Region IV-B Mimaropa Geography

Multimedia presentation
in
basic geography
Presented by:
DyanRose Palad
Jamaica Deri
BEED-II
Presented to:
Ms. Jelen Dolosa

THINK PIECE # 10
1)Reason why Mindoro separated into two
province?
2)Why Calapan City is the regional center of
Region IV-B MIMAROPA?
3)If you were given a chance to travel in
MIMAROPA , What place do you want and why?

•President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo issued
the Executive Order No. 103, dated May
17, 2002, divided Region IV (Southern
Tagalog) into Region IV-A (CALABARZON)
and Region IV-B (MIMAROPA)

REASONS
• President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo divided the
Southern Tagalog Provinces which comprised
Region IV into two region- Region IV-A and IV-
B, to promote efficiency in the government
accelerate social and economic development
and improve public services.

• Executive Order No. 103 also transferred the
province of Aurora to Region III in Central
Luzon
• Executive Order No. 429, the Palawan moved
to Region VI on May 23, 2005, Palawan and
the highly urbanized city of Puerto Princesa.
After this move, Region IV-B began to be
called MIMARO instead of MIMAROPA

• However, Palaweños criticized the move, citing a lack of
consultation, with most residents in Puerto Princesa City and
nearly all municipalities preferring to stay with Region IV-B.
• Consequently, Administrative Order No. 129 was issued on
August 19, 2005 to address this backlash. This order directed the
abeyance of Executive Order 429 pending the approval of an
implementation plan for the orderly transfer of Palawan from
MIMAROPA to Region VI.
• Thus, it is not yet clear if the transfer of Palawan to region VI is
already done and final creating confusion on whether to address
the region as MIMARO or MIMAROPA.

• The 2010 Philippine Census of Population continued to
report the Region IV name as 'MIMAROPA' and
continued to list the province of Palawan as part of that
region.
• As of 2012, it is not clear whether or not the transfer of
Palawan to region VI is still considered pending by the
Philippine government.
• As of 2012, the National Statistical Coordinating Board of
the Philippines continues to list Palawan province as part
of the MIMAROPA region

• Calapan City is the Regional Center of MIMAROPA
• Executive Order No. 682 - Designating Calapan City as the
Regional Center of Region IV-B otherwise Referred to as the
MIMAROPA Region
• it is the policy of the Government to promote regional
development in order to spur and accelerate economic growth in
the countryside and thereby, attain sustainable national
development

• total land area of 27,455.9 square kilometers composed
of 1,946 islands and islets.
• MIMAROPA Region is the largest Region nationwide in
terms of land area while National Capital Region is the
smallest region.
• Due to its archipelagic nature, it claims to also have the
largest territorial water. In terms of land area and
territorial waters, MIMAROPA represents one-third of the
whole Philippine archipelago.

Economy
• In 2007, MIMAROPA's economy surged by 9.4%, making it the
fastest growing region in the country in that year
• In 2006, MIMAROPA experienced a big slowdown in 2006,
posting a decelerated growth of 2.3% from a 6.4% increase in
2005.
• The higher production is the palay, corn, other crops, livestock
and fishery resulted in the accelerated growth in the total
agriculture and fishery sector.

Languages
• Tagalog is widely spoken in the region.
• In Marinduque, Tagalog is spoken with a unique blend of Bicolano and Visayan
languages. Aside from Tagalog, there are other major languages being used by the
people in different provinces and localities.
• In the interior of Mindoro, various languages are spoken by Mangyans, and they
include Iraya, Alangan, Tawbuid, ,Tadyawan, and Buhid. The latter is a Visayan
language with fewer than three speakers.
• Romblon, being near the Visayas, has three main languages that belong
to Visayan language family namely, Romblomanon, Asi, and Onhan.
• Palawan has its own set of native languages such as Cuyonon, Calamian
Tagbanwa and Palawano that are spoken by significant numbers of people.

Region/
Province
Distinction Capital
*Land
Area
Sq. km
no. of
Mun/
Cities
no. of
Brgys
Population
of 2007
MIMAROPA Calapan City 27,538.9 73 1,457 2,559,791
Occidental
Mindoro
The Marine
Wonderland Mamburao 5,879.9 11 162 421,952
Oriental
Mindoro The Loveliest Harbor
in the Island
Calapan City 4,447.5 15 426 735,769
Marinduque
The Lenten
Capital Boac 959.3 6 218 229,636
Romblon The Marble Capital Romblon 1,355.9 17 219 279,774
Palawan
The Philippine's
Last Frontier
Puerto Princesa
City
14,896.3 24 432 892,660
MIMAROPA is composed of 5 island provinces, 2 cities and 71
municipalities.

