearing 217o.
MANANIOY BAY, S of Balugan Bay, affords 20
anchorage sheltered from W winds. It is impossible to land
anything in Mananioy Bay as the shore rises perpendicularly
to a height of about 46 m (150 ft). The village of Diura
(Riacoyde) is at the head of the bay.
25 +63917-8427902.
Major Light - Mahatao Light (20° 24’ 08”N., 121° 57’
33”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the head of the bay.
SABTANG ISLAND is separated from the SW end of 30
Batan by a safe channel about 2.3 miles wide, through which
the tidal currents run with velocity of 5 to 6 knots, the flood
setting SE and the ebb NW. Heavy tide rips are found off the
SE entrance to the channel during spring tide ebb currents.
Off the N end of Sabtang are 2 rocky ledges with a passage 35
between them of 18.3 to 25.6 m (10 to 14 fm). These rocks
have only 0.9 m (3 ft) of water on them at spring tides.
Between them and Sabtang is a deep channel 0.5 mile wide.
Sabtang is rugged and has numerous high, steep peaks and
serrated ridges. A coral reef fronts the whole coast except at 40
a few places where cliffs are at the water’s edge.
There are no facilities for watering. The stream from
the rivulet inside the SW point of Sabtang, entering at the
coral beach just N of LUUTAN Point near the barrio of 45
SUMNANGA (SAN LUIS), is at least 91 m (100 yds) from
where boats could float. This is the only landing place as
the shores on both sides of Sabtang Channel are bordered
by reefs, but in some of the gaps the local small boats can
50
pass through during fine weather.
Caution - A detached rocky ledge at 3.2 m (1.75 fm)
depth over it lies 0.8 mile N of Natao Point, the N extremity
of the island, and at 1.25 miles distance N another detached
Balintang Channel (looking SW from a position about 15 miles eastward of Balintang Islands)
rocky ledge exists having a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) over it. In
1962, a bank with a depth of 16.9 m (9.25 fm) was reported
to lie about 4 miles SW of the S end of the island.
5
SABTANG (SAN VICENTE) (CHART 4280) is the
town on the NE side of the island. Most of the buildings
are built of stones. The church and government buildings
are prominent. Two radio towers stand on the hills located
E and W of the town. Postal service and mobile phone
10
communication are available in the town.
Trading is maintained with Basco and Ivana towns
for commodities like fuel, bottled goods, rice and cement.
15 Passengers travel back and forth between Ivana, Mahatao,
and Basco. Drinking water in the town is good.
Major Light - Sabtang North Light (20° 20’ 20”N.,
121° 52’ 19”E.) is displayed from a prominent tower on
Asked Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Sabtang
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5856233 and
Berthing Facility - A wharf, which is enclosed by
breakwaters, serves as port of call for the town. It can only
accommodate passenger boats. A channel cut through the
reef facilitates entry to the wharf.
Anchorage - Good sheltered anchorage during the
SW monsoon may be found off the town, with the church
bearing 225o, in 18.3 to 21.9 m (10 to 12 fm), sand bottom.
The depths decrease gradually from 27.4 m (15 fm) about
0.5 mile offshore to 11 to 14.6 m (6 to 8 fm), about 137 m
(150 yds) from the beach.
IBUHOS ISLAND is small and rather low, except a hill
on the S end, where there is a settlement. It is separated from
the W side of Sabtang by Sabtang Channel, a deep channel
nearly 1 mile wide, which affords indifferent anchorage in
18.3 m (10 fm) rocky bottom with sandy patches, with the
center of Ibuhos Island bearing 255o. A reef fringes the E side
of the island up to about 0.75 mile offshore, but the rest of
the island is fairly steep-to, with the fringing dangers within
about 0.3 mile offshore. A wreck with unknown depth lies on
the NW coast of the island. The flood current through Sabtang
Channel sets S with a velocity of 3 or 4 knots, and the ebb N.
DEQUEY ISLAND, very small and rather low, is nearly
0.5 mile W of the NW point of Ibuhos Island. Depths of 20.1
55 m (11 fm) and 25.6 m (14 fm) could be found in the fairway.
4-5
Dangers fringing the island are contained within the 18.3 m
(10 fm) curve, which lies as far as 0.5 mile offshore. It is
clear W and can be approached within a mile with safety, but
has a very strong tide rip setting N on its SW side.
DIRECTIONS - As the current sets strongly S through
IBUHOS CHANNEL between the above islands during the
NE monsoon, it is advisable for a sailing vessel to work W
round Dequey and not to cross the channel between Batan and
Sabtang until the dividing neck of Mahatao (San Carlos) is 10
clearly open, bearing ESE, as the stream, splitting at Mabatui
Point sends one current S; the other, which is an eddy, is
favorable from thence NE to Basco.
Sailing vessels bound to this latter anchorage work
up the NW angle of the island until the wind is free to run
down, and when round-to with all aback, anchor in 21.9
m (12 fm); then sheer and drop the other anchor in 45.8 m
(25 fm), which will afford sufficient room to weigh. When 20
moored, the vessel will be in 27.4 m (15 fm) and the current
will keep a fair strain on both cables.
BALINTANG CHANNEL (CHART 4204)
BALINTANG CHANNEL is between Ahau Point
of Sabtang, the S tip of Batan Island, and Naydi Point at
Babuyan Island is about 41.4 miles wide and is also deep,
with Balintang Islets lying in its E part. The channel is
frequently used by vessels proceeding to China and Manila
by the E routes. Vessels bound for Singapore from Yokohoma
and those bound from Hong Kong to Suva or Yap generally
use this channel.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present in Balintang Channel. Anchoring, trawling, use of
explosives, and other activities that may harm the submarine
cables are strictly prohibited.
BALINTANG ISLETS, a part of Calayan Municipality,
is the N point of Cagayan Province and consists of several
small, sharp-peaked, rocky islets. They are in the E part of
Balintang Channel, with Mount Irada bearing 347o and the
W tangent to Babuyan Island, 210o. The islands are visible
about 30 miles in clear weather.
The W and largest island, 164 m (538 ft) high, showing
4 hills, is about 0.8 mile wide in a N and S direction. A 50
hole is seen through it from the SW. Balintang Island Light
(19° 57’ 35”N., 122° 08’ 30”E.), located on the island was
extinguished in 2005.
The second largest island and the E of the group is 103
m (339 ft) high. Several other islets ranging from 13 to 35
m (44 to 117 ft) high lie SE of the biggest island. They are
steep-to and may be passed on either side at a distance of
2 to 3 miles. In bad weather, the sea breaks heavily against
4-6
them. About 20 miles WNW of Balintang Islets is the position
of 3 outlying banks, scattered NNE for about 4 miles with
depths 66.2 m (36.2 fm), 77.2 m (42.2 fm), and 31.1 m (17
fm) respectively through that direction.
5
BABUYAN ISLANDS (CHART 4229)
BABUYAN ISLANDS, consisting of Babuyan,
Calayan, Dalupiri, Fuga, and Camiguin, form a roughly
circular island group N of Babuyan Channel along the N coast
of Luzon and S of Balintang Channel. The channels between
them are safe and deep and their shores are generally steep-to.
15
Distress & Rescue – The islands are within the coverage
of the MF DSC alerting system of the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center. Vessels in distress may contact the
Manila Rescue Coordinating Center.
BABUYAN ISLAND, the N and highest of the group,
is about 25 miles SSW of Balintang Islands and about 55
miles N of Cape Engaño. It is roughly triangular in shape,
steep-to, and wooded.
25
Mount Babuyan Claro, a prominent landmark near
the W end of the island, is a symmetrical cinder cone 679 m
(2,228 ft) high and is entirely bare of vegetation. It is listed by
PHIVOLCS as an active volcano with last eruption in 1917.
30
Mount Pangasun, 1,088 m (3,569 ft) high, with its
lesser peaks E and W of it, are often obscured by clouds.
The peak about 0.5 mile W of the highest point is an active
volcano. In May 1951, it was observed to be emitting gaseous
35
vapor.
The headland at the S end of the island is covered with
cogon with irregular patches of trees, small clearings with
few coconut trees, and bushes on its E and W sides.
40
Pan de Azucar, lying about 0.5 mile SE of Cayonan
Point, the S extremity of the island, is a slender pinnacle
rock 32 m (104 ft) high with deep waters between it and
45
the shore reef.
Practically the entire E coast is a series of cliffs from
about 61 to 427 m (200 to 1,400 ft) high. A reef with rocks
awash, extends about 0.2 mile N of Naydi Point, the N
extremity of the island. Heavy tide rips occur from 1 to 3
miles off various points of the island.
The best landing is near the middle of the N side of
55
the island in BARUGAN COVE (CHART 4279), but no
protected anchorage is available.
SAN DIONISIO, considered the largest settlement,
60 is on the SW side of the island, with some group of houses
and few inhabitants.
CALAYAN BANK, extending NNW for 12 miles and
marked by heavy tide rips, lies with its SE end 16 miles N
from the highest peak of Calayan Island. The bank is narrow,
being 1.8 miles in width inside the 182.9 m (100 fm) curve
and having a depth of 34 m (18.6 fm).
WYLLIE ROCKS, about 3 miles N of Panuitan Island, 10
are a large black rock 4.8 m (16 ft) high and two small rocks
awash about 91 m NE of the large rock. Depths of 4.4 m (2.4
fm), 0.7 m (0.4 fm), and two 0.5 m (0.3 fm) were reported
to exist about 1.8 miles N, 1.9 NNW, 1 mile NW, and 1 mile
SW, respectively, of the most N of the Wyllie Rocks. 15
The 54.9 m (30 fm) curve encloses a bank extending
about 0.9 mile N of the large rock. Numerous shoals and coral
heads on the bank lie within 0.5 mile of the rock. Violent tide
rips and whirls occur over this bank even in calm weather
and Wyllie Rocks should be given a wide berth to N because
of the strong and erratic currents. The W and S sides of the
rocks are apparently clear close-to.
DIPARI ROCKS, rocks awash about 1.5 miles N
of the extremity of Panuitan Island with outlying dangers
surrounding it for a distance of about 0.1 mile.
PANUITAN ISLAND rises abruptly from the shore on 30
all sides to a long, even ridge which is slightly higher at the N
end where it reaches an elevation of 146 m (479 ft). The top
and E slopes are covered with grass, the W slope with small
bushes. Several pinnacle rocks are on the shore reef on the
NE side of the island. The largest of these, 63 m (207 ft) high, 35
has a hole through it near the base. The shore reef extends
about 0.2 mile N and NE of the island with rocks awash near
their outer edges. Panuitan Island has no fresh water and was
previously reported uninhabited. People from Calayan Island
used to visit this island for catching sea turtles, which lay 40
their eggs in the sandy beach of the N shoreline.
CALAYAN ISLAND is about 25 miles WSW of
Babuyan. From offshore, the island seems to be a long ridge
running nearly E and W with the highest part near the center
and high peaks near the E and W ends of the ridge. The
island is wooded with some cultivated area near the town of
Calayan and two W points of the island, which are covered
with cogon. Pine Point, the southmost point of the island, is
marked by Calayan Light (19° 14’ 49”N., 121° 30’ 37”E.),
which is shown from a white tower.
Mount Calayan, near the center of the island, is 542
m (1,780 ft) high. The shore of the island is mostly rocky
cliffs much underworn by the sea and fringed by a coral reef
which is well-defined by the breakers.
Currents - Heavy tide rips occur off the several points
of Calayan Island, and they should be given a berth of at
least 1 mile when rounding them. Tidal currents are quite
strong near these islands and seem to run opposite to those
encountered farther offshore.
5
CALAYAN (CHART 4279) is a small town near the
middle of a 4 mile strip of the sand beach on the S side of
the island. From a distance, the town is distinguished by
a group of houses, the most prominent of which is a large
schoolhouse with galvanized iron roof. The municipal
building, a low stone house, is near the beach. There is a
weather station maintained by PAGASA in town housed
in prominent stone building, from which typhoon warning
signals are displayed. Vessels call occasionally in the months
of February to September. Cattle, hogs, goats and fowls are
being shipped to other places. Supplies and necessities are
reported scarce in the town. There is a post office operated
by the government. There were mentions of some lumber
concessionaires operating NE side of the island, with the
20
output logs being shipped to Manila. Small boats land on
the beach in front of the town, but this becomes hazardous
in S or SW weather.
25 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Calayan
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63999-9243554.
Anchorage - The best anchorage is S of the town in
36.6 m (20 fm) about 823 m offshore. About 1.3 miles S
by E from the town and 0.8 mile offshore is a small steep
coral reef marked by a 2.4 m rock. There is deep water
between the reef and the shore. Small vessels can find partly
protected anchorage in CIBANG COVE (CHART 4279) E
of Pine Point.
DALUPIRI ISLAND, the W of the Babuyan Islands, is
about 12.5 miles, from shore to shore, SW of Calayan Island.
The island has a regular aspect and is visible about 30 miles.
It is also a good radar target up to 20 miles. A high ridge runs
the entire length of the island, attaining an elevation of 275
m (903 ft) at the S end.
VISITA, the largest settlement, is on a small plain on
45
the E shore near the S end of the island. In smooth weather,
anchorage can be had on the E side of the island close in
shore, but the holding ground is poor. A shoal 8 m (4.4 fm)
deep is about 1 mile E of Visita. Another shoal is 3.9 miles
NW of Mumuspus Point, the S extremity of the island.
50
Landing can be made at high tide with small boats. A wreck
with least depth unknown is located about 0.7 mile SW of
the N point of Dalupiri Island.
55 At BANOA (CHART 4279), there is a break in the
shore reef permitting small boats to reach the beach. Some
cattle are shipped from the island.
IRAO ISLET is about 2 miles SW of the S end of
60
Dalupiri Island and 24.4 m (80 ft) high; it is fringed by shoals
4-7
as far as 0.5 mile offshore. deepfurther restrict the navigable channel. This channel,
therefore, should not be attempted unless in a case of
necessity. A vessel must pass rather close to Fuga to enter
FUGA ISLAND, about 8 miles SE of Dalupiri Island is
this channel.
about 12 miles long E and W with an average width of about
5
2 miles. It is 190 m (625 ft) high and terminates in low land
at the E part. The two small islands, MABAAG and BARIT, Tidal Currents - The tide rises in Musa Bay 0.6 to 0.9
are off its W end. The soundings off its S side are irregular, m (2 to 3 ft) but is irregular, and the tidal current runs with
the depth in some places permitting temporary anchorage considerable velocity.
in smooth weather. The wreck of the S.S. Eastern River
10
lies about 0.7 mile E of KIKING POINT, the E extremity
CAMIGUIN ISLAND is the SE island in the group. It
of the Island.
lies about 19.5 miles shore to shore with Piñon Island, its W
extremity. This is also about 20.7 miles NW of Cape Engaño.
A Presidential Proclamation prohibits fishing or The entire island is mountainous with highest peak, 793 m
gathering any form of marine life surrounding Fuga, Mabaag 15 (2,603 ft) in the NE part. The higher peaks are frequently
and Barit for up to 2.16 miles from their shores. Extra obscured by clouds.
caution must be kept in mind when attempting to approach
near some parts of these islands since past events reported
Mount Camiguin is an active volcano 723 m (2,372
shooting incidents fired by the guards to would be drifters
ft) high. The lesser peaks around it are separated from the
coming closer. 20
higher peaks by deep valleys and appear as separated islands
when first sighted from the S or N. A fumarole, active at
BARIT ISLAND has a reef lying off the N and E sides times, and several hot springs are evident on the S slopes of
and another projecting from the SE point. A dangerous shoal Mount Camiguin.
with a depth of 3.2 m (1.75 fm) is about 1.4 miles W of the
25
N end of Barit Island.
Trees cover the entire island with exception of a narrow
strip along the N coast. The shore is fringed by a narrow
MABAAG ISLAND has a narrow shoal ledge, with steep-to coral reef. On the SE side of the island, a number of
a least depth of 5.9 m (3.75 fm) on it, extending about 0.8 high rocks are on or close to the shore reef. A conspicuous
mile in a NW direction from its NW end. A private airstrip 30 yellow and red cliff about 91 m (300 ft) high S of Port San Pio
extends SE from the NW end of the island. Quinto forms a good landmark for this vicinity. A good trail is
reported to cross the island through the divide N of MOUNT
MALABSING. A wreck with least depth unknown lies on
MUSA BAY (CHART 4279), lies between the W end
the E side of the island about 1 mile SSW of its NE end.
of Fuga Island and Barit and Mabaag Islands, is a rather
35
circular basin about 1 mile wide by 1.5 miles long. Although
sheltered from the sea, the holding ground is poor and the Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
anchorage has been reported unsafe in heavy NE weather. Camiguin Island may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
The depths are 21.9 to 31.1 m (12 to 17 fm) in the middle, +63998-5858102 and +63928-9764223.
shoaling to 7.3 and 9.1 m (4 and 5.5 fm) near the coral reef
that lines the shores. The best anchorage is near the NE side 40
PAMOCTAN ISLAND, 204 m (670 ft) high and steep-
of Barit Island in 25.6 to 27.4 m (14 to 15 fm), rotten coral
to on all sides, divides the entrance into two channels. The
and sand bottom. The bottom is very rocky near Fuga Island.
S channel, about 1 mile wide with 73.2 m (40 fm) at the
VILLA VICENTA is a small settlement from which cattle are
entrance, decreasing gradually inside, lies between this island
shipped. Vessels call occasionally from Manila and Aparri.
45 and the S point of the port and Piñon Island, and is clear.

The best channel into bay is from S, between Barit and

the W point of Fuga, the depths being from 25.6 to 29.3 m
(14 to 16 fm) outside and from 18.3 to 27.4 m (10 to 15 fm)
in mid-channel.
The W channel into the bay is between Barit and
Mabaag, with soundings of 21.9 to 31.1 m (12 to 17 fm).
The N channel into the bay is rendered intricate by a
reef extending halfway across from the NE point of Mabaag
toward Fuga. At the tail of the reef are 2 rocks 1.8 to 3.0 m
(6 and 10 ft) high. A rock awash is 0.4 mile E of the NE
extremity of Mabaag Island. Several patches, 7.3 m (4 fm)
PIÑON ISLAND is separated from Magasasut Point
by a clear channel 0.2 mile wide, while its N and S sides are
fringed with reefs extending about 0.1 mile away. There is a
50
rock 4.6 m (15 ft) high surrounded by coral reefs about 0.3
mile SW of the island.
BALUTUBAT, a barrio on the NE side of Port San Pio
55 Quinto, has a few houses obscured by trees. The schoolhouse
near the beach is partly visible from the anchorage. Launches
and sailboats from Aparri call at irregular intervals to load
the products the inhabitants could ship to the mainland.
There is fresh water from a river at about 650 m (700 yds)
60 N of Balutubat.

4-8
 PORT SAN PIO QUINTO (CHART 4279) is the only
place among these islands tolerably safe for a large vessel,
the bottom being less rocky than in Musa Bay, Fuga Island.
The port, which is of no commercial importance, is about
3 miles wide and 1.5 miles in extent, and is a little S of the
middle of the W side of Camiguin Island.
The N channel between Pamoctan Island and
Nagpalbosan, the N point of the port, is almost a mile
wide, but there is a rocky patch with 10.5 m (5.75 fm) over 10
it in mid-channel, which almost breaks in heavy weather,
and a coral reef makes off about 0.17 mile from the north
shore. Pamoctan Island serves as a good landmark when
approaching the harbor. From N and S, it shows as a single
cone, but from W it shows two distinct peaks, the N one being 15
the higher. The port is exposed to W but slight protection
may be obtained from that direction by anchoring close E
of Pamoctan Island in 29.3 m (16 fm).
Caution - In the E part of the port are 3 submerged
wrecks, all within a radius of 0.17 mile from latitude 18o
54.5’ N., longitude 121o 51.4’ E., having depths of 2.7 to
13.3 m (1.5 to 7.25 fm). A shoal with a depth of 5 m (2.75
fm) obstructs the S part of the port.
Three other submerged wrecks, positions doubtful, have
been reported in the SW part of the port, probably NE of
Magasasut Point. Local inhabitants have no knowledge of
30
the existence of the wrecks.
Directions - From a position 0.70 mile N of Piñon
Island, enter the S channel on course 090o until the SE point
of Pamoctan Island bears 000o. Then steer 069o heading for
the 2nd rocky point S of Balutubat and anchor in 27.4 m
(15 fm), sand and broken coral bottom, about 0.6 mile 249o
from the point.
When using the N channel, Pamoctan Island should be
passed about 0.3 mile close-to until clear of the 10.5 m (5.75
fm) rocky patch in mid-channel and the submerged wrecks,
then anchor in the position mentioned above.
CAMIGUIN BANK, about 6 miles in diameter inside
the 182 m (100 fm) curve and marked by tide rips, lies with
its center 5.8 miles NW from the NW point of Camiguin
Island. There is a least depth of 20.1 m (11 fm) on the bank.
GUINAPAC ROCKS are about 6.3 miles E of
Nagayaman (or Morol) Point, the E extremity of Camiguin
Island. They consist of two rocks like towers, the larger and
higher having an elevation of 96.3 m (316 ft), and a third
rock, much smaller than the other two.
Between them and Camiguin is a channel 5 miles wide,
which is safe on the island side. A submerged rock, showing
breakers, is 2 miles N from Guinapac Rocks, with foul
ground between them. Nearby rests the USS Charleston, an
American battleship which ran aground on November 1899
while on patrol mission. Heavy tide rips form around this
5 shoal area.
DIDICAS ROCK, about 8.4 miles NE of Guinapac
Rocks, is an islet of volcanic origin, gradually building up.
Several sunken rocks within 18.3 m (10 fm) curve render
the approach to the islet dangerous, especially with light
winds. In the vicinity of the islet, the currents set N during
the SW monsoon and produce ripplings similar to breakers.
Anchorage near the islet is difficult on account of steep-to
and rugged bottom. In April 1952, the original rocks forming
this islet have been reported in a state of mild eruption and
had built up a cone to a height 243.8 m (800 ft) with a base of
579.1 m (1,900 ft) in diameter at sea level. The last eruption
was in 1978.
20
BABUYAN CHANNEL, which lies between the
Babuyan Islands and the N coast of Luzon, is deep and clear
of dangers. This channel is about 20 miles wide at its E end
between Camiguin Island and Cape Engaño; it has a least
25 width of about 15 miles at its W end between the W end of
Fuga Island and Pata Point. As the current sets strongly N
in the SW monsoon, it will be prudent for those proceeding
E from this coast, with light winds, to keep on the S side of
the channel to prevent being drifted N near the Guinapac and
Didicas Rocks, which are NE of Camiguin Island.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present in Babuyan Channel. Anchoring, trawling, use of
explosives, and other activities that may harm the submarine
35
cables are strictly prohibited.
Currents - The tidal currents along the S side of
Babuyan Channel are at times very erratic due to an apparent
40 meeting of the tides sweeping in around Cape Engaño from
the Pacific and continuing SW along the coast, and those
entering from the NW from the West Philippine Sea. Swirls
and eddies and numerous tide rips are noticeable. Close
inshore, however, the currents are weaker and trends parallel
45 to the shore. The slack period during the change is usually
very short. The offshore currents are further complicated
by the flood currents from the Cagayan River which are
felt well offshore after a heavy rain; debris and a N set have
been reported at a distance of as much as 20 miles N of the
50 mouth of the river.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact the
remotely controlled coast station with VHF DSC alerting
in Aparri. The VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea
area about 25 miles from Aparri. Vessels in distress that are
55
outside of the 25-mile radius from the coast station in Aparri
may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
4-9
 CHAPTER 5
LUZON ISLAND
CHART 2200, 4705, 4714, 4715 & 4726A
LUZON is the largest island of the Philippines. It
extends from N to S, with a curve toward the E, between
latitude 18o 40’ at Mayraira Point and 12o 32’ N., at
Langao Point, and has a length of about 777 km, with a
width from 15 to 222 km. It has a very irregular outline,
with a length of general shoreline about 3,600 km. Its area
is about 104,687 sq km. The population of Luzon is about
half that of the entire Philippine Archipelago. Ranges of
mountains, running in general parallel with the length of
the island, give it a mountainous character. North of latitude
16°, there are 2 chains, an eastern and a western, separated
by the great valley of Cagayan River. The E side, known
as Sierra Madre, is continuous and lofty and forms a bold
and almost inaccessible shore, exposed to the full force of
the NE monsoon and the waves of the Pacific. There are a
number of isolated volcanic peaks in southern Luzon.
CAPE ENGAÑO TO CAPE BOJEADOR
NORTH COAST OF LUZON (CHART 1505, 4206,
4229, 4260, and 4276) extends from Cape Engaño to Cape
Bojeador.
Tidal Currents off the N coast of Luzon during the
SW monsoon follow the general trend of the shore, flood
setting W and ebb E, with counter currents inshore.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact the
remotely controlled coast station with VHF DSC alerting
in Aparri. The VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea
area about 25 miles from Aparri. Vessels in distress that are
outside of the 25-mile radius from coast station in Aparri
may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Dos Hermanos Islets as seen from Cape Engaño.
5-1
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
CAPE ENGAÑO, part of the N side of Palaui Island,
is the seaward end of a peninsula projecting 0.5 mile WNW
5 and enclosing a cove on its SW side. The peninsula was
reported mostly wooded. A shoal, with a depth of less than
11 m (6 fm) over it, extends about 0.25 mile NW from Cape
Engaño.
10 Major Light - Cape Engaño Light (18° 34’ 54”N.,
122° 08’ 11”E.) is displayed from a gray tower on the
summit of the cape. It is the primary landfall light for
vessels proceeding from the E to the West Philippine Sea
via the N coast of Luzon.
15
DOS HERMANOS ISLETS are two islets lying close
off NE of Cape Engaño. The northern one is bigger than the
southern islet, while the latter is nearest the island of Palaui
at about 0.2 mile. Some rocks above-water lie about 0.8
20 mile E of the islets. The current, about 1 mile and over, N
off these islands is strong and erratic.
GRAN LAJA is a low rock surrounded by breakers,
about 1 mile NE from the most NE point of Palaui Island.
25 The seabed is very irregular for 2.2 miles E of it. The
current N off these islands is strong and erratic.
PALAUI ISLAND is nearest Luzon at about 0.35 mile
near Morgan Point and between Dungan Point, the NW
30 part of a large promontory which forms the NE extremity
of Luzon Island. The island is 5 miles in extent, 297 m
(976 ft) high, very rugged and reported before, as heavily
wooded. The W shore of the island is bold and rocky with
narrow sand beaches in some of the bights. On the E side
(Photograph - Lt Jaya A Roperez, 2011)
 Port San Vicente Light marking the edge of the reef.
(Photograph - Lt Jaya A Roperez, 2011)
is VERDE POINT, and there is a reef extending from this
point for about 1.5 miles seaward. Near the outer edge of
the reef are some rocks and the islands of ESCUCHA at
18.9 m (62 ft) high and CENT at 3 m (10 ft), each separated
at about 0.21 mile from the other. About 0.5 mile SW of
the point is a small settlement. The SW extremity of Palaui
which is formerly called Puerto Point is now GOSANGAN
POINT. Motorboats ferry passengers and cargo between
San Vicente and Palaui Island.
Marine Protected Area - Palaui Island and its
surrounding waters and reefs are protected areas.
Throwing of garbage and other activities that may harm
the environment are strictly prohibited within the protected
area.
ENGAÑO COVE is a small cove SW of the lighthouse,
where supplies for lightkeepers are usually landed. Small
vessels may find good anchorage in this cove, protected
except in NW and W winds, by steering 114o accordingly
toward a beacon consisting of a diamond-shaped, white
slatwork on a 3.7 m (12 ft) pole, and then anchoring in
about 34.7 m (19 fm) of water about 0.5 mile from the head
of the bay.
GOSANGAN (PUERTO) POINT is high, wooded
bluff at the SW end of Palaui Island.
ROÑA ISLAND, 7.6 m (25 ft) high, is wooded with a
white base of sand and rock.
ESCUCHA ISLAND, about 1.8 miles NE of Roña
Island, is also wooded, when seen from SW through the
channel between Palaui Island and the mainland.
PUGO MORO ISLAND, previously known as San
Vicente Island, is also wooded. There is a foul ground from
W to E between Gosangan (Puerto) Point and the S end of
Pugo Moro. Port San Vicente Light (18° 30’ 43”N., 122° 08’
26”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the E extremity 40
of the reef extending 0.4 mile E of Pugo Moro Island.
PORT SAN VICENTE (CHART 4276), lies between
the coast of Luzon and the S coast of Palaui Island and
consisted of an inner and outer harbor. This port, as a place
of refuge for vessels during typhoon weather, is the best
5 harbor in N of Luzon, and, in fact, the only thoroughly
protected one. Owing to the limited swinging room and
soft bottom, vessels however, have dragged with 4 anchors
out during typhoons. It is resorted to by vessels bound to
Aparri when the bar at the mouth of the Cagayan River is
10 too rough to be crossed. Vessels should not attempt to enter
this harbor from the E, as the rocks and shoals on that side
make it dangerous to do so. The entrance from the W may,
however, be made without difficulty.
15 Dangers - A small shoal of 4.1 m (2.25 fm) consisting
of broken coral is near the center of the inner harbor, 732 m
(800 yds) 325o from the light at the entrance. Another shoal
with a least depth of 0.3 m (0.16 fm) lies on the S part of the
inner harbor, 0.25 mile NW of the light.
20
Caution - Currents running in a NE-SW direction
attain a velocity of 3 to 4 knots between the light and Nulton
Point. Care should be exercised in coming alongside. The
use of anchor is recommended.
25
Tides - The mean tidal range in Port San Vicente is
about 0.9 m (3 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1.1 m (3.6
ft).
30 Anchorage - There are 2 anchorages in Port San
Vicente. Good anchorage in the Outer Harbor is in 12.8 m
(7 fm), mud bottom, with Roña Island and Escucha Island
in range and Gosangan (Puerto) Point bearing 277o. This
anchorage is exposed to W and SW winds.
35
The Inner Harbor is a small cove with an anchorage
area about 0.25 mile in diameter, practically landlocked,
with depths of 7.3 m (4 fm), mud bottom. The channel in
entering is about 275 m (300 yds) wide in its narrowest
part, W of Nulton Point, where it is contracted by a shoal
covered by from 0.9 to 1.2 m (3 to 4 ft). This is marked by
a red nun buoy in 9.1 m (5 fm) off its W edge.
5-2

PHILPOS warehouse on Matara Point.
(Photograph - Cagayan Province website, undated)
Directions - Outer Harbor: Vessels from N should not
skirt Palaui Island too closely; pass about 0.8 mile S from
Gosangan (Puerto) Point and stand E until the E tangents
of MORGAN and SMITH POINTS are in range with the 20
high E part of Escucha Island. Then steer for this range on
course 037o. This range will clear about 91 m (100 yds) W
of the 0.9 m (0.5fm) spot located 0.2 mile SE of the Port
San Vicente Light. When the light is abeam, the vessel may
then haul for the pier.
Inner Harbor: From the recommended anchorage in
the Outer Harbor, steer for the light and round its S and E
sides at a distance of from 137 to 183 m (150 to 200 yds)
and anchor 0.25 mile NNW from it in 7.3 m (4 fm). The
flood sets NE and the ebb SW. A current of from 3 to 4
knots may be expected off the light.
NULTON POINT is low and about 0.5 mile E of Pugo
Moro Island (San Vicente Island) and opposite the entrance
to the inner harbor.
SAN VICENTE, just E of Nulton Point, is the landing
place for vessels calling at Port San Vicente. An airfield
operated by the Philippine Navy is located near the point.
The government pier is located about 0.2 mile NE of the
Nulton Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Vicente may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428239 and +63998-5856256.
From Nulton Point, the coast trends SSW for 8 miles to
Matara (Batulinao) Point. The N section of this coast is low
and is fronted by a sandy beach.
STA. ANA is the town with its poblacion just S of
Palauig River and about 3 miles SW of Nulton Point. The
primary source of living is through logging, farming and
fishing. Rice and lumber are the principal products. Rainy
season is from September to March.
Major Light - Palauig Light (18° 28’ 09”N., 122° 08’
37”E.) is displayed from a white tower at Barrio Palauig
60 customs officers stationed in Port Irene.
about 0.5 mile NE of Sta. Ana.
5-3
Medical services are available from two hospitals and
clinics in the town. Malaria from mosquitoes should be
particularly avoided.
Communications - There is a post office at the
town proper. Mobile phone communication is available.
Passenger buses travel regularly through the Vigan and
Cagayan Valley route where they, then proceed to Manila.
Daily trips are being done by small buses and jeepneys to
Aparri.
Supplies - Small quantity of petroleum products is
obtainable. Fresh and dry goods can be purchased in the
public market. There are distribution of electricity and
15 potable water.
MATARA (BATULINAO) POINT, 61 m (200 ft)
high and backed by a mountain range, is fringed by reefs
and foul ground to a distance of about 1 mile N. The coast
is somewhat indented to the E of this point by a small bay
known as Port Irene (Port Casambalangan). A breakwater
extends NE from the point. The Philippine Phosphate
Fertilizer Corp. warehouse, with roof painted green, is
prominent. The government wharf is located E of the
25 warehouse.
PORT IRENE (Port Casambalangan) is open to the N
and provides little shelter, except from the S winds. During
the early part of the year, a light to moderate NW swell will
30 be encountered with the prevailing wind swinging a vessel
across the bay at times. The shoal off the SE shore of the
bay uncovers with exceptionally low tides. The barrio of
Casambalangan is located close inland from the head of the
bay, some of the houses being visible from the anchorage.
35 Limited quantities of fruits and vegetables in season are
obtainable from the barrio.
Major Light - Port Irene Light (18° 24’ 02”N., 122°
07’ 31”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the E entrance
40 point.
Tides - The tide in Port Irene is generally semi-diurnal
with the mean range of about 0.9 m (3 ft) and the diurnal
range of about 1.1 m (3.6 ft).
45
Currents - The tidal currents off Matara (Batulinao)
Point have been noted to attain a strength of about.5 knot,
with moderate tide rips near the reef line.
50 Port Management - Port Irene is a freeport area
managed by Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA).
Address: Administration Complex, Centro, Sta. Ana,
Cagayan, Philippines.
55 Telephone: (+6378) 703-7360 (Port Irene office) and
(+632) 8291-6704 to 08 (Mandaluyong office).
Website: ceza.gov.ph
Customs - Customs clearance may be had from the
 Berthing Facilities at the freeport include a 189 m
long concrete wharf on piles. It has a berthing capacity of 4
vessels. Cold storage facility, warehouse, and open storage
area are available.
Port Services - Cargo handling and stevedores
are available. However, wind and sea condition usually
interfere with stevedoring operations during the months of
February up to October.
Pilotage is compulsory.
Directions - The approach to Port Irene is made
from the N in order to avoid the shoal extending N from
Matara Point. When the distinctive 658 m (2,160 ft) sharply
peaked hill, about 2.5 miles S of the head of the bay, bears
165˚, steer for it on that heading. Maintaining this course,
anchorage can be taken in 12.2 to 13.7 m (6.7 to 7.5 fm),
good holding ground, mud, with Gosangan (Puerto) Point
bearing 356˚ and the 647.7 m (2,125 ft) peak on the E side
of the bay bearing 101˚, and on the line between the second
distinct knoll on Matara Point and the 122.2 m (401 ft)
knoll close NE of the bay.
From Matara (Batulinao) Point to the mouth of the
Cagayan River, about 27 miles W, the coast is low and
bordered by a sandy beach. Some mountains back the E
portion of this coast.
MINANGA is a small fishing barrio, visible from 30
offshore, and serves to mark the mouth of the BUGUEY
RIVER. Breakers usually make the bar impassable but the
W branch of the river connects with the Cagayan at Aparri
and forms an inland route for small local crafts.
BUGUEY, located on the coast and 4 miles upstream
of Buguey River, was reported before with 2 prominent
buildings, the school having a white metal roof and an old
stone church. Buguey Light (18° 17’ 00”N., 121° 50’ 00”E.)
is displayed from the town. Big portion of the total land
area of this town is planted with rice; other crops follow,
like corn, vegetable and fruits. Small areas constitute the
mangroves, fishpond and town proper.
The CAGAYAN RIVER is the largest river in Luzon.
The bar at its mouth generally has from 4.6 to 5.5 m (15
to 18 ft) over it at high tide, and the channel is continually
changing with the currents caused by the river and the sea
and winds. Temporary bamboo stakes are placed by pilots
to mark the channel. These stakes are often washed away
by the current and are replaced from time to time. The bar
should not be attempted without a pilot. At times during
the NE monsoon the bar is impassable, and vessels are
obliged to seek shelter in Port San Vicente until the weather
moderates. Vessels having entered the river have been bar-
bound for periods exceeding 1 week. Heavy tide rips occur
off Linao Point and the entrance to the Cagayan River. At
times, freshets occur causing the river to rise rapidly; so it
is necessary to take precautions against the velocity of the
current and the debris brought down by the river. A wreck
has been reported in existence about 1.6 miles 106o from
Linao Point Light.
The mouth of Cagayan River is of special value for
5 radar target. From time to time, the rise and fall of upstream
flood with strong current always brought changes to
topographic feature and depths at the mouth of the same
river.
10 The shoreline N of Aparri is eroding and protective
works are necessary there as well as along the river bank
at the town.
Major Lights - Linao Point Light (18° 22’ 25”N., 121°
15 35’ 42”E.) is shown from a white tower on W entrance
points of the river.
Aparri Light (18° 21’ 50”N., 121° 37’ 43”E.) is located
on the E entrance points of the river.
20
APARRI (CHART 4260), the principal port of entry
in N Luzon, is on the E side of the mouth of the Cagayan
River and is very prominent. Sloping beach of mud and
sand characterizes the remaining aspect of the coast seen
25 from offshore. During the cooler months of November up to
January, shore features are obscured by fogs and showers.
Aparri Harbor is defined as that portion of the Cagayan
River between the town of Camalaniugan and the sea. The
port is so exposed that it is considered unsafe at most times
of the year and is impracticable as a loading port. The port
caters to both foreign and domestic trade. Most foreign and
some domestic cargo vessels load and unload their cargoes
at the anchorage area using several motor boats and open
35 lighters passing through Appagonan River to the center
of the town of Aparri. Such operation is being undertaken
due to heavy siltation at the port. Other local crafts load or
discharge cargo at the N bank near the market.
40 In May 1989, the least depth in the channel leading
from the sea to the jetty is 4.25 m although the bottom is
occasionally subject to siltation. The greatest draft and
length of any vessel permissible to dock at the wharf is 3.96
m and 60 m respectively. The least width of the channel,
45 covered by the same distance, is 0.1 mile. Since May 1989,
no buoyage system marks the channel. Fish nets, stakes and
small fishing boats are along the river mouth.
Petroleum products; frozen and dry provisions;
50 medical supplies and facilities; marine and engineering
supplies are available. Rice, corn, tobacco and lumber are
the principal products. Fresh water is delivered by trucks at
the port. Logs, lumber, and petroleum products are usually
being shipped at the wharf. Big vessels stay at anchorage
55 while their loads are being conveyed through lighters for
Aparri. The river being inaccessible to ocean-going vessels,
the logs and lumber are loaded at the anchorage, the logs
being usually floated out, and the lumber being received
from lighters.
60
5-4
 There are a number of stores in the town and a public
market where a supply of food and bottled drinking water
can be purchased. Daily bus trip to Metro Manila is
available. There is a post office, mobile phone servies, and
Internet connection. Hospitals and medical facilities are
available. There is an abandoned airstrip E of the town.
Prominent Landmarks when approaching Aparri are
the cylindrical tanks of an oil depot N of the town. The
church bell tower and the municipal building, located in the
W part of Aparri, are prominent. The Doppler Radar tower
with white dome at the top is the most prominent landmark
in the NW part of the town.
Port Management - The port is operated by TMO -
Aparri, with telephone number (+6378) 888-2196.
Customs office in Aparri may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6378) 822-8873.
Distress & Rescue - Aparri serves as the headquarters
of the Coast Guard District - North Eastern Luzon and the
Maritime Rescue Coordinating Center in the region.
Telephone: (+6378) 888-0320
Fax: (+6378) 888-0320
Mobile phone: +63998-5856229; +63917-8012545;
+63917-8011301; +63998-5856247
VHF: Channel 16
E-mail: cgdnortheasternluzon@ymail.com
cgs.aparri@coastguard.gov.ph
Berthing Facilities include a marginal reinforced
concrete wharf, 345 m long, with an apron of 20 m wide.
It has a 360 m long jetty on steel sheet piles. In 1990, a
controlling depth of water taken at the offshore end of the
wharf was found at 6 m. There is an open storage of 5,400
sq m. There is no cargo handling equipment inside the port.
Cranes are available from local construction companies in
the town.
Port Services - A local cargo handling company is
available. The company also conducts tugging services
using a 150 hp tug boat. Marine engine repairs are not
available in the port and in the town.
Pilotage for vessels 40 GRT and over is compulsory
and is rendered by the Aparri Pilotage Association. A 24-
hr advanced notice is required. The pilot association can
be contacted through telephone number (+6378) 888-2235.
The pilots are always in attendance when it is possible for
vessels to enter the river. Vessels awaiting a pilot may drop
an anchor under foot, or keep underway, taking care to
keep Linao Point Light bearing S of 270o and the church
at Aparri S of 146o. The best spot to anchor while awaiting
assistance of the pilot is about 1 mile offshore. The pilot
boat is painted white, with the letter P on the bow, and flies
the pilot flag.
Anchorage - The best anchorage off Aparri for vessels
5-5
which do not intend to cross the bar is in 18.3 to 21.9 m (10
to 12 fm), sand and mud bottom, with the church in Aparri
bearing 180o and Linao Point Light bearing 247o.
5 The usual anchorage for vessels drawing about 3.05
to 4.27 m (10 to 14 ft) after entering the river is in the E
channel opposite the town of Aparri. Vessels drawing 4.27
to 6.09 m (14 to 20 ft) anchor in the W channel opposite the
town. As depths in the river are changeable due to the strong
10 currents and floods, anchorage should only be selected after
consulting the pilots.
A sea-berth, marked by a small buoy moored in a
depth of 10.7 m (35 ft), is located at the seaward end of
15 a submerged pipeline which extends 017o for 0.75 mile
from the oil depot. Three mooring buoys are located near
the offshore end of the pipeline and form a berth, equipped
with a mooring buoy and a floating hose, is situated in a
depth of 6.09 m (20 ft) about 0.3 mile close E of the main
20 pipeline.
APPAGONAN RIVER is located S of the poblacion.
Its channel can be entered only by small crafts but the
bridge 0.2 mile upstream restricts navigation to all but local
25 bancas.
CAMALANIUGAN is the head of navigation for
seagoing vessels entering the Cagayan River but a draft of
about 1.8 m (6 ft) can be carried as far as Lal-lo.
30
LINAO is small and stands between the beach and
the Linao River, a tributary of the Cagayan River. The
controlling depth into the Linao River was 1.5 m (5 ft) in
November 1945.
35
The coast W of the mouth of the Cagayan River is low
and sandy and trends NW for 31 miles to Pata Point. The
church tower of the town of BALLESTEROS about 7 miles
W of Aparri is prominent from the seaward. Vessels calling
40 at the town should take note of the submarine cable landing
at the town from Babuyan Channel.
The ABULUG and PAMPLONA RIVERS break
through the beach 11 and 17 miles, respectively, W of the
45 Cagayan River. The entrance channels are constricted by
sand bars and mud flats and can be entered only in good
weather. On an ebb, strong currents running out of the
rivers cause confused seas at their mouths. Inside, they are
connected by an estuary which gives access to the network
50 of waterways in the immediate hinterland. The Abulug
River, just W of the town of ABULUG, is reported to have
a low water depth of 3 m (10 ft) over the bar.
Ships call occasionally off the mouth of the Pamplona
55 River to load lumber, anchoring in 18.3 m (10 fm) about
0.8 mile N of the sand spit at the river mouth. This loading
point is usable only from March to mid-June as weather and
monsoon make it unsafe the rest of the year. In June 1955,
it was reported that the river has a low water depth of 0.3
60 m (0.1 fm) on the bar. The small town of PAMPLONA is
 weather. Entrance is difficult as the bar breaks in all but the
calmest of weather.

TAGGAT, a barrio on the W side of the bay, has a

lumber mill, which owns an airstrip about 1 mile SE of
Lacay Lacay Point. The barrio has a good fresh water
spring at the foot of the hill. There is a wreck in the cove E
of the barrio.

BAKETBAKET POINT, at the termination of the

Caraballo Mountain mass, is bold and heavily wooded.
Two rocky pinnacles, with 4.6 and 8.7 m (2.5 and 4.75 fm)
over them, lie about 0.5 mile N of this point. These rocks
rise abruptly from 54.9 m (30 fm) and cause heavy tide rips
and swirls.

MADAMBA ROCK, about 7.6 m (25 ft) high and the

Patapat Viaduct along the coast of Pasaleng Bay. most northerly rock in the vicinity, lies about 0.5 mile W
(Photograph - DPWH website, undated) of PUAC POINT. The area between it and the shore is foul
20 with bare and sunken rocks. Strong tidal currents, estimated
about 5 miles upstream. to attain strength of 2 to 3 knots during spring tides, have
been noted in the vicinity of Madamba Rock.
PATA POINT is a knoll 55.2 m (181 ft) high. A wreck
lies almost 1 mile WNW of the point. Pata Light (18° 37’ PASALENG BAY is between Puac and Nuang Points.
30”N., 121° 09’ 10”E.) is displayed from a white tower 25 It affords only fair-weather anchorage, although there is
with a dwelling at its base is located on the highest part of protection from the SW winds under the lee of the Patapat
the ridge behind Pata Point. Mountains. The head of the bay is a high sand beach but the
E and W shores rise steeply from the water to elevations of
PATA RIVER empties just E of Pata Point and gives over 610 m (2,000 ft). The barrio of PASALENG stands
access to the lumber mill at PATA. Lumber is usually 30 at the head of the bay. A wreck lies close westward of the
brought to Claveria by trucks and transferred to wooden village. Huge rocks that have fallen from the cliffs fringe
barges to be loaded on vessels anchored offshore in Claveria the shore. The Patapat Viaduct along the N coast makes an
Bay. The sand bar off Pata is reported frequently changing easily distinguished line along the mountain side.
and no loading is done there at present.
35 BAUGAN BAY, 2 miles SSE of Mayraira Point,
CLAVERIA BAY is between 2 rocky headlands, affords anchorage, protected in SW weather, for small
Centinela and Lacaylacay Points, and offers shelter except vessels in 16.5 m (9 fm). Facilities of Hannah’s Beach
from the N winds. The S of the two small coves at the E end Resort and the big white letters that spell “HANNAH’S”
of the bay affords fair protection from the NE and is used on the NW coast of the bay are prominent. Three overhead
as a shipping point for lumber concessionaires operating 40 cables used as zipline cross the bay from the peak at the
sawmills in the vicinity. The shoreline in the immediate back of Nuang Point to the resort.
approach of Centinela, Camalaggacan, and Lacaylacay
Points are cliffs and rocky. The rest of the coast are sandy DOS HERMANOS are two prominent rocky cones
and flat except for the part E of Centinela Point where it is connected with the shore about 1 mile SE of Mayraira
steep-to after about 20 m S of the high-water line. 45 Point. A series of high, disconnected rocks exist in their
vicinity. There is a rocky, pinnacle shoal with 4.6 m (2.5
Anchorage - Vessels entering Claveria Bay usually fm) of water over it close SE of Dos Hermanos and about
anchor about 0.4 mile N of the town in 18.3 to 27.4 m (10 0.2 mile from the shore.
to 15 fm), sand bottom.
50 MAYRAIRA POINT, about 20 miles NE of Cape
CLAVERIA is distinguished from offshore by the Bojeador, is the most northern point of the island of Luzon.
metal roof of the school. The church tower in town is partly The country immediately surrounding it is low and rolling
visible from the bay. No supplies are available. with some sand beaches, and is in decided contrast to the
high mountains and rocky shore to the SE. Extending NE
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in 55 for a distance of 0.8 mile are shoal patches with from 6.4 to
Claveria may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998- 3.2 m (3.5 to 1.75 fm) over them. Heavy tide rips and swirls
5856250 and +63917-8428232. are encountered off these shoals and vessels are advised to
give the point a good berth in passing.
THE CABICUNGAN RIVER empties just E of the
town and is a haven for local sailing vessels during rough 60 DIALAO POINT, about 4 miles WSW of Mayraira

5-6
Point, is low, rounding, covered with trees, and marked
by a white sand beach. Dialao Light is shown from the
point. Behind the point, the land rises SE for a distance of
1 mile to a prominent ridge 183 m (600 ft) high and running
parallel to the coast. Reddish to brownish in color, with
a few scattered trees, this ridge shows plainly to vessels
rounding Cape Bojeador from the W. It is the only ridge of
that color in that vicinity.
A coral reef extends about 0.2 mile offshore from 10
CAUNAYAN BAY to SUGIAB POINT. Strong currents
with whirls and eddies occur within 1 to 1.5 miles of Dialao
Point, flood setting to the W, and ebbing to the E. The small
cove, just N of BURAYOC POINT, offers a little shelter for
small crafts in NE weather, but is open to the W winds. A 15
shoal on which there is a depth of 2.4 m (1.3 fm) is 0.6 mile
SW of Burayoc Point and forms the only off-lying danger
in Bangui Bay.
BANGUI BAY is a deep indentation extending about 4
miles SE between Dialao Point and Negra Point and affords
anchorage sheltered from S winds. The inside shore of the
bay is low and has a sandy beach. Just E of Negra Point, the
shore is marked for 2.5 miles by rapidly eroding cliffs and
a few offshore boulders.
Prominent Features - Wind turbines, used for
generating electricity, were erected along the coast from 1
mile WSW of the town of Bangui to 1.7 miles SE of Blanca
Point. The wind turbines, with their large propellers on
towers all painted white, are prominent anywhere within
the bay.
Major Light - Dialao Light (18° 37’ 48”N., 120° 47’
19”E.) is displayed from a tower on Dialao Point. 35
PAGUDPUD is the town about 1.4 miles S of Burayoc
Point and 0.2 mile SSE from the shore. The town is the
stop-over of tourists going to the beach resorts in Pasaleng
Cape Bojeador Light.
(Photograph - Ilocos Norte Province website, undated)
5-7
Bay. The main economic activities include farming,
hunting, fishing, and livestock and poultry raising. Rice
is the major agricultural crop, while coconut, corn, garlic
and vegetables are the other important crops grown in the
5 municipality. The town produces enough feldspar to supply
the needs of ceramic manufacturing firms in Metro Manila.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Pagudpud may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998-
5858467.
BANGUI, the town at the head of Bangui Bay, is
reported earlier hidden by trees. From Laoag City, travelling
by land, the town proper is about 60 km away. Tricycle
transportation to the barrios of Bangui is available. The
town has a post office, mobile phone communication, and
Internet connection. In town are several small stores, while
fuel oils like gasoline, kerosene, etc. could be easily bought
in small quantity. The 4 most valued commercial crops are
20 garlic, cotton, tobacco, and sugarcane. Rice is ranked first
as the most important food crop.
BLANCA POINT is distinguished by the group
of white rocks off it. One of the white rocks, known as
25 Kapurpurawan, is a popular tourist destination.
NEGRA POINT, a black, rocky point lying about 10
miles WSW of Dialao Point, has a coral ledge extending
0.16 mile offshore, and a large black rock, 1.8 m (6 ft) in
30 height, lies about 91 m (100 yds) to the NE.
CAPE BOJEADOR TO LINGAYEN GULF
(CHART 1505, 4206, 4207, 4208 and 4238)
CAPE BOJEADOR, the NW extremity of Luzon, is
low near the sea, rising gently to the broken ridges bare
of trees about 2 miles E of the cape. A point, which might
be said to mark the N limit of the cape proper, has black
coral cliffs undercut by the sea and grass-covered top 15.2
m (50 ft) high. There is a sharp indentation in the coral reefs
S of this point where landing can be made except during
NW weather. Between this indentation and a cove 2 miles
farther S, a coral reef extends 0.40 mile offshore. Scattered
coral heads and sunken boulders are 0.5 mile offshore,
and outside a line of breakers shows in moderate weather.
Vessels should pass the cape at a distance of not less than
1 mile.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact
the remotely controlled coast stations with VHF DSC
alerting in the ports of Currimao, San Fernando, and Sual.
The VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea area about 25
miles from the said ports. Vessels in distress that are outside
of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast stations may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
Major Light - Cape Bojeador Light (18° 30’ 51”N.,
120° 35’ 47”E.) is displayed from a white stone tower
on the summit of a prominent hill 0.9 mile E of the NW
extremity of the cape.
Caution - In 1950, a depth of 44.8 m (24.5 fm) was
reported by the S.S. Valerius 22.5 miles, 224o 30’ from
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. There is a reported submerged
rock, position doubtful, 0.5 mile W of the W tangent of
Cape Bojeador.
A coral about 275 m (300 yds) wide borders the
coastline from Cape Bojeador to 3 miles S of Dirique Inlet.
NAGABUNGAN BAY (CHART 4283) is a narrow
inlet 0.5 mile S of the W extremity of Cape Bojeador. The
bay affords sheltered anchorage for local sailing vessels
during NE winds. The entrance is unmarked and vessels
entering should exercise great caution to avoid the reefs on
both sides. There is no sufficient swinging room except for
very small vessels. The barrio of Davila is at the head of
the bay. A pier extends from the barrio. Salt making is the
main industry in the place. The barrio is connected by road
to Laoag City.
DIRIQUE INLET (CHART 4283) affords good
anchorage for small crafts in the NE monsoon in a basin
about 0.1 mile in diameter, sheltered from all winds except
SW. There is a fresh water stream at the head of Dirique
Inlet; it runs dry during the dry season. The barrio of Davila
is just S of the stream.
Drying reefs and a shoal, with depths of less than 9.1
m (5 fm), extend about.25 miles W from the S side of the
entrance and about 0.4 mile S from the N entrance point,
narrowing the entrance channel between the 9.1 m (5 fm)
curves to about 137 m (150 yds).
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
barrio of Davila may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8204240 and +63998-5858464.
Southward from Dirique Inlet the coast is low and
bordered with a narrow coral ledge for 3 miles, thence
smooth sand beach for 15 miles to Mount Cauit at the
mouth of the Laoag River. Anchorage can be made close
inshore during the NE monsoon.
Standing on a ridge about 7.5 miles ESE of Cape
Bojeador and about 3.5 miles inland are two conspicuous
white domes of a radar station.
The high mountain range along the W coast of Luzon
close to Lingayen Gulf trends NNE. Opposite Laoag,
the high peaks are about 25 miles inland with a low land
between the shore and the mountains, from which rise a
few prominent and scattered hills. The high mountains are
rugged and sharp, but they are usually obscured by clouds
except for several months during the dry season.
MOUNT CAUIT, about 18 miles S of Cape Bojeador
is a grassy sand hill, 92 m (303 ft) high, with some trees on
the crest, near the shore on the N bank of the Laoag River,
its highest point is nearly central and rises like a nipple. It
is a conspicuous landmark, having the only considerable
elevation near the coastline in the vicinity. A 9.7 m (32 ft)
5 high concrete tower for a proposed light is located on the
top of this mountain.
LAOAG is a chartered city 4.5 miles up the LAOAG
RIVER. The mouth of the river is closed by a bar only
10 passable by boats, the landing being a little over 0.5 mile
from the mouth. From here, there is a good road to the city.
Telephone, mobile phone services, and Internet connection
are available. Hotel accommodations are available. There
is a hospital in the city. Supplies of food, ice, and gasoline
15 can be secured. Public buses operate N and S along the
coast. There is a regular airplane connection with Manila.
The Laoag International Airport is located at Barrio Gabo,
about 3.5 miles W of the city. The airport’s control tower is
prominent.
20
Anchorage off Laoag River may be found by bringing
Mount Cauit to bear 045o and steering for it, anchoring in
16.4 m (9 fm), sand bottom, when Culili Point bears 202o.
On this bearing, the point W of Gabo barrio is in range
25 with Mount Cauit. In case the weather is not suitable for
anchoring off Laoag River, a berth may be taken up off
Currimao. It was reported that shoaling is occurring off the
river entrance and vessels should exercise caution when
approaching the anchorage.
30
From Mount Cauit, at the mouth of the Laoag River,
the coast trends S for about 8 miles to Culili Point and is
low and sandy.
35 CULILI POINT is 34.7 m (114 ft) high, abrupt and
rocky, and without trees. It is quite prominent on account
of the sand dunes behind it and is visible for a considerable
distance. From here, the coast trends S for 4 miles to Port
Currimao.
40
PORT CURRIMAO (CHART 4283) is a small
opening in the coral reef and affords anchorage during
the NE monsoon. It is the nearest available anchorage to
Laoag when vessels are unable to lie off the mouth of the
45 Laoag River. Owing to the scant room and the absence of
protection, except from a N swell, it affords indifferent
anchorage for small vessels and a poor one for large vessels.
The bottom is sandy.
50 Tides - The mean tidal range in Port Currimao is about
0.5 m (1.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 0.6 m (2 ft).
ARBOLEDAN POINT, the northern entrance point of
Port Currimao, is 3.7 to 4.6 m (12 to 15 ft) high, rounding,
55 and fringed by a coral reef 0.1 to 0.12 mile wide, partly bare
at low water. With the exception of a narrow break opposite
the town in the NE part of the cove, this reef extends S
around the shoreline, baring considerably at low water, but
with its outer limits always submerged and rising rapidly
60 from deep water. Arboledan Light (18° 01’ 16”N., 120° 28’
5-8
48”E.) is shown from a white tower on the point. with a sand beach at its head. Its N limit is formed by the
reef previously described under Port Currimao, extending
The S point of the cove is low and rounding, with a SW from the low point between Port Currimao and Gaang
submerged coral reef about 0.3 mile wide projecting SW Bay. From the coast near the S extremity of the bight, about
for about 0.8 mile. There is an average depth on this reef of 5 0.75 mile NE of Gabot Point, a drying reef extends about
about 3.7 m (2 fm) for the greater part of its length with a 0.35 mile offshore. The coast to the NE of this reef consists
least depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm), but the bottom is very uneven of sandy beaches with rocky ledges between them.
and the limits of the reef irregular. A survey team, in May
1979, found two shallow points with depths of 2.4 and 0.4 A 210 m long rock breakwater running in SE-NW
m (1.3 to 0.2 fm), is located almost S of Arboledan Point at 10 direction is located about 400 m SW of the government pier.
0.8 and 1.5 miles away, respectively. N and NW winds bring heavy seas into the pier although
some protection is given by the 0.9 m (0.5 fm) shoal lying
CURRIMAO is the town at the head of the cove. The about 0.3 mile to the NW.
town is small but it is the shipping point for the surrounding
district. There is a good road to Laoag where supplies are 15 Navigational Aids - Lateral buoys mark the channel
obtainable. Food and other daily needs may also be bought leading to the government pier at the head of the bay.
at the poblacion or nearby towns. Fresh water is available.
Fuel is available from a gasoline station in the area. The Caution - Submerged wooden piles are located near
only available health facilities are medical clinics. There the head of the bay. Shoal water with depths of 0.9 m (3 ft)
is a post office, telephone, mobile phone communications, 20 to 3.7 m (2 fm) extends about 0.75 mile N from the drying
and Internet connection in the town. Several bus lines reef. Its extremity lies about 1 mile SSW of the S entrance
connect Currimao with Manila. point of Port Currimao.

Prominent Features - On the N side of the cove,
extending northward and parallel to the coast and rising
rather abruptly to a height of about 46 m (150 ft), is a long
ridge covered with thick dark-green brush and a few groups
of taller trees. This ridge is useful in identifying the locality
from seaward or N, its S end marking the port. A large stone
church, now used as a warehouse, partly covered by young
coconut trees, is in the NE part of the cove near the inner
end of the break in the reef. The cylindrical stone tower
which used to be a lighthouse and the circular stone forts or
towers on either side of the cove are convenient and reliable
when close in, both having been whitewashed and show
well.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Currimao may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8131820 and +63998-5858467.
Berthing Facility - The boat landing, a small concrete
pier, is at the inner end of the break in the reef near the
warehouse, but owing to the numerous coral heads near the
surface caution must be used, as at low water there is some
difficulty in landing even in a small boat.
Directions - Vessels bound for Currimao should, when
about 1 mile offshore, bring the old whitewashed fort on the
E shore to bear 105o; then stand in cautiously with the fort
on the above bearing . When the W extremity of Arboledan
Point is in range with the next point N and the N fort bears
018o, anchor in 20.1 m (11 fm), sand bottom. Small vessels
may find better protected anchorage in 16.5 m (9 fm), 0.3
mile N and E of the above.
GAANG BAY, immediately S of Port Currimao, is a
port of entry and affords good shelter in N weather. During
southerly weather, small boats can land in the S part just
inside the S entrance, where there is a break in the shore reef
Port Management - The government port is operated
25 by PPA TMO-Currimao, which can be contacted via e-mail
address: currimao_port@yahoo.com.ph.
Quarantine - Foreign vessels are required to undergo
quarantine procedures. Quarantine officers board vessels at
30 the quarantine station.
Customs - Customs clearance may be had from the
customs officers stationed in Port Currimao.
35 Berthing Facilities - The government pier is located
about 1.4 mile NE of Gabot Point. It has inner and outer
berths that are both 388 m long. A RoRo ramp is available.
A 90 m long cruise ship berth, with least depth of 4.8 m,
was also available. A 3,800 sq m open area is available for
40 storage. Prominent red warehouses stand near the root of
the pier.
The berthing facilities operated by Ilocos Norte Mining
Company (INMC) are located about 0.5 mile NE of Gabot
45 Point. The facilities include two 200 m long wharves,
dolphins and conveyor facility that can deliver ore from the
port to the vessels.
Port Services - Cargo handling services is available
50 at the government port. Payloaders, trucks and other cargo
handling facilities are provided by the cargo handling
operator.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels of 100 GRT
55 or over. Pilots are provided by San Fernando Pilotage
Association. A 24-hr prior notice of the vessels ETA should
be sent to the pilot association. The telephone number of
the pilot association is (+6372) 607-8913. Tugboats are
available from INMC.
60

5-9
 Anchorage NE of the shoal water is about 0.5 mile m (30 fm).
in diameter with depths of from 11 to 18.3 m (6 to 10 fm),
sand and mud bottom, shoaling gradually to the beach. CABUGAO BAY, between the next point S of Solot
A narrow winding channel lies S of the shoal but in the Point and the point E of Salomague Island, affords two
absence of buoys, should not be attempted. The northern 5 anchorages, with protection in S weather; the first in the
main channel is nearly 0.3 mile wide between the 5.5 m deep bight E of CABUGAO POINT with depth of from 10.9
(3 fm) curves and would present no difficulties if buoys or to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm). Toward the head of the bight there is
ranges were established. some protection from N winds. The other anchorage is in
about 12.8 m (7 fm), anywhere in the bight S of Cabugao
GABOT POINT is immediately S of Gaang Bay. 10 Point, but preferably in the SW part.
With its reef and GABOT ISLET it forms a peninsula with
a narrow neck, affording a good boat landing on either side. Small vessels can also anchor in 20.1 m (11 fm) off the
The S side is protected from a N swell, but the other one is mouth of a cove formed in the fringing reef in a position
better most of the time, being more nearly landlocked. It is about 1.25 miles SSE of Solot Point. Some protection from
very probable that landing could be made on one side or the 15 N through E winds is afforded at this anchorage.
other at any time. A bridge connects Gabot Islet with the
point. The ruins of an old mansion are located on the islet. CABUGAO SHOAL with a depth of 5.4 m (2.9 fm),
lies nearly 1.3 miles NW of Cabugao Point and about 2.6
Caution - The wreck of M/V Pacific is located about miles NE of the N point of Salomague Island.
10 miles W of Gabot Island. 20
SALOMAGUE ISLAND is about 8 miles S of Badoc
In the open bight between Gabot Point and LUGOT Island and just N of the entrance of Salomague Harbor. It
POINT, about 2.5 miles SW, the bottom is smooth sand is separated from the mainland by a channel 0.3 mile wide,
with no indications of coral except that fringing the above- with a depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm) and is sometimes used by
mentioned points. The beach is sandy, backed by shifting 25 small vessels. Salomague Island is 33.5 m (110 ft) high,
sand dunes. The 20 m (10.9 fm) curve is about 1 mile very abrupt on the W side, and covered with brushwood
offshore and the depths shoal gradually to the beach. and grass and a few trees. It is nearly surrounded by a
narrow coral reef.
SOLOT POINT, a projecting point with a height of 20
m (66 ft), lies about 1.3 miles SW of Lugot Point. 30 SALOMAGUE POINT, the N point is a bluff
tableland about 30.5 m (100 ft) high. A drying reef extends
BADOC ISLAND, located about 0.75 miles W of 0.3 mile SW from the point.
Solot Point, is 39.6 m (130 ft) high, very abrupt on the W
side and almost bare of trees. The top of the island is covered SALOMAGUE HARBOR (CHART 4283),
with grass and has a solitary tree near the center. The N and 35 Otherwise known as the Port of Cabugao, about midway
W sides are fringed by a reef. The channel between Badoc between Port Currimao and Dile Point, is entered between
Island and the mainland has a depth of 36 m (19.7 fm). Salomague Point and Darrena Point with a safe passage of
about 1 mile. It is of cosiderable commercial importance and
During ordinary N and W weather, a fairly good is a port of entry. It affords anchorage with good protection
anchorage may be had between Badoc Island and the 40 from all except W and SW winds. It is used even during the
mainland, although the depth is 36 m (19.7 fm). In heavy SW monsoon for hauling Laoag and Vigan cargoes when
N winds better protection may be had a little over 1.5 miles it is too rough for the vessels to work at these places. The
SE of the island in 20 m (10.9 fm), just outside the mouth points at the entrance are fringed with reefs.
of a deep inlet through the coral reef. This inlet furnishes a
good landing for boats at nearly all times, as it is deep and 45 Prominent Landmarks - Approaching Salomague
narrow, with a good sand beach at its head. Harbor from N or S, the best landmark is Salomague Island;
when close in, the light structure and the old stone tower.
Caution - Southward of Badoc Island are two banks Darrena Point is not conspicuous and cannot be made out
each with a least depth of 12.8 m (7 fm). The first lies 2 until within a mile or two of the anchorage, when it shows
miles and the second 3.8 miles SSW of the S point of the 50 as a white line of sand beach, covered above high water
island. These are the shoalest points on a submarine ridge with green bushes and grass projected against the high land
extending SSW from Badoc Island, on which are depths back of it. From seaward the best marks are Mount Nagapu
from 20.1 to 27.4 m (11 to 15 fm), rising abruptly from 54.9 and Mount Bulagao.

Mount Bulagao (from a position about 11.5 miles westward of Dile Point).

5-10
 Government pier of Salomague.
(Photograph - Cabugao Municipality website, undated)
Mount Bulagao, of which the N peak is 1,121 m
(3,679 ft) high, is 11 miles SE of the SW extremity of
Salomague Island. It is dark, and conspicuous on account
of its comparative isolation. From NW, it shows one
rounded summit, but from SW it shows two summits of
almost equal height and shape about 1.3 km apart.
Mount Nagapu, dark, flat-topped, 1,272 m (4,174 ft)
high, is 12 miles SE of the SW extremity of Salomague
Island. Although the highest mountain in this vicinity, it is
not very conspicuous, as it rises behind a high ridge nearer
the coast.
Major Light - Salomague Light (17° 46’ 26”N., 120°
25’ 27”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the head of
Salomague Harbor.
Caution - The anchorage area is contracted by 2
shoals. North Shoal lies off the N point of the bay, a little
less than 0.5 mile SW of the tower and generally shows a
breaker. A small patch in the center is awash at high water.
The shoal is steep-to on all sides and its SW extremity is
marked by a black buoy.
Middle Shoal, about 0.5 mile from the S and E shores
of the bay, is shoalest in the center, where there are several
coral heads with 0.9 m (3 ft) over them at low water. A red
buoy is moored in 4.6 m (2.5 fm) near its NW extremity.
Another and smaller shoal lies in the E part of the harbor,
but is out of the way of the anchorage for large vessels.
SW from Darrena Point shoals and irregular bottom
extend W and S, terminating in SOUTHWEST SHOAL,
with 4.1 m (2.25 fm) over it at low water, 2.3 miles W of
the point. A smaller shoal, with 7.3 m (0.4 fm) over it, is
0.6 mile nearer Darrena Point on nearly the same bearing.
Masbate Shoal, with 7.6 m (25 ft) over it, is 1.4 miles
WSW of Darrena Point.
Too much dependence should not be placed on the
buoys, as they are liable to drag in heavy weather.
5-11
Directions - Vessels from N should pass about 0.5 mile
W from Salomague Island, and when Salomague Light
bears 090o it should be steered for. Good anchorage will be
found in 14.6 m (8 fm) with Salomague Light on the above
5 bearing and the old tower bearing 349o, distant about 0.5
mile. Small vessels can find better sheltered anchorage in
12.8 m (7 fm) farther to the N and W.
Large vessels from S should keep Pinget Island
10 bearing nothing W of 180o until the light bears 090o, when
the previous directions should be followed. Small vessels
and those having local knowledge approaching from S may
bring Salomague Point to bear 038o and steer for it, keeping
a good lookout for Southwest and Masbate Shoals; when
15 the light bears 090o, they should steer for it and anchor as
previously directed.
SALOMAGUE is a small barrio at the head of the
N cove. There is road connection to Cabugao, a town of
20 considerable size where gasoline, lubricating oil, diesel
oil, and food supplies are obtainable in limited quantities.
Maguey, copra, and rice are shipped. The port is a permanent
port of entry. Cargo vessels from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and
China regularly call at Salomague.
25
Prominent Landmarks - An old, round, tower is near
the beach in front of the town. The ruins of an old stone
church are near the foot of the pier.
30 Caution - There is a wreck on the W side of the pier
and extending about 30 m from the end.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Salomague may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
35 6257412 and +63998-5858560.
Customs - Customs officers stationed at Salomague
may be contacted at telephone no. (+637) 728-5521.
40 Berthing Facilities - The barrio has a 120 m long
government pier with a depth of 4.9 m (16 ft) at the end,
and shoaling gradually shoreward. Other facilities include
a 108 sq m transit area and a 1,200 sq m warehouse.
DARRENA POINT, the S entrance point of the
harbor, is low and covered with brush and trees. A spit, as
defined by the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve, extends a little over0.5
miles W from the point. The shores of the bay are fringed
with coral reefs extending 91 to 457 m (100 to 500 yd)
offshore, except in two small coves on the N and E sides,
where short stretches of sand beach afford a boat landing.
LAPOG BAY (CHART 4283), immediately S of
Salomague Harbor, between Darrena and Lapog Points,
affords protection similar to Salomague Harbor, but is
more exposed. The S part of Darrena Point is fringed by a
coral reef, mostly bare at low water, extending 91 to 457 m
(100 to 500 yd) offshore. The E shore of the bay is a sand
beach. The S shore is fringed with coral extending 91 to
275 m (100 to 300 yd) offshore, in which a break about
91 m (100 yd) wide, terminating in a sand beach, leads to
the small barrio of SAOANG, the seaport for the town of
SAN JUAN (LAPOG), about 1 mile inland. This break
is capable of accommodating 3 or 4 small crafts. Several
small barrios are on the shores of the bay.
There are several shoals in the bay and its approaches.
Lapog Shoal, about 0.6 mile S of Darrena Point, has
a least depth of 2.1 m (1.1 fm). Between this shoal and the
reefs extending S from Darrena Point is a channel about
0.25 mile wide, with depths of from 12.8 to 25.6 m (7 to
14 fm). Another channel, about 0.75 mile wide and with
depths of 12.8 to 18.3 m (7 to 10 fm) separates the S side of
this shoal from the reefs and shoals fringing Lapog Point.
In the N part of the bay, about 0.25 mile offshore, is a reef,
bare at low water. Small native crafts anchor behind this
reef, and a contracted anchorage in about 7.3 m (4 fm) may
be had by a small vessel N and W of it.
Wrecks lie close to the shore in position 0.26 mile NW
and 0.60 mile S, respectively, of the mouth of Lapog River. 40
This bay is used almost exclusively by local crafts. In
view of its proximity to Salomague Harbor and the fact that
the latter affords better protection and holding ground, this
anchorage is not recommended.
LAPOG POINT, the S entrance point of the bay, is
low and has a small inlet close S of it. A narrow spit, as
defined by the 5.5 m (3fm) curve, extends about 0.6 mile
WSW from the point. A shoal, with a least depth of 3.9 m
(2.1 fm), lies about 1.25 miles W of the point, and a 7.3 m
(4fm) patch lies about 0.10 SW of the shoal.
The coast between Lapog Point and a point which is
connected to Pinget Island by a sandy isthmus, about 4
miles SW, is reef-fringed to a distance of 0.5 mile offshore
in places.
PINGET POINT, formerly an island, is located about
6 miles S of Salomague Island. It is low, sandy, covered
with brush, and fringed by a narrow coral reef. Its highest
point, 6.1 m (20 ft), is near the S end. Puropingit Light (17°
41’ 24”N., 120° 21’ 12”E.) is displayed from a white tower
on the point.
5
Anchorage may be made either N or S of the point,
depending on the weather. On the N side during the SW
monsoon, good protection may be had in about 12.8 m (7
fm), 0.3 mile E of the point or closer in, depending on the
10 size and draft of the vessel. On the S side, a vessel should
anchor in about 11 m (6 fm), 0.5 mile S of the point and
shoals gradually toward the mainland.
SAN ILDEFONSO HARBOR (CHART 4283) has a
15 ruined pier about 2.5 miles S of Puropingit Light. A shoal
with a least depth of 1.2 m (0.7 fm) lies 1.5 miles S of
Pinget Island, and nearly 1 mile offshore at its outer edge.
Ruins of a breakwater extend N across the middle of this
shoal. Between this shoal and the reefs making off from
20 shore is a narrow channel about 0.15 mile wide with depths
of from 7.3 to 11 m (4 to 6 fm); this channel should not be
attempted without local knowledge. A landmark consisting
of a concrete tank, about 3.4 m (11 ft) high, is near the
inshore end of the pier.
25
With the exception of these reefs and some rocks
making out from a point under the old fort, the coast is low
and sandy from Pinget Island to Dile Point.
30 DILE POINT, the most salient point on this part of
the coast, projects well W, but it is low and not prominent.
There are no reefs off the point, but the 20 m (10.9 fm) curve
is about 0.8 mile offshore. Two miles N of Dile Point, this
curve is about 1 mile offshore. Discolored water discharged
35 from the Abra River may at times be seen off the point.
From Dile Point, the coast trends about 8 miles SE to
the town of SANTA. This stretch of the coast is low and
mainly comprises the delta of the Abra River and other
smaller rivers. Between the town of Santa and Solvec Point
about 2 miles S, the coast is high, the ridge extending N to a
height of 213 m (700 ft) about 0.25 mile inland.
VIGAN GAP is a marked cut or a divide in the
45 mountain range back of Vigan. It is 8 miles E of Dile Point
and is a conspicuous landmark for this vicinity.
VIGAN, a city of considerable size, is inland about 3
miles E of Dile Point. It is the provincial capital of Ilocos Sur
50 and contains numerous stores, several hotels, a provincial
hospital, and several private clinics. Supplies of food,
gasoline, lubricating oil, diesel oil, and some hardware are
obtainable. There is a small machine shop in the town. An
airport is located 1 mile SE of Dile Point.
55
Prominent Landmark - The white, cylindrical water
tower on the 37.5 m (123 ft) hill just SW of the town of
Vigan is an excellent daymark for navigation. The top of
the tower is 55.2 m (181 ft) above high water.
60
5-12
 MESTIZO RIVER, one of the mouths of Abra River,
is about 3 miles SE of Dile Point. The channels leading
into the river are constantly changing, both in position and
depth, especially during the season of freshets and the SW
monsoon. At times, 1.5 m (0.8 fm) can be taken over the bar
but local knowledge is necessary. Virays, the local type of
sailing vessel, enter the river at high tide.
CAOAYAN, a town with its poblacion about 1 mile
NE of Pandan landing, has a large church. The concrete
bell tower shows above the trees and makes a conspicuous
landmark.
PANDAN, a barangay of Caoayan town, is the landing
place for Vigan and adjoining towns. The port situated
on the W bank of the Mestizo River. The landing facility
measuring 8 by 12 m serves as terminal for inter-barangay
travellers and local fish product transactions. Depth of
water at the end of the landing is 0.4 m in 1990. The port is
connected by road to the National Highway and links with
Manila and Laoag.
Major Light - Pandan Light (17° 32’ 06”N., 120° 22’
05”E.) was placed on the NW mouth of the river to guide
vessels. 25
Caution - There are 3 shoals in the approach to
Pandan; the shoalest with a least depth 6.9 m (3.75 fm), is
about 2.3 miles SE from Dile Point and about 0.5 mile from
shore. About 0.5 mile outside of this shoal is 8.2 m (4.5
fm) patch, and SE from this shoal and 1 mile from shore is
an 8.2 m (4.5 fm) shoal. Caoayan church tower or Pandan
Light, bearing nothing E of 041o, clears the SE side of these
shoals, and Dile Point bearing nothing W of 355o, clears
the W side.
A wreck with mast showing, lies about 0.5 mile
offshore in a position about 3 miles SE of Pandan Light.
Anchorage off Pandan is somewhat sheltered from
N winds, but in strong N and NE winds the ground swell
works around the point, causing heavy surf and making the
landing of cargo difficult and at times impossible. At such
times the anchorage is very uncomfortable, as with the N
current vessels lie in the trough of the sea, and tide rips
extend from the S mouth of the river to beyond Dile Point,
giving a dangerous appearance to the point.
Directions - Vessels from N should round Dile Point at
a distance of 1.5 miles and keep this distance offshore until 50
Pandan Light bears 041o. The church tower at Caoayan
should then be in range with a prominent shoulder on the W
side of Mt. Bulagao. Anchorage in 11 m (6 fm), sand bottom
will be found on this range, about 0.6 mile from shore, with
Solvec Rock bearing 140o. The above range leads about 0.5 55
mile SE of the southern 8.2 m (4.5 fm) patch.
Vessels from S should give the coast a berth of at least coral reefs. The mouth of the river is usually blocked by a
1 mile until the church tower bears 041o, and then proceed bar. The reef at the inner end of this pocket is sufficiently
as previously directed.
5-13
SOLVEC COVE (CHART 4283) is a small
indentation in the coast about 10 miles SE from Dile Point.
While it is a national port open to coastwise trade, it is of
little commercial importance. It affords protection in N
5 weather to large vessels under the lee of SOLVEC POINT,
the N point at the entrance in from 18.3 to 21.9 m (10 to 12
fm) and to small craft farther in. The inner basin is formed
by a reef, partially bare at low water, projecting about 0.25
mile NW from the shore. The depths average 9.1 m (5 fm)
10 but the holding ground is poor, a thin layer of sand and mud
over coral. A boat landing can be made on the sand beach
at the head. The barrio of Sulvec is at the head of the cove.
Prominent Landmarks - The location of the coves is
15 well marked by MOUNT NARVACAN, a solitary detached
hill 259 m (851 ft) high immediately SE of the cove, and by
the long ridge extending S from the prominent TETAS DE
SANTA and terminating abruptly in Solvec Point.
20 Solvec Rock, square and about 9 m (30 ft) high, is
about 0.1 mile off Solvec Point, to which it is connected by
low rocks a few feet above high water. It is quite prominent
from N to S; a rock awash lies about 15 m (50 ft) W of it.
Dangers - The N shore from Solvec Rock to the ruins
of the old tower, about 0.5 mile E, should not be approached
closer than 0.25 mile by large vessels as there are detached
coral boulders lying off it. The outer edges of the coral reefs
on both sides of the cove bare in places at low tide and
30 can generally be made out; they are steep-to on the outside,
but not so much so inside the cove, and are surrounded by
detached lumps of coral.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Sulvec
35 may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-6256812
and +63998-5858574.
Berthing Facility - A destroyed rock causeway with a
concrete pier at its end is in the SE part of the cove. In April
40 1951, there was a depth of 4.9 m (16 ft) along the W face
of the pier and 2.4 m (8 ft) at the outer end of the E face. A
5.5 m (3fm) shoal spot lies about 128 m (140 yds) NW of
the end of the pier.
45 Directions - To enter the anchorage, bring the church,
which is a low stone structure with galvanized iron roof
and a belfry, to bear 056o. Steer in on this range and for the
outer roadstead; anchor when Solvec Rock bears 315o and
the old tower on the N shore 023o in from 16.5 to 18.3 m
(9 to 10 fm). The same range held will clear the reefs on
either side of the entrance to the inner cove, where smaller
vessels may choose anchorage according to draft and depth
or go to the dock.
Anchorage with some shelter for small crafts is
found about 4 miles S of Solvec Point off the mouth of the
MAINGANAY RIVER, where there is a small pocket in the
60 narrow to afford smooth landing even in moderately rough
W weather.
From the S entrance point of Solvec Cove, the coast
which is somewhat indented and consists for the most part
of small river deltas, trends about 4.5 miles S to the N
entrance point of Nalvo Bay. Between the latter point and
the mouth of the Mainganay River, about 1.25 miles NNE ,
the coast is fronted by the 5 m (2.7 fm) curve at a distance
of a little over 0.3 mile. Some hills, which rise to a height
of 125 m (409 ft), lie close inland about 0.5 mile N of the N
entrance point of Nalvo Bay.
NALVO BAY (CHART 4283) is a small cove about
5 miles S of Solvec Cove. A coral reef projects about 0.17
mile W from the point on the N side, affording protection
in N weather, but offers no protection from the S. It is a
much safer anchorage than Port San Esteban during the NE
monsoon. The E shore is a sand beach, immediately back
of which is a solitary sharp hill about 76 m (250 ft) high,
the southernmost of a series of similar higher and lower
elevations immediately back of the coastline.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
barrio of Nalvo at the head of the bay may be contacted
at mobile phone nos. +63917-8077611 and +639-5858566.
Directions - To enter, bring the sharp hill to bear 079o
when SANTA MARIA Church will be seen at the base of
the N slope. Stand in on this bearing until Solvec Rock is
on range with the point of land on the N side of Nalvo Bay,
when anchorage may be had in from 9.1 to 11 m (5 to 6
fm), hard, smooth sand bottom. Small coasters discharge
and load close in to the sand beach under the hook of the
reef in the NE part of the cove.
SUSO SHOAL is the only outlying or detached shoal
on this stretch of coast. It is about 0.8 mile N of SAN
ESTEBAN POINT and about the same distance offshore.
There is only slightly deeper water between it and the shore
to the E. The shoalest water found was 6.4 m (3.5 fm) and
it probably breaks only in very heavy weather.
PORT SAN ESTEBAN (CHART 4283), about 6
miles S of Solvec Cove, is a small cove, open to the N and
NW. Reefs extend as far as 275 m (300 yd) offshore from
either side of the cove, leaving a narrow channel, from 0.2
to 0.1 mile, leading to the sandy beach at the head of the
cove. It is a dangerous anchorage in the NE monsoon on
account of the large swell rolling in. Suso Shoal, in the
approaches, affords no protection, but instead increases
the swell. In the SW monsoon, it affords shelter to small
crafts that run in between the reefs and anchor or moor off
the sand beach in front of the town at the head of the port.
A quarry showing as a bare spot on the hillside about 0.7
mile N of the landing, a stone tower on the W point, and a
large concrete building in ruins back of the sand beach are
prominent in approaching.
Berthing Facility - A small causeway with a concrete
landing is at the inner end of the cove. The depth of water
at the end is reported to be 3.4 m (11 ft). The tidal currents
on flood follow the edge of the W reef, pass across the end
of the landing and then turn N.
5 Directions - To enter, bring the quarry to bear 090o and
stand in on this course until the large concrete building in
ruins bears 169o and anchor in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm),
sand bottom; or anchorage may be made farther out when
the stone tower bears 180o, in 14.6 to 18.3 m (8 to 10 fm).
10
The coast between San Esteban Point and Santiago
Cove, about 3 miles S, is high and reef-fringed to a distance
of 183 to 366 m (200 to 400 yd).
15 SANTIAGO COVE (CHART 4283), 4 miles S
of Port San Esteban, affords fair shelter during the NE
monsoon but is exposed in W weather. At the head of the
cove is a bright, white sandy beach on which is a small
village. Behind the beach is a small stream that empties at
20 its S end. The stream has about 1.8 m (6 ft) of water on the
bar at high tide and is used by virays and other small boats
for shelter during strong SW weather.
Prominent Features - The church and the ruined
25 convent of the town of Santiago, located about 1 mile
inland, are visible. The reefs at the entrance and along the
shores are narrow and plainly marked.
Directions - To enter, bring the church building to bear
30 067o and steer for it on the bearing. Large vessels should
anchor when the N point at the entrance bears about 320o, in
11.9 m (6.5 fm), sand bottom. In entering and after passing
the point of the reef on the S side, it is better to favor this
side and round-to N. Good water is found close up to the
35 reefs. Small vessels can go within 0.12 mile of the beach at
the head of the cove and find good anchorage but contracted
swinging room.
The coast between the S entrance point of Santiago
40 Cove and a position about 1 mile S of Tamurung Point is
reef-fringed to a distance of 01.5 mile. A small coral islet
lies on this reef in position about0.5 mile S of the entrance
to Santiago Cove.
45 TAMURUNG POINT, located 2 miles S of the N
entrance point of Santiago Cove, is 30.5 m (100 ft) high.
CANDON POINT, almost 3 miles SSW of Tamurung
Point, is low, heavily wooded with coconut trees, and
50 fringed by a narrow reef. It projects about 1 mile from the
general trend of the coast but is not prominent.
DARAPIDAP is the barrio at the S bank of Candon
River and at the head of the Candon Anchorage.
55
Major Light - Candon Light (17° 11’ 16”N., 120° 25’
18”E.) is displayed from a white tower near the mouth of
the Oaig Daya River, about 2 miles SE of Candon Point.
60 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
5-14
Darapidap may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998- sand bottom. This anchorage is poorly protected and of no
5858466. commercial importance. There is a narrow shore reef for
several miles N and S of the inlet.
Anchorage may be had S of the point in 9.1 to 11 m
(5 to 6 fm), WSW of the stone house on the beach. Large 5 CAUTION - During the NE monsoon, a strong current
vessels should anchor with Candon Point bearing 000o in has sometimes been observed setting NNE along this coast.
not less than 16.4 m (9 fm). The anchorage is somewhat Vessels proceeding S should be prepared for this current or
protected from N winds, but in strong N and NE winds, they may find themselves embayed in Lingayen Gulf.
the swell follows around the point, causing a heavy surf
and making the landing of cargo difficult and at times 10 The coast between Darigayos Inlet and the NE entrance
impossible. point of San Fernando harbor, about 11 miles S, is fronted
by shoal water to a distance of up to 0.32 mile.
CANDON CITY is about 2.5 miles inland, SE of
Candon Point, and is not visible from the sea. THE MARAGAYA RIVER discharges about 3.5
15 miles S of Darigayos Inlet. A wreck is at the entrance to
The coast from Candon Point trends S for 17 miles this river. A 37.8 m (124 ft) high concrete silo, tanks, and
to the mouth of the Amburayan River, thence SW for 7.5 factory buildings operated by Holcim Cement stands N of
miles to DARIGAYOS POINT, which is low, covered with the river entrance.
trees and surrounded by a reef; thence it trends S again for
12 miles to the entrance to San Fernando Harbor. 20 Port Management - Holcim Cement may be contacted
at telephone no. (+6372) 242-5692. Holcim Cement
A number of small towns are scattered along this website: www.holcim.ph.
stretch, among them being Santa Lucia, Santa Cruz,
Tagudin, Bangar, Luna, Bacnotan, and San Juan. Berthing Facility - A causeway with a 160 m long pier
25 extends SW from the cement plant. Equipment for loading
SANTA LUCIA, 6 miles S of Candon Point, may be cement is available.
recognized by a large church with a prominent white dome.
SAN JUAN, a small town located 5.6 miles S of the
TAGUDIN, the port for the Mountain Province, is mouth of the Maragaya River, stands close to the coast.
near the mouth of the Amburayan River, about 11 miles 30 A patch, with a least depth of 1.8 m (1 fm), lies 0.3 mile
S of Santa Lucia. Tagudin Light (16° 57’ 28”N., 120° 26’ offshore in a position about 0.9 mile N of the town.
04”E.) is shown from a white column located about 0.25 m
NNE of the NE entrance to the Amburayan River. This light LINGAYEN GULF
steered for on a 135o bearing leads to an anchorage in 14.6 (CHART 4209, 4239, & 4246)
m (8 fm), sand and mud bottom. 35
LINGAYEN GULF, on the W coast of Luzon, is open
LUNA, about 6 miles SW of Tagudin, has a church to the NNW. Eastward are lofty mountains, with MOUNT
with three towers. An old tower stands on the beach in front SANTO TOMAS rising to a height of 2,255 m (7,400 ft).
of the town. The W coast is of moderate height and fairly level, gradually
40 rising S in a compact mountain mass. There is a chain of
The coast between Tagudin Light and Darigayos Point, shoals with 6.4 to 11.9 m (3.5 to 6.5 fm) extending nearly
about 9 miles SW, is low and clear of dangers. The first 4 halfway across the entrance from Cape Bolinao, with a clear
miles of this stretch is formed by the shifting deltas of the channel about 13 miles wide W of San Fernando Point. On
Amburayan River. the E side of the gulf, the shore is free from dangers, except
45 the shoals near Santo Tomas and San Fernando. There is
DARIGAYOS INLET (CHART 4283) is a slight a continuous sand beach, with the foothills rising a short
indentation in the coast at the mouth of the river of the same distance back. The shore around the head of the gulf is low,
name, 1 mile S of Darigayos Point. Reefs, parts of which sandy, and free from danger.
dry, extend about 595 m (650 yd) W from the N entrance
point and 0.27 mile WNW from the S entrance point. 50 On the W side from Santiago Island SE, the coast is
fringed by an almost continuous chain of islands and rocks
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in as far as S as Cabalitian Island, just N of Sual. The islands
Darigayos may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917- are, as a rule, low and wooded, and have shallow channels
8157594 and +63998-5858571. between them used only by coasters.
55
Pin Rock, 0.6 m (2 ft), lies near the S edge of the The principal anchorages in the gulf are San Fernando,
former reef. The entrance is about 0.15 mile wide, and from Santo Tomas, Dagupan, Sual, Cabalitian Bay, and Bolinao.
it the schoolhouse with galvanized iron roof bears 105o and
the old stone fort on the S bears 147o. 0.10 mile farther Winds - The prevailing wind for the greater part of the
to the sea, there is anchorage for launches in 3 m (10 ft), 60 year is SE. During the NE monsoon, land and sea breezes

5-15
become regular and blow freshly, with clear atmosphere,
but are interrupted by strong N and NE gales. A bank of
clouds seen in the N, with a clear sky and high barometer,
is a certain sign of the commencement of a gale. In June the
wind blows from SE in the morning, with squalls blowing
down from Mounts Santo Tomas and San Isidro; toward
the evening it dies away, with heavy rain and thunder, and,
clearing toward midnight, leaves a light wind from S which
sets in from SE at dawn.
From July to October, there are usually gales from SW
to W, lasting from 3 to 15 days, accompanied by torrents
of rain. The worst season in the gulf is from the middle of
September until the end of October, when typhoons occur.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact
the remotely controlled coast stations with VHF DSC
alerting in the ports of San Fernando and Sual. The VHF
DSC alerting system covers the sea area about 25 miles
from the said ports. Vessels in distress that are outside of
the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast stations may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
SAN FERNANDO HARBOR (CHART 4246), open
to the N and NW, is formed by a peninsula, San Fernando
Point, projecting from the coast in a W and NW direction.
The harbor is about 1.5 miles in diameters, but the entrance
between the reefs extending from both sides is about 0.4
mile in width.
Navigational Aids - Lighted buoys were installed
at the entrance of San Fernando Harbor at the following
positions:
16o 38' 17"N., 120o 17' 59"E.
16o 38' 10"N., 120o 17' 37"E.
16o 37' 59"N., 120o 18' 06"E.
Dangers - Fagg Reef, composed of rock and sand,
nearly 0.5 mile in extent, with reported least depth of 4
m (2.2 fm) on which the sea breaks in heavy weather, lies
about 2 miles NW from San Fernando Point. Vessels from S
and W should pass between Fagg Reef and the point.
Shoals – A shoal extends W about 0.4 mile from the E
shore. From San Fernando Point, an extensive rocky shoal
projects NE for nearly 1 mile.
Numerous other wrecks in the SE part of the bay can
best be understood by reference to the chart. All these
wrecks, although clear of the channel route and ranges, may
break up in heavy weather and form new obstructions.
Restrictions - Unauthorized fishing and activities
that may harm the environment are prohibited within the
Lingsat Marine Protected Area located in the vicinity of E
entrance point of San Fernando Harbor about 1.7 miles NE
of San Fernando Point.
Tides and Currents - The tides at San Fernando are
mostly diurnal. The diurnal range is about 0.7 m (2.4 ft).
The maximum tides usually follow the greatest N or S
declination of the moon. It has been reported that there is
5 a very slight tidal current in the harbor but its velocity and
direction has not been determined.
SAN FERNANDO CITY, the capital of La Union
Province and the administrative seat of Region I, lies on
10 mountainous terrain along the W coast of Luzon Island.
There are numerous scenic spots, tourist attractions and
facilities. Splendid resort facilities stand check by jowl
along San Fernando coast.
15 Food supplies may be obtained from the public market
and stores. Fresh water is supplied via water tank lorry.
Bunker supplies are available from the oil depot. Hospitals
that could undertake major surgeries are available.
Commercial banks are present in the city. The city has
20 postal service, parcel services, long distance telephone,
mobile phone services, and Internet connection.
There is an airport about 1 mile SW of San Fernando
City. Public buses ply between the city and Manila and
25 nearby provinces daily. Jeepneys and motorized tricycles
are available for shorter routes.
The Barrio of Poro which lies in the SW part of the
bay is the city’s industrial hub, home to huge depots of oil
30 firms and warehouse of mining companies. It is also the
regional center for domestic and international shipping and
air transportation.
Prominent Features - San Fernando Point rises
35 gradually NW to a height of 24.4 m (80 ft) conspicuous
white cliffs form its W side. On this peninsula located are
the installation of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine
Air Force. This is a restricted zone fenced off from the rest
of barrio Poro. Several radio masts and water tanks are
40 prominent.
From the harbor entrance, the following are the most
prominent landmarks: the provincial capitol, several fuel
tanks at Poro, and the light and radio masts on San Fernando
45 Point. A radar station with conspicuous dome is situated
320 m S of San Fernando Point. A conspicuous radio mast
stands close SE of the Front Range Light.
Major Lights - San Fernando Point Light (16° 36’
50 54”N., 120° 16’ 51”E.) is displayed from a white tower
located near the bluff on the W side of the peninsula.
San Fernando Front Range Light (16° 37’ 00”N., 120°
18’ 45”E.) is displayed from a concrete post at the beach
55 fronting San Fernando City.
San Fernando Rear Range Light (16° 36’ 42”N., 120°
18’ 57”E.) is displayed from a concrete post on a hill about
0.4 mile SE of the front range light.
60
5-16
 It is reported that the range lights are hard to locate at
night among the shore lights.
SAN FERNANDO PORT is situated at the throat of
a small cape of Poro Point. The cape juts out and forms the
W part of San Fernando Bay.
It is the loading port for mineral ore and cement as well
as transhipment and important terminal for bulk fertilizer.
Copper and gold concentrates are shipped by private mining
companies.
Restrictions - Piers can accommodate vessels with
tonnage up to 10,000 DWT. Vessels with 30,000 DWT or
lower can use the anchorage.
Port Management - Vessels calling at San Fernando
Harbor should inform Poro Point Management Corp.
(PPMC) 48 hrs before ETA. Information required are
ETA, draft, LOA and breadth, consignee of shipper, type
of cargo and stowage, and dangerous cargo. PPMC may be
contacted at telephone no: (+6372) 242-4016 and fax no:
(+6372) 242-0683.
Distress & Rescue - San Fernando Port serves as the
headquarters of the Coast Guard District - North Western
Luzon and a Maritime Rescue Sub-Center. The Coast Guard
station may be contacted through the following means:
Telephone: (+6372) 700-4474
Fax: (+6372) 700-4474
VSAT telephone: 8700 to 8703
VHF channel 16
Mobile phone: +63998-5858578; +63917-8088412
E-mail: cgdnwlzn@coastguard.gov.ph
Customs - San Fernando is a customs port. The
customs office may be contacted at telephone nos. (+6372)
PPMC Piers in San Fernando Port.
(Photograph - PPMC website, undated)
5-17
888-5581 and (+6372) 242-5953.
Berthing Facilities - PPMC manages three piers at the
head of San Fernando Harbor. Pier 1 has a length of 150 m.
5 Pier 2 has a length of 200 m. The 3rd pier is 200 m long.
Piers 1 and 2 both have least depths of 4 m.
East of the PPMC piers is the pier operated by Philex
Mining. It has a conveyor facility.
10
The piers are somewhat protected from NE and SW
winds but are open to the weather from the N.
Port Services - Cargo handling services and tugs are
15 available in the port.
Repairs - Only minor electrical and machinery works
are available in various shops in San Fernando City. The
nearest shipyard is in Subic Bay.
20
Pilotage is compulsory for foreign vessels and for
domestic vessels with 100 gross tonnage and over. At least
24 hr prior advice of ETA must be sent to San Fernando
Pilots Association. Pilots meet the vessel outside the harbor
25 about 1.6 miles of the front range beacon, with the ranges
in line. Pilots board vessels at the Quarantine Anchorage
during bad weather. Pilots can be contacted at telephone no.
(+6372) 700-5580.
30 Anchorage - Vessels not going alongside the pier may
anchor at designated anchorage area located at the center of
the bay with 18 to 23 m depths and good holding ground.
San Fernando Harbor being open to the N and NW, there
35 is little shelter from those directions. In heavy N weather,
vessels anchor off Poro in the SW part of the harbor, and
ride easier than off San Fernando. During the NE monsoon,
the swell reaches this anchorage and is particularly heavy
in the afternoon.
An unlimited number of anchorage berths are available
along the coast S of the peninsula forming the harbor of San
Fernando. These berths are sometimes used during strong
N and NW winds, when the anchorage within the harbor is
untenable.
Recommended anchorage for vessels with 1,000 GRT
and above is located about 1.2 miles E of San Fernando 10
Point. Lay-up area is located just S of this recommended
anchorage.
Quarantine Anchorage is located about 0.7 miles
NW of the front range beacon, on the range line.
Directions - The channel may be entered by following
the lighted range guides at bearing 144o 36’. Vessels from
N should bring San Fernando Point Light to bear 180o
and steer for it until on the range; stand in on the range
course 144o 36’. This range leads directly to the quarantine
anchorage. Vessels are cautioned to give the reef on the
W side of the entrance channel a wide berth, as the reef is
reported to have had a NE growth.
If making for the docks at Poro, round to S on 198o
30’ and steer for the largest and tallest of the westernmost
group of tanks in this bearing. Vessels from S and W should
steer to pass 1 mile N of San Fernando Point and steer 090o
until on range, then proceed as directed above.
The coast between San Fernando Point and the sandy
W entrance of Santo Tomas Anchorage, about 23 miles S,
consists of a continuous sandy beach with foothills a short
distance inland. The 18.3 m (10 fm) curve fronts the coast
at a greatest distance of 2 miles. The only dangers along
this curve are Research Reef and the sandy spit extending
S from the W entrance point of Santo Tomas Anchorage.
A spit, with a least depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) at its outer end,
extends almost 0.5 mile W from BAUANG POINT.
RESEARCH REEF, 1.3 miles SSW of the S extremity
of San Fernando Peninsula and nearly 1 mile offshore, has a
depth of 4.6 m (15 ft). A shoal with a depth of 5 m (2.75 fm)
is about 0.8 miles S of Research Reef and about 0.8 mile
SW from the next point S of San Fernando Point.
BAUANG RIVER, navigable only by small crafts,
discharges on the S side of Bauang Point. Large cylindrical
tanks of a power plant, located 2.3 miles SE of Bauang
Point, are prominent. Two dolphins are located about 0.9
mile W of the power plant.
From Bauang Point going S for a distance of 16 miles
are the towns of Caba, Aringay, Agoo and Santo Tomas.
Portions of the coast of these towns are characterized by
groynes placed to prevent erosion of the beach. In 1982,
Agoo and vicinity was reported to be mostly a stretch of
grayish sand, with erosion and siltation constant phenomena
brought by big waves. Some portions of settlements near
the coast were reclaimed by the sea while other places
were deposited with wide track of sediments. Houses and
other structures destroyed by waves were abandoned by
occupants while elsewhere wide beaches deposited by
5 sediments were invaded with a thorny shrub, locally called
aroma. Fishing is the means of livelihood to most people
near the shore and their multi-colored motorized boats
sometimes adorn the beaches. Some shorelines were made
into beach resorts. The town proper of Agoo, which is about
2 miles inshore, cannot be easily distinguished at sea.
PROTECTED AREA - Parts of the coastal waters
off the towns of Agoo, Santo Tomas, and Rosario were
proclaimed as protected areas. Activities that may harm
15 the environment within the protected area are strictly
prohibited.
SANTO TOMAS ANCHORAGE is on the E side of
Lingayen Gulf about 23 miles S of San Fernando Point,
20 and is formed by a sand spit and bank extending S from the
shore. From the end of the exposed spit, the submerged
sand bank extends 4.0 miles in a general S direction, its S
end being about 3.5 miles offshore. This bank has from 2.7
to 4.6 m (1.5 to 2.5 fm) across it. It is abrupt on the inner
25 side and at its extremity, deepening rapidly to 21.9 m (12
fm), but its outer slope is, as a rule, more gradual. It affords
little protection. The best anchorage is about 1 mile SE of
the exposed spit, in 12.8 m (7 fm), mud bottom. The harbor
is of little commercial importance, although a fishing fleet
30 bases here. No directions are considered necessary, the
chart being a sufficient guide. The railroad station about 0.8
mile S of Damortis is a conspicuous landmark.
Major Light - Damortis Light (16° 14’ 25”N., 120°
35 24’ 14”E.) is displayed near the root of the pier fronting the
barrio of Damortis.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Damortis may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
40 8426647 and +63998-5858576.
Berthing Facilities - A 530 m long pier extends from
the coast opposite of the exposed sand spit. Two large white
cylindrical tanks stand near the root of the pier.
45
A small pier is located about 1.2 miles E of the sand
spit. It is a concrete T-shape pier 120 m long perpendicular
to shore and 29 m long parallel to shore.The pier is mainly
used by fishing boats.
50
Food & Supplies - Damortis has a public market,
several stores and hardware stores to serve food and other
supplies. There are gasoline stations located near the pier.
Water can be supplied to fishing boats by trucks. Fresh
55 water for household use is served by local water works
system.
Communication & Transportation - Mobile phone
is the only available facility for communication in the town.
60 Buses and jeepneys are also available.
5-18
 The coast between Santo Tomas Anchorage and the can be purchased from the public market, various stores
mouth of Dagupan River consists of a sandy beach which and malls in the city. Water supply is derived primarily
is fronted by the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve at a distance of about from artesian wells and local water works system.
1 mile offshore. Vessels can anchor as convenient outside
of it. 5 Telecommunication services available consist of fax
machine, telephone, postal service, mobile phone, and the
DAGUPAN RIVER empties about 12 miles S by W Internet.
from Santo Tomas. The bar at the mouth shifts frequently
and usually trouble is experienced in going up the river, The city has several bus companies transporting
which generally has from 2.4 to 4.3 m (8 to 14 ft) in the 10 commuters to Manila and nearby provinces. Jeepneys and
channel. Small craft can ascend the river as far as Lingayen tricycles are available for shorter routes.
which lies about 7.0 miles WSW of the river mouth. Fish
traps and fish pens were placed throughout the length of Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
the river. Dagupan City may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
15 +63917-8428053 and +63998-5858567.
The peninsula of Pugaro was generally grassy and
in Bonuan, where houses were concentrated, there were Berthing Facility - Dagupan City has a port for small
uneven growth of coconut trees near the shore. The latter fishing boats. It is situated along S bank of E branch of
being also used as beach resort is dotted with cottages. The Pantal River, at Magsaysay Public Market.
mouth of Dagupan River is sandy while upstream there 20
is a concrete bulkhead at the E bank. Dagupan River up Port activities are very limited because of inadequate
to Talaeb abounds with fishponds while the banks have facilities and difficulties in entering the river mouth
concrete dikes. Mangroves grow along the dikes while especially during rough seas.
nipa plants can be seen E side of Calmay River. The bank
alongside Pantal River extending up to Quintos Bridge 25 Pilotage for all vessels of 3 gross tons or over entering
is supported by concrete bulkhead where houses also or clearing the Port of Dagupan is compulsory. Pilotage is
concentrate thickly. From Quintos Bridge toward Lasip compulsory for all merchant vessels entering the river. This
Chico River, the banks are full of vegetation, while toward service is obtained through soundings of a whistle or by
Magsaysay Bridge, both sides have mangroves. The width advanced notice.
of Pantal River up to Lasip Chico was noticed narrower than 30
in previous presentations, likewise the S mouth of Dawel The S shore of Lingayen Gulf from Dagupan River
River become smaller, most of the changes were found due to the mouth of Agno River is formed by the delta of the
to the reclamation and construction of dikes added further Agno River and by other small rivers. For the most part, the
by the encroachment of several variety of thriving plants. shores are low and sandy. MOUNT SAN ISIDRO, wooded
35 conical mountain 801 m (2,627 ft) high, stands near the
Major Light - Dagupan Light (16° 04’ 22”N., 120° 20’ SW shore of the gulf about 3.5 miles SSW of the mouth of
08”E.) is located about 500 m E of the river mouth. Agno River. The provincial building at LINGAYEN is an
excellent landmark.
Anchorage may be had off the mouth of the river in 11
m (6 fm) about 1.3 miles NW from Dagupan Light. 40 The AGNO RIVER, having its main branch previously
charted about 11 miles W of Dagupan City, now passes W
DAGUPAN CITY is a national port of entry and is of the town of Lingayen or about 8 miles W of Dagupan
about 2 miles S from the bar. It is bounded by Lingayen City. The river, although of considerable size and draining
Gulf in the N, San Fabian in SE, Mangaldan in E, Calasiao a large area, has a very shallow and difficult shifting sand
in the S and Binmaley in the W. The city is about 114 miles 45 bar with no safe anchorage off it. It can only be entered
N of Manila. The terrain of the city is almost flat with slope in smooth weather in small boats. The area between the
ranging from 0 to 3 percent. mouths of the Agno and Dagupan Rivers is intersected by
numerous sloughs and communication between the 2 rivers
Dagupan City covers a wide stretch of beautiful is possible for small boats through the CALMAY RIVER.
beaches along Lingayen Gulf popularly known as People’s 50
Park. Historic attractions include McArthur Landing Mark From the mouth of Agno River, the coast trends NW
in Bonuan Blue Beach, the Remnant of the Franklin Bridge, for 25 miles to the N extremity of Cape Bolinao. It is
and the old St. John’s Cathedral. fronted by an almost continuous chain of islands and rocks.
The southernmost island of the chain lies about 4.5 miles N
The city has a number of hotels available for 55 of the former mouth of Agno River.
accommodation. It has several hospitals, clinics and health
centers that can undertake minor and major surgeries. Rural PORT SUAL (CHART 4239) is a port of entry and
and national banks have branches in the city. is 13 miles W of Dagupan, in the SW part of the gulf, and
has good anchorage for a small vessel, protected from all
Food supplies, ice, petroleum products, and hardware 60 winds except from ENE to ESE. The available anchorage

5-19
is narrowed by reefs to an area about 0.25 mile in diameter.
The town of Sual is located at the head of the port. Fish
pens and fish traps are located at the NE postion of the the
port.
The land around PORTUGUESE POINT, on the N
side of the entrance, appears like an island from a distance
of 7 to 8 miles. The point may be recognized by the ruins of
an old fort and Sual Light (16° 04’ 32”N., 120° 06’ 42”E.)
displayed on a 10 m (32 ft) high pole. A reef extends about
0.2 mile S from Portuguese Point. This is always covered
and only breaks when the wind sets in.
MANGAS POINT, on the S side of the entrance, is
surrounded by a reef extending out 0.1 mile on the outer
part of which, N of the point, is a group of rocks, always
exposed and which may be approached to 91 m (100 yd).
ADELA ROCK, with 3 m (10 ft) over it, and 7.3 to 11
m (4 to 6 fm) all around, is 0.45 mile E of the E extremity
of Mangas Point. The sea breaks on this rock in heavy
weather. The reef is usually marked by a fish trap.
SUAL is considerably small but rapidly growing in
terms of economy and population. The presence of the fish
port boosted the economy of the town. Fishing and farming
are the main sources of livelihood of the town people.
The town has a small public market. Food supply is
only limited to towns people. Bulk of food provisions is
available at Alaminos City, a few 8.5 miles NW from Sual.
Fresh water supply for small vessels is available at the pier.
Fresh water supplies for the other piers can be supplied by
the local water district.
Health services can only be rendered from small clinics
in the town. Hospitals are only available at Dagupan City.
Available communication services include long-
distance telephone, postal services, mobile phone services,
and Internet connection. Buses and jeepneys are available
for transportation to Manila and nearby towns.
Port Management - The fish port of Sual is operated
by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority
(PFDA). The port manager may be contacted at telephone
no: (+6375) 548-2380.
Customs - Customs officers at the port may be
contacted at telephone no. (+637) 548-2071.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Sual
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-6264953
and +63998-5858564.
Berthing Facilities - Sual Fish Port Complex, at the
head of the port, has a wharf and pier for use of small
fishing vessels. There are other small piers and wharves at
the S coast of Port Sual that are being used by used by small
boats and bancas. The fish port has an ice making facility
and a refrigeration building used for storage of fish catch.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
by a local company.
5
Repairs - There are available slipway, fabrication and
foundry equipment in the area maintained by Sual Fishing
Port Authority. However, it could be used only for small
fishing vessel due to limited capacity.
10
Pilotage is compulsory. A 24-hr prior notice for foreign
vessels and a 12-hr prior notice for domestic vessels should
be sent to the pilot association thru telefax no: (+6347) 821-
1135. The pilot boarding station for Port Sual is 4.1 miles
15 NE of Sual Light.
Anchorage - Good anchorage can be taken with the
SW extremity of Portuguese Point bearing 046°, and the N
extremity of Mangas Point bearing 158°, in depths of 9 m to
20 11 m, mud bottom. Small vessels may anchor in the N arm
of the port, 0.4 mile WNW of the old fort, in a depth of 9m.
Vessels waiting to berth at the fishing port anchor 0.3
mile NE of the fishing pier.
25
Directions - Vessels from N should pass about 500
m E from Portuguese Pt. and continue S until the Fishport
Pier, E of the church, bears 264° when it should be steered
for, when the rocks off Mangas Pt. are abeam, the vessel
30 should be hauled NW.
If bound in from the S and E, the N of the group of
rocks N of Mangas Pt. should not be made to bear greater
than 270° to clear Adela Rocks.
35
CABALITIAN ISLAND, 2 miles N of Portuguese
Point, is fringed with rocks, wooded, and 105.5 m (346 ft)
high in the S part. A reef, on which there are some islets,
fronts the salient points of the island to a distance of 0.3
40 mile. The outer edge of the reef is steep-to, except off the
NE side of the island, where a shoal spit, as defined by the
10 m (5.5 fm) curve, extends up to 0.4 mile NE from the
outer edge of the reef.
45 The hinterland of BANGAYAO POINT, the N
entrance point of Cabalitian Bay, is the site of the Sual
Coal Power Plant. The plant’s smokestack is prominent
throughout Cabalitian Bay. The power plant has a 260 m
long pier that is being used by vessels to unload coal.
50
CABALITIAN BAY affords good anchorage in 18
to 24 m (9.8 to 13.1 fm), protected from NE winds by
Cabalitian Island, which lies in its entrance. The anchorage
may be approached either from N or S. Vessels entering
55 this bay from the N should steer for Bangayao Point, the
N entrance point, on a 229o course until abeam of an islet
0.1 mile NW of Cabalitian Island, then make good a 204o
course until abeam of the SW point of the island, passing
0.2 mile SW of Bangayao Point, then haul SE and select
60 anchorage in about 23.8 m (13 fm), about 0.25 mile S of the
5-20
SW point of the island.
Caution - Navigation is obstructed by fish pens, which
at times cover the whole Cabalitian Bay.
CALPAY SHOAL is about 0.5 mile S of Cabalitian
Island. The S end of the shoal is always awash and steep-to.
There is a deep channel, 0.1 mile wide, between the
S side of Cabalitian Island and the N extremity of Calpay
Shoal, but it should not be used by a stranger. The best
channel is S of the shoal and should always be used in
approaching Cabalitian Bay from the E.
PAO BAY, N of Cabalitian Bay, affords good sheltered
anchorage for small vessels in 7.3 to 10 m (4 to 5.5 fm)
but the entrance is contracted by a long reef lying S of
BANGAR POINT and a shoal patch in the middle of the
channel with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm). The N part of the
bay is shoal. Vessels entering must be guided by the chart
and proceed with caution.
COMAS ISLAND, NE of Bangar Point, is about 0.25
mile from the shore, with which it is connected by a reef,
dry in places. An above-water rock lies close SE of the
island.
HUNDRED ISLANDS are a large group of small
wooded islands lying 5 to 7 miles NW of Comas Island.
Their bases are much underworn by the sea, making landing
on them difficult. Good protected anchorage in 11 to 14.6
m (6 to 8 fm) may be had W of this group; vessels entering
must be guided by the chart. A 10.1 m (5.5 fm) patch lies
about 1 mile ENE of the N islet of the group and constitutes
the outer danger in this area. The islands and surrounding
waters were proclaimed as protected areas. Activities that
may harm the environment within the protected area are
strictly prohibited.
LUCAP, on the W coast of Lucap Bay, serves as
the port for the city of Alaminos located 2.3 miles SW.
The wharf fronting the barrio is used by small boats that
ferry tourists going to the Hundred Islands. Hotels and
restaurants abound in the barrio. Postals services, telephone,
mobile phone communication, and Internet connection are
Anda Bridge connecting Cabarruyan Island and Luzon.
(Photograph - Anda Municipality website, undated)
5-21
available. Hospitals and commercial banks are located in
Alaminos City.
Major Light - Lucap Light (16° 11’ 34”N., 120° 00’
5 14”E.) is displayed at the E corner of the wharf.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Lucap
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-6266955
and +63998-5858559.
10
Berthing Facilities - The wharf has a berth length of
about 200 m. It can accommodate banca and small boats. A
boat harbor, protected by breakwaters is located SE of the
wharf. Private landings for small boats are in the vicinity
15 of the wharf.
CABARRUYAN ISLAND, the largest island in the
gulf, lies E of Cape Bolinao. It is of moderate height and
covered with trees. A bridge spanning Caquiputan Strait
20 connects the island with the mainland. The town of Anda,
at the SW coast, is the major settlement on the island. The
town has gasoline stations, clinics, a government hospital,
and inns. Potable water is available for domestic use due
to its limited supply. Buses have daily trips to Manila
25 while jeepneys ply the route to other towns of Pangasinan
province.
Berthing Facilities - Piers along the coast of the island
include the 100 m pier at Barrio Carot, 50 m pier at Barrio
30 Tondol, and the 120 m long pier at Barrio Batiarao. Most of
these piers are only suitable for bancas and small boats. The
pier at Tondol made of loosely bounded rocky materials
could not be used as the area bears at low water.
35 TAMBAC BAY, the long inlet S of Cabarruyan Island,
is quite shoal, the average depth being about 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
There is a small stone landing at Anda.
CAQUIPUTAN STRAIT, narrow and shoal,
40 separates the W extremity of the island from the E side of
Cape Bolinao. A narrow and winding channel, with a least
depth of 1.8 m (6 ft), leads through this strait and Tambac
Bay from Bolinao Harbor and out into Lingayen Gulf. A
bridge connecting Cabarruyan Island and the mainland
45 crosses the strait.
 Caution - Fish traps and and fish pens occupy the
whole area of Tambac Bay and Caquiputan Strait making
them inaccessible to any vessels other than small boats and
bancas.
SIAPAR, NARRA, CANGALUYAN, and other small
islands lie N of Cabarruyan Island. These islands, from the
N end of Santiago to the S end of Cabarruyan, are fringed by
reefs, broken in places, where channels available for small
vessels lead to anchorages among the islands. These reefs
extend 2 miles from the islands in places. TANDOYONG
ISLAND and PANACALAN ISLAND, 2 small islets, lie
on the fringing reef off the E side of Cabarruyan Island.
SANTIAGO ISLAND is off the NE part of Cape
Bolinao and forms the N side of Bolinao Harbor. It is high
and covered with trees. Its highest portion is visible about
18 miles. The N and NE sides of the island are fringed by a
drying reef extending up to 2 miles offshore.
SILAQUE ISLAND lies on the reef about 1 mile N
of Santiago Island. It is 21.6 m (71 ft) high at the S end
and appears wedge-shaped from W. The island is marked
by Silaque Light (16° 26’ 36”N., 119° 55’ 18”E.).
DOS HERMANOS ISLAND, consisting of 3
rocks, close off the N extremity of Santiago Island. The
northernmost and highest rock is 17.4 m (57 ft) high.
TAGAPORO ISLAND, small in extent, lies on the
fringing reef close off the E side of Santiago Island in a
position about 1.75 miles N of SIAPAR POINT. Houses
occupy almost the whole area of the island. A small pier
extends from its W coast.
There is a bank extending NE beyond the reef which
surrounds Santiago Island, having a depth of 6.4 m (3.5
fm). The outer edge of this bank is 8 miles NE of Silaqui
Islet. Detached patches with depths of 11.9 and 14.6 m (6.5
and 8 fm) lie about 11 miles NE the same islet. A spot with
a least depth of about 37 m is found 1.9 miles W of Silaqui
Island Another, 2 miles N of Bolinao town proper or 1.1
miles almost S of the first spot, has a least depth of about
9.7 m both information from surveys of June 1977.
REEFS WESTWARD AND
NORTHWESTWARD OF LUZON
(CHART 2200 & 4803)
WEST PHILIPPINE SEA, the maritime area W of
the Philippine archipelago, includes the Luzon Sea and the
waters around, within, and adjacent to the Kalayaan Island
Group and Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal).
LUZON SEA is the portion of the West Philippine Sea
off the W coast of Luzon Island.
The following reefs and banks are to the W and NW
of the island of Luzon in the area covered by Chart 2200.
They are all near the track of vessels proceeding from Hong 60 station and an observation tower on the island. A prominent
Kong to Manila and the N part of Luzon.
BAJO DE MASINLOC (SCARBOROUGH
SHOAL), (15o 08’ 53’’N., 117o 46’ 16’’E.), on which the
5 Ship Scarborough struck in 1748, is also known as Panatag
Shoal. It is about 120 miles W of Palauig Point at the W
coast of Luzon. It is triangular in shape, steep-to on all sides,
and about 10 miles long. The shoal consists of a narrow belt
of barely submerged coral reef enclosing a lagoon of clear
10 blue water. On the belt are a number of scattered rocks,
some of which are visible at a considerable distance. They
vary in elevation from 0.9 to 3 m (3 to 10 ft).
SOUTH ROCK is situated at the SE extremity of
15 the shoal, being the highest. Close N of South Rock is an
opening into the lagoon. It is about 0.2 mile wide and has
general depth of 9.1 to 11 m (5 to 6 fm), but is encumbered
with patches of reef with depths of as little as 2.7 m (1.5 fm)
over them. The water is shallow, just within the opening.
20 In calm weather, it is just possible to obtain precarious
anchorage off the opening. A stranded wreck was located
on the northernmost edge of the shoal. The current in the
vicinity of the shoal varies with the monsoon.
25 TRURO SHOAL, (16o 19’N., 116o 41’E.), discovered
by the Ship Truro in 1857, is charted about 95 miles NW of
Scarborough Shoal. It is reported to have a depth of 18.3
m (10 fm). Another patch of like depth is charted 3.5 miles
ENE of this position. In 1924, the U.S.S. Stewart reported
30 no evidence of Truro Shoal. The position of the shoal is
doubtful.
STEWART BANK, first surveyed in 1924 by the
U.S.S. Stewart, extends about 35 miles in a NE-SW
35 direction inside the 1,829 m (1,000 fm) curve and has a
least charted depth of 508 m (278 fm) on it in latitude 17o
11’N., longitude 118o 42’E. It varies in width from 3 to 10
miles. This submerged ridge lying about 80 miles NW of
Cape Bolinao and rising steeply from surrounding depths
40 of over 3,658 m (2,000 fm) should prove of great advantage
to vessels equipped with echo-sounding apparatus passing
over it in approaching a landfall.
About 35 miles SW of this bank is a shoal reported in
45 1961 to have a least depth of 49.4 m (27 fm).
PRATAS ISLAND, (20o 42’N., 116o 43’E.), about 245
miles NW of Cape Bojeador, is at the middle of the W side
of Pratas Reef. This sandy and horseshoe-shaped island is
50 about 1.5 miles long, 0.5 mile wide, and has an elevation of
12.2 m (40 ft) to the top of the trees. The 2 prongs extend
W from the main portion of the island and from a shallow
inlet about 1 mile in length from the bar at the entrance to
the settlement at its NE arm. Fishing crafts, which come
55 here in the early part of the year, obtain shelter in the inlet.
Brackish water may be obtained near the settlement by
digging a few feet into the sand.
There is a radar reflector, 2 radio masts, a weather
5-22
clump of trees on the S side of the island is about 457.2 m
(500 yd) WSW of the radio masts.
There are 2 jetties on the NE side of the island, the
principal one being about 18.3 m long with a depth of 1.8 m
(1 fm) at its head. The other jetty is only available for very
light draft boats and there are several rocks in its vicinity.
There is a wooden pier suitable only for light crafts on the S
side of the island, S of the old light tower. The shallow inlet
at the W end of the island is accessible to small boats only.
Sea birds are numerous in the breeding season.
A 9.1 m (5 fm) coral patch is about 3.8 miles WSW of
the radio masts. A coral reef which dries in parts extends
about 0.8 miles SW, 0.5 mile W, and nearly 2 miles N from
the W part of the island. A white sand spit which breaks
during a W swell is 2 miles S of the W end of the island.
In hazy weather, which generally prevails during the
NE monsoon, the island is seldom visible beyond 5 or 6
miles, and it is possible that the breakers on the edge of the
reef may not be seen until within 1 mile of them.
PRATAS REEF is a circular coral barrier enclosing
a lagoon. The reef is about 40 miles in circumference and
1 to 2 miles wide. The N, E, and S sides are steep-to and
just dry at low water springs; the W side forms a sunken
barrier, across which there are 2 channels leading into the
lagoon, one on each side of Pratas Island. The lagoon has
depths of 3.7 to 16.5 m (2 to 9 fm) and is thickly studded
with coral knolls around its margin, but comparatively clear
in the middle. Many coral heads in addition to those charted
are believed to exist in the lagoon and the two channels.
In 1934, a wreck was reported to be situated on the
outer edge of the reef close to the SE bend about 9.5 miles
SE of Pratas Island. Another wreck, the fore part of a
vessel, about 12.2 m (40 ft) high, was reported in 1926 to
lie at the outer edge of the reef near the NE point, about 10
miles ENE of the island. Wrecks were also found existing at
positions 20o 46’ 36”N., 116o 49’ 54”E; 20o 46’ 00”N., 116o
48’ 12”E; and 20o 42’ 18”N., 116o 54’ 24”E.
An ammunition dumping ground with a radius of about
0.25 mile from the center has been reported in existence in
approximate position 20o 38’ 30”N., 116o 39’ 42”E.
An uncharted bank with a depth of 53 m (29 fm) has
been reported in 1964 to be in existence in approximate
position, 20o 57’N., 117o 21’E.
Another uncharted bank with a depth of 34.7 m (19 fm)
has been reported in existence in approximate position, 21o
31’N., 116o 12’E. at its NE end and diminishing to 23.8 m
(13 fm) in approximate position, 21o 23’N., 116o 03’E. at
its SW end.
A depth of 73.2 m (40 fm) has been reported in
existence in approximate position, 21o 21’N., 116o 08’E.
5-23
NORTH CHANNEL, about 2.5 miles N of Pratas
Island, has a depth of 5.8 m (19 ft) in its entrance, but the
depths decrease to less than 3.7 m (12 ft) about 1 mile
within the direction of the settlement. From here towards
5 the shore are numerous coral heads with depths of less than
1.8 m (6 ft) over them.
SOUTH CHANNEL, about 4.5 miles S of Pratas
Island, is about 457 m (500 yds) wide at its entrance, with a
10 least depth of 5.8 m (19 ft), which depth can be carried for
about 1.5 miles toward the settlement whence the depths
decrease to less than 5.5 m (3 fm) with numerous coral
heads with depths of less than 1.8 m (6 ft) over them. A
white sand spit, which breaks with a W swell, lies on the N
15 side of this channel and about 2 miles S of the W extremity
of Pratas Island.
CURRENTS - At distances from 20 to 50 miles
NW, through N, to NE, of Pratas Reef, the currents in the
20 neighborhood were found to be exceptionally strong and
tide rips were frequently observed, which occasionally
appeared like breakers.
ANCHORAGES - Although Pratas Reef is steep-
25 to in most parts, there are several places where, in case
of necessity, a vessel, might find anchorage outside the
breakers, particularly on the W side, abreast the middle of
the N and S Channels. At each of these places, there is good
anchorage in the NE monsoon, in depths of 18.3 to 36.6 m
30 (10 to 20 fm), but the position abreast the South Channel is
considered the better of the two, the sunken reef at this part
being deeper and the bottom more even than in the channel
N of the island. There is anchorage in about 36.6 m (20
fm), coral and clay bottom, at about 1 mile W of the W
35 end of the island. A vessel of light draft might even anchor
in safety on the reef in the middle of the South Channel
entrance, in a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm), or cross it and take
up a berth inside the lagoon in 18.3 m (10 fm), fine sand
bottom. Anchorage may also be obtained in a depth of 29.3
40 m (16 fm) with the S radio mast bearing 066°, distant about
2.5 miles.
DIRECTIONS - During the strength of the monsoons,
vessels should always endeavor to pass to leeward of Pratas
45 Reef on account of the invariable set of the current to
leeward. Moreover, there are no soundings to indicate a
near approach, and the weather is frequently thick and hazy
in this vicinity. The safest quarter to make the reef is from
the W, the island being on the W side, and the currents in
50 the neighborhood invariably running in a NE or opposite
direction, according to the monsoon. When approaching
the reef, a vessel should be conned from aloft, as with the
sun in a favorable position the bottom can be seen at the
depth of 18.3 m (10 fm).
55
CAUTION - Pratas Reef, lying near the route for
vessels between Manila and Hong Kong, is a serious
danger, especially during the NE monsoon when strong
gales and thick clouds are sometimes prevalent for weeks.
60 Vessels should not approach the island with the S radio mast
bearing between 065o and 080o. The area E of Pratas Reef
abounds with discolored water and should be approached
with caution.
VEREKER BANKS are 2 coral banks, separated
about 2 to 3 miles of deep water, and are located about 40
miles NW of Pratas Reef. Both banks are steep-to and have
deep water between them and around them.
NORTH VEREKER BANK is 11 miles long, NW 10
and SE, and 7 miles wide, within the 183 m (100 fm) curve.
The bank has a least depth of 11 m with general depths of
60 to 90 m to other parts of the bank.
SOUTH VEREKER BANK is 8 miles long, NW and
SE, and has a least depth of 58.5 m (32 fm) at position 20o
58’ 00”N., 115o 55’ 00”E., about 2 miles W of the center.
Heavy overfalls and traveling tide rips are frequent
occurrences in the vicinity of these banks.
A well head, with a depth of 4.1m, lies 30m off North
Vereker Bank and is charted.
A well head, in a depth of over 100 m, lies 28 miles
N of Vereker Banks. A platform, located at 20o 50’ 00”N.,
114o 37’ 30”E., is in a restricted area. Oil exploration is
being done in this area.
A pillar buoy with an “X” as topmark and has a light
characteristic of Morse code light or fog signal yellow light
every 12 seconds is located at 21o 00’ 00”N., 114o 00’ 00”E.
CURRENT - During the examination of Vereker
Banks in February, the prevailing current sets between
WNW and WSW with a drift of 0.5 to 1 knot; it sets to
windward at times and during calms or light SW winds, it
sets between SSE and ESE with a drift of 0.25 to 1 knot.
CAPE BOLINAO TO MANILA BAY
(CHART 1501, 1502, 4209, 4212, 4213, 4238,
4255 & 4266)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress may
contact the remotely controlled coast stations with VHF
DSC alerting in the ports of Saul and Subic and the station in
Bataan. The VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea area
about 25 miles from the said stations. Vessels in distress
that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC
coast stations may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC
Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
CAPE BOLINAO is the name given to the N end of
that part of Luzon which forms the W boundary of Lingayen
Gulf. It is of moderate height, thickly wooded, and slopes
gently toward the sea.
BOLINAO HARBOR (CHART 4238), on the N part
of the cape, is the most W port in Lingayen Gulf.
The harbor is formed by a strait between Santiago
Island and Cape Bolinao. The principal value of this port
is as a harbor refuge, it being a perfect typhoon harbor for
fair-sized vessels. The entrance is formed by a break in the
5 coral reef, which extends 1 mile offshore N of the town and
about 2 miles N of Santiago Island.
The channel is about 0.15 mile wide off Binabalian
Point. A narrow spit, as defined by the10 m (5.5 fm)
curve, extends 0.2 mile S from the point. From the point,
it trends 1 mile E and thence S for about the same distance
to PANAEN ISLAND, 29 m (95 ft) high. A least depth of
11.6 m (38 ft) is found in the fairway of the channel E of
the above point. The channel widens and becomes shoaler
15 at the SE of Panaen Island.
Major Light - Port Bolinao Light (16° 22’ 51”N., 119°
54’ 48”E.) is shown from a white column located about 0.3
mile SSE of Binabalian Point.
20
Local boats of light draft frequently take advantage of
the narrow and winding passage leading to Lingayen Gulf
from the head of Bolinao Harbor behind Narra, Siapar, and
Cabarruyan Islands. The least depth is about 1.8 m (6 ft) at
25 low water, with 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm) in places. Local
knowledge is necessary for its use.
BOLINAO is about 0.5 mile W of the entrance to
the harbor. There is road connection to Alaminos. Limited
30 supplies are available in the town market. Fuel can be
procured from gasoline stations. Postal services, mobile
phone communication, and telephone connection are
available. There is a hospital and several private clinics.
The town has a waterworks system. There is potable water
35 spring 0.2 mile WSW of Port Bolinao Light.
Caution - Numerous wrecks of wooden fishing
boats line both shores of the anchorage. Fish pens were
constructed throughout the width of the strait from the E of
40 Binabalian Point to W of Tambac Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Bolinao may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
6265548 and +63998-5858565.
45
Berthing Facilities - A concrete wharf and a
breakwater with stairlanding is located about 0.8 mile NW
of Port Bolinao Light. Small fishing vessels and ferry banca
use these facilities.
50
Directions - Vessels approaching Bolinao Harbor
should not bring the tangent to Cape Bolinao to bear W of
220o until Port Bolinao Light bears 153o, when it should
be steered for; keep the light on this bearing and when
55 Trinchera Point is abeam, keep in mid-channel and anchor
W of BINABALIAN POINT in 16.4 to 19.2 (9 to 10.5
fm), mud bottom. If desirous of anchoring E of Binabalian
Point, round it at a distance of about 0.2 mile to avoid
the reef extending about 0.1 mile S and when the light is
60 abeam, steer a mid-channel course and anchor either E or
5-24
W of RIRIPAYAN POINT as desired.
BALINGASAY POINT, low and about 1 mile W of
the entrance to Bolinao Harbor, is the most northerly part
of the cape. Low structures located on this point are owned
by Bolinao School of Fisheries. From here, the coast trends
SW for 7 miles to Piedra Point and is fringed with shoals
and reefs.
BALINGASAY BAY is a narrow opening in the reef
about 2 miles SW of Balingasay Point. It affords a boat
landing in smooth weather, and stores for the lighthouse are
sometimes landed here when it is too rough to land at Piedra
Point. The anchorage is contracted, with little turning room,
and should be used with caution.
PIEDRA POINT, about 12 miles SW of Silaqui
Island, is the most westerly point on Cape Bolinao. It is
rounding, rocky, and wooded to the beach, and 73.2 m (240
ft) high about 0.8 mile from its W extremity. In smooth
weather a boat landing can be made on the sandy beach
immediately S of the point.
Major Light - Cape Bolinao Light (16° 18’ 32”N.,
119° 47’ 05”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Piedra
Point.
From Piedra Point to Caiman Point, about 23 miles
S, the coast is rocky, bold, wooded, and broken in many
places by small sandy bights. At no place do the fringing
reefs extend off 0.5 mile, and the 183 m (100 fm) curve is
generally found within 1 mile of the shore.
OLANIN BAY is a small bight at the mouth of the
OLANIN RIVER about 4 miles S of Piedra Point, affording
anchorage during the NE monsoon in the middle of the
bight, in about 12.8 m (7 fm), about 0.25 mile offshore.
There is a good boat landing, and fresh water may be
obtained.
AGNO BAY, about 10 miles S of Piedra Point, is an
open roadstead. The Balincaguin River empties near the
S part of the bay; the bar at its mouth has about 1.5 m (5
ft) over it, but at high water, vessels of 2.1 m (7 ft) draft
have gone up the river to the town of AGNO, about 2 miles
above its mouth. Fair shelter during the NE monsoon may
be had SE of RENA POINT, the N point, or S near the
mouth of the river.
Major Light - Sabangan Point Light (16° 08’ 00”N.,
119° 46’ 34”E.) is displayed from a concrete tower at the
mouth of Balincaguin River.
From SAOIT POINT, the S point extends NW for a
little over 0.5 mile. It is a sunken reef with about 3.7 m (2
fm) over it,
CAIMAN POINT is irregular and rocky with 2
outlying rocks, the outer of which, abrupt and about 4.6
m (15 ft) high, is seen as detached, while the inner one is
5-25
projected against the point. The point is fringed by a coral
reef which extends about 0.25 mile S from it and follows
the shore around into Caiman Cove, E of the point.
5 DASOL BAY, between Caiman and Santa Cruz Points,
contains no perfectly protected anchorage and is of little
value to navigation. There are numerous reefs and shoals
scattered throughout the bay, the positions of which are best
understood by reference to the chart. The shores are low
10 and intersected by a number of small streams. There are a
number of small towns and villages, the principal ones of
which are Santa Cruz, in the S part, and Infanta, about 4
miles N of it.
15 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Infanta
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428322
and +63998-5858562.
CAIMAN COVE, between Caiman and Balimanoc
20 Points, offers good anchorage, sheltered only during the NE
monsoon. Vessels seeking shelter in Caiman Cove should
steer for the middle of the cove and anchor in about 29.3
m (16 fm).
25 BALIMANOC POINT is a rocky bluff surrounded by
reefs which extends 0.5 mile S from it.
TAMBOVE ROADS, E from Balimanoc Point, is a
commodious anchorage sheltered from all except S and SW
30 winds. There are a number of dangers in the entrance, and
in the absence of any aids to navigation or good natural
marks, it should be approached only in daylight and with
caution.
35 CULEBRA ISLET, about 2 miles S of Caiman Point,
is very small, low, covered with bushes, and skirted by a
sandy beach. It is surrounded by shoal water which extends
about 0.8 mile NW and 1.8 miles SSW from it. The channel
between it and Caiman Point is deep and clear but detached
40 shoals, with depths of less than 9.1 m (5 fm) are found to
the E. This channel leads to the anchorages in Caiman Cove
and Tambove Roads.
HERMANA MAYOR ISLAND, 6 miles S of Caiman
45 Point and 5 miles from shore, is partly wooded and 40 m
(130 ft) high near the center. It lies on a bank, covered
by less than 18.3 m (10 fm), which extends 4.5 miles N,
surrounding Culebra Islet, and nearly 2 miles S. Hermana
Mayor Light (15° 47’ 38”N., 119° 47’ 42”E.) is shown from
50 a white tower near the center of the island. A private airstrip
is located near the S end of the island.
The shoalest spot on the bank S from the island is a 5.5
m (3 fm) patch about 0.8 mile SSE from its S end. Shoal
55 water extends 0.5 mile E and 1.3 miles N from its north end.
About 1.5 miles N from the island, there is a reef, portions
of which are above water.
HERMANA MENOR ISLAND is 2.8 miles SSE
60 of Hermana Mayor and 2 miles W of Santa Cruz Point. It
is smaller than Hermana Mayor, 16.5 m (54 ft) high, has
sandy beaches, and is wooded. An airstrip runs NE-SW at
the center of the island.
The island is surrounded by shoal water which, on the
E and SE sides, extends about 0.5 mile. A drying patch,
almost 0.5 mile off the SE side of the island, lies on the
shoal bank. A rock, 3 m (10 ft) high, lies on the fringing reef
on the N side of the island. Between this shoal water and
the shoals W of Santa Cruz Point is a good channel about
0.5 mile wide, but it should not be used by a stranger in the
absence of any good leading marks.
RATON ISLET is 4.5 miles E of the N end of Hermana
Mayor and over 1 mile from shore. It is low, covered
with bushes, and has sandy beaches. It is surrounded by
reefs, parts of which bare at low water, and should not be
approached nearer than 1.5 miles.
INFANTA, is a small town on the S shore of a cove
about 2 miles NE of Raton Islet. It has a post office, mobile
phone communication, telephone connection, and Internet
services. Limited amount of food may be had from the
public market. There is a rural bank and a government
health center. Salt making, fishing, and farming are the
major economic activities in the town. The town is far
from prominent and no definite, well-defined marks can be
picked up or described.
Berthing Facility - A wharf, operated by International
Global Mining Exchange, is located about 3 miles NE of
Raton Islet. Vessels call at the wharf to load nickel ore.
Anchorage - The cove N of the town affords excellent
anchorage, sheltered by reefs, in 12.8 m (7 fm), mud bottom.
The entrance is narrow and deep, with dangerous reefs on
each side; with good light, the N one usually shows brown.
SANTA CRUZ HARBOR, entered between Santa
Cruz Point and a point about 2.5 miles NE, affords shelter
to vessels from all except W winds. The S and E shores of
the harbor are fronted by a shoal which extends up to 0.2
mile from the shore. Three beacons mark the N edge of the
S shoal. A 4.2 m (2.25 fm) patch lies about 0.8 mile N of
the N side of Santa Cruz Point and a 9.1 m (5 fm) patch lies
0.2 mile farther N.
A small patch, with a least depth of 4.2 m (2.25 fm),
lies in the middle of the harbor in a position about 1.1 miles
SW of the N entrance point. About 0.25 mile E of this shoal
is another 4.2 m (2.25 fm) shoal with a 1.2 m (4 ft) patch
lying close SE of it. A beacon marks the N side of this shoal,
and a 5.2 m (2.75 fm) patch lies close N of the beacon.
SANTA CRUZ (CHART 4210) is a small town on the
NE shore of Santa Cruz Inner Harbor in the SE part of Dasol
Bay. There is a bell tower in the town which makes a good
landmark. The town has bus connection. No repairs are
available, although limited quantities of fresh stores may be
obtained. There is a small hospital with ambulance service,
as well as a post office maintained by the government.
Berthing Facilities - Landfilled piers, at which large
ocean-going vessels load chrome and nickel ore, is at
5 Barrio Bolitoc, 1.2 miles SW of Santa Cruz.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels engaged in
foreign trade entering or leaving the Port of Santa Cruz,
docking at or leaving the piers or wharves of the said port
10 including the privately-owned facilities. Pilotage is optional
for coastwise vessels. Pilot boards at a position 1.2 miles N
of Santa Cruz Point.
Directions - If bound to the pier at Santa Cruz, bring
15 the 3 m (10 ft) rock off the N tangent of Hermana Menor
Island to bear 096o and Hermana Mayor Light to bear 000o.
From this position, steer 060o heading for the S and
highest part of a flat-topped mountain near the beach N of
20 Santa Cruz. This mountain can be further identified by a
mountain behind it showing 4 distinct knobs against the
skyline. This course leads through a depth of 25.6 m (14
fm).
25 Change course to 123o when the dock range, consisting
of a white triangle on a dolphin at the E end of the pier, and
similar mark on the beach, bears 123o. The NE tangent of
Hermana Mayor Island should then be astern. This course
passes over an 18.3 m (10 fm) spot in a general depth of
30 23.8 m (13 fm), and about midway between a 9.1 m (5 fm)
shoal on the right and a 4.1 m (2.25 fm) shoal on the left.
These shoals are not marked.
Entrance to the port should be made only during
35 daylight hours and under favorable conditions.
Anchorage can be taken anywhere in the outer part of
the harbor in over 18.3 m (10 fm) but care must be taken
to avoid the numerous shoal patches. The recommended
40 anchorage is located about 0.5 mile NW of the pier, in 16.5
m (9 fm), mud bottom. Smaller vessels can anchor in 9.1 to
11 m (5 to 6 fm) S end of the town of Santa Cruz. During
the NE and SW monsoon, the port becomes untenable in
bad weather.
45
SANTA CRUZ POINT is low, covered with
mangroves, and surrounded by reefs, which extend about
1 mile N and 1.3 miles NW. About 1.5 miles NW of the
point is a small, detached rocky patch with a depth of 5.2
50 m (2.75 fm).
From Santa Cruz Point, the coast trends SE for about 3
miles to NAULO POINT, a rounding, thickly wooded hill
46 m (151 ft) high and the most prominent landmark in the
55 vicinity. From this point, the coast bends sharply E and then
trends S and W to Arenas Point, about 7 miles S of Santa
Cruz Point. An airstrip is situated close N of the point.
PULIPO ISLET, about 1.5 miles SE of Naulo Point
60 and 0.5 mile from shore, is small, low, and wooded; it is
5-26
not prominent from offshore. The large bay between Santa
Cruz and Arenas Points is encumbered by numerous shoals
and is of little value to navigation.
SABALAY REEF, at the entrance to the above-
described bay, has a small sand cay on the NE part. The
W tangent to Hermana Menor, bearing nothing W of 001o,
leads well W of Sabalay and Tortuga Reefs.
TORTUGA REEF is about 1.5 miles SW of Arenas
Point. A depth of 5 m (2.75 fm), is found over the E part.
Vessels should not attempt to pass between Sabalay and
Tortuga Reefs unless the discolored water on the reefs is
visible for there are no leading marks for keeping in the
channel.
Alupihing Point.
OYON BAY, immediately E of Bani Point, is a
landlocked basin. Its shores are fringed by a wide reef,
5 leaving an available anchorage space about 1 mile long and
0.5 mile wide, having depths of 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm),
mud bottom. The anchorage space is further reduced by the
existence of fish pens in the middle of the bay. Oyon Bay
should prove a good typhoon shelter in case a vessel could
10 not get to Port Matalvi. There are no aids to navigation, but
all the reefs are plainly marked by discolored water.
The bay can only be entered from SE because the pier
of a coal power plant, located on the NW coast of the bay,
15 blocks the W entrance.

ARENAS POINT is low and sandy and is surrounded OYON POINT, the E entrance point of Port Masinloc,
by shoal water which extends 0.5 mile W. The town of is 38 m (125 ft) high and steep and surrounded by shoal
CANDELARIA is about 1.5 miles E from Arenas Point. water, which extends 0.4 mile NW.
20
The coast between Arenas Point and Bani Point, about SALVADOR ISLAND, the largest island in this
3.5 miles S, is low and consists for the most part of the vicinity, is about 1.3 miles in extent, thickly wooded, and
mouth of LAUIS RIVER. The river, which discharges about has reefs extending 0.6 mile to the NW. The NE side of the
midway between the abovementioned points, is navigable island is 39.6 m (130 ft) high, terminating abruptly at its
only by small crafts. A shoal patch, with a least depth of 25 NW and NE ends and sloping gradually S.
4 m (2.25 fm), lies about 1 mile W from the mouth of the
river. Alupihing Point, the NW extremity of the island,
sometimes called SALVADOR HEAD, is steep, about 30
BANI POINT, about 3.5 miles S from Arenas m (100 ft) high, and covered with bamboo, forming an
Point, has several rounded hills near its S extremity. It is 30 excellent landmark. The N shore of the island, forming the
surrounded by a reef which extends 0.5 mile W and 1.5 S side of the channel into Port Masinloc, is fringed by reefs,
miles SE. A detached reef, near the S end of which is a partly bare at low water, for about 0.12 mile, widening
group of rocks bare at low water and just awash at high toward the NE point, where they extend nearly 0.25 mile.
water, lies about 1.5 miles S of Bani Point, narrowing the The S side, forming the N side of the entrance of Port
channel between the reef and Salvador Island to about 0.4 35 Matalvi, is fringed by reefs and foul ground that extends to
mile. almost 0.4 mile S. The island is connected to the mainland
E by shoals and foul grounds on which stand several islets,
PORTS MASINLOC AND MATALVI (CHART reefs and sandbanks. Narrow and winding boat channels
4266) - Between Bani Point and Matalvi Point, about 4.5 lead through these dangers.
miles S, the coast recedes some 3 miles, forming a large 40
bay, nearly blocked by islands and reefs, containing the PORT MASINLOC, NE of Salvador Island, affords
sheltered anchorages of Masinloc and Matalvi and Oyon good shelter except in heavy NW and W weather. Maximum
Bay. A proclamation declared Oyon Bay and Port Masinloc allowable vessel sizes inside the harbor are Panamax
as marine protected areas. Activities that may harm the vessels.
environment are strictly prohibited in these areas. 45
The channel into Port Masinloc is marked by a range
Prominent Features in the area include the tall red on Salvador Island. The range marker consists of two 5.5
and white chimney of a power plant located about 0.5 mile m (18 ft) structures with white slatted beacons; the front
E of Bani Point. range being triangular and the rear range diamond-shaped.
50 A tree trunk near the beacon has been painted white to aid
Pilotage is compulsory for all foreign vessels and is identification. Buoys and pile beacons also mark the edge
optional for coastwise vessels. A pilot is always on standby of the reefs at several points.
at VFH channel 16. Pilots can also be contacted thru telefax
number (+6347) 821-1135. Caution - Extreme care should be taken when in the
55 channel to Masinloc Harbor. Ships should make the turn at
Advance notice should be sent by foreign vessels 24 very slow speed, and the handlead will be indispensable.
hrs before ETA. Domestic vessels should notify the district Strangers should not attempt to enter Masinloc Harbor
12 hrs before ETA. Pilotage is available only during the without a pilot.
day and in good weather only for berthing, unberthing and
anchoring. Pilot boards at the position 1.5 miles NW of 60 The buoys described above in the entrance to Port

5-27
Masinloc are subject to being carried away and have
frequently been reported lost or out of position.
A sunken wreck covered by 13.4 m (44 ft) is about 1
mile N of Dalolac Point. This wreck is not marked.
MASINLOC is a town about 1.3 miles SE of Oyon
Point and situated along the S bank at the mouth of
MASINLOC RIVER. A reef, partly bare at low water,
extends about 0.8 mile W from it. The 16.9 m high church,
which is a large stone edifice with a corrugated-iron
gable roof, the low white convent located close N of the
church, and several buildings with galvanized-iron roofs
are prominent. The principal trade is nipa and firewood,
handled exclusively by small sailing vessels.
A post office is present. Private clinics are available
in the town. A hospital is about 6.1 km N of the town.
Fresh water is available. Fuel is only available by special
arrangement with the local dealer. Repairs are not
obtainable. There is an abandoned sawmill on the point of
land about 1.6 km S of the town of Masinloc.
Restrictions - Docking and undocking of vessels
during nighttime is not allowed.
Customs - Masinloc is a customs port.
Berthing Facilities - About 0.75 mile NW of the
church in the town of Masinloc, the Benguet Consolidated
Mining Company maintains a 60 m long reinforced concrete
pier for loading chrome ore. The permissible water draft is
10 m. Loading operations for this facility is thru conveyor
system.
Pilotage in Masinloc is compulsory for all vessels
engaged in foreign trade and optional for coastwise vessels.
Pilots are stationed at Masinloc and meet the vessel outside
the entrance.
Anchorage - In case the vessel must wait for the
pilot, it is advisable to lay to with steam offshore rather
than anchor. Pilots state that anchors have been fouled and
lost in the rugged coral bottom. With care, however, there
is outside anchorage in 56.7 m (31 fm), soft coral bottom,
with Salvador Head distant 1 mile, bearing 154o. Vessels
with local knowledge, while waiting for a pilot, usually
anchor in a depth of 38 m (20.75 fm), soft coral, about 1.25
miles NW of the beacon on the N shore of Salvador Island.
Inside the Port of Masinloc, while waiting to go
alongside, good anchorage is afforded in 21.9 m (12 fm),
mud bottom, about 0.5 mile SW of the end of the pier.
Anchorage is also available 0.7 mile SW of Masinloc, in
depths of 20 m to 24 m (11 to 13 fm), sand bottom. The best
anchorage is reported to lie 0.9 miles W of TAGAPOLO
POINT, in a depth of 27 m (14.75 fm).
Directions - Entering or leaving port should only be
attempted at daylight and in good weather.
Having come to a position about 2.2 miles W of Bani
Point, steer for the entrance range, located on Salvador
Island, bearing 136o. This range is sensitive and caution
should be exercised to follow it closely and pass NE of the
5 buoy, marking the N end of the shoal that extends about
0.6 mile NNW from Alupihing Point, on the W side of the
channel. A can buoy marks the S end of the shoal on the
NE side of the channel. Continue on this range until the
NE tangent of Salvador Island bear 102o, steer this course
10 102o, which will clear the S end of the shoal just previously
mentioned. When the buoy mentioned above is abeam,
haul NE and steer 072o until the E tangent of Salvador
Island, DALOLAC POINT, bears 156o, when another buoy
will then lie 0.15 mile to N. This 072o course clears the N
15 edge of the reef off the NE tangent of Salvador Island; this
point is also marked by a buoy.
If bound for the mining company pier, continue on
course 072o, and when Dalolac Point bears 180o, head for
20 the pier on course 050o.
If bound for Masinloc Harbor, S of Masinloc, when
Dalolac Point bears 156o, distant 0.8 mile, change course to
121o, passing about 0.1 mile off a buoy marking the edge of
25 the reef W of Tagapolo Point, until the church at Masinloc
bears 350o. Thence keep in mid-channel, rounding the 0.4
m (0.25 fm) shoal W of the point, being guided by the chart.
PORT MATALVI is between Matalvi Island and the
30 shore S, which has an average height of about 76.2 m (250
ft). It affords protection in any weather, in 11 to 21.9 m (6 to
12 fm), mud bottom. It is an excellent typhoon harbor and
is important in being the only harbor of this class between
Bolinao Harbor and Olongapo Harbor. A privately-owned
35 pier is located about 1.3 miles SE of Luan Point.
MAGALAWA ISLAND, about 0.25 mile W of LUAN
POINT is about 0.5 mile in extent, low, flat, and wooded,
with a sandy beach except on its W side. A group of small
40 houses is on the sand spit at its E side. Sunken reefs extend
nearly 0.6 mile N and S from the island and about 0.1 mile
W.
LUAN ISLAND, about 0.5 mile long, located N of
45 MATALVI POINT, is formerly separated by a very narrow
channel. The E end of the channel was reclaimed to connect
the island with the mainland. On the N end of the island is a
knoll 36 m (118 ft) high; the S part of the island is low and
flat. A reef with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) extends about 0.5
50 mile NNE from the N end of Luan Island.
MATALVI ISLAND, about 30.5 m (100 ft) high and
wooded, is 0.5 mile E of Luan Island. Eastward of it is
another wooded island 26.8 m (88 ft) high, connected with
55 it at low water by a short reef. The 2 islands form the N side
of Port Matalvi.
IAGAT ISLAND is a small, low mangrove island
immediately N of Matalvi Island. It is included in the
60 reefs extending nearly 0.6 mile N from Matalvi Island. A
5-28
concrete beacon stands on the reef, about 0.17 mile W of
Iagat Island.
Caution - A reef with a least depth of 2.1 m (1.25 fm)
extends 0.2 mile N from a position about 0.17 mile E of the
pier. Depths of 20 m to 21 m lie about 0.3 mile SSW and 0.6
mile W, respectively, of the SW point of Salvador Island.
These depths lie in the fairway.
Vessels must also take into account the 4.6 m shoal
SSW of the SW extremity of Matalvi Island, and a 2.3 m
shoal extending from the S shore of the harbor. Vessels
wishing to anchor S of Matalvi Island should note the
existence of fish pens in the area.
Directions - Bring Salvador Head to bear 064o and the
36 m (118 ft) hill on Luan Island to bear 141o, then steer 120o
for the concrete beacon; this course leads clear of the reefs
projecting from Salvador and MAGALAWA ISLANDS.
When the 36 m (118 ft) hill on Luan Island bears 225o, steer
195o until Luan Hill is abeam thence midway between the
islands to an anchorage.
Small crafts with local knowledge can approach the
port through the narrow and winding channels leading from
Port Masinloc. All other ships must approach the port from
seaward.
Anchorage may be found in 27.4 m (15 fm), mud
bottom, in the channel midway between Luan and Matalvi
Islands or S of Matalvi Island in 15 m to 18 m, mud bottom.
If the latter anchorage is selected, care must be taken to
avoid the sunken reef making off about 0.2 mile from the S
shore abreast of the W end of Matalvi Island. Small crafts
may continue the mid-channel course and anchor farther in,
depending on size and draft.
The coast between Matalvi Point and the N entrance
point of Palauig Bay, about 1.8 miles S is fringed by reefs
that dry in places. These reefs extend from 0.1 to 0.4 mile
offshore.
PALAUIG BAY, about 2 miles S of Matalvi Point,
is formed by the projection of Palauig Point and the reef
extending about 0.6 miles N from it. It is about 0.4 mile 45
wide at the entrance and, while expanding slightly inside,
is obstructed by shoals that reduce the available anchorage
space to a diameter of 0.5 mile. It affords good protection
in S and W winds, but is open NW. The SE shore of the bay
is a narrow sand spit, forming the N bank of the SALASA 50
RIVER, which empties into the S part of the bay. The town
of PALAUIG is on the S shore.
The depths range from 21.9 to 23.8 m (12 to 13 fm), at
the entrance to 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm), sand bottom, at
the anchorage, 0.4 mile inside the point of the W reef.
A reef, about 0.6 mile long N and S, with a width of
0.25 mile, is 0.8 mile NW of the N extremity of the reef
projecting from Palauig Point and is separated from it by a
5-29
narrow channel. The depth over it is 5.5 m (3 fm).
PALAUIG POINT projects about 1 mile from the
general trend of the shore. It is low, rounding, and wooded,
5 with small detached knoll 14.6 m (48 ft) high. Its W edge is
fringed by reefs extending 0.25 mile offshore and increasing
to 0.6 mile off its N extremity. Palauig Light (18° 28’ 09”N.,
122° 08’ 37”E.) is displayed from a white framework tower
on a knoll about 0.8 mile inland on the point.
10
PALAUIG REEF, lying with its outer edge 1.8 miles
WSW of Palauig Point, is nearly awash and usually breaks
heavily. There is a 2.7 m (1.5 fm) channel, 0.5 mile wide,
between it and Palauig Point. From Palauig Reef, a line of
15 shoals, with 3.7 to 9.1 m (2 to 5 fm) on them, extends S for
3 miles, the S shoal being 4 miles W of the mouth of the
SAN AGUSTIN RIVER. Inshore of this line of shoals are
several other small detached shoals the positions of which
will be readily understood by reference to the chart.
20
Between Palauig Point and Iba Point, about 7.2 miles
SE, the coast is fringed by a reef that extends in places
about 0.5 mile offshore.
25 KINABAKBAGAN REEF lies about 3.5 miles WNW
from Iba Point and nearly 3 miles from shore. It is about 1.3
miles in extent within the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve and is covered
by a depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm). Several detached shoals, with
depths of 9.1 to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm) lie within 2.5 miles SW
30 of Kinabakbagan Reef. An 8.8 m (4.75 fm) and a 12.5 m
(6.75 fm) patches lie 2 miles and 3.2 miles, respectively, S
of the shoalest part of this reef.
IBA POINT projects slightly from the low sandy
35 beach extending S from Palauig Point. It is fringed by a
coral reef about 0.25 mile wide, bare at low water. The
point is low and not prominent. An elevated tank, 13.1 m
(43 ft) above mean sea level, is a prominent landmark. A
small patch, with a least depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm), lies about
40 1 mile SSW of the point.
IBA (CHART 4210), the capital of Zambales Province,
is about 1.3 miles inland. There is one large iron-roofed
building visible 5 to 6 miles which forms a conspicuous
landmark. Good roads along the W Luzon coast connect
Iba with other towns by bus transportation. An airport,
located W of Iba Point, is used by small aircrafts. There is
a telephone connection, Internet and mobile phone services
in the town. The landing place is located about 0.25 mile S
of the Iba Point.
Anchorage for Iba, S of the point of the same name
is sheltered only during the NE monsoon. During the SW
monsoon, landing is difficult and frequently impossible. The
55 anchorage is an open roadstead and should be approached
by steering in for the coast with the canyon N from Mount
Botolan bearing 091o. When the iron-roofed building in Iba
bears 046o, it may be steered for; and when the tangent to
Iba Point bears 001o, it should be steered for and anchorage
60 taken in 18.3 m (10 fm) about 0.8 mile from the landing
which may be identified by a group of nipa houses. The
small vessels, which formerly called here, usually anchor
about 0.25 mile S from the landing in 5.5 m (3 fm), sand
bottom. Navigators are cautioned to avoid the 6.3 m (3.5
fm) shoal SSW of the point and the coastal bank SE of the
landing place.
From Iba Point, the coast trends SE for about 6 miles
to Botolan Point; it is low and sandy and is broken by
the mouths of the BANCAL and BUCAO RIVERS. The
valley of the Bucao River, N from Mount Botolan, is a
conspicuous feature from seaward and serves to indicate
the anchorage for Iba.
BOTOLAN POINT, low and sandy, is immediately S
of a spur of Mount Botolan, which terminates at the beach
in a bluff point 45.7 m (150 ft) high. It is surrounded by a
narrow submerged reef.
Major Light - Botolan Light (15° 14’ 06”N., 120° 00’ 20
36”E.) is displayed from a tower on the point.
MOUNT BOTOLAN, about 1.8 miles E of Botolan
Point, is 564.5 m (1,852 ft) high, heavily wooded and
prominent. From Mount Botolan a range of mountains
parallels the coast for about 15 miles SSE to a position
about, 9 miles NE of Capones Point. Eastward of this range
is another range of mountains, known as the CABUSILAN
RANGE.
MOUNT PINATUBO, formerly 1,780 m (5,839 ft)
high, lies on the S part of this range in a position about
19 miles ESE of Mount Botolan. Pinatubo, which is
thickly wooded, was a dormant volcano for centuries until
it erupted violently on June 1991. During its maximum
activity, blown ashes spread around the world while the
lahar it spewed continue for years altering the surrounding
terrain and engulfing villages and towns.
From BOTOLAN POINT, the coast trends S, with 40
a slight curve E, for 21 miles to Capones Point. On this
coast are a number of small, unimportant towns lying on or
near the shore. The shoreline is formed by a steep-to sandy
beach, off which there are a number of detached shoals.
They are all well inside the usual track of navigation. A 45
landmark consisting of an elevated water tank is at barrio
SAN MIGUEL, SAN ANTONIO town, about 4.6 miles
NE of Capones Light. Two fixed red lights in a horizontal
line are displayed from the top of this tank 56.1 m (184 ft)
above mean high water. The terminal of a submarine cable 50
is located about 0.5 mile N of the barrio.
Food can be purchased in San Antonio, which can be
reached by following PAMATUAN RIVER for about 1.9
miles upstream.
A bank, on which there are several detached shoals
having depths of 6.1 to 12.8 m (3.25 to 7 fm), extends about
5.5 miles offshore between Botolan Point and the town of
SAN FELIPE, about 11.2 miles SSE. A detached 8.2 m
(4.5 fm) patch lies about 0.5 mile offshore W of the town of
SAN NARCISO.
CAPONES POINT is the most W point on this part
5 of the coast. It is 332 m (1,090 ft) high, bare, of reddish
appearance, and appears as an island when first seen from
NW.
CAPON GRANDE, the largest of the CAPONES
10 ISLANDS, a group of 3 small islands, is the most
conspicuous landmark and lies with its W point 2.3 miles
WNW of Capones Point. It is about 0.8 m long in a WNW
and opposite direction and has rocks around it. The E part is
the higher and is sighted before the lighthouse on the island
15 is raised. Capon Grande is surrounded by deep water and
there is no good anchorage off it. An unlighted 45.7 m (150
ft) Loran transmission tower was located near the light.
Capones Light (14° 55’ 02”N., 120° 00’ 27”E.) is displayed
from a white tower located on the hillside near the W end
of the island. A rock with a least depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm),
lies 0.8 mile SW of its SE extremity. The other two islands,
extending 732 m (800 yds) N and S, is 0.8 mile NE of
Capon Grande, between it and the coast. A deep channel
separates them from the larger island and the mainland.
25
About halfway between San Antonio town proper and
Capones Point is the barrio of Pundakit. Fresh water can
be obtained in Pundakit from a small excavated well. The
coast about 1.3 miles N of Capones Point changes from
30 sandy to coral stretching S for about 460 m.
REPORTING SYSTEM - All types of vessels
transiting the area within 20 miles off Capones Islands are
required to establish contact with Capones Coast Watch
35 Station at VHF channel 16. The coast watch station is
operated by the Philippine Navy.
Included in the report are the vessel’s name, call sign,
course and speed, port of registry, type of vessel, type of
cargo on board, port of destination and ETA, last port of
call, number of crew on board, and master’s name.
From Capones Point, the coast trends S for 8 miles
to Port Silanguin. It is high and rocky and indented by 3
small bays, CALAGUAGUIN, TALISAIN, and NAZASA.
These bays are of little importance and could be used as
anchorages only in the NE monsoon, being open to the W.
They are easy of access. A rock, 46 m (151 ft) high, lies
near the outer edge of a spit extending about 0.2 mile SW
from the N entrance point of Calaguaguin Bay. A rock lies
awash close SW of the NW entrance point of Talisain Bay.
A rock, 1.2 m (4 ft) high, lies about 0.3 mile SW of the N
entrance of Nazasa Bay.
55 TABONES ISLETS, about 1 mile from shore, midway
between Talisain and Nazasa Bays, are two rocky islets
whose bases are much underworn by the sea; the larger and
higher is 39.3 m (129 ft) high.
60 PORT SILANGUIN affords tolerable shelter from all
5-30
winds except those from W to SW. The S entrance point is
formed by SILANGUIN ISLAND, a bare, rounded island
215 m (705 ft) high, joined to the land on the S side of the
port by a rocky reef on which there are two islets. The depth
at the entrance is 54.9 m (30 fm) decreasing to 18.3 m (10
fm), which depth will be found close to the shore reef. The
best anchorage is in from 31.1 to 36.6 m (17 to 20 fm),
abreast the sand beach within the S point of the mainland.
LOS FRAILES are a group of six small, rocky islets
with sunken and other rocks around and between them,
from 0.8 to 1.3 miles SW of Silanguin Island. The SW and
largest islet is 27.4 m (90 ft) high and the NE islet is 10.7
m (35 ft) high. They are surrounded by deep water, and
between them and Silanguin Island is a deep channel about
0.5 mile wide.
Caution - A shoal with a least depth of 14.6 m (8 fm)
is located 6.25 miles S of Sampaloc Point. A depth of 33 m
was reported about 7.75 miles SW of the point.
Sea Lanes - Vessels calling at the ports in Subic Bay
should follow the established traffic lane, details of which
may be referred to Chart 4212. The sea lanes are well
marked by lighted buoy. Procedures for the entry and exit
5 of vessels into Subic Bay may be read in Appendix II of
this publication.
Port Management - Ports and navigation within Subic
Bay is controlled by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority
10 (SBMA), which can be contacted through the following
means:
Telephone no: (+6347) 252-4225 (Seaport Department)
Address: Seaport Admin Bldg., Waterfront Rd. corner
15 Sampson St., Subic Bay Freeport Zone
Customs - Customs officers in Subic Bay may be
contacted at telephone nos. (+6347) 252-3534. Customs’
address: Bldg. 307, Canal Rd., Subic Bay Freeport Zone,
20 SBMA, Olongapo City.

The coast from Silanguin Island to the entrance to Weather Advisory - All vessels should continually
Subic Bay about 4.5 miles E is high and moderately steep- monitor the Harbor Warning Net (364.2 MHz or 2350
to. SAMPALOC and BINIPTICAN POINTS are the kHz) and VHF Channel 16 when there is a typhoon and
southernmost and the most prominent points on this coast. 25 destructive winds possible within 48 hrs.

SUESTE POINT, the NW entrance point of Subic Bay,
is high and steep-to. Between this point and MACMANY
POINT, about 1.5 miles NNE, and thence to the head of
the bay, the shore is fronted by the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve to a 30
distance of 0.1 to 0.3 mile. There are no dangers outside a
distance of 0.5 mile from this shore.
Port Services - Bunkering services may be requested
from Coastal Subic Bay Terminal (telephone no: (+6347)
252-8875) and CS&T Inc. (telephone no: (+6347) 252-
1107). Cargo handling services, cargo survey, chandling,
on-board repair services, and water tendering are all
available.

Major Light - Sueste Light (14° 45’ 09”N., 120° 11’ Major repairs and drydocking may be had from Subic
14”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Sueste Point. 35 Drydocks (telephone no: (+6347) 252-8183) and Keppel
Shipyard (telephone no: (+6347) 232-2910 local 326).
SUBIC BAY is an irregular-shaped body of water
extending about 8 miles in a general N direction, with a Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels 500 GRT and
width of about 3.5 miles; its W shore is comparatively over. Request for pilots must be sent by 3:30 PM the day
straight and bold with no dangers extending more than 0.25 40 before the ETA. Vessels should request permission before
mile from shore. moving within the port. Pilots can be contacted at telephone
no. (+6347) 252-7245 or at VHF Channel 09.
The bay affords good anchorage in several places,
especially off Subic and SE of Port Olongapo. The inner For NCT, Leyte and Nabasan Wharf, pilot boards in
harbor offers good typhoon anchorage. 45 the area 0.6 mile W Grande Island. Pilot boarding station
for Agusuhin and Subic Shipyard is in the area 2.9 miles
Caution - Submerged wrecks are located N and W of SW of Kalaklan Point. For Inner Harbor, pilot boards at
the traffic lane in the vicinity of Petambu and Manisbaso position 1 mile SW of Kalaklan Point.
Points. See Charts 4212 and 4213 for details.
50 Tugs - Malayan Towage has 4 tug boats with 2,500-
A minelaying practice area, about 732 sq m, lies with 3,500 hp capacity. Additional tug boats could be made
its center about 0.4 mile SW of Grande Island. available upon request at least 48 hrs prior to arrival of
vessel. The company may be contacted at telephone no:
Restricted Areas - Grande Island, Chiquita Island, and (+632) 8885-7740 and fax no: (+632) 8885-7727.
the waters within 0.25 mile of them, constitute a restricted 55
area at night. Vessels should not enter these areas except in Anchorage - The areas on the E and W of the traffic
an emergency. lane to the town of Subic were designated as anchorage
areas. Refer to Charts 4212 and 4213 for the details of the
Tides - The mean tidal range in the bay is about 0.8 m anchorage areas in Subic Bay.
(2.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1 m (3.3 ft). 60

5-31
 Directions - Vessels calling to ports of Subic Bay Gaviota Rock, 2.4 m (8 ft) high, about 1.1 miles ESE
must enter the channel W of Grande Island and use the of Snake Island, is near the S edge of the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve
established traffic lane. The tortuous and unmarked channel which extends about 0.5 mile from the N shore of Subic
E of the island is closed to navigation. Bay. It is about 0.3 mile from the beach and surrounded by
5 submerged rocks. A conspicuous house is on top of the rock
GRANDE ISLAND divides the entrance to Subic Bay called “White Castle” by the locals.
into two channels. It is about 0.5 mile in extent and 51 m
(167 ft) high. Grande Island Lighted Beacon (14° 46’ 30”N., SUBIC is a town at the head of Subic Bay. A highway
120° 13’ 25”) is displayed from a white tower located on connects the town with Manila and other provinces to the
the northernmost point of the island. Obstructions with 10 N. It has a postal, telephone, mobile phone, and internet
unkonwn depth, northernmost of which is located about 0.7 services. The town is fronted by a fish port.
of the Grande Pier, were reported to lie N of the island.
The immediate coastline of Subic town is mostly sandy
The main channel W of Grande Island is about 1.2 miles and beach resorts are also common. Rocky portions along
wide and is deep and clear. The tortuous and unmarked 15 the coasts are observed in points or spits while they are also
channel E of the island is closed to navigation. mixed with gravel and sand. Upward the rocky spits are
usually wooded although lightly. Growth of coconut trees
Chiquita Islet is small, low, and about 0.2 mile S is uneven along the shore. Several rocks submerged and
from Grande Island, with which it is connected by a reef. awash were noted in the area between Cayuan and Apalit
Chiquita Beacon, a white pyramidal monument, marks the 20 Points, which may pose danger to small sea crafts. Foul
SW part of Chiquita Islet. areas of rock awash and submerged portions were found
between Calapacuan Point and Cangrejo Rock and also
Twenty-four Foot Shoal has a depth of 7.5 m and lies between Cangrejo Rock and Snake Island, including at the
0.7 mile S of Chiquita Islet. SE end of this island. Precautions must be observed near
25 those areas even when using small boats.
MAYANGA ISLAND is in the middle of the bay. It
is very small, 11.6 m (38 ft) high, and the shoal extends CABANGAHAN POINT is the location of Keppel
0.2 mile N and 0.3 mile SE with depths of less than 6 m. A Subic Shipyard. The shipyard has a drydock for vessels up
lighted buoy is located SW of the island. Mayanga Island to 550,000 DWT. There are 6 repair berths with maximum
Light (14° 50’ 01”N., 120° 13’ 59”E.) is shown from a grey 30 length of 550 m.
tower on the island.
PORT OLONGAPO is located about in the middle of
Snake Island (Pequeña Island) is about 1.2 miles N the E shore of the bay. In the NE part is a small basin about
of Mayanga Island. It is 55 m (180 ft) high and surrounded 0.5 mile long and 0.25 mile wide, with a narrow channel
by shoals extending S 0.5 mile toward Mayanga Island and 35 leading through the shoals SE of Rivera Wharf. Kalaklan
about 0.5 mile W. Northeastward of the island, shoal water Point, the N point at the entrance, is low but rises rapidly
extends to the E shore of the bay. A wreck, with 9.5 m (5.25 to a height of 108 m (354 ft). Cubi Point, the S entrance
fm) over it, lies about 0.5 mile SW of Snake Island. A wreck point, is the location of a container terminal. Olongapo
lies close off the W side and another lies close off the SE City, located E of the bay, is not visible offshore.
side of the island. 40
Prominent Features - Commercial and government

NE coast of Subic Bay and Gaviota Rock (White Castle).

(Photograph - Lt Aaron Andro V Ching, 2012)

5-32
buildings extending NW from Rivera Wharf to Kalaklan
River are prominent from seaward. A sector light (14° 49'
31"N., 120° 16' 00"E.) is displayed on Kalaklan Point.
A large conspicuous white tower is about 5.5 miles E of
Kalaklan Point, on the summit of Mount Santa Rita. The
airport control tower at Cubi Point displays the aviation
light. The aviation light is visible from a good distance
seaward.
Caution - A sunken wreck with least depth of 30
m, about 0.6 mile SW of Kalaklan Point Light, is at the
entrance to Port Olongapo.
Caiman Shoal, near the middle of Port Olongapo, has
a least depth of 12.7 m. Moored on this shoal is a yellow
buoy that flashes yellow light. It was reported in 2015 that
this buoy is in sinking condition.
Carrasco Shoal is a small patch with a least depth of
13.4 m, located about 0.5 mile NW of Nagcaban Point.
From Cubi Point, a shoal with depths of 2.7 m (1.5 fm)
and less extends about 0.6 mile NW, its outer end being
marked by a red buoy.
Sixteen Foot Shoal, with the least depth of 4.8 m, is
located about 1 mile W of aero light at Cubi Point. A wreck,
with unknown depth, is reported to be located about 0.3
W of the shoal. Obstructions, with unknown depth, were
reported to lie about 0.4 miles NE and 0.5 miles SW of the
shoal.
Berthing Facilities - Rivera Wharf (906 m berth
length), Alava Wharf (701 m berth length), Bravo Wharf
(411 m berth length), Sattler Pier (180 m berth length) and
Marine Terminal (571 m berth length) are berthing facilities
located at Port Olongapo’s NE, dedicated to cargo and
container vessels.
Yachts can berth at piers of Subic Bay Yacht Club
located at the head of NE basin. POL pier (253 m berth
length), located about 0.4 miles SE of Rivera Wharf, is
the only facility for handling petroleum products. Boton
Wharf (648 m berth length), located at the S corner of Port
Olongapo, is for use of cargo and container vessels.
A container terminal (474 m berth length) is located
on Cubi Point. Just S of it is the Leyte Pier (300 m berth
length), which is used for handling grain cargo. Leyte Pier
has automatic conveyor used for transporting grains from
the vessels to the warehouses.
TRIBOA BAY extends eastward between Pamocan
Point and Nabasan Point. Pamocan Point, about 0.5 mile S
of Cubi Point, lies on the N side of the bay. Close E of the
point is a prominent bluff.
A spit as defined by the 6.3 m curve extends about
0.4 mile NW from Nabasan Point. Two dangerous sunken
wrecks lie, respectively, about 0.4 mile NW and 0.2 mile
5-33
Aerial view of Rivera wharf from the SW.
(Photograph - SBMA, undated)
NNW of Nabasan Point.
20
Berthing Facility - Nabasan Pier, located just N of
Nabasan Point, has a pier connected to a deck. It has a berth
length of 180 m for use of cargo and container vessels.
25 ILANIN BAY is located S of Nabasan Point. Located
on the S shore of the bay, in the area formerly occupied
by Camayan Wharf, is a beach resort and park complex.
Boton Range Beacons, both displaying red light, is just SE
of Camayan Wharf. When the beacons are in range, bearing
30 about 141o, it leads to wharf.
PORT BINANGA is a small bay S of the entrance
to Subic Bay. There are short stretches of sand beach at
the head of the bay on either side of DAPUA POINT, a
35 conspicuous point with vertical cliffs from 18.3 to 21.3 m
(60 to 70 ft) high. The remainder of the bay is bordered by
a coral reef about 160 m (175 yd) wide.
The inner S side of Port Binanga is Barangay
40 MABAYO, a part of Morong town. Mabayo has a small pier
0.4 miles SW of Dapua Point. The pier is used as landing
for passengers and cargoes such as fish and grocery items
while Olongapo City is the common point of destination.
45 Dangers - A spit, with depths of 7 m (3.75 fm) over it,
extends about 0.5 mile WSW from Binanga Point. 4 shoal
patches with depths of 9.1 to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm), extend S
from the end of the spit. These patches are evenly spaced
athwart the entrance to Port Binanga.
50
Anchorage sheltered from all except W winds may be
found in the middle of the bay in 7.3 to 11 m (4 to 6 fm),
mud bottom.
55 Directions - Vessel should bring Dapua Point to bear
090o and steer for it. This course will lead S of a 4.6 m (2.5
fm) shoal in the entrance, about 0.25 mile offshore.
From BUIONG POINT, the S entrance point to
60 Port Binanga, the coast trends S for 2.5 miles to Mayagao
Point, then SE for 5.5 miles to Napo Point. The shore is
low, wooded, and bordered by a reef. A stranded wreck lies
about 0.4 mile W of Mayagao Point.
MORONG SHOAL lies about 1.3 miles W of
Panibatujan Point and off the town of Morong. The depth
found was 9.6 m (5.25 fm) with irregular bottom between
it and the shore. About 1 mile SSW of the same point is a
coral pinnacle reported in 1960 to have a least depth of 6.1
m (20 ft). The shore is sand beach, with several shoals close
in, SE of Panibatujan Point.
PANDILI ISLET, 12.8 m (42 ft) high, is joined to
Napo Point by a reef.
NAPO POINT is the location of a discontinued
nuclear power generating plant. A large cylindrical tank and
a building with a dome of the power plant are the prominent
features on this point.
From NAPO POINT, the coast trends E and then S
to Luzon Point, forming a large, open bay, with the town of
BAGAC on its E. Anchorage may be had off the town in
9.1 to 18.3 m (5 to 10 fm), taking care to avoid a 5.5 m (3
fm) shoal that is 0.8 mile W of the town. This anchorage,
however, is not sheltered, as the land breeze blows quite
strongly off the Silanganan and Mariveles Mountains and
the NE monsoon draws through the low valley between
them.
A dumping ground for explosives lies within a circle
with a radius of 1 mile and having its center located about
10 miles SW of Napo Point. A 34.7 m (19 fm) and a 23.8
m (13 fm) patches were reported to lie about 1.6 miles and
3.5 miles, respectively, SE while a bank with a least depth
of 27.4 m (15 fm) lies about 8 miles S by W of this dumping
ground.
A dumping ground for chemicals lies within a circle
with a radius of 1 mile and having its center located about
15 miles SW of the dumping ground for explosives.
MOUNT NATIB, 1,287 m (4,222 ft) high, and
MOUNT SILANGANAN, 1,103 m (3,620 ft) high, are
located from 5 to 7.2 miles NE of Napo Point. A low
and prominent valley separates these mountains from the
Mariveles Mountains.
The MARIVELES MOUNTAINS, which attain
a height of 1,420 m (4,660 ft), lie near the S end of the
peninsula which separates Subic Bay from Manila Bay.
MOUNT BATAAN, the highest peak, is located about
6 miles ENE of Luzon Point.
The coast from the head of BAGAC BAY to Luzon
Point and thence SE to Los Cochinos is indented by a
number of small bays, several of which have sand beaches
at their heads; the points are moderately high, rocky and
bordered by coral reefs.
A rock baring at extreme low water lies about 0.2 mile
SW of GUAY POINT. This was the only danger found off
the shore reef. All the principal points may be rounded
safely at a distance of about 0.5 mile to avoid the shore
5 reef. A wreck is reported to exist about 0.94 mile W of
QUINAUAN POINT.
GUAY BAY, SE of Guay Point, affords anchorage,
sheltered from the NE, for vessels waiting for fair wind to
10 enter Manila Bay.
COCHINOS POINT, the N entrance point to Manila
Bay, is the SE extremity of a small wooded peninsula, 108
m (355 ft) high, and is connected with the mainland N by a
15 low, narrow isthmus. A shoal patch, dredged to 4 m (13 ft),
exists about 0.25 mile ENE of the point.
LOS COCHINOS are 5 rocks 6.1 to 19.8 m (20 to
65 ft) high, which extend nearly 0.5 mile S and SE from
20 Cochinos Point, and are steep-to. A sunken rock with a least
depth of 0.5 m (0.25 fm) over it lies almost in the middle of
the N channel between the rocks.
GUARDIA SHOAL, is a very small, steep-to shoal,
25 with a least depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) and surrounded by deep
water, 0.2 mile S of PALOMONTI ROCKS, the most E of
Los Cochinos.
PALOMONTI ROCKS, 5 m high, are located 0.4
30 mile SE of Cochinos Point. A shoal, with a depth of 4 m,
extends about 0.1 mile SW from the rocks, and a shoal,
with a depth of 0.9 m, extends the same distance N.
MANILA BAY
35 (CHART 1501, 4235, 4236, 4243, 4254, &
4255)
MANILA BAY is about 30 miles long, N and S, and 22
miles wide in the middle. The entrance, between Cochinos
40 Point N and Limit Point S, is 12 miles wide, and is divided
into 2 channels by Corregidor and Caballo Islands. The
depths range from over 54.9 m (30 fm) in the entrance to
about 27.4 m (15 fm) in the middle, decreasing gradually
to the shores. The land on both sides of the entrance is high
45 and covered with vegetation. At the E head of the bay is the
city and harbor of Manila, with Cavite S from it.
Caution - Submarine cables and pipelines are present
in Manila Bay. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
50 within their vicinity. Refer to Charts 4255 and 4243 for the
locations of these submarine features.
Winds - The NE monsoon blows strong out of Manila
Bay at times, accompanied by a cloud resembling smoke,
55 which is driven out of the bay to the SW and forms an
arch in that horizon when the sky is otherwise clear; but
sometimes sea breezes from the SW blow into the bay
in the NE monsoon after midday, increasing in strength
toward the head of the bay.
60
5-34
 Entrance to Manila Bay (looking northward from a position 11 miles southward of the Mariveles Mountains).
Entrance to Manila Bay (South Channel from a position about 11 miles westward of Caballo Island).
During the strength of the NE monsoon, although
the wind may be fresh in the entrance, it will frequently
be moderate within the bay. During the SW monsoons,
storms, known locally as collas, blow from SW to W and
are accompanied by violent squalls and much rain; they
often last for several days.
Land winds, during the NE monsoon, blow from E in
the bay and from SE on the W coast N of Fuego Point; they
begin about 4 or 5 PM, fall toward midnight, then set in
again from N, changing to NE during the day and E toward
the evening. When strong N or SW winds are prevalent,
there are generally no land winds.
When the NE monsoon begins to weaken in February,
SE and E winds become more frequent in the Manila Bay
area. These winds are the prevailing winds in March and
April, but they gradually become less frequent in the next
4 months. In May, SW winds increase, and in August about
two-thirds of all winds blow from between S and W.
Harbor Regulations - Traffic inside Manila Bay is
being managed by the VTMS Control Center and covers
the area within 20 miles of Corregidor Island. All vessels
are required to abide to the instructions issued by the
control center. All vessels entering, leaving, and moving
within Manila Bay are required to report their activities
to the control center. Vessels are prohibited to move from
one berth to another without the authority from the VTMS
Control Center.
Vessels approaching or leaving Manila Bay and
vessels within the TSS and Manila Bay should maintain a
continuous listening watch on VTMS VHF channels 16 or
19 at all times. All reports can be stated using the same VHF
channels and shall be made in either Filipino or English.
All reported times shall be in Philippine local time. Vessels
entering, leaving and navigating inside Manila Bay should
not exceed the speed limit of 5 knots.
The VTMS Control Center may be contacted by calling
“VTMS Manila” via channel 16 or 19.
The details of reporting procedures for vessels entering
and leaving Manila Bay may be read in the Appendix I of
5-35
this publication.
Speed Limit - Vessels navigating, anchoring, or
berthing within the harbor limits should not exceed the
5 speed limit of 5 knots.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress and requiring
assistance should contact the Philippine Coast Guard’s
Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have a VHF
10 DSC alerting. The Coast Guard may be also contacted
through the following means:
Telephone: (+632) 8527-8482 to 89;
(+632) 8527-3880 to 85
15 Fax: (+632) 8527-8482
VHF channel 16
E-mail: cgpao@coastguard.gov.ph
cgac@coastguard.gov.ph
20 MANILA BAY ENTRANCE - Corregidor and
Caballo Islands divide the entrance to Manila Bay into two
broad, deep channels, known respectively as, NORTH and
SOUTH CHANNELS. The passage between Corregidor
and Caballo Islands is about 0.25 mile wide and has a depth
25 of 12.8 m (7 fm) in the middle. A reef extends S from the E
end of Corregidor and the tidal currents sweep through this
channel with considerable velocity.
There are practically no dangers for a motor-driven
30 vessel in the entrance to Manila Bay, as both the North
Channel and the South Channel are deep and clear. Sailing
vessels entering the bay are advised to use the S channel
on account of its greater width, especially with an easterly
wind, as the current has less velocity than in the narrow
35 North Channel. Sailing vessels should be guided by the
lead and chart in working in or out.
At the South Channel, while maneuvering either near
Caballo or El Fraile Islands, the Hotel of Puerto Azul Beach
40 and Country Club, 2.2 miles W of the town of Ternate in
Cavite, maybe also utilized as aid to navigation. Puerto
Azul Light (14° 17’ 00”N., 120° 40’ 54”E.) is in the vicinity
of this beach resort.
45 Caution - Submarine cables, connected to Naic town
in Cavite, is present in the S Channel. Anchoring and fishing
are prohibited within the vicinity of the cables. Mariners
should also watch out for some wrecks reported to lie in the
N and S Channels.
Restrictions - Corregidor, Caballo, La Monja, Santa
Amalia, El Fraile, Carabao, and Limbones Islands, and
their surrounding waters and detached rocks, are national
defense zones. Vessels are forbidden to approach them
closer than 1 mile, and vessels are not permitted to pass
between La Monja Island and Corregidor.
Traffic Separation Scheme - Vessels entering and
leaving Manila Bay through the waters around Corregidor
Island should follow the established routing system. The
rules of International Regulations for Preventing Collisions
at Sea (1972) apply within the TSS. The North Channel
is established for the use of foreign vessels entering and
leaving Manila Bay. Vessels engaged in domestic trade
should use the South Channel. Anchoring and fishing in any
of the lanes are prohibited. Vessels in emergency situations
may anchor in the traffic lanes but are required to inform
the VTMS Center.
Vessels joining or leaving the traffic land should steer
a course to converge of diverge in a small angle as possible.
Vessels crossing the traffic lane should maintain a course
perpendicular to the course of traffic. Vessels not navigating
in the traffic lane should give way to the vessels navigating
in the traffic lane.
CABALLO BAY is between Corregidor and Caballo
Islands. San Jose Bay, located S of Corregidor Island,
forms the NW part of Caballo Bay. Anchorage in Caballo
Bay is strictly prohibited. Meteorological buoys, exhibiting
5 flashing yellow light, were installed in Caballo Bay. The
buoys are equipped with radar reflector.
LA MONJA ISLAND is a small rock 37 m (121 ft)
high with deep water around it, 2.5 miles W from the W end
10 of Corregidor Island. La Monja Light (14° 22’ 38”N., 120°
31’ 15”E.) is displayed on the highest point of the island.
An obstruction is charted about 1.2 miles SE of this rock.
EL FRAILE ISLAND is a small rock completely
15 covered with structures, and resembling a battleship, 3.5
miles S of Caballo Island, and nearly 2 miles from the S
shore of the bay. With the exception of a 12.8 m (7 fm) patch
about 0.25 mile SE of it, El Fraile Island, is surrounded by
deep water. The island is marked by El Fraile Light (14° 18’
20 24”N., 120° 37’ 48”E.).
SAN NICOLAS SHOALS lie about midway between
Corregidor and Cavite and extend about 4.5 miles from the
S shore. It is marked by San Nicolas Shoal Light (14° 26’
25 17”N., 120° 45’ 47”E.). The outer shoal is steep-to on the N
and W sides. The depth is 3 m about 0.25 mile E of the light.
La Monja Island, kept open N of Corregidor, clears these
shoals. After passing Corregidor or Caballo, San Nicolas
Shoals constitute the only danger between the entrance and
30 Cavite or Manila.

Reporting Procedures for vessels navigating in Manila MARIVELES HARBOR (CHART 4254),
Bay may be read in the Appendix I of this publication. immediately inside the N entrance point to Manila Bay,
is an excellent harbor, easily accessible and affords good
CORREGIDOR ISLAND forms the S side of the N 35 anchorage, sheltered from all but SE winds. The NW portion
channel into Manila Bay. It is 179.5 m (589 ft) high in the W of the harbor is the best typhoon anchorage in Manila Bay.
part. From BURI POINT, the E end, a reef extends nearly to However, the area is quite small and can only accommodate
Caballo Island; close to the NW side are SANTA AMALIA one or two large vessels. The harbor is free from dangers
and HORADABA ROCKS. In Corregidor Cove, on the N except at the head of the bay where shoal water extends
side of the island, are a pier and a wharf. Just S of the wharf, 40 about 0.25 mile and the wrecks which are unmarked.
in San Jose Bay, is another pier. These berthing facilities
are used by vessels that transport passengers, specifically Prominent Features - Entering the harbor from W, the
tourists, coming from Manila. Corregidor Island Light (14° buildings and wharf of the freeport area are prominent as
22’ 52”N., 120° 34’ 32”E.) is displayed from the highest soon as the vessel is past Cochinos Point.
point of the island. 45
Major Lights - Mariveles Light, (14° 25’ 53”N., 120°
There is hotel accommodation. Sea surface 29’ 07”E.) is shown from the shore end of the government
transportation is being maintained twice a day for Manila, pier at the head of the harbor.
the first trip is in the morning and the other is in the
afternoon. An airfield is located near the E end of the island. 50 Sisiman Cove Light (14° 25’ 23”N., 120° 31’ 12”E.) is
Fresh water is limited in the island and food supplies are displayed on a white tower at Gorda Point, the E entrance
mostly taken from Mariveles, Bataan. point to Mariveles Harbor.

CABALLO ISLAND, 116 m (381 ft) high and 0.8 mile
long, is rocky bluff partly covered with verdure, about 0.8 55
mile S of the E end of Corregidor. A reef extends 0.5 mile
from its W end and about 0.2 mile from its E end. There is
a pier in ruins on the N side of the island. A conspicuous
radio tower stands about 0.15 mile E of the W end of the
island. 60
Range lights, bearing 11o 44’, leading to the graving
dock of Herma Shipyard has been established on the NE
shore.
Tides - The mean tidal range in Mariveles Harbor is
about 0.8 m (2.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1 m (3.3
ft).

5-36
 Mariveles Harbor with the freeport area at the foreground.
(Photograph - Freeport Area of Bataan website, Undated)
MARIVELES, the town at the head of the bay is
connected by good roads with Manila and neighboring
towns. Buses have regular trips to Manila and surrounding
provinces. Mini-buses and jeepneys conveyed for short
distances while motor tricycles operate within the town
proper. Passenger ferries and fastcrafts have daily trips to
Manila. It is about 2 hours by boat SW of Manila. Dominant
feature of the general terrain is hilly and mountainous
which is prevailed by the Mariveles Mountains.
The town has a public market complete with many
kinds of foods, goods and other supplies. Fresh water may
be availed directly at the pier by hose, truck delivery or
from barges. There is a hospital, some clinics, and numerous
health centers. Drug stores are in the town proper. There is
an institution for patients with psychiatric problems at the
Mariveles Mental Hospital. Banking institutions, movie
houses and other recreation facilities are available. Hotels
and lodging inns are also available. Long distance telephone
communications, postal service, mobile phone services and
internet services can be had.
Customs - Customs officers stationed in Mariveles
may be contacted at telephone no: (+6347) 935-4746.
Repair Facilities - Ship repair is serviced by Herma
Shipyard. It is located on the NE corner of the harbor.
Mariveles Grain Corp. Pier (left) and Bataan Malt Terminal Pier (right) in Mariveles Harbor.
(Photograph - Lt Jaya A Roperez, 2013)
5-37
It has a 159 m long drydock facility with 12.2 m depth.
Services offered by the shipyard include drydocking, repair
and maintenance, ship upgrade, fabrication services, port
terminal services, and warehousing. Herma Shipyard may
5 be contacted at telephone no. (+632) 8922-3421.
Rouvia Yard, located about 0.7 mile ENE of Mariveles
Light, can repair and build yachts and small vessels. Rouvia
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6347) 935-6306 and
10 e-mail address rouvia_roadrhrouvia@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facilities - The town of Mariveles has piers
for fishing boats and small vessels. Majority of the berthing
facilities are located in the freeport area.
15
Mariveles Municipal Pier, marked by Mariveles Light,
has a length of 78 m. Small vessels and fishing boats use
this pier. Another pier, with a length of 60 m, is located
about 130 m SW of the municipal pier.
20
Mariveles Ferry Terminal, used by ferries plying
between Mariveles and Manila, is located about 0.7 mile
NE of the municipal pier. The terminal wharf has a berth
length of 47 m. The yacht repair facility of Rouvia Boat
25 Builders is located just W of the terminal.
The piers and wharves of Freeport Area of Bataan,
located about 1.2 miles NE of Mariveles Light, are
composed of the following facilities:
1. Mariveles Grain Corp. - 110 and 300 m long piers
with cranes and conveyor equipment for transporting grain
cargoes. It can accommodate vessels of up to 70,000 DWT.
Its storage facility has a capacity of 180,000 metric tons
for soybean and grain cargoes. The dolphins off the piers
display fixed red lights.
2. Bataan Malt Terminal - 200 m long pier with cranes
and conveyor equipment for transporting of grain cargoes.
Pilotage is compulsory to all vessels. A 24-hr
advanced notice should be sent to the Manila Bay Harbor
Pilot Partnership, which may be contacted at telephone nos.
(+632) 8523-7411 or (+6347) 244-6461.
Designated pilot boarding station for vessels entering
the harbor is located about 8 miles SE of Mariveles Light at
the mouth of the harbor.
Anchorage - Vessels may anchor in 31.1 m (17 fm),
with the Mariveles Light bearing 300o, or they may run
farther into the bay, if necessary, the bottom having good
holding ground and the anchorage safe.
SISIMAN BAY is a small bay E of Gorda Point.
Prominent features in area are the big building and the
chimney of the coal power plant at the E shore of the bay.
A 270 m long pier is located off the power plant. It has two
cranes and a conveyor system that is used for transporting
coal to the power plant.
From Mariveles, the shore trends E for about 3 miles
to ALASASIN POINT (LASISI POINT), then NE for 4
miles to LOKANIN POINT, and is composed of steep
rocky bluffs of moderate height fronted by foul ground
extending about 0.1 mile offshore. Lokanin Point Light
(14° 28’ 09”N., 120° 36’ 24”E.) is displayed on the point.
The coast from Alas-asin to Lamao Points are scattered
with fish traps.
A jetty extends 500 m from the coast located about 0.5
mile from Alasasin Point. Large cylindrical tanks for LPG
are prominent. Dolphins are at the offshore end of the jetty.
A 200 m restricted area was established around the jetty.
Gorda Point as viewed from the S.
(Photograph - Lt Jaya A Roperez, 2013)
Fishing and unauthorized anchoring are prohibited in the
area.
Several oil tanks stand in the vicinity of Lokanin Point.
5 A submerged pipeline extends from the shore to a fueling
buoy, moored about 0.4 mile E of the point. Mooring buoys
form an offshore berth which can accommodate vessels
about 152 m (500 ft) in length in depth of 11 to 13.7 m (36
to 45 ft).
10
A pier extends from the shore for a distance of about
457 m (500 yds) close N of the point. Two piers extend
from the shore about 0.5 mile SSW of the point.
15 Pilotage - Pilot boarding station for vessels calling at
the piers of Lokanin Point is located about 1.6 miles NE of
Lokanin Point. Pilots may be contacted at telephone nos.
(+632) 8523-7411 or (+6347) 244-6461.
20 Anchorage for vessels of less than 5,000 GRT is
located about 2.2 miles E of Lokanin Point.
From LOKANIN POINT, the shore trends in a N
by W direction to the head of the bay. The shore for the
25 first 7 miles to abreast ORION HILL continues to be rocky
bluffs fronted by a gradually widening reef with occasional
sand beaches between the points. From N of Orion Hill, the
country is generally low and fronted by shoal water, which
increases in width from 0.25 mile off PANDAN POINT to
30 about 6 miles at the NW head of the bay.
Large tanks of oil refineries are located along the coast
from Lokanin Point to the town of Limay. Each refinery has
their own berthing facilities used for loading and unloading
35 of petroleum products.
LAMAO, a barrio of the town of Limay, is located
about 2 miles N of Lokanin Point. Water and petroleum
fuels are available. Minor repairs can be made by the
40 refinery. Arrangements for quarantine and customs
inspection can be made on advanced notice. Telephone,
mobile phone communication, and Internet connection are
available. There are daily bus trips to Manila. A coast guard
detachment is located at the root of the pier.
45
Major Light - Lamao Light (14° 30’ 48”N., 120° 36’
38”E.) is displayed from a white tower located near the
5-38
shore end of the government pier.
Luzon Point Pier Light (14° 31’ 58”N., 120° 36’ 30”E.)
is displayed from the pier of Petron Oil Refinery.
Port Management - The government pier (14o 30’
50”N., 120o 36’ 40”E.) is operated by PMO-Limay, which
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6347) 935-5550.
Berthing Facilities - Lamao has 162 m long
government pier. The pier is designed for fast crafts only.
The refinery of Petron is located 1 mile N of Lamao
Pier. It has a 520 m long pier marked by a fixed red light.
Petron also operates the berthing dolphins and the offshore
pier located about 0.7 mile S and 0.2 mile S of the light,
respectively. Oil is delivered from the vessel to the oil depot
by means of pipes running through these berthing facilities.
Mooring buoys are located off the 520 m long pier.
PNOC has a jetty located about 0.7 mile S of the
government pier. Fishing is prohibited within the area 150
m off the pier.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels going to Lamao
Pier. ETA should be sent to the pilot association 4 days,
72 hrs, and 48 hrs in advance and confirmed 24 hrs before
arrival. Advance notice of 24 hrs should be given to the
chief pilot at Manila Bay Harbor Pilot Partnership, which
may be contacted at telephone nos. (+632) 8523-7411 or
(+6347) 244-6461. Pilot boards at an area about 1.6 miles
NE of Lokanin Point.
Quarantine Anchorage is located in the area just E of
the pilot boarding area.
Anchorage - Vessels of 5,000 GRT or less should
anchor about 1.6 miles ESE of Lamao Point. Anchorage for
vessels of more than 5,000 GRT is located about 2.5 miles
ESE of Lamao Point.
QUITANG POINT lies 4 miles N of Lokanin Point.
Large white tanks of a power plant located on this point are
prominent. A tanker sealane was established starting from
the water off the coast of Luzon Point up to the coast off
the City of Manila. Fishing and anchoring within the limits
of the sea lane is prohibited. Refer to the nautical charts for
details.
Currents - The flood current sets N at a rate of 0.5
knot off this pier, and the ebb sets S at the same rate.
Pilotage - Pilots and tugs are arranged for in advance.
The pilot boarding station is located 1.6 miles E of Quitang
Point. Pilots may be contacted at telephone nos. (+632)
8523-7411 or (+6347) 244-6461.
Anchorage for vessels transporting petroleum
products is located about 2.1 mile ESE of Quitang Point.
5-39
LIMAY, located 1 mile N of Quitang Point, has a
public market and local supply of fuel oils are maintained
by Petron depots. Fresh water is distributed by pipes. Banks
and money transfer facilities are present. There are 2 post
5 offices, one in the town proper and the other in barangay
Lamao. Postal and parcel services, cable and long-distance
phone services, mobile phone communication and Internet
connection are available. Within the town and vicinity, the
motor tricycle and jeepney are used for transportation while
10 the buses conveyed through different locations around
Luzon Island.
Customs - Customs office in Limay may be cotacted at
telephone no. (+6347) 244-6034.
15
Berthing Facilities - Orion Pier, 1.5 miles N of Pandan
Point, is a government pier designed to berth RoRo vessels.
Vessels waiting to berth should anchor about 0.9 mile from
the pier.
20
The shores around the N head of the bay are formed
by the delta of the Pampanga and other large rivers and are
low and marshy. Several of these rivers are navigable and
are used by small, light-draft vessels, with local knowledge,
25 plying between Manila and the small towns on them,
among which are CALUMPIT, BULACAN, HAGONOY,
and BACOLOR.
Of the rivers emptying into the N part of Manila Bay,
30 only the PASAG and ORANI may be entered at low tide
by small vessels drawing about 0.9 m (3 ft). The shoalest
part of the bar at the Pasag entrance is some distance from
the shore. After crossing the bar, there is a good channel for
light-draft vessels as far as GUAGUA. There is a wharf for
35 small boats off the public market at Guagua.
The OUTLETS of the PAMPANGA RIVER can
be entered only by very light-draft vessels. This river is
now seldom used as land vehicles furnish transportation
40 between the towns formerly dependent on the river boats.
It was observed that the regular discharge of several
rivers into Pampanga Bay caused constant silting and
contributed to the seaward advance of shallow areas.
45 Small boats trying to communicate the shallow rivers are
advised that the time of approach be made only at high tide.
Fishponds and fish traps abound from Orani to Hagonoy
shore which are sometimes positioned blocking mouths of
river. Generally, the N shore Manila Bay, where mouths and
50 banks of several rivers met, have plenty of fishpond dikes
while the remaining spots are occupied by mangroves.
MALOLOS, about 5 miles N of the N shore of Manila
Bay, has a 52 m long L-shaped landing used as terminal for
55 water-borne passengers and cargo. The L-shaped terminal,
which fronts a 1,000 sq m landing area for small water
crafts, is located at Panasahan River, of Barrio Panasahan,
this river being a tributary of Malolos River. Controlling
depth of water is about 0.5 m, near and around the landing.
60 Usual cargoes traded are fish, salt, rice, and ice.
 A dredged channel 12.2 m (40 ft) wide and 2.4 m (8
ft) deep leads into the mouth of the NAVOTAS RIVER and
vessels can ascend as far as the bridge at NAVOTAS. Two
wooden range posts mark the entrance to the river. There
is a shipyard with several marine railways and a drydock
along the river.
NAVOTAS is the northernmost coastal city of Metro
Manila. It may be recognized as a populated area, with
plenty of built structures S of the mouth of Bulacan River.
The economy and livelihood of the city depend heavily on
the fishing industry and its processed products, ice plants
and cold storage facilities, shipyards and drydocking
services, small boat construction and machine shop works.
There are a number of shipyards in Navotas and most of
them have slipways.
Berthing Facilities - Pier for landing of vessels may
be had at the fish port located just N of Manila Harbor
Center. The port is fronted by breakwaters.
LIMIT POINT, the S entrance point to Manila Bay, is
rocky, steep-to and about 91 m (300 ft) high.
LIMBONES ISLAND, 94.5 m (310 ft) high, small
and rocky, is immediately N of Limit Point.
from the pier to a buoy located 2 miles from the pier.
Anchoring and fishing in the vicinity of the submarine
pipeline are strictly prohibited.
5 Vessels intending to use the pier should send ETA 48
hrs before arrival at the port. Vessels requiring tugs should
send request 48 hrs in advance. Requests and notification
of ETA may be sent via telephone numbers (632) 479-551
and (632) 479-553.
10
CAVITE HARBOR is the portion of Manila Bay
bounded by a line drawn eastward from Sangley Point to
the shore and the S coast of that bay. This harbor includes
Cañacao Bay and Bacoor Bay and is sheltered from S and
15 SW winds.
SANGLEY POINT is the NE extremity of the
peninsula forming Cavite City. The NE portion of the
peninsula occupied by the Philippine Navy is a restricted
20 zone, except the area occupied by the shipyard on the
NW shore of Cañacao Bay, about 0.75 mile W of Sangley
Point. The aero beacon tower painted red and white is
the prominent feature in identifying the point in daytime.
Sangley Point Light (14° 29’ 50”N., 120° 55’ 01.35”E.) is
25 displayed on the aero beacon. It is reported that the aero
light is difficult to distinguish due to other shore lights.

CARABAO ISLAND, 56.4 m (185 ft) high, small CAVITE CITY (CHART 4236) is on the peninsula
and rocky, is about 2.5 miles NE of Limbones Island, and extending in a NE direction from the S shore of Manila
between them is Limbones Cove, 2 miles long, deep and 30 Bay, about 7.5 miles SW of Manila. It is the site of the
clear. Naval Operating Base. The naval airport occupies the
whole length of the N coast of the peninsula.
Restrictions - Vessels should not approach Limbones
and Carabao Islands closer than 1 mile except for those Various kinds of supplies are available from the stores
transiting the TSS or their approaches. Such vessels shall 35 in the city. Excellent highway connects Cavite with Manila
not stop, anchor or lay without authorization from the and other towns of the province. Fast crafts have daily trips
Armed Forces of the Philippines. to Manila. There is a post office. Telephone, mobile phone,
and Internet connection are also available.
An area, about 0.5 mile N from Palicpican shore by
3.5 miles running WSW up to Calungpang Point, is an 40 Repair Facilities - There are shipyards in Cañacao
uncharted shoal region having a least depth of 0.3 m in an Bay, which are capable of repairing vessels of 150 tons.
irregular bottom. Ternate Light (14° 16’ 25”N., 120° 37’
48”E.) is displayed from Calungpang Point. Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress and requiring
assistance may contact the VTMS Control Center or
From Limit Point, the coast is high with numerous 45 the Coast Guard via VHF channel 16 or at telephone no.
cliffs nearly to the Maragondon River, which forms the (+6346) 438-8138.
E boundary of the high land on the S side of Manila Bay,
about 10 miles NE of Limit Point. Beyond Maragondon CAÑACAO BAY, between Sangley Point and the
River, the shores are low and marshy to and around the small peninsula S of Sangley Point, is 0.7 mile wide and
head of the bay. Along the SE shore are several towns, 50 about 0.9 mile in extent to its head. The deepest portion of
among them are Naic, Tanza, Rosario, Kawit, and Bacoor, the bay is near the N side, just S of Sangley Point with 6.7
all connected by road to Manila. m.