• Mindoro is the home to the Tamaraw or Mindoro dwarf
Buffalo
• Mindoro became a regular province in 1921. On June 13,
1950 under Republic Act no. 505. Mindoro was divided
into two region.
• But Republic Act no. 505 makes no provisions for a new
judge or new register of deeds for Occidental Mindoro
nor for the disposition of the cases pertaining to the last
mentioned province, pending or there after to be filed.

• Republic Act no. 505, there is no valid ground for the
proportion that they had ceased to be the same officials
for Occidental Mindoro. Occidental Mindoro is not
inferior to Oriental Mindoro in category and one had
been as much a part of the abolished province as the
other.
• Another reason that the law abhors a vacuum and that a
provision not violated of any enactment or the
constitution is to be read into an act to supply the
omission.

Occidental Mindoro –
Marine Wonderland
Of Luzon

• Occidental Mindoro is endowed
with marine beauty from its virgin
forests, beautiful white sand
beaches, islands and islets rich in
marine life, coral gardens,
mysterious caves, and cascading
waterfalls.

History
Prior to the coming of the Spaniards in 1571, Mindoro was already known to the Chinese
merchants who plied the waters to conduct their commercial expeditions. Trading
relationship existed between the Philippines and China, particularly, in the eastern part of
the island. For this reason, after Miguel Lopez de Legaspi discovered the island in 1569,
Goiti, as master of camp, sailed to Mindoro on May 8, 1570, and encountered the Chinese
merchants. But even as they transacted business with the islanders, to the amazement of
the Spaniards, there had already been signs of Hindu and Pagan influence in the place.
The earnest conquest of Mindoro began in 1570 in the district of Mamburao, when Juan
de Salcedo subjugated the inhabitants under the Spanish authority. The early names
of Mindoro were Mai and Mina de Oro. The latter is a contraction of the Spanish description
of the phrase which means ""gold mine."" Although there were no major gold discoveries,
panners and Mangyans have found gold in small quantities in the rivers of Baco, Binaybay,
Bongabong, and Magasawan Tubig.

Geography
• The entire island of Mindoro, which is separated from the Southern Luzon mainland, is
composed of Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro.
• These two provinces are separated by a mountain range, running through the entire length
of the island, which serves as a natural and political boundary.
• Occidental Mindoro is situated along the western part of the island, located south of
the province of Batangas in Southern Luzon. On the north, it is bounded by Verde Island
Passage, on the west and the south by Mindoro Strait, and on the east by Oriental Mindoro.
• The topography of Occidental Mindoro is generally rugged, with narrow strips of coastal
lowlands. Its terrain is characterized by successive mountain ranges, valleys, and elongated
plateaus, with rolling lands along the coastal region.

Climate
• Wet Period: August and September
• Dry Period: March and April
Language/Dialects
• Tagalog is spoken by 69.78 percent of the people.
• Other dialects are Ilokano (10.63 percent),
• Hiligaynon (6.47 percent)
• Kinaray-a (5.84 percent).
• The working population can read and speak Filipino and
English.

Political Subdivision
Occidental Mindoro is politically governed by a Provincial Governor, as in other
provinces and municipal mayors. It is divided into eleven municipalities:
Abra de Ilog
Calintaan
Looc
Lubang
Magsaysay
Mamburao
Paluan
Rizal
Sablayan
San Jose
Sta.Cruz.

e) Presing Park (Parola) (Lumang Bayan,
Sablayan)
-It is a five-hectare park frequented by
promenaders who seek rest and relaxation.
Overlooking the sea, the park enjoys cool
breeze blowing landwards, which relaxes
taut nerves. At the middle of the park, a
15th century cannon, believed to have
been used against the Moro pirates, is on
display. A grotto of Our Lady of Fatima is
visible at the far end of the park.