ROSARIO, the town located at the mouth of Canas
River, has small landing for small fishing vessels fronting
the fish terminal. Large white tanks of the Petron Refinery
are prominent.
A fueling pier owned by Petron extends about 130 m
from the shore of Rosario. A submarine pipeline extends
Dangers - The breakwater located about 200 m from
55 the fast craft piers and extending about 0.2 mile offshore,
is submerged during high tide. Vessels going to the head of
the bay should take the necessary precaution in avoiding
the breakwater in the S, the submerged dolphins in the N,
and the fish pens that littered the area. Other shoals and
60 wrecks in the bay are too numerous to mention. Refer to

5-40
Chart 4243 for details.
Berthing Facilities - Two piers, about 1 mile SW of
Sangley Point, extend northward from Cavite City Hall. It
is for fast craft ferries that transport passengers between
Cavite and Manila.
BACOOR BAY is generally shoal with numerous
wrecks on its N side, and several fish traps throughout. The
bay is mostly used by small crafts and local fishing boats.
Berthing facilities and the shipyard of the Philippine Navy
are located at the N entrance of this bay. A conspicuous
standpipe and spire exist about 1 mile and 1.25 miles E,
respectively, of the mouth of the Imus River.
Commercial vessels entering the harbor of Cavite
are subject to the same regulations that govern vessels in
Manila Harbor. Clearance of foreign commercial vessels
entering or departing from Cavite Harbor shall be made at
the Manila Customhouse.
COMPASS RANGES - The following bearings (true)
of easily distinguished ranges in Manila Bay are given for
convenience in determining compass deviations:
La Monja Light to Corregidor Light - - - - - - - - - 085o 43’
San Nicolas Shoal Light to Mount Sungay - - - - 139o 33’
Manila Jetty (Nr 1) Light to Customhouse Mast - 040o 17’
Manila Jetty (Nr 2) Light to Customhouse Mast - 034o 04’
Manila Jetty (Nr 3) Light to Customhouse Mast - 014o 39’ 30
The bearing of Mounts Sungay when in range with
San Nicolas Shoal Light will be found especially useful on
account of the great distance of the peak (about 24 miles).
A vessel may, after bringing this range on, when about 2
miles distant, steam around in a circle, going 0.1 mile from
the range without altering the bearing of the peak more than
0.25 degree.
MOUNT SUNGAY, located about 22 miles SSE of
Sangley Point, is a moderately high 776 m (2,546 ft), sharp
peak at the E end of the tableland S of Manila Bay. It is
prominent and readily distinguishable but in case any doubt
exists, it can be settled by bringing the front object on the
proper compass bearing and the peak will be seen in line
with it, or nearly so.
MANILA HARBOR
(CHART 4236 & 4243)
MANILA HARBOR is the portion of Manila Bay that
is in the vicinity of the coast from Manila Harbour Center to
the shores of Parañaque City, about 4.2 miles E of Sangley
Point. It is described by the following limits:
A line extending from the Vitas Estero due W (270o)
to its intersection with a line running S (180o) to Sangley
Point Light, thence along this latter line toward Sangley
Point Light, until its intersection with a line running NE
(075o) to the NW corner of the airport site and along the N
5-41
side of the airport site to the shore, thence along the shore to
the mouth of the Vitas Estero, the place of commencement.
The major terminals and harbors available within
5 Manila Harbor include the Manila North and South
Harbors, and the Manila International Container Terminal.
Navigational Aids - Manila Harbor is well lighted and
buoyed. Consult Charts 4243 and 4236 for details.
10
Dangers - A 3.1 m isolated depth, surrounded by 11 to
12 m depths, exists at 14° 31' 58"N., 120° 56' 40"E. Other
shoals and wrecks in Manila Harbor are too numerous to
mention. Refer to the nautical charts for details.
15
Restricted Area - Anchorage is prohibited in the
Cable Area, located S of the South Harbor anchorage areas
and extending up to the N entrance of the S Channel TSS.
Anchorage is also prohibited within the Tanker Sealane,
20 located W of the MICT up to Luzon Point. Refer to the
nautical charts for details.
Tides at Manila are dependent mainly on the declination
of the moon and have little relation to its phases. The highest
25 high waters occur near the time of the moon’s greatest N
and S declination, and at this period there is but one high
and low water during each 24 hrs. The lowest high waters
occur near the time of the moons’ least declination, and at
this period there are two high and two low waters during
each 24 hrs. The greatest range of tide occurs usually in
June and December and the smallest range in March and
September. The diurnal range is 1.0 m (3.3 ft) and the mean
range is 0.8 m (2.6 ft).
35 Tidal Currents within the harbor are small. Currents
in the Pasig River are mainly non-tidal and flow with
considerable velocity, especially during ebb tides or
freshets.
40 Typhoon Warning Signals are displayed from the
mast atop the Customhouse Building (14o 35’ 18”N., 120o
58’ 00”E.).
Caution - There are reported incidents of petty theft
45 and armed robbery within Manila Harbor. Armed robbers
usually target ships at anchor. Masters are advised to take
the necessary precautions. Masters should contact the
Philippine Coast Guard at telephone nos. (+632) 8245-3072
and (+632) 4889-5320 if an armed robbery had occurred or
50 if suspicious activities were observed.
Quarantine - All vessels entering Manila Harbor
shall be considered in quarantine until boarded and given
pratique by the quarantine officer. Vessels under quarantine
55 shall anchor in the quarantine anchorage until authority to
anchor elsewhere is given by the VTMS control center.
Customs - In Manila Harbor, a Customs boarding
officer in charge of a harbor launch is on duty daily from
60 sunrise to sunset, and a customs patrol boat is on duty
from sunset to sunrise. Customs officers may be contacted
at telephone numbers (+632) 8245-2796 for Manila
International Container Terminal and North Harbor, and
(+632) 8526-6652 for the South Harbor.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress and requiring
assistance may contact the VTMS control center or the
Coast Guard via VHF channel 16 or at telephone no. (+632)
527-8481.
Pilotage in and out of Manila Harbor and to the piers,
and into the Pasig River is compulsory. Pilots, available
both day and night, are provided by Manila Bay Harbor
Pilot Partnership which may be contacted at telephone nos.
(+632) 8523-7411 or (+6347) 8244-6461. Notice of ETA 15
to the pilot association and port authorities is at least 24
hrs before arrival. Immigration officers board the vessel
and conduct an inspection. Pilot boards the vessel after the
inspection. Pilot boarding stations are located within the
quarantine anchorage areas.
Vessels may be allowed to be boarded inside the
breakwaters and within the MICT basin during inclement
weather.
Anchorage - Vessels which for any reason do not
intend to enter either the harbor or the river immediately
on arrival may anchor at the anchorage areas assigned for
the various ports in Manila Harbor, details of which may be
seen in Chart 4236.
Manila Harbor Center Anchorage - The anchorage area
for lightening deep-draft vessels is located about 3.3 miles
WSW of the Harbor Center, near the entrance approach
channel. Vessels may also anchor at an area about 5.5 miles
W of the Harbor Center.
Manila N Harbor Anchorage - 8 anchor berths for
vessels calling at North Harbor is located 1 mile W of the
NW end of the breakwater.
MICT Anchorage - Protected anchorage for vessels
calling at MICT can be found inside the breakwaters.
Metro Manila (Roxas Boulevard area) as viewed from Manila South Harbor.
(Photograph - Ltjg Jaya A. Roperez, 2016)
Numerous mooring buoys are available.
Manila S Harbor Anchorage - Anchorage areas
for vessels calling at S Harbor are divided into 3 areas.
5 Protected anchorage is located within the breakwaters. The
lay-up area for barges, lighters and tugs is located E of the
West Breakwater until its southern tip. Other anchorage
areas are located W of the breakwaters. Refer to Charts
4243 and 4236 for details.
10
Quarantine Anchorage for vessels calling at the
berthing facilities N of the Pasig River may use the
quarantine anchorage located about 3.3 miles W from the
breakwaters of MICT. Vessels calling at the South Harbor
should use the quarantine anchorage located about 2 miles
SW of the South Harbor breakwaters.
Explosives Anchorage - Vessels transporting
petroleum products, dynamite or other highly inflammable
20 or explosive chemicals are not permitted to berth at piers or
wharves until such cargo has been discharged. Such cargo
must be discharged into lighters at the anchorage located in
the Tanker Sealane about 2.4 miles WSW of MICT. It can
accommodate 9 vessels at a time with each berth at least
25 650 m away from the adjacent berth with the controlling
depths of 13.7 m to 15.8 m at MLLW.
MANILA, at the head of Manila Bay and about 25
miles from its entrance, is the seat of Government of
30 the Republic of the Philippines. It is a port of entry and
quarantine pratique. Because of its central location and
adequate transportation facilities, the city serves practically
the entire archipelago as the main gateway for foreign and
domestic commerce. It receives the greatest portion of the
35 goods imported into the islands while the export products
such as sugar, copra, tobacco, timber, and hemp flow to it
from the various provinces.
Within the city are numerous industrial establishments.
40 As the chief commercial center, it has adequate hotels and
apartment-house accommodations.
Prominent Features - From a distance of 15 miles,
5-42
Manila Bay may be made out by its buildings against the
skyline. At night, a red glow over the city assists in making
landfall. Numerous charted landmarks are available, even
at a distance of 6 or 7 miles. Among the most prominent of
these are:
NAIA Aviation Light ...................14o 31.3’ N.,121o 00.9’ E.
Baclaran Church West Gable .....14o 31.9’ N., 120o 59.6’ E.
Custom House Light ..................14o 35.3’ N., 120o 58.0’ E.
Manila Cathedral Dome..............14o 35.6’ N., 120o 58.3’ E.
Engineer Island Mast...................14o 35.8’ N., 120o 57.6’ E.
Tondo Church Dome....................14o 36.6’ N.,120o 58.0’ E.
Radio Tower................................14o 41.9’ N., 120o 57.8’ E.
Radio Tower Lights.....................14o 38.6’ N., 120o 57.5’ E.
Medical Facilities - Complete medical and hospital
facilities are available in Manila. Merchant seaman may be
hospitalized at any of the public or private hospitals, at the
discretion of the master, agents or owners of the vessel.
Supplies - Deck and marine supplies of practically
every description are obtainable in Manila. Food supplies
are plentiful. Fresh water, suitable for drinking purposes,
is supplied to vessels at the docks. Fresh water may also
be obtained from barges for deliveries inside or outside the
breakwater.
Supply of bunker coal can be obtained. Bunker fuel
oil, bulk diesel oil, and gasoline in drums are delivered by
lighters either at the piers or at anchorage. Lubricating oils
are furnished in tins or in drums.
Communications - Transoceanic vessels coming
from Europe, America and mainland Asia regularly calls at
Manila. The city also serves as a hub for domestic passenger
and cargo vessels, as well as domestic commercial airlines.
The city is also the country’s major airport for international
flights. Railroad and bus services connect the city
throughout the island of Luzon.
The interisland cable, radio service, mobile phone
service, Internet connection, and other means of
communication connects Manila to all towns and cities
throughout the archipelago as well as the whole world.
Repairs - The equipment and capacity of the shops at
Manila are sufficient for general repair work on all kinds of
machineries. Foundries are also present in the city.
The nearest drydocking facilities and shipyards can
be found in Navotas City, located just N of Manila Harbor
Center, and at Cañacao Bay within the Cavite Harbor.
Mariveles Harbor, located about 29 miles WSW of Manila,
also has a shipyard.
Salvage Equipment - Manila salvage companies are
equipped with the necessary tugs and gear to undertake
salvage operations. Divers and diving equipment are also
available.
5-43
MANILA SOUTH HARBOR, located S of Pasig
River, is a quadrangular section of Manila Bay which is
partly enclosed by stone breakwaters. The harbor can
accommodate vessels with a length up to 293.5 m, a breadth
5 up to 35.7 m, and a maximum draft of 9.85 m.
Located within South Harbor are the Philippine Navy
Headquarters and the yacht basin. Between the N end of
South Harbor and the narrow canal leading into the Pasig
10 River is a basin about 0.15 mile for small crafts.
Major Lights - Lights are shown from each end of
the breakwaters but are reported difficult to identify against
the lights of Manila. It has been reported that both N and S
15 breakwater of South Harbor make good radar targets.
Custom House Tower Light (14° 35’ 17”N., 120° 58’
00”E.) is displayed atop the tower of the Custom House at
the shore end of Pier 9.
20
Port Management - The port of South Harbor is
managed by PMO-South Harbor. The PMO can be contacted
via telephone number (+632) 8527-9325 or through VHF
channel 16.
25
Berthing Facilities - There is a 5-finger pier (3, 5,
9, 13 and 15) catering to both general and containerized
cargo. Concrete aprons outside the cargo sheds provide
excellent cargo-handling space that includes a reefer area,
30 warehouses and container yards.
Pier 3, about 360 m long, is the northernmost of the
South Harbor piers. The pier has 2 cranes and a barge pool
capable of accommodating 30 barges or lighters at any one
35 time.
Pier 5, located SW of Pier 3, is about 615 m long. The
pier has 5 cranes.
40 Pier 9, located SW of Pier 5, is 360 m long. It has a
stacking area and storage shed.
Pier 13, located SW of Pier 9, is 400 m long. There
is a stacking and storage shed. This pier is being used by
45 vessels of the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, and
other government agencies.
Small piers are located at the slip between Piers 13 and
15 which serves as a landing point for small watercrafts,
50 servicing ships, crews, harbor pilots, quarantine and
customs officers, ship’s agents and other passengers going
to and from the vessels at anchorage.
Pier 15, located S of Pier 13, is about 360 m long. It
55 serves as the passenger terminal for luxury liners and large
domestic passenger ships. It has 5 berthing areas capable of
accommodating ocean going vessels.
Manila Yacht Club Basin, located at the south end of
60 South Harbor, can accommodate vessels with maximum
LOA of 18.3 m (60 ft). Repairs are available at the club’s
40-ton slipway.
S of the yacht club are the piers of the Philippine Navy
Headquarters.
Port Services - Asian Terminals, Inc. (ATI) provides
handling and stevedoring services for Piers 3 and 5. The
company can handle of dangerous cargo. ATI can be
contacted at telephone number (+632) 8528-6000 or by
e-mail: marketing@asianterminals.com.ph.
Collection of garbage and waste from vessels,
bunkering, watering services and ancillary services are
available. Tug services are provided by local companies.
Only minor emergency repairs are allowed inside the port.
MANILA INTERNATIONAL CONTAINER
TERMINAL (MICT), located between Manila South
Harbor and the Manila North Harbor, is protruding
westward into Manila Bay at the mouth of Pasig River.
It has an area of about 9.4 sq km. MICT is operated by
International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI),
which may be contacted through the following means:
Telephone no: (+632) 8245-4101
E-mail: customercare@ictsi.com
Website: www.mictweb.com
Berthing Facilities - MICT has 1,600 m berth length
and 6 berthing positions. Controlling depths ranges from 10
to 13 m. Terminal facilities include a container yard, reefer
facilities, and hazardous cargo area. There is also a 24-hr
clinic inside the terminal.
Quay cranes, rubber-tired gantries, forklifts, top
loader, chassis, side lifters, and stackers are the available
equipment in the terminal. Bulk handling equipment are
Vac-u-vators, payloaders, and clamshells. There are also
weighbridges and an on-site maintenance workshop.
MANILA NORTH HARBOR is a triangular section
of Manila Bay, about 1 sq km in area, and partly protected
by the breakwater extending about 1.3 miles NW from the
mouth of the Pasig River. The breakwater separates MICT 45
basin and the Manila North Harbor. Entrance to this harbor
is marked by a cluster of wooden piles bound together
at the top end about 0.4 mile NW of the NW end of the
breakwater. It is the country’s leading domestic port which
can accommodate all kinds of interisland vessels. 50
Port Management - The port is managed by the
Manila North Harbour Port, Inc., which can be contacted
through the following means:
Telephone no: (+632) 8588-9000
Fax no: (+632) 8588-9011
Address: Pier 6, Manila North Harbor, Tondo, Manila,
Philippines 1012
Website: www.mnhport.com.ph
Berthing Facilities - There are 9 piers in Manila North
Harbor numbered as 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 18, all
catering to freighters and other types of coastwise cargo
and passenger ships.
5
The following are the approximate berth length for
each pier in Manila North Harbor:
Pier 2 - - - - - - - - - - - - 400 m
10 Pier 4 - - - - - - - - - - - - 600 m
Pier 6 - - - - - - - - - - - - 500 m
Pier 8 - - - - - - - - - - - - 500 m
Pier 10 - - - - - - - - - - - 500 m
Pier 12 - - - - - - - - - - - 500 m
15 Terminal 1 - - - - - - - - 1,100 m
Coal Wharf - - - - - - - 800 m
Pier 18 - - - - - - - - - - - 300 m
Terrminal 1 is the wharf made from the reclaimed
20 land in the vicinity of the former Pier 16. Coal Wharf was
formed by the reclaimed land W of Pier 18. Additional
berthing facilities are located between the piers. Manila
North Harbor has cranes that can handle containerized
cargoes. Forklifts and trucks are available.
25
MANILA HARBOR CENTER extends westward
between Manila North Harbor and Navotas Fish Port
Complex. It is managed by the Harbour Center Port
Terminal, Inc., which can be contacted through the
30 following means:
Telephone no: (+632) 8516-7888
Fax no: (+632) 8708-6026
E-mail: info@harbourcentre.com.ph
35 Website: www.harbourcentre.com.ph
Berthing Facilities for this port are divided into
3 terminals, namely: Sta. Rita Terminal, San Miguel
Terminal, and San Lazaro Terminal. The first 2 terminals
40 are located on the N coast of the Harbor Center while San
Miguel is located at the SW portion.
San Lazaro Terminal has a 250 m quay that is designed
for vessels of up to 25,000 DWT. This terminal has facilities
used for discharging cement. The terminals on the N
portion have a total berth length of about 865 m. Facilities
for handling grains are available at these terminals.
Directions - Vessels calling at the terminals on the N
portion of the Harbor Center should follow the routeing
system as specified on Chart 4236.
PASIG RIVER AND LAGUNA DE BAY
(CHART 4230 & 4235)
55
PASIG RIVER (Chart 4235) divides the city of
Manila into two parts. The entire Pasig River stretches
over a length of 13.5 miles starting from Manila Bay up to
Laguna Lake and dividing Metro Manila into N and S banks.
60 It passes through the cities of Manila and Mandaluyong,
5-44
 Berthing space along Pasig River (as seen from Jones Bridge).
(Photograph - Lt Aaron Andro V Ching, 2013)
then to Pateros and Taguig. The river is the outlet of Laguna
de Bay. The depths in the upper part of the river vary from
1.8 to 3.7 m (6 to 12 ft). The MARIKINA RIVER and the
SAN JUAN RIVER empty into the Pasig from the N.
Navigation in the river for sea-going vessels is limited
by the M. Roxas (Del Pan) Bridge 0.5 mile above the river
mouth. Turning room is limited to 91 m (300 ft). A mast, 39.3
m high, stands on the S entrance point. The headquarters
of Coast Guard District National Capital Region-Central
Luzon is in the vicinity of Pasig River Light (14° 35’ 47”N.,
120° 57’ 39”E.) at the N bank of the river entrance.
Restrictions - The area from Ayala Bridge up to
Pandacan Bridge was established as the Restricted Area of
Malacañang Complex where strict security procedures are
observed. All vessels transiting the Restricted Area are not
allowed to stop and must speed up to shortest transit time
to clear the area.
All vessels passing along the Restricted Area may
be boarded by the members of the Presidential Security
Group (PSG) or the Philippine Coast Guard personnel
for inspection at the ferry station near the Coast Guard
Checkpoint Arroceros for all vessels going upriver and at
the ferry station nearest Coast Guard Detachment Pureza
for all vessels going downriver.
Curfew hours are enforced within the Restricted
5-45
Area from 2300H to 0500H. All vessels passing the area
during the curfew period are required to secure a “Curfew
Clearance” from the PSG.
5 Speed Limit - Masters must follow the speed limit of
5 knots in the following areas:
1. From about 500 m from mouth of San Juan River
Branch to vicinity of Sta. Ana Pasig River Ferry Station.
10
2. Area within 200 m around Sta. Ana Bridge
(Lambingan Bridge).
3. From about 500 m after Lambingan Bridge (upriver)
15 to 500 m prior Valenzuela Ferry Station.
4. Area within 500 m around Pandacan Bridge.
The speed limit in Pasig River outside of the
20 abovementioned areas is 12 knots.
Traffic Procedures - Vessels should observe the
following procedures when navigating in Pasig River:
25 1. The portion immediately after passing Pandacan
Bridge (going upriver) or at position 14° 35’ 54”N., 121°
00’ 46”E., to a point near where the Pasig River branches
to the San Juan River (14° 35’ 32”N., 121° 00’ 50”E.)
is a one-way traffic area. In meeting situations, vessels
going downriver (bound for Manila Bay) are considered
privileged vessels and must transit the one-way area first.
Vessels going upriver (bound for Laguna de Bay) are
considered burdened vessels and must give way.
2. Overtaking is prohibited in approaches to river
bends and in passing under bridges.
3. A vessel nearing a river bend where other vessels
may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall sound
one prolonged blast. Such signal shall be answered with
a prolonged blast by any approaching vessel that may be
within hearing around the bend or behind the intervening
obstruction.
4. When navigating during nighttime, all tankers
loaded with petroleum products must show a blinking red
light on top of the bridge with 360° visibility at a range of
3 miles in addition to those prescribed by the Rules of the
Road.
5. Towing vessels should observe the limitations on
length of tow. No towing in any part of the river will consist
of more than two lighters or barges, never abreast, with tow
lines not over 12 m long between the towing boat and the
first tow and not over 2 m between each tow.
6. When two tugboats in towing operations are in a
meeting situation, the tugboat navigating downriver (bound
for Manila Bay) is deemed to be the privileged vessel and
shall therefore maintain its speed and course. The tugboat
navigating upriver (bound for Laguna de Bay) is deemed to
be the burdened vessel and shall therefore give way.
7. Tugboats in towing operations shall be deemed
privileged vessels in a crossing situation.
Berthing Facilities – There is a public wharf from
the mouth of the river up to Jones Bridge. Mooring
fixtures and lighting facilities are installed in both banks to
accommodate vessels and or barges.
Berthing of vessels in designated berthing areas must
be parallel to the river banks and not more than 2 abreast.
Berthing priority is on a “first come, first served basis”.
Areas within the distance of 30 m before and after the
location of the ferry stations are for single berthing only.
Idle vessels in excess of the allowed 2 abreast berthing
shall be towed to alternate berthing areas. The towing fees
incurred will be charged to the owner of the vessels.
Anchorage is prohibited anywhere in Pasig River.
Vessels that incur derangements and are unable to continue
their voyages must be towed to the nearest safe berthing
area.
LAGUNA DE BAY is a large fresh water lake about
10 miles SE of Manila Bay, with which it is connected by
the Pasig River. The annual low lake level occurs in March
or April, at which time it is only little higher than the waters
of Manila Bay. There is no tide, but its seasonal range is
from 2.4 to 3.7 m (8 to 12 ft). Usually from the period
January up to June, or for six months, the low lake level
uncovers expanses to as much as 500 m in some places
5 and the land is cultivated and then planted with rice and
vegetables. The E and S shores are low and grassy; large
areas being covered with water during the flood stage of the
lake. Two high promontories extending into the lake from
the N divided it into 3 parts, of which the W is the largest.
10
Navigation on the lake is limited by the depth of water
on the bar at the entrance to the Pasig River. The depths
in the lake itself vary from 1.8 to 4.6 m (6 to 15 ft) on
the courses usually followed by lake vessels. Navigation
15 is further restricted by the presence of fish traps and fish
pens scattered all throughout the lake. Floating waterlilies
clustered abundantly along the shores depending upon
the direction, duration and strength of the blowing wind.
Mouths of most lakeshore rivers were noted occasionally
20 being shoaled by sediments coming upstream.
It was reported that livelihood along the shores of
the lake were devoted to fishing, farming, poultry, swine
raising, small cottage industry, duck raising, wood carving
25 and logging.
NAPINDAN CHANNEL is the main channel of
Pasig River. The others, TAGIG, TIPAS, ANTIPOLO, and
lesser channels being winding and shallow are used only
30 by bancas going to the several towns on their banks. All
of these unite with the main stream at or above the city of
PASIG.
Major Light - Napindan Light (14° 31’ 20”N., 121°
35 06’ 53”E.), shown atop a white concrete column, marks the
entrance to Pasig River from Laguna de Bay.
MANGGAHAN FLOODWAY, located 1.5 miles
E entrance to Pasig River, was established to drain the
40 Marikina River of floodwaters during rainy season. Small
vessels can use the floodway to reach Marikina River.
The towns of Angono and Binangonan are located
along the lakeshore from the floodway to the southernmost
45 tip of Morong Peninsula. A fishport, with 3 piers, fronts the
town of Binangonan. Fishing boats from Talim Island and
other towns around the lake uses this port.
TALIM ISLAND, long and narrow, between the two
50 W arms, is the site of several stone quarries, supplying
paving material for the city of Manila. Piers for fishing
boats and small passenger vessels are present for each
settlement located around the island.
55 An uncharted wreck is present along the shore of
barrio Calubacan in Talim Island, about 1.9 miles SSE of
Cauit Point.
The islands of Malahi, Pihan and Bonga are located SE
60 of Talim Island.
5-46
 The lakeshore fronting the towns beginning at Cardona
up to Jala-jala uncovers with sandy loom having expanses
of between 50 to 500 m during dry season which are then
also cultivated and planted with rice and vegetables.
CARDONA, a town in the province of RIZAL has
its poblacion about 3.8 miles N of CAUIT POINT, Talim
Island. Immediately E of the poblacion is the lakeshore
where a causeway serves as the terminal for boats during
high lake water or flood level. In May 1968, the general
depth surrounding the causeway in a 200 m radius was
between 0.60 to 0.91 m (0.3 to 0.5 fm) with mud bottom.
At the same time, there is also a pier in barrio LOOC, 0.6
mile SSW. Motorized banca conveying passengers from
the coastal barrio of this town and Talim Island embarked
and disembarked here. Depth alongside the wharf was 0.91
m (0.5 fm) in 1968. Fuel of motorized banca is obtained
in Looc. The National Highway that proceeds to Manila
passes this barrio.
MORONG is the town located 1.7 miles NNE of
Cardona. During the flood lake level, bancas communicate
through Morong River to reach the town proper. A light
located about 1 mile upstream from the river mouth, the
approach of which is encumbered by a heavy silted area
with scattered bamboo stumps and prevalence of fish traps.
The next town after Morong is BARAS. It can be
reached by going in the general direction toward E following
the same National Highway and proceeding farther away
from Manila. Baras River is also entered by boats during
flood lake level.
TANAY is the next town after Baras. There is a
concrete pier extending from the shoreline of the poblacion.
The mouth of Tanay River is likewise marked by a concrete
tower, but it is unlighted. An uncharted wreck is located
about 25 m SW of the offshore end of Tanay pier.
Major Light - Tanay Light (14° 29’ 44”N., 121° 16’ 40
34”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the pier.
Tanay Light with the causeway covered by the floodwaters.
(Photograph - Cdr Carter S Luma-ang, 2009)
5-47
PILILLA is located about 1.6 miles SE of Tanay.
Small piers for fishing boats extend from the shore of the
town. A thermal power plant, with prominent buildings and
chimneys, is located about 5.3 SSE of Pilillia.
5
JALA-JALA, a lakeshore town with its poblacion
about 7.8 miles almost S of Pililia, is the S most municipality
of Rizal province in this part of the bay. A rock and concrete
causeway in town serves as the terminal for waterborne
10 passenger, during flood level, conveying back and forth for
Talim Island, Jala-jala Point and the town of Santa Cruz.
The towns of Siniloan, Pangil, Pakil, Paete, Kalayaan,
Lumban and Sta. Cruz are located along the shore of the
15 easternmost arm of Laguna de Bay.
An underground sulphur spring beneath the lake is
present at about 1.5 miles SE of Jala-jala Point. The water
bubbled and smelled sulphur in calm weather. Earth samples
20 which are taken at the bottom exhibit sticky warm mud.
PAGSANJAN RIVER was found navigable for
shallow-draft boats up to the town proper of Lumban only
as the channel, after passing a bridge, was clogged with
25 floating debris.
The towns of Pila, Victoria, Bay and Los Baños line up
the S shore of the lake.
30 CALAMBA CITY, located on the SW portion of
Laguna de Bay, has a small pier marked by Calamba Light
(14° 12’ 45”N., 121° 11’ 09”E.). Small ferry boats use this
pier to transport passengers and goods to Talim Island and
other towns around the lake. The South Luzon Expressway
35 connects the city with Metro Manila.
The cities of Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, Biñan, and San Pedro,
and the Metro Manila cities of Muntinlupa and Taguig
are located along the W lakeshore from Calamba City to
Napindan Channel. This part of the lakeshore is lined up by
commercial, industrial and residential structures.
LIMIT POINT TO LOCOLOCO POINT
(CHART 1501, 1564, 4214, 4256, 4256A &
4257)
From Limit Point, the S entrance point to Manila Bay,
the coast trends S for about 6 miles of Fuego Point. It is
high and rocky, irregular in outline, has several small islets
off it and is very steep-to. It is indented by several small
coves, all of which affords anchorage sheltered from all
except W winds.
Soundings off this part of Luzon are deep and irregular
and afford little or no warning when approaching the
dangers which have deep water close-to. Consequently, the
navigator should approach this coast with caution.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress may contact
the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center. The center have
a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas
map in Chapter 2 for details.
CAMPANARIO ISLAND, small in extent and 33.5 m
(110 ft) high, lies close offshore in a position about 2 miles
SSW of Limit Point.
CUTAD ISLAND, a small 29.6 m (97 ft) high island,
is located about 0.5 mile S of Campanario Island and 0.2
mile offshore. A minor cove, with a beach resort at its head,
about 0.7 mile ESE of Cutad Island was named KUTAD
COVE.
HAMILO COVE (CHART 4257) is about 3 miles S
of Limit Point, between Cutad Island on the N and Hamilo
Point on the S. In the E part of the cove, there is a basin
about 0.25 mile wide at the entrance and about 0.8 mile
in extent. The head of this basin is shoal and fringed with
mangroves, leaving a well-protected anchorage about 0.4
mile in diameter within the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve. The best
anchorage is in the N part of this basin in 11.0 to 14.6 m
(6 to 8 fm), mud bottom. The head was also found in 1975
with shoal of 2.74 m (9 ft) in depth, sand and mud bottom,
and marked by a small circular buoy.
A barrio by the name of PAPAYA is SE part of the
head of the cove. Supply of food and fresh water may be
obtained in the small settlement. It is also connected by
road to the towns of Ternate in the N and NASUGBU in the
S. A 200 m causeway with a pier at the end extends from
Papaya. Another pier is located about 0.5 mile NW of the
Papaya Pier.
HAMILO POINT is 109.7 m (360 ft) high, an
island, 36.6 m (120 ft) high, is immediately W of it. Some
prominent pinnacle rocks, 9.1 m (30 ft) high, are located
about 0.8 mile ENE of Hamilo Point and about 0.15 mile
from shore. Hamilo Point Light (14° 10' 18"N., 120° 34'
37"E.) is displayed from a white tower on the point.
A detached shoal, with a depth of 10.1 m, lies about 0.4
mile N of Hamilo Point.
Between Hamilo and Fuego Points, the coast recedes
forming 3 distinct bays, and about midway between the
points are two small islets, each about 27 m (90 ft) high.
Foul ground lies between these islands and the point
forming the S side of the entrance to Looc Cove, the middle
and larger of the 3 bays.
LOOC COVE is 2 miles long and 0.8 miles wide.
The shores are steep-to except toward the head, where the
soundings decrease gradually to a sand beach. Small boats
may be landed at the beach to reach the settlement at the
head of the cove.
FUEGO POINT, about 2 miles S of Hamilo Point, is
21.3 m (70 ft) high at the W extremity and has two small
islets off it; the outer one immediately N of the point is
28.3 m (93 ft) high. From the N, the point appears as a bold
headland.
About 1.3 miles SSE of Fuego Point are two small
islets covered with grass and about 10.7 m (35 ft) high.
5 They are connected by a reef covered by 0.6 m (0.3 fm) of
water. About 0.3 mile NE of the larger islet are some rocks
awash.
NASUGUBU BAY is located between Fuego and San
10 Diego Points. From Fuego Point to Nasugbu Point, 4.5
miles SE, the coast is high and wooded, but from Nasugbu
Point to San Diego Point, 3 miles S, it is low, with a dark
sandy shore with the town of Nasugbu in its hinterlands.
15 The Wawa River empties on the S side of NASUGBU
POINT and the LIAN RIVER about 1.5 miles S of it; both
of these rivers have less than 0.6 m (0.3 fm) on their bars
at low water. Breakwater, extending about 85 m S from
Nasugbu Point, restricts entry to Wawa River.
20
NASUGBU is a town between the mouths of the
Wawa and Lian Rivers. It is a loading point for sugar and
foreign vessels call during the milling season. Fresh stores
and ice are available. There is a government hospital. Postal
25 service, telephone and mobile phone communications, and
Internet connection are available. Ferry vessels transporting
passengers and good to and from Lubang Islands regularly
call at Nasugbu.
30 Major Light - Nasugbu Light (14° 04’ 56”N., 120° 37’
13”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Nasugbu Point.
Dangers - Pillar Rock is a prominent pinnacle rock,
about 7.6 m (25 ft) high and 4.6 m (15 ft) in diameter at
35 the base, lying about 91m (100 yds) W of Nasugbu Point.
About 0.25 mile NW of Pillar Rock is a rock awash.
A dangerous rocky shoal on which the depth near the
center is 0.5 m (0.27 fm), lies with its E end about 0.5 mile
40 offshore and about 0.4 mile S of Pillar Rock.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coast of Nasugbu. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
45
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Nasugbu may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428063 and +63998-5855849.
50 Berthing Facilities - A 200 m long pier is at the SE
side of the mouth of Wawa River. A 150 m long breakwater
is opposite the pier or across the other bank and NW side
of the mouth of the same river. Small boats may land on the
beach fronting the town of Nasugbu.
55
Port Services - Cargo handling and bunkering services
are available from local companies.
Anchorage - Good anchorage, protected during the NE
60 monsoon, may be found S and E of the shoal just mentioned
5-48
in 11.0 to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm) about 0.5 mile from shore.
Small coasting vessels sometimes anchor between the shoal
and Nasugbu Point, a convenient anchorage and near the
mouth of the river. These anchorages are not considered
safe during the SW monsoon.
Vessels calling to load anchor 1.5 miles S of the pier
in 9.1 m (5 fm), the sugar being taken aboard from lighters.
FORTUNE ISLAND, 118.9 m (390 ft) high, is 7.5
miles WSW of Nasugbu Point. It is partially wooded and
steep-to. There is a small stretch of white sand beach on the
SE side of the island. Fortune Island Light (14° 03’ 27”N.,
120° 29’ 24”E.) is shown from a white tower on the summit
of the island.
TALIN BAY, between San Diego Point and Talin
Point, is open to the NW and foul. Its shores are composed
of alternate rocky cliffs and sandy beaches.
TALIN POINT is about 85 m (280 ft) high, of rocks
and short sand beaches which serve as a base to several
sparsely-wooded pyramidal hills. It is surrounded by a reef
about 0.1 mile wide. A narrow spit, as defined by the 5.5 m
(3 fm) curve, extends about 0.5 mile NNW from the point.
From TALIN POINT, the coast trends S for 10 miles
to CALATAGAN POINT, thence SE for about 3 miles to
Cape Santiago. An irregular bottom, with depths of 6.4 to
12.8 m (3.5 to 7 fm), lies 2 to 2.5 miles from the shore
between Talin and Calatagan Points. A small coral patch,
2.7 m (1.5 fm), lies about 3 miles S from Talin Point.
Between Calatagan Point and Cape Santiago, the shore reef
is steep-to and there are no detached dangers. Balatoc Light
(13° 50’ 30”N., 120° 36’ 14”E.) stands on the edge of the
shore reef and a stranded wreck lies about 2.5 miles and 3.7
miles, respectively, NNW of Calatagan Point.
CALATAGAN POINT is the S entrance point of
Calatagan Inlet. The shore N of the point is very low, sandy,
and covered with mangroves. It is indented by several
estuaries and fronted by a reef which extends offshore 1.5
miles in places. S of Calatagan Point the land is higher and
the shore reef narrows to a mere fringe.
CALATAGAN INLET, with its entrance on the N
side of Calatagan Point, is about 0.1 mile wide between the
drying reefs and 1 mile long. The depths increase from 2.1
m (1.25 fm) at the head to 7 m (3.75 fm) at the entrance.
Balumbato Light (13° 49’ 36”N., 120° 37’ 36”E.) and a pier
are located at the head of the inlet.
CALATAGAN, the town located at the head of the
inlet, has pier that is being used by small passenger and
fishing vessels. Fish is the most important product unloaded
Cape Santiago (looking eastward from a position about 10 miles west-northwestward of Cape Santiago).
5-49
at this terminal which is then marketed to Batangas, Manila,
Malabon and Navotas. Ice which is used as preservative
for deep-freezing marine products is being shipped.
The common destinations of travelling boats are around
5 Calatagan and Lubang Island Groups of Mindoro.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Calatagan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428018 and +63998-5855851.
10
CAPE SANTIAGO, the SW extremity of Luzon,
is 91.4 to 115.8 m (300 to 380 ft) high, wooded, and
surrounded by a reef which bares about 0.1 mile. Cape
Santiago Light (13° 46’ 24”N., 120° 39’ 06”E.) is shown
15 from a white tower on a low rocky promontory about 0.4
mile WNW of the S extremity of the cape. The soundings at
the edge of the reef are 7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm), deepening
abruptly to 73.2 to 109.7 m (40 to 60 fm) at a distance of
0.5 mile.
20
BALAYAN BAY (CHART 4214 & 4257), a large bay
between Cape Santiago and Bagalangit Point, is deep and
clear of danger, with sand and mud bottom, but the shores
are so steep that a vessel must approach very close to get
25 within 21.9 m (12 fm) depth. The winds in this bay follow
the monsoons generally; the land breeze blows nearly every
evening. The NE monsoon blows strongly down into the
bay.
30 Pagapas Bay and Janao Bay indent the coast of Balayan
Bay on the W and E, respectively.
Tidal Current - In Balayan Bay, the flood current sets
in N and the ebb S.
35
Harbor Regulations - Movement of vessels in
Balayan Bay is being regulated by the VTMS. Read the
VTMS Regulations for Verde Island Passage on page 5-53
for details of the regulations and reporting procedures
40 within Batangas Bay.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact the
remotely operated coast station with VHF DSC alerting in
the port of Batangas. The VHF DSC alerting system covers
45 the sea area about 25 miles from the said port. Vessels in
distress that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the
VHF DSC coast station may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
50
PAGAPAS BAY, between Cape Santiago and San
Pedrino Point, is very deep and affords no good anchorage.
The shore is fringed with a narrow reef, with deep water
near its edge. There are 2 small breaks in the reef at the
55 head of the bay, each about 0.12 mile in extent, where a
small craft can find sheltered anchorage.
A wreck, 15.2 m (50 ft) long, is partly submerged in
1.8 m (6 ft) of water at about 0.5 mile SE from the mouth of
Santiago River. Vessels anchor in about 27.4 m (15 fm) SW
of the S edge of the E reef. This anchorage is more or less
restricted and becomes rough in NE winds.
SAN PEDRINO POINT is bold and 227 m (744 ft)
high about 0.25 mile from its E extremity. It is densely
wooded and is encircled by a reef, which extends 91.5 m
(100 yds) from the shore.
BALAYAN (CHART 4257) is a town on the shore
about 5 miles N of San Pedrino Point at the mouth of a
small, unimportant river, having only 0.9 m (3 ft) of water
on its bar at high water. Only small vessels from Mindoro
call here. The tower of the Balayan Church is an excellent
landmark and shows well offshore. See the information
on VTMS of Batangas Bay for the VTMS requirement for
Balayan Bay.
Major Light - Balayan Light (13° 56’ 20”N., 120°
44’ 15”E.s) is shown from a white framework tower on the
beach at the E end of the town. There were reports that trees
and houses obscured the light from seaward.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Balayan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
842-8047 and +63998-585-5844.
Berthing Facilities for the power plant, cement
factory and petroleum depot are located in Calaca, the town
E of Balayan.
Holcim Philippines’ berthing facility, located about
3.8 miles ESE of Balayan Church, has a 60 m long pier.
Facilities for handling cement are available. The power
plant is located just E of the cement factory.
The wharf of the oil depot is located about 1.8 miles
E of the cement pier. Large white tanks are the prominent
features of the oil depot.
Caution - There is a coral reef extending about 0.25
mile offshore in front of the town, on the outer edge of
which are several shoal spots that bare at low tide.
Carabao Rock and Balaong Rock, outside the reef
edge, have 3.2 and 2.7 m (1.75 and 1.5 fm), respectively,
over them. Fish traps are usually present in this area.
Pilotage - For vessels going to Balayan, pilots board
at position about 5.2 miles NE of San Pedrino Point. ETA
should be sent to Batangas Harbor Pilot’s Association 24 55
hrs before arrival. The pilot association can be contacted
at telephone and fax number (+6343) 723-3994. See the
information on VTMS of Batangas Bay for the VTMS
requirements for Balayan Bay.
Anchorage - Anchorage area for vessels calling at
Balayan and the private berths in Calaca is located off the
coast of Balayan, just beyond the coral reef fronting the
town. See the charts for details of the anchorage area.
5
TAAL and LEMERY (CHART 4257) are towns 11
miles ESE from Balayan, on opposite banks and near the
mouth of the Pansipit River. The PANSIPIT RIVER, which
flows from LAKE TAAL, enters the bay about 0.5 mile
10 below the bridge which connects the 2 towns; there is 2.1
m (7 ft) on the bar at high water, allowing small vessels and
launches to enter. The Taal Church is on an elevated ground
behind the town and is an excellent landmark. The church at
Lemery is distinguished by its metal-domed tower. Lemery
15 Light (13° 52’ 41”N., 120° 54’ 43”E.) is displayed from the
town.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Lemery may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
20 8367552 and +63998-5855852.
Anchorage - Large vessels usually anchor about 0.4
mile W of the Lemery Light, in 27.4 to 29.3 m (15 to 16
fm). Small vessels anchor, according to draft, anywhere off
25 the town of Lemery.
JANAO BAY, located between Locloc Points and
Mato Points, is on the W coast of Calumpan Peninsula.
30 ANILAO, the barrio at the head of the bay, has a small
wharf, utilized as terminal for the water-borne trade and
commerce. Fishing boats, cargo and passenger vessels
conveyed back and forth for the nearby coastal barangays,
Tingloy and other tourist destinations.
35
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Anilao
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8149204 /
+63998-5855854.
40 BAGALANGIT POINT, the W point of Calumpan
Peninsula, is a rocky bluff, 135.3 m (444 ft) high, fringed
by a very narrow reef, which extends around the SW part of
the peninsula nearly to Cazador Point. This part of the coast
is clear, with soundings of 45.7 m (25 fm) close-to.
45
CAZADOR POINT is the S part of the Calumpan
Peninsula which separates Balayan and Batangas Bays. It is
formed by strip of land about 45.7 m (150 ft) high, covered
with trees. Off the point and joined to it are some rocks,
50 and a reef extends about 0.1 mile from its E side, deepening
abruptly, with soundings of 128 to 164.4 m (70 to 90 fm)
about 0.25 mile SE of the point.
BATANGAS BAY (CHART 4256 & 4256A), between
Cazador Point and Matoco Point, is about 9 miles wide,
clear and deep, with steep coasts. From Cazador Point to
Mainaga Cove, 6 miles N, the coast is steep, rocky and
wooded, and can be passed without danger at a distance of
0.5 mile. From Mainaga Cove, the coast is low, with sand
60 beaches cut by numerous small rivers.
5-50
 Tides - The mean tidal range in Batangas Bay is about
0.6 m (2 ft) and the diurnal range is about 0.8 m (2.6 ft).
Caution - There is a submarine pipeline, carrying
natural gas, in Batangas Bay. Trawl fishing, anchoring,
use of explosives and other activities that may damage the
pipeline are prohibited in the area up to 500 m on either side
of the pipeline.
Tidal Currents - The tidal currents set parallel to the
shore, SE during the flood and NW during the ebb, but the
rate is mostly weak.
Harbor Limits - The harbor is defined as the area
which embraces all waters of the Batangas Bay extending
seaward up to an imaginary line connecting Cazador Point
and Matoco Point.
Harbor Regulations - Movement of vessels in
Batangas Bay is being regulated by the VTMS. Read the
VTMS Regulations for Verde Island Passage on page 5-53
for details of the regulations and reporting procedures
within Batangas Bay.
TSS was established at the entrance of Batangas Bay.
Vessels are advised to strictly follow the TSS. Consult the
nautical charts for details of the TSS.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress and requiring
assistance may contact the VTMS Control Center via VHF
channel 16.
The Port of Batangas serves as the headquarters of the
Coast Guard District - Southern Tagalog and a Maritime
Rescue Sub-Center. The station may be contacted through
the following means:
Telephone: (+6343) 723-5624
Mobile phone: +63919-9940067; +63917-5091584
VHF Channel 16
E-mail: hcgdstl_opn@yahoo.com
Mainaga Cove with Batangas Bay at the background.
(Photograph - PNOC EC, Undated)
5-51
MAINAGA COVE, about 6 miles N of Cazador
Point, affords sheltered anchorage for small crafts in heavy
SW weather in 18.3 to 29.3 m (10 to 16 fm), mud bottom.
MAINAGA, a barrio on the N side of the cove, is the port of
5 the town of MABINI. A scar on the hillside behind the pier
is a good landmark from the E. Large white tanks located at
the head of the cove are prominent.
Major Light - Mainaga Light (13° 45’ 47”N., 120° 57’
10 16”E.) is displayed near the head of the cove.
Berthing Facilities - A 60 m pier connected to a
causeway extending from the SW shore of the cove is used
to handle energy-related products and other cargo. An open
15 yard serves as storage space for this port.
Dangers - The 0.4 m (0.25 fm) shoal S of BILUGA
POINT and at the entrance of the cove is usually marked
by stakes. There is a wreck located about 0.23 mile ESE of
20 Mainaga Light.
SANTA MARIA, a barrio of Bauan located on the NE
coast of Batangas Bay, is the location of some private piers.
The Keppel Shipyard, located about 1 mile ENE of Sta.
25 Maria, is the major repair facility in the bay. The yard has
200 m by 38 m graving dock with a draft of 7 meters and 7
repair berths capable of drydocking of vessels up to 20,000
DWT.
30 BAUAN, a town at the head of Batangas Bay, may be
recognized by a conspicuous white church, which forms
a good landmark for vessels entering the bay. Medical
services are provided by various hospitals in the town.
Landline telecommunications, mobile phone services,
35 internet connections, and postal services are available. Bus
connects the town with Manila. Commercial banks are
present. Water is available by pipes from the water supply
system. Food supplies are available from various stores in
the town center.
40
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress and requiring
assistance may contact the VTMS Control Center via VHF
Channel 16 or the Coast Guard station at the government
wharf at mobile phone nos. +63917-8426626 and +6398-
45 5855843.
Berthing Facilities - Bauan has a 95 m long pier which
is connected to a 40 m long by 15 m wide wharf. These
berths are managed by the PPA, which can be contacted at
50 telephone number (+6343) 727-1027.
A causeway extending SW from coast has a 50 m
long pier at its end. It is located just E of the government
pier. The pier is being used to handle chemicals for use by
55 CocoChem, Inc.
Port Services that are available in Bauan include
bunkering services, ship cleaning, and ship garbage
collection. Cargo handling services are available from local
60 companies.
 Pilotage is not compulsory. Vessels requiring pilot
should contact the Batangas Harbor Pilots Association.
Request for pilot must be sent at least 24 hrs before ETA.
The pilot association could be contacted thru telephone and
fax number: (+6343) 723-3994. Tugs and towing services
are available.
Anchorage in Bauan is similar to the anchorage area
for the Batangas City port. Read about Batangas Port
anchorage in page 5-51 for details.
SANTA RITA, a barrio of Batangas City located about
1 mile SE of Bauan, is the location of the Chevron Refinery.
The coast running 3 miles from Bauan down to Batangas
City is generally flat and sandy, yet at closer observation
some breaks are noticeable brought by stretches of stones,
rocks, boulders and short presence of coral reefs about 500
m N of Batangas City’s wharf.
The buildings, stacks and tanks of the refinery of
Caltex are prominent from the bay. At night, the lights of
the refinery and the red aviation warning lights on the top
of the stacks and tanks are prominent and serve as good
marks. A 45.7 m (150 ft) stack inside the compound shows
a flare visible for 15 miles. Vessels going to the refinery
should establish contact on VHF Channels 16 or 11 for
berthing information.
The pier of the refinery extends 270 m S into the bay
and ends in a T-head with its south face 120 m long. The
pier is adequately lighted to facilitate night berthing or
unberthing. Tankers with tonnage up to 300,000 DWT can
be accommodated. Fresh water is piped to this wharf and
may be obtained by arrangement with the oil company.
An offshore berthing facility, located 0.3 mile NW of
the refinery pier, was established for use of vessels calling
at the refinery. Mooring buoys were placed to facilitate
berthing.
BATANGAS (CHART 4256), the capital of Batangas
Province, is a port of entry open to overseas shipping. It is
the commercial distributing center in this area and transfer
point for traffic to N Mindoro and Marinduque. The port
is considered as one of the best natural harbors in the
country, handling both domestic and foreign conventional
cargoes and passengers. Agricultural products such as
copra, cement, logs, minerals, completely built units and
other general cargo dominate the traffic while container
traffic is continuously growing. The city is on the N bank of
Calumpan River, about 0.8 mile inland.
Hotel accommodations in the city are available. There
is a provincial hospital at Batangas. Fresh water can be
delivered by truck. Ice, gasoline, diesel oil and food supplies
are obtainable. Provincial buses have daily trips to Metro
Manila. Fastcrafts, RoRo and outriggers are available for
passengers bound to Mindoro ports of Calapan, Abra de
Ilog and Puerto Galera. Postal and parcel services, landline
communications, mobile phone services and internet
connection are available in the city.
Prominent Features - From a distance, the town can
be distinguished by the Batangas church dome, aluminum-
5 painted water tank and several houses along the waterfront.
A radio mast stands 1 mile ESE of Batangas Wharf. About
1.5 miles NW from Batangas Wharf, the building structures
and smoke stacks of Chevron Refinery are prominent.
10 Major Light - Batangas Light (13° 45’ 28”N., 121°
02’ 22”E.) is displayed from the PPA Building located at
the Batangas Port area.
Caution - Submarine pipelines were laid in the small
15 indentation between the PPA-operated wharf and Majuia
River. Anchorage, fishing, and other activities that may
damage the submarine pipelines are strictly prohibited.
Port Management - The government port of Batangas
20 is managed by PPA PMO-Batangas, which may be contacted
through telephone no. (+6343) 723-4293.
Vessels calling to Batangas Port are advised to send
arrival notice to PMO-Batangas 48 hrs before ETA. Master
25 of vessels should establish contact with the port when
within range advising ETA at the entrance to Batangas Bay.
Bauan International Port, the container terminal located
at the back of Batangas Wharf, is managed by ICTSI. The
30 container terminal operator can be contacted through the
following means:
Telephone no: (+6343) 727-4992 to 94
Fax no: (+6343) 727-4994
35 E-mail: bipi@pldtdsl.net
Website: www.ictsi.com
Routeing System - A TSS was established for Batangas
Port. Refer to Chart 4256 for details.
40
Berthing Procedures - All notice of arrival and
applications for berth shall be filed by shipping companies
or their agents with ATI Batangas, Inc. (ATIB).
45 Vessels shifting from her berth along wharf to the
anchorage are must secure a Shifting Order from ATIB.
Shifting vessels are not required to obtain clearance from
the PMO.
50 Vessels departing from Batangas Port must secure a
Departure Clearance from the PMO-Batangas.
Vessels are prohibited to undertake repairs at berth.
55 Customs - Batangas is a customs port. Customs
officers may be contacted at telephone no. (+6343) 722-
0705.
Quarantine - Vessels can be granted pratique at
60
Batangas. Quarantine officers normally board with the
5-52
pilot.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress and requiring
assistance may contact the VTMS Control Center via VHF
channel 16 or the Coast Guard station at the government
wharf at mobile phone no. +63918-2673510.
Berthing Facilities available for the government wharf
include the 185 m long foreign general cargo berth, 230
m long multipurpose berth, 470 m long domestic general
cargo berth, 124 m long ferry berth with 3 RoRo ramps, 6
RoRo berths, and 7 fast craft berths.
Available storage facilities include 6.6 hectares
container yard and 480 TEUs reefer van stack yard. Gantry
cranes are available at the port.
Berthing facilities for Bauan International Port include
a berth length of 240 m with controlling depth of 10 m (5.5
fm). The container terminal has a 4-hectare open storage
area. Heavy lift cranes and forklifts are available.
Port Services available inside the port includes cargo
handling, bunkering, tug assistance, watering, garbage
collection, and water taxi services. Repairs can be done at
Keppel Shipyard located about 3.6 miles NW of the port.
Pilotage for vessels calling at Batangas Port is
compulsory and rendered by Batangas Harbor Pilots’
Association. The pilot association must be advised of the 30
vessel’s ETA 24 hrs before arrival. Pilots can be contacted
at Channel 69. Pilots may also be contacted at telephone
nos.: (+6343) 723-1507, 980-5134, and 723-3994
The Port of Batangas.
(Photograph - PPA PDO - Southern Luzon, Undated)
5-53
Pilot boarding station is located about 1.4 miles SW of
the government wharf.
Vessels requiring tugs should advise the PMO in
5 advance as it may be necessary to dispatch a tug from
Manila.
Anchorage for vessels at the Batangas Harbor is
located SW of berthing facilities. This anchorage is divided
10 into 4 areas and located on the either side of the TSS
route. Anchorage areas A and B are allocated for tankers
while anchorage areas C and D are allocated for vessels
waiting berth at foreign and multipurpose berths. Refer to
Chart 4256 for details on the anchorage. During the peak
15 of the SW monsoon, vessels may anchor off the N side of
Maricaban Island along Maricaban Strait.
CALUMPAN RIVER empties about 1.5 miles SE of
Batangas Port. The bar is about 0.15 mile wide, and has
20 very little water on it at low tide.
From Calumpan River to NABOLED POINT, about
4 miles S, the shore is lined with sand and gravel, thence
to Matoco Point it is lined with boulders and fringed by a
25 narrow, steep-to, coral reef. Soundings of 9.1 m (5 fm) are
found close to the shore.
TABANGAO, a barrio located about 2.4 miles SSE
of Batangas Port, is the location of Shell Refinery and
the facilities of General Milling Corp., each having their
own berthing facilities. The refinery can be recognized
by the white painted storage tanks, stacks with flares and
a privately-owned Y-shaped concrete pier. Fresh water is
not available at the pier. Medical facilities for minor cases
may be offered by a clinic maintained by the company. The
nearest hospital is at Batangas. The refinery is connected by
good roads to the capital.
Berthing Facilities - The refinery has 5 jetties used
by large tankers. Jetty No. 1 has a depth alongside of 9.3 m
and can accommodate tankers up to 31,000 DWT. Jetty No.
2, serving as an LPG terminal, has a reported depth of 14
m and can accommodate tankers up to 120,000 DWT. Jetty
No. 3 can accommodate vessels with maximum draft of 9.3
m, maximum tonnage of 20,000 DWT and LOA of 165 m.
Jetty No. 4 can accommodate vessels up to 320,000 DWT,
with a maximum draft of 23 m and LOA of 348 m. Shell
Refinery also operates the offshore berth located 0.3 mile
NW of the northernmost jetty.
Vessels calling at the refinery should send notice of
ETA 72 hrs, 48 hrs, and 24 hrs in advance. Vessels at the port
limits must establish contact with Shell via VHF Channel
71 (Call: Shell Tabangao) for berthing arrangements.
The piers owned by General Milling Corp. is located
about 0.5 mile S of the Shell Refinery at the mouth of Little
Tabangao River. There are 2 piers extending about 250 m
SW from the shore, with a berthing face of 160 m at the S
pier and of 93 m at the N pier. Vessels up to 30,000 DWT,
with a maximum beam of 30 m and a maximum draft of
10.9 m, can be accommodated.
PINAMUCAN RIVER, located about 2 miles S
of Tabangao River, is where the sandy beach was found
prevailed by gravel. Both banks were observed dominated
by Aroma trees. Occasionally active changes reshaped the
river shifting sometimes its course to several meters. The
mouth of CIMLONG RIVER in the Barrio of CIMLONG
is about 0.6 mile S of Pinamucan River.
White cylindrical tanks, used for storing chemicals, are
prominent in the area N of Pinamucan River. Fronting the
tanks are the private piers operated by LMG Chemicals and
Himmel Industries.
The JG Summit Petrochemical Plant is located about
0.4 miles S of Pinamucan River. The blue-roofed plant and
2 white cylindrical tanks are prominent. Two piers extend
from the plant.
MATOCO POINT, which forms the E entrance point
of Batangas Bay, is high, wooded, and precipitous, with one
low point to the SW. Matoco Point Light (13° 38’ 04”N.,
121° 02’ 12”E.) is displayed from the point. Off the point,
the 182.9 m (100 fm) curve approaches within 0.4 mile off
the shore.
MARICABAN ISLAND, about 1.5 miles S of
Cazador Point, is high and covered with trees. Near the E
end, MOUNT CASAPAO, bare of trees and covered with
cogon grass, rises to a height of 447.4 m (1,468 ft); near
the W end is another mountain 305.7 m (1,003 ft) high,
terminating in a peak, which can be seen distinctly from
the vicinity of Cape Santiago. The whole coast is bordered
by rocks, and 2 rocky islets, Caban and Sombrero, are off
the NW end, and 2 others, Culebra and Malajibomanoc, off
5 the E end.
Tingloy, a town in the N shore of Maricaban Island, is
about 1 mile SE of BIGIA POINT. It has a small pier for use
of small passenger and fishing boats.
10
Sepoc Point, the NW point of Maricaban, is a steep,
rocky headland 36.6 m (120 ft) high. It appears to be an
island from a distance, but it is connected with the mainland
by a rocky isthmus 1.2 to 1.5 m (4 to 5 ft) high.
15
A shoal about 0.15 mile in extent, with a depth of 1.5 m
(5 ft), is 1 mile SW of Sepoc Point. Between this shoal and
the coast is a channel 0.8 mile wide, with a depth of 32.9 m
(18 fm) in the middle.
20
A reef, with rocky heads awash and deep water
alongside, is about 0.15 mile from the N shore of Maricaban
Island, 1.4 miles S of Cazador Point.
25 CABAN ISLAND, E of the NW end of Maricaban, is
86.9 m (285 ft) high and sparsely covered with trees and
bushes. LAYAGLAYAG SHOAL, with a least depth of 4
m (13 ft), lies about 0.25 mile N of the N extremity of the
island.
30
PORT MARICABAN (CHART 4257) is formed by
the strait between Maricaban and Caban Islands and can
be entered from either end, but the passage from the N is
preferable. It is sometimes used as a harbor of refuge for
35 small vessels which anchor off the barrio of Maricaban and
moor to the shore and to each other to prevent swinging.
SOMBRERO ISLET, about 0.5 mile N of the NW
end of Maricaban, is surrounded by a coral reef with some
40 heads out of water and others awash. It is 43.3 m (142 ft)
high, covered with low bushes, and forms a very prominent
landmark.
CULEBRA ISLET is a little more than 0.25 mile from
45 the E end of Maricaban. It is about 18.3 m (60 ft) high and
covered with trees, the tops of which are about 29 m (95 ft)
high. The shore is rocky, its boulders and corals, except the
most N point, which is coral sand. The channel between
Culebra and Maricaban has a width of about 0.1 mile and a
50 depth of 12.3 m (6.75 fm).
MALAJIBOMANOC ISLET, locally known as
PULONG BALAHIBO, lying nearly 0.8 mile E of Culebra,
is low and covered with trees, the tops of which are about
55 10.7 m (35 ft) high. It is marked by a light (13° 37’ 43”N.,
120° 57’ 50”E.). In the channel between Malajibomanoc
and Culebra, depths of 20.1 to 34.7 m (11 to 19 fm) are
found.
60 Caution - Two sunken wrecks exists about 0.5 mile
5-54
SW and 1.5 miles WSW of Malajibomanoc Light.
MARICABAN STRAIT, between Cazador Point and
Maricaban Island, is clear and safe, the only hidden danger
being the shoal 0.25 mile N of Caban Island. The strait is
used by the coasting steamers trading to Batangas. There is
no good anchorage in it. Small coasting vessels sometimes
anchor near the island, if necessary; but the tidal currents
run with considerable velocity, and the anchor must be
dropped so close to the rocks that there is danger of being
swept ashore before it grips.
The passage S of Maricaban is deep and clear and is
always used in navigating Verde Island Passage.
VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE is between the S coast
of Luzon and the N coast of Mindoro. It is divided into
North and South Passes by Verde Island; both passes are
safe, but the S is complicated by the Baco Islands.
Tidal Current - The current on the N part of the Verde
Island Passage, which flows round Balayan and Batangas
Bays, reunites with the principal current near Verde Island,
producing violent tide rips and eddies in that part of the
channel between Malabrigo and Escarceo Point.
Reporting Procedures - A VTMS was established
for Verde Island Passage. It also covers the Balayan and
Batangas Bays. All vessels calling to the ports in Balayan
and Batangas Bays are required to report to the VTMS
Control Center on Channel 16 and through AIS when 5
miles off the bays. Vessels approaching the TSS, shifting
berths, departing from any port, or navigating within the
bays must report to the control center. Reports shall also
be sent by vessels experiencing emergency situations,
suspicion of piracy, collision, poor visibility, and other
events that impairs navigation or prohibits compliance to
the requirements of the VTMS. All vessels should maintain
continuous listening watch on Channel 16 while within the
VTMS area.
Routeing System - Vessels passing through the Verde
Island Passage should follow the established TSS. The TSS
is not IMO-adopted but the principles defined in Rule 10
of International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at
Sea (1972) apply. Eastbound vessels, including those going
to Calapan, should take the S pass while W bound vessels
should take the N pass. Vessels crossing the traffic lane
should maintain a course that is perpendicular to the flow of
traffic. Passing through the Maricaban Strait from the TSS
is strictly prohibited except during emergency situations.
Refer to the nautical charts for details of the TSS.
VERDE ISLAND, in the middle of Verde Island
Passage, about 3.5 miles from the coast, is triangular in
shape, 417.2 m (1,369 ft) high, and well wooded. There
are 2 prominent peaks on it, reported visible over 40 miles.
The island can be approached with safety, though there are
some detached rocks close to the shore; off the SE point are
some rocks that uncover 0.1 mile from shore. On the N side
5-55
is a bay in which the depth is 12.8 to 18.3 m (7 to 10 fm)
near the shore, with a high wooded coast with occasional
sand beaches, affording a shelter in S winds. The 411.5 m
(1,350 ft) peak near the center of the island is sharp and
5 covered with cogon grass at its summit and affords an
excellent landmark from great distances.
The coast E of Matoco Point is rocky for 1 mile as
far as a sloping point known as PINAGBACAJAN; it then
10 forms a slight indentation for 1.5 miles E, ending in Arenas
Point.
ARENAS POINT, the second point E of Matoco,
consists of sand and stones, which serve to distinguish it.
15 It is low and clear, and the tidal currents rush past it with
great velocity. Arenas Point Light (13° 37’ 25”N., 121°
04’ 51”E.) is shown from the point. The structure of Ilijan
Power Plant is prominent. A small jetty extends from the
point.
20
TALAJI POINT, 1.5 miles E by N of Arenas, is not
very prominent; it is rocky and wooded. Good water can be
obtained W of the point.
25 From TALAJI POINT to ROSARIO POINT, 6
miles E by N, the coast is covered with low trees and shows
a sandy beach fringed by rocks close-to. Rosario River
empties at the point of the same name. There is a bar at the
mouth with about 0.9 m (3 ft) at low water.
30
LOBO is about 1 mile inshore from the head of the
bay, immediately NE of Rosario Point. A prominent white
warehouse stands about 0.5 mile NNW of the point. There
is a stone jetty near the warehouse but is exposed to SW
35 weather and at such times landing cannot be made. There is
daily motorboat connection to Calapan and Batangas City.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Lobo
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8016001 /
40 +63998-5855850.
Anchorage may be had off Lobo in 21.9 m (12 fm),
about 0.15 mile from shore. From this anchorage, Malabrigo
Light, just showing over the shrubbery on Rosario Point,
45 bears 118o, the prominent white warehouse 036o and Baco
Chico Islet 183o. Vessels should approach this anchorage
cautiously as the water shoals rapidly.
For vessels with local knowledge, anchorage can be
50 found in N winds for vessels of all sizes between Matoco
Point and Malabrigo Point, but the shore is very steep; and
at less than 0.2 mile from it, the depth is from 14.6 to 23.8
m (8 to 13 fm), coarse sand and gravel bottom.
55 From Rosario River to Malabrigo Point, about 4 miles
SE by E, the shore is sandy, wooded, and of regular height.
MALABRIGO POINT is the SW extremity of
the broad headland formed by the spurs of Mount Lobo;
60 PUNAS is the central, and MALAGUNDI the E point of
this headland. The coast between these points is of moderate
height and well wooded, rocky between Malabrigo and
Punas, and bordered with sand beach and rocks from there
to Malagundi. Punas Point is noticeable because of some
bare patches at the beach, and MOUNT LOBO, 1,006 m
(3,301 ft) high, serves to indicate the position from the SE.
Major Light - Malabrigo Light (13° 36’ 00”N., 121°
15’ 40”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Malabrigo
Point.
Caution - The sunken wreck of M/V Sea Merchant is
located about 4.8 miles SE of Malabrigo Light.
LOCOLOCO POINT is about 10 miles ENE of
Malabrigo Point. The coast is high as far as the W entrance
point to Sigayan Bay, where the highland back of Punas
Point terminates. Vessels of all sizes can anchor between
Malagundi Point and Sigayan Bay, close to the shore only
as it is very steep. The bottom is generally coarse sand
mixed with gravel.
Major Light - Locoloco Light (13° 39’ 18”N., 121°
25’ 10”E.) is displayed from a tower on Locoloco Point.
SIGAYAN BAY is immediately W of Locoloco Point.
The NE shore of the bay is fringed by a coral reef, covered
at high water, and vessels should anchor well over in the W
part of the bay.
LOCOLOCO POINT TO BONDOC POINT
(CHART 1542, 1543, 4218, 4267 & 4272)
From Locoloco Point to Bantigui Point, 4 miles NE,
the coast hills are about 110 m (360 ft) high and wooded.
This vicinity appears sunk when seen from the vicinity of
the S part of Marinduque, there being high mountains on
either side but not behind these points.
BANTIGUI POINT, the W entrance point to Tayabas
Bay, is a wooded headland about 107 m (350 ft) high and
forms a prominent landmark when entering the bay. It is
steep-to on its S and E sides, but on its N side a narrow
coral reef begins, which gradually widens and fringes the
shores of Coloconto Bay and extends around SUBUQUIN
POINT.
TAYABAS BAY, a very wide-open bay formed by the
S coast of Quezon Province from Bantigui Point to Tuquian
Point, is indented by numerous rivers and small bays. It
is generally exposed to S winds, and offers no protection
during typhoon season. The small bays and coves within
Tayabas Bay are accessible to navigation and often used
by local sailing vessels and launches plying between the
coastal towns and the N coast of Marinduque Island.
Interisland vessels seldom call on the coastal towns of this
bay. Vessels can anchor off the coast all along Tayabas
Bay in 21.9 m (12 fm), mud bottom. Care must be taken,
however, to avoid the shoal patches that abound along the
coast.
Weather - The average wind velocity in the area is
about 3 knots while the maximum recorded wind velocity
is 50 knots. The general wind direction is NE during the
months of November to May and SW during the months of
5 June to October. Rainy season usually occurs in the months
of June to November.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable is
present within Tayabas Bay having terminus at Lucena
10 City. Anchoring and fishing within the vicinity of the cable
are prohibited.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress may contact the
remotely controlled coast station with VHF DSC alerting in
15 the port of Lucena. The VHF DSC alerting system covers
the sea area about 25 miles from the said port. Vessels in
distress that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the
VHF DSC coast stations may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
20 to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
MOUNT BANAHAO is nearly N of Bantigui Point
and about 12 miles from the coast. It is a truncated cone,
2,177.5 m (7,144 ft) high and is conspicuous landmark
25 when not obscured by clouds. It is about midway between
Laguna de Bay and Tayabas Bay.
COLOCONTO BAY, between Bantigui and Subuquin
Points, is foul and affords no anchorage. There is a small
30 mangrove islet within it. A good anchorage can be found
half mile beyond the bay to the E.
SUBUQUIN, a barrio about 0.5 mile NW of Subuquin
Point, is hidden from the sea by mangroves. A government-
35 operated 378 m long causeway pier with RoRo ramp
extends NE from Subuquin Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station at the
government pier may be contacted at mobile phone no.
40 +63999-9574025.
From SUBUQUIN POINT, the coast trends N with a
slight curve W for 5.5 miles to the mouth of the river named
MALAQUING ILOG, thence NE for 10 miles to the mouth
45 of the Tayabas River. It is low and wooded and bordered by
sand beaches which are intersected by small streams.
MALAQUING ILOG - A river that has about 0.9 m
(3 ft) of water on the bar, deepening inside to 2.7 m (9 ft). It
50 affords shelter to small coasters.
SAN JUAN is a small town about 4 miles W of the
mouth of the Malaquing Ilog River. The road leading to
the town starts near the mouth of the LAWAYA RIVER,
55 a small stream which empties about 1.5 miles SW of the
Malaquing Ilog.
Dangers - There are a number of shoals in the W part
of Tayabas Bay which must be carefully avoided by vessels
60 seeking anchorage. A small, dangerous coral reef, with a
5-56
depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm), is nearly 1 mile from shore SSE of
the mouth of the Malaquing Ilog River. Nearer the shore
and extending SW for nearly 2 miles, there is a dangerous
reef shoaling suddenly from 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm) to
2.3 to 3.7 m (1.25 and 2 fm). Another reef, covered by a
depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm), is about 2.5 miles NE of the mouth
of the Malaquing Ilog River and 1 mile from the shore. The
vicinity of these reefs should be avoided as they are not
visible because of the discolored water.
CASTAÑAS is a barrio near the mouth of the Sariaya
River. No fresh water, stores or repairs are available.
Telephone, mobile phone and Internet connections are
available. The nearest hospital is at the town of Sariaya, 1.6
miles N of Castañas.
Prominent Features - Three large cylindrical tanks of
Liquigaz Philippines and the silos of Nation Granary are
located 0.4 miles NE and 1 mile NE, respectively, of the
barrio.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Lucena may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428293 and +63998-5854828, and at VHF Channel 16
with the call sign "Quezon Coast Guard".
Berthing Facility - Liquigaz South LPG Terminal,
about 0.5 mile NE of the mouth of Sariaya River, has a
T-head jetty. The terminal has dolphins used to facilitate
mooring. The terminal can only accomodate vessels with
maximum draft of 14 m, maximum DWT of 55,000 metric
tons, and maximum LOA of 245 m. The terminal has pipes
that handle refrigerated and pressurized propane, butane,
and LPG mixes. The terminal manager may be contacted at
VHF Channel 1 (call sign "Liquigaz Terminal"), telephone
no. (+6332) 771-0560, or mobile phone no. +63999-
8879057.
Nation Granary Pier, about 0.8 mile NE of the Liquigaz
Jetty, has berth length of about 240 m. It has equipment for
loading and unloading grains.
Anchorage may be had 0.6 mile offshore in 20.1 m
(11 fm). This anchorage is well-protected during the NE
monsoon, but during the SW monsoon it is advisable to
anchor two more ship lengths to seaward.
Entrance to the Port of Lucena.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2018)
5-57
Vessels wishing to berth at the Liquigaz South LPG
Terminal anchors at 1.3 miles SE of the mouth of Sariaya
River. Pilot boards at this anchorage area.
5 Pilotage is compulsory for vessels 500 DWT and
above. Pilotage services are being provided by the Quezon
Harbor Pilots’ Company, which may be contacted through
the following means:
10 Telephone nos: (+6342) 710-3701 and 373-3711
Fax no: (+6342) 660-5003
Mobile phone no: +63998-9930448
E-mail: dls _quezonpilots @yahoo.com
15 TAYABAS RIVER is about 137 m (150 yds) wide at
the mouth and has a depth of about 1.8 m (1 fm) on the
bar at high water, increasing to 3.7 m (2 fm) inside. The
channel is sometimes marked by stakes and local sailing
vessels enter at high tide. Pisngi Light (13° 53’ 46”N., 121°
20 36’ 09”E.) is shown on the W side of the entrance of the
river.
There are several shoal patches with depths of 4.6 to
7.3 m (2.5 to 4 fm) about 1.8 miles S of the mouth of the
25 river. Good anchorage off the mouth of the river will be
found in about 12.8 m (7 fm), with the E entrance point
bearing 061o.
TAYABAS POINT, E of the mouth of the river, trends
30 S and forms a bight, where anchorage may be found in 9.1
to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm), mud and sand bottom. This anchorage
is further protected from NE winds by a reef, on which are
a number of small islets, projecting from the point just
described.
35
LUCENA (CHART 4267), a chartered city of
considerable importance connected with Manila by railroad
and public bus, is about 2.5 miles from the coast, between
2 small rivers, which form the Tayabas River. Long
40 distance telephone connection, mobile phone services,
Internet connection and postal services are available. Food
and various supplies can be bought from various stores and
three big malls in poblacion. Medical services are provided
by hospitals in the town. National and local banks are
45 present.
Dangers - Shoals with least depths of 1.67 m (0.9 fm)
 Government wharf of Lucena.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2018)
and 3.46 m (1.89 fm) are located about 1 mile NE and 1.4
miles ESE of Tayabas Point, respectively.
Port Management - TMO-Lucena, which manages
the government pier, may be contacted at telephone no.
(+6342) 710-2108.
The Lucena Fish Port, located 500 m SW of the
government pier, is managed by PFDA. The fish port
manager may be contacted at telephone number: (+6342)
250-8307.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Lucena may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428293 and +63998-5854828, and at VHF Channel 16
with the call sign "Quezon Coast Guard".
Berthing Facilities - The government pier is 51 m long
with 3 RoRo ramps. The maximum allowable draft for the
port is 5 m. A 10,400 sq m open storage area is available.
The Lucena Fish Port has a 110 m long pier and quay
for fishing boats. The fish port complex has a refrigeration
building for the storage of fishes.
Port Services - Cargo handling services, watering,
and bunkering at the government pier are available from
local companies. The fish port provides fuel and ice to
fishing vessels. Drydocking and repair of fishing vessels
are available at the fish port.
Pilotage is compulsory for foreign vessels and optional
for domestic vessels. Pilotage services are being provided
by the Quezon Harbor Pilots’ Company, which may be
contacted through the following means:
Telephone nos: (+6342) 710-3701 and 373-3711
Fax no: (+6342) 660-5003
Mobile no: +63998-9930448
E-mail: dls _quezonpilots @yahoo.com
From TAYABAS POINT, a great reef extends E
and S for nearly 7 miles then curves around N, leaving a
channel to Pagbilao Bay about 0.8 mile wide between it
and Pagbilao Grande Island. On the E part of the reef are a
5 number of shoal spots which bares at low water. The S end
of Pagbilao Chica Island bearing 074o and Tayabas Point
bearing 288o clear the S end of this reef.
BOCBOC POINT, about 6 miles ENE of the mouth
10 of the Tayabas River, is the E entrance point to Pagbilao
Bay. Red-roofed buildings of a resort are prominent. A jetty
extends from the point.
PAGBILAO BAY is between Bocboc Point and
15 Pagbilao Grande Island. The available anchorage area is
reduced by reefs and shoal water to a space about 1 mile
in extent.
Prominent Features - The church at the town of
20 Pagbilao is visible from a considerable distance and forms
a good landmark. The 95 m high chimney of the Pagbilao
Power Plant, located on the SW coast of Pagbilao Grande
Island, is prominent from afar.
25 Anchorage - Good anchorage will be found in 9.6
m (5 fm) with the hill on Patayan Island bearing 347o and
Bocboc Point bearing 245o. Light-draft vessels may anchor
farther W and obtain more shelter in SW winds.
30 Directions - To enter Pagbilao Bay, give the SW part
of Pagbilao Grande a berth of about 0.25 mile and steer for
Angas Point, well open W of Patayan Island, bearing 335o.
PATAYAN ISLAND is about 27 m (90 ft) high and
35 quite prominent.
ANGAS POINT is about 7.6 m (25 ft) high, has a bare
surface, and is easily recognized.
40 PAGBILAO GRANDE ISLAND is of triangular form
and nearly joined to the mainland forming with it Pagbilao
5-58
Bay W and Port Laguimanoc E. Mud flats, passable by
boats at high water, separate the N side of the island from
the S coast of Luzon. A bridge connects the island with
Juaya Point. Mount Mitra, in the NE part, is 161.5 m (530
ft) high and is the highest point on the island. The S side
of the island is steep-to, having a depth of 21.5 to 27 m,
mud bottom, at a distance of 0.25 mile. The Pagbilao Power
Plant, located on the S end of the island, has a wharf for use
by vessels loading coal. There is an airstrip N of the power
plant.
Pilotage - Pilots board vessels at position 1.75 mile
SSE of the power plant.
PAGBILAO CHICA ISLAND, E of Pagbilao Grande,
is crescent-shaped and joined to the larger island by a strip
of sand.
Mount Lipata, near the S end of the island, is 182.6 m
(599 ft) high and has a large white spot on the SW side, near
the top, that is very prominent and may be seen 20 miles in
clear weather.
CAPULAAN BAY lies between the SE side of
Pagbilao Grande Island and the W side of Pagbilao Chica
Island. The narrow head of the bay is fringed by reefs to
a distance of nearly 1 mile. Depths of 9.1 to 21.9 m (5 to
12 fm) are found in the middle part of the bay to within a
distance of 1 mile within the entrance points.
Anchorage can be taken during the NE monsoon in
the middle part of Capulaan Bay. Vessels should make
the approach by steering for the S extremity of Pagbilao
Grande Island and then pass in mid-channel between that
extremity and LIPATA POINT to the desired anchorage.
MANGAYAO ISLAND is a small wooded island on
the E side of the entrance to Port Laguimanoc about 1.3
miles E of the middle of the E side of Pagbilao Chica Islan.
It is surrounded by mud flats bare at low water. The N part
of the island is fringed with mangroves; the S part is a sand
beach. A reef, partly bare at low water extends 1.3 miles S
from it. TUBIG POINT, the W extremity of the island, is
low bluff surrounded by rocks, and there are also rocks off
the S point.
PORT LAGUIMANOC (CHART 4267), E of the
Pagbilao Islands, is reduced by reefs and islets on both
sides and at its head to a channel about 0.5 mile wide and
2.5 miles long, in which the soundings gradually decrease
from 20.1 to 3.7 m (11 to 2 fm), sand bottom. Great care
must be taken to avoid the reefs, which extend from both
sides of the entrance, narrowing the channel considerably,
and also two shoals lying on the W side of the channel. The
S shoal has a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm) and the N one, 2.7 m
(1.5 fm).
Directions - To enter Laguimanoc, bring Calaba Islet
and Laguimanoc Point in range, bearing 357o and steer in
on this range. When TUBIG POINT is abeam, about 0.6
5-59
mile distant, the vessel will be past the shoals on the W
side of the channel and should be headed for the W end
of TALABAN ISLAND, on a 338o course, and anchorage
taken up according to draft. Small crafts can find good,
5 protected anchorage immediately N of Laguimanoc Point
and also N of Talaban Island.
HIGH ISLET, the first islet on the E side of the
entrance, is small and 19.8 m (65 ft) high; it is steep-to on
10 its W side, but on the S side a reef extends 0.25 mile S.
CALABA ISLET, immediately N of High Islet, is also
small and about 12 m (40 ft) high.
15 LAGUIMANOC POINT, the W extremity of the
land on the E side of Port Laguimanoc, is composed of low
bluffs fringed by rocks. It is well wooded and 41.8 m (137
ft) high.
20 PADRE BURGOS is a small town on Laguimanoc
Point. There is a ruined concrete pier on the NW side of
NAGHILO POINT. The town has a post office.
TALABAN ISLAND, across the head of the navigable
25 channel, is small and wooded, and 11.9 m (39 ft) high.
The coast from the entrance to Port Laguimanoc to
Tuquian Point, about 29 miles SE, is generally low, with a
flat sand beach fringed with coral reefs of varying widths
30 and broken in places by mangroves. Inland the country is
thinly wooded near the shore, with scattered patches of
cultivated ground. The low, heavily wooded hills begin
at a greater distance back. Anchorage may be had nearly
anywhere along this coast, but the principal places are
35 Unisan, Pitogo, and Macalelon. Vessels not intending to
make a stop are advised to give the coast a berth of 2.5
miles, as dangerous detached reefs are nearly that far out.
A prominent, bare, red bluff marks the point about 2
40 miles E of MANGAYAO ISLAND. The coast between
this point and PINACAPULAN POINT, about 2.5 miles
SE, is indented by a foul bay. The latter point is low and
from it a reef, which dries, extends about 1 mile SW. The
coast between the latter point and Malatandan Point, about
45 4.5 miles ESE, is fronted by reefs and detached shoals to a
distance of 2 miles.
MALATANDAN POINT, about 8.1 miles ESE of
Port Laguimanoc, is bold, rocky, wooded, and formed by
50 a hill 54.6 m (179 ft) high, and is surrounded by low, level
land. The W side of the point is steep-to, but from the S part
a coral reef extends S to a distance of about 0.5 mile.
About 0.8 mile WSW of Malatandan Point is the NE
55 extremity of a large, dangerous reef which is partly bare at
low water. Detached patches, with a least depth of 4.6 m
(2.5 fm), lie about 2.5 miles WSW of the same point.
CALAYLAYAN BAY is immediately SE of
60 Malatandan Point. The head of the bay is shoal, and a wide
sandy beach is bare at low water. The town of UNISAN, an may proceed closer in, care being taken to avoid a 2.3 m
occasional port of call for coasting vessels, is at the head (1.25fm) patch which lies E of the above course.
of the bay. Unisan Light (13° 50’ 22”N., 121° 58’ 34”E.),
maintained by the municipality, is displayed from a 9.8 m Dangers - About 2 miles S of Pitogo is the W extremity
(32 ft) concrete pole on the beach, about 73 m (80 yd) W 5 of a large coral reef, which bares at about half tide. About
of the municipal building. The small river emptying at the 0.25 mile S of the W extremity of this reef is a small 2.7 m
town has about 1.5 m (5 ft) over the bar at low tide. A few (1.5 fm) patch with deep water around it.
tins of gasoline are obtainable.
MACALELON is a small town at the mouth of the
The bay affords good anchorage, sheltered only during 10 small river of the same name about 4 miles SE of Pitogo.
the NE monsoon. To approach this, anchorage vessels Telephone, mobile phone and Internet services are available
should bring the town to bear 035o and steer for it, anchoring in the town. A few tins of gasoline are obtainable. Small
in 7.3 m (4 fm), soft mud bottom, when Malatandan Point motor launches can enter the river at half tide and go to the
bears 332o. landings.
15
SILANCAPO POINT, about 2.5 miles SE of Major Light - Macalelon Light (13° 44’ 53”N., 122°
Malatandan Point, is low and generally fringed with 07’ 54”E.) is displayed at the old fort located N side of the
mangroves at its extremity, but rises to a height of 89.9 m entrance to Macalelon River.
(295 ft) at a distance of a little more than 1 mile inland. An
extensive detached reef which bares at low water, lies about 20 The reefs are very extensive in this vicinity, making off
1.5 miles ESE of the point. 1 to 2 miles. To vessels desiring to anchor off Macalelon,
no helpful directions can be given beyond the warning that
MABIO POINT, about 4.3 miles SE of Silancapo a stranger should not go into less than 12.8 m (7 fm) and
Point, is low, covered with mangroves and fringed with should anchor with Macalelon Light bearing 046o.
coral. Between those points, the shoreline is sandy beach 25
alternating with mangroves; about midway a small stream A small dangerous reef, with a depth of 4.1 m (2.25
empties, near the mouth of which are some conspicuous fm), lies about 2.5 miles SSW of Macalelon. A shoal with a
black rocks about 2.4 m (8 ft) high. The most outlying least depth of 2.7 m (9 ft), lies about 0.5 mile N of this shoal
danger in the vicinity of Mabio Point is a small 7.3 m (4 fm) and almost 1 mile off the coast.
reef 1.8 miles WSW of Mabio Point. Several shoal reefs are 30
between this one and the shore. GENERAL LUNA is a small town about 4 miles SE
from Macalelon. Small vessels call here weekly. Vessels
PITOGO, the principal town in this vicinity, is at the seeking anchorage off General Luna should bring the town
head of an irregularly shaped indentation, which is about to bear 090o and steer for it and anchor according to draft.
2.3 miles wide between Mabio and PAGBABAUGNAN 35
POINTS. It is built on a point of land between the mouths Major Light - General Luna Light (13° 41’ 15”N.,
of LAGALAG and MAYUBOC RIVERS, both of which 122° 10’ 10”E.) is displayed from a concrete tower located
are small and unimportant. Telephone, mobile phone and in the town.
Internet connection are available. It is visited weekly by
a small coasting vessel. Usual cargoes are fish and copra. 40 SW and S of General Luna and 1 to 2 miles from
Fish are distributed to Pitogo, Gumaca and Lucena while shore is a chain of dangerous detached reefs and one rock
copra is brought to Lucena coming from Unisan. awash, all of which can be cleared by keeping Tuquian
Point bearing nothing S of 130o. A channel from 0.5 to 0.8
Prominent Features - The town may be distinguished miles wide and with depths of over 9.1 m (5 fm) (9.1 m) lies
by the cluster of houses and other structures near the shore. 45 between this chain and the coastal bank.
The church is a prominent stone edifice.
TUQUIAN POINT is low, covered with mangroves,
Major Light - Pitogo Light (13° 47’ 00”N., 122° 05’ and not conspicuous from S or SE. It is fringed by a reef
15”E.) is displayed from a concrete tower located SE of the which extends 0.25 mile W and 0.6 mile SE.
church. 50
Tidal Currents - The flood current sets SE and the ebb
Berthing Facilities - A 55 m long causeway and a NW in Mompog Pass, the passage between Tuquian Point
small pier extends from the shore 0.3 mile NW and 0.1 mile and Mompog Island.
SE of the church, respectively. The berthing facilities are
primarily being used by fishing vessels and boats. 55 From Tuquian Point, the coast trends in an ESE
direction for about 9 miles to Ajus Point. Between Tuquian
Anchorage - Good anchorage may be found by and Ajus Points are 2 deep indentations in the shoreline,
bringing the church to bear 045o, steering for it, and Tagabas and Catanauan Bays.
anchoring in 9.1 m (5 fm) when the church is about 0.8 mile
distant. Small vessels and those having local knowledge 60 TAGABAS BAY, about 2 miles E from Tuquian Point,

5-60
has a depth of 12.8 m (7 fm) in the entrance, shoals very
gradually toward the head, and affords the safest anchorage
on the Luzon coast between Port Laguimanoc and Ragay
Gulf. The entrance to the bay is reduced to a width of about
0.5 mile by Puting Buhangin Shoal and the reefs on the N
entrance point.
Puting Buhangin Shoal is a detached coral reef
topped by a small shifting sand cay which bares at about
half tide. It is about 0.8 mile WSW from the W extremity of 10
Sandoval Point. Besides the main body of the shoal which
bares at extreme low water, shoal water extends farther E;
between which and the point is a channel sometimes used
by coasters. There is a 5.5 m (3 fm) patch about 1 mile WSW
from Puting Buhangin Shoal, with deep water between it 15
and the shoal. These shoals are dangers to navigation along
this coast, but serve to partially protect Tagabas Bay from
SW seas.
Directions - To enter Tagabas Bay, bring the N side
of the W extremity of Sandoval Point to bear 090o before
Tuquian Point bears W of 000o and steer for it. When Puting
Buhangin Shoal is abeam, haul NE and anchor according to
draft.
SANDOVAL POINT, separating Tagabas and
Catanauan Bays, is low, heavily wooded, and fringed with
mangroves. It is surrounded by reefs baring at low water,
which at no place exceed 0.3 mile in width. Sandoval Point
is nearly straight on its seaward side for a distance of 1.3
miles and is connected with the mainland by an isthmus
less than 0.5 mile wide.
CATANAUAN BAY, E of Sandoval Point, has an
entrance between points fringed with coral reefs. The
rocky reef on the E extremity of Sandoval Point extends to
a distance of about 0.3 mile beyond the mangrove shoreline.
On this reef are several rocks which bare at half tide.
A range of heavily wooded hills extending in a SSE
direction and gradually increasing in height to about 213 m
(700 ft) is located about 3 miles N of Catanauan Bay. These
hills approach the coast near Ajus Point and border it as far
as Ayoni Bay.
Dangers - From Pala Point, the reef extends W about
0.25 mile. Inside the entrance points, the bay widens slightly,
the coral reefs narrow and finally disappear, leaving clear,
sandy beach along the shore of the bay. A depth of 18.3 m
(10 fm) is found off the entrance. From there, the water
shoals gradually toward the head of the bay, where 5.5 m
(3 fm) will be found within 0.5 mile of the shore. There are
no dangers in Catanauan Bay except the reefs fringing the
shores. The CATANAUAN RIVER, emptying into the head
of the bay affords shelter for small crafts, but the entrance is
obstructed by a sand bar, bare at low water.
Directions - No particular directions are needed for
Catanauan Bay. Vessels entering usually bring the light to
bear 023o and steer for it, anchoring in 9.1 m (5 fm), sand
5-61
bottom, with the light on the above bearing, distant about
1 mile. The small coasting vessels usually anchor much
closer in, according to draft.
5 CATANAUAN, the largest town in this vicinity,
is at the head of the bay at the mouth of the river of the
same name. It has a gray stone church with a small dome,
which forms a good landmark. A limited distribution of
the local water system is available but of the hard water
type, which shows residue like fine table salts right after the
temperature of boiling. Many households own open wells
of similar poor water quality. There is a public market and
several hardware stores, drugstores, carinderia and sari-
sari stores in town. Bus liners coming from Metro Manila
and Lucena City, which ply further S to other towns, pass
through Catanauan.
Major Light - Catanauan Light (13° 35’ 29”N., 122°
19’ 15”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the beach
20 fronting the poblacion of Catanauan.
Between the E entrance to Catanauan Bay and AJUS
POINT, about 2 miles ESE, the fringing coral reef extends
to an average distance of 0.4 mile from shore, outside of
25 which is of sand bottom sloping rapidly to mud. Less than
0.5 mile SW of Ajus Point is a small detached coral patch,
bare at low water, which is the only outlying danger in this
vicinity.
30 MULANAY is a small town at the mouth of the river
of the same name, about 3 miles SE of Ajus Point. Between
these points, the shore reef is of irregular width, but in
no place does it extends over 0.5 mile from shore. Good
anchorage, protected only during the NE monsoon, may be
35 found off Mulanay. A church with a high white tower and a
pole for a proposed light are located at the town.
To approach Mulanay, bring the church tower to bear
070o and steer for it, anchoring in 9.1 m (5 fm), sand bottom,
40 about 0.4 mile from shore with a large boulder on the reef
on the port beam.
MOUNT MACLAYAO, about 2 miles E of Mulanay,
appears as a broad, flat-topped, heavily wooded peak 378
45 m (1,240 ft) high. It rises very little above the other hills in
its vicinity.
LIPATA POINT, about 2 miles SSE of Mulanay, is not
conspicuous as a point, but its white cliffs are prominent.
50
Just S of Mulanay, the shore reef extends about 0.32
mile but thence to the mouth of the MATAHA RIVER, 5
miles SE, the reef is narrow and very steep-to. The land
along this coast rises quickly to heights of from 91 to 213
55 m (300 to 700 ft), with their summits close to the beach.
AYONI BAY, about 6.5 miles SE of Lipata Point, is
an open roadstead affording good anchorage during the NE
monsoon. The water shoals gradually from 27.4 m (15 fm),
60 mud bottom, 1 mile offshore, to 9.1 m (5 fm), sand bottom,
0.5 mile from the beach. A reef extends about 0.5 mile
from the S entrance point to the bay. The sharp break at the
end of the ridge just N of Ayoni Bay is a good landmark.
FROM AYONI BAY the coast trends S by E, with
a curve E for 7 miles to Subungin Point, and is generally
fringed with coral or rock, which extends in places slightly
more than 0.5 mile. Small detached reefs, with depths of
0.9 to 9.1 m (0.5 to 5 fm), are from 0.5 to 1.5 miles from
this coast.
The hills recede from S of Ayoni Bay and the country
is more open, wooded, and grassy, and 3 or 4 miles inland
rises to a range of mountains, mostly wooded, 366 to 427 m
(1,200 to 1,400 ft) in height.
SAN FRANCISCO (AURORA), a small town near
the beach about 4 miles SE of Ayoni Bay, is partly obscured
by trees. The church in the N part of the town is a long-
framed structure parallel to the shore. A small pier for small
boats extends westward from the town.
Major Light - San Francisco Light (13° 20’ 45”N.,
122° 30’ 50”E.) is displayed from a concrete tower in the
town.
Anchorage in the NE monsoon may be found in 16.5
to 18.3 m (9 to 10 fm), mud and sand bottom, about 0.8 mile
from shore in front of San Francisco (Aurora). As the water
shoals rapidly inside of the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve, vessels
without local knowledge are advised to anchor in not less
than 16.5 m (9 fm). Small vessels may anchor closer in by
cautiously following the narrow channel through the shore
reef.
Directions - Vessels from N should keep at least 1
mile from shore until the church at San Francisco (Aurora)
bears 100o and then steer for it, anchoring as previously
recommended. Vessels from W should pass S and E of
Subungin Reef and approach the anchorage with the church
bearing 068o. These courses will carry a vessel well clear of
the 9.1 and 8.7 m (5 and 4.75 fm) reefs, lying 1.6 and 1.1
miles W of the church at Aurora.
SUBUNGUIN POINT, about 3 miles S of San
Francisco (Aurora), is fairly prominent, well wooded, and
about 76 m (250 ft) high. It is fringed with mangroves and
surrounded by a reef. The W side of the point is very narrow
and steep-to.
SUBUNGUIN REEF, the most outlying danger in this
vicinity, is a large detached reef partly awash at half tide.
The middle of the reef is about 2.7 miles from shore and 2.8
miles NW of Subunguin Point. This reef is steep-to on its W
side. Subunguin Point, bearing 148o, leads through a deep, 55
clear channel 0.8 mile wide between Subunguin Reef and
the reefs W from San Francisco (Aurora). Pinamuntangan
Point, bearing nothing S of 150o, leads 0.6 mile W of
Subunguin Reef. A wreck lies stranded on the NW side of
this reef. 60
AGUASA BAY is small bay S of Subunguin Point.
The head of the bay is fringed by a wide coral reef bare at
low water. Small vessels may find anchorage in the middle
of the bay in 5.5 to 9.1 m (3 to 5 fm), sand bottom. A small
5 detached reef, with a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm), is off the
entrance to Aguasa Bay, 0.9 mile SSW of a bold cliff about
30 m high, partly covered with vegetation, on the SW side
of Subunguin Point.
10 PINAMUNTANGAN BAY, immediately N of the
point of the same name, is of no commercial value. Several
detached shoals exist in the N part of the bay about 0.3 mile
from shore and extending N from a line drawn W from the
middle of a small, sandy beach at the head of the bay. The
15 barrio of Don Juan Vercelos occupies the head of the bay.
PINAMUNTANGAN POINT, the W point in this
vicinity, is heavily wooded, fringed with mangroves,
and surrounded by a very narrow coral reef. From
20 Pinamuntangan Point to Bondoc Point, 7.5 miles SE, the
coast is bold, clear and steep-to.
BONDOC POINT, the S extremity of Bondoc
Peninsula, is a formidable looking, redoubt-like formation
25 of limestone and has a bluff 15.2 m (50 ft) high, rising from
a platform of old coral. The fact that this point appears like
masonry, grayish in color, and remarkably bold, makes
it easy to recognize. It is clear and steep-to and can be
rounded in safety at a distance of 0.25 mile.
30
Major Light - Bondoc Point Light (13° 10’ 00”N.,
122° 35’ 45”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the
point.
35 From Bondoc Point, the coast trends in a NE direction
for 7 miles to ARENA POINT, the most E point of Bondoc
Peninsula. This coast is clear and steep-to, with the
exception of two small reefs off Pagsanhan Point, and can
be skirted in safety at a distance of 1 mile. E of Bondoc
40 Point, the hills progressively diminish in size and become
grassier until they trend away from the coast at Pagsanhan
Point, opening the Pagsanhan and Talisay Valleys.
BONDOC HEAD, about 1.8 miles NNW from
45 Bondoc Point, is 405.1 m (1,329 ft) high.
PAGSANHAN POINT, about 3 miles NE of Bondoc
Point, is low and wooded at its extremity and fringed by a
very narrow coral reef.
50
A small reef, with rocks awash at low water, is 0.5
mile SE of Pagsanhan Point. Inside the reef are depths of
9.1 to 11.0 m (5 to 6 fm), gradually decreasing toward the
shore. A small reef, with a depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm), is
about 0.3 mile from shore about 0.5 mile SW of Pagsanhan
Point. These two reefs constitute the only off-lying dangers
between Bondoc and Arena Points.
PAGSANHAN RIVER, the largest stream in this
vicinity, with about 1.2 m (4 ft) on its bar at low water,
5-62
empties immediately N of Pagsanhan Point.
TALISAY RIVER, emptying about 2 miles NE of
the Pagsanhan River, has corals before its entrance and is
blocked with boulders.
MARINDUQUE ISLAND
(CHART 1542, 1543, 4218, 4272 & 4453)
MARINDUQUE ISLAND, situated E of the E
entrance to Verde Island Passage, is nearly circular and
has a greatest diameter of about 24 miles in a NW and SE
direction. It is mountainous and well wooded. There are a
number of prominent peaks, of which Mount Marlanga,
in the S part of the island, 1,182 m (3,877 ft) high, is the
highest. There are 7 towns, 6 of which are on or near the
coast and off which sheltered anchorages may be found
according to the season of the year. There are 3 harbors
of refuge, Port Balanacan, Santa Cruz, and Masagasai Bay,
where good shelter may be found. The soil of Marinduque
is fertile and the principal exports are hemp, copra and
firewood. Mining is now being carried on.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress in the vicinity
of Marinduque Island may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
SAN ANDRES POINT (CHART 4272), the N
extremity of the island, is a small, steep-to peninsula 270
m (886 ft) high.
Between San Andres Point and Santa Cruz Point, about
8 miles E, the coast is rough and irregular. This coast is
divided into 2 bays by TRAPICHIHAN POINT, SAYAO
BAY, the W one, though fringed with rocks, is deep, having
40.2 m (22 fm) in the middle. CALANCAN, the E bay, is
foul and faced by the Banot Islands, of which Hakupan, the
outer one, about 1 mile NE of Trapichihan Point, is high
and bold, but of little value as a landmark except when
close inshore. A 7.6 m (4.25 fm) patch lies about 0.25 mile
NNW of this island. Firewood is exported from LUSOK, a
barrio on the SE arm of the bay.
SANTA CRUZ POINT, the W point of the N entrance 45
to Santa Cruz Harbor, is over 30.5 (100 ft) high and fringed
on its N extremity by a narrow reef. In this vicinity, there
are no outlying dangers N of a line running E and W through
Santa Cruz Point, with the exception of a 4.6 m (2.5 fm)
patch about 0.4 mile NW of the point, beyond which the 50
water deepens rapidly. Foul ground extends about 3 miles
in an ESE direction from Santa Cruz Point and forms the W of Santa Cruz Harbor, is very shoal and navigated only by
limit of the N channel into Santa Cruz Harbor.
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND, about 4 miles SE of the 55 of Santa Cruz.
point of the same name, is fringed by reefs which, off the
NW point, extend about 0.5 mile in a N direction and off the
SE point about 0.4 mile. The island is low and flat; the SW of the Santa Cruz River. A road leads from the town to the
third of the island is mangrove swamp and the remainder mouth of the river where a 146.3 m (480 ft) causeway with
coconut, groves and cultivated land. A concrete causeway 60 a concrete landing at its end has been built for small crafts.
5-63
about 90 m (295 ft) long and 5.1 m (17 ft) wide exists at the
S shore of the island.
SANTA CRUZ HARBOR (CHART 4453), formed by
5 the passage between Marinduque and Santa Cruz Islands, is
safe and fairly roomy, has excellent holding ground, and is
an important harbor of refuge and a port of call for coastal
shipping. During high tide, weak current sets in through the
N channel and out through the E channel conversely during
10 the low water. Good protected anchorage may be found in
16.5 m (9 fm), soft mud bottom, with the S tangent of Santa
Cruz Island bearing 091o and the W tangent of the same
island bearing 335o.
15 Major Light - Santa Cruz Light (13° 30’ 05”N., 122°
03’ 03”E.) is on the edge of the coral reef on the W side of
Santa Cruz Harbor.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
20 barrio of Buyabud may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8428338 and +63998-5854843.
Berthing Facilities - There is a T-shaped pier owned
by Marcopper Mining Corp. on the W side of the N channel
25 about 0.35 mile N of the Santa Cruz Light. It has a berthing
space of about 55.8 m (183 ft) and have breasting dolphins
about 41.1 m (135 ft) distant from both ends of the T and in
line with the face. It can accommodate ocean-going vessels
with a draft of 9.1 m (30 ft). Marcopper abandoned the pier
30 after a mining accident in 1996.
Directions - Entrance into Santa Cruz Harbor should
be attempted only during daytime. Vessels entering the N
channel should not bring Santa Cruz Point to bear anything
35 N of 270o until the E point of Santa Cruz Island is well open
of the N point of the same island bearing 130o in order to
give the foul ground on the W side of the entrance a good
berth. When the light on the W side of the harbor bears
189o, steer for it until well inside, when a mid-channel
40 course may be kept to the anchorage.
The E entrance is 0.3 mile wide at the narrowest part,
and both sides are fringed with reefs. Vessels approaching
it should bring the light to bear 282o and steer for it on that
bearing until MANGO POINT is abeam, when the course
may be shaped for any part of the anchorage. However, this
entrance is not recommended except to vessels with local
knowledge as a sunken wreck (P.D.) has been reported at
the entrance, about 1.8 miles E of Mango Point.
SANTA CRUZ RIVER, emptying into the SW part
small boats at high water. A wharf for use of small boats is
located along the river and is connected by road to the town
SANTA CRUZ is a town 0.8 mile SW of the mouth
A limited number of fresh stores and water are obtainable.
The town has a hospital and other medical clinics of local
physicians. There is a branch of Philippine National Bank in
the town. Local radio, long distance telephone, and mobile
phones are means of communication available. There is
a highway connection with other towns of Marinduque
and a passenger ferry service provided by the Santa Cruz
Shipping Lines and the local bancas.
PORT BUYABUD, located on the S side of the mouth
of the Santa Cruz River, is the loading place of the town.
The channel leading to the pier, located at the head of the
port, is narrow and the draft is shallow due to siltation.
Small coasting vessels from Port Laguimanoc and
Manila call off at Port Buyabud two or three times each
week. The usual anchorage for small crafts desirous of
communicating with Port Buyabud is S of TABIGNAN
POINT off the end of the pier. There is a depth of 1.8 m
(6 ft) at the landing’s end. Copra, firewood, and hemp are
shipped.
Vessels drawing not over 2.1 m (7 ft) may proceed
between two rocky reef points S of Tabignan Point and
anchor in 2.7 to 3.7 m (1.5 to 2 fm), protected from all
winds. The N side of the channel is usually marked by
brush stakes.
Berthing Facilities include a 70 m long concrete pier
connected to the shore by a rock causeway and a RoRo
ramp. Available storage areas include a 1,000 sq m open
storage area and a 50 sq m cargo shed.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available.
Bunkering and fresh water are available in limited quantities
from local suppliers.
Pilotage is compulsory for foreign vessels. Pilots are
available from Quezon Harbor Pilots’ Company which may
be contacted through the following means:
Telephone nos: (+6342) 710-3701 and 373-3711
Fax no: (+6342) 660-5003
Address: 61 Enriquez St., Lucena City, Quezon
Government port of Buyabud in Santa Cruz Harbor.
(Photograph - PPA website, undated)
Philippines 4301
E-mail: dls _quezonpilots @yahoo.com
TAGUM RIVER, which is larger and has more water
5 inside than the Santa Cruz River, empties immediately E of
that river. At the mouth, however, are extensive mud flats,
bare at low water, with a channel having a depth of only 0.3
m (1 ft). It is used only by local small boats bringing out
mangroves for firewood.
10
MANIUAYAN ISLAND, about 1.5 miles NE of Santa
Cruz Island, is low and flat, given up exclusively to the
cultivation of coconuts, and surrounded by extensive reefs.
A detached awash reef lies a little over 0.5 mile NE of the
15 NE extremity of the island and is the outermost danger off
that side of the island. The channel between this island and
Santa Cruz Island is 0.5 mile wide and has a least depth of
14.6 m (8 fm) in mid-channel. A detached shoal, with a reef
that dries on its SE side, lies on the W side of the channel
20 in a position about 1 mile NNW of the E extremity of Santa
Cruz Island. Tagum Point in range with the summit of the
E hill on Salomague Island bearing 159o will carry a vessel
through this channel. In following this range S, when the S
tangent of Santa Cruz Island bears 270o change to 142o so
25 as to keep a wide berth off the sunken wreck 0.9 mile SE of
the SE point of Santa Cruz Island.
MOMPOG ISLAND, 1.8 miles E of Maniuayan
Island and 4.8 miles SSW of Tuquian Point, Luzon, is
30 rugged and steep, rises quickly near the E side to a height
of 86 m (282 ft), and then slopes gently to the W. Mompog
is fringed on its N, E, and S sides by narrow, steep-to reefs.
On the W side the reef is wider, and in places it continues
to Maniuayan Island.
35
The channel between Mompog and Maniuayan Islands
is about 1.5 miles wide, and the least water found during
the survey was 8.2 m (4.5 fm), but because of the irregular
rocky bottom, vessels using this channel are advised to
40 adhere closely to the following directions: The E tangent to
Salomague Island bearing 184o, in range with the slope of
the 3rd knoll on Salomague Point leads through a channel
having a depth of 11.4 m (6.25 fm). Vessels using this
channel are advised not to open this range to the E in order
5-64
to give the foul ground W from Mompog Island a good
berth.
TAGUM POINT, about 2.5 miles SE of the E entrance
to Santa Cruz Harbor, is clear and steep-to. It rises in a
steep slope to two hills known as TAGUM PEAKS, 163.3
and 178 m (532 and 584 ft) high, respectively. These two
hills show quite sharply from N; the E and higher one is
well defined and wooded and the inshore one is covered
with grass with a fringe of trees at its top.
SALOMAGUE ISLAND is midway between Tagum
and Salomague Points, protecting Masagasai Bay. The NW
and SE points are low, and there are hills in the center and
SW part. The highest point on the island, 73.8 m (242 ft), 15
is near the center. On the SE part of the island, is a brown,
rocky cliff, 36.6 m (120 ft) high, visible from seaward. The
NE side of the island is fringed with reefs, nearly 0.4 mile
wide at the N end and tapering to almost nothing off the
rocky cliff just mentioned. 20
MASAGASAI BAY (CHART 4453) is a large,
irregular indentation in the coastline that is nearly filled by
Salomague Island. The passage between the island and the
mainland is narrow and shoal in the middle, W of the center
of the island, but expands at either end into irregularly
shaped basins of moderate size and depth.
The S end, though having plenty of water, is not
recommended because of its limited area and difficulty
of access. It is possible to enter by following closely the
edge of the reef around the S end of Salomague Island or
by crossing the 4.6 m (2.5 fm) reef which is directly E of
the entrance. No directions can be given except to enter by
chart and lead.
The N end, however, offers a safe and fairly roomy
anchorage for small vessels, which is of easy access.
Directions - Bring the sharp, conical 98.5 m (323 ft)
hill about 2 miles W from the N end of Salomague Island
to bear 260o, steer in on this range or on the bearing for
the hill, until Tagum Point bears 017o and then steer 197o
until the aforementioned hill bears 284o; thence by chart
and local objects to an anchorage in 7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm).
SALOMAGUE POINT, about 8 miles S of the
E entrance to Santa Cruz Harbor, is the most E point on
Marinduque. It is formed of low cliffs and is clear and
steep-to.
From SALOMAGUE POINT, the coast trends SW,
with a curve W, for 11 miles to Marlanga Point, and then
curves gradually S and W to Suban Point, the S extremity
of the island. This coast is bold, clear, and steep-to, and in
most places the 36.6 m (20 fm) curve is found within 0.3
mile from shore. A narrow fringe of coral about 0.2 mile
wide begins just W from Salomague Point and gradually
decreases in width until it disappears in Marlanga Bay.
5-65
TORRIJOS BAY (CHART 4453), about 4.5 miles
SW of Salomague Point, affords shelter for small crafts
except from S and E winds. The entrance point and the sides
of the bay are fringed with coral, narrowing the entrance
5 channel to about 0.15 mile and contracting the anchorage
area to a width of about 0.12 mile.
TORRIJOS is a small town on high ground on the
W side of Torrijos Bay. The school buildings are visible
10 in most directions from seaward. There are telephone and
highway connection with Santa Cruz.
Directions - To enter, from a position about 0.5 mile
offshore, bring the distant, dark-appearing, rounded hilltop
that shows in a distinct notch in the grassy hills, to bear 318o
and enter cautiously. This course leads to an anchorage in
12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm), sand bottom, in the center of
the bay.
MARLANGA BAY, about 4 miles SW of Torrijos
Bay, is of no commercial importance and is too deep to
afford anchorage except in a limited space close to the S
shore, where anchorage may be found in 21.9 to 27.4 m
(12 to 15 fm), sand bottom, about 0.4 mile from the beach.
25
MARLANGA POINT, the SE point of Marinduque,
is a bold, clear headland 280.4 (920 ft) high 0.2 mile from
shore.
30 SUBAN POINT, the S extremity of the island, is bold
and clear; back from the point the land rises rapidly toward
Mount Marlanga. The barrio of Tungib-Lipata is located
about 0.4 mile NW of the point.
35 ELEFANTE ISLET, 0.4 mile SW of Suban Point,
is a small, round rocky islet about 457.2 m (500 yds) in
diameter. It is sparsely wooded, 117.7 m (386 ft) high,
and is clear and steep-to on all sides. Buildings of a private
resort, painted white, occupy the NW half of the islet.
40 Elefante Islet forms a very prominent landmark, especially
from E or W. The tidal currents in the channel between it
and Marinduque run with considerable velocity.
Elefante Islet viewed from the N.
(Photograph - Marinduque Provincial website, Undated)
 Anchorage may be found on a small shelf N of the islet
in about 23.8 m (13 fm), sand bottom, with the E tangent of
the islet bearing 180o.
From SUBAN POINT, the coast trends in general
NW direction for 14 miles to Obung Point, thence N for 6.5
miles to Lupac Point, and thence NNE for about the same
distance to Silangan Point, the NW point of Marinduque.
The W coast of the island is generally clear and steep-to.
There are no detached dangers with the exception of a small
8.7 m (4.75 fm) patch in the channel between the Tres Reyes
Islands and the mainland and another shoal about 1.8 miles
WNW of the light in Gasan which was reported in 1960 to
have a least depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm). On the W side of the
island, there is more level land than on the E, and most of
the cultivation and the greater part of the inhabitants are
consequently found there.
The towns of Buenavista and Gasan are on the coast
between Suban and Lupac Points. A road at Buenavista
follows the coast N connecting Boac and the small barrios
of DAIQUITIN, CAWIT, IJATUB, and LAYLAY. This
road forms an important avenue of communication and is
extensively used.
TRES REYES ISLANDS is a group of 3 small,
heavily wooded islands, consisting of Gaspar, 82.3 m
(270 ft) high, Melchor, 76.2 m (250 ft) high, and Baltazar,
108.2 m (355 ft) high, lying in a WSW direction 2, 3.5 and
5 miles, respectively, from the SW part of Marinduque.
Their shores are clear and steep-to with the exception of
Gaspar, which has a fringe of coral and rocks extending
about 0.12 mile from its NE point. Their shore cliffs are
precipitous and underworn by the action of the sea. The
cliffs are highest on the SW side of each of the islands,
where they are about 61 m (200 ft) high. There is no fresh
water on these islands, and they are uninhabited except for
the lighthouse on Baltazar Island.
Major Light - Tres Reyes Light (13° 13’ 40”N., 121°
48’ 45”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Baltazar
Island.
The channel between Baltazar and Melchor is deep
and clear. The least depth is 13.5 m in the channel between
Melchor and Gaspar while in the channel between Gaspar
and Marinduque, the least water is 7.5 m (4.1 fm). The
channel between Melchor and Gaspar seems to be given
Government wharf of Cawit.
(Photograph - Ens Angelica B Prado, 2018)
the preference by coasting vessels.
Caution - Vessels should avoid the 7.5 m (4.1 fm)
shoal and the 8.7 m coral patch in the channel between
5 Gaspar and Marinduque. The shoal is located about 1.5
miles SW of Catala Point. The coral patch is located about
1.4 miles E of the shoal. The channel between the 7.5 m
shoal and Gaspar is about 1 mile wide and 152 m (83.1
fm) deep in the middle. The channel between the shoal and
10 Marinduque is about 1.5 miles wide and has a depth of 126
m (68.9 fm) in the middle. Vessels should avoid the wreck
with unknown depth located between the 8.7 m coral patch
and Gaspar.
15 GASAN is on a slight bluff 6.1 to 15.2 m (20 to 50 ft)
high, about 2 miles SE of OBUNG POINT. Immediately
back of the town is a hill upon which stands a ruined fort,
on one of the walls of which is a conspicuous tree. A post
office is maintained by the government. An airport is
20 located about 1 mile NE of Obung Point.
Copra is the only export being shipped. Two
privately-owned small motor launches are available for
towing. Medical aid may be sought from private medical
25 practitioners and from the public health center at Boac, 15
km N.
Major Lights - Gasan Light (13° 19’ 34”N., 121° 50’
38”E.) is shown from a white tower on the S side of the
30 TIGION RIVER.
Pangi Light (13° 20’ 09”N., 121° 50’ 13”E.), privately-
maintained, is displayed from the top of a prominent red-
roofed warehouse on the beach at PANGI, 0.8 mile NW of
35 Gasan Light.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Gasan
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428329 and
+63998-5854834.
40
Anchorage - The recommended anchorage off Gasan,
protected only from the NE monsoon, is about 0.5 mile
SSW of Pangi Light, in 27.4 to 31.1 m (15 to 17 fm), with
Pangi Light bearing 026o, Gasan Light bearing 112o, and
45 Baltazar Island Light bearing 191o.
There is anchorage about 0.5 mile W of Gasan, in
depths of 13 to 15 m, sand bottom, but it is only protected
5-66
from the NE Monsoon. Smaller vessels may anchor closer main stream flowing W and emptying just S from Lupac
in. Point while Laylay, the smaller branch, flows SW and
empties at the barrio of Laylay, about 0.5 mile SE of the
CAWIT, a barrio of Boac located about 2 miles N of mouth of the Boac River. The Boac River is reported to vary
Obung Point, has a 70 m concrete deck berthing facility 5 greatly in the amount of its discharge and to be continually
with 2 RoRo ramps. A 3,500 sq m open storage area is shifting its bed.
available. A local cargo handling company operates at the
port. LUPAC POINT, the W extremity of Marinduque, is
low, flat, and sandy and is fringed with coconut trees.
BOAC, the principal town on the island and the capital 10
of Marinduque, is on the S bank of the Boac River, about ULAN POINT, the S entrance point to the bay of the
1.5 miles from the sea. It is connected with Gasan and other same name, is 3.5 miles NE of Lupac Point. It is fringed by
important towns of the island by telephone communications an extensive coral reef having a greatest width of about 0.3
and highways. The government maintains a post office. mile This is the widest reef on the W coast of Marinduque.
Mobile phone services and internet are also available. 15
Food and other supplies are available from several stores ULAN BAY, between Ulan Point and Pamuntangan
in the town. A hospital and various medical clinics provide Point and about 1.3 miles NE, is nearly blocked by reefs
medical services. National banks are present. Water is bare at low water, and is of no value to navigation. The low
supplied by a local waterworks system. land of the W part of the island terminates in the vicinity of
20 Ulan Bay, and thence N the hills are close to the coast.
LAYLAY, a small barrio on the S bank at the mouth
of the LAYLAY RIVER, is the landing place for Boac, PAMUNTANGAN POINT, the S entrance point to
with which it is connected by a good road. There is a small Port Balanacan, is clear, well wooded, and 97.5 m (320 ft)
government-owned concrete pier but there is insufficient high.
water at its end. Copra, which is the sole export, is loaded 25
from the beach into barges when the weather permits. Two Caution - Two wrecks of unknown depth exist about
landing barges and local craft constitute the lighterage 0.7 mile NW of Pamuntangan Point.
facilities.
BACOOD BAY, which slightly indents the S shore of
Major Light - Boac Light (13° 26’15”N., 121° 49’ 30 the entrance to Port Balanacan, lies between Pamuntangan
07”E.) is displayed from a white tower located near the Point and Bacood Point, a little over 0.5 mile ENE. Two
shore end of the pier. sunken wrecks are reported to lie in this bay in position
about 0.19 mile and 0.25 mile, respectively, WSW of
Danger - A shoal sounding of 1.5 m was reported in Bacood Point, these positions reportedly doubtful. There
1963 to exist about 1.2 miles WSW of Boac Light. 35 are ruins of a pier at BACOOD POINT.

Anchorage - The usual anchorage for Boac is about
0.25 to 0.3 mile W of the light in 21.9 to 27.4 m (12 to 13
fm). This anchorage must be approached cautiously, as the
water shoals very rapidly. About 137 m (150 yds) within the
36.6 m (20 fm) curve, the bottom rises abruptly from 18.3
to 5.5 m (10 fm to 3 fm). The 5.5 m (3fm) curve defines the
outer limit of a sandy shelf rising gradually to the beach.
BOAC RIVER divides about 1 mile from the sea, the
PORT BALANACAN (CHART 4453), immediately
NE of Pamuntangan Point, consists of two small but
perfectly protected anchorages for moderate-sized vessels.
40 It is surrounded by high hills on all sides and, except for
one reef in the entrance, is free from dangers. The entrance,
about 1.3 miles wide between Tactacan Point N and
Pamuntangan Point S, is nearly filled by Agpisan, Ataa, and
Magdumug Islands and the aforementioned reef.
45

Port of Balanacan.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2018)

5-67
 The inner basin is contracted to a width of about 0.1
mile and a length of 0.3 mile by shoals fronting its shores to
a distance of 0.3 mile.
Prominent Features - About midway between the
barrio of BALANACAN, on the E shore of the outer
anchorage, and the entrance to the inner anchorage, is a
yellow bluff, about 7.6 m (25 ft) high, which forms a useful
mark for vessels entering the port. The large statue of the
Virgin Mary on Salvaria is a useful mark when entering the
inner basin.
Major Light - Port Balanacan Light (13° 31’ 50”N.,
121° 52’ 01”E.) is shown from a white tower on the E shore
of Port Balanacan just N of the Barrio Balanacan.
Dangers - Two wrecks, with least depths of 25 and 26
m, are located at the entrance to Port Balanacan between
Bacood Point and reef SW of Magdumug Island.
Tides - The mean tidal range in Port Balanacan is about
1.1 m (3.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1.4 m (4.6 ft).
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Port
Balanacan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8248351 and +63918-3011564.
Berthing Facilities - Located at Salvaria Point is the 83
m long government wharf with 2 RoRo ramps. Maximum
allowable draft at the wharf is about 9 m. A 200 sq m cargo
shed serves as the port’s storage area.
Directions - To enter Port Balanacan, pass 0.25 mile
N of Pamuntangan Point and steer 090o until the white
concrete tower of Port Balanacan Light bears 060o; steer for
the light tower on this bearing until the W side of Salvaria
Island, in range with PIG POINT on the N side of the inner
anchorage, bears 019o; steer in on this range and anchor
off the middle of the E side of Magdumug Island in 20.1 m
(11 fm), mud bottom; or continue, passing close to Salvaria
Island, into the inner anchorage, anchoring in 11 to 12.8 m
(6 to 7 fm) mud SE of Pig Point.
Statue of the Virgin Mary on Salvaria Island.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2018)
AGPISAN and ATAA ISLANDS are on the same
reef and are about 0.3 and 0.5 mile, respectively, SSW of
Tactacan Point. They are dome-shaped, about 15 m (50 ft)
high, and wooded at their tops. About 110 m (120 yds) S to
5 Ataa Island, and near the outer edge of the reef projecting
SW from it, is a prominent pinnacle rock about 2.4 m (8
ft) high.
MAGDUMUG ISLAND, on the N side of the
10 entrance, is small and wooded and 44.2 m (145 ft) high. It
is surrounded by reefs which connect it with the land to the
N. On its W side is a light-brown cliff about 27 m (90 ft)
high. About 0.25 mile SW of Magdumug Island is the outer
edge of a detached reef with rock awash at the E edge; this
15 reef does show well. The SE point of Magdumug Island,
bearing 060o clears the SE edge of the reef.
The E shore of the outer harbor between Bacood Point
and Salvaria Point, about 0.7 mile NNE, is somewhat
20 indented and is fronted by shoals to a distance of 320 m
(350 yds). A wreck lies stranded just off the shore bank
about 0.1 mile SSW of Salvaria Point.
SALVARIA ISLAND is a pile of rocks with a few
25 trees growing on it. It lies on the E side of the entrance
to the inner basin, about 91 m (100 yds) NW of Salvaria
Point. Located on the island is a large statue of the Virgin
Mary. Shoals and foul ground surround the islet on the SE.
A causeway connects the island with Salvaria Point. The
30 narrow channel connecting the outer anchorage with the
inner basin is about 55 m (60 yds) wide and has a least
depth of 11.3 m (6.25 fm) in the fairway.
TACTACAN POINT, the N entrance to Port
35 Balanacan about 1 mile N of Pamuntangan Point, is well
wooded and 74.4 m (244 ft) high.
SILANGAN POINT, about 1.5 miles N of Tactacan
Point, is of sandy beach. Houses occupy the point.
40
SAN ANDRES ISLANDS are two small islands, each
about 39.6 m (130 ft) high, extending about 1 mile W from
Silangan Point. They are fringed with a narrow steep-to
coral reef, bare at low water. There is no channel between
them, and the reef which connects them with Silangan Point
is entirely exposed at extremely low tides. Tide rips form
immediately W of these islands.
RAGAY GULF
(CHART 1541, 1542, 4218, & 4454)
RAGAY GULF, between Bondoc Point to the W
and Cabarian Point to the E, 43 miles apart, runs 60 miles
inland to the NW, and with Viñas River which enters the
gulf at its head, almost divides the island of Luzon at this
point. Ragay Gulf is, in general, deep and clear. The shores
are fringed by narrow coral reefs interspersed with sand and
gravel beaches. The hills rise rapidly from the shore, and
are generally wooded. The lower slopes and a few of the
hilltops are covered with cogon and scattered trees. At the
5-68
head of the gulf the land slopes more gradually for 0.25 to
0.4 mile and then rises rapidly in ridges and valleys to the
higher hills inland. The waters at the head of the gulf are
generally muddy due to the sediment carried down by the
rivers emptying there.
The most important ports are Pusgo and Guinayangan
on the W side of the gulf; and Catabangan, Port Ragay,
Ragay Bay, Caima Bay, and Pasacao Anchorage on the E
side; but anchorage may be taken up almost anywhere near
the shore, but not too close in, as in places rocks awash
lie off the shore reef. Burias Island, with the islands and
shoals N of it, divide the entrance to Ragay Gulf into two
wide channels.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable was
laid from Pasacao, Camarines Sur to Guinayangan, Quezon.
Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the
submarine cable.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress in Ragay Gulf
may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
At ARENA POINT, the W entrance point to Ragay
Gulf, the shoreline makes a sharp turn to N and extends for
18 miles in a general N and NW direction to Port Pusgo. A
sharp clump of trees on the first knoll NW of Arena Point is
the most prominent landmark in this vicinity. 30
MOUNT SAN ANDRES, 402.3 m (1,320 ft) high, and
another peak 2 miles to N, are also prominent; their tops
being covered with cogon.
SOMBOCOGON BAY, 3 miles N of Arena Point, is
much frequented by local coasters. It is of small extent, and
a coral reef partly fills the head. The Barrio of MANGERO
is at the head of the bay and the main destination of coasting
bancas.
SAN ANDRES, the town about 3.2 miles N of
Mangero, is linked with other towns by rough roads plied
by buses which pass also the town of Catanauan among
others en route to Lucena City as the terminus. Fronting the
town is the 200 m long pier that serves as the landing facility
for the water-borne trade and commerce of San Andres.
Incoming cargoes are fish and general merchandise while
the outgoing are agricultural products and livestock. Usual
route by conveying vessels is toward the minor settlements
of San Andres and also in Burias Island and Provinces of
Masbate and Camarines Sur.
ALIBIJABAN ISLAND is 3.5 miles NE of
Sombocogon Bay. The N and S ends of the island are
both wooded and are 48.8 and 19.8 m (160 and 65 ft)
high, respectively. The middle part is low and bordered by
mangroves which, from a distance, give it the appearance
of two islands. Alibijaban Island is surrounded by a coral
reef which extends 0.8 mile S and 0.3 mile N. A part of the
5-69
island is under cultivation, the farmers coming over from
San Andres on the mainland for the working season.
PALAD REEF, 5 miles N of Alibijaban Island, lies
5 with its longer axis in a NW and SE direction. PALAD
CAY, awash at high tide, is near the center of the reef. The
channel between the reef and the shore is 2 miles wide.
Several banks with 10.1 to 16.5 m (5.5 to 9 fm) are shown;
otherwise it is deep and clear.
10
Several detached coral shoals, with depths of from 2.3
to 7.3 m (1.25 to 4 fm), are in an area 2 miles long and 0.3
mile wide parallel to the shore, with the N end 2 miles SSW
of Palad Cay.
15
PUSGO REEF, with 2.7 m (1.5 fm), is in the approach
to Port Pusgo, 1.3 miles SSE of Pusgo Point.
PORT PUSGO (CHART 4454) is a narrow inlet
20 extending 5 miles to the NW. The larger part of its area is
shoal, having less than 3.7 m (2 fm). The entrance, carrying
a depth of 10.1 m (5.5 fm), narrows to about 135 m opposite
a prominent point of mangroves. Well-protected anchorage
in 7.3 m (4 fm), mud bottom, may be found about 0.5 mile
25 farther in. The barrio BUHANGIN is on the shore SE of
the anchorage, and the municipality of SAN NARCISO
stands at the head of the port. A pier extends southward
from San Narciso.
GORDA POINT, 1.3 miles NW of Pusgo Point, is
high and steep. The reef, which fringes the shore from the
interior of Port Pusgo, continues around Gorda Point to the
NW, extending 90 to 360 m from shore.
35 Between Gorda Point and Guinhalinan Point, about
11 miles NW, the coast is high and rugged. Two detached
shoals, covered by 4.6 m (2.5 fm) and 0.9 m (0.5 fm) are 4.3
and 5 miles, respectively, NW of Gorda Point and 1 mile
offshore. The latter point is low and forms the S entrance
40 point to Peris Bay. The mouth of GUINHALINAN RIVER
is immediately N of this point.
PERIS BAY, between GUINHALINAN POINT and
LIAN POINT, extends 2 miles inland. The head of the bay
45 is bordered by a shoal of mud which considerably reduces
the available space. Good anchorage in 7.3 to 11.0 m (4 to
6 fm), mud bottom, may be had in the NW part of the bay.
The PERIS RIVER, navigable for small boats for 7 or 8
miles, empties into the head of the bay. A coral reef, which
50 reaches a width of 0.3 mile off Lian Point, borders the N
side of Peris Bay. Lian Point is very prominent and is 91.4
m (300 ft) high, less than 0.5 mile from shore.
A shoal, with a known depth of 10.1 m (5.5 fm) and
55 surrounded by deep water, is 6.3 miles SE of Lian Point.
Between Lian Point and Capuluan Point, about 5 miles
N, the coast is high and rugged and has a few dangers lying
off it. A shoal with 3.7 m (2 fm) over it is 2 miles N of Lian
60 Point and 0.5 mile offshore.
 CAPULUAN POINT, 5 miles N of Lian Point, is
low and is bordered by mangroves; 0.2 mile offshore a
prominent rock, bare except at the highest tides, marks the
outer end of the shore reef. A shoal with a depth of 0.4 m
(0.25 fm) is 1 mile E of Capuluan Point, and there is a 2.7 m
(1.5 fm) shoal between it and the point. The coves on both
sides of Capuluan Point are shoal and of no importance to
navigation.
CAPULUAN REEF is 2 miles E of the point of the
same name. The rocks are covered at high water. The
channel between the reef and the shoals off Capuluan Point
is 1 mile wide, deep and clear.
From CAPULUAN POINT, the coast trends NW 15
to the mouth of the Viñas River. As far as the town of
Guinayangan, the shore is fringed with mangroves and the
hills rise almost from the water’s edge. N of the town to
the Viñas River the land is low and flat for about 0.25 mile
and then rises abruptly to about 213 m (700 ft) in a series 20 protected from all but SW winds, may be found just inside
of narrow ridges.
GUINAYANGAN is the largest town in Ragay Gulf.
The pier extends 100 m from its shore. Good anchorage
may be found about 1 mile off the town in 5.5 m (3 fm),
mud bottom. Vessels call occasionally from Manila.
Major Light - Guinayangan Light (13° 53’ 55”N.,
122° 27’ 00”E.) is displayed from the town.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable exists
off Guinayangan. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in
the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Guinayangan may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63908-9495491, +63917-8428352 and +63919-8202734.
The head of Ragay Gulf between the town of
Guinayangan and Mambulao Point, about 6.2 miles ENE, is
indented in its NW and NE parts, respectively, by the mouth
of the Viñas River and by Tagkawayan Bay. The head of the
gulf is for the most part shoal and the water is exceedingly
muddy.
VIÑAS RIVER (CHART 4218) has 2.4 m (8 ft) of
water on the bar at low tide. Local knowledge is necessary
for entering. ALONEROS, 8 miles up this river, is a station
of the PNR.
MANATO (NEW ALONEROS), a station of the
Manila-Legazpi railroad line was the terminus of the ferry
service which operated to Ticao and Masbate Islands.
There is a small wharf formerly maintained by the PNR
and presently used by local small crafts. Gasoline, diesel
oil and lubricating oils are obtainable in small quantities.
SIBALUN ISLAND is a coral reef overgrown with
trees, some of which are 12 to 15 m (40 to 50 ft) high. At
half tide, the island is connected with the shore by a long
narrow sand bar. The former light structure on the island
marks the entrance to the channel leading into the mouth
of the Viñas River. The axis of the channel bears 274o from
the light structure.
5
ACHA REEF, with a depth of 0.6 m, is 1.6 miles
SSE Sibalun Island. Deep water surrounds the shoal, but
shoal water extends over 1 mile from Sibalun Island N,
with 0.9 m (0.5 fm) at its end. Care must be exercised when
10 navigating in this vicinity, as the water is often muddy and
the shoals not visible.
TAGKAWAYAN BAY, between Awasan Point on the
W and Mambulao Point on the E, extends 2.5 miles N. The
town of TAGKAWAYAN is at the head of this bay. Lumber
is shipped, being floated out from the TAGKAWAYAN
RIVER to the anchorage with the aid of landing barge.
About half of the bay is shoal. Good anchorage,
the entrance points in 9.1 to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm), mud bottom.
From MAMBULAO POINT, the coast trends in a
general SE direction for 22 miles to Bantuin Point with
25 indentations to NE forming Catabangan, Ragay, and Caima
Bays. Between Mambulao Point and Kilbay Point, 3 miles
SE, shoal water extends out about 0.3 mile. The KILBAY
RIVER empties into the gulf on the N side of the point of
the same name.
30
KILBAY POINT is the SW end of the island off the
mouth of Kilbay River. Kilbay Point Light (13° 53’ 07”N.,
122° 35’ 19”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the
point.
35
CATABANGAN BAY, between Kilbay Point and
Bagutayoc Point, is 4 miles wide and 1.5 miles in extent.
The shores are fringed with coral, and there is a 12.4 m
(6.75 fm) spot in the middle of the bay.
40
The CATABANGAN RIVER empties into the head
of the bay. Well-protected anchorage in depths from 11 to
14.6 m (6 to 8 fm), mud bottom, may be found off the mouth
of the river. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete pole for a proposed
45 light is located in the vicinity of the S entrance point of the
Catabangan River.
CATABANGAN, on the S bank of the river, is the site
of a sawmill. The lumber is floated out to the anchorage as
50 the pier was damaged and is still unserviceable. A small
amount of copra is also shipped. No fresh water, supplies or
repairs can be obtained. The nearest medical facilities are at
Tagkawayan. Vessels call irregularly at Catabangan.
55 PORT RAGAY, a small loading port for lumber and
copra, is located in the SE part of the bay in a position about
1.5 miles SE of the mouth of Catabangan River. There is a
small pier at this port. Facilities and labor are available for
rafting logs to the anchorage and for loading operations.
60
5-70
 The coast between Bagutayoc Point and Omon Point,
about 3 miles SE, is high and rugged. The former point
projects about 0.5 mile W from the general trend of the
coast.
OMON POINT, the NW entrance point to Ragay Bay
is high, clear, and steep-to. When entering Ragay Bay from
N, this point can be safely rounded within 0.1 mile.
RAGAY BAY, between Omon Point and Otoc Point,
is about 3 miles wide and 2 miles in extent. It is easy of
access, generally deep and clear.
The OMON, PACULALIN, RAGAY and APALI
RIVERS empty into the bay. These are all shallow, being
nearly closed by sand bars at low water. Good anchorage is
on the E side of the bay in 11 to 18.3 m (6 to 10 fm).
SABOON ISLAND, forming the E side of the
entrance, and separated from the mainland by a narrow
channel bare at low water, is conspicuous on account of a
chain of knolls or low hills that form its outline.
OTOC POINT, the SE entrance point to Ragay Bay,
is the W end of Saboon Island. Shoal water extends 0.8 mile
W of the island, and a rock awash is at the outer end of this
shoal. Vessels entering Ragay Bay should give Otoc Point a
berth of at least 1 mile.
CAIMA BAY is a large open area between Saboon 30
Island and Bantuin Point. Most of its shore is fringed
with coral, and a thin line of mangroves extends along
the beach. Good anchorage may be found in the cove SW
of BINAHAAN barrio in 9.1 to 14.6 m (5 to 8 fm), mud
bottom, and also near the NE side of Bantuin Point in 14.6 35
m (8 fm).
BANTUIN POINT, on the S side of Caima Bay, is an
excellent landmark from W to N. It appears as an island
from a distance, as the narrow neck of land connecting it
with the mainland is low. The point is 164.6 m (540 ft) high,
with a peculiarly shaped peak near its end. This peak is steep
seaward. The point curves to NW and, with the Carabang
and Galvaney Islands off its end, affords protection against
the SW monsoon.
CARABANG ISLAND, 59.4 m (195 ft) high, is 1
mile NW of Bantuin Point and is surrounded by deep water.
GALVANEY ISLAND, 73.2 m (240 ft) high, and a
large rock 12.2 m (40 ft) high, are on the reef extending
from Bantuin Point. They are steep-to on the gulf side, but
the water is very shoal between them and the point.
4 miles SE of Bantuin Point and about 1 mile inland is
a prominent peak, 494 m (1,620 ft) high, with a white scar
or spot on its side, visible from near Arena Point and from
nearly all parts of the gulf N.
From Bantuin Point, the coast trends SE for 17 miles
5-71
to Pasacao Anchorage. The shore is steep-to, and the land
rises rapidly to the first range of hills which are over 305 m
(1,000 ft) high.
5 The TINALMUD RIVER enters the gulf near
WAGAS POINT, about 2 miles S of the 494 m (1,620
ft) peak. BAGULAYA POINT, BURI POINT, AND
TANAUAN POINT are on this coast. The barrio of
DALOPAON is on the beach between the latter two points.
10 There is an anchorage off the barrio but necessarily close in
on account of the great depth of water.
PASACAO ANCHORAGE (CHART 4454) is
between PASACAO POINT and Refugio Island. The cove
15 is about 1 mile in extent, but the shore is fringed by a reef,
with sand and mud over it, which considerably lessens the
available anchorage area. The anchorage is in 5.5 to 9.1
m (3 to 5 fm), mud bottom, but is exposed to the SW. At
times a choppy sea sets in and makes landing on the beach
20 through the surf dangerous.
Major Light - Pasacao Light (13° 30’ 15”N., 123° 02’
12”E.) is displayed from a tower on Pasacao Point.
25 Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable
exists in Pasacao Anchorage. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
PASACAO is a town at the head of the cove, in
the valley leading through the high land to the town of
Pamplona and to the Bicol River Valley.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Pasacao, which may be contacted at
telephone no. (+6354) 513-9172. Vessels wishing to berth
should notify the TMO 24 hrs before ETA. The port can
accommodate vessels with 1,000 GRT or lower.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
40 Pasacao may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63920-
1219788.
Berthing Facilities - PPA operates a 110 m long
concrete pier connected to a 34 m long causeway. A RoRo
45 ramp is available. Controlling draft for the pier is 3 m below
MLLW. It has a 4,640 sq m open storage area.
Just NE of the PPA pier is the municipal fish port
having a 150 m long pier. The pier of Shell Oil Depot is
50 located just W of Pasacao Point.
Port Services - Cargo handling service providers are
available. One unit of forklift is available. Fresh water is
supplied through pipelines. Fuel is delivered by lorries at
55 the port.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels and is provided
by Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association. Vessel’s agents should
notify the harbor district of the vessel’s ETA 24 hrs before
60 arrival. Confirmation must also be sent 3 hrs before arrival.
Pilots may be contacted through the following means:
Telephone no: (+6352) 480-5423
Fax no: (+6352) 481-2875
Address: RM. 2-206 PVLB Bldg 6, Penaranda St.,
Legazpi City
Tugs with limited capacity are available from the pilot
association.
REFUGIO ISLAND, 61 m (200 ft) high, is fringed
by a steep-to coral reef extending about 137 m (150 yds) to
the S. The channel between this island and Luzon is deep
and clear but reduced to about 0.25 mile by a coral reef
extending 0.3 mile off the Luzon shore. Fish traps, 0.4 mile
NW of the island, in 21.9 m (12 fm), further constrict the
channel.
From Pasacao Anchorage to Macoto Point, the coast
is high, steep-to and generally bordered by a sand beach.
SIBONO POINT is conspicuous on account of its two
peaks standing out sharply from the higher background.
TONGON POINT has a precipitous bluff 61 m (200
ft) high on its S side, the N side being low. Between these
two points is JAMURAON BAY, an open bight with the
barrio of JAMURAON at its head. Anchorage may be had
close to shore in front of the town in 5.5 to 11.0 m (3 to 6
fm), but the bottom drops away steeply outside of this shelf.
CAURUSAN POINT may be recognized by its
pyramidal shape, the cogon on the S side of the extreme
point, and the steep valley S of it.
SIRAMAG BAY is a shallow indentation between
Caurusan and Coguit Points. The town of Balatan and
Siramag River are at the head of the bay.
BALATAN is the town located about 0.5 mile SE of
Caurusan Point. Limited supplies are available from the
public market, grocery, and local stores. Minor repairs
can be availed from welding and vulcanizing shops in the
town. Piped water system and an ice plant are available at
the poblacion. The barangay health stations are the only
existing medical facilities. Postal services, mobile phone,
and telephone are the available means of communication.
The town is connected by road with Pasacao.
Major Lights - Port Balatan Light (13° 19’ 45”N.,
123° 13’ 32”E.) is displayed from a white tower in the
poblacion.
Laganac Light (13° 20’ 36”N., 123° 12’ 42”E.) is
displayed from a tower located about 1 mile NW of Port
Balatan Light.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Balatan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +0998-
5855731 and +0917-8427406.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 90 m long pier
located at the mouth of Siramag River for use of fishing and
passenger boats.
5 Anchorage - Small vessels usually anchor about 0.2
mile off the town’s shoreline.
COGUIT POINT, a low brush-covered point with a
sandy beach, has a coral reef extending several hundred m
10 offshore. A conspicuous cogon-covered hill is between the
point and the higher ridge back of the shore.
BEDAL POINT, 2 miles SE of Coguit Point, is fringed
by coral. A detached coral reef awash is about 0.3 mile 180o
15 from Bedal Point. This is the only danger along this coast
N of Pantao Bay.
An outcrop of light-colored rock forming a vertical
cliff about 36 m (118 ft) high at the top of the cogon-
20 covered ridge about 2.5 miles N of Pantao Bay is a good
landmark for this vicinity.
PANTAO BAY affords good anchorage exposed to
NW. MOUNT PANTAO, 460 m (1,510 ft) high, is easily
25 recognized and forms a good leading mark for entering the
bay. A wharf with a RoRo ramp is at the head of the bay.
Pilotage for this port is compulsory for all vessels and
is being provided by Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association.
30 Pilots may be contacted through the following means:
Telephone no: (+6352) 480-5423
Fax no: (+6352) 481-2875
Address: RM. 2-206 PVLB Bldg 6, Penaranda St.,
35 Legazpi City
CAUNBALAN POINT is fringed by a coral reef. The
point is high with a number of large rocks at the foot of the
cliffs.
40
APUD POINT, 2.8 miles SW of Caunbalan Point, is
a low rounding point covered with mangroves, brush, and
scattered coconut trees.
45 APUD REEF is a large rocky reef that bares over an
area about 1 mile long N and S by 0.5 mile wide. Another
rock awash at low water is about 0.8 mile NW of the main
reef. The channel between Apud Reef and Apud Point is
about 0.3 mile wide, with a 5 m (2.75 fm) shoal in mid-
50 channel N of the point, to which it is connected by a ridge
covered by somewhat deeper water. The channel W of the
5 m (2.75 fm) shoal has a depth of 14.6 m (8 fm). Fairly
good protection is obtained in MABATO BAY E of Apud
Reef, but vessels should anchor well toward the point.
55
MACOTO POINT, 5 miles S of Apud Point, is bold
and very prominent. The shoreline consists of cliffs from
3.7 to 24.4 m (12 to 80 ft) high. Three timbered hills on the
point, the highest 73.2 m (240 ft), and the low land back of
60 the hills give the point the appearance of an island from N
5-72
or S. A shoal with a depth of 4.1 m (2.25 fm) is almost 1
mile NW of the point.
BAGADAMOLAG ISLET is about 0.25 mile SE of
the point just off the shore reef.
CAGMANABA BAY, S of Macoto Point, affords
protection from all seas except from S. A hill 32 m (105
ft) high, close to the shore near the head of the bay, and
MOUNT CABURAUAN, 473 m (1,552 ft) high, 2 miles
inland, are useful marks for navigation in this vicinity.
CABARIAN POINT, the E entrance point to Ragay
Gulf, is fringed by a coral reef about 0.1 mile wide. An 18.3
m (10 fm) bank is 1 mile W of the point. The point itself is
low and wooded, but it may be readily identified by a 93.6
m (307 ft) hill about 0.5 mile N and close to the coast.
Major Light - Cabarian Point Light (13° 00’ 34”N.,
123° 19’ 11”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the
point.
BURIAS ISLAND
(CHART 1541, 1542, 4218, & 4454)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress in the
vicinity of Burias Island may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
BURIAS PASS, a wide and deep channel, connects
Ticao Pass with Ragay Gulf and separates the E side of
Burias Island from the S coast of Luzon. The least width
found in the pass is 7.5 miles, between Cabarian Point and
Siargao Point, on the SE side of Burias Island.
TEMPLO ISLAND, nearly 3 miles NW of Cueva
Point, the NW point of Burias, is 3 miles long NW and SE
and 0.8 mile wide. There are detached rocks on the reef
that borders its S shore and also on the reef that extends
0.5 mile to NE from its N end. The major settlement on
the island is located at the head of the small bay formed by
island’s E coastline.
SOMBRERO ISLANDS, 1.8 miles W of the S end of
Templo, consist of two islets close together on a reef which
extends a mile NW and SE. The small one is 32.6 m (107
ft) high and the larger one is low and covered with brush.
ARENA ISLET, about 2.5 miles W by N of the
smaller Sombrero Islands, is on a circular reef about 0.5
mile in diameter. Shoal water extends 0.5 mile NE of the
island and a bank with 14.6 m (8 fm) over it is 1 mile N.
INAGUARAN SHOAL, separated from Arena Islet by a
deep channel about 1 mile wide, is 1.8 miles N of it. The
depth on this shoal is 35.9 m (0.25 fm).
BUSING ISLAND, separated by a narrow tortuous
channel with the N end of Burias, is 2 miles long, 1 mile
wide, and 81 m (265 ft) high. A coral reef borders the shore.
5-73
The TINALISAYAN ISLETS are on a coral reef 1.5 miles
NW of the W end of Busin Island. The channel between
them and Busin island has 12.8 m (7 fm) of water.
5 TANGUINGUI ISLET is located about 1.2 miles N
of the above islets and is fringed by a reef. The channel
between this islet and Tinalisayan Islets has several shoal
patches in it, the least depth being 4.6 m (2.5 fm).
10 A steep-to 6.3 m (3.5 fm) patch lies about 0.7 mile N of
Tanguingui Islet, with a deep passage between.
A detached shoal with 2.7 m (1.5 fm) of water over it
is 2.3 miles N of COLORADO POINT, the N extremity of
15 Burias.
ANIMA SOLA is a small island, 34.7 m (114 ft) high,
4.8 miles NE of Colorado Point.
20 BURIAS ISLAND, at the entrance to Ragay Gulf,
is 37 miles long NW and SE, 8 miles wide near the NW
end, and tapers to a narrow point at the SE. The island is
generally mountainous and thinly wooded. The coast is
steep and generally bordered by coral reefs, with a few
25 stretches of sand beach. The population is small, and the
principal products are rice and hemp.
Caution - When approaching Burias Island from the
W in thick weather, such as occurs in the SW monsoon, the
30 S part of the island may be hidden and the slope of Mount
Engañoso may be mistaken for the end of the island, a
mistake which has caused the loss of several vessels.
PORT BUSING (CHART 4454) is the only typhoon
35 anchorage on the N and W coast of Burias Island. It is formed
by a channel between Busing and Burias Islands. The W
entrance is narrow and crooked and is very dangerous for
sailing vessels. A large white cliff on the W end of Busing
Island makes a good landmark when approaching this
40 entrance. Keeping this cliff on a 070o bearing will clear the
reef that makes out on the W side of the entrance.
The N entrance is preferable, being almost straight and
its banks steep-to. This entrance may be easily recognized
45 by Colorada Point, the N cape of Burias, which is higher
than Busing Island and shows yellow patches among trees
that cover it. The coast near the entrance may also be
recognized by the massive bluffs. To enter, round Colorada
Point at a distance of 0.3 mile and keep in mid-channel. The
50 coast of Burias Island that forms the S side of the port is
fringed by coral reefs and indented by several coves. These
coves are for the most part foul, but deep water lies close
off their entrance points.
55 Major Light - San Pascual Light (13° 08’ 52”N., 122°
59’ 02”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Colorada
Point.
SAN PASCUAL is the major settlement in this part
60 of Burias Island. It has a pier with RoRo ramp that serves
vessels carrying passengers and cargo calling regularly
from Pasacao, Masbate City and Lucena. Cattle are shipped
to Manila. The government maintains a post office in the
town. Mobile phone services are available.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Pascual may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8426681 and +63998-5854331.
Anchorage - The best anchorage is off the town, about
midway between the entrances in 18.3 m (10 fm), mud
bottom. Anchorage is made in mid-channel off the landing.
Between Port Busing and Port Busainga, 4 miles to the
SE, the coast forms LAORENTE BAY. The bay is open,
with coral reefs and shoals extending 0.8 mile offshore in
the E part.
PORT BUSAINGA (CHART 4454) is an excellent
typhoon anchorage for small vessels. The shore on either
side of the narrow entrance channel is very irregular and
is indented by several small coves which dry at low water.
About 1 mile within the entrance point, the harbor opens
out to a width of over 1 mile, but it is very shallow. The
channel leading into the inner anchorage is about 91.5 m
(100 yds) wide at its narrowest point. A deep but contracted
anchorage for larger vessels is in 21.9 m (12 fm), mud
bottom, about midway in the channel between NORTH
POINT and ESTERO POINT.
Directions - To enter Port Busainga, bring PIEDRAS
POINT to bear 270o. Steer for it on this bearing, being
careful not to be set onto the 3.7 m (2 fm) shoal 0.1 mile
E of the point. When the E tangent to BOCA POINT bears
175o, steer a mid-channel course on 210o and anchor when
the S tangent to MEDIO ISLAND bears 253o. A rocky reef,
bare at low water, extends 119 m (130 yds) N of MEDIO
POINT.
Vessels drawing up to 3.7 m (12 ft) can pass into the 40
lagoon by continuing the mid-channel courses until past
RESTINGA POINT. Then bring CAYMAN POINT and
SOUTH BOCA ISLET, at the entrance to the inlet, in range.
Steer this range carefully to avoid the shoal 0.12 mile W
of ADENTRO POINT. Continue on this course until the 45
brown cliff on the W shore bears 253o. Steer for the cliff
and anchor in 3.7 m (2 fm), mud bottom, about in the center
of the lagoon. Entrance into Port Busainga, especially into
the lagoon, should only be attempted with the chart or with
local knowledge. 50
The larger of the BOCA ISLETS is 17.1 m (56 ft) high
and wooded, the smaller one is 13.7 m (45 ft) high and
covered with cogon. They are near the outer edge of the
coral reef extending 0.3 mile offshore N of Port Busainga.
DAMPALAN BAY, about 5 miles SE of Port Busainga,
is almost filled with coral reefs. The location of the bay,
with its reefs, can be easily recognized by the junction of
the cogon-covered hills S with the higher-timbered hills N
of BAGABARCO POINT. SE of Dampalan Bay the coral
reefs widen out to about 0.5 mile.
At SAN PINETAN POINT, a coral reef extends 2
5 miles SE, and at SIARGAO POINT a coral reef extends
2 miles NW. Between these reefs is NONOC BAY which
affords anchorage in 23.8 to 25.6 m (13 to 14 fm), mud
bottom. The channel and the anchorage area, however, are
constricted by the shore reef and a detached group of reefs at
10 the entrance. The junction between the cogon-covered hills
and higher-timbered hills should be brought to bear 225o
when not less than 2.5 miles offshore. Enter on this course
and anchor behind the reef either N or S of the entrance.
The junction between cogon and timber is not well defined
15 and great care should be used in entering the first time.
The broad coral reef fringing the shore of Nonoc Bay
continues around Siargao Point and as far as MADANLOG
POINT. From Madanlog Point to Aguja Point, the SE
20 point of Burias Island, the coast is steep-to, with a narrow
coral reef and sand beach.
CLAVERIA, located 0.4 mile SSE of Siargao Point,
has a wharf connected to shore by a causeway. The town
25 has a government hospital. Telephone and mobile phone
services are available.
PORT BOCA ENGAÑO (CHART 4454), about
midway on this stretch of coast, is not recommended as
30 an anchorage. The water is deep, bottom hard, and little
swinging room. A coral shoal is in the entrance, and a mud-
covered reef fills the head of the bay. The land back of the
bay is low, affording no protection from the wind during a
typhoon.
35
Directions - To enter, bring the bold bluff of
CASTILLO POINT to bear 235o, and steer for it until the
tangent to TRES MARIAS POINT bears 118o. Then, steer
156o, taking care to avoid the coral shoal at the entrance,
and anchor in 29.3 m (16 fm) with the tangent to Tres
Marias Point bearing 038o.
AGUJA POINT is bold and free from danger, the land
sloping gradually from MOUNT SAGURUN, 221 m (725
ft) high, about 3 miles NW of the point. The point is marked
by Punta Aguja Light (12° 41’ 46”N., 123° 23’ 00”E.).
From CUEVA POINT, the NW point of Burias
Island, the coast trends S for 5 miles to Guinduganan Point.
A 5 m (2.75 fm) shoal is 0.5 mile SW of Cueva Point and
a 2.3 m (1.25 fm) shoal and rock awash are at the entrance
to ALIMANGO BAY. The coast is bordered by an irregular
coral reef. There is an indifferent anchorage in Alimango
Bay, and no protection from the sea.
55
From GUINDUGANAN POINT, the coast trends
SE for 33 miles to Aguja Point. The shore is steep and
bordered by coral reefs interspersed with sand and gravel
beaches. There are several small bays which offer but slight
60 protection.
5-74
 GUINDUGANAN BAY, just S of the point of the
same name, and ILOG BAY, 6 miles farther along, are the
most important.
MOUNT ENGAÑOSO, 427.6 m (1,403 ft) high, the
highest point on Burias Island, is about 12 miles NW from
Aguja Point and is the only good landmark along this coast.
NABASAGAN BAY is the small bay SW of Mount
Engañoso. A shoal with a depth of 4.7 m is about 0.24 mile
SW of the E entrance to the bay.
Major Light - Malapingan Light (12° 50’ 44”N., 123°
12’ 00”E.) is displayed from a white tower at Malapingan
Point, which is the W entrance point of the Nabasagan Bay.
NABASAGAN is the barrio at the head of Nabasagan
Bay. It is connected by road to the town of Claveria.
There is a group of shoals with a rock awash at low
water 1 mile from shore, W of Mount Engañoso; 4.6 m (2.5
fm) is shown 0.5 mile N, 5.5 m (3 fm) 0.5 mile W, and 1.8
m (1 fm) 0.5 mile SW from the rock awash. There is a 12.8
m (70 fm) channel between these shoals and the shore, but
it is not recommended for vessels without local knowledge.
Vessels should keep well offshore when navigating in this
vicinity.
GORRION ISLET is 4.5 miles ESE of Malapingan
Point, the W point of NABASAGAN BAY, and on the outer
part of the shore reef which extends about 0.3 mile from
the point. Both the cove to N of the islet and that to the S
are foul.
From Gorrion Islet, the reef extends along the coast
to the SE for about 4 miles and is about 0.5 mile wide in
places with shoals still further offshore. The remainder of
this coast for 6 miles to Aguja Point is steep and clear.
CABARIAN POINT TO SAN
BERNARDINO STRAIT
(CHART 1515, 1541, 4220, 4258 & 4258A)
From Cabarian Point, the coast trends ENE for about
6 miles to the head of Panganiran Bay. SOLITARIO
ISLAND, 10.4 m (34 ft) high, is about 2 miles E of Cabarian
Point and 0.5 mile offshore to which it is connected by a
reef with very little water over it. Vessels should keep well
S of the islet to avoid the shoal water extending off this
coast.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress may
contact the remotely controlled coast stations with VHF
DSC alerting in the ports of Legazpi and Sorsogon. The
VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea area about 25
miles from the said ports. Vessels in distress that are outside
of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast stations may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
5-75
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
PANGANIRAN BAY is a large bay open to S.
Bagalayog Point is prominent and affords a small amount of
5 protection to a vessel anchoring close E or W of it. A number
of small barrios are scattered along this coast, of which
MAGRADONGDONG is the largest. It is distinguished by
a metal-roofed building. A highway is being extended to
PIO DURAN (PANGANIRAN) from the interior.
10
PIO DURAN (PANGANIRAN), located about
3.2 miles W of Bagalayog Point, has a 100 m long rock
causeway. Fish, ice, copra, coconut and fuel oils are being
transported to and from Claveria. Passengers also travel
15 back and forth from Claveria and San Pascual.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Pio
Duran may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63947-
8108220, +63998-5854632, and +63917-8426859.
20
From the head of Panganiran Bay, the rather steep-to
coast trends SE in a rather unbroken line for 10 miles to
CATUNDULAN POINT, the W entrance point to Tinanogan
Bay. The latter point has bright sand cliffs varying in height
25 from 18 to 33 m (60 to 110 ft) and makes a good landmark
when making Donsol from the N. The point is wooded with
the exception of one small patch of cogon near the cliff
on the SW side. Sunken coral heads and a reef that bares
extend about 0.1 mile off the point.
30
TINANOGAN BAY, E of Catundulan Point, has a flat
sand beach that bares a considerable distance offshore.
PAMPANG POINT, the E entrance point, is
35 composed of light colored cliffs about 12.2 m (40 ft) high,
but otherwise, is not very prominent.
DONSOL RIVER is 1.7 miles SE of Pampang Point.
The mouth of the river is fronted by wide sand banks. Fish
40 traps are numerous 0.5 mile off the town. The bar at the
mouth of the river is shoal and can be crossed by small
boats only at high tide. A rock lies awash about 0.25 mile
SW of Donsol Light.
45 DONSOL on the E bank of the DONSOL RIVER is the
shipping point for the surrounding area. Several galvanized
iron-roofed buildings identify the town. Copra is shipped
in moderate quantities being conveyed by lighter from the
river to the anchorage during high water.
50
There is a resident physician in the town. There is a
post office in the town. Bus transportation to Sorsogon
and other towns is available. The town became prominent
because of the presence of whale sharks in its seas.
55
Major Light - Donsol Light (12° 54’ 26”N., 123° 35’
25”E.) is displayed from a white wooden-framed tower at
the E bank of Donsol River. It is visible in Tinanogan Bay
S of 136o.
60
 Caution - The waters off Donsol are known to be
visited by whale sharks, locally known as butanding.
Mariners are informed that whale sharks are protected by
law. Caution must be made when transiting the area to avoid
the collision and harming of the whale sharks. The whale
shark season in Donsol starts from November to May. The
peak season is from February to April. Mariners are advised
to be more cautious during this season.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Donsol may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5854655 and +63917-8426835.
Anchorage - Vessels calling at Donsol anchor
according to draft with the light bearing 025o.
From Donsol to Port Putiao, the coast is low with a
continuous sand beach. The OGOD RIVER, emptying
about 1.5 miles E of Donsol, is shoal at its mouth but
deepens to over 2.1 m (7 ft) above the bridge on the Donsol-
Pilar Road.
DUMAQUIT POINT, the W entrance point to Port
Putiao, is covered with cogon and small trees and shows a
level profile almost to the 9.1 m (30 ft) vertical cliffs at its
end. A shoal with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm) is 1 mile SSW of
the point and rocks awash at low water are about 0.32 mile
E of Dumaquit Point at the entrance to Port Putiao. Another
shoal with depth of 8.9 m is located about 2.5 miles SSE of
Dumaquit Point.
PORT PUTIAO, between Dumaquit Point and Cutcut
Point, extends 3.5 miles N, the N part being known as Pilar
Bay. The shores of Port Putiao are foul, and the entire bay
is shoal.
Major Light - Pilar Light (12° 53’ 25”N., 123° 39’
42”E.) is displayed from a white tower on QUIDAVID
POINT.
MALBUG RIVER, emptying into the NE part of Pilar
Bay, is an important means of communication and with its
branches drains a prosperous agricultural country.
PILAR is the most important town on the bay. A wharf
located on the shore, S part of the town, is a busy traffic
of sea-borne passengers and trade. Usual cargoes are fish,
rice, copra, bottled goods, and ice. Passengers conveyed
between the provinces of Sorsogon and Masbate.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Pilar
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5855207
and +63917-8427041.
Directions - To come to anchorage off Pilar, when well
outside the line joining Dumaquit and Cutcut Points bring
the point 0.8 mile N of TINGCO POINT to bear 029o and
steer for it until DOÑA ANA ISLAND bears 314o; steer
for the island, and when Quidavid Point bears 186o, round
to N and bring the church in Pilar to bear 030o; hold this
course and anchor when PUNAHUAN ISLAND, the small
islet SW of SAN ANTONIO, bears 080o. These courses
carry about 2.4 m (8 ft) at low water; the narrowest part of
the channel is E of Doña Ana Island with about 0.21 mile
5 between the 1.8 m (6 ft) curves.
PORT PANLATUAN, between Cutcut Point and
Bantigui Point, is nearly filled with banks and reefs.
MECAPIOT BAY, in the NW part of Port Panlatuan, is
10 an excellent typhoon anchorage for vessels drawing up to
3.7 m (12 ft). The N arm of the port is narrow and of little
importance.
A shoal spit, with two rocks lying awash on its outer
15 end, extends nearly 0.8 mile SSE from Cutcut Point. A reef
which dries, extends 1.2 miles W from the E shore, just
inside the outer entrance.
Directions - From a position about 1.5 miles S of
20 Cutcut Point, bring the E tangent of the point on which the
village of PANLATUAN stands to bear 020o and steer for
it. This course will clear the rocks awash at low water 0.6
mile S of Cutcut Point. On this bearing, a light-colored cliff
or bank on QUIRAGOSNOS POINT will be on range with
25 the point; hold the range until within 0.2 mile of Panlatuan;
then change course to pass through the narrow part in mid-
channel. Round PANLATUAN POINT, keeping close to
the point, and anchor in 3.7 m (2 fm), sticky mud bottom,
about 0.3 mile NW of the point.
30
BANTIGUI POINT is low, rocky and wooded with a
shore composed of gravel and clay cliffs. Macalaya Light
(12° 52’ 31”N., 123° 46’ 23”E.) is located about 3.2 miles
NE of Bantigui Point.
35
SORSOGON BAY is the largest and best harbor in
the S Luzon and a good refuge in case of a typhoon or colla
and for effecting repairs. The entrance is divided into 3
channels by Malaumauan and Bagatao Islands. The channel
40 between these 2 islands is the only practicable for ordinary
vessels; the others between the islands and the coast, being
narrow and shoal.
The depth at the entrance is 8.2 m to 38 m, decreasing
45 gradually toward the head of the bay. The seaward faces
of the island on the N side of the channel are steep-to, and
a vessel keeping in mid-channel is clear of all dangers.
There are a number of towns on the shores of Sorsogon
Bay, of which Sorsogon, the capital of Sorsogon Province,
50 Casiguran, and Castilla are the most important.
Major Lights - Vessels entering Sorsogon Bay should
take note of the following lights, which are both located on
Bagatao Island:
55
Bagatao Island Light (12° 49’ 56”N., 123° 47’ 31”E.)
is displayed from a white tower on the rocky headland
forming the S point of the W end of the island.
60 Sorsogon Bay Light (12° 50’ 10”N., 123° 47’ 30”E.) is
5-76
displayed about 0.23 mile N of Bagatao Island Light.
Caution - A submarine cable area exists from Sorsogon
City to the vicinity of Dibughan Island. Submarine cables
were also laid along the narrow entrance of the bay and
lands at Castilla. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
within the vicinity of the submarine cables.
Fish traps and stakes abound in Sorsogon Bay and a
close watch must be maintained to guard against them.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress in Sorsogon
Bay may contact the Coast Guard station in Sorsogon
City at mobile phone nos. +63998-5893952 and +63917-
8427008.
Anchorage - Large vessels can find good, sheltered
anchorage N of Bagatao Island, abreast of a small sand
beach immediately W of Tinacos Island. Small vessels will
find a good typhoon anchorage behind Sablayan Island.
Anchorage may also be taken up anywhere in Sorsogon
Bay according to draft.
MALAUMAUAN ISLAND, at the W side of the
main channel, is low, flat, wooded and surrounded by white
sandy beaches. A long narrow spit extends N from the
island, leaving a narrow channel between it and the shoal
water off the mainland. A rocky shoal, bare in places at low
water, extends 1.3 miles SW of the island. A buoy marks
the S edge of this rocky bank. The bottom E of the island
shelves gradually with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm) about 0.22
mile from shore.
BAGATAO ISLAND, forming the E side of the main
entrance, is of moderate height and wooded. The E end is
126.5 m (415 ft) high. The coasts, except those of the SE
side, are clear and bold. A bank of fine, black sand, with
soundings of from 18.3 to 29.3 m (10 to 16 fm), extends
about 3 miles SW of Bagatao Island and offers anchorage
to vessels unable to reach the port. A shoal, with a depth of
5.5 m (3 fm), lies about 0.5 mile SSE of the W extremity of
the island. The W end of the island is marked by Bagatao
Island Light and Sorsogon Bay Light.
A group of small islets and dangers lie on the NW side
of the channel within the entrance. They are separated from
the coast of Luzon to the N by a narrow and foul channel.
The main channel passes SE of these dangers.
TOMALAYTAY ISLET, the W of the above islets,
lies nearly 0.5 mile off the N shore and about 2.8 miles
ENE of Malaumauan Island. Foul ground connects the islet
to the shore N, and a 3.7 m (2 fm) patch is located 0.8 mile
WSW of the islet.
MARIRIGI ISLET, the S islet of the group, is 22.9 m
(75 ft) high and lies about 1 mile ENE of Tomalaytay Islet.
LAVAMPA ISLAND, 35.1 m (115 ft) high, lies about
0.3 mile NE of Maririgi Islet. MATAGDAC ISLET, 57.9 m
5-77
(190 ft) high, lies about the same distance N of Lavampa
Islet. Rocks and dangers lie close off the coasts of these
islets, and an 8.8 m (4.75 fm) patch lies about 0.5 mile NE
of Matagdac Islet.
5
DIBUGHAN ISLET lies close off PALINAUAN
POINT on the N side of the inner entrance to the wide part
of the bay.
10 TINACOS ISLAND, 12.2 m (40 ft) high, lies 0.25
mile N of the NE extremity of Bagatao Island.
The SE side of the channel between Tinacos island
and MACUHIL POINT, about 3 miles NE, is somewhat
15 indented by shallow coves, but the water is deep off the
projecting points.
MAGALLANES ROCK, the outer danger on this
side of the channel, lies awash in a position about 0.15 mile
20 N of Macuhil Point.
SABLAYAN ISLAND, 130.5 m (428 ft) high and
wooded, extends about 1.5 miles SE from its W extremity,
located about 1.5 miles ENE of Macuhil Point. The island
25 is separated from the coast to the SW by a narrow and
shallow channel.
Directions - To enter the anchorage between Macuhil
Point and Sablayan Island, bring Palinauan Point to bear
30 316o when well outside a line joining Macuhil Point and the
N end of Sablayan Island, and steer 136o to an anchorage
in mid-channel SW of the sandy point. This channel carries
about 2.7 m (9 ft) at low water. Magallanes Rock constitutes
a serious danger to navigation in this vicinity.
35
MACALAYA is the barrio at the head of a small bay at
N coast of the entrance of Sorsogon Bay. It has a small pier,
which is connected to the shore by a causeway. Macalaya
River discharges its waters W of the barrio. Macalaya Light
40 (12° 52’ 31”N., 123° 46’ 23”E.) is displayed from the barrio.
SORSOGON CITY, located on the N shore near the
head of the bay, is of considerable commercial importance
and the capital of the province of the same name. Food
45 supplies, Diesel oil and gasoline are obtainable. There
are several small hotels and a provincial hospital. Public
bus connection to other towns is maintained. Postal,
telephone, Internet connection, and mobile phone services
are available. Motor boats run regularly to Magallanes,
50 Bulan, and to San Jacinto on Ticao Island. Copra and hemp
form the principal cargo. The church tower in the town is a
prominent landmark.
The water off the city is very shallow, the 5.5 m (3 fm)
55 curve in the direction of the approach being nearly 3 miles
from the town. A depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) will be found about
1.5 miles SW from the town and vessels should proceed
cautiously and anchor according to draft. The water shoals
gradually toward the head of the bay, the 3 and 5 fm (5.5
60 and 9.1 m) curves being found 3 and 7 miles, respectively,
from the town of Sorsogon, and the bottom is soft mud.
Caution - A submarine cable area terminates at
the coast of Sorsogon City. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited within the vicinity of the submarine cables.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Sorsogon City may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63998-5893952 and +63917-8427008.
Berthing Facilities of the city consist of a 60 m long
government pier connected to a 127 m long causeway.
Cargo handling services is provided by a local company.
Pilotage is provided by pilots from Legazpi City,
which may be contacted through the following means:
Telephone no: (+6352) 480-5423
Fax no: (+6352) 481-2875
Address: RM. 2-206 PVLB Bldg 6, Penaranda St.,
Legazpi City 4500
Directions - Vessels bound for Sorsogon should, when
within 4 miles of Bagatao Island Light, keep the light
between 350o and 067o. When the Bagatao Island Light
bears 060o and distant 1 mile, steer 017o until Sorsogon
Bay Light bears 114o. Change course to 064o, steering for
Macuhil Point, until Lavampa Island bears 348o. Then steer
038o until Macuhil Point E tangent bears 150o, when a 066o
course leads a little S of the town of Sorsogon.
CASTILLA is a small town on a low bluff on the NW
shore of Sorsogon Bay. It is an occasional port of call for
vessels. The town’s berthing facilities include a pier with a
48 m by 7 m RoRo ramp.
Major Light - Castilla Light (12° 56’ 52”N., 123° 52’
54”E.) is shown from a white tower at the N entrance point
of DOLOGNAN RIVER.
Caution - A submarine cable lands at Castilla from
Sorsogon Bay. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited within
the vicinity of the submarine cable.
CASIGURAN is in the SE angle of Sorsogon Bay.
It has a concrete pier at the waterfront. Interisland vessels
call regularly at Casiguran, anchoring 1.2 miles NW of the
town.
Major Light - Casiguran Light (12° 52’ 31”N., 124°
00’ 30”E.) is shown from a white tower on the shore fronting
the church. A telecommunication tower stands about 80 m
SW of the light.
MAGALLANES is a small but growing port on a
point of land abreast the E end of Bagatao Island. It is a
regular point of call for interisland vessels. A causeway,
with a pier at the offshore end, extends from NW coast of
the town. A narrow, deep channel leads to it from N, but
only 2.4 m (8 ft) at low water can be carried across the bar
SE of Bagatao Island.
Caution - Overhead power cables crosses the channel
between Magallanes and Bagatao Island. The cables are
5 unmarked and distinguishable only at very close distance.
From MAGALLANES, the coast trends S for 11
miles to SABANG POINT and is mostly sand beach
shelving off gradually into deep water. The shoreline is
10 broken by numerous shallow tidal sloughs that may be
entered by small boats only at high water. The country back
of the beach slopes gradually to the foothills of MOUNT
BINTACAN and MOUNT CULANGALAN and, being
intersected by numerous ravines, has the appearance of
15 a roughly rolling country partly cultivated and partly
timbered.
BULAN, the most important town on this part of the
coast is on the N bank of the Sabang River N of Sabang
20 Point. It is distinguished by Verde Hill in the background.
Passenger boats from Masbate call regularly. Local and
foreign vessels loading or unloading cement, bottles and
fish also call at Bulan.
25 Medical and dental assistance are available from local
practitioners and hospitals. Postal, telephone, mobile phone
and Internet services are available. Major banks are also
present. Small welding jobs can be performed.
30 Major Light - Bulan Light (12° 39’ 54”N., 123° 52’
24”E.) is displayed from a white tower located inside the
Coast Guard station near the foot of the pier.
Tides - The mean tidal range in Bulan is about 0.9 m (3
35 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1.2 m (3.9 ft).
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Bulan. Vessels calling at Bulan should contact
the TMO 24 hrs before ETA. The port can accommodate
40 vessels with 1,000 GRT and below.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Bulan
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5855218
and +63917-8426863.
45
Berthing Facilities - The government pier, with a
RoRo ramp, is connected to the shore by a 200 m long
causeway. The average depth alongside the pier is 2.5 m
(8.2 ft) at its SW side and 1.8 m (5.9 ft) at the NE side.
50
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available.
Fresh water and bunkering are available from local
suppliers.
55 Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels and provided
by Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association. The pilotage district
should be advised of the vessel’s ETA 24 hrs before.
Confirmation must be done 3 hrs before ETA. Pilot
association may be contacted at telephone no. (+6352) 480-
60 5423 and fax no. (+6352) 481-2875.
5-78
 Tugs of limited capacity are available from the pilot
association. Local shipping companies in the area also have
tugboats.
Directions - Vessels bound for Bulan bring the light or
the church to bear 075o and anchor in 9.1 to 18.3 m (5 to 10
fm) 0.6 mile from shore.
VERDE HILL, a green cogon-covered hill 146.3
m (480 ft) high, is 3 miles E of Bulan and stands out
prominently against the darker timbered hills back of it.
The coast between Sabang Point and Agnas Point,
about 3.2 miles SE, is slightly indented in its S part by
UTABE BAY. The bay is fully exposed to the W, but
temporary anchorage can be taken about 0.5 mile from the
head of the bay in depths of over 9.1 m (5 fm).
AGNAS POINT is a conspicuous flat-topped, cogon-
covered bluff 36.6 m (120 ft) high with almost vertical
reddish slopes that are practically bare. The timber extends
out within a short distance of the bluff and the skyline is
rugged.
BUTAG BAY, E of Agnas Point, is about 0.8 mile
wide and extends 0.8 mile NE. The head of the bay is shoal,
but practically protected anchorage may be had in 12.8 to
18.3 m (7 to 10 fm), mud bottom, in the middle of the bay.
The shores are wooded, and much of the lumber used by the
towns along this coast comes from the vicinity.
From BUTAG BAY, the coast trends SE for 5 miles
to SUJAC POINT and the E for another 5 miles to COLASI
POINT at the entrance to Ticlin Strait. This part of Luzon
is mountainous and heavily timbered. The summits of the
main ridge are from about 366 to 610 m (1,200 to 2,000 ft)
high.
The bays between the several points along this coast
are small and unimportant. SINANGATAN, GINABLAN
and BABATGUN afford a small amount of protection to
launches and small crafts.
Dangers - There are no dangers along this coast outside
the points except for Hamorauan Reef and Calantas Rock.
CALOMUTAN, 591 m (1,940 ft) high, and SUJAC,
501 m (1,645 ft) high, are prominent summits which are
easily recognized.
TAGIRAN POINT, about 1 mile NW of Sujac Bay, is
a flat-topped, cogon-covered peninsula, 9.1 m (30 ft) high,
projecting almost normal from the coast.
LANGAO POINT is sloping, cogon-covered, 6.1 m
(20 ft) high at the outer end, and is composed of a dark-red
conglomerate.
HAMORAUAN POINT is a bold reddish-brown bluff
21.3 m (70 ft) high with a steep timbered slope rising above
5-79
it. The curve in the shoreline is small, but the low ground on
either side makes the point stand out prominently.
HAMORAUAN REEF is a continuous shoal of white
5 sand covering an area about 460 sq. m about 0.5 mile SW
of Colasi Point. The depth found, 1.8 m (1 fm), is 0.8 mile
128o from Hamorauan Point. A shoal with a depth of 8.7 m
(4.75 fm) is 0.8 mile S of the 1.8 m (1 fm) spot.
10 CALANTAS ROCK consists of a pile of small
round rocks projecting 1.2 to 1.5 m (4 to 5 ft) above high
water. The shoal extends 0.8 mile SE to the wreck of the
steamer Pharsalie, which forms a dangerous obstruction to
navigation. A considerable area S and W of Calantas Rock
15 has from 9.1 to 18.3 m (5 to 10 fm) of water; N it drops off
steeply to 54.9 m (30 fm). The rock is marked by Calantas
Rock Light (12° 30’ 48”N., 124° 04’ 31”E.).
The coast between Colasi Point and PADANG POINT,
20 about 4 miles NNE, is very irregular and is composed of
broken coral covered with mangroves. Reefs, sunken
dangers and a group of islands, lying parallel to the coast,
extend about 4 miles NNE from a position 1 mile SE of
Colasi Point.
25
TICLIN STRAIT (CHART 4258) is the channel
between the coast of Luzon and the islands of Calintaan,
Juac, and Ticlin. The tidal currents and eddies are very
strong, and vessels should not attempt to go through on
30 compass courses alone. Strong sites are especially expected
between Calantas Rock and Calayuan Point and Colasi
Point and BURUNGAN ISLAND.
Directions - Approaching Ticlin Strait from W, bring
35 the S tangent of CALAYUAN POINT to bear 090o and steer
for it; when the sharp conical hill on Ticlin Island shows
in mid-channel, Calantas Rock, bearing 170o, distant 0.8
mile, change course to 040o, heading for the hill, and steer
a mid-channel course, being careful to avoid a set to W off
40 Burungan Island if the current is running N.
CALINTAAN and JUAC ISLANDS are hilly and
covered with jungle and timber. Both have large lagoons
and considerable mangrove. They are separated by a narrow
45 but deep channel. Juac Island, the smaller of the two, is 43.9
m (144 ft) high. Calintaan Island is 83.8 m (275 ft) high on
its S part and 57.9 m (190 ft) high in its N part. A narrow
neck of land connects the two parts of the island, giving it
the appearance of two islands from the offing. The inner
50 shores are low and have coral beaches; the outer ones are
alternately rocky bluff and coral beach. Outside the reef,
the water is deep and the bottom clear. APARI ROCK, 3
m (10 ft) high, lies 0.1 mile off the SE side of Calintaan
Island and about 0.8 mile ENE of Calayuan Point. JUAC
55 CHANNEL is deep, but narrow and of little use.
TICLIN ISLAND is 56 m (184 ft) high. It is
surrounded by a reef the greatest width of which is 0.3 mile.
A shoal spit, as defined by the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve, extends
60 nearly 1 mile SSW from the island. A rock lies awash near
the outer end of this spit. Another rock, 1.8 m (6 ft) high,
lies at the outer edge of the coral reef about 0.3 mile E of
the island.
MAGTIMUA ROCK, slightly above water, is 0.6
mile SE of Ticlin Island. The passage between Ticlin and
Juac Islands is obstructed by rocks and is not safe.
MATNOG BAY (CHART 4258), between MANTAY
POINT and Padang Point, is a small bay fringed by a 10
narrow reef, with 5.5 to 7.3 m (3 to 4 fm) near the edge and
14.6 m (8 fm) in the middle. The harbor is well-protected
from all directions except E. A large bank, with depths of
10.7 to 16.5 m (5.75 to 9 fm), lies in the outer end, extends
about 0.4 mile ENE of Mantay Point.
MATNOG, at the head of the bay, is near the beach.
The red roof of the church, the red roof of the ferry
terminal, and the green roof of the bus terminal in town are
prominent. RoRo vessels have daily trips between the town
and the towns of San Isidro and Allen in Samar Island.
Port Management - The government pier is managed
by PPA TMO-Matnog.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Matnog may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5852886 and +63917-8427052.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 105 m long
concrete pier with RoRo ramps. The pier has a least depth
of 5 m. Cargo handling services are available from a local
company.
Port Services - Fresh water is provided by piped
connections inside the port. Watering services are provided
by local companies. Fuel can be delivered by lorries at
the port. Tugs, with limited capacity, are available from
Legazpi City and provided by the pilots’ association.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels and provided by
Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association. Foreign vessels should
advise the pilotage district of the vessel’s ETA 24 hrs
before. Confirmation of the vessel’s arrival should be done
3 hrs before ETA. The pilot association may be contacted
through the following means:
Telephone no: (+6352) 480-5423
Fax no: (+6352) 481-2875
Address: RM. 2-206 PVLB Bldg 6, Penaranda St.,
Legazpi City 4500
Directions - Vessels wishing to enter Matnog Bay
may bring the sharp conical summit on Ticlin Island astern,
bearing 090o, and anchor according to draft. Small vessels
can anchor in 5.5 m (3 fm) about 0.4 mile from the beach.
Larger vessels can anchor in the middle of the bay in about
14.6 m (8 fm). There are no appreciable currents in the bay.
SAN BERNARDINO STRAIT (CHART 1515 &
4220), the passage between Luzon and Samar Islands, is
of much importance, as it is used by most of the coasting
vessels bound for the E coast of these two islands, as well
as by some of the vessels crossing the Pacific and by those
5 trading between Manila and Australia. The strait is wide
and deep and free from dangers, except a few shoals near
the shores. The channels E and W of San Bernardino
Island are 3 and 7 miles wide, respectively, with depths
of 54.9 to 128 m (30 to 70 fm). Heavy seas and tide rips
are encountered during the NE monsoon, but they are not
reported during the SW monsoon. Early Spanish navigators
wrote of the value of the Cape Espiritu Santo Mountains,
which are located on the NE corner of Samar and are visible
for over 40 miles, as a landfall in making San Bernardino
15 Strait.
Caution - Submarine power cables and a submarine
telecommunication cable were laid in San Bernardino
Strait. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity
20 of the submarine cable. Consult Chart 4220 for details.
Reporting System - All vessels transiting the strait
should establish contact with the coast watch station
situated on Capul Island (Call: Coast Watch Capul) via
25 VHF Channel 16.
Currents - Daily predictions of the times of slack
water, times and velocities of maximum flood and ebb, and
times and velocities of minimum flood for San Bernardino
30 Strait are given in the Philippine Tide and Current Tables.
Tides - At San Bernardino Islands, the tide is mostly
semidiurnal. Based on an observation conducted prior to
1960, the mean range of tide is 0.8 m (2.6 ft) and the diurnal
35 range is 1 m (3.3 ft).
Weather - On the E coast of Luzon, due to the exposure
to the NE monsoon and because of the high mountains of
the Sierra Madre which block the winds, the wet and dry
seasons are the reverse in period to those on the W coast.
From Cape Engaño to San Miguel Bay, NE winds prevail
from October to March, the monsoon here beginning
with N winds, which are of short duration and soon pass
into the NE; in January and February, the E winds begin
and terminate the monsoon. The heaviest rains fall from
October to January.
In March and April, and sometimes in the early part
of May variable winds blow, bringing in the SW monsoon;
but the dry season, of which April and May are the driest
months, is uninterrupted by rain.
Thunderstorms occur from June to November, most
frequently in August. During the SW monsoon, the sea
is calm, but the weather gets very boisterous during the
middle of the NE monsoon.
The typhoons which form E or SE of the islands of
Samar and Leyte and cross the archipelago N of Manila
are the most dangerous to shipping because their paths
5-80
are directly through this area where there are few suitable
typhoon anchorages. The N section of this coast is
particularly avoided by interisland vessels during that period
of the year when they may be expected. The typhoons that
pass S of Manila are no less to be reckoned with in that they
bring strong NE to SE winds; while the type which recurves
N before reaching the islands at least brings strong winds
and rain-squalls from the SE which may continue for 5 or
6 days. While typhoons may form at any time of the year,
they become frequent in July and are most prevalent on the
E coast of Luzon from September to December.
SAN BERNARDINO ISLANDS are 2 small islets
lying about 8.7 miles E of the church at BULUSAN. They
are on the SW end of a bank having soundings of from 18.3 15
to 36.6 m (10 to 20 fm) and extending about 7 miles NE,
surrounded by much deeper water. The S and larger island,
on which San Bernardino Light (12° 45’ 10”N., 124° 17’
02”E.) is situated is about 0.4 mile long N and S and 0.1
mile wide. It is sparsely wooded and 48.8 m (160 ft) high. 20
Two large rocks, 5.2 and 6.4 m (17 and 21 ft) high, are
about 0.2 mile E of the S islet. A detached shoal with a
depth of 5.2 m (2.75 fm) is 0.3 mile E of these rocks.
The N islet is about 0.15 mile long and has 2 hills, 22.8
to 30.5 m (75 and 100 ft) high, very rugged and entirely
bare. The rock shown on the chart as being approximately 1
mile NW of the light has been searched for unsuccessfully.
Tide rips and overfalls were seen in this locality and passed
through, but no depths of less than 19.2 m (10.5 fm) were
found.
CAPE ENGAÑO TO DIGOLLORIN POINT
(CHART 1509, 1510, 4228 & 4276)
Extending S from Cape Engaño, the coast of E Luzon
presents the aspect of a rugged wilderness as the entire area
is heavily wooded and the shore bold and rocky. Behind
it, the land mass becomes more and more broken as it rises
S to form the Sierra Madre, a coastal range sweeping S,
parallels the coast at distances varying from 5 to 7 miles and
appears as an almost impenetrable barrier shutting off the
coast from the Cagayan Valley. The only really inhabited
section is in the plain of the Palanan River Valley extending
S from Palanan Bay.
The dangerous rocky coastline is particularly noted
of being exposed to the full force of the NE monsoon and
the seas of the Pacific, and for its lack of suitable harbors
of refuge and sheltered anchorages. Port Bicobian and 50
Diapitan Bay are the only safe typhoon anchorages between
Port San Vicente and Casiguran Sound. The typhoons
which lash this shore cause heavy swells and strong SW
winds along the coast. Ships traversing these waters are
particularly cautioned to pay strict attention to weather data 55
and the barometer.
The SW wind prevails from May until October and
becomes strongest with a low barometer in the region
N of Luzon and high in the Visayan and S islands. Such
5-81
conditions produce the well-known “collas” to the NNE.
During the period of the SW monsoon or when the brisk and
strong winds of a colla are blowing, comparatively smooth
seas and light breezes may be experienced when cruising
5 within 10 miles of the shore between Maloncon (Malaniog)
Island and Estagno Island, the E point of Divilacan Bay.
Traffic along the coast may be divided into two classes;
large freighters which are enroute between Japan and San
10 Bernardino Strait or S island ports, and interisland vessels
of small draft. This latter inshore traffic usually coasts
about 5 miles offshore so as to have some shelter even
though heavy seas may be experienced farther offshore.
The points of departure are usually taken from Cape Engaño
and Palanan Point.
From Port San Vicente, the coast trends E for 5 miles to
Escarpada Point, the first conspicuous point and headland
to be seen to the S when rounding Cape Engaño from the
W. This coast is high and bordered by a reef with detached
rocks.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off the E
coast of Luzon may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
25 Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Vessels outside of
the coverage of the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center
may send alert through Inmarsat. Refer to the DSC Limits
of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
30 ESCARPADA POINT is a gray, rocky promontory
with a saw-toothed top and forms the extreme N end of
the E coast of Luzon proper. Along the seaward side, the
rocky bluffs rise abruptly from the reef-fringed shore. A
prominent sand beach marks the S end of the headland.
35 Tide rips are frequently encountered E of Escarpada Point.
The shoreline then extends SE for 14 miles in a
succession of small coves and rocky headlands to Iligan
(Alegan) Point. But to the boldness of the coast, landing
40 on the shore is hazardous and nearly impossible with a
moderate swell. In the small bights, short stretches of sand
beach can usually be found and some protection afforded
for small boat landings.
45 Tidal Currents are somewhat erratic but in general
they follow the trend of the shoreline, setting N on the flood
and S on the ebb, and vary in velocity with an estimated
maximum of about 2 knots. The tide rips, which are most
prevalent in the vicinity of Escarpada Point, Iligan (Alegan)
Point and Maloncon (Malaniog) Island, about 4 miles
further S, depend upon the relation between the wind and
current. With the ebb current setting S against a SW wind,
heavy tide rips were observed to cover an extensive area in
the vicinities mentioned while the remainder of this section
of the coast was practically free. With the flood current
setting N against a NE wind, there appears to be little or
no tide rips except in the vicinity of Maloncon (Malaniog)
Island.
60 PATUNUNGAN BAY, about 5 miles NNE of Iligan
(Alegan) Point, affords good shelter for small boats from all
seas and winds except the NE. It is formed by an opening
in the extensive reef which extends offshore in this vicinity.
The entrance, although narrow, has depths of from 11.0 to
29.3 m (6 to 16 fm) and may be identified by MASAK and 5
SUSAK ROCKS, which are NW and SE of it, respectively.
The N of these 2 large rocks is 13.3 m (43 ft) high; the
other is 6.4 m (21 ft) high. The anchorage is restricted but
is of sufficient size to accommodate one vessel of the size
which normally plies the interisland trade. During the SW 10
monsoon, vessels sometimes call here for lumber. Local
information should be obtained before entering the bay.
The area close in to the beach is foul with coral heads.
Trails lead from Patunungan Bay to Port San Vicente
and to the Cagayan Valley and Aparri.
Tides are, in general, diurnal with a diurnal range of
about 1.2 m (3.9 ft) and a mean range of about 1.0 m (3.3
ft).
Directions - Entrance should be made on a course of
220o and anchorage made when a prominent rock, about 2.7
m (9 ft) in height and about 0.3 mile SW of Masak Rock,
bears 307o. At this position, the depth of water is about 11
m (6 fm) and maximum swinging room is obtained.
GUILU CHANNEL, which separates Ati Island from
Luzon, is shallow.
TINAGO COVE, about 3.5 miles N of Iligan (Alegan)
Point, is completely landlocked with high hills. It is
suitable for small boats only as the cove is shallow, having
a depth of 1.8 m (1.8 fm), soft mud bottom. The entrance of
the cove is flashed by extensive reefs and passes between 2
high rocky bluffs before entering the cove proper.
MOUNT TINAGO, 251 m (823 ft) in elevation, is
immediately S of Tinago Cove. It is an irregular, saw-
toothed top rocky feature very similar in appearance to
Escarpada Point, especially when viewed from the N or NE
direction. Its seaward face consists of bare rocky bluffs with
scattered areas of bushy vegetation and trees. An extensive
coral reef which bares at low water extends offshore to a
distance of about 0.3 mile in this vicinity.
ILIGAN POINT, locally known as ALEGAN, is the
E most point on this section of Luzon coast. The seaward
end terminates in a rounded hill which is 73.2 m (240 ft) in
height and completely covered with cogon grass. The point
gradually rises in a series of hills as it recedes from the
shore. These hills are covered with cogon and low bushes
which give way to low scrubby trees as the summit (161.5
m (530 ft) high) is reached. Iligan Point is marked by
Alegan Light (18° 18’ 35”N., 122° 20’ 13”E.).
RUSO ROCK, 3.4 m (11 ft) in height, is a prominent
rock off Iligan (Alegan) Point. Due to its black color, it is
easily recognized from N and S directions. Tide rips extend
over an extensive area to the E. They are heavy during an
ebb current setting against a SW wind.
MOUNT MAROTANG, about 0.5 mile SW of Iligan
(Alegan) Point, is 393.2 m (1,290 ft) high and heavily
wooded. Viewed from the SE, it has a beehive-shaped
appearance and is one of the most prominent peaks in this
vicinity. From the NE, however, it loses its dome-shaped
appearance and becomes a sharp, pointed peak with steep
slopes.
From ILIGAN (ALEGAN) POINT, the shoreline
turns SW for a distance of about 14 miles to J.B. Miller
Bay. It is rocky and abrupt and broken by numerous points
and small bights. The area inshore becomes increasingly
15 more broken with heavily wooded hills which ascend to
greater heights as the coastal range is approached.
MALONCON ISLAND, locally known as
MALANIOG, is 107.9 m (354 ft) in elevation and the largest
20 and most prominent off-lying island along this section of
the coastline. Situated about 0.5 mile offshore and about
3.8 miles S from Iligan (Alegan) Point, it appears as a
symmetrical, sharp-pointed island with steep sloping sides
when viewed from the SW or NE. From other directions,
25 the summit appears lengthened and more flattened. Heavy
tide rips are frequently encountered in the areas E and N
of the island. Shelter is afforded for landing on the beach
to the W.
30 MOUNT NIMAMANDUM is a prominent hill, 406.3
m (1,333 ft) in height, about 3.8 miles SW of Maloncon
(Malaniog) Island. The ridge sloping seaward from it ends
abruptly at a height of 213.4 m (700 ft) and from thence
there is a steep gradient to the shore.
35
MOUNT CANAPAUAN, 7 miles WSW of Maloncon
(Malaniog) Island, is 615.1 m (2,018 ft) in elevation and
a most prominent landmark because of its flat appearance
when viewed from the SE and in being the highest feature
40 in the immediate vicinity.
Shoal water, on which there are rocks awash and
terminating in a 5.9 m (3.25 fm) spot, extends nearly 0.5
mile SW from NAGLOCSADEN POINT. Tide rips usually
45 form off this shoal.
Fresh water is readily obtainable from the
CANAPAUAN RIVER which empties into a small bight
immediately W of Naglocsaden Point.
50
The coast between Naglocsaden Point and Bolos Point,
about 5 miles SW, is steep-to and has numerous above-and
below-water rocks lying close to the rugged shore.
55 BOLOS POINT is bold and rocky and heavily wooded
and anchorage with some shelter from NE winds is possible
under its lee. Fresh water can be obtained from the BOLOS
RIVER.
60 J.B. MILLER BAY, entered between Bolos Point and
5-82
Cabutunan Point, about 3.5 miles S, has good anchorage
depths and the mile-long sand beach at its N end provides
the only desirable place to beach a ship on this section of
the coast in case of an emergency.
CABUTUNAN POINT, at the S end of the bay, is a
low level, grass-covered promontory. The extensive coral
reef surrounding it causes heavy surf even in a smooth sea
and the pall of vapor which is usually in evidence readily
identifies the point.
About midway between Cabutunan and Capulutan
Points is a deep rocky gorge that forms an excellent
landmark visible from all directions between NE and SE.
Southward, and on the hillside at elevation of about 305 m
(1,000 ft), is a prominent triangular-shaped landslide.
CAPULUTAN POINT, about 0.8 mile NE of the
mountain of the same name, is a bold rocky headland
whose seaward face is vertical and rises to a height of about
58 m (190 ft). It is a conspicuous headland and shows well
in all seaward directions.
MOUNT CAPULUTAN, elevation 328.6 m (1,078
ft) is a double-topped mountain with a small draw running
between the two highest points. From the W summit, a ridge
extends E to the shore. The vertical, gray-colored, rocky
bluff on its S side makes a good landmark in approaching
from the S.
Between Capulutan Point and Valley Head, about 5.5
miles S, the coast is steep and rocky and has some above-
and below-water rocks lying close offshore. NINAUAN
POINT, a rocky projection, is located about 1.5 miles S of
the former point.
TABOAN RIVER drains the E watershed of a low
divide in the Sierra Madre, and winding between steep-
sloped, wooded hills, empties about 2 miles N of Valley
Head. To the S of this divide, the mountain mass attains a
greater height, rising sharply to the mountain scarp N of
Mount Cetaceo.
VALLEY HEAD is a triple-pointed headland with
rocky cliffs rising abruptly from the beach. Behind this
prominent headland and between it and the low divide
just previously mentioned, there is a black mass of broken
ridges detached from the main coastal range. Moderately
heavy tide rips are encountered off Valley Head.
The coast continues S for about 12 miles to Baguio
Point in a succession of bights or bays which afford shelter
in depths of 5.5 to 12.8 m (3 to 7 fm), sand or coral bottom,
in all winds except those from the E quadrants. At this point,
a decided change takes place in the general character of the
coast. To the N, deep water extends close to the shore while
to the S and including Divilacan Bay, the shore is bordered
by extensive reefs. Wandering Negritos called Dumagats
hunt and fish along the shore which is otherwise completely
uninhabited.
5-83
Strong tidal currents flowing parallel to the shore with
an estimated maximum velocity of 2 to 2.5 knots were
noted during the course of the surveys.
5 VALLEY COVE, about 5.5 miles S of Valley Head,
is a small bay in which there are anchoring depths of
from 16.5 to 20.1 m (9 to 11 fm), with some shelter from
NE weather. The northernmost of the 4 small arms is an
excellent typhoon shelter for crafts up to 12.2 m (40 ft) in
10 length and, although open to the SE, is well-protected. The
only entrance is by means of an extremely narrow passage
through the coastal reef which bares at low water. The
passage, in which there are depths of 16.5 to 20.1 m (9 to
11 fm), leads to anchorage depths of 3.7 to 9.1 m (2 to 5
15 fm), mud bottom.
Restrictions - Proclamation No. 484 declared the coast
from Valley Cove to the mouth of Lobod River as part of the
Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape. Activities
20 that may harm the environment are strictly prohibited.
Prominent Features - Twin Peaks, 958 and 980.5 m
(3,143 and 3,217 ft) high, respectively, and sharp-pointed,
whose proximity and similarity of contour make them easily
25 identified at long distances from the ESE to the SSE, are
about 3.5 miles W of Valley Cove. They form the beginning
of the higher mountain mass extending S.
Dangers - A 32.9 m (18 fm) bank is about 1.5 miles
30 offshore and ESE of the S point of Valley Cove. About 2
miles offshore and about 3.5 miles N of Baguio Point, is
another bank on which there is a depth of 29.3 m (16 fm).
Irregular currents mark these shoals.
35 BAGUIO POINT shows a sharp knoll 50 m (164 ft)
high and sloping off W. A black detached rock, 9.1 m (30 ft)
high, further serves to identify this point.
FLAT PEAK, which marks the S end of the long flat
40 ridge extending S from Twin Peaks, is easily recognized at
a considerable distance offshore by its sheer, rocky, E face.
MOUNT CETACEO, 1,883 m (6,014 ft) high and
having a dome-shaped summit, is 6.5 miles W of Baguio
45 Point and 22 miles NNW of the head of Divilacan Bay. It is
the highest peak in the vicinity and an excellent landmark.
Between Baguio Point and Divilacan Bay, about 18
miles S, the coast is rugged and steep-to and has some
50 sunken dangers lying close offshore.
ILANG RIVER, 2 miles S of Baguio Point, can be
entered by a small boat at high water. Fresh water can be
secured here.
55
THUMB PEAK, 12 miles NW of the head of Divilacan
Bay, is 1,149.4 m (3,771 ft) in elevation and forms a fine
landmark from the SE and E.
60 DIVILACAN BAY, on the E coast of Luzon, about
72 miles S of Escarpada Point, is formed by a marked
change in the direction of the coastline. The extensive bay
is open to the N. Its shores are low, extensively wooded,
and fringed with reefs and shoals which show a confusion
of breakers at all stages of the tide. These out-thrust reefs
make out from 0.5 to 1 mile from the shore and form inlets
between them in which partly protected anchorage can be
found by approaching with reasonable care. Several large
streams, having their source in the high mountains back of
the coast, empty into the bay.
Tides - The diurnal range of tide in Divilacan Bay is
about 1.2 m (3.9 ft) and the mean range is about 1.0 m (3.3
ft).
Anchorages - Well-protected anchorage in 9.1 m (5
fm) but with hard sand bottom can be had in the most NW
bight of Divilacan Bay. This anchorage is protected from
all but E winds and the reefs at the entrance give some
protection from E swells. 20
Anchorage from S winds may be found in the center of
the most S bight of Divilacan Bay where there are depths
of 11.0 to 16.5 m (6 to 9 fm). This anchorage is the most
difficult to reach as a 5.0 m (2.75 fm) shoal and a 1.4 m
(0.75 fm) spot restrict the entrance width. An anchorage
fairly well-sheltered from the E may be had to the W of
Gay Island.
MACONACON, a town located at the NW bight of 30
Divilacan Bay, has an airfield. A pier, which extends from
the town, is only accessible to small fishing boats. The town
is marked by Maconacon Light (17° 23’ 05”N., 122° 14’
10”E.).
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Maconacon may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998-
5856235.
The town of DIVILACAN is located at the S bight of
Divilacan Bay.
GAY ISLAND, which stands on the extensive spur
reef between Divilacan Bay and Port Dimalansan, has shoal
water extending 1 mile N of it. Two detached rocks, on
which there are depths of 8.2 and 8.7 m (4.5 and 4.75 fm),
are about 1.8 miles W of Gay Island and about 0.5 mile
outside the main reef. Outside these shoal spots, the water
deepens suddenly to 21.9 to 27.4 m (2 to 15 fm).
PORT DIMALANSAN, E of Divilacan Bay, has Gay
Island on the W side of the entrance and Estagno Island on
the E and penetrates 3 miles S between low, wooded hills;
it is about 0.1 mile wide at the narrowest part and has a
depth of 3.7 m (2 fm). The channel of this depth is but 119
m (130 yds) wide just W of the S tangent of Estagno Island.
Small crafts will find perfect shelter once inside but care
must be taken in entering the port as heavy tide rips and
strong currents are often found at the entrance. The use of
Port Dimalansan by other than those having considerable
experience and local knowledge is not recommended.
ESTAGNO ISLAND, 68.6 m (225 ft) high, has a coral
reef and shoal water extending about 0.8 mile N where it
5 terminates in 6.9 m (3.75 fm). Beyond this, 1.8 miles N of
the island and in the approach to Port Dimalansan, is a bank
about 1 mile long in a N direction and about 0.3 mile wide.
It has a depth of 11.4 m (6.25 fm) on it. Strong currents,
attaining a velocity of 2.5 knots, sweep through the channel
10 between these shoals and heavy tide rips form here and on
the shoal to the N with an ebb tidal current running against
a NE breeze and swell.
DIVILACAN PEAK, 1,310 m (4,300 ft) in elevation,
15 stands conspicuously about 10 miles to the S and is the
highest and most E peak in the vicinity. Seven miles SW
of the head of Divilacan Bay stairlike skyline ridge forms
a prominent landmark. The N summit is the highest and is
1,133 m (3,719 ft).
The coast from Estagno Island to Aubarede Point is
fringed with a reef extending 0.5 mile seaward at the island
and 0.1 mile at the point.
25 AUBAREDE POINT is 7 miles S of Estagno Island,
and forms the E side of Port Bicobian. Rocks and shoals
extend nearly 0.25 mile S of the point. Tide rips often occur
here.
PORT BICOBIAN (CHART 4276), which is also
called as Port Imee, is an arm of the sea extending about
2.5 miles N from Aubarede Point. The hills rise steeply
from the shore which is fringed by extensive coral reefs,
steep-to and easily distinguished by their discoloration.
35 Port Bicobian is a safe typhoon shelter.
The recommended anchorage is about 1 mile N of the
entrance, near the E shore in 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom,
so that Aubarede Point is just inside of Palanan Point,
40 thus forming a land-locked anchorage. Caution should be
exercised in entering as the extensive reefs are not always
distinguishable. Favor the E shore as the coral reef here is
narrower and more regular than those making off the W
shore.
45
Small vessels can find complete protection at the head
of the port in 8.2 m (4.5 fm), mud bottom. In approaching
this other anchorage, the E shore should also be favored as
the reef line is fairly regular and SANDY POINT is steep-
50 to while numerous projections extend out from the reef on
the W side of the channel. Extensive bare reefs are in the
middle of the entrance.
PALANAN BAY, S of Port Bicobian, is semicircular
55 in form, about 7 miles wide and 4 miles in extent. The W
shore of the bay is high and rugged. A wide sand beach
extends along the SW shore. It is deep throughout and with
the exception of reefs and shoals which extend 1 mile N
from the mouth of Palanan River, all dangers lie within 0.5
60 mile of its shore. Palanan Bay is fully exposed to winds
5-84
from N through E.
PALANAN (PINACANAUAN) RIVER, navigable
for small boats at high tide to the town of Palanan, empties
into the S part of the bay. A reef about 0.5 mile wide in an
E-and-W direction is about 0.5 mile N of the mouth of the
river. Behind the reef, there is a fairly protected anchorage.
PALANAN, located about 4 miles S of the river of the
same name, is small town and almost isolated but saved by
the presence of a small airport and the proliferation of boats
which call off the mouth of the river. Rough roads connect
Palanan to other towns located in this area of Luzon.
In Barrio Culasi, about 1.5 miles upstream, is a concrete
platform which is the terminal for small boats carrying trade
and commerce for the municipalities of, primarily, Palanan
then Divilacan and Maconacon. Generally, depth of water
is shallow except only during rainy periods. The terminal
site is protected from sea waves but storm surges affect it.
Usual cargoes observed were cement, lumber, fuel, rice and
small others coming to and from Cagayan, Quezon, Aurora
and other coastal barangays. A road connects the landing
with Palanan town proper.
PALANAN POINT, the S entrance point to Palanan
Bay, which is marked by Palanan Light (17° 08’ 30”N.,
122° 30’ 24”E.) and may be identified from seaward by
Ditolong Peak. The peak has an elevation of 321.5 m (1,055
ft). It is a high conical wooded hill, near the coast and by
DITOLONG POINT, the grass-covered knoll, 3 miles S of
the point.
An extensive reef makes off Palanan Point, which
should not be approached closer than 1 mile. Heavy tide
rips and strong currents were noted off Palanan Point
during the course of the surveys.
From DITOLONG POINT, the coast trends SSE for
13 miles to Digollorin Point. The coast is rugged and high
and is indented by a number of small open coves. Numerous
sunken dangers lie close within the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve.
DISUMANGIT POINT is a rocky, cliff-
faced headland, with a prominent outlying pinnacle,
distinguishable when viewed off the point. SPIRES
ISLAND, a prominent pinnacle rock 39.6 m (130 ft) high,
lies close NE of the point, and DISUMANGIT ISLAND, a
small islet, lies close to the shore SW of the point.
The KNOBS, a peculiar mass of rounded, scattered,
tree-covered hills, of volcanic origin, lying back of the
coast, S of Disumangit Point, is the most prominent
offshore landmark for this section of the coast. It is readily
distinguishable far out to sea.
DIGOLLORIN POINT, 4 miles S of The Knobs,
may be identified by a 21.6 m (71 ft) rock about 91 m (100
yds) off the point. A 2.4 m (1.25 fm) patch lies about 0.8
mile N of the point.
5-85
DIGOLLORIN BAY TO DINGALAN BAY
(CHART 1510, 4227, 4277 & 4278)
The coastline from Digollorin Point to Cape San
5 Ildefonso is generally characterized by steep, timber-
covered hills, rising sharply from bare cliffs along the
shore, backed by a massive mountain range. The shoreline
is indented by many shallow bays. There are no dangers
within 0.5 mile offshore. This characteristic is similar to the
10 shoreline from Palanan Point to Digollorin Point. Caution
must be exercised when approaching close inshore, as there
are numerous coral heads inside the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve,
with little or no indication of their existence. It is, therefore,
probable that the latest surveys have failed to reveal all such
15 dangers. There are no sheltered anchorages between Port
Bicobian and Diapitan Bay. Vessels should not approach
this coast nearer than 1.5 miles.
Currents - A 2-knot current, flowing steadily in a NNE
20 direction, or approximately paralleling the general trend
of the coast, has been noted during the period of the SW
monsoon.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress off the E coast
25 of Luzon may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Vessels outside of
the coverage of the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center
may send alert through Inmarsat. Refer to the DSC Limits
of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
30
DIGOLLORIN RIVER, emptying into Digollorin
Bay, has its source far inland. There is about 1.8 m (1 fm)
in the entrance at high water, and an estimated depth of 3.7
m (2 fm) immediately inside. A detached rock, elevation
35 3.0 m (10 ft), is about 0.8 mile E of the mouth of the river.
DIVIUISA POINT is not especially distinguishable.
There is a prominent off lying pinnacle, 64.0 m (210 ft)
high, off the point.
40
DINATADMO POINT, 12 miles S of Diviuisa Point,
is low and bush-covered and not distinguishable except
when well inshore.
45
DINAPIQUI POINT marks the S limit of the high
cliff-faced coastline, which characterizes the stretch of coast
from Palanan Bay. The shore S of the point in general is low,
heavily wooded, and fringed by sandy beaches. A 1.8 m (6
ft) high rock lies about 0.5 mile S of the point. Dinapigui
50
Light (16° 30’ 30”N., 122° 14’ 40”E.) is displayed about
2.1 miles SW of the point.
DINAPIGUE, a town about 0.8 mile W of Dinapiqui
Point, has an airstrip.
55
DIAPITAN BAY, about 6 miles S of Dinapiqui Point,
is a safe typhoon anchorage. The chart is a sufficient guide
for entering. Do not approach Tarigtig Point closer than 0.5
mile, and favor decidedly the W shore when entering the
60
bay to clear the 5.2 m (2.75 fm) shoal in the middle of the
entrance. The recommended anchorage is in the SE part of
the bay, back of the reef which bares at extreme low water.
This anchorage has a depth of 7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm),
good holding ground, mud bottom, and sufficient swinging
room. The reef would effectively bar the entrance of heavy
seas from the N. Small vessels can anchor close enough to
the E shore to be completely landlocked.
A pier, owned by Pacific Timber Export Corp.
(PATECO), is located about 2 miles NW of Tarigtig Point.
Vessels call to the pier to load timber. An airstrip is located
about 0.4 miles N of the pier.
Fresh water can be obtained from several small
streams on the W shore. At the head of the bay, there is a
wide sand beach, and the land back of the bay is flat and
timber-covered. The town of Dilasag at the head of the bay
has a pier also operated by PATECO.
Major Light - Dilasag Light (16° 25’ 37”N., 122° 14’ 20
17”E.) is displayed from Tarigtig Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
town of Dilasag may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8128324 and +63998-5856230.
Dangers - A reef, which bares at low water and which
is connected to the shore by foul ground, lies near the SW
corner of the bay.
TARIGTIG POINT, the E entrance point to Diapitan
Bay, has a small bare rocky islet at its end and is readily
distinguishable by the bold, rocky cliffs on its seaward face.
It is marked by Dilasag Light. Foul ground extends about
0.3 mile NNE from the point. Foul ground, on which stand
2 detached awashed rocks, extends about 0.5 mile W from a
position about 0.9 mile SSE of Tarigtig Point. A 6.1 m (3.25
fm) patch lies at 0.7 mile WSW of the point.
From TARIGTIG POINT, the coast trends about 5
miles SSW to the point which forms the N entrance point to
Casapsapan Bay. It consists of a bold steep-to cliff.
CASAPSAPAN BAY, 7 miles S of Diapitan Bay, does
not afford shelter against winds from the NE and, therefore,
has no value as a typhoon anchorage. The 6.4 m (3.5 fm)
coral head, about 1 mile N of Dijohan Point, marks the N
extremity of a chain of shoals paralleling the E shore of
the bay, with deep water between. There are a number of
detached rocks close to shore. The chart is a sufficient guide
for entering. The country back of the bay is flat and heavily
wooded. There is a trail to Casiguran.
DIJOHAN POINT, which forms the NE extremity
of San Ildefonso Peninsula and the E entrance point to
Casapsapan Bay, may be identified by the bold, rocky cliffs
on its E face. A small, bare, rocky islet lies close NE of the
point.
SAN ILDEFONSO PENINSULA, joined to the
mainland by a strip of low land about 3.5 miles wide
between Casapsapan and Casiguran Bays, trends SW for
23 miles from Dijohan Point. It is heavily wooded and
extremely rugged. The coast is free of off-lying dangers.
5
BALTIMORE PEAK, elevation 646 m (2,120 ft), the
highest on San Ildefonso Peninsula, is an excellent landmark
from any direction and is apt to be the first landfall made in
approaching Casiguran Sound from seaward, as the higher
10 mountains to the W are generally clouded except near
sunrise and sunset while Baltimore Peak is usually clear.
Its distance from the mountains W is sufficiently great to
make it readily distinguishable even when all are showing.
The mountain is double-topped when viewed from S or N,
15 but from the SE the tops are in line giving the mountain the
appearance of one single, sharp peak.
About 2 miles NE of Baltimore Peak, and on the outer
coast, is large, triangular, grassy scar. This scar has an
elevation of 348.7 m (1,144 ft) and is an excellent landmark
when approaching from the E or N.
Current - A fairly strong current, the velocity of which
has not been accurately determined but which probably
25 reaches 1 knot or more, flows parallel the outer coast. This
current apparently does not follow the rise and fall of the
tides but predominately flows SW unless a strong S wind
is in evidence when the direction of the current is reversed.
30 CAPE SAN ILDEFONSO is the S extremity of San
Ildefonso Peninsula, which forms the E side of Casiguran
Sound. San Ildefonso Light (16° 01’ 52”N., 121° 59’ 53”E.)
is displayed near the S tip of the cape.
35 CASIGURAN SOUND (CHART 4278) is a long arm
of the sea extending for 10 miles in a NE direction, at the
head of which is Casiguran Bay, a landlocked basin 5 miles
long in a NE and SW direction and 2.5 miles wide. The bay
is connected to the sound by a deep clear, channel 0.8 mile
40 wide.
The only outlying danger in Casiguran Sound is the 5.7
m (3.1 fm) patch lying about 4.5 miles WSW of MOTIONG
POINT. The E shore is clear and steep-to, and can be
45 approached to 0.25 mile except near the 8.2 m (4.5 fm) shoal
0.8 mile 350o from Cape San Ildefonso. The only anchorage
depth along the E shore is afforded in this vicinity. A deep-
water channel exists between this shoal and the shore. The
depths in the middle of the sound generally exceed 64 m
50 (35 fm). The depths along the W shore are much less than
along the E side and there are some inshore dangers. Fair
weather anchorage can be made almost anywhere along the
shore but vessels are not advised to go much inside the 36.6
m (20 fm) curve as the water shoals rapidly in many places.
55
The only dangers for vessels approaching the entrance
to Casiguran Bay are the reef at the extreme end of Motiong
Point and extending S from it and the coral reef S of the
entrance and near the E shore. The latter reef, whose outer
60 edge is about 0.4 mile offshore, has a depth of 1.9 m (1
5-86
fm) on it. From it, Wheeling Peak bears 042o. Both dangers
are easily avoided if vessels head for mid-channel in the
entrance.
Major Light - San Ildefonso Light (16° 01’ 52”N.,
121° 59’ 53”E.) is displayed near the S tip of Cape San
Ildefonso.
Directions - In entering Casiguran Sound, the E
shore should be given a berth of about 1.5 miles. Bring
WHEELING PEAK to bear 057o and head for it until
Motiong Point bears 325o, distant 0.5 mile, when a mid-
channel course should be steered through the entrance.
Both entrance and bay are clear and Wheeling Peak is a
prominent leading mark from inside the sound and is
usually visible at night for a sufficient distance that the
above directions can be followed even though there be no
moonlight.
Currents - In Casiguran Sound, there is a fairly strong
current near the E shore. This current increases in velocity
near the Cape San Ildefonso. A maximum velocity of 1.25
knots flowing fair with the peninsula shore was observe
1 mile N of the cape. Currents on the opposite shore are
negligible.
CASIGURAN BAY, with a general depth of 40 m,
mud bottom, is good anchorage with excellent holding
ground for all types of vessels in any weather. The typhoon
winds are broken up by the hills on the peninsula and the
mountains to W. The land at the head of the bay is low
and mud flats extend a long way out. The bank is very
steep. These mud flats, with the 2.4 m shoal about 0.4 mile
offshore in the NW side of the bay, constitute the only
important dangers.
Prominent Features - An old Spanish concrete fort at
DIPALALI POINT, about 3 m (10 ft) high, is a prominent
landmark. The town of Casiguran is not visible from the
The pier at Barrio Dibacong as viewed from the NW.
(Photograph - Cdr Carter S Luma-ang, 2010)
5-87
anchorage or near the pier.
Tides - The diurnal range of tide in Casiguran Bay is
about 1.3 m (4.3 ft) and the mean range is about 1.1 m (3.6
5 ft).
Currents - Surface currents only are experienced; they
emanate at low tide from the large river at the bay.
10 Berthing Facilities - There is a pier at Barrio
Dibacong (Barrio Gumanining), about 3.4 miles SW from
CASIGURAN town proper and on the W shore of Casiguran
Bay, serving the hinterlands of Casiguran, Dimalongan
and Dalisay municipalities. The pier is designed for RoRo
15 vessels and extend S. The W side of the pier has a least
depth 1.6 m. It is used by commercial vessels and fishing
boats ferrying cargoes and passengers to and from the port
of Baler.
20 Pilotage in Casiguran Bay is compulsory for all vessels
engaged in foreign trade and for vessels of 50 gross tons or
over for vessels engaged in coastwise trade.
CASIGURAN can be reached by small boats entering
25 the river and making landing about 1 mile from the town.
The bar at the river cannot be crossed readily at low tide
except in bancas. Supplies are scarce. There is a post office
and a radio station maintained by the government. There
is a government hospital in the town. A non-operational
30 runway is present at Brgy. Esteves, about 1 mile W of
Motiong Point. A naval station, international port and the
extension of runway are the proposed developments for
Casiguran.
35 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Casiguran may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8114457 and +63998-5856252.
The coast from Casiguran Sound to Baler Bay, 30 miles
SW, is high and heavily wooded. It is particularly exposed
to the NE monsoon and heavy surf is then present. Strong
currents are noted off DEBUTUNAN POINT. A detached
shoal spot on which there is a rock awash is 1.3 miles 202o
from the point.
A detached 8.7 m (4.75 fm) shoal spot is about 1.5
miles offshore and 4.4 miles NE of DELGADA POINT.
A rock, 4.9 m (16 ft) high, is about 0.5 mile E of the 199
m (653 ft) knob forming the point of land 1 mile NE of
Rinabasan Cove.
RINABASAN COVE provides some protection for
small boats during SE weather. Anchorage is made in
12.8 m (7 fm) in the S end of the cove. Fresh water can be
obtained by boating from a small stream nearby.
The tidal currents in this vicinity are of small velocity,
flowing NE with the flood and SW with the ebb.
BALER BAY (CHART 4277), formed by Delgada
Point on the N and Cape Encanto on the S, is SW of Cape
San Ildefonso. It can be easily recognized by the highland
S and N of the bay, and the valley of Baler River. It is easy
of access but exposed to E and NE winds. Anchorage is in
11.0 to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm) 0.5 mile N of Baler Point and 1.0
mile NE of the light. Small vessels can anchor in 7.3 to 9.1
m (4 to 5 fm) in the outer part of Port Aurora in a position
about 0.3 mile ENE of Baler Point.
Major Lights - Zabali Light (15° 45’ 10”N., 121° 37’ 10
51”E.) is displayed atop a white tower on the coast opposite
of Anao Island.
Baler Light (15° 45’ 25”N., 121° 34’ 20”E.) is displayed
atop a white tower located about 0.6 mile W of Baler Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Baler
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8330659
and +63998-585-6240.
Directions - To enter Baler Bay, give Los Confites
Reef a wide berth and bring Baler Light to bear 231o. Steer
for the light and anchor in 11.0 to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm) about
0.5 mile N of Baler Point, the prominent point to the E of
Baler River. Anchorage may also be made in 14.6 to 18.3
m (8 to 10 fm) a little over a mile N of the mouth of the
river. The bottom of Baler Bay is sand and mud, and is good
holding ground.
BALER is a town about 1 mile W from the mouth of
the river and 0.5 mile inland. The light structure and the
front and rear range poles about 1 mile NW of this light
are prominent from seaward. Copra and hat-making are the
principal industries. There is a small private hospital and
one government hospital. The town has electric lighting
facilities but supplies are scarce. A lumber mill is at
barrio TANAG about 12 km from the town. Postal, radio
communication facilities, telephone, and mobile phone
services are available. A road to the W connects Baler
with Manila through Cabanatuan City. There is an airport
about 6.5 km SW of the town. There are no commercial sea
transport services in Baler. Usual destination of vessels is
toward Port Casiguran.
PORT AURORA is in the SE part of Baler Bay in a 45
cove affording partial protection to small vessels. It is the
present landing place for Baler with which it is connected
by road. A reef extends about 0.2 mile N from Baler Point. A
detached shoal, with a least depth of 1.5 m (5 ft), lies about
0.45 mile NE of the point. The entrance to Port Aurora lies 50
between this shoal and the E side of the reef which fringes
Baler Point.
Tides - The mean tidal range in the port is about 1.1 m
(3.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1.3 m (4.3 ft).
Berthing Facilities - A causeway with a pier at the
offshore end extends from the shore about 0.15 miles NE
from the stream. The pier is used as landing terminal for
fishing vessels.
Directions - To enter this cove, bring a fresh-water
stream in the bight to bear 149o and stand in for it until in
9.1 m (5 fm) and anchor. This stream runs into the bay over
a ledge of rock and can easily be picked up. Bearing about
5 040o from this anchorage is a patch of rocks having 1.5 m
(5 ft) of water on them at low tide; these show dark on the
surface of the water, and can be easily seen and avoided.
The cove will not safely accommodate a vessel more than
61 m (200 ft) in length, and only offers partial protection
from the NE monsoon.
CAPE ENCANTO, at the S side of the entrance to
Baler Bay, is the end of a high ridge. The shoreline is bold
and rocky.
15
ANAO ISLAND, immediately N of the cape, is 69.2
m (227 ft) high and prominent.
LOS CONFITES are a group of rocks on a detached
20 reef 0.6 mile NE of Anao Island. Five of the rocks are bare
at low water and breakers are always present. The channel
between Los Confites and Anao Island has a depth of 25.6
m (14 fm) and more.
25 Between Cape Encanto and Agria Point, the N
entrance to Dingalan Bay, the coast trends SW for about
25 miles. It is, in general, very rugged and heavily wooded,
rising abruptly from the water and presenting many bare-
faced cliffs. A heavy surf and surge run all along the coast
30 with only a moderate swell. Numerous large rocks and
rock islands, varying from a few feet to 30.5 m (100 ft)
in elevation, are near the shore. A stranger attempting to
use them as an aid to navigation will probably find them
confusing as they present a great similarity in appearance.
35
DIBUT BAY (CHART 4277), S of Cape Encanto,
affords good anchorage in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm), sand
bottom, with protection from S or W weather. Ships can
anchor in 21.9 to 25.6 m (12 to 14 fm), rocky bottom,
40 behind DISUCSIP POINT and find some protection in NE
weather. The shores of the bay are high, rugged and steep-
to. The coast is very irregular, being indented by several
bights. All dangers in the bay lie within 0.25 mile of the
shore. Fresh water can be obtained from a waterfall nearby.
About 1 mile E of DIBAYABAY BAY are 2 rocky
islets each having an elevation of about 1.5 m (5 ft). At
the entrance to the bay and about 0.8 mile offshore is a
detached 10.5 m (5.75 fm) spot.
EGG ISLAND, a group of small islets, the highest
of which is 29.9 m (98 ft) high, lies about 3 miles SW of
Dibayabay Bay. The bight W of this island may be entered
through either channel. They are both deep and clear.
55
DICAPANISAN POINT, located about 7 miles SW
of Dibayabay Bay, is marked by Dikapinisan Light (15° 32’
53”N., 121° 31’ 45”E.). An islet fronts the point.
60 AGRIA POINT, on the N side of the entrance to
5-88
Dingalan Bay, is 155.4 m (510 ft) high and bare. It is marked
by Dingalan Light. On the same peninsula is another point,
also bare, which, from a distance, has the appearance of a
broad white roadway leading down to the beach. Skirting
this second point at a distance of 46 m (50 yds) are the LOS
CARABAOS ISLETS.
DINGALAN BAY (CHART 4227) is about 10 miles
wide between Agria and Deseada Points, and about 4 miles
in extent with sand beach near the NW part. Fresh water
can be obtained from the DINGALAN RIVER.
Prominent Features - The most distinctive mark for
picking up the bay from seaward is a very plainly marked
white band on the hills running down to the beach 5 or 6
miles to the S of Deseada Point.
Major Light - Dingalan Light (15° 21’ 56”N., 121°
25’ 52”E.) is displayed from Agria Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Dingalan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8190197 and +63998-5856245.
DINGALAN, located along the N bank of Dingalan
River, has a 60 m long pier and a RoRo ramp. The town is
connected by road to the National Highway.
Anchorage may be found in the N part of the bay,
sheltered from the NE winds, in 5.5 to 16.5 m (3 to 9 fm).
Another anchorage is afforded in the S part of the bay in
11.0 to 14.6 m (6 to 8 fm) in a position about 0.7 mile NE of
the mouth of Umiray River. This anchorage is fully exposed
to the NE monsoon, but is protected from W and SW winds.
UMIRAY RIVER (CHART 4227) empties into the
SW corner of Dingalan Bay. The river can be entered by
small launches at high tide and ascended for a distance of
nearly 3 miles.
DESEADA POINT, the S entrance point to Dingalan
Bay, is high and rugged. The coastline S to Prueba Point is
marked by heavily wooded ranges of mountains paralleling
the shore. The shore is extremely rocky with numerous
black, sharp pinnacle rocks between it and steep-to edge of
the surrounding coral reef. PRUEBA POINT is low and not
readily distinguished.
LAMON BAY AND POLILLO ISLANDS
(CHART 4226, 4268, 4273, 4275 & 4277)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress may
contact the remotely controlled coast stations with VHF
DSC alerting in the ports of Puerto Real and Lucena. The
VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea area about 25
miles from the said ports. Vessels in distress that are outside
of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast stations may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
5-89
POLILLO STRAIT lies between the E coast of Luzon
and Polillo Island. The strait is the N entrance to Lamon
Bay with a least navigable width of 7.5 miles and is deep
in the fairway. The coast from Deseada Point to Dinahican
5 point is steep-to; the 18.3 m curve lies 1.25 miles offshore.
All dangers lie within 0.75 miles of the coast except the
Prueba rock.
PRUEBA ROCK is a small, low rock rising from a
10 small coral reef surrounded by deep water. It is about 1.5
miles from shore, off Prueba Point, about 15 miles SSE
from the S entrance to Dingalan Bay. It is difficult to pick
up from seaward.
15 MARCELINO POINT, about 7.5 miles SSE of
Prueba Point, is high and prominent. The AGOS RIVER
flows out about 5.5 miles SSE of this point. The coast
between the river mouth and Dinahican Point, about 6.5
miles SE, is low and sandy.
20
INFANTA RIVER, about 5.25 miles SE of Marcelino
Point, is the biggest river in the area. The town of General
Nakar is about 1.3 miles upstream.
25 INFANTA stands inland, 1.5 miles S of Agos River
mouth and 6 miles NW of Dinahican Point. The town is
best reached from the anchorage at Port Lampon. Regular
land transportation to Manila is available. The town has
a hospital, several health centers, medical clinics, private
30 practicing physicians and drug stores. Postal, telephone,
Internet connection, and mobile phone services are
available.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Infanta
35 may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428323
and +63998-5857960.
Anchorage may be found about 1.25 miles SE of
the mouth of Agos River and about 0.5 mile offshore in
40 depths of 11 to 15 m. This is a good anchorage during SW
monsoon; however, it is obstructed by debris brought down
to the river by floods.
DINAHICAN POINT is about 36 miles SSE of
45 Dingalan Bay. It is the most E point in this vicinity and is
marked by Dinahican Light (14° 41’ 48”N., 121° 43’ 47”E.).
It is low and heavily wooded, with large trees growing to
a height of about 15 m (50 ft), and having the appearance
of solid land when seen from a distance. Balobo Light (14°
50 41’ 43”N., 121° 40’ 18”E.) is displayed about 3.5 miles W
of Dinahican Point.
From Dinahican Point, a sandy shore trends W for 2.7
miles to the mouth of MISUA RIVER, an estuary making
55 into the lowlands around the point.
Currents - The flood current in this locality sets in from
the N and the tidal currents are quite strong off Dinahican
Point. Tide rips are formed to the S and the water is highly
60 discolored, giving the appearance of reefs; however, the
point may be rounded relatively close-to.
POLILLO ISLAND (CHART 4275 & 4277), E
of Dinahican Point, from which it is separated by Polillo
Strait, a channel 10 miles wide, is about 25 miles N and S
and from 6 to 15 miles wide. It is hilly and well-wooded.
MOUNT MALOLO, 344.4 m (1,130 ft) high, the
highest point on the island, is near the W shore about 10
miles from the S end of the island. It is the most prominent
landmark and the first object seen when approaching from
the E or NE.
The N coast of Polillo is fringed by a wide coral reef
which is steep-to. There are several breaks in this reef
forming small bays which do not afford good anchorage.
From offshore, 5 hilltops, 91 to 183 m (300 to 600 ft) high,
stand out prominently and serve to identify the country
generally.
MINAYIT POINT, the NE point of Polillo Island, is
easily recognized. It is a brown rocky bluff 17.7 m (58 ft)
high and bare of trees, being separated from the wooded
land back of it by a saddle only 6.1 m (20 ft) high.
PINAVISAGAN BAY affords some protection from
W and S, and may be entered by steering 206o for a cluster
of trees on the E shoulder of the hill SW of the bay.
BUGWASAN, BONLEO, and MATANCAN BAYS
do not afford anchorage even for launches. A break in
the reef W of Matancan Bay affords entrance to a good
anchorage protected from heavy seas, the reef being awash
at about half tide. In entering, the E side of the channel,
which is about 0.1 mile wide, should be favored. A pier,
about 1.4 miles SE of Panampalan Point, is at the head of
the anchorage.
Major Lights - Rizal Light (15° 02’ 31”N., 121° 58’
24”E.) is at the head of Bugwasan Bay. 40
Bongliw Light (15° 03’ 31”N., 121° 56’ 36”E.) is
displayed from a concrete tower at the entrance of Bonleo
Bay.
Bon-Bon Light (15° 01’ 45”N., 121° 52’ 02”E.) is
displayed at the entrance to Babaon River, located at the
head of the anchorage W of Matancan Bay.
Berthing Facilities - A 500 m long causeway exists at
the E portion of the anchorage W of Matancan Bay.
PANAMPALAN POINT, the NW point of Polillo
Island, is a low mangrove area with a coral reef extending
about 1.5 miles N. There is an intricate channel, obstructed
by shoals, through this reef 0.32 mile N of the mangrove
shore. A shoal with a depth of 3.2 m (1.75 fm) is 1.5 miles
offshore 287o from Panampalan Point. This shoal and 2.3 m
(1.25 fm) shoal lying 2 miles 244o from Panampalan Point
are the only dangers on this part of the coast outside of the
shore reef.
From PANAMPALAN POINT, the coast trends
SSW for about 7 miles to Panangatan Point. It is fringed by
5 reefs and backed by high hills.
LIPATA RIVER has a fairly uniform depth of 2.7
to 3.7 m (1.5 to 2 fm) for 5.5 miles. The rocky parts of
the banks are heavily wooded, with nipa palms in other
10 places. Houses line up its southern bank. Fresh water is
encountered about 5 miles from its mouth. A moderate
amount of clearing of overhanging and fallen trees would
make the river navigable for launches.
15 PINANAGAN RIVER, which discharges close S
of the mouth of Lipata River, consists of two salt-water
bights, the W one being almost bare at low water. The S
bight affords a safe, landlocked shelter for small vessels
not requiring more than 61 m (200 ft) swinging radius. The
20 entrance between the reefs is about 91 m (100 yd) wide. In
entering, pass close to the spit, partly bare at all stages of
the tide, which extends from the point between Pinanagan
and Lipata Rivers. When about 91 m (100 yd) W of the
highest rock on the spit, head SE for the lowest gap on the
25 W side of the river until the N edge of the mangrove on the
E bank bear 091o, then head SE by E to within 46 m (50 yd)
of the E shore, thence in mid-channel to an anchorage in 5.5
m (3 fm), sand and mud bottom.
30 PANANGATAN POINT is a prominent landmark.
The shore N is rockbound, consisting of massive granite
outcroppings. The coral reef almost disappears and the
point is clear and steep-to. Panukulan Light (14° 55’ 54”N.,
121° 48’ 35”E.) is shown 0.5 mile NNE of the point.
35
HOOK BAY (CHART 4277) is a small harbor
of refuge about 1 mile E of Panangatan Point. It affords
excellent protection for small vessels, being surrounded by
high hills and completely landlocked. It is about 0.2 mile
wide at the entrance, and extends about 1 mile N and thence
0.8 mile NW. When approaching from the S, the entrance
is easily picked up, as the headland on the E side of the
entrance is high and clearly defined against the background.
Both sides of the entrance are fringed by well-marked coral
45 reefs, narrowing the channel in one place to a width of a
little over 91 m (100 yd). Within the entrance, the inlet
widens to a greatest width of about 0.25 mile.
ELBOW POINT, located about 1.2 miles N of the W
50 entrance point, has a 58.2 m (191 ft) hill standing close S
of it. No vessel should attempt to enter at night or in very
thick weather.
Directions - Bring the entrance to bear 001o and head
55 into the bay, keeping in mid-channel until the narrows are
passed, then head up the middle of the bay and anchor in
the widest part here, about 0.25 mile wide between the 9.1
m (5 fm) curves, in 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom. There
is a room in the NW section of the bay for 2 vessels of
60 about 500 tons. To enter this anchorage, pass Elbow Point
5-90
fairly close on the port hand and round handsomely into the
center of the bay and anchor in 14.6 m (8 fm), mud bottom.
Anchorage may be found in the small bay W of the W
entrance point to Hook Bay. Vessels at this anchorage are
protected from all winds from W through N to SE. To reach
this anchorage, vessels should stand into the middle of the
bay and anchor when the W entrance point to Hook Bay
bears 091o in 27.4 m (15 fm), mud bottom.
From HOOK BAY, the coast trends SSE for 11.5
miles to the entrance to Polillo Harbor and is fringed by a
narrow steep-to reef. Off SALIPSIP POINT, 8 miles from
Hook Bay, the reef extends 0.8 mile, and 3 miles farther
SE it extends about 0.5 mile, with a rock awash near its
outer edge. Nearly 3 miles S of Hook Bay, a small detached
patch, covered by 1.8 m (1 fm), is about 0.8 mile from
shore. Another 2.7 m (1.5 fm) detached shoal lies about
0.35 mile SW of Salipsip Point.
POLILLO HARBOR, located at the SW coast of
Polillo Island, is over 1 mile in extent and the available
sheltered area is increased by a large reef which extends
about 2 miles N from POLILLO POINT. This reef which is
partly bare at low water is, as a rule, steep-to and is marked
by breakers and discolored water. Numerous fish traps line
the edge of the reef off Polillo on the W side of the harbor.
The head of the harbor is foul and several dangerous
detached shoals are from 0.5 to 0.8 mile from the E shore.
The shoalest and S patch, covered by 1.4 m (0.75 fm),
is about 0.4 mile from shore 1 mile NNW of the church.
This shoal is distinguished by the discolored water. The
other shoals, 0.8 mile NNW of this shoal, are unmarked
and difficult to pick up. The discolored water observed
from offshore when entering Polillo Harbor is due to the
discharge from small streams.
POLILLO (CHART 4277), the most important town
on the island, is on the E shore Polillo Harbor.
The town can be distinguished by several buildings
with galvanized-iron roofings. It has few resources; copra
and lumber being the principal products. The town has
electric lighting facilities. A small public dispensary attends
to minor medical cases. Postal, mobile phone services and
Internet are available. Supplies are inadequate and only for
local consumption.
Navigational Aids - A lighted range marks clear
passage into Polillo Harbor. The rear range is an inverted
triangular-shaped daymark with a vertical stripe through
the center temporarily placed on a 10 m (33 ft) wooden post
with a concrete base. The front range is a white triangular
daymark, point up, with vertical stripe through the center,
on a post with concrete base on the beach 290.8 m (318
yds) from the rear mark.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Polillo
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8157134
5-91
and +63998-5857959.
Berthing Facility - The town has a 68 m long rock
causeway with a 64 m long pier at the offshore end. There
5 is fresh water pipe connection to the pier, but the pressure
is low and a good supply can only be obtained by the use of
a portable pump.
Directions - Vessels from the S should not bring
10 Panangatan Point, the W extremity of Polillo Island, to bear
W of 001o until Mount Malolo bears 097o, when it may
be steered for until the church tower at Polillo bears 145o.
Bring the day marks or lights in range bearing 145o and
hold this course, keeping a good lookout for the shoals on
15 either side. When the W tangent of Polillo Point bears 210o,
change course to 152o until the front range is abeam, and
anchor in 16.5 m (9 fm), W of the church or go alongside
the pier.
20 DANGER - Extending 5.5 miles NW from Polillo
Point is a large bank on which several detached reefs
and much foul ground are found. Panangatan Point, the
W extremity of Polillo Island, bearing 001o, will carry a
vessel well W of all the dangers on this bank. The channel
25 between the bank and the coast of Luzon is 7 miles wide,
deep and clear.
YELLOW ROCK, the outer reef, showing a yellow
rock on which there is a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm) at low
30 water, is on the NW part of the bank 7.8 miles NE of
Dinahican Point.
UNION REEF, with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm), is
about 1.5 miles SE of Yellow Rock, near the edge of the
35 bank. It is recommended that vessels should give this area
a wide berth as strong tidal currents are present near these
reefs.
From POLILLO POINT, the coast trends SSE for
40 about 6 miles to Agta Point. It is fringed by a narrowing
reef and is backed by high hills.
AGTA POINT, the S extremity of Polillo Island, is
low, heavily wooded and fringed by a narrow, steep-to reef.
45 At a distance of 1 mile S from the point, depths of over 36.6
m (20 fm) are found.
From about 1.5 miles WNW of Agta Point, a chain of
detached reefs, with a depth of 3.2 m (1.75 fm), extends
50 nearly 1.5 miles SW. The W side of these reefs may be
avoided by keeping the tangent of BUCAO POINT nothing
W of 001o, and the S side may be avoided by keeping the
tangent to the land E nothing S of 080o.
55 Two 11.9 m (6.5 fm) shoal spots are 2.8 miles 181o and
158o, respectively, from Agta Point.
From AGTA POINT, the coast curves NE for about 8
miles to TATAUPIN POINT. It is, in general, steep-to and
60 backed by high hills. A 9.1 m (5 fm) shoal lies about 1 mile
SE of Binaba Point.
Between Tataupin Point and the S entrance point
of Anibawan Bay, about 12.5 miles N, the coast is very
irregular and is fringed by a wide reef. The coast, which is
low and backed by high hills, is somewhat indented in its N
part. Numerous islands, reefs and shoals lie off this coast.
BURDEOS BAY is formed by Polillo, Palasan,
Patnanongan, and several smaller islands. It affords a large
area of available anchorage ground well protected from all
winds and sea. The S approach is filled with shoals and reefs,
among which there are several long and tortuous channels.
The channel W of CATAOYAN REEF is very narrow and
should not be attempted. The channel E of PACABALO
REEF is apparently safe, but the one between the reefs is
most frequently used. The following directions were used
by the survey party and may be useful.
Caution - The channels leading into the Burdeos Bay
are unmarked and are dangerous due to the strong tidal
currents and dangers in their vicinities. They should be
used mainly by vessels having local knowledge. Strangers
should use these channels only under the most favorable
conditions. It is recommended that a stranger should wait
for low water when entering.
Directions - About 1.5 miles from the S side of
Patnanongan Island is MINASAWA ISLAND; it is small,
about 15 m (50 ft) high, and is easily distinguished, being
a brighter green than Patnanongan, which is much higher.
Bring Minasawa to bear 018o before Agta Point bears
anything S of 271o and steer for it until 4.6 miles from it
and the SE point of Palasan Island bears 344o. Steer 331o for
5.8 miles; this course will carry 9.1 to 36.6 m (5 to 20 fm)
of water and will take a vessel safely between Cataoyan and
Pacabalo reefs. By the time the vessel is between these reefs,
COCCOC ROCKS will be sighted against the Polillo shore.
Continue on this course until the Coccoc Rocks bear 282o
and then steer 001o for 2.4 miles, heading for the E point
of Palasan Island; when the Coccoc Rocks bear 226o, steer
300o for 4 miles, heading for BINI ISLAND. Care should
be taken in approaching Bini Island, as a coral reef, bare at
low water, extends about 0.5 mile SE from it. A similar reef
makes off S from Palasan Island, leaving a channel about
0.4 mile wide between them. The tidal currents are strong
between these reefs.
When 0.5 mile from Bini Island and the central S point
of Palasan Island bears 081o, change course to 330o and pass
about 0.3 mile NE of Bini Island. Continue this course for
2.3 miles until the NW point of Palasan Island bears 060o
and the E sides of Icol, Anirong, and Anawan Islands are
in range, bearing 037o, then steer 226o, which will take the
vessel well clear of the reefs N of SAN RAFAEL ISLAND.
When the N end of San Rafael Island bears 118o, head
down the bay and anchor in 14.6 m (8 fm), mud bottom,
when the N point of San Rafael bears 091o.
Burdeos Bay may also be entered from the NE. The
channel between Icol and Cabaloa Islands is deep and clear.
A 6.4 m (3.5 fm) shoal is in the E approach and the W end of
Icol Island must be rounded close-to to avoid a 2.3 m (1.25
5 fm) shoal in Burdeos Bay. The channel between Cabaloa
Island and Polillo is intricate, being narrowed to about
0.17 mile by reefs, and the strong tidal currents make it
dangerous for large vessels. The narrow channels between
Icol and Palasan and between Palasan and Patnanongan
10 are deep and clear, but subject to strong tidal currents,
sometimes reaching at least 4 knots on spring tides.
BURDEOS is a small town about 0.5 mile up the
BURDEOS RIVER. There is a road from the town to the
15 beach at the anchorage. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete pole for a
proposed light, established on top of a small hill about 0.3
mile SW of the mouth of Burdeos River, serves as a good
landmark. Burdeos Light (14° 51’ 10”N., 121° 58’ 42”E.)
is located near SE of the river mouth. The town has a 100
20 m long pier.
The N, E, and S shores of PALASAN ISLAND are
fringed by wide coral reefs. The island itself is moderately
high with a narrow mangrove fringe along the shore. ICOL
25 ISLAND has a coral reef extending off its NE shore.
CABALOA ISLAND is fringed by coral reef that
widens to 0.4 mile on the E side. A coral reef and shoal
extend E and NE of ANIRONG ISLAND almost to
30 ANAWAN ISLAND, leaving a channel about 91 m (100
yds) wide close to the latter island.
ANIBAWAN BAY affords well-protected anchorage
and is easy of access. When coming from Burdeos Bay,
35 the channel between Cabaloa and Anirong Islands is
recommended. When approaching from N or E, the channel
between Anawan and Buguitay Islands should be used. A
reef with 0.9 m (1.5 fm) over it is about 0.8 mile W of Banla
Point. The water deepens rapidly on all sides of this reef,
40 which is about 0.16 by 0.22 mile in extent. A shoal of about
the same area, with a depth of 4.1 m (2.25 fm), is 0.5 mile
NNW of this reef.
The best anchorage is W of a N and S line drawn
45 tangent to CABUNGALUNAN POINT, in from 11.0 to
31.1 m (6 to 17 fm), mud bottom. During stormy weather,
vessels of moderate draft can get well under the point and
be free from all seas. If vessels desire to anchor near the
Anibawan River, it should be noted that mud flats extend
50 0.5 mile E of the mouth of the river, coming up suddenly
from 9.1 m (5 fm) to 1.8 m (1 fm).
The ANIBAWAN RIVER has about 0.9 m (3 ft) on
the bar at low water, with 2.4 m (8 ft) inside for about 2
55 miles, where a gradual reduction in depths commences.
Overhanging trees and sunken logs impede free navigation
of the river.
Between BANLA POINT, the N entrance point of
60 Anibawan Bay, and MIYAGIT POINT, the coast is fringed
5-92
by a reef that extends to about 0.3 mile offshore. Several
detached rocks of from 10.7 to 18.3 m (355 to 60 ft) are on
this reef close to the shore. Banla Point may be identified
by a 60.4 m (198 ft) hill standing 0.8 mile N of it. A shoal
spit extends about 1 mile SE of this point.
BUGUITAY ISLAND which is 23.8 m (78 ft) high
and fringed by a reef stands on this spit in a position about
0.2 mile SE of the point.
JOMALIG ISLAND, low and heavily wooded,
is separated from Patnanongan Island by a deep channel
about 3 miles wide, with the deepest water on the Jomalig
side of the channel. It is surrounded by a coral reef, bare at
low water, which extends about 1.5 miles from the E part
of the island and surrounds the Manlanat Islets and Lantao
Rock. The W of the island is moderately high, abrupt, and
wooded. The tops of the trees are above 30 m (100 ft) high
and visible about 10 miles.

PATNANONGAN ISLAND, E of Burdeos Bay, is
about 12 miles long, 5 miles wide, and 85 m (279 ft) high.
It is heavily wooded. The shores are fringed with coral
and are lined with mangrove. Patnanongan Light (14° 45’
04”N., 122° 13’ 49”E.) is shown on the island about 2.9
miles SW of ROUND POINT.
PATNANUNGAN is the town about 3.1 miles SW of
Round Point. It is fronted by a 150 m long pier that is used
by small passenger boats.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Patnanungan may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8428356 and +63998-5857963.
The UALA ISLANDS are on a large reef separated
from Patnanongan by a narrow tortuous channel
impracticable even for a small boat at low water.
KALONGKOOAN ISLAND marks the N edge of this reef
and the MALAGUINOAN ISLANDS the W edge.
MANLANAT ISLETS are a group of 3 small islets
and a number of rocks on the reef about 0.5 mile from the
E end of Jomalig. The islets are sparsely wooded and 10.7,
12.8 and 17.1 m (35, 42 and 56 ft) high, respectively.
LANTAO ROCK is about 2 miles N from the E end
of Jomalig, near the edge of the shore reef; it is bare and 2.4
m (8 ft) high.
20 LANTAO ISLANDS are 2 small, bare, rocky islets
about 46 m (150 ft) high, of a whitish appearance, lying
close together about 4.5 miles NE of the E end of Jomalig,
and appear as one island from some directions. Several
rocks lie awash up to 1.5 miles SW of the island.
25
LAMON BAY (CHARTS 4226, 4273 and 4277),
between Dinahican Point NW and Jesus Point SE, is partly
protected during the NE monsoon by Pollilo and several
smaller islands. Balesin Island is in the middle of the bay,
30 and farther in are Cabalete, Baliscan, and Alabat Islands.

Caution - The area between Palasan, Patnanongan, PORT LAMPON (CHART 4277), in the NW part of
and the Uala Islands furnishes protection from the sea, but the bay, is a small but well-sheltered port, except during SE
is not a desirable place to anchor on account of the strong and S winds. It has a depth of 21.9 m (12 fm), sand and mud
currents. 35 bottom, at the entrance, decreasing gradually to 2.7 and 3.7
m (1.5 to 2 fm) off Orista Island 0.5 mile N.
TICLIN ISLAND, 11.0 m (36 ft) high, and the little
island 24.4 m (80 ft) high 1.5 miles W of the Malaguinoan From the port, 5 rivers run into the lowlands northward
Islands, are both steep-to. A shoal with a depth of 7.6 m. PULO RIVER, the largest of these rivers, is navigable by
(4.25 fm) is 0.5 mile SE of the 24.4 m (80 ft) island. A 40 launches for 2.5 miles from its mouth to the village of
shoal with a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm) is 0.8 mile farther in PULO.
the same direction.
PUERTO REAL, the port of Real, stands on the west
EAST IKIKON and the KATAKIAN ISLANDS, side of Pulo River mouth. It is also the shipping point of
E of Patnanongan Islands, are very low and present no 45 Infanta with which it is connected by road. The port is
distinguishing features. The SW point of the larger Katakian marked by a warehouse with galvanized roof. There is a
Island is sand beach, but the remainder is rock and coral. training dike about 370 m long projecting S from the point.
The reef extends about 1 mile off the N point of the island,
leaving a narrow channel between it and East Ikikon. REAL has a small public market, hardware stores,
50 drugstores, and an ice plant with limited provision.
The outer edge of the reef, on which East Ikikon lies, Water supply was provided by 2 spring development and
is about 6 miles NE of the Patnanongan shore. A 4.6 m waterworks systems. It has one small hospital and one
(2.5 fm) patch which lies 5.3 miles E of East Ikikon Island health center. Buses plying Manila and nearby towns are
constitutes the outer limits of dangers off these islands. also available. Public telephone, postal, and mobile phone
55 services are the available means of communication.
Anchorage, protected from heavy seas but not from
the wind, may be found in a large area with 20.1 m (11 fm) Major Light - Real Light (14° 40’ 21”N., 121° 36’
NW of Katakian Islands. Better protected anchorage may 30”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the municipal
be found farther S in 7.3 m (4 fm) close to the island. wharf.
60

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 Tides - The mean tidal range is about 1.3 m (4.3 ft) and
the diurnal range is about 1.5 m (4.9 ft).
Currents - Strong tidal currents which have an
estimated rate of 3 to 4 knots, set S from the river on the
falling tide.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Real
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428327
and +63998-5857962.
Berthing Facilities - The 90 m long municipal wharf
is located at the W side of Pulo River mouth. It is used by
fishing boats, ferries, and motorized bancas plying Polillo
Islands.
Directions - Vessels from the E should round Tacligan
Point at a distance of at least 0.15 mile. The usual anchorage
is in 9.1 to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm) with Tacligan Point bearing
100o. Vessels from the S should steer for Tacligan Point
until 0.5 mile from it, then head for the anchorage.
Strangers should not attempt to go upstream of the
training dike without local knowledge.
The coast S of the port is bold and heavily timbered,
with many prominent waterfalls. MAGASAWANG ROCK,
about 12 m (40 ft) high, lies 13 miles S of Port Lampon
and about 0.3 mile from shore. It is connected with the
mainland by a reef bare at low water. A reef extends over
0.15 mile E from the rock. At times, particularly at the end
of the rainy season, the twin waterfalls, about 3.5 miles S
of Magasawang Rock, are visible well out toward Balesin
Island. Another prominent waterfalls is located about 5.5
miles SE of the twin waterfalls. It falls directly into the sea,
under which small boats may be filled at half tide.
CABALETE ISLAND, about 24 miles S of Dinahican
Point, is heavily wooded; there is a ridge about 30 m (100
ft) high close to the N shore. Reefs extend 1.3 miles from
the SE coast, and there are detached reefs, with 7.3 to 9.1 m
(4 to 5 fm), 2.5 miles from the same coast. The remainder
of the island is fringed by reefs from 0.1 to 0.32 mile.
The channel between Cabalete Island and Saley Point on
the mainland is about 3 miles wide and more than 91.4 m
(50 fm) deep in the middle. Vessels using this channel are
advised to favor the Luzon shore.
SALEY POINT, 26.5 miles S of Dinahican Point, is
the most E point between Port Lampon and Mauban. It is
high, well-wooded, and steep-to.
MALAZOR POINT, about 2.5 miles SW of Saley
Point, is low and terminates in a wooded knoll higher that
the rest of the point. The point is marked by Mauban Light
(14° 12’ 17”E., 121° 45’ 12”E.).
A coral reef extends over 91 m (100 yd) E and S. From
here the coast trends W, forming a bight, on the W side of
which is the town of Mauban.
MAUBAN (CHART 4277) was reported before as a
small port exporting copra. A good highway connects this
town with the cities of San Pablo and Lucena. Fresh water
can be obtained from a spring about 230 m from the beach.
5 The most conspicuous object in the town is a large church
with galvanized-iron roof resembling a grain elevator,
standing to the left of the center of the town alongside the
ruins of an old stone church. A monument on the summit of
the 25.6 m (84 ft) hill at the S part of the town also makes
10 a good landmark. In the shore, extending SE to seaward
for 360 m, is the rock causeway and landing used by
commercial boats ferrying regularly passengers and cargo
back and forth from Burdeos, Pollilo and Patnanongan. The
causeway has a width of 4 m, with one turning point and 4
15 units of stairlandings on its side. Controlling depth of water
at its offshore end was 3 m in 1990. This landing offers
some shelter from the NE seas.
Neither supplies nor repairs are available. There
20 are several practicing physicians and dentists in town.
Postal and radio communications are maintained by the
government.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
25 Mauban may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
8428317.
Anchorage may be found in 7.3 m (4 fm), with the
church bearing 288o and the E tangent of Malzor Point 031o.
30
From MAUBAN, the coast trends SE for 8 miles to
PETISA POINT, thence 8 miles farther in the same direction
to Atimonan. This coast is bold with deep water close-
to. The shores are generally sandy beaches fringed with
35 coconut trees and backed by high, wooded hills over 518 m
(1,700 ft) high within a short distance. Twin peaks, 3.5 and
4.5 miles NW of Atimonan and 1.3 miles from the shores,
389 and 378.2 m (1,279 and 1,241 ft) high, respectively,
form conspicuous landmarks.
40
ATIMONAN RIVER, W of the town of the same
name, is small and has a depth of from 2.1 to 2.7 m (7 to
9 ft) on the bar at high water. It affords shelter for small
launches plying to Alabat Island.
45
ATIMONAN, the principal town in this vicinity, is
on the S bank at the mouth of the Atimonan River, about
16 miles SE of Mauban. Gasoline, diesel oil, ice and food
supplies are obtainable. The town relies on communal
50 pumps and limited pipe system that tap fresh water from
springs and deep wells. There are hotel accommodations
in the town. Two hospitals and private clinics are in the
town. Postal service, telephone, mobile phone services, and
Internet connections are available. There is a good road to
55 Lucena, on the S coast of Luzon.
Prominent Features - The town has a large church,
the red and white tower of which, resembling a lighthouse,
can be seen from a position near the N end of Alabat island.
60 The rest of the town is also quite prominent.
5-94
 Located at Barrio Caridad Ibaba, about 1 mile NW
of the town proper, is the factory of Coco Chemical
Philippines Inc. (Coco Chem). The galvanized iron tanks
and warehouses inside the compound of this processing
plant are visible from seaward and provides good landmark
for navigation.
Major Light - Atimonan Light (14° 00’ 13”N., 121°
55’ 43”E.) is shown from a white steel pipe at the pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Atimonan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63999-
4519595, +63917-8428297 and +63998-5854838.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 230 m long pier
and a wharf. The pier is used mostly by ferry boats that
transport passengers from Alabat Island. The wharf, located
about 0.2 mile SE of the mouth of Atimonan River, serves
as the town’s fish port.
A private pier projects seaward from the Coco Chem
factory. Fresh water from pipes and hoses is available at the
pier and supplied to calling vessels.
Pilotage is compulsory. Notice must be given 24 hrs
and 12 hrs prior to arrival. Entering and leaving the port
during the night is not advisable as some of the piles on the
sea bed near the jetty are broken. Pilot boards about 2 miles
SW of the port.
Anchorage may be found off the mouth of the river in
18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom, with the church bearing 180o.
Small vessels may anchor closer in, but they should not go
inside of 11.0 m (6 fm), as the water shoals rapidly after that
and the bottom of hard sand is poor holding ground. During
the NE monsoon, this anchorage is sometimes untenable; at
such times, vessels seek refuge at Port Alabat or Sangirin
Bay.
From ATIMONAN, the coast trends ESE for 12 miles
to Laguio Point. This coast is fringed by a narrow reef and
may be approached to within 0.5 mile at any place. Plaridel
(Siain) and Gumaca, two shipping points, are located about
6.5 and 12 miles, respectively, ESE of Atimonan.
PLARIDEL (SIAIN), a port of entry with a railroad
station near GAMAU POINT, is the shipping point for
copra for the surrounding region. It also oversees the
port requirements of the whole province of Quezon and
the province of Aurora. It may be identified by several
buildings, galvanized iron-roofed warehouses, and the
government concrete wharf. Supplies of any kind are
scarce. The nearest post office and medical facilities are at
Atimonan.
Major Light - Plaridel Light (13° 57’ 30”N., 122° 01’
24”E.) is displayed from a tower located on Gamau Point.
Customs - Customs clearance may be had from the
customs officers stationed in Plaridel (Siain).
5-95
Berthing Facilities - The port has, for its main berth,
a reinforced concrete wharf, 21 m long by 12 m wide and,
for its secondary berth, a damaged reinforced concrete pier
with a width of 9 m. The reinforced concrete wharf extends
5 about 180 m long from the shoreline and the pier 41 m
long rock causeway. Both berthing facilities handle general
cargo, although most often shipments are represented by
agricultural products. Ocean-going vessels sometimes call
at Plaridel (Siain) to load copra. Several scows and barges,
10 and few motor launches, all owned by various individuals,
are available for hire.
Pilotage in this port is compulsory for all vessels
engaged in foreign trade and for vessels of 50 gross tons or
15 over engaged in coastwise trade.
Anchorage is in 38.4 m (21 fm) about 0.5 mile
offshore. This anchorage is fully protected from the SW
monsoon but is partly exposed to the NE monsoon. During
20 the latter, the anchorage cannot be considered safe due to
the deep water lying so close to the shore.
GUMACA is a town in a bight just W of LAGUIO
POINT and is not visible until the vessel is opposite the
25 town. Anchorage may be found in 31.1 m (17 fm) about
1 mile offshore. This anchorage, as well as the one off
Plaridel (Siain), is unsafe during the NE monsoon.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
30 Gumaca may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428332 and +63998-5854840.
LOPEZ BAY is between Laguio Point and ROMA
POINT. LOPEZ RIVER empties into the head of the bay;
35 it is about 46 m (50 yds) wide at the entrance and narrows
down to 27.5 m (30 yds) near the town of LOPEZ. Cascos
land at the town at high water. The head of Lopez Bay and
the N shore are fringed by extensive coral reefs; the small
islands, NIOGAN, NAGTAQUIN, and MANICNIC, 24.4,
40 22.9 and 8.2 m (80, 75, and 27 ft) high, respectively, are on
this reef close to shore. A shoal about 0.17 mile long in a N
direction and having a depth of 0.5 m (0.25 fm), is 1 mile
SSE of Niogan Island and 0.5 mile off the point of a reef
extending from shore.
45
Anchorage for deep-draft vessels may be found in the
S part of the bay in about 14.6 m (8 fm), mud bottom, about
1 mile off the entrance to the Lopez River.
50 HONDAGUA HARBOR (CHART 4273) is a secure
anchorage with good holding ground, in the NE part of
Lopez Bay. Depths of over 18.3 m (10 fm) are found in the
approach and in the outer part of the harbor. The inner part
of the harbor, which has depths of 9 to 18 m (4.9 to 9.8 fm),
55 is narrowed to a width of about 0.4 mile by the shore reefs
on either side.
Vessels going to Barrio Hondagua should pass 0.5 mile
S of Niogan Island, then head for the pier and anchor 91 m
60 (100 yds) S of it in 12.8 m (7 fm). Vessels enter and leave
the harbor during daytime only.
HONDAGUA is a busy port and a railroad terminal. It
can be identified by oil tanks to the S and by the warehouses
near its shores. A conspicuous cylindrical tank stands on the
coast about 320 m S of the barrio.
Copra is shipped. Launches and lighters used in
loading copra are brought from Plaridel as required. Logs
and firewood are unloaded from Polillo, Casiguran and
other nearby ports, for shipment to Manila.
Water in limited quantities can be delivered by trucks.
Diesel oil in limited quantities can be obtained. There is
a clinic at the town where medical and dental services
are available. Postal facilities are maintained by the
government.
Major Light - Hondagua Light (13° 56’ 47”N., 122°
14’ 25”E.) is shown on top of a hill about 230 m NE from
the piers.
Berthing Facilities - There is a causeway and pier
at the port area. A concrete pier with a face about 11.6
m (38 ft) long is used for grain discharge and for coastal
tankers supplying fuel. Arrival and departure from the
berth is during daylight only. The pier can accommodate
ocean-going vessels with a maximum length of 152 m. The
berthing area has a depth of 8.5 m at the E dolphin and
11.9 m at the W dolphin. Tankers discharge by means of a
flexible pipeline off the head of the pier. Modern unloading
equipment discharges grain rapidly onto a conveyor belt
that transports it to the mills about 640 m distant.
Pilotage inside the harbor is compulsory for all vessels
engaged in foreign trade and all coastwise vessels 50
gross tons or over. Vessels requiring pilotage should send
notice 12 hrs in advance. Pilots board about 10 miles W of
Hondagua on the N coast of the mainland. The pilot boat is
a small dugout canoe fitted with outriggers and an outboard
motor. By day, it exhibits the pilot flag.
Anchorage can be taken anywhere in the middle of
the harbor, in depths of 9 m to 18 m. Tankers and vessels
loading cargo generally anchor 137 m off the head of the
pier, in a depth of 13 m.
BALISCAN ISLAND, 1.8 miles WNW of the N point
of Alabat Island, is small and steep-to, with the exception
of a reef with depths of 3.7 to 9.1 m (2 to 5 fm) extending 50
about 0.3 mile SW. The island is a flat-topped rock, bare
of vegetation, about 91 m (300 ft) in extent, 6.1 m (20 ft)
high, and much underworn at its base by the action of the
sea. The island is marked by Baliscan Island Light (14° 14’
40”N., 121° 53’ 58”E.). The channels on either side of the 55
island are deep and clear.
BALESIN ISLAND is about 12 miles NE of Baliscan
Island Light. It is low, flat, and wooded, and the general
height to the top of the trees is about 23.8 m (78 ft). Its NW,
N and NE parts are fringed with reefs bare at low water, and
foul ground exists W from it.
TARLAC REEF, with a depth of 7.8 m (4.25 fm), is 2
5 miles SW of the S end of Balesin island.
ALABAT ISLAND is about 20 miles long in a NW
and SE direction, 3 miles wide, and is easily distinguished.
It is heavily wooded and has a ridge of moderate height
10 running its whole length. Several peaks are on the island,
resembling islands from a distance, the highest of which is
MOUNT CAMAGONG, 421.8 m (1,384 ft) high.
The NW coast of Alabat Island from SANGIRIN
15 POINT, the W extremity, to GERARDO POINT, the N
point of the island, trends NE and is fringed by a coral reef
from 0.1 to 0.45 mile wide. Off Sangirin Point, this reef
extends about 0.26 mile W; a narrower reef surrounds the N
point of the island. Sangirin Point is marked by Tawig Light
20 (14° 11’ 18”N., 121° 54’ 35”E.).
The NE coast of Alabat Island from Gerardo Point to
SILANGAN POINT is clear and steep-to while the SW
coast is densely wooded and fringed by coral reefs and
25 shoals which extend up to 1 mile from the coast.
SANGIRIN BAY (CHART 4268) is E of Sangirin
Point. This bay affords a small, well-sheltered anchorage in
12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm), mud bottom. The land forming
30 Sangirin Point and that surrounding the bay is low. About
0.5 mile S of the mouth of the bay are two large reefs, bare
at low water, which afford protection from S seas.
PEREZ is the town on the E shore of the bay. There is
35 a post office in town. Perez Light (14° 11’ 35”N., 121° 55’
25”E.) is shown atop a white tower near the beach at the S
part of the town.
Directions - When about 1 mile SW from Sangirin
40 Point, bring the light to bear 046o and steer for it around
the W point of the bay, favoring the W shore, and anchor
in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm), mud bottom, in the middle of
the bay, about 0.17 mile from the head, with the light just
obscured by the mangrove point to the E.
45
PORT ALABAT (CHART 4268), on the SW side of
Alabat Island and about 7 miles SE from Sangirin Point, is
small, but has accommodations for 3 or 4 small vessels. It
affords excellent shelter from N and E, but can hardly be
recommended as a typhoon anchorage. It is formed by a
small bight in the coast about 1 mile across between the E
and W points. Long reefs of rocks and sand extend off these
points. About midway between these reefs and about 0.5
mile from shore is a reef of sand and rocks connected with
the reef off the S point, visible at low water. The shore of
the port is low, with an extensive sand beach. Fresh water
may be obtained from a small stream on the N side of the
port; boats can easily enter at high water.
60 ALABAT is a town on the E side of the port. The
5-96
town depends mostly on copra industry and fisheries. described giving the coast N or S a berth of at least 0.5 mile.
RoRo vessels and passenger motorboats call daily from
Atimonan. Postal service, mobile phone and Internet From E, steer in for the middle of the pass on a 248o
services are available. There is a government hospital and course until the light on Roma Point bears 088o and the SE
a private clinic. 5 point of Alabat Island bears 046o, when the course should
be changed to 226o and held for 2 miles.
Major Light - Alabat Light (14° 06’ 17”N., 122° 00’
26”E.) is displayed from a white tower about 100 m N of The peninsula between Lopez Bay and Calauag Bay,
the river mouth. A lighted beacon marks the pier. Another terminating in Roma Point, is covered with heavily wooded
lighted beacon is at the edge of the reef, about 0.4 mile SW 10 hills 61 to 152 m (200 to 500 ft) high. The shore is fringed
of the pier light. by a narrow reef, and anywhere between Roma Point and
DINAMPO POINT, the W entrance to Calauag Bay, can be
Berthing Facilities - A rock causeway in town, safely approached within 0.5 mile.
extending WSW about 380 m long to seaward, with
stairlandings and open beach area of about 100 sq m, 15 CALAUAG BAY is from 3 to 5 miles wide and extends
affords landing space for fishing vessels and motor launches 7 miles SE from Silangan Pass. The bay is generally deep
ferrying cargo and passengers. A concrete pier, extending and clear, the head being blocked by mud flats, partly bare
40 m WSW from the offshore end of the causeway, has a at low water.
RoRo ramp.
20 CALAUAG, a town at the head of the bay, has several
Directions - With the Alabat Light bearing 060o, a galvanized iron-roofed buildings visible from seaward.
vessel can easily feel her way to an anchorage, the depth The church tower with a pyramidal galvanized-iron top is
gradually decreasing from 32.9 m (18 fm) S of the W point the highest and most prominent structure. The N side of
to 5.5 m (3 fm) about 0.25 mile from shore. The shoals on the town is protected by a seawall. A narrow boat channel,
either side of the entrance are usually marked by fish traps. 25 carrying a depth of about 0.6 m (2 ft) of water at low tide,
leads to the E end of the seawall where private small boat
SILANGAN PASS (CHART 4273), between the SE landings are located.
end of Alabat Island and Roma Point, Luzon, is about 0.5
mile wide, but the navigable width is reduced to about 0.3 The rock causeway in town, 4 m wide by 72 m long,
mile by the reefs fringing the shores on either hand. The 30 and projecting almost N to seaward with 2 stairlandings
depths in the pass are very irregular, 3.7 to 27.4 m (2 to 155 both E and W sides, serves the landing need of fishing boats
fm) being found. Silangan Pass Light (13° 59’ 49”N., 122° and other vessels ferrying cargo and passengers.
11’ 00”E.) is shown from a white tower on the edge of the
reef NE of Roma Point. Diesel fuel, gasoline, lumber, ice and food supplies
35 are obtainable. The nearest hospital and medical facilities
QUEZON, a small town at the S end of Alabat Island are in Lopez 12 km S. There are postal communications.
on the N side of Silangan Pass, is conspicuous from the E Good highways connect the major neighboring towns.
and W entrances of the pass. The church gable is prominent Transportation is by bus and railway. The nearest
from Lopez Bay. There is a small stone mole landing on commercial airports are at Naga City and Lucena City.
the SE side of the town. Launches and small crafts from 40
neighboring towns come alongside at high water. The town Anchorage, sheltered from all except NW winds, may
has postal and radio communications facilities. Supplies be found in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom, 1.5 miles NNW of
are very scarce. Calauag Church.

Dangers - There is a rocky shoal with a depth of 5.5
m (3 fm) near the middle of the pass, about 0.17 mile 342o
from Silangan Pass Light, and0.4 mile 010o from Quezon
Church. On the N side of the pass is also a 3.7 m (2 fm)
shoal 0.45 mile 034o from the light. These are believed to
be the principal dangers near mid-channel, but it is possible
other isolated rocks may exist. There is a dangerous shoal
in the W approach to Silangan Pass, partly bare at extreme
low water, lying with its SE edge 1.1 miles, 254o from the
light and 1.35 miles 232o from Quezon Church.
Directions - From W, when about 2 miles SW from
the town of Quezon, bring the SE tangent to Alabat Island
to bear 046o and steer for it until the light on Roma Point
bears 088o, when the course should be changed to 068o.
When the pass begins to open, the course may be shaped as
45 PORT APAT (CHART 4277), between Kugasinan
and Dayap Points, is nearly closed by a reef, bare at low
water, extending SE from Dayap Point. There are two arms,
one extending SE and the other NE. Apat Island lies in the
middle of the entrance to the SE arm, is densely wooded
50 and the tops of the trees are about 23 m (75 ft) high. It is
clear on all sides except the W, from which a reef extends
about 0.15 mile W.
Anchorage may be found by steering 061o for the
55 middle of Apat Island and anchoring when Kugasinan
Point bears 181o. Perfectly protected anchorage for a small
vessel may be found about 128 m (140 yds) from the S side
of Apat Island in 3.7 m (2 fm). To approach this anchorage,
continue on the first course, round LUNGIB POINT at
60 a distance of about 0.1 mile, and anchor as previously

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directed.
From DAYAP POINT, the N entrance point to Port
Apat, the coast trends NW for 11 miles to PANGAO POINT,
thence NW for 7 miles to Dapdap Point. This coast, except
in the immediate vicinity of Dapdap Point, is fringed with a
low belt of mangroves. Like all mangrove shores, it is very
irregular and indented by many small bights and by the two
larger bays, Dayap and San Angel. From Dayap Point to
Pangao Point, the coast is fringed by reefs extending about
1 mile in places, and vessels bound for Apat and Calauag
Bays are advised to give it a good berth. A sunken rock
lies 1 mile offshore in a position about 4.5 miles NW of
Dapdap Point and a 1.8 m (1 fm) patch lies about 0.6 mile
NW of the rock. At Dapdap Point, the shoreline changes
its character; the fringe of mangrove is narrower and often
disappears entirely, showing a sandy beach; large rocks are
also found outside of the mangrove. Shoals and dangers lie
within the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve fronting the coast between
these points.
DAYAP BAY, immediately N from the point of the
same name, is very small, almost blocked by reefs, and of no
value to the navigator. A logging canal, known as CANAL
QUEZON, about 1 mile long, connects the Tinambulan 25
River at the head of Dayap Bay with the Tabogon River
at the head of Basiad Bay. The controlling depth of the
watercourse between the two bays is about 0.3 m (1 ft) at
low water.
PULUPARI ISLAND, about 1 mile NW of Pangao
Point, with which it is connected by a reef, is low, fringed
with mangroves, and heavily wooded. The tops of the trees
are about 25.6 m (84 ft) high.
Foul ground extends a long distance N and NW from
Pulupari, and vessels rounding it are advised to give it a
berth of 2.5 to 3 miles.
SAN ANGEL BAY, E from Pangao Point, is shoal and
of no value to navigation. A shoal with a depth of 9.6 m
(5.25 fm) is 8 miles N of Pangao Point.
From LAGICHIC POINT, the E side of the entrance
to San Angel Bay, the coast trends NE for 4 miles and
thence N for 2.5 miles to Dapdap Point. This elbow in the
coast is nearly filled with a large coral reef which bares to
a distance of about 3 miles offshore at low water. There is
a break, into which the TINIG RIVER discharges, between
the E side of this reef and the reef fringing the W side of
Dapdap Point.
DAPDAP POINT is the N extremity of a long
peninsula which forms the W side of Basiad Bay. It is
heavily wooded, about 58 m (190 ft) high to the tops of
the trees, and very prominent. From 1 to 2.5 miles N of
Dapdap Point, the ground is foul and many rocky shoals
exist with depths of from 1.4 to 6.9 m (0.75 to 3.75 fm) over
them. A shoal with a depth of 11.4 m (6.25 fm) is about 5
miles N of Dapdap Point and another shoal with a depth of
8.2 m (4.5 fm) is about 4 miles NNW of this point. Vessels
passing this point should keep outside the 18.3 m (10 fm)
curve.
5 BASIAD BAY (CHART 4277) contains numerous
detached shoals. Its shores are generally fringed with reefs,
and the head of the bay is shoal with mud flats bare at low
water. The TABOGON RIVER, which empties into the
head of the bay on the E side of Bagolayag Point, is the
10 largest river in this vicinity; it has 1.8 m (1 fm) on its bar at
low water and deeper water inside. It is the N entrance to
the Canal Quezon. Anchorage can be taken in 11.0 to 18.3
m (6 to 10 fm) anywhere in the outer part of the bay S of
the numerous detached shoals that encumbered the mouth
15 of the bay. Good-sheltered anchorage for small vessels may
be found S of a reef bare at low water near the head of the
bay, midway between Bagolayag Point and the point at the
mouth of the BASIAD RIVER, in 5.5 m (3 fm), soft mud
bottom, with plenty of room to the S in gradually shoaling
20 water. This anchorage may be entered by passing either side
of the reef, which bares, but in the absence of any aids to
navigation it should not be attempted by a stranger unless
the dangers are previously marked.
SANTOL and TINAGONG DAGAT BAYS make off
from the E side of Basiad Bay just S of Mapingil Point.
They are both shoal and have 3 rivers each, emptying into
them. Logs are towed from these rivers to be loaded in
Basiad Bay.
30
MAPINGIL POINT, the E entrance point to Basiad
Bay, is formed by a prominent hill over 61 m (200 ft) high.
A shoal of 9.1 m (5 fm) is found about 1.8 miles NW from
Mapingil Point. The outer limit of the detached shoals
35 surrounding Mapingil Point is about 0.9 mile to the W. The
channel between this area and the 0.5 m (0.25 fm) shoal
lying 2.3 miles 244o from Mapingil Point is about 0.8 mile
wide with depths of over 18.3 m (10 fm).
40 From Mapingil Point to Jesus Point, the coast trends
NE, with a curve to the N, for a distance of 11 miles. It
is very irregular, being indented by numerous small, foul
bays and fringed with wide reefs. The land at the back is
hilly and heavily wooded. Detached patches, with depths
45 of 11.0 and 12.8 m (6 and 7 fm) lie 2.5 miles and 7 miles,
respectively, NNW of SAGBUNGON POINT. A 14.6 m
(8 fm) patch lies about 3.5 miles NNE of the same point.
Vessels navigating this coast should keep at least 1 mile
outside a line joining the several points.
50
JAULO ISLAND is a small, low mangrove island
about 4.5 miles W from Jesus Point and 1 mile from shore,
with which it is connected by a reef bare at low water. The
town of CAPALONGA, 2.8 miles E of Jaulo Island, has
55 a post office, radio station, and steamer communication.
Launches and small crafts make daily trips to Jose
Panganiban for mail and passengers from the neighboring
seacoast towns. The metal roofs of several houses in
town are visible from seaward. The church tower with a
60 pyramidal galvanized-iron roofing is the highest and most
5-98
prominent structure. Access to the town is blocked by reefs,
and launches approach only at high tide. Local knowledge
is necessary to follow the winding channel to the mouth of
the river.
CAPALONGA BAY, entered about 1 mile W of Jesus
Point, indents the coast about 2 miles in a SSE direction.
Capalonga Light (14° 19’ 55”N., 122° 30’ 50”E.) is
displayed atop a white tower on the NE shore of the bay. A
reef with a depth of 5.8 m (3.3 fm) at its outer end extends 10
about 1.3 miles NW from the E entrance point of the bay.
The bay is mostly shoal; the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve lies close
within its entrance. Alayao River discharges into the head
of the bay.
JESUS POINT, the most N land in this vicinity,
is a round-topped wooded hill over 30 m (100 ft) high,
connected with the mainland by a low neck of mangroves
swamp, giving the point the appearance of an island when
first seen from W or E. It is fringed by a narrow reef, on
which the sea breaks heavily at times. A shoal with a depth
of 10.5 m (5.75 fm) is 2.3 miles NNE of Jesus Point.
Between Jesus Point and Pinandungan Point, nearly
9 miles E, the coast is very irregular, being indented by
Dahikan Bay, Larap Bay and Port Jose Panganiban and
faced by a number of islands, reefs, and shoals. This coast
is composed mostly of high bluffs and heavily wooded.
Caution - Navigators not intending to enter any of the
bays in this vicinity are advised not to come inside of a line
drawn from 2.5 miles N of Jesus Point to a position 2 miles
N of Tabusao island.
HIGH POINT, about 5.5 miles ESE of Jesus Point,
forms the W side of the entrance to Dahikan Bay. It is over
30.5 m (100 ft) high, well-wooded, and prominent. The N
and S sides are fringed by a narrow reef, but the E extremity
is clear and may be rounded at a distance of 0.15 mile.
DAHIKAN ISLANDS (CHART 4274), comprising
Entrance, Calalanag, Tabusao, and Palita Islands, are off
the entrance to Dahikan Bay. ENTRANCE ISLAND, close
to the shore, about 1.5 miles NW of High Point, is 45.7 m
(150 ft) high and is well-wooded. It is surrounded by reefs
which fill the passage between it and the mainland. Reefs
and dangers extend a little over 1 mile NNW from its N
side.
CALALANAG ISLAND is about 2 miles N of High
Point. It is small, low, and well-wooded and surrounded by
a white sand beach except on the N end, which is composed
of black rock. Shoal patches, with depths of 2.7 to 4.6 m
(1.5 to 2.5 fm), lie up to 0.6 mile E of the S end of the
island. A 4.3 m (2.25 fm) patch lies about 0.8 mile E of the
island.
PALITA ISLAND, about 1.5 miles NE of High Point,
is low, wooded, and surrounded by a white sand beach.
Drying reefs and shoals, with depths of less than 5.5 m (3
5-99
fm), extend up to 1 mile N from the island. A shoal, with a
least depth of 2.1 m (7 ft), lies about 0.8 mile WNW of the
N end of the island.
5 TABUSAO, the most N of the Dahikan Islands, is
nearly 2 miles WNW of Pinandungan Point. It is low and
wooded and surrounded by a white sand beach. Soundings
of 5 and 6.4 m (2.75 and 3.5 fm) are found about 1.8 miles
NNW from Tabusao, and vessels using the channel between
Tanao Island and the mainland are advised to keep about
2.5 miles N of Tabusao Island.
DAHIKAN BAY affords good shelter for small vessels
during typhoon weather in a pocket in the reef S of High
15 Point. The anchorage area is very small, but the holding
ground is good, and no sea can enter. The head of the bay is
shoal and blocked by reefs, partly bare at low water.
A wooden pier maintained by the Dahikan Lumber
20 Company is at the S side of High Point.
Caution - Entrance to Dahikan Bay should only be
made during daylight hours on account of the numerous
unmarked shoals in the vicinity.
25
Pilotage for Dahikan Bay is compulsory. Dahikan
Bay is within the boundaries of the Customs Port of
Entry of Jose Panganiban and the pilot is taken on at Jose
Panganiban; therefore, all vessels bound for Dahikan Bay
30 must call at Jose Panganiban for entrance and clearance.
Anchorage for vessels drawing less than 4.6 m (15
ft) is in about 6.4 m (3.5 fm), mud bottom, when Samur
Island, about 16 miles NE, shows midway between the S
35 end of Palita Island and the mainland, and High Point and
the W end of Calalanag Island are in range. Small crafts
may anchor farther up the bight on the same range to Samur
Island, but this should not be done unless the reefs are
visible and it will be necessary to moor fore and aft. Vessels
40 drawing less than 9.1 m (30 ft) may anchor in 11.0 m (6
fm), mud bottom, about 0.3 mile E of the pier with the W
tangents of Tabusao and Tanao Islands in range, and the N
tangent of High Point bearing 295o.
45 Directions - To enter, steer 153o for the extremity
of High Point, well-defined from offshore. When the N
tangent of Calalanag Island bears 077o, distant 0.7 mile,
change course to 145o. This course leads about midway
between Entrance and Calalanag Islands. Continue on this
50 course until High Point bears 255o, distant 0.4 mile, when a
course nothing W of 228o will lead to a depth of 7.6 m (25
ft), mud bottom. About 137 m (150 yds) E of the pier, a
bower can be let go and the vessel rounded-to and breasted
alongside.
55
A long, low point extends N from the mainland and
forms the E side of Dahikan Bay. Between this point and
the point forming the W side of Port Jose Panganiban is
Larap Bay with two large inlets at its head, both blocked
60 with mud and rocks and of no value to navigation.
 CALAMBAYANGA ISLAND is about 70 m (230 ft)
high, and lies off the point forming the W side of Port Jose
Panganiban, with which it is connected by a reef bare at low
water. The island is marked by a Panganiban Light (14° 18’
46”N., 122° 39’ 05”E.). A railroad siding which leads to the
pier at the NW extremity of the island, connects the SW
side of the island with the N end of Larap Peninsula about
0.4 mile S. The railroad was abandoned.
LARAP BAY is the shipping point for the iron mines
of the Larap Peninsula. The bare workings of the iron mines
are prominent from well offshore and the pier which is on
the NW end of Calambayanga Island is visible on entering
the bay.
A drum buoy, privately maintained, marks the 1.8 m
(1fm) shoal spot about 0.37 mile N of the pier. Vessels in
entering pass about 0.25 mile N and W of the buoy; those
awaiting turn for the pier usually anchor in 15.5 m (8.5 fm),
mud bottom, about 0.5 mile NE.
The 158 m (518 ft) private pier maintained by the
Atlantic Gulf and Pacific Company (Philippines Iron
Mines) had an average depth of 5.8 m (19 ft) alongside in
June 1951. It was reported in 1960 to be in poor condition
with only one dolphin at its outer face. However, the pier is
still being used by foreign and interisland vessels. Although
the pier is well-protected during most of the year, the heavy
swell which makes in around Pinandungan Point during the
NE weather is sometimes felt at the pier. During the NE
monsoon, vessels lie starboard side to and the swell and
wind assist in hauling off.
No fresh water or stores are available but minor
machine shop repairs can be performed. Local labor is used
for loading and trimming and the average rate is 20 tons
per gang-hour. A doctor employed by the mining company
attends to minor cases. The nearest medical and hospital
facilities are at the Paracale Marsman Hospital, 42 km
distant and the nearest post office is at Port Jose Panganiban.
Pilotage in and out of Larap Bay is compulsory and
vessels must call at Jose Panganiban for entrance and
clearance.
JOSE PANGANIBAN, a town at the E side of the
head of Port Jose Panganiban, is a port of entry open to
overseas shipping. Through this port passes all the water-
borne traffic to and from the Paracale mining area, Larap
and Dahikan. Iron ores, copper and some copra are the
principal exports. A hospital serves the medical needs of
the town.
Buses have daily trips between this town and Manila.
Foreign vessels and interisland ferries sometimes call
here. Launches from Capalonga and Dahikan call every
day for mail and passengers. Mobile phone and postal
communication facilities are available. The nearest
aerodrome is at Paracale about 12 km by highway.
There is water system in town. Fresh water is supplied
to the vessels by a local supplier using water lorry. A small
ice plant manufactures ice for local consumption only. Very
limited fresh stores and supplies are available. Bunkering
5 services is provided by Caltex.
PORT JOSE PANGANIBAN is nearly 2 miles
wide at the entrance between Calambayanga Island and
Pinandungan Point and extends 3.5 miles SE. The depths
10 at the entrance is 18.3 m (10 fm), decreasing gradually off
the town to a depth of less than 1.8 m (1 fm). The entrance
is obstructed by 2 submerged wrecks which are not marked
by buoys. The port is clear and of easy access, except for
these wrecks. The maximum vessel size that could enter is
15 up to 5,000 GRT, with LOA of 230 m and maximum draft
of 9.1 m.
Prominent Features - Within 2 miles S of Tailon
Light, the harbor may be distinguished by the several small,
20 low, wooded islands off its entrance. The bare workings
of the iron mines at Larap Peninsula and Calambayanga
Island are prominent from well offshore. A church, with a
pyramidal spire, located at the town, a mine elevator tower
about 0.3 mile N of the town and the oil tanks on the E
25 side of the harbor serve as good landmarks. The wharf at
Calambayanga island and the pier and warehouses of Pan
Century Surfactants Inc., situated about 1.7 miles NW
from Jose Panganiban town proper, are all visible from the
entrance.
30
Channels - The entrance to Jose Panganiban is deep
and clear, with a depth of 18.3 m (10 fm). Near the inner
basin the mid-channel is obstructed by two submerged
wrecks. In approaching the pier, the channel near the W
35 side is used. This channel is marked by range beacons on
the W shore of the inner basin. The rear range beacon was
reported destroyed in 1960.
Dangers - The obstructions in the middle of the harbor
40 are the two submerged wrecks about 0.7 mile NW of the
end of the pier. These dangers are not marked.
Weather - The SW monsoon and the winds that may
prevail from the SE and SW quadrants have no appreciable
45 effect on vessels inside the harbor. The sea is generally
smooth from the latter part of March to September.
During the NE monsoon, the sea is oftentimes choppy and
considerable swell rolls in, especially after a typhoon.
50 Storm Warnings - Visual storm warning signals are
displayed at a mast near the municipal building, but the
signals are not visible from the anchorage. No night signals
are exhibited.
55 Quarantine - There is no defined quarantine anchorage,
but vessels requiring quarantine inspection may be boarded
off the pier. Foreign vessels that have been cleared in one
port of the Philippines are not required to undergo another
quarantine clearance. In case of death aboard, the vessel
60 on arrival at a port should hoist the yellow flag “Queen” at
5-100
the foremast and the quarantine officer or his representative
advised of the time of arrival and informed that there is a
case of death aboard.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Jose Panganiban may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8427005 and +63998-5855869.
Berthing Facilities - The port has a 134 m long
government pier with average alongside depth of 7 m. The
port has an 11,500 sq m open storage area. There is also a
24 m long private in Port Jose Panganiban.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available.
Vessel waste collection is provided by the municipal
government of Jose Panganiban.
Repairs - Ship repairs are not possible. There are small
shops at the town. Machine shops at the mining company
may be able to perform emergency repairs.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels and is provided
by Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association, which can be
contacted at telephone number (+6352) 480-5423. Pilots
board vessels between Pinandungan Point and Tabusao
Island. Vessels wishing to berth to the port are required to
advise the pilotage district thru telephone or in writing 24
hrs before the ETA. The master should confirm the vessels
arrival 3 hrs before boarding at the pilot boarding station.
The pilot association also provides tugboats of limited
capacity.
Anchorage - Vessels may anchor off the pier in any
depth desired. The bottom is soft sand and of good holding
ground. During NW winds, considerable swell rolls in and
it cannot be recommended as a typhoon shelter.
Directions - From a position 0.8 mile W of
Pinandungan Point, steer 180o heading for the beacon on
the E tangent of Calambayanga Island. When the N tangent
of Calambayanga Island bears 234o, pick up the range
beacons and steer for it on course 146o, until the beacon
on the SE shore of Calambayanga Island bears 248o. Then
haul sharply to the E, and steer 068o heading for the pier, or
anchor in a desired anchorage.
PINANDUNGAN POINT forms the E point to Port
Jose Panganiban. It is a bluff, wooded point fringed by a
steep-to coral reef about 0.1 mile wide. It was reported that
2 conspicuous white radar domes stand on the summit of a
hill, about 2.5 miles S of the point.
MANGROVE POINT, about 1 mile E of Pinandungan
Point, is a low, mangrove-covered point fringed by reefs
nearly 0.25 mile in extent.
TANAO ISLANDS, comprising three small islands
and a number of large rocks, are about 4 miles N and NW
of Pinandungan Point. PALUMBATO, the W island, is 60
5-101
14.9 m (49 ft) high, bare and conspicuously flat on top.
TAILON, the largest of the group, is about 1.5 miles ESE
of Palumbato; it is low, surrounded by white sand beach,
and covered with bushes. It is marked by Tailon Light (14°
5 24’ 44”N., 122° 39’ 57”E.). A ridge of shoals, over which
the sea breaks in a N swell, extends between Palumbato
and Tailon.
TANAO ISLAND, about 0.5 mile SE of Tailon, is
10 small, 17.4 m (57 ft) high and wooded, and is the most
prominent of the group. The two 9.8 m (32 ft) rocks NE
of Tanao are back and prominent. These rocks, with Tanao
and Tailon islands, all stand on the same reef, which bares
at low water; the S side of Tanao Island has very little reef
15 off it with deep water close-to. There is a small shoal patch
covered by a depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm) about 1.2 miles SE
of Tanao Island.
TANAO PASS (CHART 4274), the channel between a
20 line drawn from the Tanao Islands to the S end of Maculabo
Island and the mainland of Luzon, is 4 miles wide at the
narrowest point, between Tanao Island and Pinandungan
Point.
25 Dangers - Medio Reef, the most dangerous obstruction
in Tanao Pass, is a large reef covered by a depth of 5.5 m
(3 fm) lying with its shoalest part nearly 3 miles WSW of
the S end of Maculabo Island. The widest and best channel
will be found S of it. However, a 5.8 m (0.75 fm) shoal
30 was reported to exist about 1.3 miles SSE of this reef in a
position about 2 miles N of Pulandaga Point. A strong SSW
set has been reported in the area between Maculabo Island
and and the reef.
35 Directions - Passing 3 miles N of Jesus Point, steer
093o for 6.8 miles, heading for the S end of Maculabo Island.
When 1.75 miles S of Palumbat Island, the W Tanao Islet,
steer 111o for 8.3 miles and when the W ends of Maculabo
and Samur Islands should be in range, bearing 021o. Then
40 steer 094o with Mangrove Point astern for 4 or 5 miles and
then shape the course as desired. The latter course passes
1.25 miles S of Medio Reef and about the same distance N
of Paracale Reef.
45 From Mangrove Point, the coast trends in a general
SE direction for 25 miles to the mouth of the Daet River.
From Mangrove Point to Bacacay Point, about 11 miles SE,
the land is high, there are several prominent hills, and the
entire section is heavily wooded. This coast is indented by
50 a number of bays and the shores are fringed by a narrow
steep-to coral reef. Between Bacacay Point and the Daet
River, the shores are low and sandy.
GUMAUS BAY, between an unnamed point and
55 Gumaus Point, 2.75 and 4.75 miles, respectively, from
Pinandungan Point, is of moderate depth and clear, with the
exception of a small shoal patch with a depth of 3.7 m (2
fm) about 0.5 mile NW from Gumaus Point. There are no
villages on the shore of this bay.
 PULANDAGA POINT, 2.5 miles SE of Gumaus
Point, is 15.2 m (50 ft) high, well wooded, and fringed by
a narrow coral reef.
PULANDAGA BAY is a small cove on the W side
of the point of the same name; its shores are fringed with
coral. In the E part of the bay is a ruined concrete pier.
Anchorage for small vessels, partially protected during
the NE monsoon by the reef extending N from Pulandaga
Point, may be found toward the head of the bay in 9.1 m
(5 fm).
Between Pulandaga Point and Tanoban Point, 3.5
miles SE from it, is a bay which is divided into two smaller 15
bays, Paracale and Malaguit, Longos Point, a wooded
promontory 61 m (200 ft) high, divides this bay. Longos
Point is marked by Paracale Light (14° 17’ 17”N., 122° 48’
05”E.).
PARACALE and MALAGUIT BAYS are mostly
shoal; the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve lies close within its entrance
points. Anchorage, protected during the SW monsoon, may
be found in either bay.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Paracale may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8426993 and +63998-5851158.
The town of PARACALE and the barrio of
MALAGUIT are near the rivers of the same names which
empty at the head of the bays also of the same names.
Paracale River is of no value to navigation. Dredging
operations for gold are carried on near the mouth of the
Paracale River. The mouth of Malaguit River is wide but
choked by rocks. Iron ore is shipped in barges from the
river to the anchorage in the bay.
Gumaus, Pulandaga, Paracale, and Malaguit Bays are
open NE and are frequently unsafe during the NE monsoon.
Paracale owes its size and importance to the gold mining
operations in the vicinity. The town has bus connection S
to a station of the Manila to Legazpi railroad. There is an
aerodrome at Paracale, and direct airplane passenger and
mail service is maintained with Manila three times a week.
There are postal service and mobile phone communication.
Gasoline in tins, diesel oil in bulk, lubricating oils, kerosene,
ice, fresh beef, and canned food supplies are obtainable in
some quantity. There are hotels for the accommodation
of travelers. 2 of the mining companies operate complete
machine shops. Jose Panganiban is the port of Paracale.
PARACALE REEF, a small reef with 7.3 m (4 fm),
is about 2 miles ENE of Pulandaga Point. A small reef with
8.2 m (4.5 fm) is 3.3 miles E of Pulandaga Point.
TANOBAN POINT is a round, wooded point 85.3 m
(280 ft) high. It is fringed by a reef, bare at low water, and
shoal water extends 0.5 mile E from it.
BACACAY POINT rises to a wooded hill 112.8 m
(370 ft) high, marked by a prominent bare spot about 0.5
mile inland. It is fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef. A
shoal patch with a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) is about 1 mile
5 E of Bacacay Point.
CALAGUA ISLANDS include 6 principal islands
and a number of smaller islets and rocks in the E approach
to Lamon Bay. The principal islands, from W to E, are
10 Maculabo, Samur, Tinaga, Guintinua, Ingalan, and Huag
Islands. Most of the group are bold but of no great heights,
except Maculabo, 248 m (814 ft) high. The islands are
distinguished by several bare red patches on hill sides
and slopes. The 2 largest of the group, GUINTINUA and
TINAGA, are joined to each other and to several of the
smaller ones, the chief, of which are HUAG, CAGBALISAY,
the two SIAPA and the BALAGBAG ISLANDS, by a coral
reef bare at low water. There are deep channels between
this group of connected islands and all of the other islands,
20 except the PINACUAPAN ISLANDS.
MACULABO ISLAND, the SW and most important
island to the navigator, is with its S extremity 4.8 miles
NNE of Pulandaga Point, the nearest point of the mainland
25 of Luzon. It is 248 m (814 ft) high and is clear and steep-
to except for a narrow fringe of coral on its W side which
bares at low water.
THURSTON ROCK is a small rock, about 3 m (10
30 ft) high, 7 miles NNW of the N end of Maculabo. Several
rocks awash are 1.24 miles E of this rock. The depths are
very irregular in the area E of these rocks and N of Samur
Island: the least depth is 11.0 m (6 fm), LIMA ROCK 4
miles N of Thurston Rock, has a depth of 1.4 m (0.75 fm)
35 and is steep-to. A shoal with a depth of 5.2 m (2.75 fm) was
reported to lie about 2.5 miles NW of Lima Rock.
SAMUR ISLAND, 3.5 miles NNE of the N end of
Maculabo, is a small, round-topped islet, 93.3 m (306 ft)
40 high, which forms a prominent landmark.
TWIN ROCKS, 3.0 and 4.6 m (10 and 15 ft) high,
lie nearly 1 mile SE of Samur Island. Shoals with depths
of 11.0 to 14.6 m (6 to 8 fm) lie between these rocks and
45 Tinaga Island.
INGALAN ISLAND, 7.5 miles E of the S end of
Maculabo, is small, covered with grass, and is 78.9 m (259
ft) high. It is clear and steep-to on all sides.
50
In strong NE winds, good protected anchorage may be
found about 0.4 mile SW of the village of BANACBOC on
the S side of Guintinua Island. From this anchorage, the W
end of Ingalan Island should bear 181o, and the S tangent
55 to Guintinua Island 093o. Small vessels may anchor closer
in, but they should proceed cautiously as the shore reef is
steep-to.
AMALIA, 28 m (92 ft) high and PAQUITA, 36.6 m
60 (120 ft) high, are two very small islets 4.5 and 5.1 miles,
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respectively, E of the E end of Ingalan Island. These islets
are clear and steep-to.
ROSES REEF is about 1 mile W of Amalia Islet
and has 2 dangerous rocks, with a depth of 10.1 m (5.5
fm) between them. These rocks, covered by 0.4 and 1.4
m (0.25 and 0.75 fm) are 0.8 miles WSW and 1 mile W,
respectively, from the center of Amalia Islet. To the N, W,
and S of Roses Reef the depths increase rapidly to 36.6 m
(20 fm) or more, but E a coral bottom of unequal depths
extends toward Amalia Islet.
MATANDUMATEN ROCK is a bare perpendicular
rock, about 91 m (300 ft) in diameter and 44.2 m (145 ft)
high, 5 miles ESE of Paquita Islet. Close to it on the NE,
E and SW sides are rocks 12 to 15 m (40 to 50 ft) high and
SW of it are rocks awash. Matandumaten forms a prominent
landmark, being visible 15 to 18 miles, and may be passed
in safety at a distance of 0.5 mile.
SAN MIGUEL AND LAMIT BAYS
(CHART 4222, 4223, 4268 & 4271)
INDAN POINT is about 4.5 miles SE of Bacacay
Point. Between these 2 points, the coast recedes SE forming
a long bight, with sandy shores which are wooded nearly
to the water’s edge. The INDAN RIVER empties on the
W side of the point; it is very shoal and of no value to
navigation. Shoal water extends more than 1 mile N and
E from the mouth of the river, and Indan Point should be
given a good berth.
QUINAMANUCA ISLAND is 1.8 miles SE from
Indan Point and about 0.8 mile from shore. It is small, low,
and heavily wooded, which makes it show well against
the low country between the beach and Mount Bacacay.
It is fringed on the E side by coral, beyond which shoal
water extends nearly 0.5 mile. Mariners are advised to give
it a berth of at least 1 mile in passing. There is a shallow
channel between it and the shore, but it is of no value to the
navigator.
Between Indan Point and DAET POINT, about 8.5
miles SE, the coast is low and sandy. Shoal water, as defined
by the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve, extends up to 1.5 miles offshore.
GROVE POINT, a low projection, is located about 5.5
miles SE of Indan Point.
Directions - A good range for a safe course along this
coast is the SW point of Canimo Island in line with the NE
tangent to Caringo Island, bearing 141o. Vessels leaving the
Daet River for the W are advised to hold this range until it
becomes too faint to use; they will then find the vessel well
up by the reef off Indan Point and heading for Maculabo.
There is a small bank with a depth of 11.4 m (6.25 fm)
about 2.7 miles NNW of the NW point of Canimo Island.
Another bank, larger in extent, with a depth of 14.6 m (8
fm), is 4.3 miles NW of the same point.
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DAET, the most important town in this vicinity and
the capital of Camarines Norte, is about 4 miles inland on
the river of the same name. Ice, diesel oil, gasoline, and
food supplies are available in small quantity. Fresh water is
5 available from piped water system, springs, and deep wells.
There are private hospitals and several clinics in the town.
There is a post office in Daet. A landing field maintains
airplane passenger and mail service with Manila.
10 DAET RIVER empties out just W of Daet Point. The
river mouth cannot be identified until the vessel is close to
the coast.
MERCEDES (CHART 4268), a small town on the
15 W side of the entrance to Daet River, is a busy little port
of Daet. Considerable trade is carried by small crafts and
sailing vessels with the neighboring seacoast towns. The
town, with several galvanized iron-roofed buildings and a
church, distinguished by a cross, is visible from seaward.
20
There are no fresh stores or fresh water available.
During the fishing season, a great supply of fish is dried or
salted and shipped to Manila. Copra, hemp, rice and lumber
are the most important exports. Diesel oil, gasoline and
25 kerosene are obtainable.
A good road connects Mercedes with Daet, and bus
transportation is available. There is a post office and mobile
phone communication. The nearest commercial airport and
30 hospitals are at Daet, about 7 km W of Mercedes.
Channels - The harbor is formed by the banks of the
river and a large reef bare at low water across the mouth
which affords protection from the sea. The navigable area
35 inside the river is very limited and it is not safe for vessels
drawing more than 3.6 m or over 54.8 m (180 ft) long to
enter the river. The entrance channel is marked by bamboo
poles placed by a local pilot at the W edge of the reef
making out from Daet Point. These poles are temporary in
40 nature and may be moved from time to time to mark the
shifting channel of the mouth of the river and the bar.
Current in Daet River is strong, sometimes reaching a
velocity of 6 to 7 knots, and good anchors should be used.
45 Turning on an ebb current should not be attempted, as the
vessel is liable to become unmanageable.
Berthing Facilities - There is no government pier at
Mercedes. The wharves along the bank of the river are
50 privately-owned and operated by principal shippers who
maintain warehouses for storage of copra and hemp. A
small wooden wharf on the E bank of the river is owned by
a lumber company operating a sawmill.
55 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Mercedes may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8426965 and +63998-5851157.
Pilotage in the Port of Mercedes is compulsory.
60
 Anchorage -Vessels waiting for the pilot may anchor
in 14.6 m (8 fm), sand bottom, about 0.8 mile N of the town
with Canimo Island Light bearing 082o. The anchorage is
open to N and E winds.
Directions - To approach the anchorage off the mouth
of the river, bring the top of a high conical mountain about
8 miles S of Mercedes to bear 200o and steer for it. When
Canimo Island Light bears 082o, anchor in 14.6 m (8 fm),
sand bottom, about 0.8 mile N of the town and wait for the
pilot. Vessels of less than 50 gross tons and drawing not
more than 2.4 m (8 ft) may enter the river by following the
channel marked by bamboo poles. The best way to lie at the
wharves during the NE monsoon is with bow seaward, as
the wind often approaches the force of a gale.
CANIMO ISLAND, about 2 miles E of the mouth of
the Daet River, is fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef. It
is 184.7 m (606 ft) high in the N part, and the N and E slopes
are covered with cogon grass to the summit, while the rest
of the island is heavily wooded. Canimo Island Light (14°
07’ 50”N., 123° 03’ 05”E.) is shown from a white tower on
the NW extremity of the island.
Anchorage, protected from all winds except from N,
may be found W of Canimo.
CANTON ISLAND is small, 108.2 m (355 ft) high,
and is about 2 miles SE of Canimo. The island is mostly
covered with grass and several scattered trees on top. The
SE extremity is a prominent, sparsely wooded bluff which
forms a good landmark for vessels approaching San Miguel
Bay.
APUAO and APUAO GRANDE ISLETS, and
several smaller islets and rocks, are between Canton and
Canimo Islands. Canton and the smaller islets are connected
and surrounded by reefs, partly bare at low water, leaving
a narrow channel between a small, black, rocky islet on the
W edge of them and Canimo Island.
CARINGO ISLAND, nearly 2 miles S of Canton
Island, forms the W entrance point of the main channel into
San Miguel Bay. It is generally low and well wooded, but
on its S side there is a bluff about 12.2 m (40 ft) high. Its
NE and E sides are fringed by a coral reef, parts of which
bare and extend about 0.6 mile.
QUINAPAGYAN ISLAND, about 1.6 miles NW of
Caringo Island and 1 mile E of Pambuan Point, Luzon,
forms the E entrance point at the S end of Canimo Pass.
It is low and heavily wooded and about 0.6 mile in extent.
SAND POINT, the W extremity, is a steep-to,
prominent, sandy point. MALASUGUE ISLAND, about
midway between Quinapagyan and Caringo Islands is
small and low.
Caution - The area bounded by the Apuao Islands,
Canton, Quinapagyan, and Caringo Islands is foul and
should not be entered without local knowledge.
CANIMO PASS (CHART 4268), the W channel
into San Miguel Bay, is between Luzon and Canimo and
5 Quinapagyan Islands. It is the usual route taken by small
coasting steamers between Daet and Naga. Strangers
are advised to take a pilot from either Daet or Naga. For
southbound vessels, there are no difficulties in making the
pass until nearing Quinapagyan Island, where the channel
10 is narrowed by reefs from the mainland and by a large reef
making out from the N side of Quinapagyan Island, with 1.8
m (6 ft) soundings 0.8 mile N of Sand Point. The greatest
danger in this pass is a large, rocky reef, bare at extreme
low water and does not give any signs of its existence at
15 other times. This reef is about 0.35 mile WNW of Sand
Point.
Directions - Vessels from N, from a position off
Canimo Island Light, should steer for Sand Point on a 159o
20 bearing; when drawing up toward Sand Point, at a distance
of about 0.25 mile, the vessel should be hauled S to give
Sand Point a berth of 0.1 to 0.12 mile. Culasi Point, a little
open W of Sand Point, clears some 2.4 m (8 ft) spots on the
E side of the pass.
25
Anchorage - Large vessels can anchor in 11 or 12.8
m (6 or 7 fm) about 1.3 miles S of the W end of Caringo
Island. Vessels of moderate draft can anchor in 8.2 m (4.5
fm) about 1 mile from the ruined pier at Barrio Angas with
30 Pambuan Point bearing 352o and Sand Point in range 032o
with the N extremity of Apuao Islet. The islands off this
coast afford some protection from the NE monsoon.
ANGAS, a small barrio between Pambuan Point and
35 SIHAN POINT, on the W side of Canimo Pass, can be
distinguished by several small nipa houses.
Logs and sawed lumber are shipped. Local stevedores
are available and the loading rate is estimated at 20 logs
40 per gang-hour. No fresh water or stores are available, and
neither can repairs be made. Minor medical treatment can
be obtained from a company hospital.
SAN MIGUEL BAY is somewhat pear-shaped in
45 general outline, extending 18 miles S from the entrance
between Carigo and Siruma Islands and varying in width
from 5.5 miles at this entrance to 16 miles at greatest width
about 4 miles from its head. The navigable width of the
entrance is contracted by BICOL ROCK, awash at half
50 tide, slightly over 1 mile W of the W end of Siruma Island.
Depths of 11 to 14.6 m (6 to 8 fm) will be found in the
middle of the bay, decreasing gradually toward the shore.
The S part of the bay is very shoal.
55 Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress in San Miguel
Bay may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center,
which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of
Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
60 From CULASI POINT, about 3.5 miles S of Caringo
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Island, the W shore of the bay trends a little E of S for about
5 miles to Magsatangi Point and is heavily wooded and
mountainous. The shore is steep-to and, except for reefs off
Culasi Point, may be approached in safety within 0.5 mile.
The barrio of CULASI, on a bluff about 2 miles N from
Magsatangi Point, is small and not readily seen from the
sea.
CULASI PEAK, close to the shore, about 5.5 miles
S from Culasi Point, is a sharp, conical hill 388.6 m (1,275
ft) high. This hill is only about half the height of the other
peaks of the Culasi Hills but it is conspicuously isolated
from the rest of the high land and is readily identified from
all directions except SE.
MAGSATANGI POINT, the most E point on the W
side of San Miguel Bay, is formed by the slope of Culasi
Peak. From Magsatangi Point, the coast trends generally
SSW for 7 miles to the mouth of the MANGA RIVER.
Projecting from the S side of Magsatangi Point is a
hook of land nearly 1 mile in length, inclosing a shoal basin
which dries at extreme low water. The conspicuous part of
this hook is TACUBTACUBAN HILL, a round-topped hill
103.6 m (340 ft) high. The neck connecting this with the
mainland and the curved hook projecting W from its S side
are low, narrow, sandy spits covered with mangrove. In
heavy NW winds, good anchorage in 5.5 m (3 fm), mud
bottom, may be found 0.5 mile S of the W extremity of this
hook.
Anchorage for larger vessels will be found a little
farther out in 7.3 m (4 fm), with Tacubtacuban Hill in range
with Culasi Peak. The beach along this coast is generally
rocky, though broken by occasional sand patches, and is
timbered to the water’s edge.
From the mouth of the Manga River, the coast takes
an abrupt turn to the ESE and stretches in gently curving
sand beaches, 5 miles to the mouth of the Bicol River.
The barrio of BARCELONETA is at the foot of a fairly
conspicuous bluff, showing red soil in places and elsewhere
grass covered, just S of the Manga River. The country back
of the coast is low and flat.
BICOL RIVER empties into San Miguel Bay about
5 miles from the W side and is navigable for small vessels
drawing not over 2.7 m (9 ft) to Naga City, the capital of
Camarines Sur province, 20 miles from the mouth of the
river. Only launches and small crafts drawing not more than
1.5 m (5 ft) can enter the river. The bar at the entrance is
soft mud and is shoaling.
CABUSAO is the the town at the W coast of Bicol
River. It is connected by road to Naga City. The town has a
pier which is usually used by fishing boats. Mobile phone
communication is available in the town. There are postal
facilities and communications in Naga.
CAUIT ISLAND is a small island 44.2 m (145 ft) high,
Major Light - Cabusao Light (13° 44’ 08”N., 123° 06’ 60 abreast of Cagsao Point and about 1 mile from shore. It has
5-105
48”E.) is displayed from a white framework tower at W
side of the mouth of Bicol River.
Pilotage is compulsory and pilots are available at
5 Cabusao.
Directions - Vessels bound for the Bicol River should
enter San Miguel Bay midway between Caringo and
Siruma Islands and steer 189o; when Cauit Island bears
10 091o, anchor in 3 fm (5.5 m) in the vicinity of the anchorage
buoy, to wait for the pilot, or for water on the bar, as may
be necessary.
NAGA CITY, located about 20 miles upstream from
15 the mouth of Bicol River, is the commercial center in San
Miguel Bay. The city has big shopping malls, branches of
commercial banks and money remittance centers. Buses
with daily trips to Metro Manila, Sorsogon, Legazpi and
other cities in Bicol Region have terminals in the city. An
20 airport, located about 5 miles SE of the city, have daily
flights to Manila.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
the area of Naga may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
25 +63929-6864107, +63927-5484816, and +63921-4128774.
Berthing Facilities - A private wharf is located at
bank of Bicol River in Barrio Tabuco. Small boats calling
at Naga berth along banks of the river.
30
From the mouth of the Bicol River, the coast curves
gradually E to TANGLAR POINT. The beach is low, flat,
and muddy, and landing is impossible except at high water
or at the mouth of the CALABANGA RIVER, 5 miles E of
35 the Bicol River. The 3.7 m (2 fm) curve is about 1.5 miles
from the shore.
CALABANGA, a town about 6 miles E of Cabusao,
is at the mouth of Inamigan River. It has a small harbor for
40 fishing boats protected by breakwaters. The town is marked
by Sabang Calabanga Light (13° 43' 43"N., 123° 12' 48"E.).
TANGLAR ISLAND, off the point of the same name,
is small, bold, covered with small trees, and has rocks
45 along its N shore. A very small, round islet is 0.6 mile E of
Tanglar Island.
From TANGLAR POINT, the coast trends NE for
6 miles to the mouth of the Caaluhan River, Cagsao and
50 Bogui Points, midway on this stretch, are the principal
breaks in a muddy or sandy beach. Back from the shore, the
land rises in irregular hills covered partly with timber and
partly with grass. These are the foothills of Mount Isarog.
55 MOUNT ISAROG, an extinct volcano, about 11 miles
SE from Tanglar Point, is prominent. It rises to two peaks
1,906 and 1,976 m (6,255 and 6,482 ft) high, respectively.
a light-colored bluff on the bay side and slopes gradually
toward the E shore.
About 0.4 mile W from Cauit Island is a sand shoal
having a group of rocks awash at high water. Less than
0.25 mile SE of these rocks is a submerged rock with 0.4
m (1.5 ft) at low water; this rock is covered by a growth of
seaweed and sometimes appears to bare at low water. These
rocks constitute the only serious danger to navigation in
San Miguel Bay proper.
CABGAN ISLAND is a round-topped cone 51.8 m
(170 ft) high with an immense banyan tree on its summit. It
is less than 0.25 mile in extent and lies 0.25 mile S of the W
end of Cauit Island. There is a small warehouse on Cabgan 15
and a larger one on the mainland opposite.
Directions - Vessels bound for Cauit Landing at
Cabgan Island should, after entering the bay, bring the E
end of Canton Island to bear 338o and steer 158o until the
S side of Cabgan Island bears 091o, when it may be steered
for.
The area included between Cauit and Cabgan Islands
and the mainland affords the only safe anchorage in the bay
for vessels drawing less than 1.8 m (6 ft); the bottom is soft
mud. The best anchorage is about midway between Cauit
Island and the mainland with the rocks awash showing
midway between Cauit and Cabgan Islands. The passage
between Cauit Island and Cagsao Point is clear and has 1.8
m (6 ft) in it.
From the mouth of Caaluhan River, the coast trends
NNW for 7 miles to Balocbaloc Point. For 4 miles, the
shore is low and mud bottom extends to the muddy or
sandy beach; the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve is about 1.5 miles from
shore. For the last 3 miles, the shore becomes rockier and
the bottom changes from mud to sand between 5.5 and 7.3
m (3 and 4 fm).
TINAMBAC is a small town N of the mouth of the
HIMORAGAT RIVER. Its church with a white cross is a
good landmark. The beach fronting the town is marked by
Tinambac Light (13° 49’ 03”N., 123° 19’ 24”E.).
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Tinambac may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5854656 and +63917-8426799.
KAGLILIOG POINT, about 0.7 mile S of the
entrance to the Looc River, is rocky and has a detached
rock about 91m (100 yds) off its extremity. The bottom is
rocky for some distance off, and this rock should not be
approached closer than 0.5 mile.
BALOCBOLOC POINT, the S entrance point of the
Looc River, is low and sandy, and has a spit, covered at
high water, extending 0.5 mile N.
LOOC RIVER, about 1.5 miles wide at the mouth, is
the outlet of a large tidal lagoon. The shores of this lagoon
are low and mostly mangrove-covered; its greatest depth
is about 1.8 m (1 fm) at low water, over a muddy bottom.
There is a small islet in the center. The Looc River leaves
5 this lagoon as a clear channel 5.5 m (3 fm) deep and 0.3
mile wide through which the tidal currents run with great
velocity. This channel gradually widens and shoals 1 mile
from the lagoon and becomes dangerously contracted by
rocks on both sides. A channel carrying 3.0 m (10 ft) at low
10 water which, if well buoyed and entered for the first time in
fine weather for the sake of local knowledge, serves to take
a vessel of that draft to an excellent harbor of refuge in the
upper part of the river. This channel is impracticable for a
stranger or in thick weather.
From THE LOOC RIVER, the coast trends
gradually NW by W for 4.5 miles to San Miguel Island and
is irregular, having several shoal bays and rocky points. The
bottom off this shore is hard sand, with rocks close inshore,
20 to a depth of between 5.5 and 7.3 m (3 and 4 fm), outside of
which the bottom becomes soft mud. Proceeding N, the 5.5
m (3 fm) curve at first, about 1.5 miles offshore, gradually
approaches the coast until W of San Miguel Island, where
the land is fairly steep-to; a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm) is found
25 less than 0.25 mile from shore.
SAN MIGUEL ISLAND is low and well-wooded. Its
shores are rocky and at the E end it is connected with the
mainland by sand bar, bare at low water. Off the NW end,
30 detached rocks extend about 0.3 mile; this point should not
be approached closer than 0.15 mile.
Anchorage is in 5.5 m (3 fm), sand bottom, fairly
sheltered from winds from NW through N to SE, about 0.5
35 mile SE of the SE end of San Miguel Island. Large vessels
may anchor in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom 0.8 mile S of the
same point. The approaches to this anchorage are clear and
the bottom shoals gradually. There is a small anchorage in
5.5 m (3 fm) with sand, mud and rock bottom E of the N
40 end of the island, about halfway between the point and the
shore. This anchorage should be approached cautiously, as
there are rocks, bare at low water, some distance off the
shore of the mainland.
45 From SAN MIGUEL ISLAND, the coast trends N
for 2 miles to Quelun Point. About 1 mile W of this point
is a low, rocky islet with a few bushes on it, and 0.25 mile
NW of this islet is a long detached reef with a depth of 1.8
m (6 ft) on it. The vicinity of this islet and Quelun Point is
50 foul and should be avoided.
SIRUMA BAY, between Quelun and Siruma Point, is
filled with islets and coral shoals for the greater part of its
area. There is a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) at the entrance,
55 decreasing gradually toward the head. The town of
SIRUMA is on the S shore, about 1 mile E from Quelun
Point.
In Barangay PAMINTAN-BANTILAN is a rock
60 causeway, 3 m wide and extending 55 m long to seaward,
5-106
with 3 m wide stairlandings on both sides. The causeway is
connected to a concrete roadway 74 m long and 3 m wide,
going inland. Depth of water at the end of the causeway
was found 0.16 m in 1990. Passengers convey back and
forth to Tinambac, Mecedes and Garchitorena. White clay
is exported to Tinambac by medium and large-size boats.
Cargoes at the terminal of Siruma are consumable items,
cement, fish and some others.
TANDOC, the site of a large sawmill, is at the head of
the Batauanan Bay about 2.8 miles SE of Sapenitan Point.
The approach is not easy and should only be attempted
during daylight hours as the reefs on either arm of the bay
5 are not marked. The pier is visible on entering the bay and
care should be exercised when steering for the pier to avoid
a rock with a known depth over it of 3 m (10 ft), about 0.6
mile 134o from the offshore end of the pier.

SIRUMA ISLAND, the E entrance point of San Miguel 10 The pier, owned by the sawmill, is L-shaped with a
Bay, is a small, low and wooded island about 15 m (50 ft) berth of a 75.9 m (249 ft) at its NE face and 128 m at its SE
high. It is surrounded by a reef which extends nearly 0.8 face, with a width of 7.5 m. The pier is not recommended
mile W. The E end of Siruma Island is connected by reefs for vessels with a draft of more than 6.9 m. A mooring
with SIRUMA POINT, a long, narrow point projecting W buoy has been established off the S side to assist vessels in
from the mainland. An islet is on the reef about 0.12 mile N 15 securing alongside the dock. A railroad runs from the mill
of the N end of Siruma Island. to the end of pier; a travelling crane of 15 tons is available
if required. The pier is unsafe during the NE monsoon and
BICOL ROCK, a small rocky ledge which is covered when seas and swell make up from the N.
at extreme high water, is 1.1 miles W of the W end of
Siruma Island. Between this rock and the reef extending W 20 No fresh water or stores are available, but the sawmill
from Siruma Island is a channel 0.25 mile wide and 14.6 m company maintains a canteen where personal goods may
(8 fm) deep. be obtained. Local labor is used for stevedoring. There is a
well-equipped machine shop at the mill where minor repairs
A rocky patch with a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm) is 0.6 can be performed. The mill maintains a company hospital
mile S from the W end of Siruma Island. There are 2 shoals 25 which can render medical treatment and perform minor
NW of Siruma Island which must be avoided by vessels surgery. The nearest post office is at Naga. The Bureau of
entering or leaving San Miguel Bay. One, with a depth of Telecommunications maintains a radio station in town.
4.6 m (2.5 fm), is 1.2 miles W of the N point of Siruma
Island, and the other, with a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm), is 1.5 Current ebbs to the W and floods to E.
miles NW of the same point. 30
Pilotage is not compulsory in Tandoc but is
SAPENITAN BAY, between Siruma and Sapenitan recommended for large vessels especially when visiting the
Points, affords good anchorage sheltered from all winds port for the first time. A pilot is available at Mercedes, or by
except those from N and NW, in 7.3 to 11.0 m (4 to 6 fm), special arrangement.
mud bottom, about 0.5 mile from the shore, between the 35
mouths of two rivers which empty near the head of the bay. Anchorage during strong NE winds may be found
in 21.9 m (12 fm) about 0.5 mile from the W side of
SAPENITAN POINT is low and wooded at the Butauanan Island on the bearings: S end of Butauanan
extremity, but is 107.3 m (352 ft) high about 2 miles inland. Island 130o and the NW point of the same island 334o.
It is surrounded by a wide reef, partly bare at low water. 40 Another anchorage used by coastwise steamers is in 16.5
m (9 fm), mud bottom, about 0.8 mile SW from the S end
BUTAUANAN BAY is between Sapenitan Point and of Butauanan Island. From this anchorage, the 15.2 m (50
Quinabucasan Point. It is very irregular but deep. The W ft) islet previously mentioned should bear 070o and the
arm of the bay extends two miles E, the shores of which are NW point of Butauanan Island 335o. This anchorage is not
fringed with coral reefs leaving a deep pocket over 1 mile 45 recommended except for vessels with local knowledge due
long, 0.5 mile wide between them. The E arm of Butauanan to the absence of beacons marking the reefs at the entrance.
Bay is entirely foul, fringed with reefs and small number
of islets, the NE of which, about 0.5 mile SE of Butauanan BUTAUANAN ISLAND, NW from Quinabucasan
Island, is 15.2 m (50 ft) high and marks the SE side of Point, from which it is separated by a deep, narrow,
the channel between Butauanan Island and Quinabucasan 50 navigable channel having a least width of about 0.12 mile
Point. A rocky patch, with a depth of 7.0 m (3.75 fm), lies is well-wooded, and 232.6 m (763 ft) high in its N part. The
at the junction of the two channels in a position about 0.5 N coast of the island is clear and may be safely rounded at
mile WNW of the point separating the two arms of the bay. a distance of 0.5 mile. The W side is fringed by a coral reef
which, at its S end, extends nearly 0.8 mile W. Shoal water,
The bay may be entered from the NW between the SW 55 with one rock awash, extends about 1 mile W of the S end
side of Butauanan Island and the NE side of the peninsula of the island.
forming Sapenitan Point, or from the NE between the SE
side of the island and the W face of the peninsula forming From Quinabucasan Point, the most N point of Luzon
Quinabucasan Point. in this vicinity, the coast trends in a general SSE direction
60 for 40 miles to Caramoan Point, the NE extremity of the

5-107
peninsula of the same name. This coastline is very irregular,
being indented by deep bays and faced by numerous islands,
between which and the mainland are several well-protected
anchorages. The land rises rapidly from the shoreline
and, as a rule, heavily wooded. There are no towns of any
importance on this coast.
SAN VICENTE BAY, 4.5 miles SSE of Quinabucasan
Point, is nearly blocked by reefs and the only available
anchorage is in the entrance S of the W entrance point. A 10
rock lies awash in a position about 0.5 mile NE of the E
entrance point.
Between San Vicente Bay and the W entrance point
of Port Tambang, about 3.5 miles SSE, the coast is fringed
by a drying reef extending up to 0.3 mile offshore. Several
small islets stand on this reef. A rock lies awash about 0.6
mile E of the latter point; foul ground lies between the rock
and the point.
PORT TAMBANG, 4 miles SE of San Vicente Bay, is
blocked by coral reefs almost to the entrance and is of no
value to the navigator.
From TAMBANG POINT, the coast trends SE for
3.5 miles to the W entrance point of Lamit Bay. A shoal,
with a depth of 8.8 m (4.75 fm) near its outer end, extends
about 1.3 miles N from a position close E of Tambang
Point. A rock lies awash on this shoal in a position about
0.5 mile from the coast. Reefs and shoals extend up to 1
mile from the remainder of this coast.
LAMIT BAY (CHART 4271), with its N entrance
about 16 miles SE of Butauanan Island and the same
distance W from Sugar Loaf Point, is the best typhoon
harbor on the E coast of Luzon. It is formed by Sibauan
and several smaller islands W, the Lamit Island E, and a
bight in the shoreline S. It has an average width of 2.5 miles
and extends 4 miles S. Within this area, there are a number
of small islands, among which anchorage, protected from
all winds and sea may be found.
On the SW side of the bay, inside GUIBAHAY
RIVER, is a small wooden wharf with a depth of 1.2 m
(4 ft) along its face. The wharf is maintained by a private 45
enterprise operating a lumber mill and manganese mines.
There is a road to the mill about 1 km from the landing, and
the mining camp is about 12 km inland. A wooden pier in
ruins, with rock causeway, is 0.4 mile N of the entrance to
Guibahay River. The W side of the entrance to the river is 50
identified by a triangular red cliff.
Foreign and interisland vessels often call at Lamit Bay
for manganese and lumber. The LCTs or barges are loaded
from the wharf and the cargo transferred to the vessel
anchored in the bay.
A privately-maintained cylindrical mooring buoy 0.3
mile NE of the mouth of Guibahay River is for the use of
LCTs and lighters.
Anchorage may be found S and SW of Anchor Island
in 7.3 to 14.6 m (4 to 8 fm).
Directions - Vessels approaching Lamit Bay from W
5 should bring the opening between Pagbocavan Island and
the mainland to bear 136o and steer for it until the S end of
the Pagbocavan Island bears 125o, when the vessels should
be hauled a little E to pass about 0.25 mile S of Pagbocavan;
continue E and anchor anywhere S of a line drawn between
Pagbocavan and Anchor Island in 7.3 to 14.6 m (4 to 8 fm),
sticky mud bottom.
Vessels from E usually enter Lamit Bay by the N
channel. The water is deep close to Pawican Island, and
15 it can be safely rounded at a distance of 457 m (500 yd)
or less, and the next point S on Lamit Island passed at the
same distance. By favoring this side of the channel, the
reefs extending from Salobot Island will also be passed at
a safe distance. The W end of the W Bani Island can be
20 rounded at a distance of 0.25 mile. The water area S of the
island is obstructed by shoals.
If proceeding to an anchorage nearer the head of the
bay, pass about 0.2 mile N of the small rocky islet N of
25 Anchor Island. Pass about 0.25 mile E of Anchor Island and
haul SW where ample space will be found in 7.3 to 14.6 m
(4 to 8 fm), as previously described.
A 0.9 m (3 ft) shoal is 0.5 mile E of Anchor Island on
30 the range formed by the S tangent to Anchor Island and the
highest point of Pagbocavan Island.
Instead of passing E of Anchor Island, a SW course
may be continued from off the W Bani Island and the SW
35 point of Anchor Island rounded to an anchorage. From the
latter point a long shoal projects, and the thorough fare is
still further obstructed by a coral shoal nearly abreast of the
point and nearly in mid-channel, with a depth of 1.4 m (0.75
fm) and rarely shows any evidence of its existence. There
40 is also a small patch, with a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm), about
457 m (500 yds) NW of the SW point of Anchor Island,
which further complicates this passage. Due to the absence
of beacons marking the shoals, it is recommended that
strangers entering Lamit Bay should use the W entrance.
Should the weather be such that there is difficulty in
recognizing the above described entrance, a vessel should
continue W passing either side of the Paniqui Islands at a
distance of 0.25 mile, until the Cimarron Islets bear 001o,
when the course should be changed to 181o to pass 0.8 mile
W of Sibauan Island; when the S end of Pagbocavan bears
125o the course should be changed to pass 0.25 mile S of it,
and the previous directions followed.
55 SIBAUAN ISLAND, with the small adjacent islands
Paniqui, Dinug, Naglaous, and Salobot N, and Cagbinunga
and Pagbocavan Islands S, forms the W side of Lamit Bay.
Sibauan Island is well wooded and 50.3 m (165 ft) high
near the S end. It is fringed by a reef. This reef extends
60 about 0.5 mile WSW from the S end of the island. A 2.7
5-108
m (1.5 fm) patch lies about 0.25 mile SSW of the S end of steep-to on their seaward sides, are near the N side of the N
the island. Lamit Island. The S island is separated from the mainland
by a very shallow channel which leads into Quinalasag
The W side of the island is fringed by reefs which Passage. The W side of the islands is fringed by reefs
extend 0.1 to 0.4 mile offshore. Sampotan Islet, 9.1 m (30 5 which extend about 0.25 mile offshore in places. Tagita
ft) high, lies on this reef in a position about 0.4 mile SW of Islet lies on this reef in a position about 0.5 mile NW of the
the N extremity of the island. Several shoals with depths of S extremity of the N island. A rock with a depth of 1.2 m
2.7 to 7.3 m (1.5 to 4 fm) front the W side of the island to a (0.7 fm) lies 0.8 mile NW of the islet.
distance of 0.7 mile.
10 There are a number of small islands in Lamit Bay, the
The N side of the island fringed by a drying reef principal ones of which are the BANI ISLANDS, two in
extending about 0.5 mile NE. Dinug Islet, 30.5 m (100 ft) number, and ANCHOR ISLAND. The W Bani Island is
high, and Naglaous Islet, 29 m (95 ft) high, lie on the outer about 1 mile SW of the NW point of the N Lamit Island,
edge of this reef N and NE, respectively, of the island. and Anchor Island is about 1 mile S of the W Bani Island.
15 The area S of the W Bani Island is obstructed by a 2.3 m
SALOBOT ISLAND, the NE of the group, is about (1.25 fm) shoal, 3 rocks awash between this shoal, and the
0.8 mile NE of the NE point of Sibauan. It is very small, E Bani Island.
27.4 m (90 ft) high, and has a reef extending about 0.2 mile
E with a rock awash at its extremity. This reef forms the W TAG ISLAND, 54.9 m (180 ft) high and Sulapa Islet,
limit of the N entrance to Lamit Bay. 20 6.1 m (20 ft) high, lie on a reef which extends about 0.5 mile
NW from a position close off the NW side of the S Lamit
PANIQUI ISLANDS, the NE one of which is 61.6 m Islands to a position about 0.1 mile E of the E extremity of
(202 ft) high, are three small islands about 0.8 mile N of the E of the Bani Islands.
Sibauan Island; they can be safely passed at a distance of
0.25 mile. 25 BINAGASBASAN BAY is a large, irregular-shaped
bay between Lamit Islands and Quinalasag Island.
PAGBOCAVAN, the S islet of the group forming the
W side of Lamit Bay, is with its S extremity about 0.7 mile MALABUNGUT ISLAND on the edge of the shore
S of Sibauan. It is well-wooded and 73.2 m (240 ft) high. reef forms the head of the bay. This bay is open N and
The S end which terminates in a large, dark brown rock 30 is of no value to navigation, the anchorage area being
may be safely passed at a distance of 0.25 mile. exposed and encumbered by shoal patches. Proclamation
No. 288 declared the island and its surrounding waters as a
The other islets of the group previously mentioned, as protected landscape and seascape. Activities that may harm
well as several named and unnamed islets and rocks, do not the environment are strictly prohibited.
require any detailed description and their positions will be 35
best understood by reference to the chart. BACON ISLAND, 24.4 m (80 ft) high, is in the
middle of the entrance. Two 4.6 m (2.5fm) patches lie 0.3
AGUADA ROCK is a small, rocky ledge with a depth mile SSW and 0.8 mile SSW, respectively, of the island. It
of 3.7 m (2 fm) surrounded by deep water, about 1.4 miles is reported that a clear channel with a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm)
N of Paniqui Islands. Except under the most favorable 40 extends through the reef to the N of Malabungut Island.
conditions, it cannot be picked up by the color of the water,
and it breaks only in bad weather. HERVOR ROCK, a rock awash, is about 2.5 miles
NE of Cugun Point, the NE extremity of the N Lamit
CIMARRON ISLETS are 4 small, high isles nearly Island. It is surrounded by deep water, and a light swell sets
3 miles NNW of the largest of the Paniqui islands. The 45 up a continuous and well-defined breaker. Breakers have
central island, 48.8 m (160 ft) high, presents a conical been reported on the E end of the shoal 1.5 miles 291o from
appearance from E or W but from N or S it, shows a short Hervor Rock.
ridge. This group is the nearest danger to the track to and
from Maqueda Channel, and the course pursued by steamers QUINALASAG ISLAND, with its N extremity 3.5
passes about 2 miles N of it. 50 miles E of Cugun Point, makes a prominent landmark, as
it is large, bold, heavily wooded, and irregularly shaped.
LAMIT ISLANDS are two high, heavily wooded Its ridges are much higher than those of the surrounding
islands separated by a narrow impassable channel. They are country, rising in places to nearly 244 m (800 ft). On
of very irregular shape; the other island is 79.2 m (260 ft) the N side, there are several indentations, among them
high and the S 19.7 m (360 ft). The N shore of the N island 55 MASAMAT BAY, which would serve as a good typhoon
has bold, rocky points at either end, sloping downward to a shelter for small crafts. Reefs and dangers extend up to 0.4
low level 0.5 mile from the NW point. mile from the projecting points. Badi Islet, 11.9 m (39 ft)
high, lies about 0.25 mile NW of the NW extremity of the
PAWICAN ISLET, 18.3 m (60 ft) high, and PULING island.
ISLET, 15.2 m (50 ft) high, both of which are clear and 60

5-109
 BAGACAY ISLAND is small, over 61 m ((200 ft)
high, and is immediately N of the N point of Quinalasag
Island, of which it appears to be an outlying point when seen
from a distance from some directions. It forms an excellent
landmark from E or W as it is shown as twin peaks of nearly
equal height. Projecting N from it is a narrow dike-like
ledge of rocks, the outer end of which, 0.4 mile N of the
island, can be closely approached as there are no outlying
submerged rocks. A reef, on which there is a small islet,
extends 0.6 mile NW from the W side of the island.
QUINALASAG PASSAGE, S of Lamit, Malabungut,
and Quinalasag Islands, connects Lamit and Sisiran Bays. It
is too shoal and obstructed by reefs to be used by anything
but small boats.
SISIRAN BAY (CHART 4271), S and SE of
Quinalasag Island, affords good-sheltered anchorage in 7.3
to 9.1 m in a bight on the SE side of Quinalasag Island, and
also in 12.8 m SW of Tinajuagan Point, the E entrance point.
The W side of the bay formed by the SE side of Quinalasag
Island is fringed by a narrow reef while the E side is fringed
by a wide reef that extends up to 0.5 mile offshore. The 9.1
m curve lies about 1.5 miles from the head of the bay. The
best channel into Sisiran Bay is between Quinalasag Island
and Laja Island, a dark, bare rock, 61 m (20 ft) high, in
the middle of the entrance. There is a shoal which breaks
in bad weather, with a depth of 7.8 m between Laja Island
and Tinajuagan Point. Breakers have also been reported on
the 14.6 m and 9.14 m shoals about 0.5 mile and 0.8 mile,
respectively, SW of Laja Island.
BINANUAN, with several houses and two prominent
galvanized iron-roofed buildings is visible from the
entrance to Sisiran Bay.
LAGONOY GULF AND CATANDUANES
ISLAND
(CHART 1515, 4222, 4268 & 4269)
CARAMOAN PENINSULA is the name given
to that portion of Luzon lying between the Pacific and
Lagonoy Gulf. It is 10 miles wide between Sisiran Bay and
the head of Lagonoy Gulf, and extends about 15 miles E,
terminating in a broad point facing Maqueda Channel. It is
high mountainous and well wooded.
From TINAJUAGAN POINT, the Luzon coast
trends SE for 12 miles to Yopoquit Point. This coast is faced
by wide reefs, parts of which bare at low water and which
at one point extends 3 miles. The islands of Quinabugan,
Cocos, and Haponan, and a large number of small, high,
unnamed islets and rocks which do not require any special
description, are on these reefs.
TAGUN BAY is between Tinajuagan Point and Lahuy
Island. The long tongue of land terminating in Tinajuagan
Point,which separates Sisiran Bay from Tagun Bay, is
formed of broad ridges covered with grass, with narrow,
steep, wooded valleys between them. Broad coral reefs
fringe the W shore of the bay and also obstruct its head. On
the E side of the bay, navigation is less dangerous than on
the W, as deep water can be carried closer to the islands and
projecting points. There are 2 small channels connecting
5 the head of Tagun Bay with the Maqueda Channel, but they
are too narrow and tortuous. In the absence of landmarks
or aids to navigation, they are of no practical value to the
navigator.
10 HIBGOS, the barrio at the head of Tagun Bay, is
marked by Gibgos Light (13° 51’ 26”N., 123° 46’ 06”E.).
The barrio is connected by rough road to other barrios in
Caramoan Peninsula.
15 LAHUY ISLAND, with its NE end 12.5 miles NNW
of the NE extremity of the Caramoan Peninsula, is about
5 miles long, N and S, and about 1 mile wide. There are a
number of small islets and rocks off its W and N sides and
on the W side it is fringed by a wide reef which, near the N
20 end of the island, extends nearly 2 miles E and surrounds
Cotivas and Basot Islands. The interior of Lahuy is hilly,
the range running N and S. There are three prominent peaks
in the S half of the island, the S and highest has an elevation
of 187.1 m (614 ft). In the N half, there are a number of
25 peaks covered with grass and a few trees.
The NW part of the island terminates in a very
conspicuous round-topped, steep, partly wooded peak, 99.1
m (325 ft) high, known as the SUGAR LOAF. The N shore
30 is formed by sandy beaches and rocky cliffs alternately
and there are a number of small rocks on the NE point.
Immediately N of SUGAR LOAF POINT are two large
rocks, 15.2 and 24.1 m (50 and 79 ft) high, respectively.
Gata Light (13° 54’ 47”N., 123° 48’ 48”E.) is located on
35 Barrio Gata at the SW portion of the island.
POCKET BAY, a small cove, is located between the
reef on which Basot Island lies and the reef that extends
nearly 0.5 mile from the NE side of Lahuy Island. Small
40 vessels with local knowledge can anchor in 14.6 m in the
middle of the cove. Protection is afforded from the SW
monsoon, but the cove is fully exposed to the N and NE.
Anchorage can be found off the rocky bluff point on
45 the W coast of Lahuy Island, a little over 2 miles S of Sugar
Loaf Point. The vessel which call regularly with supplies
for the gold mines on Lahuy anchor in 25.6 m about 0.8
miles farther S. The mine workings are well-visible and
there is a small wooden landing which can be reached by
50 boats at half tide.
OCATA ISLAND is about 0.5 mile N from Lahuy
Island. It is 24.7 m (81 ft) high; the N coast is rocky; the S
sandy. Ocata Island Light (13° 59’ 07”N., 123° 49’ 25”E.) is
55 shown from a white tower on the highest point of the island.
About 183 m W of the S part of the island, there is
a rock covered by 0.9 m and surrounded by deep water.
About 0.5 mile E of the N end of Ocata Island there are
60 3 rocks, each about 0.9 m high and 457 m SE of the same
5-110
point there is a rock 2.1 m (7 ft) high.
MASNOU ISLAND, 3.3 miles NW of Sugar Loaf
Point, is covered with grass and 26.5 m (87 ft) high.
BLACK ISLET is a bare rock, about 47 m in extent
and 9.1 m (30 ft) high, about 1 mile SE of Masnou Island.
The channel between them is 0.8 mile wide and that between
Black Islet and Sugar Loaf Point is 2.4 miles wide. Both are
deep and clear; the N channel between Masnou Island and
Black Islet is the one generally used by coasting steamers.
MOLAR ROCK, 0.8 mile NNW of Masnou Island, is
about 18 m (20 yds) in extent and about 6 m (20 ft) high.
About 0.3 mile NNW from Molar Rock is a sunken rock on
which the sea breaks heavily in bad weather. About 0.25
mile SE of Molar Rock is a small rock 1.5 m (5 ft) high.
COTIVAS and BASOT ISLANDS, about 1 mile E of
the N part of Lahuy Island, are close together and from a
distance appear as one island. Basot is the most E island in
this vicinity; its NE side is clear and may be safely passed at
a distance of 1 mile; its shores are sandy beaches and rocky
cliffs alternately. In the N part of Basot, there is a grassy
peak 47.2 m (155 ft) high and in the S part a flat-topped hill
51.2 m (168 ft) high. Basot Island is covered with grass,
while Cotivas Island, immediately W of the S end of it, is
covered with trees. A coral reef extends 0.25 mile from the
W coast of Basot Island, leaving a fairly good anchorage,
known as Pocket Bay, exposed to NE winds between it and
Lahuy Island.
Islands, is a large, barren rock 27.7 m (91 ft) high, and has a
few bushes on its top; its sides are steep and rocky. It forms
a useful landmark for entering Tabgon Anchorage. About 1
mile E of Solodon Islet is an 11 m (6 fm) shoal on which the
5 sea has been seen to break in heavy weather.
COCOS ISLET, mentioned because it is used as a
range for entering Tabgon Anchorage and the best channel
into Tagun Bay, is 7.5 miles SE of Tinajuagan Point and
10 about 1.5 miles from the mainland. It is small, regular in
shape, coming to a rounded summit 38.7 m (127 ft) high,
and is entirely covered with coconut palms.
TABGON is on the shore about 9 miles SE of
15 Tinajuagan Point, at the foot of a prominent hill 188 m (617
ft) high. This hill, the highest in this vicinity, is very steep
on the S side and has a ridge extending E and W; its S side
is covered with grass and the N side is heavily wooded. The
reef in front of the barrio extends over 1 mile. Tabgon is a
20 port of call for some of the smaller coastwise vessels.
HAPONAN ISLAND, about 2 miles E of Tabgon
Village, is the most E island on the reefs which skirt the
shore between Tinajuagan Point and Yopoquit Point. Reefs
25 extend 0.5 mile NE and form part of the S side of the
channel into Tabgon Anchorage. Haponan is composed of
a number of small peaks, the highest of which is 61.6 m
(202 ft); they are covered with grass, bushes, and coconut
palms. The shore is alternately sandy beaches and rather
30 low, rocky points. The area between the island and the
mainland is foul.

Major Light - Lahuy Light (13° 57’ 54”N., 123° 51’ PULING ISLAND, N of Haponan Island, is fringed
26”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the point located by a reef on its N side, which forms part of the S side of the
about 0.4 mile NW of Sabason Point. 35 channel into Tabgon Anchorage. Puling, the highest island
in this vicinity, is 91 m (298 ft) high; it is well-wooded
LUCSUHIN ISLANDS (CHART 4268) are several except where it has been cleared on the N part of the top
islands and rocks on a great reef between Lahuy Island and forms a good landmark from seaward.
and the Caramoan Peninsula. They are moderately high
and covered with bushes, trees, and coconut palms. When 40 There is a narrow, deep channel between Puling
seen from seaward they appear as one, but at high water and Haponan, but it is seldom used, the N channel being
a small boat can pass between them. N and S of the reef considered preferable.
upon which lie, parts of which are awash and bare at low
water, are narrow, tortuous channels with depths of from SOUTH ISLET is a small islet about 8.5 m (28 ft)
6.4 to 21.9 m (3.5 to 12 fm), leading into Tagun Bay. In the 45 high, covered with trees, 0.1 mile N of Puling Island, near
absence of good landmarks and of any aids to navigation, the edge of the reef.
no directions for these channels can be given, and they
should not be attempted without local knowledge. NORTH ISLET, about 0.25 mile N of S Islet, on the
S edge of the reef surrounding the Lucsuhin Island, is very
ETINAS ISLAND, the easternmost island of Lucsuhin 50 small, 4.3 m (4.3 ft) high, and is covered with grass and
Islands, is 39 m (128 ft) high. It lies on the E edge of the small bushes.
reef enclosing those islands in a position about 2.2 miles N
of Yopoquit Point. A shoal spit, with a least depth of 5.8 m These 2 islets mark the entrance channel into Tabgon
(3.25 fm), extends about 2 miles N from the N side of the Anchorage which passes between them and is about 0.15
island. A shoal, bottom visible, with a depth of 11.0 m (6 55 mile wide between the 9.1 m (5 fm) curves.
fm), lies about 2 miles E of this spit. Tirao Islet, 12.2 m (40
ft) high, lies on the edge of the reef extending 0.15 mile S TABGON ANCHORAGE (CHART 4268) is about
from Etinas Island. 1.5 miles NE from the barrio of Tabgon and W and S
from Puling Island. It affords a fairly large anchorage area
SOLODON ISLET, the SE most of the Lucsuhin 60 completely protected from outside seas, but exposed to

5-111
N and NW winds, and in a heavy blow it gets somewhat
choppy in the more exposed parts. The depths are 7.3 to 21.9
m (4 to 12 fm), mud and sand bottom. A reef, with a least
depth of 1.2 m (4 ft), lies on the W side of the anchorage
area in a position about 0.42 mile W of Puling Island.
Directions - Vessels bound into Tabgon Anchorage
should, bring the N tangent of Puling Island to bear 267o and
steer for it. When about 0.5 mile S of Solodon Islet, bring
the S side of the N Islet, on the N side of the channel, in
range with the S side of Cocos Islet, bearing 279.5 o. When
on this range, the 14.6 m (48 ft) island E of Cocos Island
appears to be a lower prolongation of Cocos extending N
and 1.5 m (48 ft) rock W of Cocos is entirely shut in. Stand
in on this range, keeping a good lookout for the reefs on
both sides. This range will clear them, but it is advisable,
after passing the reef point on the S side, to open the range
a little S, thereby giving the reefs N a wider berth. When
about 0.8 mile E of the 2 islets, haul W to pass midway
between them; as soon as they are abeam, haul a little S, as
there is a reef covered by 2.7 m (1.5 fm) about 0.2 mile S
of N Islet, and a reef with rocks awash extends about 0.1
mile W of S Islet.
Anchorage may be found anywhere inside, but the
best place is about W or S of Puling Island, close enough to
clear the reef W, which is about 0.25 mile in extent, covered
by depth of 1.4 m (0.75 fm), and is about 0.35 mile W of
the W side of Puling Island. In the NE monsoon, vessels
may anchor close to Puling Island, the water being deeper
there than farther from shore.
From YOPOQUIT POINT, the coast trends ESE
with a bend S, forming Port Caramoan, for 4.5 miles to
Caramoan Point.
YOPOQUIT POINT is fringed by a reef about 0.5
mile wide; this reef gradually narrows to the coast about 2
miles SE. Port Caramoan is used as a landing place for the
town of CARAMOAN during the SW monsoon. The town
is about 3 miles inland. There is a radio station here. The
barrio of PANIMAN stands at the head of the port.
MALARAD ISLANDS are group of small, high islets
and rocks, partly wooded, with steep rocky sides, off Port
Caramoan. About 2 miles N of Malarad Islands, the bottom
is very irregular, with depths of 6.4 to 38.4 m (3.5 to 21 fm).
In heavy NE weather, the sea breaks on some of the shoaler
patches, and this area should be navigated with caution.
CARAMOAN POINT, the NE extremity of the
peninsula of the same name, is about 129 m (425 ft) high.
It has steep, rocky bluffs about 15 m (50 ft) high and 15.2
m (50 ft) high and is very bold and steep-to. The interior
back of the point is covered by innumerable small, heavily
wooded peaks 183 to 305 m (600 to 1,000 ft) high, the
highest of which is about 4 miles W of Caramoan Point,
round-topped, heavily wooded, easily recognized and
forms a good landmark.
The coast trends SE from Caramoan Point for 5.5
miles to Rungus Point, which forms the SE extremity of the
Caramoan Peninsula. It is very rugged and irregular and
is cut into by a number of small bays with sandy beaches
5 and rocky bluffs. Several small islets and rocks are about
0.8 mile or less from shore. The interior is hilly, rising to
heights of from 91 to 213 m (300 to 700 ft) a short distance
inland. There are no sheltered anchorages on this coast
except Pitogo Bay, which is sometimes used as a harbor of
10 refuge for small vessels.
The rock on which the S.S. Elcano was wrecked is
about 0.5 mile NE of Batobato Point. On it is a depth of
2.7 m (1.5 fm).
15
CATANAGUAN ISLANDS are 2 small islands about
2.5 miles E of Caramoan Point. They are surrounded by
deep water, with a deep, narrow channel between them. The
N island, about 26 m (85 ft) high, is covered with bushes
20 and grass; the N part ends in a sharp point. About 0.2 mile
N of this island is a small rock about 0.9 m (3 ft) high, and
about 0.1 mile E of the island is a similar rock. A small,
detached shoal, with a depth of 10.1 m (5.5 fm) is about 0.5
mile W of the N island.
25
The Southern Island, about 31 m (102 ft) high, is
covered with trees and bushes; the shoreline consists of
sandy beaches and rocky points. Off the S end of the island
is a bare pyramidal rock, 21.9 m (72 ft) high, which shows
30 very plainly from E or W. A small, detached shoal, with a
depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) with deep water all around, is about
0.4 mile WSW from S point of the Southern Island.
TAEBUN CHANNEL, separating the Catanaguan
35 Islands from the Caramoan Peninsula, is about 1 mile wide
at the narrowest point. It is deep and is frequently used by
vessels bound for the E coast of Luzon.
PITOGO BAY (CHART 4268) is a very small, well-
40 sheltered anchorage on the W side of Taebun Channel,
about 1 mile S of Caramoan Point. A bight in the shoreline,
with PITOGO ISLAND on the E side of the bay, forms the
harbor. It is surrounded with high, irregular hills covered
with trees; the locality is hard to identify from a distance.
45 There are 2 entrances, one on the N and one on the S side
of Pitogo Island. The N entrance is generally used, the S
one being nearly blocked by reefs, leaving a narrow, deep
impracticable channel between them.
50 Masters of vessels who use Pitogo Bay in bad weather
state that a vessel can get far enough around behind Pitogo
Island to get good protection from NE winds and seas.
The swinging room is limited and it would probably be
necessary to moor. Small steamers can find good shelter in
55 typhoon weather in the N bight which is about 137 m (150
yds) wide at the entrance and extends 0.15 mile N; it will
be necessary to moor bow and stern, as there is no adequate
room to swing.
60 LUGAN COVE, entered between Pitogo Point and
5-112
Batobato Point, about 1 mile SE, is filled with reefs and
shoals. Pandanan Islands, two in number, lie about 0.25
mile E of Pitogo Point. The smaller and northernmost islet
is 22.9 m (75 ft) high. Batobato Rocks, consisting of 2
rocks, 22.9 and 73 m (75 and 24 ft) high, lie on the fringing
reef that extends about 0.1 mile N from Batobato Point.
Lugan Island, 24.4 m (80 ft) high, lies about 0.4 mile N of
these rocks.
SOMBRERO ISLET, 3.5 miles SE of Pitogo Island
and 1.2 miles NE of Rungus Point, is a small, wooded cone,
85.3 m (280 ft) high. It is prominent and, being higher than
the adjacent coast, forms a good landmark for vessels
approaching Maqueda Channel.
LAUING BAY, W of Sombrero, is foul and does
not afford anchorage. There are 2 small islets, LATO and
LITAO, 15.2 and 17.7 m (50 and 58 ft) high, respectively,
0.3 mile and 0.5 mile S of Sombrero Islet. The barrio of
Colongcogong is at the head of the bay.
Major Light - Colongcogong Light (13° 43' 18"N.,
123° 58' 06"E.) is displayed from a white tower about 0.7
mile N of Rungus Point.
RUNGUS POINT, the SE extremity of the Caramoan
Peninsula and the W entrance point to the Maqueda
Channel, is well-wooded, of moderate height, and slopes
gradually to the sea. Rungus Rock, an above-water danger,
lies about 0.2 mile NNW of the point.
MAQUEDA CHANNEL, separating Catanduanes
Island from Luzon, is about 4 miles wide at the S
entrance, between Rungus Point, Luzon, and Sialat Point,
Catanduanes. The S entrance is divided by the PALOMPON 35
ISLANDS into 2 channels, both of which are clear and
deep; the smaller coasting vessels generally use the W
channel, which is about 0.9 mile wide and has a depth of
over 73.2 m (40 fm) in the middle.
In the N part of Maqueda Channel are a great many
dangerous rocks and shoals, the W most of which, Dagat
Rocks, are separated from Basot Island by a deep, clear
channel 6.5 miles wide. These dangers are fully described
immediately after the description of the N coast of
Catanduanes. Caution should be used in making a landfall
when approaching Maqueda Channel from the N at night,
as Ocata Island Light is unwatched and at times may be
extinguished.
CATANDUANES ISLAND (CHART 4222 & 4269),
forming the E side of the Maqueda Channel, is about 35
miles long, N and S, and about 23 miles wide. It is traversed
throughout its length by a mountain chain and is abundantly
supplied with small streams. The N side is fringed by
reefs; the W side is, in general, steep and safe. The S side
is fronted by a number of shoals and reefs; the E side
contains 3 principal indentations which give rise to more or
less definite headlands. The bold, rocky cliffs defining all
exposed points, as well as the numerous small bights and
5-113
bays, give this coastline a decidedly rugged and irregular
outline. There are no outlying detached dangers off the E
coast and it can be safely navigated by keeping 1 to 1.5
miles from the headlands.
5
Tidal Currents - The flood current sets N, both on
the E and W coast of Catanduanes Island, and to the W
along the part of the coast between Catanduanes and Polillo
Islands.
10
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress in the vicinity
of Catanduanes Island may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
15
YOG POINT, the N extremity of Catanduanes Island,
is about 46 m (150 ft) high, and is covered with grass and
a few small shrubs. Immediately N of the point is a small,
grass-topped, rocky islet 44 m (144 ft) high; on the N part
20 is Pin Rock, about 36.6 m (120 ft) high, which forms a very
prominent landmark from E or W. This islet is steep-to and
may be rounded in safety at a distance of 0.25 mile.
From YOG POINT, the coast trends S and then W for
25 4.5 miles to Pandan Point, forming Pandan Bay; thence W
for 1 mile to Balangona Point, the NW point of Catanduanes
Island.
ABRIOP BANK is a large bank, with depths of 27.4 to
30 36.6 m (15 to 20 fm), lying 8 to 12 miles N of Pandan Point.
PANDAN BAY (CHART 4269) is nearly blocked
by reefs and islets. Near the middle of the bay, a small
peninsula, with 2 hills about 21 m (70 ft) high on it, extends
N and divides the bay into 2 parts. This peninsula is fringed
by a reef about 0.5 mile wide on the W side. It is not readily
distinguished from W at a distance, but close at hand, it
appears as a rocky headland between sand beaches. The bay
E of the peninsula is foul; that on the W side is used as
40 the fine-weather anchorage for Pandan. On the reef in the
W part of this bay are 2 small islets, 15.2 and 18.3 m (50
and 60 ft) high covered with coconut trees. The Mambang
River empties into Pandan Bay through a small channel
passing between these islets.
45
There are 2 banks and one shoal in the approach to
Pandan Anchorage; a bank covered by 12.8 m (7 fm) is 1.5
miles N of the W coconut-covered islet; a shoal covered by
10.1 m (5.5 fm) is 1 mile N of the E islet; a 12.8 m (7 fm)
50 bank, with a 16.5 m (9 fm) patch immediately E of it, is 0.3
mile E of the 10.1 m (5.5 fm) shoal.
PANDAN is a small town about 0.4 mile inland from
the head of the W bay. The church and other houses are
55 mostly obscured by coconut trees, being visible only on
certain bearings. Interisland vessels seldom call at Pandan.
Launches and small crafts call very often during good
weather to load copra, hemp and other products. Fresh water
and other supplies are not available. There are no medical
60 facilities in town. Pandan is connected with Caramoran by
road and a few jeeps are the means of transportation. Postal The channel between Lane Rocks and the shoal spot N
and mobile phone communications are available. of the Palumbanes Island is over 3 miles wide, with depths
of 27.4 to 36.6 m (15 to 20 fm).
Major Light - Pandan Point Light (14° 03’ 07”N.,
124° 10’ 08”E.) is displayed from a white tower on 5 NW and N of the Palumbanes, at distances of 1 to 1.5
the beach fronting the town. The light can be seen for a miles, are small shoal spots covered by depths of 2.7 to 5.9
moment, when coming Yog Point, between the 2 hills of the m (1.5 to 3.25 fm), as shown on the chart. A 12.8 m (7 fm)
peninsula at the middle of the bay. patch lies about 0.6 mile N of Calabagio Island and two 3.7
m (2 fm) patches lie about 1.2 miles N of the NW end of
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in 10 Porongpong Island.
Pandan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5855744 and +63917-8426939. SW of the Palumbanes is a coral reef about 5 miles long
NNW and SSE and 0.5 mile wide at the N end, tapering to
Directions - Vessels approaching Pandan from the E a point at the S end. Near the NW part of this reef, 3 miles
should bring Pandan Point Light to bear 180o. When the 15 SW of the S end of the W Palumbanes, are the DAGAT
E coconut covered islet bears 208o, steer for it and anchor ROCKS, a cluster of rocks about 1.8 m (6 ft) out of water.
when the N extremity of the peninsula bears 085o and the There is a 7.3 m (4 fm) patch about 0.5 mile NW of these
light 159o, in 21.9 to 23.8 m (12 to 13 fm). Small vessels rocks, but N of them it is clear. About 1.8 miles SSE of
desiring to go closer in should steer 164o from the above Dagat Rocks is a small patch where the reef is awash; in
position and anchor in 16.5 m (9 fm) with only little room 20 calm weather, this spot cannot be seen from any distance.
to swing clear of the reefs. Except in the vicinity of the places just described, the reef
has depths of 8.2 to 16.5 m (4.5 to 9 fm) throughout the
Vessels approaching from the W should bring the N greater part of its length.
end of the described peninsula to bear 102o and steer for
it until the light bears 159o and then proceed as previously 25 SAIL ROCK, about 1.5 miles SE of Porongpong
directed. Island, is 19.5 m (64 ft) high and forms a prominent
landmark. It is about 41 m (45 yds) in extent and has a few
Pandan Bay affords no protection during the NE small bushes on it. N of this rock and extending about 0.1
monsoon; at that season Cobo Bay, 3 miles S of Balangona mile are several small rocks about 2.4 m (8 ft) high, and
Point, affords sheltered anchorage for vessels wishing to 30 about 0.5 mile SW is 3.7 m (2 fm) spot. A small rock awash
communicate with Pandan. is about 3 miles SSW of Sail Rock. It can be seen at all
times but, when the sea is smooth, it is not very noticeable.
PALUMBANES ISLANDS are a group of 3 islands
and several islets and rocks 4 to 7 miles WSW from the NW Dangers - About midway between Calabagio Island
point of Catanduanes Island. 35 and Catanduanes is a shoal about 2.5 miles long, N and S,
and 0.5 mile wide, with a rock awash near the N end. This
PORONGPONG, the central and largest island of the rock is 1.8 miles ENE of the N end of Calabagio Island.
group, is about 1 mile in extent, of irregular shape, covered About 0.15 mile E of the rock is a shoal spot which breaks
with high trees, and 133 m (436 ft) high. There is a small with a light swell. The remainder of this shoal has depths of
village on the E side. 40 6.4 to 12.8 m (3.5 to 7 fm). The channel between the shoal
and Catanduanes Island is over 1.5 miles wide and has a
CALABAGIO, the E island, is small, wooded, and depth of 12.8 m (7 fm).
56.1 m (184 ft) high. Fair anchorage, approached either
from N or S, may be obtained in 27.4 m (15 fm) about BALANGONA POINT, the NW extremity of
0.25 mile W of the S end of Calabagio. The W island of 45 Catanduanes Island, is 30.5 m (100 ft) high, covered with
the group, about 0.8 mile W of Porongpong, is covered grass, bold and steep-to, with rocky bluffs.
with trees and bushes and is about 16.8 m (55 ft) high. The
channel between this island and Porongpong has a depth of From BALANGONA POINT, the coast trends S and
12.3 m (6.75 fm). A reef, with a small islet on its outer end, then SW for 25 miles to Sialat Point. It is, in general, bold
extends about 0.7 mile N from the NE side of the island. 50 and steep-to, the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve in no place being
0.5 mile from shore. There are no ports of consequence on
Shoals - Within a radius of 6 miles of the Palumbanes, this coast. The bay immediately S of Balangona Point does
there are a number of rocks and shoals situated as follows: not afford anchorage. It is shoal at the head and the area of
deep water is somewhat restricted by the reefs which border
LANE ROCKS, the most N dangers in this vicinity, are 55 the shore.
4 or 5 rocks awash and are 5 miles NW of the Palumbanes.
They show well and breakers can be seen at all times. They COBO BAY (CHART 4269), the next bay S, is used
are surrounded by deep water on all sides except the N by vessels desiring to communicate with Pandan during
where, at a distance of about 0.5 mile, there is a 3.7 m (2 heavy NE weather and by the launches which call regularly
fm) patch. 60 every few days from Tabaco on Lagonoy Gulf. Reef and

5-114
shoals extend up to 0.25 mile from the S shore and 0.15 mile
from the N shore. The head of the bay is shoal. The barrio
of COBO is at the head of the bay, among the trees on the S
side of a round-topped hill, and only one or two houses are
visible from seaward. A highway leads to Pandan.
Anchorage may be found in 27.4 m (15 fm), sand
bottom, with the round, timbered hill, 86.6 m (284 ft)
high, that stands at the S end of the high land, about 136 m
(150 yds) from the beach, bearing 091o. This is not a good
anchorage, as in heavy weather the swell follows around
Balangona Point. Small vessels, not over 46 m long, can
find better protected anchorage farther in, in a pocket in the
reef, in 7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm), sand bottom.
TOYTOY POINT, forming the S entrance point to
Cobo Bay, is a prominent, sharp-pointed, partly wooded
neck of land 22.2 m (73 ft) high. Its shore is rocky, with a
rocky bluff 15.2 m (50 ft) high. About 0.13 mile SSE of the
point are 2 rocks, the higher of which is 5.5 m (18 ft) high.
About 0.1 mile E of these rocks are 3 small rocks.
CARAMORAN is a small town, about 1 mile S of
Toytoy Point, on a slight elevation at the foot of 2 hills.
The stone church with white steeple and several buildings
with galvanized-iron roofing are prominent from seaward.
The sandy beach in front of the town is bordered by a coral
reef nearly 0.15 mile wide on which the sea usually breaks,
making landing difficult and at times impossible.
From Toytoy Point to Manamrag Point, about 16 miles
S, the coast is hilly, densely wooded and rather steep-to.
There are no dangers lying seaward of a distance of 0.2
mile from the shore.
PORT MANAMRAG (CHART 4269) is a small
bay on the S side of Manamrag Point, a rocky point about
30m (100 ft) high, 6.5 miles NE of Sialat Point. It is shoal
and rocky at the head, and there are rocks awash just S of
Manamrag Point. Vessels sometimes call here to load hemp.
Anchorage may be found in 14.6 m (8 fm) about 0.2 mile S
of Manamrag Point.
About 1.8 miles SW of Manamrag Point and nearly
0.5 mile from shore is a small shoal with a depth of 7.3 m
(4 fm). With the exception of this shoal, the coast between
Port Manamrag and Sialat Point is clear and steep-to.
The small barrio of CODON is at the head of a small
bay about 0.5 mile NE from Sialat Point. It is completely
blocked by a reef bare at low water.
SIALAT POINT, the W extremity of Catanduanes
Island, is a high bluff, rocky point with two or three rocks
awash at high water off it to the SW. Except in the direction
of these rocks, the water off Sialat Point is very bold. The
36.6 m (20 fm) curve being only about 0.25 mile from
shore. From this point, the coast trends SSE for 2 miles to
Bislig Point. A shoal, with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm), lies
about 0.5 mile WNW of the latter point.
5-115
Major Light - Sialat Point Light (13° 39’ 51”N., 124°
01’ 29”E.) is displayed from a white framework tower on
Sialat Point. The keeper’s dwelling of white concrete is
located on the side of the hill about 46 m below light.
5
Between Bislig Point and Agoho Point, about 2 miles S,
the coast is indented by a reef-encumbered bight. Numerous
rocks and dangers lie between the two points. The latter
point consists of a mangrove swamp that is surrounded by
10 a drying reef about 0.25 mile wide.
From AGOHO POINT, the coast trends SE for 1
mile and thence E for 2.2 miles to the small town of San
Andres (Calolbon). Reefs and shoals extend up to 0.5 mile
15 offshore between the point and the town. A shoal, with a
depth of 3.4 m (1.75 fm), lies about 1 mile SW of the town.
SAN ANDRES (CALOLBON) is a small town about
3 miles E of Agoho Point. It is connected to Virac by a
20 highway. RoRo vessels call regularly. Anchorage, protected
from winds from W through N to ESE, may be found off
the town, about 0.8 mile from shore in 18.3 m (10 fm).
Prominent Features - The town is distinguished by a
25 concrete water tank and several houses. The church which
is the largest building is prominent from seaward.
Major Light - Calolbon Light (13° 36’ 00”N., 124°
05’ 42”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the beach
30 fronting the town.
Port Management - The port is operated by TMO-
Virac, which can be contacted at telephone number (+6352)
811-1704.
35
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Andres may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63919-
2607149, +63998-5854640 and +63917-8426884.
40 Berthing Facilities - The town has 2 RoRo ramps and
a concrete pier.
Port Services - Bunkering and cargo handling
services are available. Fresh water is available from piped
45 connections at the port.
Pilotage is compulsory and provided by pilots from
Legazpi.
50 Directions - The approach to San Andres (Calolbon)
is clear with the exception of a 3.2 m (1.75 fm) patch about
0.8 mile SW of the landing place. Vessels bound to San
Andres (Calolbon) usually bring the light to bear 036o and
steer for it, anchoring as close to the edge of the reef as may
55 be deemed prudent.
The coast trends SE from San Andres (Calolbon) for 8
miles to Virac Point and is generally fringed by coral reefs
nowhere reaching 0.5 mile in width.
60
 TERESA BANK is a small shoal about 3 miles S of
San Andres (Calolbon), with a depth of 3.2 m (1.75 fm).
It is about 0.5 mile in diameter and is surrounded by deep
water.
TAGUNTUN BANK is a small shoal whose greatest
dimension is about 0.5 mile, with a depth of 7.8 m (4.25 fm)
about 5 miles SSE of San Andres (Calolbon). Virac Point
bearing 090o just clears the S edge of this shoal.
Between the 2 last-described shoals and the shore,
there are several shoal spots, the location of which will be
best understood by reference to the chart.
About 5 miles WSW of Virac Point is a bank with
a known depth of 14.6 m (8 fm). Vessels rounding Virac
Point will find a good channel N of this bank and between
the point and Pechili Reef.
PECHILI REEF, on which the sea breaks in heavy
weather, is about 2 miles SW of Virac Point. It has a depth
of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) and is about 0.5 mile long, E and W and
0.3 mile wide.
About 1 mile SE of Pechili Reef is a small shoal patch,
over which the sea heaves up when there is much swell.
The depth found on it was 11 m (6 fm) but vessels would
do well to avoid this locality. Virac Point and the church in
range pass over the E edge of this shoal.
CABUGAO BAY (CHART 4269) is between Virac
and Nagumbuaya Points. The shore of the bay, in general, is
a gravel and sand beach, bordered much of the way by coral
reefs, widest in the vicinity S of the town of Virac.
The PAJO RIVER empties in the W part of the bay
and the Bato in the NE. The town of Virac is in the NW part
of the bay and that of Cabugao near the mouth of the Bato
River. E to S winds bring heavy seas into the bay.
JOHNS REEF is a small, detached coral reef that
breaks heavily, about 1.6 miles ENE from Virac Point.
The church at Virac bearing 339o, or the light bearing 346o,
clears the E side of Johns Reef, and the S extremity of
Virac Point bearing 260o clears its S side. There is a small,
detached rock with a depth of 7.0 m (3.75 fm) about 1 mile
The Port of Virac as viewed near Pandaman Point.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2016)
E of the middle of Johns Reef. There are number of reefs
between Johns Reef and the shore but, as they are out of the
ordinary track of navigation, it is not necessary to describe
them.
5
VIRAC BANK is a large bank with a depth of 11 m (6
fm) on which the sea breaks heavily in bad weather, about
4 miles ESE of Virac Point.
10 A shoal with a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm) lies about 1.5
miles ESE of the church of Virac. A 4.9 m (2.5 fm) patch
lies about 0.8 mile SE by E of the church. Shoal patches
with depths of 1.2 m (4 ft) and 4.9 m (2.5 fm), lie 1.5 miles
and 1.8 miles respectively, E by S of the same church.
15
A shoal, with a depth of 1.5 m (5 ft), lies in the E part
of the bay in position about 1.4 miles S of the mouth of the
Bato River. A 2.7 m (9 ft) patch lies about 1 mile SW of the
mouth of the same river.
20
VIRAC, the largest and the most important town on the
S coast of the island, is the capital of Catanduanes Province.
It is about 4 miles N of Virac Point. Hemp, log and copra
are the principal exports. A limited amount of fresh stores
25 can be obtained in town. Fresh water is available from
piped water system. Gasoline and kerosene are available
from a depot. Lumber is also available. There are hospitals,
dental clinics, drugstores and practicing physicians in town.
30 The important towns on the S part of the island are
connected by good roads. Bus transportation is the means
of communication. Interisland ferries call at Virac regularly.
Launches and small crafts from Tabaco and Legazpi make
trips almost daily. The Virac Airport, located about 1.4
35 miles W of the town, has daily flights with Manila. Postal,
telephone and mobile phone services are the available
means of communication.
Prominent Features - The church, townhall and other
40 buildings are prominently visible from all part of Cabugao
Bay.
Major Light - Virac Light (13° 34’ 58”N., 124° 14’
07”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the beach in front
45 of the Virac Coast Guard Station.
5-116
 Caution - A rock breakwater, about 130 m (142 yds)
long, is about 109 m (120 yds) away SW, opposite and
parallel to the pier. The seaward end of this breakwater
has a submerged portion of about 70 m (77 yds) extending
SE, the end of which is about 109 m (120 yds) SW of the
end of the pier. Vessels coming alongside the pier should
favor the E side in order to avoid the submerged end of the
breakwater. The use of bower anchor is recommended, then
round to, lying with the stern to either side of the pier end.
Tides - The mean tidal range at Virac is about 1.1 m
(3.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1.4 m (4.6 ft).
Storm Warning Signals visible from the anchorage
are displayed on a mast near the shore end of the pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Virac
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5855729
and +63917-8426833.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Virac, which may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6352) 811-1704. The port can serve vessels up to 2,
000 GRT. Vessels wishing to berth at the port should notify
the TMO 24 hrs before ETA.
In 2009, the Port of Virac registered a total of 46,943
metric tons of incoming goods and 5,538 metric tons of
outgoing goods. Majority of incoming goods are cement
and rice while majority of outgoing goods are bottled cargo
and abaca.
Berthing Facilities at the government port include a
139 m long concrete pier with 2 RoRo ramps. The N and S
berthing sides have a controlling depth of 6.8 m and 6.6 m,
respectively. There is a 1,000 sq m open storage area and a
150 sq m warehouse at the port.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
by Catanduanes Port Arrastre and Stevedoring Cooperative,
which may be contacted at telephone no. (+6352) 811-
1397. Bunkering services are available. Ship repair is not
available. The nearest docks are at the town of Tabaco.
Repairs - There are auto repair shops at Virac, but no
ship repairs can be performed.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels and provided by
Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association. Masters should advise the
pilots of the vessel’s ETA 24 hrs in advance. Confirmation
of vessel’s arrival should be done 3 hrs before arrival. Pilots
may be contacted through the following means at telephone
no. (+6352) 480-5423 and fax no. (+6352) 481-2875. The
pilot association can provide tugs with limited capacity.
Anchorage - The usual anchorage for coasting vessels
not going alongside the pier is in 14.6 to 16.5 m (8 to 9 fm),
mud bottom, SE of the church, with the light bearing 344o,
distant 0.7 mile. Smaller crafts can find good anchorage
about 0.15 mile from the sand beach W of Pandaman Point.
5-117
The swinging room here is quite limited.
Directions - Vessels entering Cabugao Bay, bound for
Virac, should steer for the light on course 344o. This course
5 leads to the above-mentioned anchorage, and fairly clears
the W side of Virac Bank and the E side of Johns Reef. The
light steered for bearing nothing N of 327o leads well E of
Virac Bank.
10 PANDAMAN POINT, about 455 m E of Virac Light,
is fringed by a coral reef which extends about 0.25 mile
S, forming a basin W from it where small crafts can find
good anchorage about 0.15 mile from the sandy beach; the
swinging room here is quite limited.
15
BATO is a town about 1 mile inland on the E bank of
Bato River which empties about 3 miles E of Virac. The
large church forms a good landmark. The usual anchorage
for Bato is about 0.8 mile S of Cabugao in 11 m (6 fm) of
20 water.
EAST COAST OF CATANDUANES (CHART
4222 & 4269). At a distance of 1 mile ENE of Yog Point
is a small coral bank with a depth of 13.7 m (7.5 fm). The
25 channel between Yog Point and this bank is clear and has a
depth of 29.3 m (16 fm) in the middle.
HORADABA ROCKS are 3 large rocks 4.5 miles
E of Yog Point. They are close together and from most
30 directions appear as one. The middle one is 32 m (105 ft)
high and has a light growth of brushwood on its summit.
MATULIN ROCK is 0.6 mile ESE of Horadaba
Rocks; it is bare, slightly spherical in shape, and 12.2 m (40
35 ft) high. Between Horadaba Rocks and Matulin Rocks are
4 rocks awash and a number of sunken rocks.
From YOG POINT, the coast trends SE for 7.5 miles
to Bugao Point and contains no prominent points, but has
40 many projecting cliffs distributed quite uniformly. This
coast is fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef. Two
small, unimportant coves, TABUGOC and MINAILI, both
blocked by reefs, are 3 and 4.5 miles, respectively, from
Yog Point. Tabugoc Light (14° 03’ 31”N., 124° 14’ 02”E.)
45 is displayed from Tabugoc Cove.
TARAHID POINT, 5 miles from Yog Point, is a
rugged point 15.2 m (50 ft) high.
50 PUROG BAY is a small bay about 0.5 mile S of
Tarahid Point. It is of no value to navigation, being almost
blocked by reefs which leave two narrow boat channels to
the head of the bay.
55 MINIGIL ISLAND is at the entrance to Purog Bay
and is connected with the shore at the head of the bay by a
reef which is awash at low water. This island is one of the
most rugged in this vicinity. On all sides, except the W, it is
composed of cliffs rising almost vertically to 42.7 m (140
60 ft). The summit and the W slope are covered with grass and
bushes.
MINIGIL POINT is high and rocky. A large reef,
awash at low water, extends 1.5 miles E and then, curving
around S and W, approaches the shore S of Bugao Point.
BUGAO POINT is low, sandy, and covered with
bushes and small trees.
From BUGAO POINT, the coast trends S for 3.5
miles to the town of Bagamanoc and thence E for 3.5 miles
to Anajao Point, but the regularity of the latter stretch is
broken by a deep indentation S at the mouth of the Oco
River. This right-angled gap in the coast is partly filled by
Lete, Panay and other small islands, and between these
islands and the coast are Port Bagamanoc, Babaguan Bay
and Port Anajao.
TAHIDAN POINT, about 2 miles S of Bugao Point,
is a very conspicuous, red-faced point which rises almost
vertically 34.1 m (112 ft) and terminates at the top in a
sharp, grass-covered point. The appearance presented is
not unlike that of a cone. A large reef, awash at low water,
extends 0.8 mile NE and 0.3 mile E from Tahidan Point.
LETE ISLAND, 0.8 mile E of Tahidan Point, attains
a greatest elevation of 100 m (329 ft) near its N end. The N
and W sides of this island are bare, reddish-brown, vertical
cliffs, the highest of which are about 84 m (275 ft) high.
The S shoreline is outlined by sandy beaches from which
the slopes rise gradually to the center of the island.
PANAY ISLAND, the largest island off the E coast
of Catanduanes is 9.5 miles SE from Yog Point. It is very
irregular in shape, partly wooded, and 138 m (453 ft) high.
On all sides except the S part, it is fringed with coral reefs
and should not be approached closer than 1 mile. Podeo
Bay deeply indents the N side of the island and Panay Bay
deeply indents the SE side. Both bays are of no value to
navigation. The SW side of the island is separated from the
coast by the shallow Babaguan Bay.
MACARILAN ISLANDS are 2 islets close to
Macarilan Point, the NW extremity of Panay Island. They
are very rugged in outline, heavily wooded, and 27.4
and 42.4 m (90 and 139 ft) high, respectively. They are
surrounded by reefs, awash at low water, which connect
them with Panay Island.
ARCH ROCK, about 0.12 mile E of Ilihan Point, near
the edge of the shore reef, is a reddish-brown stone arch
about 18 m (60 ft) high. The plane of the arch is nearly E
and W and it forms a very prominent landmark.
PORT BAGAMANOC (CHART 4269) is between
Lete Island and the mainland. The anchorage area is very
much restricted by reefs extending from Catanduanes and
from Lete Island. It is open N and affords no protection
during the NE monsoon. The entrance channel runs between
coral reefs awash at low water on the W side and a line of
sunken rocks on the E side. There is a dangerous rock, with
a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm), in the middle of the port about 0.5
mile ESE of Tahidan Point.
5 BAGAMANOC is a small town on the S shore of
the port, back of a low ridge of gravel. The church with
masonry walls and other buildings are visible from seaward.
Directions - Vessels bound into Port Bagamanoc
10 should round the Macarilan Islands, off the NW point of
Panay Island, at a distance of about 0.5 mile, and after
bringing the SW point of Lete Island to bear 181o, should
steer for it, keeping a good lookout for the rocks on the
port hand, until Arch Rock bears 214o, when it should be
15 steered for and anchorage taken up about 0.25 mile E of it
in 5.5 to 6.4 m (3 to 3.5 fm), mud bottom, and good holding
ground. Arch Rock bearing 214o will carry a vessel halfway
between the 1.8 m (1 fm) rock in mid-channel and the rocks
W of Lete Island.
20
BABAGUAN BAY is between Port Bagamanoc and
Port Anajao. It is very shallow, especially in the S part
where extensive mud flats uncover at low water.
25 PANGANIBAN, a town about 0.5 mile inland of the
head of the bay, has a post office and radio station.
The OCO RIVER, navigable for small boats only,
empties into the S part of this bay. A narrow channel having
30 a depth of 2 m (6.5 ft) connects Port Bagamanoc with
Port Anajao. This channel follows the SW side of Panay
until Arch Rock is in range with the S end of Lete Island,
and then trends W into Port Bagamanoc. It should not be
attempted by a stranger unless it is previously marked.
35
The stretch of Oco River at Sitio BANQUEROHAN,
Barangay of SANTA ANA, along its N bank, is the site,
in 1990, of a 35 m riprap wall with 2 temporary sheds and
a boat landing with an open space of approximately 800
40 sq m of bare ground. The riprap wall serves the need of
Panganiban town for the landing and terminal station of its
fishing boats and travelling passengers. Estimated depth
of water near the landing site was 1 m in 1990. No wave
action affects this river terminal station. Usual destination
45 of boats from Panganiban is toward the municipalities of
Viga and Bagamanoc.
MINAASO ISLET is a small, heavily wooded islet
at the head of Port Anajao. It is 24.7 m (81 ft) high and
50 entirely outlined by cliffs. A small rock about 3.7 m (12 ft)
high and numerous rocks awash at low water are off the NE
side of the islet Minaaso Islet is surrounded by reef which
extends about 238 m (260 yds) NE.
55 MANYAGUI ROCK is a dark-colored, irregular-
shaped rock in the middle of the entrance to Port Anajao. It
is 4.9 m (16 ft) high, and just W of the highest point there
is a low-level area about 1.5 m (5 ft) high. Manyagui Rock
is surrounded by deep water on all sides except the SW. It
60 may be passed on either side, but the usual channel into
5-118
Port Anajao is N of the rock. This channel is 0.25 mile wide
and 24.7 m (15 fm) deep in the middle.
LOLONG POINT, the SE extremity of Panay Island
forms the N side of the entrance to Port Anajao. It is 27.1 m
(89 ft) high, flat, covered with grass, and fringed with cliffs
about 9 m (30 ft) high. On the point is the prominent white
tower of Lolong Point Light.
KOMAGAT ROCK is an irregular-shaped rock 5.5
m (18 ft) high, about 91 m (100 yds) E of Lolong Point.
Numerous rocks, awash at low water, are on all sides of
this rock.
ANAJAO POINT forms the S side of the entrance to
Port Anajao; it is grass-covered and 30 m (100 ft) high. 2
islets are about 46 to 137 m (50 to 150 yds) E of this point.
The inner one is bare rock 8.5 m (28 ft) high; the outer one,
covered with grass, brush, and a few small palms, is 17.7
m (58 ft) high.
PORT ANAJAO (CHART 4269), between Panay
and Catanduanes Islands, is a small well-sheltered harbor
of refuge. The anchorage is in the mouth of BABAGUAN
COVE, the second indentation from the entrance, on the S
coast of Panay Island. The barrio of BABAGUAN stands
at the head of this cove. The only entrance to Port Anajao
is from the E; the W end is blocked by the shoal waters of
Babaguan Bay and Minaaso Islet.
Several rocks, the outermost of which is awash at low
water, extend 119 m (130 yds) S from the E entrance point
to Babaguan Cove.
The shoreline of Lolong Point, Anajao Point, and both
sides of the channel through the narrow section of the port,
are bold, well defined by low, rocky cliffs, and steep-to. On
each side of the port, abreast the narrowest part, are heavily
wooded hills from 122 to 152 m (400 to 500 ft) high, the
steep slopes of which showing against the hills W of Port
Bagamanoc clearly define the entrance.
Major Light - Lolong Point Light (13° 56’ 54”N.,
124° 21’ 12”E.), is displayed from a prominent white tower
on Lolong Point.
Directions - Vessels entering Port Anajao are advised
to pass midway between the SE part of Panay Island and
Manyagui Rock and to steer for the N side of Minaaso Islet,
bearing 255o. On this course, Minaaso Islet is just open off
the shore S of it. As the narrows are approached, keep in
mid-channel; and when the barrio of Babaguan opens, steer
for OMUNTOL POINT, the W entrance point to Babaguan
Cove, bearing 288o and anchor in 6.4 m (3.5 fm), mud
bottom, when the stone building in the barrio of Babaguan
bears 001o.
From ANAJAO POINT, the coast trends SE for 7
miles to Lictin Point, thence S for 4 miles to Dalaynay
Point, the N entrance point to Gigmoto Bay. This coast is
5-119
very irregular in outline, being indented by numerous bays
and faced by a number of small islets and rocks. The land is
high and bold, and fringed by narrow, steep-to coral reefs.
The bays are small and unimportant and of very little value
5 to navigation; their shores are fringed with coral, leaving,
in most cases, a narrow, deep channel to their heads.
They are all open N and E and afford no shelter in the NE
monsoon. The island and rocks are all on the shore reefs.
All headlands and islets between Port Anajao and Gigmoto
10 Bay can be safely passed at a distance of 1 mile.
AGUTAYAN ISLAND, 3.5 miles SW of Anajao Point
and close to the point of the same name, is small, 54.2
m (178 ft) high, and almost entirely covered with grass.
15 Numerous rocks, some awash and others varying in height
from 1.5 to 19.5 m (5 to 64 ft), are off the N extremity of
the island.
SOBOC BAY, entered between Masoranga Point and
20 Agutayan Point, about 0.5 mile E, indents the coast about
1.3 miles. Soboc, a small village, stands at the head of the
bay. Tambugnon, a small village located about 0.7 mile
W of Masoranga Point, can be identified by its prominent
church.
25
BOTINAGAN BAY, entered between the E face of
Agutayan Point and Sohoton Point, about 0.5 mile SSE
indents the coast about 1 mile.
30 LINAMPANAN ISLAND, off the N end of Sohoton
Point and 1 mile SE of Agutayan Island, is a small, rugged,
grass-covered island 42.4 m (139 ft) high. A number of
detached rocks, varying in height from 1.8 to 20.7 m (6 to
68 ft), are N and E of this island. The E rock, about 2.4 m (8
35 ft) high, is 455 m. ENE of the N end of the island.
LICTIN POINT, 42.7 m (140 ft) high, 2.5 miles SE
from Linampanan Island, is rugged and irregular in outline.
The cliffs are about 23 m (75 ft) high; the slopes leading to
40 the 114.6 m (376 ft) hill, 0.8 mile W of the point, are largely
covered with grass and small trees.
BOCANA BAY is about midway between Linampacan
Island and Lictin Point.
45
BAGALAYAG POINT, about 3 miles S from Lictin
Point, is very conspicuous from N or S. It is composed of
rugged cliffs about 23 m (75 ft) high and heavily wooded,
with the exception of a small, grassy area on the outer
50 extremity. A series of rocks, 3 to 12 m (10 to 40 ft) high,
extend about 0.25 mile E from the point.
SICMIL BAY and BEDONOGAN, SEBONBON,
and SIORON COVES are between Lictin and Bagalayag
55 Points.
PONDANAN ISLAND, 0.5 mile N of Bagalayag
Point, is small, covered with grass, and 25.9 m (85 ft) high.
Numerous rocks, varying in height from 1.5 to 6.1 m (5 to
60 20 ft), are SW of it.
 A shoal, with a depth of 5.0 m (2.75 fm), is N of
Pondanan Island. The outer limit of the 18.3 m (10 fm)
curve surrounding this shoal is about 1 mile NNE from the
island and the same distance from the shore. A 10.7 m (5.75
fm) patch lies about 0.4 mile E of the island.
DALAYNAY POINT, about 0.8 mile S from
Bagalayag Point, is formed of low cliffs, as is also the coast
between these 2 points. It is 94.5 m (310 ft) high and covered
with grass. The 2 headlands terminating in Dalaynay and
Bagalayag Points unite in a heavily wooded hill 131 m (430
ft) high, about 0.8 mile SW from the latter point.
DALAYNAY ISLETS are 2 small, grass-covered
islets lying close to the point of the same name. Rugged
cliffs outline the N and larger islet which is 47.2 m (155 ft)
high; the S and smaller islet, 23.8 m (78 ft) high, terminates
in a sharp, grass-covered point. A number of bare rocks
ranging in height from 3 to 12 m (10 to 40 ft) are in the
immediate vicinity of these islets.
PORO ISLAND, 0.3 mile SE of the Dalaynay Islets,
is one of the most conspicuous landmarks on this coast and
marks the N side of the entrance to Gigmoto Bay. Its sides
rise abruptly to a comparatively flat top 57.6 m (189 ft)
high, giving the island the appearance of a truncated cone.
A narrow, steep-to coral reef surrounds the island on all
sides except the E. There is a navigable channel about 91
m (100 yds) wide between Poro Island and the Dalaynay
Islets.
MACALANHAG ISLAND, 0.8 mile SW of Dalaynay
Point, forms part of the S side of Gigmoto Bay. It is small, of
irregular outline, heavily wooded, and 67 m (220 ft) high. It
is surrounded by a reef and is connected with the mainland
by a reef bare at extreme low water. The channel between
the reefs surrounding Poro Island and those extending NE
from Macalanhag Island is about 0.5 mile wide, deep and
free from danger.
GIGMOTO BAY (CHART 4269), formed by
a curve in the shoreline W of Dalaynay Point, offers
excellent anchorage for small vessels. Dalaynay Point and
Macalanhag Island form the limits of the bay. The inner
harbor is oval in shape, extends NW, and is outlined by a
curve gravel beach. The town of GIGMOTO is at the head
of the bay. Mining operations are reported in the vicinity.
Coral reefs fringe both sides of the bay, but the beach at
the head is clear. The coral reef from the N shore of the bay
extends about 128 m (140 yds); that from the NW point of
Macalanhag Island about 0.14 mile, leaving a deep, clear
channel 128 m (140 yds) wide between them. From here,
the water shoals gradually to the beach at the head of the
bay, and the holding ground is good anywhere.
Anchorage may be found N of the middle of
Macalanhag Island 16.5 m (9 fm), mud bottom, but better
protected anchorage will be found farther in toward the
town.
Directions - No directions are needed for the outer
anchorage; it is easy of access at all times. To enter the inner
anchorage, bring a sharp-pointed, distant hill seen over the
N part of the town of Gigmoto to bear 285o and steer for it,
5 keeping a good lookout for the reefs on either side; when
the W side of Macalanhag Island opens clear of the land
to the S the narrowest part of the channel will have been
passed, and a 271o course will lead to a good anchorage in
5.5 m (3 fm), mud bottom, in the middle of a basin about
10 0.25 mile in diameter.
Caution - Unless the hill mentioned is positively
identified or the edges of the reefs can be seen, it is not safe
to attempt to enter the inner anchorage.
15
NAGSILAG POINT, about 1.5 miles S of Gigmoto
Bay is a round-topped, grass-covered hill 42.7 m (140 ft)
high, connected with the high land immediately W of it by
a neck of land about 15 m (50 ft) high.
20
SOGOCAN COVE is N from the point and
DIYORYAN COVE. A small, brush-covered rocky islet,
24.4 m (80 ft) high, is about 0.1 mile S from Nagsilag Point.
Two small, bare rocks, 5.8 and 6.7 m (19 and 22 ft) high,
25 respectively, are about 0.7 mile NE and nearly 0.5 mile SE
of Nagsilag Point. Both are surrounded by deep water.
BITAOGAN POINT, about 0.8 mile SW of Nagsilag
Point, forms the E extremity of a heavily wooded, gradually
30 rising ridge, extending W about 3 miles. This ridge is one
of the most prominent headlands on this coast and can
be clearly seen from the vicinity of Nagumbuaya Point.
The W portion, including the 628 and 572 m (2,060 and
1,876 ft) hills, is particularly prominent. Nagsilag Point
35 also marks the extremity of another similar headland rising
to a maximum height of 643 m (2,110 ft) about 3.5 miles
inland. The valley between the above described headlands
is conspicuous from seaward. GINITLIGAN COVE is S of
Bitaogan Point.
40
BALACAY ISLAND, a small heavily wooded island,
81 m (265 ft) high near its SW extremity, is about 1.3 miles
S of Bitaogan Point. It is surrounded by and connected with
the shore by reefs bare at low water.
45
AGBAN BAY is of moderate depths and affords
sheltered anchorage during the SW monsoon. It is
somewhat protected from the NE by Balacay Island and its
surrounding reef.
50
VINTICAYAN POINT, forming the S side of Agban
Bay, is formed by high, rocky cliffs, with a grassy area on
its E extremity. POLALAN BAY is on the S side of this
point. It is fully exposed to NE and E winds.
55
BINORONG POINT, about 6.5 miles S of Gigmoto
Bay, is formed by high, dark-colored, rocky cliffs. A wooded
peak, 81 m (266 ft) high, about 0.15 mile from the extremity
of the point, shows well from N or S. GUINSAANAN
60 BAY is N from Binorong Point.
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 ZAYAO ISLAND, 0.6 mile N from Binorong Point, is
a bare rock 24.4 m (80 ft) high; from N, it appears to form
part of Binorong Point. Zayao Island is connected with the
mainland W by a reef which breaks in moderate seas.
A rock, 5.5 m (18 ft) high, is 0.2 mile SSE of
TOMINONGTON POINT, the point 1 mile SW of Binorong
Point.
BANDAYANON POINT, 2.5 miles SW of Binorong
Point, rises gradually on all sides to height of 76 m (249 ft).
PINOHAGAN ISLAND is a small wooded island;
15.5 m (51 ft) high, very close to the SW side of Bandayaon
Point, and appears to be a part of the point when seen from
S or W.
Pinohagan Island bears 091o in 16.5 m (9 fm), sand bottom.
Small vessels may anchor in 7.3 m (4 fm), mud bottom,
midway between Minabalay Island and the land E.
5 TARIS POINT, the SW limit of Kalapadan Bay, is not
particularly prominent. MAGUINLING ISLAND, just N
of Taris Point, is small, heavily wooded, about 12 m (40
ft) high, and not readily distinguished from the shore in the
immediate vicinity.
10
CAGARAY POINT, about 0.8 mile S of Taris Point,
is a narrow, heavily wooded neck of land outlined by bold
rugged cliffs and about 26 m (85 ft) high.
15 CAGARAY ISLAND, just N of Cagaray Point, is a
small, low, and grass-covered.

JUMBIT ISLETS, consisting of 7 small, grassy islets
and several bare rocks grouped nearly in a N and S direction,
are from 0.3 to about 1 mile S by E of Bandayanon Point.
The larger islets vary in height from 18.9 to 34.1 m (62 to
112 ft) and are covered with grass and bushes. The smaller
islets are mere rocks from 1.5 to 9.4 m (5 to 31 ft) high.
This group rises from a coral reef extending 0.25 mile to 0.5
mile W and 0.25 mile E of the islets; good water is found
close to the S side of the 0.9 m (3 ft) rock 91 m (100 yds) S
of the S islet. The only dangerous part of this reef is near its
NW corner where depths of 0.4 and 0.9 m (0.25 and 0.5 fm)
are found 0.25 mile W from the 9.4 m (31 ft) rock.
KALAPADAN BAY (CHART 4269), between
Bandayanon Point and Taris Point, 2.3 miles SW, is
bordered by wide reefs extending 0.5 mile in places.
SINACTAN POINT, about 1 mile S of Cagaray Point,
is an irregular, heavily wooded neck of land 53.3 m (175 ft)
20 high and extending SE.
SINALOG POINT, 1.3 miles of S of Sinactan Point,
is the most pronounced point between Kalapadan Bay and
Nagumbuaya Point, and forms the N limit of Locot Bay.
25 The heavily wooded slopes rising from this point terminate
in a hill 257 m (844 ft) in height, 0.7 mile NW from the
extremity of the point. A rock, 11.9 m (39 ft) high, lies
about 0.25 mile S of the point.
30 LOCOT BAY, between Sinalog Point and Nagumbuaya
Point, 1.5 miles S, is fringed with coral reefs, which, near
the middle of the head of the bay, extend E and surround
the Locot Islands, thus dividing the bay into 2 smaller bays.

BARAS, the largest town on the E coast of Catanduanes
Island, is at the head of the bay between the mouths of the
Macutal and Paniginhan Rivers. A white iron roof in the E
end of the town forms a prominent landmark which can be
seen from the vicinity of Sinalog Point.
MINABALAY ISLAND, 18 m (59 ft) high and
wooded almost to the water’s edge, is a small island on the
edge of the shore reef about 0.3 mile S from the iron-roofed
house in Baras and about 0.7 mile NW from Bandayanon
Point. The channel into the Paniginhan River passes close
E of Minabalay Island.
35 BUTI HILL is heavily wooded, 152 m (500 ft) high,
resembling a truncated pyramid, near the W shore of Locot
Bay. On its NW slope is a well-defined hump which shows
well from E or W.
40 Major Light - Bote Light (13° 33’ 34”N., 124° 19’
32”E.), displayed on a white tower atop Buti Hill, displays
flashing white light with a range of 18 miles.
The LOCOT ISLANDS are 2 small islands, 24.7 and
45 40.2 m (81 and 132 ft) high, respectively, near the middle of
Locot Bay. They are rocky and covered with bushes.

Major Light - Baras Light (13° 39’ 22”N., 124° 22’ NAGUMBUAYA POINT is a narrow strip of land
31”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the promontory extending from the SE part of Catanduanes Island. It is
W side of Bandayanon Point. 50 extremely rugged, especially near the outer end where
sheer, rocky cliffs rise abruptly 30.5 m (100 ft) or more.
Dangers - A small detached reef covered by 5.5 m (3 Near the E part of the point are four hills, the highest one
fm) and surrounded by deep water is on the W side of the having an elevation of 93 m (305 ft); W of these hills the
channel 0.9 mile SSW of Minabalay Island. Another small land is low and wooded. From a distance N or S, this low
patch of 9.1 m (5 fm) is about 0.4 mile SW from the 5.5 m 55 land disappears below the horizon and causes the outer part
(3 fm) shoal. of the point to appear like an island.

Directions - Vessels desiring to communicate with the Deep water surrounds Nagumbuaya Point. A small,
town of Baras should bring the light to bear 026o and steer steep-to rock, 10.7 m (35 ft) high, is close to the E extremity
for it when well E from Cagaray Island, anchoring when 60 of Nagumbuaya Point.

5-121
 LAGONOY GULF (CHART 4221, 4222, 4237, &
4259), between Catanduanes Islands, Luzon and the islands
forming the N side of Albay Gulf, is a deep body of water
about 21 miles wide at the entrance between Nagumbuaya
Point on Catanduanes Island and Rapurapu Island, and
extends 48 miles in NW direction. The center of the gulf is
deep and free from dangers.
PALAG BAY is a small, semicircular bay 2.5 miles
NW of Rungus Point. It affords good anchorage, sheltered
from all except SE winds. The entrance points are clear but
the head of the bay is filled by a reef rising abruptly from
deep water. Anchorage can be taken in the middle of the
bay in 36.6 to 54.9 m (20 to 30 fm). The space available
is small, but protection is afforded from all but SE winds.
Between Palag Point and Bitaogan Point, about 6.7
miles WSW, the rugged coast is indented to a distance of
about 2 miles. Minas Point, a small projection, lies about
4.2 miles W of Palag Point.
GUIJALO BAY is about 4 miles W from Palag Bay.
The head of the bay is filled by a steep-to reef. Anchorage
may be had, sheltered from the NE winds, but necessarily
very close in because of the great depth of water.
In the beach of Barangay GUIJALO, about 1.9 miles S
of Caramoan town proper, is a rock causeway serving as a
landing station for the water-borne trade and commerce of
the area. The causeway is 182 m long, extending S seaward,
with a 3 m wide deck. There is a 172 m long concrete
stairlanding on the W side while it is 72 m long on the E
side. Above the waterline, and on the beach, connected to
and perpendicular with causeway, is a 60 m long seawall.
Services and outputs of the landing site extend to the areas
of Caramoan, Lagonoy and Garchitorena, all being its
hinterlands.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Guijalo may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5855751 and +63917-8427385.
PORT MINAS is a small shipping port in a snug cove
0.5 mile SW of GUIJALO barrio. A road leads from here
to Caramoan at which town there is a radio station. The
anchorage is just off the cove; vessels should be careful not
to get too far N as there are reefs in the bight and along the
shore N of Guijalo.
Between Bitaogan Point and Alto Point, about 10 miles
W, the coast is rugged and steep-to. From the latter point,
which is moderately high, steep-to and rounded, the coast
trends WNW for about 4 miles to the mouth of the Lagonoy
River.
ROSA ISLET is a small, low, wooded islet 0.8 mile
ESE of Alto Point. It is surrounded by a reef extending 0.8
mile E, 0.3 mile S, and shorter distances W and N. The
water is deep close to the edge of the reef except for a small
patch with 2.7 m (9 ft) over it 0.25 mile N of the E end of
the reef. The channel between this reef and the Luzon shore
is deep and clear.
ALTO REEF is a large, oval-shaped reef, part of which
5 dries at low water, beginning 0.5 mile SW of Alto Point,
extending 1.5 miles W and 0.8 mile wide. The channel
between this reef and the shore is 0.5 mile wide, deep and
clear. The channel between this reef and Rosa Islet is deep
and nearly 1 mile wide. Vessels passing N of the reef and
10 Rosa Islet should keep about 0.25 mile from the shore of
Luzon, which is clear and steep-to.
SABANG, a barangay of San Jose town, is at the
mouth of the Lagonoy River, about 5 miles W from Alto
15 Point. It is the port of call for SAN JOSE, which is about
4 miles SW of the mouth of Lagonoy River. San Jose is
the center of a considerable hemp and copra trade. Labor
is plentiful and loading facilities consist of a few landing
barges. There is a resident doctor at the nearby town of San
20 Jose. No fresh water or stores are available and no repairs
can be done here.
Along the Lagonoy River, the bank on Sabang
facing the N, has been the principal passenger and small
25 cargo distribution center. During the dry season, or from
February through April, depth of water at the mouth of the
river is about 1 m. Hinterlands of this barrio include the
municipalities of San Jose, Goa and Lagonoy.
30 Prominent Features - There are several large
warehouses, a large church, and an old stone fort 9.1 or
12.2 m (30 or 40 ft) high.
Major Light - Sabang Lagonoy Light (13° 43’ 23”N.,
35 123° 34’ 42”E.) is shown from a white tower on the beach
of Sabang.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Sabang may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
40 5854658 and +63917-8049347.
Berthing Facilities - In 1990, landing structure and
facilities consisted of a 153 m long wharf with stairlandings
and a 15 m berth slip.
45
A small wharf, which is protected by breakwaters, is
located about 0.5 mile SW of the light.
Anchorage - Good anchorage may be found in 18.3
50 to 21.9 m (10 to 12 fm) about 0.5 mile from shore, with
the light at Sabang bearing between 001o and 316o. The
anchorage is well-protected and safe although exposed
somewhat to the NE monsoon.
55 The coast from Sabang trends S for 7 miles to Sagnay
Point, is low, sandy, and steep-to. A reef on which a small
group of rocks lies extends 0.5 mile NE from Sagnay Point.
MOUNT ISAROG is an extinct volcano, 1,976 m
60 (6,482 ft) high, about midway between Lagonoy Gulf and
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San Miguel Bay.
NATO RIVER flows out just N of Sagñay Point. Its
entrance is blocked by reefs and shoals. The town proper
of SAGÑAY is about 1.8 miles inland W of Sagñay Point. 5
The barrio of Nato, a small shipping place, stands on the
N bank of the river about 0.6 mile from its mouth. There
were previously 2 different berthing places in Sagñay but
the other had become inactive due to devastation brought
by typhoons. The abandoned reinforced concrete pier is 10
on the beach of Nato about 1 mile NW of Sagñay Point.
The location is exposed from waves, reaching an impact
height of about 3 m, originating in the Pacific Ocean. Inside
the Nato River, and along its N bank, is a 2 m wide by
236 m long, reinforced concrete stairlanding wharf. The 15
same wharf is the active landing station for cargoes and
passengers. Common shipment consisted of fish, bottled
goods, rice, vegetables, fuel and some others. Hinterland
includes the municipalities of Sagñay and Tigaon. Years
before, it was reported that several warehouses owned 20
and operated by shippers are available. A large warehouse
near the beach with the roof painted red is prominent. A
small clinic is maintained at Nato by the government health
officer. No fresh water or stores are available and no repairs
can be performed.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Nato
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63928-6392348,
+63998-5855737, and +63917-8426843.
Anchorage - Recommended anchorage is in 25.6 m
(14 fm) with Sagnay Point bearing 171o, Atulayan Island
bearing 148o, and Rosa Island bearing 054o. The anchorage
is well-protected by the surrounding hills from the SW
monsoon but is somewhat open to the NE monsoon. 35
Directions - On a course of 300o with Atulayan Island
2 miles off abeam, run 1 mile past abeam and change course
to 255o. This course will clear the shoal at the mouth of the
river of Sagñay Point. A boat meets the vessel with a flag
to indicate the anchorage.
ATULAYAN BAY, SE from Sagñay Point, has very
uniform depths of 54.9 to 73.2 m (30 to 40 fm) and is free
from shoals or reefs except a narrow reef fringing the shores
and widest in the W part of the bay. In the S part of the bay,
a good, well-protected anchorage may be found about 0.4
mile from the shore in 36.6 m (20 fm), mud bottom, with
Sagnñay Point bearing 012o, NW point of Atulayan Island
040o, and the E entrance point of the bay 098o. Atulayan
Bay may be entered on either side of the island, but if the N
entrance is used, vessels must favor Sagñay Point to avoid
a large reef NW of Atulayan Island. This channel is about
0.5 mile wide.
ATULAYAN ISLAND, in the entrance to Atulayan
Bay, sheltering it from the NE winds is 211.2 m (693 ft)
high and a very conspicuous landmark, visible from all parts
of the gulf. It is fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef.
There are 2 reefs a short distance from shore, a small one
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0.25 mile long, with a depth of 3.7 m (12 ft) parallel with
the shore, about 0.25 mile from the SW side of the island.
This reef must be avoided by vessels seeking an anchorage
under the lee of the island and when entering from E. The
second reef is NW of the island and is separated from it by a
narrow channel 45.7 to 54.9 m (25 to 30 fm) deep; this reef
is about 1 mile long NE and SW, 0.5 mile wide, and has a
depth of 1.8 m (6 ft). It reduces by half the width of the N
entrance to Atulayan Bay. Fairly protected anchorage may
be found off the W point of Atulayan Island in about 42.1
m (23 fm).
PATITINAN, the barrio at the head of the bay, has
a 66 m long concrete pier that is connected to the shore
by a causeway. The barrio is connected by road to Sagñay.
Patitinan Light (13° 33’ 30”N., 123° 32’ 21”E.) is displayed
from the barrio.
ALBAY GULF AND PART OF LAGONOY
GULF
(CHART 1515, 4221, 4237 & 4259)
TIWI POINT, 8 miles SE of the E entrance to Atulayan
Bay, is a rocky headland 133.5 m (438 ft) high. The shores
25 between Atulayan Bay and Tiwi Point are generally bold,
rocky points or headlands with beaches of sand and gravel
in the bights. There is very little coral reef along this stretch
except near Tiwi Point. About 2.5 miles SE of Tiwi Point is
a small sandy cay surrounded by a bank which extends 2.5
30 miles in a SE direction and forms the N side of the channel
into Tabaco Bay. The same bank nearly joins the shore E of
Tiwi Church, leaving a deep channel only 0.12 mile) wide
between the bank and the shore. A rocky patch with 0.9 m
(3 ft) over it is 0.7 mile W of the sand cay.
SAN MIGUEL POINT, the NW point of San Miguel
Island, is surrounded by a reef extending 0.8 mile. It is
marked by Rawis Light. A small patch, with 5.8 m (3.25
fm) over it, is 1 mile NW of San Miguel Point; with this
40 exception, the navigable channel into Tabaco Bay is nearly
1.5 miles wide between the 9.1 m (5 fm) curves on either
side. Tabaco Bay is very deep, the shores on both sides are
steep-to, and it contains no reefs or shoals except near the
head. The bottom is even, with depths of 91.4 to 109.7 m
45 (50 to 60 fm).
TABACO BAY (CHART 4237), a deep, capacious
harbor, is between the coast of Luzon and San Miguel and
Cagraray Islands. These 2 islands are connected by a reef.
50 Entry to the bay is guided by 2 range lights displayed at the
town of Malinao.
Major Lights - Rawis Light (13° 24’ 20”N., 123° 45’
45”E.) is displayed atop a white tower on San Miguel Point
55 of San Miguel Island.
Malinao Range Lights (13° 24’ 18”N., 123° 42’ 48”E.)
are both located in the town of Malinao. The front light is
displayed from a white concrete column while the rear light
60 is displayed from a wooden framework tower.
 TABACO CITY (CHART 4237), one of the important
towns and shipping centers in Albay, is on the W side of
Tabaco Bay, about 3 miles SW of San Miguel Point. It is a
customs port of entry open to overseas shipping. The port
is protected by a natural breakwater of sand bar on the N
side, covered with light vegetation and small trees. Hemp
and copra, the most important products, are either shipped
to Manila or exported directly to foreign countries. It also
operates as collection point for passengers and products
from Catanduanes and other neighboring islands.
There are hospitals and several practicing physicians in
towns. Fresh stores and vegetables in limited quantities are
available. Some gasoline, kerosene, LPG, and lubricating
oil are obtainable. Bunkering is available. Ice may be
obtained from a small ice plant in town. Fresh water suitable
for drinking and for boilers can be secured at the pier.
Provincial highway connects Tabaco with other towns
in Albay. Bus transportation to Manila is available. There
is a post office, telephone connection, Internet and mobile
phone communications.
no. (+6352) 487-7707. Vessels should inform the TMO of
ETA 24 hrs in advance. The port can accommodate vessels
having a GRT of 30,000 tons and below.
5 In 2009, the Port of Tabaco registered a total of
334,160 metric tons of outgoing goods and 8,806 metric
tons of incoming goods. Majority of incoming goods are
cement and rice while majority of outgoing goods are rice
and pyrite.
10
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Tabaco
City may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5854637 and +63917-8426831.
15 Quarantine - Foreign vessels that have been cleared
in one port of the Philippines are not required to undergo
another quarantine clearance at the succeeding Philippine
ports of call. In case of death on board, the vessel upon
arrival shall hoist the international yellow flag (Queen) at
20 the foremast. The quarantine officer, District Health Officer,
or City Health Officer, should be advised of the time of
arrival and the fact that there is death aboard.

Prominent Features - Within about 2 miles N of
San Miguel Point, Tabaco is distinguished by its church, a
number of buildings and warehouses.
Channels - The only navigable channel used by vessels
entering Tabaco is between the NW end of San Miguel
Island and the shoals 2 miles NW of San Miguel Point. The
channel is marked by the Malinao Range.
Berthing Facilities - The government wharf,
25 connected from the shore by a reclaimed land bordered
with 2 causeways, is about 297 m long, parallel with the
shoreline. The depths alongside the wharf vary from 8 m to
11 m. The wharf has capability for the berthing of 3 ships.
The port also has 2 RoRo ramps. Available storage areas
30 are 915 sq m warehouse and 7,425 sq m container yard.
Forklifts and cranes are available.

Sula Channel and Casolgan Pass which have access Small boats berth at the small harbor formed by the
into Tabaco Bay are of no value to navigation except for S end of the government wharf and the shoreline. A small
bancas and small crafts. 35 wharf for fishing boats is located about 0.2 mile S of the
government wharf.
Dangers - A small shoal with a depth of 5.8 m (3.25
fm) about 1 mile NW of San Miguel Point is near the middle Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
of the channel on the S side of the range at the entrance to by Tabaco Port Cargo Corp., which can be contacted at
Tabaco Bay. This shoal may be avoided by following the 40 telephone no. (+6352) 487-5184.
range.
Repair - The drydock facility of Mayon Docks is located
The water on the N and S sides of the pier is shallow. about 1 mile S of the government wharf. Drydocking, ship
Vessels going alongside should use only the E side. A major repair, and maintenance are available.
stranded wreck lies close off the head of the pier and makes 45
approach from the N difficult. Rocks have been reported Pilotage within a radius of 3 miles from the sea end
projecting from the pier face and fenders are advisable. of the government wharf is compulsory for all vessels.
Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association may be contacted at
Tides & Currents - Tabaco has a semi-diurnal type of telephone no. (+6352) 480-5423.
tides. There is some inequality but the principal variations 50
follow the moon’s changing phases. The mean range is 1.1 Notification must be sent, either by telephone or
m (3.6 ft) and the diurnal range is 1.3 m (4.3 ft). in writing, to the pilotage district 24 hrs before ETA.
Confirmation must be sent 3 hrs before the arrival at the
Little current has been reported in the vicinity of the pilot boarding station. Tugboats, with limited capacity, are
pier, but its strength and direction have not been determined. 55 available from the pilot association.
It is reported by local pilots that the flood current sets N and
the ebb S off the face of the pier. Anchorage - There is no adequate anchorage in the
bay as the water is deep and the sides are steep-to. The
Port Management - The government wharf is operated limited anchorage off the wharf, although sheltered from
by PPA TMO-Tabaco, which may be contacted at telephone 60 the S and SW, is open to the NE monsoon.

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 Directions - Within about 2.3 miles NE of San Miguel
Point, bring the Malinao Range Lights in range, bearing
239o, before Tiwi Point bears anything N of 294o. Steering
on this range, vessels should pass about 0.3 mile from the
reefs on either side. Continue on this range until the church
in Tabaco bears 186o or BACULUD POINT bears 170o,
then change course to 160o passing close to Baculud Point.
When E of the pier, anchor in 45.7 to 54.9 m (25 to 30 fm),
sand and mud bottom, about 0.1 mile off the pier, or go
alongside.
When tying up to the wharf, it has been found best
by oversea vessels to have the bow N in order to facilitate
leaving. Owing to prevailing currents, it is recommended
when leaving to use 2 spring lines to keep the bow against
the pier allowing the stern to swing out about 045o or more,
and then go astern until clear of Baculud Point. In this
manner, shallow water about 2.5 ship lengths S of the end
of the wharf will be avoided.
During the NE monsoon, berthing at the wharf is very
difficult. Rain and squalls occur quite frequently during
the months of December and January. During the typhoon
season, typhoons often cause severe damage in the Tabaco
Bay area.
MALILIPOT is a small town 2.5 miles SE of Tabaco.
The red-roofed church in the town is prominent. The town
is connected by road to Tabaco and Legazpi.
BACACAY is located about 5.5 miles SE of Tabaco. It
has a post office, telephone connection, and mobile phone
services. It has 2 hospitals and a rural health station. Limited
supplies of food can be bought from the public market. The
church and its bell tower are prominent.
Major Light - Bacacay Light (13° 17’ 57”N., 123° 47’
38”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the shore end of
the pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Bacacay may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63930-
7937842, +63998-5855750 and +63917-8426776.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 55 m long
concrete pier, which is connected to the shore by a concrete
deck. Fishing boats and small ferry boats usually call at this
pier.
About 1 mile E of Bacacay, a reef projects NE for
about 1 mile, surrounding Buguias Islet and extending 0.5
mile beyond it.
BUGUIAS ISLET is very small, low, and flat-topped.
There are several small islets and shoals at the head of the
bay beyond the track of ordinary navigation.
PILI BAY is a long shallow lagoon extending from the
SW part of Tabaco Bay almost to Albay Gulf. Its S end is
separated from Albay Gulf by a narrow, gravel bank about
5-125
1.8 m (6 ft) high. This is used as a portage by bancas trading
between Albay Gulf and Tabaco Bay.
PILI, the barrio at the W entrance point of Pili Bay,
5 has a 35 m long pier. The barrio is connected by road to
Bacacay.
SAN MIGUEL ISLAND, forming the NE side of
Tabaco Bay, is about 91 m (300 ft) high and heavily wooded.
10 There is a small landing at San Miguel on the S side of
the island. The offshore end of the landing is destroyed.
The SW side of the island is fairly straight and steep-to; the
NE side is very irregular in outline and is fringed by a reef
extending in places to 1 mile. San Miguel Point is fringed
15 by a drying reef that extends 0.5 mile N and 0.8 mile W.
Some rocks lie awash on the edge of the reef in the latter
direction. A shoal with a depth of 11.3 m (37 ft) is 2 miles N
of BUDIAS POINT, the E extremity of San Miguel Island,
close to the usual steamer track to and from Tabaco Bay.
20
CASOLGAN PASS, separating San Miguel and
Cagraray Islands, is of no value, as it nearly dries at low
water. There are 4 small islets in the pass, the S being the
largest.
25
CAGRARAY ISLAND, SE of San Miguel Island, is
of very irregular outline, very heavily wooded, and 383.4
m (1,258 ft) high in the center. The N shore is faced by a
wide reef, in which are 2 breaks, both too small to be of
30 any value.
SULA CHANNEL is a narrow, crooked passage
between Cagraray Island and Luzon and connects the
head of Tabaco Bay with Albay Gulf. It is about 4 miles
35 in length and practicable only for small crafts. The depth
found in this channel is 1.5 m (0.8 fm), and there are a
number of crooked and difficult places. During the rising
tide, the currents meet in the middle of the pass and have
considerable velocity.
40
Caution - A metal framework bridge spans the
narrowest part of the channel, located about 1.2 miles NW
of Port Sula Light.
45 CAGRARAY PASS, separating Cagraray and Batan
Islands, is blocked by reefs. MANGO ISLET, in the middle
of the pass is low and partly planted with coconut trees.
Cauayan Point Light (13° 17’ 12”N., 123° 54’ 00”E.) is
reportedly located in the middle of the pass.
50
CAGBULAUAN AND GUINANAYAN ISLANDS
are two small, wooded islands, about 77 m (252 ft) high, in
the N end of Cagraray Pass. They are surrounded by reefs
which extend 0.5 mile on the seaward side. Good, protected
55 anchorage for small crafts may be found SE of Guinanayan
Island, but local knowledge is necessary, as the entrance is
narrow and bordered by reefs.
BATAN ISLAND (CHART 4221), E from Cagraray
60 Island, is high and heavily wooded. The N side, from the W
and as far as Kalanaga Bay, is fringed by a reef extending
1 mile in places. The island is rich in coal. The S shore of
Batan Island is, in general, clear and steep-to. The hillsides
and slopes have scattered clearings and mostly planted with
coconut trees.
GABA BAY, on the N coast of Batan Island about 1
mile E of Guinanayan Island, is 1 mile wide and extends
2 miles S. At first glance it appears to be a commodious
harbor but its available area is so restricted and the entrance
so complicated by reefs that it would not be safe to seek
shelter here without previous knowledge or until it is well
marked. A vessel once safely inside would find good,
protected anchorage in 16.5 m (9 fm) in a basin 0.35 mile
in diameter.
Major Light - Labcan Light (13° 17’ 30”N., 123°
58’ 45”E.) is displayed on Labcan Point, which is the W
entrance point of the bay.
GABA, the barrio at the head of Gaba Bay, has a 400
m long jetty. A settlement, with a 40 m long pier, is located
about 0.6 mile N of the barrio.
CONE ISLAND, a small sharp-pointed islet about 61
m (200 ft) high, on the reef near Nanlampalay Point on the
E side of the entrance to Gaba Bay, is prominent from E
when nearing the shore of Batan Island.
MOUNT BILBAO, heavily wooded and 288 m (945
ft) high, is the summit of the peninsula between Gaba and
Kalanaga Bays. Mount Vizcaya, 396.2 m (1,300 ft) high
and located about 1.8 miles SSE of Mount Bilbao, is the
summit of the island.
KALANAGA BAY (CHART 4259), about 2 miles
E of Gaba Bay, is a small, well-protected harbor with
anchorage space for one or two vessels. It is surrounded
by wooded hills. More than half of the area of the bay is
coral reef, leaving but a limited space for anchorage. The
surf breaks heavily on the W side of the entrance, marking
it distinctly. The limits of the reef on the E side are marked
by fishing stakes set at the edge. There are few shacks on
the low spit E of the entrance.
Directions - Vessels entering Kalanaga Bay should
steer 181o straight in, proceeding cautiously, giving the
stakes on the E side a berth of about 0.1 mile and anchoring
in 16.5 to 18.3 m (9 to 10 fm) midway between the fish
traps and SHARP POINT. Small crafts may, with care, run
up the arm E as far as the shacks or may proceed up the bay
nearly to KALANAGA.
From Kalanaga Bay to EAST POINT, the E extremity
of Batan Island, there is no reef and the coast is bold and
steep-to. A shoal with a depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm), lies about
1 mile ENE of East Point.
RAPU RAPU STRAIT (CHART 4259), between
Batan and Rapu Rapu Islands, is 5 miles long and 0.4 mile
at the narrowest point. There is a good channel through the
strait, but it is tortuous and complicated by numerous reefs
and must be navigated with caution. It has a least width of
0.3 mile and a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm).
5
Dangers - Middle Reef, about 1.5 miles SSW of East
Point in Batan Island, is awash at low water and breaks
heavily in the NE monsoon. Drying reefs and shoals lie
between this reef and the coast of Batan Island to WNW
10 and W. A small shoal spot with 6.7 m (22 ft) over it, and
deeper water all around, is about 0.2 mile E of the N end of
Middle Reef and about midway between Middle Reef and
the reefs on the E side of the channel.
15 Derickson Reef, covered by 0.3 m (1 ft) and always
visible, is 1 mile S of Middle Reef and 0.3 mile from the
reef fringing the N shore of Rapu Rapu Island.
Currents - Tidal currents of 1.5 knots have been
20 observed in Rapu rapu Strait.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
area may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5854639 and +63917-8426862.
25
Directions - Vessels from N should round East Point,
Batan Island, at a distance of 0.5 mile. Steer course to 209o
when East Point is abeam and then steer 187o when Acal
Point, Rapu Rapu Island, bears 106o. Hold the course until
30 Babayon Point Hill (145 ft), W end of Rapu Rapu Island,
bears 239o. Steer for this hill for 1.5 miles. When Batan
Beacon No. 2 bears 314o, steer 257o and then Babayon
Point, the W end of Rapu Rapu Island may be rounded at
a distance of 457 m (500 yds); if the latter course is taken
35 and bound W, the vessel should stand S for 0.5 mile before
hauling W, thereby giving Babayon and Columbia Reefs a
good berth.
RAPU RAPU ISLAND, E of Batan Island, is 9.5
40 miles long and 3 miles wide. It is mountainous and heavily
wooded; Mount Rapu Rapu reaches an elevation of 536.4
m (1,760 ft). The NE coast is fringed by a narrow coral reef
bare at low water. Detached shoals with depths of 3.4 to
12.8 m (1.75 to 7 fm) lie up to 2 miles off this coast. Vessels
45 are cautioned to give this coast a wide berth.
UNGAY POINT, the SE point of Rapu Rapu Island,
and the N entrance point to Albay Gulf, is bold and
prominent. Its highest point is bare due to the mining
50 operations conducted by Lafayette Mining Corp. Ungay
Point Light (13° 10’ 44”N., 124° 12’ 50”E.) is displayed
from a white tower on the point. Several rocks about 6 m
(20 ft) high are about 0.1 mile from the point. The water is
very deep off Ungay Point, 182.9 m (100 fm) being found
55 within 0.5 mile from shore.
It was reported that waste water from the mining site
spilled to Albay Gulf in October 2005. The incident caused
massive fish kills and environmental damage in the area. It
60 was reported that fresh water supply in Rapu Rapu Island
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was contaminated due to the spill. and affords good anchorage for small vessels.