f)Ambulong Island (San Jose, Occident Mindoro)- The
3,000-hectare Ambulong Island is one of the three
islands found in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. It is
characterized by white sand beaches, cliffs along
pillars jutting out of the water, and underwater caves.
Coral gardens and tropical fish are abundant in
several coves. The coral gardens and the white sand
beaches are fantastic. A fisherman's village is located
at the sheltered side of the island.
Ambulong Island is also a jump-off point to some of
the dive spots in the area, such as the Iling Point,
Baniaga Reef, Ambulong Bank, Dungan Reef,
Sardines Reef, Apo Reef, and Manadi Island. These
dive sites are about an hour away by pumpboat from
the Caminawit Port.

g) Ilin Island (San Jose; an hour by pumpboat
from Caminawit Port to Ilin)-
Ilin Island is the biggest among the group of islands
located in San Jose. It lies between San
Jose and Ambulong Island. The area abounds in
shells which can be obtained inexpensively on the
island. The villagers from the nearby areas are
generally shell divers. Ilin Island has five beaches,
some of which are fringed with reefs making passage
impossible during low tide.

k) Pandan Grande Island -
Pandan Grande Island is a 30-hectare
islet surrounded by a white sand beach
and is also the site of a 20-room divers'
lodge made of native cottages. This
beautiful little coral islet is located with
snorkelling distance from a submarine
drop-off, inhabited by schools of reef. A
yacht ride may be taken to the island.

• Saknungan (San Jose; April 25-27)
An exemplary showcase of Mindoro's cultural heritage and resources, it is a three-day
festival which commences with the annual celebration of the province's blessings.
• Saknungan is a Mangyan term which means "bayanihan" or the spirit of cooperation,
brotherhood, and unity at work. This is portrayed by the Mindoreños in their day-to-day
activities, especially during the planting and harvest seasons.
• The three-day festivity is highlighted by street dance and a parade. Also held are agro-
industrial and techno trade fair, drum and bugle parade/contest, bikathon, Juego de Anillo,
cultural dance competition, palo sebo, hulihan ng baboy, cultural presentation, awards
and fellowship night.

• Lambay Festival.
It is a Batak ritual that signals the start of the hunting and gathering season.
• Cuyo Fiesta
(August 28; Cuyo town proper, Palawan). Soot-covered revelers perform the Ati-Atihan street dance to
frenzied drumbeats.
• Puerto Princesa City Foundation Day
(March 4; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan). It is a celebration of the founding anniversary of the city
highlighted by the crowning of Ms. Puerto Princesa.
• Pista y ang Kagueban
(3rd week of June; Magarwak, Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan). It is a festive
reforestation dance by practically all people from different walks of life with activities, such as the
performance of the environmental artists of Puerto Princesa City, through songs and dances.

• Baragatan sa Palawan
(3rd week of June; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan).
A grand celebration of the founding of the civil
government of Palawan, its highlights are the LGU Trade and Food Fair, and colorful parade with
participation from the different municipalities and private sectors, featuring the ethnic groups and
the coronation of Ms. Palawan.
• Pagdiwata Tribal Ritual
(full moon of December; Aborlan town proper, Palawan).
It is a Tagbanua tribal ritual asking the
gods to heal the sick. It is also a thanksgiving ceremony.
• Tarek Festival
3rd week of January; Aborlan town proper).
For the Tagbanuas, it is a dance ritual comprising the
observance of the Pagdiwata. For the Batak tribe, it is a form of war dance.

• Deep Sea Scuba Diving
Go for a dive and savor the panorama of your life, with a breathtaking view of the world's
second largest coral reef, schools of fish in shoals and atolls, and sunken vessel sites. Take
pride in the precious marine heritage of the Philippine republic.
• Swimming and Snorkeling
These are pleasures which fit the affordability level of the average tourist, local or foreign. The
waters of Mindoro Occidental are pristine and pure, unvisited as most of its shores in
comparison to more popular ones.
• Sightseeing
Pay exciting visits via island hopping to conversation sites, natural parks, reservation areas,
and animal sanctuaries, notably the wildlife reserves covering the endangered tamaraw
species.

• Archeological Exploration.
The activity can be fun and endlessly appealing to both new and perennial visitors
to Palawan. Visit the Tabon Caves and be enthralled by the chambers which yield
knowledge about life 50,000 years ago.
• Canoeing / Boat Riding.
Go to the subterranean St. Paul River and be mesmerized by the crystal stalagmites
and stalactites which illumine the river ripples with their sheen.
• Wildlife Center.
Visit wildlife conservation centers like the Wildlife Sanctuary
on Calauit Island and the Crocodile Farm at Irawan.