A small pier, operated by the mining company, is BATAN, a barrio on the NW shore of the harbor, is
located about 0.9 mile SW of Ungay Point Light. an operating base of a coal mining company. A stone jetty,
5 extending 350 m SW from the shore, has a controlling
ALBAY GULF (CHART 4221, 4237 and 4259), depth of 3.7 m alongside. Food and other supplies are not
bounded on the N by Cagraray, Batan, and Rapu Rapu obtainable. There is no fresh water at the wharf.
Islands, and on the W and S by Luzon, is about 28 miles
long, E and W, and 6 miles wide at the entrance between Channel - The channel leading to the head of the
Ungay and Bingay Points. The shores are, in general, steep 10 harbor is deep and marked by four concrete beacons. In June
and the water deep, with the exception of a number of 1951, only 2 beacons marking the N side were in existence.
dangerous reefs near the head of the gulf. Beacons Nos. 1 and 3 on the S side of the channel were
missing. The controlling depth of this channel is 16.5 m (9
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are fm) to within 0.15 mile SE of the wharf.
present in Albay Gulf. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited 15
within the vicinity of the submarine cable. Anchorage - Interisland vessels anchor about 0.2 mile
SE of the wharf in 14.6 to 18.3 m (8 to 10 fm), mud bottom.
From UNGAY POINT W, the S coast of Rapu Rapu
Island is clear, with the exception of a large shore reef Directions - To enter, pass about 0.1 mile SW of
extending S of the town of Rapu Rapu. This reef extends 20 Beacon No. 2 and head for the wharf on course 302o. Then,
along the coast for 2.5 miles and projects 0.8 mile S. Abreast anchor or go alongside as desired.
of the W end of the town are 2 conspicuous rocks, 6.1 and
9.1 m (20 and 30 ft) high, on the S edge of the reef. There is BUGTON POINT, the S extremity of Batan Island
a small bay affording anchorage N of the E end of the reef, and the SW entrance point of Rapu Rapu Strait, is low and
the reef affording protection from SW winds. There is a 25 rounded and is backed by high hills. From this point, the
small channel between the reef and the shore. This channel coast trends WNW for 4 miles to Binalbagan Point, the SW
is entered from the W and used by small vessels, heading extremity of the island. A small cove indents the coast to
within 0.5 mile of the town. a distance of about 0.75 mile about midway between the
2 points. The E shore and the head of the cove are fringed
RAPU RAPU, the town on the S coast of the island, has 30 by reefs. A rock, about 7 m (23 ft) high, stands at the W
a 290-meter long pier extending SW. Two small reclaimed edge of the reef that fringes the E shore. A drying reef lies
areas, an open passenger shed and a fish market at the beach in the SW approach to the cove in a position about 1 mile
end of the pier completes the port facility of the town. The E of Binalbagan Point and about 0.3 mile offshore. Small
town has a post office and mobile phone communication. vessels can anchor in about 5.8 m (3.25 fm) off the W side
Usual cargoes shipped were copra, daily need items, rice 35 of the cove.
and others transported to and from Legazpi. Passengers
travel back and forth to Legazpi and Batan. COAL HARBOR (CHAR 4237), forming the S end
of Cagraray Pass, extends nearly 2 miles NW, beyond
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Rapu which it is blocked by reefs. A reef extends 0.3 mile
Rapu may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998- 40 from the shore a short distance NW of BINALBAGAN
5854639 and +63917-8426862. POINT, and farther NW another reef extends 0.5 mile from
LIGUAN POINT with a small rocky islet 6.1 m (20 ft) high
BABAYON POINT, the W extremity of Rapu Rapu in its center. Some detached shoals with depths of 1.8 to
Island, is about 44 m (145 ft) high and well-wooded. It is 7 m (1 to 3.75 fm) lie up to 0.5 mile S and 0.3 mile SW of
fringed by a narrow reef, but may be safely rounded at a 45 Tinukawan Point. Other numerous shoals and dangers lie
distance of 0.15 mile. in the middle of the harbor, through which there is a deep
channel leading from the outer harbor into the inner harbor.
BABAYON REEF is a small reef, partly bare at low
water, 0.3 mile WSW of Babayon Point. The harbor is sheltered from all winds except from
SE. Anchorage area available for large vessels is in the
50
COLUMBIA REEF is a small reef, with a depth of outer harbor about 0.6 mile N of Cagraray Point, in 45.7
1.5 m (5 ft), 1 mile W from Babayon Point. The channel to 54.9 m (25 to 30 fm), mud bottom. The inner harbor,
between this reef and Babayon Reef is about 0.35 mile wide with a swinging room of about 0.3 mile, has depths of
and deep and clear. Two detached shoals, with depths of 4.0 31.3 to 34.7 m (17 to 19 fms), mud bottom. It is a much-
and 5.2 m (2.25 and 2.75 fm), lie between this reef and the 55 sheltered anchorage because of the reefs that surround it.
coast of Batan Island to the N. Near the barrio of LIGUAN, on the E side of the harbor,
there was a coal mine which is no longer in operation. The
BATAN HARBOR (CHART 4259) is a small wooden wharf owned by the mining company is in ruins.
indentation on the reef SE of Batan Island, just N of the SW No supplies are available. Fresh water may be obtained by
entrance to Rapu Rapu Strait. The harbor is easy of access 60 boating from a spring near the village of MISIBIS on the

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SW shore of the harbor.
CAGRARAY POINT, on the W side of the entrance
to Coal Harbor, is surrounded by a reef extending 0.3 mile.
A detached shoal having a depth of 1.5 m is 0.4 mile NE of
the point. This shoal is usually marked with fishing stakes
by local fisherman.
Misibis Bay Resort is located on Cagraray Point.
The luxury resort boasts of world-class amenities like
swimming pools, accommodation, casino, and restaurants.
A 340 m long breakwater fronts the resort.
From CAGRARAY POINT, the coast trends SW
for 2.5 miles to CABADEA POINT, the E entrance to Port 15
Sula, and is high and well wooded. The coastline is very
irregular, being indented by several bays which are fringed
with coral reefs. A detached reef lies awash about 0.4 mile
offshore in a position about 0.9 mile SW of Cagraray Point.
A 5.2 m (2.75 fm) patch lies about 0.4 mile SSW of the 20
same point.
PORT SULA (CHART 4237), formed by a slight
enlargement of the S part of the Sula Channel, is well-
sheltered, has good holding ground, and is used as a harbor
of refuge for moderate sized vessels. It is about 0.25 mile
wide at the entrance and carries that width for 0.8 mile,
when it narrows and shoals, rendering it unfit for navigation
except by very small crafts. The anchorage space is much
reduced by reefs extending from both sides of the port, the
width between the reefs being only from 0.1 to 0.15 mile; a
vessel should keep midway between the points in entering.
There is a stream with potable fresh water in the NE part of
Port Sula. Launches and small boats can tie up to a concrete
mooring block about 25 m. offshore W of the stream. Fresh
water may also be obtained by boating it from the SE side
of the neck of PICADERO POINT.
Major Light - Port Sula Light (13° 13’ 32”N., 123°
52’ 15”E.) is displayed from a white post on Cabadea Point,
at the S entrance to Sula Channel.
Caution - Vessels entering Sula Channel should take
note of the overhead cables at the S entrance of the channel.
The cables are used by cable cars that transport tourists
and visitors of a luxury resort at Misibis Point in Cagraray
Island.
STO. DOMINGO (LIBOG) is a small town in the
NW angle of Albay Gulf, about 5.5 miles W from Port Sula. 50
The large church with twin spires forms a good landmark. A
reef extends 0.25 mile from shore.
From Sto. Domingo (Libog), the coast trends S for 5.5
miles to Capuntucan Point and thence SE for 1.5 miles to 55
Lubas Point.
ARIMBAY, a barrio about 1.5 miles N of Legazpi of light construction stemming from the warehouses on the
Light, is the location of the plants of Asia Brewery and waterfront. A fixed red light, displayed on the top of a hotel,
Legazpi Oil Company. Each plant is fronted by a 90 m long 60 about 0.2 mile NW of the marginal wharf, was reportedly
concrete pier. Dolphins and mooring buoys were installed
in the vicinity of the piers.
Danger - A small reef, showing rocks awash at low
5 water is about 0.4 mile SE of Legazpi Oil pier.
LEGAZPI PORT (CHART 4237), at the head of
Albay Gulf and on the SE portion of Legazpi City, is the
principal seaport in E Luzon. It is a customs port of entry
10 and the center of one of the largest hemp-producing areas
in the archipelago. The port is the terminus of the railroad
from Manila and a regular port of call for interisland vessels
from Manila and Cebu. Foreign freighters call frequently.
The port is an enclosed basin formed by the concrete
marginal wharf and the breakwater. The entrance channel is
110 m (120 yds) wide and has a controlling depth of 7.6 m
(25 ft). There are four sunken wrecks in the S and SE sides
of the basin.
LEGAZPI CITY, the capital of Albay province, is
about 1.5 miles W of the port. It is the seat of city, provincial,
regional and national government offices. Legazpi is also
the center of socio-economic and administrative activities
25 of the Bicol Region. Being the sole chartered city of Albay,
it is the center of education, commerce and industry in
Bicolandia due to its strategic geographical location and
availability of transportation facilities and services. It is
located 531 km S of Manila and accessible by land, sea and
30 air. An urbanizing city, its general products are coconut oil,
abaca and copra cake.
The Albay Provincial Hospital about 1.5 miles W of
the port has adequate medical facilities. Private hospitals
35 and clinics are also available. Telephone, mobile phone,
and Internet services are available. Buses ply the Legazpi-
Manila route and many mini-buses conveyed the Naga-
Legazpi destination. Short distance travel may be had
through mini-buses, jeepneys and motor tricycles. Legazpi
40 City has an airport with regular flights to Manila, Cebu and
Virac.
Legazpi City is the regional distributing center of
various supplies. Petroleum is available from major oil
45 companies in the city. Marine and engineering supplies;
medical accessories and facilities; fresh, dry, and frozen
provisions are available. The city has piped water system.
Water taken from deep wells, natural springs and manual
pumps should be boiled or treated clean.
Major Light - Legazpi Light (13° 09’ 30”N., 123° 45’
12”E.), shown from the beach and 0.5 mile N of the port,
was reported partly obscured by coconut trees.
Prominent Features - The port is distinguished by
the numerous houses with galvanized-iron roofings near
the beach, the concrete marginal wharf, and various piers
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extinguished recently.
Mount Linguion, a conical, wooded hill with a flat
top, 169.2 m (555 ft) high, is about 1.5 miles from the
beach and NW of the port.
Capuntucan Point, with a steep hill 67.7 m (222
ft) high, making out from the SE side of the port, is also
conspicuous on account of the white cliff on its E end.
Sto. Domingo (Libog) Church, with twin spires, may
be identified when nearing the N side of Legazpi Port.
Daraga Church, with galvanized iron roofing located
on top of a hill 46.3 m (152 ft) high 2.5 miles inland, shows
prominently in a green mountain background above the
city skyline.
Mayon Volcano, the most conspicuous landmark in
this part of Luzon, rises from the plain about 7.5 miles NW 20
of Legazpi to height of 2,421 m (7,943 ft). The volcano
forms a perfect cone and at times gives off a considerable
amount of vapor. It is prominent while navigating both the
E and NE coasts of Luzon.
Channels - The channel between Barao and Denson
Reefs is about 1 mile wide. It is deep and clear.
Dangers - Catubeg Reef, having a depth of 3.2 m
(1.75 fm), oval in form and about 0.15 mile in diameter, is
3.8 miles NE of Capuntucan Point.
Barao Reef, with a depth of 1.4 m (0.75 fm), nearly
round and about 0.225 mile in diameter, lies about 0.5 mile
SW of Catubeg Reef. A 12.8 m (7 fm) patch lies between
these two reefs. A bank, with a depth of 12.5 m (6.8 fm),
was reported to lie nearly 1 mile NW of Barao Reef.
Denson Reef, with a depth of 1.4 m (0.75 fm), about
0.5 mile in diameter, is 2.0 miles ENE of Capuntucan Point.
The reef is distinguished by the discoloration of water over
it.
Poliqui Reef, with a depth of 5 m (2.75 fm), is 3.3
miles E of Capuntucan Point.
Legazpi Reef, with a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm), is 1 mile
E of Capuntucan Point.
The reef off LUBAS POINT extends over 0.5 mile
from shore, leaving a deep channel 0.3 mile wide between
its N edge and Legazpi Reef.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable
is present in Legazpi Port. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Weather - During the NE monsoon which occurs from
November to early part of March, the port is exposed to the
prevailing NE winds. The sea inside the gulf is generally
5-129
rough and greatly affects regular shipping. From July to
November, typhoons are prevalent and quite frequent in
July and August. In other months, especially April May and
June, smooth sea often prevails. The city has no definite
5 dry season pattern with most rainfall from November to
January. The monthly average rainfall is 253.85 mm and
the annual average temperature is 27.6 oC.
Storm Warnings - Signals visible from the anchorage
10 are displayed from a mast at the N side of the marginal
wharf. No night signals are exhibited.
Tides - The tide in Legazpi is similar to that of Davao.
It is of semidiurnal type. There is some inequality but the
15 principal variation follows the moon’s changing phases.
The mean range is 1.1 m (3.6 ft) and the diurnal range is
1.4 m (4.6 ft).
Port Management - The port serves as the baseport of
PMO-Legazpi, which manages all PPA terminals in Bicol
Region. The PMO may be contacted at telephone and fax
no. (+6352) 480-7890. Vessels wishing to berth at the port
should notify the PMO 72 hrs before ETA.
25 In 2009, the Port of Legazpi registered a total of
135,500 metric tons of outgoing goods and 164,086 metric
tons of incoming goods. Majority of incoming goods are
cement, coal and sugar while majority of outgoing goods
are sand and gravel and bottled cargo.
30
Distress & Rescue - Legazpi serves as the headquarters
of the Coast Guard District - Bicol and a Maritime Rescue
Sub-Center. The Coast Guard station may be contacted
through the following means:
35
Telephone: (+6352) 820-6364
Fax: (+6352) 820-6364
VSAT Telephone: 8900 to 8903
VHF Channel 16
40 Mobile phone: +6398-5856438; +63917-8426820
E-mail: cgd.bicol@yahoo.com
Customs - Customs officers at Legazpi may be
contacted at telephone no. (+6352) 820-2508.
45
Berthing Facilities - The government wharf is
partitioned into 6 berthing areas with total berth length of
394 m. Berth Area 1 has a dimension of 7.5 m by 85 m.
Controlling depths, below MLLW, ranges from 2 to 11.8 m.
50 RoRo ramp is available. The port can accommodate vessels
that are 10,000 GRT or below. Vessels of more than 107
m (350 ft) length cannot use the wharf due to the narrow
entrance to the basin. The offshore tip of the wharf and the
E breakwater defines the 2 entrance points going inside
55 the basin. The wharf has about 7,700 sq m that serves as
storage area. Cargo handling equipment consist of cranes,
forklifts and trucks.
The Legazpi Fishport pier, located about 0.2 miles S of
60 Capuntucan Point, is operated by the city goverment. It is
only for use by fishing vessels. It has a 115 m long concrete
pier and a concrete shed.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
by Regal Arrastre and Stevedoring Services. Shore
reception facilities are available from a local company.
Bunkering and fresh water delivery may be had at the
government wharf.
Repairs - There is a small machine shop where welding
works can be performed. Minor engine room repairs can be
made. Ship repair and drydocking can be availed at Mayon
Docks in Tabaco.
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels 100 GRT or
more. Pilot boarding station is located about 2.3 miles SE
of Sto. Domingo Church. Pilot services are provided by
Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association, which may be contacted
at telephone no. (+6352) 480-5423.
Pilots should be contacted 48 hrs in advance. Tugs, with
limited capacity, are available from the pilot association.
Anchorage - The recommended anchorage is located
about 0.7 mile NE of Capuntucan Point. The anchorage is
not good on account of its irregular steep bottom of volcanic
sand, rocks, and mud in patches, affording poor holding
ground. It is open E and exposed to the NE monsoon which
sends in a heavy sea. During bad weather, anchorage may
be had in Coal Harbor or Port Sula.
Directions - When making for Legazpi from course
287o, steer for Mount Linguion when it bears 264o or steer
for Legazpi Light when it bears 254o. These 2 courses will
lead between Barao Reef and Denson Reef.
An alternate course which is used by ocean-going
vessels is to skirt the N side of the gulf a distance of at least
1 mile and come to a point 1 mile S of Port Sula Light then
steer 270o, continue on this course until Legazpi Light bears
215o and Santo Domingo (Libog) Church bears 334o, then
haul on course 209o for the wharves or steer 204o heading
for Capuntucan Point, then to the marginal wharf inside
the basin. This alternate course clears all shoals and avoids
the possibility of being caught between shoals should the
landmarks be rained out.
Interisland vessels with local knowledge usually take
the route along the S side of the gulf, clearing PARON
POINT by at least 1 mile and then passing between Denson
Reef and Poliqui Reef.
Vessels maneuvering astern to the end of the wooden
pier should attempt only during calm weather with the
aid of a pilot, as in any wind, the operation is difficult
and risky. Vessels coming into the piers will be met by a
launch to handle mooring lines. Two anchors are dropped
and the vessel backed up until the mooring lines are made
fast to the mooring chains on the beach and the ship’s stern
is about 3 m from the end of the pier. The mooring lines
carry a heavy strain and break in many instances, with the
resultant risk of hitting and damaging the piers or other
vessels in the vicinity. The shore mooring chains are none
too secure, not being anchored firmly enough in the sand
5 and are frequently uprooted. Not more than one line should
be made fast to any one mooring chain. The piers are about
68 m apart. Due to its exposed position, the number of
unmarked reefs in the port, and the risks involved when
loading, Legazpi is not a safe port excepting under the most
10 favorable weather conditions.
POLIQUI BAY, in the SW angle of Albay Gulf, is
about 5 miles wide at the entrance and extends about the
same distance S. The coves that indent its shores are filled
15 with reefs, and the shore of the main bay is fringed with
reefs which are comparatively narrow on the E side. The
center of the bay is clear and very deep.
CAUIT POINT, at the E entrance to the Poliqui Bay,
20 is low and fringed by a coral reef about 0.5 mile wide. The
slopes back of the shoreline from Cauit Point to Pigbucan
Point are covered with coconut plantations.
MANITO REEF is with its N edge about 1 mile
25 WNW of Cauit Point and has a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
CAUIT REEFS, about 0.8 mile S of Manito Reef, consist
of 2 small reefs separated by a narrow channel. The N reef
has a depth of 0.3 m. (1 ft), and the S a depth of 0.9 m. (3 ft).
30 From CAUIT POINT, the coast trends E for 2.5
miles to Paron Point; thence SE for 4.5 miles to Gajo Point,
with 2 small bays between; and thence SE for 7 miles to the
entrance to Sugot Bay. This coast is fringed by a narrow
shore reef in no place extending more than 0.5 mile. About
35 1.2 miles S of Paron Point, there is a hot spring near; the
shore GAJO POINT is bare and rocky. It is steep-to and
prominent, being the termination of ROCK DOME, a
mountain 1,099 m (3,606 ft) high, 3 miles from the shore.
40 BACON, a district of Sorsogon City on the W side of
Sugot Bay, is 6 miles SE of Gajo Point. From a distance,
Bacon is visible from seaward. The church and the
schoolhouse with galvanized-iron roofing painted red, and
the municipal building, painted white, E of Bacon near the
45 beach, are the most conspicuous. A hill 109.7 m (360 ft)
high 1 mile W of the Bacon, is a good landmark. There are
postal, mobile phone, and Internet connection. The nearest
medical and hospital facilities are at Sorsogon City, and the
commercial airport is at Legazpi.
50
Landing for small boats at high water is at the W side
of Bacon near the end of the river control wall. In 1990, a
208 m long by 3.5 m wide rock causeway with concrete
paved deck, was in Brgy. SALVACION. Probably, since the
55 500 m long approach street linking the causeway with the
provincial road is badly deteriorated, the landing site is also
inactive. Depth at the offshore face of the causeway was
less than 1 m in 1990. Interisland vessels seldom call at
Bacon.
60
5-130
 Anchorage is in 21.9 to 27.4 m. (12 to 15 fm), mud
and sand bottom, about 0.8 mile offshore with the church
tower bearing 181o. Smaller craft may anchor closer, in
9.1 m (5 fm), sand bottom, about 0.25 mile offshore with
the church bearing 181o. About 91 m (100 yds) inshore of
this position is small dangerous rock nearly awash which
should be avoided. The anchorage is bad, being exposed to
NE and E winds and seas.
SUGOT BAY is fringed with reefs, narrow on the E
side, and widening to about 0.5 mile on the W side and
at the head of the bay. The center of the bay is very deep.
Anchorage may be found at the head of the bay, about 1 mile
from shore, in 21.9 m to 27.4 m (12 to 15 fm), mud bottom.
In entering, give the E shore a wide berth to avoid the 0.4 m
(0.25 fm) patch, 0.6 mile SW from barrio Esteban. On the E
side of the bay, at the barrio of Esteban, a mining company
maintains a coral causeway extending from the shore in
a W direction. The seaward end of the causeway has a
provisional wooden extension to accommodate deeper draft
vessels. The S side of W end of the causeway is used by
LCTs which often call from Cebu to load coal. The mines is
about 1.5 Km from the barrio. There is a road from Gatbo
to Bacon, and sometimes coal is trucked to Legazpi through
the provincial highway. There are no supplies available.
The nearest post office is at Bacon. Medical and hospital
facilities are at Sorsogon Provincial Hospital.
From Sugot Bay to Bingay Point, the shore is fringed
by a reef extending 0.5 mile in places.
BINGAY POINT, the S entrance point to Albay Gulf,
is low, rounding and wooded. It is fringed by coral reef
partly bare at low water and about 0.25 mile wide N and
about 1.5 miles E. The reefs are well defined and steep-to.
Heavy breakers on their outer edges usually occur and can
be approached within about 0.3 mile. A sunken wreck lies
on the outer edge of the coastal reef about 2 miles SE of
Bingay Point.
PRIETO DIAZ, located about 1.5 miles S of Bingay
Point, is marked by Diamante Light (13° 02’ 19”N., 124°
11’ 46”E.).
BINGAY ISLAND is a rock 4.6 m (15 ft) high, 0.4
mile E of Bingay Point. From Bingay Island, the reef
extends 0.15 mile to the N.
From Bingay Point S along the coast to Barcelona,
the extensive reefs that border the shore are of varying
widths and with openings in several places. The opening
off Bagacay is about 1 mile wide and 2 miles long, a small
inlet extending about 1 mile NNE from the head of this
opening is used by small boats.
PORT GUBAT (CHART 4258) is in the E coast of
S Luzon about 10 miles S of Bingay Point. It is formed by
an opening in the reef which extends along this coast and
out to 1 mile from the shore in places. This port is divided
into 2 small bays, N and S, by a coral reef. The S bay is
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larger and vessels proceeding to the town of Gubat to load,
anchor about 0.1 mile from the beach in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to
8 fms). The anchorage is fully exposed to the Pacific Ocean
swell, has poor holding ground, and is untenable during the
5 NE monsoon. A detached 2.7 m (1.5 fm) shoal lies about
0.4 mile E of the W shore of the S bay. Another 1.8 m (1 fm)
patch lies on the NW part of the bay about 0.35 mile NW of
the above-mentioned shoal.
10 The N bay is smaller, and N part is shoal and only fit
for small crafts. This bay is open to the E wind, but well
sheltered from the sea by reefs, and is a good anchorage
for moderate-sized vessels. The reefs on either side of the
entrance are bare at low water and are easily seen. Shoal
15 patches with depths 5.5 and 7.3 m (3 to 4 fms) lie in the
entrance to this bay about 0.5 mile ENE of Penuntigan
Point. A beacon is on the edge of the reef NE of the town.
It consists of a post surmounted by a white triangular steel
daymark. Mariners are cautioned against using this beacon
20 in range with Gubat Light.
Major Light - Port Gubat Light (12° 55’ 31”N., 124°
07’ 31”E.) is shown from a white tower at the head of N
bay and E of the cemetery. A telecommunication tower is
25 located about 90 m W of the light.
GUBAT stands on the W shore of the N bay. There is a
post office and mobile phone communications. The nearest
hospital facilities are at Sorsogon about 10 miles W. Fresh
30 water and supplies are not available. There are several
copra and hemp shippers who own small warehouses of
about 500 tons capacity. Several privately-owned lighters
and launches comprise the loading facilities. Local labor
is available.
35
Berthing Facilities - The town has an 85 m long pier
in the N Bay. There is no landing for small crafts in the S
bay. Copra is carried from the beach to the lighters. This
is a very slow operation which is often delayed for days
40 whenever there is any kind of a swell.
A reef, which dries, extends about 0.2 mile N and over
0.5 mile E from Rasa Point. A detached shoal, with a least
depth of 8.8 m (4.75 fm), lies on the S side of the entrance
45 to the port about 0.5 mile NNE of Rasa Point.
From RASA POINT (CHART 4220), the S entrance
to Gubat, the coast trends S for 18 miles to Pandang Point,
the N entrance to Matnog Bay. The coast reef, which
50 extends about 0.5 mile E of the Rasa Point, continues S,
gradually narrowing to a mere fringe.
BARCELONA, a small town, is located about 2
miles S of Rasa Point. Access to the town by small crafts is
55 provided by a break in the coastal reef.
Major Light - Barcelona Light (12° 52’ 03”N., 124°
08’ 39”E.) is displayed from a white tower located in front
of the church.
60
 Dangers - The wreck of the vessel, M/T Isabella
Angelica, is located about 2.5 miles SE of Barcelona.
BULUSAN is a town about 10 miles S of Gubat.
Anchorage may be found here, by a break in the reef, in
21.9 to 25.6 m (12 to 14 fms), by bringing the church to
bear 300o and steering for it, anchoring about 0.4 mile from
shore when TANG POINT bears 010o. Considerable current
is felt here, and the holding ground is not very good.
BULUSAN VOLCANO, 5 miles from the coast and
nearly W of Bulusan town, is an active volcano 1,559 m
(5,115 ft) high. When not obscured by clouds, it forms an
excellent mark for making this coast, as it is visible over 60
miles. SHARP PEAK, about 1 mile NE of Bulusan Volcano,
is 1,215 m (3,986 ft) high; it appears sharp from E only.
BALUSINGAN BAY is formed by a curve in the coast
between PACAHAN and PADANG POINTS, N of Matnog
Bay. It affords anchorage in 18.3 to 27.4 m (10 to 15 fms),
sand bottom, 0.5 to 0.8 mile offshore, protected from W and
SW winds. The town of Santa Magdalena stands on the N
part of the bay.
Major Light - Magdalena Light (13° 43' 18"N., 123°
58' 06"E.) is displayed from a white tower at the head of
the bay.
Caution - Submarine power cables are present in the
bay. Anchoring, fishing, and other activities that may harm
the cables are prohibited in its vicinity.
The passage between Ticlin and Juac Islands is
obstructed by reef and is not safe. Ticlin Strait, the channel
between the coast of Luzon and the islands of Calintaan,
Juac, and Ticlin, is often used by coasting vessels. The
currents in Ticlin Strait are strong with eddies in the vicinity
of the islands.
PHILIPPINE SEA
(CHART 4726A)
5
PHILIPPINE SEA is the portion of the Pacific Ocean
located to the E of the Philippine Archipelago. It is bounded
to the W by the Philippine Archipelago, Taiwan Island, and
Ryukyu Islands. It is bounded to the N by Japan while it is
10 bounded to E by the Carolines and the Marianas Islands.
A portion of this sea, particularly those within the 200
mile distance from the Philippine archipelagic baselines,
is within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Philippines.
15 PHILIPPINE RISE (Benham Rise) is a natural
submarine prolongation of the Luzon Island extending up
to 318 miles from the E coast of the island. It is docked to
Luzon through the Palanan Saddle in the NW and the Bicol
Saddle in the SW.
20
Majority of the rise falls within the Philippines’
continental shelf while its E ends namely, the Narra Spur
and Molave Spur were awarded as the country’s extended
continental shelf on April 12, 2009 by the United Nations
25 - Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (UN-
CLCS).
BENHAM BANK is located about 100 miles NNE of
Yog Point, which is the northernmost tip of Catanduanes
30 Island. It is the shallowest area in the Philippine Rise with
a depth of 48 m.
Marine Protected Area - Benham Bank and its
surrounding waters were proclaimed as Philippine Rise
35 Marine Resource Reserve in 2018. The immediate area of the
bank is a Strict Protection Zone where only those activities
authorized by the Philippine government are allowed.
5-132
 CHAPTER 6
MINDORO AND LUBANG ISLANDS
CHART 1543, 1544, 1552, 1564, 4714 AND 4305
LUBANG ISLANDS (CHART 4338)
The LUBANG ISLANDS are a detached group of
8 islands off the SW end of Luzon and the NW end of
Mindoro. This group of islands are part of the province of
Occidental Mindoro. The islands are mostly mountainous,
with steep slopes on their SW sides. Some shoals and
dangers lie off the NE sides. The only safe anchorage at
all seasons is the port of Tilic on the NE coast of Lubang
Island.
CABRA ISLAND, the outer and westernmost island
of the group, is flat, wooded, and about 61 m (200 ft) high.
Reef extends to about 92 m from its N and NE coastlines.
Major Light - Cabra Light (13° 53’ 19”N., 120° 01’ 15
24”E.) is displayed from a white tower near the W end of
Cabra Island.
The channel between Cabra and Lubang is 1.5 miles
wide and may be navigated with safety, as the reefs on the
NW end of Lubang always show.
In this channel, the tidal current at flood sets N and at
ebb sets S.
LUBANG ISLAND is the largest and most important
island of the group. It is high in the middle but low at each
extremity. When coming from the S, the N extremity of
the high land in the center may be mistaken for the end of
the island. In 1964 the island was reported to give a radar
return in excess of 40 miles. Its coasts are fringed by a reef
about 550 m wide, the SW coast is rocky. On the E and NE
sides are several bays, more or less protected, but difficult
to outline, owing to the shoals and reefs that enclose them.
LUBANG, the principal town, is on the N side of the
island of the same name. It is located 2 miles from Sala
Point, the N extremity of the island, and in the middle of a
fertile plain. Landing in front of the town is very difficult
considering the coral reef that fringes the shore. There is
The barrio of Tilic as viewed from the E.
(BRPH Ventura, 2019)
6-1
a break in the reef, located opposite of the W part of the
town, through which small boats can pass through in fine
weather and at certain stages of the tide. There are no good
anchorages in front of the town. The nearest available
anchorages to Lubang are Port Tilic, located 5 miles SE of
5 the town, and Tagbac Cove, located 2.5 miles SW of the
town. A shoal with depths of 5.5 m (3 fm) and less extends
about 0.5 mile offshore abreast the town. An airport is
located about 1 mile SW of the town.
10 PORT TILIC (CHART 4257), situated in the NE
coast of Lubang, is the only safe anchorage for vessels in
all seasons; it is sheltered from all winds and is completely
protected from the sea. The holding ground is excellent but
the anchorage area is only sufficient for small vessels. The
entrance faces the NNW and is defined by reefs on which
the sea breaks during rough weather. In the mid-channel
entrance, there are depths of 18.3 to 25.6 m (10 to 14 fm).
The W shore can be approached until the anchorage located
E of the pier reaches depths of about 6.4 to 9.1 m (21.0 to
20 29.8 ft), with mud and sand bottom. A shoal patch of 3.7 m
(12 ft) exists about 183 m NE of the wharf and should be
avoided. A shoal, showing at low water, divides the port
into two small but excellent anchorages. The chart will be
the best guide. Ingress and egress, unless in very favorable
25 weather, are questionable for sailing vessels, owing to its
being a lee shore. When a ship is expected at night, lanterns
are displayed by the ship’s agents at the pier and one on
each side of the entrance.
30 TILIC is a barrio of considerable importance of most
of the trade of the island group passes through it. Vessels
ply from nearby islands. There is a highway extending W
to barrio Tagbac and SE to barrio Agkawayan. Jeepneys
can be hired for trips inland. Supplies and necessities in
35 limited quantity are available such as rice, vegetables,
fruits, canned goods, and lubricants. Cattle, pigs, and fowls
are reported to be obtainable at moderate costs. The nearest
medical facilities and post office are at the town of Lubang.
40 Prominent Feature - A statue of the Virgin Mary,
 The government wharf at Port Tilic.
(Photograph - PPA PDO - Southern Luzon website, undated)
located on the hill behind the barrio, is visible from the sea.
Major Light - Port Tilik Light (13° 49’ 09”N., 120°
11’ 59”E.) is displayed E of the wharf.
Caution - A tsunami observation platform was placed
about 147 m NE of the light.
Port Management - The government wharf is
operated by PPA TMO-Tilik. It mainly caters to passenger
vessels going to and from Calatagan, Batangas. Incoming
cargoes usually brought items for household consumption,
crude oil, fertilizers, and construction materials. Common
export cargoes are rice, copra, and fish products.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
area may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428363 and +63998-5854837.
Berthing Facilities - There is an 18 m long concrete
wharf and two RoRo ramps.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available.
Fresh water may be supplied at the wharf.
AFUERA SHOAL, with its center about 2.8 miles N
of Port Tilik Light, has depths of 2.3 m (1.25 fm) to 18.3
m (10 fm).
A detached coral patch, with a least depth of 6.8 m
(3.75 fm), is about 1 km offshore or 2.2 miles NW of Port
Tilik Light.
AGCAUAYAN, a barrio located about 5 miles SE of
Port Tilic, has an 80 m long pier.
LOOC BAY, on the E side of Lubang Island and about
8 miles SE of Port Tilic, is a secured port which provides
safe retreat in the event of an accident; the reefs protect the
inner anchorage from the seas even during an E weather.
The mouth, with its entrance between Tumbaga Point and
5
Pauican Point, is about 1.4 miles in width and almost free
from danger, except for the S side, which is located about
0.55 mile offshore and where there is a 7.3 m (4 fm) spot.
Good holding ground inside the bay will be found in depths
between 18.3 m (10 fm) to 36.6 m (20 fm). It suddenly
10
shoals within the former depth and several lines of coral
ledge bar the inner depths of the bay from direct access.
However, excellent shelter would be found by a vessel
anchored between these barriers. Characterized by corals,
a depth of 12.8 m (7 fm) can be located 2 miles E of the
15
natural mouth of the bay. About 0.5 mile N and 0.8 mile NE
of Tumbaga Point, exist depths of 6.9 m (3.75 fm) and 8.7
m (4.75 fm), respectively. The town of Looc is located W
of the bay, and there is fresh water flowing from a rivulet.
In approaching the bay, caution must be observed as there
20
is a 6.4 m (3.5 fm) patch about 4 miles away to the E, or 3.4
miles directly E of Talinas Island.
TALINAS ISLAND lies S from the entrance of Looc
Bay and is separated by about 137 m of foul ground from
25
the E of Lubang Island. The island is fringed by boulders.
The small islet, TALINAWAN MUNTI ISLAND, is located
S of Talinas Island, measuring 95 m from both shorelines.
TABAJIN BAY, situated in the S coast near the E end
30
of Lubang Island, affords sheltered anchorage for small
vessels in heavy NE weather and also for vessels desiring
to communicate with Looc or San Rafael, as it is locally
known. Landing may be made on a sandy beach at the head
of the bay, with a distance of about 1.3 miles. A detached
35
shoal with a least depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm), lies in the NW
part of the bay, which is about 0.5 mile offshore and about
1 mile SE of YAPUSAN POINT. A 12.5 m (6.75 fm) patch
lies close W of this shoal.
6-2
 GONTIN BAY, an open roadstead, lies between
Yapusan Point and GONTIN POINT, about 2.7 miles NW.
The bay is open to all but N and E winds and provides only
fair weather anchorage in 18.3 m (10 fm) or less about
540 m from the shore. An 11 m (6-fathom) patch lies close
outside the entrance in a position about 0.7 mile SE of
Gontin Point.
A good landmark visible around the W half of Lubang
Island is the twin spherical RADAR domes of Gozar
Air Station located on the hillside about 2 miles NE of
PINAGDAGATAN POINT.
TAGBAC COVE, small and open to the SW, is about
1.2 miles SE of Palapag Point, the W extremity of Lubang
Island. The village of Tagbac, located on the N side of the
cove, is a short trek from the shore. The village is connected
through a 4 km road with the town of Lubang to the NE.
Vessels can find good sheltered anchorage during NE
monsoon in depth of 27.4 m (90 ft) in a break in the reefs.
The land is low and previously known without prominent
landmarks. The reefs show plainly, and no difficulty will be
found in picking up an anchorage.
AMBIL ISLAND, about 1 mile away E of Lubang
Island, is separated by the Ambil Pass. The island is formed
by a conical mountain about 755 m (2,477 ft) high. The NE
coast is high and rocky. The said coast also has an open bay
with depths of 18.3 to 21.9 m (10 to 12 fm), shoaling to
9.1 m (5 fm) near the shore reef. The W side of the island
has a narrow peninsula extending about 1 mile W, with an
open bay lying on each side of it. The bay on the N side is
fronted by shoals and has irregular depths while the bay
on the S side is almost filled by reefs extending 274 to 548
m offshore. A 4.6 m (2.5 fm) shoal is almost in the center
of this bay, restricting the space for anchorage. An 8.8 m
shoal is located 1 mile SW of Colasi Point. The shores of
the remainder of the island are fairly steep and generally
inaccessible. Anchorage is to the N of the island but this is
also open to the NE monsoon.
The island was previously reported without fresh water
and without any commercial store. There are no medical
facilities being operated. Moreover, the nearest post office
can be found at Tilic, Lubang Island.
The passage between Ambil and Lubang is clear, but
caution is necessary as reefs contract the channel to one-
half its apparent width. In this passage the flood tidal
current sets S and the ebb sets N.
AMBIL SHOAL, about 1.5 miles NW of Ambil Island,
is about 0.8 mile long in NW direction and has depths of
6.4 to 9.1 m (3.5 to 5 fm). Between the shoal and Ambil
Island are several shoal spots with depths of 7.0 m (3.75
fm). Vessels having more than 5.5 m (18 ft) draft should not
attempt to pass between the Ambil Shoal and Ambil Island.
A crescent-shaped shoal about 4 miles long in an E
direction, with depths of 8.7 to 14.6 m (4.75 to 8 fm) over
6-3
it, is between 3 and 4 miles N of Ambil Island. The 8.7 m
(4.75 fm) spot on this shoal is 4 miles N of the N point of
Ambil Island.
5 MANDAUI ISLAND, about 1.6 miles NNW of
Tambo Point, which is the E extremity of Ambil Island, is
composed of two small hills having unequal heights. The
higher of which is the N peak, with an elevation of 83.8 m
(275 ft). On the SW side is a shoal that is 183 m from the
10 shore, while the other side is steep-to. The channel between
Mandaui and Ambil is about 0.5 mile wide and has depths
of 9.1 to 21.9 m (5 to 12 fm).
MALAVATUAN ISLAND, located about 1.5 miles
15 away NNE of Mandaui Island, is small and covered with
brushwood. It is about 75.6 m (248 ft) in height and steep-
to. The 1.5 miles passage between Mandaui and this island
has depths of 27.4 m (90 ft) to 32.9 m (108 ft).
20 A bank about 2 miles long in a NW-SE direction and
about 1 mile wide, with depths of from 12.8 to 14.6 m (7
to 8 fm), is about 4 miles NNE of Malavatuan Island. A
small bank with a depth of 12.8 m. (7 fm) over it is about
1.8 miles NE of Malavatuan Island. Another small bank,
25 with a depth of 11.4 m (6.25 fm) over it, is 1 mile NW of
the same island.
SIMO BANKS, about 15 miles N of Ambil Island,
consist of four banks extending 10 miles in an E and W
30 direction. The W bank extends 3 miles N and S, and is
12 miles W of Fortune Island. It has 11 m (6 fm) of water
over it. The three banks to the E have depths of 12.3, 27.4,
and 27.4 m (6.75, 15, and 15 fm), respectively. There are
irregular soundings of 27.4 to 117 m (15 to 64 fm) E of
35 these banks and deep water in other directions.
GOLO ISLAND, with a height of 292 m (958 ft),
is a long narrow strip of land extending about 7.8 miles
from Salangan Point, its W extremity, to Tanawan Point,
40 its S extremity. The island extends in the WNW and ESE
directions, with reefs off its NW, E, and SE points. Golo
Island Light (13° 37’ 40”N., 120° 25’ 04”E.) is shown from
a white tower on Tanawan Point.
45 GOLO PASS, the channel between Salangan Point,
W of this island, and Lubang is about 0.53 mile wide
with rocks, awash, in its center. In this passage, the flood
CURRENT runs N and the ebb runs S. Passage is not
recommended to strangers.
50
A 6.4 m (3.5 fm) shoal is 2 miles off the shore of Golo
Island with TALINAS ISLET bearing W, distant 3.4 miles.
A 9.8 m and 8.4 m depths are located 2.8 miles NNE and
1.3 miles NE, respectively, of Salangan Point.
55
NORTH & EAST COASTS OF MINDORO
(CHART 1543, 1544, 1564 & 4305)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress may
60 contact the remotely controlled coast station with VHF
DSC alerting in Ports of Batangas, Calapan, and San Jose.
The VHF DSC alerting system covers the sea area about 25
miles from the said ports. Vessels in distress that are outside
of the 25-mile radius may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
CALAVITE PASS, situated between Tanawan Point
of Golo Island and Del Monte Point of Occidental Mindoro,
is about 5.8 miles wide and is deep and clear in the fairway.
This passage affords shorter route for vessels coming from
Manila Bay and bound to Palawan instead of rounding
Cabra Island, although deep throughout, caution must be
exercised to give allowance of at least 2 miles in avoiding
the shores of Mindoro and, at the same time, remembering
not to be set by the currents onto the reefs at Tanauan Point.
Tidal currents flood NE and ebb SW through the pass.
Rough seas are encountered during the NE monsoon,
which, although interrupted to the NE by the high land of
Luzon, strikes the heights on N Mindoro and blows hard
through the pass and off Cape Calavite. Strong winds also
draw through Calavite Pass during the SW monsoon. Fog
and rain, although encountered at all seasons of the year, are
particularly prevalent during July, August, and September.
MINDORO ISLAND is of oval form while showing
prolongation of its N portion toward the W. It lies S of the
W part of Luzon and is about 95 miles long by 50 miles
wide having an area of 3,758.5 sq. statute miles, making it
the seventh island in terms of size in the Philippines.
Mindoro is considered sparsely populated, being
extremely mountainous, covered with dense forest, and full
of marshes in the lowland near the coast. Coastal settlements
are inhabited by Tagalogs, with the supposedly aboriginal
islanders, called Mangyans, occupying the interior regions.
Mindoro is divided into two provinces, namely;
Occidental Mindoro, with the town of Mamburao as the
provincial capital, and Oriental Mindoro, with Calapan
City as its provincial capital.
Caution - Submarine gas pipeline traverses the sea
between Mindoro Island and Semirara Islands, along the
E portion and up to the NE portion of Mindoro Island.
Submarine telecommunication cables are present off
the coast of Mindoro Island, specifically off the N and E
coasts. Caution must be observed when transiting over
the submarine facilities. Anchoring, fishing, and other
marine activities that may harm the cables and pipeline are
prohibited.
MOUNT HALCON, situated N part of this island,
is one of the highest mountains in the Philippines, at an
altitude of 2,585 m (8,481 ft).
MOUNT CALAVITE is a large promontory, the W
slope of which forms Cape Calavite and the N slope, Del
Monte Point. The summit, which is 1,521 m (4,990 ft) high, 60
appears dome-shaped from W but from the N or S, it shows
a long ridge that is fairly level, with the W end of the ridge
as the highest part. The heights are usually cloud-capped.
5 BINUANGAN POINT, about 1.4 miles NE of Cape
Calavite, resembles the latter in appearance and is bold,
with few rocks along this coast lying close in. The mouth of
BINUANGAN RIVER is about 160 m E of the point.
10 ITBU POINT, about 2 miles NE of Cape Calavite, is
high, rugged, and steep-to. There is a small bight S of this
point with a sand beach in front of which anchorage can
be taken by small vessels during the NE monsoon in 10.1
m (5.5 fm), sand bottom, 274 m from the beach. There is
15 another anchorage immediately N of Cape Calavite, but it
is not as good.
DEL MONTE POINT, located about 6 miles ENE
of Binuangan Point, is sandy with a small 1.8 m (1 fm)
20 shoal close to it. This is the most N point of Mindoro island,
discounting Medio Island, lying slightly N. The latter is
geographically another island although administratively
under the jurisdiction also of Mindoro. A wreck lies close
to the shore in a position about 1 mile W of the point.
25
BAGALAYAG POINT, situated 9 miles E of Del
Monte Point, is a rocky bluff 10.1 m (33 ft) high, with big
rocks around it. From Bagalayag Point to Bogio Point,
9 miles farther E, the coastline is very bold, especially
30 between Baeto and Bogio Points, where it is almost
precipitous. For about 1 mile E of Bagalayag Point the
shoreline continues to be rocky and then becomes sandy
and continues so with a few small breaks of boulders to
Baeto Point. At this point, for about 274 m, are very big
35 rocks. From 2 miles henceforth, the shoreline continues to
be sandy again to Bogio Point.
A big sand beach, characterized as very wide and
low, spans from Bogio Point to 1.5 miles E of the mouth
40 of the Matabang River. From the mouth of the Cervantes
and Matabang Rivers, the lowland extends far back into the
interior. Beyond this beach to the E, as far as the mouth
of the Camerong River, are many small hillocks rising
abruptly from a rocky coast to heights of 91 to 122 m (300
45 to 400 ft) and separated by sand beaches.
E of the mouth of the Camerong River to TALIPANAN
POINT, the coastline becomes bold, and almost precipitous
at Talipanan Point; then another sand beach, with one
50 small break, until Minolo Point is reached. E from Minolo
Point are small hills 61 to 91 m (200 to 300 ft) high, rising
abruptly from the rocky shore and interspersed with small
sand beaches.
55 From Bagalayag Point to Baeto Point, the mountains
are about 610 to 762 m (2,000 to 2,500 ft) high and are
very steep and close to the shore. Between Baeto and
Bogio Points, there is a mountain 1,018 m (3,339 ft) high.
E from the mouth of the Cervantes and Matabang Rivers is
a fairly high range of front hills extending to as far as the
6-4
 The government pier of Abra de Ilog.
(BRPH Ventura, 2019)
Camerong River. This range is backed by a higher range,
which approaches the shore to the E.
MOUNT TALIPANAN (13° 27' 47"N., 120° 53'
27"E.) is a peak of this range and is very conspicuous,
coming to a sharp point at 1,152 m (3,780 ft) high. This
range is generally covered with clouds except in the early
morning. The hills from Bagalayag Point to Bogio Point are
heavily wooded.
BOGIO POINT is at the end of the E slope of the
1,018 m (3,339 ft) mountain. The slope, up to 609.7 m
(2,000 ft), is covered with greenish-yellow grass and very
conspicuous from the E. From the Matabang River to the
Camerong River, the hills are partly wooded and partly
grassy. From the Camerong River to Port Galera, the
hills are heavily wooded, as are all the mountains in the
background.
Between Bagalayag Point and Port Galera are a number
of small rivers. The Cervantes and Matabang are probably
mouths of the same river running out of the gap between the
two high ranges of mountains. Only small boats can enter
them. Off their mouths are shoals which extend about 230
m away, having a least depth of about 5.5 m (18 ft) near the
outer edge and beyond this point, the bottom dived rapidly.
Anchorage can be found, although very close to the edge
of shoal water.
ILOG ANCHORAGE can be easily identified by
the deep depression in the coastline. It affords shelter only
with offshore winds, and good ground tackle must be used,
as squalls from the hills are very violent. From Matabang
River, about 5.5 miles almost ENE, is the Camerong River,
which is smaller than the previous two rivers but also
allows entrance for small boats.
Major Light - Wawa Light (13° 28’ 00”N., 120° 46’
18”E.) is displayed from a tower near the shore end of the
government pier. 40
6-5
Weather - During the months of May to October, the
Southwest Monsoon blows from the west. The Northeast
Monsoon occurs during the months December to February
and it brings with it cooler and drier winds. The dry season
5 occurs from November to April and the rainy season occurs
for the rest of the year.
WAWA is the barrio of the town of Abra de Ilog
located at the mouth of Matabang River at the head of Ilog
10 Anchorage. From this barrio there is a road running SW to
the town proper then across the island to the next town of
Mamburao. Distribution of mails and passenger buses from
Manila follow this route.
15 Government hospitals, private hospitals, clinics,
pharmacies, money remmitance centers, public market,
hardware stores are located in Abra de Ilog, about 1.5 miles
SW of Wawa. Clean drinking water is available in limited
quantities from water refilling stations in Wawa. Gasoline
20 stations are present in Wawa. Mobile phone communication
and Internet connection are available in Wawa and Abra de
Ilog. The nearest government hospital is located in Abra
de Ilog.
25 Quarantine - Plant and animal quarantine officers
have satellite offices in the port area.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Abra de Ilog, which may be contacted at
30 mobile phone no. +63921-9793452 and e-mail address:
tmo.abradeilog@yahoo.com.
In 2018, the port registered a total of 2,682,588 GRT
of incoming goods and outgoing goods with a total ship
35 calls of 4,881 vessels. Majority of incoming goods are
household items while majority of outgoing goods are rice,
corn, and livestock. About 430,000 passengers embark and
disembark at the port for the whole year.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Abra
de Ilog may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5854839 and +63917-8428403
Berthing Facilities - The government pier is located
about 1.2 miles E of the mouth of Matabang River. It
consists of a 150 m long concrete L-shaped pier. One 9
by 11 m RoRo ramp is available with 2 more ramps under
construction. The RoRo ramps have controlling draft of 4 to
5 m. The port has a 1,300 sq m marshalling area.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available
from a local company, which may contacted at telephone
no. (+6343) 711-1663, mabile phone no. +63915-3339292,
and e-mail address: casi_arrastre@yahoo.com. Fresh water
is supplied by a local supplier. Bunkering is not available.
Waste collection is not available.
Pilotage is not compulsory.
MOUNT MALASIMBO (13° 26' 07"N., 120° 53'
46"E.), about 9 miles E of Ilog Anchorage and 1 mile SE
of Mount Talipanan, rises to a height of 1,144 m (3,753 ft)
and is prominent.
MINOLO POINT, about 3 miles W of Port Galera,
is covered with trees; on its E side is a beach before which
anchorage can be had, with sand and gravel bottom. The
offshore is steep, and there are depths of 45.7 to 54.9 m (25
to 30 fm) 548 m from it. About 0.8 mile E of Minolo Point
is a small bay fringed by reefs, reducing the anchorage area
to a basin about 228 m in diameter. Depths of 11 m (6 fm)
can be carried into the bay by keeping in the middle of the
entrance. Depths of 14.6 to 21.9 m (8 to 12 fm) will be
found in the bay. The swinging room is very limited and it
does not appear to be a good anchorage. A small pier, for
use by passenger bancas, is located at the head of Minolo
Cove.
MOUNT ALINBAYAN, about 2.9 miles SSW of
Minolo Point, is prominent due to the presence of white
wind turbines on its peak.
BALATEROS COVE is a small bight between 2
Balateros Pier with Mt. Alinbayan in the background.
(P/Ens. Joshua Bren G. Ebrada, 2019)
coral reefs projecting from the mainland of Mindoro. The
E reef having a 0.6 m shoal is about 0.5 mile NE of the
government pier at the head of the cove.
5 BALATEROS is the barrio at the head of the cove.
RoRo vessels and fast crafts from Batangas and motorboats
from Abra de Ilog call daily. The barrio is connected by
road to Puerto Galera.
10 Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA. The port manager may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6343) 287-3541. The port can handle vessels up to
1,385 GRT.
15 In 2018, the port registered a total of 89,926 incoming
passengers and 91,273 outgoing passengers. The port has a
total of 1,646 ship calls and handled 51,850 GRT of cargo.
Berthing Facilities - A pier, with average alongside
20 depth of 4.5 m, is at the head of the cove. It has RoRo
ramps. Storage facility is not available.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
by a private company.
25
Anchorage may be found in 29.3 m (16 fm) protected
from the winds of both monsoons. However, swells may be
felt from either.
30 LITTLE BALATEROS COVE, just E of Balateros
Cove, is shallow and entered only by small boats. A jetty
extends N from the barrio at the head of the cove.
PANIQUIAN ISLET, although somewhat a
35 misnomer for an islet, is the customary description of this
land which is no longer completely surrounded by water. To
the S of this location is the former channel, which is already
dry land due to natural obstruction brought about by the
accumulation of drifting sand. The NW shore of the islet is
40 high and rugged.
MEDIO ISLET, locally known as San Antonio Island,
extends about 1 mile NNW from its S extremity and widens
from a narrow width on its S part to a width of about 0.5
mile in its N part. The island is 94 m (308 ft) high and is
wooded. The NE side of the island is fringed by a reef which
extends about 90 m NE from it. The local government of
Puerto Galera issued an ordinance declaring the area off the
NW end of the islet as a "no fishing zone".
NORTH POINT, where there is a great tide race, is
worn away and shows bare rocks. From it, the coast trends
SSW and is high and jagged. Shoals, as defined by the 5 m
(2.7 fm) curve, extend up to a distance of about 140 m from
the NW side of the Medio Islet.
TELEGRAPH POINT is the W point of the
promontory, forming the E side of the entrance to North
Channel of Port Galera. From here to the E point of the
promontory, called Escarceo Point, is about 1.89 miles and
6-6
the coast presents an almost uniform appearance.
PORT GALERA (CHART 4344) is formed by
a promontory from the coast of Mindoro and the islets
of Medio and Paniquian, which are located W of the
promontory. The port is a sort of canal with two passages,
one to the N and the other to the NW. The former opening
separating Paniquian with the opposite coast of Mindoro
was already closed by sand bar years ago.
Major Lights - Port Galera Light (13° 30’ 50”N., 120°
57’ 34”E.), which is the front range beacon, is shown on the
bluff of the promontory.
Varadero Light (13° 30’ 13”N., 120° 57’ 13”E.),
displayed from a white column, marks the town of Puerto
Galera.
Caution - Overhead power cables, with vertical
clearance of about 12.2 m (40 ft) above high water crosses
the North Channel from Barrio Dalaruan to the most E
point of Medio Island. The power cables are not lit and
have no obvious markings or warning signs. All tall vessels
are advised to use the Northwest Channel when entering or
leaving Port Galera.
The Northwest Channel is being used as a landing
and take off area of seaplanes. Vessels navigating this
channel must be on the lookout to avoid collission with the
seaplanes.
Protected Area - The local government of Puerto
Puerto Galera with the Muelle Port wharf fronting it.
(P/Ens. Joshua Bren G. Ebrada, 2019)
6-7
Galera issued an ordinance declaring the following areas as
"no fishing zones":
1. The area located between NW entrance of
5 Northwest Channel up to the imaginary line drawn
between the S point of Medio Islet and the W
entrance point of Muelle Port.
2. The small bay immediately NE of Muelle Port.
10
Currents - The flood current passes into the port by
the Northwest Channel and out by the North Channel, and
follows E, the reverse taking place with the ebb current.
This fact should be remembered when making the port.
15
Traffic Management - Port Galera, Puerto Galera, and
vicinity are covered by the VTMS in Verde Island Passage
TSS. Using the VTMS is compulsory. All vessels intending
to call Puerto Galera should establish contact through VHF
20 Ch 16.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station located
in the town of Puerto Galera may be contacted at mobile
phone nos. +63917-8370923 and +63998-5855828.
25
Anchorage - The available space inside the port is
considerably reduced by projection from the promontory,
with shoal water between them, and by a shoal which
extends from the S part of the port. There is anchorage for
30 small crafts in Muelle Port, which is a confined bight at
the S part of the port, and in several other arms of the bay.
Anchorage should be made by use of the chart, with careful
consideration of the swinging room required.
The largest available anchorage is E of Paniquian Islet,
and is about 594 m in diameter, in about 17.1 to 19.4 m (9.4
to 10.6 fm). A wreck, with least depth of 12.8 m (7 fm), is
at the SW portion of this anchorage area.
Directions - North Channel, called by the local name
of Batangas: Vessels entering Port Galera, after clearing
Telegraph Point, should keep in the middle of the channel
where the least depth is 11.4 m (6.2 fm), coarse sand and
rock bottom. It is 183 m wide at the entrance, narrowing
to 128 m abreast of the E side of Medio Islet, which is low
and bordered by a sand bank. The tidal currents are strong
enough to endanger a vessel unless carefully handled.
A rocky patch, with a depth of 2.4 m (1.3 fm), is 200 m
ESE of the S point of Medio Islet. The navigable channel
at in this between the 5 m curves is about 130 m wide on
NW side of the shoal. This channel is not recommended
for large vessels. All crafts should watch out for overhead
power cables crossing the channel at its narrowest part.
Northwest Channel, locally known by the name
Manila: The range bearing 125.5o to Port Galera Light leads
in clear of all dangers.
Vessels from W should steer for the middle of Medio
Islet until on the range. The channel is narrowed at the
entrance to 137 m by the rocks off the SW point of Medio,
but it widens inside to 274 m. The depth is 21.7 m (11.9 fm)
at the entrance, increasing inside to 24.8 m (13.6 fm).
During the NW monsoon, the N channel may be
preferred but, with a sailing vessel, even that channel
becomes dangerous. As calms or baffling winds may be
met, the vessel would still depend on the current. During
that monsoon, the anchorage at Varadero Bay may be
preferable, although sailing vessels going out would find
it difficult.
PUERTO GALERA is a town on the neck of land
between Port Galera and Varadero Bay and one of the
famous tourist destinations in Mindoro Island. There
are good beaches around which attract tourists and their
ubiquitous yachts near the town. Beach resorts with cottages
are located in Lalaguna Malaki and Lalaguna Munti, both
barangays of Sabang in Long Beach, NW of Medio Island;
in Paniquian Island, the SE shore facing Port Galera; in
Balete Beach facing Varadero Bay; and in Tabinay Munit,
S of Varadero Point.
Ferryboats abound for conveyance of passengers to
nearby beaches or to Batangas City. The town has hotels,
restaurants, cottages, groceries, bakeries, clinics, general
stores, hardware stores, and markets. Supplies available
are composed of ice, fuel, liquors, soft drinks, fresh food,
LPG, bread, hardware stores and more. There is a regular
transportation of jeepneys from Puerto Galera to the town
of Calapan and vice versa. Communication thru telephone,
postal service, Internet, and mobile phones are also
available.
MUELLE PORT, the southernmost portion of Port
Galera, is located between two unnamed points just N of
5 the town.
Berthing Facilities - The pier and wharf of Puerto
Galera projects N to Muelle Port. Fast crafts and motor
boats from Batangas Port calls daily.
10
The Puerto Galera Yacht Club has a small dock
located about 0.3 mile W of Varadero Light. The club rents
moorings located at the E side of Muelle Port. The club
may be contacted through the following means:
15
Radio: VHF Channel 68
Telephone no: (+6343) 287-3401
E-mail: clubhouse@pgyc.org
Website: www.pgyc.org
20
Port Services - The yacht club can handle minor
repairs for yachts and sailing crafts.
Anchorage - Yachts may rent moorings located at
25 the E side of Muelle. Mooring limits are 15.2 m (50 ft)
maximum length and maximum weight of 20 tons. Vessels
may also use the mooring buoys placed in the area SE of
Paniquian Islet.
30 SABANG PORT is the small bay about 0.8 mile E
of Telegraph Point. A wreck, with least depth of 23 m, is
located about 0.2 mile ESE from the W entrance point of
the bay
35 SABANG is the barrio at the head of the bay about 1
mile W of Escarceo Point. Beach resorts, shops, and other
tourist facilities occupy the coast from La Laguna Malaki
up to Sabang. There is a landing facility at the head of the
bay for use of boats that ferry tourists to diving spots in the
40 area.
ESCARCEO POINT, so named from the tide rips off
it, is of jagged rock, covered with trees. The light tower
and a VTMS tower stands on the point. The shore between
45 it and Boaya Point, 2 miles to the SW, is clear, with deep
water off it. The currents run here with great velocity,
causing strong eddies.
Major Light - Escarceo Point Light (13° 31’ 23”N.,
50 120° 59’ 27”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Escarceo
Point.
Between Escarceo Point and Calapan Point, about 13.5
miles ESE, the coast is somewhat indented. The W part of
55 this section of coast is high and the E part is low. Varadero
Bay indents the W part of this stretch, Subaang Bay, the
central portion, and Calapan Bay, the E portion.
The coast between Escarceo Point and Boaya
60 Point, about 2 miles SW, consists of the SE side of the
6-8

Escarceo Point with the light tower as viewed from the S.
(P/Ens. Joshua Bren G. Ebrada, 2019)
aforementioned projecting promontory. It is steep-to, clear
of dangers, and somewhat indented.
MARKOE COVE, with a depth of 15.6 m (8.5 fm)
indents the SW part of this coast. Private resorts are at the
head of the cove. A radio telecommunication tower is near
the SE coast of the cove.
PROTECTED AREA - The local government of
Puerto Galera issued an ordinance declaring the area off
the coast between the S entrance point of Markoe Cove and
Boaya Point a "no fishing zone".
VARADERO BAY, a deep indentation in the coast 2.3
miles SW from Escarceo Point, is entered between Boaya
and Varadero Points. The town of Puerto Galera is at the
head of the bay.
The bay affords good anchorage for all classes of
vessels, especially during the SW season, when the heavy
squalls pass N of it. It is said to be better than Port Galera,
especially in bad weather. Locals refer to Varadero Point as
Punta del Este.
Dangers - The wreck, which shows a part of the hull,
located about 80 m NE of Varadero Point and the 2.6 m
shoal located about 0.2 mile NW of Boaya Point are the
only dangers in the bay.
Major Light - Varadero Light (13° 30’ 13”N., 120° 57’
13”E.), displayed from a white column, marks the town of
Puerto Galera. 50
Anchorage for big vessels calling at Puerto Galera
could be had at Varadero Bay in 14.5 to 20.3 m (7.9 to
11.1 fm) of water, with Varadero Light bearing 300o, at a
distance of about 0.5 mile from the light. During the fresh
NE monsoon weather, the wind sometimes hauls well E and
considerable sea is felt at this anchorage. Small vessels can
find good anchorage, sheltered from all winds and sea, in
19 m (10.4 fm), in the cove immediately W of Boaya Point.
The W side of Boaya Point is bold and the anchor should be
6-9
dropped about 183 m from the shore.
VARADERO POINT is the S entrance point of
Varadero Bay. A wreck, showing a part of its hull, is located
about 80 m NE of the point.
SUBAANG BAY (CHART 4305) is an open bight on
the S side of South Pass. The shore is low and wooded and
cut by several small rivers flowing into the bay. A shoal,
characterized by corals, with least depth of 6.4 m (21 ft)
over its outer end, extends seaward about 0.27 mile NE,
or from a position about 4.5 miles SE of Varadero Point.
A rocky shoal with a least depth of about 3.6 m (11.8 ft)
near its outer edge, extends offshore about 0.75 mile NE, or
about 7.2 miles SE of Varadero Point.
SAN TEODORO, a town situated 10.5 miles W of
Calapan Point, within Subaang Bay, is a small seaport N
of mouth of Subaang River. Vessels were reported to call
20 at this port during the months of March and November at
good weather to load logs, which are moved out from the
river during high tide. A conspicuous hill, which is also a
good landmark, is about 1.5 miles away.
25 Anchorage off the town is in 18.3 to 36.6 m (10 to 20
fm) about 0.5 to 1 mile offshore, midway between the mouth
of the SUBAANG RIVER and the town. The anchorage
is open and not safe during the months of November to
February when the NE monsoon is in full force.
30
From the E entrance point of Subaang Bay to BALETE
POINT is the W entrance to Calapan Bay, 4 miles long E,
with the coast being low and wooded and intersected by
the delta of the Basco and other rivers. Fish traps made
35 of bamboo poles abound in an area at mouth of Barruyan
River. A shoal of coral and sand, bare at low water, lies with
its N edge almost W of Balete Point at a 0.5 mile distance.
Balete Point is 36 m (118 ft) high and wooded.
40 CALAPAN BAY (CHART 4257), between Balete
and Calapan Points, is an open bight 2.5 miles wide. The
bay, which is exposed to winds from the N through W, is
neither considered a safe port during the NE monsoon, nor
is there any good anchorage off Calapan.
45
Dangers - Rocks, which cover and uncover, with a
depth of 0.9 m, are reported to be located about 90 m and
425 m NE of Balete Point, respectively.
Traffic Management - Calapan is covered by the
VTMS in Verde Island Passage TSS. Using the VTMS is
compulsory. All vessels intending to call at Calapan Port
should establish contact through VHF Ch 16.
55 CALAPAN CITY, the capital of Oriental Mindoro
province, is at the head of the bay. Farming, fishing,
commercial and industrial endeavors comprise the general
economic activities. It has a post office and airfreight
forwarders. Landlines, mobile phone communications, and
60 Internet services are available.
 Stores in the city have supplies of diesel oil, gasoline,
kerosene, lubricants, ice, and assorted foods. No shipyard
is operating anywhere in this town. It has a government
hospital as well as private hospitals. Calapan is connected
to the W and S towns of Mindoro by provincial roads, while
to the SW direction is the mountainous region. An airport is
located SE of the city.
Prominent Feature - The bell tower of Sto. Niño
Cathedral, located about 1.8 miles SW of Calapan Point, is
a prominent landmark for the city.
Major Light - Calapan Light (13° 25’ 48”N., 121° 11’
42”E.) is displayed from a white column on the government
wharf. 15
Danger - The remains of M/V Baleno 168, which sank
in January 2013, is located near the N end of the government
wharf. The depth of the wreck is unknown.
Caution - It must be remembered that immediately S
and WSW of the port the water shoals rapidly to 3 m (10 ft)
and less, so that vessels are advised to approach the wharf
from the N and berth port side to.
Tides & Currents - It is reported that the tides at
Calapan pier vary in as much as 1 hr from that given in the
tide tables, coming sometimes earlier and sometimes later.
The mean tidal range at the port is about 1 m (3.3 ft) and the
diurnal range is about 1.3 m (4.3 ft). Tidal currents along
the face of the pier run N on the ebb and S on the flood. As
earlier mentioned, this pier must be approached from the
N and to lie port side to immediately S and WSW, for the
bottom rises rapidly to 3 m (10 ft) and less.
Port Management - The government wharf, located
about 0.6 mile SW of Calapan Point, is operated by PPA
PMO-Calapan which may be contacted at telephone nos.
(+6343) 288-1843 and (+6343) 441-6053. The port can
accommodate vessels of not more than 60 m length and 40
with maximum draft of 5 m.
RoRo vessels and cargo vessels wishing to berth at bay for the most part up to about 0.5 mile from the shore
the government port must submit a Berthing Allocation is shoal.
Application at least two hours and one week, respectively, 45
before arrival.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station, located
in the port area, may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
5 +63917-8428074 and +63998-5855832.
Berthing Facilities include 10 RoRo ramps, 1 floating
ramp dedicated to fast crafts, and 1 berth for cargo vessels.
The depths at the RoRo ramps range from 4.5 to 5 m.
10
There are warehouses located near the wharf for the
storage of copra. There is a 570 sq m open storage area.
Cranes are not readily available in the port, but can be
rented from local providers.
Port Services - Fresh water is available at the port and
is delivered by local suppliers. Bunkering services are also
available.
20 Cargo handling services are provided by local
operators. Vessels requiring stevedores should send ETA
to the cargo handlers at telephone number (+6343) 288-
3188 while underway. Tugboats are only available from
Batangas port.
25
Anchorage recommended may be in 9 m (30 ft) of
water, rock bottom, with Calapan church bearing 186o and
tangent to the N extremity of Calapan Point at 061o, or
much deeper in 15 m (50 ft) of water, rock bottom, bearing
30 177o with Calapan church and tangent to the N extremity
of Calapan Point at 063o. Navigators are cautioned to
use extreme care in approaching these anchorages as the
bottom configuration is irregular and rocky. The greatest
danger, however, could be expected a short distance away,
35 from the sudden rise, or steep-to, condition of the shore
reef. The occurrence of strong winds from the N through
W would render this area unsafe. By then, all vessels must
have gotten underway already.
With strong NE winds, a fairly protected anchorage
may be found W of Calapan Point, but necessarily very
close in because of the great depth of water. The head of the

Calapan City as viewed from the N.

(NAMRIA, 2013)

6-10
 CALAPAN POINT is 88.4 m (290 ft) high and
wooded. The W and N sides are clear of dangers, but the E
side is fringed by rocks with deep water close-to. A swept
depth of 11.6 m (38 ft) lies about 730 m SE of the N end of
Calapan Point.
From Calapan Point the coast trends SE for 28 miles to
Dumali Point. The first 13 miles of this coast, as far as the
mouth of the Lumangbayan River, is low, heavily wooded,
intersected by a number of small streams, and fringed by a
gray sand beach.
Caution - Magnetic disturbances are reported to exist
offshore between Dumali and Calapan Points. In 1971,
Variations of 4oW were observed.
BACO ISLANDS are 3 wooded islands which extend
about 2.1 miles in a NE direction. Baco Island, the most
S island and the biggest, is about 2.73 miles N of Balete
Point and having an elevation of 89.9 m (295 ft). Access to 20
the W shore of the island is restricted by a net marked by
floaters, which serve as the boundary of a private resort. A
shoal with a least depth of about 2.4 m (8 ft) composed of
coral and rocks covered with sand, is about 0.85 mile SW
from the W extremity of the biggest island, and from its E 25
extremity, depths of less than 3 m (9.75 ft) extends about
230 m NNE offshore.
Baco Medio Island is the middle island at 79.2 m (260
ft) high. It is fringed by boulders in its W shore. Located
about 350 m E of the E extremity of the island is a rock
islet.
Baco Chico Island, the most NE of the group, is also
the smallest with an elevation of 39.6 m (130 ft). Channels
between the islands have sufficient depths in the fairway
although attempting to cross them is dangerous as the
prevailing tidal current is strong.
SILONAY ISLET is a small wooded islet 106.7 m 40
(350 ft) high, narrow, and wooded, with its S extremity
about 1 mile away E of the N tip of Calapan Point. Rocks
extend about 90 m NE and 140 m E of Silonay, with deep
water immediately beyond. A shoal with a least depth of
less than 5.5 m (18 ft) extends about 230 m S from the SW 45
end of the island.
ANAGANAHAO ISLET, small and wooded at 30.5
m (100 ft) high, is about 0.57 mile S of Silonay Islet and
also 0.57 mile away from the nearest shore of Mindoro. The
islet is fringed by rocks extending about 320 m N from its
N side and 460 m SW from its S side. The channel between
Silonay and Anaganahao Islets is narrowed by rocks and
seldom used as a passage owing to the great velocity of
tidal currents sweeping through it. Between Anaganahao
and Mindoro is a narrow channel which has a least depth
of 10.3 m (34 ft) and is navigable only by small coasting
sea craft.
LAZARETO, the barrio about 0.5 mile SSE of
6-11
Calapan Point, is the location of Shell Philippines Depot.
Large cylindrical tanks are the prominent features in the
area. Shell Philippines has dolphins and mooring buoys
fronting the barrio.
5
The barrios of SILONAY and NAVOTAS are at
the mouths of the rivers of the same names, 2.5 and 5.5
miles, respectively from Calapan Point. The village of
CANIPISAN is at the mouth of the Kawayan River, about
10 8 miles S of Calapan Point.
THE KAWAYAN AND BALUAGAN RIVERS
empty at the same point and a small grassy islet was reported
at their confluence. This coast is clear and anchorage may
15 be found in 27.4 m (90 ft), mud bottom, at almost any
point. The soundings decrease gradually and regularly, with
the exception of the bar extending about 0.5 mile off the
mouths of the Kawayan and Baluagan Rivers, where the
depth decreases from 18.3 m (60 ft) to 1.8 m (6 ft) in a
distance of about 90 m.
NAGIBA AND LAGARIAN POINTS, 7 and 11 miles
respectively, SE of Calapan Point, are quite insignificant in
regard to outline and appearance. Both are low and covered
with light timber and brush. They are not prominent, and
it is only when well inshore that it is possible to recognize
them.
NAUJAN, a town slightly over 9 miles SE of Calapan
30 Point, is about 1 mile inland on the W bank of the Baluagan
River. The bar at the mouth of the Baluagan River, as well
as the bars at the mouths of the other rivers in this vicinity, is
nearly bare at low water and the river can only be entered by
pulling boats at a favorable stage of the tide. During falling
35 tides, the river current is very strong. Naujan is connected
to other towns of Mindoro by provincial road. Common
household commodities are available. Fuel products such
as gasoline, diesel oil, and lubricants are being sold. Ice is
obtainable.
ESTRELLA, which is a barrio and the seaport of
Naujan, is on the beach about 0.5 mile ENE of the town.
Source of fresh water, from an earlier report, was from an
artesian well located in the barrio about 180 m away from
the shore.
Anchorage, exposed to NE winds, is about 730 m NE
of the barrio, in 27.4 m (90 ft) with mud bottom.
50 LUMANGBAYAN RIVER, of which the NAUJAN
RIVER, flowing from lake Naujan, is a branch, empties
about 4 miles SE of Estrella; it is one of the largest rivers in
N Mindoro, and forms the dividing line between the lowland
and the mountainous district around Pola Bay. Anchorage
55 can be had off the mouth of Lumangbayan in a depth of 37
m (120 ft). The place of anchorage is marked by a white
flag in a floating log as a marker. There are shipments of
lumber in moderate quantities and the weekly loadings of
copra, rice, and banana from the village of Lumangbayan.
60
 From about 2 miles SE of the Lumangbayan River the
coast trends eastward for about 4 miles and then S for about
2 miles to Anahauan Point, the NW entrance to Pola Bay.
This coast is very irregular, being composed of series of
small bights and points between them, pointing in every
direction. The points, which are all outlined with cliffs,
vary in height from 15 to 46 m (50 to 150 ft) and are heavily
wooded. None of them except Balingawan Point present
any special feature by which they can be readily identified
from offshore. This section of the coast has the most rugged
and broken shoreline on the NE part of the island.
The mountains, which slope close to the shore in this
vicinity, are heavily wooded and range in height from a
few meters to a maximum height of about 427 m (1,400
ft). Quite a number of these mountains terminate in well-
defined peaks, which appear prominent when inshore,
but the majority lose their prominence when seen from a
distance. Two of the peaks could be sighted clearly from
seaward. And owing to their peculiar outlines, they cannot
be readily mistaken.
MOUNT NAUJAN, the first of these peaks, is about
1.5 miles S of the Lumangbayan River and less than 1 mile
inland. It is heavily wooded and 421 m (1381 ft) high. The
summit is at the W extremity of a comparatively flat top,
which slopes towards the N.
DOME HILL, the second prominent peak, is a
rounded dome-shaped hill rising to a height of about 257 m
(845 5ft) and about 2.3 miles away WSW from the mouth
of Lumangbayan River. It is wooded and detached from
other hills lying between it and the coast. Dome Hill, when
steered on for 178o bearing, will lead clear of the shoal
water of the mouths of the Kawayan and Baluangan Rivers
to the anchorage off Estrella.
TUJUD ISLAND is 46 m (150 ft) high, wooded with
light timbers, about 550 m from the shore of Mindoro or
4.6 miles away SE of the mouth of Lumangbayan River.
The island is quite small and is outlined by brown cliffs
on all sides except the SW. It is bold and steep-to on its
seaward side but is connected to the mainland by a reef
which bares at low water. A detached rock, 4.6 m (15 ft)
high and surrounded by numerous rock awash, lies about
90 m SW of this island.
Major Light - Herrera Light (13° 14’ 20”N., 121° 25’
10”E.) is shown from a steel pipe on Bagagay Point, about
900 m SW of the Tujud Island. 50
BALINGAWAN POINT differs from the neighboring
points, for, instead of rising gradually and continuously
from the cliffs toward the interior, it slopes down, forming
a saddle which extends entirely across in an E and W 55
direction, at a very slight elevation above sea level.
ANAHAUAN POINT, the NW entrance point to
Pola Bay, is heavily wooded and outlined by low cliffs
and boulders but the mountains in this vicinity attain an
elevation of over 425 m (1,398 ft). A reef on which there
are 7 rocks, 0.6 to 0.9 m (2 to 3 ft) high and others awash,
extends about 137 m E from the point. This reef, largely
bare at low water, continues S for about 0.5 mile from the
5 point and has a greatest width of less than 548 m. The rocks
E from the point show well from N or S.
POLA BAY, entered between Anahauan and Dayap
Points, is deep and clear in the middle, and the shores are,
10 in general, steep-to. Two rivers, the POLA (also called
CASILIGAN) and PULA, empty into the head of the bay
creating sand bars that bare at low water, and between them
is a gray sand beach faced by shoal water extending from
0.3 to 0.5 mile. A valley about 1.8 miles wide, the sides
15 of which are defined by the Pola and Pula Rivers, extends
several miles inland in a S direction. This valley is low and
covered with light timber and mangroves.
TIGUIHAN COVE, about 2 miles SSW of Anahauan
20 Point, is a small indentation. The head and sides of this cove
are fringed with reefs, leaving a small area near the entrance
where small crafts find partially sheltered anchorage. This
anchorage is quite small that there is no swinging room and
that stern moorings to the shore are necessary.
25
Berthing Facility - A government pier, with 12 m by 9
m RoRo ramp, extends SE in the cove. The RoRo ramp has
a draft of 4.5 m. Development of the port is still in progress.
30 About 137 m SE of the extremity of TUNTUNG, the
rocky point forming the S side of Tiguihan Cove, near the
edge of the shore reef, is a prominent rock 5.5 m (18 ft)
high inclined slightly S. About 22.8 m E of the above rock
is a smaller rock about 0.9 m (3 ft) high. Tuntung Point is
35 marked by Tuntung Point Light (13° 09’ 15”N., 121° 26’
15”E.).
POLA, a town in the SW part of the bay, is on the
W side of the entrance to the Pola (or Casiligan) River.
40 They produce copra, banana, citrus, rice, and fish. Farming
and fishing are the primary sources of livelihood. Their
products are transported to Manila by RoRo vessels while
some bound for Lucena and Marinduque through the use of
motorized boats. It is connected to the town of Calapan by a
45 7 km national road, and also S to the town of Pinamalayan.
Pola has numerous and assorted stores catering to almost
all kinds of daily needs, including some personal services.
They have a postal office.
Anchorage for large vessel is 0.5 mile from shore
in 27.4 m (15 fm), mud bottom, with 5.5 m (18 ft) rock
bearing 282o. Small vessels may anchor closer in, in 18.3 m
(10 fm), mud bottom, with the same rock bearing 302o. At
times during the NE monsoon these anchorages are deemed
unsafe.
DAYAP POINT, the E entrance point to Pola Bay, is
outlined by cliffs and huge boulders and is clear and steep-
to. It is formed by the N extremity of a spur extending N
60 from a sharp wooded peak 427 m (1,400 ft) high about 1.3
6-12
miles inland.
From Dayap Point the coast trends SE, with a curve
seaward for over 3 miles to Dumali Point, and is in general
fringed with a narrow coral reef, partly bare at low water.
This coast is clear and steep-to and can be safely approached
within 0.5 mile.
MOUNT DUMALI, in the NE part of the island, is 762
m (2,499 ft) high and very prominent due to its proximity
to the coast and to the fact that there are no mountains in its
vicinity approaching it in elevation. It is heavily wooded at
the summit.
DUMALI POINT, about 3.3 miles SE of Dayap Point
is 73 m (240 ft) high. The two points, Dumali and Bugol,
3.7 miles SW of Dumali Point, are formed by the NE and S
shoulders of Mount Dumali. Dumali and Dayap Points are
bold and the shore between them is clear and steep-to.
Major Light - Dumali Point Light (13° 07’ 15”N.,
121° 33’ 18”E.) is shown from a white tower on Dumali
Point.
Caution - Magnetic disturbances are reported to exist
offshore between Dumali and Calapan Points. In 1971,
Variations of 4oW were observed.
BUGOL POINT, about 3.5 miles SW of Dumali Point,
is marked by Pili Light (13° 04’ 00”N., 121° 31’ 30”E.).
From Bugol Point, the coast trends S with a succession of
sweeping curves for 28 miles to Duyagan Point. This coast is
low, flat, sandy land unmarked by any recognizable feature.
It presents a wooded shore with trees ranging from 15 to 25
m (50 to 80 ft) high. About 5 to 8 miles inland, the ground
rises only from 3.7 to 7.6 m (12 to 25 ft) high. The four
principal points are BALETE, BONSUD, MAYLLAGUE,
and QUINIDIAGAN. They present no prominent features
and are only recognizable as points when in the bights
between them. At or near each point, a river discharges but
none of which is important or navigable.
PINAMALAYAN, a town close to the shore on the
river of the same name, is about 2.8 miles SW of Bugol
Point. The PINAMALAYAN RIVER, at the town, has very
little water on the bar at low tide. In fine weather, landing
may be made on the beach E of the town or in barangay
Rekudo. When this is impractical, boats may be pulled to
enter the river to proceed for the town. Water-borne trade of
Pinamalayan links with Gasan and Cawit of Marinduque,
Concepcion of Romblon, and its neighboring barangays.
The shoreline also serves as the center for municipal fishing
port. There is also a community airport located about 5
miles SW of the town.
Pinamalayan has a post office. The town has several
stores for supply of food and fuel oils. It is connected to the
towns of Calapan and Bongabong by provincial road. The
island of Maestre de Campo (Romblon), 12.7 miles SE of
Pinamalayan, maintained its mail service by channelling to
6-13
this town thru the use of motorized boats.
Major Light - Pinamalayan Light (13° 02’ 15”N.,
121° 29’ 35”E.) is displayed from a white tower located
5 about 0.1 mile NE of the government pier.
Caution - Submarine communication cables are
present off the coast of Pinamalayan. Anchoring and fishing
are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
10
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Pinamalayan may be contacted at mobile phone no.
+63929-6864194.
15 Berthing Facilities - The town has a 60 m long concrete
pier for use by ferry boats and small fishing vessels.
Anchorage may be found about 0.4 mile from shore
in 24 m (13 fm), with the Pinamalayan Light bearing 270o.
20 Smaller vessels may anchor closer inshore in 7.3 to 18.3 m
(4 to 10 fm), sand bottom.
Leaving Pinamalayan bound for Bongabong, a 180o
course, with Mount Dumali directly astern, will carry a
25 vessel clear of all dangers to a position from which the town
of Bongabong steered for on a SW bearing will lead to the
anchorage.
Between Bugol Point and the mouth of the SUCOL
30 RIVER, 19.5 miles S, the shores are clear and can be safely
skirted at a distance of 0.8 mile. Between the Sucol River
and the BONGABONG RIVER, 6 miles SE, and between
the Bongabong River and Duyagan Point, 4 miles S, shoal
water extends to considerable distance and at one point the
35 9.1 m curve is nearly 1 mile from shore.
QUINABIGAN (KINABIGAN or QUMABIGAN)
is a settlement located about 3 miles S of Pinamalayan.
Several warehouses reportedly stand near the shore. Cargo
40 operations are being carried out at the anchorage. Vessels
can take anchorage with the village bearing 235o, at about 1
mile away in 55 m (30 fm).
BANSUD, located about 10 miles S of Pinamalayan,
45 has a 40 m long concrete pier. The town is connected by
provincial road to Calapan. Bonsud Light (12° 51’ 30”N.,
121° 29’ 25”E.) is located about 0.3 mile SE of the pier.
BONGABONG is a town on the N bank of the
50 mouth of Sucol River. Several warehouses were reported
occupying near the mouth of the same river. The approach
is open and free from hazards.
Foreign vessels are reported to call occasionally for
55 lumber which is loaded from barges. Local boats and
launches enter the river at high tide. The low water depth
on the bar was earlier reported about 0.9 m (3 ft). There are
3 main rivers flowing through and around the municipality,
namely, Sucol, Bongabong, and Malitbog. They are
60 common sources of water for irrigation and domestic use.
 The main economic activities are farming, fishing, and
commerce. Rice, coconut, and banana are respectively the
three biggest agricultural products. Postal offices are present
in the town. It is connected to other towns by provincial
roads. Gasoline, kerosene, and lubricating oil were reported
obtainable by the drum. Daily necessities are available in
good supply.
Major Light - Bongabong Light (12° 44’ 57”N., 121°
29’ 15”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the beach
fronting the town.
Anchorage - Recommended anchorage is in 21.9 m
(12 fm) about 0.5 mile NE of the light.
QUINIDIAGAN (KINIDIAGAN) POINT, is a slight
projection lying about 4.3 miles SE of Bongabong town.
DUYAGAN POINT, 5.5 miles SSE of Quinidiagan
Point, is low, sandy, and steep-to. Earlier reports mentioned
it to be covered with trees, standing about 27 m (88.6 ft)
tall. A true N-S line, passing about 1 mile E of the point,
clears all shoal water N of it. Discolored water from the
numerous streams is occasionally found at a considerable
distance seaward.
Major Light - Duyagan Point Light (12° 36’ 30”N.,
121° 33’ 15”E.) is displayed from the point.
From Duyagan Point the coast trends SW for 7.5 miles
to Balanga Point and similar in appearance to the land
westward, the shores are clear and steep-to.
5 TICLIN POINT, almost S of the town of Roxas at
1.3 miles away, is surrounded by shoal water for about 0.5
mile to the E and over 2 miles toward the S. There is a
conspicuous white bell tower at WASIG, about 2.3 miles
SSW of Roxas.
10
B. DEL MUNDO, a barrio just NE of Balanga Point,
has an airfield.
BALANGA POINT, the first elevated land near the
15 coast S of Mount Dumali, is formed by a hill 76.8 m (252
ft) high, having its seaward cliffs in reddish appearance.
LANGAUIN REEF is an extensive and dangerous
reef, composed of large coral boulders, one of which is
20 awash, and others submerged by very little water, lying
about 1.5 miles SSW of Wasig and about 2.7 miles E from
Balanga Point. Shoals, with depths of 4.5m and 6.8 m (2.50
and 3.75 fm), lie respectively, 0.75 mile W and 0.6 mile
SSW of the reef. Langauin Reef and the 6.8 m patch SW of
25 the rock awash can be cleared by keeping the 345 m (1,130
ft) peak on Maestre de Ocampo Island open E of Duyugan
Point and keeping the 93 m (305-ft) hill on Bugton Point
N of 263o.

ROXAS, (PACLASAN), is a small town 2.5 miles SW 30 MANSALAY BAY, entered between Palaypay and
of Duyagan Point. It has a post office, landlines, and mobile Bugton Points, is about 1 mile in a S-W opening and affords
phone communications, and Internet connection. Vans have good shelter from all winds except between S and E. Depths
daily trips to Calapan, Manila, and San Jose. Ferry vessels of over 10.9 m (6 fm) are found in the middle of the bay.
have regular trips between the town and Caticlan (Malay,
Aklan) and Odiongan (Romblon). 35 Caution - Submarine cables connecting the town of
Mansalay and Lucena City in Quezon Province are present
Port Management, the government pier about 0.8 in Mansalay Bay. Anchoring and fishing in the vicinity of
mile NE of Roxas is operated by PPA TMO-Roxas. The the cables are prohibited.
TMO can be contacted at telephone no. (+6343) 289-2813.
40 PALAYPAY POINT, on the N side of the entrance, is
In 2009, the Port of Roxas registered a total of 6 metric surrounded by a reef near the S extremity of which, about
tons of incoming goods and 2,800 metric tons of outgoing 274 m from shore, is a prominent pinnacle rock about 7.6
goods. Majority of outgoing goods are rice, fruits, and m (25 ft) high. This rock is partly covered by brush which
vegetables. makes it hard to see from S against the mangrove-covered
45 shore. Foul ground, on which is a rock awash, extends about
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Roxas 0.5 mile from shore between Balanga and Palaypay Points.
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428058
and +63998-5854830. BUGTON POINT, on the S side of the entrance, is
clear and steep-to. It is formed by a round-topped hill 93 m
Berthing Facilities include a pier with 2 RoRo ramps, 50 (305 ft) high, wooded to the water’s edge; a similar hill 85.3
having depths ranging from 4.5 to 5 m. m (280 ft) high is about 0.5 mile S.

Port Services - Fresh water is available from local MANSALAY is a small town at the head of the bay.
suppliers. Bunkering and cargo handling services are For quite some time, the most prominent landmark in the
provided by local companies. Stevedoring services are 55 vicinity is the metal-roofed school building N of the town.
handled by the TMO. Food supplies are available in stores.

Anchorage for vessels calling at Roxas is located Berthing Facility - A 50 m long pier, which is
about 500 m NE of the pier. connected to the shore by a causeway, is located about 0.7
60 mile E of Mansalay.

6-14
 Directions - Mansalay Bay may be entered by steering
for the town bearing between 310o and 338o, but vessels
from the N usually keep Duyagan Point bearing nothing
E of 023o until Langauin Reef is passed and when Bugton
Point bears 271o, steer for it on that bearing giving berth
of about 450 m, then alter course NW directly heading for
the town.
Anchorage is in the middle of the bay, about 0.4 mile
from the shore, with the town bearing 316o and the 7.6 m
(25 ft) pinnacle rock off Palaypay Point 091o, in depth of
12.8 m (7 fm) mud bottom, or closer in, depending upon
the vessel’s draft. Navigators are advised not to steer closer
for the N shore as there is a reef. The bay is exposed from
SE winds.
COGOLONG BAY, about 1 mile immediately S of
Mansalay Bay, offers anchorage in W winds, in the middle
of its outer part at 9 to 18 m (5 to 10 fm), sand and mud
bottom. This anchorage is open to E winds.
MANSIOL POINT, about 2 miles S of Mansalay Bay,
is a bold rocky point surmounted by 2 grassy hills about
107 m (350 ft) high. Several rocks, awash, lie about 230
m E of the point, with the outermost drying at 1.5 m (5 ft)
above water. The pinnacle rock off Palaypay Point, on the
N side of the entrance to Mansalay Bay, bearing 001o, will
clear all dangers off Mansiol Point by about 0.5 mile.
MANSIOL BAY is between Mansiol Point and Colasi
Point. It is deep and free from danger.
COLASI POINT is a rocky point on which two hills
stand on the point, 37 and 44 m (121 and 145 ft) high,
respectively. It is fringed by steep-to reef extending about
460 m offshore after which no more danger is known to
exist.
COLASI BAY, SW of Colasi Point, is a semi-circular,
sandy bight with a small stream emptying at the head. It
affords anchorage, sheltered from W winds, for small
vessels in depths of 9 to 18 m (5 to 10 fm), sand bottom.
From the settlement of COLASI, S part of Colasi Bay,
the shore was reported to be fringed by mangroves nearly
reaching Pocanil Point, for a distance of about 2 miles. The
same coast is bordered by a coral reef about 550 m wide,
outside of which the water deepens gradually.
POCANIL POINT, about 3 miles S of Colasi Point, is
formed by a prominent hill 157 m (515 ft). Its E and S sides
of shoreline is formed by a sheer yellow limestone cliff.
POCANIL ISLET is a small, precipitous, wooded
Mindoro (looking eastward from a position about 17 miles westward of Buyallao Island)
6-15
islet, 46.9 m (154 ft) high, about 365 m E of Pocanil Point,
with which it is connected by a reef bare at low water.
POCANIL ROCK is a sharp, barren, pinnacle 10.7 m
5 (35 ft) high, about 275 E of Pocanil Islet. The E side of the
rock is clear and steep-to, but the channel between it and
Pocanil Islet is foul.
POCANIL BAY, S of the point of the same name, is
10 a small bight which affords anchorage in the middle of the
outer part of the bay in depths of 18 to 22 m (10 to 12 fm),
soft mud bottom.
BUYALLAO PENINSULA, between Pocanil and
15 Soguicay Bays, is high and wooded. Its shores are rocky,
steep and faced with deep water. In the middle of the
peninsula is MOUNT NAMALAYAN, about 1.3 miles
from its ESE shore and extremity, standing about 269.7
m (885 ft) and prominent. There were previously reported
20 growing black trees crowding this mountain.
MOUNT NAMALAYAN, in the middle of the
peninsula, about 1.3 miles from its SE extremity, is heavily
wooded with dark trees, 264 m (866 ft) high and prominent.
25
BUYALLAO ISLAND, just N of the E tip of Buyallao
Peninsula, is wooded and 165 m (541 ft) high. Its two E
points are sheer cliffs 46 m (150 ft) high with deep water
close-to. Off the northern side are two large rocks, the outer
30 one 34 m (112 ft) high and the inner one 16 m (53 ft) high.
They are connected with the shore by reefs, but just outside
of the outer one the water is deep.
BUYALLAO PASS, between the island and peninsula
35 of the same name, has a least navigable width of about
275 m, with a 3.7 m (2 fm) coral patch in the middle of
the narrowest part. This may be avoided by following the
S shore. An anchorage in this pass is not recommended,
the space being limited with hard sand and coral bottom
40 affording poor holding ground.
BUYALLAO POINT, the S extremity of the peninsula
of the same name, slopes down gradually from Mount
Namalayan and terminates in a low rocky shelf, which is
45 clear and steep-to. From Buyallao Point the coast trends W
for 4 miles, forming the S side of Buyallao Peninsula and
then S for 5 miles to Pandan Point, forming a large elbow,
in the Northwest angle of which is Soguicay Bay.
50 SOGUICAY BAY (CHART 4339) which affords
the best typhoon anchorage on the E coasts of Mindoro, is
entered between Buyallao Point and CABUG POINT, 4.9
miles SW. The shore of the bay, which is, for the most part,
steep-to, is fringed with mangroves, reefs, and mud flats.
 Settlements along the shore of the bay are the barrio of
San Juan and the village of Soguicay located about 1 mile
NW and 1.2 miles W of the N extremity of Soguicay Island,
respectively.
PANANGIRAN PEAK, a high, sharp peak, at 652 m
(2,139 ft) is located about 7.5 miles WNW of the head of
the bay and serves as a good landmark for approaching and
entering vessels.
SOGUICAY ISLAND, narrow and about 0.25 by 1
mile long, is lying in the middle of the bay. The N part
of the island is composed of mangroves and is fringed by
partly drying reefs extending about 0.25 mile from its E
and S sides. The W side of the island is fairly steep-to. Foul
ground extends about 0.5 mile S from the S extremity of
the island.
Dangers - A reef, which bares, lies close off the middle
of the W side of Soguicay Island. A reef, partly awash, lies
about 548 m N of the NW side of the island. It is separated
from the reef fringing the NW side of the island by a narrow
but deep channel. The channel between the W sides of these
reefs and the reefs fringing the W shore of the bay is about
548m wide and has depths of over 18.3 m (10 fm) in the
fairway. A reef, which bares, lies about 0.5 mile NNW of
the N end of the island. Detached patches, with depths of
3.4 to 9.1 m (1.75 to 5 fm), lie between this reef and the
shore of the bay to the W and SW.
Narrow shoals, with depths of 8.2 to 14.6 m (4.5 to
8 fm), extends about 1.5 miles N from a position close N
of Cabug Point. They are separated from each other by an
extremely narrow channel. The least depth is found about
1 mile S of the S extremity of Soguicay Island. A detached
shoal, with a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm), lies about 0.6 mile ENE
of the S end of the island.
Anchorage with good holding ground may be found W
or WNW of the island and clear of the four detached reefs 40
in 22 to 37 m (12 to 20 fm), soft sticky mud bottom, and
well-protected all around. The recommended anchorage is
about 0.5 mile ESE of the village of Soguicay with the N
tip of Soguicay Island in range and about 087o with the S
tangent of Buyallo Peninsula, in a depth of 26 m (14 fm), 45
mud bottom.
Directions - Vessels coming from N will be
approaching the bay by E or SE and should steer 286o
straight for Panangiran Peak. This leads in mid-channel
between the N point of Soguicay Island and N shore of
the bay. When already abeam of this point, alter course to
255o and proceed for about 550 m, heading or aiming for a
position about 90 m S of the village of Soguicay by passing
midway between the NE reef that dries and the reef awash
about 0.27 mile apart. Then steer 226o when the N tip of the
island is in range with the S shore of Buyallao Peninsula,
and anchor in about 26 m (14 fm), mud bottom.
To enter from S, vessels should steer a course of 337o
when at a position of about 2 miles SE of Pandan Point, the
point S of Cabug Point. This course will pass about 0.8 mile
E of Pandan Point and then about 0.25 mile E of Cabug
Point, when it is necessary to steer anew for 342o until a
5 distance of about 2.4 miles. When the S tip of Soguicay
Island is in range about 068o at the same instances,
change course to 348o leading to an anchorage previously
recommended.
10 PANDAN POINT, the E entrance point of Pandan
Bay, is a rocky, precipitous headland reportedly covered
with grass and is about 140 m (460 ft) high. About 0.4 mile
SE of Pandan Point lies PANDAN REEF, a dark coral reef
about 550 m in extent, with a least depth of 2.1 m (7 ft). A
15 narrow deep channel lies between the reef and the point.
From Pandan Point the coast trends NW for about 1
mile, then SSW for the same distance to BADIAN POINT,
and then in a general NNW direction for 3 miles to the head
20 of Bulalacao Bay. This coast is formed by steep rocky cliffs
with the slopes reported wooded. The tops of the hill, which
are about 150 m (500 ft) high, are also reported covered
with a scrubby growth of timber.
25 PANDAN BAY is W of Pandan Point. The barrio of
Balatasan is at its head.
Dangers - A shoal with a least depth of 2.1 m (7 ft),
lies near the head of the bay. A 7.3 m (24 ft) patch lies in the
30 middle of the inner part of the bay and about 0.25 mile S of
its head. The W shore is steep-to. Fish traps abound in the
vicinity of Barrio Balatasan.
Anchorage - Vessels can take anchorage in the middle
35 of the inner part of the bay in 11 to 37 m (6 to 20 fm)
sand and mud bottom, protected from NE winds. It is not
advisable to anchor too far N as the head of the bay is foul.
TAMBARON PASS (CHART 4339), between Badian
Point and Tambaron Island, is deep, narrow, and tortuous,
having at the E entrance a width of only 70 or 73 m. This
pass is of little value to navigation except for small crafts.
TAMBARON ISLAND is S of Badian Point, Mindoro,
and irregular in shape. It is reported to be wooded with dark
timber and 131 m (430 ft) high at the center.
MASIN PASS, between Tambaron Island and Masin
Island, is a narrow straight channel having a least width of
50 about 110 m and a least depth of about 10.9 m (6 fm) at its
NE end. It is of little value to navigation.
MASIN ISLAND is on the S side of Masin Pass, on the
ends are hills 61 and 76.5 m (200 and 251 ft) high, giving
55 it a saddle-shaped appearance from E or W. A settlement is
located on the lowland between the hills.
MASIN POINT, the S extremity of Masin Island, is
steep and rocky, about 23 m (75 ft) high, and reportedly
60 has a few ragged trees on it. This point and TAMBARON
6-16
POINT, the NW extremity of Tambaron Island, also steep Pandan Bay to the SE. Fish traps within the cove reduce the
and rocky, form an excellent range for passing Bulalacao available anchorage space. Pleasure boats such as yachts
Bay. sometimes anchor in this cove and also the smaller one at
Masin Island. From December to May, they are generally
BULALACAO BAY entered between Badian Point 5 well-protected and should be entered by daylight as their
and Tambi Point, about 2.4 miles WNW, indents the coast channels are narrow with corals on both sides. Barrio
to a distance of about 2.3 miles N. The bay is free from Balatasan, at the head of the E arm, is connected by road
dangers, and the shores are clear, with the exception of a to Bulalacao.
part of the NE corner, where a shoal with a least depth of
about 0.9 m (3 ft) extends about 0.4 mile SSW from the 10 TAMBI POINT, the W entrance point to Bulalacao
shore near the mouth of a stream. The W and E shores of the Bay, is a black-and-yellow bluff about 15 m (50 ft) high and
bay are steep, rocky, and wooded. The head of the bay has is reported to be covered with ragged trees and bushes. It is
a low sandy shore intersected by a number of small rivers. clear and steep-to. NW of the point, the land rises gradually
and is 174 m(570 ft) high less than 1 mile inland. From
Anchorage is toward the head of the bay in 9 to 37 15 Tambi Point the coast trends W for about 4 miles and then S
m (5 to 20 fm), mud and sand bottom, with shelter except for about the same distance to Buruncan Point. From Tambi
from winds between SSE and SW. The usual SW monsoon Point to abreast of Aslom Islet is a sand and mangrove
enters with much force and it is hardly possible to anchor shore with the hillsides reported wooded close behind it.
close enough the W shore to be protected from it, since It is fringed by a narrow reef, partly bare at low water, and
the wind and sea follow around Tambi Point. The bottom 20 outside of which the water deepens gradually. The barrio
off the head of the bay, which has low, sandy shore, is flat of SAN FRANCISCO (Alimawan), with some houses,
and sandy, with small scattered pieces of soft, gray coral to is about 0.7 mile N of the N tip of the islet. From Aslom
depths of 9 m (5 fm), where the mud begins. Islet to Buruncan Point, forming the E side of Buruncan
Peninsula, the shores are bluff, rocky, and generally clear
BULALACAO (SAN PEDRO), is a town in the NW 25 and steep-to.
corner of the bay of the same name. Cargoes brought in
are composed of fish, salt, and general merchandise, which SAN FRANCISCO (Alimawan), a barrio about 0.7
comes mainly from the town of San Jose. Export products mile N of the N tip of the islet. A breakwater, fronting the
from farming such as garlic, corn, rice, and the general barrio, forms a harbor for small boats.
merchandise, are being traded with Semirara and Caluya 30
Islands. Some unloaded products of the sea are brought to BURUNCAN PENINSULA (CHART 4305),
Manila via Calapan Port. The nearest airport is at the town terminating in Buruncan Point, has several high ridges in a
of San Jose, about 17 miles W of Bulalacao. The traditional N and S direction with many small peaks 46 to 76 m (150 to
landing site for small sea crafts is the river bank in the town 250 ft) above the general level and rising N to height of 405
proper. 35 m (1,328 ft) above the sea. The sides of the hills and ridges
were reported to be sprawling with thick, dark forests.
Berthing Facilities - The town has two government
piers operated by the municipal government and the PPA BURUNCAN POINT is a low limestone bluff usually
located 0.4 mile and 0.8 mile SW, respectively, of the covered by the sea. It is free from danger and can be passed
poblacion. The municipal pier is about 60 m long and is 40 close-to.
used by small boats and bancas. The PPA pier, extending E,
can handle RoRo vessels. Aslom, Silat, and Alibatan Islets, and a cluster of rocks
between the first two, are in a N-and-S line off the E side
Anchorage - The usual anchorage is SE of the town, of Buruncan Peninsula. All these islets have steep, rocky
with the final location decided upon the vessel’s draft, or in 45 shores surrounded by reefs, and have bushes and small
11 m (6 fm), mud bottom, with the W tangents of Tambaron trees on their summits.
and Masin Islands in range and also the E tangents of Tambi
Point and Alibatan Island. ASLOM, the N islet, is 32 m (105 ft) high at the N end
and has a narrow channel between its N point and the shore
LAGARA COVE, a small, narrow, and deep inlet on 50 of Mindoro. Off the W side, mangroves and shoal water
the E side of Bulalacao Bay, about 1 mile N of Tambaron extend about 0.25 mile from the mangroves. A 5.5 m (3 fm)
Point and 2.1 miles E of Tambi Point, affords good patch lies about 320 m W of the middle of the W side of the
sheltered anchorage for small sea craft. Near its inner end is islet. Anchorage can be had W from Aslom Islet in 22 to 24
an anchorage space about 275 m wide, with a depth of 22 m m (12 to 13 fm), sand and mud bottom.
(12 fm), mud bottom, in the middle. The two arms, forming 55
the head of the cove extends N and E from this anchorage, SILAT ISLET, about 0.9 mile to shore with Aslom
are shoal and of no value, the N being a mud flat and the E a Islet to the SSE, is very small, has a rugged profile, and is
reef, both with mangrove shorelines. The projecting points 13.7 m (45 ft) high at the S end. A cluster of rocks about
are high and steep, and the inlet is entirely enclosed by hills 4.6 m (15 ft) high is about 550 m NW from Silat Islet. A
except for a low neck of land which separate the cove from 60 clear channel about 180 m wide with 7.3 m (4 fm) in it

6-17
separates the rocks from the islet. The channel between
these rocks and the coast of Mindoro to the W is deep and
clear of danger.
BULA SHOAL, about 0.3 mile in extent, with a depth
of 7.3 m (4 fm), is about 2 miles ENE from Silat Islet and
2.7 miles SSW from Tambi Point.
MASIN BANK, a small coral bank with a depth of
12.8 m (7 fm), is 2.1 miles almost ESE of Masin Point and
about 3.6 miles E from Silat Islet.
ALIBATAN ISLET is about 1.5 mile S of Silat Islet
and 2.2 miles ENE of Buruncan Point. The island is known
locally as Target Island because it was used for target
bombing practices in 1946. The channels between the islets
of Alibatan and Silat and between Alibatan and Buruncan
shore are deep and clear. Alibatan is 28 m (91.8 ft) high
and on its S end has two summits formed by sharp rock
pinnacles.
A depth of about 0.3 m (0.17 fm) is found about 0.3
mile SSE from the islet, and the bank shallower than 16.5
(9 fm) extends nearly 0.5 mile SSE.
CAUTION - A submarine pipeline is located between
Mindoro Island and Semirara Islands. Mariners are advised
not to anchor or trawl in the vicinity of the pipeline.
Gas from a damaged oil or gas pipeline could cause an
explosion, loss of a vessel’s buoyancy, or other serious
hazards. Pipelines are not always buried and may effectively
reduce the charted depth by up to 2 meters. They may also
span seabed undulations and cause fishing gears to become
irrecoverably snagged, putting the vessel in severe danger.
SEMIRARA ISLANDS
(CHART 1544, 4305 & 4337)
THE SEMIRARA ISLANDS are a group of 11
islands lying off the S end of Mindoro, from Buruncan
Point and extend almost SE for 28 miles near Tangaion
Point, Sibay Island.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable
passes through this island group. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables. Refer to
the nautical charts for the details of the submarine cable.
Distress & Rescue – Remotely controlled coast station
with VHF DSC alerting in San Jose, Mindoro Occidental
covers the islands of Libagao and Nagubat, and the northern
half of Semirara Island while the remotely controlled station
with VHF DSC alerting in Caticlan, Aklan covers the
islands of Caluya, Sibaton, and Sibolon. Vessels in distress
may contact the above mentioned remotely controlled
stations. Vessels in distress that are outside of the 25-mile
radius from the VHF DSC coast stations may contact the
Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have a MF
DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in
Chapter 2 for details.
LIBAGAO ISLAND the most N island of the group
lies about 3.6 miles SE from the S extremity of Masin
Island.
5 NAGUBAT ISLAND, about 2.7 miles SW of Libagao
Island, is a low sand and limestone island surrounded by a
reef. It is about 18.3 m (60 ft) high, reported earlier covered
with dark trees and has a few inhabitants. About 1 mile ENE
of Nagubat is a coral reef about 1.5 miles in extent within
10 the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve, with a rock having a least depth
of about 0.3 m (0.17 fm) in the N part. Between the coral
reef and Libagao is a channel over 1 mile, wide, deep and
clear, with the exception of a small coral patch with 16.4 m
(9 fm) in the middle. The channel between the reef fringing
15 Nagubat and those fringing Semirara is over 2 miles wide
and is deep and clear, with the exception of a small 12.8 m
(7 fm) patch 1.5 miles almost S of Nagubat.
SEMIRARA ISLAND is the largest of the Semirara
20 Island Group, its N extremity, at Tungao Point, is about 8.3
miles SE of Buruncan Point, Oriental Mindoro, and also by
the same distance is the length of the entire island, measured
from Tungao Point to Talisay Point, its S extremity. It is
almost divided into 2 parts by a mangrove swamp and a
25 low neck of land about 3.4 miles from Tungao Point.
There are 3 important settlements in the island, namely,
SEMIRARA, located on the low neck of land facing the E
shore, TINABOC on the SE, and ALEGRIA on the SW. An
airport is located NW of Barrio Semirara. Semirara exports
30 shipments of coal.
On the N portion of the island are a number of hills,
which are bare due to the coal mining operation in the area.
Mining is operated by the Semirara Mining and Power
35 Corp., which has exclusive mining rights in the island.
The S part of the island is formed by a ridge of hills
extending from the low neck to Talisay Point. About 2.5
miles N of Talisay Point is a peak 173 m (568 ft) high.
40 Alegria Light (12° 01’ 00”N., 121° 24’ 00”E.) is located on
the SE portion of the island, about 1.6 miles NE of Alegria.
Both the N and S extremities of the island are clear and
steep-to.
45 The E side of the island is fringed by a reef partly bare
at low water, which at one place, abreast of ALIMANGO
POINT, extends nearly 1.5 miles. The reef on the W side
attains a maximum width of 1.3 miles off the S side of the
entrance to Ilogao Bay.
50
ILOGAO BAY, about 3.4 miles from the N end of the
island is a large indentation, the head of which is filled with
a coral reef, mostly bare at low water. The remainder of this
indentation is nearly blocked by a dozen islets, some rocks
55 and shoals, leaving a small anchorage, known as Semirara
Anchorage.
DALIT ISLET, the biggest of the islets, is about 0.4
mile in extent and 44.5 m (146 ft) high, located about 0.4
60 mile NW of Ilogao Point. This islet is connected to Semirara
6-18
 Semirara Islands (looking westward from a position about 12 miles ESE of Caluya Island)
Island by a coral reef that bares at low water. The so-called
TWIN ROCKS, both standing about 1.83 m (6 ft) high, and
used as an aid by maneuvering vessels in the bay, is about
0.4 mile SSW from the SW tip of Dalit Islet.
SEMIRARA ANCHORAGE (CHART 4337), on
the W side of the island, is a protected anchorage, except
from bad weather blowing from the W or SW. This is the
recommended anchorage for vessels visiting Semirara
Island, while beach landing could be done only by small
boats. There are several passages between the islets N
of the anchorage but they are too narrow and dangerous.
Hence, they are passable only to small sea craft.
Caution - An off-lying danger consisting of a shoal
with a depth of 9.4 m (5.1 fm) lies about 4 miles W of
Ilogao Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Semirara may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5858060 and +63917-8170383.
Berthing Facilities - Dapdap Pier extends about 300
m and is connected by a causeway to the shore. It is used
by vessels loading coal. A conveyor for transporting coal is
available.
A 130 m pier extends from the settlement located N of
Ilogao Point. Motor bancas usually call at this pier.
Pilotage - Pilot boarding station is located about 2.9
miles SW of Ilogao Point.
Directions - To enter Semirara Anchorage, bring
the tangent to ILOGAO POINT, which is high, dark, and
forms an excellent landmark, to bear 060o and steer for it,
anchoring in about 26 m (14 fm) when the tangent to the
land N bears 347o. Small vessels may proceed farther on
the same course and anchor in 22 m (12 fm) abreast TWIN
ROCKS which bears about 330o.
SIBOLON ISLAND, locally known as SIBOLO, is
10.5 miles E of Alimanga Point, Semirara Island. It is about
40 m (130 ft) high, formed by sand and limestone, and
reported to be covered with dark trees. Around the W point,
NW, and S is a sandy beach. A reef extends about 360 to
550 m from the sandy beach, with depth 55 to 75 m (30 to
40 fm) at its edge, where it is steep to at this point. The E
side has rough limestone cliffs about 6 to 9 m (20 to 30 ft)
high and no fringing reef.
Vessels can take anchorage off the SW side of the
island in 18 to 46 m (10 to 25 fm), sand and coral bottom,
among large black coral heads, with the W tangent of the
island bearing 030o and the S tangent bearing 058o.
6-19
Sibolo is the barrio along the S coast of the island.
Sibolon Island Light (12° 05’ 55”N., 121° 34’ 30”E.) is
displayed N of the barrio.
5 SIBATON ISLAND (SIBATO) is about 9.8 miles E
of Talisay Point, Semirara Island or 6.4 miles S of Sibolon
Island. Sibaton is low sand and limestone island, earlier
reported covered with light, scrubby trees. The N shore
consists of low, black limestone cliffs, and on the E and W
10 sides near the S end and sand beaches. A shore reef, with
some rocks awashed, extends about 1.2 miles SSE of the
SE point of Sibaton Island. A small barrio of the same name
stands on the S side of the island.
15 CALUYA ISLAND, is about 0.6 mile immediately S
of Sibaton Island. Between the two islands are reefs, except
for a narrow channel 2.7 m (9 ft) deep facing the N tip of
Caluya. A drying reef extends about 0.7 mile N from the
NW side of the island. All around Caluya the points are of
20 black limestone and are generally rounded and indefinite.
The bays have all sandy beaches. Off the SE side is a reef
0.3 mile wide and should be avoided
A round hill, about 170 m (558 ft) high and covered
25 with bamboo, lies near the S end of the island. From this
summit the land slopes regularly to the N point.
Major Light - Caluya Island Light (11° 54’ 40”N.,
121° 34’ 30”E.) is displayed from the SE portion of the
30 island.
CALUYA is a town on the W side of the island, while
the barrios of IMBA and Sabang straddles N and S sides
respectively.
35
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Caluya
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5856244
and +63917-8428315.
40 Berthing Facility - A 200 m pier is located about
0.4 mile E of the barrio of Imba. Boats and bancas
communicating with the island call at this pier.
Anchorage during the NE monsoon (October to
45 March) could be had in 9 to 18 m (5 to 10 fm) of the W
coast of the island, bearing 091o, with Caluya town and
tangent with BACONG POINT, Sibay Island, bearing 185o.
Cautions must be observed, in the position about 0.5 mile
W of the town, as there is a shoal with a depth of 7.3 m (24
50 ft) at its outer edge. In bad SW weather, anchorage may be
found near the edge of the reef in 29 m (16 fm) off the bight
near the middle of the E side of the island or SE of PRINCE
GEORGE POINT.
55 SIBAY ISLAND, the southernmost island of the
Semirara Group, is about 7.3 miles SSE from Talisay Point, Island, is wide, deep, and clear of dangers in the fairway.
Semirara Island and about 2.9 miles SW from Dawis Point,
Caluya Island. Its skyline is remarkably regular and level, DOMINGA SHOAL, with a least depth of 7.3 m (4
39.6 to 55.4 m (130 to 185 ft) high at the W and E ends fm) and consists of coral heads and white sand, is about 12
respectively, and about 61 m (200 ft) high in the middle. 5 miles W of Sigon Point, Semirara Island. A 16.4 m (9 fm)
The summit, 84 m (275 ft) high, is on the N coast and was patch is reported to lie about 2.4 miles S of Dominga Shoal.
earlier reported covered with dark undergrowth, with steep,
black cliffs in front of it. From previous report, the island MINDORO STRAIT
was said to be entirely bare except for some small black (CHART 1552, 1564 & 4305)
trees at the extremities, also observable from the sea were 10
the cogon grasses, corn fields, few houses, and large solitary MINDORO STRAIT, separating the Calamian Island
trees. There are several villages on the island. Group and Mindoro Island, is frequently used especially
during the months of the NE monsoon when Mindoro
The shores are generally fringed by a very narrow, Island shelters the strait from the winds. It is divided into 2
steep-to reef; at the SE end of the island, this reef extends 15 passes, by Apo Island and Apo Reefs. The two passages in
nearly 0.5 mile and on the S side of the island, near the W Mindoro Strait are the APO EAST and APO WEST PASS.
end, it extends nearly 1 mile. A rock that dries 0.9 m (3 ft) The tidal currents in Mindoro Strait flow SE on the flood
lies on the outer edge of this reef in a position about 2.7 and NW on the ebb.
miles ESE of DINAGO POINT, the W extremity of Sibay
Island. The N and W sides of the island are steep-to, with 20 Caution - A chemicals dumping ground is located
the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve lying up to 0.25 mile offshore. It is about 27 miles W of Cape Calavite.
almost impossible to anchor anywhere around Sibay Island
except on the spits at the SE and NW points, both of which Distress & Rescue – Remotely controlled coast station
are equally exposed in both monsoons and are of hard sand with VHF DSC alerting in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
and large coral heads. 25 and Coron, Palawan covers only the southern portion of
Mindoro Strait. Vessels in distress may contact the above
PANAGATAN CAYS are 3 small wooded islands on mentioned remotely controlled stations. Vessels in distress
an oval-shaped reef, extending NW for its entire length of that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC
3.5 miles, which partly dries and located about 4.9 miles coast stations may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
W of Dinago Point, Sibay Island. The 3 cays (coral or 30 Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC
sandy islands) can be seen about 7 miles in daylight from a Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
height of 6.1 m (20 ft) but are not visible at night until close
aboard. The whole area is more or less bare at low-water APO REEF NATURAL PARK, established by
springs, with several heaps of broken coral on it. At the E Presidential Proclamation No. 868, is a diamond-shaped
end the edge of the reef is steep-to, but around the other 35 area with approximate extent of 6 miles centered at position
side is a longer slope, and anchorage may be found in 18.3 12° 40’ 08”N, 120° 28’ 44”E. It covers Apo Island and Apo
to 36.6 m (10 to 20 fm). Reef. Fishing within the natural park is strictly prohibited.

Settlements of Barrio Harigue are located on the 3 Park rangers are composed of elements from the Coast
islands. All of the settlements are located along the shores 40 Guard, Army, Police, DENR, and the municipality of
facing the coral reef. Sablayan. They are stationed on Apo Island.

BOGTONGAN ISLET, the easternmost cay, is on Vessels, specifically yachts or pleasure crafts, wishing
the NE part of the reef. It is wooded with a few trees and to enter the natural park should inform the DENR -
bushes and is about 7.6 m (25 ft) high. Close nearby or NW 45 Protection Area Office located in Sablayan town in Mindoro
of Bogtongan, also NE part of the reef, is PANAGATAN Island.
MUNTI ISLAND, having a height of about 8.5 m (28 ft)
and covered with the same flora common to the area. Major Light - Apo Reef Light (12° 39’ 42”N., 120°
24’ 52”E.) is shown from a tower on the NE side of Apo
PANAGATAN MALAQUI ISLAND, the largest 50 Island.
cay on the W end of the reef, is low and flat, attaining a
height of about 16.7 m (55 ft). It is marked by Malaqui APO ISLAND (CHART 4337) lies near the middle
Island Light (11° 51’ 45”N., 121° 17’ 30”E.). Growing in of Mindoro Strait in a position about 23 miles WSW of
the island are small trees, bushes, and pandanus. About Dongon Point, Mindoro and about 20.5 miles NNE of
0.2 mile SSE of the S tip of this island is a rock jutting 55 Nanga Island, the nearest of the island off Busuanga on the
about 1.8 m (6 ft) above water. Similarly, above water is the W side of the channel. Apo Island is low and covered with
stretch of low sandy cays lying at the SE extremity of the trees. It is about 0.4 mile long in NW alignment and about
oval-shaped reef. The S side of Sibay Island, bearing 086o, 0.2 mile wide. It has a small lagoon in the middle near the
will carry a vessel clearly off the S side of Panagatan Reef. W side.
The channel between the cays and Talisay Point, Semirara 60

6-20

Apo Island.
(Photograph - DENR, Undated)
Its E and S sides are of white sandy beaches and the
reef surrounding the island extends up to 0.5 mile in some
places. The houses and station of park rangers are located
S portion of the island. A wreck is located on the S side of
the island.
The island is visible 10 miles and has been also
reported to be a good radar target up to 17 miles. There
is no good anchorage off Apo. During fine weather, the
lighthouse tender used to anchor E of the island in 64.0 to
91.4 m (35 to 50 fm) with barely swinging room to clear the
reef. The island is separated from Apo Reef by a narrow,
deep channel, about 0.9 mile wide between the reefs.
APO REEF is an extensive danger, about 8 miles
in extent, which is entered from the W. In the S lagoon,
near the W edge of a reef, lies MENOR ISLAND, which is
about 1.4 miles ENE from N tip of Apo Island. The small
and narrow island is about 10 m (33 ft) high, wooded, and
marked with beacon. The W edge of the reef are rocks
above water, visible some miles off. The S lagoon is also
shallow and filled with sunken dangers.In the N lagoon are
the CAYOS DEL BAJO, about 3 miles of NE of Menor
Island, consisting of two rocks, standing about 2.4 m (8 ft)
and 6.1 m (20 ft) above the water, respectively W and E.
There are numerous coral heads above and below-water in
this lagoon. The channel between the two lagoons is deep
in its W part but foul in its E part and is entered about 0.4
mile N of Menor Island.
Anchorage may be had in 28 m (15 fm) in the mid-
channel, halfway between the fringing N and S reefs, about
2 miles ENE from Menor Island. At low water, many small
rocks are dry on the reef, particularly along its N side. The
reef extends about 5 miles NE, 6.5 miles E, and 5 miles
SE from Menor Island. The outer edge of the entire reef
is steep-to but there are numerous drying and above-water
rocks lying near its N and E sides. A wreck is lying on the
N extremity of the reef, about 2.7 miles NW of Cajos del
Bajo.
6-21
APO EAST PASS is about 15 miles wide between
Apo Reef and the nearest part of the coast of Mindoro, and,
with the exception of Discovery Bank, is deep and clear of
danger. It is used during the NE monsoon by vessels plying
between Manila and Iloilo, Cebu, S Philippine ports, and S
Palawan ports.
Dangers - Discovery Bank, with a least charted depth
of 15.8 m (8.6 fm), is in the fairway of Apo East Pass and
about 58.7 miles WSW of Dongon Point. The sea does not
break on the bank nor is it marked by any discoloration of
the water.
Directions - Vessels navigating Apo East Pass should
follow, both day and night, the recommended track, which
leads about 2 miles off Cape Calavite, about 7 miles W of
Dongon Point and Pandan Islands and about 3.5 miles W
of Ambulong Islands. Apo Reef should be avoided, as the
lead gives no warning of approach to it and the sea does not
20 always break.
AMBULONG BANK, with a least depth of 5.4 m (3
fm), is 6.7 miles 278o from Ambulong Island. The bottom is
sand and coral and is visible. An isolated spot, about 20.5
25 m (11.2 fm) in depth, is 4 miles NW of Ambulong Bank.
SARRACENO BANK is about 1.8 miles in extent,
with a least depth of 5.4 m (3 fm), and is 5.5 miles SW
of Ambulong Bank. The shallow part is red coral but, as
30 the depth increases, the character of the bottom alters, and
at 1591.4 m (50 fm) it consists of coarse sand and gravel.
A 22.5 m (12.3 fm) spot is 9.5 miles 275o from Sarraceno
Bank.
35 LEONIDAS BANK is composed of coarse sand with
shells and coral, having a least depth of 13.2 m (7.2 fm) in
a position about 7.1 miles SSE from Sarraceno Bank. The
position is the same when Mount Ambulong and Mount Ilin
are nearly in line, bearing 038o, and about 14 miles away
40 from the former or of the two mountains.
KAMBAL REEF, with a least depth of 12.8 m (7 fm),
is about 5.5 miles W of Leonidas Bank or about 17 miles
SW of Ambulong Light.
45
APO WEST PASS is about 18 miles wide between
Apo Island and the nearest of the islands and rocks off
Busuanga and is deep throughout the fairway. This is used
by vessels bound for Palawan ports. Merope and Hunter
50 Rocks are in the N entrance. A local magnetic disturbance
has been reported to exist in this pass about 7 miles S of
Apo Island.
MEROPE BANK, a ledge on which the sea breaks,
55 with a least depth of 4.2 m (2.3 fm), lies about 10 miles
WNW of Apo Island. A shoal, with depths of less than 10.9
m (6 fm) and 0.5 mile, extends about 1 mile N from the
ledge.
60 HUNTER ROCK, on which the sea breaks, consists
of a rocky ledge 365 m in extent with a depth of 2.3 m (1.2
fm) on its S edge, lies about 13.5 miles W of Apo Island.
The rock is steep-to, except on its NE side where a bank,
with depths of less than 18 m (9.8 fm) over it, extends 0.5
mile.
An extensive bank, about 10.5 miles by N to S
alignment, lies with its center 18 miles SSE of Apo Island.
It has depths of 37 to 98 m (20.2 to 53.6 fm), with the 37 m
(20.2 fm) being situated on the S part of the bank.
WEST COAST OF MINDORO
(CHART 1552, 1564 & 4305)
From Cape Calavite to Buruncan Point, with a distance
of about 93 miles off the W coast of Mindoro, has a general
SSE trend. It is in most part bold, the only important
outlying shoal being Mamburao Reef, which extends 3.3
miles offshore. With this exception, all dangers may be
avoided by giving the coast a berth of at least 2 miles.
Early reports stated that there are no harbors or
anchorages on this coast that afford shelter during all winds.
The beach is for most part low and sandy, rising gently to
the mountain range behind.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in San Jose, Occidental
Mindoro covers only the southern portion of Mindoro
Island. Vessels in distress that are outside of the 25-mile
radius from the San Jose coast station may contact the
Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have a MF
DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in
Chapter 2 for details.
CAPE CALAVITE, at the foot of the slope of Mount
Calavite, forms the NW extremity of Mindoro. The Cape
is reported to give good radar returns up to 19 miles. From
Cape Calavite, the coast trends SE for about 7 miles to
PANTOCOMI POINT, the W entrance of Paluan Bay.
There are few outlying reefs. By giving the coast a berth of
over 1 mile, all dangers may be avoided.
Major Light - Cape Calavite Light (13° 26’ 45”N.,
120° 18’ 00”E.) is shown from a white tower on W end of
the cape.
PALUAN BAY (CHART 4343) is entered between
Pantocomi and Camtas (locally called Tambo) Points, with
an opening about 4.7 miles E. The bay indents the coast
N for about 3 miles. Several river empties into the bay,
with coconuts dominating the coastline flora. The entrance
points are each fringed by a drying reef that extends about
550 m offshore, and by giving them a berth of at least 0.5
mile, all dangers will be avoided.
PAMUTUSIN COVE, in the NW corner of the bay
and about 500 m in extent, is a fairly protected anchorage
for moderate-sized vessels during the SW monsoon, with a
depth of 26 m (14 fm), mud bottom.
PALUAN, the town on the NE shore of the bay, is
on the banks of PALUAN RIVER. Also reported are the
shipments of lumber and copra bound for Manila through
small local sailing vessels. Mail accordingly reaches
5 the town weekly via Abra de Ilog and Mamburao towns.
Mobile phone communication and Internet connection are
available. Landing is made on the sandy beach fronting the
town. The town has electricity and most daily necessities
are already available.
10
ANCHORAGES - Good anchorage is in the N part of
the bay in 26 m (14 fm), to which the water suddenly shoals
from 37 m (20 fm), with the mouth of the river bearing
090o, with a distance of 1 mile. About 1 mile from the
15 beach; the bottom is sticky, black mud. More convenient
anchorage may be had with the metal-roofed building
S of the town bearing 100o in 17 m (9 fm), mud bottom.
Moderate-sized vessels can find some protection from the
SW monsoon by anchoring in the middle of Pamutusin Cove
20 as already mentioned. During NE monsoon, anchorage
is recommended in Mariil Cove, about 1.3 miles S of the
town, in 18.3 m (10 fm).
A shoal bank, with a depth of 9.4 m (30.8 ft), lies about
25 1.2 miles WSW of Camtas Point, from there, it deepens to
13.7 m (45 ft) about 240 m S. Another shoal, about 550 m
long by N and S with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm), is 2.5 miles
NW of Binarera Point and 1.5 miles from shore.
30 BINARERA POINT, about 7 miles SE of Pantocomi
Point, is high, rocky, and has good water close to it. When
viewed from Paluan Bay, a large rock shows immediately
offshore from the point.
35 From Binarera Point, the coast trends SE for 2.5 miles
to IGSOSO POINT.
IGSOSO BAY, entered between Igsoso Point and
Tubili Point and about 2.8 miles SSE, indents the coast to a
40 distance of a little over 1 mile. The bay is fully exposed to
the SW winds.
TUBILI POINT, SE of Binarera Point, is prominent.
It is reportedly a wooded peninsula and connected to the
45 mainland by a low isthmus. A reef projects some distance
from the point but by giving it a berth of from 0.8 to 1 mile,
all dangers will be avoided.
Major Light - Tubili Point Light (13° 13’ 40”N., 120°
50 31’ 30”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the point.
From Tubili Point, the coast trends E for about 5
miles to CARAUISAN POINT, then SSE for 24 miles to
Sablayan Point. It is, for the most part, a low, sandy beach.
55
MAMBURAO BAY, between Tubili Point and
Mamburao Reef, is about 4.8 miles SE, but may actually
cover less due to the fringing reefs fronting both entrance
points. The bay affords good anchorage, except during SW
60 monsoon, in 9.1 m (5 fm), about 0.5 mile SW off the town
6-22
of Mamburao. In entering the bay, care should be taken to
give Mamburao Reef and the 3 m (1.6 fm) coral shoal 1
mile W of Carauisan Point a good berth.
Dangers - A reef, with a drying rock near its outer end,
extends 1.2 miles SSW of Carauisan Point. A rock, with a
depth of 0.9 m (3 ft) over it, lies 1.7 miles S of Carauisan
Point; and 2 miles WSW is a depth of 16.1 m (53 ft) as
reported in 1967.
Mamburao Reef extends 3.3 miles S from Carauisan
Point. Near its NW end are two rocks awash at low water,
its S end has a depth of 3 m (1.7 fm). A reef, with a sunken
rock near its outer end, extends about 1.2 miles SSW from
the same point, leaving a very narrow but deep channel
between it and Mamburao Reef.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off Mamburao Bay. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
TIDES - The mean tidal range at the port is about 0.8
m (2.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 0.9 m (3 ft).
TAYAMAAN, the barrio in the small cove about 2.7
miles E of Tubili Point, has a wharf and harbor for fishing
boats. Two white cylindrical tanks are at the head of the
cove.
MAMBURAO RIVER empties into Mamburao Bay
and is about 3.8 miles E of Tubili Point. Depths of about
0.6 to 0.9 m (2 to 3 ft) are reported at the bar at the entrance
to the river during low water. Small local vessels enter here
at high tide.
MAMBURAO, the capital of Occidental Mindoro,
is on level ground on the E bank of Mamburao River.
Some galvanized iron-roofed buildings in the town were
mentioned earlier to be visible about 4 miles offshore. The
Occidental Mindoro Provincial Capitol Building, situated
about 0.81 mile (1.5 km) E of the town proper, is the most
prominent building in the area visible from seaward.
Export shipments are composed of logs, copra, cattle,
and salted fish. There is a provincial hospital, a health center,
an ice plant, and a post office. Mobile phone communication
and Internet connection are available. Provincial roads
connect this town with other towns of Mindoro. Buses
going to Manila from San Jose pass through Mamburao.
Chartered planes are available at the Mamburao Airport,
located S of the town. Fuel oils and food are obtainable at
many places. Hotel accommodation is also available.
Anchorage, sheltered from the N and E winds, but
exposed to the SW monsoon, may be found at the mouth
of the river in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom. The river is easily
picked up and the mouth, when open, bears 000o. Vessels
bound to or from Mamburao should keep the town bearing
between 024o and 057o to avoid the foul ground off the
points W and Mamburao Reef on the E.
6-23
Southward of Carauisan Point the coast trends E for
3.5 miles to MAKOLBO POINT, then SE for 21 miles
to Pandan Bay. A spit, with a depth of 2.7 m ( 9 ft) over
its outer end, extends 0.7 mile W and SW from Makolbo
5 Point. TALABASI POINT is situated about 7.7 miles SE
of Makolbo Point. A 518 m (1699 ft) high peak is situated
4 miles ESE of Talabasi Point. The coast from Carauisan
Point to Talabasi Point and then to Sablayan Point is low
and intersected by several rivers whose mouths are fronted
10 by shallow bars. It rises gradually inland to mountainous
region.
PANDAN ISLANDS are two small islands about 0.7
and 1.8 miles NW of Sablayan Point.
15
NORTH PANDAN ISLAND, which is farthest from
Sablayan Point, is about 46 m (150 ft) high. The beach at
the E end of the island is occupied by a private resort. The
resort has a dive shop for tourists wishing to visit the Apo
20 Reef Natural Park. A restaurant, accommodations, and
Internet connection are also available.
SOUTH PANDAN ISLAND is about 30 m (100 ft)
high, both being densely wooded. The channel between the
25 islands is clear of dangers. However, the channel between
South Pandan Island and Mindoro is foul.
PANDAN BAY (CHART 4337), E of Pandan Islands,
affords good protection exposed to the SW monsoon. A
30 reef, with a depth of 4 m (13 ft), lies about 250 m NE from
the N extremity of South Pandan Island. Reefs, with depths
of 8.2 and 2.1 m (27 and 7 ft), lie respectively, about 0.5
mile NE and 0.7 mile ENE of the same point.
35 Anchorage may be found in the S part of the bay in 12
to 26 m (6.5 to 14 fm), mud bottom, on the NE side of the
South Pandan between 0.25 mile to 0.3 mile from it.
SABLAYAN is a town on the W shore of the bay and E
40 side of the peninsula. From Sablayan, passengers and cargo
vessels ply the route for Batangas City, Lemery, Bauan, and
Manila. Supplies of ice, vegetables, fruits, fish, and meat
are available plus assorted goods in small stores. A coast
guard unit is stationed in the town.
45
Major Light - Sablayan Point Light (12° 49’ 54”N.,
120° 45’ 53”E.) is displayed from a tower in the peak of the
knoll on Sablayan Point.
50 Prominent Features - The church is situated S part of
the town at the foot of the wooded knoll, although reported
partly obscured by coconut trees. A radio tower is located
about 35 m SE of Sablayan Point Light.
55 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Sablayan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428389 and +63998-5854831.
Berthing Facility - There is a rock causeway with
60 a length of 112.2 m and a pavement 4 m wide located in
Sablayan Anchorage about 0.2 mile NE of Sablayan Point
Light. A reinforced concrete pier, 9 m wide by 24 m long,
is an extension of the rock causeway at its offshore end.
The end of the pier exhibits damage, while the least depth
is about 7 m as reported in 1990. Landing, other than at
the pier, can be made accordingly at the mouth of the river
located at the head of the bay, where there is a break in the
shore reef.
Anchorage may be had about 460 m ESE of the church 10
in depth of 29 m (16 fm), rocky bottom, with Sablayan
Point bearing 270o. Vessels should not bring the point to
bear less than 270o, as the bottom is rocky and uneven, with and is of no value to navigation. A beacon stands about 2.5
the depth decreasing rapidly toward the reefs. The shoal is miles ESE from the mouth of the river and near the coast.
in the middle of the bay, with the old church bearing W 15
or 270o. Smaller crafts with local knowledge can enter the
lagoon and anchor in its middle part.
From Sablayan Point the coast trends SSE for about
6.8 miles to DONGON POINT, which is low and sandy.
There are but few outlying reefs, and by giving the coast a
berth of over 1 mile, all dangers will be avoided.
DONGON BAY, entered E of Dongon Point is about
2 miles SE from the same point. The bay is deep and
can afford protected anchorage when close to the shore,
sheltered from the N and E winds.
Major Light - Dongon Point Light (12° 43’ 22”N.,
120° 47’ 58”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Dongon
Point.
From Dongon Point the coast trends SE for 13.5 miles
to Lumintao River. There are a few outlying reefs, but by
giving the coast a berth of over 1 mile all dangers will be
avoided.
IRIRON ROCK, 8 miles SE of Dongon Point and 0.6
mile offshore, is a jagged rock about 12.2 m (40 ft) high,
surrounded by a coral reef about 230 m in diameter. The
reef bares at low water and lies 0.8 mile NNW of Iriron
Rock and 0.7 mile offshore of Mindoro. Another reef with
a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm) lies 1.3 miles NNW of Iriron Rock
and about 0.5 mile offshore.
IRIRON BAY, a slight indentation of the coast, is 1.4
miles SE of Iriron Rock and affords good anchorage for
small vessels during the NE monsoon.
TUSK PEAK at 897 m (2,943 ft) and 6 miles ENE
of Iriron Rock, is a prominent landmark for fixing position
when offshore.
LUMINTAO RIVER empties 6.5 miles S of Iriron
Rock have shoals and of no value to navigation.
From Lumintao River the coast trends SSE for 6.5
miles to the mouth of Bugsanga River and then SE for
5.5 miles to BUBUG POINT at the entrance to Mangarin
Bay. This coast is uniformly low, steep-to, and sandy. At
the back of high water line lies a sandy terrace 1.8 to 3.7
m (6 to 12 ft) high. The flora is scrubbly timber 6 to 18 m
(20 to 60 ft) high and, in some places, cogon grass extends
directly to the beach.
5
There is no coral fringing this part of the coast except
at BUGSANGA POINT, located S from the mouth of the
river of the same name, where there is a small shore reef
about 90 m wide, with a sand and coral spit with depths of
11 to 15 m (6 to 8 fm).
BUGSANGA RIVER has very little water on its bar
SAN AGUSTIN is a settlement SE of the mouth of
Bugsanga River.
BUBUG POINT, at the entrance of Mangarin Bay,
20 is the NW end of the runway of San Jose Airport. About
1.5 miles N of Bubug Point and 460 m from the shore is
a narrow rocky ledge, about 0.5 mile long and less than 9
m wide, with a depth of 2.1 m (7 ft), surrounded by depths
of 9.1 m (30 ft) and sandy bottom. This ledge in a straight
25 line runs NW and opposite direction and lies almost parallel
with the shore. To avoid swinging onto the ledge, a vessel
should not anchor in less than 12.8 m (7 fm) when near this
vicinity.
30 Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables lands
on the coast about 0.9 mile SE of Bubug Point. Anchoring
and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine
cables.
35 Tidal Currents off Bubug Point run parallel to the
shore with an estimated velocity of about 2 knots.
MANGARIN BAY (CHART 4340), formed by the
coast of Mindoro and Ilin Island, is easily accessible and
40 affords good anchorage for all classes of vessels at most
seasons of the year. It may be entered from the N, W, or
through Ilin Strait. The outer part of the bay is shallow
although the development lately of the Port of San Jose in
Caminawit Point has somewhat changed that description.
45 The head of the bay, facing N, will lead to the port; but
never proceed farther from it as the bottom is shoal and E
of it is dangerously shallow. Currents with velocity of 1.5
knots have been observed in Mangarin Bay.
50 A buoy marks a 3.05 m (10 ft) detached shoal lying
about 320 m SW from the end of Caminawit Point.
DONGON REEF is a large, dangerous coral reef,
about 2.8 miles SW from Bubug Point, in the W approach
55 to Mangarin Bay. The reef is less than 0.5 mile wide and
has a cay of coral and sands, which is called DONGON
CAY, situated N end of Dongon Reef. Several sunken rocks
lie close off the S side of the reef. The channel between
Dongon Reef and Manadi Islet, located 2.2 miles E from it,
60 and the channel between Dongon Reef and Ilin Island are
6-24
deep and clear.
CLEARING MARKS - The W tangent to Ambulong
Island, bearing 175o, will carry a vessel well W of the reefs
or 0.6 mile W of Dongon Reef and 0.5 mile W of Sardine
Reef. The latter reef being situated on the S side of the W
channel of Mangarin Bay. When the end of Caminawit
Point, bearing 091o, and the same point, bearing 074o, will
clear the N and S sides, respectively, of Dongon Reef.
SAN JOSE, a town centered about 1.8 miles ESE of
Bubug Point, serves as the economic center of the Province
of Occidental Mindoro. Major commercial banks, fast
food restaurants, and other commercial establishments
are available. Postal services, telephone, mobile phone
communication, and Internet connection are available.
The town serves the terminal of buses going to Manila via
the RoRo vessel in Abra de Ilog Port. The nearest airport,
located about 1 mile NW of the town, has regular flights to
Manila. There are two general hospitals and several private
clinics.
Prominent Features - Several roofs of buildings and
houses in this town are visible at sea.
CAMINAWIT POINT was developed into Port
of San Jose over the years. The point is a long, low land
extending SE and 2 miles from San Jose town proper.
The area between it and the coast of Mindoro is shallow,
but around the port, the dredging has already changed the
bottom topography.
Major Light - Caminauit Light (12° 19’ 50”N., 121°
05’ 12”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Caminawit
Point. It was reported to be obscured by trees.
Tides - The mean tidal range at the port is about 0.8 m
(2.6 ft) and the diurnal range is about 1.1 m (3.6 ft).
Port Management - the government pier, about 150
m NW from the point, is operated by PPA TMO - San Jose,
which may be contacted at telephone no. (+6343) 491-2707.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in the
area may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428419 and +63998-5854833.
Berthing Facilities include the 60 m long old pier
being used by wooden sea craft or “batels,” with alongside
depth of 1 m to 2 m. There is a 60 m long concrete wharf,
with alongside depth of 3 m, and a 74 m long concrete pier
projecting from the wharf. A RoRo ramp is at the offshore
end of the pier. Storage facilities include a 1,612 sq m open
area and a 225 sq m warehouse.
A new concrete pier, 50 m long, is located on the S
shore of the point. It has deeper draft compared to the old
berthing facilities in the inner part of the bay.
Port Services - Cargo handling services, fresh water
6-25
delivery, and bunkering are available. Fuel and provisions
can be purchased in San Jose in limited quantities. Pilot
guide is not compulsory. The town has no shipyard and the
nearest is in Batangas.
5
MANGARIN BAY (CHART 4340), formed by the
coast of Mindoro and Ilin Island, is easy of access and
affords good anchorage for all classes of vessels at most
seasons of the year. It may be entered from the N or W
10 or through Ilin Strait. The outer part of the bay is shallow
although the development lately of the Port of San Jose in
Caminawit Point has somewhat changed that description.
The head of the bay, N will lead to the port but never
proceed farther from it as the bottom is shoal and E it is
15 dangerously shallow. Currents with velocity of 1 1/2 knots
have been observed in Mangarin Bay.
A buoy marks a 3.05 m (10 ft) detached shoal lying
about 320 m SW from the end of Caminawit Point.
20
DONGON REEF is a large, dangerous coral reef,
about 2.8 miles SW from Bubug Point, in the W approach
to Mangarin Bay. The reef is less than 0.5 mile wide and
has a cay of coral and sands, which are all called DONGON
25 CAY, situated N end of Dongon Reef. Several sunken rocks
lie close off the S side of the reef. The channel between
Dongon Reef and Manadi Islet, 2.2 miles E from it, and
also the channel between Dongon Reef and Ilin Island are
deep and clear.
30
CLEARING MARKS - The W tangent to Ambulong
Island, bearing 175o, will carry a vessel well W of the reefs
or 0.6 mile W of Dongon Reef and 0.5 mile W of Sardine
Reef. The latter reef being situated on the S side of the W
35 channel of Mangarin Bay. When the end of Caminawit
Point bearing 091o and the same point bearing 074o will
clear the N and S sides, respectively, of Dongon Reef.
MANADI ISLET is a small sand cay with several
40 trees growing on it with their tops making an elevation of
6.1 m (20 ft). It lies E side of a small circular drying reef
located about 2.5 miles W of the end of Caminawit Point
and about 1.5 miles from the beach of San Jose.
45 DIRECTIONS - Vessels coming from the N should
steer a course of 149o toward Mount Ilin passing between
Manadi Islet and Dongon Reef, then round 0.6 mile W
through 0.8 mile S of Manadi Islet until the tangent to
Caminawit Point bears 70o, steer on that bearing and anchor
50 as appropriate depending on the vessels draft. Formerly,
good anchorage was reported to be about 0.8 mile WSW of
Caminawit Point, in 11 m (6 fm), mud bottom; but a place
of berthing is now possible at the Port of San Jose.
55 Vessels entering Mangarin Bay by the W channel
should avoid Sardine Reef by bringing the western tangent
of Ambulong Island to bear 175o. Steer on that course until
Manadi Islet bears 057o, Mount Ilin bears 105o, and the
point of Caminawit at 70o; then change course to 70o and
60 proceed about 0.8 mile from the tip of Caminawit Point to
anchor in 11 m (6 fm), mud bottom. BURUNCAN POINT, the S extremity of Mindoro, is
composed of low limestone cliffs much underworn by the
Vessels coming from the S through Ilin Strait should sea. The land backward rises rapidly and is 77 m (253 ft)
steer for Manadi Islet immediately when it bears 311o in high 550 m away from the point. Around the point, it is free
order to avoid Liscum Reef. When Caminawit Point bears 5 of danger and can be passed with safety 0.5 mile offshore.
030o, the course should be altered to the N until the same The 20 m (10.9 fm) curve fronts the N shore of the bay at
point bears 070o, and the anchorage area can be located by a distance of about 1.3 miles. The depths shoal gradually
steering on that direction as suggested previously. within this curve. Buruncan Point is reported to give good
radar returns up to 18 miles.
From BANCAL POINT, Mindoro, the coast trends SE 10
for about 3 miles, forming the NE side of Ilin Strait, and GARZA ISLAND, about 2.3 miles W of Buruncan
then ESE for 8.5 miles to Buruncan Point, the S extremity Point, is small and composed of sand and coral cay covered
of the island of Mindoro. The 20 m (10.9 fm) curve lies with mangroves and small trees, some of which were
about 0.3 mile W of Bancal Point. reported to be 18.2 m (60 ft) high. It is surrounded by a
15 coral reef that bares at low water. Shoal water, with a depth
CAGURAY POINT, about 1 mile S of Bancal Point, of 1.8 m (6 ft), extends 550 m N of the N side of the islet,
is low, covered with mangroves, and surrounded by shoal and, from its S side, a shoal wider than the islet extends S
water extending about 230 m. for about 2 miles with irregular depths of 5.5 m (3 fm) to
16.5 m (9 fm).
CAGURAY RIVER, on the N side of the point of the 20
same name is reported to be navigated by pulling boats to Caution - Tide rips form off the S end of the shoal
the barrio of CAGURAY, which is about 1.3 miles E of the area. Between Garza Island and Mindoro is a good, deep
entrance. channel about 0.5 mile wide between the 10 m (5.5 fm)
curves.
LALAWIGAN BAY, between Caguray and Lalawigan 25
Points, indents the coast to a distance of 0.6 mile. The bay is ILIN STRAIT (CHART 4340), between Mindoro
very shallow and of no value to navigation. and Ilin Islands, is straight, deep, and clear. Owing to the
prevalence of light airs, it should not be attempted by a
SANTA TERESA (LALAWIGAN) is the barrio near sailing vessel unless the wind is fair.
the beach and about 0.5 mile SSE of Lalawigan Point. A 30
shoal bank, which bares at low water, extends about 370 Currents - The flood current sets SSE through Ilin
m S from the coast of Santa Teresa and Cominauet Point. Strait, E along the S coast of Ilin Island, and in the outer part
Shoal water extends about 730 m offshore in front of the of Pandarochan Bay. The ebb current sets in an opposite
barrio. A 110 m long pier, connected to the shore by a direction.
causeway, is located S of the barrio. 35
Directions - When entering the strait from the N, keep
CARMEN, another settlement near the coast is about Manadi Islet astern, bearing 311o, in order to give Liscum
0.4 mile ESE of Santa Teresa. Reef a good berth. In passing through the strait, the Ilin
Island side should be favored as the water shoals suddenly
COMINAUET POINT, located E side of the entrance 40 on the Mindoro side. After clearing the strait, it should
of the S end of Ilin Strait or about 1.3 miles SE of Lalawigan be kept open astern until the S extremity of Garza Island
Point, is a low, rocky bluff faced by shoal water, with depths is in range with Buruncan Point bearing about 094o, then
of less than 5.5 m (3 fm) over it and extending SW to SSW the course should be changed to 125o and held on while
for about 0.6 mile. This fact must always be borne in mind navigating for a distance of about 6.2 miles until Garza
by those entering or leaving the S end of Ilin Strait. 45 Island bears 001o at 3.2 miles away. This course will avoid
the dangers S of Garza Island. After which, the next course
SANTA TERESA HILL, a prominent, round-topped may then be shaped as desired.
hill, 122 m (400 ft) high, is about 1 mile NE of Santa Teresa.
Vessels entering the strait from the S and E should
PANDAROCHAN BAY is at the S entrance to Ilin 50 pass midway between Mangsoagui Point and Garza Island
Strait, between MANGSOAGUI POINT of Ilin Island and or about 2.6 miles away from both coasts, then follow the
Buruncan Point of Mindoro, about 7.1 miles ENE. The head reverse of the directions given above. When passing S of
of the bay, or N shore, is low and sandy with mangroves and Garza Island, give a berth of 3 miles or more, then proceed
scrub timber behind it. Five small rivers, with bars nearly W to locate the reverse of the directions given previously.
bare at low water, empty into the N shore of the bay. 55
PROTECTED ANCHORAGE may be found in
ALIBUG POINT, located 1.9 miles NW of Buruncan Ilin Strait, in 25.6 to 29.3 m (14 to 16 fm), mud bottom,
Point, can be identified by the small village of ALIBUG about 230 m from the beach on the Mindoro side. From
standing close ENE of it. this anchorage, Manadi Islet will be seen open of the NE
60 point of Ilin Island and the SE point of Ilin Island open to

6-26
Caguray Point.
ILIN ISLAND, separated from the S part of Mindoro
by Ilin Strait, is high, narrow, and wooded. The highest
points are MOUNT ILIN, 208 m (682 ft) at the N end, and
MOUNT NATANGDOL, 203 m (755 ft) near the S end.
Mount Natangdol is the summit of a sharp ridge running in
a NNW and opposite direction and is the most prominent
feature of the island from all directions except at the N. The
N and E sides of Ilin Island are fringed by narrow, steep-
to reefs and are backed by densely wooded hills. North of
TABAI POINT, the coast is indented to a distance of about
0.7 mile by a reef-filled bight.
MANIMOC HILL, 98.5 m (323 ft) high, stands close
SW of Tabai Point. On the W side, near the N end, a wide
reef, which partly bares at low water, extends about 1 mile.
The remainder of the W side of the island is fringed by
reefs, which at no place are over 0.5 mile wide.
Detached patches with depths of 4 to 9 m (13 to 30 ft)
extend up to 0.8 mile W from the shore abreast the village
of ILIN and SALONGSOGON POINT. Almost similar
depths lie up to 730 m W of BOGTON POINT, located
about 0.75 mile S of Salongsogon Point.
DAVIS ROCK lies awash on the edge of the fringing
reef in a position about 0.5 mile S of Bogton Point.
ILIN POINT, the S extremity of the island pointing
toward the W, is steep-to with deep water close in and can
be passed with safety 0.5 mile offshore. The tidal currents
off the point flood E and ebb W.
SARDINE REEF, is a small coral reef, with a least
depth of 3.9 m (2.1 fm) and surrounded by deep water, about
1.8 miles W of Ilin Island and 2.5 miles N of Ambulong
Island. A bearing of 175o leads clear of the W side of Ilin
Island while a bearing of 085o leads well clear off its N side.
AMBULONG STRAIT, between Ilin and Ambulong
Island, is comparatively straight and free from danger but
of little value to navigation.
AMBULONG ISLAND, lying about 0.8 mile off the 45
W of Odol Point, of Ilin Island, is separated from the latter
by Ambulong Strait. The coasts of the island are fringed by
narrow coral reefs. The land is hilly, reported to be well-
wooded, and is 167 m (548 ft) high in its N part. On the W
side from a summit of a hill stands the tower of Ambulong 50
6-27
Light (12° 12’ 35”N., 121° 00’ 31”E.). This island is
reported to give good radar returns for up to 18 miles.
AMBULONG, the barrio on the E side of the island,
5 has a 75-meter long pier for use by small ferry and fishing
boats.
BOGNAO INLET, from the W side of Ambulong
Island, is a narrow entrance, inside of which is a lagoon
10 nearly circular in shape and about 0.5 mile in diameter.
There is a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) in the entrance of the
lagoon. However, it is blocked by reefs.
CACURRAYAN INLET is about 0.8 mile in extent,
15 with its entrance nearly blocked by BURI ISLET and its
surrounding reefs. There is a narrow channel E and N of
Buri Islet leading to a very contracted anchorage having a
shoal spot toward its NW side. Fish traps and nets occupy
the large portion of the inlet.
20
Buri Islet is occupied by a private resort. The resort
has accommodations and a restaurant. Floating cottages are
located N of the islet.
25 LININOB ROCK is prominent at 7.6 m (25 ft) high,
with a tree growing on it. This rock is located on the shore
reef on the N side of the entrance to Carurrayan Inlet. Shoal
water extends about 275 m S of it.
30 BANIAGA REEF, about 0.9 mile SSE of PABUGAN
POINT, the S extremity of Ambulong Island, and SW of
Silong Bay, is covered by irregular depths of 0.3 to 9.1 m
(1 to 30 ft).
35 BANIAGA ROCK, flat and about 4.6 m (15 ft) high
near its S edge, sufficiently marks its location. There are
several rocks awash at low water along the W edge of the
reef. Between the said reef and Ambulong Island lies a
good channel.
40
About 1.6 miles ENE of Baniaga Rock or 1.4 miles
E of Panican Point, Ilin Island, is a small, detached, rocky
patch with a least depth of 8.8 m (29 ft).
SILONG BAY is between Ambulong and Ilin Island. In the
NE part of the bay, off the W coast of Coronearion Point,
Ilin Island, are a number of detached shoal patches with
depths of 0.3 to 5 m (1 to 16.5 ft). Silong Bay furnishes
a convenient anchorage, with poor holding ground, in N
weather only.
 CHAPTER 7
VISAYAN ISLANDS AND WATERS
NORTHWARD OF PANAY
CHART 4706
The Romblon Islands is a group of islands located the E. In other years, it attains its full force in May. In
between the major Philippine islands of Luzon, Mindoro, this case, the SW winds are less permanent from June to
Masbate, and Panay. The islands, excluding Boracay Island, September and are replaced by longer periods of variable
comprises the Province of Romblon. The largest island is breezes.
Tablas Island. However, the seat of provincial government 5
is in the town of Romblon on Romblon Island. The NE monsoon begins toward the end of September
or beginning of October. During September, the winds blow
The province is generally mountainous with about 40% alternately from NE, SE, or SW, but with more persistence
of its land area having slopes greater than 50%. Narrow from SW; during the interval of change there are light
strips of coastal lowlands, low hills and plains typify the 10 winds, calms, and tornadoes.
topography of some of the islands.
During October, November, and the early part of
The islands are dispersed and accessible only by sea December, the monsoon blows with strength from the N
transportation except for Tablas Island where a domestic and the NE, accompanied by thick weather and rains. On
airport is located in the municipality of Alcantara. The main 15 account of the bad weather and the occurrence of typhoons,
economic activity in the island is agriculture, fishery, and this is the worst season of the year for navigating the strait.
marble quarrying. After the middle of December, the gales cease and the
winds blow strongly from NE, E, and SE, with much thick
SIBUYAN SEA weather and rain until the March equinox; from which time
(CHART 1541 & 4218) 20 until the monsoon ends, the winds vary from N to S through
E, sometimes blowing with force, and, at other times, light
The SIBUYAN SEA is the large body of water S of and variable airs and calms. Typhoons are more prevalent
Luzon and E of Mindoro. The routes from Verde Island in the months of June to November, inclusive, and 1/5 of all
Passage to San Bernardino Strait and to Iloilo and Cebu the typhoons occur in September.
along the N coast of Panay cross, respectively, the N and S 25
parts of the sea. The following notes on the winds, weather, Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables were
and tidal currents along the routes may be of value to laid in various areas of Sibuyan Sea. Anchoring and fishing
navigators. are prohibited within the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Refer to the nautical charts for the details of the submarine
The SW monsoon generally begins about the middle 30 cables.
or end of April, with winds from SW and W, which at times
blow freshly, alternating irregularly with the NE winds. Current - In the absence of more definite information,
These winds are first felt in the part included between Verde the knowledge gained by most pilots could be substituted for
Island Passage and the meridian of Marinduque Island. the purpose since they accordingly agree on the following
In this part, they blow stronger than the variable winds 35 points: That from the E entrance to San Bernardino Strait to
from N to S through E, and are experienced farther E, and about the meridian of Bondoc Point (122o 36’E.), the flood
accompanied by thick weather and heavy squalls. current sets W and the ebb E; that from that meridian to the
Verde Island Passage, the reverse of this takes place; that
In April and May the winds are variable from N to S from the E mouth of the strait to the above meridian, the
through E, with occasional thick weather, heavy squalls, 40 flood current runs longer than the ebb in the NE monsoon,
and calms. This weather, persisting through June until the the reverse being found in the SW monsoon, and that the
SW monsoon, becomes established in the vicinity of Verde opposite condition to this is found from Bondoc W.
Island Passage.
Distress & Rescue – Remotely controlled coast
In general, the SW monsoon becomes established 45 station with VHF DSC alerting in Port of Romblon (12°
during June and blows from SSW to W, reaching at this 34’ 40”N., 122° 16’ 08”E.) covers the SW portion of
time as far E as Marinduque Island. These winds bring rain Sibuyan Sea. Vessels in distress may contact the above
at Manila and on the W coast of Luzon. mentioned remotely controlled station. Vessels in distress
that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC
In some years the SW monsoon is limited to the few 50 coast station may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
gales from the W, alternating with the variable winds from Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC
the E, which facilitate entering San Bernardino Strait from Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.

7-1
 TABLAS STRAIT
(CHART 1543, 1544 & 4218)
TABLAS STRAIT separates Romblon Islands from
Mindoro. It connects the SE entrance to Verde Island
Passage to Sulu Sea, via its entrance between Panay and
Mindoro Islands.
in limited supply. Ferry boats have regular trips to the town
of Pinamalayan while motorized bancas ferry people and
goods to the barrios of the island.
5 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station on the
island may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63995-
2959391 and +63998-5854836.

Caution – Submarine telecommunication cables Berthing Facility - The 34 m long wharf and the
and submarine pipeline carrying natural gas pass through 10 seawall fronting the town are used by motorboats for
Tablas Strait. Trawl fishing, anchoring, use of explosives loading and unloading goods and people.
and other activities that may damage the submarine cables
and pipeline are prohibited in the area up to 500 m on either Anchorage may be found in the middle of the port,
side of the said submarine cables and pipelines. S of the town, in 29 to 37 m (16 to 20 fm), rock and sand
15 bottom. Small vessels may anchor farther N near the town,
MAESTRE DE CAMPO, about 17.5 miles SSW and as always in the midway, at about 140 m of the E and
of Baltazar, the SW islet of Tres Reyes, and 10.8 miles E W shoreline. This inner anchorage affords shelter from
of Balete Point, E coast of Mindoro, is generally sparsely all winds but the swinging room is sufficient only for two
wooded. The summit, seen from E or W, appears like a vessels of about 25 m (80 ft) in length. During the NE
ridge with 3 distinct hills, the highest of which, near the 20 monsoon season in the months of October to March heavy
N part of the island, is 343 m (1,125 ft). The coastline is squalls blow from the hills. The Port of Concepcion was
rugged and rocky and, in some places, the cliffs are 15 to reported without commercial importance hence seldom
30 m (50 to 100 ft) high. The shores are steep-to, and the visited by commercial vessels.
island may be safely approached at any point within 550
m (0.3 mile). The numerous bights in the coastline afford 25 BIDOOS BAY, entered between Batarya Point and
anchorage and protection to small crafts. The island was San Martin Point, is immediately E of Port Concepcion
previously described to be poor; with copra and tobacco and separated by a narrow tongue of land, and with
being raised by the people. AGBATANG BAY on the S side of the island, they are the
principal breaks in the shoreline of Port Concepcion. They
Major Light - Mahaba Point Light (12° 55’ 54”N., 30 are open S, fringed with coral and only fit for small craft.
121° 40’ 55”E.) is shown on Mahaba Point located on the
W coast of the island. The barrios of San Vicente and San Pedro are located
at heads of Bidoos and Agbatang Bays, respectively.
PORT CONCEPCION (CHART 4453), an
indentation on the SE side of the Maestre de Campo, is 35 BACHAWAN, the barrio at the head of a small bay
the principal anchorage. The port is very small but deep, about 1 mile NE of Mahaba Point, has a small pier for use
at more than 16.5 m (9 fm), in the approach near the town of motor bancas.
of Concepcion. The port can be easily accessed and affords
some protection, except the from E and SE winds. The DOS HERMANAS, two islets consisting of CARLOTA
shores are fringed by reefs except at the head of the N 40 and ISABEL lie about 11.2 miles NE of Batuanan Point,
arm where there is a sandy beach. This part of the port is Maestre de Campo Island or 10.5 miles SSW of Elefante
extremely narrow and should only be used by small vessels Islet, off the S point of Marinduque. They are the summits
with local knowledge. of the twin peaks, separated about 1.5 miles apart, E and W.
From a distance they are similar in appearance, both with
Prominent Features - A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete pole 45 a uniform straight and level skyline dropping to the water
for a proposed light is located on top of a hill at TUNGGO in terrace at each end. The shoreline presents on the sides
POINT, the S entrance point to the port. forbidding cliffs, from 6 to 24 m (20 to 80 ft) high, and
underworn by the sea in some places to a distance of 12.2
Major Lights - Port Concepcion Light (12° 54’ 04”N., m (40 ft), making landing difficult anywhere except in the
121° 43’ 23”E.) and Tunggo Point Light (12° 54’ 15”N., 50 best of weather. On the N side of each island is a narrow
121° 43’ 16”E.) are both displayed from Tunggo Point. fringe of coral bare at low water, and NE from Carlota is a
narrow coral spit sloping gradually to 45.7 m (25 fm) at a
CONCEPCION, a town in the E shore of Port distance of 0.5 mile.
Concepcion, is the most inhabited part of the island. Mail
service is maintained with the nearest town of Pinamalayan, 55 Both islands are reported densely wooded, the tops of
Oriental Mindoro. Telephone and mobile phone which are 49 m (161 ft) high on Carlota and 72 m (236
communications are available in the town center. Medical ft) on Isabel. Carlota is inhabited by several families of
facilities were reported to be unavailable anywhere. Potable fishermen at its N shore, where a small valley runs a short
water is available from wells and from the centralized water distance inland and a small coral beach is at its shore. Isabel
pump of the municipality. Electricity is also available, but 60 is reported uninhabited from the same old data. The best

7-2
anchorage in this vicinity is on the coral spit NE of Carlota.
Tidal Currents - In the vicinity of Dos Hermanas, the
currents from Verde Island Passage have the greater effect,
the flood running ENE or E, and the ebb generally due W.
Added to these currents is the effect of wind current to the
SW, which is 0.2 to 0.5 knots during the NE monsoon, and
opposite in direction and weaker during the SW monsoon.
BANTON ISLAND, with its E extremity at Goto Point,
is about 7.2 miles SE from Isabel Island of Dos Hermanas.
Banton consists of a central ridge 596 m (1,955 ft) high at
the N end and occupying the larger part of the island. From
E or W, the full length of the ridge may be seen, regular
along the summit, with a slight dip to the S, while, from
the N or S, the crest appears as a small cluster of several
very sharp peaks rising steeply to the E, covering more than
1/2 the width of the island. The N and E sides are nearly
straight with no special features. The W side is broken by
two points between which lies MAINIT BAY and, on each
side, a smaller bight. This bay and the two smaller bays on
either side are too deep and exposed to provide anchorage.
The shores are formed by dark limestone cliffs 12 to 24 m
(40 to 80 ft) high and coarse sand beaches with many large
boulders.
There is a narrow and steep-to coral reef fringing the
entire island except the NE and SW points, where the cliffs
come down to sheer deep water. From old reports, the
inland flora mixed with occasional patches of small trees,
thin cogon grass, and a few cultivated fields seen from
seaward, but, in many places, the hillsides show only bare
and broken rocks and ledges.
BANTON (JONES), fronted by an open shingle
beach, is a town on the E shore, in a little elbow of the
hills. It contains a large stone church and fort. The
municipal building, as mentioned earlier painted in white,
is prominent and located on the beach. Incoming cargoes
from Calatrava, San Agustin, Romblon, all of Romblon
Province and Pinamalayan of Mindoro; and Lucena City
are composed of household goods. Export products, mostly
livestock and poultry, are shipped to Manila, Lucena City,
and Romblon. Electricity and telephone connection are
reported to be available. Potable water is sourced from
wells throughout the town.
Berthing Facility - The town has a small wharf with
two fingers, 37 m and 67 m long, at its ends. Landing is
difficult in any but the smoothest weather and dangerous
when there is any surf.
Anchorage - Only a precarious anchorage may be
found off Banton Island, either off the point S of the town
or on a coral shelf off the SE point, both in 27.4 m (15 fm).
BANTONCILLO ISLET is small, steep-to, and about
3.2 miles WSW from POGOT POINT, the SW tip of Banton
Island. The N summit is flat, reported to be grass-covered
and about 43 m (142 ft) high. The S part is thickly covered
with trees and bushes and is 98 m (322 ft) high. The shores
are coarse shingle beaches and limestone ledges, fringed by
a narrow, steep-to, coral reef. There is a bare pinnacle rock
26.5 m (87 ft) high close to its SW shore.
5
TIDAL CURRENT between Banton and Simara the
flood current runs NE with a velocity of 0.5 to 0.75 knot.
SIMARA ISLAND, about 4.1 miles S of Banton
10 Island, is 229 (751 ft) high. The shores are bold with no
deep bights except at the SW end, where there is a mangrove
swamp, which is recognizable only when close inshore,
occupying the center of the low W spit, and entirely closed
by reefs. The N or NW shore is low throughout and fringed
15 by large boulders along the edge of the narrow shore reef,
46 to 90 m (50 to 100 yd) from the shore. The usual low,
rough cliffs, and coral beaches are found, but, at the NE
point, the face of the cliffs is 18 m (60 ft) high, with no
reef at its foot. Around the S point are coarse shingle and
20 sand beaches; off the town of Corcuera and W, the reef
is widest, having immerse coral heads along its edge and
slightly deeper water inside. Landing is possible only in fair
weather, or on the sheltered side of the island, and should
not be attempted when there is any surf.
25
Major Light - Corcuera Light (12° 47’ 51”N., 122° 01’
05”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Corcuera Point.
CORCUERA is a town on an open sand beach just
30 W of the S point and is visible from the usual track of sea
vessels. Electricity is only available in the government
hospital and vicinity. Telephone connection is reported to
be available. Ferry boats travel between the Corcuera and
the town of Calatrava on Tablas Island. Small wooden
35 ferryboats ply the Batangas route, including Pinamalayan,
Oriental Mindoro and Lucena City. Incoming cargoes are
household goods while exports consist of copra, cattle,
hogs, pebbles, and general cargo.
40 Berthing Facilities - The town has a 2 m wide and 75
m long rock causeway pier.
Anchorage - Due to the great depth of water close
to the edge of the reefs, there is no good anchorage
45 which could provide safe swinging space near the shore.
However, during fair weather small wooden ferry boats find
temporary shelter close to the prominent concrete shed of
the shore.
50 RANGER REEF is a small coral reef with a depth
of 3.7 m (12 ft) and surrounded by deep water, 2.2 miles
ESE of the peak of Simara Island and about 1.5 miles away
from its shore. It is only occasionally discernible by the
discoloration of water. Two coral patches, with depths of
55 14.6 m (8 fm) each, lie about 2.5 miles E of the E side of
the island and another similar patch lies about 0.6 mile off
its SE side. The S end of the island, kept on a W (270o)
bearing, will carry a vessel S of the reef and the NE point
of Simara, steered on for a 012o bearing, leads through a
60 good channel between Ranger Reef and Simara Island.
7-3
Anchorage may be found midway between this course and
the land bearing between 300o to 315o in depths of 20 to 26
m (11 to 14 fm). The channel between the island of Simara
and Guindauahan, N of Tablas, is 6.5 miles wide, deep and
clear.
TABLAS ISLAND
(CHART 1543, 1544 & 4339)
TABLAS ISLAND, with its W extremity of Macatol
Point, is about 27.4 miles E from the island of Buyallao, S
part of Oriental Mindoro. It is about 35 miles long from N
to S, separated from Mindoro to the W by Tablas Strait and
from Romblon Island to the E by Romblon Pass. A heavily
wooded central range of the hills traverses its length. There
is no good harbor except Looc Bay, a large indentation of
the W side, but sheltered anchorage may be found on either
side of the island according to the season of the year. The
usual track of sea vessels plying Manila and principal S ports
passing N and E of Tablas, is wide, deep and clear. A good
highway extends S from Odiongan to Looc and Alcantara
and from Odiongan N through San Andres (Despujols) to
CALATRAVA from whence it traverses a mountain pass to
San Agustin (Badajoz). Copra is the principal product of
the island.
CURRENTS - The currents on the W coast of Tablas
Island are almost wholly tidal and flood N, following the
general direction of the shore, with a strength of 0.5 knot.
Running very deep, they cause tide rips at abrupt changes
in depth. Much disturbed water is seen off Bagulayac Point.
The tidal currents on the E coast flood N and ebb S
with an estimated velocity of about 0.5 knot.
CAUTION - Submarine telecommunication cables
were laid in the pass between Tablas and Carabao Islands.
Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the
submarine cables.
TABLAS SUMMIT, at the NE extremity of the island,
is 665 m (2182 ft) high.
GORDA POINT, the NE point of Tablas Island, is
bold with deep water close-to. The distance from Tablas
Summit to Gorda Point is about 1.2 miles NNE.
Major Light - Gorda Light (12° 39’ 42”N., 122° 09’
06”E.) is displayed at Gorda Point. It is partially obscured
by Guindauahan Island. 50
The N coast of Tablas Island between Gorda Point
and DIABLO POINT is generally rugged and steep-
to. GUINDAUAHAN ISLET, 146 m (480 ft) high and
ORIGON ROCKS, composed of two pinnacles 34 and 12
m (112 to 40 ft) high, are off the N end of Tablas.
A shoal, about 0.8 mile in extent, consists of sand and
coral. It has a depth of 8.8 m (4.8 fm) and is 2 miles W 121° 59’ 20”E.) is displayed from a white tower near the
of Giundauahan Islet. Cobrador Islet, near the opening of 60 shore end of the government pier.
7-4
Guindauahan Islet, leads well N of this shoal.
Tidal Currents - Around Origon Rocks, W of
Guindauahan Islet, and between it and the 8.5 m (28 ft)
5 shoal are moderate tide rips. In the narrow channels between
the rocks, the islet and Tablas Island are found with currents
of as much as 1.5 knots.
The W coast of Tablas is formed by the W slope of the
10 central mountain ridge, which is narrow and well-defined.
The summits in the middle of the island are about 485 to
615 m (1,600 to 2,000 ft) high. In the center of the island
is BITAOGAN PEAK, which is 650 m (2133 ft) high and
appears as a rounded knob from E and W and sharp from
15 N and S. MOUNT LUNAS, at the back of Looc Bay, is a
ridge 490 m (1608 ft) high and is long and rounded from
E and W and sharp from N and S. With it, the range breaks
off to the low pass from Looc Bay to the town of Alcantara
on the E coast.
20
This part of the coast between Diablo Point and
Bagulayac Point, about 13 miles SSW, is indented by
numerous small coves and has a slight bow to the W.
ODIONGAN BAY lies near the S end of this stretch of
25 coast. This coast is for the most part, steep-to and there are
no off-lying dangers off it. There are several small villages
on this part of the coast, where anchorage may be taken
during the NE monsoon. The school buildings at SAN
ANDRES (DESPUJOLS) and LIBERTAD are visible from
30 offshore.
CALATRAVA, a settlement about 4.3 miles SW of
Guindauahan Island and ENE of Diablo Point by the same
distance, is facing the sea from its N. A concrete wharf
35 at the shore with stair landings serves as a terminal port
for the trade and commerce of Calatrava. This part is
being used as an entry point by three neighboring islands
of Maestre de Campo, Banton, and Simara into Tablas
Island, while cargo vessels also trade goods with the ports
40 of Batangas and Lucena. Cargoes brought in are mostly
general merchandise. Export items shipped to Batangas and
Lucena are composed of agricultural products, livestock,
and poultry.
45 ODIONGAN, considered as the largest town in the
island of Tablas, is on the S shore of Odiongan Bay. It is
of considerable commercial importance, having regular
shipping connection with Manila and Batangas. Motorized
boats call frequently from Mindoro and nearby provinces.
Telephone and mobile phone communications are available.
There are plenty of buses and jeepneys linking Odiongan
with other towns. Copra, hemp, cattle, chickens, and eggs
are being exported. Medical assistance may be availed
from local physicians. The town obtain fresh water from
55 a municipal reservoir. Grocery items, ice cream, gasoline,
kerosene and lubricating oils are available from local stores.
Major Lights – Poctoy Point Light (12° 25’ 18”N.,
 Poctoy Light (12° 24’ 17”N., 121° 58’ 47”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on the beach fronting the
town of Odiongan.
Port Management - The government pier of
Odiongan, about 0.25 mile S of Batiano Point, is managed
by PPA TMO-Poctoy, which can be contacted at telephone
no. (+6342) 567-5377. Maximum allowable draft at the
pier is 6.5 m.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Odiongan may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
8428399 and e-mail at cgssodiongan@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facilities include the 76 m long concrete
pier connected to a 209 m long rock causeway. Two RoRo
ramps are available. Available storage facility for the port is
the 3,500 sq m open storage area.
Port Services - Cargo handling services, bunkering,
and watering services are available from local companies.
Anchorage - Vessels may anchor about 0.5 mile NW of
Poctoy Light, in about 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom. Odiongan
Bay offers little protection from the SW monsoon and the N
winds also cause a heavy sea at the area.
BAGULAYAC POINT, which is located about 2.5
miles WSW of Poctoy Light, is rendered conspicuous by
a bare cliff and two large rocks, 9.1 and 9.8 m (30 and 65
ft) high, respectively. Much disturbed water is seen off
Bagulayac Point.
From Bagulayac Point, the coast trends in a general S
direction for 6.5 miles to Guinawayan Point, and then in a
SE direction for 3.2 miles to Cauit Point, the N entrance
point to Looc Bay. WAYSIDE ROCK, 4.6 m (15 ft) high,
lies close off MACATOL POINT, 2.1 miles NNW of
Guinawayan Point. Just W off Macatol Point is a big rock
Government pier of Poctoy.
(Photograph - PPA, Undated)
33 m (109 ft) high.
The S part of Tablas is a group of many sharp conical
hills, all bare and grassy except MOUNT MALBUG, 277
5 m (909 ft) high, and CALATON HILL, 245 m (804 ft) high,
on the E coast, which are dark and wooded. The shoreline
is largely covered by mangrove, with many beaches of
coral and sand, and some limestone cliffs. The shore reef is
continuous except off GUINAWAYAN POINT, and is from
10 0.1 to 0.6 mile wide.
COLASI HILL, 168 m (552 ft) in height, is behind
Guinawayan Point and shows prominently from the S. This
side of the island can be safely navigated by keeping about
15 1 mile outside of the salient points.
CAUIT POINT, the N entrance point of Looc Bay,
is low and bordered by mangroves. About 0.5 mile N of
the point are two conical hills with elevations of 50 and 62
20 m (164 and 203 ft). Cauit Point is fringed by a reef partly
bare at low water, which extends about 0.5 mile S into the
entrance to the bay. A 200 m long wooden jetty of a private
resort extends from the shore about 0.5 mile E of Cauit
Point.
25
AGOHO POINT the S entrance of Looc Bay is 27
m (89 ft) high with black bluffs and mangroves at the
shoreline. It is surrounded by a reef which extends about
225 m N leaving a deep channel about 720 m wide between
30 it and the reef extending S from Cauit Point.
LOOC BAY (CHART 4339), one of the best harbors of
refuge in the archipelago and the only sheltered anchorage
on the W coast of Tablas during the SW monsoon, is
35 entered between Cauit Point and Agoho Point, 1.2 miles
S and about 8 miles N of Cabalian Point, the S end of the
island. It affords 4 sq miles of anchorage in 20 to 33 m (11
to 18 fm), sticky mud bottom. The shores all around the bay
are grown with mangroves, with sandy beaches fronting the
7-5
town of Looc and in the E bight. The shore reef is from 180
to 550 m (0.1 to 0.3 mile) wide all around and steep-to at
its edges, except on the N and NW shore, where 9 m (5 fm)
are found 550 m (0.3 mile) offshore and 18.3 m (10 fm)
at a distance of 0.6 mile. Both the S and E bights have a
detached reef in them, close to the shore and well out of the
way of vessels.
Dangers - Looc Reef, about 730 m (0.4 mile) in extent,
above 0.6 m (2 ft) during low tide and surrounded by deep
water, is about 0.8 mile of the entrance to the bay. It is
rather steep-to and divides the inner entrance into two deep
channels. A school house at Looc, bearing 055o, leads well
N of the reef, and Cauit Point, bearing 326o, and the same
school house bearing 015o leads well W and E, respectively,
of it. Looc Reef Light (12° 14’ 51”N., 121° 58’ 50”E.), the
tower of which is prominent, is shown at the N part of the
reef.
Caution - Fish pens are located in the area 1.7 miles
SE of Agoho Point.
LOOC is on a low sandy shore in the N part of the
bay of the same name. Looc is connected by road to all
towns of Tablas. The port is used by fishing boats, cargo
and passenger wooden vessels, and small motorized boats.
Their usual routes are between the neighboring barangays,
Boracay Island, the town of Malay, and Roxas City.
Incoming goods are fresh milk, shells, and rice while export
are mostly copra and rice.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Looc
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8428450
and e-mail at cgsslooc@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facilities - A concrete pier, about 320 m
long extending almost S into the bay, serves as the terminal
port for the trade and commerce of the town.
A 120-meter long concrete pier is located at the head
of Looc Bay, about 2.5 miles SE of the town. Malbog Port
Light (12° 13’ 34”N., 122° 00’ 14”E.) marks the reef off
the pier.
Directions - Vessels from the N and approaching Looc
Bay should pass about 0.4 mile W of Guinawayan Point.
Bring the 6.1 m rock, the one on the reef SSW of Agoho
Point, to bear 147o and steer for it. This is sometimes difficult
to pick up due to the dark background of mangroves.
When Agoho Point bears 091o, steer for it until the
summit of Mount Lunas, 490 m (1608 ft) high and 3 miles
in the interior, bears 055o. Steering on this bearing leads
through the middle of the channel in 45.7 m (25 fm). When
Cauit Point bears 331o, the vessel may be hauled S with
the point astern for the recommended anchorage at the
entrance to the S arm. If intending to anchor off the town,
vessels should hold the 055o course until Cauit Point bears
294o; and then steer 144o, anchoring in 20 m (11 fm), sand
and mud bottom, when the Looc Reef Light bears 214o, or
7-6
closer in, if desired. Vessels from the S should bring Agoho
Point to bear 091o when about 1 mile distant, and steer for
it. When Mount Lunas bears 055o, it should be steered for,
with the previous directions followed.
5
From Agoho Point, the coast trends S, with a curve
E for 3 miles to Tuctuc Point, and consists of sand and
mangroves, changing to rocky cliffs at Tuctuc Point. The
bight between the points is fringed by a reef 0.3 mile to 0.5
10 mile wide, with a rock on it. This coast is best passed on a
001o and opposite course, giving Tuctuc Point a berth of
about 0.5 mile.
TUCTUC POINT, the westernmost point S of Looc
15 Bay, terminates in a dark rock, 35 m (115 ft) high, which
is shaped like a sugar loaf; it is clear and steep-to. From
Tuctuc Point to Capid Point, about 2 miles S, the points are
high cliffs, with sandy beaches in the bights. The shore reef
extends about 183 m (0.1 mile) offshore and is steep-to at
20 its outer edge.
CAPID POINT lies 2 miles SSE of Tuctuc Point, 67.7
m (222 ft) high and easily seen at night when in profile. It is
a narrow reef, outside of which, a bank of sand with a depth
25 of 31.1 m (17 fm) extends S for about 0.8 mile. Between
Capid Point and Tipolo Point, a distance of about 1.4 miles
SE, is an indentation of the coast 1 mile to NE. At the head
or inner shore of this indentation or inlet is the town of STA
FE. From CANYAYO POINT to Cabalian Point, 4 miles
30 SSE, the depths are very irregular from 0.5 to 1 mile from
shore. The shores are mangrove from Capid Point, with low
rocks and boulders at all the points. The hills show many
rounded summits and was reported earlier with only few
trees and bushes on them.
35
SANTA FE, the town at the head of an inlet located 1.8
miles E of Capid Point, can be recognized by a house with
a prominent iron roof. Incoming cargoes are composed of
copra and empty bottles, while the outgoing are rice, bottled
40 goods, cement, and general merchandise.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Santa
Fe may be contacted at mobile phone no. +630917-8428472
and e-mail at cgssstafe@yahoo.com.
45
Berthing Facility - A rock causeway pier, 90 m long
and extends W seaward from the tip of a sloping promontory,
serves as the main port of conveyance of passengers and
cargo for the town.
50
Anchorage - The anchorage area is inside the inlet
entrance, in 25.5 m (13.9 fm), mud bottom, with Canyayo
and Capid Points in range, or the N prominent iron roof
bearing 065o and a large bushy black tree on a dark roof hill
55 at the head of the bight bearing 046o. The latter bearing is a
very convenient one for entering. At this anchorage there is
about 183 m (0.1 mile) swinging room.
CABALIAN POINT, the S extremity of Tablas Island,
60 is low, sandy, and hard to distinguish at night. It is marked
by Cabalian Point Light (12° 06’ 13”N., 122° 00’ 43”E.),
which is shown from the top of a small hill at the point.
A flat, steep-to limestone ledge on which there are rocks
about 1.8 m (6 ft) high extends about 730 m (0.4 mile) from
the point. Cabalian Point should be given a berth of about
1 mile. Mount Malbug, 277 m (909 ft) high and located
about 7 miles N of the point, is reported dark wooded and
prominent.
rock with depths of 10.9 to 14.6 m (6 to 8 fm). A shoal of
coral and sand with a depth of 3.6 m (2 fm) is about 1.2
miles SSE of TUGDAN POINT. A reef, nearly dry at low
water, extends for nearly a mile NE from Tugdan Point.
5 This reef is steep-to all around its outer edge and partly
protects an anchorage off the barrio of Tugdan. Romblon
Airport is at the barrio. There are regular flights commercial
between this airport and Manila.

CABALIAN BANKS, extending S and SE from 10 The coast between Tugdan Point and PINEDA POINT,
Cabalian Point for a distance of 5.5 miles, are of coral and about 13.8 miles N, are both low, sandy and difficult to
sand with depths of 10 to 16.4 m (5.5 to 9 fm). The middle ascertain from offshore, is distinguished by the spurs
of the channel, in which there are depths in excess of 18.3 extending E to the coast from the main mountain range and
m (10 fm) between the banks and Tablas Island, is 1 mile S forming the steep, rocky points along the shore.
of Cabalian Point. 15
SANTA MARIA (CONCEPCION) is a small town
TIDAL CURRENTS coming through the passes S of 4.8 miles almost N of Tugdan Point and about 0.5 mile
Tablas Island cause heavy tide rips to form in the vicinity ESE of CATUMBAL POINT. Cargo vessels and motorized
of these shoals. boats from this town ply the route to Pinamalayan, Oriental
20 Mindoro and Calatrava, Romblon. Incoming shipments are
The E coast of Tablas has a general N and S trend and, composed of household goods while outgoing cargoes are
except off a few points, may be approached close-to. By copra, cattle, and hogs.
giving this coast a berth of 1.5 miles all dangers will be
avoided. BACHAWAN, a barrio about 4 miles N of Sta. Maria,
25 has a 40 m long concrete pier.
CABAHAN ISLAND, close to the shore, about 3
miles NNE of Cabalian Point and reported wooded is SAN AGUSTIN (BADAJOZ), a town on the N shore
84.4 m (277 ft) high. Its S and E shores are formed by red, of the small bight between Saung Point and Nalumsan
rocky cliffs, and its W and N shores were earlier mentioned Point, is 1.8 miles N of Pineda Point and reported to be
bordered with mangroves. Reefs and foul ground extend N, 30 connected by motorboat to the towns of Romblon and
W, and SW from the island to the SE coast of Tablas Island. Odiongan. A shipping line has regular trips between the
An islet, 21 m (69 ft) high, lies close off the NW extremity town and the towns of Romblon and Magdiwang in Sibuyan
of the island. A rocky islet 13 m (42 ft) high about 0.3 mile Island. Cargoes brought in are mostly rice, sugar, cement,
E of Cabahan Island is joined to it by reef. About 0.3 mile and other general merchandise. Exported shipments are
SSE from the SE point of Cabahan is PEZ ROCK, a red 35 agricultural products and livestock. Copra and hemp are
pinnacle 21 m (70 ft) high, between which and Cabahan the being shipped to this town from the surrounding area. It
water is deep. is connected to other towns by provincial road. Landline
and mobile phone communication are available. Food and
CALATON POINT, about 5.9 miles NE of Cabalian fuel oil products are available in limited quantities in stores.
Point, is formed by a promontory 245 m (804 ft) high, 40 Minor medical assistance may be had in town. Fresh water
reported black and heavily wooded, which projects 1.5 is obtained from a reservoir in the hills.
miles E from the coast. It shows a regular, half-oval profile
from all sides. Its shores are steep black cliffs with large Prominent Features - The radio tower on top of a hill,
boulders at the waterline. Foul ground extends as far as 1 located NW from the town, is prominent with its display
mile of the N face of the point. Calaton Hill Light (12° 10’ 45 of fixed red light as an aviation warning device. The white
50”N., 122° 04’ 06”E.) is displayed from the point. tower of San Agustin Light (12° 34’ 09”N., 122° 08’ 05”E.)
on Nalumsan Point is also prominent.
LUNAT POINT, 2.8 miles NW of Calaton Point, may
be described by the white-roofed houses and amenities of a Dangers - Caution must be exercised in approaching
private resort on the beach NW of it. Room accommodations 50 San Agustin to avoid the shoal water extending 0.3 mile
and restaurant are available in the resort. ESE of Nalumsan Point and the 2.4 m (1.3 fm) spot lying
0.3 mile SE of the same point or in the middle of the bight
ALCANTARA, a town 2.3 miles almost N of Lunat SE of San Agustin town proper. Per local reports, mariners
Point and 0.5 mile NNW of LAUAN POINT. It was reported tried to demolish this dangerous spot in vain. The shoals are
previously to be the terminus of a highway originating N 55 visible at half tide and break in moderate sea.
from the town of San Agustin (Badajoz). The pier fronting
the town is in ruins. Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Agustin may be contacted at mobile phone no. +630917-
About 6 miles of Calaton Point and 1.5 miles from the 8389375 and e-mail at cgsssanagromblon@gmail.com.
shores or E of PULA RIVER are shoal patches of sand and 60

7-7
 Berthing Facilities - Projecting SE from the town is
a 210 m long pier. About 200 m SW from this pier is the
RoRo pier.
Anchorage is 180 m (0.1 mile) off the town in depth of
12.8 m (7 fm). Vessels approach the anchorage by passing S
of the 2.4 m (1.3 fm) spot.
The shoreline between San Agustin (Badajoz) and
Carmen is bordered by reefs and shoals, which extend 0.5
mile offshore in places. Vessels should not approach close
to it.
CARMEN BAY, S of Tablas Summit and entered
between CANAPIAG POINT and BAILAN POINT, about
1.4 miles NNE, affords anchorage open only to the SE, in
25.5 m (13.9 fm) mud bottom, with Tablas Summit bearing
023o and the peak of Biariangan Island bearing 090o, or in
the same depth about 730 m (0.4 mile) NE of the town of
Carmen.
A shoal, which bares at extreme low water, is in the
center of the bight forming the N end of Carmen Bay. A 6.4
m (3.5 fm) coral head is about 460 m (0.2 mile) S of Bailan
Point, and a 5.4 m (3 fm) spot is 730 m (0.4 mile) off the
middle of the W side and near the point of the shore reef.
CARMEN, the barrio at the end of the bay of the
same name, has daily motorboat conveyance system with
the town of Romblon, just across Romblon Pass about 9
miles ESE. The highway from San Agustin (Badajoz) to
Odiongan passes through Carmen. A 76 m long concrete
pier fronts the barrio. Fresh water is piped to the barrio,
with an extension to the pier, from its origin at a reservoir
in the hills.
Major Light - Carmen Bay Light (12° 37’ 12”N., 122°
07’ 13”E.), displayed from the barrio, was reported partially
obscured by a tree growing nearby.
BIARINGAN ISLAND, 75 m (245 ft) high is close
offshore and SE of Tablas Summit. Its SE portion is marked
by Biaringan Light (12° 37’ 40”N., 122° 09’ 48”E.).
Immediately NE of the island, and on the edge of the reef,
is a 11 m (35 ft) rock.
CARABAO ISLAND is SW from the S tip of Tablas
Island with the nearest approach at about 3.5 miles between
BULACABI POINT of Tablas Island and SUBAY POINT
of Carabao Island. The island is hilly with a peak of 213 m 50
(699 ft) at the center. Its shore is clear and steep with the
rocks fringing it very close to shore. On the E side of the
island is a sandy beach where, at a distance, in depth of 9 m
(5 fm), vessels can anchor. There is also anchorage in 18.3
m (10 fm), sand and boulders bottom E of the village called 55
then as TAFT, 1.5 miles N of the S point of the island,
and in 11 m (6 fm), sand bottom, WSW of the village of
COGON, 2 miles S of WEST POINT. Taft is completely
hidden by coconut trees but the sand beach marks the site
of the settlement.
7-8
SAN JOSE is the only town in Carabao Island. This
town is situated on the E coast. On its shore is a 60 m long
rock causeway projecting seaward and being used as a
terminal port for trade and commerce. Incoming cargoes
5 are composed of household items usually coming from
the town of Santa Fe, Romblon. Outgoing cargoes consist
of agricultural products and livestock. The usual route of
people is to and from Santa Fe, Romblon and Boracay
Island, to the S, which is a part of Aklan Province.
10
The channel between Carabao and Boracay Islands, off
the NW part of Panay, is clear but tidal currents are very
strong. The flood sets to the E, and the ebb to the W.
15 BORACAY ISLAND, formerly known as Borocay
Island, lies SSW about 2.4 miles, shore to shore with
Carabao Island. MANUCMANOC POINT, the SE tip of
the island, is 0.5 mile NW of POTOL POINT, the most N
tip of Panay Island. A peak 98 m (322 ft) high is in the
20 middle of the island. Coconut palms cover the hills but
the main feature are the beaches. The island is considered
one of the country’s top tourist destinations and visited by
hundreds of foreign and local tourists every year due to
its good beach of fine white sands, crystal clear sea water
25 and secluded ambience. Various facilities could be found
throughout the island including accommodations ranging
from luxurious hotels to small lodging houses, bars and
pubs, a world-class golf course, and restaurants. The N side
of the island is fronted by shoals to a distance of about 460
30 m (0.2 mile). The S end is fairly steep-to but the W and E
coast are fringed by a reef to a distance of up to 0.7 mile.
Caution - Submarine fresh water pipeline and
submarine power cable cross the strait from Manucmanoc
35 Point, the SE point of the island, to Potol Point. Anchoring
and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the pipeline and
power cable.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
40 Boracay Island may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8428303 and +63998-5856248, and e-mail at
cgdet_boracay@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facility - A jetty extends W of Manucmanoc
45 Point. Majority of vessels calling at the jetty are ferry
vessels transporting tourists to Boracay Island.
Anchorage - Vessels calling at Boracay Island may
anchor at location about 0.5 mile E of Bulaboc Point or 0.8
mile SW of Manucmanoc Point.
The channel between Boracay and Panay is deep and
clear but there are rocks on both sides of it, and the tidal
currents rush through it with a great force.
ROMBLON PASSAGE, (CHART 1543 & 1544),
is narrowest, at about 4.2 miles wide, between Biaringan
Island off Tablas Island and WEST POINT of ALAD
ISLAND. The main shipping route to Iloilo and Cebu
60 passes S through this passage.
 Prominent Features - The radio tower on the 180
m (590 ft) hill immediately W of the town of Romblon is
prominent.
Major Lights - Gorda Light (12° 39’ 42”N., 122° 09’
06”E.) is displayed from Gorda Point of Tablas Island.
Biaringan Light (12° 37’ 40”N., 122° 09’ 48”E.) is
displayed from Biaringan Island.
Apunan Light (12° 28’ 48”N., 122° 17’ 04”E.) is
displayed from Apunan Point of Romblon Island.
Tidal Currents - The tidal currents at flood, being
governed by the current which enters the Sulu Sea through
Mindoro Strait and comes NE through Tablas Strait, are
found flowing NE past the N point of Tablas, where they
are joined by the current which, coming through the passes
between Tablas and Panay, flows N through Romblon Pass.
Similarly, the ebb, running SW, divides on Gorda Point,
one stream going S on each side of Tablas Island.
Coming from the NW along the vessel route on a rising
tide, the current from Verde Island Passage is left about
midway between Maestre de Campo and Simara, and, on
nearing Simara, a current of 0.5 to 0.75 knot is found to
the NE. Abreast of Guindauahan Island, the direction of the
current changes to ENE, but hardly reaches the strength of
1 knot, since it appears to be very deep, with no surface
current. This current causes slight tide rips on banks of 91.4
to 183 m (50 to 100 fm).
In the vicinity of Gorda Point is found an area of dead
water, with no current, but E of it, the flood current is
flowing due N through Romblon Pass. This current enters
the passages to Port Romblon from the W, and continues to
the NE between Cobrador and Romblon Islands.
The tidal currents on the ebb are exactly opposite in
strength and direction.
ROMBLON ISLAND
(CHART 1544 & 4453)
ROMBLON ISLAND, about 6 miles E of the NE
part of Tablas, is hilly and is composed chiefly of quartz,
Channel between Lugbung and Alad Islands as viewed from the E.
(Photograph - NAMRIA - Hydrography Branch, 2013)
marble, and slate. Off the NW part are four islands and
several rocks with names. The islands are Cobrador,
Alad, Lugbung, Bangud while the rocks include Aregita,
Cazcarro, and Tinang Islet. The position of Lugbung Island
5 sheltered the small port of Romblon from the extremes of
wind and waves.
COBRADOR ISLAND, about 4 miles E of Gorda
Point, the NE extremity of Tablas Island, is clear and
10 steep-to except on the SW side, which is bordered by a
reef less than 550 m (0.3 mile). It is 244 m (801 ft) high.
CAZCARRO ROCKS, a small group of above- and below-
water rocks 8.8 m (29 ft) high, lie close off the SW side of
the island. AREGITA ROCKS, a similar group but 13.7 m
15 (45 ft) high, lie close off the E side of the island.
ALAD ISLAND, about 1.5 miles SSE of PRAT
POINT, the S extremity of Cobrador Island, and 0.9 mile
from the NW coast of Romblon Island, is clear and steep-
20 to and reported to be wooded. The island is 206 m (676 ft)
high and shows many outcroppings of marble or limestone.
The barrio of Alad is located in the cove at the E end of the
island.
25 TINANG ISLET consists of two rocks about 9 m (30
ft) high, on which previously scrubby bushes were reported
thriving. It is about 550 m (0.3 mile) of BOMBON POINT,
the S tip of Alad Island and joined by a reef to the same
point.
30
LUGBUNG ISLAND, also known as Logbon Island,
is immediately S of Alad Island. It is about 0.5 mile S of
Tinang Islet. It has a hill 95 m (312 ft) high at the S end.
A reef extends about 366 m (0.2 mile) NNE from the NE
35 extremity of the island, leaving a very narrow channel with
a least depth of 21.9 m (12 fm) between it and Tinang Islet.
A reef extends about 366 m (0.2 mile) SW from the SW
extremity of the island. A shoal, with a least depth of 12.5
m (6.8 fm) at its outer edge, extends about 366 m (0.2 mile)
40 farther in the same direction. A wreck, which has a doubtful
position, existed close SW of this shoal.
BANGUD ISLET is 53 m (175 ft) high and reported
to be wooded, lies about 0.8 mile S of Lugbung Island but
45 is connected by a reef with Romblon Island.
7-9
 The town of Romblon as viewed from the NW.
(Photograph - NAMRIA - Hydrography Branch, 2013)
ROMBLON PORT (CHART 4453), on the NW
side of Romblon Island, is entered between SABANG and
ROSAS POINTS, 0.8 mile NNE. It is divided into the N and
S parts by AGBATAN POINT. The approaches to this port
are deep and clear of dangers in the fairway. The shores of 5
both indentations are fringed by a reef to a distance of 275
m (0.1 mile). Reefs project from these points as follows:
From Sabang SW at 730 m; from Agbatan 366 m W; and
from ROSAS and BINAGON, about 183 m N. The edges
of the reef can usually be discerned by the discoloration of 10
water. The town of Romblon is located near the SE shore of
the S anchorage.
ROMBLON, the capital of the province of the same
name, is near the SE shore of the S anchorage. It is the 15
shipping point for other towns on the nearby islands,
and a regular port of call for interisland vessels. Foreign
freighters reportedly call occasionally to load copra and
marbles here. Shipping lines have regular trips to Manila,
Batangas, Masbate City, the towns of Magdiwang and 20
Cajidiocan in Sibuyan Island, and the towns of Odiongan
and San Agustin in Tablas Island. Postal service, telephone,
mobile phone communication, and Internet connection are
available.
25
There is a public market with sufficient supply of
food while other daily necessities may also be bought in
small stores. Lodging apartments and hotel are available.
Romblon District Hospital in the town can only handle
minor cases. Medical clinics are also present. PAG-ASA 30
maintains a weather monitoring station in town.
Major Lights - Sabang Point Light (12° 35’ 46”N.,
122° 15’ 53”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Sabang
Point. 35
Romblon Red Jetty Light (12° 34’ 55”N., 122° 15’
51”E.) is displayed from a tower at the extreme end of the
7-10
reef extending from Binagon Point. It is displayed only
until 10:00 PM.
Danger - Romblon Green Jetty Light (12° 35’ 07”N.,
122° 15’ 48”E.) was reported destroyed after a vessel
collided with it. Only the foundation of the light tower,
which is awash, remained on the former sight of the light. A
bamboo pole was placed to mark this danger.
Port Management - The government wharf of
Romblon is managed by PPA TMO-Romblon. The TMO
can be contacted at telephone no. (+6354) 472-8218 local
2455 and mobile phone no. +63920-6208200. The port can
only accommodate vessels with a maximum length of 100
m and maximum draft of 6 m during high tide only.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Romblon may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428354 and +63917-8428260, and e-mail at cgdstl.
station_romblon@coastguardgov.ph.
Berthing Facilities - The government wharf is 244 m
long, with a draft of 7.5 m. RoRo ramp is available.
There exists a pier 40 m long seaward from the S shore
of Agbatan Point. This pier is used for the shipment of
marble and related products, while nearby stands a marble
processing shop. Immediately E of the marble shop are
residential areas which extend even farther as to occupy a
former creek. The E shoreline surrounding the town were
also noted to have gained accumulated debris over the years
from the waste of marble processing.
Port Services - Bunkering is available but in limited
quantities. Fresh water may be delivered to the wharf.
Cargo handling services are provided by a local company.
Notice of ETA is needed for vessels requiring cargo
handling services.
 Port of Romblon.
(Photograph - PPA, Undated)
Anchorage is divided into N and S arms. The N
anchorage is wider and well-protected except from SW
winds. The S portion, though very confined and deep is the
one generally used, which also afford good protection. The
entrance through S anchorage is barely 0.1 mile wide.
Directions - Vessels bound for Romblon approach
the entrance to the port by the channels between Romblon
and Alad, Alad and Lugbung, or Lugbung and Romblon.
Approach the later channel by giving the W sides of
Lugbung and Bangud Islands a berth of at least 0.5 mile and
steer for it. Romblon Red Jetty Light bears 120o, change
course to 102o passing mid-way between the lights. Then
round Romblon Red Jetty Light at a distance of 183 m (0.1
mile) and haul S. Proceed to wharf or anchor in the middle
of the harbor in 25.6 m (14 fm), mud bottom.
To enter the N part of the harbor, pass close to the W of
the Romblon Green Jetty Light, giving it a berth of at least
230 m (250 yd), then anchor in the desired depth.
The coast from Bangud Islet runs 2.4 miles S to San
Pedro Point forming 3 bays, the first two of which are foul.
However, the S bay affords anchorage in 12 to 18 m (6.5
to 10 fm), 183 m (0.1 mile) from the shore. From the N
point of this bay, a reef extends S for 730 m (0.4 mile).
From SAN PEDRO POINT, the S point of this bay, the
coast trends SSE for 3.8 miles to APUNAN POINT, the SW
point of the island, which forms two bights. The N, which
is shallow and foul, and the S have a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm)
183 m (0.1 mile) from the beach. Apunan Point is marked
by Apunan Light (char: flashing white, range: 17 miles).
The shore from Apunan Point to SABLAYAN POINT, anchorage can be taken.
about 2.8 miles NE, and then to Calabago Point, N about 35
the same distance, is regular, steep-to, and clear of dangers.
N of CALABAGO POINT is a large bay with an islet,
60 m (198 ft) high, near the point. A reef extends 0.4 mile
NNW from the islet. The rest of the coast from this bay to
TONGO POINT, the N extremity of the island, and then to
5 Sabang Point, the N entrance point of the Port of Romblon,
are clear, and, like the whole coast of this island, can be
approached to within 0.5 mile. There is a depth of 14.6 m
(8 fm) close E of Tongo Point.
10 SIBUYAN ISLAND
SIBUYAN ISLAND (CHART 1541) is extremely
mountainous with eight prominent peaks. MOUNT
GUITINGUITIN, the highest at 2,057 m (6,750 ft) is at the
15 middle of the island. MOUNT NAILOG, 812 m (2,664 ft)
high, is separated from Mount Guitinguitin to the E by a
deep pass which makes an excellent landmark. MOUNT
CONICO, 770 m (2,526 ft) high and S part of the island
also makes a good landmark on account of its symmetrical
20 shape. The mountains were reported before to be covered
with forests of hardwood, with the soil in the lowland said
to be extremely fertile. The land along the shoreline is
mostly low. Many coconut trees near the coast and a narrow
fringe of underbrush extend along the shore.
25
From Ipil point, on the NW coast, around the S and E
coast to Cambulayan Point, the beach is composed of sand
and gravel. Mangroves line the remainder of the shoreline
except in a few places, where there are short stretches of
30 sand beach. The N and NE coasts of the island are fronted
by detached shoals and dangers as far as 2 miles offshore.
Several towns are standing along the shores of the island.
There are some partially protected roadsteads where
CABODIANGAN POINT, the W point extremity
7-11
of Sibuyan Island, is low and reported to be covered with
mangroves. From here, the coast trends SE for 3.6 miles
to BOLABOC POINT, then almost E for 2.5 miles to the
barrio of ESPAÑA. This is connected by road to the town
of Magdiwang on the N coast. Vessels can anchor off the
mouth of the river, taking care to avoid the reef and rock
awash that make off 6.5 miles from its S side. Anchorage
may also be taken S of España. The only obstruction to the
approach to this anchorage is a shoal, with 2.7 m (1.5 fm)
over it, about 0.8 mile SW of the town.
The coast then trends SE for 5.6 miles to CANTINGAS
POINT, which is low and hard to identify. There are several
shoals with 4.1 to 8.2 m (2.25 to 4.5 fm) N and W of the
point. They are about 0.8 mile offshore, and while there
is deeper water inside, vessels should keep at least 1 mile
offshore when navigating in this vicinity. The submerged
wreck of M/V Princess of the Stars, of unknown depth, is
located about 2.7 miles NNW of Cantingas Point.
On the mountain side N of Cantingas Point, and just
W of Mount Conico, are several brown streaks which are
visible from well offshore of SAN FERNANDO, a town
about 2 miles E of Cantingas Point. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete
pole reported previously as the structure for a proposed
light is located at the beach SW of the town’s church.
CAUIT POINT, the S extremity of Sibuyan Island,
is a low, narrow, and flat peninsula of coarse sand and
gravel, which lies about 3 miles SE of San Fernando town.
The water is deep close to the end of the point, but heavy
tide rips occur at and near the spring tides. The barrio of
AZAGRA is 0.7 mile NNW of the point.
Major Lights - Azagra Light (12° 16’ 12”N., 122° 37’ 35 the reef which affords anchorage and some protection for
54”E.), is displayed from a white tower on Cauit Point. small vessels in front of the barrio of SILOM.
San Fernando Light (12° 17’ 01”N., 122° 37’ 36”E.) is
displayed from a concrete tower located about 0.8 mile N
of Azagra Light.
AZAGRA is reported to be a port of call for coasting
vessels from Manila while anchorage is either done off the
W or E side of the barrio depending upon the monsoon. A
submerged rock with a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) is reported 45
about 800 m (0.4 mile) N of Cauit Point and 183 m (0.1
mile) E of the high water line.
PRUEBA REEF is a large shoal about 1 to 3 miles S
of Cauit Point. There are two spots about 1.5 miles from the 50
point that bare at low water and a patch with 3.6 m (2 fm)
on it at the S end of the reef. The channel between the N
edge of this reef and Cauit Point has a least width of about
0.8 mile and is deep and clear of dangers in the fairway. A
16.4 m (9 fm) patch lies in mid-channel and a 12.8 m (7 fm) 55
patch lies in the E approach in a position about 1.2 miles 29’ 30”E.) is displayed from Cangouac Point, located E of
ESE of the point.
From Cauit Point to Cambulayan Point the coast is
clear and steep-to.
7-12
CAJIDIOCAN is the town 1.8 miles S of Cambulayan
Point. Depth of water at a distance of about 100 m from
the shore varies between 2 to 6 m indicating a bottom
topography with a gentle slope. Shipping lines have regular
5 trips to Masbate City and the town of Romblon. The red-
roofed school buildings are prominent offshore.
Major Light - Cajidiocan Light (12° 21’ 48”N., 122°
41’ 00”E.) is shown from a tower about 0.5 mile S of the
10 town.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Cajidiocan may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
8428253 and e-mail at gabaytal51@gmail.com.
15
Berthing Facility - The town has a 113 m long pier,
which can accommodate RoRo vessels.
FROM CAMBULAYAN POINT around the N
20 coast to Ipil Point, on the NW coast, coral reefs bare at
low water, which extend from 90 to 275 m (100 to 300 yd)
from the shore. There are a few short stretches of sand and
gravel beaches where a landing can be made. A chain of
shoals lies from 1 to 1.5 miles off the NE coast, with a deep
25 channel between them and the shore. The S end of the shoal
is about 0.8 mile N of Cambulayan Point. There are several
breaks or passages into the channel, the most important of
which is opposite CAMBALO POINT and the barrio of the
same name. A rock awash, 1.5 miles NE of Canloay Point,
30 marks the N shoal. The NW channel should not be used by
strangers when going to Cambalo, as it is narrow and long
and extensive reefs make out from shore.
About 2.3 miles W of CANLOAY POINT is a break in
A coral reef with 0.9 m (3 ft) at the end extends 0.5
mile NE of CONSUMALA POINT, the N extremity of
40 Sibuyan Island. Shoal water extends the same distance N
and W of the point.
MAGDIWANG, (Magallanes), is a town on the W bank
of the MAGALLANES RIVER, 2 miles W of Consumala
Point. A large house on the E side of the river with a white
roof was reported to make an excellent landmark for
approaching the anchorage off the town. There is a rock
awash 1.5 miles NNW of this house. Shoals extend 0.5 mile
NW and S from the rock with 5.5 m (3 fm) and 5 m (2.75
fm) over the outer ones, respectively. A 1.83 m (1 fm) shoal
is 1.5 miles NE off the rock awash. An airport is located E
of Magallanes River. Shipping lines have regular trips to
the towns of Romblon and San Agustin in Tablas Island.
Major Light - Magdiwang Light (12° 29’ 42”N., 122°
the government pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
60 Magdiwang may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
842-8256 and e-mail at cgssmagdiwang@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facilities - The government pier is located
about 1.5 miles W of Magdiwang. Available berthing
facilities include a 17 m long reinforced concrete pier with
RoRo ramp. A local cargo handling company is available.
Directions - The anchorage off Magdiwang may be
approached either from NW or NE. Vessels from N and
W, when about 2 miles N of CANGOUAC POINT, should
steer for a large white house mentioned before, bearing
149o. This course will lead to an anchorage in 11 to 16.5 m
(6 to 9 fm), sand bottom.
Vessels coming E should keep 1.5 to 2 miles offshore
until Ipil Point bears 245o. Steer in on this course until the
mouth of the river bears 186o, then steer 197o to clear a 5 m
(2.75 fm) patch. This latter course will lead to the anchorage
NW of the entrance to the river. IPIL POINT is prominent
only on the above bearing. It is about 21.3 m (70 ft) high
and separated from the main shoreline by lower land.
The coast between Magdiwang and Ipil Point is fringed
with coral and mangroves and shoal water extends some
distance offshore. A 5.5 m (3 fm) patch is about 0.5 mile
NE of Cangouac Point.
The channel between Sibuyan and Masbate Islands is
about 30 miles wide, from Cambulayan Point E toward Gato
Island, but contains numerous shoals and reefs surrounded
by deep water. This channel may be roughly divided into
three main passages, of which the W one is the easiest to
navigate. It is between Sibuyan Island and Prueba Reef on
the NW side and a line of reefs about 6 miles SE of Sibuyan
Island on the opposite side. The narrowest part of this
passage is between Prueba Reef and Cresta de Gallo Island
and is about 3.5 miles wide, deep, and clear of dangers.
CRESTA DE GALLO ISLAND is narrow and
surrounded by dangers, and lies about 5.8 miles SE of
Cauit Point, the S extremity of Sibuyan Island. The S part
of the island has two peaks, the N is taller at 28.6 m (94 ft)
high and makes an excellent landmark for navigating in this
vicinity. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete tower for a proposed light
is located on the S hill. The N part of the island is a low
sand spit almost awash at very high tides. A coral reef, bare
at low water, extends 0.8 mile NE and shoal water extends
the same distance E and SW of the island. A shoal patch,
5 with a least depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm) lies about 3 miles SSW
of the island. Broken ground, with depths of 4.5 to 16.4 m
(2.5 to 9 fm), lies between this patch and the island.
ROMERO REEF is 1.9 miles SE of Cresta de Gallo
10 Island. It has a least depth of 4.5 m (2.5 fm) and a shoal area
of about 700 m in diameter.
AUBAREDE REEF, with a least depth of 3.2 m (1.75
fm) near its S portion, lies about 3.2 miles N of Romero
15 Reef. Shoal area is almost egg-shaped or oblong, with its
length of 0.9 mile oriented N to S.
CERVERA, PERSEUS AND RODA REEFS are
aligned in a SSW direction for a distance of 7.4 miles, with
20 Cervera in the N, Perseus in the middle and Roda in the S,
lies about 6 miles just opposite the SE shore of Sibuyan
Island. Cervera Reef is 2.4 miles long from W to E and
0.9 mile wide. Near its E end is awash, while depths of
2.2 m (1.2 fm) and 1.8 m (1 fm) are 2 and 1.3 miles off,
25 respectively, W from the awash end. Perseus Reef is 3.5
miles SSW of Cervera Reef with a least depth of 0.4 m (0.2
fm) at the center of a 0.7 mile diameter shoal. Roda is the
smallest of the three reefs with a least depth of 3.6 m (2 fm)
and lies about 1.5 miles SSW of Perseus Reef. Between
30 Perseus and Cervera Reefs are spots of coral 9.1 and 14.6
m (5 and 8 fm) in depths.
Between the line of Cervera, Perseus, and Roda Reefs and
the other group consisting of ROLDAN, ANDA, PINEDA,
35 CARRASCO, ARANA and REYNOSO REEFS, is a deep
channel but with an isolated depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm) lo-
cated about 3 miles of Roda Reef. Between these reefs and
the extensive reefs and shoals extending from the Masbate
shore, including BENNET, GAMMA, MONTERO, and
40 TUMA REEFS, is a deep channel, of which Montero Shoal
lies in the middle. This channel is difficult to navigate due
to the irregular currents, and should not be used. It is always
preferable to pass in the most W channel. There is also pos-
sibility of the existence of uncharted dangers.
7-13
 CHAPTER 8
MASBATE ISLAND
CHARTS 4706, 4715 & 4718
MASBATE ISLAND, located S of the SE part of
Luzon is the eleventh island in the Philippines in terms of
size, has an area of 3,250 sq. km. (1,255 sq miles). It is
irregular in shape and very mountainous. There is a high
central chain which follows a semicircular direction and
terminates at the SW and SE points of the island, throwing
out spurs NW which form Bugui Point. The highest point
of the island, 638 m (2,093 ft), is about 22 miles SE from
Bugui Point. The island is well-wooded and watered. In
the SE part of the island are extensive grazing lands. It
is sparsely populated and the majority of the population
resides in Masbate City, which is the capital of Masbate
Province. Extensive gold mining operations are in the town
of Aroroy in NW Masbate.
WESTERN MASBATE
(CHART 1540 & 1541)
BUGUI POINT, the most NW point of Masbate
Island, is moderately high, rugged, and steep-to, and may
be passed close to in 11 to 13 m (6 to 7 fm). Bugui Point
Light (12° 36’ 05”N., 123° 14’ 12”E.) is shown atop a white
tower on the point. Close SE of the light is the old light
tower with gray stone dwellings.
The coast from Bugui Point to BAGUPANTAO
POINT is 8.9 miles S. It is moderately high and steep-to
as far as the barrio of MATABA, a distance of 3.7 miles S
from Bugui Point.
DANGERS - At Mataba and S, a shelf or bank makes
off from shore with several dangerous shoals upon it, the
outer one with 2.7 m (1.5 fm) over it lying SW of the barrio
and 1 mile from shore. Vessels should not venture among
these shoals.
BETA REEF, with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm), is small
in extent and steep-to. It is 42 miles NNW of Gato Island.
GATO ISLAND, 2.8 miles WSW of Bagupantao
Point, on the outer edge of the bank making off from the
coast of Masbate is 58 m (190 ft) high, small in area, may
be approached close to and makes a good landmark for
navigating in this vicinity. A shoal with a depth of 5.5 m (3
fm) is 2.5 miles almost N of the island and in between that
space are several shoals with slightly deeper water.
From BAGUPANTAO POINT TO MARIVELES
POINT, 13 miles S, the coast is indented by bays, bights,
and cove. It is fronted with the islands of Majaba, Nabugtut,
Bagumbanua, Napayauan, Tumalaytay, and several rocks
awash. The water between these islands and the coast of
Masbate are encumbered with drying shoals.
8-1
MAJABA ISLAND, 29 m (95 ft) high, extends about
1.1 miles S from a position about 0.8 miles S of Bagupantao
Point. There is sheltered anchorage N of the island in 5.5 to
9 m (3 to 5 fm), mud bottom. However, it is contracted by
5 a 2.7 m (1.5 fm) shoal about 0.4 mile SW of Bagupantao
Point and by 3.2 m (1.75 fm) shoal about 0.4 mile NW of
Majaba Point. The passage between these two shoals is
about 550 m wide and 12.8 m (7 fm) deep. Good anchorage
may also be found SE of Majaba Island in 7.3 to 9.1 m
10 (4 to 5 fm), sand bottom, by passing between Majaba and
Nabugtut.
NABUGTUT ISLAND, a low islet, lies about 0.7
miles S of the S extremity of Majaba Island.
15
BAGUNBANUA ISLET is a small mangrove islet
standing on a reef that connects to Napayauan Island. This
islet is about 0.7 miles SSW of Nabugtut Island.
20 NAPAYAUAN ISLAND, 21 m (69 ft) high, extends
about 2.5 miles S from a position about 650 m S of
Bagunbanua Islet. A reef fringes the N end of the island to
a distance of nearly 1 mile, where nearby rests Bagunbanua
Islet. There is no passage between the islands of Napayauan
25 or Bagunbanua with the shore of Masbate, the water being
shoal with coral heads bare at low water in places. Two
reefs SE of Napayauan Island almost close the approach to
an anchorage in 7.3 m (4 fm), mud bottom, E of that island.
The best channel, about 365 m wide, is between the shoals
30 and the coast of Masbate.
SHOAL AREA - About 1.3 miles SW of Napayauan
is the outer end of a large coral shoal making off from the
coast of Masbate. It is very irregular and has depths of 1.8
35 to 4.6 m (1 to 2.5 fm) over it, with a long coral reef at its
shore end, with several rocks awash. A channel, about 0.6
miles wide, passes between the NE edge of this shoal and
the shoal fronting the S extremity of Napayauan Island.
This channel leads to an anchorage area, about 1.1 sq mile
40 in extent, with depths of 11 to 18.3 m (6 to 10 fm).
TUMALAYTAY ISLAND, 51 m (167 ft) high, is on
the shore reef off the point of the same name. This shore
reef is bare at low water. A shoal with 7.8 m (4.25 fm) over
45 it is 1.3 miles NNW of the W end of the island.
NIN BAY (CHART 4455), is entered between
PAGBULUNGAN POINT, 3.7 miles S of Tumalaytay
Point, and Talisay Point 5.05 miles further S. The bay is
50 divided into 2 parts by Camasusu and Carogo Islands. The
N part, in Nin Bay proper, is safe, well-sheltered, and with
good holding ground.
Major Light - Pagbulungan Light (12° 13’ 00”N., 123°
13’ 36”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Pagbulungan
Point.
Dangers - Argos Reef with depth of 5.8 m (19 ft), and
Romulus Reef with depth of 2.7 m (9 ft) are the most NW 5
of a number of reefs, among which are also OCHOA REEF,
PONTE ROCK, and PEARL ROCK that obstruct the S
approach to the anchorage in this bay. The safe passage
between them and Pagbulungan Point is about 1.1 miles
wide, deep, and clear. The head of the bay is somewhat 10
shoal, the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve being about 0.8 miles from
shore. Vessels can anchor anywhere N of Nin Bay according
to draft. While its bottom has good holding properties this
anchorage is exposed to the N winds.
Magnetic Declination - The Spanish survey of 1895
called attention to the abnormal value of the magnetic
declination in the center of Nin Bay, on the shores of
Camasusu and Carogo Islands, and on the peninsula SE of
the bay. This effect diminishes to the N and S. The survey
of 1960 also indicated an E declination of about 042o on the
N shore of Nin Bay.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable was
laid in the bay. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited within
the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station at the
town of Mandaon, at the head of the bay, may be contacted
at mobile phone nos. +63917-8012708 and +63998-
5855739, and e-mail at cgssmandaon@yahoo.com.
Anchorage - Protected anchorage for small vessels
may be had in ALAS BAY, just E of the narrow channel
connecting that bay to Nin Bay. About 0.5 miles N of the
narrow channel is the town of MANDAON and resting on
the peninsula separating the two bays.
MANDAON is connected by road to the N town of
Aroroy, to the E with the town of Milagros and also to the
town of Balud to the S. A 200 m causeway with a pier at the
offshore end extends from the town.
LOOC BAY, the S part of Nin Bay, is separated by
SW coast of Jintotolo Island with a view of the lighthouse.
(Photograph - LGU-Balud, undated)
Camasusu and Carogo Islands from Nin Bay proper. Coral
reefs and shoals make offshore over 0.5 miles from the S
side of the bay, leaving a small area of anchorage, E of the
peak on Camasusu Island.
CAMASUSU ISLAND is 148 m (486 ft) high, steep-
to on all sides and separated at the NE from Carogo Island
by a channel about 230 m wide and deep. A shoal of coral
and sand, with 5.5 m (3 fm) in depth, is 2.32 miles WNW
of Camasusu Island peak. There are a number of shoals and
banks with 6.4 to 18.3 m (3.5 to 10 fm) off this part of the
coast, as shown on the chart.
CAROGO ISLAND, wooded and 147 m (482 ft)
15 high in the W part, extends about 2.2 miles SW and W
from a position close W of the W face of the peninsula that
separates Alas Bay from Looc Bay. In the channel E of
Carogo Island, or between Margajo Point and Nonoc Point,
and the entire E part of Looc Bay are shoals.
20
CABUG ISLAND is a small island, projecting SE off
Carogo Island and almost towards the middle of Looc Bay.
TANDAO ROCK, a rock awash about 0.73 miles
25 NNW of Talisay Point, is the only danger in the entrance
of Looc Bay.
From Talisay Point, the coast trends SSW for about
12.6 miles to Lucaria Point, and then SE for about 2.4 miles
30 to Pulanduta Point, the SW point of Masbate. The land
along the shore is low except at TUMATUM POINT, where
the hills are very close to shore and form low, rocky bluffs.
Coral reefs and sand beach fringe the shore.
35 TALISAY REEF, parts of which are awash at low
water, is 1.8 miles SW of Talisay Point and about 1 mile
offshore. Aside from this reef, the coast can be navigated
with safety at a distance of 1 mile from shore.
40 BALUD, about 6 miles SW of Talisay Point, has a 110
m pier fronting it.
PULANDUTA POINT is the extreme SW point of
Masbate Island. Located E of the point is an anchorage in
10 m (5.5 fm), sand bottom. A 6.4 m (3.5 fm) patch lies
about 3.3 miles ENE of the point. Pulanduta Point Light
(11° 54’ 25”N., 123° 09’ 49”E.) is displayed from a white
tower on the point.
CALUMPANG - A barrio located E of Pulanduta
Point has a small pier. It is connected by road to Masbate
City.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Calumpang may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8426653 and +63998-5855748.
JINTOTOLO ISLAND, 3.1 miles SSW of Pulanduta
Point, is about 44 m (144 ft) high, reported to be well-
wooded, and fringed by a sandy beach. It is surrounded by
8-2
a reef on the E and W sides, where at the NW, it extends
about 0.35 miles. The limit of shallow water may extend for
about 0.5 miles offshore with a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) on
its E edge and 8.2 m (4.5 fm) on the W.
The channel between Jintotolo Island and Masbate is
clear of dangers with about 22 m (12 fm) in mid-channel.
Major Light - Jintotolo Light (11° 50’ 29”N., 123° 07’ which could be ascertained by reference to the chart.
09”E.) is shown on the highest point near the SW part of 10
the island. The gray stone lighthouse is prominent even at
a distance.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable exists POINT. Large quantities of dried fish are being exported
in Jintotolo Channel, S of Jintotolo Island. Anchoring and 15 from this barrio. There are no buoys or beacons marking
fishing are prohibited within the vicinity of the submarine the shoals and reefs in the vicinity, so that vessels are
cable.
CIRCE BANK, with its center about 9 miles E from nearest post office and hospitals are at the town of Milagros.
the shore of Jintotolo Island, is about 1.2 miles in diameter, 20
and composed of corals with a least depth of 5.9 m (3.25
fm) near its N side. Beyond it is surrounded by deep water. of the river and bearing 290o with Cinamongan Point at 1
ASID GULF
(CHART 1539, 1540 & 4418)
ASID GULF, which forms the S side of Masbate Island,
is about 54 miles wide at the entrance between Pulanduta
Point and Caduruan Point, and extends some 24.2 miles N
to the town of Milagros. The gulf contains a large number
of shoals, reefs, and small islands, and is not frequented by
shipping. There are reported few prominent landmarks and
navigational aids, and the numerous islands are low, bushy,
and hard to identify. Only vessels with local knowledge
should attempt to navigate within the gulf and then in the
daytime only under the most favorable conditions.
From Pulanduta Point, the coast trends in a NE
direction for about 27 miles to the head of the gulf, in the
town of Milagros. The coast for the first 16 miles, or to
Cinamongan Point, is steep-to and fringed by a narrow coral
reef with sand beaches. Moderately high land, reported to
be covered with trees, comes close to the water’s edge as
far as JANGAN POINT, located 9.9 miles NE of Pulanduta
Point. About the N of Jangan Point, the hills recede from
the shore, giving place to a low, grass-covered plain with
numerous small rivers.
DANGERS - A shoal patch, with a least depth of 1.8
m (1 fm), lies about 4 miles SE of Jangan Point. A 9.1 m
(5 fm) shoal patch, with a least depth of 9.6 m (5.25 fm)
lie 8.5 miles SSE and 11.3 miles SE, respectively, from the
same point.
A shoal patch, with a least depth of 0.46 m (1.5 fm),
lies about 3.3 miles ENE of Jangan Point. Two detached
shoals, with least depths of 0.91 m (3 ft), lie about 5.8 miles
and 6.8 miles, respectively, E of the same point. A chain of
shoals, from awash to a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm) extends NE
up to 6.5 miles near the vicinity of Naguran Islet.
8-3
A reef, which dries, lies about 10.5 miles almost E of
Jangan Point. A chain of shoals, with depths of 0.46 to 9.1
m (1.5 to 30 ft), extend in a general SSE direction and then
curve SW to a position 8.5 miles SSW of the drying reef.
5 An isolated rocky patch, with a depth of 0.46 m (0.25 fm),
lies 1 mile N of the drying reef.
Several other shoals lie E of Jangan Pt. The position of
CALUMPANG (TAISAN), a barrio of the town of
Milagros on the N side of the mouth of Taisan River on the
W shore of Asid Gulf, is 1.2 miles NE of CINAMONGAN
recommended to approach the place of anchorage during
daytime only. The barrio has no supply of fresh water. The
Anchorage may be had about 1 mile S of the mouth
mile distance. This anchorage is open to E and SW winds.
25 A ROCKY PATCH with a least depth of 2.7 m (1.5
fm), lies about 2.7 miles ESE from the mouth of Taisan
river.
BANGAD, the barrio at the mouth of Bangad River,
30 is about 4 miles NE of Taisan. A coral reef, bare at low
water, is 0.8 miles off the mouth of the river, and shoal
water extends from the reef to the shore. The coral reef and
surrounding waters were declared as fish sanctuary and
marine reserve.
35
From the reef to the head of the gulf and along the
E shore to the town of Placer, shoal water extends a
considerable distance, the 5 m (2.7 fm) curve being 1.4 miles
offshore at the town of Milagros. The shore is mostly of
40 gently curving sand beach, with reportedly a fringe of trees
fronting a grassy plain. This coast is devoid of prominent
landmarks, except VIGIA HILL, which is 100.6 m (330 ft)
high and 1.4 miles at the back of Buri Point.
45 NAGURAN is a small and low islet 5.3 miles SSW of
the town of Milagros, at the head of the gulf. From it, a line
of shoals extends 12 miles SW. There is a channel 2.5 miles
wide between this line of shoals and the shoals that fill the
E part of Asid Gulf. However, there are no leading marks; it
50 cannot be recommended.
GUINLUTHAGAN ISLET, small and low, lies about
3.8 miles SW of BALABAO POINT. A settlement exists
at the N end while the other parts of island are planted
55 with coconut palms. Reefs and shoals front the island to
a distance of 1.4 miles NNW and nearly 1 mile S. A shoal,
bare at low water, with a diameter of about 0.7 miles and
a shallow water extending about 1 mile in its N side, lies
about 2 miles NNE of Guinluthagan. A small, detached reef
60 lies about 2 miles NNE of the island and a reef, which bares
at low water, lies about 3.5 miles W of the island. A chain
of shoals, with depths of 0.5 to 9.1 m (1.6 to 30 ft) extends
about 11 miles in a general SSE and SSW curve from this
reef.
MANOC ISLAND AND NAMATIAN ISLAND,
both small and fringed by a reef, lie 2.5 miles and 3 miles,
respectively, SSE of Guinluthagan Island. A detached reef
lies about 0.7 miles N of the former island and two detached
5.5 m (3 fm) patches lie about 1 mile W of the same island.
PIÑA ISLET, about 5.5 miles ESE of Guinluthagan
Islet, is on a coral reef separated from the shore of Masbate
by very shoal water. This reef is dry at low water for 2
miles S of Pina Islet and the shoal water extends the same
distance W.
GUILUTUGAN ISLAND, low and narrow, lies about
4.2 miles S of Guinluthagan Islet. A settlement is on the
N part of the island. Reefs and shoals extend up to 1 mile
SSW and nearly 1 mile N from the island. A shoal, with a
least depth of 0.46 (1.5 ft), lies about 2 miles SSW of the
island.
POBRE ISLAND, small and fringed by a reef, lies
about 3.8 miles E of Guilutugan Island. Shoal patches, with
depths of 4.6 to 9.1 m (2.5 to 5 fm), lie between the island
and BARY POINT with a distance of about 5.2 miles to
the E.
GUINLABAGAN ISLAND, very small and fringed
by a reef, lies about 2.2 miles SW of Pobre Island and about
2 miles SE of Guilutugan Island. A settlement is present on
the island.
CHICO ISLAND, narrow and low, extends about 1
mile SSE of Guinlabagan Island. The island is fringed by
a reef to a distance of 0.6 miles N, 1.5 miles WSW, and
1.3 miles S. Foul ground, consisting of shoal patches and
drying reefs, extends up to 7 miles SSW and SW from the
island. A presidential proclamation established the island
as a wildlife sanctuary. A settlement is on the E coast of
the island.
NARO ISLAND extends about 2 miles long N to
S and 1.1 miles wide, situated about 3 miles E of the SE
extremity of Chico Island. The island is low and is fringed
by a drying reef which extends up to 1 mile to the W and S
from it. Broken ground, with detached shoals having depths
of 3.7 to 9.1 m (2 to 5 fm), extends up to 3.0 miles SW and
SSW from the island. Naro Island Light (11° 52’ 19”N.,
123° 40’ 06”E.) is located on the southernmost point of the
island. A presidential proclamation established the island as
a wildlife sanctuary. Settlements occupy the S and E coasts
of the island.
GORRITI SHOAL, with a depth of 0.91 m (0.5 fm),
is 4.5 miles SSW from the S extremity of Naro Island.
NABUGTU ISLAND, small and fringed by a reef,
lies about 5.7 miles ESE of Naro Island. A settlement is on
the N end while coconut plantations occupy the remaining
parts of the island. Numerous shoal patches lie between the
island and the coast to the N and NE and between the island
5 and Gorriti Shoal, about 8 miles WSW.
NAGARAO ISLAND lies about 5 miles ESE of
Nabugtu Island, and has a relatively low elevation. Houses
and coconut palms occupy the island. Shoal water extends
10 up to 2 miles NW and 1 mile SE from the island. Numerous
reefs and shoal patches extend up to 5 miles S and SW of
the island.
GUINAUAYAN ISLAND, with an elevation of 64.6
15 m (212 ft), lies about 2.7 miles S of Nauco Point and 3.4
miles E of Nagarao Island. Houses abound at the E end of
the island. Guinauayan Island Light (11° 48’ 42”N., 123°
54’ 30”E.) is displayed near the head of the small bay at
the S coast. The E side of the island is fringed by a reef to
20 a distance of about 1.5 miles to the E, leaving a channel
about 0.7 miles wide between it and the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve
fronting the coast of Masbate. Shoal patches, with least
depths of 6.9 m (3.75 fm), lie 3.8 miles SE and 3 miles S
of the island.
25
MILAGROS is a town at the head of the gulf. A
highway leads from Milagros to Masbate City and Aroroy.
The town has a health center and two privately-owned
hospitals that can only handle minor cases. A pharmacy
30 is also present. Limited supply of fuel may be purchased
in the town’s gasoline station. Electricity is available at
the poblacion. Mobile phone communication, post office,
and money remittance centers are available. The nearest
port is located at Barrio Calasuche, about 1 mile E of the
35 poblacion.
CALASUCHE is the barrio situated at the W bank
of the Asid River. The barangay serves as the trading port
of motorized outrigger boats that convey water-borne
40 cargoes and travelers in the town of Milagros. From here,
passengers are usually conveyed back and forth to the
towns of Cawayan, Balud, Roxas in the Province of Capiz,
and Estancia in the Province of Iloilo. Cargoes being traded
includes rice, vegetables, copra, salt and dried fish.
45
Major Light - Calasuche Light (12° 13’ 00”N., 123°
31’ 54”E.) is displayed from a white tower located W of the
mouth of the river.
50 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Calasuche may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8426817 and +63998-5854324.
Berthing Facilities - The seawall fronting the barrio
55 is the only berthing facility. It can only accommodate
passenger fishing boats. No waves affect the landing site
since it is a river facility. Depth of water at the center
of the river fronting the landing is 4 m and its bottom
characteristics appears to be overlain with thick layers
60 of coarse to fine sand with shell fragments. Siltation and
8-4
shoaling is evidently widespread.
Anchorage can be taken about midway between
Naguran Island and Milagros.
Directions - Vessels from W and S should pass 0.6
miles E of the 6.4 m (3.5 fm) shoal, 3.3 miles ENE of
Pulanduta Point and steer 040o until the reef, bare at low
water at the mouth of Bangad River, is abeam, passing
0.8 miles NW of the 0.46 m (0.25 fm) shoal, 3.3 miles S
of Cinamongan Point. Then change course to 069o and
proceed to the anchorage midway between Naguran Islet
and Milagros in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom, or closer to
shore, according to draft.
Vessels bound for Milagros from the SE have a choice
of several channels among the islands. The best among
these is E and N of the low islets of Naro, Pobre, Namatian,
Manoc, and Guinluthagan.
BALABAO POINT, though extending out from the
general direction of the shoreline, is not prominent from
offshore, and the islands in the gulf are low and covered
with bushes.
Vessels sometimes call off GUIOM RIVER to load
cattle. The mouth of this river is about 3 miles N of Buri
Point.
CAWAYAN is a town 3.2 miles ESE of Buri Point.
This town is connected by a highway to the N towns of
Uson, Mobo, and Masbate City. From this town, passengers
conveyed back and forth for Bogo in Cebu, Placer,
Esperanza, Milagros, and other coastal barangays.
Major Light - Cawayan Light (11° 55’ 10”N., 123°
45’ 11”E.) is displayed from the pier.
Berthing Facility - A 130 m long pier with concrete
ramp and concrete platform is located 1 mile SW of the
town proper. RoRo vessels and motorized outrigger boats
call at this causeway.
Earth materials near the causeway are composed of
coarse to fine sand with shell fragments. There is a distinct
difference in sediment features of beach material on each
side of the causeway.
PLACER, a town about 9.2 miles ESE from the town
of Cawayan and on the W side of the mouth of Nauco River,
is prominent from seaward. Anchorage nearby may be had
a little over 1 mile S of Nauco Point or about 1.6 miles N
of Guinauayan Island, in depths of 9.6 m (5.25 fm). There
are some rocks lying awash, about 0.5 miles SE of Nauco
Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Placer
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8426545 and
+63907-3326147, and e-mail at cgssplacercopcawayan@
gmail.com.
8-5
Directions - Vessels from SE, bound for Placer, can
pass either E or W of Guinauayan Island. The reef that
fringes the island, the shoal patches located SE and S of
the island, and rocks awash about 0.5 miles SE of NAUCO
5 POINT are the only dangers in the approach to the town of
Placer.
From the town of Placer to Caduruan Point, about 12.5
miles SE, the coast is low and has no prominent landmarks.
10 The 9.1 m (5 fm) curve lies about 1 mile off the town and
closer in to the point.
ESPERANZA is the town located about 1.8 miles
NW of CADURUAN POINT. The town has a 220 m long
15 concrete causeway with a concrete deck at the offshore end.
CADURUAN POINT, the SE extremity of Masbate,
is long and sharp. Shoal water extends about 550 m S from
it, with a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm) close-to and outside of
20 which is clear with a depth of 14.6 m (8 fm). The point
is formed by rocky bluffs separated by shore stretchers of
sand beach. Back from the shore, the hills rise between 61
to 91 m (200 and 300 ft) and are almost uniform, showing
no prominent peaks. The point was previously reported to
25 be covered with heavy growth of timber and brush, while
there are occasional clearings near the shore.
Major Light - Caduruan Point Light (11° 43’ 18”N.,
124° 03’ 54”E.) is displayed from a white tower on located
30 on the point.
MANOCMANOC ISLETS (CHART 1540 & 4405)
are three flat-topped, vertical sided, uninhabited rocks on a
reef about 8 miles S of Caduruan Point. From a distance to
35 the N, they appear as two small knobs. The reef between
them bares at low water. The N and largest rock is 8.8 m (29
ft) high, the middle one 14.6 m (48 ft) high, and the S and
smallest is 16.5 m (54 ft) high. Foul ground exists about
0.27 miles W from them, and they should be given a berth
40 of at least 2 miles.
CARNASA ISLAND, about 4.2 miles S of
Manocmanoc Islets, has a group of low, round, wooded
hills, 55 m (180 ft) high, in the NE part of the island. On
45 the E side the cliffs are about 18 m (60 ft) high. A detached
rock, 13.1 m (43 ft) high, lies close off the S end of the
island.
The SW side and the N end of the island are inhabited.
50 A small airstrip is present. The island is fringed by a narrow
reef and may be safely rounded at a distance of about 0.5
miles. Carnasa Island Light (11° 31’ 00”N., 124° 06’ 00”E.)
is on the E coast of the island.
55 Tide rips occur in the area midway between this island
and Manocmanoc Island.
MARIA ISLET, very small, rocky, steep-to islet, 17.7
m (58 ft) high, lies about 0.8 miles SE of Carnasa Island.
60 The channel between it and Carnasa Island is over 0.5 miles
wide with a least charted depth of 21.5 m (11.7 fm) in the
middle.
GATO ISLET, about 5.8 miles SW of Carnasa Island,
is a precipitous rock, 97.8 m (321 ft) high, which forms
a very prominent landmark. It has few bushes on its top.
The cliffs are underworn by the action of the sea, making
landing almost impossible.
DIRECTIONS - Vessels from Jintotolo Channel
bound for Cebu pass about 2 miles S of Gato Islet if taking
the route N of Malapascua Island, and about 6 miles S of it
if intending to pass between Malapascua and Cebu Islands.
TANGUINGUI ISLET, about 23.5 miles ESE of the
E side of South Gigante Island, is a low, flat, sandy cay, 6.7
m (22 ft) high on its highest point. Shoals, as defined by the
10 m (5.5 fm) curve, extend about 1.2 miles W from the
islet. A reef with its center about 6 miles S of this islet, with
a radius of 0.8 miles has a least depth of 2.7 m (9 ft).
A shoal, with a least depth of 11.4 m (6.25 fm) lies
about 4.5 miles NNE of the islet. Tanguingui Island Light
(11° 29’ 18”N., 123° 43’ 30”E.) is shown atop a black tower
on the islet.
Caution - A weather buoy exists about 8 miles S of
Tanguigui Islet. The buoy exhibits flashing yellow light.
NORTHEAST COAST OF MASBATE
(CHARTS 1539, 1541 & 4418)
The coast from Bugui Point to Port Barrera is steep-to
and there are no off-lying dangers. The shore reef extends
from 91 to 411 m (100 to 450 yd) offshore.
GUMAHANG, a barrio about 2 miles SE of Bugui
Point, has a small pier. Outrigger boats connect the barrio
with the town of Aroroy.
DIABLO is a small islet on the shore reef 4 miles ESE
of Bugui Point.
PORT BARRERA (CHART 4455), 9 miles ESE
from Bugui Point, is entered between Colorada Point and
Catbatan Point, about 2.16 miles SE. It indents the NE coast
of Masbate to a distance of 7 miles in the SSE direction.
The surrounding land is mountainous, of a reddish color,
and furnishes good timber for building purposes.
The outer part of the harbor is wide with depths of
over 18.3 m (10 fm) to a distance of 1.5 miles within the
entrance points. It affords a well-protected anchorage with
good holding ground, but the remainder of the harbor is
shoal and filled with dangers. A narrow channel, with a
least depth of 5.8 m (3.25 fm), leads S from the outer part
of the harbor to the inner anchorage. The continuation of
the channel S is extremely narrow and leads to the shallow
head of the port.
The N shore of the outer part of the port is generally
steep-to but the W shore between MAILABU and
MATALAN POINT and the SE shore between Catbatan
Point and Amoron Point is fronted by a drying reef which
5 extends to a distance of up to 0.5 mile.
Shoals with depths of 0.9 to 5.5 m (0.5 to 3 fm)
encumber the channel leading to the inner anchorage. Until
such time, as buoys and aids to navigation marking these
10 shoals have been replaced, no attempt should be made to
proceed to the inner harbor.
Currents - The rivers emptying into the head of the bay
cause strong N current during ebb in the inner anchorage
15 with practically no current during flood.
Anchorage for ocean-going vessels is in 40.2 m (22
fm), coarse sand and mud bottom, off the inner side of the
sand beach S of Colorada Point.
20
Small vessels with local knowledge can find secure
anchorage in 8.2 to 11.0 m (4.5 to 6 fm) in the inner part
of the port SW of the mouth of Guinobatan River or W of
Poro landing. This is the best protected anchorage. A coral
25 reef, about 411 m in extent, with known depth of 0.9 m (0.5
fm), and surrounded by deep water, is on the W side of the
fairway leading to this anchorage. Another coral reef with a
depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) is 0.3 mile W of Amoron Point.
30 COLORADA POINT forms the W entrance point to
Port Barrera and is conspicuous by its lighthouse tower and
keeper’s house. It is a succession of small hills about 61
m (200 ft) high, ending in a bluff about 15 m (50 ft) high.
A coral reef about 205 m E of the point, and shoal water
35 extends about 503 m farther.
Major Light - Colorada Light (12° 32’ 34”N., 123° 22’
40”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Colorada Point.
40 CATBATAN POINT, the S and E entrance point to
Port Barrera, is mountainous and wooded. A coral reef
extends 411 m N with a prominent rock on the outer end.
A jetty extends NW from the point. White cylindrical tanks
are at the shore end of the jetty. The S shore of the outer
45 harbor is a fringed by a broad reef broken only at the town
of Aroroy.
DIRECTIONS - From a position about 1 mile S
of Colorada Point, steer 225o for a white spot on CLIFF
50 POINT until Magaguilan Island bears 153o, then head for
it on this bearing. When the center of Mount Canatonatoan
bears 090o, alter course to 176o. When Magaguilan Island
bears 145o, anchor in the specified anchorage.
55 AROROY, a town of great importance in Port
Barrera, is a port of call for commercial vessels. The town
is prominent from the sea. The area NE of the government
wharf is being reclaimed. The town has a post office,
mobile phone communication, and Internet connection.
60 It is connected to Masbate by a highway passing through
8-6
Baleno. A private airstrip is located 1.3 miles W of the town.
Circulation of cargoes back and forth to the towns of Pilar,
Bulan, and Masbate City consisted of bottled goods, rice,
ice, fuel, LPG, and copra. Fish is being brought to Masbate
City. Passengers convey to and from Pilar, Bulan, Masbate
and neighboring coastal barangays.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Aroroy
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8059626
and +63998-5854328.
Berthing Facilities - The government operates the
wharf fronting the town. A local company provides cargo
handling services at the port.
Anchorage - Recommended anchorage is in 34.7 m
(19 fm) about 0.5 miles NW of the town.
MOUNT BAGADILA, marked by a large cogon
patch on the W slope, and MOUNT CANATONATOAN
are useful landmarks in approaching Port Barrera. These
two mountains are close together, conical in shape, and
just S of Aroroy, whereas the higher mountains inland are
decidedly irregular.
RIO GUINOBATAN, (PORO LANDING) is on the
E shore of the inner harbor of Port Barrera, on the W side
of MACATUL POINT. It is a landing place for the mining
companies operating in the area. It has a pier with a depth
of 1.5 m (5 ft) at its end, in June 1951. A landing, connected
to the shore by a causeway, is located N of Macatul Point.
LANANG RIVER, on the banks of which are several
small landings, has 3.7 m (2 fm) inside, but the approach is
blocked by mud flats, bare at low water. The GUINOBATAN
RIVER supplies a good quality of fresh water.
The coast between Catbatan Point and Bagubaut Point,
about 9.5 miles ESE, is rugged and steep-to. There are no
dangers outside the shore reef. It is indented slightly in its
N part by BAYUAN COVE and TINAGO COVE and by
Pasil Bay in its SE part.
BALENO, a small town about 6 miles SE of Aroroy,
has a pier for use of small boats. The town is connected by
road to Aroroy and Masbate City.
PASIL BAY, known as PORT MAGDALENA, about
Masbate City, viewed SW of the government wharf.
(Photograph - Lt Maylord M de Chavez, 2012)
8-7
9 miles SE of Port Barrera, is very small and open to N.
Good anchorage in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm), mud bottom,
may be had in midstream, between the prominent sand spit
on the NW side and the old church in Magdalena. Good
5 protection may be obtained by going farther into the bay
and anchoring in about 5.5 m (3 fm).
BAGUBAUT POINT, located E of Pasil Bay, is
easily recognized, being bold and prominent. The other
10 points along this part of Masbate are inconspicuous. From
this point to the NORTHWEST POINT at the entrance to
Masbate Harbor, about 6 miles SW, the coast is uniform,
more or less steep-to, and is slightly indented by several
small coves.
15
MASBATE HARBOR (CHART 4455), about 6
miles SE of Bagubaut Point, is entered between Bantigue
Point and coast of Masbate City. It is well-protected and
safe at all times, with fair room for maneuvering. The city
20 of MASBATE is on a bluff on the E side of the harbor.
Prominent Features - Bagalejo Point, at the lower
end of the harbor and about 1.1 miles SW of Bantigue
Point, makes a good landmark.
25
Major Light - Masbate Harbor Light (12° 22’ 43”N.,
123° 36’ 35”E.) is shown from a white tower on Bantigue
Point.
30 The immediate approach to the entrance of Masbate
Harbor is dangerous. The channel entrance is about 570
m wide between the reefs on either side. It should be
attempted only during the day under favorable conditions.
The line of reefs on either side of the channel can usually be
35 distinguished by their light color. Masters of ocean-going
vessels recommend anchoring about a mile offshore with
the light bearing 175o and making observations for bearing
before proceeding into the entrance.
40 There are no dangers in the middle part of the bay,
Steep-to reefs, extending 735 m in places, are along the
N and W sides of the harbor. A reef, which partly dries,
extends about 720 m SE from the N shores. A narrow spit,
as defined by the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve, extends 549 m E from
45 the extremity of the drying reef. The head of the harbor is
shoal. Several rivers flow through the mangrove swamps
that line the shore.
 Distress & Rescue – Remotely controlled coast station
with VHF DSC alerting in Masbate City (12° 22’ 12”N.,
123° 36’ 57”E.) covers Asid Gulf, and the NE and NW
portions of Masbate Island. Vessels in distress may contact
the above mentioned remotely controlled station. Vessels
in distress that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the
VHF DSC coast station may contact the Manila Rescue
Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
Anchorage can be taken anywhere in the middle of
the harbor, but the usual anchorage is about 0.1 miles W of
the government wharf in 29 to 31 m (15.9 to 17 fm), mud
bottom.
MASBATE CITY is the capital of the province of the
same name. The cross atop the church gable is prominent.
There is a post office. Communication by mobile phone
and landline telephone is available. The airport, with daily
commercial flights between Manila and Masbate, is 0.5
miles from the government wharf. Ferry vessels connect
Masbate City with Manila, the Sorsogon towns of Pilar and
Bulan, Pio Duran in Albay, Lucena, Calubian and Ormoc in
Leyte, Cebu, and Batangas. Major banks are available. Fuel
oils, food, hardware supply, and medicine are obtainable.
Port Management - The government port is operated
by PPA. The port manager may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6356) 333-2217. Masters should notify the port 24
hrs before ETA. Vessels with GRT of 13,000 tons and
below can be accommodated.
In 2007, the Port of Masbate registered a total of
224,589 metric tons of incoming goods and 141,506 metric
tons of outgoing goods. Vessels at berth or anchored were
counted at 4,507 domestic vessels and 8 foreign vessels for
the same year.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Masbate City may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8334893 and +63946-6338389, and e-mail at cgs_
masbate3@yahoo.com.
Buntud Reef, viewed from the W.
(Photograph - Lt Maylord M de Chavez, 2012)
Berthing Facilities - The port has a 323 m long
concrete wharf. Three RoRo ramps are available. The N
and S berthing sides have least depths of 13.6 m and 4.8
m, respectively. The port has 3,100 sq m open storage area
5 2,900 sq m container yard.
An oil depot, located about 1.2 miles SE of the
government wharf, has dolphins used for berthing vessels
delivering petroleum. A submarine pipeline extends from
10 the depot to the dolphins.
Port Services - Cargo handling services, watering
services, and bunkering are provided by local companies.
15 Pilotage, compulsory for all vessels, is provided by
Legazpi Harbor Pilot Association. Vessels should notify
the pilot association 24 hrs before ETA thru telephone or
in writing. The arrival of the vessel should be confirmed 3
hrs before ETA. The pilot association’s telephone number
20 is (+6352) 480-5423. The pilot association also provides
tugboats of limited capacity.
Directions - From a position 1 mile NE of the light,
steer for it on course 226o. When about 0.2 mile from it,
25 haul S, giving the light a berth of 0.1 mile to the starboard.
When the light is abaft the beam, continue on S course with
nothing to port, to avoid the point of reef making out from
the E side of the channel. When abeam of the government
wharf, haul in for the anchorage in 29 to 31 m (15.9 to 17
30 fm), mud bottom, or go alongside the wharves. The harbor
may be entered also in this manner: When entering during
daylight and when Bagalejo Point is identified, steer for this
point on course 207o. When the light bears 345o, haul E and
bring the light astern on this bearing. Steer 165o until the
35 government wharf bears 090o, and anchor or go alongside
the wharf.
MOBO BAY, between BAYBAY POINT and
SAGAUSAUAN POINT, is foul and of little importance
40 to navigation. A jetty extends from the N cove of the bay.
BUNTUD REEF is in the middle of the bay. With
the reefs making 297 m off Baybay Point, it is a serious
8-8
danger to vessels approaching Masbate Harbor from the CADULAN POINT, the E entrance point to Naro
SE. The reef is marked by a sand bar and a small cottage. Bay, is an eroded bluff covered with jungle and with a
Mangroves grow at the NE end of the sand bar. The whole narrow ledge at the base.
reef was declared as a marine protected area, the boundary
of which is marked by styrofoam buoys. 5 CUDAO ISLET is a low rock 20.1m (66 ft) high, 0.8
miles W of the point. The water is deep to the W, but shoals
TACU AND MOBO SHOALS are located N and to the N and E of the rock.
NW of Sagausauan Point. The anchorage is S of these
shoals, off the town of MOBO. MASBATE PASS is a wide and deep water that
10 separates the NE side of Masbate Island from Ticao Island.
MOBO, the town at the head of Mobo Bay, has a The pass, which is about 13 miles wide at its NW end,
100 m long private pier fronting it. The town is connected narrows to about 5 miles as it approaches Masbate Island.
by road to Masbate City. White tanks of an oil depot are
located about 400 m SW of the pier. A power plant is also Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable was
located near the pier. 15 laid across Masbate Pass from the Masbate coast just NW
of Umabay Point to Ticao coast just SE of Panahuan Point.
GORDA POINT, 2 miles SE of Mobo Bay, is Anchoring and fishing are prohibited within the vicinity of
composed of large boulders from which a steep, wooded the submarine cable.
slope rises 750 m (246 ft) to a bench and then another 61 m
(200 ft) to the top of the hills near the shore. This makes the 20 TICAO ISLAND is separated from the NE side of
point readily recognizable from up and down the coast, but Masbate by Masbate Pass and from the SE coast of Luzon
not when abreast of it. by Ticao Pass. It is 23 miles long NW and SE, 6.5 miles
wide near the N end, and narrows toward SAN RAFAEL
From Gorda Point, the coast trends in a SSE direction POINT, the extreme S point, from which a chain of islands
for 6 miles to Paniqui Point. The N part of this coast is 25 and rock extends toward Cadulan Point. Several passes lead
fairly steep-to but shoals and reefs extend up to 0.5 miles through these dangers and connect the S part of Masbate
in the S part. Pass to the SW part of Ticao Pass. The island is mountainous
and sparsely populated. The E coast of the island presents
USON BAY is 6 miles SE of Gorda Point between many small bays and opens E. Four of these bays offer
PANIQUI and TABUNAN POINTS. The W shore of the 30 good anchorages. Vessels may also anchor on the bank that
bay is fairly steep-to but the 5 m (2.7 fm) curve fronts its extend 1 mile off the shore near the S end of the island. The
head to a distance of about 1.7 miles. Within this curve, the W coast is steep and rugged, and has no good anchorage.
head of the bay is filled with sand, mud, and mangroves. A
narrow spit, as defined by the 5 m (2.7 fm) curve, extends TATUS ISLAND, 0.5 miles W of San Rafael Point,
about 0.9 miles W from Tabunan Point. A shoal patch, with 35 and BUJO ISLAND, about 1 mile S of Togoron Bay, are
a least depth of 8.6 m (4.7 fm) lies about 0.3 mile SW of the the only off-lying islands along the W coast. The former has
outer end of the spit. 20.1 m (11 fm) in the channel between it and the shore of
Ticao and the latter 4.5 m (2.5 fm).
USON, located about 1.4 miles SW of Tabunan Point,
has a small pier for outrigger boats. The town is connected 40 TOGORON BAY is open to the S and SW, has a
by road to Masbate City and other towns of the province. very little swinging room, and is not recommended as an
It has an ice plant. The town’s main economic activities anchorage. There is a waterfall at NIPA POINT, about 1.6
are fishery and agriculture. Post offices and mobile phone miles SE of Bujo Island and a spring with a 3 inch pipe outlet
communications are available. Electricity is available at the at barrio TALISAY, about 5 miles further SE. Passenger
poblacion. 45 boats from Masbate City call at the pier in Lagundi, about
3.6 miles NW of Tatus Island.
NARO BAY, between Tabunan Point and Cadulan
Point, about 4 miles to the E, is clear and deep. It affords PORT SAN MIGUEL (CHART 4454), between
good protection except from the NW. Naro Bay affords NORTHWEST POINT and Tabunan Point, is open to the
excellent anchorage in bad weather in case a vessel is 50 NW. A peninsula, about 0.8 miles wide, extends about
unable to reach Masbate Harbor. the same distance N from the head of the port, dividing it
into two narrow and shallow coves or arms. An excellent
DIMASALANG is the town on the beach at the typhoon anchorage for small vessels maybe found off the
head of the bay. It is connected by road to Masbate barrio of PANDAN in the SE arm from the bay, where the
City and PALANAS. It has a post office, mobile phone 55 reefs break the seas.
communication, and Internet connection. Terminal for
public buses going to Manila and Cebu is at the poblacion. Directions - To enter from midway between CATPATIN
A small pier, for use by fishing boats, fronts the town. POINT and the W shore of Yeso Island, steer 142o for the
Money remittance centers and drugstores are also present. head of the small bay E of the rounding point until within
No supplies are obtainable. 60 0.1 mile of that point, then turn sharply to W and follow