Oriental Mindoro
The Islands'
Loveliest Harbor

• Oriental Mindoro
The inverted-J-shaped Oriental Mindoro is endowed
with some of the Philippine Islands’ best natures capes.
Choose your own beach among the many that abound,
from fawn beige to powdery white. Then match the
experience with interesting mountain lairs, lakes, rivers,
rain forests, wild animals, rare flora and fauna, and
pocket communities of the existing ethnic groups. It
has maintained its unspoiled environment, all within a
rustic agricultural setting.

History
• Mindoro, the seventh largest island in the Philippines, was founded on February 2,1921, by the
members of the Spanish mission. They occupied the southern and northern tips of the island but were
soon driven away by Muslim hordes. The Muslims later built strongholds in the island from which they
launched attacks against Manila. They were later vanquished by the forces of Simon de Anda.
• In the early years of Spanish rule, Mindoro was administered as a part of the province of Batangas, then
known as Bonbon. It was separated from Batangas, with Puerto Galera as its capital, during the 17th
century. In 1902, the island of Lubang was annexed to Mindoro, which gained full province hood in
1921. In 1950, the island was divided into two separate and autonomous provinces through Republic
Act No.505, designating the eastern portion of the island as Oriental Mindoro, with Calapan as its
capital, and the western part as Occidental Mindoro, with Mamburao as its capital.
• Every November 15, the people celebrate the Sanduguan Festival. It is a re-enactment of the first
historical trade and cultural contact between the natives of the island of MA-l (Mindoro) and traders
from China. Sanduguan is derived from the native word ""Sandugo,"" which literally means ""blood
brother."" The festival is done in consonance with the founding anniversary of Mindoro Oriental.

Geography
• Oriental Mindoro is located 15 kilometers off the southwest coast
of Luzon. It lies on the eastern portion of the island. It is bounded on
the north by Verde Island and the Verde Passage, on the east by
Maestro de Campo Island and Tablas Strait, on the south
by Semirara Island near Pandarodan bay, and on the west by
the province of Occidental Mindoro.
• It has a total land area of 436,470 hectares. The province has 39
named and 89 unnamed islands and islets, leaving much of its
attractions virgin to visitors, and an untrammeled area to explore.

Language / Dialects
• Visiting Oriental Mindoro does not entail memorizing bits of conventional lines
in dialects spoken other than Tagalog, which serves as the predominant dialect.
• Other dialects spoken are Ilocano and Cebuano. Strains of the Mangyan dialect
spoken are Arayan, Alagnan, Buhid, Hunuo, and Tadyawan. The working
population can read and speak Filipino and English.
Climate
• Oriental Mindoro has no distinct wet or dry season
• Maximum rainfall- June to October

Industry
• The lifestyles of Mindoreños are basically simple and rural. 70 percent of
the populace engage in land and sea agriculture, with only 30 percent living
in urbanized centers.
• The ethnic tribes, Mangyans, are gentle and withdrawn but many of them
have managed to integrate into the cultural mainstream, largely in the
municipalities of Mansalay, Baco, Puerto Galera, Roxas, and Bongabong.
• These Mangyans are skilled weavers and craftsmen, producing intricate
tribal finery, including baskets, mats, and other items, both functional and
aesthetic.

Oriental Mindoro is composed of 15 municipalities, with Calapan City as the capital of the
province. The municipalities are:
Baco Pola
Bansud Puerto Galera
Bongabong San Teodoro
Bulalacao Roxas
Calapan City Socorro
Naujan Victoria
Mansalay Gloria
Pinamalayan

b) Tamaraw Falls
The 423-foot waterfalls, situated alongside the road, is actually a
series of asymmetrical falls, leading to the grand one, dropping
to a frothy waterbed below. The cascading waterfalls is a great
attraction to passers-by. Tamaraw Falls is located in Barangay
Villaflor, Puerto Galera. It can be reached in two hours by taking
a jeepney bound for Barangay Villaflor from Puerto Galera, or
Calapan.

d) Mt. Halcon
Towering 8,488 feet above sea level, Mt. Halcon is the country's third
highest peak. It is a favourite destination for nature tripping and
mountain climbing. Mt. Halcon is located in Baco. It is accessible in two
hours, by taking a jeepney to Baco, the jump-off point.

e) Excavation Museum
"This museum houses several collections of Chinese and
Siamese pottery, from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It also
contains Ming Dynasty burial jars as well as a fine collection of
shells. This is a facility of the National Museum. The museum is
located in Puerto Galera town proper, a 5-minute walking
distance from the pier
of Puerto Galera.

f) Baclaran Mangyan Settlement
This is an area reserved for the Mangyans under the
auspicies of Father Erwin Thiel, SVD Missionary. It is
located in Puerto Galera, a short 30-minute walk from the
town proper.

g) Simba Bato
This is an old church with a chapel constructed on its original
site. It is located in Barangay Bancuro, Naujan, and is accessible
in 45 minutes by jeepney from the town market going to
Barangay Bancuro.

h) Hidden Paradise
The attraction consists of a natural
spring with a swimming pool and picnic
cottages. It is located in Baco, and can
be reached in 45 minutes by taking a
jeepney bound for the Calapan market.

i) Punta Guarda Beach
This beach is far from the busy areas of Puerto Galera; thus, it is ideal for
those who seek privacy and retreat. It is located in Puerto Galera,
Occidental Mindoro, and can be reached by taking a 10 minutes' jeepney
ride from the town proper, to about one kilometer on the beach mark.
The distance left will have to be covered on foot.

• Bansudani Festival
(January 17-19; Bansud, Mindoro Oriental). A thanksgiving ritual for bountiful harvest which coincides
with the town fiesta. It features dances and cultural presentations by schools and barangay communities.
• Feast of the Divine Savior
(January 17 –19; Bansud, Mindoro Oriental). Highlight is an agro-trade fair.
• Feast of the Sacred Heart
(February 14-15; Bansud, Mindoro Oriental). Highlight is an agro-trade fair.
• Banana Festival
(March 18-19; Baco, Mindoro Oriental). A celebration of the abundance of bananas. It features a banana
cookfest and a "saba"-(type of banana)-inspired street dancing competition and beauty pageant. This
coincides with the town fiesta in honor of St. Joseph.
• Sulyog Festival
(March 19; Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro). A religious festival in honor of St. Joseph. It is celebrated by
way of the Sulyog (Suli and Niyog) Festival through dances, flats, and cultural shows.

• Bahag-hari Festival
(April 24; Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro). A colorful celebration highlighted by street dancing, a parade of
colorful floats, and a different kind of Moriones Festival.
• The Sabutan Festival and Mini- Trade Fair
(April 25-29; Mabitac, Oriental Mindoro). It showcases the different native products of the province, mainly
from Sabutan.
• Lechon Festival and Gabi ng Pakulo
(June 24; Pola, Oriental Mindoro). A religious festival in honor of St. John the Baptist, coupled with a festive
social affair, usually, a banquet, preceded by a pagoda and the parade of lechon (roast pig). Its most
interesting feature is the Gabi ng Pakulo, a combination of street dancing and all sorts of cultural
entertainment, performed by different barangays on the streets of Pola.
• Feast of St. John The Baptist / Lechon Festival
(June 24; Pola, Oriental Mindoro). At the Lechon Festival, or Parada ng Lechon, in local parlance, roast pigs
or lechon garbed in creative costumes are paraded around the town to the accompaniment of gay chanting
and "buhusan" – a customary practice during the San Juan Bautista feast, which involves water dousing. A
selection of the best from among the lechon entries follows, along with a free-for-all banquet open to the
townsfolk and visitors alike.

• Biniray Festival
(June 29; Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro). A grand pagoda show as a way of thanksgiving for the blessings
from the sea. Other highlights are street dancing, a parade of spectacular floats, and cultural presentations
of schools and communities.
• Pakapya-agtike Festival
(July 25-27; Socorro, Oriental Mindoro). This festivity features cultural shows, a parade of floats, and street
dancing on the last day, showcasing agricultural bounty. Schools, barangays, and tribal communities
participate. The festival is a thanksgiving offering to the town patron, the Holy Family.
• Sayaw Lahi Festival
September 10; Naujan, Oriental Mindoro). A festival featuring all native dances performed on the streets by
different schools and barangay communities. Other highlights are the school band competition, live-band
concerts, and awarding of outstanding Naujenos.
• Kapakyanan Festival
(October 14-15; Victoria, Oriental Mindoro). Kapakyanan means abundance. The festival focuses on the
bountiful harvest of fruits and crops. Its highlights are street dancing and a beauty pageant with agriculture
as the central theme.