8-9
mid-channel courses between the edge of the reefs S. The
reefs on both sides of the channel are steep-to, and can be
readily seen. Anchor in 11 m (6 fm), mud bottom, just SE of
the sandy point, off the sitio of Pandan. There is very little
swinging room but lines can be made fast ashore on both 5
sides. The reefs in the head of the bay are hard to see on
account of muddy water and vessels should not go S of the
recommended anchorage. The channel abreast MAPUSA
POINT is only about 183 m wide, being constricted by
reefs that extend 297 m off the point and about 0.1 mile off 10
the shore on the E side.
PILAR BAY, the SW arm of Port San Miguel, is lined
with mangroves and almost filled by reefs. Foul ground
extends about 1 mile N and NE from a position about 1
mile SSE of Northwest Point.
PURO ISLETS consist of reefs that bare and sunken
rocks that lie on foul ground. A narrow channel leads S of
this foul ground, but the place is not recommended as an
anchorage.
MOUNT PANDAN, about 233 m (765 ft) high and
oval, forms an excellent landmark.
CATPATIN ISLAND is heavily wooded and very
steep with jagged rocky shores. The W side has bold,
vertical cliffs about 45.7 m (150 ft) high.
YESO ISLAND, about 0.5 miles S of TABUNAN
POINT, is 57.6 m (189 ft) high, brush-covered and has
very jagged, underworn shores. A fine sand beach is on
the mainland SE part of Yeso Island. Cottages of a private
resort are at the hinterland of the beach. Its W side is steep-
to.
FALTABAN ISLAND, separated from the coast of
Ticao Island by a deep channel about 365 m wide, is 66.8
m (219 ft) high and has a vertical rock cliff on its NW side.
The shore is honeycombed and much underworn.
BAGABABOY ISLAND, narrow, wooded, and 97 m
(318 ft) high, extends about 1.3 miles NW from a position
close NW of Nunun Point. Three low places near the center
divide it into a series of knolls. The E side of the island is 45
deeply indented; the W has several high vertical cliffs. A
shoal, with a least depth of 7.3 m (4 fm), lies nearly 0.4 mile
ENE of the N extremity of the island.
SAN MIGUEL ISLAND, the most N of the islands N 50
of Ticao, is almost divided, the 2 parts being connected by
a low sand spit. The S part is very similar to Bagababoy in
formation. A small patch, with a least depth of 10.7 m (5.9
fm), lies about 480 m NW of NW extremity San Miguel
Island. San Miguel Island Light (12° 43’ 06”N., 123° 35’ 55
19”E.) is displayed on a white tower on the same NW
extremity.
A small islet, 49.4 m (162 ft) high, lies in mid-channel
between San Miguel Island and Bagababoy Island.
Caution - Vessels should give these islands a good
berth, as the tidal currents are very strong in their vicinity.
MARCOS PASS, between Bagababoy Island and
NUNUN POINT, the N point of Ticao, is narrow, but deep
and clear, and affords a considerable saving in distance for
vessels running between Bulan and Masbate.
From Nunun Point, the coast trends in a general SE
direction, with a slight bow ESE, for 6.7 miles to the N
entrance point of Taclogan Bay. This portion of the coast is
rugged and steep-to.
MONREAL, a town about 3.8 miles SE of Nunun
15 Point, has a small pier. Outrigger boats, ferrying goods, and
passengers call at this town.
TACLOGAN BAY (CHART 4454), on the E shore of
Ticao, 7 miles SE of Nunun Point, is open to the NE, but
20 the reefs protect it from the sea. A reef with a depth of 0.9 m
(0.5 fm) is in the middle of the entrance. It has a 183 m wide
channel with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm), separating it from the
reefs extending off the W point. It also has a deep, clear
channel S of it. The S shore of the bay is fringed by reefs to
25 a distance of up to 0.1 mile N. A shoal, with a depth of 2.1
m (7 ft) at its outer end, extends about 390 m NNW from
a point W of TASIRAN POINT. The W side of the bay is
fronted by reefs, which bare at low water to a distance of up
to 251 m E. A narrow channel leads W from the head of the
30 bay into a basin in a large, shallow lagoon that is fringed by
mangroves and mud flats. The lagoon extends about 1 mile
S. The basin affords a perfectly landlocked anchorage for
launches and small vessels.
35 Anchorage can be taken in 18.3 to 21.9 m (10 to 12
fm), mud bottom, in the middle of the bay about 0.4 mile
N of the barrio of RIZAL, or in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm)
about 0.2 mile N of the same barrio. There is not much
swinging room, but very good holding ground.
40
A shoal, with a least depth of 9.1 m (5 fm), was reported
in 1957 to lie about 3.2 miles NNE of Tasiran Point.
PORT SAN JACINTO (CHART 4454), about
2.5 miles SSE of Tasiran Point, is entered between SAN
COSME POINT and SAN JOSE POINT. It affords good
anchorage from all but the E winds. Shoal water, as defined
by the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve, extends 0.1 mile S and 0.5 miles
E from San Cosme Point and 0.1 mile N and 0.3 mile ESE
from San Jose Point. The entrance channel between the
above curves has a least width of about 297 m. The head
of the bay is shallow and mud flats with reefs at their outer
end front the head of the bay to a distance of up to 450 m.
The holding ground at the anchorage is good with ample
swinging room.
SAN JACINTO is the most important town on Ticao
Island. It is on the S shore back of San Jose Point. The
place may be recognized by the buildings and by several
60 conspicuous cogon hills, 61 to 122 m (200 to 400 ft) high,
8-10
at the back of the town. There is weekly launch connection
to Masbate and Bulan, and a small motor vessel calls every
2 weeks from Cebu.
Major Light - San Jacinto Harbor Light (12° 34’
17”N., 123° 44’ 05”E.) is displayed from a white tower on
San Jose Point.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Jacinto may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8426686 and +63998-5854327, and e-mail at cgss_
sanjacinto@yahoo.com.
Directions - Commercial vessels calling at San Jacinto
usually anchor NW of the light in 7.3 to 18.3 m (4 to 10
fm), about 0.1 mile from shore. Vessels intending to anchor
inside the bay should enter midway between San Cosme
Point and the town on a 262o course and anchor in 12.8 to
18.3 m (7 to 10 fm) with San Cosme Point bearing about N.
From San Jose Point, the coast trends in a general SE
direction for 5 miles to LAGAN POINT. This portion of the
coast is indented by two small coves. It is clear of dangers
with the 20 m (10.9 fm) curve lying less than 0.5 miles
offshore.
TICAO BAY, 5.5 miles S of Port San Jacinto, affords
good anchorage, but with no protection except from the W.
SAN FERNANDO is a town on the W shore. The town
has a post office. A launch calls from Sorsogon, Bulan, and
Masbate.
Directions - Approach the bay with the town bearing
258o and anchor in 11 to 21.9 m (6 to 12 fm). Small launches
can enter the lagoon at the head of the bay at high water
only.
The coast between the S entrance point of Ticao Bay
and ARICOMO POINT, the N entrance point of Batuan
Bay, about 3.5 miles S, is clear of dangers, with the 20 m
(10.9 fm) curve lying up to 0.6 miles offshore.
BATUAN BAY, 4 miles S of Ticao Bay, has a small,
partly protected anchorage. A wide reef extends 0.3 mile
offshore E of the town of BATUAN. Another reef extends
off the S entrance point. Small stakes usually mark the edge
of the latter reef. The entrance may be made by keeping 45
to 91 m N of these stakes and changing course to W near
the fish trap on the S side of the channel. Anchor in 5.5 to
7.3 m (3 to 4 fm), mud bottom, S of the town. If the stakes
are not in place, bring a small conical hill on the S shore to
bear 225o and change to 270o when a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm)
is reached.
The coast between the S entrance point of Batuan
Bay and San Rafael Point, about 4.5 miles S, is indented
by BITON BAY which is foul and encumbered with reefs
and shoals. The whole portion of the bay is included within
Bongsanglay Natural Park. Shoal water with depths of
8-11
5.5 to 7.3 m (3 to 4 fm) extends from 1 to 1.5 miles E of
San Rafael Point and of the islands. Deep channels exist
between the several islands but the ones usually used are
Black Rock Pass and the channel between Deagan Island
5 and Cadulan Point, Masbate.
MATABAO PASS is between San Rafael Point of
Ticao Island and the N tip of Matabao Island. The reef
extending N from Matabao Island reduces the channel
10 width to 0.4 miles. Ferry boats traveling between Masbate
City and Bulan prefer this channel over Black Rock Pass.
Caution - Eddies were reported to occur in Matabao
Pass. Vessels without local knowledge are advised to use
15 the wider Black Rock Pass.
MATABAO ISLAND, SE of San Rafael Point, is
about 1.7 miles long from its northernmost point to Argos
Point. A reef extends about 0.3 NW from the N point. Argos
20 Point is marked by Matabao Light (12° 18’ 37”N., 123° 48’
28”E.).
BLACK ROCK PASS, between Argos Point and
Magcaragit Island, is 2.7 miles wide and is divided into two
25 channels by BLACK ROCK and its surrounding shoals.
The rock itself, which is marked by a beacon, is low and
usually hard to see. At high-spring tides it is covered, and
from a distance appears as a black log.
30 Tidal Currents - Both channels are deep, but the
irregular bottom and strong tidal currents cause very heavy
tide rips, swirls, and eddies. During spring tides, these
effects are intensified and result in disturbances equal to
that in San Bernardino Strait. The tidal currents reach a
35 velocity of about 5 knots; setting W on the flood and E on
the ebb.
Directions - Three wooded hills on the island S of
Black Rock Pass make excellent marks for cross bearings,
40 with the one on Dakit Island as the most conspicuous.
Vessels using the channel N of Black Rock when going E
should bring the light on Argos Point to bear 070o, distant
about one mile, then steer 090o, making an allowance for
current, which has a strong tendency to set down on the
45 rock during ebb. When the summit of Dakit Island bears S,
the course may be set as desired.
When bound W, bring Dakit Island summit to bear S
and the light 280o and then steer 270o until the light is on
50 the quarter, when the course may be changed as desired. On
this course the vessel will pass about 0.1 mile S of a 7.3 m
(4 fm) shoal, dangerous to navigation, lying 0.2 mile, 146o
from Matabao Island Light. Care should be taken not to be
set onto this shoal during the flood current.
55
Vessels passing S of Black Rock should steer a mid-
channel course 0.5 or 0.8 miles N of Magcaragit Island,
until the middle of the cliff of Deagan Island bears S when
bound E. When bound W, hold the mid-channel course until
60 the light on Argos Point bears N. Care should be taken to
avoid the 8.6 m (4.75 fm) shoal about 0.5 miles SE of the
Black Rock which was reported in 1960.
MAGCARAGIT ISLAND, about 84 m (275 ft) high
at its S extremity, lies with its N extremity nearly 1.5 miles
SSE of Black Rock.
A shoal, with a depth of 4.5 m (2.5 fm) at its outer end,
extends nearly 0.5 miles E from the E side of the island.
Shoals and broken ground, as defined by the 10 m (5.5 fm)
curve, extend 1.3 miles NE, E, and 0.5 miles N from the
island.
DEAGAN ISLAND extends about 2 miles SE from a
position 0.7 miles SE of Magcaragit Island. It is 30 m high
and has a width of about 0.7 miles in its S part. The island
is fringed by a narrow reef, and a shoal, as defined by the 10
m (5.5 fm) curve, extends 1.2 miles E from PONDUHAN
POINT, the E extremity of the island.
DAKIT ISLAND, about 73 m (240 fm) high, and
HAMORAON ISLET, about 62 m (202 ft) high, lie in
between Magcaragit Island and Deagan Island. Both islets
are very small in extent.
The passage between Cadulan Point and Deagan
Island is about 0.8 miles wide, with depths of 11 to 20.1
m (6 to 11 fm) in the middle, but shoals on either side
constrict the channel to about 548 m between the 10 m (5.5
fm) curve. Some masters prefer this channel to the Black
Rock passages, claiming that the tidal currents have lesser
strength than in those passages.
Directions - Vessels using this passage, bound E,
should give the S point of Deagan Island a berth of about
0.3 mile and steer 068o for about 2 miles, when the course
may be shaped as desired. When bound W, bring the middle
of the passage to bear 248o when about 2 miles distant and
steer for it, giving the S point of Deagan Island a berth of
about 0.3 mile.
TICAO PASS, is the wide and deep passage between
Ticao Island and Luzon. The only danger in the pass is a
shoal (12° 39' 41"N., 123° 44' 52"E.) reported in 1956 with
a least depth of 9.1 m (5 fm).
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable
was laid across Ticao Pass from Ticao Bay to Sorsogon
in Luzon. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited within the
vicinity of the submarine cable.
SOUTHEASTERN MASBATE
(CHART 1539 & 4418)
The coast of Masbate from Cadulan Point to
MANAGAYSAY POINT, almost 3.5 miles SSE, is fronted
by reefs and foul ground to a distance of up to 0.7 miles.
From the latter point to Dumurug Point, about 16.5 miles
SE, the coast forms almost an unbroken line and is generally
clear of off-lying dangers, except for a shoal with a depth
of 9.6 m (5.25 fm) located about 5.2 miles N of Dumurug
Point.
PORT CATAINGAN (CHART 4455) indents the
5 coast to a distance of 5 miles in a NW direction between
Dumurug Point and LUMBUJAN POINT, about 1.5 miles
SW. It is 1.3 miles wide at the entrance, deep and clear of
danger in its middle part, open SE, and with good holding
ground.
10
Forming the E side of the port on the seaward side of
the peninsula, the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve is about 0.5 miles
from the coast.
15 The shores of the port are fringed with reefs and shoals
183 to 548 m. There are 3 isolated shoals with little depth
on the E side, as shown on the chart. The head of the port
is sandy on the W side; the N part is shallow with regularly
decreasing soundings, and, at the head, there are mud flats
20 and reefs extending about 735 m, which are bare at low
water.
TETAS DE CATAINGAN, two rounded hills at
the head of the port, are the most prominent landmarks for
25 vessels entering the port.
CATAINGAN is the town almost at the head of the
port, which is called by the same name. It has a post office,
telephone, and mobile phone communications. There is a
30 100 m long concrete pier just at the E shore fronting the
town. Small seacrafts can berth along the length of the
causeway connecting the pier to the shore. A RoRo vessel
has daily trips between Cataingan and Naval in Biliran
Island. Cargo handling services are available from a local
35 company.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station
in Cataingan may be contacted at mobile phone no.
+63917-8426642 and +63998-5855735, and e-mail at
40 cgsscataingan@gmail.com.
Pilotage is compulsory and provided by pilots from
Legazpi.
45 Anchorage - Perfectly protected anchorage may be
found near the head of the port in 7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm)
about 0.5 miles SE from the town of Cataingan. Another
recommended anchorage is in the bight on the W side of the
port, about 0.3 mile NW from MINTAC POINT.
50
DUMURUG POINT, the E entrance point to Port
Cataingan, is fringed by a reef which extends about 274
m S. Matayum Light (11° 56' 55"N., 124° 03' 02"E.) is
displayed on Dumurug Point.
55
BASLAY ISLAND, 0.8 miles SSE from Dumurug
Point, is very small and surrounded by a narrow reef.
BASLAY REEF, with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm), extends 1.3
miles S. The channel between Dumurug Point and Baslay
60 Island is 0.5 miles wide and 18.3 m. (10 fm) deep in the
8-12
middle.
ORDONEZ BANK, with a depth of 16.5 m (9 fm),
is a small bank about 1 mile SW of Dumurug Point and
less than 0.5 miles from shore. The channel between Baslay
Island and Ordonez Bank is nearly 1 mile wide and more
than 36.6 m (20 fm) deep.
From Lumbujan Point, the coast trends in a general
SSE direction for about 5 miles to ALUNGANGAN
POINT; and then in a S direction, with a slight bow W, for
8 miles to Caduruan Point. The only dangers off this stretch
of coast are the previously-described Baslay Island and
Baslay Reef and Bugtung Island and Balanguingue Island.
BUGTUNG ISLAND, about 5 miles SSE of Dumurug
Point, is fringed by a narrow reef and is 104 m (343 ft) high.
Its SE extremity is formed by a hill 100 m (330 ft) high. The
barrio of Bugtong is on the W shore.
BALANGUINGUE ISLAND, about 2.5 miles SSE of
Bugtung Island, is very small and is fringed by a narrow
reef which extends about 228 m NW. The channel between
these islands and Masbate is deep and clear. A 6.4m (3.5
fm) shoal is midway in the passage between Bugtung and
Balanguingue.
PIO CORPUZ is the town on the coast of Masbate
Island, W of Bugtung Island. It is connected by road to
Cataingan and Masbate City. A 100 m long jetty extends
from this town for use by small boats.
CADURUAN POINT, the SE extremity of Masbate,
is long and sharp. Shoal water extends about 549 m S, the
outside of which is clear, with a depth of 14.6 m (8 fm)
close to the sand beach. From the shore, the hills rise to
about 61 to 91 m (200 to 300 ft) high and are very uniform,
showing no prominent peaks. They are covered with a
fairly heavy growth of timber and brush, with occasional
clearings near the shore.
TAGAPULA ISLAND, about 8 miles NE of Dumurug
Point, is clear, steep-to, and 448 m (1,470 ft) high. Sogod
Sibugay Island from northeastward
8-13
Cove, on the W part of the island, is marked by Tagapul-an
Light (12° 03’ 20”N., 124° 09’ 20”E.).
SIBUGAY ISLAND is small about 130 m (428 ft)
5 high and 0.5 miles from the N side of Tagapula, with a deep
channel between them.
ESPAÑA SHOAL, 1 mile E from the NE point
of Tagapula Island, has a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm) and is
10 surrounded by deep water.
ALMAGRO ISLAND is about 8 miles SE of
Tagapula. The N part is 394 m (1,295 ft) high and the S part
has a flat summit with an elevation of 556 m (1,824 ft). The
15 town of ALMAGRO is at the head of ALMAGRO COVE,
a large indentation at the SW end of the island.
CABILISON is a small, high island about 0.5 miles S
from the SW point of Almagro Island. The island is marked
20 by Cabilison Light (11° 53’ 25”N., 124° 16’ 38”E.). The
light is obscured by Almagro, Maripipi, Tagapula Islands.
About 1.5 miles E of the NE point of Almagro Island
is the small island of KARIKIKI, which is 204 m (668 ft)
25 high. Between Karikiki and Almagro are 3 islets called
ROUGH, LITTLE KARIKIKI, and SAYAN. Rough Island,
the smallest of the three, is close to the middle W point of
Karikiki. Little Karikiki is 67 m (221 ft) high, while Sayan
is 23 m (75 ft) high. All of these small islands are clear and
30 steep-to except for a short reef making out W of Karikiki.
MARIPIPI ISLAND, about 5 miles S of Almagro, is
nearly round and covered with trees and is 920 m (3,020 ft)
high near its center. The shores are clear and very steep-to.
35
MARIPIPI, a town on the SE side of the island, has
a prominent church with galvanized iron roofing. It has a
small pier and a concrete deck for use by outrigger boats.
The town has a post office. There is daily communication
40 by launch with Tacloban, via BINALAYAN barrio at the S
coast of the island. A vessel from Cebu calls weekly.
SAMBAUAN ISLETS are four small and rocky islets
close together and surrounded by a shoal of sand, about 3.5
miles WSW of Maripipi summit and 2 miles from the shore
of that island. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete tower for a proposed
light exists on the peak of the largest of the Sambauan Islets.
The beach of the same islet is occupied by a private resort.
BUGA ROCK, 2.4 m (8 ft) high, is about 0.8 miles N
of the most N of the Sambauan islets and over 1 mile W of
Maripipi. A rock awash lies close NE of Buga Rock.
NARANJO ISLANDS (CHARTS 1515 & 4220),
close together about 7.5 miles S of Luzon, are comprised
of a group of six small islands, SAN ANDRES, RASA,
MEDIO, DARSENA, AGUADA, and ESCARPADA.
Their slopes are very abrupt, being steeper near the shores.
TADLOY POINT on San Andres Island is the most N
extremity of the group.
The islands are almost bare of heavy timber. However,
the whole group is covered with brush and jungle.
ANCHORAGE is in SABARIOG BAY, N of Darsena
Island. In NE weather, anchorage may be taken up on the
SW side of Escarpada Island.
TERNATE BAY, between Darsena and Aguada,
affords good anchorage, but is subject to strong currents
at times.
TIDAL CURRENTS - The current at flood generally
sets SW between and around the islands but, in the channel
between Aguada and Escarpada, it sets NW, and, between
Rasa and San Andres, it sets NE, causing heavy tide rips
where they meet the SW current.
DESTACADO ISLAND, about 3 miles SE of the
Naranjo Islands, rises steeply from the water on all sides
and is clear, with the exception of a reef making offshore
from the middle of Lode Bay.
SAN VICENTE, the town at the head of Lode Bay,
has a small pier.
ANCHORAGE in LODE BAY, SE of ISIOC POINT,
is good in all but SW weather.
CAPUL ISLAND (CHART 4220) is hilly, with
several sharp cone-shaped summits along the skyline, but
the highest, near the SE end, is flat-topped. The slopes are
steep and heavily timbered except on the NE side, where a
valley makes inland and a number of clearings are found.
CAPUL is the most important town on the island. A church
with prominent bell tower is conspicuous.
Reporting System - A coast watch station, situated
on the island, monitors vessels passing through the San
Bernardino Strait. Vessels should contact the coast watch
station (Call: Coast Watch Capul) via VHF Channel 16
when transiting in the vicinity of the station.
Major Light - Capul Island Light (12° 28’ 58”N., 124°
08’ 24”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Totoog Point,
which is the N point of the island.
5 SAN LUIS, in SAN LUIS BAY, is a small fishing
barrio. A good road leads from the bay to the lighthouse.
Anchorage in fair weather may be had NW of the
town, but this coast is exposed to the full force of the tidal
10 currents through San Bernardino Strait.
DALUPIRI ISLAND (CHART 4220) is smoothly
rounded on top and partly wooded. There is some heavy
timber near the N-central part, but the island is being
15 cultivated more each year. Both E and W sides of the island
are clear and steep-to, but extensive shoals extend N and
SE.
Anchorage may be had anywhere along the coast,
20 but necessarily close in, as the water is deep everywhere
except on the shoals projecting from the N and S ends of
the islands.
The channels between Luzon, Capul, Dalupiri, and
25 Samar are all subject to strong currents, tide rips, whirlpools,
and eddies. The shores along Capul Island show evidence of
extremely heavy wave action during the NE monsoon. No
detailed observations for currents were made at the time of
the survey. The following notes are based on the experience
30 of the survey vessels during May and June, working under
the best conditions obtainable. The intensifying effect of
heavy weather on the strength and direction of currents
should be borne in mind:
35 DALUPIRI PASS, between Dalupiri Island and
Samar, is the safest and should be used by all vessels bound
to or from the S. Tide rips and whirlpools will be found
about 2 miles N of IGANG POINT and 1.5 miles SE of
MINANGA POINT. The current generally sets fair with the
40 channel, with a counter current close inshore.
CAPUL PASS, between Capul Island and Dalupiri
Island, should be avoided as much as possible, especially
by vessels bound N, as there is danger of being swept on
45 DIAMANTE ROCK. The rock is composed of sharp, black
rocks, bare or almost bare at low water.
Rubi Shoal, 1.5 miles W of Diamante Rock, is also
composed of sharp, black rocks, with a depth of 5.9 m (3.25
50 fm). Both of these dangers are steep-to and hard to pick
up, while large eddies, sometimes a half mile or more in
diameter, are liable to sweep the vessel off her course.
Tidal Currents - Through Capul Pass, the current
55 floods S on the W side and in the center and N along the
Dalupiri Island shore, causing a long line of rips and small
eddies with a great deal of foam that gradually works across
the pass with the stage of the tide.
60 The ebb flows N in the entire pass, coming from E of
8-14
Diamante Rock. Numerous swirls and eddies are formed in
the channel between Capul and Luzon, the water seeming
to boil up from beneath, the center of the eddy in some
cases appearing to be at least a foot higher than the edge.
NARANJO PASS, between the Naranjo Islands and
Capul Island, is wide and deep. Tide rips extend from
Totoog Point for more than a mile N. The main current
floods SW past the point, while a counter current runs N on
the E side of the point at the same time.
Caution - In the night or during stormy weather,
vessels from S en route to San Bernardino Strait would do
well to keep close to the Masbate shore and pass N of the
Naranjo Islands, getting their position by the aid Matabao
and Capul Island Lights.
Directions - Vessels bound S through this channel
should pass about 1 mile W of Totoog Point and the same
distance E of Destacado Island. Vessels bound W with the
current are likely to be carried S toward San Andres Island
unless special precautions are taken to avoid it.
CAMANDAG ISLAND (CHART 4420), about 11
miles ESE of Tagapula Island and 7 miles SW of Jibatan
Point, Samar, is clear, steep-to, and 429 m (1,408 ft) high.
SANTO NIÑO ISLAND (CHART 4420) is SE from
Camandag, separated there from by a deep and clear channel
1.5 miles wide. The island is 472 m (1,550 ft) high, clear,
and steep-to. Two rocks, 3 m (10 ft) high and 16.2 m (53 ft)
8-15
high, lie on the edge of the ledge close to the middle of the
E side and W extremity of the island, respectively. Santo
Niño Light (11° 53’ 30”N., 124° 27’ 53”E.) is displayed W
of Olo Point, on the E coast of the island.
5
One mile WNW of CAMBIA POINT on the NW side
of Santo Niño Island is PILAR ISLET, 44 m (145 ft) high.
A shore reef makes out E of this islet.
10 SANTO NIÑO HARBOR (CHART 4456), on the N
side of Santo Niño Island, is an excellent typhoon refuge
for vessels not more than 45 m long and is much used as
such by the small vessels frequenting the nearby Samar
coast. Its entrance is only about 18 m wide, with a depth of
15 3.2 m (1.75 fm), leading into a roughly circular basin 180
m in diameter. A sunken rock, with a depth of 0.6 m (2 ft)
at low water, is on the W side of the channel, about 16 m
E of some bare and awash rocks. The shingle spit on the
E side of the channel is covered at high water. The edge
20 is easily visible and should be passed close-to on a 158o
course, leading to an anchorage in 10.5 m (5.75 fm), mud
bottom, about in the center of the basin. A 9.8 m (32 ft)
concrete pole for a proposed light stands on the old fort on
top of a small hill at the E entrance point to the cove. The
25 town of SANTO NIÑO is on the W shore of the harbor,
near its head. A small wharf fronts the town.
The channels between the larger islands and the coasts of
Masbate and Samar are wide and deep and the tidal currents
30 run with considerable velocity.
 CHAPTER 9
PANAY ISLAND
CHART 4706 & 4718
PANAY ISLAND is SE of Mindoro and the 6th largest
island in the Philippines, having an area of 11,520 sq km. Its
shape is an irregular triangle, with its W side trending nearly
N and S, its N side about WNW, and the SE side about NE
and SW. The smaller island of Guimaras, separated by a
narrow strait from the S coast of Panay, may have been, at
one time, connected to the larger island.
Near the W coast of Panay, a chain of mountains
extends in a curve from the NW to the S promontory, and,
from the middle of this chain another range, branches off to
the N promontory of the island. The island is divided into
the 4 provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, and Iloilo.
Panay is exceedingly fertile, being watered by
numerous mountain streams. It supports a large population
composed mostly of Visayans, with a few negritos in the
mountains. The island produces rice, sugar, cotton, coffee,
tobacco, pepper, and cacao. Ebony and sapan wood are
obtained from the forests, while pearl shells, tortoise shells,
and trepang are found on its coasts. It is one of the most
densely populated and highly cultivated islands on the
archipelago. It has 2 large towns, San Jose de Buenavista
and Kalibo, and 2 chartered cities, Iloilo City and Roxas
City. Iloilo City is a port of entry and one of the largest
places in the Philippines, with an extensive foreign and
interisland trade. A good highway makes a circuit of the
island and public bus communication is available to all
the important towns. A railroad traverses the center of the
island from Iloilo City to Roxas City.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coasts of Panay Island. Caution must be
observed when transiting over these cables. Anchoring,
fishing, and other marine activities that may harm the cables
are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
NORTHWESTERN PANAY
(CHART 1544 & 1545)
MOUNT TINAYUNGA, 915 m (3,002 ft) high,
which forms the NW promontory of the island, terminates
in a clear and steep coast, Its principal salients are Nasog
and Pucio Points.
NASOG POINT, the NW extremity of Panay, is a
wooded bluff 52 m (170 ft) high, with a clear and steep-to
shore. There is good anchorage on its N side. The point
is marked by Nasog Point Light (11° 54’ 00”N., 121° 53’ LIBERTAD is located about 4.5 miles E of Pucio Point.
06”E.). 50 The town’s port has a wooden pier about 30 m length
catering to fishing boats. The town is marked by a Libertad
Off the MALAY RIVER there are depths of 9.1 m (5 Light (11° 46’ 10”N., 121° 54’ 54”E.), which is displayed
fm), sand bottom, but a 6.4 m (3.5 fm) shoal is 1.1 miles from a tower near the shore.
off the mouth of the river and 2.3 miles N of Nasog Point.
MALAY, the town at the mouth of Malay River, has
hospitals and clinics. Mobile phone communication, postal
service, and Internet connection are also available. The
town is connected by road to Caticlan Airport, located
5 about 3 miles NE of the town.
From Nasog Point, the coast trends SSW for 2 miles
to Buruanga Point and then 6.5 miles in the same general
direction to Pucio Point. This stretch of coast is fringed with
10 detached coral rocks. Above these rocks, the coast presents
high, rocky cliffs with cascades falling over them.
BURUANGA POINT is a small projection which
extends about 0.5 mile SW from the general trend of the
15 coast. The Buruanga River flows out into a small bight, 1.3
miles SSE of the point. The town of Buruanga stands on the
S side of the mouth of the river. The school building behind
the town and the red-roofed building on the beach form
a prominent landmark for vessels coming from Caluya
20 Island. The barrio of Alegria, facing the W shore, is used
as the loading and unloading point of cargoes for Buruanga
and its vicinity. Having no existing facility, the people
simply transact their business at shore. Incoming cargoes
are composed mostly of salt, rice, garlic, onion, fish, and
25 some agricultural products while the outgoing cargoes are
sacks of copra.
Anchorage off the town of Buruanga is between the 2
points in a little bay, with a depth of 6.4 to 9.1 m (3.5 to 5
30 fm), off a beach near the mouth of a small river. Located W
of the town, a 3.7 m (2 fm) shoal extends 550 m from shore.
The small sailing vessels calling at the town can enter the
Buruanga River at high tide.
35 PUCIO POINT, about 8 miles SSW of Nasog Point
and resembles the latter, is 183 m (600 ft) high and is
girt with rocks which project some distance from it. The
extreme point is covered with low brush but appears to be
bare when viewed from any distance offshore. It is marked
40 by Pucio Point Light (11° 45’ 48”N., 121° 50’ 36”E.).
FROM PUCIO POINT, the coast trends E for about
10 miles to Patria Point. The coast is bordered with sandy
beaches, with good depths near it. The outer danger along
45 this stretch of coast is a 5 m (2.7 fm) shoal lying about 0.5
mile S of the barrio of San Roque. 2 ranges of hills, with
their slopes cultivated, run parallel to the coast.
9-1
 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Libertad may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5855328 and +63917-8428254, and thru e-mail at
coastguarddetachmentlibertad@yahoo.com.
From PATRIA POINT, the coast trends E by SE for
4.8 miles to the town of Pandan, being slightly indented by
2 bights. The coastal bank, with a least depth of 3.7 m (2
fm), extends about 0.3 mile offshore from the point close
SE of the barrio of Tingib. The Bugan River discharges into
the most E bight.
PANDAN BAY is safe, steep, and deep, but offers
little shelter during the SW monsoon.
PANDAN is the town along the bend of the coast
about 2 miles SE from the Bugan River. The town is not
visible from seaward. There is a public bus service N and S
over the highway, postal service, telephone, mobile phone
services, and Internet connection. Gasoline, kerosene, and
lubricating oils are obtainable in tins and in small quantities.
The government has a dispensary and hospital in the town.
Anchorage is in 12.8 to 18.3 m (7 to 10 fm) off Pandan.
From Pandan, the coast trends a little W of S for about
17 miles to Lipata Point, forming several bights of no great
depth, separated by rounding points. The largest of these
bights is N of Lipata Point. It is about 5 miles across from
the mouth of the Bacalan River to Lipata Point and about
1.5 miles in extent. This coast is broken by numerous small
rivers, none of which have any commercial importance, and
has many towns and villages. The shore is generally clear
and is free from danger at a distance of 0.5 mile from the
beach. The only off-lying danger is Sebaste Shoal.
SEBASTE SHOAL, with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm) is
about 5 miles W of the barrio of Sebaste.
LIPATA POINT is a low, wooded tongue of land
extending about 1 mile WNW of the general trend of the
shore. It is fringed by a narrow steep-to reef on the N
and the S sides. At the end of the point, the reef extends
nearly 0.5 mile in a NW direction. N from the point, with
uneven depths of 10.1 to 42.1 m (5.5 to 23 fm), is the best
anchorage in this vicinity during the SW monsoon. The
barrio of Lipata is on the point, but is nearly hidden by
surrounding coconut trees.
Port Management - the government pier at Lipata is
managed by PPA TMO-Lipata. The TMO may be contacted
at telephone no. (+6336) 540-8089.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Lipata
Batbatan Island (looking northward from a position about 18.5 miles southward of the island)
9-2
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5856242 and
+63917-8428254, and thru e-mail at coastguarddetlipata@
yahoo.com.
5 Berthing Facilities - The port has a two concrete piers
with lengths of 44 m and 43 m. The controlling draft of
the piers is 6 m. Two RoRo ramps are also available. The
port has 9,100 sq m container yard and 5,500 sq m open
storage area. Fresh water is supplied inside the port from an
10 elevated water tank.
Pilotage - Pilot boards at area about 0.5 mile N of
Maniguin Island.
15 From Lipata Point, the coast trends in a general SSW
direction for 10.5 miles to Tibiao Point. The coast is steep
while the shores are bordered by sand with occasional
narrow coral reef.
20 CULASI is a town about 2.5 miles S of Lipata Point.
The town is connected by road to San Jose Buenavista,
which is the provincial capital of Antique. There is a public
market where fresh supply may be obtained.
25 The Tibiao River flows out through NW Tibiao Point
and the town of Tibiao is located just S of the mouth of the
river. Tibiao Light (11° 17’ 42”N., 122° 01’ 36”E.) is shown
from a tower located on Tibiao Point.
30 BATBATAN ISLAND is 7.5 miles W of Lipata Point.
About 1 mile from its W end is a hill that is about 143 m
(469 ft) high, with sides sloping regularly to the shores. The
latter are generally formed by cliffs 6 to 15 m (20 to 50 ft)
high. About 73 m S of the W end of the island is a small
35 coral islet 3 m (10 ft) high. A reef less than 0.3 mile wide
fringes the S shore and shoal water extends a short distance
from each end of the island and from a point on the N side
near the barrio.
40 The cliff formation along the shore is broken in a few
places by sandy beaches on which it is possible to land in
fine weather. Of these, the beach at the E end of the island is
the one commonly used by the people. It is in a small cove
protected by a sand spit which extends 229 m S from the E
45 end of the island. From this landing, a footpath crosses the
island to the barrio of Batbatan about 0.8 mile from the E
end. The island is well cultivated nearly to its summit, the
principal crops being rice and corn. The passage between
this island and Panay is deep and clear, except for the shoal
50 W of Maralison Island.
MANIGUIN ISLAND, located 13 miles SW of Pucio
Point and about the same distance NW of Batbatan Island,
has a narrow ridge 31 m (102 ft) high across its S end, but
the remainder of the island is low and wooded, and not (10° 44' 17"N., 121° 56' 16"E.) cover the sea area off
more than 4.6 m (13 ft) high. It is fringed with coral reefs southwestern Panay. Vessels in distress may contact the
with deep water at their edges. The N and W points should above mentioned remotely controlled station. Vessels in
not be approached closer than 0.5 mile, and the S point distress that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the
should be given a berth of at least 1 mile. The E side of the 5 VHF DSC coast station may contact the Manila Rescue
island is bold. Coordinating Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer
to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
Major Light - Maniguin Light (11° 36’ 30”N., 121°
41’ 00”E.) is displayed from a tower located on the NW The coast between Tibiao Point and Ontgol Point,
point of the island. 10 about 6.3 miles S, is indented to a distance of about 1 mile.
Barbasa is a town about 6 miles S of Tibiao Point. A coral
Anchorage is in 27.4 to 45.7 m (15 to 25 fm), close reef, awash at low water, is 0.5 mile N of the town and
to the edge of the reef, about NE or SE of the NW point about 0.3 mile offshore. Two 1.8 m (1 fm) spots about
of the island, according to the season. The last mentioned 0.5 mile offshore are 1 mile NE and 0.8 mile S of the reef
anchorage is the better one. 15 awash, respectively.

SECO ISLAND, about 24.5 miles and 248o from
Lipata Point, is small and composed of low, shifting sand
hills, resting upon a coral reef which is steep-to all around.
A shoal of moderate extent, about 2.5 miles NE of
Seco Island, has a depth of 5.9 m (3.25 fm).
CARMEN BANK (CHART 4706), about 5 miles
NW of Seco Islet, is composed of sand and coral and has a
depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm). About 1.5 miles S of the 4.6 m (2.5
fm) spot and about 3 miles NW from Seco Island is a bank
with 15 m (8.2 fm) over it.
SULTAN BANK (CHART 4706), W of Carmen
Bank, consists of two separate shoals. The outer one, with
a depth of 12.8 m (7 fm), is about 13.8 miles W by N from
Seco Island and 10.5 miles from Carmen Bank. About 4
miles ENE of the 12.8 m (7 fm) bank is the shoaler spot,
with a depth of 6.8 m (3.7 fm). This shoal is 10.7 miles
WNW of Seco Islet. All of the shoals just described rise
abruptly from deep water.
MARALISON ISLAND, about 3.5 miles SSW of
Lipata Point and 1.5 miles from shore, is 69 m (226 ft) high
with the exception of the flat sandy point at the E end. It
consists of a group of small bare peaks rising rapidly from
the shores. The usual landing place is S of a sand spit at the
E end near the barrio. A small islet, 41 m (135 ft) high, is
close to its W side and is connected to it by a reef, bare at
low water.
From Ontgol Point to Tolan Point, the coast trends
S for 11 miles. It is clear and steep-to. The several towns
along this section of the coast have public bus connection
20 with Kalibo and San Jose de Buenavista. Lauaan, a town
about 1.8 miles N of Cairauan Point, has several buildings
visible from the sea and makes a good landmark. From
Tolan Point to Dalipe Point, the entire coastline is formed
by sand beaches with the exception of a few rocky ledges.
25 The mountain range, about 2 to 3.5 miles back from the
shore, is quite conspicuous but it is probably too low for
navigating purposes. Several small rivers are on this coast,
the most important of which are the Cangaranan and
Sibalom Rivers.
30
SIBALOM RIVER, which empties through two
mouths about 4 miles NNW of Dalipe Point, has very little
water on its bar. The town of Sibalom is about 5 miles up
the river. About S of the mouth of the river, a shelf or bank
35 extends about 1 mile from the shore with 16.4 m (9 fm) near
the outer edge, outside of which the water deepens rapidly.
CAUTION - A submarine telecommunication cable
lands at Barrio San Pedro, about 2.6 miles NNW of Dalipe
40 Point. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited within the
vicinity of the submarine cable.
DALIPE POINT, about 21 miles N of Naso Point, is
the most W point in this vicinity. It is low, wooded, clear,
45 and steep-to. Evelio Javier Airport is 0.5 miles E of the
point.

DANGERS - A rock awash is about midway between
Maralison Island and Panay. Another rock awash is 1 mile
SSE of the E end of the island. A shoal having a depth of
3.7 m (2 fm) with 18.3 m (10 fm) in the channel between
it and the island, is 0.8 mile W of the W end of Maralison
Island. The water is deep between these rocks and between
the rocks and the island.
SOUTHWESTERN PANAY
(CHART 1545, 1546 & 4415)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in San Jose de Buenavista
SOMBRERO ROCKS (CHART 4706), 22.4 miles
WSW of Dalipe Point, show as 2 black rocks of about the
50 same height, each appearing no larger than a big boat. A
report stated that Sombrero Rocks were seen from a distance
of 10 miles with an elevation of the eye of 13 m (43 ft) .
When approaching it from N, it first appeared in two parts,
where the W, about 6 m (20 ft) high, was the higher.
55
TUBIGAN POINT, about 1.8 miles S of Dalipe Point,
is low and fringed by a narrow strip of rocks. It may be
recognized by an old fort standing on the S part. A black
can buoy marks the point of shoal making 0.1 mile S of
60 Tubigan Point. A pillar buoy is present just S of the point.

9-3
 SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA (CHART 4415),
the capital of Antique Province, is at the head of a cove
E of Tubigan Point. Supplies of food, ice, gasoline,
kerosene, Diesel oil, and lubricating oil are obtainable in
small quantities. The town exports copra, rice, and sugar.
There are buses to Iloilo City. Postal service, landline
communication, mobile phone communication, and
Internet connection are available. Medical assistance can
be obtained at the Provincial Hospital. Commercial vessels
travel from Manila to the town and vice versa, twice every
week. An airport is located about 1 mile NW of the town.
Prominent Features - The church tower in the town,
although partly obscured by coconut palms, is an excellent
landmark for approaching the pier.
Major Light - Tubigan Point Light (10° 44’ 20”N.,
121° 56’ 06”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Tubigan
Point.
Dangers - A 3.2 m (1.75 fm) shoal spot, 100 m and
151o from the end of the pier is marked by a 4.6 m (15 ft)
concrete day marker. A shoal about 182 m in length and 91
m in width, on which there is a sunken rock and least depth
of 2.2 m (1.2 fm), is 0.3 mile SE of Tubigan Point.
Shoals, with depths of less than 5.5 m (3 fm), fill the
entire cove lying E of Tubigan Point. Two detached coral
patches, with depths of 5.9 and 6.4 m (3.25 and 3.5 fm), are
0.7 and 0.6 mile, 166o from Tubigan Point Light.
Caution - Heavy seas make in the port during SW
weather.
There is a submarine telecommunication cable off
the shore of San Jose de Buenavista. Anchoring, fishing,
and other marine activities in the vicinity of the cable are
prohibited.
Port Management - The government wharf at Tubigan
Point is managed by PPA TMO - Antique, which may be
contacted at telephone no. (+6336) 540-8089. The port
can cater bulk and general cargoes. Primary commodity
shipped through the port is cement.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Jose Buenavista may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63998-8585324 and +63917-8386872 and thru e-mail at
cgssanjosebuenavista@coastguard.gov.ph.
Berthing Facilities - The government wharf is 108
m long with controlling draft of 5 m. Open storage area is
available.
Nogas Islet (looking northward from a position about 9 miles south-southwestward of the island)
9-4
Port Services - Fresh water and ice delivery and cargo
handling services are available inside the port.
Directions - Pass about 0.2 mile S of Tubigan Point
5 Light. When the tower of the church in San Jose de
Buenavista bears 029o, steer for it. Proceed cautiously,
being governed by appearance of the water, as the shoal
extending off Tubigan Point is close to W.
10 Anchorage exposed to all but N winds may be found
S of the town in 11 to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm), irregular rocky
bottom, with the fort bearing 345o. Strangers are advised
not to go too close in, as there are sunken rocks and the
bottom is foul.
15
MALANDOG RIVER, with 1.8 m (6 ft) on its bar at
low water and 5.5 m (18 ft) inside, empties about 1.8 miles
SE of Tubigan Point.
20 From the mouth of the Malandog River to Naso Point
the coast is very steep, with sandy beaches except at Jaldan
and Bayo Points. Jaldan Point, about 5.3 miles N of Nogas
Island Light, is a sharp, bold, and rocky point 27 m (90 ft)
high, projecting prominently into the sea. The rivers, with
25 the exception of the Malandog and Antique, have very little
water on their bars. There are several villages and towns
along the shore.
HAMTIC is a town about 3.5 miles SE of San Jose de
30 Buenavista near the mouth of the Antique River.
TOBIAS FORNIER (DAO), a town near the mouth
of the river of the same name, is about 2 miles NE of Jaldan
Point. The town may be recognized by several prominent
35 buildings and a church with a square iron-covered tower.
NASO POINT, the wide SW extremity of Panay, is
abreast a high prominent detached ridge. It may be readily
recognized by the town of Anini-y, which contains a large,
40 white stone church with a galvanized iron roof, and very
prominent from seaward. A small vessel can anchor SE of
Anini-y in the NE monsoon in 2.7 m (1.5 fm), sand bottom.
NOGAS ISLET, about 0.5 mile SSW of Anini-y is
45 low, flat, wooded, and surrounded by a reef. Between it and
the coast is a narrow channel sometimes used by coasters.
In the middle of the W entrance is a reef of 45 m extent with
3.2 m (1.7 fm) on it. A 7.7 m (4.2 fm) patch lies in mid-
channel between the islet and the coast. Nogas Light (10°
50 25’ 09”N., 121° 55’ 10”E.) is displayed from a white tower
at the center of the island.
SAN ROQUE, a barrio about 2.6 miles E of Nogas
Islet, is hidden by a low and wooded tongue of land,
which was formerly Jurao-Jurao Islet. The former islet is
surrounded by reefs. It is not advisable to anchor between
Nogas Islet and this land, as the bottom is rocky.
CAUTION - The area 26 miles SW of Nasog Islet is
designated as dumping ground for chemicals.
The coast from Naso Point to Umalantin Point, about
9.5 miles NE, is high and rugged. There are several small
bights along this stretch of coast, but great depths are found
close offshore.
CRESTA DE GALLO, a saw-toothed ridge, 238
m (781 ft) high, about 4 miles NE of Naso Point, is a
prominent landmark.
The coast between Umalantin Point and Talisayan
Point, about 5.3 miles NE, is indented to a distance of
about 1.5 miles, but it is rugged and has great depths
close offshore. The roof of the market at Tiolas, located
about 2.5 miles NNE of Umalantin Point, the church, and
the municipal building at San Joaquin, located just N of
Talisayan Point, are prominent landmarks.
From TALISAYAN POINT, the coast, which is low
and intersected by numerous small rivers, trends ENE for
6.8 miles to Miagao Point.
MIAGAO, a town which is located about 1 mile NE
of the point, is almost hidden by coconut palms, but the
church shows up well from the S and E.
The coast between Miagao Point and Guimbal Point,
about 5 miles ENE, is low and slightly indented.
GUIMBAL is the town that stands close N of Guimbal
Point. The town has clinics and one hospital. A post office,
telephone connection, and mobile phone communication
are available.
Berthing Facilities - Extending from the mouth of
Guimbal River is an L-shaped pier that is used as a port for
cargoes and terminal passengers.
TIGBAUAN is the town that stands close to the coast
in a position about 3.5 miles E of Guimbal. It is connected
by road to Iloilo City.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables
terminates at Tigbauan. Anchoring, fishing, and other
activities that may damage the submarine cables are
prohibited.
This part of the coast from Talisayan Point to the town
of Oton is free from danger until near Oton Bank. From the
latter point to the town of Oton, about 9.5 miles E by N, the
coast continues low.
From Oton to Iloilo, a distance of 5.5 miles, the
shoreline continues low and is fringed with coconut trees.
ILOILO AND GUIMARAS STRAITS
(CHART 1546, 1549, 4416 & 4448)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
5 station with VHF DSC alerting in Iloilo City (10° 41' 22"N.,
122° 34' 19"E.) covers Iloilo and Guimaras Straits. Vessels
in distress may contact the above mentioned remotely
controlled station. Vessels in distress that are outside of
the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast station may
10 contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
ILOILO STRAIT, separating Panay and Guimaras
15 Islands has a width of about 0.9 mile at its narrowest part.
This important thoroughfare leads to the Port of Iloilo. Its
shorelines are very irregular and the navigable channels are
narrowed by Iguana Bank and Siete Pecados Island on the
N entrance, and by Oton Bank on the S entrance.
20
Along the NE coast, shorelines were mostly constructed
with seawalls and shallow areas filled-up or reclaimed.
The coast at the side of Panay Island is generally fish pond
dikes with clusters of mangroves while the Guimaras side
25 is mostly sandy with scattered growth of mangroves. The
shoreline changes with time as fish pond dikes extend
seaward from the coast.
The N shore of the Iloilo Strait, between Dumangas
30 Point and Balabago Point, about 6.3 miles W, is low and
bordered with mangroves. The mouths of several rivers,
which are navigable only by small crafts, intersect this
coast.
35 From Balabago Point, the coast trends in a general
SSW direction for 5.5 miles to the mouth of the Iloilo River.
Several berthing facilities stand along this part of the shore.
Thick mud abounds near the vicinity of Jaro River, while
fish stakes are scattered and mangroves grow abundantly.
40 The mouth of this river was observed shifting N.
Channels - The N entrance to Iloilo Harbor, between
Dumangas Point and Navalas Point, has a width of 4.5 miles
and divided into two channels by Iguana Bank. There is a
45 good channel on either side of this bank and Siete Pecados
Light, but the N channel is preferred by mariners. Another
channel, which is often used by interisland vessels, is N
of the bank and through W and S of the light, then around
the N end of Guimaras. The channel located W of Siete
50 Pecados Light is generally straight and clear to the harbor.
Vessels navigating the N entrance of Iloilo Harbor should
follow the lateral buoys installed in the area.
The S entrance to the harbor is between the E side of
55 Oton Bank and the W coast of Guimaras. Ocean-going and
deep-draft vessels only use this entrance when entering
Iloilo Strait. The recommended channel is from about 0.5
mile W of Pangasinan Point, along and close to shore, to the
area 0.7 mile WNW of Morubuan Point. Vessels navigating
60 the S entrance of Iloilo Harbor should follow the lateral
9-5
buoys installed in the area.
Currents - Strong current was experienced on both N
and S channels. Discoloration of water occurs occasionally
but the extent and cause were not determined.
Prominent Features - Approaching the recommended
S entrance, the following landmarks are most prominent:
Molo Church spires ----------- 10o 41’ 51’’N., 122o 32’ 42’’E.
Bondulan Point -------------- 10o 40’ 01’’N., 122o 34’ 08’’E.
San Jose Church tower ------- 10o 41’ 36’’N., 122o 34’ 28’’E.
Large cross ------------------- 10o 39’ 49’’N., 122o 34’ 00’’E.
Tanza Church (white) --------- 10o 41’ 36’’N., 122o 33’ 34’’E.
Iloilo City Hall (white) ------- 10o 41’ 36’’N., 122o 34’ 23’’E.
At the N entrance those that may be easily distinguished
are:
Navalas Point ---------------- 10o 42’ 56’’N., 122o 42’ 49’’E.
Siete Pecados ---------------- 10o 45’ 59’’N., 122o 40’ 39’’E.
House on Bantigui Point ---- 10o 44’ 34’’N., 122o 40’ 46’’E.
Chimney ----------------------- 10o 43’ 28’’N., 122o 35’ 43’’E.
Siete Pecados, the largest of the group of islands 25
at the N entrance to Iloilo Strait, is about 3.5 miles SW
of Dumangas Point. It is marked by Siete Pecados Light
(10° 45’ 59”N., 122° 40’ 38”E.). A starboard lateral buoy,
exhibiting flashing red light, marks the SW edge of the
shallow area off the Siete Pecados Island. 30
Major Lights - Sinapsapan Light (10° 34’ 55”N., 122°
30’ 41”E.) is displayed from a white tower at a point about
0.5 mile SW of Sinapsapan Point.
Bondolan Light (10° 39’ 56”N., 122° 34’ 08”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on Bondulan Point.
Navalas Light (10° 42’ 56”N., 122° 42’ 46”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on Navalas Point.
Siete Pecados Light (10° 45’ 59”N., 122° 40’ 38”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on the biggest island of the
Siete Pecados Islands.
Iloilo Jetty Red (10° 41’ 37”N., 122° 35’ 06”E.) and
Jetty Green (10° 41’ 32”N., 122° 35’ 02”E.) are displayed
at the mouth of Iloilo River.
Navigational Aids – The N and S channels are well
lighted and buoyed. Consult Charts 4448, 4448A and
4448B for details.
Dangers - Several shoals and wrecks are located in
Iloilo Strait, the details of which may be seen on the nautical
charts. A wooden stake, located about 0.3 mile SW of Siete
Pecados Light, bares at low water and is believed to be a
marker representing the mast of a sunken wooden vessel.
Oton Bank, an extensive shoal of soft muddy sand,
9-6
lies in the middle of the S entrance to the strait. The shoal,
as defined by the 5 m curve, extends about 7 miles SW from
a position about 0.5 mile SW of the mouth of the Iloilo
River. It is composed of shifting sand and extends to the
5 W. Vessels should not attempt to cross it. There is a narrow
channel between it and the Panay shore, sometimes used
by coasting vessels. However, the main channel into Iloilo,
marked by buoys, is between the bank and Guimaras Island.
10 Iguana Bank, an area of shallow water at the N
entrance to the strait, extends about 5 miles SE from Siete
Pecados Light. It has a least depth of 1.2 m (0.6 fm) located
about 3.3 miles SE of Siete Pecados Light.
15 Caution - A submarine power cable crosses the strait
from Ingore, Iloilo to Sawang, Guimaras or about 1.5 miles
NE of the mouth of Iloilo River. Buoys mark the cable
route. A submarine telecommunication cable crosses the
strait from coast in the vicinity of Oton and on the coast
20 of Guimaras Island about 0.7 mile SSE of Cabalic Point.
Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the
submarine cables.
Tides & Currents - The spring tidal currents in Iloilo
Strait have a maximum velocity of 3 to 4 knots. The flood
sets NE and the ebb SW, following the general trend of the
shore. On the N entrance to the Iloilo Strait, about 1.5 miles
S of Dumangas Point, the current during flood sets E and
on the ebb sets W with an average velocity of 1.3 knots.
Abreast the point SW of Fort San Pedro Wharf, the eddies
are strong and irregular on the flood. The two tides of the
day are generally unequal, with the inequality varying with
the moon’s declination. The mean range is 1.65 m (5.4 ft).
The greatest range of the tide is over 2.1 m (7 ft), usually
35 occurring about 2 days after the moon’s greatest N or S
declination. A current of 3 knots at the strength of flood and
ebb may be experienced in the river.
Port Limits - The Iloilo Pilotage District includes
40 the waters between Panay and Guimaras Islands bounded
on the W by a line drawn from Lusaran Point to the town
of Tigbauan and bounded on the E by a line drawn from
Navalas Point to Dumangas Point.
45 Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress within Iloilo
Strait may contact the Coast Guard station in Iloilo via
VHF channel 16 or mobile phone nos. +63917-8428269
and +63998-5858061. The station may also be contacted
through e-mail at cgsiloilo@coastguard.gov.ph.
50
Pilotage in Iloilo Strait is compulsory for all vessels of
75 GRT or over. Notice must be sent to the pilot association
at least 24 hrs before ETA through fax no. (+6333) 336-
2673 or e-mail iloilopilots54@yahoo.com. Vessels should
55 establish contact with the pilot association when within
radio range via VHF Channel 16 (Call: Iloilo Pilots).
Pilot may board vessels 2.2 miles E of Navalas Point at
the N entrance to Iloilo Strait, or 1.3 miles off Sinapsapan
60 Point at the S entrance. Pilots board during daytime only.
 Towerage - The pilot association has tugboats used for
berthing or unberthing maneuvers.
Quarantine - Vessels under quarantine are boarded
about 0.8 mile ENE of the mouth of the Iloilo River. The
boarding hours are between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Vessels
proceeding to Panay and W Negros ports must call at Iloilo
for pratique. The Quarantine officer will take charge of
medical cases on request and will pick up emergency cases
from vessels off Panay and Negros if radio request is made
to the Bureau of Quarantine located at the Customs house.
Anchorage - Recommended anchorage in Iloilo
Strait is the area between Putingbalas and Estampa Points,
with depths ranging from 11.5 to 36 m. Vessels may also
anchor in the area 2 miles NE of Jaro Point. Anchorage is
prohibited at the entrance of Iloilo River, in the vicinity of
the submarine power cable, and the area between Jordan
and Iloilo City. Anchorage for vessels with dangerous cargo
is located about 1.3 miles NE of Jaro Point.
Directions - North Entrance: To enter the strait by
the channel S of Iguana Bank, from a position about 1 mile
N of Navalas Point steer 315o towards Siete Pecados Island
until Bantigui Point bears 204o and buoy “A” is abeam, then
steer 281o, following the navigational buoys, until Cabugao
Point bears 216o and buoy “6” is abeam. Steer 248o until
Cabugao Point bears 306o and buoy “8” is abeam, and
then follow mid-channel courses to the anchorage area
or berthing facilities. This course is the one used by the
interisland ferry running to Pulupandan, Negros, and passes
through depths of slightly over 3.5 m (2 fm).
Southern Entrance: Vessels approaching Iloilo from
S should bring Bondulan Point to bear 036o and steer for it
passing about 0.1 mile of Cabalic Point. Continue on this
course a short distance until Morubuan Point bears 99o and
steer 05o, passing between buoys "7" and "8". Stay on this
course until Bondulan Point bears 54o and then steer towards
Fort San Pedro Terminal wharf on 45o course. Follow mid-
channel courses to the anchorage or the berthing facilities.
During the rising of the tide, which attains a height of 1.5
to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft), a 3 knots current at strength will give
a set toward Bondulan Point and must be guarded against.
ILOILO RIVER divides Iloilo City into N and S
Iloilo City, viewed SE of the ferry boat pier. The white building at the right is the Iloilo City Hall.
(Photograph - Lt Aaron Andro V Ching, 2013)
portions. The channel in the river is constantly shoaling and
is maintained by dredging. It was reported that majority of
grounding incidents occur on the N side of the mouth of
the river. The mouth of the river is marked by green and
5 red lights. The Iloilo River Wharves run along the S and N
banks of the river.
Bridges - At a distance of about 1.3 miles from its
mouth, the Iloilo River is crossed by the following 4 fixed
10 bridges: the Muelle Loney Bridge, which is a concrete
structrure that connects the city proper with the PPA fascraft
wharf, the Quirino-Lopez (Bailey) Bridge, which is a steel
structure and has a vertical clearance of 6.1 m (20 ft) at
mean high water, the Railroad Bridge, which is of semi-
15 concrete structure and has a vertical clearance of 1.2 m (4
ft) at mean high water, and the Forbes Bridge, which is of
concrete structure and is the principal outlet for the traffic
bound N. It has a vertical clearance of 4.6 m (15 ft) at mean
high water.
20
Dangers - A 2.8 m depth, marked by a can buoy, is
located S of the Quirino-Lopez bridge. Vessels should
watch out for some wrecks present in the river.
25 ILOILO CITY (CHART 4448 & 4448A), one of
the chartered cities and the capital of the province of the
same name, is on a low sandy flat at the mouth of Iloilo
River on the W side of Iloilo Strait. It is a Customs port
of entry open to overseas shipping and has a considerable
30 commerce. The city serves as a distributing center of
various kinds of commodities for the surrounding area.
Exports of copra, sugar, and ores, as well as imports are
handled by the numerous shipper and consignees, the
majority of whom have adequate warehouse space. Hotel
35 accommodations and hospitals are available. Considerable
harbor improvements are maintained; wharfs and piers are
at the both sides of the river entrance and retaining walls
have been constructed.
40 Iloilo is connected to the other parts of the archipelago
by post office, courier services, telephone, mobile phone,
and the Internet. Foreign vessels make Iloilo a regular port
of call. Passenger ferries have regular trip with the city to
various major ports of the country. The Iloilo Airport, about
45 8 miles NW of Iloilo City, has daily commercial flights to
Manila and other major Philippine cities.
9-7
 Ice is obtainable in moderate quantities. Fresh stores
are abundant. Fresh water may be obtained from hose
connection at the port. Water may also be obtained from
water barges and trucks. All grades of fuel and bunker oils
are supplied by oil companies located in the city. 24 hour
notice is required and fuel are delivered using road tankers.
Port Management - The Loboc Terminal, Fort San
Pedro Terminal, and Muelle Loney Terminal are managed
by PPA PMO-Iloilo, which may be contacted at telephone
nos. (+6333) 337-7791 to 93.
The port can only accommodate vessels up to 195 m
in length and 32 m in breadth, and a maximum draft of 9 m
and 42,000 DWT.
The Iloilo Fish Port Complex, located about 1.5 miles
W of the mouth of the Iloilo River, is operated by PFDA.
Address: Iloilo Fish Port Complex, Tanza, Iloilo City
Telephone: (+6333) 337-1242
Fax: (+6333) 335-0154
E-mail: iloilofishport@yahoo.com
Website: pfda.da.gov.ph
Customs - The Iloilo Customs House, located about
0.8 mile W of the mouth of the Iloilo River, is a prominent
white building at S bank of the river.
Address: Customs House Bldg., Muelle Loney St.,
Iloilo City
Telephone: (+6333) 335-0998 & (+6333) 337-5834
Website: customs.gov.ph
Immigration - The Iloilo field office of the Bureau of
Immigration is also located at the Iloilo Customs House.
Address: 3/F C14 Festive Mall Annex Bldg.
Megaworld Blvd. Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Mobile phone: +63915-0993838 & +63961-2434938
E-mail: immigrationiloilo@gmail.com
Website: www.immigration.gov.ph
Quarantine - The National Quarantine Office in Iloilo
is located in the Customs House.
Address: Customs House Bldg., Gen. Peralta – J.M.
Basa St., Iloilo City
Telephone: (+6333) 337-3904
E-mail: boqiloilo@yahoo.com
Website: quarantine.doh.gov.ph
The plant quarantine office is located at the Department
of Agriculture compound at the W side of the mouth of
Iloilo River.
Address: Plant Quarantine Service, Bureau of Plant
Industry, Parola, Iloilo City
Telephone: (+6333) 337-7688
Website: pqs.da.gov.ph
9-8
The animal quarantine office is also located in the
Department of Agriculture compound.
Address: Department of Agriculture Building, Fort San
5 Pedro Drive, Parola, Iloilo City
Telephone: (+6333) 338-4886
Website: www.bai.da.gov.ph
Distress & Rescue - Iloilo serves as the headquarters
10 of the Coast Guard District - Western Visayas and a
Maritime Rescue Sub-Center. The Coast Guard station may
be contacted through the following means:
Address: CGS Iloilo, Fort San Pedro, Brgy. Concepcion
15 Iloilo City
Telephone: (+6333) 335-4928
Mobile phone: +63917-8428269 & +63998-5858061
Radio: VHF Channel 16
E-mail: cgdwv_iloilo@yahoo.com
20 cgdwv@coastguard.gov.ph
Website: www.coastguard.gov.ph
Berthing Facilities – Iloilo Commercial Port Complex
(ICPC), about 1 mile NW from the mouth of Iloilo River,
25 has a total port area of 222,000 sq m that is being expanded
through reclamation. It has 631 m long concrete wharf with
controlling draft of 10.5 m. It also has a 15 m wide RoRo
ramp. There is a 103,000 sq m open storage area and reefer
terminals. The terminal handles bulk fertilizer, grains,
30 containers, bulk cement, heavy equipment, and heavy
cargoes.
The Parola Wharf located at the S bank of the river
mouth and marked by green jetty light caters passenger
35 bancas traveling from Iloilo to Jordan, Guimaras.
Iloilo River Wharf consists of the wharves that run
along the N and S banks of Iloilo River. The S wharf
(formerly known as the Muelle Loney Terminal) has a 3
40 km berth length that runs along the S bank of Iloilo River,
starting from Parola Wharf at the mouth of the river to the
E end of Arroyo Street. The N wharf has a berth length of
880 m that runs along the N bank of Iloilo River from a
position about 0.6 to 0.7 mile NW and WNW, respectively,
45 of the river mouth. The Iloilo Fastcraft Terminal is at the
upstream end of the N Iloilo River Wharf. The wharves
has controlling depth of 5 m below MLLW. There are
three RoRo ramps available. The Iloilo River Wharves
accommodate interisland fast crafts, tramping and RoRo
50 vessels. In docking at this terminal with a flood current,
vessels let go the port anchor and turn with the current to lie
alongside the marginal wharf.
Jetties, which are managed by Iloilo Jar Corp., is
55 located just N of the river mouth. The jetties have lengths
of 80 m and 120 m long and extend SE and E, respectively.
Large white cylindrical tanks of oil depots are at the root of
the jetties while dolphins are located at their offshore ends.
60 Fort San Pedro Terminal, located just S of the mouth
of the Iloilo River, has a 634 m long concrete wharf, with
controlling draft of 6 m below MLLW. It has a port area
of about 36,000 sq m with load limit of 3.6 tons/sq m. An
area of 3,800 sq m is available for open storage while area
for container yard is 2,400 sq m. The terminal primarily
accommodates domestic passenger and cargo vessels. At
flood, the currents, which reach a velocity of 3 to 4 knots
at strength, will easily lay a vessel alongside the wharf. An
anchor is usually dropped to facilitate hauling away.
Ortiz Wharf, about 0.5 mile NW of Fort San Pedro
Terminal, is the berthing place for ferry boats plying
between Guimaras Island and Iloilo City. It has a berth
length of about 190 m.
The Iloilo Fishport Complex, 0.8 mile W of Ortiz
Wharf, has a concrete wharf with berth length of about 130
m. A refrigeration building is available for storing fish and
other marine products. Breakwaters protects the fish port
from strong currents.
La Filipina Corp. has a T-head pier located just about
NE of the wharf of the Iloilo Commercial Port Complex.
The pier has a berth length of 200 m.
Panay Energy Development Corp. (PEDC) has a
T-head pier about 0.8 mile NNW of Iloilo Commercial Port
Complex. The pier has a berth length of 140 m long with
dolphins. PEDC has facilities for handling coal. A chimney
and a green-roofed power plant are at the shore end of the
pier.
Port Services - Cargo handling and weighing
services are available. Vessels requiring stevedores should
notify the PPA 24 hrs before ETA. Available equipment
include conveyor pipes for bulk cement owned by cement
companies, cranes of various capacity, and forklifts.
Repairs - F.F. Cruz & Co. Shipyard, located at Barrio
Loboc or about 0.7 mile NE of the mouth of the Iloilo
River, can do major repairs. The shipyard at the Iloilo Fish
The concrete wharf of Fort San Pedro Terminal.
(Photograph - Ens Angelica B Prado, 2019)
Port Complex can do minor repairs for fishing vessels.
Shipyards are also located upstream of Iloilo River, about
0.7 mile NW of the mouth of the river.
5 GUIMARAS ISLAND (CHART 1546, 1549, 4416 &
4448), located SE of Iloilo, is a province with Jordan as its
capital. It forms with Panay Island the strait of Iloilo and
with Negros Island the strait of Guimaras. It is moderately
high and hilly, especially in the E part where there are hills
10 183 to 213 m (600 to 700 ft) high. The W coast is clear
and free from danger. The S and SE coasts are faced by a
number of small islands with navigable channels between
them. The E coast is clear, with depths of 7.3 to 11 m (4 to
6 fm) being found 1.5 miles from it.
15
Major economic activities in the island are tourism,
agriculture, and fishery. The major crops are rice, mango,
and coconut. The province exports mango products to the
USA and Australia. The provincial hospital, located at the
20 provincial capitol, can handle general surgery procedures.
Small clinics and pharmacies are also available.
CABUGAO POINT, the NW extremity of Guimaras,
is a rocky bluff.
25
From Cabugao Point, the coast trends SW for 7.5 miles
forming points and coves to Bondulan Point. Several tanks,
which serve as good landmark, stand near the shore about
2.2 SW of Cabugao Point.
30
BUENAVISTA, located about 4.3 miles SW of
Cabugao Point, has a wharf and pier. Ferry boats, mostly
coming from Iloilo City, calls at this town. Mobile phone
communication and Internet connection are available. A
35 rural bank and money remittance centers are also available
at the poblacion.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Buenavista may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
40 +63917-8426645 and +63998-5855311 or thru e-mail at
cgssbuenavista@gmail.com
9-9
 Berthing Facilities - The Buenavista Port, located
about 0.3 mile NE of Salag Point, has a concrete wharf.
The passenger terminal, with roof painted blue, stands
prominently on the port area.
A 125 m long causeway extends SW from the barrio of
Salag, about 0.4 mile N of Buenavista Port. This is mostly
used by boats. Considerable lime is shipped from here.
JORDAN (CHART 4448A) is the capital of Guimaras
Province located at the small inlet formed by the mouth of
Jordan River. Bunker fuel and stores can be obtained from
Iloilo City for delivery alongside by lighter or launch.
Potable fresh water is available at the berthing facilities.
Prominent Features - An abandoned sugar processing
plant at the N entrance point of the inlet is the most
prominent structure when approaching Jordan. A pier fronts
the plant.
Major Light - Jordan Wharf Light (10° 40' 02"N.,
122° 35' 19"E.) is displayed from a white tower on the
government wharf.
Tides & Currents - On the ebb, during spring tides,
there are tide rips about 183 m SW of the wharf with a
current of 4 knots along the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve and slack
water or slight back eddy at the face of the wharf. This
current is also experienced with NE winds.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Jordan
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8426672
and +63998-5855311. The station may also be contacted
through e-mail at cgssjordan12@gmail.com.
Berthing Facilities - Jordan Port has a 160 m long
wharf, located just S of the sugar processing plant. It
is mainly used by ferry boats that transport passengers
between Iloilo City and Guimaras. About 470 m SE of
the wharf is a 60 m long concrete deck with a wharf at the
offshore end. The wharf has a RoRo ramp. Controlling draft
of the wharf is 5 m below MLLW.
Port Services - Cargo handling services and stevedores
Government wharf with RoRo ramp of Jordan.
(Photograph - Ens Angelica B Prado, 2019)
9-10
Ferry boat wharf of Jordan.
(Photograph - Ens Angelica B Prado, 2019)
25 are available at the pier and the passenger wharf.
Repairs - The drydock of Ocean Marina Drydocking
Services (telephone no: +6333 337-1587), located about 0.8
mile NE of Jordan Port, can handle minor repairs. Vessels
30 that need major repair should go to the shipyards in Iloilo
City.
Directions - It is recommended that berthing be done at
high tide, with the assistance of a pilot obtainable at Iloilo.
35 Unberthing can be done at any time. Approach should be
made to the wharf from the N with a port landing as deep
water runs close in to the beach N of the wharf. A mud flat
runs out even with and beyond the face of the wharf near
the rock mole located S of the wharf.
40
BONDULAN (BONDOLAN) POINT, opposite
Iloilo City, is 117 m (384 ft) high. It is almost perpendicular
and steep-to. It forms a very prominent landmark when
approaching Iloilo from the S. A huge cross has been built
on top of the point. Bondolan Light (10° 39’ 56”N., 122°
34’ 08”E.) is displayed from the point.
A shoal with a least depth of 4.4 m (2.4 fm) extends
1.7 miles SSW of Bondulan Point. There is a narrow, deep
channel between this shoal and Guimaras. Bondulan Point,
in range with the S extremity of Iloilo City, clears the shoal
W.
Marine Protected Area – Balcon Marine Protected
Area was established just off the coast of Barrio Balcon
Melliza (Sincolon) about 1 mile S of Bondulan Point.
Activities that may harm the marine environment are
strictly prohibited in the marine protected area.
CABALIC POINT, about 70 m (230 ft) high, clear

Sinapsapan Point as viewed from the NW.
(Photograph - Ens Angelica B Prado, 2019)
and bold, is 3.5 miles SSW of Bondulan Point. This point
should be passed close-to when taking the channel S of
the Oton Bank, which is less than 0.5 mile wide. The W of
Cabalic Point cannot be easily distinguished. Also, it is not
so conspicuous as Muhuy Point, 73 m (240 ft) high, and
about 1 mile SW of it, which is also clear and steep-to.
SINAPSAPAN POINT, where the former pilot station
is located, is 0.8 mile SSW of Muhuy Point. A small islet
lies close to the point. Sinapsapan Light (10° 34’ 55”N.,
122° 30’ 41”E.) is displayed from the point 0.5 mile SW of
Sinapsapan Point.
Marine Protected Area – Sinapsapan Marine
Protected Area was established just SW of Sinapsapan
Point. Activities that may harm the marine environment are
strictly prohibited in the marine protected area.
BALINGASAG ISLAND, very small in extent, lies
close offshore about 0.5 mile SW of Sinapsapan Point.
NABURUL ISLAND, 46 m (152 ft) high, is about 0.7
mile S of Balingasag Island. It is close to the shore, with
which it is connected by a reef, and shows as a high, black
bluff apparently part of the mainland. It is bold and steep-to
seaward.
SANTA ANA BAY (CHART 1546), about 2 miles S
of Naburul Island, is a little port, clear and deep, open to the
W and easy to make The entrance is 0.3 mile wide between
LAWI and IGANG POINTS. The bay indents the coast
to a distance of a little over 1 mile, but is only about 0.2
mile wide between shoals, which extend from either side.
Anchorage can be taken in 21.9 to 25.6 m (12 to 14 fm)
about 0.2 mile SSE of Lawi Point or in about 13.7 m (7.5
fm) in the middle of the bay about 0.5 mile E of the same
point. Care should be taken due to the presence of fish pens
within the bay.
AVE MARIA ISLAND is on the edge of the reef 0.5
mile NW of Lawi Point.
Marine Protected Area – Jordan Marine Reserve
and Sanctuary was established just W of Lawi Point and
includes Ave Maria Island. Activities that may harm the
marine environment are strictly prohibited in the marine
protected area.
IGANG BAY, just S of Santa Ana Bay, is clear with
depths of 20.1 to 23.8 m (11 to 13 fm) in its middle part.
TINIGUIBAN ISLET and BALUD ISLET, both
small in extent, lie on the S side of the bay. They are
connected to the shore S by foul ground.
The Igang Marine Station, managed by Southeast
Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), is located
on the reef S of Balud Islet. It is composed of floating fish
cages interconnected by foot bridges. The station maintains
20 hundreds of broodstock of various commercially important
species that provide eggs for research and production runs.
LUSARAN POINT, the W extremity of Guimaras
Island, is a bold, prominent point, easily recognized by the
25 white lighthouse and dwelling on the cliff. It is clear and
steep-to, the 20 m (10.9 fm) curve being less than 0.3 mile
from the shore.
Major Light - Lusaran Point Light (10° 28’ 53”N.,
30 122° 28’ 29”E.) is displayed from a white tower on Lusaran
Point. The ruins of a stone dwelling is in the vicinity of the
light.
Marine Protected Areas – The protection zones of
35 Dolores Marine and Fish Haven were established 0.2 mile
N and 0.4 mile SSE of Lusaran Point Light. The seagrass
parotection zone is located about 0.5 mile SE of the Light.
Activities that may harm the marine environment are
strictly prohibited in the marine protected area.
40
From Lusaran Point, the coast trends SE for 5 miles
to South Point, on a small islet close to the S extremity of
Guimaras. The coast is very irregular and is indented by
numerous small and foul coves.
45
TANDOG ISLAND, immediately N of S Point, is
close to the shore; the channel between it and Guimaras is
blocked by reefs and in the bay N of it are small islet.
50 A small, detached shoal with a reported depth of 1.5 m
(5 ft), is about 0.8 mile W of the S point of Tandog Island.
When rounding S Point, it may be avoided by bringing
Lusaran Point to bear not less than 351o before hauling N.
55 TAKLONG ISLAND is the island just SW of the S
extremity of Guimaras Island. The channel between it and
Guimaras is blocked by reefs. Taklong Island Light (10° 24’
14”N., 122° 30’ 46”E.) is displayed from a white tower on
the S point of the island.
60
9-11
 Marine Protected Area - Taklong Island National
Marine Reserve, established in 1990, is comprised of
Taklong Island and the surrounding islands and waters.
Activities that may harm the environment are strictly
prohibited inside the protected area.
SOUTH POINT, the SW extremity of a small island
lying close W of Taklong Island is not very prominent.
From S Point the coast trends ENE for about 7.5 miles
to Alegria Point. A bay indents the coast to a distance of
about 2 miles between Lugmayan Point, 2.2 miles E of
S Point, and Cabalagnan Point, located 2.5 miles W of
Alegria Point.
CABALAGNAN, a barrio about 0.7 mile NE of
Lugmayan Point, has a small wharf that is being used as
fish landing center. Small fishing vessels usually call at the
barrio.
Anchorage - The head of the bay is reef-fringed and
shoal, but anchorage in 9.1 to 14.6 m (5 to 8 fm) can be
taken in the outer part, W of Cabalagnan Point and about
1.2 miles N of Panubulon Island. Anchorage is further
restricted by fish traps and fish pens present in the bay. The
E approach to this anchorage has a least depth of 6.4 m
(3.5 fm) in the fairway. The W approach is through a very
narrow channel lying between the W side of Panubulon
Island and the coast of Guimaras Island to the NW.
PANUBULON ISLAND, a flat-topped island about
15 m (50 ft) high is 1 to 2 miles S of Guimaras Island. It
is surrounded by a reef on which there are several smaller
islets.
GUIUANON ISLAND is another flat-topped island
about 15.2 m (50 ft) high 2.5 miles S of Guimaras Island.
The shores are clear and surrounded by deep water.
Anchorage is off the S shore in about 11 m (6 fm) at a 40
distance of about 0.3 mile from the beach. This anchorage
is well protected from NE monsoon but open to the SW
monsoon.
TOYO REEF, about 1 mile in extent, partly bare at
low water, is about 2.5 miles S of Panubulon Island. The
bottom between Panubulon and this shoal is very uneven,
the depths varying from 6.4 to 18.3 m (3.5 to 10 fm). The
reef and surrounding waters were declared as a marine
sanctuary in 1994. Activities that may harm the marine
environment are strictly prohibited inside the protected
area.
UNISAN ISLETS are a group of rocky islets
surrounded by reefs about 3.5 miles S of the W end of
Guiuanon Islets. The main islets are Unisan and Malingin,
while the others are merely large rocks. A detached patch,
with a least depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) lies about 0.3 mile N of
Malingin Island.
9-12
UNISAN, the central and the largest Islet, is 28 m (93
ft) high and partly covered with coconut trees. A depth of
16.5 m (9 fm) can be carried through the channel between
the Unisan Islet and Toyo Reef.
5
MALINGIN ISLAND, the second largest island, is 32
m (105 ft) high.
The coast between Alegria Point and Icauayan Point,
10 about 7.5 miles NNE, is irregular indented by some small
reef-fringed bights. It is fronted by a chain of small islands
with intervening navigable channels. The main channel of
Guimaras Strait lies E of these islands.
15 SEBASTE, a barrio about 0.4 mile SW of Malanay
Point, has a 246 m long causeway pier with a controlling
draft of 4.5 m (2.4 fm) below MLLW. Ferry vessels plying
the Negros - Guimaras Route occasionally call at this
port. The pier has a RoRo ramp at its offshore end. Cargo
20 handling services is available. The port manager may be
contacted at mobile no. +63920-5108813.
GUIMARAS STRAIT, between Guimaras Island
and the W coast of Negros, has a least width of about 6
25 miles, but the navigable channels are narrowed by islets
and shoals.
The main channel is between Nadulao and Inampulugan
Islands and the Iogiog Bank. The E channel is between the
30 Iogiog Bank and Pandan Point, Negros Island. There are
several good, narrow, channels W of Inampulugan used by
the regular traders, which must be navigated with caution
by a stranger as there are dangers in their N approach.
35 Caution - A point of extreme importance must not
be overlooked between latitudes 10o 23’ 00”N. and 10o 30’
00”N and longitudes 122o 40’ 00”E. and 122o 50’ 00”E as
the area is prohibited for anchorage due to the presence of
control type mines, which were laid out the Second World
War. The passage of time, however, has already contained
the risks to surface navigation, but real danger still exists
with regards to anchoring, fishing, or doing any form of
submarine or seabed activity within the area. All control
cables to the mines have been severed earlier.
45
A submarine telecommunication cable crosses the
strait from Guimaras Island, about 0.6 mile SW of Tumanda
Point, to Negros Island, about 1.3 miles E of the mouth
of Bago River. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the
50 vicinity of the submarine cable.
Tidal Currents - In Guimaras Strait, the flood sets N
and the ebb S following the general trend of the channel.
The highest observed velocity in the vicinity of Pandan
55 Point was about 2 knots, with the ebb and flood apparently
being about equal. Slack occurs approximately at the time
of high and low water.
INAMPULUGAN ISLAND is the largest and most
60 prominent in the strait. It is hilly, the highest point, 193 m
(634 ft) high, being in the E part of the island. On the E
point is a hill with a rocky bluff on its E side; this hill is
connected to the rest of the island by a low strip of land.
A breakwater, W of the hill, and the rocky bluff enclosed
a harbor for small boats. The shores of Inampulugan are 5
clear and steep-to, with the exception of the N point, where
the shore reef extends about 0.3 mile. A reef, which bares
at low water, lies close off the coast of Guimaras Island in
a position about 1 mile NE of the NW side of Inampulugan
Island. The channel between the reef and island has several 10
shoal patches lying in it. An abandoned airstrip is near NW
coast of the island.
ROSARIO ROCK, with a depth of 1 m (0.5 fm) and
surrounded by depths of 9.1 to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm), is a little
more than 0.5 mile S of Inampulugan Island.
A bank, with depths of 5.5 to 9.1 m (3 to 5 fm), extends
3.5 miles in a SW direction from a point about 0.5 mile E
of Rosario Rock.
SUSAN, PAMANCOLAN, SERARAY, NAGARAO,
and NAUAI are small, rocky, partly wooded islets W and
SW of Inampulugan. There are good channels on either side
of Susan Islet, but they must be navigated with caution, as
there are several dangers in their N approach. Fish pens
exist between Pamoncolan and Seraray Islands. A shoal
with rocks, visible during high tide, is also present midway
between these islands. Small boats calling at these islands
use the pier at Capo Point of Guimaras Island.
Marine Protected Area - Pamanculan Fish Sanctuary
consists of the waters between Pamancolan Island and
Banteque Point. Activities that may harm the marine
environment are strictly prohibited inside the protected
area.
NALUNGA ISLAND, N of Inampulugan, is small,
covered with grass, and 130 m (427 ft) high. There is a
small islet off its N side, which is connected to the island
by a reef, and also a smaller islet off its NE side. Shoal
water extends nearly 1.5 miles S of Nalunga, narrowing
the channel between it and Inampulugan to 0.5 mile. This
channel is further constricted by a small shoal bare at low
water, about 0.5 mile from the NE coast of Inampulugan.
NADULAO ISLAND is nearly 1 mile NE of Nalunga.
It is small, grass-covered, and nearly cut into two by a bay
bare at low water on its NE side in which there is an islet.
There is another small islet about 0.3 mile N of Nadulao.
The NW and SE parts of Nadulao, 65 m and 58 m (213 ft
and 190 ft) high, respectively, are connected by a narrow
isthmus. The channel between Nadulao and Nalunga is
clear and has a depth of 12.8 m (7 fm).
Vessels can anchor in 14.6 m (8 fm), mud and good
holding ground, about 1 mile from the N shore of the island.
This anchorage is used by a local company to load molasses
during the SW monsoon. The Hinigaran anchorage is used
during the NE monsoon.
Vessels loading from barges are advised to anchor as
close to Malanay Point as practicable allowing sufficient
swinging room.
There are no pilots. The port of entry for Nalunga
Island anchorage is Hinigaran.
IOGIOG BANK, forming the E side of the main
channel through Guimaras Strait, is a large shoal formed of
hard sand which rises in lumps like submerged sand dunes.
There is a spur of the bank, on which the water is 4.3 m (2.3
fm) deep, making off NW towards Nadulao Island, leaving
a deep channel about 0.8 mile between the island and the
bank.
15
DIRECTIONS - Vessels approaching Guimaras Strait
from N or S should bring the E points of Nadulao and
Inampulugan Islands in line on a 198o or 018o bearing and
steer for them, hauling off when approaching them to give
20 them a berth of 0.8 to 0.5 mile in passing. Both points are
steep-to.
Vessels bound N may shape their course as desired as
soon as they have passed Nadulao; those bound S should
25 continue their course until Guiuanon Island bears 270o and
then haul a little W to give the shoal water off the W coast
of Negros a good berth.
Vessels approaching the E channel through Guimaras
30 Strait from the N should bring Pandan Point to bear 169o
and steer for it; the shoalest part of the channel on this
course, which is 8.5 m (4.6 fm), is found about 1 mile N
of the point.
35 When about 1.2 miles of Pandan Point, the vessel
should be hauled S to give the point a berth of about 0.3
mile in passing. When the point bears 020o, steer 200o until
the hill on the E point of Inampulugan bears 271o; when the
vessel should be hauled W to give the shoal water off the W
40 coast of Negros a good berth.
Vessels from S intending to use the E channel should
bring the middle of Inampulugan to bear 001o and steer for
it. When drawing up toward it, haul E until Pandan Point
45 bears 020o and steer for it, passing it as previously directed,
and then steer 000o. After having gone 1.5 miles beyond the
point, the course may be shaped as desired.
The E coast of Guimaras from Icauayan Point to
50 Navalas Point, 10.8 miles N, is mostly sandy and backed
by low hills covered with grass and brushwood. The 5.5 m
(3 fm) curve lies from 0.5 to 0.9 mile offshore and the 9.1
m (5 fm) curve lies up to 3 miles offshore along this stretch.
55 Prominent features along this area are the wind turbines
erected along the coast from Tumanda to Tumalintigan
Points. Fish pens and fish traps front the coastline from the
barrio of Avila at the mouth of Mantangigui River, about
2.4 miles of Navalas Point, to Tinog River, about 1.2 miles
60 NW of Navalas Point.
9-13
 Marine Protected Area – Avila Marine Sanctuary
was established just NE of the mouth of Mantangigui
River. Activities that may harm the marine environment are
strictly prohibited in the marine sanctuary.
The NE side of Guimaras Island, which forms the
S side of the N entrance to Iloilo Strait between Navalas
Point, and an unnamed point, which forms the N extremity
of the island about 4 miles NW, is low, sandy, and backed
by low hills that are covered with grass and brushwood.
Coconut trees abound along this coast. From the unnamed
point, the coast trends WSW for 0.6 mile to Cabugao Point,
a prominent rocky bluff which forms the S entrance point
of the inner part of the strait. This stretch of the coast is
bordered by a shoal bank, as defined by the 5.5 m (3 fm)
curve, extending for about 366 to 732 m offshore.
BANTIGUI ROCKS is a group of above-water
dangers that lie on the coastal bank in a position about 183
m N of Bantigui Point, which is located about 2.5 miles
NW of Navalas Point. A large and prominent white house
stands on Bantigui Point. Shoal heads of less than 7.3 m (4
fm) extend 1 mile N and 0.7 mile NE of the point.
NORTH COAST OF PANAY
(CHART 1540 & 1544)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled
coast stations with VHF DSC alerting in Caticlan (11° 56'
17"N., 121° 57' 03"E.) and Roxas (11° 36' 15"N., 122° 42'
34"E.) cover the sea area off the N coast of Panay. Vessels
in distress may contact the above mentioned remotely
controlled stations. Vessels in distress that are outside of
the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast stations may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
POTOL POINT, the extreme N point of Panay, is flat
and sandy, with a few trees on it. The coasts between this
point and Nasog Point is clear, with the exception of a 7
m (3.75 fm) shoal located 1.1 miles from shore midway
between these points. The channel between Potol Point and
Boracay Island is narrow and deep, the only dangers are the
4.6 m (2.5 fm) shoal extending S of Boracay Island and a
3.2 m (1.75 fm) detached shoal W of the S end of the island.
Caution - Submarine fresh water pipeline crosses the
strait from Potol Point to Manucmanoc Point in Boracay
Island. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity
of the pipeline.
CATICLAN, a barrio located SE of Potol Point, has
two concrete piers with controlling draft of 4 m. There
are RoRo ramps at the piers. Vessels ferrying tourists to
Boracay Island call at Caticlan.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Caticlan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8428236 and +63998-5858063, and e-mail at cgscaticlan@
9-14
coastguard.gov.ph.
A group of rocks and islets are about 0.5 mile NE of
Potol Point. Small crafts can pass between them and the
5 coast of Panay by passing close S of the W and midway
between the two E ones. A coral reef, reaching a width of
550 m, fringes the shore of Panay as far E as Saboncogon
Point. From Potol Point, the coast trends ESE for 74 miles
to Bulacaue Point, the NE point of Panay. The shore, for the
10 most part, is sand and the coast in its neighborhood is low.
SABONCOGON POINT, 3.5 miles E of Potol Point,
is high, clear, and can be approached to within a short
distance. The coast between this point and Aklan Point,
15 about 24.5 miles ESE, is low except for two high projecting
points, namely, Sigat Point and Apga Point. They lie 10
miles and 7.5 miles, respectively, WNW of Aklan Point.
NABAS is a town about 7.4 miles SE of Sabongcogon
20 Point at the N end of the pass between Mount Banjao and
Mount Ondoy. The highway to the W coast follows this
pass.
IBAJAY POINT is sandy and flat. On it, just W of
25 the Ibajay River, is the town of the same name. The town
is obscured by coconut trees and not visible from seaward.
About NE of the point, there is good anchorage sheltered
from S winds. But during the SW monsoon, the wind often
shifts suddenly to the NW and Pontud Bank would then be
30 to the leeward. A large vessel, then, could not remain there
with safety.
There is a destroyed concrete wharf at Colongcolong,
about 1.1 miles SE from the town of Ibajay. A good road
35 connects Ibajay with Roxas City. There is a post office in
town. The town has several small stores. Minor medical
cases may be attended to by local physicians. An interisland
vessel calls each week off the town to load copra and hemp.
40 SIGAT POINT, 3.5 miles E of Ibajay Point, and Apga
Point, 2.5 miles further on, are both high and surrounded
by reefs 0.1 mile wide, with 14.6 m (8 fm) at the edge.
Between them is a little bay, which is open to the N and
fronted by Pontud Bank. A shoal with 3.7 m (2 fm) of water
45 is 0.5 mile NNW of Apga Point.
PONTUD BANK is N of Sigat and Apga Points.
The group of shoals about 1.5 miles N of Apga Point has
several separate heads upon it, with depths ranging from
50 0.4 m (0.25 fm) to 6.4 m (3.5 fm). The channel between the
shoals and Apga Point is 0.8 mile wide, with depths of 9.1
to 14.6 m (5 to 8 fm). The channel between these shoals and
the shoal NW is 1.5 miles wide, with depths of 25.6 m (14
fm) and over. This latter shoal has a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm).
55
AKLAN POINT and AKLAN RIVER are 7.5 miles
ESE of Apga Point. The point, which is flat, is formed by
deposits from the river which flows out to the W of it. There
is ordinarily 1.5 m (5 ft) depth on the bar. With the fresh NE
60 winds, the sea breaks heavily on it.
 KALIBO, the capital of Aklan Province, is on the E
bank of the Aklan River, about 2 miles from its mouth.
The river not being navigable, Kalibo transacts all its
business through the port of New Washington, with which
it is connected by road. There is a provincial hospital and
three private hospitals in the town. There are also medical,
dental, and optical clinics.
From AKLAN POINT, the coast trends 16.5 miles
SW to Baquiao Point.
NEW WASHINGTON, a loading place for Port Batan
and Kalibo, is about 5 miles upstream of New Washington
River, which empties into Port Batan. The town has
gasoline station, money remittance center, courier services,
pharmacy, small stores and a public market.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in New
Washington may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8428303 and +63998-5856246. The station may
also be e-mailed at cgdetdumanguit@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facilities - Fronting the town at New
Washington River is a 160 m long wharf having controlling
draft of 6 m and a 27 m long wharf that serves as the town’s
fish port. During the fall of tide, strong currents set against
the wharf and vessels usually drop anchor to facilitate
hauling away.
Pilotage - Pilot boards at the entrance of Port Batan.
Anchorage for vessels not entering New Washington
River may be had during the SW monsoon outside of the
peninsula, about 0.7 mile NE of new Washington. The
peninsula at this point is less than 0.3 mile wide.
PORT BATAN (CHART 4413), about 10 miles SE of
the mouth of the Aklan River, is a deep bay surrounded by
low land cut into by several large arms.
The bar fronting the channel has 6.4 m (3.5 fm) on it,
but it is liable, as well as the shoals from the entrance point,
to shift with the freshets. There is no other danger than these
shoals. Buoys mark the W side and E side of the channel.
If the channel buoys are gone or out of position, their limits
are shown by the color of the water and at times by tide
rips. The tidal currents run with considerable velocity in
this vicinity. Depths of 7.3 to 11 m (4 to 6 fm) are found in
the anchorage area located S of the peninsula, which forms
the N side of the port. Shoals front the shores of Port Batan,
leaving a somewhat confined area E and S of the peninsula.
From the anchorage area, depths of from 2.1 to 3 m (1 to
1.5 fm) can be carried along the New Washington River to
New Washington.
Prominent Features - The entrance is open to NNE
and may be recognized By Pilot Mount, a prominent peak
264 m (867 ft) high, about 6 miles S of the bar. The pilot
boarding for this port is the same as the pilot boarding
station for the Port of New Washington.
Ocboc Hill, about 2 miles E from Port Batan, is a
prominent, steep, and rocky mound close to the beach. It is
47 m (154 ft) high and about 251 m (275 yd) in diameter.
5 Floripon Point, the W entrance point to Port Batan,
and Batan Point, the E entrance point, is heavily wooded.
Both entrance points have sandy shoals, which extend N for
1.5 miles, leaving a channel 0.3 mile wide between them.
10 Major Light - Floripon Point Light (11° 35’ 34”N.,
122° 30’ 10”E.) is displayed from a tower on Floripon
Point.
Dangers - A coral shoal with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm)
15 is about 6.4 miles N by E of Ocboc Hill. A 9.1 m (5 fm)
patch lies 0.5 mile SW of this shoal. A coral shoal with a
depth of 9.6 m (5.25 fm) is 2.8 miles NE of Ocboc Hill. A
coral shoal with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) is 3.3 miles ENE of
Ocboc Hill. A small coral shoal with a depth of 4.5 m (2.75
20 fm) is 3 miles E of Ocboc Hill and over 1 mile from shore.
Directions - Vessels bound into Port Batan should bring
Floripon Point Light to bear 195o and steer for it, keeping a
good lookout for the banks and guarding carefully against
25 the effects of the current. Pass about 366 m (400 yd) E of
red nun buoy “2”. When the red nun buoy “4” is abeam,
distant 275 m (300 yd) change course to 180o until Floripon
Point Light is abeam, distant 384 m (420 yd), when the
course may be shaped as desired. The S part of Floripon
30 Point should be rounded at a distance of 230 m (250 yd)
and anchorage taken up anywhere S of the peninsula, which
forms the N side of Port Batan. Numerous fish traps exist
in the area. Navigators, therefore, must stay alert and avoid
their presence.
35
DUMAGUIT, a barrio about 0.8 mile SW of Floripon
Point, has a 100 m long pier. A passenger ferry operates
between Batan and this barrio.
40 BATAN is a town on the E shore of Port Batan. The
town has a limited supply of petroleum, oil, and lubricant.
Food supplies can be bought at Batan market once a week.
There are no hospitals around but private clinics and health
centers are being maintained. A 183 m long concrete pier
45 extends W from the town.
BAQUIAO POINT, about 5 miles E of Port Batan, is
very foul. From this point to Culasi Point, about 8.5 miles
ENE, the coast is indented by two exposed and shallow
50 bays, namely Sapian Bay and Capiz Bay.
SAPIAN BAY, between Baquiao Point and the Sapian
Peninsula, is clear and free from danger, having 9.1 m (5
fm) in the middle of the entrance and 5.5 m (3 fm) in the
55 center of the bay and decreasing gradually toward the head.
It is protected from all winds except from those from the
N. Vessels entering Sapian Bay from the W should give
Baquiao Point a berth of at least 1.5 miles.
60 SAPIAN PENINSULA, which separates this bay
9-15
from Capiz bay to the E, terminates in two points 1.3 miles
apart, Marancalan W and Nailon NE. Sapian is a small
town at the head of the river of the same name.
MABAY ISLET, about 1 mile N of Marancalan Point,
is a rocky islet, partially wooded, 23 m (75 ft) high.
About 0.5 mile NW of Mabay Islet is a shoal with a
depth of 2.1 m (7 ft) with a 9.1 m (5 fm) channel between it
and the shoal water off Mabay Islet.
Between Mabay Islet and Marancalan Point are
Mahabang and a number of other small rocky islets with
trees upon them.
TUAD ISLET, 1.3 miles NE of Nailon Point, is small,
partly wooded, rocky, and 13.4 m (44 ft) high. A shoal of
sand and coral heads extends about 0.4 mile S of it. There
is a small coral patch with a swept depth of 2.1 m (1.25 fm)
about 0.9 mile E of Tuad Islet. Another sunken danger with
a swept depth of 5.8 m (3.25 fm) lies about 1.7 miles NE
of the islet.
CAPIZ BAY, between Nailon and Culasi Points, is
shoal at the head of the bay and is intersected by several
streams.
THE PANAY RIVER, one of the most important
rivers in the island, empties about 1.5 miles S of Culasi
Point. The headland forming the N side of the entrance to
the river is high and well wooded. There is an old fort on
the top of it which is 38 m (125 ft) above the sea and forms
a prominent landmark.
CAUTION - Fish traps and fish pens were laid off the
coast from the mouth of Panay Rive to the S breakwater of
Port Capiz.
CULASI POINT is 68 m (222 ft) high, wooded and
steep. Culasi Point Light (11° 36’ 34”N., 122° 42’ 15”E.) is
displayed on the point from a prominent white tower.
PORT CAPIZ is the anchorage off Barrio Culasi,
on the S side of Culasi Point. The terminal port of Culasi,
at the N shore of Port Capiz, serves as the trading center
for water-borne commerce of Roxas City and neighboring
towns. The port is protected by two converging breakwaters
extending from the opposite shores. The entrance is about
105 m wide between the two ends of the breakwaters, and
marked by a fixed green light on the N side, and a fixed red
light on the S side.
The harbor is safe from almost all winds and rough
seas, with its W and SW side protected by the converging
breakwaters. This harbor has limited space for maneuvering
vessel. The area to the E, toward Libas Estero, has little
water and is dangerous to navigate through even at high
tide.
Passenger ferries and RoRo vessels have regular trips
9-16
between the port and, Manila and Batangas. The government
wharf is connected by road to Roxas City, which is located
about 3 miles SE of Culasi Point. An airport, with daily
commercial flights to Manila, is located N of Roxas City.
5
Major Lights - Culasi Point Light (11° 36’ 34”N., 122°
42’ 15”E.) is displayed on Culasi Point from a prominent
white tower.
10 Capiz Jetty Green Light (11° 36’ 18”N., 122° 42’
19”E.) is displayed from the N breakwater at the entrance
to Port Capiz.
Capiz Jetty Red Light (11° 36’ 13”N., 122° 42’ 18”E.)
15 is displayed from the S breakwater at the entrance to Port
Capiz.
Dangers - A very small pinnacle rock, with a known
depth of 2.4 m (1.2 fm), is about 640 m (700 yd) NW of the
20 entrance and about 384 m (420 yd) SW of Culasi Point. A
depth 5.5 m (3 fm) can be carried through the entrance to
the concrete wharf at Culasi.
Numerous fish traps, which may be unlighted at night,
25 exist S of the S breakwater.
Port Management - The government wharf at the
entrance to the port is operated by TMO - Capiz.
30 Berthing Facilities - The government wharf has a
berth length of 400 m. At the W end of the wharf is a 140 m
long concrete pier extending SSW. The wharf and the pier
have a design draft of 6 m below MLLW. Storage facilities
include a warehouse, transit shed, 9,120 sq m container
35 yard, and a 5,538 sq m open storage area. The wharf can
accommodate vessels with 90 m LOA.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Culasi
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428305
40 and +63998-5858202. The station may be e-mailed at
cgsroxas@coastguard.gov.ph.
Pilotage - Pilot boarding station for Culasi and Roxas
City is located about 1.5 miles WNW of Culasi Point.
45 Notice of ETA should be sent at least 24 hrs in advance.
LIBAS is a barrio on the S side of Libas Cove. It rests
on a large shallow indentation located S of Culasi Point.
A fish port with 260 m long wharf is located on the N side
50 of the barrio. There is a good road to Roxas City 2 miles
distant. The channel from the entrance of the breakwater
to the pier at Libas is narrow and tortuous. A small wharf,
about 300 m W of the fish port, is being maintained by San
Miguel Corporation for its flat bottom seacrafts.
55
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Libas
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428276
and +63998-5858199.
60 PANAY RIVER, about 0.7 mile S of Libas, divides
Roxas City into two. The bar at the mouth of the river is
reported to be constantly changing. There is a low-water
depth on it of 1.2 m (4 ft). There is slightly more water
inside of the mouth of the river but the presence of many
fish traps and stakes makes it impassable except to bancas
and small boats.
ROXAS CITY, the capital of Capiz Province, is
situated about 3 miles upstream from the mouth of Panay
River. It is inland and not visible from the sea. The city
is of considerable commercial importance, being the
center of trade for the N portion of Panay. Food supplies,
ice, gasoline, kerosene, and lubricating oils in drums, can
be obtained. There are several hotels in the city. Various
hospitals are in the city aside from other existing small
clinics. Roxas City is connected to Iloilo by road and has
regular ferry connection with Manila, Iloilo, and Masbate
through Port Capiz. There is a post office, telephone, mobile
phone communication, and Internet connection. The Roxas
Airport is just N of the city.
NIPA POINT, 0.5 mile E of Culasi Point, is steep-
sided, rocky, and 27.4 m (90 ft) high. The cove between
these two points has a sandy beach and large coconut
groves at either end.
CULASI HILL, back of Nipa Point, is 104 m (340 ft)
high, and the foot of it comes to the water’s edge midway
in the previously mentioned cove.
FLAT ROCK, about 45 m (50 yd) in diameter, about
0.3 m (1 ft) above high water and surrounded by rocks
awash, is about 0.5 mile N from Nipa Point. Midway
between this rock and the shore is a pile of rocks which are
awash at high water. A big round boulder marks the center
of the pile. About 0.3 mile W of this pile of rocks is a rock
with a depth of 0.3 m (1 ft). Close nearby is a 4.6 m (2.5
fm) patch.
FROM NIPA POINT TO PIRARA POINT, 7
miles E, the coast is flat, with long sand beaches fringed
with coconut trees and nipa houses. The cable hut, where
the cable from Milagros, Masbate lands, is a low brick
structure close to the beach, 2 miles E of Nipa Point.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables land
on the coast from Nipa Point to Pirara Point. Anchoring
and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine
cables.
MANTALINGA ISLET is a small, circular, wooded
islet, 23 m (75 ft) high, and about 1.5 miles E of Nipa Point.
The channel between the islet and the coast is 0.5 mile wide
and 6.1 m (20 ft) deep, but the islet is too small to afford
Gigantes Islands (looking northwestward from a position about 14 miles east-southeastward of Antonia Island)
protected anchorage.
PIRARA POINT, the W entrance point of Pilar Bay,
is low, sandy, and covered with bushes and coconut trees,
5 Palapag River, which empties just S of the point, forms a
shoal sand bar which extends 0.8 mile seaward.
NAGTIG ISLET is a very small islet about 1 mile
NW of Pirara Point and 0.3 mile from shore. It is thickly
10 covered with brush and small trees, the tops of which are 25
m (82 ft) high. A small group of rocks, bare at high water, is
about 91 m (100 yd) NE of Nagtig Islet.
OLUTAYA ISLAND is nearly 1 mile N of Nagtig Islet.
15 The channel between them is deep and clear. It is sparsely
wooded and 113 m (372 ft) high. Three small wooded
islets are off the main islet, one to the N, 19 m (62 ft) high,
another to the W, 15 m (49 ft) high, and one off the SE point
of the islet. The latter islet is connected to the main islet
20 by a reef which is bare at half tide. There is a small bay on
the SE side of the island which affords good anchorage for
small vessels. Eddies and irregular tidal current are found
in the vicinity of the island. Tides rips have been observed
just W of the channel between this island and Nagtig Island
25 when the tidal current runs at full strength.
PILAR BAY - From Pirara Point, the coast trends SE
and then NE to Bulacaue Point, forming Pilar Bay. The
head of the bay is shoal. There are no detached dangers
30 in the bay with the exception of Tucat Reef. It contains no
sheltered anchorages and is of little value to navigation.
From PIRARA POINT to BUNCAYAO POINT,
the W entrance to Tinagong-Dagat Inlet, the shores are low,
35 sandy, and interspersed with stretches of mangroves.
TINAGONG DAGAT INLET, a large and irregularly
shaped body of water in the SW part of the bay, is the
common mouth of a large number of small streams. It
40 is entirely fringed with mangroves except at the end of
Manapao Point, which extends into the middle of the inlet.
This point is rocky, covered with coconut trees, and is 50
m (163 ft) high to the tops of the trees. When entering the
inlet, Manapao Point appears to be an islet.
45
The bar in front of the entrance has a depth of 2.7 m
(1.5 fm) at low water, deepening to 11.0 to 14.6 m (6 to 8
fm) inside. Small vessels can find protected anchorage in
7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm), mud bottom, W of Pinamijagon
50 Point, the E entrance point of the inlet. The swinging room,
however, is somewhat limited.
NASUNDA ISLET, near the head of the inlet, is small
and covered with mangroves.
9-17
 CABUGCABUG RIVER, which empties into
Palongpong Bay, the E arm of Tinagong Dagat, has a
reported depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) across the bar at MLLW.
Inside the river is a small covered landing maintained by
the Pilar Sugar Central. Vessels drawing approximately 2.1
m (7 ft) may enter the inlet and proceed to the landing to
load sugar for transportation to Iloilo. There are pipeline
connections on the landing for the transfer of molasses to
barges.
DIRECTIONS - About 7 miles SW of the entrance to
Tinagong Dagat is a prominent, sharp-topped hill that is 78
m (257 ft) high. This hill, open S of Buncayao Point, the
W entrance point, bearing 237o, forms a good leading mark
for the best water crossing the bar. When abreast Buncayao
Point, the vessel should be hauled a little S and Pinamijagon
Point rounded at a distance of 0.3 mile and anchorage taken
up SW from it in 7.3 to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm), mud bottom.
From PINAMIJAGON POINT, the E entrance to
Tinagong Dagat Inlet to the town of Pilar, 4.5 miles E,
mangroves line the shore for the first half of this section,
and then to Pilar, with a low sand beach fringed with
shrubbery and coconut trees. About 0.8 mile ESE of Pilar
is a very conspicuous limestone cliff about 122 m (400 ft)
high, visible from the entrance to the bay.
PILAR is a small town on the E bank of Sibala River
and has good road connection to Pontevedra. A post office
is available.
BANOGAY ISLET is a small, low, rocky, and wooded
islet about 1 mile NE of Pilar and 0.07 mile from the main
shoreline. It is connected to the mainland by a sand bar bare
at nearly low water.
From PILAR to BULACAUE POINT, 11.5 miles
distant, the shore is sandy and interspersed with stretches
of rock. On this coast are a number of small villages. From
the town of Carles, nearly 2 miles SW of Bulacaue Point,
to the aforementioned point, the shore is rocky and fringed
with brush and trees.
Between Carles and the point are the Carles Hills, two
small prominent hills. The SW hill, about 1.5 miles SW of
Bulacaue Point, is 56 m (183 ft) high and wooded; the NE
hill, about 0.8 mile SW of Bulacaue Point, is 50 m (163 ft)
high and grass-covered.
TUCAT REEF, the only detached danger in Pilar Bay,
is about 3 miles N from Banogay Island. It is formed of
sand and coral and bares at very low tides. It is not readily
detected by the color of the water as the water in Pilar Bay
is more or less muddy due to the numerous rivers emptying
into it. Vessels bound into Tinagong Dagat Inlet will pass
well W of Tucat Reef by bringing the limestone cliff E
of Pilar open W of Banogay Islet on a 175o bearing and
steering for it.
BULACAUE POINT, the NE extremity of Panay,
9-18
is a spur from Mounts Sibala and Agudo, 580 and 834 m
(1,903 and 2,736 ft) high, and located about 12 miles and
15 miles, respectively, SW of the point. The point is low
and terminates in a sand spit with rocks, the end of which
5 extends less than 0.3 mile and uncovers at low water. A
wreck about 24 m deep is located about 1.8 miles NW of
the point.
ZAPATO ISLANDS are three small islets on a bank
10 composed mostly of coarse, white sand, which is about 12
miles NW from Bulacaue Point.
ZAPATO MAYOR, the NE and largest islet of the
group, is fringed by a reef on its W and S sides, is sparsely
15 wooded, and 57 m (187 ft) high. It is inhabited and well
cultivated.
ZAPATO MENOR ISLET, nearly 3.5 miles SW of
Zapato Mayor is smaller, well-wooded, clear, steep-to, and
20 52 m (171 ft) high. Zapato Menor Light (11° 42’ 48”N.,
122° 59’ 00”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the
island.
CHINELA ISLET, less than 1 mile NNE of Zapato
25 Menor, is small, rocky, covered with brush, and 14 m (47 ft)
high. It is surrounded by a rocky ledge about 46 m (50 yds)
wide, bare at half tide. Currents and eddies are strong in the
vicinity of the Zapato Islands.
30 ELCAÑO SHOAL, about 1.2 miles long and 0.5 mile
wide, with visible bottom, has depths of 14.6 to 18.3 m (8 to
10 fm) on it. It is 13.5 miles, 272o from Jintotolo Light and
is near the vessel track to Jintotolo Channel.
35 CURRENTS - Along the N coast of Panay, the flood
current sets E, entering by the passages between Panay
and Tablas and continuing into the Visayan Sea through
Jintotolo Channel. The floods sets N along both sides of
Tablas and SE along the SW coast of Sibuyan. Observations
40 near Cresta de Gallo Island, S of Sibuyan, show the flood
setting SW. The ebb current moves in direction opposite to
that of the flood in the aforementioned localities.
Between Panay and Tablas, velocities may reach 3.5
45 knots. Elsewhere in the area, velocities are believed to be
generally less than 2 knots.
JINTOTOLO CHANNEL is the passage between
Masbate and Panay. It connects the Sibuyan Sea with the
50 Visayan Sea and serves as a main route for vessels bound
from Manila to Iloilo or Cebu. Jintotolo Island and the
Zapato Islands divide the channel into three passages.
The NE passage lies between Jintotolo Island and the SW
extremity of Masbate. The middle and most used passage
55 lies between Jintotolo Island and the Zapato Mayor Island.
The SW passage lies between the Zapato Islands and the
NE coast of Panay. All the above passages are deep and
clear of dangers in the fairway, but numerous unmarked
shoals lie in their approaches and immediate vicinity.
60
 CUCARACHA SHOAL, about 4.5 miles NNE of reefs is 0.3 mile W of the N end of the island.
Manigonigo Light, is composed of coarse, white sand and is
clearly indicated by the color of the water. The depth on the OJASTRAS ISLET, a small, sandy cay, is 0.5 mile S
shoal is a small patch with 2.7 m (1.5 fm). The remainder of of Balbagon, with which it is connected by shoal water. At a
the shoal is covered by depths of 5.5 to 18.3 m (3 to 10 fm). 5 distance of 0.5 and 1.3 miles SSE of the islet are two small
A shoal with a least depth of 11.3 m (6.25 fm) lies about 5 5.5 m (3 fm) patches.
miles N of this shoal. Several detached patches, with depths
of 12.8 to 16.5 m (7 to 9 fm), lie in the vicinity of this shoal TURNINA ISLET is a small islet on a detached reef
and between it and the N edge of Cucaracha Shoal. about 0.8 mile E of Balbagon. It is connected to the reef
10 fringing the island by a shoal spit.
CURRENTS in this vicinity set E at flood and W at
ebb. There are strong currents and eddies in the vicinity of TACUT REEF, which bares at low water, is nearly
the Zapato Islands. 1.5 miles E of Ojastras Islet on the E edge of the bank
surrounding Balbagon, Ojastras, and Turnina Islands.
NORTHEASTERN PANAY AND 15
ADJACENT ISLANDS CHANNELS - The channel W of Balbagon Island
(CHART 1540 & 1549) is the one generally used by coasting vessels. It has a
navigable width of more than 1 mile and is deep and clear.
From Bulacaue Point, the NE extremity of Panay, the The W hill of Sicogon Island, 344 m (1,129 ft) high, just
coast trends in a general S direction for about 26 miles to 20 open E of the summit of Canas Islet, bearing 183o, leads
Mount Apiton on the N side of Apiton pass. This coast is through the middle of it.
faced by a number of islands, between which are good,
sheltered channels. There are neither ports of importance When the S end of Tulunanaun Island is abeam, all
nor any thoroughly protected anchorages. dangers will have been passed and the vessel may continue,
25 passing either side of Canas Islet, then through Sicogon
MANIGONIGO ISLET, about 1.5 miles E of Channel, between Sicogon and Calagnaan Islands. Also,
Bulacaue Point, is on the NE extremity of a shoal with when the S end of Tulunanaun Island is abeam, she may
depths of 4.1 to 5.5 m (2.25 to 3 fm), which extends from haul SE until Baliguian Island bears 180o when it may be
the coast of Panay. It is small, flat, and surrounded by rocks steered for.
to a distance of 0.1 mile on all sides but the S, where they 30
extend to 36.6 m (40 yd). Manigonigo Islet Light (11° 36’ The channel between Tacut Reef and South Gigante
18”N., 123° 10’ 38”E.) is displayed from a prominent white Island is also recommended. Dapdap Point, the W extremity
tower on the island. of South Gigante Island, is clear, steep-to, and may be
passed at a distance of 0.3 mile. After passing this point,
ANEGADA ROCKS are two small rocks covered 35 the course should be continued S until Antonia Islet bears
by 1.4 and 0.4 m (0.75 and 0.25 fm), 0.7 mile SSW of 090o and then hauled SE until Baliguian island bears 180o.
Manigonigo Islet.
GIGANTES ISLANDS are a group of two high
NABUNUT ISLAND, located about 2 miles ESE of islands, several islets, and detached rocks about 10 miles
Manigonigo Islet, is wooded and about 30 m (100 ft) high. 40 E of Bulacaue Point. The group is clear on the N side and
It is fringed by a narrow reef and connected to Tulunanaun the reefs and shoals on the other side do not extend more
Island, 2 miles SE of it, by a shoal with depths of 1.8 to 5.5 than 0.8 mile.
m (1 to 3 fm).
Caution - A submarine power cable crosses the channel
TULUNANAUN ISLAND is a small, narrow island 45 between North and South Gigante Islands. Anchoring and
having a hill 40 m (131 ft) high near its N end. The sides fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
of Tulunanaun Island are fringed with reefs, partly bare
at low water to a distance of about 0.3 mile. Nabunut and NORTH GIGANTE ISLAND is wooded and 231
Tulunanaun Islands are on a bank covered by depths of 3.7 m (758 ft) high near the N end. It is fringed by reefs and
to 9.1 m (2 to 5 fm). The bank extends about 4.5 miles E of 50 partly bare at low water, which extend about 0.5 mile E and
Manigonigo Islet and forms the W side of the channel W of W from it. North Gigantes Light (11° 38’ 21”N., 123° 21’
Balbagon Island. A 3.7 m (2 fm) patch lies about 1.1 miles 24”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the N point of
SE of the SW extremity of the island. the island. A submerged rock is 0.3 mile NE of the light. On
the SE edge of the reef surrounding the island are 3 small
BALBAGON ISLAND, about 3.5 miles E of Nabunut 55 rocky islets, namely, from N to S, Gigantillo, Gigantuna,
Island, is narrow, low, with a little sandhill at its S end, And Bulubadiang Islets.
and covered with trees about 30 m (100 ft) high. It is on
a bank about 4 miles long N-and-S and 2 miles wide. It is UAYDAJON ISLET, about 0.8 mile E of the N end
surrounded by reefs, bare at low water, widest at the N end, of North Gigante Island, is small, clear, steep-to, well-
where they extend nearly 1 mile. The W limit of the shore 60 wooded, and 80 m (263 ft) high to the tops of the trees.

9-19
The channel between it and North Gigante is clear and has
depths of 12.8 to 16.6 m (7 to 9 fm) in it.
SOUTH GIGANTE ISLAND, 0.5 mile S of the N
island, is well wooded and 233 m (763 ft) high near the S
end. On the N side there is a wide reef, bare at low water,
between which and the reef on the S side of the N island is
a channel with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
DAPDAP POINT, at the W extremity of the island, is
33 m (110 ft) high and fairly steep-to.
About 1 mile SE of South Gigante Island are three
small islets, Bantigui, Cabugao, and Antonia, all on the
same reef, which are 18, 109, and 98 m (60, 357, and 322
ft) high, respectively. About 0.5 mile E of Antonia, the S
islet, is a small shoal with a depth of 4.1 m (2.25 fm). The
channel between these islets and South Gigantes is more
than 0.5 mile wide and has depths of 11 to 16.5 m (6 to 9
fm).
ANCHORAGE - In the NE monsoon, vessels can
anchor off the SW coast of South Gigante in a depth of
12.8 m (7 fm), mud and sand bottom. In the SW monsoon
very small vessels can anchor in the channel between the
islands.
SHOALS - A shoal covered by 7.3 m (4 fm) is 3.5
miles NNW of Gigantes Light, about 5.5 miles N of the
same point is a 7.8 m (4.25 fm) shoal, about 5 miles ENE
of the same point is a 7.3 m (4 fm) shoal, and about 7 miles
ESE of the same point is a small, 6.4 m (3.5 fm) shoal.
These shoals are the only dangers within a radius of 8 miles
from Gigantes Light, with a depth less than 9.1 m (5 fm).
There are numerous other shoals in this vicinity whose
location will be best understood by reference to the chart.
BANKAL BAY, between Blanca Point, 2 miles SE
from the Bolacaue Point and Gogo Point, is fronted by
Binuluangan and several smaller islands. The shore is low
and intersected by a number of rivers. This bay is very
shoal, and at low water, sand banks block the passage to
the rivers emptying into it. This shoal water extends around
Blanca Point N and surrounds Manigonigo Islet.
BINULUANGAN ISLAND is fringed with reefs
on which lie the islets Tabugun and Tabugun Chico off
the N End, Nilidlaran off the E side, and Adcalayo and
Himamaylan off the SE side. Binuluangan is well wooded
and rises in hills 49 to 60 m (160 to 198 ft) high.
GOGO PASS, between the SW point of Binuluangan
Island and Gogo Point, is shoal and of no value to navigation.
NILIDLARAN PASS, between Binuluangan and
Calagnaan Island, is divided into two channels by Labno
Islet, a small wooded islet about 366 m (400 yd) SE from
Himamylan Islet. The W channel has a width of 0.1 mile
and is the one generally used. Both channels have a depth
of a little over 2.7 m (1.5 fm) but are narrow, tortuous, and,
9-20
in the absence of any aids to navigation, should not be
attempted by a stranger.
CALAGNAAN ISLAND, SE of Binuluangan Island,
5 from which it is separated by Nilidlaran Pass, is well
wooded and 339 m (1,112 ft) high. The E and S coasts are
clear and steep-to while the W and NW coasts are fringed
with reefs. On the NW coast are two bays blocked by reefs
and has no value to navigation.
10
CAÑAS ISLAND, about 0.8 mile from the E coast of
Calagnaan Island, is high, clear, and steep-to. It is 94 m
(310 ft) high in the E part. A pinnacle rock, about 9 m (30
ft) in extent, covered by 0.9 m (0.5 fm) is about 0.3 mile NE
15 of the E end of Cañas Islet.
SICOGON ISLAND, SE of Calagnaan, is 348
m (1,142 ft) high in the SE part. In the NW part of the
island is a hill 344 m (1,129 ft) high which forms, with
20 Cañas Islet, a good range for navigating the channel W of
Balbagon Island. The NE side of Sicogon is fringed by a
wide reef, which bares at low water, on the E edge of which
is Tumaguin Islet, a small prominent islet 112 m (369 ft)
high. The SE side of Sicogon is clear, while the W side
25 is fringed by a reef nowhere exceeding 0.5 mile in width.
About 2.5 miles E of Tumaguin Islet is a small 7.3 m (4
fm) patch surrounded by deep water. Another shoal with a
swept depth of 5.2 m (2.75 fm) lies about 5 miles E by N
of the same islet.
30
CARMENCITA SHOAL, small and composed of
sand and rock, has a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) with deep
water around it. It is 1 mile SE of Cañas Islet. The navigable
channel between it and Cañas Islet is 0.8 mile wide and that
35 between it and Sicogon is 0.3 mile wide.
SICOGON CHANNEL, between Calagnaan and
Sicogon Islands, is about 0.5 mile wide and has a depth
of 21.9 m (12 fm) in the middle. It is clear and free from
40 danger and is the channel usually used by coasting vessels.
Between Gogo Point and Salong Point, about 6 miles
S, is a large bay fronted by Loguingut, Bulobadiang, Bayas,
Maliaya, Magosipal, Manipulon, Pangalan, and Magalumbi
45 Islets.
LOGUINGUT ISLET lies about 1 mile SSW of the
W extremity of Calagnaan Island and within the 5.5 m (3
fm) curve fronting the coast of Panay. It is fringed by a reef.
50
BULOBADIANG ISLET lies close to the point of E
of the town of Estancia.
ESTANCIA is the town on the NW shore of the bay.
55 Vessels call regularly from Manila, Capiz, and Iloilo.
From Estancia, several seacrafts ply the route to Masbate,
Bantayan Island, Sicogon Island, and Samar. Fishing is the
principal industry and a great quantity of fish is shipped
during the fishing season. Food supplies, ice, and gasoline
60 in drums, are available in limited quantities. There is daily
public bus transportation to Roxas City and Iloilo.
Prominent Features – The town can be distinguished
by two large buildings with metal roof that are prominent
from seaward
Major Light - Estancia Light (11° 27’ 03”N., 123° 09’
04”E.) is displayed from a white tower about 0.35 mile S
of the town. The light is partly obscured by small islands.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Estancia
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428270
and +63998-5855321 or thru e-mail at cgssestancia2017@
gmail.com.
Berthing Facilities - A 117 m long concrete pier is
about 0.5 mile S of the town. Controlling depth is 6.1 m,
shoaling gradually on each side. An 80 m long pier for use
of fishing and ferry boats fronts the town.
Pilotage - Vessels calling at Estancia are boarded at the
location about 2.2 miles S of the town.
Anchorage may be found between Estancia and the
Bayas Islets in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom. This is the only
place in this vicinity where anchorage, protected at all
seasons, may be found. A small rocky shoal, with a depth
of 1.4 m (0.75 fm), is about midway between Bayas and
Loguingut Islands. This shoal constitutes the only danger
in the anchorage.
BAYAS ISLETS are a group of four islets, which are 3
to 4 miles SE of Gogo Point. Bayas, the E and largest islet,
is 66 m (216 ft) high while Manipulon, immediately W of
Bayas from which it is separated by a narrow 9.1 m (5 fm)
channel, is 51 m (168 ft) high. The other islets, Magosipal
and Pangalan, are small and low. They are surrounded
by sand banks and rocks, with no channels between them.
There is an 8.2 m (4.5 fm) channel nearly 0.5 mile wide
between Pangalan, the W islet, and the island of Panay.
A rock awash is 0.5 mile S of Pangalan Islet and 1.1
miles W of the S point of Bayas Islet.
MAGALUMBI ISLET, 48.5 m (159 ft) high, is about
0.5 mile NE of Salong Point. It is surrounded by reefs on
all sides, except the SE which narrow the channel between
it and the mainland to about 0.1 mile.
CULEBRA ISLET, 4 miles ESE of Magalumbi Islet,
is very small and is 35 m (116 ft) high. A reef, partly awash
at low water, extends 0.5 mile W.
A small rocky shoal, with a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm),
surrounded by deep water, is 2 miles SW of Culebra Islet.
NE and SE of Culebra Islet are seven shoals with depths of
3.4 to 5.5 m (1.75 to 3 fm) and surrounded by deep water.
MALPAL POINT, about 3 miles SW of Magalumbi
Islet, is a bold, round, and steep-to headland about 351 m
(1,151 ft) high. Immediately N of Malpal Point is Odiongan
Bay, the head of which is blocked by reefs. The barrio of
Odiongan is on its N shore.
5 BAGACAY BAY is just SW of Malpal Point. The
head of this bay is also blocked by a large reef that is bare
at low water. The barrio of Bagacay is near the shore at the
head of the bay.
10 From MALPAL POINT to the town of
CONCEPCION, about 8 miles S, the shore is fringed by
reefs. Outside of which, the shoal water extends to about
1 mile in places.
15 SAN DIONISIO, a fishing town on the W shore of
Concepcion Bay, is about 5 miles SW of Malpal Point.
There is a market and a few stores in town. Public bus
connections are maintained with Iloilo. Two small islets,
Matagda and Lacdian, are 0.8 mile E and ESE from San
20 Dionisio.
About 1.5 miles NE of Matagda Islet and about 1 mile
from shore is a large shoal area with a rock awash and
depths of 0.9 to 5.5 m (0.5 to 3 fm). The channel between
25 this reef and the reefs NW of Tago Island is about 1 mile
wide and 8.2 m (4.5 fm) deep.
PAN DE AZUCAR, about 2.5 miles from the coast of
Panay, is the largest of a group of islands at the N entrance
30 to Iloilo Strait. It has two remarkable peaks. The S and the
highest peak is 573 m (1,881 ft) high. The SE side of the
island is clear and steep-to, while the remainder is fringed
with reefs on which there are several islets and rocks.
35 NABURUT ISLET, about 44 m (143 ft) high, is on
the reef off the NW point of Pan de Azucar.
MAGAISI ISLET, 71 m (232 ft) high, is on the shore
reef off the N coast.
40
BOCOT ISLET is 0.3 mile N of the NE point of
Magaisi Islet, from which it is separated by a narrow
channel 6.4 m (3.5 fm) deep.
45 SOMBRERO ISLET is round, conical-shaped, and
about 0.1 mile from the SE side of Pan de Azucar, with
which it is connected by a sand bare at low water. It is about
0.4 mile in extent, well wooded, and 140 m (459 ft) high.
A wreck, with masts showing, lies sunk about 0.4 mile N
50 of the islet.
TAGO ISLAND, immediately SW of Pan de Azucar,
from which it is separated by a narrow, impassable channel
known as Pan Pass, is 170 m (557 ft) high in the S part.
55 Its entire shoreline is fringed by reefs which are generally
steep-to on the E side, while those on the W side are faced
by shoal water. Nearly 0.5 mile from the SE point of Tago
is a rock awash, and 0.1 mile and 0.2 mile from the S end
are dangerous sunken rocks. A rock awash is 0.5 mile N of
60 the NW point of Tago.
9-21
 CONCEPCION BAY, between Panay and Tago Island,
is of little value to navigation. Its area is greatly reduced by
reefs and shoal water. The town of Concepcion is at the
head of the bay. A small vessel, which occasionally runs
between Capiz and Iloilo, sometimes calls at Concepcion.
However, most of the trade is carried on by small crafts.
Berthing Facility - The town has a concrete deck that
has a berth length of about 200 m.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Concepcion may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8428270 and +639985855323 or thru e-mail at
cgssconcepcion@gmail.com.
Pilotage - Pilot boarding station for vessels coming
from the S is located about 3.3 miles SSW of Tagbac Point,
near the S entrance of Apiton Pass.
TAGO PASS is a very narrow channel between the
reefs extending from Panay and those from the S end of
the Tago Island. It is well-wooded and 240 m (787 ft) high.
Then N has a general width of 0.1 mile between the 1.8 m
(1 fm) curves, a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) at the N entrance,
deeper water in the main body of the pass, and 5.9 m (3.25
fm) at the S entrance. Tago Reef, at the N entrance to the
pass, and the sunken rocks off the S end of Tago Island, are
the principal dangers. The currents run with considerable
velocity in Tago Pass, and, as there is no particular
advantage in using it. This pass should not be attempted
without local knowledge.
TAGO REEF is a small dangerous coral reef bare at
low water. It is about 0.2 mile W of the S part of Tago Island
and forms the W entrance point to the N approach to Tago
Pass.
BAGABU ISLET is small, low, wooded, and 1 mile
SE of the S end of Tago Island. A sand spit, bare at low
water, extends nearly across to a prominent green point on
Panay, leaving a narrow 5.9 m (3.25 fm) channel between
them.
MALANGABAN ISLAND, about 2 miles SE of Pan
de Azucar, is wooded, 239 m (785 ft) high, and clear on all
sides except the SW part, where a reef, bare at low water,
extends nearly 0.5 mile W and surrounds the Chico Islet.
AGHO ISLET is in the middle of the channel between
Malangaban and Igbon Islands. It is fringed by a narrow
reef and surrounded by deep water.
IGBON ISLAND is about 2 miles E of the S end of
Tago Island. It is well-wooded and 240 m (787 ft) high.
The N and SW parts are fringed by steep-to coral reefs. The
remainder of the shoreline is clear and steep-to.
BOTLOG ISLAND, 113 m (372 ft) high, about 0.8
mile S of Pan de Azucar, is clear and steep-to. It is covered
with large, straggling trees and divides the passage between
9-22
Pan de Azucar and Igbon Island into two good channels.
The coasting vessels usually take the channel between
Botlog and Igbon Islands.
5 BULUBADIANGAN AND DUNAO are 2 islets
off the S end of Igbon Island. Bulubadiangan. The W islet,
is 67 m (220 ft) high, and Dunao, the E one, is 28 m (92
ft). Between these two islets provide good but constricted
anchorage for small crafts. A detached 6.4 m (3.5 fm) patch
10 lies about 0.3 mile SE of Dunao Islet.
BALIGUIAN ISLAND is low, heavily wooded, and
9 miles E from Igbon Island. It is fringed by the narrow
reef and surrounded by deep water. It is thickly covered
15 with trees, the tops of which appear like solid land from
a distance. This island is a good natural mark for vessels
making Iloilo strait from N or E to clear the numerous
shoals along the route. Baliguian Light (11° 12’ 16”N.,
123° 20’ 10”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the NW
20 point of the island.
There is a small 3.7 m (2 fm) patch surrounded by deep
water 2 miles S of the island.
25 A shoal, with a depth of 3 m (10 ft) over it, is 5.6 miles
and 350o from Baliguian Light. To the W of this shoal are
three other shoals with depths of 4.6, 5.5, and 5 m (2.5, 3,
and 2.75 fm), respectively, over them. There are many more
shoals E of the island too numerous to mention in detail and
30 best referred to the charts.
APITON PASS is the S termination of the inside route
to Iloilo from the N. It is clear and deep, with the exception
of a small 5.5 m (3 fm) patch lying in the N approach
35 to the pass in a position about 1 mile W of the S end of
Bulubadiangan Islet. The shores on either side of the pass
are fairly steep-to.
Pilotage - Pilot boarding station for vessels calling
40 at Concepcion is located about 3.3 miles SSW of Tagbac
Point, near the S entrance of Apiton Pass.
MOUNT APITON, forming the N side of the pass, is
a bold, round headland 432 m (1,416 ft) high.
45
TAGUBANHAN ISLAND, a little less than 1 mile
SE from Mount Apiton, forms the S side of Apiton Pass.
It is well-wooded and 299 m (980 ft) high. The shores
are fringed by a very narrow steep-to reef. Small 5.8 and
50 8.2 m (3.25 and 4.5 fm) shoals are 1.1 and 0.7 mile SW,
respectively, of the S end of Tagubanhan Island. A good
deep channel is between these shoals and the island.
ANAUAYAN ISLET, nearly 2 miles E of the S end of
55 Tagubanhan Island, is very small, clear, steep-to, and stands
54 m (178 ft) high. The channel between it and Tagubanhan
Island is deep and clear.
BINANAN ISLAND, just SW of Mount Apiton, is
60 nearly round and 134 m (440 ft) high. It is connected to
the mainland by extensive mangrove swamps and mud flats
bare at low water.
APITON COVE, on the E side of the island, is small,
shoal, and used only by local small crafts. The S side of
Binanan Island is clear and steep-to.
From Binanan Island, the coast trends W for 4 miles
and then curves S for 4.5 miles to Malauig Balas Point,
forming a large shoal bay, the head of which is known
as Ajuy Bay. A small dock is located in Pinantan River.
Entrance is only possible at high tide. Sugar is shipped to
Iloilo in motorboats and molasses in barges.
AJUY is a town in the NW angle of Ajuy Bay, about
0.5 mile above the mouth of the river of the same name. At
the shore is a 7 m wide by 195 m long rock causeway, which
serves as landing for small vessels carrying passengers and
cargo for Ajuy. Shoal water extends 2 miles SE from the
mouth of Ajuy River and surrounds Sarog Islet.
SALOG ISLET, in the entrance to Ajuy Bay, is very
small and wooded, 53 m (175 ft) high, and surrounded by a
large reef, bare at low water.
BURI ISLET is 49 m (160 ft) high, 0.5 mile S, and
is similar to Salog Islet. There are a few inhabitants on
both of them. The pearl banks of Ajuy are off these islets,
and during the season large numbers of divers make their
headquarters here.
GUINASIAN ISLETS, consisting of NASIDUCANG
ISLET and BAYANG ISLET, lie 1.5 and 2.3 miles,
respectively, SSW of Buri Islet and 1 mile from shore. They
are both surrounded by reefs.
NASIDMAN ISLAND, about 42 m (138 ft) high, is a
narrow island 0.8 mile from shore at the S entrance to Ajuy
Bay. It is surrounded by a reef, leaving a 11.9 m (6.5 fm)
channel between it and the Panay coast.
CALABAZAS ISLAND, about 59 m (195 ft) high,
is small, wooded, and about 0.3 mile E from Nasidman
Island. Calabazas Light (11° 04’ 34”N., 123° 01’ 17”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on the S point of the island.
PEPITAS ROCKS are a cluster of black rocks 2.1
miles SW of Calabazas Light. These rocks are generally
bare most of the time, covered only at extreme high water.
TURIA ROCK is a small dangerous rocky shoal, with
0.9 m (0.5 fm) over it, and is 5 miles ESE of Calabazas
Light. This rock does not show except when close to it, and
the sea does not break over it, any heavier than for several
miles around it. It is marked by a buoy painted with black
and red horizontal stripes. Vessels should give this rock a
berth of about 0.5 mile. A small, rocky patch with a depth
of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) is 0.3 mile NE of Turia Rock.
From the S entrance to Ajuy Bay, the coast trends SW 60 58”N., 122° 49’ 57”E.) is located on the S side mouth of
for 14 miles, W for 4 miles, and then S for 12 miles to
Dumangas Point, on the N side of the entrance to Iloilo
Strait. The N half of this section is indented by five bays,
Culasi, Pedada, Cañas, Barotac, and Banate, all of which
5 are shoal and used only by local small crafts. These bays
are separated by high, prominent headlands, which are
clear and steep-to.
CULASI BAY, W of Nasidman Island, between
10 Bugtung Bato and Danao Points, is very small and shoal.
The barrio of Culasi is at the head of Culasi Bay.
PEDADA BAY, just SW from Culasi Bay, between
Nautin And Pedada Points, has a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) at
15 the entrance and shoals gradually toward the head.
MOUNT BAYANG, about 222 m (728 ft) high, is the
summit of Bayang Island, between Pedada and Cañas Bay.
This island is connected to the mainland by a mangrove
20 swamp, through which is a boat channel passable at high
water.
CAÑAS BAY, between Bayang And Bubug Points, has
a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm) at the entrance and shoals gradually
25 toward the head. The barrios of San Fernando and Santiago
are on the shore of Cañas Bay. Fish traps extend from the
shores on both sides of the entrance of the bay, reducing the
width of the channel to about 0.3 mile.
30 MOUNT SAN NICOLAS is the summit of the
headland separating Cañas and Barotac Bays. It is well
wooded, 324 m (1,063 ft) high, and prominent.
BAROTAC BAY, immediately W of Mount San
35 Nicolas, between Bagalayog And San Juan Points, is 9.1 m
(5 fm) deep at the entrance and shoals gradually toward the
head. The town of Barotac Viejo is on the E Side of Barotac
River, about 1 mile inland from the head of the bay. Several
small barrios are on the shores of the bay.
40
Caution - Submarine power cables, marked by lighted
buoys, exist in Barotac Bay. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
45 SAN JUAN POINT, the SW entrance point to Barotac
Bay, is a small, prominent headland 60 m (197 ft) high.
About 0.5 mile SW of San Juan Point is a rock 0.6 m (2 ft)
high, on a small shoal with depths of 4.1 to 6.4 m (2.25 to
3.5 fm).
50
BANATE BAY is a large shoal bay SW of San Juan
Point. The town of Banate is at its head. Incoming cargoes
are mostly fresh fish. Outgoing products, on the other
hand, are sacks of rice and rice bran. The town has a post
55 office. There is a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) about 1 mile S from
the town, from which position the water shoals gradually
toward the shore.
Major Light - San Juan Point Light (10° 59’
9-23
Imbrandahan River.
Caution - There is a submarine telecommunication
cable in Banate Bay. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Berthing Facility - Fronting the town is a 360 m long
pier, which is being used as landing by boat with passengers
and cargoes plying usually back and forth to Victorias.
From Banate Bay to Dumangas Point, the shores are
low, fringed with mangroves, intersected by a number of
small streams, and fronted by shoal water to a distance of
2.5 miles.
A red buoy marks the E edge of the shoal water about
2.3 miles SE of Bacay Point.
DUMANGAS POINT is low and covered with
mangroves. Shoal water fronts the point to a distance of
9-24
2.5 miles E, 1 mile SE and 0.8 mile S. A red nun buoy and
fish trap stakes mark the shoals off Dumangas Point and the
N side of the E entrance to Iloilo Strait. A 108 m long pier,
with a controlling draft of 5 m, is located about 1.5 miles
5 WSW of the point. Two RoRo ramps are available. Ferry
vessels from Bacolod City, Negros call at this pier daily.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Dumangas may be contacted at mobile phone nos +63917-
10 8428284 and +63998-5856235. The station may contacted
by e-mail at cgssdumangas@gmail.com.
TIDAL CURRENTS - The flood current in Iloilo
Strait passes to the N as far as Pan de Azucar, approximately,
15 where it meets the other branch of the flood current coming
from N. The ebb current runs in the opposite direction;
S in Iloilo Strait and N of Pan de Azucar. The velocity
in the strait reaches 3 to 4 knots at spring tides. Between
Tomonton Point and Iloilo Strait, a slight W set at all
20 seasons is reported.
 CHAPTER 10
NEGROS ISLAND
CHART 4706, 4708 & 4718
NEGROS ISLAND, between the islands of Panay and
Cebu, is 118 miles long in a North to South direction and
varies in width from 22 to 49 miles. It is the fourth largest
island in the Philippines, having an area of 1,2704 sq km.
It is divided into two provinces: Negros Occidental and
Negros Oriental. Its coast is very little, broken by bays or
inlets, and contains no harbors suitable for large vessels.
The rivers are small and unfit for navigation except by small
crafts. A central chain of mountains runs through its entire
length. Canlaon Volcano, about 20 miles SE of Bacolod, is
2,465 m (8,088 ft) high, and is probably the highest point
on the island.
This island is the primary sugar producing area of the
archipelago. It also exports tobacco, rice, and lumber. It is
reported to furnish the best cacao grown in the Visayas.
These products are shipped in ocean-going vessels from
local ports although no protected harbors exist on the island.
ISLANDS NORTHEAST OF
NEGROS ISLAND
Extending for 255 miles in a NE direction from Sagay
Point, the NE extremity of Negros, is a chain of 36 islands.
The greater part of these islands is on one great reef, leaving
two good channels between them and Negros. Several
detached reefs and shoals are scattered off the N coast from
Sagay to Tomonton Points.
BANTAYAN ISLAND (CHART 4405), the largest
and N island of the above-mentioned group, is with its
S extremity 17 miles NE of Negros. It is fringed on all
sides by reefs, outside of which are several detached
shoals. From the S extremity of the island, reefs baring at
low water extend 10 miles and surround numerous small
islands. Bantayan Island, for the first 3 miles S from its N
end, is level and only about 6.1 m (20 ft) high, then rises
abruptly to 90 m (295 ft), and then slopes gradually toward
Government pier of Sta. Fe.
(Photograph - PPA-Visayas website, Undated)
the S end. Bantayan and adjacent islands are practically
self-supporting. Fish are plentiful and, together with corn,
are the main products of the area.
5 BUNTAY POINT is 11 miles S of Tanguingui Island
and the N extremity of Bantayan Island. A viewing deck,
connected to shore by a bridge, extends N from the point.
The town of Madridejos lies just S of the point.
10 Major Light - Buntay Light (11° 18’ 18”N., 123° 43’
44”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the northernmost
edge of the shoal area extending N from Buntay Point.
Caution - Vessels plying between Bantayan Island
15 and Tanguigui Island should watch out for a weather buoy,
exhibiting flashing yellow light, located about 3.8 miles
NW of Buntay Point.
The E coast of Bantayan Island from Buntay Point to
20 Booc Point, the SE extremity of the island, is generally low
with low bluffs at several places. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete
pole for the proposed light stands at Booc Point.
SANTA FE, a town on the S shore of Booc Point, is
25 the terminus of the daily ferry service to Hagnaya on the
island of Cebu. Cargo is either carried by boats from the
beach at the town or loaded at the government pier located
about 0.8 mile N of Booc Point. There is an airstrip about
1.5 miles NW of Booc Point. Roads connect the town to
30 Bantayan and Madridejos.
Danger - A rock awash is about 1.8 miles SW of the
town of Santa Fe and about 0.8 mile offshore.
35 Port Management - The government pier is managed
by PMO - Sta. Fe, which may be contacted at telephone
nos. (+6332) 318-4177 and (+6332) 438-9008. Majority of
incoming goods at the port are soya, corn, and wheat.
10-1
 Berthing Facilities - The government port is composed
of two concrete piers with RoRo ramps at each offshore
end. Draft alongside ranges from 2 to 4 m (1.1 to 2.2 fm).
BANTAYAN, the largest town on the island, is on the
SW coast on a point of land projecting S. It is separated
from the main shore by a mangrove swamp. It cannot
be approached within less than 1 mile except at high
water, and then only by small vessels drawing less than
1.8 m (6 ft). Internet connection, telephone, and mobile
communications are available. The town has a government
hospital and some banks.
Prominent Features - The prominent landmarks of
the town are the red-roofed church, detached bell tower,
and the white municipal building.
Major Light - Bantayan Light (11° 11’ 00”N., 123°
42’ 45”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the beach
about 1 mile N of the town.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Bantayan may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
1254080 or +63946-1414381.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 340 m long pier
and a wharf with berth length of about 220 m. Only small
boats can berth at these berthing facilities.
Anchorage for vessels desiring to communicate with
the town is in 4.6 to 5.5 m (2.5 to 3 fm), with the light bearing
078o and the church bearing 115o, distant about 1.5 miles.
The principal obstruction in the approach to this anchorage
is Perla Reef, a small coral reef which bares about 0.3 m
(1 foot), 2 miles W of the light, and 2.8 miles W-NW of
Bantayan Church. It is steep-to and may be passed on either
side at a distance of 0.3 mile.
Directions - Bantayan Anchorage may be entered by
steering 130o from a position 2 miles W from Patao Islet,
keeping the middle of Panangatan Islet, the nearest islet to
the town, in range with a large tree on Bantayan Island. This
range carries a vessel about 0.3 mile E from Perla Reef, and
the depth found on it is 4.6 m (2.5 fm). When Perla Reef
is visible, vessels may pass S from it, anchoring in 8.2 m
(4.5 fm), when the reef bears 316o, or proceed farther E and
anchor as previously recommended.
DON ISLANDS consisting of Botiquis, Doong,
Lipayran, Mambacayao and Yao Islets extend about 10
miles SW from Bantayan Island. All of these islands,
with the exception of Yao, are on the same reef, parts of
which are bare at low water. Between the Don Islands
and Bantayan are a number of small islands and islets, the
largest of which are Panitugan, Maamboc, Silagon, Sagasa
and Botong, which are on the same reef as the Don Islands.
There are no navigable channels between them.
YAO ISLET, the SW of the Don Islands, is very small
and heavily wooded with large trees, the tops of which are
10-2
36.6 m (120 ft) high. Houses occupy the S portion of the
islet. It is clear and steep-to and can be rounded in safety
at a distance of 0.3 mile. The channel between Yao and the
next island E of it, Mambacayao, is about 0.3 mile wide
5 and has 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm) in the middle. 4 miles
S of the channel between Yao and Molocaboc Islands is
deep and clear. Yao islet forms a very prominent landmark
for vessels passing N of Negros and W of Bantayan. Kept
on 091o bearing, it leads nearly midway between Maca and
10 Panal Reefs and kept on a 181o bearing, it leads 0.5 mile E
of Doong Reef.
Dangers - A small, dangerous coral patch with a depth
of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) and surrounded by deep water is 3 miles
15 SE of Yao Islet.
DOONG REEF, a large sand and coral formation
which bares about 0.8 m (2.5 ft) at low water, is about
3.5 miles WSW of Lutungan Island. The channel between
20 Doong Reef and the reefs extending W from Lutungan
Island is about 1 mile wide between the 9.1 m (5 fm) curves
and has a depth of 16.5 m (9 fm) in the middle. A 5.9 m
(3.25 fm) rocky patch lies in the N approach to this channel.
25 SILION AND JILANTANGAN are two small islands
off the E coast of Bantayan Island. They are fringed by
narrow reefs leaving a good channel between them and also
between them and Batayan. Silion Island, the N and smaller
island, is low, flat, and 6.1 m (20 ft) high. Jilantangan is 43
30 m (140 ft) high, steep at the N end and slopes away to the
S end, where there is a small village. It is covered by a few
large trees and corn­fields. The water area between these
islands and the Bantayan shore affords good anchorage in
12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm). It is much frequented by fishing
35 vessels seeking shelter from SW weather.
DOHA SHOAL is a small coral patch with a depth of
3.6 m (2 fm) and surrounded by deep water, about midway
between Jilantangan and Guintacan Islands.
40
MOLOCABOC, DIUTAY, AND MATABAS are
three small, low, wooded islands on the same reef about
2.5 miles NE of Sagay Point. The reef is bare at low water
and steep-to. Molocaboc, the E and largest of these islands,
45 contains three villages. These islands are located within the
Sagay Marine Reserve, as well as their surrounding reefs.
A causeway connects Molocaboc and Diutay Islands.
Major Light - Molocaboc Light (10° 58’ 38”N., 123°
50 32’ 30”E.) is displayed on the NW point of Matabas Island.
ASUNCION PASS, the channel between Sagay Point
and the above described island group, has a navigable width
of over 1 mile and a depth of 12.8 m (7 fm) near the NW
55 entrance. It is used by small local vessels plying between
Iloilo and Cebu.
Caution - A submarine cable passes through Asuncion
Pass, and the sea between the above described group islands
60 and Cebu Island. Anchoring, fishing and other activities
that may harm the submarine cable are strictly prohibited.
NORTH COAST OF NEGROS
SAGAY POINT (CHART 1549), the NE extremity of
Negros, is low and composed almost entirely of mangroves.
There is a little solid ground on the E side of the point at
the village of Panalsagon. Sagay Point is fringed by a reef
bare at low water 0.3 mile on the N side and over 1 mile on
the E side.
MOUNT SOLITARIO, 8 miles S of Sagay Point,
and about 6 miles W of the mouth of the Danao River, is
a prominent, conical-shaped, wooded peak 341 m (1,119
ft) high. It forms a good landmark, being easily recognized
and visible from N and E of Negros. Mount Solitario and
the Pan de Azucar are very valuable landmarks for vessels
navigating the reef-strewn waters N from Negros.
From Sagay Point, the coast trends in a general W-by-N
direction for 19 miles to Ilacaon Point, the N extremity of
Negros. This coast is low, generally fringed with mangroves,
intersected by a number of streams, and faced by dangerous
shoals and reefs partly bare at low water.
TALUSAN BAY is an open area in the mangroves
swamp on the SW side of Sagay Point. It can be entered by
light-draft vessels at high water. There is a narrow basin in
the SW part where small craft lie while loading firewood.
TABANON AND BOLANON RIVERS, about
2 miles SW of Sagay Point, are of little commercial
importance, although considerable quantities of firewood
are cut along their banks. A fairly good channel for small
craft at high water leads across the bar at their common
mouth.
SAGAY MARINE RESERVE includes the islands
of Molocaboc, Diutay, Matabas, and Suyac, the reefs of
Carbin, Maca, and Panal, and the waters between these
islands and reefs and the coast of Negros. Prohibited
activities include hunting, disturbing, and possession of any
marine resources without permission from the government,
dumping of waste, unauthorized use of any motorized
equipment, and the removal or destruction of boundary
marks and buoys of the marine reserve.
SUYAC ISLAND is small, low and 3 miles WNW of
Sagay Point and 1 mile from shore. It is surrounded by a
reef bare at low water. Between it and the land there is a
narrow channel with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
CARBIN REEF lies awash about 1.5 miles N of
Sayac Island in the W approach to Asuncion Pass. It has
shifting sand cays on it and lies outside the 18.3 m (10 fm)
curve fronting the coast. Small cottages, built for tourists,
are on the sand cays. The reef had been declared as part of
the Sagay Marine Reserve.
PANAL REEF lies awash about 2.5 miles NW of
Carbin Reef and within the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve fronting
the mouth of the Himugaan River. There is a shifting sand
cay lying on the reef and some detached dangers lie within
0.5 mile E of the E side of the reef.
5
MACA REEF, which bares at low water, is located
about 2.55 miles NNE of Panal Reef. There is a long,
narrow sand cay on the S end of the reef. Vessels passing N
of Negros generally pass between Panal Reef and this reef.
10 This channel is over 2 miles wide and has a depth of 21.9
m (12 fm) and over in the fairway. Maca Shoal, with a least
depth of 0.3 m (1 foot), is located about 1 mile NE of the
NE extremity of Maca Reef.
15 There are other numerous reefs and shoal patches E
and N of Maca Shoal as shown on the chart. This shoal and
the three reefs mentioned above can generally always be
identified during daylight hours.
20 SAGAY CITY is on the coast, 5 miles W of Sagay
Point. A steel-framed beacon, at the mouth of the Himugaan
River, and a galvanized iron-roofed warehouse on the E
bank mark the site of Sagay City.
25 Sugar, the most important product, is loaded in lighters
at a landing up the Himugaan River and towed to the
anchorage. Lighters, as many as necessary, are supplied
from Iloilo by the Visayan Stevedoring Company. Labor
is supplied locally. Food and other supplies are available in
30 the public market and various stores in the town. Freshwater
is available from the city’s water system. Ice are available
from an ice plant. Dunnage can be purchased from the
lumber mill.
35 Small welding and machine shop repair jobs can be
undertaken by the mill at Sagay if necessary. A government
hospital is present in the city. In case of serious illness
or accident, the Bureau of Quarantine at Iloilo should be
called by radio. There is a postal service, telephone, mobile
40 phone communication, and Internet connection.
Berthing Facility - The city is fronted by a concrete
deck, which is connected to the shore by a 120 m long
causeway.
45
Sand cay on Carbin Reef.
(Photograph - Negros Occidental Provincial website, Undated)
10-3
 Anchorage will be found in 14.6 m (8 fm), sand and
mud bottom, with Himugaan River beacon bearing 173o, 1.5
miles distant, and the center of Suyac Island bearing 120.5o,
3.5 miles distant. The anchorage is open with no protection
and, on account of the numerous reefs, is untenable during
the typhoon season: November, December, and January.
During this period, cargo is lightered to and loaded at
Iloilo. A mooring buoy lies outside the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve
in a position about 0.6 mile NNE of the light beacon of the
entrance range. A similar buoy lies about 0.4 mile NNE of
the same light beacon, outside the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve.
HIMUGAAN RIVER (CHART 4466), the largest
river in N Negros, empties on the E side of HIMUGAAN
POINT, about 2 miles W of the barrio of Sagay. At its
mouth are numerous sand banks, bare at low water. The
entrance is through a narrow channel with about 0.6 m (2
ft) on the bar at low tide. The bar is liable to change and is
entirely unprotected during the NE monsoon. It is reported
that the channel is shifting E.
The bar is passable at higher high water by small
vessels of 2.4 to 2.7 m (8 to 9 ft) draft, and the river is
navigable for a distance of 7 miles to the lumber and sugar
mills at FABRICA. In fine-weather season, vessels anchor
outside the bar and load from lighters. Fresh water can
be obtained a short distance below the lumber company’s
wharf. Fabrica has highway connection with other towns.
There is a post office.
A lumber company maintains a range beacon to mark
the channel across the bar. It has a white triangular daymark
and shows a fixed red over a fixed white light. The rear
inshore beacon is a concrete water tower 3.2 miles inland
from the front beacon. Entrance to this river should not be
attempted without local knowledge.
Directions - According to reports received in 1949 and
1953, the best water in the entrance to the river was found
as follows: bring the beacon in range with a concrete water
tank about 3.2 miles inland, and steer for it on 170o until
Sagay Point bears 207o when it should be steered for. This
second course will pass about 0.2 mile W of the beacon.
When the S tangent of the island at the mouth of the river
bears 236o, steer 236o heading for Tuble Point. When Sagay
Point bears 120o, steer 208o for about 0.1 mile, then round
slowly to S, and steer mid-channel courses.
There are no pilots available, and, because of the
numerous reefs and shoal patches off the N coast of Negros,
vessels are advised to make the approach to the anchorage
and the river mouth only during daylight hours and when
conditions are favorable, preferably at low tide so that all
possible reefs can be seen.
PANDANAN POINT is about 1.5 miles W of
Himugaan Point. For a short distance on either side of the
village of Tiglauigan, about 1 mile W of the point, is rocky
bluff 9 m (30 ft) high, behind which the country is higher
and grassy in places.
10-4
CADIZ, a city on the coast 4.5 miles W of Himugaan
Point, is at the mouth of the river of the same name. The
city presents a prominent appearance from the sea. The bar
of the Cadiz River is nearly bare at low water, but at high
5 tide small crafts cross it and lie aground at the end of a
small wooden landing extending 0.2 mile SE of the city.
Major Light - Cadiz Light (10° 57’ 30”N., 123° 19’
00”E.) is displayed about 0.4 mile NE of the city.
10
Hitalon Light (10° 57’ 31”N., 123° 19’ 12”E.) is
displayed from a wooden post about 0.2 mile E of Cadiz
Light.
15 Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coast of Cadiz. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Cadiz
20 may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428433
and +63998-5858212.
Berthing Facilities - A concrete deck, connected to the
shore by a concrete causeway, is located 0.5 mile NE off the
25 mouth of Cadiz River.
A pier, located about 0.7 mile NW of the mouth of
Cadiz River, extends 380 m from the shore. Small vessels
and boats calling at Cadiz also berth along the wharf lining
30 up the northern bank of Cadiz River.
Anchorage is in 8.2 m (4.5 fm) with the light beacon
bearing 205o distant 1 mile. The anchorage should be
approached during daylight only as numerous fish traps
35 surround it.
TALABAAN CHICO RIVER, about 1 mile W of
Cadiz City, is of no value, being only a passage through a
mangrove swamp.
40
TALABAAN GRANDE RIVER, about 3.5 miles
WNW of Cadiz City, is of little commercial value, due to
the bar and shoals at the entrance. Small crafts, however,
can enter at high water.
45
SICABA is a barrio on the N side and close to the
mouth of the Sicaba River, which empties on the S of
Sicaba Point, about 5 miles NW of Cadiz. The Sicaba River
and Talabaan Grande River has similar bars at the mouth
50 and class of traffic passing through them. There is a bar in
the middle of the river abreast the town, and the bottom of
the river on the N side is rocky. Sugar and firewood are
shipped from here.
55 CARMEN SHOALS, a group of detached shoals
with depths of 1.8 to 8.2 m (1 to 4.5 fm), lie about 6 miles
ENE of Sicaba Point and outside the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve
fronting the coast. There are large boulders on all of these
shoals. A lighted buoy, flashing white every 5 seconds and
60 visible for 9 miles, marks the SW edge of Carmen Shoals.
A red can buoy was placed close SW of the N shoal. Vessels
should give these shoals a berth of at least 1.3 miles.
DAGA REEF is a small coral formation, bare at low
water 2.3 miles N of the W entrance point to the Cadiz
River.
SACRAMENTO ROCK is a small shoal covered
with boulders with a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) 4.3 miles NW
of Carmen Shoal. 10
SICABA REEFS are two large coral patches, bare at
low water, about 2 miles NE of the mouth of the Sicaba
River. The water between these reefs and Sicaba Point is
shoal. About 0.8 mile N of the NE extremity of Sicaba
Reefs is a small, detached 0.4 m (0.25 fm) patch, about 0.4
mile N of the NW extremity is a 2.7 m (1.5 fm) patch.
EAST ROCK is a small coral patch with boulders,
having a depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm), 2.5 miles N of Sicaba
Point. About 0.7 mile WNW of the rock is an 8.2 m (4.5
fm) shoal.
ILACAON POINT, the N extremity of Negros, is
low, rounded and sandy. Shoal water extends about 1.8
miles N from the point.
CADIZ VIEJO is a barrio in a grove of coconut trees
on the E side of the point. A 300 m long jetty extends from
the barrio.
ILACAON ISLAND, 2.3 miles N of Ilacaon Point, is
small, low and 1.8 m (6 ft) high. It has some coconut trees,
bushes and grass on it, and is inhabited by a few fishermen.
It is surrounded by an extensive reef, bare at low water,
which extends 1.5 miles ENE 0.3 mile N, and 0.8 mile W.
The reef on the S side of the island is narrow. A rock lies
awash about 1 mile SE of the islet. A good channel for small
vessels, with a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm), is S of Ilacaon
Island. Vessels using it should steer 091o or 271o, giving the
island a berth of 0.2 mile. Anchorage, good only in the NE
monsoon, may be found S of the island with depth of 5.5
m (3 fm).
ILACAON CHANNEL is about 3.5 miles wide
between the reefs fringing Ilacaon Island and Anauayan
Islet. With the exception of Ilacaon Reef, nearly in mid-
channel, it is free from danger and has nowhere a depth of
less than 5.8 m (3.25 fm).
ILACAON REEF is a small reef of coral boulders and
sand, with a depth of 3.2 m (1.75 fm) and surrounded by
deep waters, about 2 miles NW of Ilacaon Island.
From Ilacaon Point, the coast trends SW for 9.5 miles
to the mouth of the Victorias River, and thence W for 6.5
miles to Tomonton Point. The coastline is low and flat,
bordered by a fringe of mangroves, trees and cultivated
land, considerable uncultivated area, grown up with bushes
and grass extends back for several miles. The land slopes
gradually from the coast to the base of the mountains. This
section of the coast is faced by shoal water which extends 2
miles in places, and near the edge of the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve
are several small, dangerous, detached reefs.
5
BALAULAN REEF is a small rocky patch with a
depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm) with 8.2 m (4.5 fm) immediately
NW of it. It is about 1.8 miles from shore, 3 miles SW of
Ilacaon Island.
SALONG REEF is small, bare at low water, and is 1.5
miles N of the mouth of the Manapla River.
A 5 m (2.75 fm) shoal spot is about midway between
15 Salong and Balaulan Reefs and just outside a line drawn
between them.
MANAPLA, the principal town on this part of the
coast, is at the mouth of the Manapla River, about 5 miles
20 SW of Ilacaon Point. Coral reefs extend a considerable
distance from both sides of the mouth of the river, and the
bar is nearly dry at low water. Small craft can enter the
river at high water.
25 Berthing Facility - The town has a 160 m long pier.
Anchorage in 5.5 m (3 fm) may be found 1.8 miles N
of the mouth of the river.
30 VICTORIAS is a city just inside of the mouth of the
river of the same name which empties about 4.5 miles SW
of Manapla. The river has a narrow channel with a depth of
about 0.3 m (1 ft) on the bar. It can be entered by small craft
at high water. Fresh water is available from the city’s water
35 supply system and various wells. No ship repairs can be
performed. Dunnage can be obtained from the local lumber
company by previous arrangements. Limited hospital
facilities are available. There are postal facilities, landline
communication and mobile phone services in the city.
40
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Victorias may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63929-
6742127 and +63936-9159760.
45 Berthing Facility - The city has a small wharf located
about 0.2 mile upstream from the mouth of Victorias River.
The wharf of the sugar plant, just E of the city wharf, was
reported in ruins is no longer used.
50 Anchorage - Vessels calling at Victorias to load sugar,
molasses or lumber, anchor in 14.6 m (8 fm), mud bottom,
about 3 miles offshore, with the S tangent of Ilacaon Island
bearing 057o and the Calabazas Light bearing 346o. The
anchorage is sheltered from the SW. However, it is rarely
55 used during that season NE season being exposed to the
NE monsoon. During severe NE weather, vessels calling
to load sugar from this district usually anchor off Bayang
Point on the Panay coast, about 10 miles NW of Victorias.
60 CAMBANOG SHOAL, a small coral patch bare at low
10-5
water, is 1.3 miles from shore and 3 miles NE of Tomonton
Point. Cambanog Shoal, and Salong and Balaulan Reefs are
close to the edge of the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve, and passage
between them and the shore should be avoided.
ENRIQUE MAGALONA (SARABIA), a town about
1 mile from the coast, is at the head of the Madalag Daco
River, a small river about 4.5 miles W of the Victorias River.
The Madalag Daco River is navigable by small craft at high
water to the bridge at the town. The town is not visible from
the sea, being hidden by the mangrove marsh which extends
along the shore. There are good roads between Enrique B.
Magalona, Silay City and Victorias.
TOMONTON POINT, the NW extremity of Negros, 15
is low and swampy and covered with mangroves to about
1 mile inland. It is marked by Tomonton Light (10° 53’ Calubcub Point, about 2 miles offshore in 14.6 m (8 fm),
35”N., 122° 57’ 08”E.).
The point is surrounded by water of little depth, which 20 lights at night) of the Talisay Sugar Central bearing 150o.
extends 3 miles in a NW direction forming Tomonton Shoal.
A lighted black conical buoy, marks its NW extremity.
Immediately E of the buoy is a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm). The 1.8 miles W of the mouth of Mambagid River with the
NW extremity of this shoal has a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
25 Point bearing 041o.
Caution - Submarine power cables exist in the vicinity
of Tomonton Point. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in
the vicinity of the submarine cables. Lighted buoys mark caution as the water shoals rapidly. These anchorages are
the location of submarine power cables.
TUBURAN, a barrio at the head of small bay S of
Tomonton Point, has an 80 m long pier which serves as the
port of call for cargo and passenger vessels trading with
Enrique B. Magalona.
WEST COAST OF NEGROS
(CHART 1546, 1549 & 4431)
From Tomonton Point, the coast trends SSW for
about 24 miles to Pandan Point, forming a wide bay
which extends 5 miles E. The entire shore of this bay is
faced by shoal water which extends in places 2.5 miles,
and vessels navigating should not cross the 9.1 m (5 fm)
curve unless they are bound into one of the various ports.
The only dangers lying outside the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve are
some detached patches, with depths of 7.6 to 8.8 m (4.25
to 4.75 fm), located 1.5 miles W of Calubcub Point and
several patches with depths of 7 to 9.1 m (3.75 to 5 fm)
lying between 2 miles and 4 miles NNW of the mouth of
the Bago River. Fish traps are numerous on the shoals. The
cities of Silay, Bacolod and Bago and the town of Talisay
stand along this stretch of coast.
From Tomonton Point to Calubcub Point, 4 miles S,
the shores are fringed with mangroves; thence, to Pandan
Point the shore is low and sandy and fringed with coconut
trees.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Iloilo City (10° 41' 22"N.,
10-6
122° 34' 19"E.) cover the sea area off the coast of Negros
Island from Tomonton Point to the vicinity of the town
of Pontevedra. Vessels in distress may contact the above
mentioned remotely controlled station. Vessels in distress
5 that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC
coast station may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC
Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
10 MAMBAGID RIVER is immediately S of Mambagid
Point. The entrance to the river is shallow and is suitable
only for lighters and small crafts. The stacks at the sugar
mills and the white chimney, with white obstruction lights
located 4 miles ESE, are good landmarks.
Anchorage for ocean going vessels is slightly S of
with the white stack (white lights at night) of the Hawaiian
Sugar Central bearing 084o and the three black stacks (white
An alternate anchorage, in 11.9 m (6.5 fm), lies about
white stack bearing 108o and the extremity of Tomonton
Approach to these anchorages should be made with
open to the SW monsoon and also to winds from the N.
30
SILAY CITY is about 6 miles S of Tomonton Point
and about 0.5 mile inland. The white stack of the sugar
mill, 2.5 miles to the NE, and the church dome in the
town are prominent objects from offshore. White lights
35 are displayed on the stack at night. Limited supplies of all
kinds, including ice, are available. There is telephone and
public bus connection with Bacolod City. The Bacolod-
Silay International Airport is located in this city.
40 The pier at Silay City is in ruins. Whatever exports the
town may have are shipped through Banago pier at Bacolod
City.
Beginning near Guinhalaran and for 1.6 miles S the
45 coast is a cliff or cantilevered ground averaging 3 m above
the low water mark. The same feature is repeated fronting
Talisay town, running S but for 0.8 mile distance only along
the coast.
50 TALISAY is a town on the coast nearly 4 miles S of
Silay and shows well from seaward. The 5.5 m (3 fm) curve
is about 2 miles from shore in this vicinity. The three white
stacks at the sugar central just S of the town are excellent
landmarks. When viewed from W, they appear as one stack.
55 The tops of the stacks are lighted at night.
Mangroves dominate the beaches in front of this town
and continue S toward Matabang Point, in places that
sometimes extend 300 m seaward. Near Matabang Point
60 is a fish pond. The mouth of Matabang River was observed
 BREDCO RoRo Ferry Wharf with Bacolod City at the background.
BREDCO Wharf with Bacolod City at the background.
(Photograph - P/Ens Rana Monica P Gregorio, 2019)
widening with time as compared from much earlier surveys.
Berthing Facilities - A 60 m long pier is located about
1.7 miles N of Talisay. Two large white cylindrical tanks S
of the pier are the prominent features in the area.
SANTO NIÑO ANCHORAGE, off Mandalagan
River, is one of the principal loading berths of Negros
during the sugar milling season. It is the loading anchorage
for the city of Bacolod. The pier, about 0.5 mile S of the
mouth of Mandalagan River, is in ruins.
BACOLOD, a chartered city and the capital of the
province, is 4 miles S of Talisay. It has big shopping malls
and various stores that offer large amount of goods. Ice is
available from an ice plant. Diesel oil, gasoline, kerosene
and lubricating oils can be purchased in the city. Minor
machine shop repairs and welding can be performed.
Several hospitals and private clinics provide ample medical
facilities. Hotel accommodations are available.
The city has telephone, mobile phone, and Internet
5 connection. Good highways connect the city with other
towns. There is a regular direct daily flight for Manila at
the Bacolod-Silay International Airport which is located in
Silay, about 7.5 miles NE of the city. Local shipping lines
have regular trips from Bacolod to Manila, Iloilo City, and
10 Cagayan de Oro.
Prominent Features - The city is distinguished by the
galvanized iron-roofed church and several large prominent
buildings. The twin towers of the church, the provincial
15 building, and the aluminum-painted stack of the sugar
central are prominent landmarks. Two fixed red lights in
a horizontal line are shown from the top of the stack at a
height of about 30.5 m (100 ft).
10-7
 A radio tower is located close NE of the root of the
pier at Santo Niño. Another radio tower is located about
0.5 mile NE of Magsungay Point; each of these towers is
marked by two red lights.
Major Lights - Banago Light (10° 42’ 24”N., 122° 56’
54”E.) is displayed near the root of Banago Pier.
BREDCO Light (10° 41’ 01”N., 122° 56’ 18”E.) is
displayed on a tank located near the S corner of BREDCO
Port.
Dangers - A conspicuous steel pipe, located about 0.2
mile NW of BREDCO Light, protrudes about 1 m high from
mean sea level. Fish cages, which may not properly marked
or lighted at night, are located in the area from BREDCO
port to Matabang Point.
Port Management - The berthing facilities in Bacolod
are managed by PMO-Negros Occidental which may be
contacted at telephone nos. (+6334) 435-3836, (+6334)
433-1859, (+6334) 709-0007, and (+6334) 435-3833. The
PMO may also be contacted at e-mail address: ppapul@
globeline.ph. Vessels should send notice of ETA at least
24 hrs for vessels with scheduled voyage and 36 hrs for
tramping vessels.
Customs - The customs office located at BREDCO
Port is managed by the Bureau of Customs Sub-Port
Pulupandan, which may be contacted at telephone no.
(+6334) 703-0125.
Immigration - The Bureau of Immigration office in
Bacolod City may contacted at telephone no. (+6334) 433-
8581.
Quarantine - The Plant Quarantine Service has an
office in Bacolod City, which may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6334) 435-4328 and e-mail at pqs.bacolod@gmail.
com.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress may contact
the Philippine Coast Guard station located at Banago Pier
at m mobile phone nos. +63917-8428456 and +639998-
5858210, and telephone no. (+6334) 441-0946. The Coast
Guard also has an outpost at BREDCO Port which may
be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428434 and
+63998-5858209.
Berthing Facilities - Large vessels calling at
Bacolod berth at the private wharves of BREDCO. The
terminal can accommodate vessels with 11,600 GRT and
below. BREDCO has total port length is 2,010 m. It can
accommodate foreign vessels, RoRo vessels, fast crafts,
containerized vessels, and loose cargo vessels. Three
warehouses, an open storage area, and a molasses tank are
available. The port also has 9 RoRo ramps. Port equipment
available are forklifts, cranes, payloaders, backhoes and
flatbed trailers. Fertilizer is handled using a hooper.
10-8
Banago Pier, extends WSW from the shore about 1
mile S of Matabang Point. The T-shaped pier is about 1,430
m long and having depth of 6.5 m. Permissible ship draft at
the pier is 6 m. The pier can handle RoRo vessels.
5
A fueling station, 0.7 mile NW of BREDCO Light, is
connected by pipeline to the shore and marked by Three
pile clusters. Three dolphins mark another fueling station
about 1 mile NW 0.2 mile SW of the above fueling station.
10 A pipeline leads in a 104o direction from the center cluster
to the shore. Anchorage in the area E of the fueling stations
is prohibited.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available
15 at BREDCO and Banago Piers. Request for stevedores at
Banago Pier should be sent 24 hrs before ETA.
Pilotage in this area is compulsory. Pilotage is rendered
by Pulupandan Harbor Pilot’s Association. Vessels should
20 send notice of ETA at least 36 hrs before arrival. Pilot
boarding station is 3 miles W of Bacolod City.
Anchorage for vessels calling at Bacolod is 5.6 miles
NW from the city. Another anchorage area is located at 4.5
25 miles W. The anchorage is open to the SW monsoon and
also to N winds.
DANGAL POINT, about 6.5 miles SW of Bacolod
City, is marked by large cylindrical tanks owned by
30 Distilleria de Bago. A 200 m long pier extends from the
point.
Caution - There are submarine telecommunication
cables landing on the coast in the vicinity of Dangal Point
35 and 1.3 miles E of the mouth of Bago River. Anchoring
and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine
cables.
BAGO CITY is on the E bank of the Bago River,
40 just inside its mouth. The large, iron-roofed buildings of
the town show well through the opening in the trees at
the mouth of the river. The Bago River empties on the N
side of Pandan Point, about 10 miles SW of Bacolod. It is
quite broad, but its mouth is obstructed by a sand bar with
45 shallow depth. Small vessels enter the river at high water.
PANDAN POINT, the most W point of Negros in this
vicinity, is low, sandy and covered with coconut trees. It
is quite prominent from N or S. On both sides of the point
50 the water is shoal, but the W extremity is clear and steep-
to, 9.1 m (5 fm) being found within 0.1 mile offshore. The
channel between Pandan Point and the Iogiog Bank is about
0.5 mile wide.
55 PULUPANDAN, a town E of Pandan Point, is a
regular port of call for inter-island vessels. Ocean going
freighters often call to load sugar during the milling season.
A hospital and several clinics are present in the town. The
town has postal, telephone, mobile phone and Internet
60 services. The ferry service operates regularly between
Iloilo and Pulupandan. There are good roads connecting the
other towns. The nearest airport is at Bacolod.
Fresh stores and other supplies are available in small
quantities. Fresh water may be obtained from the pipe
connection at the pier or from local suppliers in the town.
Limited quantity of bunker fuel is available from local
gasoline stations. Large quantities of bunker fuel maybe
had from oil depots in Bacolod.
Prominent Features. - The town has several large
buildings which are visible from S and W.
Major Light - Pulupandan Light (10° 31’ 15”N., 122°
47’ 40”E.) is displayed from the end of the breakwater at
the root of the piers.
Tidal Currents at the pier are strong, the flood setting
N, and the ebb S. During the SW monsoon the flood current
sometimes attains a velocity of 6 knots. On account of the
strong current alongside the dock, it is recommended that
vessels use double mooring lines.
Port Management - The government piers, just S of
Pandan Point, is operated by PPA PMO-Pulupandan which
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6334) 461-0637.
Notice of ETA should be sent to the PMO 48 hrs for
foreign vessels and 24 hrs for domestic vessels in advance.
Any alteration due to delay thereafter are required to be
communicated. The maximum length of vessel that the port
can accommodate is 200 m. The N and S piers are utilized
for domestic non-containerized cargoes.
Customs - The Bureau of Customs office in Pulupandan
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6334) 461-1306.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Pulupandan may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8083378 and +63998-5858207.
Berthing Facilities. - The government port consists
of Two piers extending northward and southward with
a total of 9 berths. The N pier is 242 m long and the S
pier is 179 m long. Both piers have controlling depth of
6 m in 2001. Storage may be had at the port warehouses
having a combined area of 3 hectares and in other private
warehouses located outside the port.
To the S of South Pier, extending SW, is the 595 m long
rock filled jetty with a beacon at its end.
A concrete pier, with a L-head for loading sugar, is
located N of the government pier approximately at the tip
of Pandan Point. The face of the pier is about 70 m long
with depths alongside of about 11 m (36 ft). However,
silting may reduce this depth considerably near the S end of
the berth. The pier is equipped with sugar loaders. Several
dolphins lie N and S of the pier head to facilitate shifting
the vessel.
Port Services - Cargo handling at the government port
is provided by a local company. Immigration inspectors
may stay on board for the duration of the vessel’s stay at the
port. Fumigation is available upon arrangement with health
5 and quarantine officers.
Minor repairs are available at small repair shops in the
town. Vessels requiring major repairs should go to Bacolod.
The nearest dockyards are in Iloilo and Cebu.
10
Pilotage is rendered by the Pulupandan Harbor
Pilot’s Association. Pilotage for docking at or leaving the
government pier and privately-owned piers or wharves at
any ports or place within the Pulupandan Pilotage District
15 are compulsory for all vessels engaged in coastwise and
foreign trade.
Vessels should advise their ETA at least 24 hrs before
arrival. Pilot boards 4.5 miles SSW of Pandan Point.
20 During the SW monsoon, pilot boarding station is 2 miles
N of Pandan Point.
Tugboats are available. Vessels requiring tugs should
send notice at least 36 hrs in advance.
25
Anchorage - General anchorage area for Pulupandan
is within the safe distance of the government piers. During
the SW monsoon, it is not advisable for large vessels to tie
up to the pier. Vessels berthed at the piers are required to
30 shift to the anchorage area during typhoons, when Storm
Signal Number 3 is raised by PAGASA over Pulupundan.
Directions - The best approach to Pulupandan is
from S through the E Channel. From a point 3 miles SE of
35 easternmost point of Inampulugan Island, clear the buoy S
of Iogiog Bank and steer 020o heading for Pandan Point.
When the end of the pier bears E, haul for the anchorage or
go alongside the pier.
40 From Pandan Point, the coast trends S for 28 miles to
the town of Himamaylan. It is low, intersected by numerous
rivers navigable for small craft, and fringed with coconut
trees from Suay the coast curves W, and increase in height.
45 S of Pulupandan on or near the coast are the towns
of Valladolid, San Enrique, Pontevedra, Hinigaran,
Binalbagan, and Himamaylan. All of these towns have
communication facilities.
50 The shoal water, which borders the S side of Pandan
Point and terminates in Pontevedra Shoal, where there is
a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm), extends about 11 miles in a SSW
direction to about 9 miles W of the town of Pontevedra. From
here, it narrows in towards the coast near Maquiquiling
55 Point, where a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) is found about 1 mile
from the beach. Numerous fish traps stand on the shoals.
There are channels by which small craft can approach the
mouths of the various streams, but they should only be
attempted by those having local knowledge.
60
10-9
 CAUTION - Anchorage between the parallels of 10o
23’00”N., and 10o 30’00”N., and the meridians of 122o
40’00”E., and 122o 50’00”E., is prohibited due to the
presence of controlled-type mines. However, although it is a
mined area, it has been declared safe for surface navigation.
MARAYO RIVER has a reported depth of 0.6 m (2
ft) over the bar at low water. Three privately-maintained
beacons, located on the S side of the river entrance, mark
the channel into the river.
Major Light - Pontevedra Light (10° 22’ 40”N., 122°
51’ 49”E.), is privately-maintained, and is displayed on the
N side of the river mouth.
PONTEVEDRA, a town on the S side of the mouth
of Marayo River, is a shipping point for sugar. A white
stone church marks the town. Only vessels with light draft
approach the anchorage off Pontevedra. Deep-draft vessels
which have to load sugar and molasses from this district
usually anchor off Hinigaran. A mooring buoy is moored
in a depth of less than 3.6 m (2 fm) about 1 mile W of
Pontevedra. Another mooring buoy is moored about 3 miles
SW of Pontevedra.
Anchorage is recommended in 7.3 m (4 fm) about 4
miles SW of the town. The water shoals rapidly and vessels
should not come closer than 3 miles from the shore. This
anchorage is unprotected and open to the NW winds and
SW monsoon.
HINIGARAN RIVER has a depth of 0.8 m (2.5 ft)
over the bar. Lighters and small boats may enter the river
and tie up at the landing.
HINIGARAN, a town about 6 miles S of Pontevedra,
is at the S side of the entrance to Hinigaran River. The small
landing on the S bank of the river has a stationary crane.
The lights of the town are prominent at night. A smoke-
stack N of the town, prominent from seaward, affords a
good landmark.
No fresh stores are available, but fresh water can
be obtained from water barges from Iloilo in case of an
emergency. There are postal, telephone, and mobile phone
communications in town. The sugar centrals in the vicinity
have small hospitals and limited medical facilities but in
case of serious accident or illness, the Bureau of Quarantine
at Iloilo may be contacted by radio. Railroad extends to
Isabela and Binalbagan sugar plantations.
Sugar from the mills is loaded into lighters at the
landing and towed to the vessel. Only one lighter of
approximately 300 tons capacity can be loaded at a time.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Hinigaran may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5858211.
Berthing Facility - A 75 m long pier, which connected
10-10
to shore by a 178 m long rock causeway, is located about
0.7 mile SW of the river mouth. There was a depth of 3 m
(1.6 fm) at the end of the pier. Fishing vessels usually call
at this pier.
5
Anchorage for vessels calling at Hinigaran is 2
miles S of the town in 10.1 m (5.5 fm), with the mouth
of Hinigaran River bearing 054o and a group of six stacks
(not shown on the chart) bearing 136o. The anchorage is
10 unprotected and open to the SW monsoon. Numerous
fishing stakes have encumbered the above anchorage and
vessels have had to anchor farther N. Caution must be
exercised when approaching the anchorage. Two privately-
maintained mooring buoys are about 0.7 mile off the mouth
15 of Hinigaran River. A privately maintained buoy marks the
S part of the entrance to the river.
There is an alternative anchorage with Maquiquiling
Point bearing 040° and the chimneys bearing 136°, in a
20 depth of 11 m (6 fm).
BINALBAGAN is a town about 5 miles S of Hinigaran.
Three tall stacks in the town make a prominent landmark.
Medical and hospitals facilities are available. The principal
25 products of the town are sugar and copra.
BINALBAGAN AND HIMAMAYLAN RIVERS are
important commercially because they afford transportation
by lighters to and from the many plantations in this part of
30 Negros. They have about 0.4 m (0.25 fm) on the bar at low
tide with 1.8 to 5.5 m (1 to 3 fm) inside, and are navigable
for a considerable distance from their mouths. However,
navigation is encumbered by the presence of many fish
traps laid along the length of these rivers.
35
AGUISAN, located about 3.6 miles N of the mouth of
Himamaylan River, has a small pier for use of fishing boats.
HIMAMAYLAN (CHART 4466) is at the junction of
40 the Himamaylan and Bingig Rivers, about 1 mile above the
bar at the entrance.
Major Light - Himamaylan Light (10° 05’ 38”N.,
122° 51’ 08”E.) is located about 0.4 mile off the mouth of
45 Himamaylan River.
The coast between the mouth of Himamaylan River and
the mouth of the Ilog River, about 9.5 miles SW, consists
of mangroves and is fringed by a drying bank of sand for
50 5 miles SW of the mouth of the Himamaylan River and of
mud thence to the mouth of the Ilog River. The 9.1 m (5 fm)
curve lies about 2 miles W of the mouth of the former river
and nearly 1 mile NW of the mouth of latter river.
55 ILOG is about 4 miles up the Ilog River and is a town
of considerable importance. There is a dispensary and post
office in the town. Sailboats cross the bar of the river at
high water and ascend as far as Kabankalan where there is
a small landing.
60
 Vessels desiring to communicate with any of the towns fm) are shown about 0.5 mile W and N, respectively, of the
in this vicinity can anchor anywhere along the coast from 1 0.4 m (0.25 fm) reef.
to 2 miles offshore in 5.5 to 9.1 m (3 to 5 fm), mud bottom,
but there is no protection except from S and E. A rock awash at low water is 2.3 miles SSW of
5 Maquiliguian Point and 1.2 miles from shore. There are
From 4 miles SW of the mouth of the Ilog River W several detached reefs E of this rock with depths of 1.8 to
to Sojoton Point, the coast is moderately steep-to and the 5.5 m (1 to 3 fm), and vessels should not attempt to pass
highland approaches close to the shore. Mount Malapantao, between the rock awash and the shore.
619 m (2,030 ft) high, and Mount Tantauayan, 450 m
(1,475 ft) high, make good landmarks for navigating in 10 DANJUGAN ISLAND, 78 m (255 ft) high, is 2 miles
this vicinity. They are located about 11 miles and 5.5 miles N of Binigsian Point. It is surrounded by a coral reef which
respectively, ESE of Sojoton Point. is bare at low water and steep-to on all sides. NW of the
island, on the edge of the shore reef, are two islets or rocks,
About 3 miles E of Sojoton Point is a deep valley the outer of which is 8.2 m (27 ft) high.
leading inland. Several shoals off the coast N of this valley 15
are the dangers outside the shore reef. There is a coral reef AGUTAYAN ISLAND, 96 m (315 ft) high, is 0.5 mile
bare at low water 3.3 miles ENE of Sojoton Point, and a SE of Danjugan Island. It is surrounded by a broad coral
5.0 m (2.75 fm) shoal 1 mile W of the reef, both less than reef. The channel between the islands has 12.8 m (7 fm)
1 mile offshore. and that between Agutayan and the shore reef, 11.9 m (6.5
20 fm). Both channels are narrow, being only about 0.3 mile
CAUAYAN is a town about midway between Ilog wide.
River and Sojoton Point. The town has a dispensary and
a post office. The barrios of Guiljungan, Isio, Tuyum and BINIGSIAN POINT is fringed with coral which
Caliling are close to the beach along this part of the coast. extends 0.3 mile SW. The point forms an excellent
The shoreline in barrio Inauayan, without any facility, is 25 landmark and may be easily recognized by a scar caused by
used by fishing boats to unload their catch. a landslide on the 37 m (120 ft) hill on the point.

SOJOTON POINT, about 10.5 miles W of Cauayan,
is bordered by a reef 270 m wide. Outside of this shore
reef, the depth drops off abruptly. The land rises rapidly
from the shore to a height of 158.5 m (520 ft) less than
0.5 mile inland. The point is an excellent landmark when
approaching from N or S, appearing as a step from the
shore to the higher plateau farther inland.
Major Light - Sojoton Light (09° 58’ 27”N., 122° 27’
18”E.) is displayed on Sojoton Point.
SOUTH COAST OF NEGROS
(CHART 1546, 4431, 4432 & 4604)
At Sojoton Point, the coast makes a sharp bend S.
Maquiliguian Point, 1.3 miles S of Sojoton Point, extends
about 0.5 mile outside the general trend of the coast and
is 30 m (100 ft) high near the outer end. A reef, bare at
low water, fringes the point on all sides, extending 0.3 mile
N and the same distance SW. A landing may be made on
either side of the lower neck of land E of the point, at the
barrio of Linaon. The buildings are visible from offshore.
From Maquiliguian Point, the shore trends SSW for 8
miles to Binigsian Point and consists of alternate coral reefs
and bright sand beaches. About 1.3 miles S of Linoan is a
precipitous brush-covered bluff 62 m (205 ft) high. A deep
valley lies SW of the barrio of Inayauan, 2 miles S of the
bluff. Danjugan Island and Agutayan Island lie close off the
S part of this coast.
A reef with a depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm) is 1 mile SSW
of Maquiliguian Point. Depths of 6.4 to 8.7 m (3.5 to 4.75 60
A pier in ruins, old cylindrical tanks, and structure of a
factory are located about 1.2 miles NE of Binigsian Point.
30
ANAJAUAN ISLAND, 70 m (230 ft) high, is 0.8
mile SW of Binigsian Point and is surrounded by a coral
reef that extends 0.3 mile N. Near the N end of the reef are
several islets, the largest of which is 36 m (118 ft) high. The
35 channel between the reef off Anajuan Island and the reef off
Binigsian Point is very narrow but deep and clear. A reef
with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm), is 0.5 mile S of Anajuan
Island. A wreck of a barge with unknown least depth is
located about 560 m SW of the island.
40
The coast between Binigsian Point and Buluguisan
Point, about 3 miles SSE, is indented by two small bays.
The N bay, which is small and of little importance, indents
the coast just to the SE of the former point.
45
CARTAGENA BAY, the S bay, indents the coast to a
distance of about 0.8 mile. It is of small extent; coral reef
extends about 0.3 mile off the points, and there is a 3.2
m (1.75 fm ) reef almost in the center of the bay. A sand
50 beach at the head affords a landing in front of the barrio of
Cartagena. A warehouse with galvanized iron roof SE of
Cartagena serves as a good landmark in entering the bay.
Between Buluguisan Point and Balubadian Point, 3 miles
farther, is sand beach back of which is the long valley of
55 the Sipalay River. The mouth of the river is located about 1
mile S of Buluguisan Point. From its mouth, the river trends
S for about 1 mile, lying parallel to and close to the beach
and then trends inland.
SIPALAY CITY is just S of the bend of Sipalay River

10-11
and about 1 mile NE of Bulubadian Point. Medical facilities
in town include a hospital, an infirmary, and three clinics.
Mobile phone services, Internet connection, and postal
services are available. Fresh water in the town is of concern
because of the possible heavy metal contamination due to
mining activities in the city.
From Bulubadian Point, the coast trends SSW for about
2 miles to Matatindoc Point and thence, SSE for 3.5 miles
to Obon Point. This coast is high and rugged. It is indented 10
in its S part to a distance of about 2 miles by Campomanes
Bay. Matatindoc Point, with a large rock on the reef in front
of it, makes a good landmark for vessel coasting in this
vicinity. Matatindoc Point Light (09° 42’ 25”N., 122° 23’
05”E.) is displayed from the point. 15
CAMPOMANES BAY, the only well-protected
anchorage on this coast, is 9 miles S of Binigsian Point
and almost midway between Matatindoc and Obon Points.
The head of the bay is sand beach, but the sides are fringed
with coral. The reef extends about 0.3 mile NW of the
S entrance point and has several large rocks upon it, the
largest of which is wooded and about 27 m (90 ft) high. The
center of the bay is very deep, but anchorage may be taken
up in 21.9 to 27.4 m (12 to 15 fm), mud bottom, about 0.2
mile S of the river that empties into the head of the bay or
farther SE as desired. The ruins of a small wooden pier
exist on the NW shore of the bay. The bay was declared as
a marine reserve. Activities that may harm the environment
is prohibited.
NABULAO BAY, between Obon Point on the N and
Catmon Point on the S, is partially filled with reefs and
shoals. A broad reef fringes the shore, and a coral ridge
having a width of 0.5 to 0.8 mile with a large unnamed
island upon it, projects 1.5 mile from the head of the bay,
dividing it into two parts. The N part of the bay is almost
filled with shoals, and rocks awash are 1 mile SSW of the
highest part of the unnamed island on the reef. The S part
of Nabulao Bay affords anchorage protected in N and E
weather in 16.5 to 25.6 m (9 to 14 fm), mud bottom, E of
the island 0.55 mile from shore and about 0.2 mile outside
the shore reef.
CATMON BAY, SE of Catmon Point, is small and is
exposed to W wind and seas. The N shore and the head of
the bay are fringed by a wide reef. Just S of Catmon Bay is
a stretch of sand beach about 1 mile long, near the middle
of which is the barrio Jinuba-n. There is a small sawmill in
the barrio. A 6.4 m (3.5 fm) shoal is about 0.5 mile off the S
end of this beach, 2.3 miles SSE of Catmon Point.
From Jinuba-an to Cansilan Point, 18.3 miles SE, the
coast is quite regular, steep-to and has few dangers outside
the shore reef. High land approaches closer to the shore
leaving only a narrow coastal plain with a fringe of coconut
palms along the shore.
BOLILA POINT shore reefs widen, extending about
0.3 mile S of the point. Bolila Island lies on the coastal reef
10-12
in a position about 1 mile SE of the point.
ASIA BAY is entered between the S end of Bolila
Island and an unnamed point about 1.5 miles SE. Its shores
5 are fringed by a wide reef and numerous shoals and dangers
lie in it. The barrio of Asia stands in the NE of the bay
and the Asia River empties into the SE part of the bay in a
position about 0.6 mile SE of the barrio. Partially protected
anchorage may be found between Bolila Island and a reef
that is bare at low water, 0.5 mile SE of the island. Small
vessels can find more protected anchorage in the NE or NW
corners of the bay, being careful to avoid the 2.7 m (1.5 fm)
shoal 0.2 mile E of the island. A low gap in the coast range
and a detached mountain mass indicate the position of Asia
from offshore.
DAOG POINT hills are close to the shore, giving this
point its prominence. Colipapa and Basay are two small
barrios on the coast between Daog Point and Cansilan
20 Point. A school building with a red galvanized roof at
Colipapa serves as a good landmark. At Cansilan Point,
the coast turns E, then SE and finally S to Cawitan Point,
forming Tolong Bay.
25 TOLONG BAY is open and exposed. The E part,
off the mouth of the Tolong River, is deep, but the bottom
slopes off more gradually to the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve W
of that river. Both the Bayawan and Sipacong Rivers are
closed to all except the smaller boats, though they have a
30 good depth inside.
Major Light - Cansilan Point Light (09° 23' 00"N.,
122° 40' 30"E.) is displayed from Cansilan Point.
35 BAYAWAN CITY (TULONG), at the mouth of the
Bayawan River, is the most important town in the bay.
Vessels can find fair weather anchorage S of the town,
0.5 to 1 mile offshore, in 7.3 to 12.8 m (4 to 7 fm), mud
bottom. A road follows the shore around the S end of
40 Negros to Dumaguete on the E coast. There are landline
communication, mobile phone and Internet connection in
the city. A government hospital is available in the town.
Small boats ascend the river for 2 miles to the sugar central.
It is reported that there is a depth of about 1.4 m (4.5 ft) on
45 the bar at low water.
In the river, is a 30 m long by 9 m wide reinforced
concrete wharf. Bottled goods from launches unload at this
landing coming from Dumaguete. Fish aboard pump boats
50 are also discharged at the wharf. There was a depth of 1.5
m (0.8 fm) alongside the wharf in 1990. Private piers are
being maintained upstream of Bayawan River.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
55 Bayawan may be contacted at mobile no. +63998-5858326
and +63917-8427418.
Caution - A submarine communication cable is
present off the coast of Bayawan. Anchoring and fishing
60 are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
 STA. CATALINA, a town about 4 miles SE of
Bayawan, has a 75 m long private pier. A large cylindrical
tank and a warehouse building is located near the root of
the pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Sta.
Catalina may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63927-
0269667.
From Cawitan Point to Siaton Point, the S point of
Negros, the shore is steep-to and fringed by a narrow coral
reef. Between Giligaon Point and Siaton Point, strong
tidal currents may be expected, the ebb flowing NW and
the flood in the opposite direction. Some heavy tide rips
have been encountered off this coast. At Giligaon Point, the
land rises steeply from the shore, and with the lone tree
on the top makes this point an excellent landmark from N.
Mount Malbog, 840 m (2,755 ft) high and located about
5 miles NNW of Siaton Point, is prominent. Dome Peak,
846 m (2,775 ft) high and Sharp Peak, 858 m (2,815 ft)
high, located about 5 miles farther in the same direction and
about 4.5 miles inland from the coast to the W, also make
good landmarks.
SIATON POINT, the S extremity of Negros, is
clear and steep-to. It is the end of a long mountain ridge
extending NW. The point is marked by Antulang Light (09°
02’ 29”N., 123° 00’ 53”E.). Its coastline is an abrupt cliff
18.3 m (60 ft) high, which extends around the point.
CAUTION - The area 30 miles WSW of Siaton Point
is designated as dumping ground for chemicals.
From Siaton Point, the coast trends E, with a curve N
for about 7 miles to Bonbonon Point. This coast is generally
low and sandy and fringed with coconut trees, and is clear
and steep-to. It forms the foot of a large valley which trends
a long distance towards N.
SIATON RIVER is small and empties about 1 mile
NE of Siaton Point. There is a reported low-water depth of
0.6 m (2 ft) on the bar. The town of Siaton is about 1 mile
inland on the E bank of the river and is not visible from
seaward. There is a bus connection with Dumaguete.
CANAWAY RIVER, another small river, empties
about 0.8 mile E of the mouth of Siaton River. Off the
mouth of the above rivers are sand bars which extend about
0.3 mile from shore, outside of which the water deepens
very rapidly. An indifferent anchorage may be found off
the mouth of the Canaway River in 27.4 m (15 fm), sand
bottom, about 0.2 mile from shore.
BONBONON POINT, clear and steep-to, is the end
of a long ridge extending N. A cliff about 12 m (40 ft) high
extends around the point. Back of the cliff, the land rises
rapidly, attaining a height of over 61 m (200 ft) at a distance
of 0.5 mile inland.
PORT BONBONON (CHART 4466) is a small inlet
making into the S end of Negros which affords perfect
protection for small craft at all times. Its entrance is about
0.8 mile NW from Bonbonon Point. The channel is about
46 m wide at the narrowest point, and has a depth of 5.5 m
5 (3 fm).
Anchorage is in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom, off the
mouth of the Talocoy River, where there is a width of about
0.2 mile.
10
Directions - As the reefs on both sides of the channel
show plainly, Port Bonbonon is comparatively easy of
access in daytime. The N side of the E entrance point is
clear and steep-to and may be passed close aboard. After
15 passing this point, the S side of the port should be favored,
as a small reef, generally marked by a fish trap, makes out
from the first point on the N side. From here, the shores of
the port are clear and steep-to.
20 From Bonbonon Point, the coast trends in an ENE
direction for 5 miles to Zamboanguita Point. This coast
is generally low and sandy and fringed by a very narrow,
steep-to, coral reef. Between Bonbonon Point and Port Siyt,
the sandy beach is broken by a number of steep cliffs.
25
PORT SIYT (CHART 4466), about 1.5 miles NE of
Bonbonon Point, is somewhat similar to Port Bonbonon
and affords good shelter for small crafts. The narrowest
part of the channel has a width of only 36 m and a depth of
30 about 11 m (6 fm).
Anchorage is near the head of the harbor, where there
is a width of about 0.2 mile, in 12.8 to 14.6 m (7 to 8 fm),
soft mud bottom. The reefs at the entrance are plainly
35 visible and access is comparatively easy.
ZAMBOANGUITA POINT is flat and sandy. Its
shoal water extends nearly 0.3 mile S from it. The town of
Zamboanguita concealed by coconut trees, is on the point.
40
APO ISLAND is about 4 miles E by S of Zamboanguita
Point. Rocks awash extend about 0.1 mile S from it. The
remainder of the shores of the island are clear and steep-
to. The N end is a gently sloping tableland 120 m (393 ft)
45 high, which drops off abruptly on all sides. The S end is
about 46 m (150 ft) high and between these two parts the
land is low and flat and under cultivation. The island and its
surrounding waters are declared as protected areas.
50 Major Light - Apo Island Light (09° 05’ 03”N., 123°
16’ 08”E.) displayed from a tower on the N part of the
island.
Current - In the channel between the Apo Island and
55 the coast of Negros, the current flows constantly from N to
S with variable velocity.
From Zamboanguita Point, the coast trends NE by N
for 6.5 miles to Dauin Point, and thence NNE for 7.5 miles
60 to Dumaguete. This coast is clear and steep-to, and the bank
10-13
is too steep to afford anchorage. The coast is formed by
coral sand beach terminated at high water by coconut trees
or grass. The country for 0.5 mile inland is practically flat
and then rises gradually to the high mountain range which
marks the SE part of Negros.
DAUIN POINT is sandy, flat, and covered with trees
somewhat higher than those generally found in this vicinity.
It is clear and can be passed close-to.
DAUIN is a small town just W of Dauin Point and
about 0.1 mile from the beach. A large stone church
standing on a slight elevation and the ruins of two forts are
good landmarks. The top of the church tower shows above
the coconut trees which obscure the town.
The pier of Dumaguete Coconut Mills (DUCOMI),
marked by large cylindrical tanks, is located about 2.3 miles
NE of Dauin. The private pier of Orica Nitrates Philippines,
located about 0.6 mile N of DUCOMI pier, is marked by a
large white cylindrical tank. Pilot boarding station for these
private piers is about 1.5 miles E of the Orica pier.
BACONG is a town on the coast about 4 miles NNE of
Dauin Point. There is a large prominent church in the town.
About 2 miles N of this town is a radio tower which shows
a flashing red light on top.
Caution - Several submarine telecommunication lines
terminate at Bacong. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
CUERNOS DE NEGROS are three very prominent
peaks 8 to 10 miles N of Zamboanguita Point. The highest
peak is conical in shape and 1,903 m (6,244 ft) high. They
are well wooded, and on their E side, a deep valley makes
out to the coast of Dumaguete.
DUMAGUETE POINT is a flat point S of Dumaguete
City. The Dumaguete River empties close to the point.
The mouth of this river was observed much silted than in
previous years.
Dumaguete City, as viewed from the E.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2016)
10-14
DUMAGUETE (CHART 4466B), a chartered city
and the capital of Negros Oriental, is in a slight bend of
the coast immediately N of the point and river of the same
name. It is a port of entry open to overseas shipping and
is the commercial distribution center for SE Negros. The
offshore approach to this port is easy with no hazards
except that caution should be used in coming from N to
avoid rounding the N entrance point too closely in making
for the piers. The open harbor has no protection other than
that afforded by the mountains to the W.
5 Food, fresh water and other supplies, hospitals and
communications via telephone, mobile phone, Internet and
radio are available in the city. Several inter-island vessels
from Manila, Cebu and Mindanao ports call regularly at
Dumaguete. Good roads connect Dumaguete with other
10 important towns of the province. The nearest airport is
located about 1.2 miles N of the city. There are daily
commercial flights between Dumaguete, Manila and other
major Philippine cities.
15 Major Lights - Dumaguete Light (09° 18’ 47”N., 123°
18’ 38”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the top of the
Coast Guard building near the pier.
Silliman Light (09° 18’ 41”N., 123° 18’ 32”E.) is
20 displayed inside the Silliman University.
Navigational Aids - Buoys were laid of Dumaguete
City to guide vessels calling at the government port.
Consult Chart 4466B for details.
25
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables,
connecting the city with the town of Naga in Cebu Island
and Ozamis City in Mindanao Island, is present off the
coast of Dumaguete. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
30 in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
Port Management - PMO-Dumaguete manages
the government port in Dumaguete. The PMO may be
contacted at telephone no. (+6335) 422-8914 and (+6335)
35 422-8913. Vessels wishing to berth or anchor should notify
the PMO in advance. Vessels with LOA of 150 m or less
can berth at the government pier.
Customs - The office of Bureau of Customs in
Dumaguete city may be contacted at telephone no. (+6335)
511-5775.
Immigration - The field office of Bureau of
Immigration in Dumaguete may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6335) 225-4401 and e-mail address: emmanimmi@
yahoo.com
Quarantine - The Plant Quarantine Service office in
Dumaguete may contacted at telephone nos. (+6335) 226-
3172 and (+6335) 422-8294.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Dumaguete may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63998-5858324 and +63917-8046142 and e-mail address:
cgsdumaguete@coastguard.gov.ph.
Berthing Facilities - The government port, located
just NE of Silliman University, has two finger piers and
wharves. There are four RoRo ramps, one of which is
used as berthing during low water. Alongside draft ranges
from 3 to 7 m (1.6 to 3.8 fm). Draft of the berthing area for
motorized banca is about 1 m (0.5 fm). The government
port has a 5,500 sq m container yard.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available.
Bunkering may be requested from Chevron at telephone no.
(+6335) 422-2115. Watering is provided by AKS Watering
Services which may be contacted at telephone no. (+6335)
422-8605.
Repairs are available from small machine shops. No
major ship repairs can be performed in Dumaguete City.
Drydocking could be had at Maavo Shipyard at Tampi in
the town of San Jose, about 9.6 miles NW of Dumaguete
City.
Pilotage for vessels 500 tons and above is compulsory.
Pilotage is provided by Dumaguete Pilot Association,
which can be contacted at telephone no. (035) 225-0982
or e-mail: dumaguete_harborpilots@yahoo.com. Pilots can
Government wharf of Dumaguete.
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2016)
also be contacted via VHF Channel 16. Vessels requiring
pilots should send notice 24 hrs in advance. Pilot boards at
a location about 0.7 mile E of Dumaguete Light.
5 Tug boats are available from Harbor Star Shipping
Services.
Anchorage off Dumaguete is bad, the bank being
steep-to and the holding ground poor. Vessels are liable to
10 drag off into deep water. On account of the depth of water,
no anchorage is recommended. The port is exposed to
winds from the E quadrants and there are times, particularly
during the NE monsoon, when vessels cannot go alongside
the pier. Mandated anchorages for large vessels and small
15 vessels are located at the area NE and SE, respectively, of
Dumaguete Light.
From Dumaguete, the coast trends N for about 2
miles to Calongcalong Point. This coast is low, sandy, and
20 fringed by a narrow, steep-to, coral reef. About 90 m NE of
Calongcalong Point are two small sandy cays on the edge
of the shore reef.
TAÑON STRAIT (CHART 1548, 1549 & 4430),
25 between Negros and Cebu Islands, is about 90 miles long,
N and S, 3 miles wide at the S entrance and 15 miles wide
at the N. The middle of the strait is deep and clear. On the
Cebu side there are no off-lying dangers, and the water is
deep close to the shore reefs. On the Negros side, the same
30 statement holds true, with the exception of a few detached
reefs, none of which is more than 2 miles from shore. There
are no harbors suitable for large vessels on either side of the
strait. A presidential proclamation declared Tañon Strait as
a protected seascape.
35
Caution - Submarine telecommunication and power
cables cross Tañon Strait. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables. Consult
the charts for the location and details of the submarine
40 cables.
Currents in the S part of the strait are strong and
complicated and, at spring tides, attain a velocity of 5
to 6 knots with strong races and eddies. At neap tides,
45 the velocity is 2 to 3 knots. The tidal current runs with
10-15
considerable velocity over the whole width of the strait, but
decreases rapidly as the straits widens out.
Winds & Weather - During the NE monsoon, the wind
is usually fresh from the N, drawing the axis of the strait. It
is seldom troublesome in the strait S of Pasil Point. During
the SW monsoon, the winds bring with them rain squalls
and storms which occur principally from July to September.
In September and October, fine weather prevails. The S
end of Tañon Strait is protected from the SW monsoon by
mountains, and it is only when the wind is strong that it is
felt in the strait. It is always stronger in the N end. Like the
NE monsoon, it blows along the axis of the strait. The NE
trade winds predominate during March and April and often
during February and May as well. It is of moderate strength
and is the driest of all the winds affecting this area.
Distress & Rescue – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Bacolod City (10°
28' 41"N., 123° 25' 20"E.) cover the northern portion of
Tañon Strait. Vessels in distress may contact the above
mentioned remotely controlled station. Vessels in distress
that are outside of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC
coast station may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating
Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC
Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
EAST COAST OF NEGROS
(CHART 1548, 1549 & 4430)
From Caloncong Point, the coast trends in a general
NW direction for about 16 miles to Canamay Point, the
S entrance point to Bais Bay. From Calongcong Point to
Amblan Point, with a distance of 9 miles, the shores are
generally clear, steep-to, sandy beaches with very little
coral. Between Amblan and Canamay Points, there is a
steep-to coral reef which extends 0.5 mile in places. From
Calongcalong Point to within 3 miles of Amblan Point,
the land is low and covered with coconut trees with an
occasional rocky bluff after which, 30.5 m (100 ft) hills rise
close to the coast. From Amblan Point to Canamay Point,
the land is low and the shoreline is partly mangroves and
Government pier of Amlan at Barrio Tandayag.
(Photograph - PPA-Visayas website, Undated)
10-16
partly sandy beaches. There is a good road skirting the
shore along this coast of Negros.
There are a number of small towns and villages on this
5 coast, off which anchorage may be found in fine weather
but usually very close in because of the great depth of the
water.
SIBULAN, about 0.8 mile SE of the mouth of OCOY
10 RIVER, has a conspicuous church tower. The town has a
70 m long pier with RoRo ramp at the offshore end and an
80 m long T-head pier. Fast crafts and motorized boats call
regularly from Lilo-an, Santander in Cebu Island.
15 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Sibulan may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63915-
1917325.
TANDAYAG is the barrio located 1 mile S of Amblan
20 Point. It has a government pier and two private piers
operated by Maayo Shipping and Chevron Petroleum.
Ferry vessels travel regularly between the government pier
and the town of Santander on Cebu Island. Maayo Shipping
provides drydocking service on a limited scale only.
25
Berthing Facilities - The government pier has two
berth spaces, 12 m and 42 m long, with draft of about 6 m
(3.3 fm). Two RoRo ramps are available. The Maayo Pier
and the Chevron Pier are located, respectively, S and N of
30 the government pier.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available
at the government pier.
35 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Tandayag may be contacted at mobile no. +63998-5858325
and +63917-8195422.
AMBLAN POINT is low, sandy, steep-to, and is
40 covered with coconut trees. The town of Amlan (Ayuquitan)
is just W of Amblan Point. It is prominent from seaward.
Anchorage in 18.3 m (10 fm), sand bottom, may be found
off the town.
Major Light - Amblan Point Light (09° 27’ 56”N.,
123° 13’ 40”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the
point.
POLO is a barrio at the mouth of the river of the same
name, which empties about 3 miles WNW of Amblan
Point. Two steep-to rocky heads, with a depth of 1.8 m
(1 fm), lie about 1 mile offshore E by N of Polo. The Polo
River is very small and can only be entered by pulling boats
at high water.
TANJAY is a town on the S side of the river of the
same name, about 1 mile above its mouth. The Tanjay
River, which empties 1 mile S of Canamay Point, is small
and shoal. The bar at the mouth is nearly bare at low water.
The shore reef in this vicinity is about 0.5 mile wide, and
anchorage, protected only during the SW monsoon, may be
found outside of it 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom.
Berthing Facility - Tanjay has a 170 m long pier
located about 2.1 miles SE of Canamay Point.
CANAMAY POINT, the S entrance point to Bais Bay
is low and covered with mangroves. It is surrounded by a
reef, bare at low water, which extends 0.3 mile NE. A shoal
with a depth of 14.6 m (8 fm) over it lie about 0.6 mile ENE
of the point.
BAIS BAY (CHART 4466), between Canamay
Point and Campoyo Point, about 5.5 miles N, is divided
by Daco Island into two smaller bays known as N and S
Bais Bays. The shores of both bays are low and fringed
with mangroves, back of which is a large area of fertile land
devoted to the cultivation of sugarcane. Both bays afford
good, sheltered anchorage for moderate sized vessels, but
are so encumbered with reefs as to make them difficult
of access, especially in bad weather. The entrances are
between extensive reefs, partly bare at low water.
DACO ISLAND is with its S end about 0.8 mile N
of Canamay Point. The S end is low and covered with
mangroves, while the N end, marked by Dacu Light (09°
35’ 35”N., 123° 08’ 50”E.), is 167 m (547 ft) high. There is
a narrow boat channel with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) at high
water between it and the mainland.
Guindung Point, which extends S from the NW point
of Daco Island, has a stone pier about 27 m long on which
is a concrete building with a nipa roof visible from all parts
of S Bais Bay. Reefs, partly bare at low water, extend over 1
mile from the NE point of Daco Island and form the S side
of the channel into N Bais Bay.
BAIS CITY, an important sugar-shipping port in this
vicinity, is on the shore in the SW part of N Bais Bay. The
city has Internet connection, telephone communication,
mobile phone services, and post office. Some gasoline,
Diesel oil, and lubricating oils are obtainable.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Bais
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63926-5309313.
SOUTH BAIS BAY, at the S and W of Daco Island, is
5 generally shoal. Anchorage may be found S of the S end of
Daco Island in 16.5 m (9 fm), or W of the same point in 6.4
to 9.1 m (3.5 to 5 fm). There is a dangerous reef, partly bare
at low water, about 0.3 mile SW of Arboles Point, the SW
extremity of Daco Island. Its SW end is marked by rocks
10 which are generally visible.
The channel between this reef and the reefs fringing
Arboles Point is about 73 m wide and has a depth of 11 m
(6 fm). It is generally marked by stakes and used by small
15 local traders. The channel generally used by strangers is
W of the rocks marking the W extremity of the reef just
described. It has a width of about 320 m and a depth of 11 m
(6 fm). On the W edge of this channel is small rocky patch
with a depth of 1.4 m (0.75 fm).
20
Major Light - South Bais Bay Light (09° 33’ 24”N.,
123° 08’ 42”E.) is privately-maintained and is displayed at
the offshore end of the T-shaped pier.
25 Berthing Facilities - The concrete T-shaped pier
operated by the Central Azucarera de Bais (CAB), is on
the S shore of S Bais Bay. Three steel storage tanks near
the seaward end of the pier and the stones along the base
of the causeway are visible from a distance well offshore.
30 In October 1951, there was a controlling depth of 7 m (23
ft) alongside. Mooring buoys are maintained by the sugar
company. A large warehouse is at the shore end of the pier.
Railroad from the sugar mill connects the warehouse and
extends through the entire length of the pier.
35
Pilotage - Pilots board vessels calling at the CAB pier
at the entrance to S Bais Bay.
Anchorage may be had between the end of the pier on
40 the S side of the bay and Banlas Point, in 14.6 to 16.5 m (8
to 9 fm), with Arboles Point bearing 306o and Banlas Point
058o. Anchorage may be had W of Arboles Point in 6.4 to
9.1 m (3.5 to 5 fm). An inner anchorage is described with
the directions for entering S Bais Bay.
45
Directions - Enter the bay on 270o course to pass
about 0.3 mile S of Banlas and Arboles Points. When
Arboles Point is abeam, head for the end of the pier and go
alongside or proceed to anchorage. Vessels bound N and
50 farther into the bay when about 0.25 mile W of the end of
the pier. Round the reef slowly and pass through the staked
channel previously described, keeping a good lookout for
the reef on the starboard. When the pier on Guindung Point
bears 352o, steer for it and anchor in 5.9 m (3.5 fm) with the
55 pier on the above bearing and Arboles Point bearing 091o,
or as much farther N as the draft will permit.
NORTH BAIS BAY, N of Daco Island, is nearly
blocked by reefs through which there are narrow, tortuous
60 channels where good anchorage may be found. But in the
10-17
absence of any aids to navigation, they are impracticable
without local knowledge, except at low water, when the
reefs are visible. Extensive reefs partly bare at low water,
extend over 1 mile NE of Daco Island and nearly 2 miles
SE from Campoyo Point, leaving a narrow, deep entrance
channel about 320 m wide between them into the interior of
the bay. Beacons mark the entrance and the channel to the
pier located on the N side of Daco Island.
DIUTAY ISLET, 63 m (208 ft) high and cultivated,
lies nearly in the middle of the bay, on an extensive reef
largely bare at low water. Houses fringe shores of the islet.
Berthing Facilities - A pier extends about 0.3 mile N
from the N side of Daco Island. It is connected to the town
of Bais by a good road. In October 1951, this pier was
found partly destroyed and without dolphins. The channel
from the entrance to the bay to the vicinity of the pier is
marked by white concrete beacons about 4.6 m (15 ft) high.
Directions - Enter N Bais Bay on course 270o to pass
230 m S of beacon No 2. When abeam of this beacon No.
4, round No. 3 beacon at a distance of about 0.1 mile and
steer SW, with No. 6 beacon slightly open on the starboard
bow. When abreast No. 6 beacon steer for the pier, keeping
a good lookout for shoal water E of it, and anchor in 11 m
(6 fm) about 230 m S of No. 6 beacon.
CAMPOYO POINT, the N entrance point to N Bais
Bay, is a narrow strip of low land on which there are a few
coconut trees and grass. Large tanks owned by URSUMCO,
dolphins and convey structure are on the point. A pier
extends about 0.1 mile SE from the point. Reefs, bare at
low water, extend 1 mile E and 2 miles SSE from it.
Pilotage - Pilot boarding station for vessels wishing
to berth at URSUMCO is located at the entrance of N Bais
Bay.
MANJUYOD POINT, about 4 miles N of Campoyo
Point, is bold, with rocky bluffs 6 to 30 m (20 to 100 ft)
high for 1 mile on either side of it. It is clear and steep-
to. The town of Manjuyod is in a bend in the coast, about
midway between Campoyo and Manjuyod Points, just N of
the mouth of the river of the same name.
From Manjuyod Point, the coast trends N for about 4.5
miles to the barrio of Tinaogan, and thence in a N-by-E
direction with a curve W for 8.5 miles to Tayasan Point.
Between Manjuyod Point and Tinaogan, a narrow, fringing
reef and shoal water extend about 0.3 mile in places.
TINAOGAN REEF, immediately NE from Tinaogan,
and connected with the shore, is a circular ridge of coral
varying in width from 90 to 457 m and with depths over
it from bare at low water to 18.3 m (10 fm) and enclosing
within it an area about 1 mile in diameter, with depths
varying from 20.1 to 32.9 m (11 to 18 fm). This narrow
coral ridge is bare at low water at the center of its outer or
E edge, which is nearly 1.5 miles from shore. The ridge
10-18
is steep-to on all sides, the lead giving no warning of its
vicinity. While it is possible to cross the ridge in some of
the deeper places, it is not considered advisable to do so.
A good range for passing well E from this reef is Diutay
5 Island, Bais Bay, in range with Manjuyod Point bearing
190.5o.
CALAGCALAG BAY (CHART 4466), about 3 miles
N of Tinaogan, is a small harbor where good shelter for
10 small vessels can be found in either monsoon. It is divided
into two sections: the outer part is formed by coral reefs bare
at low water, and affords an anchorage area about 0.3 mile
wide. The inner part is formed by two mangrove-covered
points and is fringed almost throughout by coral. This inner
15 section is merely a narrow, well-defined channel between
reefs bare at low water. The channel is curved and varies in
width between the reefs from 137 m at its narrowest part to
approximately 183 m near its head. The channel is clear,
with mud bottom, shoaling gradually from 27.4 m (15 fm)
20 at its entrance to 5.5 m (3 fm) about 90 m from a causeway
which crosses its head.
Directions - In the absence of any aids to navigation,
it is difficult to give directions for Calagcalag Bay. The
25 outer anchorage should be approached on a 270o course,
keeping about 0.2 mile S of the reef which forms the N side
of the anchorage and anchoring off the entrance to the inner
section in 27.4 to 36.6 m (15 to 20 fm), mud bottom, with
the rocky point covered with scraggly mangroves, which
30 forms the N side of the inner section, bearing 021o.
Small craft intending to enter the inner section should
stand N from the above-described anchorage, keeping a
good lookout for the reefs on either side, until a prominent
35 culvert in the causeway at the head of the bay bears 287o
when it should be in range with a conspicuous notch or
cut in a prominent cluster of bamboos on the top of a hill
several hundred feet high. Stand in on this range and anchor
in 8.2 m (4.5 fm) sticky mud bottom, about 228 m from the
40 causeway.
TAYASAN POINT, about 6 miles NNE of Calagcalag
Bay, is a steep-to rounded point, low, flat, well cultivated
and forms a prominent projection from the general
45 coastline. The town of Tayasan is on the S side of Tayasan
Point on the E side of the Tibiauan River.
Anchorage, fairly protected from both monsoons, may
be found off the elbow in the coast about 0.8 mile WSW
50 of Tayasan in 40.2 m (22 fm), mud bottom, about 0.1 mile
from the beach. The shore in the vicinity of Tayasan Point
is remarkably steep-to.
JIMALALUD is a small town about 3.5 miles NNE of
55 Tayasan Point immediately N of Dalungan Point, it may be
recognized by a prominent, iron-roofed convent.
Anchorage may be found E of the convent in 27.4 m
(15 fm), mud bottom about 0.2 mile from the shore.
60
 PASIL POINT, about 5.5 miles NE of Tayasan Point,
is low, flat and well cultivated. The Magingin River which
is small and of no value to navigation, empties through
Pasil Point.
Between Pasil Point and Guihulngan, about 7.5 miles
NNE, the coast is generally steep-to and the 18.3 m (10 fm)
curve lies never more than 0.5 mile offshore. All dangers
are contained within this curve.
LA LIBERTAD RIVER, which empties 1.5 miles
N of Pasil Point, although appearing large, is completely
blocked by a reef, bare at low water. Outside the reef, the
bottom drops off abruptly to 36.6 m (20 fm). Small craft
enter this river at high water.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Bacolod City (10° 28'
41"N., 123° 25' 20"E.) cover the sea area off the E coast of
Negros from Mangcolimbang Point, about 1.6 miles SSE
of Guihulngan town, to Escalante Bay. Vessels in distress
may contact the above mentioned remotely controlled
station. Vessels in distress that are outside of the 25-mile
radius from the VHF DSC coast station may contact the
Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have a MF
DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in
Chapter 2 for details.
GUIHULNGAN (CHART 4428) is a small town
about 7.5 miles NNE of Pasil Point. It has several good
stores. There is a daily ferry service to Tangil Port on the
island of Cebu. Tramping vessels dock to load copra. The
mouth of the large river emptying N of the town is closed
by a bar.
The water off Guihulngan deepens gradually to depths
of 5.5 to 7.3 m (3 to 4 fm) about 0.3 mile from the beach,
and then drops off abruptly to 21.9 m (12 fm), mud bottom,
and deepens rapidly to over 91.4 m (50 fm), a little more
than 0.5 mile from shore.
Major Light - Guihulngan Light (10° 07’ 18”N., 123°
16’ 18”E.) is displayed from a tower near the church.
Berthing Facilities - The L-shaped government pier is
located about 0.5 mile SSW of the town. It has a controlling
depth of 4 m.
Port Services - Cargo handling operators are available
at the government pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Guihulngan may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998-
5858328 and +63917-8363074.
Anchorage for vessels calling at Guihulngan is in
21.9 to 27.4 m (12 to 155 fm), mud bottom, with the light
bearing 290o.
From Guihulngan, the coast trends in a general NNE
direction for about 20 miles to the Mainit River at the S
entrance to Refugio Pass. This coast presents no points or
indentions of any importance. The hills are close to the
shores which are fringed with steep-to reefs, off which the
5 water is generally too deep to afford good anchorage. The
rivers are small and of no value to navigation. This part of
the island is well populated and there are numerous villages
scattered along the shore.
10 KINAYAN POINT, located about 4.3 miles NE of
Guihulngan, has a small L-shaped pier.
BASAK POINT, located 2 miles NE of Kinayan Point,
has a small pier with RoRo ramps at the offshore end. Ferry
15 boats from Barrio Tangil in Dumanjug, Cebu regularly calls
at the pier.
DANGERS - A small reef having three coral heads
awash at low water and surrounded by deep water lies 0.6
20 mile ESE of Jilaitan Point. Between this reef and the shore
reef is a clear, deep channel about 0.1 mile wide. With the
exception of this reef, there are no off-lying dangers in this
vicinity.
25 VALLEHERMOSO, a town about 13 miles N of
Guihulngan, is an occasional port of call of some inter-
island vessels. A sandy flat with an average depth of 5.5
m (3 fm) along its outer edge extends about 0.2 mile from
shore E of the town, and immediately outside of this flat the
30 water deepens abruptly to 18.3 m (10 fm).
Anchorage may be found just outside the edge of this
flat in 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom, with the Vallehermoso
convent near the shore, the largest and most prominent
35 building of the town, bearing 271o.
About 1.5 miles N of Vallehermoso, and directly off
the De la Vina sugar hacienda, anchorage may be had, well
protected during the SW monsoon and also from S and SE
40 winds by a detached coral reef which runs parallel with the
shore and bare in two places at low water.
Directions - To approach this anchorage, the prominent,
iron-roofed dwelling should be brought to bear 226o and
45 steered for anchoring in 9.1 m (55 fm), mud bottom. When
the mouth of the small, detached 3.7 m (2 fm) patch is off
the N entrance, about 0.2 mile from the shore, between
which and the shore is a narrow 20.1 m (11 fm) channel.
From this patch, the iron-roofed dwelling bears 218o and
50 following the previously recommended course should be
passed on the starboard hand at a distance of about 137 m
when approaching the anchorage from N.
The channel between the shore and the S end of the
55 detached reef, which protects the anchorage, is foul and
irregular and should not be used, as there is a small 2.3 m
(1.25 fm) coral patch directly off it, from which the iron-
roofed dwelling bears 318o, less than 0.5 mile distant.
60 From the mouth of the Mainit River, the coast trends
10-19
NE for about 6 miles to Talave (Talabe) Point, forming the
W side of Refugio Pass. The coastal strip along this section
of coast widens behind the city of San Carlos, where sugar
cane flats extend inland for 2 to 3 miles, backed by hills
rising to mountains that exceed 610 m (2,000 ft). This
coast is generally fringed by mangroves and faced by
narrow, steep-to reef. The city of San Carlos and a number
of villages are on this coast. There are a number of sugar
estates in this vicinity, off which anchorage may be found.
REFUGIO ISLAND (Sipaway Island), forming the E
side of Refugio Pass, is nearly flat; the highest point in the
E part is about 15 m (50 ft). It is surrounded by reefs, partly
bare at low water and extend 0.5 mile NE and about 1.2
miles SW from it. The reef on the NW side is narrow and
steep-to while that on the E side extends up to 0.6 mile from
the central part of the island. Its shores are low and rocky
except for a stretch of sand beach on the E side and another
on the SW. It is thickly populated and well cultivated.
There are numerous concrete landings on the W coast of
the island. The southernmost landing is the L-shaped pier
in Brgy. Ermita. The northernmost landing at Sitio Pitogo
extends up to 250 m from the shore. Boat landings can also
be found on the W coast of the island. Refugio Light (10°
28’ 09”N., 123° 26’ 54”E.) is displayed near the N end of
the island.
ERMITA ROCK, composed of coral heads with a
depth of 2.9 m (1.5 fm) and surrounded by deep water, is
a dangerous reef about 1 mile ESE of Ermita Point, the S
extremity of Refugio Island. There is a deep channel 0.5
mile wide between Refugio Island and Ermita Rock.
REFUGIO PASS (CHART 4466A), separating
Refugio Island from Negros, is about 6 miles long and has a
least navigable width abreast San Carlos Point of 0.8 mile.
Near the S end of the pass are several separate detached
shoals on the W side of the channel; the outermost of which,
a 11.8 m (6.4 fm) patch, is nearly 1.0 mile from the coast
of Negros, leaving a deep channel 0.7 mile wide between it
and the reefs fringing the W part of the Refugio Island. The
positions of the shoals and the various small anchorages
between them will be best understood by reference to Chart
4466A. The N end of the pass is narrower but considered
safer, and is the one recommended for deep draft vessels
entering San Carlos.
Prominent Features - Landmarks that can be used in
entering this pass include the San Carlos Light located on
the government pier, the twin church spires about 0.3 mile
NW of San Carlos Light, a pagoda about 0.5 mile NNE of
the pier light, two large tanks about 0.7 mile NNE of the
pier light, a monument over a private tomb about 1.4 mile
N of Talave (Talabe) point and the tall stack at the energy
plant about 1.6 miles NW of Talave Point.
Major Lights - San Carlos Light (110° 28’ 38”N., 123°
25’ 17”E.) is displayed from a tower on the government
wharf.
10-20
Refugio Light (10° 28’ 09”N., 123° 26’ 54”E.) is
displayed near the N end of Refugio Island.
Caution – A submarine water pipeline crosses Refugio
5 Pass off the coast of San Carlos City. Anchoring and fishing
are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine pipeline.
SAN CARLOS is a chartered city of Negros Oriental
province. Canned foods, ice, and gasoline are obtainable.
10 Cargo and fast craft vessels connect San Carlos with Toledo
on Cebu Island. Public buses travel daily from the city to
Bacolod and Dumaguete. Telephone, cellular phone and
Internet connection are available. The city has hospitals and
private clinics.
15
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA. The port manager can be contacted at telephone
no. (+6334) 726-3244. Vessels calling at San Carlos should
notify the port office of their ETA 24 hrs in advance. The
20 port can handle vessels up to 700 GRT.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Carlos may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5858210 and +63917-8428456.
25
Berthing Facilities - The government pier at San
Carlos Point has a berth length of 518 m. It also has
four RoRo ramps. Storage facilities include a 450 sq m
warehouse and 11,000 sq m open area.
30
A private pier operated by North Eastern Port and
Storage Corp. (NEPSC) is located about 0.75 miles NE
of the government pier. This pier is marked by a beacon.
The pier is used for loading ethanol. There are other private
35 piers and boat landing along the coast of San Carlos.
Port Services - Cargo handling is provided by a local
company, with telephone number (+6334) 729-3509. Fresh
water is provided by local government, which may be
40 contacted at telephone no. (+6334) 312-6484. Fuel can be
delivered at the pier by trucks. Re-watering and bunkering
are only allowed at the government pier after 8:00 PM.
Anchorage - Vessels may anchor just off the end of the
45 government pier. In approaching this anchorage from the
N, care must be taken to give the E side of the pier a berth of
about 0.5 mile in order to avoid flat sandy shoal covered by
0.9 to 3.7 m (0.5 to 2 fm) extending nearly 0.4 mile E and is
not usually anchor visible owing to the muddy water. These
50 anchorages and piers are well protected although they may
be subject to heavy swells during the NE monsoon.
Directions - San Carlos may be entered from the N
by steering 246o from a position 3 miles NE from Refugio
55 Light, keeping San Carlos Light ahead. When the beacon at
NEPSC bears 263o, head for the piers or anchorages.
Pilotage is not compulsory. Pilots for San Carlos can be
obtained at Dumaguete City. Pilot boards at the N entrance
60 of Refugio Pass, about 2 miles NE of the government pier.
 TALAVE (TALABE) POINT, the N entrance point
to the N end of Refugio Pass, is about 1.9 miles NE of San
Carlos Point. It is low, flat and covered with mangroves
and coconut trees. The Talabe River discharges through the
point. Shoal water surrounds this point about 0.4 mile.
A small, detached, coral reef with a depth of 7.2 m (3.9
fm) and surrounded by deep water is 0.7 mile SE of Talabe
Point. This reef constitutes the outer danger on the W side
of the N approach to Refugio pass.
W for 16 miles to Ocre Point on the S side of the entrance
to the Danao River. This coast is fringed by a narrow, steep-
to, coral reef, with no detached dangers excepting a small
patch, partly bare at low water, about 1 mile NE of Paulino
5 Point and 0.8 mile from shore, and a small reef with a depth
of 2.1 m (7 ft) about 0.8 mile SE of the barrio of Salamanca.
A 3.7 m (12 ft) patch lies about 0.75 mile SSE while another
8.2 m (27 ft) patch lies 0.8 mile E of Salamanca. All of
the above-mentioned reefs are W of the ordinary track of
10 navigation.

PINABUNTAN POINT, about 1.5 miles NE of Talabe
Point, is low and covered with mangroves which extend
about 0.5 mile outside the solid shoreline.
TICLIN REEF is a detached coral patch partly bare at
low water about 0.8 mile E by S of Pinabuntan Point.
PAULINO POINT is about 1.5 miles NE of Pinabuntan
Point. The head of the indentation between these two points
is filled by an extensive mangrove swamp which extends
from 0.3 to 0.5 mile inland.
CALATRAVA is a small town of little commercial
importance on the S side of the mouth of Calatrava River,
about 3 miles N of Paulino Point. In passing along the coast,
15 it may be recognized by large, iron-roofed convent near the
beach, nearly in the center of the point on which the town
is situated. This convent and an old abandoned schoolhouse
are the only buildings visible from the sea.
20 Anchorage may be found off the S side of the point on
which Calatrava lies in 21.9 m (12 fm) about 0.3 mile from
the shore, with the point bearing 013o.

TICLIN ISLAND, a little over 0.3 mile S from Paulino TOBOSO is a small town of little commercial
Point, is a small islet mostly covered with mangroves. It is 25 importance on the S side of Arcolon Point. It has telephone
surrounded by a reef that dries at low water. connections to all neighboring towns. Limited food supplies
can be obtained in this town. The town is visible from the S
Anchorage may be found in 12.4 m (6.7 fm), 0.2 to of Arcolon Point. There is no good anchorage, the portion
0.3 mile SW of Ticlin Island. Better protected anchorage of the bay S of the town being cluttered with fish traps.
for small vessels may be found in a basin about 0.3 mile in 30
extent in 11.2 m (6.1 fm), mud bottom, about 0.3 mile NW SALAMANCA is a small barrio 1 mile S of the mouth
of Ticlin Island. of Salamanca River. There is a small wooden landing a few
miles up the river where lighters go alongside to load sugar,
Two channels lead to this anchorage. The N one is and from there towed to Iloilo. The depth across the bar
better. In rounding the N end of the reef fringing Ticlin 35 at mean low water was about 0.5 m (4 ft) in May 1961. A
Island, the depth decreases from 27.4 m (15 fm) outside to mooring buoy is moored about 0.5 mile ESE of Salamanca.
10.1 m (5.5 fm) just before the NW anchorage is reached.
The S channel leading around the W side of the island is OCRE POINT, the S entrance to the Danao River, is
narrow. By keeping in mid-channel, 3.2 m (1.7 fm) may about 15 m (50 ft) high and is formed by yellow clay and
be carried, but this channel should not be attempted under 40 rock.
unfavorable light conditions or unless previously staked.
MOUNT SOLITARIO, 5.8 miles W of Ocre Point,
From Paulino Point, the coast trends NNE with a curve is the only high land in its vicinity. It is of regular, conical
shape 341 m (1,119 ft) high and is a useful landmark for
making the mouth of the Danao River.

DANAO RIVER (CHART 4463), which empties

between Ocre and Mocaboc Points, has a depth of 3.7 m
(12 ft) on the bar, deepening inside from 18.3 to 21.9 m
(10 to 12 fm). The channel across the bar is narrow and
tortuous and has a least width of 90 m between the 3.7 m
(2 fm) curves.

The river is about 550 m wide at the mouth, but soon

narrows to 183 m and varies in width from 90 to 183 m for
a distance of 4 miles. The general course of the river is from
W to E. The banks are steep-to.

From the private piers and government wharf at N

Danao River government wharf. bank of the river, a road leads to Escalante City about 1.2
(Photograph - PPA-Visayas website, Undated)

10-21
miles N. Inter-island vessels call weekly.
Major Lights - Escalante Light (10° 49’ 03”N.,
123° 33’ 00”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the
government wharf.
From Mocaboc Point, the coast trends WSW for about
2 miles and then NNW for 4 miles to Vito Point, forming
Escalante Bay. This bay is fringed by wide coral reefs,
bare at low water, and faced by Bagunbanua Island and a
5 number of large dangerous reefs, partly bare at low water.

Buenavista Light (10° 48’ 44”N., 123° 33’ 35”E.) is ESCALANTE CITY is about 0.7 mile SE of Mocaboc
displayed about 0.7 mile SE of Escalante Light. Point. Owing to the reefs that extend nearly 0.5 mile N of
the town, vessels seldom anchor in Escalante Bay. Vessels
Currents due to tides are reported to reach the speed 10 desiring to call Escalante use the berthing facilities at
of 4 knots in the vicinity of the government wharf. Currents Danao River where a road leads to the city. There are postal,
are affected by the outflow of Danao River, especially mobile phone communication, and Internet connection in
during the rainy season. Escalante. A rock causeway, where fishing boats unload
their catch, extends N from the city.
Port Management - Vessels calling at the government 15
wharf should notify the port manager 24 hrs before ETA PANALSALON REEF is a large reef, partly bare
for vessels with scheduled voyage and 36 hrs for tramping at low water, with its SW extremity about 1 mile N of
vessels. The port may be contacted at telephone no. (+6334) Escalante. On the part baring at low water are large boulders
724-3043. awash at high water. There is a deep channel 0.3 mile wide
20 between Panalsalon Reef and the reefs fringing Escalante
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Danao Bay.
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8428390
and +63998-5858205. BAGUNBANUA ISLAND is on the SW angle of
a large triangular reef, bare at low water, 1.5 miles N of
Cargo vessels unloading cement from Cebu and 25 Mocaboc Point. It is very small and covered with bushes.
vessels loading sugar for Manila and Pasacao, Camarines White-roofed houses of a resort are located along the shore
Sur usually call at the port. of the Island. A reef, bare at low water, extends over 0.8
mile N and the same distance E from it.
Berthing Facilities - On the N bank of the river,
about 0.5 mile inside the bar, is the 52 m long government 30 Between Bagunbanua Island Reef and the reefs
marginal wharf, with controlling depth of 2 m (1.1 fm). It fringing the shores of Escalante Bay is a deep channel about
has two RoRo ramps. It has open storage facilities. 1.3 miles wide, but there are a number of small, dangerous,
rocky patches covered by depths of 2.7 to 5.5 m (1.5 to 3
A private pier extends 240 m E near the mouth of fm).
Danao River, about 0.5 mile NE of the government wharf. 35
A large detached reef, bare at low water, is 0.5 mile
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided SE of Bagunbanua Island. Between which and Bagunbanua
by Tarsier Arrastre Stevedoring Services, Inc (TASSI). Island Reef is a narrow pass with depth of 4.1 m (2.25
Bunkering and watering services are delivered to the fm). Between this reef and Panalsalon Reef there is a deep
government port by trucks. 40 channel 0.3 mile wide.

Anchorage - Danao River affords a fine harbor of
refuge for small vessels, and good protected anchorage may
be found anywhere inside the bar.
The anchorage space off the pier is only about 90 m
wide between the 3.7 m (2 fm) curves, and considerable
difficulty is found in turning, especially on an ebb current.
The diurnal range of tide is about 1.8 m (6 ft). Anchorage
area for large vessels is located 1.7 miles W of Escalante
Light in 16.4 to 25.5 m (9 to 13.9 fm). This anchorage is
open and affords no protection from the NE monsoon. The
approach is free from hazards.
MOCABOC POINT, about 2 miles N of the Danao
River, is about 12 m (40 ft) high and is formed by yellow
clay and rock. It is surrounded by a fringing reef which
extends 0.3 mile N and continues along the shores of
Escalante Bay.
PAMAAUN REEF is a large reef with its SW
extremity about 1.8 miles N of Bagunbanua Island. An area
about 0.3 mile in extent is bare at low water and on the SW
45 part of this area there is a small, sandy cay awash at high
water.
Nearly midway between Pamaaun Reef and the E
extremity of Bagunbanua Island Reef is a large, rocky shoal
50 bare at extreme low water. There is a deep channel between
this shoal and Bagunbanua Island Reef and also a channel
between it and Pamaaun Reef.
From Vito Point to Sagay Point, about 2.5 miles N, the
55 coastline has very little solid land with mangroves covering
the reefs 0.5 to 1 mile from shore. This coast is fringed by
a reef bare at low water which extends over 1 mile outside
the mangroves.

10-22
 CHAPTER 11
CEBU ISLAND
CHART 4718
CEBU ISLAND is between Negros on its W side and
Leyte and Bohol on its E. It is long and narrow, 122 miles N
and, with a greatest width of 20 miles. A chain of mountains
containing beds of coral traverses the entire length of the
island. Cebu is the 9th island of the group in terms of size, 5
having an area of 4,421.1 sq km, and is thickly populated. A
highway, paralleling the coast, circles the island. The rivers
are small and numerous, and generally unfit for navigation
or irrigation. With the exception of a few fine valleys, the
cultivation is confined mainly to the seaboard. The principal 10
exports are hemp, sugar, and tobacco.
NORTH COAST OF CEBU
(CHART 1538 & 4405)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have
a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas
map in Chapter 2 for details.
GUINTACAN ISLAND is about 6.3 miles WNW of
Bantiqui Point, the NW extremity of Cebu. The top of the
island is fairly level plateau covered with low trees, bushes,
and grass, and is 51 m (167 ft) high. The island is bounded
on all sides by rocky cliffs ranging from 30 m (100 ft) high
at the N end to 12 m (40 ft) at the S, and is clear and steep-
to. Guintacan Island Light (11° 18’ 06”N., 123° 53’ 28”E.)
is displayed atop a white tower on the S part of the island.
There are four small villages on the island and it is well
cultivated. There is no fresh water available. There is great
difficulty in anchoring off Guintacan because of the great
depth of water. Indifferent anchorage may be found in 29.3
m (16 fm), sand bottom, about 0.3 mile from shore, off the
village of Pasil, on the SE coast off the village of Langob
on the SW.
CHOCOLATE ISLAND, located 1.2 miles N of
Bulalaqui Point, the NE extremity of Cebu, is a small,
wooded islet 42 m (138 ft) high. It is clear and steep-to and 40
forms a prominent landmark for navigating the channels
between Cebu and Malapascua Islands. Chocolate Island
Light (11° 18’ 21”N., 124° 03’ 45”E.) is shown from a white
tower on the island. Chocolate Island, bearing between
266o and 330o, will carry a vessel clear of the rocks, SW 45
of Malapascua, and reefs between Bulalaqui and Campatoc
Points. Good, temporary anchorage in moderate depths
maybe found anywhere in the vicinity of Chocolate Island.
Tide rips occur in the area about midway between the island
and Bulalaqui Point. 50
MALAPASCUA ISLAND is with its S end 3.8 miles
NE of Bulalaqui Point. It is covered with small trees and
bushes and is 24 m (78 ft) high in the NE part. Its N, E
and S coasts are fringed with reefs and shoals for about 0.5
mile. The shoreline is very irregular, being a succession of
rocky headlands connected with the shore by narrow ridges
and with many outlying pinnacles of rock. Malapascua
Light (11° 20’ 40”N., 124° 06’ 35”E.) is displayed from a
white tower on the NW part of the island.
A small rocky islet 5.5 m (18 ft) high is close to its NW
extremity. The rock is 0.3 m (1 ft) high, 0.5 mile N of the
same point, and a rock awash nearly 0.5 mile E of the 0.3 m
(1 ft) rock. About 0.3 mile SW of the SW point of the island
is a small islet 7.6 m (25 ft) high and several rocks 1.5 to 5
m (5 to 16 ft) high.
15 Wrecks lie sunk about 5 and 2 miles NW, and 4.3 miles
W, respectively, of the NW end of Malapascua Island.
Traffic Management - Vessels passing between
Malapascua Island and Chocolate Island should follow the
20 designated routing system. Check the charts for details.
Anchorage may be found during the NE monsoon in
18.3 m (10 fm) about 0.5 mile SW of the light. Caution
must be made in anchoring since there is a submarine
25 telecommunication cable, connecting Daanbantayan and
Liloan, present near the island.
MONAD SHOAL is an extensive shoal with its
shoalest part 10.1 m (5.5 fm) about 4.5 miles ESE of the
30 SE point of Malapascua Island. It consists of coral boulders
and sand.
A growing seamount, located about 4 miles SE of
Monad Shoal, is 1.2 km in diameter and 280 m high. It has
35 a least depth of 10.2 m.
WEST COAST OF CEBU
(CHART 1538, 1548, 1549, 4405 & 4430)
CAUTION - Submarine telecommunication and
power cables cross Tañon Strait. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables. Consult
the charts for the location and details of the submarine cables.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Bacolod City (10° 28'
41"N., 123° 25' 20"E.) cover the sea area off the coast of
Cebu Island from Macalbang Point (10° 37' 51"N., 123° 44'
31"E.) to Dumanjug Bay. Vessels in distress may contact
the above mentioned remotely controlled station. Refer to
the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
BULALAQUI POINT, the N extremity of Cebu, is
11-1
formed by a cliff 27 m (90 ft) high, back of which the land
rises rapidly to a height of 44 m (146 ft). It is clear and
steep-to on its N side.
TAPILON POINT, about 2.3 miles W of Bulalaqui
Point, is rocky and 38 m (124 ft) high; between these two
points the shore is low and fringed by a narrow reef.
TAPILON is the barrio on the beach about 0.3 mile E
of Tapilon Point. Some sugar is shipped to the city of Cebu
in small sailing craft. Anchorage may be found about 0.5
mile N of the barrio in 12.8 m (7 fm), sand bottom. Three
patches of 9.1 m (5 fm) or less lie as far as 1 mile offshore
between the two points.
BANTIGUI POINT, 1.8 miles WSW of Tapilon
Point, is low and sandy, fringed with coconut trees and
surrounded by reefs and shoal water for 0.5 mile. Between
Bantiqui and Tapilon Points, the shore curves S, forming
a small bay which is blocked by reefs. The Cortejan River
empties through a salt marsh at the head of the bay.
DAANBANTAYAN is a small town 1.3 miles S
of Bantiqui Point, at the mouth of the Dalingding River.
There is a large prominent church in the town. Mail is sent
overland to Cebu City by bus. Gasoline in tins and a small
amount of food supply are available in the several small
stores.
Berthing Facility - The town is fronted by a 200 m
long pier, mainly for use by motorized boats.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coast of Daanbantayan. Anchoring and
fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine
cables.
Anchorage in fine weather may be found about 0.5
mile W of the town in 16.5 to 18.3 m (9 to 10 fm) mud
bottom.
From the town of Daanbantayan, the coast trends SW
for 5 miles to Kawit Point. This coast is low and sandy and
fringed by a reef which extends nearly 0.5 mile in places.
KAWIT POINT is low and flat, covered with coconut
trees, and fringed by a very narrow strip of steep-to coral
reef. E of Kawit Point the land rises gradually, and about 2
miles inland is 143 m (470 ft) high. The barrio of Kawit, on
the point, has a church visible from seaward. A small pier is
on the shore fronting the barrio.
JIBITNIL ISLAND is 1 mile W of Kawit Point. Its
shores are clear and steep-to and its top is a well-wooded
table land 33 m (110 ft) high. The channel between it and
Cebu is clear and has a depth of 23.8 m (13 fm) in the
middle.
HAGNAYA BAY (CHART 4465) - From Tajad Point,
about 2 miles S of Kawit Point, the coast trends SE for 2.5
11-2
miles, thence S for 2 miles, and thence NW for 2 miles
more to Sabil Point, forming a large, irregularly-shaped bay.
The entire bay, E of a line drawn between Tajad and Sabil
Points, is foul, being filled with reefs and shoals, the greater
5 part of which is bare at low water. The shores of the bay are
generally fringed with mangroves. There are several rivers
emptying into the bay through shallow channels between
the reefs.
10 Prominent Features - A stack and two adjacent water
tanks at the E side of the bay are excellent landmarks. The
entrance to the bay is marked by a concrete beacon on the
edge of the reef N of Sabil Point and Hagnaya Light on the
E side of the channel.
15
Major Lights - Hagnaya Light (11° 07’ 08”N., 123°
56’ 25”E.) is displayed from a tower on the edge of the reef
at the entrance of Hagnaya Bay.
20 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Hagnaya Bay may be contacted at mobile phone no.
+63917-8427146.
MEDELLIN is a town at the mouth of the Dagosungan
25 River in the NE part of the bay. There is a narrow, tortuous
channel beginning about 0.5 mile NE of Sabil Point and
leading to Medellin, through which about 3 m (10 ft) can
be carried at high water to within less than 0.5 mile of the
town but in the absence of any aids to navigation, it should
30 not be attempted by a stranger. Medellin has bus connection
with Cebu.
The Bogo-Medellin Milling Company maintains a
small landing on the Loya River for the handling of sugar
35 which is transported in barges to vessels at the Hagnaya
Bay anchorage. The landing can be approached only at high
water, there being 1 ft depth alongside. Four large tanks for
molasses and a big warehouse are near the landing.
40 Anchorage for small vessels is in 14.6 m (8 fm)
about 0.2 mile NE of the beacon N of Sabil Point. Vessels
proceeding to the anchorage should approach the bay on
course 102o with the light on the N side of the entrance in
range with the water tank. Ocean going vessels anchor on
45 this range about 0.3 mile W of this light. This anchorage is
protected from the NE but open to the SW monsoon.
DAIJAGON CANAL, connecting Hagnaya Bay with
Bogo Bay on the E coast of Cebu, is bare for about 1 mile
50 near the middle of its length, where a flat, rocky ledge rises
through the mud in the mangrove swamp. It traverses the
level stretch of land which occupies this part of the island
and is about 4 miles long from Sabil Point to Bogo Bay.
Both sides are bordered with mangrove swamps for 0.5 to
55 1 mile. This canal is passable by small boats at high tide. A
two-way swing bridge, hand-moved, spans the canal at the
highway crossing.
HAGNAYA, a barrio on the W shore of Hagnaya
60 Bay about 0.8 mile SE of Sabil Point, has regular ferry
service to Santa Fe on Bantayan Island. Vessels drawing
1.5 m (5 ft) cross the bar at high water and come to dock at
Hagnaya. Ferry vessels have regular trip between Hagnaya
and Bantayan Island.
In 2011, Hagnaya Port registered a total of 8,623
metric tons of incoming goods and 8,252 metric tons of
outgoing goods. About 42,000 passengers embarked and
disembarked at this port.
Port Management - The government port at Hagnaya is
managed by PMO - Sta. Fe, which may be contacted at
telephone no. (+6332) 435-8005, mobile phone no. +63917-
6307758, and e-mail address: pmo7stafe@cpa.gov.ph.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Hagnaya may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
4254080 and +63998-5858306.
Berthing Facilities - CPA manages a concrete wharf
with a total berth space of 77 m. Three RoRo ramps are
available. Private wharves and piers used to dock fishing
vessels are located along the shore from the government
pier to Sabil Point.
Port Services - Bunkering is available but fuel supply
comes from Cebu City. Watering services is not available.
Vessels requiring fresh water may request from shipping
lines in the area but the price may be high.
SABIL POINT, the S entrance point to Hagnaya Bay,
is low and not conspicuous. There are a few coconut trees
and bushes growing on it. It is surrounded by a reef which
extends about 0.5 mile N and 0.3 mile W.
From Sabil Point, the coast trends SSW with a curve
E for 5 miles to Mangcao Point and thence, SE for 2 miles
to Bangtad Point, at the entrance to the Lambusan River.
From Sabil Point nearly to Mangcao Point, the coast is
fringed by a narrow, steep-to, coral reef, partly bare at low
water. Between Sabil Point and the town of San Remigio
are a number of small, rocky islets, 1.8 to 3.0 m. (6 to 10 ft)
high, on the shore reef 90 to 270 m from the shore.
SAN REMIGIO is a small town about 1.5 miles S of
Sabil Point. There is a large, white, stone church in the town
which is partly obscured from seaward by coconut trees.
Anchorage for small craft with limited swinging
room to clear the reef, may be found in 27.4 m (15 fm)
by steering for the church on a 091o bearing and anchoring
when the outer two of the rocky islets on the reef N are on
the tangent to Sabil Point.
MANGCAO POINT is clear and steep-to and can be
safely passed at a distance of 0.5 mile. The extremity of
the point is formed by low cliffs, E of which the land rises
gradually to the summit of the Guintorijan Hills, 82 m (270
ft) high, over 2 miles ENE. About 1 mile SE of Mangcao
Point, the fringing reef appears again and gradually widens
until at Bangtad Point. It extends about 0.8 mile S.
LAMBUSAN RIVER (CHART 4465) is between
the long reef extending S from Bangtad Point and the reef
5 fringing the shore of the mainland. Anchorage for small
vessels may be found off the mouth of this river, about 0.8
mile S of Bangtad Point in 11 m (6 fm), mud bottom. Good
protection will be found from all winds except from the SW.
In the absence of any natural or artificial aids to navigation,
10 it is impossible to give any direction for approaching this
anchorage.
From Bangtad Point, the coast trends SSW for 16 miles
to Bagasaue Point at the entrance to Tuburan Bay. This
15 coast is fringed by a steep-to reef, nowhere exceeding 0.8
mile in width.
CASIMON POINT, about 10 miles S of Mangcao
Point, is formed of dark rocks much underworn by the
20 currents. It is surrounded by a reef for about 0.3 mile, the
greater part of which bares at low water. On this reef is a
small, wooded islet and a number of rocks.
BATAUANG RIVER, the largest river in this vicinity,
25 empties about 2.5 miles S of Casimon Point. It is about 3
miles long, fed by two large springs near its source, and
fresh for a short distance below the springs. The mouth of
the river is formed by a small bay in the rocky shore which
has a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm), but is too small to be of any
30 great value to navigation.
Major Light - Tabuelan Light (10° 50’ 00”N., 123°
52’ 01”E.) is displayed from a tower on the S entrance point
of the bay.
35
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
the area may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
8427205 and +63998-5858296.
40 Berthing Facility - A wharf with RoRo ramps are
located at the S entrance point of the small bay.
TABUELAN is a town about 0.5 mile S of the mouth
of the Batauang River. From Tabuelan, the existing route
45 of small vessels is back and forth to Tuburan, San Remigio
and Toledo. A fast craft, operated by Oceanjet, has regular
trips between Tabuelan and Estancia in Negros Island.
TUBURAN BAY (CHART 4465) is between
50 Bagasaue and Languyon Points. Bagasaue Point is low and
fringed by reefs for 0.5 mile. Languyon Point is also low
and wooded, but clear and steep-to. In the center of the bay
are a number of reefs, some bare at low water and others
with very little water over them. A 6 ft concrete pillar, the
55 stump of a former range mark, stands on the beach. This
mark, steered for on a 142o course, will lead clear between
the reefs to the anchorage.
TUBURAN RIVER can be entered by small craft at
60 high water.
11-3
 TUBURAN is a small town on the W side of the mouth
of a small river of the same name at the head of the bay.
Fuel oils and some supplies are available. There is a postal
connection with Cebu City. From Tuburan, passengers and
cargo travel back and forth to Escalante.
Prominent Features - The town has a large church
and convent which form good landmarks.
Berthing Facility - At the shore, projecting NNW, is a
200 m long concrete pier.
Anchorage for large vessels will be found by bringing
the bell tower on the S end of the church to bear 142o and
steering for it, anchoring in 9.1 m (5 fm) mud bottom, when 15
Languyon Point bears 229o. This course will carry a vessel
about 0.1 mile NE of a 4.6 m (2.5 fm) spot, 0.8 mile NW
of the church.
Small vessels may proceed further in on the same
bearing, anchoring according to draft or going to the dock.
The usual anchorage for small vessels is with the church
bell tower on the above bearing and Languyon Point 240o,
in 3.7 m. (2 fm), mud bottom, between two small coral reefs
which are bare at low water. There is a prominent limestone
boulder, bare at low water, which forms an excellent beacon
on the S of the reef.
From Languyon Point, the coast trends SW for 11 miles
to Asturias Point and thence, S for 3.5 miles to Balamban
Bay. From Languyon Point to Macalbang Point, which is
low sandy, and steep-to, a distance of 6.5 miles, the shore
is fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef. In the bight
between Macalbang Point and Asturias Point, the shore
reef is somewhat wider than that between Languyon and
Macalbang Points.
TINEBASAN, a sitio at Macalbang Point, has an
L-shaped pier operated by Far East Cement Corp. Large
cylindrical tanks stand near the root of the pier.
ASTURIAS is a town on the N side of the point of the
same name. It has a large church which shows above the
coconut palms. The shore in front of the town is fringed by
a reef which extends about 0.4 mile offshore. The landing
is at the barrio of LANGOB. The two unpainted stumps of
the concrete beacons, approximately 1.2 m (4 ft) high, mark
the entrance to the channel between the reefs. Small vessels
may enter midway between these markers on 113o course
heading for Langob and then to an anchorage.
ASTURIAS POINT is low and fringed by a reef which
extends 0.3 mile NW. The bight between Asturias Point and
Uag Point, 1.5 miles S, is blocked by a shoal water which
extends 0.5 mile outside a line drawn between the points.
A 220 m long jetty extends from the shore about 0.4 mile S
of Asturias Point.
BALAMBAN POINT, about 2 miles S of Uag Point,
is low, heavily wooded with coconut trees, and terminates
11-4
in a sandy spit, bare at low water, outside of which are
several dangerous, rocky patches. From the outer two
rocky patches, covered by 3.2 and 5.5 m. (1.75 and 3 fm),
respectively, the seaward gable of Balamban church bears
5 100o, distant 0.9 mile, and 092o, about the same distance.
The Baliuagan River discharges through Balamban Point.
BALAMBAN BAY (CHART 4465) is between
Balamban and Mambocayan Points. Although the
10 indentation in the coastline is slight, the protection which
this anchorage affords is increased in the N monsoon by
the sandy spit and reefs extending from Balamban Point.
On the S side of the bay, an extensive, dangerous, coral reef
extends from Mambocayan Point in a NW direction for a
distance of 1 mile on which are numerous shoal patches
with depths of 0.4 to 5.5 m (0.25 to 3 fm). From the edge
of the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve around the N edge of this reef,
Balamban church bears 077o distant 1.3 miles.
20 BALAMBAN is the town at the head of the bay. A
privately-owned stone mole is about 0.1 mile S of the light.
It was reported that there was no water off the end. There is
bus connection to Cebu City. The town is fronted by a 140
m long pier.
25
Major Light - Balamban Light (10° 30’ 23”N., 123°
42’ 41”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the town.
Directions - Vessels bound into Balamban should bring
30 the light or the seaward gable of the church to bear 083o and
steer for it, anchoring in 16.5 m (9 fm), mud bottom, about
0.4 mile from the beach, W of the church. Steering on the
above bearing will give the dangers on either side a berth
of only about 0.1 mile, therefore, caution must be observed.
35
MAMBOCAYAN POINT, the S entrance point of
Balamban Bay, is the location of Tsuneishi Shipyard.
The old coastline of the point was changed due to the
reclamation done to accommodate the shipyard.
40
Tsuneishi Shipyard has two slipways, building dock,
warehouse, factories, machine shop, and floating cranes.
The shipyard can produce medium-sized vessels. The
shipyard can provide minor to major ship repair. Tsuneishi
45 Shipyard may be contacted at telephone no. (+6332) 230-
8421.
Austal Shipyard, located just S of Tsuneishi Shipyard,
has facilities for building and repair of small-sized vessels.
50 A 340 m long pier operated by Metaphil Corp. is just west
of the Austal Shipyard.
From Mambocayan Point, the coast trends SW for 12.5
miles to Tajao Point and thence, SSW for 13 miles to Barili
55 Bay. Between Mambocayan and Tajao Points is very little
coral, and the shore are generally clear and steep-to, no
dangers being found more than 0.5 mile from shore.
CALAVERA BAY is about 5 miles SW of
60 Mambocayan Point. The barrio of Calavera is at the head
of the bay. At the hinterland of the barrio is the 73 hectares
solar energy farm.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable
is present in Calavera Bay. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
TOLEDO is a chartered city on the W coast of Cebu
Island. Roads lead N and S along the coast and across the
island to the city of Cebu. Ferry vessels travel daily between
Toledo and San Carlos City in Negros. Internet, post office,
telephone and mobile phone communication are available.
A government hospital and private clinics serve the town.
Some food supplies and gasoline are available.
In 2018, Toledo Port registered a total of 3,874 TEUs
of containerized cargo and 5,503,127 metric tons of non-
containerized cargo. A total of 11,057 domestic vessels and
140 foreign vessels called at this port.
Prominent Features - The brown spire of the church
marks the poblacion. Chimneys, one of which displays
quick flashing red light, marks the industrial area N of the
city.
Major Light - Toledo Light (10° 22’ 37”N., 123° 38’
06”E. stands at the foot of the government pier.
Port Management - The government pier is managed
by CPA. The port authority may be contacted telephone
no. (+6332) 467-8700, and mobile phone nos. +63917-
6331509 and +6332-3183307.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Toledo
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8427415
and +63998-585.
Berthing Facilities - The government pier stretches
NW from the shore. A RoRo ramp is available. The port
can handle vessels up 100 m LOA and 1,000 GRT. Depth at
the NW end of the pier is 4.3 m in 2010.
Several private firms have facilities in the industrial
area located about 0.7 mile NE of the government pier. The
private firms operate the following piers:
and 240 m long L-shaped pier. It is operated by Toledo
Power Company. A red and white stripe chimney of the
power plant stands prominently near the root of the piers.
The piers are used for unloading coal.
5
Port Services - Cargo handling services at the
government pier are available from local companies.
Pilotage is compulsory for local vessels with 500 GRT
10 and above. Pilotage is required for all foreign vessels. Pilots
are available for 24 hrs, as long as the weather permits.
Notice of ETA should be sent 4 hrs in advance. Pilot is at
Toledo City or can obtained from Cebu City. Tugboats are
available from Carmen Copper Corp. and Toledo Power
15 Company.
TAJAO POINT is low, clear, and steep-to. Tajao
Reef is an extensive, detached coral reef, bare at low
water, about 3 miles SW of Tajao Point and 0.8 mile from
20 shore. A shifting sand cay covers a small part of this reef.
There is a channel, about 0.3 mile wide at the narrowest
point, between Tajao Reef and the reefs fringing the shore,
through which 11 m (6 fm) may be carried. The outer edge
of the reef is very steep-to.
25
PINAMUNGAJAN is a small town on the coast about
3 miles S of Tajao Point off which anchorage may be found
in a break in the reef 32.9 m (18 fm), mud bottom, about
0.3 mile from shore. It has a church which stands on a
30 slight rise and shows a white gable end with two towers
to seaward, bearing 078o. By anchoring nearer the S side
of the bight off a small indentation in the reef, fairly good
shelter will be found during the SW monsoon. In front of
the town are the ruins of a wooden pier. Boats no longer call
35 at Pinamungajan.
ALOGUINSAN is a small town at the mouth of the
river of the same name about 3.5 miles SW of Pinamungajan.
The town has telephone and postal services.
40
GORDA POINT, 3 miles SSW of Alonguinsan and
4 miles NNE of Barili Bay, forms a slight projection from
the general shoreline. It derived its name more from its
prominence. It is clear and steep-to and rises directly from
45 the sea to a flat crown 215 m (704 ft) high.

AFC Pier, the northernmost of the private piers, is a
190 m long L-shaped pier operated by Atlas Fertilizer Corp.
A quick flashing red light beacon is displayed from the roof
of the guard house at the pier. At night, the neon-like lights 50
of the pier are seen from afar. The fertilizer plant and large
cylindrical tanks stand prominently at the root of the pier. A
crane and conveyor facility are available. The approach to
the pier is clear and deep.
55
CCC Pier, located just S of the AFC pier, is 190 m long.
It is operated by Carmen Copper Corp. It has a conveyor
facility used in transporting ores along the pier.
TPC Piers, composed of a 235 m long L-shaped pier 60
JAPITAN POINT, about 3.5 miles SW of Gorda
Point, forms the N entrance point to Barili Bay. It is a high,
rocky point with vertical cliffs, covered on top with grass
and light brushwood and fringed by a reef and shoal water
for about 0.1 mile.
BARILI BAY (CHART 4465) is entered between
Japitan and Tayong Points, about 0.6 mile SSW. The bay
can be recognized from the N by a large, conspicuous
white landslide on its S side. A coral reef, bare at low water
fringe this side of the bay. The head of the bay is filled with
mangroves, outside of which is an extensive mud flat which
bare at low water for 0.1 to 0.3 mile. A canal, passable at
high water by small boats, leads through the mangrove for

11-5
about 1 mile to the town of Barili.
BARILI is an important center for the well-cultivated
district surrounding it. Located 0.5 mile S of the mangrove
swamp at the head of the bay, it is not visible from the sea.
Barili is connected with Carcar on the E coast by a good
road. This road extends along the coast S from Barili.
JAPITAN, the barrio on the N shore of the bay, is
fronted by a 190 m long pier that serves as berthing facility
for boats that transport passenger and good to and from
Barili.
GIBUANGAN is a barrio on the S shore of the bay.
It contains a large building which forms a good landmark.
Anchorage for small vessels, in 34.7 m (19 fm), mud
bottom, may be found by bringing the building to bear 144o
and steering it, and anchoring when a small, prominent rock
on the reef off Tayong Point bears 226o.
TAYONG POINT, the S entrance point to Barili Bay,
is a rocky vertical cliff about 18 m (60 ft) high, similar to
Japitan Point. It rises at a distance of 1 mile SSE to a height
of 211 m (693 ft). Tayong Point is surrounded by a reef and
shoal water for about 0.2 mile. Near the outer edge of this
reef, 0.1 mile from the shore, is a small, round rock 1.5 to
1.8 m (5 to 6 ft) high, much underworn by the sea and very
prominent. From Tayong Point, the coast trends SW for
about 3.5 miles to Tangil Point at the entrance to Dumanjug
Bay. This coast is fringed by a narrow, steep-to, coral reef
with very deep water a short distance outside of it.
TANGIL POINT, about 3.5 miles SW of Barili Point,
is low, covered with mangroves, and surrounded by a
narrow reef.
DUMANJUG BAY (CHART 4465) is between
Tangil and Dumanjug Points. The head of the bay is shoal,
obliging vessels to lie at a considerable distance from shore.
The barrio of Tangil is in the NE corner of the bay and the
town of Dumanjug on the S shore.
DUMANJUG, one of the largest and most important
towns on the W coast of Cebu, has a large, prominent
church. Owing to the fact that it has no wharf and that the
shore in front of the town is faced by a reef which is bare
at low water, most of its business is done through Tangil.
Dumanjug is connected with Tangil N and Moalboal S by
a good road. It has postal, telephone, mobile phone, and
Internet facilities. Between Dumanjug and Tangil, the road
is carried over the reefs on a stone causeway on which there
is a conspicuous steel bridge.
TANGIL, the barrio at the head of Dumanjug Bay,
serves as the port of call for vessels calling at Dumanjug.
RoRo vessels have regular trips between Tangil and
Guihulngan in Negros Island.
In 2011, Tangil Port registered a total of 1,610
11-6
metric tons of incoming goods and 1,555 metric tons of
outgoing goods. About 20,000 passengers embarked and
disembarked at this port.
5 Major Light - Dumanjug Light (10° 04’ 18”N., 123°
26’ 46”E.) is shown from a white tower near the root of the
government pier.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
10 by CPA. The port manager may be contacted through the
following means:
Telephone: (+6332) 467-8700
Mobile phone: +63917-6331509 and +6332-3183307
15 E-mail: pmo8toledo@cpa.gov.ph
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Tangil
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8427423.
20 Berthing Facilities - The government pier is connected
to the shore by a causeway. A RoRo ramp is available.
Alongside draft ranges from 4 to 5 m (2.1 to 2.7 fm). This
pier is used by a ferry operating daily between Tangil and
Guihulngan. There is a privately-owned warehouse near the
25 pier.
Anchorage - The light steered for on a course of 095o
leads in clear to an anchorage for small vessels in 14.6
m (8 fm) about 0.1 mile WNW of the wooden landing at
30 Tangil. Anchorage may be found anywhere in Dumanjug
Bay, according to draft. Mariners are cautioned to approach
the anchorage slowly, as the depths decrease rapidly, and
allow sufficient swinging room when anchoring. A good
anchorage for a large vessel will be found in 3.6 m (2 fm)
35 with the bridge in the causeway bearing 110o and Dumanjug
church 197o. The best landing for boats is on the beach at
the mouth of the Dumanjug River, about 0.3 mile E of the
church.
40 DUMANJUG POINT, 1.5 miles SW of Tangil Point
is high, fringe with mangroves, and surrounded by a reef
about 0.1 mile wide. A depth of over 54.9 m (30 fm) is
found within 0.5 mile of Dumanjug Point.
45 From Dumanjug Point, the coast trends S with a bend
W for 4 miles to Libao Hill and is fringed with a narrow,
steep-to reef. Between Dumanjug Point and the barrio of
Santa Cruz, 2.5 miles S, there is a long ridge known as
Kambuang Hill, which has a flat top, smooth, and regular
50 outlines, making it a good landmark. With this exception,
the country in this vicinity is low and flat. The entire section
is well cultivated, principally with corn.
LIBAO HILL, 4 miles S of Dumanjug Point, is
55 small, heavily wooded, 144 m (475 ft) high, and forms a
conspicuous landmark. It may be seen from a long distance,
and vessels from the S have mistaken it for Pescador Islet.
COPTON BAY is between Copton Peninsula and the
60 mainland of Cebu. The entire bay is mostly blocked by mud
flats and reefs bare at low water. There is a narrow tortuous
channel, outlined by reefs through which 0.4 m (0.25 fm)
can be carried at low water as far as the town of Alcantara,
on the E shore of the bay. Off the entrance to this channel,
the bottom drops off abruptly to 45.7 m (25 fm).
RONDA is a small town on the E shore of the bay.
There is a 240 m long pier extending NW from the shore.
Depth of water at the extreme end of the pier is 2.5 m (1.3
fm), in 1990, off beyond. The water deepens rapidly making
anchoring impossible. Pumpboats are the most common
sea craft seen operating around with a cargo of fish.
COPTON PENINSULA is large, low flat, and
covered with coconut trees and brush. It forms the W side
of Copton Bay, and is connected with the mainland at its SE
extremity by an isthmus about 0.5 mile wide, on the S side
of which is the town of Moalboal. It is 7.6 to 15.2 m (25 to
50 ft) high and uncultivated. The W side facing Tañon Strait
is generally formed by a yellow, steep-to sandy beach.
COPTON POINT, the N extremity of Copton
Peninsula, is a rocky bluff about 4.6 m (15 ft) high, much
underworn by the sea. It is fringed by a narrow, steep-to
reef, on which are four detached, peculiarly shaped rocks, 3
to 4.6 m (10 to 15 ft) high, 18 to 45 m from shore.
TONGO POINT, the S extremity of Copton Peninsula,
is low, covered with coconut trees, and terminates in a
rocky bluff about 6 m (20 ft).
BADIAN BAY is between Tongo Point and Badian
Point about 4 miles S. Its shore, from just E of Tongo Point
to the middle of Badian Island, is fringed by a steep-to reef,
which extends 0.3 mile in places. The middle of the bay is
deep and clear. Inland of the bay, the coastal plain is about
3 miles wide. Farther inland hills rise steeply.
PESCADOR ISLAND, 9 m (30 ft) high, off the
entrance to Badian Bay, is small, flat, and rocky. It is
covered with few bushes and the shoreline is clear and
steep-to. Pescador Light (09° 55’ 27”N., 123° 20’ 33”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on the island.
MOALBOAL (CHART 4465) is a small town in the
NE corner of Badian Bay, about 1 mile E of Tongo Point.
The convent, church and bell tower are prominent, showing
white and in a group, W of the town. The shore in front of
the town is faced by a wide reef, bare at low water, over
which a new rock causeway extending 284 m long and 2.6
m wide serves the small shipping needs of the local folks.
Passengers usually conveyed back and forth to Libertad,
Negros Oriental. Cargo composed of livestock and fish
were being hauled through launders and pumpboats. The
town has a post office.
Anchorage, protected only during the SW monsoon,
may be found E of the N end of Badian Island in 36.6 to
14.6 m (20 to 8 fm) mud bottom, about 1.3 miles NW of
the town.
BADIAN ISLAND, in the S part of Badian Bay, is
720 m N of Badian Point, with which it is connected by a
reef bare at low water. It is largely planted with corn and is
108 m (356 ft) high. The S two-thirds of the area between
5 Badian Island and the mainland is blocked by reefs bare at
low water. There is a small boat channel over these reefs at
high water to the town of Badian.
BADIAN is a small town in the SE corner of Badian
10 Bay. It has church and bell tower, but they do not show well
from seaward. Badian is of little commercial importance
because of its inaccessibility from the sea. The landing is
in ruins.
15 Anchorage, protected during the SW monsoon, may
be found E of the N end of Badian Island in 36.6 to 18.3
m (20 to 10 fm) mud bottom, about 1.3 miles NW of the
town.
20 From Badian Point to GUIUANON POINT, about 5
miles SSW the coastal plain is up to 3 miles wide in places.
Thence the coast trends in a general S direction about
23.5 miles to Liloan Point, the SW extremity of Cebu,
and is fairly straight and free from bays and points of any
25 prominence. It is bold, with hills of moderate height close
to the shore, and the valleys and rivers are small. The land
is planted with corn and coconut trees grow to the tops of
the hills. The shoreline is fringed by a sand beach, and there
is a narrow coral reef for practically the entire length, the
30 edge of which is so steep-to that anchorage can only be
found in a few places where there are towns. A number of
small towns and villages are scattered along this section of
the coast.
35 ALEGRIA is a small town about 8.5 miles S of Badian
Point; it has a prominent church.
MALABUYOC, 13 miles S of Badian Point, has a
large white church with two square, sharp towers which
40 form a good landmark. In the shore is an unpaved rock
causeway extending NW for 85 m and a width of 4.2 m.
Depth of water at the offshore end of the causeway is 1.5 m
in 1990. Fish is the usual commodity traded at this landing.
45 GINATILAN, 18 miles S of Badian Point, may be
recognized by a large, white church with a high tower. It
has road connection with Malabuyoc.
SAMBOAN, 20.5 miles S of Badian Point, has two
50 white houses and a church, with two towers, erected on the
side of a hill about 46 m (150 ft) above the sea, from which
there are stone steps leading down to the beach. Samboan
church is quite conspicuous and is the most prominent
landmark in this part of the strait.
55
CULASI POINT, about 3.5 miles N of Liloan Point,
forms a little projection from the general coastline. It is the
most W point of Cebu and is low, white and rather craggy.
60 SAN SEBASTIAN (BATO) is the terminus of the
11-7
ferry from Tampi, Negros Island. There is a bus connection
to Cebu.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Bato
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63906-3212405.
Berthing Facilities - The government operates a wharf
with a berth length of about 20 m. A private wharf, with
RoRo ramps is located about 0.1 mile N of the government
wharf. Another private wharf with RoRo ramp is located
about 0.3 mile of the government wharf.
LILOAN POINT, forming the N side of the entrance
to the S end of Tañon Strait, is the terminus of a spur from
the main range of hills and can be easily recognized by its
position and also by an old, white fort standing on its E
side. It is about 15 m (50 ft) high and sparsely wooded.
Caution - Between Liloan Point and Tañon Point,
about 1.8 miles distant, an eddy in the opposite direction
passes close to the coast during flood current.
LILO-AN, a barrio located E of Liloan Point, has
various piers that cater to fast crafts and motorized boats
traveling between Santander and Sibulan in Negros Island.
Berthing Facilities - About 0.1 mile E of Liloan Point
is a small pier for use of fast crafts. About 0.3 mile E of the
point is a 50 m long jetty for use of motorized boats. A 90
m long and 95 m long piers, with RoRo ramps, are located
about 0.4 mile E of the point.
TAÑON POINT, the S extremity of Cebu is low,
sandy, and surrounded by a reef a little over 180 m wide.
Between Liloan and Tañon Points the coast consists of sand
beaches with a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm) very close-to and 31.1
to 36.6 m (17 to 20 fm) at a distance of less than 0.3 mile.
SANTANDER, a town on high ground back of Tañon
Point, is quite prominent. It has a large white church with
a tower which is very conspicuous and has stone steps
leading down to the beach. It has postal facilities, landline
communications, Internet connection, and mobile phone
services. The town has a municipal health center where
minor cases may be treated. The nearest government
hospital is in Oslob.
BULALAQUI POINT TO BAGACAY POINT
(CHART 1538 & 4405)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Cebu City (10° 16' 18"N.,
123° 53' 53"E.) cover the sea area off the coast of Cebu
Island from Bagacay Point (10° 23’ 00”N., 124° 01’ 07”E.)
Tañon Strait from southeastward
11-8
to Manlibot Point (10° 40’ 03”N., 124° 01’ 04”E). Vessels
in distress may contact the above mentioned remotely
controlled station. Vessels in distress off the coast of Cebu
Island from Manlibot Point to Bulalaqui Point may contact
5 the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have a MF
DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in
Chapter 2 for details.
From Bulalaqui Point, the coast trends S and then E to
10 Campatoc Point, 1.8 miles S of Bulalaqui Point, forming
a bay which is completely blocked by reefs, the greater
part of which are bare at low water. The shore reef, which
begins on the E side of Bulalaqui Point, extends in nearly a
straight line to about 0.3 mile E of Campatoc Point.
15
MAYA, a barrio about 0.7 mile S of Bulalaqui Point,
has a small wharf that caters to motorized boats that carry
passengers, mostly tourists, going to Malapascua Island.
20 CAMPATOC REEF is a large reef with a depth of 1.8
m (1 fm). It begins about 1.3 miles S of Campatoc Point,
extends S for a distance of 1.5 miles, and is about 0.8 mile
wide. Its inner edge is from 0.8 to 1.3 miles from shore, and
between it and the reef fringing the shore of the mainland,
25 there is a channel 0.3 mile to 0.5 mile wide, with a depth
of 12.8 m (7 fm) in the middle. Bulalaqui Point, open to
Campatoc Point bearing 343o and Tindug Point, bearing
210o, clears the E edge of Campatoc Reef.
30 From Campatoc Point, the coast trends SSW for 7
miles to Malontod Point, the N entrance point to Bogo Bay.
This coast is generally low, fringed with mangroves, and
fronted by a reef which extends 0.8 mile in places.
35 BOGO BAY (CHART 4465), between Malontod and
Nailon Points, is nearly filled with reefs, the greater part
of which are awash at low water. From Malontod Point to
Tindug Point, 1.8 miles SW, there is a bluff, rocky shoreline,
the bluffs being generally about 4.6 m (15 ft) high. From
40 Tindug Point, the remainder of the shores of the bay are
generally mangroves.
Channels - The navigable entrance of the bay is a
break in the reef about 1.9 miles NNW of Nailon Point. It
45 has a width of about 0.2 mile and a depth of 47.5 m (26 fm).
From the entrance, the channel trends W for 0.8 mile and
then divides, one arm, of no value to navigation, extending
NW, and the main channel extending SW for 0.8 mile. It
again divides, one arm extending NW. It has a pier on its
50 W bank that connects to barangay Polambato. This course
proceeds toward the entrance to Daijagon Canal, and the
other arm extending S gradually shoaled toward the town
proper of Bago, where there is a stone pier which can be
reached by ship at high water.
 Navigational Aids - The white tower of Bogo Light
(11° 05’ 10”N., 124° 01’ 34”E.) on the N side of the break
in the reef marks the entrance to the bay. Another concrete
beacon surmounted by a cone with point upward, painted
white, and with a height of 3.7 m (12 ft) above high water,
marks the edge of the reef at the S side of the channel about
0.7 mile W by S from the entrance. A similar beacon marks
the small coral shoal with a depth of 0.9 m (3 ft) in the
middle of the beach trending S and N and which should be
passed on the port hand in entering.
Danger - A sunken wreck is at the edge of the reef
about 0.2 mile W of the beacon marking the coral shoal.
Anchorage - There is a fairly good anchorage SW of
the above-mentioned shoal, about 1.3 miles N of Bogo,
where the channel widens to about 0.2 mile, in 9.1 to 11 m
(5 to 6 fm), between NNE and ESE.
POLAMBATO, a barrio just N of Baluarte Point, has
a 120 m long pier connected to the shore by a 580 m long
causeway. A RoRo ramp is available at the offshore end of
the pier. Controlling depth of water at the seaward end of
the pier was found at 1.5 m (0.8 fm). Common cargo traded
at this port are agricultural products, livestock and lumber.
Small vessels trading here make the entrance in the
morning when the sun is in the best position for seeing
the outlines of the reefs and if leaving at night, send boats
ahead to mark the channel with torches.
On a clear day, at low water, the reefs are plainly
defined showing a bright green, but with the sun in the W
and the tide high, it is hard to distinguish the reefs at the
entrance. There are numerous fish traps on the reefs, but, 35
as they are frequently moved, they are of little assistance to
the navigator. During the NE monsoon, when the wind is
strong, there is a heavy sea running, which, combined with
the current which runs down the coast with considerable
velocity, makes it hazardous to attempt to enter without 40
good way on the vessel.
BOGO CITY is on the S side of the bay. Communication
services includes landline and mobile communications,
and postal services. It has bus connections. Gasoline and
food supplies are available. There is a lumber yard at the
town. Vessels make occasional calls, coming in to the usual
anchorage and communicating with the town by boats. Its
pier was 280 m long and is connected to the shore by a
causeway. Depth of water at the extreme seaward end was
0.3 m (0.16 fm) in 1990.
NAILON POINT is low, wooded and fringed by a
narrow, steep-to reef. It may be passed at a distance of 0.5
mile. A 145 m long pier extends NE from Nailon Point.
From Nailon Point, the coast trends in a general S
direction for 40 miles to Bagacay Point, at the N entrance
to Cebu Harbor. It has a relatively narrow coastal plain
varying from 45 to 1,500 m as far as Kotkot Point where it
begins to widen. Hills rise to 123 and 152 m (400 and 500
ft), 1 mile inland from the coast, and at Carmen, they rise to
more than 670 m (2,200 ft) about 3 miles inland. This coast
is very little indented by bays, and the rivers are small and
5 of no importance to navigation. The shores are generally
fringed by narrow, steep-to, coral reefs, nowhere exceeding
0.5 mile in width. Discolored water has been seen at various
times off Managao and Catmon Points and off Liloan,
giving the impression of shoal water, but the survey failed
10 to develop any indications of this kind. Fair anchorage may
be found off Borbon, Catmon, Luyang, Danao, and to the N
of Liloan. These anchorages are exposed to the full force
of the NE monsoon and are generally very close in because
of the great depth of water.
15
SAAC POINT, 4 miles S of Nailon Point, is low,
steep, wooded bluff, clear and steep-to. From the point, the
land rises to a height of about 122 m (400 ft) at a distance
of less than 1 mile inland.
20
CAPITANCILLO ISLAND, 3.5 miles E on Saac
Point, is of coral formation and about 4.6 m (15 ft) high.
Capitancillo Light (10° 59’ 29”N., 124° 06’ 09”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on the island. The ruins of a
25 dwelling on the island is prominent. The island is steep-to
on the W side. Reefs extend to about 0.5 mile N and S and
a short distance E. The channel between Capitancillo Island
and Cebu is deep and clear.
30 ORMOC SHOAL, 3.5 miles N of Capitancillo Light,
should be avoided as there may be coral heads on it with
less depths than charted.
CALANGAMAN ISLET is 11.5 miles NE of
Capitancillo Light. It is small, low, about 3 m (10 ft) high
wooded, and surrounded by reefs partly bare at low water.
Shoal water extends 0.5 mile W from it.
Anchorage sheltered from the sea during the NE
monsoon may be found off the S side of Calangaman Islet
in 14.6 m (8 fm).
NUÑEZ SHOAL, 2 miles SW of the W end of
Calangaman Islet, is a small coral patch with a depth of 5.5
45 m (3 fm).
PAMOBOAN POINT is about 2.3 miles S of Saac
Point. Between these points, the coastline is irregular and
consists of a bold, rocky ledge 6 to 9 m (20 to 30 ft) high,
50 back of which the land rises rapidly.
TABOGON BAY is located between Pamoboan and
Bantulin Points. The town of Tabogon is about midway
between the points. It is partly obscured by trees. It has a 70
55 m long pier. The waters off Tabogon is too deep to afford
anchorage. Landline and mobile phone communications
are available.
BANTULIN POINT, 2.5 miles S of Pamoboan Point,
60 is a steep clay bluff about 15 m (50 ft) high, back of which
11-9
the land rises to a height of over 122 m within 0.5 mile
of the point. It may be recognized from N by a bare cliff,
showing white on its N side.
MANAGAO POINT, about 2 miles S of Bantulin
Point, is low, rocky, and steep-to. The hills slope down to
the shore here and rise gradually to heights of 91 to 122
m (299 to 400 ft) at a distance of 1 mile inland. Managao
Point is the most E point on Cebu and very prominent from
N or S. South of Managao Point, the coast trends westward
for 0.3 mile, forming a small cove which affords anchorage
for small crafts. The white roof of the schoolhouse at
Tagnukan, 0.5 mile SW of Managao Point, is prominent.
BORBON is a town in a bend in the coast, at the
mouth of the Jimuguit River, about 3 miles S of Managao
Point. A church with a galvanized-iron roof, standing on
an elevation S of the town, is a good landmark, although
reported obscured to same extent by trees. There is a 42
by 98 m reclamation area, constructed of earth and sand
fill which is retained by rock bulkheads where boats used
to land cargo and passenger. This place of landing is just
behind the National Highway. Boats have cargoes of either
fish, rice, corn and vegetable. A wreck, bare at 0.3 m (2 ft)
during high water, is on the edge of the reef about 36 m (40
yards) SE from the landing.
JIMUGUIT RIVER is small and can be entered only
by pulling boats at high water. The shore reef N and E of
Borbon is quite extensive and is backed by a thick growth
of mangroves.
Anchorage is about 0.1 mile off the edge of the shore
reef in 36.6 m (20 fm) mud bottom, with the church of
Borbon bearing 294o.
BINGKAY POINT, about 5 miles S of Managao Point,
is a rocky bluff about 6 m (20 ft) high, covered with small
trees and brush. A series of these bluffs with an occasional
short strip of white sand beach form the coastline for 1 mile
on each side of this point, the central and most prominent
being the point proper.
SOGOD BAY is between Bingkay Point and Catmon
Point, 4 miles S. The bay is entirely open to E winds and sea
but generally deep and clear close to the shore. About 1.8
miles SW of Bingkay Point is a very peculiar steep sided
gulch 9 to 12 m (30 to 40 ft) deep that extends inland for
nearly 1 mile and up. A concrete landing occupies the gulch
entrance. About 0.5 mile S of the gulch is a prominent cliff
17 m (56 ft) high. A reef 90 to 270 m wide fringes the coast
from here to the town of Sogod and 1 mile S from it.
SOGOD, a town at the head of Sogod Bay, shows well
from seaward, being on a slope and having but few trees to
hide the houses. The church on an elevated ground back of
the town has a galvanized-iron roof and is prominent from
the E and NE. The municipal building about 0.3 mile to the
S also shows to NE. The town’s landing area is a 49 m by
34 m reclaimed land. Controlling depth of water along the
11-10
sides was between 1.4 to 1.7 m (0.7 to 0.9 fm) in 1990.
Major Light - Sogod Light (10° 45’ 05”N., 124° 00’
15”E.) is displayed at the landing area.
5
CATMON POINT is low and is composed of dark
sand and gravel. It is formed by discharge from the Bau
River, which empties through the point. Thick coconut
groves line the shore on both sides of the point. Prominent
10 white tanks used to store LPG are located N of the point.
Dolphins and offshore fueling facilities are located E of the
tanks.
CATMON is a town on the shore about 0.8 mile S
15 of Catmon Point. It is almost entirely concealed from
seaward by coconut trees. The church at Catmon stands on
an elevation about 18 m (59 ft) high, about 0.5 mile S of
Catmon Point. It is very prominent, having a galvanized-
iron roof with a prominent tower surmounted by a dome at
20 the S extremity of the building.
The highway bridge across the Panalipan River, 1 mile
N of Binongkalan Point, shows prominently to seaward.
25 BINONGKALAN POINT, 6 miles S of Catmon
Point, is low, is composed of dark rock and is steep-to. The
barrio of Binongkalan, on the slope immediately W of the
point, is composed of a cluster of brown houses and shows
well form seaward. Between Catmon and Binongkalan are
30 a number of small villages.
LUYANG, a good-sized barrio, is at the mouth of the
river of the same name in a bend of the coast 1.8 miles S
from Binongkalan Point. The bar of the Luyang River is
35 shoal and can only be crossed at high water by small craft.
A stranded wreck lies in a position about 0.4 mile NNE of
the river entrance. Another stranded wreck lies less than 1
mile SE of the river mouth.
40 From Luyang River, the coast trends S for 1.5 miles,
forming a low, narrow peninsula which terminates In POO
POINT. This Peninsula forms the E side of the small well-
protected anchorage of Port Carmen.
45 PORT CARMEN (CHART 4465) is nearly filled with
reefs and mud flats and affords a very limited anchorage
area consisting of a channel about 0.3 mile long and 90 to
135 m wide, having a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) or more. The
edges of the reefs fringing the anchorage are steep-to.
50
The entrance, which has a width of about 0.1 mile and
a depth of 12.8 to 16.5 m (7 to 9 fm) is at the S extremity
of the reef which extends about 0.3 mile SE from Poo
Point. From the middle of the entrance, the church at
55 Carmen, the top of which is visible over the trees, bears
294o. A rocky ledge, awash at low water, extends from the
shore toward the middle of the entrance and forms the S
side of Port Carmen. On the S side of this ledge, there is a
narrow, tortuous channel leading S which is of little value
60 to navigation, being passable only by small crafts. The
channel N of this reef has a least width of about 0.1 mile
and leads to the anchorage of Port Carmen.
Prominent Features - A prominent clump of 5
mangroves stands on the edge of the reef S from Poo
Point. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete pole for a proposed light
stands inside this clump of mangroves. Immediately W
from it, there is a noticeable sand spit which is covered
at half tide, but may usually be recognized by the color 10
of the water. This sand spit may be rounded close-to by
vessels entering. 0.2 mile SW of Poo Point are large white
tanks for storing LPG. Inside the port, the water is usually
muddy, and only at low water do the reefs show plainly.
Fish weirs are scattered over the shoal parts of the port and 15
along the reefs. A large cement factory with two tall stacks
stands about 0.75 mile WSW of Poo Point. Except for the
concrete pole and the two stacks, there are no other aids to
navigation nor prominent landmarks, and a stranger should
enter cautiously being guided principally by the color of the 20
water on the reefs, which are steep-to.
Danger - A stranded wreck lies on the seaward edge
of the reef in a position about 0.3 mile ESE of Poo Point.
Anchorage for small vessels may be found W of the
previously mentioned clump of mangroves in 9.1 m (5 fm)
or about 0.1 mile farther N in 4 to 7.3 to 8.2 m (4.5 fm). The
anchorage area W of the clump of mangrove is designated
as graving harbor.
CARMEN is a town on the W side of the port at an
elevation of about 12 m (40 ft) and is partly concealed by
trees. The church may be seen over Poo Point from seaward
and also from the entrance to the channel, but is obscured
from the anchorage; it is not prominent at any time. The
municipal building is more prominent. Landline telephone
and mobile phone services are available.
Berthing Facility - A T-headed pier is located about
0.8 mile from the entrance of Port Carmen. A causeway
connects the pier to the shore.
Repair - A medium-sized shipyard, operated by Danao
Republic Drydock, lies about 1.7 miles SE of Carmen. It
Government pier of Danao.
(Photograph - Cebu Ports Authority, Undated)
has 2 slipways that can accommodate vessel of up to
1,200 tons. Repair facilities for yachts are available in the
shipyard.
COGON is a village at the head of the port about
0.5 mile N of Carmen, and the villages of Dauis and Villa
Hermosa are on the shore 0.5 and 2 miles, respectively, S
of Carmen.
CATADMAN POINT, about 2 miles S of Poo Point,
is formed by the wide shore reef, heavily overgrown with
mangroves, giving it the appearance of solid land. This
point is quite conspicuous from N or S. The reefs extending
1 mile N and S of Catadman Point are thickly covered with
mangroves and their edges are steep-to.
DANAO is the largest and most important city in
the N part of Cebu. There is a prominent church near the
beach, but due to thick coconut groves, the church and
surrounding buildings, with red tiled roofs, are only visible
between 220° and 350°. The beach in front of the city is
of dark sand. Post, telephone, mobile phone and radio are
available means of communication. RoRo vessels and ferry
25 boats have daily trips between Danao and Camotes Islands.
In 2018, Danao Port registered a total of 5,618 TEUs
of containerized cargo and 3,671,234 metric tons of non-
containerized cargo. A total of 9,178 domestic vessels and
30 34 foreign vessels called at this port.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Danao
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8427205
and +63998-5858297.
35
Port Management - The government pier fronting
the city is operated by CPA. The port manager may be
contacted through the following means:
40 Telephone: (+6332) 200-3345
Mobile phone: +63925-5111088
E-mail: pmo6danao@cpa.gov.ph
Berthing Facilities - The government pier has 125 m
45 berth length. Two RoRo ramps are available.
A wharf with stairlandings is located about 0.2 mile S
of the government pier. The wharf serves as the fish port
for the city.
Anchorage, exposed during the NE monsoon, may be
found E of the church, about 0.3 mile from the shore, in 37
m (20 fm), mud and sand bottom.
DANAO POINT, about 1 mile S of Danao, has a
bare and steep appearance. The point is occupied by beach
resorts. Deep water is found close to the fringing reef,
which is of dark rock and moderate width. The blue-roofed
buildings of an electronics company about 0.8 mile SW of
the point are prominent.
11-11
 COMPOSTELA, a town located 3 miles SSW of
Danao Point, has a church that stands on the beach and
faces E. The town is visible only between the bearings
of 294° and 350° because of the thick coconut groves
bordering the coast in the area. A motorcycle maker and a 5
car manufacturer are the two most important establishments
in the area. The PAGASA tower located 0.75 miles NNW
of the church is also a prominent landmark. The ruins of a
railroad concrete bridge 0.5 mile N of Compostela and the
300 m length of seawall on the public market are visible 10
from seaward. The shore for 3 miles N and for 1 mile S
of Compostela is fringed by an almost unbroken narrow,
steep-to reef. There is a little sand beach and the rest of
the shoreline is mostly gravel with a few stretches of rocky
ledges. There is a Yacht Club located at the boundary of 15
Compostela and Danao. No hospital in the town but health
centers and private clinics are available. Telephone, mobile
phones and the Internet are the available communications
system.
KOTKOT POINT, 5 miles SSW of Danao Point, near
the mouth of the river of the same name, is low and not
prominent except from N. It is fringed by a very prominent
beach which extends as far S as Liloan. In the vicinity of
the mouth of the Kotkot River shoal water extends about
0.5 mile.
LILOAN (LILO-AN), a town in a bend on the coast
midway between Kotkot and Bagacay Points, has a large
church with galvanized iron roof standing close to the beach
beside the national school of Liloan. Several factories,
stone craft furniture, and poultry products are exported by
the town. Telephone, mobile phone communications, and
Internet connection are available.
Repair Facilities - A private shipyard by the name of
Michael Shipways is at the mouth of Liloan River. Fresh
water is available while ships are undergoing repairs at the
shipyard.
Danger - A small reef with rock awash is about 0.3
mile NE of Liloan Church and 0.2 mile from shore.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication are present
Bantolinao Point Light (green tower) and the prominent chimney at Bantolinao Point is the prominent feature at the N entrance.
Bantolinao Point.
(Photograph - Lt Aaron Andro V Ching, 2014)
11-12
off the coast of Liloan. Anchoring and fishing within the
vicinity of the submarine cables are prohibited.
LILOAN RIVER, connects Silut Lagoon with the
sea. The entrance to Silut Lagoon is blocked by a bridge.
SILUT LAGOON is shallow body of water S of
Liloan. The greater part of this lagoon has a depth of 0.3 to
0.6 m (1 to 2 ft) at low water. Some portions of the lagoon
which bare at low water are covered with mangroves. It is
connected with the sea by a narrow channel having rocky
sides covered with sand, through which the tidal current
rushes with considerable velocity. Sand bars exist at both
ends of this channel. At low water, 0.9 m (3 ft) may be
carried over the outer bar; the inner bar is bare in spots at
half tide, and at low water not more than 0.3 to 0.6 m (1 to
2 ft) can be carried into the lagoon.
BAGACAY POINT, the N entrance point to the N
20 approach to Cebu Harbor, is low, rugged, and surrounded
by rocks for about 180 m. The point is about 7.6 m (25 ft)
high at the extremity and rises gradually to about 30 m (100
ft) about 0.5 mile inland. Bagacay Light (10° 23’ 00”N.,
124° 01’ 07”E.) is displayed about 0.2 mile W of the point.
25 There is a small pier NE of the light.
Between Bagacay Point and Cansaga Bay, about 3.6
miles SW is a fringing reef which attains its greatest width
of 0.5 mile about 2.6 miles S of Bagacay Point. A buoy is
30 moored on the edge of this reef, about 1.8 miles SSW of the
same point.
CEBU HARBOR
(CHART 4446 & 4447)
35
Cebu Harbor, one of the finest harbors in the
Philippines, is that portion of the strait between Mactan
Island and the Island of Cebu within the following
boundaries: an imaginary line extending from Bantolinao
40 Point, Mactan Island, due N to a point on the shore of the
island of Cebu; and an imaginary line extending from Lauis
Ledge, Mactan Island, to Lipata point, Cebu Island.
The harbor can be entered by all classes of vessels
either from the NE or from the S. The NE channel is narrow
with a least navigable width of 135 m and a controlling
depth of 8.8 m (4.75 fm). It is comparatively straight and
well-marked with beacons, buoys, and lights. The channel
through the S approach is about 0.5 mile wide at the
narrowest point. From the marginal wharf to the edge of the
reef extending from Mactan Island, the width of the harbor
is 450 to 540 m and general depths of 9.1 m (4.9 fm).
Prominent Features in Cebu Harbor are the Provincial
Capitol dome, Customhouse tower, gravity tanks, and
several church towers, all of which are shown on the chart.
The red and white chimney of a power plant at
 Marcelo Fernan Bridge as viewed from the N entrance.
Mandaue-Mactan Bridge as viewed from the NE.
(Photograph - Lt Aaron Andro V Ching, 2014)
Major Lights - Vessels navigating the S entrance to
Cebu Harbor is marked by the following lights:
Lauis Ledge Light (10° 14’ 12”N., 123° 53’ 26”E.)
is displayed from a white tower located on a concrete
platform. It marks the shallow area on the E side of the
entrance to the S channel.
Cauit Light (10° 16’ 17”N., 123° 52’ 56”E.) is displayed
from a white tower at Cauit.
Shell Island Light (10° 17’ 07”N., 123° 54’ 05”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on Shell Island.
Vessels navigating the N channel to Cebu Harbor are
guided by the following lights:
Bantolinao Point Light (10° 20’ 12”N., 123° 59’ 07”E.)
is displayed from a green tower 0.2 mile NW of Bantolinao
Point. The light marks the edge of the reef.
Porter Light (10° 21’ 19”N., 124° 00’ 07”E.) is
displayed from a red, blue, and white tower, about 1.5 miles
NE of Bantolinao Point.
Bagacay Light (10° 23’ 00”N., 124° 01’ 07”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on Bagacay Point.
Lighted buoys were placed within the harbor to mark
dangers and to assist vessels navigating within the channel.
Refer to the nautical charts for details.
Dangers - Lipata Bank, partly bare at low water, is
in the middle of the S entrance between Lipata Point and
Lauis Ledge. Its E edge is marked by a black buoy about
0.3 mile E of the bare part. Its S edge is marked by a buoy
5 that exhibits flashing white light.
Narvaez Reef, having a depth of 2.1 m (1.1 fm) is of
coral formation about 0.2 mile NW Lipata Bank. A buoy,
with flashing white light, was placed about 0.1 mile from
10 the 10 m (5.4 fm) curve of this reef. Several fish traps mark
this reef and also around the edge of Lipata Bank.
Bogo Shoal, Osteng Shoal, and Lagundi Shoal,
stretching nearly E and W, about 1 mile S of the town of
15 Talisay, and 2 miles SW of Lipata Bank, have depths of 4.8,
7.2, and 4.7 m (2.6, 3.9 and 2.5 fm) respectively.
A sunken wreck was reported to exist at 0.5 mile ENE
of Bogo Shoal.
20
Campanario Shoal, with a depth of 4.3 m (2.3 fm), is
about 1 mile NNE of Lipata Bank. It is marked by a buoy
on the S side.
25 Two small, unmarked patches with depths of 8.3 and
8.6 m (4.5 and 4.7 fm) are in mid-channel about 0.2 mile
SW of Pier 1 should be avoided.
Banilad Shoals, on the W side of the channel halfway
30 between the entrance and the S entrance to the harbor, has
several rocks bare at low water. A buoy, with flashing white
light, marks the shoal’s least depth.
11-13
 Several other shoal spots and wrecks are indicated on
the chart in the N and S entrances to the harbor. Wrecks are
also present within the harbor. Refer to Charts 4446 & 4447
for details.
Restrictions - Foreign ships are not allowed to pass
through the N entrance due to the bridges connecting
Mandaue City and Mactan Island. Domestic ships of 23 m
height and length of 91.4 m may pass with utmost care.
The Mandaue-Mactan Bridge and the Marcelo Fernan
Bridge crossing the Cebu Strait have clearances of about
23.2 m (76 ft) at high water and about 24.4 m (80 ft) at low
water.
Speed Limit - Vessels in Cebu Harbor are prohibited
to exceed the established 8 knots speed limit.
Tidal Currents run NE during flood and SW during
ebb with an average velocity of 1 knot in the channel.
Maximum velocity of 2 knots may be expected. The times
of the slack water coincide closely with those of high
and low water of Cebu. At high water, there is usually a
period about 2 hrs of variable currents, from 0.2 to 0.3
knot, swinging gradually through S. At low water, there
is a similar period with the currents swinging through N.
Maximum velocities are usually midway between high and
low water.
During flood there is a strong eddy off the fort, SE
of Pier 1. It is most violent at spring tides but practically
disappears during the neaps. The reverse current is reported
to start about 1.5 hrs after the beginning of the flood and is
felt in the area alongside the marginal wharves and piers
inside a line drawn from the angle of the marginal wharf off
Fort San Pedro across the end of Pier 1.
During the ebb, the eddy is felt through an arc of about
035o from the marginal wharf and SW of the point of the
marginal wharf previously mentioned.
An additional eddy current, reverse in direction, is
experienced at berths 1 and 2 immediately E of the jetty
during the flood.
Tides - The tide tables published annually by NAMRIA
include predictions for each day of the year for Cebu.
Directions - Southern Approach to Cebu: The best
channel for entering Cebu from S is that between Lipata
Bank and Lauis Ledge. The channels N of Bogo, Osteng,
and Lagundi Shoals, and W of Lipata Bank and Campanario
Shoal are not recommended.
The recommended course to steer for vessels entering
Cebu Harbor through the Southern Approach is 004º.
Inbound lane of the mandated sea lane starts when Lauis
Ledge Light bears 090º. Vessels steer the course while
maintaining a steady distance of between 240 to 360 m
from Lauis Ledge Light. Inbound lane ends when Cauit
11-14
Light bears 270º.
Outbound vessels from Cebu Harbor will start at the
outbound lane when Cauit Light bears 270º, steer course
5 184º and proceeding until Lauis Ledge Light bears 090º.
Northern Approach to Cebu: To enter by the N
approach from a position with Bagacay Light bearing 315o,
distance 1 mile, steer 235o for Bantolinao Point Light.
10 When Bantolinao Point Light bears 180o, distance about
247 m, follow mid-channel courses to the wharves at Cebu.
The controlling depth in the channel is 9 m (4.9 fm), the
narrowest path is about 135 m wide and a depth of 9 to 16.5
m (4.9 to 9 fm).
15
Reporting System - Inbound and outbound vessels are
advised to broadcast their intentions through VHF Channel
16.
20 Port Management - The Cebu Port Authority (CPA),
a separate entity from the PPA, manages the ports in the
province in Cebu. Cebu City is its baseport. The port
manager may be contacted at telephone no. (+6332) 255-
8289 and fax no. (+6332) 231-6848.
25
In 2018, Cebu Port registered a total of 856,793 TEUs
of incoming and outgoing container cargo. The port also
registered about 10,663,647 metric tons of incoming
and outgoing non-containerized cargo. A total of 51,144
30 domestic vessels and 607 foreign vessels called at the port.
Customs - The customs office, located within the port
area, may be contacted at telephone no. (+6332) 273-0939.
Custom officials board either at quarantine area or with the
35 pilots.
Immigration - The immigration office in Cebu City
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6332) 340-1473.
40 Quarantine – The Bureau of Quarantine may be contacted
at telephone nos. (+6332) 232-2072 and (+6332) 233-4283.
The Plant Quarantine Service may be contacted at telephone
nos. (+6332) 256-1396 and (+6332) 238-3048. The Bureau
of Animal Industry may be contacted at telephone no.
45 (+6332) 253-5464.
Fisheries - The regional office of BFAR in Cebu City
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6332) 415-1421, fax
no. (+6332) 256-2776, and e-mail: region7@bfar.da.gov.
50 ph.
Distress & Rescue - Vessels in distress within Cebu
Harbor should immediately contact Coast Guard Station
Cebu at VHF Channel 16. The station may also be contacted
55 at telephone no. (+6332) 416-6208, VSAT telephone nos.
8200 to 8203, mobile phone nos. +63998-5856252 and
+63917-6221624, and e-mail: cgs.cebu@coastguard.gov.
ph.
60 Pilotage is compulsory when entering through either
the N or S Channels and in berthing. 48 hrs and 24 hrs
advance notice should be sent to the pilot association.
Contact should be established (Call: Cebu Pilots) via VHF
Channel 16, two hrs before arrival. Masters of ships should
mention in their messages to shipping agents and to the
Cebu Pilot’s Association which channel will be used in
entering and the present draft of the vessel in order to avoid
unnecessary delay. Vessels are boarded at the N entrance
at position about 1.9 miles NE of Bantolinao Point Light,
and at the S entrance at about 0.5 mile SW of Lauis Ledge
Light. A lookout is maintained day and night in the tower
of the Customhouse.
Anchorage - At the S entrance, the anchorage area for
vessels not wishing to berth at any port in Cebu Harbor is
located in the vicinity of Narvaez Reef. At the N entrance,
the anchorage area for idle vessels is located at Magallanes
Bay, NE of Mactan Island.
Anchorage areas for vessels waiting to berth and for
foreign vessels discharging cargoes is located in the area
NE of Cauit Light. Anchorage area is also present within
Cebu Harbor. Consult Charts 4446 and 4447 for details on
the anchorage areas.
Quarantine Anchorage is located in the area about
0.3 mile NW of Lauis Ledge Light and NE of Cauit Light.
CANSAGA BAY is a large shallow bay on the N
side of the N entrance to Cebu Harbor. It is bordered by
drying mud flats and a number of rocks lie in the entrance.
A bridge, connecting Mandaue City and Consolacion town,
crosses the entrance.
Repair Facilities - Three shipyard companies operate
at N coast of the entrance to Cansaga Bay. The shipyards
can service vessels with draft up to 6 m and maximum
DWT of 12,000 tons. The shipyards supply fresh water to
ships while under repair. About 2 miles NE of the mouth of
Cansaga Bay is the Porter’s Marina that has facilities for
repairing yachts. Porter Light marks the facility.
MANDAUE, a city on the NW side of the N
channel leading to Cebu, is distinguished by the NW
end of Mandaue-Mactan Bridge and just S of the mouth 45
Cebu International Port (foreign berths) as viewed from the E.
(Photograph - Lt Aaron Andro V Ching, 2014)
of Butuanon River. Sufficient supply of fuel oils can be
obtained in the city as there are several oil companies
with fuel depot. Food, fresh water, ice and other important
items are in good supply. Landline communication, mobile
5 phone services, postal service, and Internet connection are
available. Land transportation to Cebu City and other towns
of Cebu Province is always available.
The columns of Marcelo Fernan Bridge, N of the
10 two bridges connecting the islands of Cebu and Mactan,
were lighted to serve as entrance light when entering Cebu
Harbor from the N.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
15 Mandaue City may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8427162 and +63998-5858297.
Berthing Facilities - About 0.2 mile E of the Mandaue-
Mactan Bridge is the Petron pier and installations. The
20 silver-colored cylindrical tanks at the base of the pier
are prominent. About 0.2 mile SW of Petron pier are the
landing for ferries bound to Lapu-Lapu City.
The government wharf, about 1 mile W of Petron Pier,
25 is used by vessels that load passengers and general cargoes.
It has an open storage of 1,200 sq m. Forklifts are available
CEBU (CHART 4446 & 4447), a chartered city
and the capital of the province of the same name, is near
30 the middle of the E side of Cebu Island. It is on a large
plain at the foot of the mountain chain which traverses the
length of the island and faces the strait which separates it
from Mactan Island. It is a port of entry and one of the
most important shipping centers in the Philippines. Hotel
35 accommodations are available.
Hospitals are available in Cebu. Dental, maternity, and
other clinics are also available. Drug stores have complete
stocks of drugs and medicine.
40
Cebu is connected with all parts of the archipelago
by numerous lines of domestic passenger ferries. Foreign
vessels make regular calls. Most of the important towns are
connected by bus transportation. Cebu is only an hour flight
from Metro Manila and less than an hour by air travel from
11-15
the cities of Mindanao and the Visayas. Post, telephone,
mobile phone communication and Internet connection are
available. Major airlines have daily flights to Manila and
other major cities. Regular flights to Japan, China, and
other Southeast Asian countries are also available.
Water, ice, fresh meat, and stores of all descriptions
may be obtained. Major oil companies have depots in
Cebu and Mandaue. These companies have fair berthing
facilities and fuel oil may be obtained directly from these
installations by arrangements. Bulk bunker fuel and Diesel
oil can be secured in unlimited quantities, vessels being
served usually by lighter. Some gasoline is stored in bulk.
Kerosene and lubricating oil are plentiful. Fresh water at
the government wharf.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Cebu
City may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
5856252 and +63917-6221624.
Berthing Facilities, composed of wharves and piers,
front Cebu City coast from Fort San Pedro to the mouth
of Mahiga Creek and are subdivided into domestic and
foreign berths.
The marginal wharf is composed of a general-purpose
berth (Section D) of 1,265 m length. Northward of this
berth is the 690 m long container berth (Section E). Other
berths are the 816-m (Section A), 262-m (Section B), 494-
m (Section C), 193-m (Berth No. 7), and 258-m (Berth No.
8) wharves. These berths has a draft of 8.5 m below MLLW.
Just S are the three piers, 155 m long at right angles to
the main frontage. A RoRo ramp with two RoRo berths is
also available at the port. Domestic ports can accommodate
vessels with draft up to 6.5 m below MLLW.
Ludo Factory has 182 m long T-pier with a draft
limitation of 12.1 m.
Storage facilities for the international port are
composed of 45 reefer container plugs with back-up
generator set and 1,830 TEU ground slots and warehouses.
Domestic port has approximately 30 hectares of open
storage area.
The port has gantry cranes, a level luffing crane, reach
stackers, forklifts, and prime movers.
Repairs - There are several shipbuilders, ship repairers
and machine shops where ordinary repairs can be made.
The Keppel Shipyard at Lapu-Lapu City, on Mactan Island,
is well equipped to handle all kinds of repair work.
Other shipyards are also present in Cebu City, Mandaue
City, and in Cansaga Bay. There are other machines shops
where minor repairs can be made.
MACTAN ISLAND, forming the S side of Cebu
harbor, consists of an old coral reef raised for the greater
11-16
part 2.4 to 3 m (8 to 10 ft) above the present sea level. Its
SW shores are generally fringed with mangroves.
The island is well populated. It has many beach resorts
5 on the east side while fishponds, factories, small shipyards,
and residential homes abound on the west side facing Cebu
City. Various corporations have factories at the Mactan
Export Processing Zone (MEPZ). The Shangri-La Hotel
near Punta Engaño Point is one of the biggest hotels in the
10 island, while nearby are also medium-sized apartments
and tourist lodging houses. The road network is easily
accessible around and inside the island.
There is an international airport on the island that
15 displays an aviation light (10° 18’ 52”N., 123° 58’ 41”E.).
An aeronautical radio beacon transmits from a tower about
1 mile SW of the light.
LAPU-LAPU CITY is within the harbor limits of
20 Cebu Harbor, on the NW side of Mactan Island. The
principal oil companies in the Philippines have installations
in this city with berthing facilities for bunkering vessels.
The General Milling Corporation operates a flour mill at
Lapu-Lapu City. Its wharf can accommodate ocean-going
25 vessels. A ferry service between Cebu and Mactan Island is
available for motor vehicles at Mandaue. Opon Light (10°
18’ 49”N., 123° 56’ 53”E.) is displayed on its pier.
Berthing Facilities - Coming from the N, the first
30 berthing facility of Lapu-Lapu City that will be encountered
is the General Milling Corp. wharf. A little to the SW of it
are the government ferry wharf and the drydock slipways
of Keppel Cebu. Further S, it is the Caltex wharf and the
Philippine Navy pier. One mile SW of Caltex wharf is the
35 pier, which is connected to Mactan Island by a causeway,
operated by Gothong Southern Shipping.
Pilotage to all of the piers and wharves along the shore
of Lapu-Lapu City is compulsory.
40
BANTOLINAO POINT is on the N part of the island.
From it extends a reef about 1 mile ENE and is marked at the
outer edge by a black can buoy and Bantolinao Point Light
(10° 20’ 12”N., 123° 59’ 07”E.). The edge is also generally
45 marked by fish traps. The shore from Bantolinao Point to
Mandaue-Opon Bridge beside the wharf of General Milling
Corp. is fringed by a very narrow, steep-to reef marked by
beacon.
50 The facility of Cebu Yacht Club is located about 0.7
mile SW of Bantolinao Point Light. It can accommodate
vessels up 91.4 m (300 ft) LOA and maximum draft of 6 m.
MAGELLAN BAY is E of Bantolinao Point. The head
55 of this bay is blocked with reefs, and there are a number of
shoal patches in the middle. Magellan’s Monument stands
near the shore at the head of the bay about 2 miles SW
of Bantolinao Point. An obstruction, with a swept depth
of 12.4 m (6.75 fm), lies in the middle of the bay about
60 1.1 miles W of Panguian Point. The bay is designated as
anchorage area for vessels not wishing to berth at the piers
at Cebu Harbor.
PANGUIAN POINT, the NE extremity of the Mactan,
is clear and steep-to, as is also the SE side of the island
to the barrio of Marigondon, where the shore reef begins
to widen and continues SW for about 4.5 miles and then
curves NW surrounding Lauis Ledge.
The SW part of Mactan Island has been worn away by
the sea, leaving a large reef which extends about 2.5 miles
SW. On that portion of the reef immediately fronting the
City of Cebu are a few pillar-like blocks which are very
conspicuous from the anchorage. The surface of the reef
is scooped out into irregular basins and sharp projecting
pinnacles and covered with mud. The remainder of the reef
is bare almost to the edge of the water at extreme low tides.
At high water, it is covered, and only a few mangrove-
covered islets, some fishermen’s huts built on great rock
piles, the discolored water, and the numerous fish traps
indicate the presence and the limits of the reef.
CORDOVA, the town on the SW portion of Mactan
Island, has an existing jetty, about 120 m long connected
by causeway to the shore. Pumpboats dock alongside the
jetty at high tide. A wharf is located about 1 mile NW of
the town. Only small boats can use the wharf because of
the shallow depth in the area. During LW, passengers must
walk on water to reach the shore.
LAUIS LEDGE, the SW part of the reef, is marked
by a small coral islet on which is generally one or two
fishermen’s huts. The W limit of the shoals off Lauis Ledge
Lighthouse (10° 14’ 12”N., 123° 53’ 26”E.) is marked by
a red nun buoy. The concrete house, where the light is
located, is partly destroyed.
From Lauis Ledge Light, the edge of the reef extends
N a curve E for a distance of 3 miles to the beacon which
marks its NW extremity and is generally steep-to.
HILUTANGAN CHANNEL, separating Olango
Island and Mactan Island, is more than 2 miles wide,
straight, deep and free from obstruction.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable is
present in Hilutangan Channel. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
OLANGO ISLAND, 2.3 miles SE of Mactan Island,
is 4.3 miles long NE and SW, of irregular shape, low and
cultivated.
MABINI POINT, the NE extremity, is clear and
steep to. The W and E sides are fringed with reefs, and 55
from the S side a wide reef, bare at low water, extends SW
for 4.5 miles and surround Sulpa, Camungi, Hilutangan, from it, the coast trends SW for 15 miles to Carcar Point.
Panganan, Caohagan and Lassuan Islets, which are simply The towns of Talisay, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando,
continuations of Olango. and a number of barrios are along this coast.
On Olango Island, half of the E, the N and most of
the W shores are overhanging bluffs of porous, sharp,
jagged coral. Most of the S shore is exposed of coral rock
with occasional deposits of sand in which grass and a few
5 scattered mangroves have taken root. The barrios of Santa
Rosa and San Vicente (Poo) are on the W side of the island.
Olango is the only island of this group which has a supply
of fresh water.
10 In the beach of Santa Rosa is a rock causeway, with a
pier at the offshore end, extending NW for about 0.6 mile.
RoRo vessels have daily trips between this pier and Lapu-
Lapu City.
15 Hilutangan, Lassuan, and Caohagan islands are
characterized by attractive resorts, with beautiful rocky and
sandy coastlines. Tourists from Mactan often visit these
islands using specially hired pumpboats from Maribago,
Lapu-Lapu City and at different resorts along the E side of
20 Mactan Island.
HILUTANGAN ISLET, about 2.5 miles SW of
Olango, is rocky and about 2 m (7 ft) high on the W part.
The E part is low and sandy and covered with houses of
25 Barrio Gilutungan. Three white-roofed resort houses are
prominent on the E point of the island. Except at low water,
Hilutangan provides, on the N side, a much used shelter
for bancas during rough weather. A long stretch of shallow
coral reefs in the SW direction exists in the S of the islet.
30
LASSUAN ISLET, locally known as Nalusuan
Island, is 1 mile SE of Hilatungan. It is the smallest and
most S islet of this group. It is close to the edge of the
reef and is composed of sand, with a partly exposed coral
35 foundation. Resort houses at the S & E shore of the island
are conspicuous. A jetty extends about 0.1 mile SE from the
SE point of the island.
OLANGO CHANNEL, separating Olango Island
40 from the reefs surrounding Danajon Bank and the reefs SW
of it, is about 2 miles wide at its narrowest part, between
Caohangan and Cabulan Islets, and is deep and clear.
LIPATA POINT TO TAÑON POINT
45 (CHARTS 1548, 4429 & 4430)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled coast
stations with VHF DSC alerting in Cebu City (10° 16' 18"N.,
123° 53' 53"E.) and Tagbilaran City (09° 38' 56"N., 123° 50'
50 50"E.) cover the sea area off the coast of Cebu Island from
Lipata Point to Santa Monica Point (09° 32' 53"N., 123° 27'
02"E.). Vessels in distress may contact the above mentioned
remotely controlled stations. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
LIPATA POINT is at the entrance of Cebu Harbor and
60
11-17
 The interior is rock, coral formation, broken and
rough, but nearly all cultivated. The hills have been eroded
into steep gullies whose general direction is at right angles
to the coast. Much of the shore is bordered by mangroves
which in places give way to mud and the mud grass and
cultivated land without any definite high water mark. Most
of the coastline is fringed with steep-to coral reefs, and
there are a few places where a small boat can land at low
water in rough weather.
LANGTAD POINT is located just S of Tinaan
Anchorage. From Lipata Point to this point are numerous
detached reefs lying 1 to 1.5 miles from shore, and this part
of the coast should be given a good berth. In front of the
town of Minglanilla, in which there is a prominent church
with a large tree, are numerous passages between the reefs,
but the bottom is very uneven and the channels too narrow
and tortuous to be of any value. S of Tinaan Anchorage,
the shore reef is narrow and steep-to until Carcar Point is
reached, and there are no off-lying dangers.
MINGLANILLA is a highly urbanized town 4 miles
E of Lipata Point. The town is connected by road to Cebu
City. It has a government hospital and clinics.
Berthing Facility - The town has a 240 m long pier
with RoRo ramps at the offshore end.
NAGA CITY is located about 7 miles WSW of Lipata
Point. The city has hospitals, medical clinics, and a public
market.
Prominent Features - It may be recognized by a
prominent church, a dome of the city sports complex, and
large silos of a grain factory. A cement plant is 1 mile SW of 35
the city center. The plant is distinguished by its buildings,
concrete pier and smoke stack which are good landmarks. A room in fine weather, may be had in front of the town in
chimney and structures of a power plant, located about 0.6 36.6 m (20 fm), sand bottom. There are the remains of a
mile NNE of the city center, are also prominent.
Major Light - Naga Light (10° 12' 17"N., 123° 45'
39"E.) is displayed from a white tower about 0.3 mile SE
of the church.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable is
present off the coast of Naga. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Naga
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8427431
and +639985858299.
Berthing Facilities - The power plant, which is
operated by Kepco, has a 200 m long wharf connected to the
shore by a causeway. The pier has facilities and equipment
for loading coal.
Asian Grains Corp. operates an 85 m long wharf at the
shore fronting the city center.
11-18
Apo Cement Corp. operates the pier and wharf located
about 1 mile SW of the city center. The pier has a conveyor
facility used to transport cement. Vessels of 4.5 m draft can
go alongside the pier.
5
A jetty exists about 1.2 miles SW of the Apo Cement
pier.
Anchorage may be had here in 27.4 m (15 fm), sand
10 bottom, about 0.4 mile from shore, with the prominent
church bearing 271o. There is a 0.4 m (0.2 fm) patch 0.5
mile NE and patches of 4.6 and 8.7 m (2.5 and 4.75 fm) SE
of Naga church.
15 TINAAN ANCHORAGE, formed by the bight of
the coast 1 mile S of Naga and the off-lying reef about 1
mile off it, has depths of 9.1 to 18.3 m (5 to 10 fm), sand
and mud bottom. The reef which protects the anchorage is
mostly bare at low water and serves as a guide for entering.
20 A concrete beacon marks the limit of the reef on the W side
of the S entrance to Tinaan Anchorage. Anchorage for dry
cargo vessels is S of the beacon in 64 m (35 fm) with the
smoke stack bearing 342o. Tankers tie up to the mooring
buoys off the end of the pier and discharge through the
25 submerged pipe line.
SAN FERNANDO, a small town about 4 miles SW of
Naga, has a prominent church. The reef bordering the shore
of the town is narrow and steep-to.
30
Berthing Facility - Taiheiyo Cement Philippines,
Inc. operates the wharf fronting the town. Vessels loading
cement at the wharf uses their ship crane since there is no
shore crane available.
Anchorage for small vessels, with sufficient swinging
small jetty which does not extend to the low-water line.
40
SANGAT COVE, about 2.5 miles SW of San
Fernando, is small and shallow and the entrance is narrow.
The whole cove is currently being used by a shipyard
company. Slipways and drydock are present at the head of
45 the cove.
CARCAR POINT, about 2.5 miles S of Sangat Cove,
is formed by a right-angled elbow of the coast. It is low,
covered with coconut trees, and fringed by a narrow, steep-
50 to reef which extends about 0.4 mile on its E side.
DAANLONGSOD RIVER discharges about 0.7
mile N of the point. Shallow water, with mud bottom,
extends well offshore from its mouth which can be
55 distinguished by an old fort about 0.1 mile N of it.
CARCAR BAY (CHART 4465) is about 1.5 miles W
of Carcar Point. There is a small, low islet on the W side
of the entrance connected with the shore by a reef bare at
60 low water. The shores are low and fringed with mangroves,
and reefs extend from both its entrance points and from the
shores of the bay, leaving available a small anchorage area
well sheltered from the sea by the reefs and the small islet.
CARCAR CITY is on slightly rising ground about a
mile NNW of the head of the bay. It is connected by good
roads with Barili on the W coast, and with other towns
at its N and S. The town has a post office. The church is
prominent from seaward. A ruined causeway extends from
the town through a mangrove swamp to the edge of the reef
in the N part of the bay.
Directions - The entrance to Carcar Bay is deep and
clear. It should be approached by bringing the Carcar
Church to bear 334o before Carcar Point bears E of 063o
and steering in on the 334o course.
Anchorage is in 12.8 m (7 fm), mud bottom, on a line
with the E side of the islet and the end of the ruined jetty.
From the W side of Carcar Bay, the coast trends S
about 12.5 miles to Argao Point and is mostly mangrove,
with fringing coral reef. There are numerous small detached
shoals between Sibonga and Cerro Point, none of which is
over 0.7 mile from shore. There are no bays and rivers large
enough for a pulling boat on this coast.
SIBONGA is a small town 5.5 miles S of Carcar. It
has a prominent stone church with twin spires but this is
obscured by trees from S. The municipal building on the
beach presents a better landmark from N and S. A 50 m
long pier, which is connected to the shore by a causeway,
fronts the town. Gasoline, kerosene, and lubricating oils, in
tins, can be purchased in limited quantities. Fresh supplies
are obtainable in very limited quantities. No fresh water
for ship’s use is available. A doctor may attend to minor
medical cases. There is a post office in town. There is public
bus transportation and vessels from Cebu.
A 5.5 m (3 fm) shoal is 0.4 mile offshore and in range
with the N church steeple and the end of the ruined pier.
Another 4.1 m (2.25 fm) spot is immediately SW of this
shoal.
TALO-OT is the barrio about 4.8 miles N of Argao
Point. It has a concrete wharf where ferry boats from
Catagbacan in Bohol Island call regularly.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Talo-
ot may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8427132.
ARGAO POINT, about 13 miles SSW of Carcar
Point, is low, flat, and heavily wooded. It projects over a
mile E, is clear and steep-to, and is very prominent from
N or S.
Major Light - Argao Light (09° 52’ 35”N., 123° 36’
26”E.) is displayed on the point.
ARGAO (CHART 4465) is a town between Argao
Point and the river of the same name which empties about
0.75 mile N of the point. It has a large conspicuous church.
Launches and pumpboat used to call at this port with
cargoes of fish and agricultural products. Ferry vessels for
5 passengers and cargo alike have daily trips between Argao
and the town of Loon in Bohol Island. There are bus and
post communications to Cebu. Internet connection and
mobile phone communications are available. Gasoline and
kerosene are obtainable. Food supplies may be purchased
10 in very limited quantities. Minor medical facilities may be
had from local physicians.
Port Management - The government port in Argao is
managed by CPA. The port manager may be contacted at
15 telephone no. (+6332) 489-9577.
In 2018, Argao Port registered a total of 24,260 TEUs
of containerized cargo and 13,199,241 metric tons of non-
containerized cargo. A total of 21,656 domestic vessels and
20 190 foreign vessels called at this port.
Berthing Facilities - The government pier extends SE
from the town, with a berth length of 42 m. A RoRo ramp
is available. The alongside draft ranges from 6 to 8 m (3.2
25 to 4.3 fm).
Anchorage - Small vessels calling at Argao usually
anchor and load here either monsoon, choosing their
anchorage N or S of the point, where it may be more
30 convenient, but necessarily very close in because of the
great depth of water.
The beach may be approached very closely off Argao
and anchorage found either E of the town in 27.4 to 36.6 m
35 (15 to 20 fm), sand bottom, with the church bearing 316o, or
S of the point in 18.3 to 27.4 m (10 to 15 fm), sand bottom
according to swinging room desired.
In the wide indentation in the shoreline just SW of
40 Argao Point, the shore reef has a width of 0.2 to 0.3 mile.
3.5 miles SW of Argao Point and 0.5 mile offshore is a
detached 0.9 m (0.5 fm) shoal. The bay E of the barrio of
Cauayan, about 3 miles N of Dalaguete Point, is faced by
reefs which extend a long way out have deep water close
45 to their edges. The reef narrows from here and disappear at
Dalaguete Point.
DALAGUETE POINT, about 8 miles SW of Argao
Point, is flat, sandy, heavily wooded, and steep-to.
50
DALAGUETE, the leading town in this vicinity, is on
the N side of Dalaguete Point. The town has a post office
and a church visible from N but obscured by trees from S.
55 Anchorage may be found in 27.4 to 36.6 m (15 to 20
fm) sand bottom, close inshore, with the church bearing
316o, or S of Dalaguete Point in 18.3 to 27.4 m (10 to 15
fm) sand bottom, about 0.1 mile from shore.
60 The coast from Dalaguete Point to Cayangon Point, 10
11-19
miles SSW, is low, with steep sand beaches interrupted by
rocky bluffs. The town of Boljoon and a number of barrios
are on this coast.
About 3.5 miles SSW of Dalaguete Point and 0.4 mile
from shore are several small, detached patches with depth
of 2.3 m (1.25 fm).
OBONG, the barrio about 2 miles SW of Dalaguete
Point, is the site of large mining site for dolomite. The mine
is operated by Philippine Mining Service Corp. The site is
fronted by a jetty and dolphins for use of vessels loading
dolomite.
MAMBAGI REEF is about 5 miles SSW of Dalaguete
Point, with its outer edge about 0.5 mile E of the village of
Mambagi. It is composed of rock and sand, and the greater
part is bare at low water. There is a narrow, deep channel
between it and the coast of Cebu. Dalaguete Point, bearing
018o, leads clear of the E side of Mambagi Reef. Temporary
anchorage for small craft may be found W of Mambagi
Reef, but it is not recommended, as the entrance both from
N and S are very narrow, the anchorage area limited, and
the holding ground poor. The S entrance is better if the
reefs are showing well, in which case they can be closely
approached.
BOLJOON is a town at the head of a small deep cove
about 1.5 miles N of Cayangon Point. It may be recognized
by the 30 m (100 ft) high white cliffs on Ili Point, on the
N side of the cove. The red-roofed church is prominent
from E. There is no anchorage off the town but temporary
anchorage for small vessels may be found off the mouth of
the Losapon River, just S of the town and about 0.1 mile
from shore, in 36.6 to 45.7 m (20 to 25 fm).
CAYANGON POINT is 933 m (110 ft) high and
skirted by a reef, partly bare at low water, extending about
0.3 mile E.
IUISAN POINT, 2.5 miles SSW of Cayangon Point,
is low and ends in sand and rocks close to the shore. The
barrio of Caceres is on the S side of Iuisan Point. Iuisan
11-20
Shoal, which bares at low water near its center, is about
1 mile S of Iuisan Point and 0.5 mile E of Santa Monica
Point. It is about 0.5 mile long in an NNE direction and is
0.2 mile wide. When navigating along the coast, the shoal
5 may be avoided by keeping at least 1 mile offshore. Vessels
coming from S and bound for Caceres will head for the
town when the church bears 326o and steer on this bearing
until within the desired anchorage. The channel between
the shoal and the reef fringing Santa Monica Point is about
10 0.2 mile wide with depths of over 36.6 m (20 fm). This
channel is not recommended to strangers.
OSLOB POINT, about 3 miles SW of Iuisan Point, is
low, sandy, and well wooded. The point is surrounded by a
15 steep-to reef which extends about 0.3 mile m SE.
OSLOB is a town on Oslob Point. The houses are
scattered and partly concealed by trees. The church, a large
imposing structure with a red tile roof, and a stone tower
20 nearby, form prominent landmarks. The town has a post
office 0.5 mile S of Oslob Church. Anchorage may be had
on the S side of Oslob Point in 7.3 to 16.5 m (4 to 9 fm).
MAINIT, a barrio about 6.9 miles SW of Oslob Point,
25 has a government pier with RoRo ramp. Alongside draft
ranges from 4 to 5 m (2.2 to 2.7 fm). Ferry vessels has daily
trips to the town of Larena in Siquijor Island.
From Oslob Point to Tañon Point, the S extremity of
30 Cebu Island, the shoreline consists of sheer, white cliffs
from 3.0 to 36.6 m (10 to 120 ft) high, alternating with
sandy beaches. This coast is clear and steep-to.
SUMILON ISLAND is 3.5 miles, 069o from the S end
35 of Cebu and 1.1 mile from shore. It is sparsely covered with
trees and 31 m (103 ft) high in the N part. The NE part of the
island is occupied by facilities of a private resort. Sumilon
Light (09° 25’ 52”N., 123° 23’ 22”E.) is displayed atop a
stone tower located near the S end of the island. The brush
40 growing on and about the tower gives it the appearance of a
clump of trees on the skyline. Sumilon Island is surrounded
by a narrow, steep-to reef, bare at low water. The channel
between it and Cebu is 1 mile wide, deep and clear.
 CHAPTER 12
BOHOL ISLAND
CHART 4708
BOHOL ISLAND is of oval form, 48 miles long in a
NE direction and 34 miles wide N and S. It has an area of
about 3,864.78 sq km and is the 10th island in the Philippines
in size. It is well-populated. The S part is hilly and rocky,
but the N part has fertile valleys and good tracts of level
land. The highest point on the island, 802 m (2,630 ft) high,
is in the SE part about 5 miles NW of Nauco Point. Bohol
has no good harbors, and its rivers are generally small and
used only bancas and local craft.
MOUNT COGTONG, in the NE part of the island, is
a prominent, grass-covered, double peak 459 m (1,505 ft)
high. W of Cogtong Mountains is a large valley extending
W along the coast to the Ipil River and S between Cogtong
Mountains and Mount Batuanan. This latter mountain,
341 m (1,118 ft) high, is the E termination of the long E
and W ridge SW of the Cogtong Mountains, descending
with a cliff-like abruptness to the E and forming an easily
distinguished landmark.
CEBU STRAIT is the passage between the W coast of
Bohol and the island of Cebu. It connects the Camotes Sea
with the Bohol Sea. The strait is wide and deep throughout
its length, as are the N and S approach channels.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present in Cebu Strait. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
REEFS & ISLANDS OFF THE
NORTH COAST OF BOHOL
(CHARTS 1537 & 4429)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Remotely controlled
coast station with VHF DSC alerting in Cebu City (10° 16'
18"N., 123° 53' 53"E.) covers the reefs and islands from the
E end of Calituban Reef to the W end of Danajon Bank. The
remotely controlled coast station in Maasin, Leyte (10° 07'
54"N., 124° 50' 08"E.) covers the area from the NE Passage
of Danajon Bank to Canigao Island. Vessels in distress may
contact the above mentioned remotely controlled stations.
Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for
details.
DANAJON (DAWAHON) BANK, extending from
the N side of Bohol Island, is about 40 miles long and is 5
to 14 miles wide. It is considered as a double barrier reef
system. Its N limit is marked by a chain of steep-to coral
reefs 0.5 to 2 miles wide, which begins at Pandanon Islet,
lying about 5 miles NW of Mount Corte, and sweeps around
N and E to within about 6.5 miles of the coast of Leyte. The
183 m (100 fm) curve approximates the N edge of this bank
from a greatest distance off about 1.5 miles to fairly close-
to in places. The 9.1 m (5 fm) curve lies immediately off the
N edge of the reefs and shoals.
The greater part of the reefs in Danajon Bank are bare
at low water and are composed mainly of coral sand that
5 are usually easily seen. Danajon Bank may be approached
either from W or E, or through a number of breaks in the
outer reefs. Good anchorage, protected from the sea, may
be found in many places on the bank.
10 Danajon Bank is composed by the barrier reefs namely:
Caubyan Reef, Danajon Reef, the unnamed reef between
Caubyan and Danajon Reefs, and Calituban Reef. The bank
is studded with numerous small, low, wooded islets, and a
great number of small, detached reefs, some submerged and
15 others bare at low water. Between these islets and reefs are
numerous intricate and tortuous channels. The shoal places
and coral reefs on the bank are not indicated by a change in
the color of the water, and in the most favorable light show
only as brown spots, which can scarcely be distinguished
20 from cloud shadows. This seems due in part to silt in the
water, and in part to absence of coral sand of the reefs. This
and the strong variable currents make the greater part of
Danajon Bank unsafe for anything but very small vessels.
25 MARINE PROTECTED AREAS - Danajon Bank is
subject to various conservation efforts. Local government
units and the national government established many marine
protected areas within the bank. Illegal fishing and other
activities that may harm the marine ecosystem are strictly
30 prohibited in the bank.
CAUBYAN REEF, the W outermost reef of Danajon
Bank, stretches from Northwest Pass to Middle Pass. The
islets on the reef are Pandanon Islet and the two Caubyan
35 Islets.
PANDANON ISLET is low, sandy, and small. The
whole W half of the island is occupied by houses. The E
half is occupied by the facilities of a private resort. A pier
40 extends from the S shore of the W and E halves of the islet.
CAUBYAN ISLETS, about 8 miles NE of Pandanon
Islet, are small, low, and partly wooded. Many houses
occupy the S of the islets.
45
On the W side of NE Pass is a small, sandy cay which
is bare at about 3/4 tide. The E side is marked by a buoy.
DANAJON REEF, the E outermost reef of Danajon
50 Bank, stretches from Northeast Pass and Canigao Channel.
The islets on the reef are Danajon Islet and Tood Islets.
DANAJON ISLET, about 27 miles E of the Caubyan
Islets, is very small and totally occupied by houses. A jetty
12-1
extends SW from the S shore of the islet.
TOOD ISLETS, three in number, are about 0.5 mile
within the E end of Danajon Reef. The southernmost islet
is marked by Tood Light (10° 15’ 42”N., 124° 39’ 12”E.).
CALITUBAN REEF, its E extremity located about
1 mile NNE of Calituban Island and extending in a WSW
direction for 12.5 miles, is a large reef similar to Caubyan
Reef and roughly parallel to it. Its SW limit is about 1 mile 10
SE of Pandanon Island on the N side of NW Pass. It shows
well in ordinary condition of the day because of the coral
sand bottom. Generally, the water deepens abruptly from
its edge from 18.3 to 27.4 m (10 to 155 fm). The islands
on Calituban Reef are Calituban, Banacon, Jaguliao, and 15
Nasingin. Near the W end of the reef is a mangrove forest
planted by authorities as part of conservation programs of
the reef.
A good, deep channel is between Calituban Reef and
Caubyan Reef, but it is encumbered with several reefs,
which are bare at low water, and several shoal spots covered
with 1.8 to 4.6 m (1 to 2.5 fm). In the absence of any aids
to navigation and any good landmark, it is impossible
to give any direction for this channel, and its use is not
recommended.
NASINGIN ISLAND, about 2 miles NE of the W
edge of Calituban Reef, is wholly occupied by houses. A
small pier, for use of boats, extends from the SW end of 30
the island. A thick mangrove forest extends N and NW of
the island. Thick mangrove forests also exist on the reef
between Nasingin and Jaguliao Islands.
JAGULIAO ISLAND, about 2.3 miles NE of
Nasingin Island, is planted with thick mangrove forest. The
jetty on the N part of the island is connected by a causeway
to a settlement.
BANACON ISLAND, just SE of Jaguliao Island, is
wholly occupied by houses. A small pier exists at the S
shore of the island.
Jaguliao and Banacon Islands can be mistaken as one
island since they are connected by a thick mangrove forest.
Between Calituban and Banacon Islands are long sand
banks, bare at low water, and along these are many fishing
huts.
CALITUBAN ISLAND, at the W end of Calituban
Reef, has a high concentration of houses. Boats calling at
the island lands their passengers and goods on the shore.
Islands and shallow reefs located between the barrier
reefs and the N coast of Bohol are separated by channels
navigable by small vessels. All these islands are low and
more or less wooded. Fishing is the greatest industry in this
vicinity and almost all of the islands are inhabited.
HANDAYAN ISLAND, N of Corte Point, is separated
12-2
from Bohol by a narrow intricate channel. A small pier is on
the SW shore of the island. Small boats ferrying people and
goods from Getafe regularly call at this pier.
5 SAN PEDRO ISLET, covered by sparse mangrove,
is the small island on the reef located about 0.5 mile SE of
Handayan Island.
MAHANAY ISLAND, separated from Handayan
Island by a fairly deep channel, is surrounded by mangroves.
TAMBU ISLAND, located about 1 mile N of Tabon
Point, is also surrounded by mangroves. Tambu Island
Light (10° 11’ 30”N., 124° 17’ 04”E.) is displayed from the
island. A reef with an islet located just SW of the islet. A
narrow channel separates the reef and Tambu Island.
BAMBANON ISLAND on the shore reef off Tabon
Point is wholly surrounded by mangroves. Fish traps and
20 fish pens are present off this island.
GINDACPAN (GUINDACPAN) ISLAND, on the
reef about 1.2 miles SW of Calituban Island, is triangular in
shape and wholly occupied by houses. A reef, with a sand
25 cay on it, is located about 0.5 mile of the island.
BANSAAN ISLAND, on the reef about 2 miles ESE
of Gindacpan Island, is covered by mangroves. The reef,
located about 1.5 miles of Bansaan has sand cays on it.
Facilities of a private resort occupy one of the sand cays. A
jetty for boats extends S from the private resort.
SAG ISLAND, about 1.8 E of Bansaan Island, is
covered by thick mangroves. Houses occupy the S portion
35 of the island.
MARINE PROTECTED AREA - The islands of
Tambu, Bambanon, Bansaan, and Sag, the reef located about
1.5 miles N of Bansaan, and the surrounding waters were
40 declared as protected landscape and seascape. Activities
that may harm the marine resources and organisms found
within the protected area are strictly prohibited.
JAO ISLAND, about 0.7 mile N of Bien Unido Point,
45 is the biggest island in this area. A jetty, for use of passenger
boats, is present in the small indentation of its S coast.
From the E end of Jao Island, a large shoal with several
patches bare at low water near its N and E limits, extends
50 about 2 miles.
CABANTULAN ISLAND, covered with mangroves,
is on the reef off the SE shore of Jao Island.
55 CATABAN ISLAND, located about 2 miles NE of
Sag Island, is occupied by houses. A 200 m jetty extends
SE from the E shore of the island. A thick mangrove forest
extends for 0.3 mile northward from the N point of the
island.
60
 BUNGAN ISLAND, about 2.7 miles NW of Cataban
Island, is marked by Bungan Light (10° 16' 17"N., 124° 21'
51"E.). Th shoal surrounding the island is bare at low water
and shows well under favorable light condition.
NOONOOAN ISLAND, about 1.5 miles NE of
Cataban Island, is totally covered by houses.
SAGASA ISLAND, located about 2.4 miles SE of
Cataban Island, is covered with trees. A few houses occupy
it. A jetty extends from the W end of the island.
MAOMAUAN ISLAND, covered by palm trees, is
located about 3.1 miles SE of Sagasa Island. Houses occupy
the shores of this island.
MALINGUIN ISLAND, about 1.4 miles SW of
Maomauan Island, is covered by coconut trees. A jetty
extends from the S end of the island.
MACAINA ISLAND is a narrow strip of sand located
about 0.6 mile S of Malinguin Island.
BUTAN and BANTIGUI ISLANDS are two small
islands located about 2.7 miles SE of Maomauan Island.
The two islands are densely populated.
CAUTION – two spots with depth 2.7 m (1.5 fm) are
lying 1 and 1.5 miles, respectively N of Butan Island.
NAVIGATIONAL AIDS - Lateral buoys were
installed in the area bounded by Maomauan, Malinguin,
Macaina, Butan, and Bantigui Islands.
CAUTION - The area bounded roughly by Cataban,
Noonooan, Maomauan, Macaina, and the E ends of Jao
and Sag Islands should be considered a dangerous area,
navigable only by small crafts with the exercise of great
caution. While narrow channels deep enough for fairly
large vessels may be found leading in many directions,
the numerous reefs, discolored water, and strong currents
render this area unsafe for navigation with the exception
of the channel W of Malinguin and Maomauan and S of
Sagasa Islands. Extending SE front Noonooan Island for
about 2 miles, foul ground and several small patches, bare
at low water, exist leaving a channel about 0.7 mile wide
between their S extremity and the reef surrounding Sagasa
Island.
There is a good channel about 0.5 mile wide between
Limosoc Reef, about 2.7 miles E from the E end of Jao
Island, and Macaina Island.
BILANGBILANGAN ISLAND, about 3.6 miles NE
of Maomauan Island, is a narrow island that is almost totally
occupied by houses. The reef surrounding Bilangbilangan
extends 1 mile NW from it and nearly to a line drawn
between NE Pass and Noonooan Island.
HINGOTANAN ISLAND, a densely populated island,
is located about 1 mile E of the E end of Bilangbilangan
Island. Numerous houses on stilts stand on the around the
island. Hingotanan Island is surrounded by a reef 0.3 mile
wide, leaving a narrow 8.2 m (4.5 fm) channel between it
5 and Bilangbilangan Island.
DANGER - A large shoal between Gaus and
Hingotanan Islands has a least depth of 5.4 m (3 fm).
10 GAUS ISLAND is about 5.4 miles SE of Hingotanan
Island. Three marine reserve areas were declared for the
seas surrounding this island.
CHANNELS - There are fairly good channels between
15 Bansaan and Sag Islands and also between Bansaan and
Gindacpan Islands. Bansaan Island should be given a
good berth when rounding it, as foul ground extends for a
considerable distance S and SW. A rock awash is nearly 1
mile SW of Bansaan.
20
N of Bansaan and separated from it by a narrow,
tortuous, and foul channel, is a large reef about 2.5 miles
long E and W and 0.7 mile wide, which is bare at low water.
There are a few scattered mangroves on this reef.
25
E of Calituban Island, between Calituban Reef and
the reef just described, is a channel through which 11 m (6
fm) may be carried and which connects with the channel
between Bansaan and Gindacpan Islands.
30
ENTRANCE CHANNELS - Danajon Bank may
be approached through Basiao Channel, the channel N
from Lapinin Island; NE Pass, the channel W of Danajon
Reef; Middle Pass, a smaller channel E of Caubyan Reef;
35 and NW Pass, between the reefs fringing Pandanon and
Cabulan Islands.
A small narrow channel with 4.6 m (2.5 fm) is 1 mile
NW of NE Pass. This channel is of little importance and its
40 use is not recommended.
BASIAO CHANNEL is between Lapinin Island and
Bohol. The channel between Lapinin Island and Danajon
Island is about 5.5 miles wide. It is deep and free of dangers.
45 Navigational buoys were laid along the channel from its E
entrance up to the piers fronting the barrios of Union on
Bohol Island and Popoo on Lapinin Island.
NE PASS is a break at the W end of Danajon Reef
50 about 17 miles W of Canigao Island. The channel is about
0.6 mile wide with depths of 12.8 m (7 fm). A black can
buoy marks the E side of the channel.
Directions - Vessels approaching the NE Pass should
55 steer between 227o and 177o. When Noonooan Island bears
227o, steer for it. This course will lead mid-channel through
the pass in depths of 12.8 m (7 fm).
MIDDLE PASS, a narrow channel 0.2 mile wide, 5
60 miles E of Caubyan Islands, has a depth of 6.1 m (3.25
12-3
fm). At the outer entrance to Middle Pass, Mount Batuanan
bears 159o, and is nearly between Calituban and Gindacpan
Islands. Unless familiar with the channel, it should not be
attempted when the reefs do not show well. The deeper
water will be found on the W side of the channel. At the
inner and outer entrances, spits extend a short distance from
the W side of the reef.
NW PASSAGE, between Pandanon Island and
Cabulan Island, is about 0.7 mile wide with mid-channel
depth of over 36.6 m (20 fm). This passage permits entrance
from Olango channel. Lateral buoys were laid along the
passage to guide vessels wishing to call at the town of
Getafe (Jetafe).
CAUTION - The above directions are all that can be
given for crossing Danajon Bank. There are several other
channels, but they are narrow and tortuous and in the
absence of local knowledge they should not be attempted.
The above courses must be followed with great caution,
keeping a good lookout and paying particular attention to
the soundings.
NORTH COAST OF BOHOL
(CHARTS 1537 & 4429)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – The remotely controlled
coast station with VHF DSC alerting in Maasin, Leyte (10°
07' 54"N., 124° 50' 08"E.) covers the waters off Lapinin
Island to the coast about 4.3 miles NW of the town of
Ubay. Remotely controlled coast station with VHF DSC
alerting in Cebu City (10° 16' 18"N., 123° 53' 53"E.)
covers the waters off the coast from Tabon Point to Corte
Point. Vessels in distress may contact the above mentioned
remotely controlled stations. Refer to the DSC Limits of
Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
LAPININ ISLAND, lying close to the NE point of
Bohol, marks the E limit of Danajon Bank. It is the most
noticeable of the islands of the bank, being the largest
and the only one of any elevation. It is generally low and
rugged. It has a wide, rice-cultivated flat, broken by low,
conspicuous hills covered with grass. A well-defined hill
129 m (422 ft) high, near the S point of the island, is probably
the highest point. Its shores are indented by numerous bays,
fringed with mangroves, except in a few places where there
are small stretches of sand beach and faced by reefs. There
are no rivers, the opening in the mangroves are being only
esteros extending a short distance inland. Three small islets:
Bonoon, Budlaan, and Pamasaun are close to the N side of
the island. Tide rips are indicated E of Tugas Point, the NE
extremity of the island.
Major Light - Tugas Point Light (10° 09’ 00”N., 124°
37’ 00”E.) is displayed from a tower on Tugas Point.
Caution - Submarine power cables connecting Bohol
Island and Leyte Island are present off the coast of Tugas
Point. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity
of the submarine cables.
12-4
Overhead power cables cross the W entrance to
Lapinin Passage. The power terminates at the SW shore of
Bonoon Island.
5 AGUINING is the barrio at the head of a cove about
4 miles SW of Tugas Point. The barrio has an 80 m long
pier serving as trading center for the sea-borne commerce
for President Garcia. The seaward end of the pier has a
controlling depth of zero at mean sea level in 1990.
10
POPOO, the barrio on the SW shore of Lapinin, has a
250 m long pier. Ferry boats from the pier at Barrio Union
across Basiao Channel regularly call at Popoo.
15 PITOGO, the barrio located about 4.3 miles SW of
Tugas Point, has a 130 m pier.
TINUIBO ISLAND, 2 miles SE of Tugas Point,
is small, steep-to, and 121 m (397 ft) high. The E side is
20 very bold, but the W side has a low, sandy spit about 1.2
m (4 ft) high extending a short distance. Tinuibo Island is
prominent. The channel between it and Leyte is about 7
miles wide and is deep and clear.
25 BASIAO CHANNEL, between Lapinin Island and
Bohol, is a winding channel about 0.5 mile wide. At the
NW end of the channel is Lapinin Chico Islet, 33 m (107
ft) high and fringed with mangroves. From the E entrance,
a mid-channel course is safe and a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm)
30 can be carried to within 1 mile SE of the islet. A sand bar,
bare at half tide, connects the islet with a sand spit 0.7 mile
SE of Lapinin Chico Islet. The bar and the sand spit divide
the channel at this point. In the NW branch, a depth of 4.6
m (2.5 fm) can be carried through at low water, but the N
35 branch is foul and should not be attempted by strangers.
About 0.2 mile from the S side of Lapinin Chico is a rock
awash at high water with 4.6 m (2.5 fm) close to its S side.
On the opposite side of the channel, about 0.3 mile S of this
rock, is a small rock covered by 2.7 m (1.5 fm) at low water.
40
The channel E of Lapinin Chico is close to the sand
bar SE of the islet, and is about 0.2 mile wide, running in a
N-and-S direction. There are two 2.7 m (1.5 fm) spots near
the sand bar at the end of the spit: One about 0.1 mile ESE
45 and the other 0.2 mile NE from the bar, both over a sandy
bottom.
Navigational Aids - Lateral buoys were laid along
the channel from its E entrance up to the piers fronting the
50 barrios of Union and Popoo.
Caution - Overhead power cables, terminating near
the piers of Popoo and Union, crosses Basiao Channel.
55 Anchorage - Basiao Channel affords excellent but
limited anchorage in 5.5 to 9.1 m (3 to 5 fm), sand and rock
bottom.
UNION, the barrio at the S shore of Basiao Channel,
60 has a rock causeway with a concrete pier that has a total
berth length of 36 m with depth of 4 m (2.1 fm). It has one
RoRo berth. Open storage area is 1,700 sq m. A highway
extends to the town of Ubay, 4 miles distant.
From Centinela Point to the N extremity of the island
at Tabon Point, the general outline of the coast is very
irregular and trends in a WNW direction for 14.5 miles.
The shoreline is generally fringed with mangroves and
faced in several places with a wide area of shoals. The
rivers, excluding Ipil River, along this coast are small and
unimportant.
UBAY, the town about 2 miles SW of Centinela Point,
is considered as the commercial center in the area. Shipping
lines have regular trips between this town and Cebu City and
Bato in Leyte Island. It is connected by road to Tagbilaran
City. There is no hospital and only the rural health stations
are available medical facilities. Mobile phone connection
is available.
Major Light - Ubay Light (10° 03’ 00”N., 124° 28’
00”E.) is displayed from a concrete tower at the town.
Navigational Aids - Lateral buoys, leading to the
government pier, were installed off Ubay.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Ubay
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8012712.
Port Management - The government port fronting
the town is operated by PPA TMO-Ubay, which may
be contacted at telephone (+6338) 518-8275. It can
accommodate vessels with 190 DWT or lower, maximum
LOA of 237 m, and draft of 2 m. There is an open storage
area for cargoes.
Berthing Facilities - The town has 40 m and 70 m
long piers that are connected to a concrete deck. The piers
have reported depth of 3 m (1.6 fm). Two RoRo berths are
available. An open area is available as storage facility.
Port Services - Ubay Arrastre and Stevedoring Corp
provides cargo handling services and can be contacted
at telephone number (+6338) 518-8202. Bunkering is
available.
Directions - After passing Danajon Bank’s NE Pass,
when Hingotanan Island bears 145o, steer 133o for 4.5 miles
until the N tangent of Hingotanan Island bears 270o. Then
steer for the center of Maomauan Island on course of 213o
for about 2.5 miles. When the W tangent to Hingotanan
Island bears 000o, change course to 180o passing 1 mile E
of Maomauan Island and about the same distance W of the
2, 2.7 m (1.5 fm) rocky shoals 1 mile and 1.5 miles N of
Butan Island.
When Ubay is sighted, it should be steered for and
anchorage taken according to draft. When the summit of
Lapinin Chico is abeam, a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) will be
found about 2 miles from shore. Small vessels anchor in 3.7
m (2 fm) about 0.5 mile from shore.
BIEN UNIDO, about 1.2 miles SE of Bien Unido
Point, has a 160 m long jetty for use of fishing boats.
5 Main economic activities in the town include rice farming,
seaweed farming, livestock industry, fishing, and mat
weaving. The government health center is the only medical
facility available.
10 BIEN UNIDO POINT, about 9.2 miles NW of
Centinela Point, may be distinguished by three large white
cylindrical tanks. The facilities of Bohol Yacht Club are
located at the point. Fish traps are located off the point.
15 Wide areas of silt deposit bare at low water W of Bien
Unido. This condition of shallow water and exposed soil
extend further S near the mouth of Ipil River, which is after
all the source of all alluvium during and after its episodes
of inundation. The area was almost completely planted with
20 fish-pen stakes.
IPIL RIVER, which empties into a shallow bay
between Tabon and Bien Unido Points, is navigable by
small crafts drawing not more than 1.55 m (0.84 fm) for 2.5
25 miles to the town of Trinidad (Ipil).
W of Ipil River, a belt of gently rolling country extends
back from the coast from 1 to 3 miles, narrowing to the W.
S of this belt are rounded hills 183 to 274 m (600 to 900
30 ft) high.
TALIBON is a town about 2.5 miles WSW of Bien
Unido Point. There are numerous bus connections linking
the town to Tagbilaran City and also to other towns of the
35 Province. There is a regular ferry trip for Cebu City. An
assortment of commodities like ice, canned goods, lumber,
gasoline, diesel oil and lubricants can be easily purchased
in small quantities. Talibon Provincial Hospital provides
medical services. A rural bank is available. An outlet pipe
40 near the inshore end of the pier provides fresh water.
Prominent Features - The most prominent object
visible at a distance is the church tower owing to its elevated
ground position. The town is dimly lighted at night. Another
45 visible feature in the town is the wet market, situated near
and in line with the shoreline. This long structure, made
of concrete, is more recognizable at the N approached and
viewed from the sea it resembles a commuter train. At
almost the same distance, the concrete causeway of Talibon
50 can already be seen.
Major Light - Talibon Light (10° 09’ 06”N., 124° 19’
33”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the shore end of
the causeway.
55
Navigational Aids - Vessels calling at Talibon may
use the lateral and cardinal buoys laid from the area off the
NW coast of Bambanon Island to the government pier of
Talibon.
60
12-5
 Caution - There are small islands surrounding the
vicinity of Talibon, within the five-mile radius of area and
they exhibit features that blends well with the mainland so
that the town can only be distinguished with clarity from a
distance of less than 5 miles away.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Talibon, which may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6338) 515-5178.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Talibon may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63929-
6742111.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 40 m long pier
that is connected to the shore by a 520 m long causeway.
Alongside draft is about 2.4 m (1.3 fm). A cargo truck is
available within the port. There is 1,500 sq m open area for
storage of cargo.
Port Services - Cargo handling is available from a
local company. Bunkering is provided by Shell, Petron, and
Mobil oil companies.
Directions - A vessel should, after clearing Danajon
Bank’s NE Pass, steer 247o, heading for Gindacpan Island.
This course will clear the reef which extends about 1.3
miles NW of Bilangbilangan Island and midway between
the reefs surrounding Cataban Island and the shoal around
Bungan Island. The W edge of the reef W of Cataban Island
is in line with a range formed by Talibon Church and the
east tangent to Sag Island. When Cataban Island is abeam,
steer 213o in mid-channel between Sag and Bansaan Islands,
until the N tangent to Tambu Island bears 270o, then head
for the government pier by following the installed lateral
and cardinal buoys.
Anchorage may be had 1 mile NE of the town in 5.5
m (3 fm), mud bottom. This anchorage is shoaled due to
the prevalence of alluvial deposit. From the anchorage, the
water shoals gradually towards the shore.
From Tabon Point, the coast trends W for 8 miles to
Corte Point. Fish traps and fish pens were placed off the
coast of these points.
CANTAMULIG HILL, 115 m (377 ft) high and the
most N of the hills in the vicinity, 2.7 miles SW of Tabon
Point, has a long sloping shoulder extending NNW from its
summit. It is conspicuous from the E.
GETAFE (JETAFE) HARBOR, between Handayan
Island and Corte Point is well sheltered from all directions
and has a depth of 7.3 to 20.1 m (4 to 11 fm), mud bottom.
GETAFE (JETAFE), about 0.5 mile E of Corte Point,
is obscured by mangroves. The two piers on the Corte Point
is the prominent feature for the town. The major economic
activities in the town are farming and fishing. The town has
a health center and hospital. Mobile phone communication
12-6
is available. There are daily ferry boat trips between this
town and Cebu City. The town is connected by road to
Tagbilaran City.
5 Major Light - Jandayan Light (10° 09’ 21”N., 124°
09’ 24”E.) is displayed atop a mast at the port area.
Navigational Aids - Navigational buoys were laid in
the harbor to guide vessels wishing to call at Getafe.
10
Port Management - The port is managed by PPA
TMO - Talibon, which may be contacted at telephone no.
(+6338) 515-5178.
15 Berthing Facilities - The town has two causeway piers
that have lengths of 250 m and 150 m. The offshore end
of the 250 m long causeway pier has a depth of 4 m (2.1
fm). There are two RoRo berths. A 600 sq m open area is
available for storage of cargo.
20
Directions - Following the directions to Talibon, when
Talibon Church bears 180o and N side of Tambu Island
bears 270o, the vessel should be hauled W to pass about
0.5 mile N of Tambu and Mahanay Islands. Steer mid-
25 channel course between Banacon Island and the NW part
of Mahanay Island and between Banacon and Handayan
Islands. When the government pier in Getafe (Jetafe)
bears 135o, steer for it and follow the installed buoys. Haul
E when about 0.5 mile from the shore and stand in mid-
30 channel S of Handayan Island. Anchor in 20.1 m (11 fm)
mid-stream off the end of the pier.
Vessels approaching the Danajon Bank’s NW Passage
bound for Getafe (Jetafe) should bring Mount Corte to bear
35 119o when about 1 mile outside of a line drawn between
Pandanon and Cabulan Islets, and steer for it, passing
between the navigational buoys intalled in the passage.
This leading mark will carry a vessel through a channel
0.5 mile wide and 51.2 m (28 fm) deep between the reefs
40 fringing Pandanon and Cabulan Islets, both of which are
low and covered with coconut trees.
An excellent range to mark the limit of safety of both
of these reefs and the extremity of Calituban Reef, SW of
45 Nasingin Island, is to keep the center of Lassuan Island
in range with the conspicuous sharp conical peak which
shows against the skyline on Cebu island, bearing 288o.
Holding this range, a vessel passes about 0.1 mile from
the edge of the Cabulan Islet reef and 450 m from the reef
50 around Pandanon Islet, while it clears the end of Calituban
Reef by about 0.2 mile. This range is strong enough to
make it perfectly safe, although it does not pass through
mid-channel.
55 When the N tangent to Handayan Island bears 072o, the
vessel may be hauled E for Getafe (Jetafe) or other ports on
the N side of Bohol.
MOUNT CORTE, 177 m (580 ft) high and located
60 1.7 miles S of Corte Point, is a rounded-top, grassy hill
dotted with bushes. It has a long shoulder extending about
1 mile S. Terminating abruptly at the barrio of Corte is a
cliff which separates it from a heavily wooded hill 58 m
(190 ft) high.
WESTERN BOHOL
(CHART 1537, 1548 & 4429)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – The remotely controlled
coast stations with VHF DSC alerting in Cebu City (10°
16' 18"N., 123° 53' 53"E.) and Tagbilaran (09° 38' 56"N.,
123° 50' 50"E.) cover the waters off Western Bohol. Vessels
in distress may contact the above mentioned remotely
controlled stations. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas
map in Chapter 2 for details.
From Corte Point, the coast trends in a general SW
direction for about 30 miles to the town of Loon. This coast
is low, generally fringed with mangroves and intersected
by a number of small rivers, and faced by shoal water. The 20 are the islets Panga, Silo, Tubaon, Maagpit, Cancostino,
small towns of Inabanga, Clarin, Tubigon and Calape, and Cabgan, Hayaan, Budlaan, and Basihan, and numerous
a number of barrios are on this coast.
NORTHWEST BANK, fronting the NW coast of
Bohol between Corte Point and Abucayan Point, is an 25
extensive bank which extends 6.5 miles seaward and on coast of Bohol is about 2.5 miles W of Mount Corte. It is
which are numerous small islands and reefs. The outer edge about 1.5 miles long in a NNE and opposite direction and
of this bank is steep-to and marked by a chain of islets and nearly 0.5 mile wide. It begins to bare at about half tide,
reefs between which are a number of channels leading to and a sand bar near the S end is bare about the time the first
the bank.
CABULAN ISLAND, previously described as
forming the S side of the NW Pass to Danajon Bank, is
the most NE of these islets. The SW shore of this islet is
occupied by numerous houses. A jetty extends from the S
shore of this island.
Extending SW from Cabulan Islet are Coamen,
Magcalingao, Mocaboc, and Bagambanua Islets.
COAMEN ISLETS are two small, sandy islets
connected by a sandy cay. The E and bigger of the two islets
are wholly occupied by houses.
MAGCALINGAO ISLET is a small, bare, sandy cay
about 2.8 miles SW of Coamen Islets.
MOCABOC ISLET, about 4.4 miles of Coamen
Islets, has a high concentration of houses.
BAGAMBANUA ISLAND, about 2 miles SW of
Mocaboc Islet, also has a high concentration of houses.
Bagambanua Light (10° 03’ 22”N., 123° 53’ 57”E.) is
displayed from a white prominent tower near the N point
of the island.
From Cabulan Islet as far as Magcalingao Islet, the
reefs around and between these islets are partly bare at
low water. There are least depths of 7.3 m (4 fm) between
Magcalingao Islet and the small drying reef about 1 mile
SW of it. Between Mocaboc Islet and Bagambanua Islet,
there is a least depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm).
A small reef, bare at low water, is 2.2 miles SW of
5 Bagambanua Island. Between this reef and the reef
surrounding Bagambanua Island is a pass having a mid-
channel depth of 25.6 m (14 fm). The most SW shoal is
this bank, having a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm), is 5 miles SW
of Bagambanua Island. Between this shoal and Mantatao
10 Island about 2.5 miles SSE is a deep wide channel which
may serve as the western entrance to the bank.
In the middle of the area of the NW Bank are the islets
Ambugan, Bugatusan, Batasan, Pangapasan, Catangtangan,
15 Inanoran and Mantatao, and numerous reefs, some of which
bare at low water. Their sizes and locations will be best
understood by reference to the chart.
Between the above-mentioned islets, reefs and shores
reefs and rocks, some of which are bare at low water. Most
of the inner group of islets are covered with mangroves.
REEFS AND SHOALS - The largest reef off the NW
30 rocks begin to show.
About 1 mile S of the above reef is a small reef which
bares at low water. About 1.3 miles SW of the same point
is a small, 6.4 m (3.5 fm) rocky patch and about 0.8 mile
35 NW from the NW side of the large reef is a small shoal with
a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm). When in mid-channel, between
this shoal and the large reef, Mount Ilihan shows over the
eastern part of Panga Islet, bearing 214o. Another shoal of
5.9 m (3.25 fm) is about 3 miles, bearing 168o from the
40 SE end of Cabulan Island. There is a deep, curved channel
about 1 mile in width between these shoals and Panga Islet.
Extending SW from the 4.6 m (2.5 fm) shoal just
previously mentioned and parallel with the outer edge of
45 the bank is a chain of detached reefs, bare at low water, and
shows a small sand bar abreast the Coamen Islets. About 1
mile W of Panga Islet is a small, 6.4 m (3.5 fm) rocky patch,
with a clear, deep channel between them.
50 HYDE REEF, with a depth of 0.5 m (0.25 fm), is in
the passage 1.4 miles NE of Bugatusan Island.
There are rocks awash about 0.5 mile S of the W end
of Budlaan Islet. Vessels passing S of that islet should favor
55 the islet side of the channel. The remainder of the area of
the NW Bank is encumbered with large, dangerous reefs
and shoals. No strangers should venture to enter the bank.
To navigate in the area, the chart is the only guide.
60 CAUTION - The area between Bohol and NW Bank
12-7
is foul and should be navigated with caution and local
knowledge being desirable.
From Mount Corte, extending SW with a curve SE, is
a series of hills ranging from about 121.9 to 457.2 m (400
to 1,500 ft) in height. Along the shore is a narrow coastal
plain, and between this plain and the hills just mentioned,
the country is a mass of hill ridges of varying heights,
divided by valleys and gorges running in every direction.
CORTE is a small barrio of 25 to 30 houses at the head
of a small cove with a sandy beach, about 1 mile SE from
Mount Corte. Some copra is shipped from here.
BUENAVISTA is a small town 4 miles SW of Corte
Point. It has a conspicuous stone church with a nipa roof. It
is faced by shoal water and not easily approached even by
a pulling boat except at high tide. A 250 m long jetty fronts
the town.
INABANGA RIVER, which empties about 5 miles
SW of Mount Corte, is the only river of much importance
in this vicinity. The bar at the entrance can only be crossed
by pulling boats at high water. The banks from the mouth
of the river to the town of Inabanga are low and muddy and
fringed in many places by nipa palms. Just S of the town the
first bluffs appear, and about 1 mile further upstream, the
dense coconut groves give place to open cornfields.
INABANGA is a town about 3 miles S from the mouth
of Inabanga River. It has a large stone church, with a square
tower, which stands on a hill at the river’s edge. This tower
forms a good landmark, being visible from seaward as far
N as Coamen Islands.
TUNGOD (TONG-GO) is the barrio on the coast
about 1 mile W of Inabanga. It is connected by a good road.
The water in front of Tungod is very shoal, the 5.5 m (3 fm)
curve being about 1 mile from shore.
Major Light - Tungod Light (10° 02’ 00”N., 124° 03’
24”E.) is displayed from a tower located on the causeway
fronting Tungod.
Berthing Facility - A 290 m long causeway pier
extends NW from Tungod. Only boats can use the pier due
to its shallow draft alongside.
CLARIN, the town about 4.8 miles SW of Inabanga,
has a 50 m long pier, connected to the shore by a 440 m
long causeway.
TUBIGON, a town about 8.5 miles SW of Inabanga,
is the most important town on the northwest coast of Bohol.
The resources of the surrounding country, which are above
the average, can be made accessible to small vessels. It has
a large church with a bell tower and convent, which form
good landmarks. The church’s facade was destroyed during
the October 2013 earthquake. There are bus connections to
Tagbilaran and daily boat service to Cebu. Landline, mobile
12-8
phone, and Internet connections are available. The town has
a government hospital and a clinic.
Major Light - Tubigon Light (09° 57’ 23”N., 123° 57’
5 27”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the government
pier fronting the town.
Port Management - TMO-Tubigon operates the
concrete pier fronting the town. The TMO may be
10 contacted at telephone no. (+6338) 508-8117. The port can
accommodate vessels of 250 DWT or lower, maximum
LOA of 39 m and draft of 2.4 m.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
15 Tubigon may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
3246294.
Berthing Facilities - From the shore of Tubigon is a
160 m long, L-shaped concrete pier with depths ranging
20 from 3.2 to 4.9 m (1.7 to 2.6 fm) alongside. There is also a
RoRo ramp with 2.5 m (1.3 fm) depth. The port has 2,800
sq m area as open storage.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
25 by a local company.
Anchorage may be found about 0.3 mile from the
end of the wharf in 5.5 to 9.1 m (3 to 5 fm), mud bottom.
Consult Chart 4429 for directions in approaching Tubigon.
30
Directions - Getafe (Jetafe) to Tubigon: In going S
along the coast, the large reef about 2.5 miles W of Mount
Corte is usually visible and may be passed on either side. If
the channel W of it is used, care must be taken to avoid the
35 4.6 m (2.5 fm) patches W of the reef.
Panga Islets may be passed close-to, and when the
center of Silo Islet bears 205o, head for it. This course will
pass halfway between a 1.75 to 3.2 m (0.1 to 1.7 fm) shoal
40 1 mile NE of Bugatusan Islet.
When Bugatusan bears 312o, the course should be
changed to 229o to pass about midway between Batasan
and Silo Islets, both of which are fairly steep-to on their
45 channel sides. This course should be held until the church
at Tubigon bears 135o, when it may be steered for and
anchorage taken up as previously described.
The above described track carries a vessel outside
50 of Tangaon Shoal and the foul ground NE of it. Tangaon
Shoal, with sand cay which covers at high water, is 1 mile N
of the church at Tubigon and WSW of the S end of Cabgan
Islet. At distances of 0.8 and 1 mile NE of Tangaon Shoal
are small, dangerous patches with depths of 0.4 and 55 m
55 (0.25 and 2.75 fm) respectively. The middle of Hayaan
Islet, bearing 242o, clears these patches by about 0.3 mile.
A bearing of 150o on Tubigon church clears Tangaon Shoal,
and vessels may then approach the pier if desired.
60 Tubigon to Maribojoc: From a point about 0.2 mile
from the end of Tubigon pier, steer 277o for 2.7 miles.
When the center of Budlaan Islet bears 180o, head on this
bearing passing about midway between the W edge of the
reef extending from the W side of Hayaan Islet and the
E edge of the reef extending from the E side of Inanoran
Islet. When the S tangent to Hayaan Islet is abeam, steer
250o for 7 miles. When the N tangent to Magtung Point
bears 101o, steer 180o for 1.6 miles until the concrete pole at
Cambacis on the NE point of Cabilao Island bears 270o, and
then steer 221o through Sauang Pass. When Cabacungan
Point bears 270o, change course to 183o for 7.5 miles, until
about 1.2 miles abeam of Cruz Point then haul 1 mile SE.
After clearing the point and giving a berth of 0.5 mile to the
shoreline on the port side, head for the pier of Maribojoc.
Tubigon to Tagbilaran: Follow the same courses as
mentioned in the previous paragraph until 1.2 miles W of
Cruz Point. From the point, steer for Tagbilaran Light on
course 144o. Passing it on the port side, enter the marked
channel in the harbor leading to Tagbilaran wharf.
Entrance to Tubigon: The direct approach to Tubigon
is difficult owing to the numerous reefs and absence of
good landmarks. While there are many places where NW
Bank may be crossed, the uneven bottom makes it more 25
advisable to approach the bank between Mocaboc and
Bagambanua Islets, where 6.4 m (3.5 fm) may easily be
carried through at low water and navigational buoys were
installed to guide vessels. The ridge fringing the bank at
this point is coral and sand, with a few coral heads, but on 30
the edges of the bank, in deeper water, the bottom is uneven
with large boulders. The channel from this point, though
narrow in places and somewhat tortuous, is deep. Owing
to swift and variable currents and the many courses, the
following directions should be used only as a rough guide. 35
After crossing the ridge midway between Mocaboc
and Bagambanua Islets, navigate between the lateral buoys
on 153o until Mocaboc Islets bears N when the course
should be changed to 138o, passing between Buoys 10 and
9 and Buoys 11 and 12. Change course to 191o, bringing
Pangapasan Islet, a small, low, sandy cay directly ahead.
The reef that surrounds Pangapasan Islet is steep-to and
bare at low water. It is usually visible and extend 0.3 mile
W from the islet. Directly head to the center of Cancostino
Islet when it bears 114o. This course passes between Buoys
A and B. Hold onto this course until Pangapasan Island
bears 235o and then change course to 172o, heading directly
to the government pier of Tubigon.
Between Tubigon and Calape, 6.5 miles SW, the
foot hills at several places rise to conspicuous summits of
characteristic formation. The most prominent of these is
Mount Ilihan, about 2 miles SSW from Tubigon. It is 222.5
m (730 ft) high, with steep, almost bluff-like sides, heavily
covered with bushes, and prominent against the higher
land of the interior. The main range rises prominently in
two places to the summit of Mount Tanauan and Mount
Candungao, 443.2 and 479.8 m (1,454 and 1,574 ft) high,
respectively.
MOUNT ALIMONO is an oblong, steep, wooded
hill 3.5 miles SE of Cabgan Island and eastward of Mount
Tanauan. From it, the ridge is marked by a range of peaks
of similar height and appearance. From Mount Tanauan
5 to the W of these peaks, the ridge disappears, merging
into a soft, indefinable mountain complex which to the N
terminates in two prominent hills 219.5 and 229.2 m (720
and 752 ft) high, respectively, and to the W in three peculiar
peaks 299, 313 and 3559.7 m) 981, 1,027 and 1,180 ft high,
10 respectively.
MOUNT TANAUAN is an oblong, even, grass-
covered hill, while Mount Candungao is a long sharp ridge
with bushy, almost bluff-like sides. Both are prominent
15 landmarks, rising several hundred feet above the surrounding
country. Mount Candungao is especially prominent
because of its greater height and bluff appearance. From
Mount Tanauan and SW, the ridge presents a monotonous
appearance, declining gradually in height until it finally
20 joins the foot hills about 3 miles SW of Calape.
CALAPE BAY, 6.5 miles SW of Tubigon, is small,
constricted, and rocky. The bay is sheltered by Pangangan
Island on the W and by the reef bare at low water N. The
opening through the reef is accessible only for small bancas
at high water. The main entrance for small launches is S
of Pangangan Island. The channel leading to the anchorage
in the bay is irregular and unmarked, and should not be
attempted.
CALAPE, a small town at the head of the bay, has a
church with twin towers that are prominent. The town has
a municipal wharf that are used by small fishing vessels.
There are bus connections to Tagbilaran City. Postal
service, mobile phone, and Internet are available means of
communication. Limited supplies are available from the
market and stores in the town. Water supply is sourced from
springs and deep wells and delivered via the pipe system
throughout the Poblacion.
40
PANGANGAN ISLAND is a large, low, well-
cultivated island about 2 miles W of Calape. Its NW
extremity is clear and steep-to while the remainder of its
shores are fringed with wide reefs. A long, mangrove-
45 covered point extends from the E part of the island, which,
together with the mainland, form Calape Bay. The NE end
of the island is connected to Bohol, by an extensive reef on
which lies a mangrove islet. A causeway connects the NE
end of the island and Bohol. Mangroves and fish traps line
50 the sides of the causeway.
The high water line of Pangangan is marked partly
by sand, partly by a bluff about 3.0 m (10 ft) high around
Magtung Point, the NW point, and partly by mangroves at
55 Lungboy Point, the SE point.
Major Light - Pangangan Light (09° 54’ 44”N., 123°
48’ 54”E.) is displayed from a post with concrete dwelling
on the reef located about 0.3 mile NE of Magtung Point.
60
12-9
 Sandingan Island and Cabilao Island from southwestward
Lungboy Point, Pangangan and Abucayan Point,
Bohol, mark the only entrance to Calape Bay for all except
small native crafts.
SANDINGAN ISLAND, 81 m (265 ft) high, is 5
heavily wooded, especially with coconut trees. The island
is very close to the NW extremity of Bohol, and connected
to the mainland by an extensive mangrove swamp. A
causeway, connecting the island and Bohol, passes through
this mangrove swamp. The W shore is fringed by a narrow 10
steep-to reef, and the high water line is marked by a 3 to 6.1
m (10 to 20 ft) bluff interspersed by sand and mangroves.
A submarine telecommunication cable lands at the N point
of the island.
MOCPOC, the barrio at the N point of Sandingan
Island, has a small pier for use by boats ferrying passengers
and goods to Cabilao Island.
CABILAO ISLAND, 34.1 m (112 ft) high and heavily
wooded, is the most W island off the west coast of Bohol.
The W side is fringed by a narrow steep-to reef. A concrete
pole, 16.2 m (53 ft) high above high water, stands near the
NE extremity of the island. A small pier extends from the E
end of the island. The island is separated from Sandingan
and Pangangan Island by Sauang Pass, a clear, deep channel
10.8 mile wide.
Major Light - Cabilao Island Light (09° 53’ 23”N.,
123° 45’ 35”E.) is displayed on Baluarte Point, the NW 30
point of the island.
Caution - A submarine telecommunication cable
is present in Sauang Pass. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
Tidal Currents - The flood current in this vicinity sets
N and the ebb S with considerable velocity.
From Sandingan Island, the coast trends S for 6
miles to Cruz Point, eastward for 3.5 miles to the town of
Maribojoc, and thence S for 6 miles to the W entrance to
Tagbilaran Harbor. The towns of Loon, Maribojoc, Cortes,
and a number of barrios are on this coast.
From Sandingan Island to Maribojoc, the coast is
fringed by a steep-to reef nowhere over 0.5 mile wide,
and with no off-lying dangers. From Maribojoc, S the
reef widens until at the entrance to Tagbilaran Harbor, its
outer edge is about 2 miles from the city of Tagbilaran. The
shoreline is marked partly by mangroves, partly by a bluff,
and partly by short stretches of sandy beach.
The main range of hills, which extends parallel to the
NW coast, continues S and about 1 mile S of Sandingan
12-10
Island merges over into a rugged tableland. About 3 miles
S of Sandingan Island, the range rises steeply and, joining
the SW trending arm from the interior, runs S and out on the
big peninsula terminating in Cruz Point.
From Maribojoc, inland, the land forms the valley
of the Abatan River. N of this valley is terminated by the
afore-mentioned mountain complex, and S, by the range
running E from Tagbilaran toward Loay. The bottom of
this valley is low and rugged and, here and there, rises in
rounded, bushy hills. The country is partly planted with
corn, rice, and sweet potatoes, the main part being covered
with bamboos and bushes.
15 CATAGBACAN, a barrio of Loon, is at the head of
the harbor formed by Sandingan, Pangangan, and Cabilao
Islands. It is connected by road to Tubigon and Loon.
Major Light - Catagbacan Light (09° 51’ 43”N., 123°
20 49’ 41”E.) is displayed from the government pier.
Navigational Aids - Lateral buoys were laid in the bay
to guide vessels wishing to call at Catagbacan.
25 Berthing Facilities - A concrete pier, connected
to the shore by a causeway, is at the head of the harbor.
Average alongside draft is 4 to 6 m (2.1 to 3.2 fm). It can
accommodate vessels with 1,250 DWT or less, a maximum
LOA of 60 m, and a draft of 5 m (2.27 fm). The port has two
RoRo ramps. There is a 440 sq m open storage area.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
by Catagbacan Arrastre Services and Stevedoring Inc., with
telephone no. (+6338) 505-8005. Bunkering is available.
35
LOON, a town about 2.5 miles S of Sandingan Island,
is on the W slope of the Canmanoc Hills and prominent.
Its large church and convent, on a plateau about 23 m
(75 ft) high, was totally destroyed by the October 2013
40 earthquake. The town has a post office, landline and mobile
phone services, and internet connection. It is connected by
good roads with Tagbilaran and other important towns. A
hospital serves the medical needs of the town.
45 Anchorage for small vessels is in 7.3 to 14.6 m (4 to
8 fm) and about 0.2 mile, 227o off the town. Care must be
taken in anchoring, as there are several large coral heads in
this vicinity with 1.2 to 2.4 m (0.6 to 1.3 fm) of water over
them.
50
CANMANOC HILLS, 2 miles SE of Loon, rise to a
height of 445.3 m (1,461 ft) in a cluster of peaks and slope
down to the sea in a succession of rounded ridges, forming
a bold rounded promontory at Cruz Point.
55
 CRUZ POINT, the extremity of the peninsula between
Loon and Maribojoc, is 6.1 to 9.1 m (20 to 30 ft) high, rocky
and under worn by the sea. It is well wooded with coconut
trees and 0.55 mile inland, is 500 ft (152 m) high. There is
a prominent stone watchtower on its extremity.
MARIBOJOC BAY is an elbow in the coast E of Cruz
Point. It is foul and lined with a steep-to reef extending 1
mile at the mouth of the Abatan River, whence it continues
S and joins the reef extending from Panglao Island.
Anchorage - Lay-up anchorage was established off the
SE coast of the bay.
Navigational Aids - Lateral buoys were laid in the bay
to guide vessels wishing to call at Maribojoc.
MARIBOJOC is fairly prosperous town at the head of
Maribojoc Bay. It stands on slightly elevated ground. The
town has a post office, landline and mobile phone services.
Medical services could be had from a community hospital.
There is a good mole which extends 0.2 mile SW between
the reefs. The mole had 1.2 m (0.6 fm) of water at its end.
Maribojoc is the headquarters for a large number of small
crafts which visit and trade with the coastwise villages. It is
a regular port of call for coastwise vessels from Cebu and
Manila. Copra is the main product.
Major Light - Maribojoc Light (09° 44’ 18”N., 123°
50’ 24”E.) is displayed at the head of the causeway.
Anchorage, sheltered only from the NE monsoon, may
be found in front of the town of Maribojoc. To approach
this anchorage, bring the house on the mole to bear 053o
and stand in for it until the desired anchorage depth is 35
reached, 11 to 18.3 m (6 to 10 fm), mud bottom, about 0.3
mile from the end of the mole on that bearing. The edges
of the reefs are marked by concrete beacons and the NW
side of the entrance is the safer and more uniform in depth.
Small crafts of not more than 2.4 m (8 ft) draft can stand 40
in through a short winding channel to within a few yards
of the mole.
Vessels sheltering from inclement weather may anchor
SW of the town at depths 51 to 57 m (27 to 31 fm).
ABATAN RIVER, 2 miles SE of Maribojoc, has 0.9
m (0.4 fm) on it bar at low water and deeper water inside.
Two beacons mark the edges of the reef on both sides of the
entrance to the river. It is navigable by small crafts above
the town of Cortes, where it is spanned by a steel bridge.
CORTES is a small town on a bluff on the E bank
of the Abatan River, about 1.8 miles from its mouth.
Paminuitan Hill is a conspicuous, round topped hill about
1.5 miles S of the Abatan River and about 0.5 mile inland.
It is well wooded and 99.4 m (326 ft) high.
Danger - A small reef consisting of sand and coral,
with some coral heads, having a depth of 0.6 m (0.3 fm), is
nearly on the course from Tagbilaran Harbor to Maribojoc,
24 miles W of Paminuitan Hill and 1.8 miles from shore.
Anchorage and fair shelter may be found about 0.5
5 mile offshore, with the low, wooded point which marks the
S limit of the flats at the mouth of the Abatan River bearing
100o and Paminuitan Hill, 125o. The anchorage has mud
bottom, shoaling gradually from 73 to 27.4 m (15 to 4 fm).
10 MANGA, about 2.5 miles SSE of Maribojoc, is on
Manga Point. A 100 m long pier of a fish port extends from
the point.
TAGBILARAN (CHART 4429A), the seat of the
15 provincial government of Bohol is at the SW extremity
of Bohol Island. It is of growing commercial importance,
being the main port of the island and a regular point of call
for numerous interisland vessels. Ice, canned foods, fresh
vegetables, and lubricating oils can be purchased in small
20 quantities. The city has shopping malls, commercial banks,
and money remittance centers. Gasoline and Diesel oil are
available at the Shell Depot located in the port area. There
is a machine shop with acetylene welding equipment. A
government hospital and private hospitals offer medical
25 facilities. Landline communications, postal service, mobile
phone services, and Internet connections are available. The
means of transportation within the city is by motor-tricycle
and taxicabs and outside of it there are buses crossing the
sea by ferry boat, making daily trips, toward the city of
30 Cebu.
Prominent Features - Tagbilaran can be recognized
from afar by the concentration of houses and structures
along the coastline from the causeway connecting the city
and Panglao Island to a point located about 1 mile N of the
government wharf.
Major Lights - Tagbilaran Pier Light (09° 39’ 00”N.,
123° 50’ 43”E.), is displayed from the government wharf.
Tagbilaran Beacon No. 1 (09° 39’ 29”N., 123° 49’
41”E.) is displayed from a green tower on the north side of
the entrance to the channel.
45 Tagbilaran Beacon No. 5 (09° 39’ 20”N., 123° 49’
58”E.) is displayed from a pole located about 580 m SE of
Beacon No. 1.
Tagbilaran Beacon No. 7 (09° 39’ 04”N., 123° 50’
50 26”E.) is displayed from a pole located on the reef N of the
entrance to the inner anchorage off the government wharf.
Tagbilaran Beacon No. 8 (09° 39’ 00”N., 123° 50’
25”E.) is displayed from a pole located on the reef S of the
55 entrance to the inner anchorage.
Aside from the lighted beacons, the channel is well
marked by buoys the details of which may be referred to
Chart 4429A and the List of Lights.
60
12-11
 Channel - There is a dredged channel through the
reefs from the entrance of the harbor to the anchorage area
off the pier. The anchorage area is confined and has depths
of 20 to 29 m (10.9 to 15.9 fm). The entrance channel
has a controlling depth of 7.9 m (4.3 fm) and is marked
by Beacon No. 1 on the N side. The channel is marked by
beacons and buoys. Beacons on the N side of the channel
are surmounted by black cylinders, those on the S side are
with red cones.
In entering, navigators should stand in a mid-
channel course before approaching Beacon No. 1 and not
pass close W of the beacon on the S side as shoal water
extends SW from it. Approaching vessels desiring to call
at the government wharfs usually wait their turn near the
Beacon No. 1 as maneuvering toward it is constricted and
dangerous for two big seacrafts. About 1 mile E of Beacon
No. 1 is the shore of Caingit Beach and 0.6 mile S is the
wharf, where, starting here and following the coastline
for approximately every 0.2 mile hence, is the concrete
causeway, then another causeway and finally the causeway
with a bridge connecting Bohol Island and Panglao Island.
From the causeway with a bridge, on the side of Tagbilaran,
and about 0.2 mile to the E is a prominent radio tower
exhibiting a fixed red light which is of help to navigators.
Immigration - The Tagbilaran field office of the
Bureau of Immigration is also located at the poblacion and
may be contacted at telephone no. (+6338) 235-6084, fax
no. (+6338) 235-6084, and e-mail: bi_bohol@yahoo.com.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station is
located about 0.5 mile SE of Tagbilaran Pier Light and may
be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8163121 and
+63995-4015813. The Coast Guard may also be contacted
through e-mail at cgstagbilaran@coastguard.gov.ph.
Port Management - The government wharf is operated
by PMO-Tagbilaran, which may be contacted at telephone
nos. (+6338) 501-8183 and (038) 501-8969.
The maximum permissible length of vessels that can
enter the port is 160 m. Vessels on scheduled voyage should
notify the PMO 24 hrs before ETA. Tramp vessels should
send notice 36 hrs before ETA.
Berthing Facilities - The government wharf,
connected to the shore by a 400 m long causeway, has berth
length of about 500 m. The wharf has two RoRo ramps. The
port has 5,700 sq m open storage area. The port has forklifts
with load capacities ranging from 3 to 10 tons, a mobile
crane capable of handling up to 16 tons of cargo, and 2 tugs.
The berthing area for fastcrafts is located about 200
m ESE of Tagbilaran Pier Light. The berth for yachts and
pleasure crafts is located about 50 m E of the fastcraft berth.
An offshore platform, owned by Shell, is at the center
of the harbor formed by the wharf and the coast of Bohol.
Submarine pipelines connect the platform with the oil depot
12-12
and the government wharf.
The small wharf at the causeway, connecting Panglao
and Bohol Islands, is used by small fishing and ferry boats.
5
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available
from a local operator. Diesel and other fuels may be
delivered by pipe at the government wharf. Only minor
repairs can be carried out at the port.
10
Pilotage is compulsory and pilots can render service
during day and night. They can be contacted via VHF
channel 16 or at telephone no. (+6338) 411-4107. Notice of
ETA should be sent 24 hrs in advance for liner vessels and
15 36 hrs for cargo vessels. Pilot boards at the NW of Beacon
No. 1.
Anchorage - There is no good anchorage off the W
entrance to Tagbilaran Harbor. Mandated anchorage for
20 vessels of above 3,000 GRT is located about 0.2 mile SW
and NW of Beacon No. 1. Vessels of 3,000 GRT and below
may anchor inside of the reef-enclosed harbor between
Beacons No. 5 and No. 7. Vessels unloading petroleum
may anchor off the government wharf. During inclement
25 weather, vessels are advised to anchor in the area SW of the
Maribojoc town.
Fair anchorage may be found also in the bay SE of
Tagbilaran. Flats, bare at low water, extend about 0.5 mile
30 SE from the causeway connecting Panglao Island with
Bohol, and nearly in the middle of the bay is submerged
pinnacle rock, with a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm), 0.6 mile SE
of the bridge in the middle of the causeway and about the
same distance from both shores. About 0.6 mile from the
35 causeway and 0.2 mile from the edge of the flats, as marked
by the fish traps, is a line of coral reefs with depths of 5.5
to 12.8 m (3 to 7 fm). Between these reefs and the edge
of the flats, anchorage may be found for small vessels in
21.9 m (12 fm), about 0.3 mile from Panglao’s shore, on
40 the bearings: Tagbilaran Church at 321o, and the Baclayon
Light structure 080o.
Large vessels may anchor in 34.7 to 36.3 m (19 to 20
fm), about 0.29 mile S of the previously described 0.9 m
45 (0.5 fm) rock, on the following bearings: Mount Biking
248o, Tagbilaran Church 317o, and the Baclayon light
structure 079o.
Quarantine Anchorage - Vessels waiting to be
50 boarded by the quarantine officer should anchor at about
0.4 mile SW of Beacon No. 1.
PANGLAO ISLAND, off the SW extremity of Bohol,
is almost joined to Bohol, as the harbor of Tagbilaran that
55 separates them is only about 0.3 mile wide at the narrowest
point and nearly dry at low water. From the town of Dauis,
at the NE end of the island, a causeway in which there are 3
gaps, spanned by bridges, for the passage of boats, extends
to the Bohol shore. About 1.2 miles N of Dauis is another
60 causeway extending to the city of Tagbilaran. A church
spire at Dauis is conspicuous.
Near the E end of Panglao are two hills covered with
coconut trees and grass, the E and higher one is Mount
Biking, 196.9 m (646 ft) high. A third hill, thickly covered
with coconut trees, is in S part of the island and rises
abruptly to 97.2 m (319 ft) from the sea, back of the barrio
of Bolod. The rest of the island is fairly level and covered
with scattered groves of coconut trees, bushes, and small
patches of cultivated ground.
The N shores of Panglao are fringed with very narrow
steep-to reef, but from the SW end is a large reef, bare
at low water, extending about 3 miles in a SW direction.
There are two small, wooded islands, Pungtud and Gakang,
on this reef.
PANGLAO, a town accessible only to small craft at
high water, is at the head of Panglao Bay eastward of this
reef. Panglao is connected with Dauis by a good road.
Marine Protected Area - Various portions of the
coasts of Panglao Island, both in the towns of Panglao and
Dauis, are protected areas. Activities that may harm the
environment and the organisms within the protected area
are strictly prohibited.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Panglao Island may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63917-8427458 and +63998-5858289.
BALICASAG ISLAND, 4 miles SW of Tahurug
Point, the SW extremity of Panglao Island, is low, flat,
and surrounded by a narrow, steep-to reef. It contains the
ruins of an old fort, some 12 to 15 houses, and is cultivated 35
and planted with corn and sweet-potatoes. Shown from the
ruins is Balicasag Island Light (09° 31’ 04”N., 123° 40’
59”E.) that marks the island.
The channel between Balicasag and the reefs extending
SW from Panglao Island is 1.3 miles wide and more than
366 m (200 fm) deep in the middle.
CERVERA SHOAL, composed of coral and sand,
with a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm) surrounded by deep water, is
4.5 miles W of Pamilican Island. It can be distinguished by
the discoloration of the water and tide rips on it.
PAMILACAN ISLAND, 7 miles from the coast
of Bohol and 14 miles E of Balicasag Island Light, is a
small island, about 15.2 m (50 ft) high in the W part. The N
extremity is clear and steep-to, but the remainder is fringed
by a reef which in places extends about 0.2 mile from its
SE side.
Pamilican is well cultivated and planted with coconuts,
corn, and some manguey. A small rock with some bushes
on it lies nearly 0.1 mile off its SE side. A fort, in ruins,
stands on the N point of the island. The island is marked by
Pamilacan Light (09° 29’ 30”N., 123° 55’ 12”E.).
SOUTH COAST OF BOHOL
(CHARTS 1537, 1548 & 4429)
From Tagbilaran, the coast trends E for about 33
5 miles then bends N at Nauco Point, the W entrance point
to Guindulman Bay. This coast is remarkably regular in
outline, there being no bays or points of any prominence.
The rivers, with the exception of the Loay, are small and of
no value to navigation.
10
The reef along the shore varies in width from 0.1 to 0.3
mile, is very steep-to, and usually plainly marked by the
change in color of the water. Outside of the reef, the water
deepens so abruptly that anchorage is afforded in only a
15 few places. There are no off-lying dangers, and the S coast
of Bohol may be safely navigated at a distance of 0.5 mile.
The country, in general, is roughly rolling, broken by
many deep valleys and gorges, and rising gradually with
20 interspersed high hills and ridges from 610 to 762 m (2,000
to 2,500 ft) mountains on the central plateau of the island.
There are three prominent hills: the first is the round-topped
hill 144.8 m (475 ft) high, about 0.5 mile from shore, N
of Tagbilaran E anchorage; the second is Tayong Peak, a
25 conical peak 505.7 m (1,659 ft) high in a group of hills N
of barrio Tayong located between the towns of Loay and
Dimiao; and the third is Mount Gorda, the 328 m (1,076
ft) hill on Gorda Point near the coast, separated from the
higher ridges lying a short distance inland.
30
The towns of Baclayon, Alburquerque, Loay, Lila,
Dimiao, Valencia, Garcia Hernandez, Jagna, and a number
of small villages are along this coast.
Currents - Off the S coast of Bohol, the flood current
sets W and the ebb E. In addition, there is a W nontidal flow
having an estimated velocity of 1 to 2 knots.
Marine Protected Area - Portions of lands and
40 coastal areas of the towns of Alburquerque, Loay, and
Loboc are protected areas. Activities that are harmful
to the environment within the protected area are strictly
prohibited.
45 Distress & Rescue – The remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Tagbilaran (09° 38'
56"N., 123° 50' 50"E.) covers the waters off Bohol from
Tagbilaran to Gorda Point. Vessels in distress may contact
the above mentioned remotely controlled stations. Refer to
50 the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
BACLAYON is a small town about 3.5 miles E of
Tagbilaran. It has a schoolhouse, tribunal, and market, and
shows well from seaward. Ruins of the town’s church and
55 bell tower stands NW of the stone landing. Baclayon Light
(09° 37’ 20”N., 123° 54’ 42”E.) is displayed from a white
tower on the landing.
ALBURQUERQUE is a small town about 3 miles E
60 of Baclayon and has a large, prominent, stone church. A
12-13
120 m long pier with RoRo ramp at the offshore end fronts
the town.
LOAY RIVER, which empties close to the W side
of the town of Loay, about 9.5 miles E of Tagbilaran, is
navigable by small boats for 5 miles, as far as the town of
Loboc. From Loay to Loboc the river is very tortuous and
generally fringed with nipa swamps. It is spanned at Loay
and Loboc by bridges which limit navigation.
LOAY town on the E side of the mouth of the Loay
River, owes its commercial importance partly to its harbor
and partly to the Loay River, which serves as an outlet for
the products of the interior. The town is on low, flat ground.
On a small hill overlooking the rest of the town is a bell
tower and the ruins of a church and convent. Loay has a
post office.
The harbor, formed by the river, about 0.7 mile wide
off the town, has two rock jetties and marginal wharf. The
channel is marked by two beacons which mark the outer
ends of the jetties. A third beacon is located midway between
rock jetty and the wharf. Loay Light (09° 36’ 03”N., 124°
00’ 30”E.) is located on the E mouth of the river.
In April 1962, the depths alongside the marginal wharf
were 1.5 to 2.1 m (0.8 to 1.1 fm). The mean range of the tide
is about 0.9 m (0.49 fm).
Anchorage - Temporary anchorage may be found
outside of the bar in 14.6 to 27.4 m (8 to 15 fm).
LOBOC is a small town 2.5 miles NE of Loay and
about 5 miles by river. The town has several small stores.
LILA, a town about 5 miles eastward of Loay, has a
stone church with a galvanized-iron roof, the S gable of
which is prominent.
DIMIAO is a town 4 miles E of Lila. The peaked-roof
of the church forms a good landmark. A pier about 46 m at
the end of a stone causeway is located in this town.
Anchorage may be found by small craft in the little
bay a few hundred yards westward of the town of Dimiao,
fairly sheltered from all winds except from the southwest.
VALENCIA is a small town about 3 miles E of Dimiao.
Vessels may anchor off the town, in 14.6 to 18.3 m (8 to 10
fm), sand bottom, but without shelter. A 100 m long pier
fronts the town.
GORDA POINT, 3 miles E of Valencia, forms no
projection from the general coastline, but derives its name
from the height and prominence of Mount Gorda. The coast 55
in this vicinity is clear and steep-to. Gorda Light (09° 36’
00”N., 124° 15’ 35”E.) is shown from the point.
MOUNT GORDA is a narrow, steep ridge about 1.5
miles long in an ENE and opposite direction. Its summit,
12-14
328 m (1,076 ft) high, is about 0.3 mile N of Gorda Point.
With its bluff-like, tree-covered sides, it looms up plainly
against the range farther back in the interior and makes
an excellent landmark. The NE end of Mount Gorda is
5 connected by a low saddle with the S trending arm of the
coast range.
GARCIA HERNANDEZ is a small town about 3
miles E of Gorda Point. It has a large prominent stone
10 church.
Anchorage - Vessels may anchor off the town, in 11
to 27.4 m (6 to 15 fm), sand bottom. This anchorage is
unprotected.
15
CANAYAON, the barrio about 1 mile of Garcia
Hernandez, is the location of the conveyor facility and
dolphins of Bohol Limestone Corp. Vessels loading
limestone regularly call at this berthing facility.
20
CANOPAO POINT, 6.5 miles E of Gorda Point and
CANTAGAY POINT, about 0.7 mile NE of Canopao Point,
with a small bay between them, are formed by bluffs 9.1 to
15.2 m (30 to 50 ft) high.
25
JAGNA, a town on the bay of the same name and about
0.6 mile N of Cantagay Point, is a regular port of call for
coasting vessels. Chief export is copra. The town has post
office, radio, landline, and mobile phone communication.
30 Medical services can be availed from hospitals and small
clinics in the town. It has electricity and fresh water supply.
The shores of Jagna Bay, NE of Cantagay Point, are fringed
with reefs bare at low water.
35 Major Light - Jagna Light (09° 39’ 01”N., 124° 21’
54”E.) shown from a white tower at the shore end of the
pier.
Navigational Aids - Lateral buoys, leading to the
40 government pier, were installed off Jagna.
Port Management - The government port is operated
by TMO-Jagna, which may be contacted at telephone no.
(+6338) 531-8250. The port can only serve vessels with
45 2,250 DWT or less, with a maximum LOA of 149 m and
a draft of 5.6 m.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Jagna
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8397878.
50
Berthing Facilities - The TMO operates the 140 m
long L-shaped pier and the wharf at the shore end of the pier.
Draft alongside the pier and the wharf is approximately 3 m.
RoRo ramps at the pier and the wharf are available. Cargo
handling equipment include forklifts of various capacities.
The port has 390 sq m open storage area.
A 20 m long pier, for use of fishing boats, is located
about 0.3 mile of the L-shaped pier.
60
 Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided
by Jagna Arrastre and Terminal Services, which may be
contacted at telephone no. (+6338) 238-2222. Bunkering
services are available. Supplies are scarce and no fresh
water is available at the pier.
Anchorage area is about 0.3 mile in extent for small
vessels in 25.6 to 32.9 m (14 to 18 fm). Although the bay is
protected from the SW and N, it is exposed to the E and in
heavy weather from that direction, the anchorage and pier
are untenable.
NAUCO POINT is a sharp elbow in the coast 2 miles
E of Jagna Bay. It is clear and steep-to and rises almost
vertically to a height of 22.9 m (75 ft), then gradually to
over 30.5 m (100 ft) within 137 m of the shore.
From Nauco Point, the coast trends N for 3.5 miles to
the town of Duero, and thence with a sharp turn E for 2.5
miles to Cabantian Point. In the vicinity of Nauco Point,
the hills are low and irregular, a group of promiscuously
placed, knob-like mounds converging to a center of three
peaks between 213.4 to 243.8 m (700 and 800 ft) high. Just
N of Nauco Point, the valley of the Alihauan River extends
into the hills as a narrow, deep gorge. Next comes the valley
of the Cabantian River, about 1.8 miles E of Duero, also
long and narrow but less canyon-like than the Alihauan,
and bordering it on the E are another group of hills similar
in character to those at Nauco Point. These hills gradually
lessen in height toward the E until after an extent of about
3 miles. They give place to low, flat country which extends
N and NE, back of the peninsula which is surmounted by
Mount Pugatin, giving a broad expanse of cultivated land.
DUERO is a small town about 3.5 miles N of Nauco
Point. Fairly good anchorage may be found off Duero in
27.4 m (15 fm), E of the church and about 0.2 mile from
shore.
GUINDULMAN BAY is 4 miles wide and is at the
entrance between Cabantian and Napacao Points and
extends about 3 miles. The entrance to the bay is very deep,
but the water shoals rapidly toward the head, and the shores
are fringed with a narrow, steep-to reef, outlined by fish
traps. The only detached danger in the bay is the 0.9 m (0.5
fm) patch in the NE corner, about 0.3 mile off the mouth of
the Tabahan River.
GUINDULMAN is a small town at the head of the
bay just W of the mouth of the Tabahan River. The tower of
the church is prominent from seaward. Vessels from Cebu
call at regular intervals at Guindulman. Supplies are hard to
procure. Fresh water for ship’s use is not available. There is
postal service in town. A 30 m long pier of a fish port fronts
the town.
Anchorage with mud and sand bottom may be found
outside the fish traps which line the shore in front of
Guindulman, according to draft. The anchorage is exposed
to the SW monsoon. A local mining company operates a
small manganese ore deposit about 15 miles inland and ships
the ore through Guindulman. A T-shaped pier consisting of
a concrete causeway and a wooden landing, is maintained
by the mining company on the E shore of the bay 0.5 mile
5 SE of the town of Guindulman. In October 1910, the depths
alongside the landing were 5.2 to 7.9 m (2.8 to 4.3 fm). Two
privately-maintained buoys mark the shoal and the edge of
the reef NW and S of the pier respectively.
10 From Napacao Point at the E side of Guindulman
Bay, the coast trends E for 3.5 miles to Quinali Point, NE
for about 2 miles to Agio Point, thence N for 2.8 miles to
Lamanoc Point, and thence, WNW for 4.5 miles to the
barrio of Cogtong, forming a large prominent peninsula.
15 The E side of this peninsula rises at distances of 1 and 1.5
miles from the coast to heights of about 305 m (1,000 ft),
and then slopes gradually W to heights of about 244 m (800
ft) and then recedes abruptly to the low, flat land previously
mentioned, lying between Guindulman and Cogtong Bays.
20
MOUNT PUGATIN, on the E part of this peninsula,
consists of two peaks 375 and 390 m (1,230 and 1,280
ft) high respectively, above 0.5 mile apart in a N-and-S
direction.
25
ANDA is a small town on a sandy point running
parallel with the coast about 1 mile NE of Quinali Point. It
has a large white church, which is prominent between the
point on which the town is situated and the mainland is an
30 extensive mangrove swamp.
Anchorage for small crafts may be found in 21.9 m
(12 fm), close to the edge of the reef, SE of the N end of the
point. The anchorage is insecure and exposed to SW and
35 NE winds.
AGIO POINT, the SE extremity of the island of
Bohol, is low, but rises rapidly to a height of 163 m (535 ft)
within less than 0.5 mile W from its extremity. It is fringed
40 with a narrow, steep-to reef with a scattered growth of
mangroves. A 9.8 m (32 ft) concrete pole for a proposed
light stands at barrio Suba, about 0.2 mile SW of the point.
Talisay Light (09° 46’ 01”N., 124° 35’ 30”E.) is located N
of the point at Barrio Talisay.
45
EASTERN BOHOL
(CHART 1537)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – The remotely controlled
50 coast station with VHF DSC alerting in Maasin, Leyte (10°
07' 54"N., 124° 50' 08"E.) covers the waters off Bohol from
Lamanoc Point to Cabulao Bay. Vessels in distress may
contact the above mentioned remotely controlled stations.
Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for
55 details.
Between Agio Point and Lamanoc Point 2.8 miles N,
the shoreline recedes W forming a bight blocked by reefs
on which a scattered growth of mangroves proliferates. The
60 outer edge of the reefs forms a nearly straight line between
12-15
Agio and Lamanoc Points.
LAMANOC POINT is composed of low, rocky cliff
and forms a very prominent projection from the coastline.
Off the point are three rocky islets on the shore reef. The
shore reef off the E end of Lamanoc Point is very narrow,
and the most E of the three islets may be passed at a distance
of 0.5 mile.
COGTONG BAY, between Lamanoc and Kabulao 10
Points, is nearly blocked by Lumislis, Catiil, Tabangdio,
and Calangaman Islets, all low and covered with mangroves
and connected with the shore by reefs bare at low water. A
reef, awash at low water 0.4 mile N of Tabangdio Islet, is
the only detached danger in the bay. 15
The head of the bay is shoal with mud and sand flats,
and reefs fringing the shore which are bare at low water.
The shoreline is generally composed of mangroves. The
town of Mabini and the barrio of Cogtong are at the head
of the bay.
Anchorage, sheltered from all winds except from the
SE, may be found in an area about 0.8 mile in extent, S and
SW of Lumislis Islet, where there is a depth of 18.3 m (10
fm), mud bottom, at the entrance, gradually shoaling to 4.6
m (2.5 fm).
From about 1.3 miles NNW of Lamanoc Point, a
chain of reefs extends N for about 5 miles. These reefs are
covered by varying depths, from awash at one point to a
depth of 9.1 m (5 fm), and with local knowledge may be
crossed in a number of places.
Directions - The best way to enter Cogtong Bay from
E is by a channel through the reefs about 2 miles N of
Lamanoc Point, which is about 0.4 mile wide and has a
depth of 53 m (29 fm) in the middle, or from the N passing
close to Kabulao Point.
To enter from E: Starting from a position within 3 to
4 miles E by S of the S end of Lumislis Island, steer for the
N tangent of Catiil Island on course 270o with the houses at
Cogtong open N from Catiil. Continue on this course until
Lamanoc Point bears 160o, then haul N and steer 290o to
clear the reef awash at low water 0.3 mile N of Tabangdio
Islet. When S of the center of Lumislis Island, anchor in 7.3
to 9.1 m (4 to 5 fm), 0.4 mile NE of Catiil Islet.
To enter from N: Approach Kabulao Point to within
about 0.5 mile, keeping on bearing between 270o and 230o
to avoid the reefs E of Cogtong Bay and those N from
Kabulao Point. When about 0.5 mile E of the point, steer
187o for 4 miles, then haul W rounding the SE end of
Lumislis Island at a distance of 0.5 mile and head for the
anchorage.
CABULAO (KABULAO) POINT, dividing Cogtong
and Cabulao Bays, is a bold, wooded promontory 145
m (475 ft) high, 0.3 mile inland. It is clear and steep-to
12-16
seaward, but its N and S sides are fringed with reefs which
gradually widen toward the inner side of the bays.
CABULAO (KABULAO) BAY is between Kabulao
5 and Huagdon Points. The bay and its approaches are
encumbered with reefs, and the entire shores of the bay are
fringed with mangroves.
LUNGSODAAN, a barrio of Mabini town about 1
mile WNW of Kabulao Point, has a 50 m long T-shaped
pier. Fishing boats regularly call at this pier. The barrio is
connected by road to the Poblacion. Fishing vessels usually
anchor off Barrio Valaga, about 0.6 mile W of Lungsodaan.
TINTIMAN ISLAND, 42.1 m (138 ft) high, is in the
N part of the bay. Its shores are fringed with reefs, which,
from the S end, extend about 0.2 mile. A rock awash is
about 800 yards W from its N extremity. A village, with a
pier fronting it, is at the N shore of the island.
20
LIMAIAG REEF, a large reef bare at low water and
covered with light vegetation, is nearly 1 mile S of Tintiman
Island. A small reef with a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) is 0.7
mile ESE of this reef.
25
A large reef, S part of which is bare at low water, lies
with its N end 1 mile E of the S end of Tintiman Island.
There are a number of other shoal patches in the approach to
Kabulao Bay, the positions of which will be best understood
30 by reference to the chart.
DIRECTIONS - The bay may be approached from
the following three bearings within 3.5 miles distance from
the summit of Tintiman Island. A bearing of 353o will clear
35 Kabulao Point and the E side of Lamaiag Reef by about
0.2 mile. Another bearing of 330o will lead to a channel 0.6
mile wide with a depth of 27.4 m (15 fm) between a 2.7 m
(1.5 fm) patch and the large reef bare at low water 1 mile SE
of Tintiman Island. The course of 240o will lead to a deep
40 channel about 1 mile wide between a 5.5 m (3 fm) spot E
of Huagdon Point and the N limit of the large shoal SE of
Tintiman Island. From the foregoing directions, the island
may be rounded at a distance of 0.4 mile to the anchorage.
45 ANCHORAGE - Good anchorage is about 0.4 mile
W of Tintiman Island in 11 to 14.6 m (6 to 8 fm), mud
bottom. This anchorage may also be approached by passing
N of Tintiman Island, care being taken to avoid the rock
previously mentioned as lying W of the N end of it.
50
HUAGDON POINT is the SE extremity of a large
peninsula having two hills 135.6 and 114.3 m (445 and
375 ft) high, the S being the higher. Two shoal patches
with 5.5 m (3 fm) of water are 0.4 mile SE and 0.8 mile E,
55 respectively from Huagdon Point.
Reefs - About 3.5 miles E of Huagdon Point are a
number of reefs with depths of 5.9 to 9.1 m (3.25 to 5 fm),
as shown on the chart. Between the N extremity of the
60 peninsula on which Huagdon Point is situated and the E
entrance to Basiao Channel for a distance of 3 miles, the
shore is low and fringed with mangroves. The water off this
coast is shoal and there are a number of small patches with
depths of 3.2 to 9.1 m (1.75 to 5 fm) and a rock awash
about 0.8 mile from shore, all of which may be avoided by
keeping Tinuibo Islet bearing northing eastward of 020o
until the 128.6 m (422 ft) hill on the S end of Lapinin Island
bears 285o.
CANIGAO CHANNEL, between Danajon Bank and
Leyte, is about 6 miles wide, but is divided into several
passes by Cain, Adam, and Eve Reefs, and Canigao Island.
The pass between Canigao Island and Leyte is nearly 1
mile wide, has a depth of 18.3 m (10 fm), and is the one
generally used.
Distress & Rescue – The remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Maasin, Leyte (10° 07'
54"N., 124° 50' 08"E.) covers Canigao Channel. Vessels
in distress may contact the above mentioned remotely
controlled stations. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas
map in Chapter 2 for details.
CANIGAO ISLAND, on the E side of Canigao
Channel, about 1 mile from the coast of Leyte, is low, flat, 25
and heavily-wooded. Its E side is clear, but the N, W and
S sides are skirted with reefs which extend about 0.8 mile are present off the W and SW coast of Siquijor Island.
from the SW point. Canigao Light (10° 15’ 00”N., 124° 45’ Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the
00”E.) is displayed on on the island.
CAIN REEF is a small shoal with a depth of 7.3 m (4
fm) 1.8 miles WNW of Canigao Island.
ADAM REEF, with a depth of 0.4 m (0.25 fm), is
2.5 miles W of Canigao Island and 2.5 miles SE of the E
edge of Danajon Bank, Tinuibo Island bearing 194o leads
through the channel between the Danajon Bank and the 8.2
m (4.5 fm) shoal patch (reported in 1966) about 1.3 miles
NW of Adam Reef in nothing less than 11 m (6 fm). Adam
Reef Light (10° 14’ 42”N., 124° 42’ 09”E.) is displayed on
the reef.
EVE REEF, 1.5 miles WSW of Canigao Island, is of
small extent and has a depth of 5.9 m (3.75 fm).
ABEL REEF is a small shoal spot with a depth of 7.0
m (3.75 fm) 1.8 miles S of Canigao Island.
Government pier of Larena
(Photograph - PPA-Visayas website, Undated)
SIQUIJOR ISLAND
(CHART 1548 & 4604)
About 10 miles E of the S part of Negros is the
5 province of Siquijor. The surface is high and broken. Mount
Malabahoc, the highest point near the center of the island,
is 628 m (2,060 ft) high. Mount Cudtingan, about 5 miles
NE of Mount Malabahoc, is 466.3 m (1,530 ft) high. Its
sides form Sandugan and Daquit Points.
10
The entire island is fringed by a narrow, steep-to, coral
reef of which the water is generally too deep to afford
anchorage. With the exception of the W end of the island,
where the shore reef extends nearly 1 mile, Siquijor may be
15 safely rounded at a distance of 0.5 mile. The only protected
anchorage on the island is the little Port of Canoan on the
NW side. Anchorage, sheltered during certain seasons, may
be found in Maria and Lazi Bays.
20 Siquijor is one of the most thickly populated islands
in the archipelago and produces corn, hemp, tobacco,
and cocoa. There is a number of towns and villages on its
shores. A good road encircles the island and there are bus
and telephone connections between all the big towns.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables
cable.
30
PORT CANOAN (CHART 4466) is an indentation in
the N part of the island about 3 miles S of Sandugan Point.
It is very small but offers fair shelter for small craft in all
weather. Mud flats at the head of the port and fringing reefs
35 on either side reduce the available anchorage space to an
area about 0.2 mile long and 0.1 mile wide. Both sides of
the entrance are marked by low, yellow bluffs and fringed
by reefs which extend about 0.1 mile.
40 LARENA is a town on a slight elevation on the S
side of the port. The town is the third largest in size on
Siquijor. The metal roof of the church shows prominently
to seaward. The red-roofed building at the foot of the pier is
prominent. The town has a number of small stores. Landline
45 communication, mobile phone services, postal service and
Internet connections are available. Some supply of food and
a few tins of gasoline, kerosene, and lubricating oil can be
12-17
purchased. Minor medical assistance can be secured from
local practitioners and the public dispensary in the town.
Vessels call daily from Dumaguete and Oslob in Cebu
Island. There are regular ferry trips between the town, and
Tagbilaran in Bohol Island and Plaridel in Mindanao Island.
Major Lights - Two fixed red lights are shown from
range beacons at the head of the port. These range lights,
bearing 115o, lead through the channel into the port. The
Port Canoan Front Light (09° 15’ 05”N., 123° 35’ 38”E.)
is shown from a triangular beacon, apex upward, painted
white with a vertical black stripe through the center, just
N of the bridge at the head of the port. The Port Canoan
Rear Light (09° 14’ 54”N., 123° 36’ 00”E.) is shown from
a triangular beacon, apex downward, painted white, with
a vertical black stripe through the center, on a bare slope
559.4 m (195 ft) high, about 0. 5 mile from the front beacon.
Dangers - A wreck, was reported to lie sunk on the
line or range in a position about 0.3 mile WNW of the front
range structure, but the position of this wreck is considered
doubtful.
A sunken wreck is charted close off the face of the
pier. Considerable shoaling has occurred E of the pier and
vessels approaching this port should exercise caution.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Larena
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-5858327
and +63917-8427654.
Berthing Facilities - A concrete wharf with a berthing
space of about 185 m is at the foot of the bluff N of the
town. It has a 12 by 10 m ramp for RoRo vessels, having a
depth of 3 m (1.6 fm).
Directions - Vessels bound into Port Canoan should
bring the beacons in range and enter cautiously. No
anchorage is recommended because of considerable
shoaling at the head of the bay, resulting in a very limited
Cambalaguio Point, as seen from the shore N
(Photograph - SN1 Raymundo C Castillo, 2016)
12-18
swinging room. It is reported that bad weather from any
direction sends considerable sea into Port Canoan.
SIQUIJOR is the largest town and the provincial
5 center of the island province. It is about 5 miles WSW of
Port Canoan. It has a large church and other prominent
buildings whose metal roofs are visible from offshore. A
government hospital is present. Ferry vessels have daily
trips to Dumaguete City in Negros and Tagbilaran City in
10 Bohol. The water in front of the town is too deep to afford
safe anchorage.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Siquijor may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63998-
15 5858327 and +63917-8427654.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 45 m long
concrete pier that is connected to a concrete deck, which
has a RoRo ramp.
20
TONGA, TAMBISAN, and PALITON POINTS,
forming the W part of the island, are low, well wooded
principally with coconut trees, and surrounded by a reef
which extends nearly 1 mile, partly bare at low water,
25 This reef shows prominently and its edge is generally well
defined by fish traps.
SAN JUAN is a large town on the coast about 3 miles
SE of Tambisan Point, the extreme W point of the island.
30 It has a large prominent church. The shore in front of the
town is fringed by a narrow reef outside of which the water
deepens rapidly.
CAMBALAGUIO POINT, the SW point of Siquijor,
35 is marked by Cambalaguio Light (09° 09’ 15”N., 123° 30’
50”E.), which is displayed atop a white tower.
LAZI BAY, on the S side of Siquijor, about 9 miles ESE
of the town of San Juan, is between Canaba and Carigan
40 Points. Carigan Point, forming the E side of the bay, is a
prominent tableland over 122 m (400 ft) high. A 240 m long
wharf, operated by Lazi Bay Resources Development Inc.,
is located at Carigan Point. A conveyor facility is used for
transporting limestone to the wharf area.
LAZI, a town at the head of the bay, has a very prominent
red-roofed church and convent. There is a daily motor vessel
connection to Cebu, Dumaguete, and Mindanao ports. The
town has a post office, Internet connection, mobile phone
services, landline communications, puericulture center,
electric lights and fresh water supply. A hospital provides
minor medical assistance. Fresh supplies are limited. Main
exports are copra and kapok.
Major Light - Lazi Light (09° 07’ 35”N., 123° 38’
05”E.) is displayed from a white post at the root of the pier.
Berthing Facilities - The concrete pier extends
SE from the town. Vessels calling at Lazi usually berth
alongside the pier’s W face. A RoRo ramp is available.
 Pilotage - Vessels calling at Lazi is boarded at a
location about 1.4 miles SE of the church.
Anchorage, well protected during the NE monsoon,
may be found by bringing the church to bear 317o and
steering for it, anchoring in 32.9 to 36.6 m (18 to 20 fm),
mud and sand bottom. Inshore of this position the water
shoals very rapidly. With the exception of the narrow reef
fringing the shore, Lazi Bay is free from dangers.
MINALULAN BAY, E of Lazi Bay, is blocked by
reefs and is no value to navigation. The point forming the
E side of the bay is moderately high and well wooded.
MINALULAN POINT, the SE extremity of Siquijor,
is moderately high, well wooded, and very prominent.
Minalulan Light (09° 07’ 15”N., 123° 40’ 49”E.).
MARIA BAY is N of Minalulan Point, between
Minalulan and Daquit Points. Maria is a large town at the
head of the bay. It has a large prominent church. Minor
medical assistance may be had from a local physician.
Anchorage, well protected during the SW monsoon, is
off the sand beach just S of the river which empties on the S
side of the town, in 36.6 m (20 fm), sand bottom. No coral
is found off this beach, but immediately N of the bluffs, on
the N side of the mouth of the river coral reefs extend about
250 yards. With the exception of the fringing shore reef,
Maria Bay is free from dangers.
DAQUIT POINT, on the northern side of the entrance
to Maria Bay, is formed by a hill about 61 m (200 ft) high
at a distance of about 0.5 mile inland, from where it slopes
gradually toward the sea, terminating in low, rocky bluffs.
An islet close to the point is connected by a reef.
DAQUIT SHOAL is a large, circular, coral reef, with
a depths of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) and surrounded by deep water,
about 2.5 miles N of Daquit Point and 2 miles from shore.
It is usually marked by discolored water.
ENRIQUE VILLANUEVA is a large town on the
shore about 4.5 miles NW of Daquit Point. It has a large
prominent church and other buildings. The shore in front
of the town is fringed by a narrow reef with deep water
close-to.
MINARCAHAN POINT is located about 2 miles
NW of Enrique Villanueva. Minarcahan Point Light (09°
18’ 05”N., 123° 37’ 15”E.) is displayed from a white tower
0.4 mile SE of Minarcahan Point.
Distress & Rescue – The remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Tagbilaran (09° 38'
5 56"N., 123° 50' 50"E.) covers the waters off Minarcahan
Point. Vessels in distress may contact the above mentioned
remotely controlled stations. Refer to the DSC Limits of
Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
10 SANDUGAN POINT, the N extremity of Siquijor, is
low and gradually rises to a hill 164.6 m (540 ft) high less
than 1 mile SE from it. It is fringed by a reef, bare at low
water, about 230 m (250 yards) wide, with deep water close
to.
15
CURRENTS - In the BOHOL SEA (CHART 4708),
between the S point of Panaon Island and the N point of
Camiguin Island, there is a constant current W, which varies
in velocity, according to wind and tide, in both monsoons.
20 Vessels approaching Surigao Strait from W should keep
well over toward Panaon Island to avoid being set toward
Camiguin Island.
In the S part of the sea, on the N coast of Mindanao,
25 there appears to be hardly any tidal stream and the currents
follow the direction of the wind in both monsoons.
There appears to be a constant current S between Cebu
and Bohol and between Negros and Siquijor. It would
30 be better for sailing vessels to work up on the N coast of
Mindanao and make Bohol E of Siquijor Island.
The current produced by the tidal wave that enters by
Strait of Surigao and passes between the Islands of Panglao
35 and Siquijor divides into two branches. The northernmost
flows to the NW and strikes against the SE coast of Cebu
about Dalaguete Point, spreading N and S along the coast,
so that a vessel off Dalaguete Point has a flood favorable
for going to Cebu and to enter Tañon Strait. The current that
40 flows northerly passes through the channel between Cebu
and Bohol and 5 or 6 miles S of the Camotes Islands, it
meets the opposite flood current coming S between the N
part of Cebu and Leyte. The ebb current sets in the rivers
direction.
45
The second branch flows W and, striking the Negros coast
off Dumaguete, divides into two other arms, one of which
enters Tañon Strait with great force, while the other turns
S between Siquijor and the coast of Negros until, off
50 Bombonon Point, it meets the flood from around the S end
of Negros, and the united waters take SE direction toward
Silla and Tagolo Points in Mindanao.
12-19
 CHAPTER 13
SAMAR ISLAND
CHART 4706
SAMAR is the third largest island of the Philippines
in size. It has an area of 13,080 sq km and a general
shoreline of 358 miles. It is about 136 miles long in a NW
and SE direction and its greatest width is 51 miles. Samar
is moderately high, heavily wooded, and well-watered. It
is sparsely populated and only a small part of the island
is under cultivation. The principal exports are hemp and
copra.
NORTH COAST OF SAMAR
(CHART 1515, 4220 & 4221)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
From Balicuatro Point, the NW extremity of Samar,
the coast trends in a general E direction for about 50 miles
to the E entrance to Port Palapag and is faced by numerous
islands, banks, and shoals. This coast is exposed to the full
force of the NE monsoon which blows at times with the
force of a gale accompanied with much rain and a very
heavy sea. During the NE monsoon which occurs from
November to the early part of March, no safe anchorage
can be had between the Biri Channel and Port Palapag, and
it is frequently impossible to communicate with the towns
of Bobon and Catarman.
MARINE PROTECTED AREA - Balicuatro Islands,
San Juan Island, Bani Island, Maravilla Island, Nagnasa
Island, Elonbachid Island, Gilbert Island, Cabaun Island,
Ugamut Island, and Bat Island were included in the Biri
Larosa Protected Landscape/Seascape in accordance to
Presidential Proclamation No. 291. The reefs off the islands
and the coasts of Samar Island from Balicuatro Point to
Barrio Giratag were also included in the protected area.
Any activities that may harm the environment within the
protected area are strictly prohibited.
BALICUATRO ISLANDS (CHART 4440) form
a group of islands N of the NW part of Samar. Deep but
narrow channels separate some of these islands from each
other and from the coast of Samar.
BIRI ISLAND, the largest and most N of the group is
with its NW extremity about 8 miles of Balicuatro Point.
It is 85 m (280 ft) high in the center and heavily wooded.
About 0.3 mile E of the N tip of Biri Island, a steep-to
coral reef begins which continues along the NE and E side
of the island and also surrounds all the islands E and SE of
Biri Island. On the outer edge of this reef, which bares at
low water, are a series of islands of limestone formation, 3
13-1
to 36.6 m (10 to 120 ft) high, which are distinctive features.
With the exception of the two ends of the island and these
outlying islands on the NE and E sides, the shoreline is low
and fringed with mangroves. On the W side is a low bluff
5 and gravel beach most of the way. The interior of the island
is covered with heavy timber. Most of the inhabitants are on
the W side of the island.
BIRI HEAD, the NW point of Biri Island, is a rocky
10 perpendicular bluff 61 m (200 ft) high. It is clear and steep-
to and is a conspicuous landmark when approaching San
Bernardino Strait from the NE.
About 0.5 mile ENE of Biri Head is a rock 6.1 m (20 ft)
15 high. About 0.8 mile S of Biri Head is a 4.6 m (15 ft) high
rock surrounded by a small coral reef.
The 10.5 m (5.75 fm) shoal 1.4 miles 302o from Biri
Head is the outermost of the dangers off the NW end of
20 the island. Strong tidal currents and heavy tide rips are
encountered in this area.
BIRI, a town about 1 mile SSE of Biri Head, is the
major settlement on the island. Boats land their passengers
25 and goods at the seawall fronting the town.
MACARITE AND CAGNIPA are two small islands
SW of Biri Island, from which they are separated by narrow
channels. Their interiors are made up of detached hills of
30 moderate height. The S ends of these islands form the N
side of the W entrance to Biri Channel.
Anchorage may be found in about 29.3 m (16 fm)
between the N end of Cagnipa and Macarite. This anchorage
35 is not recommended, the bottom being rocky and the tidal
current strong.
TALISAY, MAGESANG, MAKADLAO, TINAU
and a number of small, unnamed islands and rocks are E
40 and SE from Biri Island. These islands and Biri Island are
all on 1 great reef largely bare at low water. A wreck lies
stranded on the reef on the N side of Biri Channel about 0.4
mile SW of the SW extremity of Makadlao Island.
45 SAN ANTONIO, the barrio at the S end of Tinau
Island, is recognizable by a high concentration of houses.
A concrete pier, 96 m long exists on the W end of the
barrio. San Antonio Light (12° 36’ 42”N., 124° 26’ 24”E.)
is displayed atop a concrete pole at the S end of the barrio.
50
BIRI ANCHORAGE (CHART 4220) is a small but
well-protected anchorage between the S end of Biri Island
and Makadlao Island. To approach it from Biri Channel,
pass about 360 m W of a small, bright, sandy cay about 0.8
mile on the W end of Makadlao Island, steer NE and anchor
between the reefs in 27.4 to 36.6 m (15 to 20 fm). The edges
of the reefs marking this anchorage show plainly, are steep-
to, and in many places marked by fish traps.
BIRI CHANNEL (CHART 4440), between the
Balicuatro Islands and the islands nearer the coast of Samar,
is generally used by coasting vessels bound for ports in N
and E Samar. The narrowest part of the channel is 0.6 mile
wide, and the water is deep and clear.
Tidal Currents - In Biri Channel and the other channels
in this vicinity there are strong tidal currents, the flood
flowing W and the ebb E, the change of current occurring
about 4 hrs after high water and low water, respectively.
SAN JUAN AND BANI ISLANDS, on the S side
of Biri Channel, are the largest of a group of five heavily
wooded islands, closely joined, and appear as one island.
They are San Juan, Elonbachid, Nagnasa, Maravilla And
Bani. The first four are separated only at high tide. The
outer shores are well defined, usually bold, and fringed by a
narrow coral reef. The interior shores are largely mangrove
swamps.
Anchorage of limited extent is in the passage between
San Juan and Bani Islands about 1.5 miles from the W
entrance. The passage on either side of the anchorage is
confined mainly to a very narrow channel bordered by steep
coral reefs. The E entrance to the passage has a depth of 30
about 13.7 m (7.5 fm), and the W entrance 9.1 m (5 fm).
This anchorage might well be used as typhoon shelter
for small vessels. It has limited swinging room but good
holding ground of mud and sand, and is not much affected
by currents. The currents at the entrances, however, are 35
strong, and the passage should be entered from the W, and
at slack water or on a flood.
SAN JUAN, the barrio on the NE coast of San Juan
Island, has a small pier for use of ferry and fishing boats.
BANI CHANNEL is a narrow passage between Bani
Island and Samar sometimes used by coasting vessels
bound to and from ports on the N and E coasts of Samar.
The channel has a least width of about 0.4 mile but its
navigable width is reduced to about 0.2 mile by a group of
detached shoals with depths from 2.3 to 7.5 m (1.25 to 4.25
fm) lying from 0.3 to 0.6 mile off the W side of Bani Island
in the W approach of the channel.
To navigate Bani Channel, steer mid-channel courses
and pass at least 180 m N of the reef off Borabaybay Point.
BALICUATRO POINT, the NW extremity of Samar,
is clear and steep-to, the reef which fringes it on both sides
being narrow. The point rises to Mount Lipata 228.6 m (750
ft) high about 2 miles S from the shore and is covered with
heavy timber.
COCONUT ISLAND, about 2.5 miles ESE of
Balicuatro Point, is near the shore, low and covered with
coconut trees. A reef extends nearly 0.5 mile NW from the
N end of the island. A shoal patch, with at least depth of 4.6
m (2.5 fm) lies nearly 0.5 mile W of the N extremity of the
5 island. The coast from Balicuatro Point to Coconut Island
is high, covered with heavy timber, the points rocky, and
in most of the bights there are beaches. The passage S of
Coconut Island should be used only by small boats at slack
water and with local knowledge of the reefs. A rock awash
10 is about 0.3 mile SE of Coconut Island.
LAVEZARES HARBOR, SE of Coconut Island, is
shoal and nearly blocked with reefs but has a narrow boat
channel between them to the beach. Fish traps mark the
15 edge of the reefs during most of the year. A large white
statue of Nuestra Señora de Salvacion (Our Lady of
Salvation), located at the N end of the E entrance reef,
serves as landmark for vessels entering the harbor.
20 LAVEZARES, a small town at the head of the harbor,
is about 2 miles SSE of Coconut Island. The metal-roofed
municipal building, the largest in town, is conspicuous.
Anchorage for small craft, protected from W winds, is
25 N of Lavezares. This anchorage is bad in N and NE gale or
when a swell sets in from the Pacific Ocean.
Directions - Bring the municipal building in Lavezares
to bear 181o and steer for it; pass in between the reefs and
anchor in 3.7 to 5.5 m (2 to 3 fm). The swinging room
is limited but the holding ground is good. Sometimes,
there are two large stakes on the edges of the reefs in 3.7
m (2 fm); small vessels should anchor outside of them.
Anchorage for large vessels will be found farther out with
the municipal building bearing 181o and the detached shoal
E of the entrance 091o.
URDANETA HARBOR, just E of Lavezares, is
apparently unobstructed except for a coral reef at its head,
40 and provides anchorage in 18.3 m (10 fm) except in N
winds. The detached shoal NW of the harbor is passed to
the E in entering.
From Coconut Island to Baird Point, the coast is low
45 and mostly mangrove swamp with the exception of Cave
Point, which is about 58 m (190 ft) high.
BAIRD POINT, located on the N part of Gilbert
Island, is clear and steep-to. From here to the town of
50 San Jose (Carangian), the shores are low and fringed with
mangroves.
GILBERT ISLAND is well-wooded and separated
from the mainland by a narrow channel for small boats.
55 The NW side of the island is fronted by reefs and dangers
to a distance of about 0.2 mile. The NE side of the island,
which is very irregular, is fringed by reefs to a distance of
about 0.3 mile. Good shelter is in the channel S of Gilbert
Island in 7.3 m (4 fm) smooth bottom, entering from E.
60 This channel has a controlling depth of approximately 7 m
13-2
(3.75 fm). It is marked by private beacons. Sharp turns in
the channel limit its use to small vessels. A detached coral
reef is in the center of the W entrance and a coral head is
about 0.3 mile N of this reef. The E entrance is clear.
BUENAVISTA, on the S shore of Gilbert Island, is a
regular port of call for coasting vessels from Cebu. A small
dock is SW of the town.
SINAMANGAN RIVER, leading S from the channel
S of Gilbert Island, is narrow to Enriqueta.
CABAUN ISLAND, the most E island in this vicinity,
is low, fringed with mangroves, and surrounded by a reef
which extends 0.5 mile from the NE side. The channel
between the S end of the island and the reefs surrounding
Bat Island is over 0.3 mile wide, deep, and free from danger.
A shoal with a least depth of 7 m (3.75 fm), lies about 1
mile NE of the S extremity of the island.
UGAMUT ISLAND is small, low, mangroves-
covered, and close to the SW side of Cabaun Island, from
which it is separated by a narrow, impracticable channel.
GREEN ISLAND, small and about 30.5 m (100
ft) high, is between Gilbert and Cabaun Islands. It is
surrounded by a reef with foul water N and E of it. The
waters NE to SE of the island are for the most part foul.
FOOT ISLAND, between Uganut Island and Samar,
is small, about 3 m (10 ft) high and surrounded by a reef
which extends up to 0.3 mile NW and SE of the island.
A number of dangerous, detached reefs are between it and
Green Island.
BAT ISLAND, small and low, lies between the S
end of Cabaun Island and Samar. Reefs and foul ground
extend nearly 1 mile E and SE from the island. Foul ground
with some sunken and above-water rocks at its outer end,
extends about 0.3 mile WNW from the W side of the island.
The usual track of vessels is N of Bat Island.
CARANGIAN CHANNEL is narrow and used by
coasting vessels which usually pass S of Green and Foot
Islands and N of Bat Island. The part of the channel SE
of Foot Island has very irregular bottom with a controlling
depth of 7.3 m (4 fm). The channel is contracted by reefs
extending from the islands and the coast of Samar.
CURRENTS - All the channels in this vicinity are
subject to strong and irregular tidal currents.
SAN JOSE (CARANGIAN), a town on the E shore of
a small cove on the coast of Samar facing Foot Island, is a
regular port of call for coasting vessels. The cove is nearly
blocked by reefs, although it leaves a narrow channel
toward the pier. The town has concrete road connections
with Catarman and neighboring towns. There is a post
office. The town is distinguished by a large concentration
of houses and structures. A range of hills nearly reaching
13-3
the coast just E of San Jose (Caraingan) is the only high
land in this vicinity.
The town serves as the center of sea borne commerce
5 for the first District of Northern Samar and the province’s
principal port, being the only national port of entry in the
area.
Major Light - Carangian Light (12° 32’ 00”N., 124°
10 29’ 05”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the wharf area.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 136 m long
concrete wharf facing N. It has a depth of 10 m (5.4 fm)
alongside in 1990. It can accommodate one foreign and
15 one domestic vessel with maximum tonnage of 1,141 GRT
at any given time. Storage facilities include 744 sq m of
transit shed and 940 sq m open storage area.
Directions - Vessels may approach the port either
20 from the NW or from the E through Caraingan Channel.
It should be attempted only during the daytime when the
weather and visibility are good as there are no prominent
landmarks and the entrance and the channel itself are very
restricted with no aids to navigation to mark the numerous
25 shoals and reefs. Directions for the approach from the NW
are not given as the channel is very narrow and winding and
should be used only by small vessels with local knowledge.
The recommended approach should be made from the E as
the channel is wider, deeper, and straight.
30
Coming from N, within 5 miles off Bobon Point, steer
180o for the black roof of the church of the town of Bobon
until the wharf at San Jose (Caraingan) comes clear and
bears 255o. Then steer 248o until the E point of Cabuan
35 Island bears 360o, thence change course to 270o and come
alongside or anchor off the wharf in 18.3 to 20.1 m (10 to
11 fm).
The shoreline S of Bat Island to Bobon Point, about 3.5
40 miles E, is low and bordered by a sandy beach and fringed
by coral reefs. A rock, 3 m (10 ft) high, lies at the W end
of a drying shoal, about 1.5 miles W of Bobon Point and
nearly 0.5 mile offshore. A shoal, with a least depth of 3 m
(1.6 fm) lies about 1 mile W this rock. Another drying rock
45 lies about 0.8 mile W of the same point and about 0.4 mile
off­shore.
GERATAG is the barrio about 1.8 miles SE of San
Jose wharf. A 180 m long pier and reed-roofed factory is
50 located about 0.5 mile NW of the barrio.
BOBON is a small town 4.5 miles E of San Jose
(Caraingan) on the W side of Bobon Point, at the mouth
of the river of the same name. The roof of the church is the
55 only object prominent from seaward. Reefs project from
both entrance points to the river, leaving a narrow boat
channel to the beach in front of the town.
Anchorage during fine weather is in 11.0 to 14.6 m (6
60 to 8 fm) with church bearing 120o, distant 0.7 mile.
 FITZGERALD BANKS are 3 miles SSW of Cape
Espiritu Santo. It is prominent when off the N coast of
Samar, more from its shape than from its height, which is
less than that of the cape and the high mountains W of it as
seen from the vicinity of Laoang. From a vessel rounding
Batag Island and coasting SE, Palapag Mesa is entirely
hidden by the mountainous country terminating in Cape
Espiritu Santo before Bacan Island is reached and cannot
be seen again until 2 or 3 miles SE of Sila Point.
A bank, about 1.5 miles long as defined by the 18 m
(10 fm) curve and with a least depth of 14.6 m (8 fm), lies
about 2 miles N of the E side of the Fitzgerald Banks.
WRIGHT SHOAL is a large coral formation on which
the sea breaks heavily in bad weather, lying with its center
15 miles E of the highest point of Biri Island. This shoal
is about 0.8 mile in extent and has a depth of 11 m (6 fm).
A small shoal having a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm) is about
1.5 miles S of Wright Shoal.
A bank, with a least depth of 13.7 m (7.5 fm), and a
bank, with a least depth of 14.6 m (8 fm), lie NNW of Wright
Shoal in positions about 13.5 and 16.2 miles, respectively,
N of Cawayan. A detached 18.3 m (10 fm) patch lies about
1 mile W of the center of the former bank.
FISHER SHOAL, on which has the sea breaks in
bad weather, is 5.5 miles N of Bobon Church. This shoal
is about 1 mile in extent and has a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm).
CATARMAN SHOAL, on which the sea breaks in
moderate weather, is 4.5 miles N of Catarman Church. This
shoal is about 0.6 mile in extent and has a depth of 1.8 m
(1 fm). A detached 7.3 m. (4 fm) shoal is 2.8 miles 294o
from Catarman Light and about 1.3 miles offshore. Another
detached 9.6 m (5.25 fm) patch lies about 1.5 miles E of
Catarman Shoal.
CATARMAN, a town about 5 miles E of Bobon on the
W bank of the Catarman River, is the capital of Northern
Samar province. Vessels call weekly from Cebu. The town
has a highway connection to Laoang and nearby towns.
It also has an airport with regular commercial flights to
Manila.
CATARMAN RIVER discharges just W of the barrio
of Cawayan. The W side of the mouth of the river is formed
by a long sand spit which is reported to shift considerably
during the NE monsoon. The channel across the bar is very
narrow and has a depth of 2.1 m (1.1 fm) at low water.
There is very little water in the river. In fine weather,
small launches may enter at high water by keeping close to
the end of the sand spit W and turning sharply SW when it
is abeam to avoid rocks E and inside the entrance.
Dangers - From the shore immediately E of the mouth
of the river two coral reefs, partly bare at low water, extend
about 0.3 mile N, may land when it is too rough to enter the
river or land on the beach in front of the town.
Maguran Reef, a large coral reef, bare at low water,
5 is N of the break and protects the landing in bad weather.
CAWAYAN, the barrio at the E bank of Catarman
River, is port of call of coasting vessels calling at Catarman.
The channel into Cawayan is narrow but is marked by a
10 white single-pile beacon located on the N end of the shore
reef E of the mouth of the river.
Major Light - Catarman Light (12° 31’ 00”N., 124°
39’ 04”E.) is displayed from a tower at Cawayan.
15
Anchorage - The usual anchorage is in about 9.1 m (5
fm), sand bottom, about 0.5 mile NW of the mouth of the
river. This anchorage is frequently unsafe during the NE
monsoon which sends in a heavy sea.
20
Directions - To pass E of Catarman Shoal bring
Catarman Church to bear 187o when about 5 miles distant
and steer for it. To pass SW of Catarman Shoal bring the
light to bear 133o when about 4 miles distant and steer for it.
25
From the mouth of the Catarman River to Livas Point
(Chart 4421), the W entrance to Laoang Bay, the coast
presents few distinctive features. It is heavily wooded to the
water’s edge and traversed by low ridges seldom over 91 m
30 (300 ft) high. There are no prominent peaks and very few
landmarks. Little or no cultivation is visible from the shore.
From Catarman River to Bugko Point, the shore is faced by
numerous coral reefs. The barrio of Cawayan on the E side
of the mouth of Catarman River, the barrio of Maquinalo,
35 the town of Mondragon, and the barrio of Bugko, are on
this coast. Bugko River, a small stream, empties just W of
Bugko Point.
HIRAPSAN ISLAND, about 3 miles ENE of the mouth
40 of the Catarman River and 1 mile from shore, is about 3.7
m (12 ft) high, but the trees are tall and dense, giving it the
appearance of being more elevated than it is.
PALIJON ISLAND, about 1 mile NW from Hirapsan
45 Island, is a mangrove swamp, all of the ground being covered
at high water. Hirapsan and Palijon are on a reef 2 miles long
in a NW and SW direction; between the two islands the reef
bares at low water. Fairly good anchorage, protected during
the NE monsoon, may be found W of Hirapsan Island.
50
BUGKO POINT is fringed by coral, bare at low water,
which extends nearly 0.5 mile N. From Bugko Point, the
coast trends E and then curves around N and NW to Oot
Point, forming Bantayan Bay.
55
CAJOAGON ISLAND is small and about 3 miles NW
of Oot Point. It is surrounded by a reef, beyond which shoal
water extends 1 mile NW and 0.5 mile E from the island.
60 Within an area bounded by Hirapsan, Palijon, and Cajoan
13-4
Islands and Bugko Point, are a number of dangerous reefs
and shoal patches whose position will be best understood
by reference to the Chart. This area must be navigated with
caution.
BANTAYAN BAY, fully exposed to the N, indents the
coast to a distance of about 2.2 miles between Bugko and
Oot Points, about 4.3 miles NE. There are no dangers in the
bay and the water shoals gradually to the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve
which lies close offshore. The barrio of Bantayan and the
town of San Roque (Laoangan) are on the shores of this bay.
OOT POINT is long, low, sharp and projecting in a NW
direction. Its extremity is a mangrove swamp bordered by
a reef for nearly 0.4 mile. From Oot Point, the coast trends 15
to Livas Point.
PAMBUJAN, a town at the E side of the mouth of
Pambujan River, is about 2 miles SW of Livas Point. The
church in the town is prominent. To approach the anchorage 20
off Pambujan, steer for the church on bearing 181o when
about 3 miles distant, then anchor in 11 m (6 fm) sand bottom,
about 0.5 mile N of the church. Smaller boats may anchor
nearer according to draft.
Located in barangay Paninirongan, about 5 km W of
the town proper of Pambujan is a rock causeway serving
as a port of call for commercial boats with small cargoes.
The causeway situated near the mouth of a river measured
70 m long by 4.5 m wide with concrete deck and concrete
curbs and sides. There are no roads, port building or landing
platform around. The nearest barangay road is about 500
m away, making it very difficult to transfer cargoes from
the causeway. Usual commodities traded are copra, rattan,
peanuts, bottled goods and fish.
LIVAS POINT, the W side of the entrance to Laoang
Bay, is low and wooded. Reefs and foul ground extend 0.5
mile N of the point and up to 1 mile W from its W face. A
large detached reef, bare at low water, is with its N extremity 40
1.2 miles NW of the point. There are some rocks about 0.6
m (2 ft) high on this reef. A shoal with a depth 7.0 m (23
ft) lies about 0.2 mile ENE of the NE extremity of the reef.
Another shoal, with a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm), lies about 0.8
mile ESE of the E side of Livas Point.
VILLALOBOS REEF, with a least depth of 8.2 m
(4.5 fm) breaks heavily in the NE monsoon. It is about 0.5
mile in extent with its center 6 miles N of Pambujan Church.
LAOANG BAY (CHART 4449), between Livas Point
and Laoang Island, offers a good anchorage in ordinary
weather in 9.1 to 12.8 m (5 to 7 fm), mud bottom. The bay is
exposed to N and W winds. The water shoals gradually from
18.3 m (10 fm) to 3.7 m (2 fm) about 1 mile from the head. 55 Laoang may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63921-
In heavy weather, the sea breaks in 9.1 m (5 fm).
LAOANG ISLAND, close to and separated from the
coast of Samar by the Catubig River and the Laoang Channel,
is heavily wooded and 65 m (214 ft) high in the S part. Shoal
13-5
water, as defined by the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve, extends up to
0.5 mile E from the E side of the N part of the island and
up to 1 mile N from the N side of the S part of the island.
5 CALAPAN ISLAND, small and reef-fringed, lies
within the above curve in the N part of the bay on the NE side
of the island. The W side is fringed by a reef 0.3 mile wide.
DARANASAN ISLAND, between Laoang Island and
10 Samar, is low, wooded and formed by a delta of the Catubig
River. Its W and E sides are separated from Samar by the
Catubig River and Palapag Channel, respectively. Its N side
is separated from Laoang Island by Laoang Channel. Laoang
Channel is impassable except by bancas at high water.
CATUBIG RIVER, the main branch of which empties
into Laoang Bay, widens near the mouth forming Laoang
Harbor. The E branch, known as Palapag Channel, empties
into Port Palapag. At high water, small launches may proceed
from Laoang to Port Palapag by ascending the Catubig River
and passing through the Palapag Channel. The Catubig River
is navigable for small vessels and launches to the town of
Catubig, 10 miles inland.
25 LAOANG HARBOR is narrow, being only 137 m wide
between the 3.7 m (2 fm) curves. The entrance to the harbor
is marked by Laoang Light (12° 35’ 30”N., 125° 00’ 00”E.).
BARRIO TAGABIRAN is about 6 miles upstream
30 from Catubig.
RAWIS is the barrio across the river from Laoang. Land
transportation along the N and W coasts of Samar is available.
Rawis has a marginal wharf used by light vessels and serves
35 as a stopover terminal of passenger and cargoes coming into
Laoang and other towns in the vicinity.
LAOANG is a town on a slightly high ground on the
SW part of Laoang Island. It is the principal port of N Samar
and considerable hemp and copra are shipped. Diesel oil
and gasoline are obtainable in very small quantities. Food
supplies are scarce although there are large quantities of
merchandise. Ice is available. Fresh water is sourced from
deep wells and communal faucets. A hospital and a rural
45 health unit is present. Landline communication is also
available.
The Port of Laoang served as the mooring point of
ships, launches and heavy vessels bound for Cebu, Manila,
50 and Lucena. Currently, there are no large vessels calling at
the port due to the heavy siltation of the harbor. Passenger
ferries stopped its operation at the port.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
9748875 and +63917-8424165.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a marginal wharf
and a pier used mainly by lighter vessels and pump boats.
60
 Dangers - Rocky patches extend nearly 0.5 mile W
from Maculmacul Point and form the N side of the channel
into the harbor. About 0.2 mile SW from the point, there is
a wreck of a steel vessel nearly submerged at high water and
difficult to pick up.
A privately-maintained, temporary, cylindrical buoy
marks the N edge of a 1.8 m (0.1 fm) patch, 0.3 mile W of
Maculmacul Point. Another privately-maintained, temporary,
cylindrical buoy is 0.2 mile, 215o from Maculmacul Point
and off the wreck. About 0.3 mile W of this cylindrical buoy
is a 1.2 m (0.7 fm) shoal which should be avoided.
Caution - A submarine cable crosses Catubig River from
Rawis Point to the town of Laoang. Fishing and anchoring
are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable.
Tides - Tidal differences for computing the times and
heights of high and low water are given in the Tide and
Current Tables. There is some inequality in the two tides
of each day, but the principal variation follows the moon’s
changing phases. The diurnal range of the tide is 1.4 m (4.6
ft); the mean range is 1.2 m (3.9 ft).
Directions - The channel at the entrance to Laoang 25
is tortuous and lacks permanent navigational aids. Vessels
desiring to call at Laoang should never attempt to enter
without local knowledge. From a position 1 mile, 251o from
Maculmacul Point, steer for the point on course 071o. On
this course, Maculmacul Point and the SE of the two buoys 30
marking the N side of the channel will be approximately in
range. When about 0.4 mile from Maculmacul Point and Ipil
Point bears 003o, steer for Laoang Church on course 095o,
proceeding slowly and guarding against the effect of the
tidal current. After passing S of the wreck off Maculmacul 35
Point and N of the reef off Rawis Point, steer mid-channel
courses for the wharves.
channel between Cahayagan and Laoang Islands and Batag
Island, is partly sheltered from all winds and affords good
anchorage in 9.1 to 16.5 m. (5 to 9 fm). The N entrance is
the best having a straight, navigable channel 0.6 mile wide.
5 The W entrance is narrow, with a depth of 7 m (3.75 fm),
and the current runs through it with considerable velocity.
The E entrance is littered by a number of small rocky
patches with little depth, and in the absence of any aids to
navigation should not be attempted by a stranger. The inner
10 arm of the port S of the E entrance, between Napocol Point
And Abin Point, is about 2 miles long and 1 mile wide. The
entrance to this arm has a navigable width of about 0.1 mile
and a controlling depth of 7 m (3.75 fm). The entire arm is
generally shoal with extensive mud flats. Pangpang, a barrio
15 0.5 mile S of Abin Point, is connected to the town of Palapag.
Berthing Facilities - Two small piers, one located at
Barrio Calomotan and the other at Barrio Pangpang, are used
by boats ferrying passengers and cargoes between Laoang
20 Island and Palapag.
Anchorage for moderate-sized vessels may be found W
of the SE point of Cahayagan Island in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud
bottom, or SE of Leung Point at Batag Island, in 11 m (6 fm).
Large vessels can anchor about 0.5 mile SE of Cahayagan
Island in 14.6 m (8 fm), or farther S in mid-channel between
the SW point of Batag Island and Calapan Island, taking care
to avoid a 4.6 m (2.5 fm) rocky patch about 1 mile SE of the
SE extremity of Cahayagan Island and the 8.8 m (4.8 fm)
rocky patch about 0.2 mile S of the above patch.
Directions -Vessels entering from N should favor the
W side of the channel, as the reefs from Cahayagan Island
do not extend as far out as those from Batag Island. The SE
point of Cahayagan Island and Leung Point at Batag Island
are bold and may be rounded close-to and anchorage taken
up as previously recommended.