• Sanduguan Festival
(Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro). It revives the barter trade between the Mai natives and the Chinese traders.
This week-long festivity features an agro-trade fair. There is a historical parade, re-enactment of the barter
trading, and the Indakan sa Sanduguan, a street dancing competition. Considered as the biggest and the
most innovative festival in the province, it also features art and historical contests, workshops, and
contemporary and ethnic cultural shows.
• Feast of Santa Catalina
November 26; Mansalay. Oriental Mindoro). Highlight is the Palarong Lahi, an array of games very native to
Mindoreños, and Filipinos, joined in by all game enthusiasts.
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception
(December 8; Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro). Highlight is an agro-trade fair.

• Trekking
Orriental Mindoro is ideal for trekkers who want to see wildlife and enjoy testing hikes without the complications and
risks of needing climbing gear for dangerous ascents. Mt. Halcon is the highest point on the island of Mindoro. Draped
in high-altitude forest, cut by clear rivers and studded with pristine rock formations, it is considered one of the
country's finest trekking peaks. The summit is often wrapped in clouds, but on a clear day, provides a breathtaking view
over the plains of Mindoro and southern Luzon, where Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Mayon loom in the distance. Other trekking
site is Mt. Calavite.
• Mountain Trail
The recently established Puerto Galera 'Mountain Trail' also called the Tabinay-Talipanan Trail, is a fairly easy
introduction to the mountainous interior of Mindoro Island. The two-to-three-day walk begins in Tabinay, southeast of
Puerto Galera and winds past three mountains - none of which are major summits - before emerging on the white sands
of Talipanan beach, on the northwest side of town.
• Mountainbiking
Puerto Galera is best known as a diving destination, but other action sports are starting to
sprout up - mountainbiking being one of the most enjoyable. In Calapan, there's a keen group of
local enthusiasts, bike shops, plenty of trails and amazing views. The sport seems set to
blossom in this area.

• Diving
Underwater, Puerto Galera is a feast for the eyes. Having enjoyed the protection afforded by its
marine sanctuary status for years, the coral reefs are alive and vibrant. Spear fishing is banned,
and local dive operators forbid the taking of anything except pictures on the dive sites. Most of
the deeper dives are along walls and drop-offs and currents can be strong. It is best to dive with
an experienced divemaster or instructor to avoid problems. At least 16 dive centres are located
along the beaches of Sabang, Small Lalaguna, Big
Lalaguna, Coco Beach and Encenada Beach resort in Varadero Bay on the south coast of the
isthmus. Local operators boast there are at least 25 dive sites within 20mins of any dive centre.
• Caving
The mountains of Mindoro are composed of largely of limestone, and the island is dotted with
caves, almost none of which have been explored or mapped. One that has been explored -
though not completely - is Luyang Baga ('Lung Cave', a reference to a large lung-shaped
speleothem hanging near the cave's mouth) in Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog.

Lenten Mecca
Of Southern
Tagalog

Marinduque
• Known as the smallest province in the Southern Tagalog region,
Marinduque has the shape of a human heart floating on a clear
blue sea.
• The island province is characterized by undulating hills,
picturesque valleys, sheer seaside cliffs, interspersed with
patches of flatland on different parts of the island. The soil is
fertile but marked in certain spots by large stony areas, making
wide continuous farming difficult. Deposits of iron, copper, and
lead are found and mined in the province.

History
• The island of Marinduque is known to have been first peopled by the Malays and the
Mangyans. They were believed to be governed by the Bonbon settlement in Batangas, which
was founded by the Bornean datus, Dumagsil and Balkasusa.
• Legendary stories narrate that the original name of the island was “Malandik,” describing
the gently slopping terrain of the island’s highest peak, Mt. Malandik. When the Spaniards
came, they found it difficult to pronounce the word, so they called the island Marinduc.
Through constant usage, Marinduc became Marinduque.
• In 1571, Marinduque was appointed an encomienda under Dr. Pedro de Mesa. At about the
same time, Christianity was introduced by Fr. Diego de Herrera. In 1590, the island was
subsumed under the government of Mindoro. Nine years later, it became a province under
the Philippine Republic. However, in 1902, all of Mindoro was annexed to Marinduque, and
Marinduque to the province of Quezon. It was in 1920 when the province gained full
provincial stature under Repuclic Act. No. 2280.