CAHAYAGAN ISLAND is N of Laoang Island,
separated by a narrow channel having a depth of 7 m (3.75 40
fm). Cahayagan is moderately high and heavily wooded.
It is surrounded by a reef, narrow on the E and S sides and
widening on the N and NW sides. The Barrio of Cahayagan
is on the S coast of the island.
45
The reef from the NW part of the Cahayagan Island
extends about 1 mile and surrounds Macan Islands, a group
of rocky islets, partly covered with brush the highest of which
are 5.5 and 6.4 m (18 and 21 ft).
50
BATAG ISLAND, the largest and most E of the islands
forming Port Palapag, is surrounded by reefs which extend
0.6 mile into the N entrance channel to Port Palapag from
the NW part of the island. The large indentation on the W
side of the island is nearly blocked by reefs. Batag is heavily 55
wooded and 67 m (220 ft) high. Batag Light (12° 39’ 30”N.,
125° 03’ 39”E.) is displayed from a white tower located on
the summit of the island.
PORT PALAPAG (CHART 4449), formed by the 60
Vessels entering from W should favor the Laoang Island
side until the SE point of Cahayagan Island bears 084o, when
it may be steered for and anchorage taken with the point on
this bearing, distant 0.3 mile, in 9.1 m (5 fm).
PALAPAG is 3 miles inland by a good road. The town
has postal facilities and mobile phone services. Food and
other supplies are available in limited amount in groceries
and various stores in the town.
The coast between the S entrance point of the E entrance
to port Palapag and the NE extremity of Samar, about 2.6
miles E, is indented to a distance of about 1 mile. It forms
a large bay which is reef-fringed to a distance of 0.5 mile N
and NE. The middle W portion of the bay is clear of dangers.
Talolora and Paysud are two barrios along the coast of the
bay. A 120 m long pier is located about 0.3 mile ENE of
Paysud.
PALAHAN ISLAND lies on the E portion of this bay
about 1 mile WSW of the S extremity of Bacan Island.
Sunken rocks and foul ground lie between it and the coast

13-6
of Samar, about 0.5 mile S. Reefs extend about 0.3 mile N
from the N side of the island.
A rock which bare 0.6 m (0.3 fm) at low water and shoal
with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) are about 0.4 mile N by W of
Palahan Island, in the middle of the entrance to the small bay
between Bacan and Palahan Islands. To enter the bay, pass
either between the shoals and Palahan Island or between the
shoals and Bacan Island.
BACAN ISLAND, close to and connected by a reef
to the NE extremity of Samar, is about 2 miles E of the E
entrance to Port Palapag. Its S end is connected to Samar by
a causeway. The island is generally low and wooded, except
near the center, where there is a tree-covered hill 52 m (170
ft) high. It is fringed by a reef for 0.5 mile.
BINAY, the barrio at the W coast of Bacan Island, has
a 100-m long pier.
About 0.8 mile NW of the N end of Bacan Island is a
shoal with a depth of 4.3 m (2.4 fm). About 2 miles N and
1.5 miles NE of Bacan are rocky patches with 7.3 and 9.1
m (4 and 5 fm) respectively. About 2.5 miles E of the N
end of Bacan Island and about 3 miles E of the S end of the
same island are with depths of 11.0 and 14.6 m (6 and 8 fm)
respectively. The water in this vicinity is very clear, and the
bottom is frequently visible in 18.3 m (10 fm).
With the exception of the above-described shoals and
banks the NE coast of Samar from Bacan Island to Sila Point
is clear and can be safely navigated at a distance of 1 mile.
EAST COAST OF SAMAR
(CHART 1518, 4421, 4422 & 4423)
From Bacan Island the coast trends in a general SE
direction for 11 miles to Manjud Point. From Bacan to Oacan
Point, about 1 mile SE, the coast is low and has a narrow,
fringing coral reef above which is a thin line of sandy beach 40
broken in many places by mangroves growing out on the reef.
There are a few low rocks on this stretch. A reef extends a
little over 0.5 mile ENE of Oacan Point. This point does not
show as a point unless a vessel is close inshore under Cape
Espiritu Santo. It is low, but the coast rises rapidly SE to the 45
summit of the cape and is steep toward the sea. A narrow
strip of rocky beach running along the base of the cliffs is
covered with trees and bushes to the water’s edge.
About 5 miles SE of Bacan Island, close inshore and
under the cliffs and connected with them at low water, is a
high pyramidal rock; one of the many which give distinctive
character to the coast to Manjud Point and which are 3 to
56 m (10 to 184 ft) high. When close inshore at either end
of the stretch of coast, these rocks present a very imposing
appearance. Some of them are just within the shoreline and
have bushes clinging to their almost perpendicular sides, but
most of them are a little distant from the beach and have their
sea faces worn in fantastic shapes by wave action.
13-7
CAPE ESPIRITU SANTO, on the NE part of Samar
Island, forms no projection from the general shoreline but
derives its name from its height. It rises to its highest point
about 4.5 miles SE of Bacan Island and nearly 0.5 mile inside
5 the shoreline. It is densely wooded to the water’s edge. From
NE, two summits of nearly equal heights – 444 and 451 m
(1,457 and 1,481 ft) – the S one being higher, are prominent.
These mountain summits are visible at a distance of 40 miles
and were used by the Spanish navigators as landmarks for
10 making San Bernardino Strait.
PALAPAG MESA is a long, flat-topped, wooded ridge
1.5 miles long NE and SW with a greatest elevation of 375 m
(1,229 ft). Its N extremity, 374 m (1,226 ft) high, is 5 miles
15 SSW of Cape Espiritu Santo. It is prominent when off the
N coast of Samar, more from its shape than from its height,
which is less than that of the cape and the high mountains
W of it, as seen from the vicinity of Laoang. From a vessel
rounding Batag Island and coasting SE, Palapag Mesa is
20 entirely hidden by the mountainous country terminating
in Cape Espiritu Santo before Bacan Island is reached and
cannot be seen again until 2 or 3 miles SE of Sila Point.
DAPDAP BAY is an indentation at the opening of a
25 small valley abreast Cube Rock about 5.5 miles NW of
Manjud Point. The shores are fringed with coral, and it does
not afford anchorage. KABATOAN is a village at the head
of the bay.
30 Off the entrance to Dapdap Bay are three outlaying
rocks in a NW and opposite direction.
FINCH ROCK, the NW one, is 0.6 mile NE of the
NW entrance point to Dapdap Bay. It is 1.5 m (5 ft) high
35 and surrounded by deep water. The middle rock, also 1.5 m
(5 ft) high and surrounded by deep water, is nearly in the
middle of the bay.
CUBE ROCK, the SE of the three, is 0.4 mile from
the middle rock and nearly 0.4 mile NE of the SE entrance
point to Dapdap Bay. It is on the edge of the shore reef and
is the most prominent rock along the coast between Bacan
Island and Mapanas Bay, the rock being farther away from
the coast than any of the others. It is 8.2 m (27 ft) high,
the upper part being cubicle in shape. A block rock, about
0.4 mile S of Cube Rock, is marked by high, colored patch
about 6 m prominent from seaward, is on the edge of the
shore reef 1.8 miles SE of the rock with colored patch.
50 MAPANAS BAY, is 1.5 miles NW of the Manjud
Point at the foot of small valley opening from the SW.
The entrance is constructed by off-laying rock from both
points; inside the entrance reefs from both sides almost
meet, leaving a very narrow channel to the widening bay
55 at the head where small craft can find shelter. There is a
sandy beach at the head of the bay through which too small
streams empty. Small sailing vessels trade with the town of
Mapanas Bay at the head of the bay.
60 Manjud Point, about 1.3 miles SE of Mapanas Bay, is
formed by a spur running NE from the interior mountain
chain. The extreme point has perpendicular face about 15
m (50 ft) high with deep water close-to. A short distance
NW of the point are some high rock. At the edge of the reef
0.7 mile SE of Manjud Point and about 0.5 mile of Sonatao
Point, are a group of low rocks. One of these rocks is awash
with one sunken rock a short distance of it.
SACAMALIG BAY, is a large, open bight between
Manjud Point and Sila Point, 4.8 miles SE.
THE CANMANAI ROCKS, two moderately high
rocks, are in the part of the bay, about 0.3 mile from the
shore. A detached 5.5 m (3 fm) patch lies little over 0.3 mile
NE of these rocks. The N and S thirds of the shoreline of the
bay are fringed with corals: the middle third is bright, sandy
beach. Except for the above, the bay is clear of known
dangers and has a depth more than 18.3 m (10 fm), 0.5 mile
offshore. Anchorage is of the sandy beach 18.3 m (10 fm),
sand bottom, about 0.5 mile from the shore.
SILA POINT, the most E land in this vicinity,
appears like three pyramidal hills from NW or SE. It is
marked by Sila Light (12° 24’ 24”N., 125° 20’ 06”E.). Two
telecommunication towers are located about 0.5 mile W 25
of the point. The hill on the extreme point is 59 m (194
ft) high, the second 101 m. (332 ft) and the third and
westernmost 169 (554 ft). N of the point, on the reef which
fringes the point about 0.3 mile, is a high rock, just outside
of which rise several needle-shaped rocks. ESE of the point 30
are several other rocks extending nearly 0.3 mile.
CLEARING RANGE - Sora Cay, just open E of
Higunum Rock bearing 149o, forms a good range for
clearing all dangers off Manjud and Sila Points.
GAMAY BAY, located between Sila Point and
Hiuinatungan Island, is full of coral reefs and is dangerous
to navigate. The shores of the bay are indented by number
of smaller bays. The dividing points of which are skirted
by coral reefs bare at low water. The dangers in Gamay
Bay consist of numerous steep-to shoals, reefs, and several
islets. A 4.6 m (2.5 fm) patch and 2.7 m (1.5 fm) patch lie
about 1.3 and 2.2 miles respectively, WNW of Sora Cay.
They are situated just inside the 36.6 m (20 fm) curve which
trends irregularly S from Sila Point toward Nanuntugan
Reef and thence SE toward Hiuinatungan Island.
HIGUNUM ROCK is a flat, rocky ledge about 7.9 m
(26 ft) high, over which the sea breaks in heavy weather. It
is located at the N entrance to Gamay Bay, 1.5 miles SE of
Sila Point and is steep-to on all sides.
SORA CAY, a low, bright, sandy islet is 3.7 miles SE
of Sila Point. It is on a reef 2.5 miles long, trending in a
general ESE WNW direction. The shape of the cay changes
with every gale. It is in range with a summit of Cape Espiritu
Santo and the highest part of Sila Point. Vessels passing E
of Sora Cay should give it a berth of at least 1 mile.
LABUNGLAION ISLANDS, about 1.9 miles SW of
Sila Point, are lines of rocks which are situated on a reef
that extends almost 0.7 mile offshore SE from the NW side
of the bay. A conspicuous tower is located on the biggest
5 rock. A line of shoals, with depths of about 0.6 to 4.6 m (2
to 15 ft), extends E position about 1 mile S of Sila Point
from the shore between that point and the Labunglaion
Islands. A number of detached 0.6 to 2.1 m (0.3 to 1.2 fm)
patches lie up to about 0.7 mile SSE, S and about 1 mile
10 SSW of the Island.
GAMAY is a town at the mouth of the river of the
same name about 2.5 miles SW of Sila Point. The town
has a 25-bed government hospital and a government clinic.
15 Mobile phone communication is available. Vessels calling
at Gamay berth at a wharf located about 0.3 mile from the
river mouth. Larger vessels use the wharf at the S coast of a
small bay located about 0.5 mile NE of the town.
20 Anchorage may be found off Gamay during the SW
monsoon but with a swell from E, therefore, is not safe.
Directions - Vessels bound for Gamay may pass either
NW or SW of Higunum Rocks. From NW: When within 1
mile N of the rock, steer for the small sand cay 4 miles SSW
of Sila Point on course 211o, for 2.5 miles. When the large
arch rock in the Labunglaion Island bears 301o, steer 217o.
Anchor in 14.6 m (6 fm), mud bottom, 0.7 mile 155o from
SE entrance point of the river. From SE: When within 1
mile E of the rock, steer for the S tangent of Pasanhan Point
on course 247o for 2.7 miles. When the large arch rock in
the Labunglaion Island bears 301o, steer 267o and anchor as
previously described. Small vessels may anchor closer to
the mouth of the river.
35
CAGAMUTAN, SAONLOC, AND LAPINIG
BAYS are S of Gamay in the order named. They are open
E and afford no protection from that direction. There are
small barrios on their shores. The town of Lapinig is at the
40 head of Lapinig Bay.
CANABAYON ISLAND, is low, wooded, and with
sand beach, 4.5 miles S of Sila Point. It is surrounded by
a coral reef except on the S side, where the sand beach
45 reaches the water’s edge even at low tide, and it is the only
island of its kind in the bay. A small harbor, sheltered by
breakwaters, is on the S coast of the island.
A low sand cay, also fringed by a reef, lies about 1.5
50 miles NW of Canabayon Island, and a number of steep-to
rocky patches lie between this sand cay and a small drying
reef almost 1.5 miles E.
LAPINIG, the town at the head of Lapinig Bay, has
55 a 63 m long concrete pier that is connected to the shore by
a 350 m long causeway. Breakwaters were placed off the
coastline of the town.
NANUNTUGAN REEF, which dries and is steep-to,
60 lies about 0.7 mile E of Canabayon Island and is situated
13-8
off the entrance of Helm Harbor. A 0.9 m (0.5 fm) patch
and 1.4 m (0.8 fm) patch lie about halfway between the S
end of this reef and the reefs fringing the W and E points,
respectively, of Helm Harbor.
HELM HARBOR (CHART 4421), separated from
Lapinig Bay by Barabod Point, a low mangrove-covered
point with scattered trees near its N extremity, is the largest
indentation in Gamay Bay. Although neither large nor deep,
it affords good typhoon anchorage for moderate-sized
vessels, perfectly protected from all winds and sea. From
abreast Barabod Point, it runs S for 2 miles, then SW for 1
mile, NW for 0.5 mile, and finally, SW again for 0.5 mile to
the head. Only a small part of it, about 1.5 miles from the
entrance, is available for anchorage because of shoals and
reefs that bare at low water. There are no aids to navigation,
thus, this harbor should be entered by a stranger at low
water or when it is so rough that all the shoals in Gamay
Bay are breaking and courses and ranges carefully noted.
Barrios of Beri and Tangbo are on the S coast of Helm
Harbor. Only Tangbo are connected by road to Arteche and
Lapinig.
Directions - from E: When about 2.8 miles S of Sora
Cay, bring Barabod Point to bear 275o, pick up a range on
the hills behind it and steer in on this bearing. When the
E entrance point is abeam, haul gradually S and when a
brown landslide on a prominent bluff on the S side of the
harbor bears 170o, steer for it and anchor in 7.3 m (4 fm).
The first course passes between the extremity of the
reef extending N from the E entrance point and a sunken
reef with a depth of 1.4 m (0.75 fm) midway between the
extremity of the shore reef and Nanuntugan Reef. The
channel here is barely 0.2 mile wide. A good lookout must
be kept on both sides of the vessel. On the next course,
when nearly up to the E entrance point, the channel again
narrows to 0.2 mile and great care must be taken.
Should the weather be such that Barabod Point cannot
be made out, the best way is to follow the edge of the shore
reef on the port hand at a distance of 0.3 mile, which is
safe, and round the edge of it close aboard; then endeavor
to follow the previous directions.
From N: Within 1 mile S of Sila Point, Helm Harbor
may be approached from N by bringing the E of Canabayon
Island to bear 181o and steer for it until within 0.5 mile of
it. When the center of the small sand cay, 4 miles SSW of
Sila bears 278o, haul E until Sila Point bears 353o. Bring
Sila Point astern on this bearing , and follow the previous
direction, keeping a good lookout for the small 0.9 m (0.5
fm) patch lying nearly 1 mile S of Canabayon Island.
NABUGTUSAN ISLAND, forming the E side of
Helm Harbor, has moderately high land with large trees on
it. However, the W part of the island which forms the E
side of the entrance to the harbor is low and covered with
mangroves. S of the island is a narrow channel passable by
13-9
bancas at high water.
BINARAYAN ISLAND is located immediately E
of Nabugtusan Island from which it is separated at high
5 water by a narrow, tortuous boat channel. It is all low coral
covered with mangroves. Both of the islands are bordered
on the N and E sides by a broad coral reef with two or three
coral boulders near the edge. This reef has deep water close
to it, is bare at low water, and can generally be seen and
10 used as guide to San Ramon Bay and Helm Harbor.
SAN RAMON BAY, (CHART 4421) has its main
entrance between Binarayan Island on the W side and
Hiuinatungan Island on the E. The entrance could be
15 distinguished by Arteche Light located on Hiuinatungan
Island. It runs in a SSW direction for over 2 miles, about
halfway, in a branch, runs to the WNW, which forms a
large bay at high water, but is nearly filled with reefs bare
at low water. In the N part of this branch is a contracted
20 but absolutely safe typhoon anchorage for small vessels,
considered by some to be equally as good as Helm Harbor
and much easier of access. The bay is also accessible from
E through a passage S of Hiuinatungan Island.
25 HIUINATUNGAN ISLAND, on the E side of the
entrance, is low and covered with mangroves and difficult
to make out from seaward. Arteche Light (12° 17’ 30”N.,
125° 23’ 55”E.) is displayed from the island. Reefs that
extend about 0.7 mile NE fringes the island.
30
ARTECHE (SAN RAMON), is the town on the W
shore at the head of the bay. It is connected by road to
the towns of Catarman and Borongan. The town has a
government hospital with 25-bed capacity.
35
Berthing Facilities - A 50 m pier and 110 m pier are
located at the E coast and W coast, respectively, of the town.
Directions - Within 1 mile N of Hiuinatungan Island,
40 enter San Ramon Bay passing 0.3 to 0.4 mile E of Binarayan
Island on a 214o course, keeping a good lookout for the
reefs on both sides. When the S end of Binarayan Island
is abeam on this course, alter course to 197o and anchor in
about 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom, when the first low point
45 W is abeam.
To enter the typhoon anchorage SW of Binarayan
Island, round the S end of the island at a distance of about
366 m and steer NW. Go slowly and sound along with the
50 lead. Keep a good lookout for the points of the two long
reefs making out from the SW shore of this branch and
anchor in about 7.3 m (4 fm), mud bottom, about 0.2 mile
from the bushes NW. Vessels should moor with about 82.3
m of chain, with the starboard anchor N, where the first
55 blow comes from, and the port anchor S.
From Hiuinatungan Island, the coast runs in a general
SE direction for about 8 miles, then S for about 1.5 miles
to Bunga Point. The immediate shoreline is mangroves, but
60 a short distance inland the solid land rises gradually to a
uniform, level-appearing, high-wooded ridge.
The coast is bordered by a broad coral reef which is
bare at low water and has deep water close to its outer edge.
It is 1.5 miles wide at the NW end and gradually narrows
down to 0.8 mile at the SE. The NW point of this reef bears
142o from Sora Cay and distant near 4.5 miles from it. From
a position 1 mile NE of Sora Cay, a 136o course will keep
a safe distance from the reef. It can be approached anyway
within 0.5 mile. The outer edge of the reef is constantly
breaking.
There are four breaks in this reef leading to small bays
and streams in the coastline. All these openings are exposed
and of no value to navigating. The first opening into San
Ramon Bay is unnamed and is immediately E of the great
reef reaching NE from Hiuinatungan Island and following
around it and into San Ramon Bay. Panablijon Bay, the
second opening, is 7 miles from Sora Cay. Pangpang Bay,
the third opening, 9 miles from Sora Cay. Alugon Bay, the
fourth opening, is 10 miles from Sora Cay. A wreck lies
stranded on the coastal reef on the N side of Pangpang Bay
about 5.4 miles NNW of Bunga Point.
BUNGA POINT, the most E point in this vicinity,
is not prominent, being overshadowed by Apiton Island,
immediately SE of it. The point is low and bordered with
mangroves but rises N to a ridge 15.2 m (50 ft) high and
covered with trees, principally coconut palms. Near the
edge of the reef, 1.5 miles NE of Bunga Point, is a group
of coral boulders. The highest boulder has an elevation of
6.1 m (20 ft). These boulders constitute very prominent
landmarks for vessels coming from NW or NE. They are
easily identified because of their distance offshore and
jagged outline.
APITON ISLAND, 0.5 mile SE of Bunga Point, is 34.4
m (113 ft) high at its SE end and slopes gradually to the NW.
It is densely covered with coconut trees except on the high,
rocky SE end, where other trees prevail. It is surrounded by
a large reef. E and S of the island are many large, prominent
rocks. Between the edge reef, NW of the island and the reef
off Bunga Point, is a narrow boat channel. Off the SE point
of the island is a prominent rock 19.2 m (63 ft) high which
is steep-to on its S side. Anchorage, protected from E winds
and seas, is in 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom, off the W side
of Apiton Island.
A chain of islands consisting of Tubabao, Luctaban,
Kaybani, Hilaban Sibay, Linao and several smaller ones
are in a N and S direction on the W edge of a great reef
about 2.5 miles SSE of Apiton Island and extending about 8
miles S. The reef is very narrow at the N end and gradually
widens until at the S end it extends more than 1 mile and
SE of Fulin, the southernmost island of the group. This long
reef, bare at low water, protects a large area of water and
coast from E seas and affords a smooth passage, W of the
island, 2.5 miles wide at its narrowest point.
The channel between the 19.2 m (63 foot) rock off
Apiton Island and the pyramidal rock off the N end of
Tubabao Island is almost 2.6 miles wide, deep, and free
from danger with the exception of a small coral shoal, with
a depth of 5.9 m (3.25 fm), which lies with its center about
5 1 mile SSE of the 19.2 m (63 foot) rock off Apiton Island.
In bad weather, the sea breaks heavily on the shoal.
TUBABAO, the northernmost of the group, is 3 miles
SE of Apiton Island. Off the NW point is a pyramidal rock
10 about 9 m (30 ft) high, connected with the island by a reef
bare at low water. Tubabao consists of a flat-topped rocky
ridge 31 m and 32 m (103 and 106 ft) high at the NW and
SW ends, respectively, and is entirely covered with the
coconut trees. A good-sized village is on a strip of low land
15 on the W side of the island.
HILABAN, the next large island S of Tubabao, is the
longest of the group, being about 2 miles long N and S. It
is very narrow, slightly curve with the concave side toward
20 the coast, low and entirely covered with coconut trees, the
tops of which are over 17 m (55 ft) above the sea. A narrow
opening in the W of the reef very close to the S end of the
island gives access to a large village and good shelter for
small craft.
25
KAYBANI ISLAND, near the E edge of the great reef
E of Hilaban and 1.8 miles S of Tubabao, is narrow, with a
ridge over 15 m (50 ft) high running nearly its entire length.
It is covered with coconut trees.
30
LUCTABAN, NABALICAD, & CANCAHINIBING
ISLETS are three small unimportant islets S of Tubabao.
Luctaban, about 0.3 mile S of Tubabao, is low, round about
320 m in diameter, and is covered mainly with coconut
35 trees. Nabalicad, about 12 m (40 ft) high, 0.5 mile N of
Hilaban, is small and almost bare rock with a few bushes
on it. Cancahinibing Islet is small, round-topped islet, 12.8
m (42 ft) high, covered with bushes and is located 137 m W
of the N end of Hilaban.
40
ANCHORAGE - The best anchorage in this vicinity
during the NE monsoon is off the middle of the W side
of Hilaban, in about 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom, with
Nabalicad and the Luctaban Islets in range just filling the
45 opening between Cancahinibing Islet and the NW point of
Hilaban Island. Good anchorage may also be found off the
W side of Tubabao, but necessarily in deeper water as the
bank is much steeper.
50 SIBAY, BAOHAN, LINAO AND FULIN are four
small, coconut covered islands S of Hilaban island, which
appear as one island on all bearings except E and W, where
the cliffs between them open out. Linao Point Light (12°
01’ 00”N., 125° 33’ 10”E.) is displayed on Linao Island.
55
PASIG ISLET, is a small sand cay about 1.8 m (6 ft)
high, about 3 miles S SW of the S end of Fulin Island. The
cay is on the W side of a reef about 1 mile in diameter. The
larger part of this reef is bare low water, and on it are a
60 number of scattered boulders that are never covered. This
13-10
reef is fringed up to almost 0.5 mile by shoal water, beyond more than 0.9 m (3 ft), may enter the river.
which there are depths of more than 18.3 mile (10 fm). A
wreck on the NE edge of the reef shows prominently from ORAS, is on the N side of Oras River and about 0.5
a distance. mile from its mouth. A small wharf, facing S, with a total
5 length of 60 m is near the entrance of the river and serves
The channel between the reef extending SE of Fulin as port of call for the water-borne business of Oras. The
and the reef surrounding Pasig islet is 2 miles wide, clear wharf is about 0.5 km from the town proper and linked by
and deep, with the exception of a small shoal near the concrete road. Depth of water alongside the offshore face is
middle of it, which has a depth of 11.9 m (6.5 fm). about 1.5 m. Since it is positioned inside a river, the wharf
10 is protected from ocean waves. Common cargoes traded are
From Bunga Point, the coast trends in a general SW rice, cement, fuel and copra while destinations are to and
direction for 5.5 miles to the head of Oras Bay, thence from Tacloban, Legazpi, Cebu, Bacolod, Manila, Lapinig,
SE for 5.5 miles more to Cabra Point. This large bay is Arteche and Jipapad. Passengers usually convey back and
indented by a number of small bays separated by points forth for Arteche, Lapinig, Jipapad and nearby.
which are low, covered with mangroves, and fringed by 15
coral reefs. Many detached, off laying, sunken reefs are in Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Oras
the bay; some of which are 1 mile from the nearest point may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998-5858311.
of the coast. Coconut trees lie behind the mangroves, and
the high land is covered with dense forests. None of the DIRECTIONS - To enter Oras Bay from a position
bays, with the exception of Oras bay, are of any commercial 20 1.7 miles S of Apiton Island and NW of Pyramidal Rock
importance. at the N end of Tubabao Island, steer 257o heading for the
middle part of the bay, giving Bankari Point a berth of at
SAN POLICARPIO BAY, between Bunga and least 1 mile. Inside the bay, anchor according to draft. A
Binugayan Points, is a small cove. The shores are fringed small shoal with a depth of 1.8 m (0.98 fm), 1 mile W of
by reefs bare at low water. The bay has many sunken coral 25 Bankari Point should be avoided.
heads. The entrance is obstructed, and in heavy seas the
cove is partly protected by a reef with a 1.8 m (1 fm), the From Bankari Point, the coast trends SE for about 4
center of which lies about 0.5 mile SE of Binugayan Point. miles to Cabra Point and is very irregular, being indented
A detached 11.9 m (6.5 fm) patch lies just outside the 18.3 by bays, the entrances to which are block by reefs and islets
m (10 fm) curve about 0.8 mile SSW of Bunga Point. The 30 that lie up to almost 1.3 miles offshore. A detached 6.4 m
best channel into the bay is W of this reef. (3.5 fm) patch lies just outside the 18.3 m (10 fm) curve
about 0.8 mile SE to Uguis Islet, Uguis Islet, 0.8 mile E of
Anchorage will be found nearly in the middle of the Bankari Point, is small, round, wooded, with sand beach,
bay, in about 9.1 m (5 fm), mud bottom, with the E entrance and surrounded by a reef which extends 0.4 mile E of it.
point in line with the N end of Apiton Island. 35
BACTOL BAY, about 1 mile S of Uguis Islet, affords
SAN PALICARPIO, the town at the head of San good anchorage for small vessels drawing less than 3.7 m
Pilcarpio Bay, has an 80 m long pier that is used by (2 fm), in 5.5 m (3 fm), mud bottom.
passenger boats calling at the town.
40 BACTOL ISLAND and the surrounding reefs protect
BINUGAYAN AND LIPUSAN BAYS are between this anchorage from E. The approaches to this anchorage,
Binugayan Point and Ludo Point. These bays are foul and either N or E, are intricate, and should not be attempted
of little value to navigation. Extending in a general ENE without local knowledge unless the reefs are visible.
direction from the N extremity of Ludo Point is a line of
sunken reefs, the outermost of which with 0.4 m (0.25 fm), 45 CABRA POINT is very prominent, clear, and steep-
is 0.8 mile SW of Binugayan Point. Vessels navigating in to. A dangerous shoal, with a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm), is
this vicinity are advised to give the outlaying points a berth about 1 mile N of Cabra Point. It can be avoided by keeping
of at least 1 mile. the point bearing nothing S of 185o.

ORAS BAY, a shallow circular basin about 2 miles
in diameter, is between Ludo Point and Bankari Point. The
entrance points are fringed with reefs that extend up to 0.7
mile offshore, but the rest of the bay is of moderate depth
and clear with the exception of a sunken rock with 3.7 m (2
fm), lying 0.7 mile from the N shore of the bay and a 1.8 m
(1 fm) patch, about 1 mile W of Bankari Point.
ORAS RIVER empties into the NW side of the bay.
The channel at the entrance is unmarked and constantly
shifting. Small craft with local knowledge, drawing not
50 From Cabra Point, the coast trends SW for about 11
miles to Tugasan Point, at the mouth of Tubig River. For
the first 7 miles it is low, straight and clear except for a
0.9 m (0.5 fm) patch about 1.3 miles SSW of the mouth of
the Dolores River and 0.5 mile offshore. The 9.1 m (5 fm)
55 curve lies about 0.5 to 0.8 mile from shore. Between Ulut
River and Tugasan Point, the land is higher and heavily
wooded, with mangroves along shoreline. From a position
about 1 mile S of the mouth of the Ulut River to Tugasan
Point, the shoreline is much indented by numerous small
60 bights. Reefs and foul ground fringe this section of the

13-11
coast up to almost 1 mile offshore in some places. The only
outlaying dangers are a small 0.9 m (0.5 fm) coral patch
S of the mouth of the Ulut River and 0.8 mile from shore
and a large coral shoal with a depth of 3.2 m (1.75 fm), 2.5
miles NE of Tugasan Point and 1.5 miles from shore.
DOLORES RIVER, which empties about 2.5 miles
SW of Cabra Point, has about 0.6 m (2 ft) of water on its bar
at low water which extends about 0.5 mile offshore. A 2.1
m (1.2 fm) channel across the bar at high water is marked
by stakes, and it is reported that small launches drawing 1.8
m (1 fm) can ascend the river for a distance of 32 miles.
DOLORES is the town on the N bank of the river
just inside the bar. The town exports lumber in moderate 15
quantities. Two lumber companies have offices in town. A
wooden pier for light craft is on the N bank of the Dolores
River, S of the town market which has a galvanized iron
roof. In September 1964, the depth alongside its offshore
end was 1.8 m (1 fm). Dolores is connected by bus with the 20
other towns of Samar. There is a post office. Fresh supplies
can be obtained in very limited quantities. Anchorage for
vessels loading lumber is NE of the mouth of the river in
9.1 m (5 fm), mud and sand bottom.
ULUT RIVER, which empties 3 miles S of Dolores
River, has very little water on the bar and can be crossed
only by small boats. The town on Can-Avid is situated on
the N bank of the river about 0.5 mile from its mouth.
TUGASAN POINT, forming the N side of the
entrance to Tubig River, is low and fringed by a reef which
extends 0.5 mile E of it. A detached 0.9 m (0.5 fm) patch
lies close S of the E part of this reef.
TAFT is small town on the S side of the entrance to
Tubig River. Tubig River has a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) on the
bar at low water and has deeper water inside.
Caution - Vessels leaving Taft are advised, if bound N,
to keep the town bearing 271o until Cabra Point bears 023o
before hauling N. If bound S, keep the town bearing 271o
until Cabra Point bears 006o before hauling S. Cabra Point
on the former bearing clears all dangers NE of Tugasan
Point and on the latter bearing clears the dangerous, rocky
shoal NE of Makate Island.
Anchorage off Taft is in 18.3 m (10 fm), mud bottom,
with the town bearing 270o and Pindilin Point at 181o. This
anchorage is frequently untenable in the NE monsoon. At
such times, fairly protected anchorage may be found in
16.5 m (9 fm) about 0.4 mile W of Makate Island. Small
vessels drawing not more than 3.7 m (12 ft) can be find
good anchorage in 5.5 to 7.3 m (3 to 4 fm) in a basin about
0.3 mile in diameter SE of the town; anchorage should be
taken about 0.3 mile NW of a small, sandy cay, which is
always visible and in a line between the cay and the town.
The services of a pilot for this anchorage and also for the
river can be secured if desired.
From the mouth of Tubig River the coast trends SSE for
2.3 miles to PINDILIN POINT. The immediate shoreline in
this vicinity is a sandy beach backed by coconut trees. A
large reef, with depths of less than 0.9 m (0.5 fm) and with
5 a sandy cay on its W end, extends from the shoreline about
1.8 miles E on the N part of this section of the coast. From
Pindilin Point, the coast curves around the S, 2.7 miles and
then curves NE to Taig Point, forming Sulat Bay.
10 MAKATE ISLAND, the northernmost island fronting
Sulat Bay, is small, low, covered with coconuts, and fringed
with mangroves. A small, dangerous rocky spot with a
depth of 5.9 m (3.25 fm), 1.3 miles NE of Makate Island,
breaks heavily in bad water. The reef surrounding the island
extends about 0.6 mile NE.
MACALAYO ISLAND, 0.7 mile SW of Makate, is
an irregularly shaped, low, wooded island nearly 0.7 mile
extent; on the S extremity is a hill 25.6 m (84 ft) high.
CATALABAN ISLAND, the largest and most
prominent of this group, is nearly divided by indentations
on both sides: the W and E ends are about 30.5 m (100
ft) high and are connected by a low isthmus covered with
25 coconut trees. The barrio of San Vicente is on the S side of
the Island. The reef surrounding Catalaban Island is widest
on the E side, extending 0.4 mile seaward.
A rock awash is about 0.3 mile SE of Catalaban Island
30 with the E tangent to that island bearing 001o. This rock,
steep-to, on its S side, marks the N side of the channel into
Sulat Bay.
ANAJAO ISLAND, S of the W end of Catalaban,
35 is triangular in shape, nearly 0.5 mile in extent, low, and
covered with coconut trees.
SULAT BAY, a deep indentation in the coast open to
the NE, is fronted by Makate, Macalayo, Catalaban, and
40 Anajao Islands all of which are surrounded by reefs, leaving
narrow boat channels between them and the adjacent coast.
The head of the bay is shoal; otherwise, Sulat Bay is free of
danger with the exception of a small coral patch having 0.9
m (3 ft) of water, 0.7 mile SE of Anajao Island. A heavy sea
45 sets into Sulat Bay during the NE monsoon, and during that
period better anchorage may be found off the barrio of San
Vicente on the S side of Catalban Island.
SULAT is a town on the E side of the river of the
50 same name, which empties into the S side of the bay just
W of Taig Point. The stone wall of a large, ruined church,
within which is erected a nipa edifice, is the most prominent
building in town. No fresh stores, fresh water, or repairs are
available. Local physicians attend to minor medical cases.
55 The town has a post office.
Directions - Entering Sulat Bay: From a position about
1 mile NE of Agauan Islet, bring the S end of Anajao and
steer for it, keeping clear of the rock awash 0.3 mile SE of
60 Catalaban Island. Continue on this course slowly until the
13-12
ruins of the church bears 195o then steer for it, keeping a
sharp lookout for a coral patch with depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm),
0.7 mile SE of Anajao Island. Anchor in 9.1 m (5 fm), mud
bottom, about 1 mile N of Taig Point.
TAIG POINT, forming the S shore of the Sulat Bay,
is prominent because of the long and broad reef, dry at low
water, which extends 1.3 miles NE on it and upon which are
four small rocky islets the N one, Agauan Islet, 4.9 m (16
ft) high. The point is fringed with mangroves, behind which
are coconut trees, among which rise rocky outcropping
almost hidden by the tall trees.
PANINIHIAN POINT is the projection of the coast
separating Sulat Bay from Port Libas. The reef from Taig
Point continues S and fringes Paninihian Point for more
than 0.3 mile in places. It has many large boulders upon it,
a smooth outline, and deep water close to its edge.
PORT LIBAS (CHART 4422) is between
Cannomanda Point on the N and Najibil Point on the S
side. Reefs from both entrance points narrow the channel
to about 0.4 mile wide. The interior of the bay has a very
irregular shoreline, broken up into five projecting points
with as many smaller bays between them, all of which are
shoal. Nearby, all the points in the bay are bordered by reefs
which are bare at low water. In the S part of the port are
many detached patches, some of which have mangroves
growing on them. Only a small area of this port is available
for anchorage, about 1 mile from the entrance and 0.5 mile
N and S.
MAGNANA POINT, is the most conspicuous and
readily identified point in the SW side of the port and bears
about 244o when first opened S of Cannomanda Point.
Immediately SW of Magnana Point, the land rises into
steep conical hills, the highest of which Mount Magnagua,
87 m (285 ft) high affords a good range for entering the port
between the reefs contracting the channel.
TUBIGAN POINT is the second point inside the
entrance on the N side of the port and forms part of the W
side of the bay. The barrio of Del Remedio is on the N side
of the bay. Palan Point is the W side of the S entrance point
where the coast turns sharply S. San Julian, the largest town 45
in, Port Libas, is immediately S of these points.
DIRECTIONS, from a position about 1 mile offshore
bring Mount Magnagua to bear 250o, when it should be
under the depression between the horns of saddle-shaped
mountain in interior, a little nearer the S and higher horn,
and steer in on this range. This course will carry a vessel
midway between the reef extending from the N entrance
point and the limit of the foul ground outside of the reef
on the S side. When San Julian begins to open W of Palan
Point, haul NW for Tubigan Point and anchor 0.4 mile E of
it in 9.1 m (5 fm). In smooth weather, small vessels can go
much farther in and anchor between Tubigan and Magnana
Point in 4.9 m (2.6 fm),sand bottom.
13-13
From Najibil Point, the coast trends SSE 5.5 miles to
Anitaguipan Point, and is low, covered with coconut trees,
and fringed with mangroves. Steep-to reef, on which there
are some above-water rocks, fringe this part of the coast
5 up to almost 0.5 mile offshore and has several breaks.
Three other points; Haravis, Macatucas, and Guinanung,
projecting from the coast are nearly equidistant from each
other and their tangents almost in line. Between these
points are small bays blocked by reefs and of little value
10 to navigation.
ANITAGUIPAN POINT, is a bold, rocky, steep-to
headland, 86 m (282 ft) high, and well-wooded with coconut
trees. The shore reef fringing the coast from Port Libas ends
15 a short distance N of the point, leaving it exposed to wave
action which has so undermined the base that the upper part
overhangs the sea. A steep-to reef fringes the S side of the
point to within 0.2 mile offshore.
20 The Borongan Airport is located inland, about 0.8
mile of Anitaguipan Point. The airport is connected by road
to Borongan City.
From Anitaguipan Point, the coast trends SW for
25 nearly a mile to Capinas Point, thence curves around W and
S, forming a large bay with a very irregular coastline to
Lalawigan Point, about 5 miles S by W from Anitaguipan
Point. Andis Island is in the middle of the entrance to this
bay, dividing it into two parts. Napla Bay, the N part, on
30 the indentations of which are several villages, affords
good anchorage in a basin about 1 mile in diameter. The
central part of the bay is clear of dangers but the W part is
encumbered with reefs and shoals. This anchorage is not
recommended during the N monsoon, as E winds send in
35 a heavy sea.
ANDIS ISLAND is 1.5 miles SSW of Antiguippan
Point. Amagotada Point, the NE extremity, is a bold rocky
headland about 30 m (100 ft) high. The S point is also rocky
40 but not so high. Steep-to reefs extend about 0.5 mile N of
the island. The NW point is low and sandy, and a narrow
reef, bare at low water, borders the W side of the island. The
barrio of Ando, that has a small T-head pier, is located just
S of the NW point. On the E side of this island, the reef is
wide, except at Amagotada Point where it narrows near the
edge of the point. There is a narrow boat channel between
the NW extremity of Andis Island and the reefs extending
from the mainland.
50 A small, rocky shoal, on which the sea breaks in bad
weather, with a depth of 4.6 m. (2.5 fm), is about 0.2 mile
SW of the S point of Andis Island.
About 1.3 miles WSW of the S point of Andis Island is
55 a small, steep-to, rocky shoal, with a depth of less than 0.3
m (1 ft). This shoal breaks even with a very light sea.
PORT BORONGAN (CHART 4422) is between the
S point of Andis Island and the N side of Divinubo Island.
60 It is divided into two bays, the N and the S, by a projecting
point extending E from the S side of the town of Borongan.
The locality lies along the typhoon belt of the country
making the port usable only during the months of April to
October when the weather condition is fair.
CANDAMAT REEF, bare at low water, extends
about 0.5 mile from this point. Only the N bay is used. The
entrance, 1.5 miles wide, is deep and clear. The concrete
light tower on the beach of the N bay makes a good
landmark when entering.
The head of Port Borongan consists of a sandy beach
that extends almost 1 mile N and about the same distance
SSE from the projecting point. A few hills, 46 m (150 ft)
to over 91 (300 ft) high, closely back the low and wooded
shores of the higher hills lie about 1 to 2 miles inland from
the head of the bay.
MAJOR LIGHT - Borongan Light (11° 36’ 54”N.,
125° 26’ 12”E.) is displayed from a white tower at the head
of Port Borongan.
Divinubo Island Light (11° 35’ 51”N., 125° 30’ 15”E.)
is displayed from a white framework tower on the E coast
of Divinubo Island.
BORONGAN RIVER empties into the NW part of
the N bay. On the SW bank of the mouth of the river are two
temporary, privately-owned, wooden piers where barges
tie up. The bodega and offices of local copra exporters are
located here. About 0.5 mile E of the mouth of the river is a
small, low bushy islet surrounded by a reef about 0.1 mile
wide.
LOOM RIVER empties about 1 mile S of the
Borongan River, just N of the point which divides the
head of the port. Between the mouths of the two rivers is a
slightly curving sand beach backed by coconut trees.
BORONGAN, the capital of the province of Eastern
Samar, is near the mouth of the Loom River. The town is
obscured by coconut trees and may be distinguished only
by the concrete pier and breakwater on the S part of the
N bay. There is a post office. A government hospital and 45
some private clinics are operating. There is a PAGASA
weather station in town. Coasting and foreign vessels call
occasionally at this port to load copra.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Borongan, which could be contacted at
telephone nos. (+6355) 261-2635 and (+6355) 261-2172.
It could accommodate vessels with maximum size of 900
GRT.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Borongan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8236710 and +63998-5858312. The station may also be
contacted via e-mail at cgseasternsamar2017@gmail.com.
Berthing Facilities - A 100-m long concrete pier
projects somewhat N from the point located about 0.6 mile
SE of Borongan Light. The offshore end has a controlling
depth of 5 m below MLLW. There is an open storage of
5 960 sq m.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available
from local providers.
10 Pilotage is provided by Catbalogan Harbor Pilot
Association. Vessels requiring pilot should notify the
association 24 hrs before ETA.
Anchorage can be taken in about 16.5 m (9 fm), mud
15 bottom, about 0.5 mile SSW of the previously-described
reef which breaks. This anchorage can be taken closer in
to the breakwater in about 11 to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm) about
0.4 mile NE of the breakwater. This latter anchorage can
be used only in good weather when there is not too much
20 swell. During the NE monsoon, the best anchorage is to the
W of the N part of Andis Island in 18.3 to 21.9 m (10 to 12
fm), mud bottom, with Anitaguippan Island just open of the
NW extremity of Andis Island. It is reported, however, that
this anchorage does not afford protection from typhoons
25 on account of heavy seas making around the S end of the
island.
Directions - From a position about midway between
Andis and Divinubo Islands, steer a course of 270o for
30 Borongan Light. When abeam of the reef marked “breakers”
on the chart, alter course to 300o and head for the small flat
bushy islet, anchoring when the breakers bear 025o.
Vessels desiring to anchor off the W side of Andis
35 Island should enter Port Borongan on a 270o course so as to
round the S end of that island at a distance of 0.5 mile, and
then steer a N course for the anchorage.
DIVINUBO ISLAND is nearly 2 miles SSE from the
40 S point of Andis Island. It is almost round, of moderate
height, and appears almost flat. The E coast of the island
is marked by Divinubo Light. A barrio is located on its W
coast. Its N and E sides are fringed by a reef about 0.2 mile
in extent. Divinubo is almost connected with Lalawigan
Point, 1.4 miles W from it, by reefs, bare at low water, on
which are the Coco Islets and a number of large boulders.
The coast from Lalawigan Point trends SSE, with a
slight curve W for 7.5 miles to Minasangan Island, at the
50 entrance to Cabay Bay. The first 4 miles S of Lalawigan
Point is sandy beach, broken through in many places by
rocky bluffs reaching to the sea. The shoreline is more
irregular to Maydolong Islands, with rocky points bordered
by coral reefs and having short sand beaches between them.
55 From Maydolong Island to Minasangan Island, the shoreline
is low and bordered by a wide reef which continues to the E
end of Minasangan Island and begins again on the S side of
the island and borders the shore into Cabay Bay.
60 SURIBAO RIVER, with about 0.6 m (0.3 fm) of
13-14
water on its bar at low water and with deeper water inside,
empties about 3 miles S of Lalawigan Point. It is about 0.1
mile wide just inside its mouth and is separated from the sea
by a low, sandy point running from the bluff on the N side
to within a short distance of the rocky bluff on the S side
and confining the river to a narrow channel between them.
The barrio of Suribao is on the N bank of the river, just
inside of the sandy point at the entrance. The 18.3 m (10
fm) curve is a good distance from shore off this river and
the beaches on either side of it.
MAYDOLONG ISLANDS, about 5 miles S of
Divinubo Island, are two small wooded islands, surrounded
by a broad coral reef reaching out from the mainland and
connecting them. This reef is bare at low water for 0.5 mile
NE of the islands, then turns N for about 0.3 mile and thence
continues N as a sunken reef for about 0.5 mile farther. This
reef should be given a wide berth.
MAYDOLONG is a town on the mainland about 1
mile W of Maydolong Islands and at the head of Maydolong
Cove, an opening between the shore reef and some detached
reefs lying outside and E. A small but fair anchorage may
be found here by bringing the W side of Divinubo island in
range with Anitaguipan Point, bearing 356° and standing in
with this range astern, keeping a good lookout for the reefs
on both sides. When a large coral boulder in a small bight
on the mainland bears 248o, anchorage will be found in 18.3
m (10 fm), mud bottom. Vessels from S should not haul in
for the range until they are about 2 miles N of Maydolong
Islands; then, pick up the range and proceed as previously
directed.
MINASANGAN ISLAND, close to the land at the
N side of the entrance to Cabya Bay, as well as the coast
behind it, is covered with coconut palms with some large
trees scattered among them. The E extremity of the island
is shelving rock, with deep water close-to, on which the sea
breaks heavily even in moderate weather. The S side of the
island is steep-to.
CABAY BAY is immediately SW of Minasangan
Island. The shores are fringed by a narrow reef, leaving
plenty of available anchorage space which, however, is
exposed to NE winds and seas. Three shoals having depths
of 3.2, 4.1 and 4.6 m (1.75, 2.25, and 2.5 fm) respectively,
are in the bay and should be avoided. The barrio of Cabay
is at the head of the bay.
From the S point of Cabay Bay, the coast trends in a
general SE direction for about 9 miles to Tugnug Point.
This coast is indented by several bay, fringed by coral reefs,
and faced by a number of islands.
MINANUT ISLAND is about 2 miles SE of the S
entrance point to Cabay Bay and about 0.4 mile E of San
Miguel Point. It is triangular in shape, with sharp points
projecting SE and SW and a blunt point N. The N point is
clear and steep-to while the rest of the island is surrounded
by a reef which separated from San Miguel Point by a deep
13-15
but a very narrow channel. The N and NE faces of the island
consists of perpendicular cliffs nearly 30 m (100 ft.) high.
The SW point is low and sandy, and behind it, the lowland
rises to a ridge and is densely covered with coconut trees.
5 The barrio of Mina-anod is at the NW coast of the island.
MINANUT ANCHORAGE (Chart 4422) is a cove
formed by a bend in the coast S of San Miguel Point.
Minanut Island, in the entrance, affords protection from NE
10 winds and seas. It has depths of about 16.5 to 20.1 m (9 to
11 fm) in its central part, but the shores are fringed up to
almost 0.2 mile off by steep-to reefs and some detached
patches. This anchorage is not recommended during the
typhoon season or even in a strong NE monsoon because
15 with a heavy NE sea, while the cove is absolutely smooth,
the breakers from the reefs at the N entrance fill it with
foam and cause a strong current from that direction which
quickly reverses with the receding waters. These changing
currents keep a vessel sheering about and bring heavy and
20 sudden strains on her cable.
Directions - The N entrance is not recommended, as
it is nearly blocked with reefs, leaving only a narrow, deep
channel between them. From S, pass 0.3 mile S of Minanut
25 Island, keeping a good lookout for the reefs on either side.
As soon as San Miguel Point opens W of Minanut, haul
NW and anchor in the middle of the cove in 16.5 or 18.3 m
(9 or 10 fm), mud bottom, with San Miguel Point bearing
350o and the SE point of Minanut Island bearing 085o.
30
A good boat landing is in a break in the reef just SE of a
bright-faced, rocky bluff with a deep cave on the NW side,
into the Lanang River opposite the town of Llorente, where
a small boat ferry is maintained.
35
LANANG RIVER empties about 1 mile SW of the
SE point of Minanut Island near a rocky point fringed with
mangroves and surrounded by a reef to a distance of about
0.1 mile. The S side of the mouth of the river is a low sand
40 point and the shore is a sand beach for 1 mile SE. A rocky
point extends 0.8 mile E from the end of the sand beach
which is closely fringed by a steep-to reef, on which there
are several islets. From the extremity of the rocky point,
the N end of Iniyao Island is about 0.5 mile E, and between
45 the two is the entrance to the circular bay about 0.5 mile in
diameter, whose shores are fringed with coral.
INIYAO ISLAND is very small, 27.4 m (90 ft.) high
at the N end, looks like the other high, rocky points on this
50 coast, and connected with the shore by a reef which bare at
low water.
LLORENTE (CHART 4422) is a town on a low,
grassy flat on the S side of the entrance to the Lanang
55 River. The ruins of a church and some buildings show
from seaward and in front is a tall flag staff, which is the
most conspicuous object. The town is small and offers few
resources. Coasting vessels call to load hemp and copra.
60 Anchorage is in 18.3 m (10 fm), about 0.5 mile E of
the mouth of the river; small vessels can anchor closer to
the shore in 12.8 m (7 fm). These anchorages are untenable
at times during the NE monsoon.
From Iniyao Island to Tugnug Point, nearly 5 miles
SE, the coast consists of rocky cliffs 12 to 27 m (40 to 90
ft) high, with deep indentations filled with coral reefs. This
coast is fringed by steep-to coral reefs, in some places to a
distance of nearly 0.3 mile. These reefs gradually narrow to
the coast and finally disappear at Tugnug Point. The cliffs
are nearly perpendicular and the tops covered with bushes
and small trees. A short distance inland, the land is heavily
wooded and rises to a height of 91 to 152 m (300 to 500 ft).
Immediately S of Tugnug Point is a small cove about
0.2 mile in extent. This cove is very deep and the head is
filled with corals. Displayed about 0.45 mile S of Tugnug
Point is Tugnug Light (11° 21’ 00”N., 125° 37’ 48”E.).
From this cove, the coast runs S for nearly 1 mile to Agdan
Point, and consists of perpendicular, steep-to cliffs whose
bases are much undermined and whose faces are worn into
fantastic shapes by wave action. The peaks of these cliffs
are 7 to 15 m (25 to 50 ft) high, and generally sparsely
covered with thickets and shrubs. This bluff headland is
very prominent from N and S as it rises at a short distance
back of the cliffs to a height of about 61 m (200 ft) to the
top of the trees.
NAGAHA BAY is a small indentation between Agdan
Point and Panadlihan Point. The shores are mostly low and
fringed with corals. In the NE corner of the bay is a small
beach with a coconut grove behind it where landing could
probably be made at any time. In fine weather, anchorage
may be found in 29.3 m (16 fm), in the middle of the bay,
about 0.3 mile SW of Agdan Point.
PANADLIHAN POINT, about 0.5 mile SW of Agdan
Point, is a nearly round, sparsely wooded peninsula about
0.3 mile in extent. It is faced by cliffs 9 to 12 m (30 to 40
ft) high in the center.
Between Panadlihan Point and Bura Point, about 1.5
miles SW, the coast recedes for about 0.4 mile, forming an
indentation which is entirely filled with corals, bare at low
water, with the exception of a small break 0.5 mile N of
Bura Point. This leads to the mouth of the Hernani River.
HERNANI is the town about 0.3 mile W of Panadlian
Point. The shores are low, and the land rises in a gentle
slope to the foothills of the high with wooded ridge as its
interior.
BURA POINT is low and wooded but prominent,
terminating in the line of black rocks 6 to 9 m (20 to 30 ft)
high. From N or S, it appears dangerous to approach but
there are no sunken rocks outside of the visible ones, and
can be passed safely at a distance of 0.5 mile.
MATARINAO BAY (CHART 4467) occupies a bight
that indents the coast about 5 miles WSW between Bura
Point and Matarinao Point. Although much of the bay is
encumbered with dangerous reefs, it is the largest and most
easily accessible of any on the E coast of Samar.
5 There are a number of islands in the NW part of the
bay composed of Lalauigan, Masisingi, Capocpocanan, and
Anahao Islands. These islands are all surrounded by wide
reefs bare at low water.
10 LALAUIGAN ISLAND, 2.8 miles SW of Bura Point,
is 81 m (266 ft), high, and can be seen over Bura Point
when off Panadlian Point.
MASISINGI ISLAND, 54 m (178 ft) high at its NE
15 extremity, lies between Lalauigan Island and the coast.
CAPOCPOCANAN ISLAND, low and wooded,
lies about 0.5 mile SE of Masisingi Island. It is at the S
extremity of the extensive reef that surrounds Lalauigan,
20 Masisingi and Capocpocanan Islands. The reef extends up
to about 0.7 mile SW of Capocpocanan Island and form the
NW side of the channel into the bay.
ANAHAO ISLAND is the largest and most S of
25 the group. It is low and covered with mangroves. When
entering the channel between the reefs, the S point appears
like a low point projecting from the land.
Other prominent islands in the bay are Minadion,
30 Minalao, Linao, Kanadag, and Pou Rock.
MINADION ISLAND, about 1.3 miles S of Anahao
and 0.6 mile from shore, is a small, low, rocky, flat-topped
islet covered with dark trees which make it show up well
35 against the mangrove-lined shore behind.
MINALAO ISLAND, about 0.8 mile ENE from
Minadion, is the highest of the group, in the opening of the
bay. It has around, wooded top 43.6 m (143 ft) high with
40 a low extension S upon which there is a grove of coconut
palms. It makes a prominent landmark. The NW end of the
island is steep-to, but reefs extend about 0.3 mile NE and
E. Foul ground lies SE of the island and between it and
Minadion Island.
45
A 0.9 m (0.5 fm) rocky patch and a somewhat larger
rocky patch, with depth of less than 0.6 m (0.3 fm), lie
about 0.4 mile NW and WNW, respectively, of Minaloa
Island. Both dangers are steep-to.
50
LINAO ISLAND, 0.4 mile NW of Matarinao Point,
has a more irregular summit than Minalao. It is also heavily
wooded, and 25 m (81 ft) high.
55 KANADAG ISLAND, 0.3 mile from both S of Linao
and W of Matarinao Point, is a small, low flat island covered
with brush and some coconut trees showing a bright, sandy
beach beneath them. Both Linao and Kanadag Islands are
situated on the reef fringing Matarinao Point.
60
13-16
 POU ROCK is a small black rock about 3.7 m (12 ft)
high, on a bright sand cay almost awash at high water. It is
0.5 mile WNW of Kanadag Island.
PAMBUJAN HARBOR, the main port area, lies on
the NW part of Matarinao Bay. Both sides of the entrance
are formed by broad reefs, leaving a deep, narrow channel
between them which leads to the various anchorages within
the bay. The reefs, partly bare at low water, are generally
marked by breakers and are readily discernible at all times.
An obstruction with a least depth of 12.8 m (7 fm) is located
about 1.6 miles N of Matarinao Point.
GENERAL MACARTHUR (Pambujan Sur), W of
the S end of Anahao Island, is the most important town in
Matarinao Bay. Some hemp and copra are shipped. The
town has a small private clinic capable or rendering first-aid
assistance. Fresh stores and fresh water are not available.
General Mac Arthur has a post office.
Ruins of a pier is just S of the town. A rocky shoal with
a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm), in the middle of the channel,
is marked by a red, spherical marker buoy and a smaller
anchor buoy.
Anchorage for large commercial vessels is in 12.8 m
(7 fm), mud bottom, 0.35 mile SW of the S end of Anahao
Island. Small vessels can anchor farther N in not less than
9.1 m (5 fm), as the reefs are very steep-to. This anchorage
is well protected, but better anchorage during bad weather
can be found in Matarinao Bay, 0.4 mile W of Kanadag
Island, in a basin about 0.35 mile in diameter. The S part of
the bay offers a large area of well-protected anchorage, but
it is encumbered by a number of small reefs which are bare
at low water and also a number of dangerous shoal patches,
which make it difficult of access.
Directions - To anchor off the pier ruins: Bring the
vessel to a position at the entrance, with Minaloa Island
bearing 218° and the S end of Anahao Island bearing 2570
and Kanadag Island well open, keeping in mind the 12.8 m
(7 fm) obstruction about 1.6 miles N of Matarinao Point.
From this position, steer 2490 heading about 0.3 mile S of
Anahao Island. Anchor off the end of the pier ruins in 11
m (6 fm) mud bottom, or come alongside the pier. This
anchorage is untenable during the NE monsoon.
To an anchorage W of Kanadag Island: Follow above
course 249° and when Pou Rock is abeam, steer for Minalo
Island on course 198° until Pou Rock again is abeam. Then,
steer 152° passing between the reefs extending from Pou
Rock and Minaloa Island. When the N tangent of Minaloa
bears 265°, steer for Kanadag Island on course 0910.
Anchor 0.2 mile, 1700 from Pou Rock in 12.8 m (7 fm),
mud bottom.
In approaching this anchorage, there is a dangerous
shoal with a depth of 12.8 m (1 fm), 0.36 mile SSW of Pou
Rock, and another shoal with a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) 870
m SSE of Pou rock.
13-17
MATARINAO POINT with the village of Matarinao
its N side lies about 4.8 miles SSW of Bura Point and forms
the S entrance point of Matarinao Bay. It is the NW end
of a peninsula that extends about 2.5 miles NW from the
5 mainland and is conspicuous as the N termination of the
high ridge that extends almost 1 mile N and nearly 0.7 mile
NE from the N end of the peninsula. Foul ground and shoal
water lie up to about 1.2 miles NW and 1 mile WNW of the
point. The outer edge of these latter dangers is marked by
10 drying reefs over which the sea breaks.
SOUTHERN PART OF SAMAR
(CHART 1518 & 4423)
DISTRESS & RESCUE – The remotely controlled
15
coast station with VHF DSC alerting in Tacloban (11° 03'
54"N., 125° 01' 24"E.) covers the waters off Samar from
Sua Point (11° 06' 10"N., 125° 26' 46"E.) to Capines Point
at the entrance of San Pedro Bay. Vessels in distress may
contact the above mentioned remotely controlled station.
20
Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for
details.
From Matarinao Point, the coast trends SE from
about 25 miles to Sungi Point, the SE extremity of Samar,
25
forming a narrow peninsula between the Pacific and the
shoal bay W of Guiuan. A chain of islands consisting of
Calicoan, Leleboon extend SE, forming a prolongation of
this peninsula and from a distance appear part of it. The
passages between the peninsula and the islands also those
30
between the islands are narrow and shoal and bare in places
at low water. The most prominent feature of this section
of the coast is a bold coral ridge about 121.9 m (400 ft)
high that reaches from Matarinao Point to Sungi Point,
the S extremity of Candolu Island. At several places, it is
35
broken by steep gaps and at one place disappears for over
a mile, but the general impression is one of uniform height,
smooth, even skyline, and vertical sea faces over 91.4 m
(300 ft) high, usually covered with bushes, but sometimes
entirely bare. This ridge is remarkable for its length, its
40
narrowness, being 275 to 595 m wide, and its abrupt, steep
face, both in front and where it is broken by passes through
it. On the W side slope is gentle. There is a belt of low, level
ground between the ridge and the sea.
45
The shoreline is made of high sand beaches and coral
bluffs alternately, the latter averaging about 6.1 m (20 ft)
in height. In most cases, these bluffs do not extend more
than 275 or 366 m. In some cases, they are merely the foot
extensions from the high cliffs farther inshore. The storm
50
beaches are from 2.4 to 3 m (8 to 10 ft) high and indicate
severe wave action during the NE monsoon. They show
well out to sea.
ASGAD AND PANANAMITAN POINTS, located 5
55
miles and 7.5 miles, respectively SE of Matarinao Points,
are fairly prominent. Hagnaya and Bagtong Points, 1 mile
and 5 miles, respectively, SE of Pananamitan Point, are not
distinguishable from the sea, being merely bluffs of 6 to 9 m
(20 to 30 ft) high along a concave coast. From N of Asgad
60
Point to Hagnaya Point, the coral cliffs are vertical, mostly
bare, and very prominent. The ridge S of Hagnaya Point
is broken into heavily-wooded hills. The bluff at Bagtong
Point is practically vertical, 124 m (408 ft) high, and is the
most noticeable one in this peculiar ridge. From this point
to Luyong Point, 2 miles SE, the ridge is one vertical wall
of coral rock, with a few bushes on its face and a covering
of bushes and shrubs on its top.
From Matarinao Point to Luyong Point, the coast is
fringed with a coral reef to an average width of 0.1 mile.
From Luyong Point to Calicoan pass, 1.5 miles SE, it
widens to about 0.3 mile.
CALICOAN PASS, seated between the peninsula and
the N end of Calicoan Island, is blocked by a causeway
bridge.
CALICOAN ISLAND, the first island SE from the
peninsula, is about 7 miles long and 1.3 miles wide. The
island has a ridge of hill, similar to those on the peninsula,
averaging 76 to 107 m (250 to 350 ft) in height. The bluff
facing Calicoan Pass is nearly vertical, but towards the S
part of the island, it slopes down gradually to Sungi Point.
For 2.5 miles SE from the pass, there is no shore reef, and
the shoreline is formed by coral rock about 6 m (20 ft) high.
From here, a fringing reef begins which extends along the
remainder of this island, gradually widening to 0.5 mile and
continuing Sungi Point into Guiuan Bay. There are several
villages on the W coast of this island.
LELEBOON ISLAND, immediately S of Calicoan,
is very small and about 61 m (200 ft) high. The village of
Salangan is on the W side.
CANDOLU ISLAND, the S islet of the chain,
immediately S of Leleboon, is well-wooded and 57 m (188
ft) high in the N part.
SUNGI POINT, the SE extremity of Samar, is formed
by the S end of Candolu Island. It is about 46 m (150 ft)
high and surrounded by reefs for about 0.5 mile. There are
three patches with depths 4.1 to 5.5 m (2.25 to 3 fm) about
1 mile SE of the point.
The channel between Sungi Point and Handing Point,
the NW extremity of Homonhon Island, 9 miles SW, is
clean and deep, not less than 12.8 m (7 fm) being found
in it. The water is clear and the bottom frequently visible.
This, added to the presence of tide rips and overfalls, has
probably prompted other entities to make reports of dangers
in this channel.
Many dangerous reefs, shoal and a number of islands
lie up to about 9 miles off the coast between Sungi and
Gigoso Points, about 22 miles NW. Except for Walker
Shoal, the SW edge of this dangers lies just within the 36.6
m (20 fm) curve and their S edge lies barely within the 18.3
m (10 fm) curve. These dangers are so numerous that only
some of the important ones and the conspicuous islands are
mentioned hereinafter. Deep channels lead between these
reefs and those fringing the coast in which good anchorage,
protected from the sea, may be obtained, but owing to
the absence of any aids to navigation they cannot be used
without local knowledge.
5
DIRECTIONS - Vessels from the E should give Sungi
Point a berth of at least 1.5 miles, and if bound for San
Pedro Bay or intend to enter Guiuan by the SW channel,
steer 2750 until the SW tangent to Manicani Island bears
10 3200 when the course may be shaped as desired. Care must
be taken to avoid a bank with a depth of 12.8 m (7 fm)
located about 2.7 miles SW of Sungi Point.
MANICANI ISLAND, about 12 miles WNW of
15 Sungi Point is 163 m (534 ft) high. It is surrounded by a
reef less than 0.5 mile wide on all sides except the NW,
where it extends 5 miles NW with a greatest breadth of 2
miles and has on its end the islets Baul and Binabasalan.
The barrio of Buenavista is on the NE side of the island.
20 Manicani Light (10° 58’ 59”N., 125° 39’ 05”E.) is on the
SE coast of the island.
Between the island and reef of Manicani and the main
coast reef is a deep channel running about 8 miles NW and
25 SW with several islets and shoals on it. Vessels of all sizes,
by carefully avoiding the coral patches, can find anchorage
in this channel under the lee of the islets. The S entrance,
which is entered from the channel to Guiuan, lies between
shoals that fringe the E side of Manicani Island up to about
30 0.8 mile and partly drying reef, about 1.5 miles ENE of
that island. Except for a 4.6 m (2.5 fm) patch, about 1.2
miles ENE of Manicani Island, the S entrance of the above
channel has depths of 12.8 m (7 fm) or more.
35 At 0.6 mile NE of Manicani Island is a rock which dries
at low water and which can be passed on either side, but
the best course is to leave this rock and Cambasingan and
Cabalarian to the SW and Caninoan Islet to the NE. Good
anchorage may be found off the NE side of Cabalarian Islet
40 in 21.9 to 26 m (12 to 14 fm).
The N entrance, between Balinatio Islet near the N
shore, and Baul and Binabasalan Islets, is 0.8 mile wide and
27.4 to 32.9 m (15 to 18 fm) deep. There is a small shoal
45 with depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) and surrounded by deep water
midway between Balinatio and Binabasalan Isle. In the
channel between the reef 0.5 mile E from Binabasalan and
the anchorage there, are a number of shoal coral patches
which are generally visible. The small islets in this vicinity
50 are all white sand and wooded except Cambasingan, which
is formed of sand and low rocks nearly awash. Because
of the numerous shoals in this area, local knowledge
is necessary. Strangers are advised to take a pilot from
Tacloban. The best approach to the dock at Manicani is
55 from the S within 1 mile S of Manicani Island, pick up a
range on Guiuan Church bearing 0480, haul W and head for
the dock.
Marine Protected Area - The waters, surrounding
60 reefs, and coastal areas of Guiuan town and the islands
13-18
of Manicani, Candolu, Suluan, Tubabao, Calicoan, and
Homonhon were proclaimed as parts of a marine reserve.
Activities that may harm the environment within the
protected area are strictly prohibited.
GUIUAN (CHART 4467), is a small town on the
mainland of Samar, about 10 miles NW of Sungi Point.
The stone church painted white in the middle of the town is
very prominent. A Guiuan Light (11° 01’ 55”N., 125° 43’
14”E.) is located on the belfry of the church. An elevated 10
water tank on Tubabao Island is a good landmark. Several
motor vessels make regular calls from Tacloban and ships
from Cebu and Manila also call often. There is a post office.
There is a small hotel and hospitals in town. Liquid fuel
can be obtained in limited quantities. Fresh food supplies 15
are very scarce and fresh water is not available. The town
is connected to Catbalogan and Tacloban City by road. An
airport connects the town with Manila. Medical services
could be availed at Guiuan General Hospital.
Typhoon Yolanda, which struck the town in
November 2013, destroyed almost all houses, commercial
establishments, and public structures. Around 100 residents
were reported dead after the onslaught of the typhoon.
Caution - Vessels entering and navigating inside
the harbor should exercise extreme caution to avoid the
numerous unmarked reefs and shoals. Most of the dangers
are steep-to, and the buoys or beacon marking them may be
gone or out of position.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Guiuan may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8427623 and +63998-5858312. The station may also be
contacted through e-mail at cgdetguiuan@gmail.com.
Berthing Facilities - The government port consists of
a 155 m concrete pier leading out over the reefs in front
of the town. A wooden boat landing at its seaward end. In
May 1964, the depth alongside the boat landing was 2.1
m (7 ft). It can accommodate vessels of no more than 500
GRT. Small launches from Tacloban calling at Guiuan daily
usually go alongside this boat landing. A ridge of rocks
serving as breakwater from the end of the causeway.
A wooden pier located about 1 mile NW of the town
has berthing space of 16.8 m (55 ft). In May 1964, the depth
alongside its offshore end were 4.9 to 6.4 m (16 to 21 ft).
Port Services - Cargo handling services is available at
the government port.
Pilotage is compulsory, but strangers requiring pilots
may obtain such service from Tacloban.
Anchorage for ocean-going vessels is in 20.1 m (11
fm), 0.8 mile SE of Inatoulan Island, and with Guiuan
Church bearing 0480.
Directions - Guiuan may be approached from 3
13-19
directions. From Eastward: Within a position 1.5 miles S
of Sungi Point steer 3140, keeping a good lookout for the
reefs on both sides of the channel. Continue on this course
passing about 0.25 mile W of a pile on the reef 1.3 miles
5 W of Raton Island. Then, steer 325o for the right tangent
to Inatoulan Island. When Guiuan Church spire bears 0480
and on range with the highest point of hills on the skyline
back of Guiuan, haul NW. Anchor in 20.1 m (11 fm) on this
range or proceed cautiously to the wharf.
From Westward: In a position 1 mile S of Manicani
Island, pick up a range of Guiuan Church as stated above.
A pile with white slatted square top is 0.9 mile SSW of
big reef on this area. This pile is on range with the church
and bearing 0480. Follow the range and anchor in 20.1 m
(11 fm), 0.7 mile SE of Inatoulan Island or proceed to the
wharf. Care should be exercised to keep slightly S of the
range line when about 1 mile S of Inatoulan Island in order
to avoid the 7.6 m (4.25 fm) patch in that vicinity and to
20 keep well off an extensive reef.
From Northward: In a position 0.5 mile S of Gigoso
Point steer 0780, heading for the black buoy 0.8 mile N
of Binabaslan Island. When the first red buoy bears 1800
25 distant 320 m, steer 1180 until 366 m NE of the next red
buoy, then steer 1300. When the center of Cabalarian Island
bears 2200, steer 1410 and follow this course until Guiuan
Church bears 0480. Then, haul NE and steer the range on
this bearing to the anchorage or wharf. The entrance from
30 the N is seldom used except by small craft and with good
local knowledge.
SALCEDO is a town at the end of the bay, about 9
miles N of Manicani Island. The approach is narrow and
35 intricate because of the numerous coral patches.
From Salcedo, the coast trends WSW for about 5.5
miles to Cabaasan Point. Balinatio Islet, low and wooded,
lies so close S of this point that it appears as part of that
40 point.
QUINAPUNDAN BAY (CHART 4423), NW of
Manicani Island, between Gigoso Point and Balinatio Islet,
contains numerous detached shoals close S of its entrance.
45 A channel leads close around Gigoso Point into a confined
area of deep water in the SW part of the bay. Another deep
channel leads along the E shore to a small basin at the NE
end of the bay. Small vessels with local knowledge can take
anchorage in the latter channel or the basin.
50
Anchorage - Vessels seeking anchorage are advised to
pass about 0.3 mile W of Balinatio and steer 3480 for about
0.8 mile. Good anchorage will be found in 21.9 to 25.6 m
(12 to 14 fm), mud bottom.
55
Perfectly protected anchorage may found farther N by
continuing on the same course, keeping a good lookout for
reefs on both sides. When about 1.8 miles N of Balinatio
Islet, the channel contracts to a width of about 0.2 mile
60 with mangrove islets on either side. Then, it widens out to
a basin about 0.8 mile in extent, having depths of 18.3 to
25.6 m (10 to 14 fm), mud bottom. Caution must be used
entering this anchorage as the reefs are steep-to and the lead
does not give any warning of their proximity.
GIGOSO POINT, 8 miles NW of Manicani Island, is
low but rises to a height of 122 m (400 ft) about 0.8 mile
inland. It is closely fringed by a steep-to reef, and foul
ground extends about 0.3 mile SE from the point. Several
detached 6.4 to 8.2 m (3.5 to 4.5 fm) patches lie up to about
1.2 miles SW of the point, and several 5.5 to 10.7 m (3 to
5.75 fm) patches lie up to about 1.2 miles of its W side.
WALKER SHOAL is a dangerous coral patch with a
depth of 0.6 m (0.3 fm) about 4 miles SSE of Gigoso Point.
It can be distinguished by the light-green color of the water
over the shoal.
From Gigoso Point, the coasts trends W for 16.5
miles to Capines Point, the E entrance to San Pedro Bay.
Between these two points are deep bays, with reefs and
shoals surrounded by deep water in them. The low coast is
closely backed by hills that attain a height of about 305 m
(1,000 ft) about 1.5 miles inland. The towns of Giporlos,
Balangiga, and Lauaan are along this coast.
SUA BAY is 2 miles W of Gigoso Point, between
Cagbanlion Point and Sua Point, is low, wooded and fringed
up to about 0.3 mile by a steep-to reef. An extensive coral
reef nearly awash lies about 1 mile S of the point. A shoal
with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) lies about 1 mile W of the
same point. Gigoso Point bearing 0800 clears the W edge
of the reef.
GIPORLOS, at the head of Sua Bay, is connected
with good roads to the towns of Borongan and Guiuan.
Postal services and mobile phone services are the available
means of communications. The town has a 120 m long pier.
Passengers at the pier usually conveyed back and forth for
Tacloban. Cargoes like livestock and rattan are delivered
to Cebu while fish and copra are brought to Tacloban.
Imported items are foodstuff, bottled goods and cement
coming from Tacloban and Guiuan.
BACJAO, a barrio at the head of small bay just W of
Sua Bay, has a small pier operated by a mining company.
LUCSON POINT, 2.5 miles NW of Cablagna Point,
is prominent, steep-to and 122 m (400 ft) high.
BALANGIGA, a town at the head of a small bight
about 1 mile NE of the point, had regular launch connection
with Tacloban. It has a 50 m long pier.
Homonhon Island from northeastward
MAGLOLOBO BAY indents the coast between
Lucson and Lauaan Points. Numerous shoal patches and
reefs encumber the head of the bay to a distance of about
0.5 mile. The small barrio of Maslog, which has a small
5 pier for boats, is at the head of an inlet at the W coast of
the bay.
Major Light - Balangiga Light (11° 06' 08"N., 125°
22' 11"E.) is displayed from Lucson Point.
10
LAUAAN POINT, 3.5 miles WNW of Lucson Point,
is low.
CALIANAN SHOAL, with rocks awash on its end,
15 extends about 2 miles S from Lauaan Point and is about 0.5
mile wide. Cablagna Point bearing 0880 clears the S side of
this shoal.
LAUAAN BAY indents the coast about 2 miles N
20 between Lauaan and Capines Points, about 5.5 miles WNW
of the former point. Steep-to reefs, some of which have
depths of less than 1.8 m (0.1 fm), lie up to a little over 0.8
mile offshore in the N part of the bay. Aporoo and Lauaan
Islets lie close to the N and NE shores respectively.
25
LAUAAN, on NE part of the bay, has a 140 m long
jetty for use of boats.
CAPINES POINT, on the E side of the entrance to
30 San Pedro Bay, is clear and steep-to and rises to a height of
122 m (400 ft) within 0.3 mile of the sea. Alabat Point is 1
mile WNW of Capines Point.
Shoal spots are as follows from Capines Point: 9.1 m
35 (5 fm) 4.0 miles, 1720; 9.1 m (5 fm) 3.6 miles, 1820; 9.1 m
(5 fm) 3.1 miles, 2300; 11 m (6 fm) 2.4 miles, 2420; and 9.1
m (5 fm) 0.7 mile, 900.
HOMONHON ISLAND, 9 miles SW of Sungi Point,
40 is a crescent-shaped island with the concave side facing
NE. The NW part of the island is 341 m (1,120 ft) high and
the SE part 213 m (700 ft). The narrowest part of the island
is near the middle, where it is 1.3 miles wide and 52 m (170
ft) high. From a far distance S, Homonhon appears as two
45 islands. The island is heavily-wooded with small trees with
a narrow strip of coconut trees along the shore. Homonhon is
fringed by reefs 46 to 92 m except in Casogoran Bay, which
is the large bay on the NE side of the island where reefs are
0.2 to 0.3 mile wide. There are outlying dangers beyond the
50 distance of 0.5 mile except those of the W extremity of the
island, and Homonhon Island can be skirted in safety at a
distance of 1 mile. The island is very sparsely populated.
Most of the inhabitants live in the barrio of Homonhon at
the head of Casogoran Bay. The chief product of the island
55
13-20
is copra and major industry is the mining of chromite.
MONTOCONAN ISLET is small, low, and covered
with coconut trees. It is about 0.5 mile from the W shore of
Homonhon, with which it is connected by a reef partly bare
at low water. Two small hills on the W side of the island are
29 and 33 m (95 to 109 ft) high respectively. On the reef
and about 0.2 mile NE of Montoconan is a small islet with
a few small bushes on it. A detached 0.5 m (0.3 fm) patch
lies about 0.5 mile S of the S end of the islet, and several
3.7 to 8.2 m (2 to 4.5 fm) patches lie up to a little over 1
mile S of the islet.
Homonhon Island offers no good anchorage and is
visited by vessels loading chromite. Vessels desiring to
communicate with the barrio of Homonhon can anchor in
42.1 m (23 fm) coral and sand bottom, about 1 mile E of
the barrio and 550 to 731 m from shore. This is only a fair
weather anchorage; E swells roll in heavily, but it is partly
protected from SE swells. Landing may be made in a break
in the reef in front of the barrio. Better landing can be made
in a break in the reef about 1.3 miles NW of Homonhon. In
this break, there is a rocky patch 0.3 m (0.2 fm) of water on
it and marked by a wooden post which should be left to N
in entering.
ANCHORAGE in the vicinity of Homonhon Island
is E of the S end of Montoconan Islet, in the middle of the
bight, in 11 to 20 m (6 to 11 fm), sand bottom. Vessels will
find shelter here from all winds except from S to SW. The
clearest approach to this anchorage is found by following
the W shore of Homonhon at a distance of 0.3 mile.
SULUAN ISLAND is 10 miles SE of Sungi Point,
Samar. It is the most E island at the entrance to Surigao
Strait, and is a good conspicuous landmark to make for
when approaching the strait from the Pacific. Suluan Island
Light (10° 45’ 25”N., 125° 57’ 51”E.) is displayed on the
summit of island about 0.5 mile N from its SE point.
Near the NW point are two hills, 54 and 62 m (178 and
204 ft) high, respectively. Its E side is formed by a high
coral ridge which attains a greatest elevation of 125 m (410
ft). This ridge has the same features as the long ridges from
Matarinao Bay to Sungi Point. The SW half of the island 45
is a low plain covered with coconut groves. From the NW
point, a reef, partly bare at low water, extends 0.8 mile in a
SW direction, and a similar not so prominent reef extends
from the village of Granadas to the S point of the island
and has a general width of 0.5 mile. The coasts on the N 50
and E sides of the island are free from the dangers and a
vessel may approach within 0.5 mile with safety. There are
eight small islets ranging in height from 2 to 50 m (7 to
163 ft) close to main island, with which they are all, with
the exception of the S two, connected by reefs. The village 55 the archipelago unless a typhoon occurs. The season of the
of Granadas is on the W shore of the head of a small bight year when typhoons usually occur is from the end of July to
between the two reefs described above.
The only sheltered anchorage is off the SW coast in 11 When they haul through NE, they blow stronger and more
to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm), sand bottom, about 0.5 mile S of the 60 rain falls. Typhoons are, however, of very rare occurrence
13-21
62 m (204 ft) hill on the NW point and the same distance
W of the village. This anchorage is protected from winds
from NW through N and E to SE. The best and about the
only landing is on the shoreline N of the above-mentioned
5 anchorage.
CHANNELS - The channel between Sungi Point and
Suluan Island has depths of 18.3 to 45.7 m (10 to 25 fm),
the deeper water found nearer Suluan. The channel between
10 Suluan and Homonhon is about 7 miles wide, and the
bottom consists of a number of parallel ridges running N
and S, which are covered with depths of 11.9 to 18.3 m (18
to 23 fm) between them. In this channel, the deeper water is
also found nearer Suluan. With a smooth sea and a high sun,
15 these ridges are readily distinguished by the lighter color of
the water and by the tide rips which frequently occur over
this area.
SURIGAO STRAIT (CHART 4603), the only
20 passage for larger vessels from the Pacific Ocean to the
interior waters of the archipelago, with the exception of
San Bernardino Strait, is famous for having been traversed
by Magellan when he crossed the Pacific and chanced upon
the Philippines in 1521. The strait is now less frequented
25 than San Bernardino Strait, which is more to windward in
the NE monsoon. It is, however, more direct and safer than
that of San Bernardino Strait, but it obliges sailing vessels
that take it, if they are bound for Manila, to work up the W
coast of Negros and Panay and the E coast of Mindoro. It is
30 advantageous to vessels going to the S Philippines or to the
Sulu Sea and is sometimes used by vessels from Australia
that wish to escape the full force of the NE monsoon. The
N entrance is between Suluan and Dinagat Islands with the
S entrance between the S end of Panaon Island and the N
35 extremity of Mindanao Island, Bilaa Point. Surigao Strait
is deep and safe and the shores of the islands that border it
are steep-to.
Winds - At the mouth of the strait, the NE monsoon
40 begins toward the end of September and blows throughout
October and November. In December, NE winds alternate
with N gales. In January, winds blow from NE to ENE,
accompanied by heavy rain. In February and March, E
winds prevail. In April, May and June, the prevailing
wind is SE, with occasional gales called collas from the
S. In July, August, and September, collas from the SW are
frequent. The NE winds, though strong, cease during the
night but winds from SE, S, and SW continue to blow. It
generally rains with NNE and ENE winds. The rains cease
and the weather clears with E winds and more so with SE
winds. With SW winds it remains clear, unless a gale arises,
which sometimes brings rain.
In general, there is no very bad weather in this part of
the beginning of January. They begin to blow from the NW
and finish from the SE having passed through NE or SW.
S of this locality, and the best, authorities say, that they Balwharteco Port, serves cargo, passenger, and RoRo
almost never pass S of latitude 090 N. vessels. It is situated about 0.2 mile NE of Allen Church. It
has 6 RoRo berths. Fresh water can be obtained at the port
WEST COAST OF SAMAR from local suppliers.
(CHART 1515, 1518, 1539, 4220, 4420 & 5
4468) Dapdap Pier is located about 0.7 mile S from the
church. It has two RoRo berths and a 105 m long berthing
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off space.
the coast of Samar from the vicinity of Balicuatro Pointto
Calbayog may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating 10 The two ports have mooring buoys that can be used by
Center, which have a MF DSC alerting. Vessels off the vessels calling at Allen.
coast from Calbayog City to Capines Point may contact the
remotely controlled coast stations with VHF DSC alerting Another ferry terminal, with two RoRo ramps, is
in Catbalogan (11° 46' 27"N., 124° 52' 48"E.) and Tacloban located about 0.7 mile SSW of Dapdap Pier.
(11° 03' 54"N., 125° 01' 24"E.) Refer to the DSC Limits of 15
Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for details. Anchorage during the NE monsoon is in the open
bay of Kinaguitman, about 1 mile SE of Lipata Point. The
BALICUATRO POINT, the NW point of Samar, is depth of water in the N part is 23.8 to 49.4 m (13 to 27 fm),
clear and steep-to. From Balicuatro Point, the coast trends and in this part of the anchorage, there is a good stream
S and W for 2.5 miles to Jibatan Point. This coast is fairly 20 from which fresh water may be obtained. Vessels may
clear and bold, the chart showing no dangers more than 0.5 also anchor off the town of Allen, about 1 mile to the S of
mile from shore. Kinaguitman Bay, 0.5 mile out from shore, in 18.3 m (10
fm), sand bottom, with patches of coral. This is not a good
Caution - Submarine power cables were laid on the heavy weather anchorage.
seabed of San Bernardino Strait with a landfall between 25
Balicuatro Point and Malalimon Point. Anchoring and BUROBODIONGAN POINT, 3.5 miles S of Lipata
fishing are prohibited in the vicinity of the submarine cable. Point is covered with high trees. The tidal currents, with
velocity of 7.5 knots at springs and 4 knots at neaps, strike
LIPATA POINT, 1.5 miles S of Malalimon Point, is the point with great force producing violent eddies.
high and rocky and bordered by a reef of sand and rock. 30
MAWO (MAUO) RIVER (CHART 4220), which
Anchorage during the NE monsoon is in the open bay empties about 2 miles SE of Burobodiongan Point, can be
of about 1 mile SE of Lipata Point. The depths of water in entered by small vessels. The shore between Burobodiongan
the N part is 23.8 to 49.4 m (13 to 27 fm), and in this part Point and the mouth of the river is bordered with rocks
of the anchorage, there is a good stream from which fresh 35 extending in places 0.3 mile from shore. The entrance to
water may be obtained. Vessels may also anchor off the the river is rocky, and the channel is close to the wooded
town of Allen, about 1 mile to the S of the bay, 0.5 mile out bluff N. It is about 18.3 m wide between the inner end of
from shore, in 18.3 m (10 fm), sand bottom, with patches of the bluff and the long reef to the S. There is a least depth
coral. This is not a good heavy weather anchorage. of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) in the fairway of the channel. Inside the
40 entrance, a spit which has 1.8 m (1 fm) on its outer edge
ALLEN, a small town about 1.7 miles SE of Lipata makes out from the town on the N bank. A sharp turn to the
Point, is a regular port of call for coasting vessels from right as soon as the bow is inside, the reef is necessary to
Cebu. The town have a post office, mobile phone services, clear it. Above the reef, there are 5.5 to 9.1 m (3 to 5 fm),
and Internet connections. A government hospital for minor but only 4.6 m (2.5 fm) can be counted on 46 m upstream.
medical cases is located at the town proper. Masters of 45 Fishing stakes generally mark the offshore edge of this
vessels prefer to anchor off Allen rather than go to Victoria shoal.
(Mawo) as the entrance to the river there is very constricted.
This is a snug anchorage for vessels drawing 2.7 m
Major Light - Allen Light (12° 30’ 05”N., 124° 16’ (1.5 fm) and 42.7 m long, but in protracted storms with
54”E.) is displayed from a white tower at 130 m W of the 50 much rain, stumps and big trees may be seen drifting from
church. upriver. 3.7 m (2 fm) may be carried to the falls 1 mile up,
where boats may water expeditiously. A bridge and power
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Allen cables cross the river.
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63918-3507251
and +63998-5858315. The station may also be contacted 55 VICTORIA (MAWO) is a town on the N shore of
through e-mail at cgssallen@gmail.com. Mawo (Mauo) River. Several vessels call from Cebu and
one from Manila. Copra, hemp, and lumber are exported. It
Berthing Facilities - The town has two ports that are is connected by road with Allen and Catbalogan. The small
located at the N mouth of Sabang River and Brgy. Dapdap. concrete pier has depth of 2.1 m (1.12 fm) at the end.
60

13-22
 Large vessels may anchor outside. The best place is
with the river well open, soundings less than 36.6 m (20 fm)
should be approached carefully. The ground is foul both N
and S of the bank about the mouth of the river, which is
very limited in extent.
From Mawo (Mauo) River, the coast trends SSE for 4
miles to Looc Point, the W entrance point to Looc Bay. This
part of the coast forms the base of a high range of mountains
covered with dark-green trees. The shore consists of sand
and rock, covered with mangroves down to the water’s
edge. About 0.3 mile from the shore the depth is 12.8 m (7
fm), sand and rock bottom.
SAN ISIDRO, is a town about 0.5 mile NNW of Looc
Point. Common cargoes being traded are copra and logs.
Mobile phone and postal services are available. A medical
center and private clinics provide the medical needs of the
town. Fuel supply is available from a fuel station outlet at
barrio Alegria. Water consumption of the town comes from
wells and springs of the mountains, where it is allowed to
flow down through pipes.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 75 m long
concrete pier. Fast crafts from Matnog town in Luzon
Island call daily at this pier.
LOOC BAY is about 0.5 mile wide and 0.8 mile long
with 8.2 m (4.4 fm) in the center. There are rocks off Looc
Point and the upper part of the bay is filled with reefs. A 30
causeway intercepted by two bridges extends across Looc located about 1.8 miles SE of Binalio Point. Warehouses
Bay from a position about 0.5 mile NNE of the S extremity and large cylindrical tanks are at the pier root.
of Looc Point in a SE direction to the opposite shore.
ALEGRIA is the barrio at the SE end of the causeway 35 farther on, is connected with the shore by a reef. Overhead
bridge. A wharf, with a berth length of about 300 m, is cables, used as a zip line by a beach resort, crosses the
located at the S shore of the entrance to Looc Bay.
CANAWAYON ISLET, 36.6 m (120 ft) high, lies
close offshore about 0.8 mile S of Looc Point. There is
a shoal, with a least depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm) lying in the
middle of the entrance to the bay and about 0.3 mile N of
the islet. Vessels of any size can find sheltered anchorage
between the islet and the coast of Samar in good depth of
water and good holding ground but the space is limited.
From Looc Bay, the coast trends S for 3 miles to
Sojoton Point, just to the N of which is a small, steep-sided
cove with a depth of 7.3 m (4 fm) near the shore at the
mouth of the Palanit River.
SOJOTON POINT is high and jagged. SOJOTON
ISLET, 32 m (105 ft) high, lies about 46 m NW of the point.
From Sojoton Point, the coast trends SSE for 1.5 miles
to Maglagabon Point. The coast between these points is
rocky. The latter point is about 30 to 61 m (100 to 200 ft)
high, steep-to and clear of dangers. It is closely backed by
hills that rise abruptly from the coast so that the point may
not be very conspicuous. The village of Viriato is situated at
13-23
the head of a small bight on the S side of the point.
From Maglagabon Point, the coast trends about 6.3
miles SSE to Malayoc Point, and thence about 2.5 miles
5 SE to Tungoo Point. It is steep-to and clear of dangers as
far S as the latter Point. Malaga Light (12° 14’ 06”N., 124°
22’ 30”E.) is displayed from a white tower along this coast.
TUNGOO POINT, about 2.5 miles SE of Malayoc
10 Point, may be identified by a small hill 51 m (168 ft) high
near its S side. It is steep-to, but several rocks close off a
short coastal reef, lie almost 0.4 mile offshore about 0.5
mile SE of the point.
15 From Tungoo Point (Chart 4420), the coast trends
SE for 8.0 miles to Jibatan Point. This part of the coast
is generally high and clear. From Jibatan Point, the coast
trends SE for 1.5 miles to the mouth of Jibatan River, then
E for about 3.5 miles to the mouth of Calbayog River.
20
BINALIO POINT, 2.7 miles SE of Tungoo Point, has
a small reef extending about 0.3 mile W. Binalio Islet, 35 m
(115 ft) high, lies about 0.5 mile SW from the point.
25 Berthing Facilities - A 50 m long private pier is located
at the head of the cove E of the point. It could accommodate
larger vessels as compared to the government wharf at
Calbayog.
A 30 m long pier, a 46 m long pier, and dolphins are
DARRAGA ISLET, 36 m (118 ft) high, 2.5 miles
channel from Botu Point to the islet.
DAMITA ROCK, with an elevation 8.2 m (27 ft), is
40 on the edge of a shoal 1.5 miles SE of Daraga Islet and
about 0.5 mile offshore. The rock is steep-to, but there are
depths of less than 5.5 m (3 fm) between it and the coast.
JIBATAN POINT, on which there is a hill 81 m (267
45 ft) high, lies about 1.5 miles SE of Damita Rock. The coast
in the vicinity is low and clear of dangers. A bank begins at
Jibatan Point and widens out about 1 mile off the mouth of
the Jibatan River, and then narrows down to about 0.3 mile
off the mouth of Calbayog River.
50
JIBATAN RIVER (CHART 4456), with 0.6 m (0.3
fm) on the bar at low water and 1.8 to 3.7 m (1 to 2 fm)
inside empties about 1.6 miles SE of Jibatan Point. The
shoal water extends 1.2 miles S of the mouth of this river.
55 Trinidad is on the E bank of the river, about 1.5 miles N
from the entrance.
Calbayog Airport is about 0.5 mile E of Jibatan River
and 3 miles W of Calbayog City. It has regular commercial
60 flights to Manila and Cebu.
 From the mouth of the Jibatan River, the coast trends
E for about 3.5 miles to the mouth of the Calbayog River.
A low coastal plain lies between the Jibatan River and the
hills that approach the coast about 7 miles E. There are no
off-lying dangers along this stretch of the coast.
CALBAYOG CITY (CHART 4420), one of the
principal copra and hemp-shipping port of the island is
located E side of Calbayog River. The red dome of the
church is very prominent. There is a post office, landline
communications, and mobile phone services. Good
highway connects the city with Catbalogan and other
important towns. Buses have daily trips to Manila. There
are hotels, hospitals, and private clinics in the city. Piped
water system is available.
The mouth of Calbayog River is confined by two rock
jetties which extend 0.3 mile S from the shore. In 1960,
there was a controlling depth of 1.2 m (0.7 fm) in the
channel.
Major Light - Calbayog Light (12° 04’ 03”N., 124°
35’ 24”E.) is located on the W side of the river mouth.
Restrictions - Vessels calling at the government pier
can only berth during high tide.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coast of Calbayog. Anchoring and fishing
are prohibited in vicinity of the cables.
Port Management - PPA TMO-Calbayog operates the
government pier of the town. The TMO may be contacted
at telephone no. (+6355) 209-1966. The government wharf
can only accommodate vessels of not more than 850 GRT.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Calbayog City may be contacted at mobile phone nos.
+63998-5858314 and +63939-5942178 or through e-mail
at cgdcalbayog@yahoo.com.
The station of the Philippine National Police - Maritime
Group in Calbayog may be contacted at mobile phone no.
+6399-78478511.
Berthing Facilities - The government pier fronting the
town has a length of 200 m and is connected to the shore by
a causeway. Open storage for cargoes is available.
Port Services - Cargo handling is done by a local
company. Vessels requiring stevedores should inform the
TMO 24 hrs before ETA. Fresh water and petroleum may
be delivered at the port.
Pilotage is compulsory for all foreign vessels, and
domestic vessels of 500 GRT or over. Pilotage is rendered
by the Catbalogan Harbor Pilots Association. Vessels
should notify the association 24 hrs before ETA.
Anchorage - Shoal water extends off some distance in
front of the town, the 9.1 m (5 fm) curve being more than 1
mile S of the light. Large vessels are advised to anchor with
light bearing 0000 and not to go closer in, as the depths are
irregular and in places, the water shoals rapidly.
5
Sailing vessels wishing to keep away from a lee shore
during the SW monsoon seek a sheltered anchorage in 21.9
to 25.6 m (12 to 14 fm) in a bay on the N side of Libucan
Daco Island and transfer their cargoes by small sailing
10 lighters. Launches sometimes seek shelter here also in the
small harbor of Santo Nino, 12 miles SW of Calbayog.
From Calbayog, the coast trends SE for 24 miles to
Catbalogan, and is broken into bays with little depths in
15 them and exposed to SW winds. Hills and mountains about
122 to 274 m (400 to 900 ft) high reach almost to the shore
about 3 miles E of Calbayog.
SANTA MARGARITA is a town situated on the
20 coast at the S foot these hills. From Santa Margarita to
Tarangnan Point, the coast consists of, for the most part, the
low Gandara River delta. Numerous small rivers passages
intersect the mangrove swamps of the delta.
25 GANDARA RIVER, the largest and most important
river on the W coast of Samar, empties about 9 miles SE of
Calbayog. It is open to navigation at high water for launches
under 27.4 m length and 1.8 m (1 fm) draft as far as the fork
just above the town of Gandara. Launches of 0.6 m (0.3 fm)
30 draft can proceed to Peña Plata and to San Miguel on the
N and S branches respectively. The N entrance to Gandara
River, which is also the approach channel for the Sondara
River, carries the deepest water, 0.9 m (3 ft) at low water,
into it. Inside the bar, the depth is from 3.7 to 9.1 m (2 to
35 5 fm).
Major Light - Gandara Light (11° 58’ 57”N., 124°
41’ 27”E.) marks the N point of Caprangasan Island at the
mouth of Gandara River.
40
PAGSANGHAN is at the junction of the main channel
of Gandara River and the S entrance. The landing at this
village has a depth of 3 m (1.64 fm) alongside.
45 The currents in the river are ordinarily weak. Local
fishermen can usually be obtained as pilots.
The lower end of the Sondara River is an excellent
harbor for small craft. Otherwise, it is of little importance,
50 its branches being narrow and winding and navigable by
small boats only.
NAPALISAN ISLAND, 49.1 m (161 ft) high, is on
the W edge of the shoal water extending NW of Palanas
55 Point and forms a good landmark for the entrance to the
rivers.
TARANGNAN POINT, 91 m (298 ft) high, is a
prominent headland that lies about 6.5 miles SSE of
60 Napalisan Island. The town of Tarangnan is situated on the
13-24
N side of the headland.
TAGDARANAO ISLANDS, 58 and 82 m (190 and
268 ft) high, are two islets that lie about 1 mile W of the
Tarangnan Point. They are steep-to on their W side, but
irregular depths of less than 5.5 m (3 fm) and a few shoal
patches lie between them and the coast. Several detached
rocky patches lie about 0.3 mile S of the southernmost islet.
The barrio of Tigdaranao is on the northernmost islet.
CAMBATUTAY BAY indents the coast about 3 miles
SE between Tarangnan Point and Mangcares Point, a low
point about 3 miles SE. Except for a number of rocks and
islets, depths in the bay shoals fairly regularly from the
entrance. Several steep-to rocks lie about 0.5 mile W of the
latter point. Anchorage for small vessels may be found at
the head of the bay. In fair weather, anchorage may be had
anywhere along this coast. The channel between the coast
and the Libucan and Canahauan Islands is nearly 2 miles
wide in the narrowest part and is moderately deep and free
from danger. It is regularly used by the local traders.
LIBUCAN ISLANDS are a group of three islands and
several smaller islets about 4 miles off the coast of Samar
W of Tarangnan Point. Each of them is very steep-to and
has depths of more than 18.3 m (10 fm) less than 0.3 mile
off.
LIBUCAN DACO, 161 m (528 ft) high, is the largest
of the group. There is a good anchorage in a bay on the N
side of the island in 21.9 to 25.6 m (12 to 14 fm), soft mud,
and vessels on the coast make for this anchorage when the
SW gales, called collas, begin to blow.
TANGAD LIBUCAN AND LIBUCAN GUTIAY
are two small islands about 0.7 to 0.2 mile, respectively,
NW of Libucan Daco. A settlement is located at the E end
of the Libucan Gutiay.
KAWAYAN, MOROPORO, AND NAGSANGA 40
are three small, rocky islets about 0.5 mile from the SW
side of Libucan Daco.
LAYA ISLETS, two rocky islets connected by a reef during typhoons, and vessels anchored off Calbayog or
which is dry at low water, are 1 mile SE of Libucan Daco. 45 Catbalogan frequently take shelter here.
LUNOD ROCK, awash at low water, is 0.9 mile
WSW of the SE point of Libucan Daco Island.
URAY VANOA ROCKS, awash at low water, are 0.8
mile SW of Libucan Gutiay Island.
DAPDAP ROCKS, awash at two points, with only a
few feet between them, are 1 mile S of the Layalaya Islets
in the middle of the deep channel between the Libucan
Islands and the Canahauan Islands.
CANAHAUAN ISLANDS is a group of two large
islands and several smaller ones about 4 miles W from the
coast of Samar and about the same distance SSE of Libucan
13-25
Daco Island. They are very steep-to, with depths of more
than 18.3 m (10 fm) close around, and the wider channels
between them clear of dangers, except as indicated below.
5 CANAHAUAN DACO ISLAND, 175 m (575 ft), and
Timpasan Island, 125 m (410 ft) high, are the NE and SW
of the two large adjacent islands in the central part of the
group.
10 BOROBALOTO ROCK, 0.6 m (2 ft) high and W
extremity of Timpasan Island.
TANGAD ISLAND, 46 m (150 ft) high, is an islet
about 0.5 mile WNW of the NW end of Canahauan Daco
15 Island, and a 6.4 m (3.5 fm) patch lies about halfway
between them.
CAMBIDSOS ROCKS, 11 to 28 m (36 to 93 ft) high
and the northernmost of the group, and Canmamot Island,
20 an islet about 38 m (126 ft) high, lie about 1 mile N and 0.8
mile NE, respectively of Canahauan Daco Island. Several
rocks, awash at low water, lie about 0.3 mile W and NE of
the latter islet.
25 CANAHAUAN GUTIAY ISLAND, 86 m (282 ft)
high, and Boloang Island, 93 m (305 ft) high and the E most
of the group, lie about 1 mile and 2 miles ESE of the E
end of Canahauan Daco Island. A rocky patch, with a least
known depth of 7.6 m (4.25 fm), lies almost 0.7 mile W of
30 the S end of Boloang Island.
BATGONGON ISLAND, 79 m (260 ft) high, lies close
SE of Timpasan Island, and a line of about five high islets
and rocks, viz., Balading, Little Balading, Ari, Cambaloi
35 and Sampotan Islets extends about 2 miles farther ESE.
BOLO ROCK, with a submerged rock close S, lies
nearly 0.5 mile N of Cambaloi Island, the N of the two SE
most islets.
PORT AGUIRRE, a sheltered anchorage, occupies
a bight formed by the SE side of Canahauan Daco Island
and the NE side of Timpasan Island. It affords good refuge
Anchorage - The inner anchorage area between
Canahauan Daco and Timpasan islands is very small and
the channel is narrow and winding. The best entrance is
50 from E, passing N of Poro Island and W of the two small
islands S of Canahauan Daco, anchoring in 16.5 to 20.1 (9
to 11 fm) in the center of the basin. This basin may also
be approached from N by small vessels drawing not more
than 3 m (1.6 fm). Protected anchorage may also be found
55 between Batgongon and Timpasan Islands, and, for large
vessels, in the area N and E of Poro Island, in 27.4 to 29.3
(15 to 16 fm).
CHANNELS - The channel between Batgongon and
60 Balading Islands is easily picked up at night and is deep and
clear except for a rock about 55 m W of the S end of the
latter island. The passages between these islands are safe
and deep.
Vessels from N should pass E and S of Canmamot
Island to avoid the rocks awash at low water about 0.3 mile
W and NW of that island. A shoal with a known depth of
7.8 m (4.25 fm) is 0.8 mile W of the S end of Boloang
Island. The channel between this shoal and Bolo Rock N of
Cambaloi Island is 0.5 mile wide, deep and clear.
Between Mangcares Point and Madalonot Point, about
11 miles SE, the coast is rugged and hills rise abruptly
from the sea heights of about 91 to 244 m (300 to 800 ft).
Mountains, over 457 m (1,500 ft) high, back the coastal
hills in the vicinity of Catbalogan. Numerous bays and
bights, most of which are small and shallow, indent this
part of the coast. Although much of this coast is high and
cliffy in places, the heads of the bays and bights are low.
Except for the below-described islands and their adjacent
rocks and reefs, the comparatively few dangers fringing
this fairly steep-to section of the coast lie within about 0.8
mile offshore.
CANDUYONG ISLANDS are two small, wooded
islands about 1.3 miles W of the S end of Buri Island.
The W island is 27 m (90 ft) high and the E, 37 m (122 ft)
high. They can be rounded at a distance of 0.3 mile and the
navigable channel between them and the reefs of the S part
of Buri Island is about 0.5 mile wide and 14.6 to 20.1 m (8
to 11 fm) deep.
BURI ISLAND is small, irregularly shaped, and
about 1 mile in extent on the N side of the N channel into
Catbalogan. It is connected to Samar by a causeway. Buri
is covered with grass and palms and broken up into several
small hills, the highest of which is 74 m (243 ft) high and is
on the E side. Catbalogan Airport is located on the island.
A settlement is located at the S end of the island.
MARISAN AND CANDONGOS REEFS, two
detached reefs, bare at low water, are in the channel between
the S part of Buri Island and the Cagduyong Islands.
SILANGA BAY occupies a bight that recedes about
1.2 miles NNE between the steep-to SE side of Buri Island
and Anas Point, about 1.2 miles SE. The bay is clear of
dangers and affords excellent anchorage in 5.5 to 9.1 m (3
to 5 fm), mud bottom, sheltered from all except S winds.
By keeping about 0.1 mile from the E side of Buri, small
craft can proceed farther N and find good shelter from all
winds in 4.6 m (2.5 fm), mud bottom. This inner anchorage
is much used by boats and small vessels from Catbalogan.
JESUS POINT, on the N side of Catbalogan Harbor,
lies about 1 mile SE of Anas Point at the S end of a rather
steep-to headland that rises abruptly from the sea to several
hills, 58 to 82 m (191 to 270 ft) high. A number of islets and
reefs, described below, lie up to about 1.5 miles offshore
in the approaches to Catbalogan between Jesus Point and
Cujao Point about 2 miles SSE.
LUTAO REEFS, W of Catbalogan Harbor are three
dangerous rocky ledges, the W one of which is covered
5 only at extremely high tides. The others are bare at low
water and half tide. The N extremity of the W reef is about
2.5 miles W of Catbalogan Light. The E edge of these reefs
is marked by a black can buoy.
10 QUINUTAY REEF is small, partly awash at low
water, and with its W edge about 0.8 mile W of Aguada
Point. There is a 2.7 m (1.5 fm) channel between this reef
and the shore reef extending from Aguada Point.
15 WARAY BANWA REEF, partly awash at low water,
is 0.5 mile NW of the little Darajuay Island.
DARAJUAY ISLANDS are two small, high islands
about 1.5 miles SW of Catbalogan. Between them and
20 Samar, there is a good navigable channel about 0.5 mile
which affords fairly sheltered anchorage.
LITTLE DARAJUAY, the N island, is 51 m (168 ft)
high and wooded.
25
DARAJUAY, the S and larger island, is 95 m (312 ft)
high. It is grass-covered with a few scattered palms; the NE
side is partly wooded. There is a small sand spit on the N
side. Elsewhere, the shoreline is a rocky ledge.
30
Between Quinutay Reef and Cujao Point, several shoal
patches contained just inside the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve, lie up
to a little over 0.3 mile offshore.
35 A detached 2.7 m (1.5 fm) patch lies a little over 0.5
mile offshore about 0.5 mile S of Quinutay Reef.
CATBALOGAN (CHART 4420), the capital of the
Province of Western Samar, is at the head of a small bay
40 at the mouth of the Catbalogan River. It is the principal
distributing center for the island. Gasoline, Diesel oil,
lubricating oils, kerosene, ice, and food supplies can be
obtained easily. Copra and Hemp were reported as the
principal products being exported. There is a post office in
45 the town. Inter-island vessels from Manila and Cebu call
regularly. There is a daily bus transportation to Manila.
Hotel accommodation is available. The Samar Provincial
Hospital treats ordinary and minor cases.
50 Major Light - Catbalogan Light (11° 46’ 50”N., 124°
52’ 40”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the low hill
at the W side of the mouth of Catbalogan River. The light is
obscured over Darajuay Island and the Canduyong Islands.
55 Dangers - As reported then, a wreck, bare at 3 m (10
ft), and a wreck awash are 0.2 mile NNE of the offshore
end of the pier.
Typhoon Warning Signals are said to be displayed
60 from a mast on the pier.
13-26
 Port Management - PPA TMO-Catbalogan operates
the government port. The TMO may be contacted at
telephone no. (+6355) 356-1006. The port can accommodate
vessels of no more than 7 m draft.
Customs - Customs clearance may be had from the
customs officers stationed in Catbalogan.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Catbalogan City may be contacted at mobile phone no.
+63929-6742268.
Berthing Facilities - The government port has two
reinforced concrete pier, 156 and 141 m long, with 5 m
alongside depth. It also has two RoRo Ramps. The 1,226
sq m transit shed and the 5,712 sq m open area serve as the
port’s storage facilities.
Port Services - Cargo handling and delivery of fresh
water and petroleum are available at the piers.
Pilotage is compulsory for all foreign vessels and
domestic vessels of 500 GRT or over. Pilotage is rendered
by the Catbalogan Harbor Pilot Association. Vessels should
notify the pilot association 24 hrs before ETA.
Directions - Vessels usually anchor anywhere W of
the town according to draft. A depth of 8.2 m (4.5 fm) is
found about 0.5 mile from shore. Vessels may approach the
anchorage off Catbalogan by the channels N or S of the
Lutao Reefs of by the channel between Darajuay Islands
and the mainland.
To approach by the channel S of Lutao Reefs,
Catbalogan Light should be brought to bear 0630, and when
the end of the pier bears 090o, haul for anchorage in 8.2 m
(4.2 fm) anywhere S of Jesus Point, or go alongside the
pier.
To approach by the Darajuay Channel, vessels should
pass about 0.3 mile E from the Darajuay Islands and steer
322o until the light bears 052o, when it may be steered for
and anchorage taken in any desired depth.
MADALONOT POINT is a promontory that lies
about 1.5 miles ESE of Cujao Point. A bight, in which there
is a high islet, indents the coast about 0.7 mile NE between
the two points.
Between Madalonot Point and Guintarcan Island,
a small high island that lies about 7.7 miles S and close
to shore, the coast forms a shoal bight that recedes about
7 miles E. Maqueda and Villareal Bays lie in the N and
S parts, respectively, of the above bight. Depths shoal
regularly to the coast from the 5.5 m (3 fm) curve which
lies across the entrance of the bight. Extensive muddy shore
banks, that dry at low water, lie at the heads of these bays.
The low mangrove shore is backed several miles inland by
low hills and a few mountains.
13-27
Pilotage in Maqueda Bay is compulsory for foreign
vessels, and domestic vessels of 500 GRT or over. Pilots are
available from Catbalogan.
5 PARANAS (WRIGHT), a town accessible only by
small coasters, is at the head of Maqueda Bay and the towns
of Jiabong and Motiong are at the N shore of the same bay.
Other barrios are on the shore of both bays.
10 VILLAREAL, the town on the S side of Villareal
Bay, has a 380 m long pier for use by fishing and passenger
boats.
CALBIGA RIVER empties through the point
15 separating Maqueda and Villareal Bays. There is a low
water depth of about 0.6 m (0.3 fm) across the bar at the
entrance. The town of Calbiga is about 6.5 miles upstream.
UACUAC ISLAND is located at the mouth of Calbiga
20 River. Uacuac Light (11° 39’ 57”N., 124° 58’ 18”E.) is
displayed from a white tower on the island.
MAJABA ISLAND, 92 m (301 ft) high, off the
entrance to Maqueda Bay, is small and steep-to. The
25 channel between it and Darajuay Island is 1.3 miles wide
and clear of dangers.
BASIAO ISLANDS are three small islands about
0.8 mile SE from Majaba Island. The N island, 58 m (190
30 ft) high, is wooded, the middle one, 40 m (131 ft) high, is
wooded along its E edge, and the S and smallest one is low
and covered with bushes and vines. Except at extreme high
water, the N and middle islands are connected by a narrow
shell beach and between the middle and S islands, there
35 is a rocky ledge which is bare at about half tide. On the E
side of the N and middle islands are conspicuous, white,
coral cliffs from 9 to 24 (30 to 80 ft) high, along the base of
which are jagged rocks.
40 A long, narrow, rocky ledge extends nearly 0.2 mile
W from the S island, and from the middle island a shoal
with a depth of 5 m (2.75 fm) extends about 0.5 mile NW,
narrowing the channel between Majaba and the Basiao
Islands to a width of about 0.3 mile. This channel is
45 frequently used by coasting vessels. A small shoal with a
depth of 3.7 m (2 fm) is about 0.3 mile SSW of Bonbon
Point, the SE end of Majaba island.
CAMBALOT REEF, covered only at extremely high
50 water, is a sharp, rocky ledge 0.6 mile SW of the W part of
Majaba Island. The channel between Cambalot Reef and
Majaba has a depth of 27.4 m (15 fm), and that between
Cambalot Reef and Buad island a depth of 9.1 m (5 fm).
55 BUAD ISLAND, about 4.5 miles long and nearly as
wide, lies in the approach to Maqueda and Villareal Bays
about 3.6 miles SW of Madalonot Point. The island is
mountainous and attains a height of 358 m (1,174 ft) in its
S part. It is indented by numerous small bights and there are
60 many islets close to shore. The N and W sides of the island
are steep-to.
JINATABLAN REEF lies about 0.2 mile off the SW
end of the island.
ZUMARRAGA, a town situated on the SW end
of Buad Island, is sheltered by high hills and has roomy
anchorage for all classes of vessels. This anchorage can
be approached only from the N by heavy-draft ships. In
1990, a 134 meter long by 6 meter wide rock causeway
extending NW from the shore with a passenger shed at its
offshore end serves as the landing site for the large and
medium size boat. Depth of water at the extreme offshore
face of the causeway is 6 m. The causeway and the seawall
together form the shape of letter L. Usual cargo at this port
is fish. Passenger travel back from Daram, Catbalogan
and Tacloban by large and medium size boat or by motor
launches. During typhoon, waves may reach 1.5 m high at
the port site. The town has a post office.
BUAD CHANNEL, which lies between the E side of
Buad Island and the coastal 5.5 m (3 fm) curve, is usually
taken by coastal vessels between Catbalogan and Daram
Channel. It has a least depth of about 6.1 m (3.75 fm) and
the narrowest part is a little over 0.5 mile wide between the
0.9 m (0.5 fm) patch off the N end of Guintarcan Island and
the SE end of Buad Island.
PARASAN ISLAND, about 7 miles WSW of
Catbalogan, is about 2 miles in extent and 136 m (446 ft)
in height. Off the N part, there is a remarkable peninsula
connected with the remainder of the island by a very
narrow isthmus. Parasan Island is clear and steep-to on all
sides with the exception of a 0.9 m (0.5 fm) patch that lies
about 0.3 mile off the middle of the W side of the island. It
is separated from Daram Island by a very narrow channel
which has a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm) at the narrowest point.
PARASAN HARBOR (CHART 4456), on the S side
of Parasan Island, is a well-sheltered harbor with depths of
18.3 to 27.4 m (10 to 15 fm), mud bottom. This anchorage
can be easily approached from the E while the W entrance
is only about 68 m wide and 4.6 m (2.5 fm) deep.
TARATARA ISLAND is a small island surrounded by
a deep water about 0.5 mile from the NE point of Parasan
Island.
DARAM ISLAND, S of Parasan Island, is very
irregular in outline. The shoreline is cut up by numerous 50
bays, in some of which can be found good, sheltered
anchorage, according to the season of the year. It is
mountainous and rugged, the portion N of the isthmus
attaining a height of 278 m (912 ft) and that S 383 m
(1,258 ft). Daram Island Light (11° 44’ 12”N., 124° 42’ 55
50”E.) is displayed on Danaodanuan Island, an islet NW
of Daram Island. As it is separated from the mainland SE
by the narrow Daram Channel, the island appears as a high
peninsula. The island is mostly very steep-to except for the
shores at the NE approach to Daram channel. Close to the 60
shore are a number of small, high unimportant islets and a
comparatively few above- and below-water rocks that lie
up to about 0.5 mile offshore. The town of Daram is on the
middle of the E side of the island. There are also a number
5 of small villages at which launches call regularly from
Tacloban and Catbalogan.
DARAM, the town on the middle of the E side of
Daram Island, has two small piers. The seawall fronting the
10 town is also used by boats for berthing. Over-all condition
of the entire port facility is good. Circulated goods are
vegetables, rice, sugar, fuel, salt and the like, shipped
to and from Tacloban and Catbalogan. Fish is exported
to Tacloban and Catbalogan. Passengers travel back in
15 forth to Zumarraga, Catbalogan and Tacloban using large
and medium size boats and also motor launches. During
typhoon wave height may reach nearly 2 m at the port.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Daram
20 may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998-5893976
and +63917-8427708.
ZUMARRAGA CHANNEL, between Daram and
Buad Islands, trends about 7 miles SE and joins the S end
25 of Buad Channel and the NE approach to Daram Channel.
Except for Jinatablan Reef, it is clear of dangers, and the
shores on either side is steep-to. There are two 12.8 m
(7 fm) rocky patches in the middle of the N part of the
channel, otherwise, depths shoal regularly from 29.3 m (16
30 fm) in the N entrance to 7.3 m (4 fm) in the S end. Sheltered
anchorage can be taken in the channel in about 9.1 to 14.6
m (5 to 8 fm) mud bottom. Although protected from the
monsoons, strong winds sometimes cause rough water.
35 AOCON ISLETS are two small wooded islets,
connected by a sand spit, at the head of Daram Channel,
about 0.8 mile E from the S part of Daram Island. The N
islet is 68.6 m (225 ft) high. The usual channel for coasting
vessels is E of Aocon Islets.
40
DARAM CHANNEL, between the S end of Daram
Island and Samar, has a least width of 0.2 mile and has
depths of about 9.1 to 27.4 m (5 to 15 fm) in the SW part.
There are depths of 5.5 m (3 fm) over the shore bank that
45 extends across the NE entrance from Guintarcan Island. Off
Talabora, the deeper water is on the NW side of the channel
rather than midstream. The passage is easy to traverse and
no directions are necessary.
Caution - Overhead power cables cross the channel
from Lunug Point to Daram Island. The power cables are
unmarked and may not be visible from afar.
Tidal Currents in the channel are reported to attain a
velocity of 1 to 1.5 knots at strength, setting N on the flood
and S on the ebb. The ebb sets with greater strength than
the flood.
CAMANHAYAY POINT, the NW end of a headland
147 m (483 ft) high, lies immediately S of Guintarcan
13-28
Island. A 4.6 to 5.5 (2.5 to 3 fm) shore bank extends WNW
from the point and the island to Daram Island.
LAGUINIT BAY, a shoal bay in which there are
several islets, indents the coast about 2 miles SE between
Camanhayay Point and Laguinit Island that lies close to the
coast about 1.8 miles SW.
Between Laguinit Bay and Dalugdug Point, about
3 miles SW, the coast becomes very high and forms the
rugged headland that terminates at Janabatas Channel.
TALALORA, a town on the Samar shore of Daram
Channel, is a regular port of call for coasting vessels. The
pier has a depth of 3.4 m (11 ft) alongside the fender piles.
Copra, hemp and corn are the principal products of this
region.
BACSAL ISLANDS are two small, high, clear,
wooded islands close to the S end of Daram Island.
The channel between them and Daram is clear with the
exception of a small 4.6 m (2.5 fm) patch about 0.3 mile
NE from the W island.
DALUGDUG POINT, the E entrance point at the S
end of Daram Channel, show prominently from SW as a
rounded knob. From here to Diutay Point, about 2.5 miles
S, the coast is very irregular but the shore is clear and bold.
There are some narrow sandy beaches, but high hills rise
steeply from the shore attain a height of 363 m (1,190 ft)
about 1.5 miles inland.
JANABATAS CHANNEL (CHART 4464), between
Samar and Leyte, is 2.8 miles wide at the entrance between
Diutay Point, Samar, and Baluarte Point, Leyte, and extends
about 8 miles E to Santa Rita Island, at the N end of San
Juanico Strait. The land on both sides of the entrance is
high and well wooded. The shoreline on both sides of the
channel is very irregular, indented by a number of bays
into which small streams discharge. They are all shoal
and of little value to navigation. Much of the shore is low,
and in some places, swampy but there are many hills that
rise abruptly from the shore. The town of Babatngon and
Santa Rita and a number of villages lie on both sides of the
channel, the most important of which are Igangigang and
Hinangutdan on the Samar shore and Samputan, Malibago
and Magkasuang on the Leyte side.
Currents - Current observations in Janabatas Channel
indicate that velocities of 1 to 2 knots may be expected; the
times of slack and strength being irregular.
MOUNT BUSAY, about 2 miles SE of Baluarte Point,
is 558 m (1,830 ft) high, and forms a prominent landmark to
steer for in making the entrance to the channel. There are a
number of islets and much water in the channel, the depths
varying from 9.1 m (5 fm) at the entrance to 3.7 m (2 fm) N
of Navahay Island. About 1.5 miles inside the entrance, the
channel narrows, and the fairway winds between the shore
bank and islets on either side.
13-29
BABATNGON, a town about 2 miles E of Baluarte
Point, is at the head of Opong Bay, on the S side of the
entrance to Janabatas Channel. On the E side of the town is
a pier at the end of a stone causeway extending N from the
5 W shore of Sogod Cove. In 1959, the offshore end of the
pier had a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm). The chief products are
copra and salted fish.
THE BASAY WATERFALLS at Babatngon is an
10 interesting resort. The town is connected with Tacloban by
road. There is also a daily motor launch connection with
Santa Rita.
SANTA RITA is a town on the N side of the E end of
15 Janabatas Channel. Its location on a vantage point of land
makes the town very conspicuous from almost all points in
the channel. The pier, with two pile clusters and connected
by a stone causeway to the shore, had a depth of 4.9 m (2.7
fm) at its S end, in June 1951. Moderate-draft vessels can
20 go alongside the seaward end with the aid of anchor. The
chief products of Santa Rita are copra, abaca, root crops,
and colored buri mats. Fresh water in moderate quantities
is obtainable from wells, and may be used for ship’s boilers.
The town has a post office. Daily motor launches connect
25 Sta. Rita and Babatngon with Tacloban. Motor launches
from Catbalogan call twice a week.
Directions - From a position 2.3 miles 071o from
Samputan Range, approach Santa Rita by steering 325o.
30 When the end of the pier bears 090o, distant 0.3 mile, head
for the pier and go alongside using an anchor.
DIUTAY POINT, on the N side of the entrance to
Janabatas Channel, is formed by a small islet 25.0 m (82 ft)
35 high, which is close to the shore about 1 mile S of Navatas
Point. The islet is clear and steep-to on its seaward side but
is connected with the land by a reef bare at low water.
BALUARTE POINT, on the S side of the entrance,
40 rises at a distance of 0.5 mile inland to a height of 143 m
(470 ft). It is clear and steep-to and may be rounded at a
distance of 0.3 mile with safety.
CALANGAWAN ISLAND, 57 m (188 ft) high
45 and about 0.2 mile NE of Baluarte Point, is fringed with
mangroves. It is connected with Baluarte Point by a reef
mostly bare at low water. A small foul area lies about 0.5
mile NNE of the island and some stakes are located about
0.3 mile farther N.
50
CANAUAY ISLAND, on the S side of the channel,
about 2 miles E of Baluarte Point, is about 0.3 mile in extent
and 36 m (117 ft) high in the NW part. It is covered with
trees except on the N slope, which is cultivated. A group
55 of drying rocks stand on the shoal fringing the N coast of
the island. Canauay Island Light (11° 26’ 13”N., 124° 51’
09”E.) is displayed from a white tower on the island.
Pilotage - The Tacloban Pilots’ Association maintains
60 a pilot station in Canauay Island and keeps watch day and
night for entering vessels. Pilotage through San Juanico NW side of Samputan Point bear 146.25o and those on the
Strait is compulsory for vessels of 60 GRT, or over. E side of the point bear 251.25o. The rear beacon for both
Strangers are advised to employ a pilot. The greatest draft ranges is a steel column on the hillside 61 m (200 ft) above
taken through is 5.2 m (2.9 fm). 0.9 m (0.5 fm) draft motor high water, carrying day marks facing both reaches of the
boats can get alongside a small causeway at the N side of 5 channel. These ranges lead through the middle of Samputan
Canauay Island. Pass and a berth of 183 to 230 m should be given when
changing from one range to the other. The front range for
IVANTACUT ISLAND, about 1.5 miles ENE of the NW approach and the rear beacon for both ranges were
Canauay Island Light, is small, low, rocky, covered with missing in June 1951.
bushes, and is steep-to on its N side. The usual track of 10
vessels lies about 0.3 mile N from it. Small craft sometimes Directions - From a position 0.3 mile N of Ivantacut
use the channel S of Ivantacut but the bottom is very uneven Island, steer for the N tangent to Navahay Island on course
and rocky and, as little is gained by going through it, its use 119o. When pile No. 4 bears 170o, distant 0.2 mile, head for
is not recommended. Ivanticut Light (11° 26’ 58”N., 124° the E side of barrio Samputan on course 146o, and almost
52’ 30”E.) is displayed from the island. A north cardinal 15 on range with the N hill S of the barrio. Follow this mid-
buoy was installed about 300 m N of the island. channel course, giving the piles marking the pass a berth
of at least 0.1 mile. When the E tangent of Samputan Point
DABUN ISLAND is a small islet less than 0.1 mile bears 135o, distant about 0.2 mile, change course to 106o.
in extent, about 1.5 miles E of Ivantacut. It is wooded, 34 When the E tangent to Navahay Island bears 341o, and the E
m (112 ft) high, and is clear on its S side. Care must be 20 front range beacon bears 251o, steer 071o, passing 0.2 mile
taken to avoid the long NW extension of the rocky ledge W N of Magkasuang Point. The vessels may proceed to Santa
from it which bares at low water. About 0.8 mile W of this Rita, or enter San Juanico Strait with the aid of a pilot.
island and N of the high hill at the N extremity of Caltagan
Island is a rocky spot covered by 2.4 m (1.3 fm) of water. SANTA RITA ISLAND, at the head of Janabatas
Obstruction stakes located about 0.3 mile SE of this rocky 25 Channel, is small, about 30 m (100 ft) high, clear on
spot marks the N side of the fairway. The tidal currents the S side, but surrounded on the other side by a narrow
apparently meet in this vicinity. reef, widest on its NW side. It may be recognized by its
square-topped, bushy knob. An old stone masonry fort is
CALTAGAN ISLAND is about 1 mile SW of Dabun on top of the island, but obscured in some directions by the
Island close to the shore of Leyte about 0.5 mile E of the 30 surrounding coconut trees.
N end of a hilly peninsula, Binuntuan Point, from which it
is separated by a narrow boat channel. Caltagan Island is BACOL ISLAND, close to the coast of Leyte, from
fringed with mangroves and is 54.6 m (179 ft) high near which it is separated by a narrow boat channel fringed with
its N end. mangroves, is about 1.5 miles in extent and composed of
35 low, wooded hills and mangrove swamps.
NAVAHAY ISLAND, with its N end over 0.8 mile
SSE of Dabun Island, is wooded and 34 m (111 ft) high. Caution - Tide rips are encountered in the channel
A small, rocky patch, with a depth of 0.9 m (0.5 fm) and between Santa Rita Island and the N side of Bacol Island.
surrounded by depths of 3.7 to 4.6 m (2 and 2.5 fm), is 0.8
mile E of the N end of Navahay Island. Small crafts use the 40 NABABOY ISLAND is at the head of the N entrance
shallow channel N of Navahay Island but the recommended to San Juanico Strait and divides the entrance into two
channel is through Samputan Pass which lies W and S of channels of which the channel N and E of it is generally
that island. used. Caution, however, should be exercised in passing
through this channel as reefs and shoal patches lie up to
SAMPUTAN PASS, between Navahay Island and the 45 about 0.2 mile N and about 0.3 mile ENE of the N end of
shores of Leyte, has a least swept depth of 5.8 m (3.25 fm), the island and which encumber the S and W side of the
and at the narrowest point is about 0.1 mile wide between fairway. The channel S of Nababoy is sometimes used by
the 5.5 m (3 fm) curves. From a position about 0.3 mile small vessels when the tide serves, care taken to avoid a
NE of the N end of Caltagan Island, the fairway of the rocky ledge which bares at half tide, SW of the island, and
channel trends SSE to Samputan Point and thence, about 2 50 the fringing reefs of Bacol Island.
miles ENE to Magkasuang Point. The N part of the pass is
marked by a wooden pile on the W side of the entrance. It ANAHAO ISLAND is a small island 16.5 m (54 ft)
displays a white light at night. The N edge of the channel high, about 0.2 mile SE of Santa Rita Island. Detached
usually marked by stakes. The fairway through the E part and partly drying reef close S of this island encumber the
of the pass is marked by the below-described beacon on the 55 narrow channel between it and Nababoy Island. Its NW
E side of a hill on Samputan Point. extremity should be given a berth of about 137.2 m.

Ranges - Two sets of range marks formed by three SAN JUANICO STRAIT (CHART 4464), connecting
beacons on Samputan Point indicate the mid-channel Janabatas Channel with Tacloban Harbor, is about 12 miles
courses through Samputan Pass. The range marks on the 60 long in a general N and S direction. It has an average width

13-30
of from 0.3 to 0.5 mile, reduced in two places to barely 0.1
mile and carries a varying depth from 9.1 to 27.4 m (5 to
15 fm). The shores are low and fringed with mangroves.
Several islets and shoals confine the channels. There are a
number of small villages on both sides of the strait.
Navigational Aids - The strait is well marked along its
length by buoys, lighted buoys, and beacons. Refer to the
charts for details.
Tides & Currents - In San Juanico Strait, the tide
shows considerable inequality especially during the time of
the moon’s maximum declinations. From Uban Point N, this
inequality occurs in both high and low waters. However, in
the S part of the Strait, the irregularity is mainly in the high
waters. The flood current sets N and the ebb S, attaining
at times a maximum velocity of from 4 to 5 knots in some
parts of the strait, causing violent eddies and tide rips.
Current predictions for San Juanico Strait for everyday of
the year are included in the Tide and Current Tables.
Dangers - The attempt to describe the dangers in
detail, in the absence of any well-defined landmarks, would
only cause confusion. The tracks and the dangers on both
sides of the strait can be best understood by reference to the 25
chart. A small, rocky patch, with a swept depth of 4.3 m (2.4
fm), is in the middle of the channel, about 0.35 mile NNW
of the N end of Lazareto Island. Tacloban Light bearing
139o carries a vessel in the best water between this rocky
patch and shoal water on the Samar side. 30
Overhead Cables could be found at the various parts
of San Juanico Strait. Mariners are advised to be always on
the lookout for overhead cables so as to avoid damaging the
cables and prevent accidents.
SAN JUANICO BRIDGE connects Samar Island
with that of Leyte. It is nearest at the city of Tacloban by
about 4 miles to NNW. The design of the bridge made use
of the Cabalawan Island as a jump-off point to the strait.
The main span of the bridge, where vessels may pass, have
the following clearances; 113 m for the horizontal and 24.2
m for the vertical, depth of water is about 18.3 m (10 fm)
immediately underneath. The bridge is marked by lights.
Refer to the charts and the List of Lights for details.
AMANDAYEHAN is a village on the Samar coast,
in the bight 0.5 mile NW of Binatac Point. The pier has
a berthing length of 31 m with a depth of 3.6 m (1.9 fm)
at the S end and deepening to 5.5 m (3 fm) at the N end.
Amandayehan is connected with Basey, 9 km E, by a
provincial road. There is regular ferry service to Tacloban
and motor ships call occasionally.
MOUNT DANGLAY that lies about 1.6 miles NNW 55
of Binatac Point, is 359 m (1,177 ft) high and forms The town of Marabut stands at the head of a small bight
conspicuous landmarks for vessels entering Tacloban about 0.7 mile NNE of Mantuaca Point. From Mantuaca
Harbor. Point, the coast trends 1.7 miles ESE to Capines Point. It
is steep-to and clear of dangers between the shore and the
From Binatac Point, the coast trends E for about 8 60 banks almost 2 miles SW.
13-31
miles to the village of Nouvilas Oriental thence, SSE for
about 13 miles to Capines Point. This stretch of the coast
forms the N and E sides of San Pedro Bay respectively. The
former section of the coast is low and depth shoal regularly
5 to a shore bank, with depths of less than 5.5 m (3 fm), that
extends up to about 2.5 miles offshore. The town of Basey,
which has a prominent church, lies in the middle of this
section of the coast and about 2 miles W of the mouth of
the Basey River.
10
JINAMOC ISLAND, about 18 m (60 ft) high and
well-wooded lies about 0.8 mile S of the town of Basey.
2 foul areas consisting of rocks that bare 0.3 m (1 ft) with
some scattered stakes in between, lie about 0.8 mile and 2
15 miles, respectively SE of the S end of the island. Jinamoc
Island Light (11° 15’ 33”N., 125° 04’ 32”E.) is displayed
from a white on the SW side of the island.
TINGIB POINT, the W extremely of the island, when
20 in range with Basey church, bearing 001o, clears the E edge
of the extensive shoal making out from Panirugan Point at
the entrance to Tacloban Harbor.
The N half of the latter section of the coast from
Nouvilas Oriental to Calogangan Point is also low but the
S half to Capines Point, the coast is closely backed by hills
and mountains which attain a height of nearly 488 m (1,600
ft). The waters off this coast are fairly steep-to especially at
the S portion. But there are many scattered detached steep-
to shoal patches and rocks, the position of which can only
be best understood by reference to the chart.
CAMOROPUDAN ISLETS, a group of seven small
islets from 17 to 46 m (55 to 150 ft) high, lie close to the
35 shore about 0.3 mile to 0.65 mile SW of Calogangan Point.
Their bases are under worn by the sea until in some places
the overhang is 4.6 to 6.1 m (15 to 20 ft). Several mooring
buoys lie up to 0.8 mile offshore in position from 1 to 1.4
miles N of the outer of the Camoropudan Islets. A sole
40 mooring buoy lies about 0.5 mile NW of the same islets.
BADUNGBADUNG ISLET, 40 m (130 ft) high, lies
about 3.8 miles NW of Capines Point and about 0.7 mile off
the shore. A smaller islet, 9 m (30 ft) high, lies close NW,
45 and both are steep-to.
RASO ISLET, 30.5 m (100 ft) high, lies about 0.4
mile W of Badungbadung Islets. It is smaller than the latter
but is very conspicuous, being shaped like an hourglass.
50
A number of mooring buoys are located within 1 mile
of the coast between Badungbadung and Camoropudan
Islets. A pier extends 0.3 mile W by S from a small point
about 0.9 mile NE of Badungbadung Islet.
 CHAPTER 14
LEYTE ISLAND
LEYTE ISLAND, between Cebu and Samar Islands, is
generally mountainous, but contains several large and fertile
valleys. It is the eight largest island in the archipelago in size
and has an area of 7,214 sq km. The prevailing geological
formation is volcanic and several of the mountains are the 5
extinct craters of volcanoes. The climate, though hot, is
healthy. Typhoons occur and do great damage. The rivers are
small and fit only for navigation of small craft. Some rivers
are extensively applied to irrigation. The chief products are
hemp and copra. Tacloban City, the capital and principal 10
port, is on the eastern coast, at the southern entrance to San
Juanico Strait which separates Leyte from Samar.
NORTH COAST OF LEYTE
(CHART 1538, 1539 & 4420)
Between Baluarte Point, the S entrance point to Janabatas
Channel, and the E entrance to Biliran Strait, 20 miles W, the
coast recedes S about 9 miles, forming CARIGARA BAY.
From Baluarte Point, the coast trends about 2 miles SSW and
is very high and steep-to. It then becomes very low and trends
about 11 miles SW to the head of the bay. The shore in this
part of the bay is faced by shoal water extending 0.8 mile
in places. The W shore of the bay is clear and steep-to. The
entire bay is clear and deep and the charts show no danger
more than 0.8 mile from shore, with the exception of a small
shoal patch, with a depth of 4.6 m (2.5 fm), 1 mile NNW of
JALABA POINT, in the SE part of the bay. There is a rock
awash about 0.3 mile inshore from this shoal.
CAUTION - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present in Carigara Bay. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
in the vicinity of the cables.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off the
N coast of Leyte from the vicinity of Balicuatro Point to
Carigara may contact the remotely controlled coast station
with VHF DSC alerting in Tacloban (11° 03' 54"N., 125°
01' 24"E.). Vessels in distress that are outside of the 25-
mile radius from the VHF DSC coast station may contact
the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which have a MF
DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in
Chapter 2 for details.
BARUGO is small town about 8 miles SW of Baluarte
Point. The town has a post office. Anchorage can be found
in 14.6 m (8 fm) about 1 mile from shore, with the large,
white storehouse bearing 170o. Shoal water extends about
0.8 mile from the W end of the town.
CARIGARA, a town at the head of the bay, is
distinguished by its numerous buildings. The church is a
prominent landmark. There is a post office, electric lights,
ice plant, and a highway connects with Tacloban and other
towns. Gasoline, diesel fuel, and fresh water are obtainable.
Major Light - Carigara Light (11° 18' 14"N., 124° 41'
05"E.) is shown from a tower on the sand spit between the
river and the bay.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Carigara
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-1638697.
Berthing Facility - The town is fronted by a 170-m
long pier, which is connected to the shore by a 570-m long
causeway.
Anchorage for vessels calling at Carigara is usually
about 0.7 mile offshore N of the town.
15 From Carigara the coast trends NW with a curve W for
11.5 miles to TALAIRAN POINT and thence WNW for 4
miles to the entrance to the Biliran Strait. This coast appears
to be clear and steep-to. It is backed by a mountain range
that rises abruptly from the sea to heights of as much as 716
20 m (2,348 ft) within 3 miles inland.
PACDAHAUAN PEAK, 636 m (2,088 ft) high, about
1.3 miles W of Talairan Point, and another peak, 570 m
(1,871 ft) high, lying close to it, form excellent landmarks.
25
CALUMPIJAN ISLET, nearly 1 mile E of Talairan
Point, is small, steep-to and about 30 m (100 ft) high. The
channel between the islet and the point is deep and clear.
30 A natural hot water spring, (11° 27' 11" N., 124° 28' 14"
E.) is located about 50 m south from the tip of a promontory
found at the high waterline on the rocks.
From the S side of Biliran Strait the coast trends SW and
35 S for 5 miles to the mouth of the NAGA RIVER and thence
NW for 7 miles to USON POINT, forming Leyte Bay. The
greater part of LEYTE BAY is filled with shoal water, leaving
a narrow,tortuous channel having a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm)
leading to the mole at the town of Leyte.
40
LEYTE is a town near the head of Leyte Bay. It has a
post office. There is a stone mole at the end of the causeway
extending about 600-m W from the town with sufficient water
at high tide at its end for small craft.
45
CALUBIAN, a small town 2.3 miles SE of Uson Point,
is a regular port of call for small coasting vessels from Cebu.
Copra, corn, bananas, and hemp are shipped. The town has
a post office.
50
Berthing Facility - The town has a 90-m long pier, that
runs parallel to the shore. The pier, together the causeway
that connects it to the shore, form a harbor for boats. It can
accommodate vessels up to 1,035 GRT and maximum LOA
55 of 69 m. Fresh water is available at the pier.
14-1
 From Uson Point the coast continues NW for 7.5 miles
to Rabin Point, and is generally clear and steep-to and free
from off lying dangers.
RABIN POINT, the NW extremity of Leyte, is the
termination of a high, wooded promontory that rises to a
194 m (636 ft) summit about 2 miles SE of the point and to
the 289 m (948 ft) MOUNT BONCAN about 4 miles farther
SE. The barrio of Caroyocan is on the point. A mole extends
from the barrio.
A bank with 12.8 m (7 fm) at its edge extends nearly
0.8 mile N from Rabin Point.
BILIRAN AND THE ADJACENT ISLANDS
(CHART 1538, 1539, 4418 & 4420)
Biliran Island, off the N coast of Leyte from which it is
separated by Biliran Strait, is of oval shape, about 20 miles
long in a NW-and-SE direction, and 11 miles wide. It is very
mountainous, and the hills, and peaks are heavily wooded.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off
the E coast of Biliran from the vicinity of Ongale Point to
Pawican Point may contact the remotely controlled coast
station with VHF DSC alerting in Catbalogan (11° 46'
27"N., 124° 52' 48"E.). Vessels in distress that are outside
of the 25-mile radius from the VHF DSC coast station may
contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
MOUNT SUIRO, the highest point on the island, is in
the SE part and 1,300 m (4,265 ft) high.
MOUNT NALIWATAN, in the NE part of the island,
is 1,289 m (4,230 ft) high and is very prominent, having
the shape of a cone as seen from the W. There is a number
of small islets and banks off the NW part of the island.
The entire coast of Biliran is clear and can be approached
anywhere to 0.5 mile except in Biliran Strait.
TAGAMPUL ISLET (CHART 4418), about 2 miles N
of Buhoc Point, the NW extremity of Biliran, is 37 m (120
ft) high, very small and apparently clear, with the exception
of some rocks 0.3 mile NE of it.
REMUS ROCK is about 0.5 mile N of Tagampul Islet.
It is of small extent and has a known depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
TOMASA ISLET, is about 0.6 mile SE of Tagampul
Islet; it is 12 m (40 ft) high, very small and has a shoal off
its NE side.
GENURUAN ISLET, 58 m (190 ft) high and steep-to,
lies 0.5 mile offshore about 1.5 mile ENE of Buhoc Point.
BUHOC POINT, the NW point of Biliran Island, is
clear, steep-to, and 110 m (360 ft) high. A steep-to islet 8.8
m (29 ft) high, lies about 0.2 mile N of the point. From
14-2
Buhoc Point to the village of TELEGRAFO, 0.8 mile SE,
and for 0.3 mile beyond, the shoreline is rocky. Just W of
Telegrafo there are some conspicuous, reddish-brown bluffs
about 61 m (200 ft) high.
5
TINCANSAN ISLET is about 0.1 mile W of Buhoc
Point. It is about 0.5 mile long NW and SE and 79 m (260
ft) high. The channel between the islet and the point is clear
and has a depth of 20.1 m (11 fm) in the middle of its S end.
10
From Buhoc Point the coast trends SE for about 15 miles
to Biliran Strait and is generally low with rocky points and
gravel beaches in the coves between. A steep-to shore bank
fringes this coast up to almost 0.5 mile offshore. Beyond
15 SABAN POINT the shoreline is straight and is broken with
shingle beaches alternating with small mangrove coves. The
towns of NAVAL and ALMERIA, and a number of smaller
villages, are on this coast.
20 CALUTAN ISLET is about 2.5 miles S of Buhoc Point
and 1 mile SW of AGTA POINT. It is very small, bold, and
rocky, and 38 m (126 ft) high.
CAYGAN ISLET is small, bold and rocky, about 0.8
25 mile W of the town of Almeria. It is about 0.4 mile long E
and W, narrow, and rises at its W and E extremities to hills
40 and 37 m (133 and 123 ft) high, respectively. The channel
between it and the shore reef W of Almeria is about 0.3 mile
wide and has a depth of 32.9 m (18 fm) in the middle.
30
PILAR ROCKS are a mass of rocks, the highest about
1.8 m (6 ft) about 0.5 mile W of Caygan Islet.
NAVAL, a town 1.5 miles NW of Saban Point, is a
35 shipping point for corn and copra. Several motor vessels
call each week from Cebu.
Major Light - Naval Light (11° 33' 42"N., 124° 23'
30"E.) is reported to be shown from a privately maintained
40 radio tower in the town.
Dangers - A small, detached shoal with 4.6 m (2.5 fm)
is about 1 mile SE of Saban Point and 0.5 mile from shore.
45 An extensive shorebank, with depths of about 2.7 to 4.6
m (1.5 to 2.5 fm) encumbers the entire W entrance of Biliran
Strait. The W edge of this shoal water is defined by the 5.5
m (3-fm) curve which trends NNE across the approach from
a position a little over 0.5 mile E of Calubian.
50
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by the PPA TMO-Naval. The port management office is at
the root of the pier.
55 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Naval
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8427613
and +63998-5858072 and e-mail at cgdetnaval@yahoo.com.
Berthing Facilities - The government pier extends 220-
60 m WSW from the town.
 Anchorage - Vessels calling here anchor in 6.4 m (3.25
fm) about 0.1 mile off the end of the pier. Large vessels can
anchor a little farther off in 18.3 to 36.6 m (10 to 20 fm),
mud bottom.
BUSALI, a barrio 3.8 miles SE of Saban Point, has a
quay. The quay's offshore end coincides with the shoreline
at mean sea level, or at depth zero.
BILIRAN (CHART 4456) is a small town on the S
side of Biliran Island, about 0.7 mile NNW of the narrowest
part of Biliran Strait. Motor vessels call regularly from Cebu
for copra. A steep-to bank covered by 1.8 m (1 fm) or less,
with 9.1 m (5 fm) at the outer edge, extends about 0.3 mile
S from the town.
Berthing Facility - A 350-m long rock causeway, with
a 60-m long pier at its end, extends from the town.
Anchorage for communicating with Biliran may be
found in 5.5 m (3 fm), mud bottom, about 0.3 mile W of
Culajit Islet. Anchorage N of the islet is very limited and not
recommended as the depths decrease rapidly.
CULAJIT ISLET, about 0.4 mile S from the town
of Biliran, is less than 91 m (100 yards) in extent, rocky
and nearly awash at high tide. The S side is fairly steep-to
with depths of 7.3 to 21.9 m (4 to 12 fm) between it and the
narrowest part of the strait, but reefs fringes the NW side
to a distance of about 91 m (100 yards). A beacon is on the
center of this islet.
PORO ISLET lies less than 0.1 mile S of the S
extremity of Biliran Island, with which it is connected by a
reef partly bare at low water. It is about 0.3 mile in extent,
rocky and bold on the S side, and has a fringe of mangroves
on the NE side. It is planted with hemp and coconut trees.
A road over a causeway connects Poro Islet with Biliran
Island. The causeway runs almost N to S. The same road
continued southward over a bridge to link also Poro with
Leyte Island.
LAGNAY ISLET is on the reef about 0.3 mile NE of
Poro Islet. It is very small, rocky, and covered with bushes.
BILIRAN STRAIT (CHART 4456), between Poro
Islet and the Island of Leyte, is only 108 m (118 yards) wide
in the narrowest part, from shore to shore. At this point a
sharp-pointed reef extends 41 m (45 yards) from the Leyte 50
side, narrowing the channel to about 68 m (75 yards). The
best water, 5.0 m (2.75 fm), is found within 46 m (50 yards)
of Poro Islet. Outside of the E entrance to the strait the Leyte
side should be favored to avoid the reef and shoal water off
the SE end of Poro Islet.
Prominent Feature - The Biliran Bridge, which
connects Poro Island and Leyte, is the prominent landmark
for vessels approching the narrowest part of Biliran Strait.
The navigable passage under the bridge has a width of about
40 m and a vertical clearance of 19 m.
Major Light - Biliran Strait Light (11° 27' 24"N., 124°
28' 40"E.) is displayed from a white tower on the edge of
5 the reef and S side of Biliran Strait near its narrowest part.
Caution must be exercised in using this strait, as at
times the current runs through it with considerable velocity.
10 The N side of the E approach to Biliran Strait between
Poro Islet and MAGBAGUN POINT, about 1.8 miles ENE,
the shore is fringed by reefs and shoals that lie up to a little
over 0.5 mile offshore.
15 MAGBAGUN COVE, a small bay on the W side of
Magbagun Point, affords good sheltered anchorage in 20.1
m (11 fm), mud bottom. A small patch with 1.8 m (1 fm) is
about 0.5 mile SW of the point on the W side of the narrow
channel leading into the cove. Another detached 8.2 m (4.5
20 fm) patch lies about 0.1 mile SW of the first patch; between
these patches and the reef extending S from Magbagun Point
there is a deep channel 0.2 mile wide.
From Magbagun Point, the coast trends for 4 miles
25 E to the town of CABUCGAYAN, thence for 2 miles NE
to PAWICAN POINT, the SE extremity of Biliran Island.
The dangers fringing this section of the coast are contained
within the 18.3 m (10-fm) curve which lies about 0.25 mile
offshore. From Pawican Point, the coast trends about 3 miles
30 NNE to GAMAY POINT, thence about 10 miles NNW to
AMAMBAHAG POINT, and thence about 12 miles W to
Buhoc Point. These stretches of the coast are steep-to and
free from dangers. The town in this part of the island are all
ports of call for several small vessels to load hemp and copra
35 produced on the island.
CABUCGAYAN is a town with a 75-meter long rock
causeway with an extension of 57-meter long reinforced
concrete pier, which serves as the landing site for the sea-
40 borne commerce of the town. There is a 300-meter long
seawall running parallel with the coast and perpendicular
with the causeway. Depth of water at the offshore end of the
causeway is about 4 m in 1990. Usual shipments at the pier
are fish and perishable items like foodstuffs.
45
CAIBIRAN, the largest of the towns on the NE side
of Biliran Island, lies about 3.2 miles NW of Gamay Point.
It has a post office. Boats calling at the town uses the small
pier located in the barrio of Looc (Ipil), which is located
about 0.5 mile SSE of the poblacion.
CULABA, about 1.2 miles S of Amambahag Point, has
a 30-m long pier, which is connected to the coast by a 60-m
long causeway.
55
Major Light - Amambahag Light (11° 40' 22"N., 124°
32' 14"E.) is displayed from a white tower on Amambahag
Point.
60 KAWAYAN, about 1.4 miles E of Buhoc Point, is
14-3
the town on the NW part of the island. Usual cargo at the
port includes fish, lumber and rice. Available means of
communication in the town include postal services, and
mobile phone. The town's rural health center can conduct
minor surgery. Potable water are sourced from deep wells.
Limited supplies are available. An automotive repair shop
is the only repair facility present in the town.
Major Light - Kawayan Light (11° 41' 00"N., 124° 21'
15"E.) is displayed from the town.
Berthing Facility - Extending N is a 50-m long
pier, which is connected to the shore by a 250-m long
causeway. There is an 85-m long rock breakwater extending
perpendicular from its E side about 100 m away from the 15
shoreline. Depth of water at the offshore end of the pier is
about 3 m in 1990.
FRESH WATER - An abundant supply of fresh water
may be obtained from a spring on the E coast, about 0.3 mile
S of GAMAY POINT. The locality may be identified by a
large rock, painted white, visible about 3 to 4 miles. Vessels
desiring to get water should steer for the painted rock on a
293o course, anchor in 36.6 m (20 fm), and haul the stern
into a depth of about 5.5 m (3 fm) by means of stern lines
to the shore. From this position about 91 m (300 ft) of hose
will be required to reach the spring. Water may also be taken
by the use of small boats.
WEST COAST OF LEYTE
RABIN POINT TO GREEN POINT (CHART 1537,
1538 & 4405) - The W coast of Leyte is, in general, safe and
steep-to, the fringing reefs in no place exceeding 0.5 mile in
width, excepting between Canaguayan Point at the entrance
to Port Palompon, and Duljugan Point, 8 miles S, where they
extend about 2 miles and surround several small mangrove-
covered islets. A chain of mountains runs parallel with the
coast about 5 miles inland. The highest point in the island is
probably MOUNT MAJUYAG, a peak 12.5 miles E from
Ormoc, which is 1,348 m (4,422 ft) high.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off the
W coast of Leyte from Rabin Point to Catiyoman Point
may contact the Manila Rescue Coordinating Center, which
have a MF DSC alerting. Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea
Areas map in Chapter 2 for details.
GIGANTANGAN ISLAND, 2 miles W of Rabin Point,
is wooded and 46 m (150 ft) high in the center. It is fringed
by a very narrow, steep-to reef. The channel between it and
Leyte is 1.5 miles wide, deep and clear. Mabini Light (11°
34' 05"N., 124° 15' 52"E.) is shown from a white tower on
the island.
From Rabin Point the coast, which is fronted by a low
sandy shore, trends SW for 2 miles to DUNGUN POINT, the
NW extremity of Leyte, and thence SSE for about 8 miles to
MATUNG POINT, at the entrance to San Isidro Bay, and is
generally fringed by a narrow, steep-to reef. TAGLAUIGAN
14-4
DAJA, and TINAGO are small coves blocked with reefs on
the latter section of the coast; villages of the same names
as the coves are at their heads. A wreck lies sunk about 0.5
mile WSW of Matung Point.
5
SAN ISIDRO BAY is S of Matung Point; the middle of
the bay is deep and affords good anchorage during the NE
monsoon, but the head is filled with shoals and mud flats
bare at low water.
10
SAN ISIDRO, a town at the head of the bay, is a port
of call for small coasting vessels. It has a post office and
telephone communication. Principal exports are corn, copra,
pigs, and rice.
Caution - Five partly submerged wrecks, distant 0.1 to
0.2 mile, lie in different directions from the end of the pier.
Vessels calling at San Isidro anchor off these wrecks. Another
sunken wreck lies close W of SANGABON POINT, the S
20 entrance point of San Isidro Bay.
Berthing Facility - A 40-m long concrete pier is about
0.5 mile SW of the town. Steered for on a course of 090o it
will lead to the anchorage in 5.5 m (3 fm) about 0.3 mile
25 off the pier.
Between Sangabon Point and CANAPOG POINT,
10.5 miles SSE, there are four small bays and a number of
coves. These bays are quite conspicuous, the entrances being
30 generally marked by bluffs 15 to 23 m (50 to 75 ft) high.
AREVALO BAY, about 2 miles S of San Isidro Bay, is
nearly blocked with reefs and shoal water. A bare cliff marks
its N entrance point. The village of AREVALO is in the SE
35 part of the bay. Motor vessels call from Cebu. A small stone
landing with a cargo shed is on the S shore of the bay and
just inside the entrance point. Vessels can find anchorage
partially protected from the SW by CAUAYAN POINT,
in 5.5 m (3 fm) about 183 m (200 yards) N of the landing.
40
PULINGBATO HILL, 2.5 miles S of Arevalo Bay and
0.8 mile from the shore, is 228 m (750 ft) high and forms
an excellent landmark. It rises gently to a flat-topped cone.
45 The bluffs and rocks W from it are higher and steeper
than those at the entrances to the bays.
TABANGO BAY, about 4 miles S of Arevalo Bay, is
nearly blocked by reefs; the town of TABANGO is at its head.
50 A pier is located about 0.5 mile SSW of the town.
CAMPOPO BAY is about 1 mile SE of Tabango Bay,
from which it is separated by LIOG POINT, over 30 m (100
ft) high. More than half of this bay is filled with reefs and
55 shoal water. The village of MASISI is at its head.
BURABUD POINT, the S entrance point of the bay,
is a sharp prominent cone that forms a good landmark when
coasting.
60
 DAUAJON ISLET is a small islet 26 m (84 ft) high,
nearly 1 mile SW of Burabud Point and 0.8 mile from shore.
The channel between it and Leyte is deep and clear. It is
steep-to except to the NW, where 8.2 m (4.5 fm) is found at
a distance of 0.3 mile. The islet is often invisible against the
dark background of the mainland.
SILAD BAY, about 3 miles S of Campopo Bay, is about
0.8 mile in extent, and its shores are fringed by a wide reef
bare at low water. The barrio of SILAD is on the S shore of
the bay. A 180-m long causeway pier extends NE from the
shore about 0.4 mile NE of the barrio.
A 18.3 m (60 ft) rock is a short distance offshore
and midway between Silad and Villaba Bays. The rock is
bare, sharp-pointed, yellow in color, and is a good inshore
landmark.
VILLABA is a town at the head of VILLABA BAY. The
town is small but a regular port of call for coasting vessels
from Cebu. Villaba has a post office.
Berthing Facility - The rock causeway pier about 0.5
mile SW of the town has a depth of 1.5 m (5 ft) at its end.
Anchorage may be had in 9.1 m (5 fm) at the entrance
to the bay, midway between the S entrance point and the 18.3
m (60 ft) rock previously mentioned, or closer in about 0.1
mile off the end of the landing in 5.5 m (3 fm).
From Canapog Point to Canaguayan Point, a distance
of about 10 miles, the shoreline is more regular. There are
no off-lying dangers, and this coast can be safely navigated
at a distance of 0.6 mile.
CANAGUAYAN POINT, the N entrance point to Port
Palompon is the most salient in this vicinity. It is broad, flat
and low covered with coconuts and fringed with mangroves.
It is surrounded by reefs, and from the NW part a bank with
6.4 m (3.5 fm) at its edge extends about 0.6 mile NW.
PALOMPON (CHART 4456) is a town on the E side
of PORT PALOMPON, about 0.8 mile SE of Canaguayan
Point. The town has a post office, telephone connections,
mobile phone communication, and internet services. A 45
hospital and rural health center provide medical services.
Limited quantities of fresh provisions and water can be
obtained. Small amounts of diesel oil, kerosene, and gasoline
are available in drums. Motor vessels call almost daily from
Cebu. The principal exports are copra, corn, abaca, and rice. 50
The town is a national port open to both domestic and
foreign vessels. It is protected in the W by Taboc Islet and in
the S by Gumaloc Islet, both serving as natural breakwaters.
From the port of Palompon, domestic vessels usually ply
back and forth for Cebu, New Washington, Manila, Roxas,
Isabel, Calubian, Maasin, Surigao and Nasipit.
The entrance to Port Palompon, between the reefs
surrounding Taboc Island, which extend about 0.5 mile NW 60
from it, and those surrounding Canaguayan Point, is about
0.3 mile wide, whose width is gradually reduced to 230 m
(250 yards) W of the town. This is the only approach to the
town of Palompon as the S end of the channel is blocked by
5 reefs. It is best to enter the port at low tide when the line of
coral reefs are visible. Numerous fish traps fringed the coral
reefs around the channel.
The depth at the entrance is over 36.6 m (20 fm), and it
10 decreases gradually until off the S end of the town, the best
anchorage, is 16 m (9 fm). From this point S, the depths
gradually decreases, and off Gumalac Island there is only
3.7 m (2 fm). Slight siltation was found occurring at the mid
channel W of the pier.
15
Major Light - Palompon Light (11° 03' 13"N., 124°
22' 55"E.) is a privately-maintained light displayed 229 m
N of the wharf. It is shown only when expecting arrival of
a commercial vessel.
20
Port Management - The government port is operated by
PPA TMO - Palompon with telephone no. (+6353) 338-2170.
It can accommodate vessels up to 150 m long.
25 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Palompon may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63998-
585-8317 and e-mail at cgss.palompon@coastguard.gov.ph.
Berthing Facilities - It has a 201 m long wharf with
30 average draft of 5.5 m. The port also has a RoRo facility.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are available.
Vessels requiring stevedores should notify the port 5 hrs
before ETA. Fresh water is delivered to the pier by municipal
35 fire trucks during emergency cases only.
Pilotage for vessels wishing to berth at Palompon Port
is compulsory and provided by Tacloban Harbor Pilots'
Association. Vessels should notify the pilots 24 hrs before
40 ETA.
Anchorage with a limited swinging room, W of the
town, is protected from W winds and seas by Taboc Island
and its surrounding reefs. However, during high tide, swell
coming from the S and SW still reached the vicinity of the
pier and surrounding anchorage. The anchorage is good only
for vessels up to a maximum of 39.5 m (130 ft) in length,
while it is also recommended to ride on two anchors to
minimize excessive swinging.
Directions - To enter Port Palompon come to a position
with Canaguayan Point bearing 046o and Palompon Light
bearing 105o. From this position steer 105o, heading for the
light and keeping a good lookout for the reefs on either side
55 which show well at low water and are generally marked by
fish traps and bamboos with bushy tops. This course should
carry a vessel about 0.1 mile N of the white beacon and
midway between the reefs surrounding Canaguayan Point
and Taboc island. When the pier at Palompon bears 140o haul
S in mid-channel and go alongside the pier or anchor in 16.5
14-5
m (9 fm), mud bottom, about 320 m (350 yards) SW of it.
TABOC ISLAND AND GUMALAC ISLAND S of
Canaguayan Point, are low, wooded islands on the same reef
which in places extends more than 0.5 mile W of the islands.
Taboc Island is known locally as Tabuk Island. The island
was declared as a marine park, serving as Palompon's bird
and fish sanctuary. Buoys were placed around Taboc Island
to mark the boundary of Tabuk Marine Park. The vicinity
of the island have various diving sites. Caution must be
taken by mariners passing the area to avoid collision with
the diver's boats and the divers.A jetty, with a watch tower
at its shore end, is located on Taboc Island about 0.7 mile
SW of Palompon Light.
CABGAN is a similar but smaller island S of Gumalac
Island and separated from it by an unimportant channel
forming a break in the reef. It is also surrounded by reefs
which extend about 0.5 mile seaward.
Dangers - The reefs which surround the above islands
and fringe the shore continue S to Duljugan Point, 8.8 miles
S of Canaguayan Point. These reefs have their greatest width
about 2 miles NW of Duljugan Point. Although marked in
many places along its edge by stakes a number of vessels 25
have struck on this reef, and, to avoid accidents, mariners are
advised when rounding it to keep Canaguayan Point bearing
nothing N of 014o and Duljugan Point nothing S of 111o.
DULJUGAN POINT, the SW extremity of the land
in this vicinity, is low and flat. The reef which fringes the
coast from Taboc Island terminates here, and the S side of
the point is clear and steep-to. Mangroves grow out on the
reef W of Duljugan Point and surround a small islet about
0.8 mile from the land, giving it the appearance of forming
part of the point.
DUPON BAY, entered between SACAY POINT,
situated 1.8 miles E of Duljugan Point and CATIYOMAN
POINT, about 1.5 miles further SSE, is a spacious harbor. The
depth at the entrance is 56.7 m (31 fm), decreasing toward
the head which is foul. A stranded wreck is located on the
reef about 1.3 miles NNE of Catiyoman Point.
Prominent Features - Large warehouses and cylindrical
tanks of the Leyte Industrial Development Estate (LIDE) are
located on Catiyoman Point. LIDE hosts various factories
that specializes in the processing of fertilizer, and copper
smelting and refinery.
Major Light - Isabel Light (10° 54' 48"N., 124° 24'
54"E.) is displayed from a white tower on Sacay Point.
Currents usually set N at flood and reversed to S at
ebb. The ebbing tide, which was observed at about 2 knots,
is much stronger than the flooding. This anchorage is fairly
protected from all directions except S. Swell coming in from
the S is usually broken up upon reaching this anchorage due
to the coral reef extending SE of Sacay Point.
14-6
ISABEL (QUIOT), is a town on the E shore of the bay.
Sea-borne trade and commerce of this town usually links
with Cebu, Palompon, Roxas and Manila. Fuel and diesel
can be delivered by barge from Cebu. Freshwater can also
5 be delivered from Cebu but expensive. The town is marked
by red obstruction lights shown from a chimney. A private
airstrip lies SSE of the town.
Dangers - Ruins of an old pier were reported to exist
10 W of the government pier.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Isabel
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917842-7607 and
e-mail at cgss.isabel@coastguard.gov.ph.
15
Berthing Facilities - A 230-m long concrete causeway
pier fronts the town. Passenger and fishing boats regularly
call at this pier. Large vessels have difficulty approaching this
pier on the account shallow waters in the area. The offshore
20 end of the pier requires reinforcement and can only berth
tugboats and smaller vessels.
BANTIGUI (BANTIGUE), a barrio about 1 mile W
of Isabel, is on the W coast of Dupon Bay. It has a 50-m
long pier. Motorized boats ferrying people from Isabel call
at the barrio daily. A berthing facility for power barges,
consisting of 35-m long pier and six dolphins, is located
about 0.3 mile S of Bantigui. A framework tower stands on
one of the dolphins.
30
LIDE or the Leyte Industrial Development Estate is
an industrial zone located on Catiyoman Point. It has two
berthing facilities: the PhilPhos Wharf and the PASAR
Wharf. The port can handle vessels up to 64,000 DWT.
35
Berthing Facilities - The PhilPhos Wharf has a total
length of 760 m and is comprised of five berths. The N end
of the wharf is the general cargo berth, two berths at the S
end is for bulk discharge, and there are 2 berths for bagged
40 cargo. It is reported that the S end of the main quay is used
for discharging liquid cargo like phosporic acid and liquid
ammonia. Three grab cranes, feeding conveyor belt systems,
and other cranes for loading cargo are available. Vessels
desiring to berth to Philiphos Wharf must contact the port
45 2 hrs before arrival.
PASAR Wharf, situated just S of the Philiphos Wharf,is
about 90 m long with alongside depth of 12 m. Ore for the
copper smelting plant is discharged at this berth.
50
Towage - Two 6,000 hp tugs are available.
Pilotage to the wharves of LIDE is compulsory and
available for 24 hrs. Vessels should send notice to Tacloban
55 Pilots' Association 24 hrs before ETA. Pilot boards at position
0.75 miles SW of Catiyoman Point.
Qurantine Anchorage is located about 0.8 miles W of
Catiyoman Point, in a depth of about 80 m.
60
 Anchorage - Good anchorage in 14.6 m (8 fm) is about
0.5 mile off the W shore. Another anchorage recommended
is between barrio Bantigui and Sacay Point, 0.25 mile E
from the shore and 0.5 mile NNE of Sacay Point, in about
16.5 m (9 fm), mud bottom. The holding ground is poor on
account of the loose mud bottom so that dropping of two
anchors is compulsory.
MATLANG BAY, about 1 mile E of Dupon Bay,
is small and well sheltered from all except S winds. The
anchorage area is restricted by reefs from both sides and at
the head. The barrio of MATLANG is on the E entrance point.
Berthing Facility - Pingag Ferry Terminal (10° 53'
46"N., 124° 27' 01"E.) is the major berthing facility in the
bay. RoRo vessels from Danao, Cebu regularly call at the
pier.
PILAR is a town on the NE end of the island. There is a
regular passenger vessel to Ormoc and Danao City in Cebu.
The town is connected by road to Kawit, thence around the
island. Fresh water is obtainable from a pipe connection at
5 the landing. Boats calling here head in parallel to the line of
the mole and for the NE corner.
Major Light - Pilar Light (10° 48' 18"N., 124° 34'
00"E.) is displayed at the root of the mole.
10
Caution - A dangerous shoal, having a depth of 0.6 m
(2 ft) at mean lower low water, extends from the shore to
a point about 30 m (100 ft) SE of the end of the causeway.
15 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Pilar
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63916-4752174
and +63921-4196918, and e-mail at cgss.pilar@gmail.com.

MOUNT MAANGA, on the peninsula forming the W Berthing Facility - A 260-m long stone mole with
side of Ormoc Bay and about 4 miles NE of Matlang Bay, 20 concrete landing extends from the beach, E of the town. In
is a sharp, double-tipped peak 596 m (1,955 ft) high and May 1951, the controlling depth at its end was 1.8 m (6 ft).
an excellent landmark from all directions. The N tip is the
higher. Anchorage - In fine weather an indifferent anchorage
may be found off the end of the mole in 34.7 to 36.6 m (19
CALUNANGAN POINT, 4 miles ESE of Matlang 25 to 20 fm).
Bay, is low, flat, fringed with mangroves, and skirted by a
very narrow, steep-to, coral reef. The shores in this vicinity KAWIT is a barrio on a conspicuous sandy beach on the
may be safely approached to a distance of 0.5 mile. Binabaye SW point of the island. Anchorage may be had off Kawit, but
Light (10° 52' 30"N., 124° 30' 00"E.) is displayed from a necessarily very close in because of the great depth of water.
white tower about 1 mile NW of the point. 30 This anchorage should be approached cautiously as the bank
is very steep. In case of necessity, anchorage may also be
CAMOTES ISLANDS (CHART 1538), consisting of found off the barrios of LANAO and DAPDAP on the NW
Ponson, Poro and Pacijan Islands and the small islet Talong, coast. Both barrios have piers for small boats.
are S of Calunangan Point. They are generally fringed with
narrow, steep-to, coral reefs with deep water close to them. 35 KAWIT STRAIT, between Ponson and Poro Islands,
The channel between them and the coast of Leyte is deep is about 2 miles wide, but its navigable width is reduced
and clear. There are no good anchorages in the immediate to about 1 mile by Poro Shoal which extends 1.5 miles N
vicinity of this group. from Poro Island. The channel, which runs immediately S of
Ponson Island, is clear and deep. At times the tidal currents
The islands form part of the Province of Cebu although 40 run with a velocity of 2 to 3 knots, the flood setting SE and
they are nearer to Leyte. Its population are distributed among the ebb NW.
four small towns and a number of villages.
PORO SHOAL is a large coral reef extending about 1.5
Tidal Currents - There are two principal flood tidal miles from the NE coast of Poro Island. With the exception
currents, coming from the opposite directions, that are felt 45 of three small patches of 2.2, 2.7, and 5 m, the average depth
in the Camotes Sea and adjacent areas off Cebu, Leyte and over the shoal is 5.5 to 9.1 m. Small vessels will find a good
Bohol. The flood current from the N passes from W to E in 7.3 m channel between the shoal and Poro Island by keeping
the channel between Ponson Island and Calunangan Point, about 0.3 mile from the coast.
and curves around the island to the S. The flood current
from the S, which has entered by Surigao Strait, is reported 50 HERMOSA BANK is a very small detached coral patch
to meet the flood current from the N about 5 miles SE of the with a depth of 11.8 m and deep water all around, about 1
Camotes Islands. mile E of VILLA HERMOSA POINT, the E extremity of
Poro Island.
PONSON ISLAND, the most N island of the group, is
with its NE extremity 4.5 miles SE of Calunangan Point. It 55 PORO ISLAND is about 2 miles SW of Ponson Island.
is 221.3 m (726 ft) high. The reef which fringes its coasts is Mount Three Peaks, near the S side of the island, nearly
nowhere over 0.3 mile in width, except in one place, on the midway between the ends, is 391 m (1,282 ft) high. The
SE coast, where there is a small bight from which the reef coasts of Poro are fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef,
extends 0.8 mile. except on the NE side, where Poro Shoal extends into Kawit
60 Strait, and on the W end, where it is connected with Pacijan

14-7
Island by coral reefs bare at low water. San Francisco is landed at Poro; a road, about 2 miles long,
joins the two towns. There is a post office, and mobile phone
TUDELA is a small town on the S side of Poro Island. communication in San Francisco. An airstrip is located about
There is a post office in town. Telephone communication and 0.9 mile NW of the town.
bus transportation to San Francisco are available. There is a 5
rural doctor who attends to minor medical cases. Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Francisco may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63935-
Major Light - Tudela Light (10° 38' 06"N., 124° 28' 1456157 and +63955-9331930, and e-mail at this address:
18"E.) is shown from a prominent 10 m concrete pole on top cgss.santiago@gmail.com.
of a hill SE of the town. 10
Berthing Facility - A 50-m long and 70-m long piers
Berthing Facility - The town has a 80-m long pier are located about 0.4 mile S and 1 mile N of the town,
accessible to small boats. respectively. The piers are only accesible to boats and shallow
draft launches.
Anchorage is in 12.8 to 27.4 m (7 to 15 fm), mud and 15
coral bottom, about 0.2 mile offshore S of the town. CONSUELO, about 5 miles W of San Francisco, has
a 45-m long pier. RoRo vessels from Danao City in Cebu
PORO, a town about 3.5 miles W of Tudela, has a Island call daily at this pier.
church that shows prominently from the SW. The anchorage
off Poro is exposed to S winds, the same as that of Tudela. 20 Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
There are daily trips to Cebu City by fastcraft and to Mandaue Consuelo may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
City by motorized banca. A RoRo vessel has daily trips 1537331 and e-mail at cgss.sanfrancisco@gmail.com.
between this town and Danao City.
TALONG ISLET, locally known as Tulang Island, is
Major Light - Poro Island Light (10° 37' 40"N., 124° 24' 25 small, irregularly shaped, 23 m (75 ft) high, about 0.3 mile
28"E.) is displayed from a white tower near SE of the church. N of the NW point of Pacijan Island. Houses are located at
the SE end of the island. Tulang Light (10° 43' 32"N., 124°
Port Management - CPA operates the government pier 18' 55"E.) is displayed from a white tower on the NW end of
of Poro. The port manager may contacted at telephone no. the island. The navigable channel between it and Pacijan is
(+6332) 516-3098. 30 reduced by reefs on either side to a width of about 0.1 mile.

Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Poro
may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-8095729
and +63998-5858307, and e-mail at cgcamotes@gmail.com.
Berthing Facilities of Poro are composed of two
concrete piers extending SSE and ESE, and two RoRo ramps.
PUERTOBELLO, a barrio about 1.6 miles NW of Villa
Hermosa Point, has a 180-m long pier. Boat ferries regularly
call from Ormoc in Leyte and Danao in Cebu.
Distress & Rescue - Coast Guard personnel are
stationed in Puertobello.
PACIJAN ISLAND is immediately W of Poro Island.
The S part of the island is 247 m (811 ft) high,and near the
N part there is a small flat hill 102 m (335 ft) high; between
these hills is large brackish LAKE LANAO which has a
depth of about 3.7 m (2 fm).
Major Light - Pacijan Light (10° 36' 23"N., 124° 16'
34"E.) is displayed from a white tower on a point about 0.8
mile N of PAGTUDLAN POINT.
SAN FRANCISCO, a town on the E extremity of
the island, is connected with Poro Island by a bridge. The
bays formed N and S of the town by the E end of Pacijan
and the W end of Poro are nearly blocked by reefs which
bare 1 mile from the bridge in either direction. Cargo for
ORMOC BAY TO MAASIN (CHART 1537 & 1538)
- ORMOC BAY, E of Calunangan Point, is deep and free
from dangers, the narrow reefs which fringe the shores being
35 steep-to. Anchorage may be found all around the shores of the
bay in 14.6 to 27.4 m (8 to 15 fm) with good holding ground.
Excepting off the delta of the BAO RIVER, on the W side of
the head of the bay, and in the bight of Port Bello, just S of it,
the shores may be approached to 0.3 mile by vessels of any
40 draft. The immediate hinterland is an important hemp and
sugar producing area. There are a number of towns which are
regular ports of call for coasting vessels from Cebu.
MERIDA is a small town on the W shore. It has a post
45 office. A concrete pier, on which there is a cargo shed affords
landing for small boats. The controlling depth at the end was
1.5 m (5 ft) in 1959. A privately maintained, fixed red light,
9.1 m (30 ft) above high water, is displayed on dark nights
only, from a wooden stand in front of the cargo shed.
50
PORT BELLO, in the NW part of Ormoc Bay,
affords an anchorage in the SW monsoon off the village of
BIASONG at the head of the port in 16.5 to 21.9 m (9 to
12 fm), mud bottom. It is much frequented in bad weather.
55 A dangerous wreck lies in the middle of the port about 0.5
mile ENE of the village. Fish traps are present off the shore
at thead of the port.
ORMOC CITY, in the NE part of the bay, at the base
60 of a slope gradually ascending E, is the largest population

14-8
center in Western Leyte and a place of some commercial
importance. The city, with its several buildings, is visible
from a distance. The numerous city lights at the waterfront
is a good guide in entering and docking the pier at night.
The city has several sawmills and an ice plant. There is
a large public market, shopping malls, and a good number
of stores. Food supplies in moderate quantities are available.
Potable water is being sold at the pier by Ormoc Water
District. Gasoline, diesel oil in drums and kerosene in tins are
obtainable. A petroleum depot located at the barrio of Linao
and about 1.3 miles NW from the pier supplies the city of
its fuel requirement. A private hospital is within the city and
has modern and adequate facilities, while the government-
owned hospital is about 2 km N of the city proper. Coasting
vessels from Cebu call daily and those from Manila weekly.
Telephone, mobile phone services, and Internet connection
are available. Branches of major courier services and banks
are present. Bus transportation to other towns and Metro
Manila are available daily.
Prominent Features - Prominent landmarks in the
approach to the city include the following: the church cross of
Ormoc Cathedral, E side of the city, and lighted red at night; a
water tank about 0.8 mile SE of the city, where Camp Dones
is located; the three stacks about 2.3 miles SE of the city,
painted with black and displayed a fixed white light at night.
Major Light - Ormoc Light (11° 00' 22"N., 124° 36'
23"E.) is diplayed from a white tower at the root of the pier.
Danger - It was reported that there are awashed or
sunken broken pilings near the W side of the government
pier which may pose hazard to unsuspecting vessel.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coast of Ormoc. Anchoring and fishing within
the vicinity of the cables are prohibited.
Several sunken wrecks mentioned previously cannot be 40
accounted in 1986, except for the one about 0.98 mile WNW
of the Ormoc church in depth of 17.5 m (9.6 fm). of Ormoc, is visible from seaward. It has postal facilities.
A highway from Baybay to Ormoc passes through Albuera.
Port Management - The government pier of Ormoc is Vessels from Cebu sometimes call at this town.
operated by PPA PMO-Ormoc, which may be contacted at 45
telephone nos. (+6353) 561-4270 and (+6353) 255-2773. The
government pier can accommodate vessels up to 2,367 GRT. 36"E.) is displayed from the town.
Distress & Rescue - Ormoc serves as the headquarters
of the Coast Guard District - Eastern Visayas and a Maritime
Rescue Sub-Center. The Coast Guard station may be
contacted at telephone no. (+6353) 561-2890, and mobile
phone nos. +63929-6742264, +63917-7591218 and +63930-
3135188. The station may also be contacted via E-mail at
cgsormoc@yahoo.com and VHF Channel 16.
The Maritime Police may be contacted at mobile phone
no. +63975-1464545.
Berthing Facilities - The 200-m long pier, with an
average depth of 5.5 m, is located about 0.3 miles of the
cathedral. It has a RoRo ramps. Available cargo handling
equipment include two 15-tonner mobile cranes. A 250 hp
tugboat is also available.
5
A privately-operated landing is located about 0.7 mile
NW of the government pier.
Port Services - Cargo handling services, fresh water
10 supply, and bunkering are available at the government pier.
Welding jobs are the only available repair service.
Pilotage is compulsory and provided by Tacloban
Harbor Pilots' Association. Vessels should send 24 hrs prior
15 notice of ETA to the pilot association.
Anchorage off Ormoc is S of the town in 27.4 m (15 fm),
soft mud bottom, about 0.3 to 0.35 mile from the pierhead;
inshore of this the water shoals rapidly. The survey of 1986,
20 recommended an anchorage in depth of 20 m (11 fm), mud
bottom, about 3 miles SE of the offshore end of the pier and
0.35 mile from the nearest shore. During bad weather, in the
presence of a SW wind, vessels can anchor, about 4 miles
SW of Ormoc City, at Port Bello for cover.
25
From Ormoc the coast trends SE with a bend eastward
for 22 miles to the town of Baybay. This coast is low
and consists of steep beaches of cobblestones and small
boulders, with deep water close-to. Near the coast are heavily
30 wooded hills from 305 to 610 m (1,000 to 2,000 ft) high, and
immediately back of them is a mountain range from 914 to
1,219 m (3,000 to 4,000 ft) high, running parallel to the coast.
PANALIAN POINT, located about 1.6 miles SSE of
35 Ormoc, has a sugar central in its vicinity. A pier, which is
operated by the sugar central, is located about 1 miles from
the point. Vessels, which call by previous arrangement,
anchor in 12.8 m (7 fm), about 0.3 mile offshore and load
from lighters.
ALBUERA, a town along the coast about 7.5 miles SE
Major Light - Albuera Light (10° 55' 00"N., 124° 41'
DAMUHAN, a barrio about 3.5 miles SE of Albuera,
50 has dolphins fronting it. The dolphins are used by vessels
delivering LPG and industrial gas at Pryce Gas Depot located
in the barrio.
HILAPNITAN, a barrio about 8 miles SE of Albuera,
55 has an oil mill in its vicinity. Large cylindrical tanks and
buildings of the oil mill are prominent. A 70-m long pier
fronts the oil mill.
BAYBAY CITY, is located along the W coast of Leyte,
60 near the mouth of PAGBAGANAN RIVER, formerly
14-9
Pagbangaran River. The old stone church with one tower is a
good landmark. In May 1987, The cross on top of the belfry
of this church is lighted green and visible at night.
The government hospital, with modern and adequate 5
facilities is situated about 1.5 km N of the pier. The public
market is a walking distance from the pier. Lodging are
available. The city hall, post office, public plaza, and the
government and privately-owned radio telecommunication
facilities are all located nearly along the coastline. Baybay 10
is connected by bus or jeepney transportation to other towns.
Coasting vessels from Cebu or Tacloban call every week at
Baybay then proceed for Manila. Corn and copra are the
most important products shipped. Foodstuffs, ice, gasoline
and diesel oil can be purchased in moderate quantities.
Major Light - Baybay Light (10° 40' 32"N., 124° 47'
56"E.) is displayed from a white tower near the shore end
portion of the government-owned pier.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO - Baybay, which can be contacted at telephone
no. (+6353) 335-2354. It can accommodate vessels up to
1,141 GRT.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Baybay
City may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63939-1133686
and e-mail at cgss.baybay@coastguard.gov.ph.
Berthing Facilities - The government pier has a total
berth length of 310 m with controlling depth of 5.5 m.
Port Services - Cargo handling service is available. A
steady supply of fresh water is available at the pier.
Anchorage protected from all winds except from W,
may be found in 21.9 to 27.4 m (12 to 15 fm), mud bottom,
about 0.5 mile W of the town. During bad weather and to
avoid the strong W wind vessels can anchor at Port Bello,
23 miles NW of Baybay.
From Baybay the coastline curves to form a bay about
1 mile in extent between Baybay and the reefs off Catarman
Point, 2.5 miles S. A conspicuous hill, 96 m (316 ft) stands
on the E shore of this bay.
A small coral reef with a depth of 1.8 m (1 fm) is 1.8
miles SSW of Baybay. There is good anchorage E of the reef
and also off the barrio of PUNPUNAN, at the head of the
bay, in 11 to 18.3 m (6 to 10 fm), mud bottom.
CATARMAN POINT is fringed by a reef which
extends nearly 0.5 mile NW. A T-shaped pier owned and
operated by a mining company is on the N side of the point.
It is the loading site for manganese ore mined from a deposit
in the nearby area. From this point the coast trends SSW with
a bend E for 10 miles to Amogotada Point. From Catarman
Point to the barrio of GUADALUPE, 6 miles S, the coast is
coarse gravel beach backed by hills from 183 to 610 m (600
to 2,000 ft) high. The water is deep close to shore.
14-10
A reef covered by a depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm) lies 0.8
mile WSW of the barrio of Guadalupe, and another reef,
bare at low water, lies 1 mile SW of the same point and 0.5
mile from shore.
INOPACAN is a small town 8.5 miles S of Catarman
Point, on the N side of Amogotada Point. It has a post office.
The town has a 170-m long pier for use by small boats
ferrying people and goods to Cuatro Islands.
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off the
W coast of Leyte from Amogotada Point to Green Point
may contact the remotely controlled coast station with VHF
DSC alerting in Maasin (10° 07' 54"N., 124° 50' 08"E.).
15 Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for
details.
AMOGOTADA POINT is low, flat, fringed with
mangroves, and covered with coconut trees. It is skirted by
20 reefs to a distance of nearly 0.4 mile with deep water close
to the edges.
MOUNT BONTOC, a very conspicuous, steep, flat-
crowned hill, 203 m (665 ft) high, is immediately S of
25 Amogotada Point; when first seen from N it appears as an
island and is liable to be mistaken for the point, which is
quite low.
CUATRO ISLANDS are a group of four islets W and
30 NW of Amogotada Point. The channels between the islands
and between them and the coast of Leyte are deep and clear.
Marine Protected Area - Cuatro Islands and the
surrounding reefs are proclaimed as protected area. Activities
35 that may harm the environment within the protected area are
strictly prohibited.
HIMUQUITAN ISLET, the S and largest, is 2.5
miles W of Amogotada Point; it is 100 m (328 ft) high, very
40 conspicuous, and fringed by a narrow, steep-to, coral reef.
APIT ISLET is 1.5 miles N of Himuquitan; it is 46 m
(150 ft) high and fringed by a narrow reef.
45 MAHABA ISLET is about 2 miles NW of Apit; it is 42
m (137 ft) high and fringed by a reef which, on the S side,
extends to a distance of nearly 0.5 mile.
DAQUIO ISLET is about 1.5 miles NNW of Apit.
50 It is low and sandy and 12 m (40 ft) high to the tops of the
trees; it is surrounded by a reef which, on the NW end,
extends about 0.3 mile.
From Amogotada Point the coast trends S for 4.5 miles
55 to BINOBOLANG POINT, thence continues with a deep
curve E for 15 miles in the same direction to Green Point.
Along this coast the bottom shelves off more gradually, the
18.3 m (10-fm) curve being found in some places more than
0.5 mile from the shore.
60
 HINDANG is a small town about 3 miles S of
Amogotada Point. The shore reef widens in this vicinity to
about 0.3 mile. Anchorage for vessels calling at Hindang
is in 12.8 to 18.3 m (7 to 10 fm) about 0.5 mile from shore
with the church bearing 141o. Hindang Light (10° 26' 10"N.,
124° 43' 29"E.) is displayed from a white tower at the town.
HILONGOS is the town about 3.9 miles SE of Hindang.
It has a government hospital, a private hospitals, and medical
clinics. The town is connected by road to Ormoc and other 10
towns. Buses plying the Manila - Maasin route passes
through this town. Coasting vessels call daily from Bohol
and Cebu. The town has an airstrip, which is only suitable
for small aircrafts. Mobile phone communication, telephone
connection, and Internet connection are available. Two 15
gasoline stations, rural banks, and a branch of a national
courier and money remittance company are present in the
town.
Port Management - The government pier fronting the 20
town is operated by PPA TMO-Hilongos, which may be
contacted at telephone no. (+6353) 336-2444. The port could
accommodate vessels up to 249 GRT.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
Hilongos may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-
8427702.
Berthing Facility - The government pier has a total
berth length of 124 m and average depth of 5 m. RoRo ramp
is available.
Port Services - Cargo handling is available from local
providers. Fresh water is available at the port. Minor deck
and engine repairs can be done at Hilongos.
Anchorage for vessels calling at Hilongos may be had
within 200 m distance from the pier.
BATO is the town about 3.6 miles SE of Hilongos. The
town has a market. Buses plying the Manila - Maasin route
passes through this town. Coasting vessels from Cebu City
call at Bato daily.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Bato
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8427963 and
e-mail at cgss.bato@coastguard.gov.ph.
Berthing Facility - The government pier fronting the
town has a length of 70 m and is connected to the shore by
a causeway. A RoRo ramp is available.
MATALOM, the town located about 2.6 miles of Bato,
has a community hospital. A small jetty, for use by boats,
fronts the town.
CANIGAO ISLAND is about 1 mile from shore and 6
miles NW of Green Point. It is about 0.3 mile in extent, low
and covered with coconut trees. It is on the NE edge of a reef
1 mile long N and S and nearly 0.5 mile wide at the S end.
Canigao Light (10° 15' 00"N., 124° 45' 00"E.) is displayed
from a white tower on the island.
The channel between Canigao Island and Leyte is nearly
5 1 mile wide, clear, and has depths of 16.5 to 25.6 m (9 to
14 fm) in it.
ABEL REEF, with a depth of 7.0 m (3.75 fm) , is 1.8
miles S of Canigao island. About 1.5 miles S of Abel Reef
and about 0.6 mile W of TAGUUS POINT is a coral mount
reported in 1963 to have a least depth of 2.7 m (1.5 fm).
GUADALUPE, a barrio located about 1.2 miles S
of Taguus Point, has a boat harbor that is protected by
breakwaters.
GREEN POINT, the SW extremity of Leyte, is
made prominent by GREEN CONE, 140 m (460 ft) high,
immediately E of it. The shore reef here extends a little over
0.3 mile offshore. The SW coast of Leyte at this point may
be rounded safely at a distance of 0.8 mile.
Caution - Submarine power cables are present off the
coast of Green Point. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited
25 in the vicinity of the submarine cables.
SOUTH COAST OF LEYTE
(CHARTS 1537 & 4603)
30
DISTRESS & RESCUE – Vessels in distress off the
S coast of Leyte may contact the remotely controlled coast
stations with VHF DSC alerting in Maasin (10° 07' 54"N.,
124° 50' 08"E.) and Surigao City (09° 46' 55"N., 125°
30' 00"E.). Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in
35
Chapter 2 for details.
From Green Point the coast trends E for 6 miles to the
town of Maasin. Along this stretch of the coast, a broad
coastal reef extends offshore more than 0.2 mile in places.
40
Behind this reef the shore is bordered by mangroves. From
the barrio of LOOC, 1.1 miles SE of Green Point, to Maasin,
the mangrove-fringed coast is backed by a narrowing coastal
plain which rises into lightly timbered hills. Near Looc, a low
rock spur projects into the sea from the face of a steep cliff.
45
About 1 mile farther SE is the mouth of the mangrove-lined
LOOC RIVER.
MAASIN CITY (CHART 1537) is the capital of the
province of Southern Leyte which lies on a small plain the
50
back of which is a semi-circle of hills, the highest being 170
m (558 ft) high and standing about 1 mile NE of the town.
Branches of various national banks could be found in the
city. Medical services are provided by the Maasin General
Hospital and private clinics. An airport, located about 5 miles
55
NW of thew city, can only serve light aircrafts. A highway
extends to Sogod and Tacloban. Limited food supplies, ice,
are obtainable. Telephone and mobile phone services, as
well as, Internet connection are available. The town ships a
considerable amount of hemp and copra.
60
14-11
 The town is protected by a seawall from which a coral
reef, bare at low water, projects about 0.2 mile S. It is a port
of entry and a regular port of call for a number of coasting
vessels. This port is usually exposed to the E and SE winds.
The town proper of Maasin seems to be divided in the
middle by TUBURAN CREEK. East side of the creek is the
government pier of Maasin.
Major Light - Maasin Light (10° 08' 00"N., 124° 50'
21"E.) is at the inshore side of the pier.
Caution - Submarine telecommunication cables are
present off the coast Maasin. Anchoring and fishing are
prohibited in the vicinity of the cables.
Port Management - The government pier is operated
by PPA TMO-Maasin, which may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6353) 381-2275. It can accommodate vessels up to
2,093 GRT.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Maasin
City may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63927-5050874
and e-mail at cgs.maasin@coastguard.gov.ph.
Officers of the Philippine National Police - Maritime
Group may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63926-
7253686.
Berthing Facilities - The port consists of a 110-m long
wharf and two 100-m long piers forming the shape of U.
Port Services - Cargo handling, fresh water supply, and
bunkering are available at the government pier.
Pilotage is compulsory for all foreign vessels, and
domestic vessels of 50 GRT or over. Pilotage is provided
by Surigao Harbor Pilots' Association. Vessels should send
notice 24 hrs before ETA.
Anchorage will be found off the E end of the reef
extending S of the town in 9.1 to 11 m (5 to 6 fm). The
church is prominent from the anchorage. Small craft can
anchor closer in, off the NE point of the reef, in 5.5 to 7.3 m
(3 to 4 fm), sticky bottom.
Directions - Steer for Maasin Light on a 328o course
to reach the port.
SHARP PEAK, 366 m (1,200 ft) high, is prominent in
a trio of hills more than 2 miles NNE of Maasin.
Eastward of Maasin, the coastal section extends through
sparse coconut plantations to the barrio of SAN ROQUE,
about 11.5 miles SE of Maasin, with hills in the back country.
The water along this stretch of coast is too deep to afford
anchorage.
AMPARO POINT, 4.5 miles SE of Maasin, is covered
with coconut trees. Between SAN JOAQUIN, about 1 mile
14-12
E of Amparo Point, and the town of MACROHON, 1.5
miles SE, there is a stretch of flat sandy beach paralleled by
a coastal road practically on the beach. There is a narrow
cobblestone beach at Macrohon; postal facilities are located
5 in the town. A coastal reef, nearly 0.5 mile wide S of the town.
A narrow steep-to strip to San Roque, 5 miles SE.
TANCAAN POINT (CHART 4603), the S extremity
of Leyte, is a low, rocky formation underworn by the sea,
10 giving it the appearance of a rampart. It is fringed by a
narrow, steep-to reef, outside of which the water deepens
rapidly, a depth of 18.3 m (10 fm) being found within 0.3
mile of the point. Tancaan Point is the S termination of a
low, wooded peninsula about 1.5 mile long NW and SE and
15 0.5 mile wide. The N part of this peninsula is formed by a
mangrove swamp through which there is a passage known
as SANTA SOPHIA CANAL, used by local sailing craft at
high water. Parts of this passage bare at low water, and in
one place it is only 27 m (30 yards) wide.
20
LIMASAWA ISLAND, 3 miles SE of Tancaan Point,
from which it is separated by a clear, deep channel 3 miles
wide, is well wooded, and 219 m (719 ft) high in the N part.
The W part is well populated, and a considerable part of the
25 land is planted with hemp and coconut trees. Limasawa is
fringed by a narrow, steep-to reef, and the water close to the
shore is too deep to afford good anchorage for large vessels.
Major Lights - Limasawa North Light (09° 57' 58"N.,
30 125° 03' 32"E.) is displayed from a white tower on the N
point of the island.
Limasawa South Light (09° 53' 45"N., 125° 04' 30"E.)
is displayed from a white tower on the S point ofthe island.
35
Danger - The only detached danger off this island is a
small coral reef with a depth of 8.7 m (4.75 fm) about 230
m (250 yards) from the E shore and about 1 mile N from
the S end.
40
Tidal Currents off the S end of Limasawa run with
great velocity. The flood set NW and the ebb SE.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in
45 Limasawa may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63975-
1384116.
SOGOD BAY is between Tancaan Point, Leyte, and
ILIJAN POINT, Panaon Island. It is deep, free from danger,
50 but is not a good harbor. The shores are clear and so steep-
to that there are very few places where anchorage with
sufficient swinging room, except for the smallest class of
vessels, can be had.
55 The towns of Padre Burgos, Malitbog, Bontoc, Sogod,
Libagon and Liloan and a large number of villages are on
the shores of the bay. Hemp is the principal product of this
vicinity, all of the more accessible hills being planted with
it. Considerable copra is also made, but, except for the strip
60 of land along the beach, the country is not adapted to the
growing of coconuts. (80 ft) long, extends off Bontoc.

The W shore of Sogod Bay, between Tancaan Point and SOGOD, the town at the head of Sogod Bay, is the
the town of Sogod at the head of the bay, has a regular outline center of commerce and trade in the area. A shopping mall
with no deep indentations. 5 and commercial banks are present in the town. Medical
facilities include the 50-bed government hospital and two
Between Tancaan Point and the San Jose River, about 8.5 private hospitals. It is connected by road to Tacloban City
miles N, the beach is backed by a narrow strip of scattered and Maasin. Mobile phone communications, telephone
palms behind which rise heights of 274 and 366 m (900 and connection, and a post office are available.
1,200 ft) at a distance of from 0.5 to 1 mile inland. 10
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Sogod
PADRE BURGOS, the town close N of the E entrance may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-841-4319
of Santa Sophia Canal, has a small pier, with a depth of 2.1 +63998-5858076, and e-mail at cgsssogod@yahoo.com.
m (7 ft) at its head.
15 Major Light - Sogod Light (10° 23' 00"N., 124° 58'
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Padre 40"E.) is displayed from the town.
Burgos may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63956-
1834179. Berthing Facility - The town has a 90 m long L-shaped
concrete pier.
MALITBOG, a town on the W shore of Sogod Bay, 20
is about 9 miles N of Tancaan Point. There is a post office, The town of SOGOD and the barrio of CONSOLACION,
telephone, and mobile phone communications. It is connected 1 mile E of it, are located on a flat coastal plain about 2 miles
by road to Maasin and the town of Sogod, at the head of in extent.
the bay. Malitbog has a government health center, a private
hospital, and a clinic. 25 THE PANDAN RIVER empties between Sogod and
Consolacion, entering the bay by a delta having five mouths.
SW and NNW of Malitbog are large coconut plantations. Rice paddies and coconut plantation occupy the river flats
The coastal plain is up to 0.5 mile wide and 2 miles long. in this vicinity. They do considerable trade but afford no
The W boundary of the plain is another ridge of mountains. anchorage except for small craft which anchor in very deep
30 water just to clear the shore reef. Boats call from Cebu and
Major Light - Malitbog Light (10° 09' 24"N., 125° Surigao three times a week. There is a post office, electric
00' 14"E.) is displayed from a white tower located near the lights, fuel and water supplies, ice plants and bus connections
mouth of Malitbog River. with Tacloban and neighboring towns along the coast. Fresh
and canned goods are available in moderate quantities.
Berthing Facilities - The town has a 40 m long concrete 35
pier. The terrain of the E side of Sogod Bay, as far as Panaon
Strait, consists of a central mountain range forming the
Anchorage - The best anchorage for vessels is just N backbone of the peninsula.
of the pier in 27.4 m (15 fm) hard sand bottom.
40 MOUNT BITANJUAN, 1189 m (3,902 ft) high, 6.5
MOUNT SAUEJON, 288 m (945 ft) high, is 2.5 miles miles ESE of Sogod, and MOUNT GACAT 411 m (1,350 ft)
WNW of the town. Broken hills behind the coast, 213 to 274 high, at the S end of the range, are prominent peaks. There
m (3700 to 900 ft) high, extend to the head of Sogod Bay. are no extensive coastal plains.

ANCHORAGE maybe found in a bight just N of the 45 LIBAGON, a town on the E shore of Sogod Bay, is
barrio of BANDAY, 9.5 miles N of Malitbog, in 31.1 m (17 a regular port of call for coasting vessels. Mobile phone
fm), sand and coral bottom. communication is available in the town.

Immediately N of the town of BONTOC, 3 miles N of PANAON ISLAND, separated from Leyte by Panaon
Banday, there is a bight in which many of the coasting vessels 50 Strait, is connected to Leyte Island by a concrete bridge. The
and small sailing craft seek refuge in typhoon weather, island is divided through its length by a ridge which rises near
preferring it to Port Liloan. A stone causeway, about 24.4 m the N end to a height of 417 m (1,370 ft) at Mount Baganting

Panaon Island from southeastward

14-13
and terminates with 717 m (2,354 ft) at Mount Nelangcapan
which forms the S end of the island. The highest peak, 871
m (2,857 ft) high, is located about midway of the island near
the E side. The entire coast of this island is clear and steep-
to, and there are no off-lying dangers. With the exception of
Liloan Bay there are no good anchorages, although coasting
vessels call at the larger towns. Copra is produced in quantity.
Major Light - Ilijan Point Light (10° 03' 45"N., 125°
08' 08"E.) is the major light for entering the bay.
Caution - A submarine power cable, crossing the
Surigao Strait to Mindanao Island, terminates at the S point
of Panaon Island. Anchoring and fishing are prohibited in
its vicinity.
LILOAN BAY (CHART 1537) is a small, semicircular
cove about 0.4 mile in extent making into the NW part of
Panaon Island at the W entrance to Panaon Strait. A reef
extends about 91 m (100 yards) N and NE from the W 20
entrance of the bay, and the head of the bay is fringed by reefs spring tides with strong eddies and whirlpools at either end
extending more than 137 m (150 yards) offshore.
LILOAN POINT, the W entrance point to the bay, may
be rounded at a distance of 230 m (250 yards) or less and the
vessel then hauled S to the recommended anchorage. Liloan
Light is displayed from the point.
LILOAN, a small town on the SW shore of the bay, is
easy of access. There is a 40 m long pier extending NE from
it. The town has a post officeb and mobile phone services.
There is a public dispensary with a government doctor.
Major Light - Liloan Harbor Light (10° 09' 35"N.,
125° 07' 04"E.) is displayed from a tower on Liloan Point.
Port Management - The government wharf, located
about 0.4 mile NE of Liloan town, is operated by the PPA.
The port manager may be contacted via telephone no.
(+6353) 196-2906.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Liloan
may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63967-3249042 and
e-mail at coastguardstationliloan2017@gmail.com.
Berthing Facilities - The government wharf has a berth
length 25 m with a depth of 6 m below MLLW. The wharf
has a RoRo ramp. The port can accommodate vessels up to
233 GRT.
A RoRo ramp is available about 0.2 miles SE of Liloan
Light.
Port Services - Stevedores are available at the
government wharf. Fresh water is supplied by the local 55
government.
Anchorage for small vessels may be found about 230
m (250 yards) NE of the Liloan pier in 12.8 m (7 fm), sand
and coral bottom.
14-14
PANAON STRAIT (CHART 1537), known locally
as Wawa Strait, is between Leyte and Panaon Islands. It is
about 82.3 m (90 yards) wide at the narrowest point where the
depths in the middle is from 11 to 12.8 m (6 to 7 fm), but is
5 constricted by a bank extending about 55 m (60 yards) from
the S shore and having a depth of 5.5 m (3 fm) at its outer
edge. A bridge crossing the strait is very prominent at sea.
It has a total length of 297 m, a vertical clearance of 13.7 m
(45 ft) and a horizontal clearance of 124 m.
10
Dangers - The E entrance of the strait is somewhat
encumbered by shoals with a least depth of 2.7 m (9 ft) at
a point about in mid channel, 0.3 mile E of the narrows. A
sunken wreck, reported in 1967 to be marked by a small
15 drum, lies in the middle of the E part of the strait about 201
m (220 yards) E of the narrows. Another danger is a detached
rocky shoal with a depth of 3.3 m (11 ft) in the W approach
to the strait about 0.3 mile NE of Liloan Light.
Tidal Currents run with a velocity of 3 to 4 knots at
of Panaon Strait. The flood current sets W and the ebb E.
Directions - On account of the strong tidal currents no
25 sailing vessels should attempt this passage except in a case of
necessity. Coasting vessels passing through the strait usually
pass S of the shoal at the E entrance to avoid the stronger
current and whirlpools on the Leyte side and S of the shoal
at the W entrance to avoid the foul ground between it and
30 the Leyte shoal.
SAN RICARDO, a town at the S end of Panaon Island,
has a small pier. A government wharf, operated by PPA, is
located at the barrio of Binit, about 1 mile NE of the town.
35 Vessels plying between the town and Surigao City call at
the wharf.
Major Light - Cabutan Light (09° 54' 52"N., 125° 16'
52"E.) is located about 0.7 mile SW of the government wharf.
40
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Ricardo may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-821-
6255 and e-mail at ricardosan.juan@coastguard.gov.ph.
45 EAST COAST OF LEYTE
(CHART 1518, 1519 & 4423)
MANGAYAO POINT, immediately N of the E entrance
to Panaon Strait, is formed by a little, rocky promontory,
50 precipitous at its outer end, about 15 m (50 ft) high, and
wooded on top; it is clear and steep-to. A shoal about 0.3 mile
long in a NE direction and with a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm) is
about 0.5 mile E of Mangayao Point. The channel between
it and the shore is about 0.3 mile wide, deep, and clear.
From Mangayao Point the coast trends N for about 6
miles to the mouth of the HIMBANGAN RIVER. The long
peninsula, terminating at Panaon Strait, is traversed by a
range of heavily wooded hills broken up into little peaks.
60 They approach close to the E shore of the peninsula and
form a series of steep-to, rocky bluffs, interspersed with
short sand beaches.
MARANGAY POINT, about 1.8 miles N of Mangayao
Point, is the most prominent point on this coast. It is formed
by a bold, wooded bluff descending steeply from a height
of 61 m (200 ft) to the rocks at its foot. Two rocky islets on
the outer edge of the reef, off the village of MALOPOLO,
1 mile S of Marangay Point, are prominent. A rock, 6 m (20
ft) high, lies on the edge of a narrow shorebank about 1 mile
N of the same point.
From the Himbangan River the coast trends E with a
bend S for about 7 miles to Amagusan Point, and thence N
with a bend E for 8.5 miles to Pandan Point, forming a large
promontory which is dominated by Mount Cabalian.
The shores, as far as the town of ANAHAWAN, about
1 mile NE of Amagusan Point, are formed by a steep,
cobblestone beach with deep water close-to; from Anahawan
N to Pandan Point there is a narrow, fringing reef. The shore
is lined with coconut groves and thickly settled.
SAINT BERNARD (HIMATAGON), a town just E
of the mouth of the Himbangan River, and the town of San
Juan (Cabalian), about 2.5 miles E of Saint Bernard, are the
principal ports between the Himbangan River and Amagusan
Point. The water off both these places is very deep, and the
anchorages are only tenable during the NE monsoon. The
small vessels trading on this coast anchor with a light anchor
and seldom remain overnight, preferring to run to Liloan and
return the following day.
The town has an 85-m long pier. It has postal services,
mobile phone communication, and Internet connection. Saint 35
Bernard Light (10° 16' 48"N., 125° 08' 12"E.) is displayed low, rounding, and fringed with a narrow reef; the land rises
from the town. steeply and is wooded at the back.
SAN JUAN (CABALIAN), a principal town in the
vicinity, is situated on the N side of Cabalian Bay. It is
distinguished by a white stone church with a yellow-roofed
building on one side, a red-roofed building on the other and
the 9.8-meter (32 ft) concrete pole for a proposed light at
the inshore end of the pier. The shore is very steep-to, with
depths of 18.3 to 64 m (10 to 35 fm) close off the town. The
town has a post office. Mobile phone services and Internet
connection are available. Usual cargo at the port are copra,
cement,bottled goods, corn and animal feeds which originate
from Cebu, Surigao, and Iligan. Fish are exported to Dinagat.
Passengers in San Juan conveyed back and forth to Cebu,
Surigao, Manila, Dinagat and Panaon Island.
Major Light - San Juan Light (11° 19' 29"N., 124° 58'
24"E.) is displayed from the town.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in San
Juan may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63917-8079979
and e-mail at cgsssanjuansoleyte@gmail.com.
Berthing Facility - The port of San Juan has a 60-m
long pier running parallel to the shore.
Anchorage - Vessels can anchor in good holding
ground just off the pier. Although it is well protected from
5 the NE monsoon, this anchorage is untenable during the
SW monsoon.
MOUNT CABALIAN, which is the most prominent
mountain in the vicinity of Surigao Strait, is 945 m (3,100
10 ft) high, about 2.5 miles NW of Amagusan Point. It is cone-
shaped, with the upper part broken off and ending in three
main peaks, the central one being the highest. The land rises
gradually at first and is well cultivated for quite a distance
up the slopes, only the upper portion of the mountain being
15 wooded.
AMAGUSAN POINT is low and rounding and covered
with coconut trees; it is clear and steep-to. Anahawan Light
(10° 15' 25"N., 125° 14' 58"E.) is displayed from the point.
20
HINUNDAYAN COVE, a small indentation in the
coastline about 6 miles N of Amagusan Point, is very much
exposed in the NE monsoon. Except for a small detached reef
with a depth of 7.0 m (3.75 fm) that lies in its S part about
25 0.4 mile offshore, the cove is clear of dangers with depths
of about 7.3 to 23.8 m (4 to 13 fm).
HINUNDAYAN, a town at the head of the cove, is a
regular port of call for coasting vessels.
30
Anchorage, in fine-weather season, may be found in
12.8 m (7 fm) about 0.2 mile from shore, the tangent to
Bugho Point bearing 026o.
BUGHO POINT, the N point to Hinundayan Cove, is
LEYTE GULF is the wide body of water between the
40 E coast Leyte and the S coast of Samar. It is deep and free of
dangers in the center.Shoals and reefs appear near the coast
and at the vicinity of the entrance to San Pedro Bay.
Distress & Rescue – Vessels in distress Leyte Gulf
45 may contact the remotely controlled coast station with VHF
DSC alerting in Tacloban (11° 03' 54"N., 125° 01' 24"E.).
Refer to the DSC Limits of Sea Areas map in Chapter 2 for
details.
50 PANDAN POINT lies about 2 miles NW of Bugho
Point and is very prominent. It is composed of weathered
coral rock 3.7 to 4.6 m (12 to 15 ft) high that rises abruptly
to an 244 m (800-feet) wooded summit. This point is at the
NE end of a short ridge of hills that attain a height of 305 m
55 (1,000 ft) about 1 miles SW of the point.
From Pandan Point the coast trends SW for 1.5 miles
and thence NW for 4 miles to Saingan Point, forming
HINUNANGAN BAY. A steep-to shorebank, with depths
60 of less than 5.5 m (3 fm) extends about 0.3 mile from the
14-15
SW side of the S end of the bay. In the bay there are depths SOGOD POINT, 2 miles N of Saingan Point, is low,
of 21.9 to 49.4 m (12 to 27 fm) outside the 18.3 m (10-fm) wooded, and fringed by a narrow reef.
curve which lies close outside the shorebank and about 0.2
mile or less off the steep-to shore between Hinunangan and SILAGO is a town at the mouth of the river of the same
Saingan Point. The bay is exposed to the NE monsoon. 5 name about 3.5 miles NNW of Sogod Point. About 0.4 mile
from shore and 1.3 miles NE of Silago is a cluster of dark
HINUNANGAN is a town on the N side of the mouth rocks mostly awash at high tide but having one spot probably
of the MALAGA RIVER, about 2 miles W of Pandan Point. 1.8 m (6 ft) above high water. This reef is surrounded by
It has a post office and mobile phone service. The Malaga shoal water and should be given a good berth; the channel
River has a very little water on its bar at low water. Anchorage 10 between it and the land is shallow and should not be used.
may be taken off the town, according to draft.
Distress & Rescue - The Coast Guard station in Silago
During the NE monsoon, when it is too rough to may be contacted at mobile phone no. +63905-9608478.
lie in front of the town, partial shelter may be found off
KANIPAAN, 1.3 miles NNW of Hinunangan, the Cabugan 15 PELADA ROCK,1.3 miles S of Hingatungan Point
Islands acting as a breakwater. Most of the small vessels and 0.3 mile from shore, is about 91 m (100 yards) in a N
trading at Hinunangan discharge their cargoes here when direction and 64 m (70 yards) wide. The rock is 10.4 m (34 ft)
the NE winds are strong and when it would be impossible high but is not prominent from E or S. It is clear and steep-to
to discharge in front of the town. Good shelter may also be and surrounded by deep water. Silago Light (10° 33' 19"N.,
found under the lee of Cabugan Islands, but the depths here 20 125° 11' 27"E.) is displayed from a tower on Pelada Rock.
are greater.
A channel about 0.3 mile wide, between it and the shore
SAINGAN POINT, the N entrance point to Hinunangan reef, should only be used by those with local knowledge.
Bay, is composed of dark, smooth rock, low and steep-to,
it is prominent from the S. A pier is located about 0.2 SW 25 The only inshore dangers in this vicinity requiring
of the point. mention are those off the point immediately N from Pelada
Rock. The outermost of these danger is a large, dark rock
CABUGAN ISLANDS are two small, well-populated which comes within about 0.6 m (2 ft) of the surface, breaks
islands NE of Hinunangan Bay. at low water in moderate weather, and with a heavy swell,
30 breaks at all times. This rock is about 0.1 mile from the
CABUGAN CHICO, the S, smaller, and more outer edge of the shore reef. About 183 m (200 yards) SW
conspicuous one, is about 2 miles N of Pandan Point. It is of this rock is a rocky cluster which bares at low water and is
about 0.6 mile in extent, and the highest point, about 91 m separated from the outer edge of the shore reef by a narrow
(300 ft) high, is cone-shaped and prominent. Shoal water channel about 91 m (100 yards) wide.
with a depth of 7.8 m (4.25 fm) extends 0.3 mile NE from 35
it. The remainder of the island is fringed by a narrow, steep- LAGUMA ANCHORAGE is partially protected by the
to coral reef. land and fringing reef to N. In the small cove W of Pelada
Rock fair shelter and good landing places for small craft may
CABUGAN GRANDE, about 0.8 mile N of Cabugan be had during heavy NE weather.
Chico, has no prominent elevation, the hills being of a low, 40
rolling, grassy nature. San Pedro Light (10° 28' 05"N., 125° LAGUMA, the site of a small sawmill, lies at the head
13' 31"E.) is displayed from a white tower on the summit of of the cove. A boat from Cebu and Tacloban calls each week.
the N hald of the island. The island is closely fringed by a Small vessels anchor in 9.1 m (5 fm) at the entrance midway
steep-to reef that extends about 230 m (250 yards) from its S between the reef points and with Pelada Rock bearing about
end and up to about 0.25 mile from the middle of its E side. 45 080o.

The islands are separated from the coast of Leyte, by a
deep, clear channel about 2 miles wide. Between them there
is a good channel, limited by the shoal water extending NE
from Cabugan Chico and that which extends S from the S
end of Cabugan Grande. Tide rips occur in this channel.
From Saingan Point the coast trends in a general N
direction for about 8 miles to Hingatungan Point. This
section of the coast is steep-to and rises rather steeply to
summits of over 305 m (1,000 ft) less than 2 miles inland.
Several mountain peaks, up to about 945 m (3,100 ft), lie
about 3.5 to 55 miles inland from the middle of this section
of the coast.
HINGATUNGAN POINT, the most E point in this
vicinity, seen from N or S, has the appearance of a long,
low, heavily wooded point. It is fringed by a narrow reef.
50 Extending about 0.1 mile from the S side of the point are a
number of rocks; the outer one, awash at low water, is about
27 m (30 yards) S of the outer visible rock which is about
1.2 m (4 ft) high. All these rocks are of dark color and do not
show well when the sea is smooth. A detached 10.7 m (5.75
55 fm) patch lies outside the 18.3 m (10-fm) curve about 0.5
mile SSE of the point. The NE side of the point, for about
1 mile NW, is fringed up to about 0.25 mile offshore by a
steep-to reef and a shorebank.
60 From Hingatungan Point the coast trends NW for 8

14-16
miles then NE for 1.5 miles to Taytay Point; this coast is
fringed by a narrow, steep-to coral reef, and there are no
offlying dangers.
HINGATUNGAN is a small barrio at the head of a
break in the coral reef about 0.6 mile N of Hingatungan Point,
where small vessels up to 24.4 m (80 ft) in length can find
shelter in any weather. This anchorage is used by local craft
trading on this coast.
About 0.8 mile SSW of Taytay Point, is a small, rocky
islet 17 m (57 ft) high, separated from the coast by a shallow
channel about 230 m (250 yards) wide. This islet is not
prominent except when close-to.
TAYTAY POINT (CHART 4423), about 8.5 miles NW
of Hingatungan Point, is a sharp, rocky headland with a very
conspicuous 30 m (100-feet) wooded hill near its outer end.
Back from the point the land rises rapidly to a height of 312
m (1,025 ft) about 1 mile SW from it. A narrow, rocky ledge 20
about 0.9 m (3 ft) above high water extends about 183 m
(200 yards) ENE from the point, and 91 m (100 yards) N
of this ledge is a rock 4.6 m (15 ft) high, with deep water
immediately outside of it. These rocks show prominently
when coasting inshore. 25
From Taytay Point the coast trends WNW for 5 miles
to TANGBO POINT, a rocky point that rises abruptly to a
190 m (624-foot) summit. The rocky intervening coast are
heavily wooded, and fringed with boulders. The adjoining
country is mountainous and heavily wooded. From Tangbo
Point the coast trends N for 20 miles to Vigia Point and,
with the exception of Liberanan Head, is generally low, flat,
and thickly wooded. Except for a few dangers which will
be mentioned hereinafter and a shorebank with depths of
less than 5.5 m (3 fm) that lies up to about 0.5 mile offshore
between Tangbo Point and a position about 2.5 miles NW,
this coast is clear and steep-to and can be safely navigated at
a distance of 0.5 mile. There are a number of rivers emptying
along this coast, but they are small and of little value to
navigation. Hemp and copra are the principal exports of the
coastal towns.
ANCHORAGE, sheltered only during the SW
monsoon, may be found anywhere in this vicinity. 45
DANGERS - A dangerous wreck, with masts showing,
lies about 0.9 mile offshore in a position about 4.2 miles N
by W of Tangbo Point. A detached 10.1 m (5.5-fm) patch
lies about 6.7 miles NNW of the same point.
About 5 miles S of Labiranan Head and 1 and 1.5 miles
from shore are two small coral patches with depths of 8.2
and 10.5 m (4.5 and 5.75 fm), respectively.
A wreck, over which there is a charted depth of 6.4 m
(3.5 fm) lies 0.6 mile offshore about 1.8 miles S by E of
Labiranan Head.
ABUYOG, a town situated on the coast about 2 miles
NW of Tangbo Point and on the N bank of NALIBUNAN
RIVER, which empties into the CADACAN RIVER, is
easily identified from seaward. The large stone church, the
municipal building with galvanized iron roofs and a water
5 tower are the most prominent. Small craft drawing not more
than 1.7 m (5.5 ft) cross the bar at high water and unload
opposite the town. Abuyog has highway connection with
Tacloban. Landline and mobile phone communications and
Internet services are available. The town has a government
10 hospital that can treat minor cases.
Major Light - Abuyog Light (10° 44' 19"N., 125°
01' 20"E.) is displayed from a white tower at the mouth of
Cadacan River.
15
DULAG, on the coast 13 miles N of Abuyog, can
be readily identified by its many galvanized iron-roofed
buildings; the most prominent ones are the large stone church
and the chapel in the cemetery N of the town. Considerable
hemp and copra are shipped from here, and frequently four
or five small craft are anchored off the town. Dulag has a
post office.
LABIRANAN HEAD, a prominent hill about 122 m
(400 ft) high, stands close to the shore about 4.5 miles S of
Vigia Point. It is the SE end of a ridge of hills that rises to a
height of 427 m (1,400 ft) in CATMON HILL, about 2 miles
NW of the head. Both form excellent landmarks. Although
there is no appreciable change in the trend of the shoreline
30 at this point, the hills rising so abruptly from the flat country
to the S give it the appearance of a decided headland when
seen from the sea.
TELEGRAFO, a barrio about 2.5 miles N of Labiranan
35 Head, has an oil depot with four large cylidrical tanks just
S of it. A 290-m long pier with dolphins at its head fronts
the oil depot.
VIGIA POINT, the W entrance point to San Pedro Bay,
40 is formed by TOLOSA MOUNT, a rocky headland 117 m
(384 ft) high, which shows as a pyramid from the S. There
is an old fort on the top of the mount, on which Tolosa Light
(11° 04' 08"N., 125° 02' 12"E.) is shown. This headland is
prominent in all directions from a distance.
TOLOSA is a town on the S side of Vigia Point and is
quite prominent. It has a post office. The town is connected
to Tacloban City by road.
50 SHOALS - Southward of a line drawn between Vigia
Point and Mariquitdaquit Islet and from 0.5 to 4 miles from
shore there are numerous shoals with depths of 2.3 to 9.1
m (1.25 to 5 fm) whose position will be best understood
by reference to the chart. The most dangerous of the above
55 shoals is a small coral patch with a depth of 2.3 m (1.25 fm)
0.5 mile from shore, 2.1 miles S of Vigia Point.
From Vigia Point, the coast trends about 10.5 miles
N to CATAISAN POINT, a low point on the S side of the
60 approach to San Juanico Strait. This section of the coast
14-17
is low and forms the W side of San Pedro Bay. The towns ft) above mean high water about 0.5 mile W of the city and
of Tanauan and Palo are situated about 3 and 6 miles, a 61 m (200 ft) radio tower about 1 mile NW of the city are
respectively, N of Vigia Point. prominent from seaward all around the harbor.

THE TANAUAN, SAN JOAQUIN AND THE
PALO RIVERS, which are all very shallow, discharges
along the stretch of the coast.
TANAUAN lies athwart the Tanauan River about 0.6
mile from its mouth. It can be identified by its long pier, a
water tank marked by a fixed red obstruction light about 0.3
mile SSW of the foot of the pier and a copra mill and some
warehouses near the pier.
The T-head pier, about 6.1 m (20 ft) wide, extend about
332 m (363 yards) in a 105o direction from the S shore of the
town. The T-head, 9.1 m (30 ft) by 27.4 m (90 ft), is oriented
in a 015o-195o direction. Dolphins have been established
along a line parallel with the face of the T-head. Depths of
8.2 to 9.1 m (27 to 30 ft) were found alongside. The pier is
unlighted and of wooden construction. Cargoes can be loaded
directly onto flat-bed trucks. Copra meal and copra oil are
loaded from the pier.
PALO, the other town, is on the S side of Palo River
about 0.8 mile from its mouth. A conspicuous radio tower at
the mouth of the river serves as a good landmark in following
the recommended channel inside San Pedro Bay.
Some hills and mountains back the low coastal plain
along the shore about 1 to 2 miles inland between Palo and
Tacloban.
5 Major Lights - Tolosa Light (11° 04' 08"N., 125° 02'
12"E.) is shown from Vigia Point.
Mariquitdaquit Islet Light (11° 04' 27"N., 125° 09'
10"E.) is displayed from Mariquitdaquit Islet.
10
MARIQUITDAQUIT ISLET, 5 miles W of Capines
Point, is a flat rock washed by the sea, not more than 0.3 or
0.6 m ( a foot or two) above high water, on which are two
rocky lumps about 5.5 m (18 ft) high. A sunken rock, with
15 a depth of 3.7 m (2 fm), is reported about 0.5 mile W and
a number of 5.5 to 16.5 m (3 to 9 fm) patches lie within a
radius of a little over 1 mile of this islet. The islet is marked
by Mariquitdaquit Islet Light.
20 DIO ISLET, low and wooded, is 1.8 miles SE of
Cataisan Point and about 1.1 mile from shore. A wreck lies
stranded on its NW end and a dangerous sunken wreck lies
about 500 m (550 yards) of the islet. Another wreck with a
swept depth of 7.3 m (4 fm) over it is located about 1.6 miles
25 S by E and an obstruction with a depth of 6.4 m (3.5 fm) is
0.9 mile SE of the islet.
PALO REEF is a small, rocky patch with a depth of 0.4
m (0.25 fm) lying 5.8 miles N of Vigia Point and about 1.5
30 miles E of the mouth of the Palo River. Shoal patches, with
depths of 8.2 to 8.8 m (4.5 to 4.75 fm), and three sunken
wrecks lie from 0.25 mile to 1 mile SE of the reef.

MOUNT GUINHANDANG, 137 m (450 ft) high, lies EGBERT SHOALS are two small, rocky patches
close N of Palo, and MOUNT NAGANAGA, 396 m (1,300 35 covered by 2.7 and 3.7 m (1.5 and 2 fm) of water, about 4
ft) high, lies about 2 miles SW of Tacloban and is the highest miles SSE of Dio Islet. These patches are 0.8 mile apart,
of these mountains. NE and SW, and have depths of 16.5 to 18.3 m (9 to 10 fm)
around and between them. The W edge of the SW patch is
SAN PEDRO BAY (CHART 4468) is a large bay marked by a red nun buoy.
formed by the E coast of Leyte and the SW coast of Samar. 40
It is about 11 miles wide at the entrance between Vigia IRIS SHOAL is a small rocky patch with a depth of
Point, Leyte, and Capines Point, Samar and extends some 3.2 m (1.75 fm) 2 miles S of Punubulu Islet.
12 miles N. The entire bay is shoal and encumbered by
numerous islets, reefs and shoals, the location of which can PUNUBULU ISLET, 3 miles E of Dio Islet, is a
be best understood by reference to the chart. Many of the 45 small, low, wooded islet about 0.1 mile long E and W and
shoal depths are over coral and may be somewhat less than 137 m (150 yards) wide. There are several shoal spots E of
indicated. These dangers comprise several groups, between Punubulu, but they are out of the ordinary track of navigation.
which there are deep clear channels, and vessels should have Foul ground with rocks awash extends about 1 mile S and
no difficulty if they adhere to the recommended channel. E of Punubulu.
50
The innumerable fish traps that obstruct the bay seem There is a long, narrow shoal with a depth of 0.4 m
to present to a stranger an impenetrable maze of stakes (0.25 fm) extending about 2.5 miles in an E and W direction
and great caution should be exercised to pass them with a across the head of the bay. There is a narrow channel with
reasonable berth. 2.7 m (1.5 fm) least water between this shoal and Cataisan
55 and Panirugan Points, but the main channel in and out of
Prominent Features in San Pedro Bay are Capines Tacloban is E and N of this shoal. About 0.4 mile N of the
Point, Badungbadung Island, Mariquitdaquit Islet, Tolosa W side of Cataisan Point is a small shoal with a depth of 0.9
Mount (on Vigia Point), Basey Church and Mount Danglay, m (0.5 fm) which should be avoided.
about 2.5 miles N of Tacloban City. A white statue on top of
the hill, 7 m (23 ft) high, with an elevation of 71.6 m (235 60 CHANNELS - The recommended channel into San

14-18
Pedro Bay trends about 9 miles WNW from a position
about 1 mile SW of Capines Point to a position about 4
miles NE of Vigia Point and passes about 1.3 miles NNE
of Mariquitdaquit Islet. Raso and Badungbadung Islets are
reported to form a range for this turning point. It then trends
about 4.5 miles NNW, passing close W of Egbert Shoals, to
the anchorage SE of Dio Islet. The fairway of the channel is
about 0.5 mile wide and clear of dangers.
Another entrance channel leads into San Pedro Bay 10
W of Mariquitdaquit Islet. It trends about 6 miles N from a
position about 4 miles SSW of the islet to a position in the
recommended channel about 2.6 miles NW of that islet.
From Cataisan Point, the coast trends S and NW,
and then N to PANIRUGAN POINT, the NE point of
the peninsula on which Tacloban City stands, forming
CANCABATO BAY, a large, shallow bay about 2 miles long
N and S and 1 mile wide.
SAN JOSE, formerly SAN RICARDO, is a barrio at
the head of this bay.
TACLOBAN CITY (CHART 4464 and 4468), the
capital of the Province of Leyte, is on the NW shore of San 25
Pedro Bay, near the S side of the S entrance to San Juanico
Strait. It is a Customs port of entry open to overseas shipping.
The approaches to the harbor are through Surigao Strait and
San Pedro Bay or through San Juanico Strait with the aid
of a pilot.
Interisland and foreign vessels call frequently at
Tacloban. Motor launches operate between minor neighboring
ports. Provincial highways connect the most important towns
of the province. The Tacloban Airport, located S of Cataisan
Point, has daily commercial flights to Manila, Cebu, Davao,
and Iloilo. Tacloban has air mail and passenger services.
Medical services can be availed from four hospitals present
in the town. Oil depot at Anibong Point, provides ample
supply of petroleum.
The Port of Tacloban is one of the finest in the Visayas
and serves as a catalyzer to the economic development of
Leyte and Samar provinces. It functions as a collection and
distribution point for the region.
In November 2013, storm surges generated by Typhoon District Office has the following contact details:
Yolanda wrecked the city and killed around 2,600 residents.
It was reported that the flood went as high as 8 m in coastal
areas. The raging flood destroyed houses, commercial 50
establishments and public buildings. Six ships, which were
anchored off the Port of Tacloban, were pushed up to 1 km
inland and were left agrounded when the flood receded.
Major Light - Tacloban Light (11° 15' 10"N., 125° 00' 55 the following contact details:
14"E.) is shown at Panirugan Point.
Channel - Lighted cardinal buoys were placed along
the channel to Tacloban Harbor. Refer to the charts and List
of Lights for the details of the buoys. 60
Dangers - Numerous wrecks exist within Tacloban
Harbor, between Anibong and Paniugan Points. Refer to
Chart 4464 for details.
5 Restrictions - The controlling draft for vessels entering
the port via San Pedro Bay is 5.8 m (19 ft).
Tides & Currents - The tide at Tacloban shows great
inequality, mostly in the high waters. The mean range of tide
is about 0.5 m (1.6 ft) while the diurnal range is 2.3 m. Off
Tacloban Harbor, the flood current sets in a NW direction
while the ebb current sets SE with a maximum velocity of
about 3 knots.
15 Weather - Tacloban has practically no dry season.
Rain is frequent and the maximum rainfall occurs during
the months of December, January, and February. During the
months of July, August, and September severe typhoons are
prevalent and the prevailing winds are from SW.
20
Storm Warnings - Typhoon signal are displayed at
Tacloban from a mast on the observatory building atop the
hill in the N part of the town.
Port Management - PPA PMO-Tacloban operates the
government port. The PMO may be contacted at telephone
nos. (+6353) 321-6704 and (+6353) 325-7248, and by
e-mail at pmotacloban@ppavis.com. Vessels on scheduled
voyage should inform the PMO at least 24 hrs before ETA
30 while tramping vessels should send notice at least 36 hrs
before ETA.
Vessels are required to submit the following documents
to the PMO upon entering the port area: crew list, oath of
35 master, passenger list (for passenger vessels only), and roll
book from last port of call. Additional documents for foreign
vessels are the import declaration and pratique. Required
documents for the exit clearance are the following: crew list,
oath of master, passenger list (for passenger vessels only),
40 and export declaration (for foreign cargo vessels).
Customs - The Bureau of Customs office in Tacloban
is located at the port area and may be contacted at telephone
no. (+6353) 321-3370.
45
Immigration - The Bureau of Immigration Tacloban
Address: Kanhuraw Hill, Magsaysay Blvd., Tacloban
Telephone: (+6353) 325-6004
Fax: (+6353) 325-6004
E-mail: bi.tacloban@yahoo.com
Quarantine - The quarantine officer in Tacloban has
Address: Room 74 Divine Word Hospital Clinic,
Avenida Veteranos St., Tacloban City
Mobile phone: +63915-2948485
14-19
 Animal qurantine and plant quarantine officers stationed
in the Regional Office of the Department of Agriculture may
be contacted at these telephone nos. (+6353) 832-0694,
(+6353) 832-0834, and (+6353) 832-0812.
Distress & Rescue - The coast guard station in Tacloban
City may be contacted at mobile phone nos. +63917-
8077454 and +63998-5858066, and e-mail at cgs.tacloban@
coastguard.gov.ph. The Maritime Police station in Tacloban
may be called at mobile phone nos. +6399-78840786 and 10
+6399-78478511.
Berthing Facilities - PMO - Tacloban operates a 530-
m long wharf and a 140-m long pier. Two RoRo ramps are
available. The quay at the head of the small harbor S of the
PPA operated wharf is allotted for passenger outrigger boats.
The 100-m long concrete wharf of a fish port is located about
0.1 mile SW of the PPA-operated pier. The 52 m long T-head
pier at Anibong Point is used for loading petroleum to the
oil depot. Depths of 7.3 m (24 ft) are found alongside its
head. Vessels approaching the pier should exercise caution
due to submerged piles of the former old pier on both sides
of the new pier.
Port Services - Cargo handling services are provided by
Leyte Integrated Port Services, with telephone no. (+6353)
321-3641. Collection of garbage is available upon request
from the Tacloban City government. Fresh water and fuel
may be delivered at the pier.
Repairs - There is a small marine slipway about 0.6
mile SE of Anibong Point. Minor repairs from foundries and
small machine shops are available.
Quarantine Anchorage - All vessels subject to
quarantine inspection should anchor about 0.7 mile N
Panirugan Point and await quarantine inspection.
Anchorage - Inner anchorage for domestic vessels
should take anchor at the entrance to the small cove between
Anibong and Panirugan Points while foreign vessels may
anchor about 0.5 mile NNE of Panirugan Point. Anchorage
may also be had about 2.7 miles E of Panirugan Point. Outer
14-20
anchorage for foreign vessels are at the N end of the fairway
about 1.4 miles SSW and 2 miles SE of Dio Islet. Vessels not
familiar with the fairway may anchor at the pilot boarding
area about 1 mile N of Mariquitdaquit Islet Light.
5
Pilotage through San Juanico Strait and to Tacloban
Harbor is compulsory and rendered by the Tacloban Harbor
Pilots' Association. Vessels requiring pilot should notify the
pilot association 24 hrs before ETA. The pilot association
may be contacted thru VHF channel 16 or at telephone no.
(+6353) 321-2219.
Pilot boats are painted white above and black below the
waterline, with the letter "P" painted on both bows of the
15 boat. During the day, the pilot boat carries at the mast a red
and white flag. Pilot boats are not equipped with VHF radio.
For vessels entering Tacloban through San Juanico
Strait, pilot boards at a position about 1.5 miles NE of
20 Canauay Island. For vessels entering Tacloban through
San Pedro Bay, pilot boards at position about 1 mile N of
Mariquitdaquit Islet Light. In case of inclement weather,
vessels are advised to drop anchor about 3 miles S of Dio
Islet when waiting for the pilot. Pilot only works with visible
25 landmarks. If the landmarks are obscured by rain or fog, the
pilot anchors the vessel. The pilot will not berth or unberth
vessels during strong winds. Pilotage is carried out during
daylight only.
30 Directions - From a position 1.0 mile E of Dio Islet steer
for Basey Church steeple on course 004o. When Jinamoc
Light bears 043o, distant 0.8 mile, and about 0.25 mile NE
from buoy No. “1” in this direction, change course to 307o
heading for CATINIC POINT, and a little to the right of
35 Mount Danglay. When Jinamoc Light bears 089o, distant 1.3
miles and buoy No. “3” about 0.2 mile to the S, change course
to 269o with Jinamoc Light directly astern. Pass midway
between buoys Nos. “2” and “5” with a berth of at least 230
m (250 yards). When Tacloban Light is on port beam, haul
40 S and anchor in a desired anchorage or head for the wharf.
Vessels approaching the anchorage or wharf should avoid a
shoal with a swept depth of 2.7 m (9 ft) about 0.1 mile NW
of the end of the pier.
 APPENDIX I
REPORTING PROCEDURES IN MANILA BAY
I. Corregidor Approach and Passage to or from Manila Bay:
A. Vessels approaching Corregidor Island from all points
of the N, W and S directions, intending to enter Manila and
the Port of Mariveles shall, when 20 miles off Corregidor
Island, report to the VTMS Control Center (VTMSCC) on
Channel 19 or 16. Contents of the report should be:
• Vessel’s name & call sign or IMO Identification No.
• Vessel’s position
• Last port of call
• Vessel’s course and speed
• Vessel’s destination
• General description of dangerous cargoes on board
• Vessel’s type
• Vessel’s draft
• No. of crew and passengers
B. After berthing, mooring or anchoring at the assigned
berth. Contents of the report shall be:
• Name of vessel
5 • Docking time (first line made fast/anchored time)
C. Whenever there is a shift of berth as authorized by the
Port Authority, the vessel, before departing from her present
position and after docking, mooring or anchoring at her new
10 berth, shall report to the VTMSCC the following:
• Vessel’s name
• Time undocked (last line cast or anchor up) from
previous position/berth
15 • Time docked (first line made fast/anchored time) to
her new berth/position
• Name of the Harbor Pilot on board

B. Prior to entering or joining and/or leaving the Traffic D. No vessel shall move to another berth without the
Separation Scheme (TSS), contents of the report shall be: 20 authority from the VTMSCC.

• Vessel’s name III. Departing from Port

• Time
• Vessel’s position and speed Vessels shall make a report to the VTMSCC on the
25 following situations for departure:
II. Notification/Confirmation of Arrival
A. When leaving the berth, contents of the report shall
A. One (1) hr before arrival at the Quarantine Anchorage be:
Area or Pilot’s Boarding Station, contents of the report shall
be: 30 • Vessel’s name and call sign
• Name of Harbor Pilot on board
• Vessel’s name • Position
• Estimated time of arrival • Time passed the Pilot’s Boarding Station

B. Upon arrival at the Quarantine Anchorage Area/ 35 B. When leaving the pilot boarding station, contents of
Pilot’s Boarding Station, contents of the report shall be: the report shall be:

• Vessel’s name • Vessels name

• Arrival Draft • Time
• Air Draft 40 • Location
• Arrival time/anchored time
• Anchored position C. When inside and outside the traffic separation
scheme, contents of the report shall be:
III. Intraport Movement of Vessels
45 • Vessels name
A. Movement from the Quarantine Anchorage Area/ • Time
Pilot’s Boarding Station to pier/anchorage berth, contents • Position
of the report shall be: • Speed

• Vessel’s name 50
IV. Cruising or Navigating Only Within Manila Bay
• Position
• Time A. Vessels cruising or navigating only within Manila
• Name of Harbor Pilot on board Bay shall make a report to the VTMSCC on the following
• Assigned berth situation and positions:
55

App-1
 • When departing the port vessels shall inform the VTMSCC.
• Thirty (30) minutes after departure and
• Upon anchoring or mooring at the next port of call. VII. Language

B. Contents of each report shall include the vessel’s 5 All reports shall be made either in Filipino or English
name and time. Language

V. Emergency Situations VIII. Time

A. A vessel in the VTMS Covered Areas shall report to 10 Time to be used shall be the local mean time
the VTMSCC as soon as possible.
IX. Contact Name and Channel of VTMSCC and Manila
• Any emergency or unusual event such as fire, Harbor Pilots' Channels
collision, grounding, pollution, suspicion of piracy and other
similar incidents. 15 Contact name : VTMS MANILA
VTMSCC: Channel 16 and 19
• Any condition on the vessel that may impair its
navigation, reduce its capabilities or affect the safety of Manila Harbor Pilots’ Channels:
other vessels due to defective propulsion, defective steering, South Habor - 16 and 13
inoperative navigation running lights, unusual handling, 20 MICT - 16 and 80 A
impaired maneuverability, inoperative whistle or horn, Harbour Centre - 16 and 12
navigation equipment and other similar conditions.
IX. Other Requirements
• Any towing vessel when unable to control or can
control only with difficulty. 25 All vessels shall:

• Any other unusual condition which restricts or
prohibits total compliance with the requirements of the
VTMS.
30
• Poor visibility
B. The vessel making a report of emergency situations,
as mentioned in section V.A, shall give its vessel’s name,
call sign and the name and position of the person making 35
the report.
C. Any vessel may deviate from any provisions of this
Order to the extent necessary to avoid endangering persons,
property or the environment. When an emergency arises and 40
it becomes necessary to deviate from any provisions of this
Order for reasons of safety. The vessel shall report or cause to
be reported the deviation to the VTMSCC as soon as possible.
VI. Lightening Cargoes 45
A. If warranted, deep-draft vessels shall lighten their
cargoes at the designated anchorage berths before proceeding
to the port terminal.
50
B. Deep-draft vessels intending to lighten their cargoes
shall report to the VTMSCC of its intention two (2) miles
from the anchorage berths for lightening deep-draft vessels.
The report shall contain the following:
55
• Vessel’s name
• “Underway to Anchorage to Lighten Cargoes”
• Time
D. Before leaving the berth for lightening of cargoes, 60
A. Observe and obey all International Rules of the Road
and the Traffic Separation Scheme;
B. Comply with all the measures of safe navigation
and prudent seamanship while operating within the VTMS
Covered Areas.
C. Monitor VTMS VHF channels at all times;
D. Contact VTMSCC to obtain information, seek
assistance or report emergencies; and
E. Observe measures or advice given by the VTMSCC.
X. Passing Through
Vessels passing through the VTMS Covered Area at the
approach of Corregidor Island but will not enter the Manila
Bay nor make official arrival at the ports located within the
Manila Bay shall also be required to report to VTMSCC.
Contents of the report shall be:
• Vessel’s name
• Vessel’s call sign
• Destination
XI. Radio Watch
All vessels navigating, anchoring, berthing, or operating
in the VTMS covered areas shall, at all times, keep radio
watch on channel 16 and shall respond promptly when their
attention is called.

App-2
 APPENDIX II
PROCEDURES FOR THE ENTRY AND EXIT OF VESSELS INTO THE
PORT OF SUBIC BAY
I. Filing of Application for Entry
A. The accredited ship agent shall purchase the forms
for Application for Entry and Vessel Exit Clearance as well,
from the Processing Section of Seaport Department. (Note: 5
The Application for Entry is marked with a Document
Control Number (DCN)). The DCN of the Application
for Entry must be the same with the Vessel Exit Clearance
forms it always purchased simultaneously. Ship Agent must
submit the following documents (as needed) 48 hours prior 10
to vessel's arrival:
Crew List
International Load Line Certificate
Inward/Outward Manifest
IOPP (Tankers only)
P&I Safety Radio
Construction & Equipment Certificates
Ship Registration
B. Application for Entry and Vessel Exit Clearance
forms is solely issued by the Processing Section, Seaport
Department.
C. A maximum of Ten (10) dual forms is allowed to
purchase by the Ship Agent, and must be legibly logged at
the Processing Section, Seaport Department
D. Submission of the Application for Entry must be
at least within 72 hours prior to the arrival of the vessel and
must be typewritten, with the following information provided
by the Ship Agent:
Name of vessel
Class / type of vessel
GRT, LOA, draft and beam of the vessel
Name of master of the vessel
Purpose of port call
Next port destination
Ship registration
Complete name of shipping agency, address, contact
numbers
Other information as may be deemed necessary
E. After completion of the Application for Entry, ship
agent must submit the application form to the Processing
Officer of Seaport Department for validation and forward
the same to the Marine Division for scheduling of the Ship's
Pre-Arrival Meeting (SPAM), and eventually, approval of
the Seaport General Manager.
F. Distribution of Application for Entry (by colors):
White (original) - Ship Agent
Brown - Port Traffic Branch
Yellow - Billing Section
Orange - Port Communication Branch
Green - Ship Boarding Branch
NOTE:
1. Application for Entry as well as Exit Clearance
is valid and can be amended within 30 days from the date
issued. Beyond the 30 days period, the Application for Entry
and Exit are considered "Void". Ship Agent shall be required
to secure a new Application for Entry and Exit Clearance for
his incoming vessel.
2. Berth Allotment is generally conducted on a "First
15 Come, First Serve basis", berth allotment is considered
with the type of cargo/es and the maximum allowable draft
of vessel in a particular berth, or Berth allotment should be
decided during the conduct of Ship's Pre-Arrival Meeting
(SPAM).
20
3. For Military Vessels and those Covered by the
Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA): Because of its proximity
to the Central Business District, Alava Pier has been the
core in the Port of Subic Bay. It can easily accommodate
25 several huge/large military vessels at the same time. Military
vessel, Cruise liners, Luxury ships and Passenger ships
are given priority in the assignment of berthing spaces at
Alava Pier. The Port of Subic Bay is committed to support
the government of the Philippines in accommodating the
30 Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States of America
Naval vessels. Alava Pier is exclusively assigned for the
said purpose.
4. For Vessels Carrying Hazardous/Dangerous
35 Cargoes as well as Vessels Carrying Filthy/Dirty Cargoes
( Coal, Silica, etc.): Ship Agent is duty bound to discuss
with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) the
procedures in discharging hazardous/ dangerous cargoes as
well as filthy/dirty cargoes. Clearances must be obtain from
40 the Ecology Center, SBMA before the filing of Application
for Entry to the Seaport Department, the same shall be
discussed during the Ship Pre-Arrival Meeting.
II. Arrival of the Vessel
45
A. Port protocol requires arriving vessels to notify
the Port of Subic Bay Port Control Communications of
Seaport Department at VHF channel 16, One (1) hour away
of Grande Island. In most cases, ships usually establish
50 contact with the Port Radio Operator while still miles away
from Grande Island;
B. Arriving vessels are monitored / tracked by the
Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) and Automatic
55 Identification System (AIS);
App-3
 C. One hour before the Estimated Time of Arrival
(ETA) at Grande Island of the vessel, Port Control will
notify / advise the Harbor Pilot, Tug Boat provider and Port
Line Handlers of the confirmed time of arrival of the vessel;
D. The Harbor Pilot shall embark on the Pilot boat or
assisting tugboats and board the vessel at the Pilot boarding
station, identified and marked as white buoy No. 10 on the
Port Navigational Chart. The Pilot shall then guide the vessel
to its assigned berth, while monitored by the VTMS Operator 10
for safe berthing / anchorage.
III. Vessels on Emergency Call
A. Vessels intending to take shelter at the Port of
Subic Bay due to inclement weather, shall notify the Port
Control thru VHF Channel 16 of its intention. Vessel will
be accommodated at the anchorage and will be allowed to
depart when the weather is clear. Submission of Application
for Entry and Vessel Exit Clearance will not be required and
port services fee are all free/waived.
B. Vessels needing emergency repairs on vital parts
of its propulsion systems are required to notify the Port
Control thru VHF Channel 16 of its intention. They will be
accommodated at the anchorage upon their arrival, however,
Ship Agent or representative of the vessel master shall file
an Application for Entry and will be required to pay all port
charges incurred and shall submit Vessel Exit Clearance when
departing after the completion of repair.
C. Vessels that need medical evacuation (Medevac)
shall proceed outside port limits or at the anchorage area,
submission of Application for Entry will not be required.
IV. Boarding Formalities
A. All newly arrived vessel in the Port of Subic Bay,
are customarily boarded by Port Authorities. Boarding parties
consists of officials from Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau
of Immigration (BI), Bureau of Quarantine and the Ships
Boarding Officers/Safety Officers of Seaport Department,
exempted from the boarding formalities are Military Vessels
and Government vessels;
B. The vessel's master must submit all relevant
documents that may be required by the boarding parties.
C. All cargoes intended to be discharged in the Port
of Subic Bay must be properly declared through the Inward
Cargo Manifest, discharging of cargoes must be handled
by SBMA-Accredited Cargo Handlers, while cargoes to be
loaded on vessels must be properly declared in the Outward
App-4
Cargo Manifest, No cargo/es must be left on the wharf/pier.
V. Payment of Port Charges and Fees
5 A. Ship Agent is responsible for the settlement and
payments of all charges and fees incurred by the vessel during
its entire stay in the port, including but not limited to all
penalties that may be charged to the vessel or the master of
the vessel in violation of port rules and regulations, fees for
the use of Pilot Services, Tugboats and Line Handlers must
be settled likewise before departure of the vessel;
B. Billing statements can be obtained from the
Processing and Billing Section of Seaport Department, while
15 payment must be made at the Land Bank office located at the
Ground Floor of Seaport Department building.
VI. Exit Clearance of the Vessel
20 A. Upon completion and settlement of all fees, and
other charges, Ship Agent must accomplish Vessel Exit
Clearance form and submit the same to Processing Section
of Seaport Department, it must have the same Document
Control Number (DCN) as of Application for Entry;
25
B. Vessel carrying cargoes, clearance must be
countersigned by an attending officer of Cargo Terminal
Division to validate the cargoes on board;
30 C. Ship Agent shall then submit the clearance for
signature to the Processing and Billing Section that all fees
and charges had been fully paid, including Seaport Dept.,
Marine Division for their approval and appropriately logged
into their Vessel Entry/Exit Log book;
35
D. Vessel Exit clearance is then submitted to the
General Manager, Seaport Department for final approval;
E. Ship Agent will be responsible to notify the Port
40 Communication Radio Operator and confirm the exact time
of departure of his vessel;
F. Upon confirmation, the Port Radio Operator shall
notify the Harbor Pilot, Tugboat operator and line handlers
45 of the exact time of departure of the vessel;
G. Harbor Pilots will board the departing vessel and
tug boat/s will approach alongside to guide the vessel into
the fairway up to the white bouy No. 10, then vessel can
50 proceed to her next port of destination.
H. The same procedure is applicable to vessel at
anchorage, except, Pilot and Tug services are optional.
 APPENDIX III
PRACTICAL RULES FOR TYPHOONS
Weather and sea conditions are major concerns to
mariners, particularly since these conditions can vary
significantly from place to place and can change dramatically
in the short period of time. Case studies showed that majority
of disasters at sea are associated with the passage of a tropical
cyclone. Operators can route ships to avoid the typhoon. It
is also more prudent to keep the vessels stay berthed in the
port or anchored in a protected harbor until the typhoon pass.
Doing these things will reduce the risk of injury and damage.
The safest procedure with respect to typhoons is to
avoid them. If action is taken sufficiently early, this is
simply a matter of setting a course that will take the vessel
well to one side of the probable track of the storm, and then
continuing to plot the positions of the storm center as given 15
in the weather bulletins, revising the course as needed.
However, this is not always possible. If the ship is found to
be within the storm area, the proper action to take depends
in part upon its position relative to the storm center and its
direction of travel. It is customary to divide the circular area 20
of the storm into two parts. In the Northern Hemisphere, that
part to the right of the storm track (facing in the direction
toward which the storm is moving) is called the dangerous
semicircle. It is considered dangerous because (1) the actual
wind speed is greater than that due to the pressure gradient 25
alone, since it is augmented by the forward motion of the
storm, and (2) the direction of the wind and sea is such as
to carry a vessel into the path of the storm (in the forward
part of the semicircle). The part to the left of the storm track
is called the less dangerous semicircle, or the navigable 30
semicircle. In this part, the wind is decreased by the forward
motion of the storm, and the wind blows vessels away from
the storm track (in the forward part). Because of the greater
wind speed in the dangerous semicircle, the seas are higher
than in the less dangerous semicircle. A plot of successive 35
positions of the storm center should indicate the semicircle
in which the vessel is located. However, if this is based upon
weather bulletins, it may not be a reliable guide because of
the lag between the observations upon which the bulletin is
based and the time of reception of the bulletin, with the ever- 40
present possibility of a change in the direction of the storm.
The use of radar eliminates this lag at short range, but
the return may not be a true indication of the center. Perhaps
the most reliable guide is the wind. Within the cyclonic 45
circulation, a wind shifting to the right in the northern
hemisphere and to left in the southern hemisphere indicates
the vessel is probably in the dangerous semicircle. A steady
wind shift opposite to this indicates the vessel is probably
in the less dangerous semicircle. However, if a vessel is 50
underway, its own motion should be considered. If it is
outrunning the storm or pulling rapidly to one side (which
is not difficult during the early stages of the storm, when
its speed is slow), the opposite effect occurs. This should
usually be accompanied by a rise in atmospheric pressure,
5 but if the motion of the vessel is nearly along the isobar,
this may not be a reliable indication. If in doubt, the safest
action is usually to stop long enough to define the proper
semicircle. The loss in time may be more than offset by the
minimizing of the possibility of taking the wrong action. If
10 the wind direction remains steady (for the vessel which is
stopped), with increasing speed and falling barometer, the
vessel is in or near the path of the storm. If it remains steady
with decreasing speed and rising barometer, the vessel is near
the storm track, behind the center.
The first action to take if the ship is within the cyclonic
circulation is to determine the position of the vessel with
respect to the storm center. While the vessel can still make
considerable way through the water, a course should be
selected to take the vessel as far as possible from the center.
If the vessel can move faster than the storm, it is relatively
simple matter to outrun the storm if the sea permits. But
when the storm is faster, the solution is not as simple. In
this case, the vessel, if ahead of the storm, will approach
nearer to the center. The problem is in selecting a course
that will produce the greatest possible distance. This is best
determined by means of a relative movement plot. While each
storm requires its own analysis, and frequent or continual
resurvey of the situation, the general rules for a mariner can
be summarized as follows:
Northern Hemisphere
Right or dangerous semicircle: Bring the wind on the
starboard bow (045o relative), hold course and make as much
way as possible. If necessary, heave to with head to the sea.
Left or less dangerous semicircle: Bring the wind on
the starboard quarter (135o relative), hold course and make
as much way as possible. If necessary, heave to with stern
to the sea.
On storm track, ahead of center: Bring the wind 2
points on the starboard quarter (about 160o relative), hold
course and make as much way as possible. When well within
the less dangerous semicircle, maneuver as indicated above.
On storm track, behind center: Avoid the center by
the best practicable course, keeping in mind the tendency of
tropical cyclones to curve northwards.
App-5
 APPENDIX IV
PHILIPPINE COASTGUARD MEMORANDUM ORDER 01-09
GUIDELINES ON MOVEMENT OF VESSELS DURING HEAVY WEATHER
I. AUTHORITY
RA 5173 as amended by PD 601
II. PURPOSE
To prescribe policies and procedures in order to
enhance maritime safety during the occurrence of tropical
depression, storm or typhoon in the Philippine area of
responsibility.
III. APPLICATION
This circular shall apply to all vessels operating within
the territorial jurisdiction of the Republic of the Philippines.
IV. EXEMPTIONS
A. Tugboats purposely used in assisting vessels in
docking or undocking to or from berthing piers or wharves;
B. Government-operated vessels used for non-
commercial purposes; and
C. Vessels called upon by the PCG to assist in a specific
search and rescue operation.
V. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. Heavy Weather – refers to the violent atmospheric
conditions of wind and sea such as the occurrence of
tropical depression, storm or typhoon.
B. MARINA – Maritime Industry Authority
C. PAGASA - Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical
and Astronomical Services Administration
D. PCG – Philippine Coast Guard
E. PPA – Philippine Ports Authority
F. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 1 - declared
if winds of 30-60 kph (approximately 16 – 32 knots) are
expected in the locality in at least 36 hours.
G. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 2 - raised
if winds of greater than 60 kph up to 100 kph (approximately
33-54 knots) are expected in the locality in at least 24 hours.
H. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 3
- raised if winds of greater than 100 kph up to 185 kph
(approximately 54-100 knots) are expected in the locality
in at least 18 hours.
App-6
I. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 4 - raised
if winds of greater than 185 kph (approximately 100 knots
and above) are expected in the locality in at least 12 hours.
5 J. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Sector –
refers to areas covered by PSWS Nr. 1 or PSWS Nr. 2 and
higher which are shown with corresponding color codes, as
provided in PAGASA website.
10 K. Route – as used in this circular, is defined as a way
or course, taken or planned to be taken, in navigating from
a point of origin to a point of destination, as differentiated
from the word “route” used in MARINA issued franchises.
L. Vessel – under this circular, refers to any ship,
15
watercraft or other conveyances used or capable of being
used as means of transportation.
VI. POLICIES
20 A. Vessels of 1,000 gross tons or below shall not sail,
except to take shelter, when PSWS number 1 is hoisted
within its point of origin or route or point of destination.
B. Movement of vessels above 1,000 gross tons is left
25 to the discretion and responsibility of the ship owner and
master when PSWS number 1 is hoisted within its point of
origin or route or point of destination.
C. Vessels of any tonnage shall not sail, except to take
30 shelter, when PSWS number 2 or higher is hoisted within
its point of origin or route or point of destination.
D. Masters and ship owners of vessels above 1,000
gross tons who, based on the intent of this Circular, are
35 given or left with the discretion to sail during a storm shall
exercise extra precautionary measures and carefully study
the possible effect of a storm to the vessel’s voyage with
due regard to the forecasted track, wind force and radius
of the storm in reference to weather bulletins and Tropical
Cyclone Warning for Shipping issued by PAGASA every
40
0500H, 1100H, 1700H and 2300H.
E. Vessels sailing for the purpose of taking shelter shall
depart without passengers. Cargoes already loaded onboard
the vessel may be permitted to remain onboard provided
45
that maximum precautionary measures shall be observed
by ensuring that proper lashing and stowage are strictly
followed.
F. It is the decision and responsibility of the Master and
50 ship owner of the vessel to ensure the safety of the ship and
crew whenever they decide to take shelter.
G. Vessels shall not sail when its point of origin or route
or point of destination is within an applicable PSWS Sector
where it is not allowed to sail (as provided in paragraphs A
and C) based on the latest PAGASA weather bulletin.
H. In no way shall ship owners and Masters of vessels
depart from the intent of this circular by violating the
objective of the provision hereof on taking shelter.
I. Ship owners and Masters shall exercise extra-
ordinary diligence required by law for common carriers in
ensuring the safety of life and property at sea.
VII. PROCEDURES
A. Every Master or any person in charge of a vessel,
including the ship owner/operator shall consider the safety
of life at sea to take precedence at all times.
B. The Master or any person in charge of a vessel,
including the ship owner/operator shall ensure that the
latest weather bulletin is obtained and the track of the
typhoon and the PSWS Sectors are plotted on the weather
chart aboard ship and at the company operations center or
office.
C. When an applicable PSWS number (as provided by
Section VI of this circular) is hoisted in the port where a
vessel is located or along its route or point of destination,
the Master or Patron, when based on his judgment, there is
probable danger due to a typhoon, shall prior to the vessel’s
departure, inform the nearest PCG unit in writing (as may
be applicable), of his decision to take shelter in a safer place
or to avoid the path of the storm, attesting therein that the
decision to leave port is his, in consultation with the ship
owner.
D. The Master or Patron shall disembark passengers
and institute maximum precautionary measures to properly
stow and secure cargoes, as prescribed by MARINA, that
are already onboard before leaving port to take shelter at a
safer place. Cargo watches who are tasked to ensure the safe
condition of cargoes during the entire voyage/sheltering
shall be posted.
E. If already underway when an applicable PSWS
number (as provided by Section VI of this circular) is
hoisted in its immediate vicinity, or along its route or
destination, the Master or Patron shall take no other option
except to avoid the path of the storm and take shelter and
promptly inform the ship owner and the nearest Coast
Guard unit. Ship owners/operators shall ensure that
Masters maintain continuous communication with them
and shall immediately report to the Coast Guard the ship’s
compliance to this circular.
F. It is the responsibility of the master or patron of the
vessel to take all the necessary precautions to avoid danger
to his ship and injury to his crew and passengers.
G. Communication between the vessel and the ship
owner/operator shall be maintained at all times during the
entire voyage, including vessels that are taking shelter.
Communication checks between the vessel and the
shipowner/operator shall be conducted at an interval of
at least every 30 minutes. Any failure of communication
with the vessel shall be reported immediately by the ship
owner/operator to the nearest Coast Guard unit through any
5 available means.
VIII. RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Director, PCG Action Center/ Command Duty
10 Officer:
1. Coordinate with PAGASA on the availability of
weather bulletin every 0500H, 1100H, 1700H and 2300H
or whenever weather updates from PAGASA are available
and immediately disseminate same through fastest means
15
of communications to all PCG units, prioritizing the areas
directly affected or may be affected by the typhoon.
2. Plot in the weather chart the track, forecast
position of the typhoon and PSWS Sectors in reference to
20 paragraph 1 hereof.
3. Immediately advise the Commandant, PCG of
any major maritime incident.
25 4. Continuously monitor all PCG units and take
appropriate action on all reported maritime incidents.
Recommend to the Chief, CG Staff the activation of the
Crisis Management Committee in case of major incidents.
30 5. Perform other tasks as the Commandant, PCG
may direct.
B. PCG District Commanders:
35 1. Monitor and promptly obtain the latest weather
bulletin through HPCG or PAGASA.
2. Plot in the weather chart the track, forecast
position of the typhoon and PSWS Sectors in reference to
40 paragraph 1 hereof.
3. Promptly disseminate the latest weather bulletin
to all subordinate units.
4. Render situation report (SITREP) to HPCG at
45
intervals as indicated:
a. every 6 hrs if signal number 1 and 2 are hoisted
b. every 3 hrs if signal number 3 is hoisted
c. every hr if signal number 4 is hoisted
50
(Note: SITREP to include weather and Maritime
Traffic Condition.)
5. Monitor distress frequencies (VHF-Channel 16
55 [156.8 Mhz] and HF 2182 Khz H3E [AM] transmission)
particularly during adverse/heavy weather condition.
6. Perform other duties as the Commandant, PCG
may direct.
60
App-7
 C. PCG Station/Detachment Commanders:
1. Promptly obtain and monitor the latest weather
bulletin through the District Headquarters, HPCG or
PAGASA.
2. Plot in the weather chart the track, forecast
position of the typhoon and PSWS Sectors in reference
to paragraph 1 hereof. Display the weather chart in a
conspicuous area within the Station/Detachment office
for the benefit of those who want to be appraised of the
prevailing weather condition.
3. Promptly disseminate the latest weather update
to all subordinate units.
4. Render situation report to District Headquarters
at intervals as indicated:
a. every 6 hours if PSWS Nr 1 and 2 are hoisted
b. every 3 hours if PSWS Nr 3 is hoisted
c. every hour if PSWS Nr 4 is hoisted
5. Put on record all notifications from vessels
intending to seek shelter.
6. Monitor distress frequencies (VHF-Channel 16
[156.8 Mhz] and HF 2182 Khz H3E [AM] transmission)
particularly during adverse/heavy weather condition.
7. Perform other tasks as the District Commander
and/or the Commandant, PCG may direct.
D. Ship Owners/Operators:
1. Ensure that all vessels are properly informed of 35 depart to seek shelter as may be necessary.
weather updates that are promptly obtained from PAGASA
or other available sources, to include the PSWS Sectors
where typhoon signals are hoisted or may be hoisted.
2. Install weather fax and other weather monitoring
equipment as prescribed by MARINA.
3. Disallow Master or Patron from having the
vessel depart from port, except for sheltering purposes,
when typhoon signal wherein his vessel is not allowed to
sail is hoisted or expected to be hoisted within the area of
origin or along the route or destination of the vessel.
4. Monitor and maintain communication with their
vessel from the time it departed the port until its arrival at
the port of destination.
5. When the vessel is already en route to its
destination and once an applicable PSWS number, per
this circular, is hoisted in its immediate vicinity or along
its route or point of destination, order the Master or Patron
to seek shelter. Ensure that the Master or Patron maintain
continuous communication with the shipowner/operator
and notify the PCG of the vessel’s action to take shelter.
App-8
6. Keep track of all weather bulletins or reports for
dissemination purposes as well as monitor all their vessels’
situation or movement until the typhoon leaves Philippine
AOR.
5
7. Should typhoon signal be lifted by PAGASA,
order the Master or Patron to inform the nearest PCG unit
of its intent to proceed or continue with her voyage to her
destination.
10
8. Inform the PCG immediately of any unusual
incident, such as their vessel being involved in a maritime
incident or is missing or has lost contact or developed
engine derangement.
15
9. Direct Masters to institute maximum
precautionary measures to ensure proper stowage and
lashing of cargoes, as prescribed by MARINA, before
departure and cause the posting of watches to ensure the safe
condition of cargoes during the entire voyage/sheltering.
20
10. Require Masters, Operations Officers or
representatives involved in the safe operation of their
ships to review/study the Typhoon Evasion or Avoidance
Doctrine.
25
E. Masters/Patrons:
1. Obtain and monitor the weather bulletin through
PAGASA, company offices and other available sources.
30
2. Plot the prevailing weather condition, weather
forecast and PSWS Sectors on the weather chart.
3. Inform the nearest PCG unit of his decision to
4. Ensure that there are no passengers onboard
when departing from port to seek shelter.
40 5. Take no other option except to take shelter and
immediately inform the ship owner if a PSWS Nr., where
his vessel is not allowed to sail as per this circular, is raised
while underway. Ensure that they maintain continuous
communication with ship owners/operators. Notify the
45
PCG of said action.
6. Institute maximum precautionary measures to
ensure proper stowage and lashing of cargoes, as prescribed
by MARINA, before departure and cause the posting of
watches to ensure the safe condition of cargoes during the
50 entire voyage/sheltering.
7. Review/study the Typhoon Evasion or
Avoidance Doctrine.
55 8. The overall responsibility of ensuring the safety
of the ship, its passengers and crew rests with the Master/
Patron at all times.

A Aklan Pt. ...................................... 9-14
Abatan River .............................. 12-11
Abel Reef ........................ 12-17;14-11
Abin Pt. ........................................ 13-6
Abra de Ilog ................................... 6-5
Abriop Bank ............................... 5-113
Abucayan Pt. .............................. 12-10
Abulug ........................................... 5-5
Abulug R. ...................................... 5-5
Abuyog ..................................... 14-17
Abuyog Lt. ................................. 14-17
Acha Reef ..................................... 5-70
Adam Reef ................................. 12-17
Adcalayo Islet .............................. 9-20
Adela Rock .................................. 5-20
Adentro Pt. ................................... 5-74
Agauan Islet ............................... 13-13
Agban Bay ................................. 5-120
Agbatan Pt. .................................. 7-10
Agbatang Bay ................................ 7-2
Agcauayan ..................................... 6-2
Agdan Pt. ................................... 13-16
Agho Islet ..................................... 9-22
Agio Pt. ...................................... 12-15
Agnas Pt. ...................................... 5-79
Agno ............................................ 5-25
Agno Bay ..................................... 5-25
Agno River .................................. 5-19
Agoho Pt. ....................................... 7-5
Agos River ................................... 5-89
Agpisan Island ............................. 5-68
Agria Pt. ....................................... 5-88
Agta Pt., Biliran Island ................ 14-2
Agta Pt., Polillo Island ................. 5-91
Aguada ..........................................8-14
Aguada Island .............................. 8-14
Aguada Rock ............................. 5-109
Aguirre Port ............................... 13-25
Agudo .......................................... 9-18
Aguja Pt. ...................................... 5-74
Agusan River Lt. ............................ 1-1
Agusuhin ..................................... 5-31
Agutayan Is., Catanduanes ......... 5-119
Agutayan Is., Negros .................. 10-11
Aids to Navigation ......................... 2-8
Ajus Pt. ......................................... 5-61
Ajuy ............................................. 9-23
Ajuy Bay ...................................... 9-23
Aklan Prov. .................................... 9-1
INDEX
Aklan River .................................. 9-14
Alabat ........................................... 5-96
Alabat I. ....................................... 5-96
Alabat Lt. ..................................... 5-97
Alabat Pt. ................................... 13-20
Alabat Port ................................... 5-96
Alad Island ..................................... 7-9
Alas Bay ......................................... 8-2
Alasasin Pt. (Lasisi Pt.) ................ 5-38
Alayao River ................................ 5-99
Albay Gulf ................................. 5-127
Albuera ........................................ 14-9
Alburquerque ............................. 12-13
Alcantara, Copton B. ................... 11-7
Alcantara, Tablas Island ................ 7-7
Alegan Pt. .................................... 5-82
Alegria, Cebu Is. .......................... 11-7
Alegria, Samar Is. ...................... 13-23
Alegria, Semirara Island .............. 6-18
Alegria Lt. .................................... 6-18
Alegria Pt. .................................... 9-12
Alibatan Islet ................................ 6-18
Alibatan Island ............................. 6-17
Alibijaban Island .......................... 5-69
Alibug .......................................... 6-26
Alibug Pt. ..................................... 6-26
Alihauan R. ................................ 12-15
Alimanga Pt. ................................ 6-19
Alimango Bay .............................. 5-74
Alimango Point............................. 6-18
Alimono Mount ........................... 12-9
Alinbayan Mt. ................................ 6-6
Allen .......................................... 13-22
Allen Lt. ..................................... 13-22
Almagro ....................................... 8-13
Almagro Cove .............................. 8-13
Almagro Island ............................ 8-13
Almeria ........................................ 14-2
Aloguinsan ................................... 11-5
Aloneros ....................................... 5-70
Alto Pt. ....................................... 5-122
Alto Reef .................................... 5-122
Alungangan Pt .............................. 8-13
Alupihing Pt. ................................ 5-27
Amagotada Pt. ............................ 13-13
Amagusan Pt. ............................. 14-15
Amalia ........................................ 5-102
Amalia Islet ................................ 5-103
Amambahag Pt. ............................14-3
Amambahag Lt. ........................... 14-3
Amandayehan ............................ 13-31
Ambil I. ....... .............……..............6-3
Ambil Shoal ................................... 6-3
Amblan Pt. ................................. 10-16
Amblan Pt. Lt. ............................ 10-17
Ambugan I. ...................................12-7
Ambulong .................................... 6-27
Ambulong Bank .......................... 6-21
Ambulong I. ................................. 6-27
Ambulong Lt. ............................... 6-27
Ambulong Strait ........................... 6-27
Amburayan River ......................... 5-15
Amianan ......................................... 4-2
Amlan ........................................ 10-16
Amogotada Pt. ........................... 14-10
Amoron Pt. ..................................... 8-6
Amparo Pt. ................................. 14-12
Anaganahao Islet .......................... 6-11
Anahao I. ......................... 13-16;13-30
Anahauan Pt. ................................ 6-12
Anahawan .................................. 14-14
Anahawan Lt. ............................. 14-14
Anajao Island, E. Samar ............. 13-12
Anajao Pt. ................................... 5-119
Anajao Port ................................. 5-119
Anajauan I. ................................. 10-11
Anao I. ......................................... 5-88
Anas Pt. ...................................... 13-26
Anauayan Islet ..................... 10-5,9-22
Anawan I. ..................................... 5-92
Anchor I. .................................... 5-109
Anda, Bohol ............................... 12-15
Anda, Tambac B ........................... 5-21
Anda Reef .................................... 7-13
Andis I. ...................................... 13-13
Anegada Rock .............................. 9-19
Angas ......................................... 5-104
Angas Pt. ...................................... 5-58
Anibawan B. .................................5-92
Anibawan R. ................................ 5-92
Anilao .......................................... 5-50
Anima Sola I. ............................... 5-73
Anini-y ........................................... 9-4
Anirong I. ..................................... 5-92
Anitaguipan Pt. .......................... 13-13
Antipolo Channel ......................... 5-46
Antique Prov. ................................. 9-1
Antique R. ...................................... 9-4
Antonia Islet ................................. 9-19
Index-1
Antonia I. ..................................... 9-17
Aocon Islets ............................... 13-28
Apali R. ........................................ 5-71
Apalit Pt. ...................................... 5-32
Apari Rock ................................... 5-79
Aparri ............................................. 5-4
Aparri Hbr. ..................................... 5-4
Aparri Lt. ....................................... 5-4
Aparri to Basco ............................ 3-36
Apat I. ...........................................5-97
Apat Port .......................................5-97
Apga Pt. ........................................9-14
Apit I. ..........................................14-10
Apiton Cove ..................................9-23
Apiton I. ......................................13-10
Apiton Mt., Pass ...........................9-22
Apo E Pass ....................................6-21
Apo Island Lt. .............................10-13
Apo Island, Negros .....................10-13
Apo Island, W Mindoro ................6-20
Apo Reef .......................................6-21
Apo Reef Lt. .................................6-20
Apo Reef Natural Park ..................6-20
Apo, W Pass ..................................6-21
Aporoo Islet ................................13-20
Apuao I. ......................................5-104
Apuao Islet ..................................5-104
Apuao and Apuao Grande Islets ..5-104
Apud Pt. ........................................5-72
Apud Reef .....................................5-72
Apunan Lt. ......................................7-9
Apunan Pt. ....................................7-10
Arana Reef ....................................7-13
Arboledan Lt. ..............…................5-8
Arboledan Pt. ..................…........…5-8
Arboles Pt. ..................................10-17
Arch Rock ...................................5-118
Arcolon Pt. ..................................10-21
Aregita Rocks .................................7-9
Arena Islet ..................………..… 5-73
Arena Pt., Bondoc Peninsula ........ 5-62
Arena Pt., Ragay Gulf .................. 5-69
Arenas Pt, Zambales .................... 5-27
Arevalo, B. ................................... 14-4
Argao, E Cebu ............................ 11-19
Argao Pt. .................................... 11-19
Argos Pt. ...................................... 8-11
Argos Reef ..................................... 8-2
Aricomo Pt. .................................. 8-11
Arimbay ..................................... 5-128
Aroroy ............................................8-6
Arteche (San Ramon) ...................13-9
Arteche Lt. …………....................13-9
Asgad Pt. .....................................13-17
Asia, B, R. ...................................10-12
Asid Gulf ........................................8-3
Index-2
Aslom ...........................................6-17
Assistance for vessels in distress ....2-5
Asturias .........................................11-4
Asturias Pt. ................................…11-4
Asuncion Pass ...............................10-2
Ataa I. ...........................................5-68
Ati I. ..............................................5-82
Atimonan ......................................5-94
Atimonan Lt. .................................5-95
Atimonan R. ..................................5-94
Atulayan B, I. ..............................5-123
Aubarede Pt. .................................5-82
Aubarede Reef ..............................7-13
Aurora (San Francisco) ................5-62
Aurora Port ..............................… 5-88
Ave Maria I. ..................................9-11
Awasan Pt. ....................................5-70
Ayoni B. ........................................5-61
Azagra, Pt. Lt. ...............................7-12
A'li I. ...............................................4-3
B Bagalayog Pt., Panganiran B. .......5-75
B. Del Mundo ...............................6-14
Babaguan, B. …….......................5-118
Babaguan, Cove ……..................5-118
Babatgun B. ..................................5-79
Babatngon ...................................13-29
Babayon Pt, Reef ........................5-127
Babuyan Channel ...........................4-9
Babuyan I. ......................................4-6
Babuyan Claro Mt. .........................4-6
Bacacay ......................................5-125
Bacacay Pt. .................................5-102
Bacalan R. .................................… 9-2
Bacan I. ........................................13-7
Bacay Pt. .......................................9-24
Bachawan .......................................7-2
Baclayon .....................................12-13
Baclayon Lt. ................................12-13
Bacnotan .......................................5-15
Baco Chico I. ................................6-11
Baco I. ...........................................6-11
Baco Medio I. ................................6-11
Bacol I. ........................................13-30
Bacolod .........................................10-7
Bacolor .........................................5-39
Bacon ..........................................5-130
Bacon I. .......................................5-109
Bacong Pt. .....................................6-19
Bacood B, Pt. ................................5-67
Bacoor ..........................................5-39
Bacoor B. ......................................5-41
Bacsal Island ..............................13-28
Bactol B., I. .................................13-11
Baculud Pt. .................................5-125
Badian, B., I. .................................11-7
Badian Pt. ......................................6-16
Badoc I. .........................................5-10
Badungbadung Islet ....................13-31
Baeto Pt. .........................................6-4
Bagababoy I. .................................8-10
Bagabarco Pt. ................................5-74
Bagabu Islet ..................................9-22
Bagac, B. .......................................5-34
Bagacay, NE Panay .......................9-21
Bagacay B. ....................................9-21
Bagacay I. ...................................5-110
Bagacay Pt., Lt. ...........................11-12
Bagagay Pt. ...................................6-12
Bagadamolag Islet ........................5-73
Bagadila, Mt. ..................................8-7
Bagalangit Pt. ................................5-50
Bagalayag Pt., Catanduanes ........5-119
Bagalayag Pt., Mindoro ..................6-4
Bagalayog Pt., Barotac B. .............9-23
Bagalejo Pt. .....................................8-7
Bagamanoc, Port .........................5-118
Bagambanua I. ..............................12-7
Baganting, Mt. ............................14-13
Bagasaue Pt. ..................................11-3
Bagatao I. ......................................5-77
Bagatao Lt……...…......................5-76
Bago City, R. .................................10-8
Bagolayag Pt. ................................5-98
Bagtong Pt. .................................13-18
Bagubaut Pt. ...................................8-7
Baguio Pt. .....................................5-83
Bagulaya Pt. ..................................5-71
Bagulayac Pt. ..................................7-5
Bagunbanua Islet ............................8-1
Bagunbanua I. .............................10-22
Bagupantao Pt. ................................8-1
Bagutayoc Pt. ................................5-70
Bailan Pt. ........................................7-8
Baird Pt. ........................................13-2
Bais, B. ...................................... 10-17
Bajo de Masinloc ......................... 5-22
Baketbaket Pt. .................................5-6
Balabago Pt. ....................................9-5
Balabao Pt. ......................................8-5
Balacay I. ....................................5-120
Balading I. ..................................13-25
Balagbag I. ..................................5-101
Balamban, B, Lt., Pt. .....................11-4
Balanacan Port ..............................5-67
Balanacan, Lt. ...............................5-68
Balanga Pt. ....................................6-14
Balangiga, Lt. .............................13-20
Balangona Pt. ..............................5-114
Balanguingue I. .............................8-13
Balaong Rk. ..................................5-50
Balatan ..........................................5-72
Balatasan, Barrio ..........................6-16
Balateros, Cove ..............................6-6
Balaulan Reef ...............................10-5
Balayan, Lt. ...................................5-49
Balayan B. ....................................5-50
Balbagon I. ....................................9-19
Baleno .............................................8-7
Baler, Lt., Pt. R. .............................5-88
Baler B. .........................................5-87
Balesin I. .......................................5-96
Balete Pt., Calapan B. .....................6-9
Balete Pt., E Mindoro ....................6-11
Balicasag I, Lt. ............................12-13
Balicuatro I, Pt. ...................13-1, 2, 22
Baliguian I, Lt. .........................… 9-22
Balimanoc Pt. ................................5-25
Balinatio Islet ............................. 13-19
Balincaguin R. ............................. 5-25
Balingasag I. ................................. 9-11
Balingasay B, Pt. ......................… 5-25
Balingawan Pt. ............................. 6-12
Balintang Channel, I., Lt. ............... 4-5
Baliscan I, Lt. ................................5-96
Baliuagan R. .................................11-4
Ballesteros ......................................5-5
Balocbaloc Pt. .............................5-106
Baltazar Island, Lt. ........................5-66
Baltimore Peak .............................5-86
Baluagan R. ...................................6-11
Baluarte B. ......................................4-4
Baluarte Pt., Bogo B. ....................11-9
Baluarte Pt., Cabilao I. ................12-10
Baluarte Pt., N Leyte ...................13-29
Balud ..............................................8-2
Balud Islet .....................................9-11
Balugan B. ......................................4-4
Balusingan B. ..............................5-132
Balutubat ........................................4-8
Bambanon I. ................................. 12-2
Banacboc .................................... 5-102
Banacon I. .................................... 12-2
Banago Pier, Lt. ........................... 10-8
Banahao, Mt. ................................ 5-56
Banate, B., Lt. .............................. 9-23
Bancal Pt. ..................................... 6-26
Bancal R. ...................................... 5-30
Banday ....................................... 14-12
Bandayanon Pt. .......................... 5-121
Bangad, R. ...................................... 8-3
Bangar Pt. ..................................... 5-21
Bangayao Pt. ................................ 5-20
Bangtad Pt. ....................................11-3
Bangud I. ........................................7-9
Bangui, B. ...................................... 5-7
Bani Channel, I., Samar I. ............ 13-2
Bani I., Lamit B. ......................... 5-109
Bani Pt. ......................................... 5-27
Baniaga Reef, Rk. ........................ 6-27
Banilad Shoals. .......................... 11-13
Banjao, Mt. .................................. 9-14
Bankal Bay ................................... 9-20
Bankari Pt. .................................. 13-11
Banla Pt. ....................................... 5-92
Banlas Pt. ................................... 10-17
Banoa ............................................. 4-7
Banogay I. .................................... 9-18
Banot I. ......................................... 5-63
Bansaan I. ..................................... 12-2
Bansud ......................................... 6-13
Bantayan I. ................................... 10-1
Bantayan, Negros, Lt. ................... 10-2
Bantayan, N Samar, B. ................. 13-4
Banteque Pt. ................................. 9-13
Bantigui ....................................... 14-6
Bantigui I. .................................... 12-3
Bantigui Islet ................................ 9-17
Bantigui Pt., Guimaras, Rk. ......... 9-14
Bantigui Pt., Sorsogon ................. 5-76
Bantigui Pt., Tayabas ................... 5-56
Bantigui Pt., Cebu ........................ 11-2
Bantolinao Pt., Cebu .................. 11-16
Bantolinao Pt., Lt. ...................... 11-12
Banton (Jones), I. ........................... 7-2
Bantoncillo ..................................... 7-3
Bantuin Pt. ................................... 5-71
Bantulin Pt. .................................. 11-9
Bao R. .......................................... 14-8
Baohan I. .................................... 13-10
Baquiao Pt. ................................... 9-15
Barabod Pt. .................................. 13-9
Barao Reef ................................. 5-129
Baras, Catanduanes, Lt. ............. 5-121
Baras, Rizal .................................. 5-47
Barbasa .......................................... 9-3
Barcelona, Lt. ............................. 5-131
Banquerohan .............................. 5-118
Barceloneta ................................ 5-105
Barili …........................................ 11-5
Barili B. ....................................... 11-6
Barit, I. .......................................... 4-8
Barugo ......................................... 14-1
Barotac B., R., Viejo ................... 9-23
Barrera Port ................................... 8-6
Barruyan R. ................................... 6-9
Barugan Cove ................................ 4-6
Barugo ..........................................14-1
Bary Pt. .......................................... 8-4
Basay ......................................... 10-12
Basay Waterfalls ........................ 13-29
Basco, Lt. ....................................... 4-4
Basey, R. .................................... 13-31
Bashi Channel ................................ 4-1
Basiad B., R. ................................ 5-98
Basiao Channel ........................ 12-3, 4
Basiao I. ..................................... 13-27
Basihan I. ..................................... 12-7
Basilan I. .........................................1-1
Baslay Island, Reef .......................8-12
Basot I. ........................................5-111
Bat I. .............................................13-3
Bataan, Mt. ...................................5-34
Batag Island, Lt. .......................... 13-6
Batan, Harbor, I. Albay ...... 5-125,126
Batan I., N Luzon .......................... 4-4
Batan, Pt., Port ............................. 9-15
Batangas, Lt. ................................ 5-52
Batangas B. .................................. 5-50
Batasan Islet ................................. 12-7
Batauang R. .................................. 11-3
Batbatan, I. ..................................... 9-2
Batgongon I. .............................. 13-25
Bato, Catanduanes ...................... 5-117
Bato, Leyte ................................. 14-11
Batobato Pt., Rk. ......................... 5-113
Bato R ......................................... 5-116
Batuan, B. ..................................... 8-11
Batuanan, Mt. ............................... 12-1
Batulinao Pt. ................................... 5-3
Bau R. ........................................ 11-10
Bauan ........................................... 5-51
Bauang Pt., R. ............................... 5-18
Baugan B. ....................................... 5-6
Baul I. ........................................ 13-18
Baybay City, Lt. ........................... 14-9
Baybay Light ............................. 14-10
Bayang I., Mt. ............................... 9-23
Bayang Pt. .................................... 9-21
Bayas I. ........................................ 9-21
Bayawan, R. (Tulong) ................ 10-12
Bayo Pt. .......................................... 9-4
Bedal Pt. ....................................... 5-72
Bedonogan Cove ........................ 5-119
Bello Port ..................................... 14-8
Benham Bank, Rise .................... 5-128
Bennet Reef .................................. 7-13
Beta Reef ........................................ 8-1
Biaringan I., Lt. .............................. 7-8
Biasong (Pto Bello) ...................... 14-8
Bicobian Port ............................... 5-84
Bicol R. ...................................... 5-105
Bicol Rk. .................................... 5-107
Bidoos B. ....................................... 7-2
Bien Unido, Pt. ............................. 12-5
Bigia Pt. ....................................... 5-54
Biking Mt. .................................. 12-13
Index-3
Bilangbilangan I. .......................... 12-3
Bilbao, Mt. ................................. 5-126
Biliran I, Strait, Lt. .................... 14-2,3
Biluga Pt. ..................................... 5-51
Binabalian Pt. ............................... 5-24
Binabasalan Islet ........................ 13-18
Binagasbasan B. ......................... 5-109
Binagon Pt. ................................... 7-10
Binahaan ...................................... 5-71
Binalayan ..................................... 8-13
Binalbagan, R. ......................... 10-9,10
Binalbagan Pt. ............................ 5-127
Binalio I, Pt. ............................... 13-23
Binanan I. ..................................... 9-22
Binanga Pt., Port .......................... 5-33
Binanuan .....................................5-110
Binarayan I. .................................. 13-9
Binarera Pt. .................................. 6-22
Binatac Pt. .................................. 13-31
Bingay Island, Pt. ....................... 5-131
Bingig R. .................................... 10-10
Bingkay Pt. ................................. 11-10
Bini I. ........................................... 5-92
Binigsian Pt. ............................... 10-11
Biniptican Pt. ............................... 5-31
Binobolang Pt. ........................... 14-10
Binongkakalan Pt. ...................... 11-10
Binongkalan ............................... 11-10
Binorong Pt. ............................... 5-120
Bintacan, Mt. ............................... 5-78
Binuangan Pt., R. ........................... 6-4
Binugayan B., Pt. ....................... 13-11
Binuluangan I. .............................. 9-20
Binuntuan Pt. ............................. 13-30
Biri Anch., Chan., Head, Is. ..... 13-1,2
Bitanjuan, Mt. ............................ 14-13
Bitaogan Peak, Pt. ............... 7-4;5-117
Biton B. ........................................ 8-11
Black I. ....................................... 5-111
Black Rock Pass ........................... 8-11
Blanca Pt., Bancal ........................ 9-20
Blanca Pt., Bangui ......................... 5-7
Boac, Lt., R. ................................. 5-67
Boaya Pt. ........................................ 6-8
Bobon, Pt. .................................... 13-3
Boca Engaño, Port ........................ 5-74
Boca I., Pt. .................................... 5-74
Bocana B. ................................... 5-119
Bocboc Pt. .................................... 5-58
Bocot I. ......................................... 9-21
Bogio Pt. ........................................ 6-5
Bognao Inlet ................................. 6-27
Bogo, B, Harbor, Lt., Shoal .. 11-8,9,13
Bogtongan I. ................................. 6-20
Bogton Pt. .................................... 6-27
Bogui Pt. .................................... 5-105
Index-4
Bohol, I., Sea ............................... 12-1
Bojeador Cape, Lt. ......................... 5-7
Bolaboc Pt. ................................... 7-12
Bolanon R. ................................... 10-3
Bolila Island, Pt. ......................... 10-12
Bolinao, Cape, Harbor, Lt. . 5-23,24,25
Boljoon ...................................... 11-20
Bolo Rk. ..................................... 13-25
Boloang I. .................................. 13-25
Bolod, I. ..................................... 12-13
Bolos Pt., R. ................................. 5-82
Bombon Pt. .................................... 7-9
Bombonon Pt. ............................ 12-19
Bonbon Pt. ................................. 10-13
Bonbonon Pt., Port ..................... 10-13
Boncan, Mt. .................................. 14-2
Bondoc Head, Pt., Lt. ................... 5-62
Bondolan Pt., Lt. ....................... 9-10,6
Bongabong, Lt., R. .................. 6-13,14
Bongliw Lt., ................................. 5-90
Bongsanglay Natural Park ........... 8-11
Bonleo B. ..................................... 5-90
Bonoon I. ..................................... 12-4
Bonsud Pt. .................................... 6-13
Bontoc, Mt. ........................... 14-10,12
Bon-bon Lt. .................................. 5-90
Booc Pt. ........................................ 10-1
Borabaybay Pt. ............................. 13-2
Boracay I. ....................................... 7-8
Borbon ....................................... 11-10
Borobaloto Rk. ........................... 13-25
Boracay I. ........................................7-8
Borongan, Lt., Port, R. .......... 13-13,14
Bote Lt. ...................................... 5-121
Botinagan B. ............................... 5-119
Botiquis I. ..................................... 10-2
Botlog I. ....................................... 9-22
Botolan Mt., Pt. ............................ 5-30
Botolan Lt. .................................. 5-30
Botong I. ...................................... 10-2
Buad Channel, I. ................... 13-27,28
Bubug Pt., Mindoro ..................... 6-24
Bubug Pt., Panay ......................... 9-24
Bucao Pt., R. ....................... 5-91;5-30
Budias Pt. .................................. 5-125
Budlaan I. .................................... 12-4
Buenavista, Gilbert Is. ................. 13-3
Buenavista, Guimaras Is., Port . 9-9,10
Buenavista, Manicani Is. ........... 13-18
Buenavista, Marinduque Is. ........ 5-66
Buenavista, W. Bohol .................. 12-8
Buenavista Lt. ............................ 10-22
Buga Rk. ...................................... 8-14
Bugan R. ........................................ 9-2
Bugao Pt. .................................... 5-118
Bugatusan I. ................................. 12-7
Bugho Pt. ................................... 14-15
Bugko, Pt., R. .............................. 13-4
Bugol Pt. ...................................... 6-13
Bugsanga Pt., R. .......................... 6-24
Bugton Pt. .......................... 5-127;6-14
Bugtung Bato Pt. ...........................9-23
Bugtung I. .................................... 8-13
Buguey, R. ..................................... 5-4
Bugui, Pt. ,Lt. ................................. 8-1
Buguias I. ................................... 5-125
Buguitay I. ................................... 5-93
Bugwasan B. ................................ 5-90
Buhangin ..................................... 5-69
Buhoc Pt. ..................................... 14-2
Buiong Pt. .................................... 5-33
Bujo I. ............................................ 8-9
Bula Shoal .....................................6-18
Bulacan, R. .............................. 5-39,40
Bulacaue Pt. ................................. 9-18
Bulagao Mt. ............................. 5-10,11
Bulacabi Pt. .................................... 7-8
Bulalacao B. ................................. 6-17
Bulalaqui Pt. ................................. 11-1
Bulan, Lt. ......................................5-78
Bulubadian Pt. ............................ 10-12
Bulubadiang I. .............................. 9-19
Bulubadiangan I. .......................... 9-22
Buluguisan Pt. ............................ 10-11
Bulusan, Volcano ........................ 5-132
Buncayao Pt. ................................ 9-17
Bunga Pt. .................................... 13-10
Bungan I., Lt. ............................... 12-3
Buntay Pt., Lt. .............................. 10-1
Buntud Reef ................................... 8-8
Buoyage System ............................ 2-8
Bura Pt. ...................................... 13-16
Burabud Pt. .................................. 14-4
Burayoc Pt. ..................................... 5-7
Burdeos, B., R., Lt. ....................... 5-89
Bureau of:
Animal Industry ......................... 2-3
Customs ..................................... 2-2
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 2-8
Immigration ............................... 2-3
Quarantine ................................. 2-4
Buri I., E. Panay ........................... 9-23
Buri I., W. Mindoro ..................... 6-27
Buri I., W. Samar .........................13-25
Buri Pt., Asid Gulf ....................... 8-3,5
Buri Pt., Corregidor ...................... 5-36
Buri Pt., Ragay Gulf ..................... 5-71
Burias I, Pass ................................ 5-73
Burobodiongan, Pt. .................... 13-22
Buruanga, Pt., R. ........................... 9-1
Buruncan Peninsula, Pt. ......... 6-17, 21
Burungan I. .................................. 5-79
Busainga Port ............................... 5-74 Cabugcabug R. ............................. 9-18
Busay Mt. ................................... 13-29 Cabulan Islet, I. ................. 11-17, 12-7
Busing I, Port ............................... 5-73 Cabulao B., Pt. .......................... 12-16
Butag B. ....................................... 5-79 Caburauan, Mt. .............................5-73
Butan I. ........................................ 12-3 Cabusao, Lt. ............................... 5-105
Butauanan B., I. ......................... 5-107 Cabusilan Range .......................... 5-30
Buti Hill ..................................... 5-121 Cabutunan Pt. .............................. 5-83
Butuanon R. ............................... 11-15 Caceres ....................................... 11-20
Buyabud Port ............................... 5-64 Cacurrayan Inlet ........................... 6-27
Buyallao I, Pass, Pt. Pen. ............. 6-15 Cadacan R. ..................................14-17
Cadiz, Lt., R., Viejo .................. 10-4,5
C Cadulan Pt. .................................... 8-9
Caduruan Pt., Lt. ....................... 8-5,13
Caaluhan R. ............................... 5-105 Cagamutan B. .............................. 13-8
Cabaasan Pt. .............................. 13-19 Cagaray Island, Pt. ..................... 5-121
Cabacungan Pt. ........................... 12-9 Cagayan R. .................................... 5-4
Cabadea Pt. ............................... 5-128 Cagayan Valley ...............................1-1
Cabahan I. ..................................... 7-7 Cagbalisay I. .............................. 5-102
Cabalagnan, Pt. ............................ 9-12 Cagbanlion Pt. ............................ 13-20
Cabalarian I. ............................... 13-18 Cagbulauan I. ............................. 5-125
Cabalete I. .................................... 5-94 Cagmanaba B. .............................. 5-73
Cabalian Banks, Pt., Lt. .............. 7-6,7 Cagnipa I. ..................................... 13-1
Cabalian Mount ..........................14-15 Cagraray Is., Pass, Pt. .......... 5-125,128
Cabalic Pt. ................................... 9-10 Cagsao Pt. .................................. 5-105
Cabalitian B., I. ........................... 5-20 Caguray, Pt., R. ............................ 6-26
Caballo B., I. ............................... 5-36 Cahayagan I. ................................ 13-6
Cabaloa I. .................................... 5-92 Caibiran ....................................... 14-3
Caban I. ....................................... 5-54 Calianan Shoal ........................... 13-20
Cabangahan Pt. ........................... 5-32 Caima B. ...................................... 5-71
Cabantian Pt., R. ....................... 12-15 Caiman Cove, Pt., Shoal ........ 5-25, 33
Cabantulan I. ............................... 12-2 Cain Reef ................................... 12-17
Cabarian Pt. ................................. 5-73 Cairauan Pt. ................................... 9-3
Cabarruyan I. ............................... 5-21 Cajidiocan, Lt. ..............................7-11
Cabaun I. ..................................... 13-3 Cajoagon I. ................................... 13-4
Cabay, B. ................................... 13-15 Calaba I. ....................................... 5-59
Cabgan I., San Miguel B. .......... 5-106 Calabagio I. .................................5-114
Cabgan Is., W. Leyte ................... 14-6 Calabago Pt. ................................. 7-11
Cabgan Islet ................................. 12-7 Calabanga, R., Lt. ....................... 5-102
Cabicungan R. ................................ 5-6 Calabazas Island, Lt. .................... 9-23
Cabilao I., Lt. ............................. 12-10 Calagcalag B. ............................. 10-18
Cabilison I., Lt. ............................. 8-13 Calagnaan I. ................................. 9-20
Cablagna Pt. ................................13-20 Calagua I. ................................... 5-102
Cabodiangan Pt. ........................... 7-11 Calaguaguin B. ............................ 5-30
Cabra I., Lubang Islands, Lt. .......... 6-1 Calalanag I. .................................. 5-99
Cabra Pt. ..................................... 13-11 Calambayanga I. ........................ 5-100
Cabucgayan ................................. 14-3 Calancan B. .................................. 5-63
Cabug I. .......................................... 8-2 Calangaman Is., Cogtong ........... 12-16
Cabug Pt. ...................................... 8-15 Calangaman Is., NE Cebu ............ 11-9
Cabugan I., Chico, Grade Is. ...... 14-16 Calangawan I. ............................ 13-29
Cabugao B., W. Luzon, Port ........ 5-10 Calantas Rk., Lt. .......................... 5-79
Cabugao, B., Catanduanes .......... 5-116 Calapan, B., Lt., Pt. I. . 13-5; 6-9,10,11
Cabugao Islet ............................... 9-20 Calape, B. .................................... 12-9
Cabugao Pt., Guimaras .................. 9-9 Calasuche, Lt. ................................ 8-4
Cabugao Pt., W. Luzon .................5-10 Calatagan Inlet, Pt. ....................... 5-49
Cabugao Shoal ..............................5-10 Calaton Hill, Pt., Lt. .................... 7-5,7
Calatrava, R. ........................ 10-21;7-4
Calauag, B. ................................... 5-97
Calavera B. .................................. 11-4
Calavite, Cape, Pass, Mt. ............... 6-4
Calavite, Cape Lt. ........................ 6-22
Calayan, Bank, Is., Mt. .................. 4-7
Calaylayan B. ............................... 5-59
Calayuan Pt. ................................. 5-79
Calbayog City, Lt., R. ........... 13-23,24
Calbiga, R. ................................. 13-27
Calianan Shoal ........................... 13-20
Calicoan Island, Pass ................. 13-18
Caliling ...................................... 10-11
Calintaan I. .................................. 5-79
Calituban I., Reef ...................... 12-1,2
Calmay R. .................................... 5-19
Calogangan Pt. ........................... 13-31
Calolbon, San Andres ................ 5-115
Calomutan ................................... 5-79
Calongcalong Pt. ....................... 10-15
Calpay Shoal ................................ 5-21
Caltagan I. .................................. 13-30
Calubcub Pt. ................................. 10-6
Calubian ....................................... 14-1
Calumpan R. ................................ 5-53
Calumpang (Pulanduta Pt.) ........... 8-3
Calumpang (Taisan) ...................... 8-3
Calumpijan Islet .......................... 14-1
Calumpit ...................................... 5-39
Calunangan Pt. ............................ 14-7
Calutan Islet ................................ 14-2
Caluya Island, Lt. ........................ 6-19
Camagong, Mt. ............................ 5-96
Camalaniugan ................................ 5-5
Camandag I. ................................. 8-13
Camanhayay Pt. ......................... 13-28
Camasusu I. ................................... 8-2
Camayan Wharf .......................... 5-32
Cambalaguio Pt., Lt. .................. 12-18
Cambalo, Pt. ................................ 7-12
Cambaloi I. ................................ 13-25
Cambalot Reef ........................... 13-27
Cambanog Shoal ......................... 10-5
Cambasingan Islet ..................... 13-18
Cambatutay B. ........................... 13-25
Cambia Pt. ................................... 8-15
Cambidsos Rks. ......................... 13-24
Cambulayan Pt. ........................... 7-12
Camerong R. ................................. 6-4
Camiguin Bank, Mt., Pt., I. ........ 4-7,8
Caminauit Lt. ............................... 6-25
Caminawit Pt. .............................. 6-25
Camoropudan I. ......................... 13-31
Camotes I. ................................... 14-7
Camotes Sea ................................ 12-1
Campanario Shoal, I. ......... 11-13;5-48
Campatoc Pt, Reef ....................... 11-8
Index-5
Campomanes B. ......................... 10-12
Campopo B. ................................. 14-4
Campoyo Pt. .............................. 10-18
Camtas Pt. .................................... 6-22
Camungi I. ................................. 11-17
Canaba Pt. .................................. 12-18
Canabayon I. ................................ 13-8
Canaguayan Pt. ............................ 14-5
Canahauan I., Daco, Guliay ....... 13-25
Canal, Quezon ............................. 5-98
Canamay Pt. ............................... 10-16
Canapauan, Mt., R. ...................... 5-82
Canapiag Pt. ................................... 7-8
Canapog Pt. .................................. 14-4
Canatonatoan, Mt. .......................... 8-7
Canauay I., Lt., ........................... 13-29
Canaway R. ................................ 10-13
Canawayon I. ............................. 13-23
Can-avid ..................................... 13-12
Cancabato B. .............................. 14-19
Cancahinibing I. ......................... 13-10
Cancostino I. ................................ 12-7
Candamat Reef ........................... 13-14
Candelaria .................................... 5-27
Candolu I. .................................. 13-18
Candon, Lt., Pt. ............................ 5-14
Candongos Reef ......................... 13-26
Candungao, Mt. ........................... 12-9
Canduyong I. .............................. 13-26
Cangaluyan I. ............................... 5-22
Cangaranan R. ............................... 9-3
Cangouac Pt. ................................ 7-13
Canigao Chan, I., Lt. ........ 12-17;14-11
Canimo I., Lt., Pass .................... 5-104
Caninoan I. ................................. 13-18
Canipisan ..................................... 6-11
Canlaon Volcano .......................... 10-1
Canloay Pt. ................................... 7-12
Canmamot I. .............................. 13-25
Canmanai Rks. ............................. 13-8
Canmanoc Hills ......................... 12-10
Cannomanda Pt. ......................... 13-13
Canoan, Port .............................. 12-17
Canopao Pt. ................................ 12-14
Cansaga B. ................................. 11-15
Cansilan Pt., Lt. .......................... 10-12
Cantagay Pt. ................................12-14
Cantamulig Hill ........................... 12-6
Cantingas Pt. ................................ 7-11
Canton I. .................................... 5-104
Canyayo Pt. ................................... 7-6
Cañacao B. .................................. 5-40
Cañas B., I. .................................. 9-20
Caoayan ....................................... 5-13
Caohagan I. ................................ 11-17
Capalonga, B., Lt. ................... 5-98,99
Index-6
Cape .........................See proper names
Capid Pt. ........................................ 7-6
Capinas Pt. ................................. 13-13
Capines Pt. ....................... 13-20;14-18
Capitancillo I, Lt. ......................... 11-9
Capiz, B., Port .............................. 9-16
Capocpocanan I. ......................... 13-16
Capon Grande I. ........................... 5-30
Capones I, Lt, Pt. .......................... 5-30
Caprangasan I. ........................... 13-24
Capul I., Lt., Pass ......................... 8-14
Capulaan B. .................................. 5-59
Capuluan Pt., Reef ....................... 5-70
Capulutan, Mt., Pt. ....................... 5-83
Capuntucan Pt. ........................... 5-129
Caquiputan Strait ......................... 5-21
Caraballo Mts. ............................... 1-1
Carabang I. ....................................5-71
Carabao I.,Manila, Tablas ...... 7-8;5-40
Carabao Rk. ................................. 5-50
Caramoan Pen. ........................... 5-110
Caramoan, Pt., Port .................... 5-112
Carangian, Chan., Lt. ................... 13-3
Carauisan Pt. ................................ 6-22
Carbin Reef .................................. 10-3
Carcar, B., Pt. ........................ 11-18,19
Cardona ........................................ 5-47
Caridad Ibaba ............................... 5-95
Carigan Pt. ..................................12-18
Carigara, B., Lt. ........................... 14-1
Caringo I. ................................... 5-104
Carles, Hills ................................. 9-18
Carlota I. ........................................ 7-2
Carmen Bank ................................. 9-3
Carmen Bay, Lt. ............................. 7-8
Carmen, Cebu ............................. 11-11
Carmen, Port .............................. 11-10
Carmen Shoals ............................. 10-4
Carmen, Tablas .............................. 7-8
Carmen, W, Mindoro ................... 6-26
Carmencita Shoal ......................... 9-20
Carnasa I. ....................................... 8-5
Carogo I. ........................................ 8-2
Carrasco Reef, Shoal ........... 7-13;5-33
Cartagena, B. ............................. 10-11
Casambalangan, Port ..................... 5-3
Casapao Mt. ................................. 5-54
Casapsapan B. .............................. 5-86
Casiguran, Lt, Sound, B. ......... 5-86,87
Casimon Pt. .................................. 11-3
Casogoran B. ............................. 13-20
Casolgan Pass ............................ 5-125
Castañas ....................................... 5-57
Castilla, Lt. ................................... 5-78
Castillo Point ............................... 5-74
Catabangan, B., R. ....................... 5-70
Catadman Pt. .............................. 11-11
Catagbacan, Lt. .......................... 12-10
Cataingan, Port ............................ 8-12
Cataisan Pt. ................................ 14-17
Catalaban I. ................................ 13-12
Catanaguan I. ............................. 5-112
Catanauan, B., Lt., R. .................. 5-61
Catanduanes I. ............................ 5-113
Catangtangan I. ............................ 12-7
Cataoyan Reef .............................. 5-92
Catarman, Lt., R. Shoal ............... 13-4
Catarman Pt. .............................. 14-10
Catbalogan, Lt., R. ..................... 13-26
Catbatan Pt. .................................... 8-6
Caticlan ........................................ 9-14
Catiil I. ....................................... 12-16
Catinic Pt. .................................. 14-20
Catiyoman Pt. .............................. 14-6
Catmon, Pt., Cebu ...................... 11-10
Catmon, B., Pt., Negros ............. 10-12
Catmon Hill ................................14-17
Catpatin I., Pt. ........................... 8-9,10
Catubeg Reef ............................. 5-129
Catubig, R. .................................. 13-5
Catumbal Pt. ................................. 7-7
Catundulan Pt. ............................ 5-75
Cauayan, Cebu ........................... 11-19
Cauayan, Negros ........................ 10-11
Cauayan Pt., Lt. ................. 14-4;5-125
Caubyan I., Reef .......................... 12-1
Cauit I, Landing .................. 5-105,106
Cauit, Mt. ....................................... 5-8
Cauit Lt. ..................................... 11-13
Cauit Pt.
Albay G. ............................... 5-130
Sibuyan I. ............................... 7-12
Tablas I. .................................... 7-5
Talim I. ................................... 5-47
Cauit Reef .................................. 5-130
Caunayan B. ................................... 5-7
Caunbalan Pt. ............................... 5-72
Caurusan Pt. ................................. 5-72
Caution Regarding Buoys .............. 2-9
Cave Pt. ........................................ 13-2
Cavite City, Harbor ...................... 5-40
Cawayan, Lt. ……................. 8-5;13-4
Cawit ............................................ 5-67
Cawitan Pt. ................................. 10-12
Cayangon Pt. ...............................11-19
Caygan I. ...................................... 14-2
Cayman Pt. ................................... 5-74
Cayos del Bajo ............................. 6-21
Cazador Pt. ................................... 5-50
Cazcarro Rks. ................................. 7-9
Cebu, Harbor ........................... 11-1,12
Cebu Strait ................................... 12-1
Cent I. ............................................ 5-2
Centinela Pt., Claveria ................... 5-6
Centinela Pt., N. Bohol ................ 12-5
Central Luzon Plain ....................... 1-1
Cerro Pt. ..................................... 11-18
Cervantes R. .................................. 6-4
Cervera Reef ................................ 7-13
Cervera Shoal ............................ 12-13
Cetaceo, Mt. ................................. 5-83
Chawa Pt. ....................................... 4-4
Chico I., Masbate ........................... 8-4
Ch’i-Hsing Chiao ........................... 4-1
Chinapuliran .................................. 4-3
Chinela I. ..................................... 9-18
Chiquita I. .................................... 5-32
Chocolate I., Lt. ........................... 11-1
Cibang Cove .................................. 4-7
Cimarron I. ................................ 5-109
Cimlong, R. ................................. 5-53
Cinamongan Pt. ............................. 8-3
Circe Bank ..................................... 8-3
Claveria, B. ............................... 5-74,6
Coal Harbor ............................... 5-127
Coamen Islets .............................. 12-7
Cobo, B. ...............................5-114,115
Cobrador I. .................................... 7-9
Coccoc Rk. .................................. 5-92
Cochinos Pt. ................................. 5-34
Coco Islet ................................... 13-14
Coconut I. .................................... 13-2
Cocos Islet .................................. 5-111
Codon ......................................... 5-115
Cogolong B. ................................. 6-15
Cogon, Carabao I., Cebu ...... 7-8;11-11
Cogtong B., Mt. ...................... 12-1,16
Coguit Pt. ..................................... 5-72
Colasi B., Pt., Mansalay ............... 6-15
Colasi Hill ...................................... 7-5
Colasi Pt., Ticlin .......................... 5-79
Colipapa ..................................... 10-12
Coloconto B ................................. 5-56
Colongcogong, Lt. ...................... 5-113
Colongcolong ............................... 9-14
Colorada Pt.
Port Barrera .............................. 8-6
Burias I. .................................. 5-73
Lt. ............................................. 8-6
Columbia Reef ........................... 5-127
Comas I. ....................................... 5-21
Cominauet Pt. .............................. 6-26
Communications ............................ 1-3
Compostela ................................ 11-12
Cone Island ................................ 5-126
Consumala Pt. .............................. 7-12
Contra Costa, Port .......................... 4-4
Copton B., Pen., Pt. ................... 11-6,7
Corcuera, Pt., Lt. ............................ 7-3
Cordillera Central Mts. .................. 1-1
Corregidor Cove, I., Lt. ............... 5-36
Corte, Mt., Pt. .........................12-6,7,8
Cortejan R. ................................... 11-2
Cortes ......................................... 12-11
Cotivas I. .................................... 5-111
Cresta de Gallo, I. .................. 9-5;7-13
Cruz Pt. ...................................... 12-11
Cuatro I. ..................................... 14-10
Cube Rk. ...................................... 13-7
Cubi Pt. ........................................ 5-32
Cucaracha Shoal .......................... 9-19
Cudao Islet ..................................... 8-9
Cudtingan, Mt. ........................... 12-17
Cuernos de Negros .................... 10-14
Cueva Pt. ...................................... 5-74
Cugun Pt. ................................... 5-109
Cujao Pt. .................................... 13-26
Culaba .......................................... 14-3
Culajit I. ....................................... 14-3
Culangalan, Mt. ........................... 5-78
Culasi
Bay ......................................... 9-23
Hill ......................................... 9-17
Peak ..................................... 5-105
Pt, N. Panay ........................... 9-16
Pt, San Miguel ..................... 5-104
Pt, W. Cebu ............................ 11-7
Pt Lt. ...................................... 9-16
Port Capiz .............................. 9-16
W. Panay .................................. 9-2
Culebra Islet
Dasol B. ................................. 5-25
E. Panay ................................. 9-21
off Maricaban ........................ 5-54
Culili Pt. ........................................ 5-8
Currimao, Port .............................. 5-8
Customs Collection Distr. ............. 2-2
Cutcut Pt. ..................................... 5-76
D Darsena I. ..................................... 8-14
Daanbantayan ............................... 11-2
Daanlongsod R. .......................... 11-18
Dabun I. ..................................... 13-30
Daco I., Islet ............................... 10-17
Daet, Pt., R. .................................5-103
Daga Reef ..................................... 10-5
Dagat Rks. .................................. 5-114
Dagosungan R. ..............................11-2
Dagupan, Lt., R. ........................... 5-19
Dahikan B., Islet .......................... 5-99
Daijagon Canal ............................ 11-2
Daiquitin ...................................... 5-66
Daja Cove .................................... 14-4
Dakit I. ......................................... 8-12
Dalaguete, Pt. ............................. 11-19
Dalaynay Islets, Pt. .................... 5-120
Dalingding R. .............................. 11-2
Dalipe Pt. ....................................... 9-3
Dalit I. .......................................... 6-18
Dalolac Pt. ................................... 5-28
Dalopaon ..................................... 5-71
Dalupiri I. ...................................... 4-7
Dalupiri I., Masbate, Pass ............ 8-14
Dalugdug Pt. .............................. 13-29
Dalungan Pt. .............................. 10-18
Damita Rk. ................................. 13-23
Dampalan B. ................................ 5-74
Danajon Bank, I., Pass ................. 12-1
Danao, Port, Pt., E. Cebu ............ 11-11
Danao Pt., E. Panay ...................... 9-23
Danao R. .................................... 10-21
Danglay, Mt. .............................. 13-31
Danjugan I. ................................. 10-11
Dao ................................................. 9-4
Daog Pt. ..................................... 10-12
Dapdap B. .................................... 13-7
Dapdap Pier. ...................... 6-19;13-22
Dapdap Pt.
Luzon, Basiad B ..................... 5-98
S. Gigante I. ........................... 9-20
Dapdap Rks. ............................... 13-25
Dapua Pt. ...................................... 5-33
Daquio I. .................................... 14-10
Daquit Pt., Shoal ........................ 12-19
Daraga Church ........................... 5-129
Daraga I. ................................... 13-23
Darajuay, I., Chann. .............. 13-26,27
Daram, Chan., I., Lt. ..................13-28
Daranasan I. ................................. 13-5
Darapidap ..................................... 5-14
Darigayos Pt., Inlet ....................... 5-15
Darraga I. ................................... 13-23
Darrena Pt..................................... 5-12
Dasol B. ....................................... 5-25
Dauajon Islet ................................ 14-5
Dauis, Bohol, Cebu .......... 12-12;11-11
Davila ............................................ 5-8
Davis Rk. ..................................... 6-27
Dayap B., Pt. ................................ 5-98
Dayap Pt., Mindoro ...................... 6-12
Deagan I. ...................................... 8-12
Debutunan Pt. ............................... 5-87
Defects in Aids to Nav. .................. 2-9
Del Monte Pt. ................................. 6-4
Del Remedio .............................. 13-13
Delgada Pt.................................... 5-87
Denson Reef .............................. 5-129
Index-7
Department of Agriculture ............ 2-8
Dequey I. ....................................... 4-5
Derelicts, Reporting of .................. 2-5
Derickson Reef ......................... 5-126
Deseada Pt. .................................. 5-89
Desquid Pt. .................................... 4-4
Destacado I. ................................. 8-14
Diablo, Islet, Pt. ....................... 8-6;7-4
Dialao Pt., Lt. .............................. 5-6,7
Diamante Rk., Lt. .................. 8-14,131
Diapitan B. ................................... 5-85
Dibacong ...................................... 5-87
Dibayabay B. ............................... 5-88
Dibughan Islet .............................. 5-77
Dibut B. ........................................ 5-88
Didicas Rk. .............................. 4-9;1-4
Digollorin B., Pt., R. .................... 5-85
Dijohan Pt. ................................... 5-86
Dile Pt. ......................................... 5-12
Dimalansan Port .......................... 5-84
Dimasalang .................................... 8-9
Dimiao ........................................12-14
Dinago Pt. .................................... 6-20
Dinahican Pt. ............................... 5-89
Dinampo Pt. ................................. 5-97
Dinapiqui Pt. ................................ 5-85
Dinatadmo Pt. .............................. 5-85
Dingalan B., R., Lt. ..................... 5-89
Dio Islet ..................................... 14-18
Diogo I. .......................................... 4-3
Dipalali Pt. ................................... 5-87
Dipari Rks. ..................................... 4-7
Directions:
Aparri to Basco ...................... 3-36
Manila to:
Aparri ............................... 3-1,6
Bacolod ............................. 3-26
Balanacan .......................... 3-10
Batangas .............................. 3-8
Borongan ........................... 3-16
Calapan ............................... 3-8
Catbalogan ........................ 3-14
Cebu .......................... 3-2,23,24
Coron ................................ 3-13
Davao ................................ 3-22
Dumaguete ........................ 3-27
General Santos .................. 3-21
Iloilo ................................. 3-18
Legazpi ............................ 3-2,7
Masbate ............................. 3-11
Ozamiz .............................. 3-28
Puerto Princesa ............... 3-2,13
Polloc & Cotabato ............. 3-20
Romblon ............................ 3-12
Roxas ................................. 3-25
San Fernando ....................... 3-6
Index-8
Tacloban ............................. 3-15
Virac ..................................... 3-9
Zamboanga ...................... 3-2,19
Cebu to:
Bislig ............................... 3-3,35
Cagayan de Oro ................. 3-32
Dapa ................................... 3-36
Getafe ................................. 3-34
Iligan ................................. 3-33
Larena ............................... 3-34
Nasipit ............................... 3-33
Surigao ........................... 3-2,31
Tacloban ............................ 3-32
Tagbilaran ......................... 3-34
Zamboanga .................... 3-2,31
Iloilo to:
Cebu ............................. 3-29,30
Zamboanga ........................ 3-29
Dirique Inlet ................................... 5-8
Distress Call, Assistance ................ 2-6
Disucsip Pt. .................................. 5-88
Disumangit I., Pt. ......................... 5-85
Ditolong Peak, Pt. ........................ 5-85
Diutay I., Islet, Pt. ......... 10-2,18;13-29
Divilacan, B., Peak ................. 5-83-84
Divinubo I., Lt. ........................... 13-14
Di'nem I. ........................................ 4-3
Diyoryan Cove ............................5-120
Doha Shoal ................................... 10-2
Dolognan R. ................................. 5-78
Dolores, R. ................................. 13-12
Dome Hill .................................... 6-12
Dome Peak ................................. 10-13
Dominga Shoal ............................ 6-20
Don I. ........................................... 10-2
Dongon B., Cay, Pt., Reef .......6-24, 25
Donsol, Pt., R. .............................. 5-75
Doña Ana I. .................................. 5-76
Doong Reef .................................. 10-2
Dos Hermanas, I. ........................... 7-2
Dos Hermanos, Islets, I., ......... 5-16,22
Duero ......................................... 12-15
Dulag ......................................... 14-17
Duljugan Pt. ................................. 14-6
Dumaguete, Lt., Pt., R. ............... 10-14
Dumaguit ..................................... 9-15
Dumali, Mt., Pt., Lt. ..................... 6-13
Dumangas Pt. ............................... 9-24
Dumanjug, B., Lt., Pt. .................. 11-6
Dumaquit Pt. ................................ 5-76
Dumurug Pt. ................................. 8-12
Dunao Islet ................................... 9-22
Dungun Pt. ………..……............. 14-4
Dupon B. ...................................... 14-6
Duyugan Pt. ................................. 6-14
D'tarem I. ....................................... 4-2
E
Earthquakes ................................... 1-3
East Ikikon I. ................................ 5-93
Egbert Shoals ............................. 14-18
Egg I. ............................................ 5-88
Elbow Pt. ..................................... 5-90
Elcaño Shoal ................................ 9-18
Elefante Islet ................................ 5-65
El Fraile I., Lt. ............................. 5-36
El Niño .......................................... 1-8
Elonbachid I. ............................... 13-2
Encanto, Cape ............................. 5-88
Engaño, Cape, Cove, Lt. ............ 5-1,2
Engañoso, Mt. ............................. 5-75
Engineer I. ................................... 5-43
Enrique Magalona ....................... 10-6
Enrique Villanueva .................... 12-19
Enriqueta ...................................... 13-3
Entrance I. .................................... 5-99
Ermita Pt., Rk. ............................ 10-20
Escalante, B., Lt. ........................ 10-22
Escarceo Pt., Lt. ............................. 6-8
Escarpada I., Pt. ................... 5-81;8-14
Escucha, I. ...................................... 5-2
España, Shoal ...................... 7-12;8-13
Esperanza ....................................... 8-5
Espiritu Santo, Cape .................... 13-7
Estagno I. ..................................... 5-84
Estampa Pt. ................................... 9-7
Estancia, Lt. ............................ 9-20,21
Esteban ....................................... 5-131
Estero Pt. ...................................... 5-74
Estrella ......................................... 6-11
Etinas I. ....................................... 5-111
Eve Reef ..................................... 12-17
F
Fabrica ......................................... 10-4
Fagg Reef .................................... 5-16
Faltaban I. .................................... 8-10
Finch Rk. ..................................... 13-7
Fisher Shoal ................................. 13-4
Fitzgerald Banks .......................... 13-4
Flat
Peak ....................................... 5-83
Rock ...................................... 9-17
Floripon Pt., Lt. ........................... 9-15
Foot I. .......................................... 13-3
Fortune I., Lt. ............................... 5-49
Fuego Pt. ...................................... 5-48
Fuga I. ............................................ 4-8
Fulin I. ....................................... 13-10
Fumigation ..................................... 2-3
 G Barili B. .................................. 11-5
Gaang B. ........................................ 5-9
Gaba B. ...................................... 5-126
Gabo .............................................. 5-8
Gabot Islet, Pt. ............................. 5-10
Gacat, Mt. .................................. 14-13
Gadd Rk. ....................................... 4-1
Gajo Pt. ..................................... 5-130
Gakang I. ................................... 12-13
Galera Port, Lt., ............................ 6-7
Galvaney I. .................................. 5-71
Gamau Pt. .................................... 5-95
Gamay, B. .................................... 13-8
Gamay Pt. ................................. 14-3,4
Gamma Reef ............................... 7-13
Gandara, Lt., R. ......................... 13-24
Garan Bi (S Cape) ......................... 4-1
Garcia Hernandez ...................... 12-14
Garza I. ........................................ 6-26
Gasan, Lt. .................................... 5-66
Gaspar ......................................... 5-66
Gato I. ............................................ 8-1
Gato Islet ....................................... 8-5
Gaus I. .......................................... 12-3
Gaviota Rk. .................................. 5-32
Gay I. ........................................... 5-84
General Luna, Lt. ......................... 5-58
General Mac Arthur ................... 13-17
Genuruan I. .................................. 14-2
Gerardo Pt. ................................... 5-96
Getafe, Harbor ............................. 12-6
Gibuangan .................................... 11-6
Gigantangan I. ............................. 14-4
Gigantes I. .................................... 9-19
Gigantillo I. .................................. 9-19
Gigantuna I. ................................. 9-19
Gigmoto, B. ................................ 5-120
Gigoso Pt. .................................. 13-20
Gilbert I. ....................................... 13-2
Giligaon Pt. ................................ 10-13
Ginablan B. .................................. 5-79
Ginatilan ....................................... 11-7
Gindacpan I. ................................. 12-2
Ginitligan Cove .......................... 5-120
Giporlos ..................................... 13-20
GMDSS ......................................... 2-6
Goaram Pii ..................................... 4-1
Gogo Pass, Pt. .............................. 9-20
Golo
Island ....................................... 6-3
Lt. ............................................ 6-3
Pass .......................................... 6-3
Gontin B., Pt. ................................. 6-3
Gorda Lt.
Romblon Pass. .......................... 7-9
Tablas I. .................................... 7-4
Valencia ................................ 12-14
Gorda Pt.
Barili B. .................................. 11-5
Mobo, Masbate ........................ 8-9
San Narciso ............................ 5-69
Tablas I. .................................... 7-4
Valencia, Mt. ........................ 12-14
Gorrion Islet ................................. 5-75
Gorriti Shoal .................................. 8-4
Gosangan Pt. .................................. 5-2
Government ................................... 1-2
Gran Laja ....................................... 5-1
Granadas .................................... 13-21
Grande I., Lt. Beacon .................. 5-32
Green
Cone ..................................... 14-11
Island ..................................... 13-3
Pt. ......................................... 14-11
Grove Pt. .................................... 5-103
Guadalupe .................................. 14-11
Guagua ......................................... 5-39
Guardia Shoal .............................. 5-34
Guay B., Pt. ................................. 5-34
Gubat, Lt., Port .......................... 5-131
Guibahay R. ............................... 5-108
Guihulngan, Lt. .......................... 10-19
Guijalo, B. .................................. 5-122
Guiljungan ................................. 10-11
Guilu Chan. .................................. 5-82
Guilutugan I. .................................. 8-4
Guimaras
Island ....................................... 9-9
Strait ...................................... 9-12
Guimbal, Pt., R. ............................. 9-5
Guinanayan I. ............................ 5-125
Guinanung Pt. ............................ 13-13
Guinapac Rks. ............................... 4-9
Guinasian Islets ........................... 9-23
Guinauayan I. ................................ 8-4
Guinawayan Pt. ............................. 7-5
Guinayangan, Lt. ......................... 5-70
Guindauahan Islet .......................... 7-4
Guinduganan B., Pt. ................ 5-74,75
Guindulman, B. .......................... 12-15
Guindung Pt. .............................. 10-17
Guinhalinan Pt., R. ...................... 5-69
Guinhandang Mt. ....................... 14-18
Guinlabagan I. ............................... 8-4
Guinluthagan Islet ......................... 8-3
Guinobatan R. ............................... 8-7
Guinsaanan B. ........................... 5-120
Guintacan I., Lt. .................. 10-2;11-1
Guintarcan I. ......................... 13-27,28
Guintinua I. ................................ 5-102
Guintorijan Hills .......................... 11-3
Guiom R. ....................................... 8-5
Guitinguitin Mt. ........................... 7-11
Guiuan, Lt. ................................. 13-19
Guiuanon I., Pt. ................... 9-12;11-7
Gumaca ........................................ 5-95
Gumahang ..................................... 8-6
Gumalac I. ................................... 14-6
Gumanining ................................. 5-87
Gumaus B., Pt. ........................... 5-101
H
Hagnaya, B., Lt., Port, I. .......... 11-2,3
Hagnaya Pt. .............................. .13-17
Hagonoy ...................................... 5-39
Hakupan I. ................................... 5-63
Halcon Mt. .................................... 6-4
Hamilo Cove, Pt., Lt. .................. 5-48
Hamoraon I. ................................ 8-12
Hamorauan Pt., Reef ................... 5-79
Hamtic .......................................... 9-4
Handayan I. ................................. 12-2
Handing Pt. ................................ 13-18
Haponan I. .................................. 5-111
Haravis Pt. ................................. 13-13
Harigue ........................................ 6-20
Hayaan Islet ................................. 12-7
Helm Hbr. .................................... 13-9
Hermana Mayor I., Lt. ................ 5-25
Hermana Menor I. ....................... 5-25
Hermosa Bank ........................... 14-7
Hernani, R. ................................ 13-16
Herrera Lt. ................................... 6-12
Hervor Rk. ................................. 5-109
High Islet ..................................... 5-59
Higunum Rk. ............................... 13-8
Hilaban I. ................................... 13-10
Hilongos, I. ................................ 14-11
Hilutangan Chan., I. .................. 11-17
Himamaylan, Lt., R. .................. 10-10
Himbangan R. ........................... 14-14
Himoragat R. ............................. 5-106
Himugaan Pt., R. ......................... 10-4
Himuquitan Islet ........................ 14-10
Hinangutdan .............................. 13-29
Hindang ..................................... 14-11
Hingatungan .............................. 14-17
Hingatungan Pt. ......................... 14-16
Hinigaran, R. ............................. 10-10
Hinunangan .............................. 14-16
Hinunangan B. ........................... 14-15
Hinundayan, Cove ..................... 14-15
Hirapsan I. ................................... 13-4
Index-9
History ........................................... 1-2
Hiuinatungan I. ............................ 13-9
Homonhon I. .............................. 13-20
Hondagua, Lt. .............................. 5-96
Hondagua Hbr. ............................. 5-95
Hook B. ........................................ 5-90
Horadaba Rk.
Corregidor ............................. 5-36
Catanduanes ........................ 5-117
Hsiao-lan Yu .................................. 4-1
Huag I. ....................................... 5-102
Huagdon Pt. ............................... 12-16
Hundred I. .................................... 5-21
Hunter Rk. .................................... 6-21
Hyde Reef .................................... 12-7
I Ipil R. ........................................... 12-5
IIagat I. ......................................... 5-28
Iba Pt. ........................................... 5-29
Ibajay, Pt., R. ................................ 9-14
Ibuhos Chan. .................................. 4-6
Ibuhos I. ......................................... 4-5
Icauayan Pt. .................................. 9-11
Icol I. ............................................ 5-92
Igang B.. ....................................... 9-11
Igang Pt.
Dalupiri Pass .......................... 5-36
Sta. Ana B. ............................. 9-11
Igangigang ................................. 13-29
Igbon I. ......................................... 9-22
Igsoso B., Pt. ................................ 6-22
Iguana Bank ................................... 9-6
Ijatub ............................................ 5-66
Ilacaon Chan., I., Pt., Reef ........... 10-5
Ilang R. ........................................ 5-83
Ilanin B. ....................................... 5-33
Iligan Pt. ....................................... 5-82
Ilihan Pt. ..................................... 5-118
Ilihan, Mt. .................................... 12-9
Ilijan Pt. ......................................14-12
Ilijan Pt. Lt. .................................14-14
Ilin, I., Mt., Pt. ............................. 6-27
Ilin Strait ...................................... 6-26
Ilog, R. ....................................... 10-10
Anchorage................................. 6-5
Bay ......................................... 5-75
Ilogao B. ...................................... 6-18
Ilogao Pt. ..................................... 6-19
Iloilo City ....................................... 9-7
Iloilo Province ............................... 9-5
Iloilo R. .......................................... 9-7
Iloilo Strait ..................................... 9-7
Imba ............................................. 6-19
Imbrandahan R. ........................... 9-24
Index-10
Inabanga, R. ................................. 12-8
Inaguaran Shoal ........................... 5-73
Inampulugan I. ............................. 9-12
Inanoran Islet ............................... 12-7
Inatoulan I. ................................. 13-19
Inayauan ..................................... 10-11
Indan Pt., R ................................ 5-103
Infanta
Dasol B. ................................. 5-26
Lampon P., R. ........................ 5-89
Ingalan I. .................................... 5-102
Iniyao I. ...................................... 13-15
Inner Harbor .................................. 5-2
Inopacan .................................... 14-10
Iogiog Bank ................................. 9-13
Ipil Pt. ...................................7-13;13-6
Irada, Mt. ....................................... 4-4
Irao Islet ........................................ 4-7
Irene Port, Lt. ................................ 5-3
Iriron Rk., B. ................................ 6-24
Iris Shoal .................................... 14-18
Isabel, Lt ...................................... 14-6
Isabel Islet ...................................... 7-2
Isarog, Mt. ........................... 5-105,122
Isioc Pt. ........................................ 8-13
Itbayat I. ......................................... 4-3
Itbu Pt. ............................................ 6-4
Itbud ............................................... 4-4
Iuisan Pt., Shoal ......................... 11-20
Ivana .............................................. 4-4
Ivantacut I. ................................. 13-30
J Kao-T’ai Shih ............................... 4-1
Jagna, B., Lt. .............................. 12-14
Jaguliao I. ..................................... 12-2
Jaldan Pt. ........................................ 9-4
Jala-jala ........................................ 5-47
Jamuraon, B. ................................ 5-72
Janabatas Chan. .......................... 13-29
Japitan .......................................... 11-6
Japitan Pt. ..................................... 11-5
Jao I. ............................................. 12-2
Jaulo I. .......................................... 5-98
J. B. Miller B. ............................... 5-82
Jesus Pt.
off Capalonga B. .................... 5-99
W. Samar .............................. 13-26
Jetafe, Harbor, Lt. ........................ 12-6
Jiabong ....................................... 13-27
Jibatan Pt., R. ............................. 13-23
Jibitnil I. ....................................... 11-2
Jilaitan Pt. ...................................10-19
Jilantangan I. ................................ 10-2
Jimalalud .................................... 10-18
Jimuguit R. ................................. 11-10
Jinamoc I., Lt. ............................ 13-31
Jinatablan Reef .......................... 13-28
Jintotolo Chan. ............................ 9-18
Jintotolo I. ..................................... 8-2
Jintotolo Lt. ................................... 8-3
Jinuba-n ..................................... 10-12
Johns Reef ................................. 5-116
Jolo I. ............................................. 1-1
Jomalig I. ..................................... 5-93
Jordan, Wharf Lt., R. ................... 9-10
Jose Panganiban, Port ................ 5-100
Juac Chan., I. ............................... 5-79
Jumbit Islets ............................... 5-121
Jurao-jurao Islet ............................. 9-5
K
Kabankalan ................................ 10-10
Kabatoan ..................................... 13-7
Kabulao B., Pt. .......................... 12-16
Kagliliog Pt. .............................. 5-106
Kalaklan Pt. ................................. 5-32
Kalaklan Pt. Lt., R. ...................... 5-33
Kalanaga, B. .............................. 5-126
Kalapadan B. ............................. 5-121
Kalibo .......................................... 9-15
Kalongkooan I. ............................ 5-93
Kambal Reef ................................ 6-21
Kambuang Hill ............................ 11-6
Kanadag I. ................................. 13-16
Kanipaan ................................... 14-16
Karikiki I. .................................... 8-13
Katakian I. ................................... 5-93
Kawayan ...................................... 14-3
Kawayan Islet ............................ 13-25
Kawayan Lt. ................................ 14-4
Kawayan R. ................................. 6-11
Kawit
Manila B. ............................... 5-40
Point ....................................... 11-2
Ponson I. ................................ 14-7
Strait ....................................... 14-7
Point, W. Cebu ....................... 11-2
Kaybani I. .................................. .13-10
Kilbay Pt., R. ................................ 5-70
Kinaguitman B. .......................... 13-22
Kinabakbagan Reef ...................... 5-29
Knobs, The ................................... 5-85
Komagat Rk. .............................. 5-119
Kotkot Pt., R. .............................. 11-12
Kugasinan Pt. ............................... 5-97
Kutad I., Cove ...............................5-48
 L Languyon Pt. ................................ 11-3
Lantao I., Rk. ............................... 5-93
Labcan Pt., Lt. ........................... 5-126 Laoag, R. ....................................... 5-8
Labiranan Head ......................... 14-17 Laoang, B., Hbr., I. ...................... 13-5
Labno Islet ................................... 9-20 Laoangan ..................................... 13-5
Labunglaion I. ............................. 13-8 Laorente B. ...................................5-74
Lacaylacay Pt. ............................... 5-6 Lapinig, B. ................................... 13-8
Lacdian Islet ................................ 9-21 Lapinin Chico Islet .......................12-4
Lagalag R. ................................... 5-60 Lapinin I., Pass. ........................... 12-4
Lagan Pt. ...................................... 8-11 Lapog B., Pt., R., Shoal .............. 5-12
Laganac Lt. .................................. 5-72 Lapu-Lapu City .......................... 11-16
Lagara Cove ................................. 6-17 Larap B. ...................................... 5-100
Lagarian Pt. .................................. 6-11 Larena ........................................ 12-17
Lagichic Pt. .................................. 5-98 Lassuan Islet ............................... 11-17
Lagnay Islet ................................. 14-3 Lato Islet .....................................5-113
Lagonoy Gulf, R. ....................... 5-122 Lauan Pt. ........................................ 7-7
Laguimanoc Pt., Port ................... 5-59 Lauaan I., B, Pt. ......................... 13-20
Laguinit B., I. ............................. 13-29 Lauing Bay ..................................5-113
Laguio Pt. ..................................... 5-95 Lauis Ledge ................................ 11-17
Laguma, Anch. ........................... 14-16 Lauis Ledge Lt.. ......................... 11-13
Laguna de Bay ............................. 5-46 Lauis R. ........................................ 5-27
Lagundi .......................................... 8-9 Lavampa I. ................................... 5-77
Lagundi Shoal ............................ 11-13 Lavezares, Hbr. ............................ 13-2
Lahuy I. ...................................... 5-110 Lawaya R. .................................... 5-56
Lahuy Lt...................................... 5-111 Lawi Pt. ........................................ 9-11
Laja I. ......................................... 5-110 Laya I. ........................................ 13-25
Lake Taal ..................................... 5-50 Layaglayag Shoal ......................... 5-54
Lakes .................... (See proper names) Layalaya Islets ........................... 13-25
Lalauigan I. ................................ 13-16 Laylay, R. ..................................... 5-67
Lalawigan, B. .............................. 6-26 Lazareto Barrio ............................ 6-11
Lalawigan Pt. Lazareto I. .................................. 13-31
E. Samar ............................. 13-14 Lazi, B., Lt. ................................ 12-18
S. Mindoro ............................. 6-23 Legal Holidays ............................... 1-3
La Libertad R. ............................ 10-19 Legazpi City, Lt., Port, Reef ...... 5-128
Lal-lo ............................................. 5-5 Leleboon I. ................................. 13-18
Lamanoc Pt. ............................... 12-16 Lemery, Lt. .................................. 5-50
Lamao, Lt. .................................... 5-38 Leonidas Bank ............................. 6-21
Lambusan R. ................................ 11-3 Lete, I. ....................................... 5-118
Lamit B. ..................................... 5-108 Leung Pt ....................................... 13-6
Lamit I. ...................................... 5-109 Leyte, B., I ................................... 14-1
Lamon B. ..................................... 5-93 Leyte Gulf .................................. 14-15
La Monja I., Lt. ........................... 5-36 Lian Pt. ......................................... 5-69
Lampon, Port ............................... 5-93 Lian R. ......................................... 5-48
Lanang R. Libagon ...................................... 14-13
Masbate I. ................................ 8-7 Libao Hill ..................................... l1-6
E. Samar .............................. 13-15 Libas, Cove, Estero ..................... 9-16
Lanao ........................................... 14-8 Libas Port .................................. 13-13
Lanao, Lake ..................................14-7 Libertad, Panay ............................. 9-1
Lane Rks. ................................... 5-114 Libertad, Tablas ............................ 7-4
Langao Pt. .................................... 5-79 Libog ........................................ 5-128
Langauin Reef ............................. 6-14 Libucan Daco I. ........................ 13-25
Langob ......................................... 11-4 Libucan Guitay I. ..................... 13-25
Guintacan I. ........................... 11-1 Libucan Is. ................................ 13-25
Langtad Pt. ................................. 11-18 Lictin Pt. ................................... 5-119
Languages .......................................1-3 Liguan, Pt. ................................ 5-127
Lila ........................................... 12-14
Limbones Cove ......................... 5-40
Liloan, Pt., R, Cebu ............... 11-8,12
Liloan, B, Lt., Pt., Leyte ........... 14-14
Lima Rk. ................................... 5-102
Limaiag Reef ............................ 12-16
Limasawa I, Lts. ....................... 14-12
Limay ......................................... 5-39
Limbones Cove, I. ...................... 5-40
Limit Pt. ...................................... 5-40
Limosoc Reef .............................. 12-3
Linampanan I. .......................... 5-119
Linao, Lt, Pt., R. ........................... 5-4
Linao I. ..................................... 13-16
Linao, Pt Lt. .............................. 13-10
Linaon ....................................... 10-11
Lingayen, Gulf ....................... 5-19,15
Linguion, Mt. ............................ 5-129
Lininob Rk. ................................. 6-27
Liog Pt. ....................................... 14-4
Lipata
Bank .................................... 11-13
Mount ........................... 5-59;13-2
Pt., Bondoc Pen. .................... 5-61
Pt., Capulaan B. .................... 5-59
Pt, Cebu I. ........................... 11-17
Pt., Panay I. ............................ 9-2
Pt., W. Samar ...................... 13-22
River ..................................... 5-90
Lipayran I. .................................. 10-2
Lipusan B. ................................. 13-11
Litao Islet .................................. 5-113
Little
Balading .............................. 13-25
Balateros Cove ........................ 6-6
Botel Tobago I. ........................ 4-1
Darajuay I. ........................... 13-26
Karikiki Islet .......................... 8-13
Livas Pt. ....................................... 13-5
Llorente ...................................... 13-15
Loay, Lt., R. ............................... 12-14
Lobo, Mt. ................................ 5-55,56
Loboc ......................................... 12-14
Lobod R. ...................................... 5-83
Locoloco Lt., Pt. .......................... 5-56
Locot B., I. ..................................5-121
Lode B. ........................................ 8-14
Loguingut Islet ............................ 9-20
Lokanin Pt. .................................. 5-38
Lolong Pt., Lt. ............................ 5-119
Longos Pt. .................................. 5-102
Looc
B, Masbate I. .............................8-2
B, Lubang I. ............................. 6-2
B., Samar, Pt. ....................... 13-23
B, Tablas I. ............................... 7-5
Cove ....................................... 5-48
Index-11
 on Biliran I. ............................ 14-3
on Leyte ................................ 14-11
on Rizal .................................. 5-47
on Tablas I. .............................. 7-6
Reef, Lt. ................................... 7-6
River ......................... 14-11; 5-106
Loom R. ..................................... 13-14
Loon ................................ 11-19;12-10
Lopez, B., R. ................................ 5-95
Los Baños .................................... 5-47
Los Carabaos Islets ...................... 5-89
Los Cochinos ............................... 5-34
Los Confites I., Reef, Rks. .......... 5-88
Los Frailes ................................... 5-31
Losapon R. ................................. 11-20
Loya R. ........................................ 11-2
Luan Hill, I., Pt. ...................... 5-28,29
Lubang, I. ....................................... 6-1
Lubas Pt. .................................... 5-129
Lucap, B., Lt. ............................... 5-21
Lucena ......................................... 5-57
Lucson Pt. .................................. 13-20
Lucsuhin I. ................................. 5-111
Luctaban Islet ............................ 13-10
Ludo Pt. ..................................... 13-11
Lugan Cove ............................... 5-112
Lugbung I. ..................................... 7-9
Lugmayan Pt. ............................... 9-12
Lugot Pt. ....................................... 5-10
Lumangbayan, R. ......................... 6-11
Lumban ........................................ 5-47
Lumbujan Pt. ............................... 8-12
Lumintao R. ................................. 6-24
Lumislis Islet ............................. 12-16
Luna ............................................. 5-15
Lunat Pt. ........................................ 7-7
Lunas, Mt. ..................................... 7-4
Lungboy Pt. ............................... 12-10
Lungib Pt. .................................... 5-97
Lunod Rk. ................................. 13-25
Lupac Pt. ..................................... 5-67
Lusaran Pt., Lt. ............................ 9-11
Lusok ........................................... 5-63
Lutao Reefs ............................... 13-26
Luutan Pt. ...................................... 4-5
Lutungan I. ...……....................... 10-2
Luyang, R. ................................. 11-10
Luyong Pt. ................................. 13-18
Luzon
Island ....................................... 5-1
Point ...................................... 5-34
Pt. Pier Lt. ............................. 5-39
Sea …..................................... 5-22
Strait ........................................ 4-1
Index-12
M Magcalingao ................................ 12-7
Maagpit I. ..................................... 12-7
Maamboc ..................................... 10-2
Maanga, Mt. ................................. 14-7
Maasin, Pt., R., Lt. ................ 14-11,12
Mabaag .......................................... 4-8
Mabato B. .................................... 5-72
Mabatui Pt. .................................... 4-6
Mabay Islet .................................. 9-16
Mabayo ........................................ 5-33
Mabini ............................... 5-51;12-16
Mabini Lt. .................................... 14-4
Mabini Pt. .................................. 11-17
Mabio Pt. ......................................5-58
Mabudis I. .................................. 4-2,3
Maca Reef, Shoal ........................ 10-3
Macaina I. .................................... 12-3
Macalanhag I. ............................ 5-120
Macalaya, Lt.. ......................... 5-76,77
Macalayo I. ................................ 13-12
Macalbang Pt. .............................. 11-1
Macalelon, Lt., R. ........................ 5-60
Macan I. ...................................... 13-6
Macarilan I, Pt. .......................... 5-118
Macarite I. ................................... 13-1
Macatol Pt. .................................... 7-5
Macatucas Pt. ............................. 13-13
Macatul Pt. ..................................... 8-7
Maclayao, Mt. .............................. 5-61
Macmany Pt. ................................ 5-31
Macoto Pt. .................................... 5-72
Macrohon ................................... 14-12
Mactan I. .................................... 11-16
Macuhil Pt. ................................... 5-76
Maculabo I. ................................ 5-102
Maculmacul ................................. 13-6
Macutal R. ................................. 5-121
Madalag Daco R. ......................... 10-6
Madalonot Pt. ............................. 13-27
Madamba Rk. ................................. 5-6
Madanlog Pt. ................................ 5-74
Madridejos ................................... 10-1
Maestre de Campo ......................... 7-2
Magaguilan I. ................................. 8-6
Magaisi Islet ................................. 9-21
Magalawa I. ............................. 5-28,29
Magallanes
Rock ....................................... 5-77
Sibuyan, R. ............................ 7-12
Sorsogon ................................ 5-78
Magalumbi Islet ........................... 9-21
Magasasut Pt. ................................ 4-8
Magasawang Rk. ......................... 5-94
Magbagun Cove, Pt. .................... 14-3
Magcaragit I. ............................... 8-12
Magdalena Lt. ........................... 5-132
Magdalena, Port ............................ 8-7
Magdiwang, Lt. ........................... 7-12
Magdumug I. ............................... 5-68
Magellan B. ............................... 11-16
Magesang I. ................................. 13-1
Magingin R. ............................... 10-19
Magkasuang, Pt. .................... 13-29,30
Maglagabon Pt. .......................... 13-23
Maglolobo B. ............................. 13-20
Magnagua Mt. ............................ 13-13
Magnana Pt. ............................... 13-13
Magosipal Islet ............................ 9-21
Magradongdong .......................... 5-75
Magsatangi Pt. ........................... 5-105
Magtimua Rk. ............................. 5-80
Magtung Pt. ................................ 12-9
Maguinling I. ............................ 5-121
Maguran Reef ............................. 13-4
Mahaba Islet ............................. 14-10
Mahaba Pt, Lt. .............................. 7-2
Mahabang Islet ........................... 9-16
Mahanay I. .................................. 12-2
Mahatao, Lt. ............................... 4-4,5
Mahanay ...................................... 12-2
Mailabu Pt. .................................... 8-6
Mainaga, Cove, Lt. ...................... 5-51
Mainganay R. ............................... 5-13
Mainit ......................................... 11-20
Mainit B. ........................................ 7-3
Mainit R. .................................... 10-19
Majaba I.
W. Masbate, Pt. ........................ 8-1
W. Samar ............................. 13-27
Majuyag, Mt. ................................ 14-4
Makadlao I. .................................. 13-1
Makate I. .................................... 13-12
Makolbo Pt. .................................. 6-23
Malabahoc, Mt. .......................... 12-17
Malabrigo Pt., Lt. .................... 5-54,55
Malabsing, Mt. ............................... 4-8
Malabungut I. ............................. 5-109
Malabuyoc ................................... 11-7
Malaga Lt. .................................. 13-23
Malaga R. ................................... 14-16
Malaguinoan I. ............................. 5-93
Malaguit, B., R. .......................... 5-102
Malagundi Pt. ............................... 5-55
Malajibomanoc I, Lt. .................... 5-54
Malalimon Pt. ............................ 13-22
Malanay Pt. .................................. 9-11
Malandog R. ................................... 9-3
Malangaban I. .............................. 9-22
Malaniog I. ................................... 5-82
Malapantao, Mt. ......................... 10-11
Malapascua I., Lt. ......................... 11-1
Malapingan Lt., Pt. ....................... 5-75
Malaquing Ilog R. ........................ 5-56
Malarad I. ................................... 5-112
Malasimbo Mt. ............................... 6-6
Malasugue I. ............................... 5-104
Malatandan Pt. ............................. 5-59
Malauig Balas Pt. ......................... 9-23
Malaumauan I. ............................. 5-77
Malavatuan S. ................................ 6-3
Malay, R. ....................................... 9-1
Malayoc Pt. ................................ 13-23
Malazor Pt. .................................. 5-94
Malbog, Mt. ............................... 10-13
Malbog, Port .................................. 7-6
Malbug, Mt. ................................. 5-76
Malbug R. .................................... 5-76
Malibago .................................... 13-29
Malilipot .................................... 5-125
Malinao, Range Lt. ..................... 5-123
Malingin I. ................................... 9-12
Malinguin I. ................................. 12-3
Malitbog, Lt. .............................. 14-13
Malitbog R. .................................. 6-13
Malolo, Mt. ...................................5-90
Malolos, R. ................................... 5-39
Maloncon I. .................................. 5-82
Malontod Pt. ................................. 11-8
Malopolo .................................... 14-15
Malpal Pt. ..................................... 9-21
Mambacayao I. ............................ 10-2
Mambagi, Reef ........................... 11-19
Mambagid Pt., R. ......................... 10-6
Mambang R. ............................... 5-113
Mambocayan Pt. .......................... 11-4
Mambulao Pt. ............................... 5-70
Mamburao, Reef, R. ..................... 6-23
Mamburao B. ............................... 6-22
Manadi Islet ................................. 6-25
Managao Pt. ............................... 11-10
Managaysay Pt. ........................... 8-12
Manamrag Pt., Port .................... 5-115
Mananioy B. .................................. 4-5
Manapao Pt. ................................. 9-17
Manapla, R. .................................. 10-5
Manato ......................................... 5-70
Mandalagan R. ............................. 10-7
Mandaon ........................................ 8-2
Mandaue .................................... 11-15
Mandaui I. ...................................... 6-3
Manga, Pt. .................................. 12-11
Manga R. .................................... 5-105
Mangarin, B. ................................ 6-24
Mangas Pt. ................................... 5-20
Mangayao I. ................................. 5-59
Mangayao Pt. ............................. 14-14
Mangcao Pt. ................................. 11-3
Mangcares Pt. ............................ 13-25
Mangero ...................................... 5-69
Mango Islet ................................ 5-125
Mango Pt. ..................................... 5-63
Mangrove Point .......................... 5-101
Mangsoagui Pt. ............................ 6-26
Manicani R. ............................... 13-18
Manicnic ...................................... 5-95
Manigonigo I., Lt. ........................ 9-19
Maniguin I. .................................... 9-2
Maniguin Pt. .................................. 9-3
Manila .......................................... 5-42
Bay ......................................... 5-34
Bay Entrance .......................... 5-35
Harbor .................................... 5-41
Harbor Center ........................ 5-44
North Harbor .......................... 5-44
South Harbor .......................... 5-43
Manimoc Hill ............................... 6-27
Manipulon Islet ............................ 9-21
Manisbaso Pt. ............................... 5-31
Manito Reef ............................... 5-130
Maniuayan I. ................................ 5-64
Manjud Pt. ................................... 13-7
Manlanat Islets ............................. 5-92
Manoc I. ......................................... 8-4
Manocmanoc Islets ........................ 8-5
Manucmanoc Pt. ............................ 7-8
Mansalay, B. ................................ 6-14
Mansiol B., Pt. ............................. 6-15
Mantalinga Islet ........................... 9-17
Mantatao Islet .............................. 12-7
Mantay Pt. ................................... 5-80
Mantuaca Pt. .............................. 13-31
Manyagui Rk. ............................ 5-118
Maomauan, I. ............................... 12-3
Mapanas, B. ................................. 13-7
Mapingil Pt. ................................. 5-98
Mapusa Pt. ................................... 8-10
Maqueda B. ............................... 13-27
Maqueda Chan. .......................... 5-113
Maquiliguian Pt. ........................ 10-11
Maquinalo ................................... 13-4
Maquiquiling Pt. ......................... 10-9
Marabut ..................................... 13-31
Maragondon R. ........................... 5-40
Maralison I. ................................... 9-3
Maragaya R. ................................ 5-15
Marancalan Pt. ............................ 9-16
Marangay Pt. ............................. 14-14
Maravilla I. .................................. 13-2
Marayo R. .................................. 10-10
Marcelino Pt. ............................... 5-89
Marcos Pass ................................. 8-10
Maria B. ..................................... 12-19
Maria Islet ...................................... 8-5
Maribojoc, B. ..............................12-11
Maricaban I., Port, Strait ........ 5-53,54
Maririgi Islet ................................ 5-77
Marigondon ............................... 11-17
Marikina R. .................................. 5-45
Marinduque I. .............................. 5-63
Maripipi, I. ................................... 8-13
Mariquitdaquit Islet, Lt. ............. 14-18
Marisan Reef .............................. 13-26
Mariveles ..................................... 5-37
Mts. ........................................ 5-34
Harbor .................................... 5-36
Lt. ........................................... 5-36
Markoe Cove ................................. 6-9
Marlanga B., Mt., Pt. .............. 5-63,65
Marotang, Mt. .............................. 5-82
Masagasai B. ................................ 5-65
Masak Rk. .................................... 5-82
Masamat B. ................................ 5-109
Masbate
City .......................................... 8-8
Island ....................................... 8-1
Hbr., Lt. ................................... 8-7
Pass .......................................... 8-9
Shoal ...................................... 5-11
Masin Bank, I, Pass, Pt. ...........6-14,16
Masinloc, Port., R. ..................5-26, 27
Masisi .......................................... 14-4
Masisingi I. ................................ 13-16
Maslog ........................................13-20
Masnou I. ................................... 5-111
Mataba ........................................... 8-1
Matabang Pt., R. .....................10-7;6-4
Matabao I, Lt., Pass ..................... 8-11
Matabas I. .................................... 10-2
Matagda Islet ............................... 9-21
Matagdac Islet ............................. 5-77
Mataha R. .................................... 5-61
Matalan Pt. .................................... 8-6
Matalom .................................... 14-11
Matalvi I, Pt., Port ....................... 5-28
Matancan B. ................................ 5-90
Matandumaten Rk. .................... 5-103
Matara Pt. ...................................... 5-3
Matarinao, B., Pt. ................. 13-16,17
Matatindoc Pt., Lt. ..................... 10-12
Matayum Lt. ................................ 8-12
Matlang, B. .................................. 14-7
Matnog, B. ................................... 5-80
Matoco Pt., Lt. ............................. 5-54
Matulin Rk. ................................ 5-117
Matung Pt. ................................... 14-4
Mauban, Lt. ................................. 5-94
Mauo R. ..................................... 13-22
Index-13
Mauyen .......................................... 4-3
Mavien Pt. ..................................... 4-4
Mavulis I., Lt. ................................ 4-2
Maya ............................................ 11-8
Mayagao Pt. ................................. 5-33
Mayan .............................................4-3
Mayanga I. ................................... 5-32
Maydolong, Cove, I. .................. 13-15
Mayllague Pt. ............................... 6-13
Mayon Volcano ................... 1-4;5-129
Mayraira Pt. ................................... 5-6
Maysanga I. ................................... 4-3
Mayuboc R. ................................. 5-60
Mecapiot B. ................................. 5-76
Medellin ....................................... 11-2
Medio I., Pt., Burias ..................... 5-74
Medio I, Naranjo .......................... 8-14
Medio I, Port Galera ...................... 6-6
Medio Reef ................................ 5-101
Melchor I. .................................... 5-66
Menor Islet ................................... 6-21
Mercedes .................................... 5-103
Merida .......................................... 14-8
Merope Bank ................................ 6-21
Miagao, Pt. ..................................... 9-5
MICT ........................................... 5-44
Anchorage .............................. 5-42
Middle
Pass ........................................ 12-3
Reef ...................................... 5-126
Shoal ...................................... 5-11
Milagros ......................................... 8-4
Minaaso Islet ...............................5-118
Minabalay I. ............................... 5-121
Minadion I. ................................ 13-16
Minaili Cove .............................. 5-117
Minalao I. .................................. 13-16
Minalulan B., Pt. ........................ 12-19
Minanga, Pt. .......................... 5-4;8-14
Minanut Anch., I. ....................... 13-15
Minas Pt., Port ........................... 5-118
Minasangan I. ............................. 13-15
Minasawa I. ................................. 5-92
Minayit Pt. ................................... 5-90
Mindanao I. .................................... 1-1
Mindanao R. ................................... 1-1
Mindoro I. ................................ 1-1;6-4
Mindoro Strait .............................. 6-20
Minglanilla ................................. 11-18
Minigil I, Pt. ......................... 5-117,118
Minolo Pt, Cove ............................. 6-6
Mintac Pt. ..................................... 8-12
Misanga I. ...................................... 4-2
Misibis ....................................... 5-127
Misua R. ....................................... 5-89
Mitra, Mt. ..................................... 5-59
Index-14
Miyagit Pt. ................................... 5-92
Moalboal ...................................... 11-7
Mobo, B., Shoal .......................... 8-8,9
Mocaboc Islet., Pt. ............. 12-7;10-22
Molar Rk. ................................... 5-111
Molocaboc I. ................................ 10-2
Mompog I .................................... 5-64
Monad Shoal ................................ 11-1
Mondragon .................................. 13-4
Monetary System ........................... 1-3
Monreal ....................................... 8-10
Montero Reef ............................... 7-12
Montoconan Islet ........................13-20
Morgan Pt. ..................................... 5-3
Morong, Shoal ........................ 5-34,47
Moroporo Islet ........................... 13-25
Motiong Pt. .................................. 5-86
Mount ....................(See proper names)
Muelle Port ................................... 6-8
Muhuy Pt. .................................... 9-11
Mulanay ....................................... 5-61
Musa B. ......................................... 4-8
N Napla B. ..................................... 13-13
Nababoy I, Beacon .................... 13-30
Nabalicad Islet .......................... 13-10
Nabas ........................................... 9-14
Nabasagan, B. .............................. 5-75
Nabasan Pt. .................................. 5-33
Naboled Pt. .................................. 5-53
Nabugtu I. ...................................... 8-4
Nabugtusan I. ............................... 13-9
Nabugtut I. ..................................... 8-1
Nabulao B. ................................. 10-11
Nabunut I. .................................... 9-19
Naburul I. ..................................... 9-11
Naburut Islet ................................ 9-21
Nadulao I. .................................... 9-13
Naga (Bicol) .............................. 5-105
Naga (Cebu), Lt. .........................11-18
Naga R. ........................................ 14-1
Nagaba Pt. .......................................9-9
Nagabungan B. .............................. 5-8
Nagaha B. .................................. 13-16
Naganaga, Mt. ........................... 14-18
Nagapu, Mt. ................................. 5-11
Nagarao I, Islet ...................... 9-13;8-4
Nagayaman Pt. ............................... 4-9
Nagcaban Pt. ................................ 5-33
Naghilo Pt. ................................... 5-59
Nagiba Pt. ..................................... 6-11
Naglocsaden Pt. ........................... 5-82
Nagnasa I. .................................... 13-2
Nagsanga Islet ............................ 13-25
Nagsilag Pt. ................................ 5-120
Nagtaquin I. ................................. 5-95
Nagtig Islet ................................... 9-17
Nagubat I. ..................................... 6-18
Nagumbuaya Pt. ......................... 5-121
Naguran Islet .................................. 8-3
Naic .............................................. 5-40
Nailog, Mt. ................................... 7-11
Nailon Pt. ..................................... 11-9
Najibil Pt. ................................... 13-13
Nalibunan R. .............................. 14-17
Naliwatan, Mt. ............................. 14-2
Nalumsan Pt. .................................. 7-7
Nalunga I. ..................................... 9-13
Nalvo B. ....................................... 5-13
Namalayan, Mt. ............................ 6-15
Namatian I. ..................................... 8-4
Nanlampalay Pt. ......................... 5-126
Nanuntugan Reef ......................... 13-8
Napacao, Pt. ............................... 12-15
Napalisan I. ................................ 13-24
Napayauan I. .................................. 8-1
Napindan Chan., Lt. ..................... 5-46
Napo Pt. ....................................... 5-34
Napocol Pt. .................................. 13-6
Naranjo I, Pass ........................ 8-14,15
Naro B. .......................................... 8-9
Naro Chan. .................................... 8-5
Naro I., Lt. ..................................... 8-4
Narra I. ......................................... 5-22
Narvacan, Mt. ............................... 5-13
Narvaez Reef .............................. 11-13
Nasidman I. .................................. 9-23
Nasiducang Islet ........................... 9-23
Nasingin I. .................................... 12-2
Naso Pt. .......................................... 9-4
Nasog Pt., Lt. ........................... 1-9;9-1
Nasugbu, Lt., Pt. ........................... 5-48
Nasunda Islet ................................ 9-17
Natangdol, Mt. ............................. 6-27
Natib, Mt ...................................... 5-34
National Ports................................. 2-1
Nato R. ....................................... 5-123
Nauai Islet .................................... 9-13
Nauco
Pt., S. Bohol .......................... 12-15
Pt., S. Masbate .......................... 8-5
River ......................................... 8-5
Naujan, Mt., R. ........................ 6-11,12
Naulo Pt. ...................................... 5-26
Nautin Pt. ..................................... 9-23
Navahay I. .................................. 13-30
Naval, Lt. ......................................14-2
Navalas Lt., Pt. ............................... 9-6
Navatas Pt. ................................. 13-29
Navotas, R., City .......................... 5-40
Navotas, off Calapan .................... 6-11
Nazasa B. ..................................... 5-30
Negra Pt. ........................................ 5-7
Negros I. ...................................... 10-1
Nelangcapan, Mt. ....................... 14-14
New Aloneros .............................. 5-70
New Washington .......................... 9-15
Nilidlaran Pass ............................. 9-20
Nimamandum, Mt. ....................... 5-82
Nin Bay .......................................... 8-1
Ninauan Pt. ................................... 5-83
Niogan I. ...................................... 5-95
Nipa Pt., Ticao I. ............................ 8-9
Nipa Pt., Capiz. ............................ 9-17
Nogas I, Lt. .................................... 9-4
Nonoc, B, I. ...................................5-72
Noonooan I. ................................. 12-3
North
Bais B. ................................. 10-17
Channel, Manila B. ................ 5-35
Channel, P. Galera ................... 6-6
Channel, Pratas ...................... 5-23
Gigante I, Lt. ......................... 9-19
Island, Misanga ....................... 4-2
Islet ...................................... 5-111
Point ............................... 5-74;6-6
Shoal, Salomague .................. 5-11
Vereker Bank ......................... 5-24
Northeast
Monsoon .................................. 1-6
Pass ........................................ 12-3
Northwest
Bank ....................................... 12-7
Channel, P. Galera ................... 6-7
Pass ........................................ 12-4
Point ...................................... 8-7,9
Notices to Mariners ........................ 2-1
Nouvilas Oriental ....................... 13-31
Nuang Pt. ....................................... 5-6
Nulton Pt. ....................................... 5-3
Nunez Shoal. ................................ 11-9
Nunun Pt. ..................................... 8-10
O Padang Pt. ............................. 5-79,132
Oacan Pt. ...................................... 13-7
Obon Pt. ......................................10-12
Obong ........................................ 11-20
Obung Pt. ..................................... 5-66
Ocata I., Lt. ................................ 5-110
Ocboc Hill .................................... 9-15
Ochoa Reef .................................... 8-2
Oco R. ........................................ 5-118
Ocoy R. ...................................... 10-16
Ocre Pt. ...................................... 10-21
Odiongan
Panay I. .................................. 9-21
Tablas I. .................................... 7-4
Bay, Tablas ............................... 7-4
Ogod R. ........................................ 5-76
Ojastras Islet ................................ 9-19
Olango Chan., I. ......................... 11-17
Olanin B., R. ................................. 5-25
Olo Pt. .......................................... 8-15
Olongapo, Port ............................. 5-32
O-luan Pi, Lt. .................................. 4-1
Olutaya I. ..................................... 9-17
Omon Pt., R. ................................. 5-71
Omuntol Pt. ................................ 5-119
Ondoy, Mt. ................................... 9-14
Oot Pt. .......................................... 13-5
Opong B. …................................ 13-29
Orani, R. ....................................... 5-39
Oras, B., R. ................................. 13-11
Ordonez Bank .............................. 8-13
Origon Rk. ......................................7-4
Orion, Hill, Pier ....................... 5-38,39
Orista I. ........................................ 5-93
Ormoc .......................................... 14-8
Bay .......................................... 14-8
Lt. ............................................ 14-9
Shoal ....................................... 11-9
Oslob, Pt. .................................... 11-20
Osteng Shoal .............................. 11-13
Otoc Pt. ........................................ 5-71
Oton, Bank .................................. 9-5,6
Outer Harbor .................................. 5-2
Oyon B, Pt. ................................... 5-27
P Pamasaun Islet ............................. 12-4
Pabugan Pt. .................................. 6-27
Pacabalo Reef .............................. 5-92
Pacahan Pt. ................................ 5-132
Pacdahauan Peak ......................... 14-1
Pacijan I., Lt. ............................... 14-7
Paclasan ....................................... 6-14
Paculalin R. .................................. 5-71
Padre Burgos ..................... 14-13;5-58
Paete ............................................ 5-47
Pagapas B. .................................. .5-49
PAGASA ....................................... 2-4
Pagbabaugnan Pt. ........................ 5-60
Pagbaganan R. ............................. 14-9
Pagbangaran R. .......................... 14-10
Pagbilao, B. .................................. 5-59
Pagbilao Chica/Grande I. ........ 5-59,58
Pagbocavan ................................ 5-109
Pagbulungan Lt., Pt......................... 8-1
Pagsanghan ................................ 13-24
Pagsanhan Pt., R. ......................... 5-62
Pagsanjan R. ................................ 5-47
Pajo R. ........................................ 5-116
Pala Pt. ......................................... 5-61
Palad Cay, Reef ............................ 5-69
Palag B., Pt. ................................ 5-118
Palahan I. ..................................... 13-6
Palan Pt. ..................................... 13-13
Palanan B, Pt., R. ..................... 5-84,85
Palanas, Pt. .......................... 8-9;13-24
Palanit R. .................................... 13-23
Palapag, Port ................................ 13-6
Palapag Channel, Mesa ............. 13-5,7
Palapag R. .................................... 9-17
Palasan I. ...................................... 5-92
Palaui I. .......................................... 5-1
Palauig, B., Pt., Reef .................... 5-29
Palauig, Lt. ..................................... 5-3
Palaypay Pt. ................................. 6-14
Palijon I. ....................................... 13-4
Palinauan Pt. ................................ 5-77
Palita I. ......................................... 5-99
Paliton Pt. ................................... 12-18
Palo, Reef, R. ............................. 14-18
Palomonti Rks. ............................. 5-34
Palompon, Lt., Port....................... 14-5
Palompon I. ................................ 5-113
Palongpong B. .............................. 9-18
Paluan, B., R. ................................ 6-22
Palumbanes I. ............................. 5-114
Palumbato I. ............................... 5-101
Pamaaun Reef ............................ 10-22
Pamancolan Islet .......................... 9-13
Pamatuan R. ................................. 5-30
Pambuan Pt. ............................... 5-104
Pambujan, R. ................................ 13-5
Pambujan Hbr., Sur .................... 13-16
Pamilican I. ................................ 12-13
Pamintan-Bantilan ..................... 5-106
Paminuitan Hill .......................... 12-11
Pamoboan Pt. ............................... 11-9
Pamocan Pt. ................................. 5-33
Pamoctan I. .................................... 4-8
Pampang Pt. ................................. 5-75
Pampanga R. ......................... 1-1;5-39
Pamplona, R. ................................. 5-5
Pamuntangan Pt. .......................... 5-67
Pamutusin Cove ........................... 6-22
Pan de Azucar, Babuyan ................ 4-6
Pan de Azucar, E Panay ............... 9-21
Pan Pass ....................................... 9-21
Panablijon B. ............................. 13-10
Panacalan I. ................................. 5-22
Index-15
Panadlihan Pt. ............................ 13-16
Panaen I. ...................................... 5-24
Panagatan Cays, Is., Reef ............ 6-20
Panal Reef .................................... 10-3
Panalian Pt. .................................. 14-9
Panalipan R. ............................... 11-10
Panalsagon ................................... 10-3
Panalsalon Reef ........................ 10-22
Panampalan Pt. ............................ 5-90
Pananamitan Pt. ......................... 13-17
Panangatan Islet, Pt. ............ 5-90;10-2
Panangiran Peak ........................... 6-16
Panaon I, Strait ........................... 14-13
Panay I., R. ................................ 9-1,16
Panay B., I., Catanduanes ........... 5-118
Pandaman Pt. .............................. 5-117
Pandan
Anch. .................................... 5-113
B., Pt., Lt., Catanduanes ....... 5-113
B., Panay .................................. 9-2
B., Pt., Reef, W. Mindoro .. 6-16,23
I., R., Leyte ............................. 10-8
Mt. .......................................... 8-10
Pt., Bataan .............................. 5-37
Pt., R., Leyte .................... 14-13,15
Pt., Negros .............................. 10-8
Ticao I. ...................................... 8-9
Pandanan Pt. ................................. 10-4
Pandang Pt. ................................ 5-131
Pandanon Islet .............................. 12-1
Pandarochan B. ............................ 6-26
Pandili Islet .................................. 5-34
Panga Islet .................................... 12-7
Pangalan Islet ............................... 9-18
Panganan Islet ............................ 11-17
Pangangan I. ................................. 12-9
Panganiran, B. .............................. 5-75
Pangao Pt. .................................... 5-98
Panga I. .........................................12-7
Pangalan I. ................................... 9-21
Panganan I. ................................ 11-17
Pangangan I., Lt. .......................... 12-9
Panganiban ................................. 5-118
Panganiran, B. .............................. 5-75
Pangapasan I. ............................... 12-9
Pangasinan Pt. ................................ 9-5
Pangasun, Mt. ................................ 4-6
Pangi Lt. ...................................... 5-66
Pangil ........................................... 5-47
Panglao, B., I. ........................ 12-12,13
Pangpang, B. .............................. 13-10
Panguian Pt. ............................... 11-17
Panibatujan Pt. ............................. 5-34
Paniginhan R. ............................. 5-121
Paninihian Pt. ............................. 13-13
Paniqui I, Pt. ........................ 8-9;5-109
Index-16
Paniquian Islet, I. ........................... 6-6
Panirugan Pt. .............................. 14-19
Panitugan Islet .............................. 10-2
Panlatuan, Pt., Port ....................... 5-76
Pansipit R. .................................... 5-50
Pantao B., Mt. .............................. 5-72
Pantocomi Pt. ............................... 6-22
Panubulon I. ................................. 9-12
Panuitan I. ...................................... 4-7
Pao B. ........................................... 5-21
Papaya .......................................... 5-48
Paquita Islet ................................ 5-102
Paracale, B, Reef, R. ................... 5-102
Paranas (Wright) ........................ 13-27
Parasan Hbr., I. ........................... 13-28
Paron Pt. ..................................... 5-130
Pasacao, Anch., Lt., Pt. ................ 5-71
Pasag R. ....................................... 5-39
Pasaleng, B. ................................... 5-6
Pasanhan Pt. ................................. 13-8
Pasig
City ........................................ 5-46
Islet ...................................... 13-10
River ...................................... 5-44
River Lt. ................................ 5-45
Pasil ............................................. 11-1
Bay .......................................... 8-7
Point .................................... 10-19
Pata, Pt., Lt., R. ............................. 5-6
Patao Islet .................................... 10-2
Patapat Mts. ................................... 5-6
Patayan I. ..................................... 5-58
Patnanongan I. ..............................5-92
Patria Pt. ........................................ 9-2
Patunungan B. .............................. 5-81
Paulino Pt. .................................. 10-21
Pawican Islet, Pt. ....................... 5-109
Pawican Pt. .................................. 14-3
Pearl Rk. ........................................ 8-2
Pechili Reef ................................ 5-116
Pedada B., Pt. ............................... 9-23
Pelada Rk. .................................. 14-16
Peña Plata .................................. 13-24
Pepitas Rks. ................................. 9-23
Pequeña I. .................................... 5-32
Perez, Lt. ..................................... 5-96
Peris B., R. .................................. 5-69
Perla Reef .................................... 10-2
Perseus Reef ................................ 7-13
Pescador I., Lt. ............................. 11-7
Petisa Pt. ...................................... 5-94
Pez Rk. ........................................... 7-7
Philippines, The ............................. 1-1
Philippine Coast Guard .................. 2-5
Philippine Navy ............................. 2-6
Philippine Ports Authority ............. 2-1
Philippine Rise ........................... 5-132
Philippine Sea ............................ 5-132
PHIVOLCS .................................... 2-4
Picadero Pt. ................................ 5-128
Piedra Pt. ...................................... 5-25
Piedras Pt. .................................... 5-74
Pig Pt. ........................................... 5-68
Pilar
B., Masbate ............................. 8-10
B., Pt., Panay I. .................. 9-17,18
B., Lt., Sorsogon ..................... 5-76
I., Samar .................................. 8-15
Lt., Camotes Is. ....................... 14-7
Rks. ......................................... 14-2
Pili B. ......................................... 5-125
Pili Lt. .......................................... 6-13
Pililla ............................................ 5-47
Pillar Rk. ...................................... 5-48
Pilot, Mt. ...................................... 9-16
Pilotage .......................................... 2-2
Pin Rk, Catanduanes, Luzon ....... 5-113
Pin Rk, La Union .......................... 5-15
Pina Islet ........................................ 8-4
Pinabuntan Pt. ............................ 10-21
Pinacapulan Pt. ............................. 5-59
Pinacuapan I. .............................. 5-102
Pinagbacajan ................................ 5-55
Pinagdagatan Pt. ............................. 6-3
Pinamalayan, Lt., R. ..................... 6-13
Pinamijagon Pt. ............................ 9-18
Pinamucan R. ............................... 5-54
Pinamungajan ............................... 11-5
Pinamuntangan B, Pt. ................... 5-62
Pinanagan R. ................................ 5-90
Pinandungan Pt. ......................... 5-101
Pinantan R. ................................... 9-23
Pinatubo, Mt. ......................... 1-4;5-30
Pinavisagan B. ............................. 5-90
Pindilin Pt. ................................. 13-12
Pine Pt. ........................................... 4-7
Pineda Pt., Reef ......................... 7-7,13
Pinget I. ........................................ 5-12
Pinohagan I. ............................... 5-121
Piñon I. ........................................... 4-8
Pio Corpuz ....................................8-12
Pio Duran ..................................... 5-75
Piracy and Armed Robbery ........... 2-6
Pirara Pt. ...................................... 9-17
Pisngi Lt. ..................................... 5-57
Pitogo, Bohol .............................. 12-4
Pitogo, Lt., Quezon ..................... 5-60
Pitogo B, I., Albay .................... 5-112
Placer ............................................ 8-5
Plaridel, Lt., Aurora .................... 5-96
Pobre I. .......................................... 8-4
Pocanil B, Islet, Pt., R. ................ 6-15
Pocket B. ................................... 5-110
Poctoy, Lt., Pt. Lt. ......................... 7-4
Pogot Pt. ........................................ 7-3
Pola, B, R. ................................... 6-12
Polalan B. .................................. 5-120
Polambato .................................... 11-9
Polillo, I, Pt., Strait ..................5-87,88
Polillo .......................................... 5-90
Harbor ................................... 5-91
Island ..................................... 5-90
Point ...................................... 5-91
Strait ...................................... 5-89
Poliqui B., Reef .................. 5-129,130
Polo, R. ...................................... 10-16
Pondanan I. ................................ 5-119
Ponduhan Pt. ................................ 8-12
Ponson I. ...................................... 14-7
Ponte Rk. ....................................... 8-2
Pontevedra, Shoal, Lt. ............ 10-9,10
Pontud Bank ................................ 9-14
Poo, Pt. ................................. 11-10,17
Popoo .......................................... 12-4
Poro, Leyte/Luzon ...................... 14-8
Poro
I., Gigmoto B. ..................... 5-120
I., I. Lt., Shoal, Camotes .... 14-7,8
Islet, Biliran .......................... 14-3
Landing, Masbate ................... 8-7
Porongpong I. ........................... 5-114
Port Concepcion, Lt. .................... 7-2
Port Tilic, Lt. ............................. 6-1,2
Portuguese Pt. ............................. 5-20
Potol Pt. ................................ 7-8;9-12
Pou Rk. ..................................... 13-17
Prat Pt. .......................................... 7-9
Pratas I, Reef ......................... 5-22,23
President Garcia .......................... 12-4
Prince George Pt. ........................ 6-19
Prueba Pt., Reef, Rk. .......... 5-89;7-12
Protected Areas
Agoo, Sto Tomas and Rosario 5-18
Alburquerque ....................... 12-13
Ave Maria I. ........................... 9-10
Balcon Melliza (Sincolon) .... 9-10
Balicuatro Is. ......................... 13-1
Bambanon I. ...........................12-2
Bani ........................................ 13-1
Bansaan I. ...............................12-2
Bat I. ...................................... 13-1
Batanes .................................... 4-2
Benham Bank ...................... 5-132
Cabaun I. ............................... 13-1
Calicoan I. ...................... 13-18,19
Candolu I. ....................... 13-18,19
Cuatro I. ............................... 14-10
Danajon (Dawanon) Bank ...... 12-1
Elonbachid I. .......................... 13-1
Gilbert I ................................. 13-1
Guiuan ................................. 13-18
Hamonbon I. ................... 13-18,19
Lingsat, San Fernando I. ........ 5-16
Loay ..................................... 12-13
Loboc ................................... 12-13
Manicani I. ...................... 13-18,19
Maravilla I. ............................ 13-1
Matangigue R. ....................... 9-13
Nagnasa I. .............................. 13-1
Palaui I. .................................... 5-1
Pamancolan I. ........................ 9-13
Panglao I. ..............................12-13
Puerto Galera ........................ 6-7,9
Sag I. .......................................12-2
San Juan I. ............................. 13-1
Sinapsapan ............................. 9-11
Suluan I. .......................... 13-18,19
Taklong I. ................................9-10
Tambu I. ..................................12-2
Tubabao I. ....................... 13-18,19
Ugamut I. ............................... 13-1
Puac Pt. .......................................... 5-6
Pucio Pt. ......................................... 9-1
Puerto Azul Lt. ............................. 5-35
Puerto Galera ................................. 6-8
Puerto Pt. ....................................... 5-2
Puerto Real ................................... 5-93
Puertobello ................................... 14-8
Pugo Moro I. .................................. 5-2
Pula .............................................. 6-12
Pula R. ........................................... 7-7
Pulag, Mt. ...................................... 1-1
Pulandaga B., Pt. ....................... 5-102
Pulanduta Pt., Lt. ........................... 8-2
Puling Island .............................. 5-111
Puling Islet ................................ 5-109
Pulingbato Hill ............................ 14-4
Pulipo Islet .................................. 5-26
Pulo, River .................................. 5-93
Pulong Balahibo .......................... 5-54
Pulupandan, Lt. ....................... 10-8 ,9
Pulupari I. .................................... 5-98
Punahuan I. .................................. 5-76
Punas Pt. ................................. 5-55,56
Pungtud I. .................................. 12-13
Punpunan .................................. 14-10
Punubulu Islet ........................... 14-18
Puro Islets ........ .......................... 8-10
Purog B. .................................... 5-117
Puropingit Lt. .............................. 5-12
Pusgo Pt., Port, Reef ................... 5-69
Putiao Port .................................. 5-76
Puting Buhangin Shoal ............... 5-61
Putingbalas Pt. .............................. 9-7
Q
Quelun Pt. ................................. 5-106
Quidavid Pt. ................................ 5-76
Quinabigan .................................. 6-13
Quinabucasan Pt. ....................... 5-107
Quinabugan I. ............................ 5-110
Quinalasag I, Pass .............. 5-109,110
Quinali Pt. ................................. 12-15
Quinamanuca I. ......................... 5-103
Quinapagyan I. .......................... 5-104
Quinapundan B. ........................ 13-19
Quinauan Pt. ............................... 5-34
Quinidiagan Pt. ........................... 6-14
Quinutay Reef ........................... 13-26
Quiragosnos Pt. ........................... 5-76
Quitang Pt. .................................. 5-39
Qumabigan .................................. 6-13
R
Rabin Pt. ...................................... 14-2
Radio Maritime Service, Office .... 2-4
Ragay B, Port, R., Gulf ............5-68,70
Ragay
Bay ......................................... 5-71
Gulf ........................................ 5-68
Port ......................................... 5-71
River ....................................... 5-71
Ranger Reef ....................................
7-3
Rapu Rapu, I, Strait ............. 5-126,127
Rasa I. .......................................... 8-14
Rasa Pt. ...................................... 5-131
Raso Islet ................................... 13-31
Raton I, Islet ...................... 13-19;5-26
Rawis ............................................13-5
Rawis Lt. .................................... 5-123
Rawis Pt. ...................................... 13-6
Real, Lt. ........................................ 5-93
Refugio
Island, Ragay Gulf ................. 5-72
Island, Tanon Strait .............. 10-20
Light ..................................... 10-20
Pass ...................................... 10-20
Remus Rk. .................................... 14-2
Rena Pt. ........................................ 5-25
Reports
Aids to Navigation ................... 2-8
Dangers, Direlicts, etc. ............. 2-5
Ships ......................................... 2-4
Research Reef .............................. 5-18
Restinga Pt. .................................. 5-74
Reynoso Reef ............................... 7-13
Rinabasan Cove ........................... 5-87
Index-17
Rio Guinobatan .............................. 8-7 Point Lt. ................................ 6-23
Riposet, Mt. .................................... 4-3 Point, Romblon ..................... 7-11
Riripayan Pt. ................................ 5-25 Saboncogon Pt. ........................... 9-14
Rizal Lt. ....................................... 5-90 Saboon I. ..................................... 5-71
Rizal Province .............................. 5-47 Sabtang, Chan. I., Lt. .................... 4-5
Rizal Barrio .................................. 8-10 Sacamalig B. ............................... 13-8
Rock Dome ................................ 5-130 Sacay Pt. ..................................... 14-6
Roda Reef .................................... 7-13 Sacramento Rk. .......................... 10-5
Roldan Reef ................................. 7-13 Sagasa Island .............................. 12-3
Roma Pt. ....................................... 5-95 Sagasa Islet ................................. 10-2
Romblon ...................................... 7-10 Sagausauan Pt. .............................. 8-8
Island ........................................ 7-9 Sagay, Pt. .................................... 10-3
Jetty Lights ............................. 7-11 Sagbungon Pt. ............................. 5-98
Passage ..................................... 7-8 Sagnay Pt. ................................. 5-122
Port ......................................... 7-10 Sagurun, Mt. ............................... 5-74
Romero Reef ................................ 7-13 Sail Rock ................................... 5-114
Romulus Reef ................................ 8-2 Saingan Pt. ................................ 14-16
Ronda ........................................... 11-7 Saint Bernard, Lt. ...................... 14-15
Roña I. ........................................... 5-2 Salamanca, R. ............................ 10-21
Rosa Islet ................................... 5-122 Salangan .................................... 13-18
Rosario ..........................................5-39 Salangan Pt. ................................... 6-3
Rosario Pt, R. ................................5-54 Salasa R. ...................................... 5-29
Rosario Rk. .................................. 9-13 Salcedo ...................................... 13-19
Rosas Pt. ...................................... 7-10 Saley Pt. ....................................... 5-94
Roses Reef ....................................5-99 Salipsip Pt. ................................... 5-91
Rough Islet ................................... 8-13 Salobot I. ................................... 5-109
Round Pt. ......................................5-90 Salog Islet .................................... 9-23
Routes and Sailing Direction ........ 3-1 Salomague ................................... 5-11
Roxas, Mindoro I. ....................... 6-14 Harbor ................................... 5-10
Roxas City, Panay I. .................... 9-17 I., Pt., North Marinduque ...... 5-65
Rubi Shoal ................................... 8-14 I., Pt., W Luzon ..................... 5-10
Rungus Pt. .................................. 5-113 Light ....................................... 5-11
Ruso Rk. .......................................5-82 Salong Pt. ..................................... 9-20
Salong Reef .................................. 10-5
S Salongsogon Pt. ........................... 6-27
Salvador Head, I. .......................... 5-27
Saac Pt. ........................................ 11-9 Salvage Equipment ........................ 2-2
Sabalay Reef ................................ 5-27 Salvaria I, Pt. ................................ 5-68
Saban Pt. ...................................... 14-2 Samar I. ........................................ 13-1
Sabang Sambauan Islets ........................... 8-13
Brgy. (San Jose) .................. 5-122 Samboan ....................................... 11-7
Barrio (Puerto Galera) ............ 6-8 Sampaloc Pt. ................................ 5-31
Calabanga Lt. ...................... 5-105 Sampotan Islet ................. 5-109;13-25
Lagonoy Lt. ........................ 5-122 Samputan, Pass, Pt., Range ... 13-29,30
Light .................................... 5-119 Samur I. ...................................... 5-102
Point, Romblon ..................... 7-10 San Agustin .................................. 6-24
Point, Sorsogon ..................... 5-78 Badajoz .................................... 7-7
Point Lt. ................................ 7-10 Light ......................................... 7-7
Port ......................................... 6-8 River ....................................... 5-29
River ..................................... 5-78 San Andres
Sabariog B. ................................. 8-14 Despujols ..................................7-4
Sabil Pt. ...................................... 11-3 Islands, Marinduque .............. 5-68
Sablayan ..................................... 6-23 Island, Naranjo Is. ................. 8-14
Island, Sorsogon R. .............. 5-77 Mt. ......................................... 5-69
Point, Mindoro ..................... 6-23 Pt., Marinduque ......................5-63
Town, Luzon ................ 5-69,5-115
Index-18
Town, Mindoro ........................ 7-4
San Angel B. ................................ 5-98
San Antonio
Barrio, Capones ..................... 5-29
Barrio, Lt., Samar .................. 13-1
Town, Batanes ......................... 4-4
Town, Sorsogon ..................... 5-76
San Bernardino Strait .................. 5-80
San Bernardino I., Lt. .................. 5-81
San Carlos Pt., Lt. .......................10-19
San Carlos
Barrio, Capones ..................... 5-29
City, Negros Oriental ........... 10-20
Lt., Pt. .................................. 10-20
Town, Batanes ......................... 4-4
San Cosme Pt. .............................. 8-10
San Diego Pt. ............................... 5-48
San Dionisio, Babuyan I. ............... 4-6
San Dionisio, Concepcion B. ....... 9-21
San Enrique .................................. 10-9
San Esteban, Pt., Port ................... 5-14
San Felipe .................................... 5-30
San Fernando
Barrio , E. Panay .................... 9-23
Bay ......................................... 5-17
City, La Union ....................... 5-16
Harbor .................................... 5-16
Lt., Town, Sibuyan I. ............. 7-12
Town, Ticao B. ....................... 8-11
Point Lt. ................................. 5-16
Port ........................................ 5-17
Range Lt. ............................... 5-16
San Francisco
Barrio, Mindoro ..................... 6-17
Light ....................................... 5-62
Town, Luzon .......................... 5-62
Town, Poro I. ......................... 14-7
San Ildefonso ............................... 5-86
Cape ....................................... 5-85
Harbor .................................... 5-12
Light ....................................... 5-86
Peninsula ................................ 5-86
San Isidro
Bay ......................................... 14-4
Mt. .......................................... 5-19
Town, W. Leyte ...................... 14-4
Town, W. Samar ................... 13-23
San Jacinto, Lt., Port ................ 8-10,11
San Joaquin
Town, Leyte .......................... 14-12
Town, Panay ............................. 9-5
River .................................... 14-18
San Jose
Barrio, San Pedro Bay ......... 14-19
Bay ......................................... 5-36
De Buenavista .......................... 9-4
 Point, E. Panay ....................... 9-21
Point, Port San Jacinto ........... 8-10
River ..................................... 14-13
Town, Carabao I. ...................... 7-8
Town, Lagonoy Gulf ............ 5-122
Town, Mindoro ...................... 6-25
Town, Samar .......................... 13-3
Wharf ..................................... 13-3
San Juanico Strait, Bridge ..... 13-30,31
San Julian ................................... 13-13
San Luis, B., Capul I. ................... 8-14
San Luis, Sabtang I. ....................... 4-5
San Miguel
Barrio, San Antonio ............... 5-30
Bay ....................................... 5-104
I., Bicol ................................ 5-106
I., Tabaco B. ......................... 5-125
I., Ticao .................................. 8-10
Lt., Ticao .................................. 8-9
Pt., Tabaco B. ....................... 5-123
Pt., E Samar .......................... 13-15
Port, Masbate I. ........................ 8-9
San Narciso
Town, Ragay Gulf .................. 5-69
Town, Zambales ..................... 5-30
San Nicolas
Mount ..................................... 9-23
Shoals, Lt. .............................. 5-36
San Pascual, Lt. ............................ 5-73
San Pedrino Pt. ............................. 5-50
San Pedro
Barrio, Panay ........................... 9-3
Barrio, Tablas Strait ................. 7-2
Bay ....................................... 14-18
Islet ........................................ 12-2
Light ..................................... 14-16
Point ....................................... 7-11
Town, Bulalacao .................. 14-17
Wharf, Fort ........................... 9-6,9
San Pinetan Pt. ............................. 5-74
San Pio Quinto, Port ...................... 4-9
San Policarpio B. ....................... 13-11
San Rafael I. ................................ 5-92
San Rafael Pt. ................................ 8-9
San Ramon, B. ............................. 13-9
San Remigio ................................. 11-3
San Roque
Barrio, Panay ........................... 9-4
Barrio, S. Leyte ................... 14-12
Town, Laoangan .................... 13-5
San Sebastian ............................... 11-7
San Teodoro ................................... 6-9
San Vicente
Barrio, Ivana ........................... 4-4
Bay ...................................... 5-108
Town, Lode B. ...................... 8-14
Town, Sabtang ........................ 4-5
I., Lt., Port, Pugo Moro ........... 5-2
Sandigan I. ................................ 12-10
Sandoval Pt. ................................ 5-61
Sandugan Pt. ............................. 12-19
Sangabon Pt. ............................... 14-4
Sangat Cove .............................. 11-18
Sangirin B., Pt. ............................ 5-96
Sangley Pt., Aero, Lt. .................. 5-40
Santa
Agustin .................................... 7-7
Amalia Rk. ............................ 5-36
Ana ...................................... 5-118
Ana B. .................................... 9-11
Cruz, Dasol B. ....................... 5-26
Cruz, Marinduque .................. 5-63
Cruz, W Cebu .........................11-6
Cruz Harbor, Dasol B. ........... 5-26
Cruz Harbor, Marinduque ...... 5-63
Cruz Harbor Lt., Marinduque 5-63
Cruz I, Marinduque ................ 5-63
Cruz R., Marinduque ............. 5-62
Cruz Pt., Dasol B. .................. 5-26
Cruz Pt., Lt., Marinduque ...... 5-63
Fe, Bantayan I. ........................10-1
Fe, Romblon ............................ 7-6
Lucia ...................................... 5-15
Magdalena ........................... 5-132
Margarita ............................. 13-24
Maria ..................................... 5-51
Maria, Looc B. ........................ 7-7
Monica Pt. ........................... 11-17
Rita, Batangas B. ................... 5-52
Rita, Samar I. ....................... 13-29
Rita I. ................................... 13-30
Rita, Mt. ................................. 5-33
Rosa, Olango I. .................... 11-17
Rosa, Mt. ................................. 4-3
Sophia Canal ........................ 14-12
Teresa, Hill ............................. 6-26
Town, San Ildefonso .............. 5-12
Santander ..................................... 11-8
Santiago
Cape ....................................... 5-49
Cove ....................................... 5-14
Island ..................................... 5-22
E. Panay ................................. 9-23
Light, Cape ............................ 5-49
River ...................................... 5-50
Santo
Domingo .............................. 5-130
Nino Hbr .............................. 13-24
Niño Hbr., Lt., I. .................... 8-15
Tomas, Mount ........................ 5-15
Tomas Anch. .......................... 5-18
Santol B. ...................................... 5-98
Saoang ......................................... 5-12
Saoit Pt. ....................................... 5-25
Saonloc B. ................................... 13-8
Sapenitan B., Pt. ........................ 5-107
Sapian, B., Pen. ........................... 9-15
Sardine Reef ................................ 6-27
Sariaya, R. ................................... 5-57
Sarraceno Bank ........................... 6-21
Sauang Pass ............................ 12-9,10
Sauejon, Mt. .............................. 14-13
Sayan Islet ................................... 8-13
Sayao B. ...................................... 5-63
Scarborough Shoal ...................... 5-22
Sebaste ........................................ 9-12
Sebaste Shoal ................................ 9-2
Sebonbon Cove ......................... 5-119
Seco I., Islet ................................... 9-3
Semirara, Anch., I. .................. 6-18,19
Sepoc Pt. ...................................... 5-54
Seraray Islet ................................. 9-13
Sharp
Peak, Leyte ........................... 14-12
Peak, Negros ........................ 10-13
Peak SE Luzon ..................... 5-132
Point ..................................... 5-126
Shichisei Seki ................................ 4-1
Sho Antau Su ................................. 4-1
Sialat Pt., Lt. .............................. 5-115
Siapar I., Pt. ................................. 5-22
Siapas I. ..................................... 5-102
Siargao Pt., I. ............................... 5-74
Siaton, Pt., R. ............................. 10-13
Siayan I. ......................................... 4-3
Sibala Mt., R. ............................... 9-18
Sibalom R. ..................................... 9-3
Sibalun I. ...................................... 5-70
Sibaton, I. ..................................... 6-19
Sibauan I. ................................... 5-108
Sibay I, E Samar ........................ 13-10
Sibay I, S Mindoro ....................... 6-19
Sibolon I., Lt. .............................. 6-19
Sibonga, Pt. ................................ 11-19
Sibono Pt. ..................................... 5-72
Sibulan ....................................... 10-16
Sibuyan I. ......................................7-11
Sibuyan Sea ................................... 7-1
Sicaba, Pt., Reefs, R. ................ 10-4,5
Sicmil B. .................................... 5-119
Sicogon Chan., I. ......................... 9-20
Sierra Madre .................................. 1-1
Siete Pecados, Lt. .......................... 9-6
Sigat Pt. ....................................... 9-14
Sigayan B., Pt. ............................. 5-56
Sihan Pt. ..................................... 5-104
Sila Lt., Pt. ................................... 13-8
Index-19
Silad, B. ....................................... 14-5
Silago, Lt. .................................. 14-16
Silagon Islet ................................. 10-2
Silancapo Pt. ................................ 5-60
Silanga B. ................................... 13-26
Silangan
Pass, Lt. .................................. 5-97
Pt., Alabat I. ........................... 5-96
Pt., Salvaria I. ......................... 5-68
Silanganan, Mt. ............................ 5-34
Silanguin I, Port ...................... 5-30,31
Silaque I., Lt. ............................... 5-22
Silat Islet, I. .................................. 6-17
Silay City ..................................... 10-6
Silion I. ........................................ 10-2
Silo Islet ....................................... 12-8
Silom ............................................ 7-12
Silonay, Islet ................................. 7-12
Silong B. ...................................... 6-27
Silut Lagoon ............................... 11-12
Simara I. ......................................... 7-3
Simo Banks .................................... 6-3
Sinactan Pt. ................................ 5-121
Sinalog Pt. .................................. 5-121
Sinamangan R. ............................. 13-3
Sinangatan B. ............................... 5-79
Sinapsapan Lt., Pt. ........................ 9-11
Sioron Cove ................................ 5-119
Sipacong R. …............................ 10-12
Sipalay, R. .................................. 10-11
Sipaway I. .................................. 10-20
Siquijor, I. ............................. 12-17,18
Siramag B., R. .............................. 5-72
Siruma, B, I, Pt. ................... 5-106,107
Sisiman B. .................................... 5-38
Sisiman Cove Lt. .......................... 5-36
Sisiran B. .................................... 5-110
Siyt, Port .................................... 10-13
Smith Pt. ......................................... 5-3
Snake I. ........................................ 5-32
Soboc B. ..................................... 5-119
Sogocan Cove ............................ 5-120
Sogod
Bay, Lt., Cebu........................ 11-10
Bay, Lt., Leyte ................. 14-12,13
Cove, Tagapula I. ................... 8-13
Town, Cebu ...........................11-10
Town, Leyte ..........................14-13
Point.......................................14-16
Soguicay, B., I. ........................ 6-15-16
Sohoton Pt................................... 5-119
Sojoton
Islet, Pt., W Samar ................ 13-23
Lt., Pt., W Negros ................. 10-11
Solitario
Island ...................................... 5-75
Index-20
Mt. ..................................... 10-3,21
Solodon Islet ............................... 5-111
Solot Pt. ........................................ 5-10
Solvec Cove, Pt., Rk. ................... 5-13
Sombocogon B. ........................... 5-69
Sombrero I. .................................. 5-73
Sombrero Islet
Catanduanes ......................... 5-113
E. Panay ................................. 9-21
Off Maricaban ........................ 5-54
Sombrero Rks …............................ 9-3
Sonatao Pt. ................................... 13-8
Sondara R. ................................. 13-24
Sora Cay ...................................... 13-8
Sorsogon, B., Lt. ...........................5-74
Sorsogon
Bay, Lt. .................................. 5-76
City ........................................ 5-77
Province ................................. 5-76
South
Bais B., Lt. ........................... 10-17
Boca Islet ............................... 5-72
Cape ......................................... 4-1
Channel, Manila Bay ............. 5-35
Channel, Pratas ...................... 5-23
Gigante I. ............................... 9-20
Islet ....................................... 5-111
Pandan I. ................................ 6-23
Point, Guimaras I. .................. 9-12
Rk, Scarborough Shoal .......... 5-22
Vereker Bank ......................... 5-24
Southwest
Monsoon .................................. 1-6
Shoal, Darrena Pt. .................. 5-11
Spires I. ........................................ 5-85
Stewart Bank ................................ 5-22
Storms and Gales ........................... 1-6
Storm Warnings ............................. 1-7
Sua Bay, Pt. ............................... 13-20
Sual, Port ................................ 5-19,20
Suay ............................................. 10-9
Subaang B., R. ............................... 6-9
Suban Pt. ...................................... 5-65
Subic ............................................ 5-32
Subic B. ........................................ 5-31
Subic Bay Yacht Club .................. 5-33
Subungin Pt., Reef ....................... 5-62
Subuquin, Pt. ............................... 5-56
Sucol R. ....................................... 6-13
Sueste Pt., Lt. ............................... 5-31
Sugar Loaf, Pt. ........................... 5-110
Sugiab Pt. ....................................... 5-7
Sugot B. ..................................... 5-131
Suiro, Mt. ..................................... 14-2
Sujac B, Pt. .................................. 5-79
Sula Channel, Port, Lt. ....... 5-125,128
Sulat, B. ..................................... 13-12
Sulpa Islet .................................. 11-17
Sultan Bank ................................... 9-3
Suluan I, Lt. ............................... 13-21
Sumilon I., Lt. ............................ 11-20
Sumnanga ...................................... 4-5
Sungay, Mt. .................................. 5-41
Sungi Pt. ..................................... 13-18
Suribao, R. ............................ 13-14,15
Surigao Strait ............................. 13-21
Susak Rk. ..................................... 5-82
Susan Islet .................................... 9-13
Suso Shoal ................................... 5-14
Suyac I. ........................................ 10-3
System of buoyage ........................ 2-8
T
Taal, Lake .................................... 5-50
Taal Volcano .................................. 1-4
Tabaco, B. ........................... 5-123,124
Tabahan R. ................................. 12-15
Tabai Pt. ....................................... 6-27
Tabajin B. ...................................... 6-2
Tabangao, R. .......................... 5-52 ,54
Tabangdio Islet .......................... 12-16
Tabanon R. ................................... 10-3
Tabgon, Anch. ............................ 5-111
Tabignan Pt. ................................. 5-64
Tablas Strait ................................... 7-2
Tablas Summit ............................... 7-4
Taboan R. ..................................... 5-83
Taboc (Tabuk) I. ........................... 14-6
Tabogon, B. .................................. 11-9
Tabogon R. ................................... 5-98
Tabon Pt. ...................................... 12-2
Tabones Islets ............................... 5-30
Tabuelan, Lt. ................................ 11-3
Tabugoc Cove, Lt. ...................... 5-117
Tabugun, Chico Islet .................... 9-20
Tabunan Point
Masbate .................................... 8-9
Ticao I. .................................... 8-10
Tabusao I. ..................................... 5-99
Tacligan Pt. .................................. 5-94
Tacloban, Lt. .............................. 14-19
Tactacan Pt. .................................. 5-68
Tacu Shoal ...................................... 8-9
Tacubtacuban Hill ...................... 5-105
Tacut Reef .................................... 9-19
Tadloy Pt. ..................................... 8-14
Taebun Chan. .............................. 5-112
Taft
Carabao I. ................................. 7-8
Samar I. ................................. 13-12
Tag I. .......................................... 5-109
Tagabas B. .................................... 5-60
Tagabiran ..................................... 13-5
Tagampul Islet .............................. 14-2
Tagapolo Pt. ................................. 5-28
Tagaporo I. ................................... 5-22
Tagapula I. .................................... 8-13
Tagbac, Cove ................................. 6-3
Tagbac Pt. ..................................... 9-22
Tagbilaran, Beacon, Pier Lt. ....... 12-11
Tagdaranao I. ............................. 13-25
Taggat ............................................ 5-6
Tagig Chan. .................................. 5-46
Tagiran Pt. .................................... 5-79
Tagkawayan, B., R. ...................... 5-70
Taglauigan Cove .......................... 14-4
Tagnukan .................................... 11-10
Tago I, Pass, Reef .................... 9-21,22
Tagubanhan I. ............................... 9-22
Tagudin, Lt. .................................. 5-15
Tagum Peaks, Pt., R. ............... 5-64,65
Tagun B. ..................................... 5-110
Taguntun Bank ........................... 5-116
Taguus Pt. .................................. 14-11
Tahidan Pt. ................................. 5-118
Tahurug Pt. ................................ 12-13
Taig Pt. ...................................... 13-13
Tailon I, Lt. ................................ 5-101
Taisan, R. ....................................... 8-3
Taiwan I. ........................................ 4-1
Tajao Pt. Reef ...............................11-5
Tajad Pt. ....................................... 11-2
Taklong I., Lt. ......................... 9-11,12
Talabaan Chico R. ....................... 10-4
Talabaan Grande R. ..................... 10-4
Talaban I. ..................................... 5-59
Talabasi Pt. .................................. 6-23
Talabe Pt., R. ............................. 10-21
Talairan Pt. .................................. 14-1
Talaji Pt. ...................................... 5-55
Talalora ..................................... 13-29
Talibon ........................................ 12-5
Talim I. ........................................ 5-46
Talin B., Pt. ................................. 5-49
Talinas Islet ................................... 6-2
Talinawan Munti I. ........................ 6-2
Talipanan, Mt., Pt. ...................... 6-4,5
Talisain B. ................................... 5-30
Talisay
Barrio, Bohol ...................... 12-15
Barrio, Masbate ...................... 8-9
I., NW Samar ........................ 13-1
Pt. Masbate I. .......................... 8-2
Pt. Panay I. .............................. 9-5
Pt. Semirra I. ......................... 6-18
Reef, Masbate ......................... 8-2
River ...................................... 5-63
Town, Cebu ......................... 11-17
Town, Negros ........................ 10-6
Valley .................................... 5-62
Talocoy R. ................................. 10-13
Talong Islet ................................. 14-8
Talusan B. ................................... 10-3
Tambac B., Pt. ........................ 5-21,24
Tambang, Port ........................... 5-108
Tambaron I, Pass, Pt. ................... 6-16
Tambi Pt. ..................................... 6-17
Tambisan I, Pt. ........................... 12-18
Tambove Roads ........................... 5-25
Tambu I. ...................................... 12-2
Tampi ......................................... 10-15
Tamurung Pt. ............................... 5-14
Tanag ........................................... 5-88
Tanao I, Pass .............................. 5-101
Tanauan Mt. ................................. 12-9
Tanauan Pt. .................................. 5-71
Tanawan, R. ............................... 14-18
Tanay, Lt., Pier, R. ....................... 5-47
Tancaan Pt. ................................ 14-12
Tandao Rk. .................................... 8-2
Tandoc ....................................... 5-107
Tandog I. ...................................... 9-11
Tandoyong I. ................................ 5-22
Tang Pt. ...................................... 5-132
Tangad I. .................................... 13-25
Tangad Libucan I. ...................... 13-25
Tangaon Shoal ............................. 12-8
Tangbo Pt. .................................. 14-17
Tangil, Pt. ..................................... 11-6
Tanglar I., Pt. ............................. 5-105
Tanguingui
Islet, Burias ............................ 5-73
Islet, Visayan ........................... 8-6
Island Lt. .................................. 8-6
Tanjay, R. ................................... 10-17
Tanoban Pt. ................................ 5-102
Tantauayan, Mt. ......................... 10-11
Tanza ........................................... 5-40
Tañon Pt., S Cebu ........................ 11-8
Tañon Strait ............................... 10-16
Tapilon. Pt. .................................. 11-2
Tarahid Pt. ................................. 5-117
Tarangnan, Pt. ........................... 13-24
Taratara I. .................................. 13-28
Tarigtig Pt. ................................... 5-86
Taris Pt. ...................................... 5-121
Tarlac Reef ................................... 5-96
Tasiran Pt. .................................... 8-10
Tataupin Pt. .................................. 5-91
Tatus I. ........................................... 8-9
Tawitawi I. ..................................... 1-1
Tayabas Pt. R., B. ................... 5-56,57
Tayamaan ..................................... 6-23
Tayasan, Pt. ................................ 10-18
Tayong Pt. .................................... 11-6
Tayong, Peak .............................. 12-13
Taytay Pt. ................................... 14-17
Telegraph Pt. .................................. 6-7
Telegrafo, Biliran ......................... 14-2
Telegrafo, E. Leyte ..................... 14-17
Templo I. ...................................... 5-73
Teresa Bank ................................ 5-117
Teresa Hill .................................... 6-26
Ternate ......................................... 5-48
Ternate B. ..................................... 8-14
Ternate Lt. .................................... 5-40
Tetas
Cataingan .............................. 8-12
Santa ...................................... 5-13
The Knobs .................................... 5-85
Three Peaks, Mt. .......................... 14-7
Thumb Peak ................................. 5-83
Thurston Rk. .............................. 5-102
Tibiao, Lt., Pt., R. .......................... 9-2
Tibiauan R. ................................ 10-18
Ticao I. ........................................... 8-9
Ticao B. ........................................ 8-11
Ticao Pass .................................... 8-12
Ticlin
I., Bicol .................................. 5-79
I., Burdeos B. ......................... 5-93
I., E Negros .......................... 10-20
Point, Mindoro ....................... 6-14
Reef, E Negros ..................... 10-21
Strait ....................................... 5-77
Tidal Currrents ............................... 1-9
Tide and Currents .......................... 1-9
Tigbauan ........................................ 9-5
Tigion R. ...................................... 5-66
Tiglauigan .................................... 10-4
Tiguihan Cove .............................. 6-12
Tilic, Port ........................................
6-1
Timpasan I. ................................ 13-25
Tinaan Anch. .............................. 11-18
Tinaboc ........................................ 6-18
Tinacos I. ...................................... 5-77
Tinaga I. ..................................... 5-102
Tinago
Cove, Masbate .......................... 8-7
Cove, NE Luzon ..................... 5-82
Cove, W Leyte ........................ 14-4
Mount ...................................... 5-82
Tinagong
Dagat B. .................................. 5-98
Dagat Inlet .............................. 9-17
Tinajuagan Pt. ............................. 5-110
Tinalisayan Islets .......................... 5-73
Index-21
Tinalmud R. ................................. 5-71
Tinambac, Lt. ............................. 5-106
Tinang Islet .................................... 7-9
Tinanogan B. ................................ 5-75
Tinaogan, Reef ........................... 10-18
Tinau I, Lt. .................................... 13-1
Tinayunga, Mt. ............................... 9-1
Tincansan Islet ............................. 14-2
Tindug Pt. ..................................... 11-8
Tingco Pt. ..................................... 5-76
Tingib ............................................. 9-2
Tingib Pt. .................................... 13-31
Tingloy ......................................... 5-54
Tinig R. ........................................ 5-98
Tiniguiban Islet ............................ 9-11
Tintiman I. .................................. 12-16
Tinuibo I. ...................................... 12-4
Tiolas ............................................. 9-5
Tipas Chan. .................................. 5-46
Tiwi Pt. ....................................... 5-123
Toboso ....................................... 10-21
Togoron B. ..................................... 8-9
Tolan Pt. ......................................... 9-3
Toledo, Lt., Port ............................ 11-5
Tolong B., R. .............................. 10-12
Tolosa, Lt., Mt. ...................... 14-17,18
Tomalaytay Islet ........................... 5-77
Tomarok I. ...................................... 4-2
Tumaruk Rk. .................................. 4-4
Tomasa Islet ................................. 14-2
Tominongton Pt. ......................... 5-121
Tomonton Lt., Pt., Shoal ............... 10-6
Tonga Pt. .................................... 12-18
Tong-go ........................................ 12-8
Tongo Pt.
Cebu ........................................ 11-7
Romblon .................................. 7-11
Tongon Pt. .................................... 5-72
Torrijos, B. ................................... 5-65
Tortuga Reef ................................. 5-27
Totoog Pt. ..................................... 8-14
Towboats ........................................ 2-2
Toyo Reef ..................................... 9-12
Toytoy Pt. ................................... 5-115
Trade Wind, The ............................. 1-5
Trapichihan Pt. ............................. 5-63
Tres Marias Pt. ............................. 5-74
Tres Reyes I., Lt. .......................... 5-66
Tres Reyes Islet .............................. 7-2
Triboa B. ...................................... 5-33
Trinidad, Bohol ............................ 12-5
Trinidad, Jibatan ........................ 13-23
Tropical Cyclones .......................... 1-6
Truro Shoal .................................. 5-22
TSS ................................................ 3-1
Tuad Islet ...................................... 9-16
Index-22
Tubabao I, E Samar .................... 13-10
Lt. ......................................... 13-19
S Samar ................................ 13-19
Tubig Pt. ....................................... 5-59
Tubig River ................................ 13-12
Tubigan Point ............................. 13-13
Lt., San Jose ............................. 9-4
W. Panay .................................. 9-3
Tubigon ........................................ 12-8
Tubili Pt. ...................................... 6-22
Tuble Pt. ....................................... 10-4
Tuburan ........................................ 10-6
Bay, River .................................. 11-3
Creek ....................................... 14-11
Tucat Reef .................................... 9-18
Tuctuc Pt. ....................................... 7-6
Tudela .......................................... 14-8
Tugas Pt., Lt. ................................ 12-4
Tugasan Pt. ................................. 13-12
Tugdan, Pt. ..................................... 7-7
Tugnug Pt. .................................. 13-15
Tujud I. ......................................... 6-12
Tulunanaun I. ............................... 9-19
Tuma Reef .................................... 7-13
Tumaguin Islet ............................. 9-20
Tumalaytay I. ................................. 8-1
Tumatum Pt. ................................... 8-2
Tungao Pt. .................................... 6-18
Tunggo Pt. .......................................7-2
Tunggo Lt. ...................................... 7-2
Tungoo Pt. .................................. 13-23
Tuntung Pt. ................................... 6-12
Tuquian Pt. ................................... 5-60
Turia Rk. ...................................... 9-23
Turnina Islet ................................. 9-19
Tusk Peak ..................................... 6-24
Tuyum ........................................ 10-11
Twenty-four Foot Shoal ............... 5-32
Twin Peaks ................................... 5-83
Twin Rks ............................ 5-102;6-19
Typhoon Anchorages ..................... 1-8
Typhoon Regulations ................ App-6
Typhoon Warning Signals .............. 4-4
U Bank, Lt. ............................... 5-116
Uacuac I, Lt. ................................13-27
Uacuac I, Lt. ............................... 13-27
Uag Pt. .......................................... 11-4
Uala I. ........................................... 5-93
Uaydajon Islet .............................. 9-19
Uban Pt. ..................................... 13-31
Ubay, Lt. ...................................... 12-5
Ugamut I. ..................................... 13-3
Uguis Islet .................................. 13-11
Ulan B., Pt. .................................. 5-67
Ulut R. ........................................ 13-12
Umalantin Pt. ................................. 9-5
Umiray R. .................................... 5-89
Ungay Pt., Lt. ............................. 5-126
Union .…….................................. 12-4
Union Reef ................................... 5-91
Unisan ................................. 5-59;9-12
Unisan Islet .................................. 9-12
Uray Vanoa Rks. ........................ 13-25
Urdaneta Hbr. .............................. 13-2
Uson .............................................. 8-9
Bay .......................................... 8-9
Pt. .......................................... 14-1
Utabe B. ...................................... 5-79
Uyugan ........................................... 4-4
V
Valencia ..................................... 12-14
Valladolid .................................... 10-9
Vallehermoso ............................. 10-19
Valley Cove ................................. 5-83
Valley Head ................................. 5-83
Varadero B.,Pt., Lt...........................6-9
Verde Hill .................................... 5-79
Verde Island ................................ .5-55
Verde Island Passage ................... 5-55
Verde Pt. ........................................ 5-2
Vereker Banks ............................. 5-24
Victoria ...................................... 13-22
Victorias, R. ................................. 10-5
Vigan, Gap ................................... 5-12
Vigia Hill, Pt. ................................. 8-3
Vigia Hill Pt ............................... 14-17
Villa Hermosa ......................... 11-101
Villa Hermosa Pt ......................... 14-7
Villa Vicenta .................................. 4-8
Villaba, B. .................................... 14-5
Villalobos Reef ............................ 13-5
Villareal B. ................................. 13-27
Vinticayan Pt. ............................. 5-120
Viñas R. ........................................ 5-70
Virac ........................................... 5-116
Viriato ........................................ 13-23
Visayan I. ................................. 1-1,7-1
Visita .............................................. 4-7
Vito Pt. ....................................... 10-22
VTMS
Cavite ...................................... 5-40
Escarceo Pt ............................... 6-8
Manila B. ................................ 5-35
Verde I Passage ....................... 5-55
Verde I Passage ..................5-53, 73
 W Western Bohol ............................. 12-7
Wagas Pt. .................................... .5-71
Walker Shoal. ............................. 13-20
Waray Banwa Reef ..................... 13-26
Wawa ............................................. 6-5
Lt……....................................... 6-5
River ....................................... 5-48
Strait ..................................... 14-14
Wayside Rk. ................................... 7-5
Weather .......................................... 1-4
Weather Forecasts, Reports ........... 2-4
West Point ...................................... 7-8
Wharfage ....................................... 2-2
Wheeling Peak ............................. 5-87
Wright Shoal ................................ 13-4
Wyllie Rks. .................................... 4-7
Y Zamboanguita Pt. ....................... 10-13
Y’Ami I. ......................................... 4-2
Yao I. ............................................ 10-2
Yapusan Pt. .................................... 6-2
Yellow Rk. ................................... 5-91
Yeso I. .......................................... 8-10
Yog Pt. ........................................ 5-113
Yopoquit Pt. ................................ 5-112
Z
Zabali Lt. ...................................... 5-88
Zapato Is. ..................................... 9-18
Zapato Mayor Is. .......................... 9-18
Zapato Menor Is., Lt. .................... 9-18
Zayao I. ...................................... 5-121
Zumarraga, Chan. ...................... 13-28
Index-23