Geography
• The heart-shaped island of Marinduque rests on the Sibuyan Sea and is located south
of Manila between the Bondoc Peninsula at the southeastern portion of Luzon and Mindoro Island. It is
bounded on the north-northeast by Quezon, south by the island of Romblon, west-southwest by
Oriental Mindoro, and west by Batangas. The island province has an aggregate land area of 95,920
hectares, including four major islets and eight minor ones.
Languages/Dialects
• The Marinduqueños speak a unique blend of Tagalog and Visayan dialects, with traces of
Bicolano. The working population can read and speak Filipino and English
Climate
• Marinduque has two pronounced seasons: dry form December to May, and wet from June to
October. The average monthly rainfall is highest in October, and lowest in April.

Political Subdivisions
• Marinduque consists of 6 municipalities :
1 Boac
2 Buenavista
3 Gasan
4 Mogpog
5 Sta. Cruz
6 Torrijos.

C) Battle of Pulang Lupa Marker
The marker stands at the site of the bloodiest battle fought in the island between the
Philippine Revolutionary Forces and the Americans. The “Battle of Pulang Lupa” was the
first known major battle won by the Filipinos over the Americans. The area is surrounded by
dense vegetation making it an ideal place for camping.

d) Battle of Paye Marker
This is another marker that serves as a reminder of the battle on July 31, 1900 between the Filipinos
and the Americans. Despite inferior weapons, the Filipinos defeated the Americans.
Blessed Biglang-Awa Miraculous Shrine
It houses the patroness of the province.

e) Boac Cathedral
This cathedral is a mere 10-minute walk from Boac town proper. It was built in 1756 in honor of the
Blessed Virgin of Biglang Awa (Immediate Succor). It was here where Filipinos and Spaniards took
refuge from pirate attacks. The architecture is Filipino-Hispanic Gothic with much of the original
structure – the façade the main body, the belfry, and the altar – faithfully preserved. Stained glass
windows, though a later addition, adorn the walls and enhance the age-old beauty of the church.

f) Marcopper Mining Corporation Mine Site
The mines of Marcopper Mining Corporation (MMC) used to produce 20
percent of the country’s copper supply. Prior to the temporary suspension of
its permit to operate, a guided tour around the mine site was organized by the
MMC. It has facilities like swimming pools, bowling lanes, basketball/tennis
courts, and an 18-hole golf course. This will be re-opened to the public once
environmental measures to protect Boac River are in place

g) Tres Reyes Islands
Serving as favorite haunts, delightful picnic grounds, and dive spots in
Marinduque are the islets named Gaspar, Melchor, and Baltazar, collectively
known as Tres Reyes Islands.

h) White Beach
One of the most frequented beaches in the province is a stretch of white
sand beach called “White Beach”. To provide temporary shelter to
picnickers, makeshift huts have been built along the seashore.

• Moriones Festival
Annually, during the observance of Holy Week, a biblical character in the
person of the Roman centurion, Longinus, comes alive as the towns of
Boac, Mogpog, and Gasan celebrate the Moriones Festival. It is a religious
festival, which links the story of Longinus with Christ’s Passion and Death.
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception
The town fiesta of the municipality of Boac falls on the feast day of the
Immaculate Conception. During this day, a religious civic-military
celebration is observed throughout the town, capped by an evening
procession in honor of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

• Tawak Drinking
This is local wine making and drinking observed every Good Friday in Marinduque. “Tawak” is
a concoction made of mint leaves.
• Putong
This is Marinduque’s indigenous custom of welcoming and honoring friends and visitors. The
ceremony starts with the procession of the “mamumutong,” a group of men and women,
chanting greetings before the visitors whom they regard as deities.
• Kalutang
This is a kind of musical instrument found in the province. The “Kalutang” consists of two
pieces of wood, graduated in sizes, to produce different note ranges, with which bands of 10 to
12 people make music.

• The Legend of “Mara-Undok” Dance Drama
It is equally at this time that the local theater group stages the dance form of the “Legend of
Mara-Undok” which narrates the origins of the islands.
• Diving
The waters of Marinduque harbor a wealth of underwater riches. Numerous dive spots are
scattered around the island’s waters simply waiting to be rediscovered. The more popular ones
are found off the coast of the islands of Maniwaya, Natangco, Salomague, and Tres Reyes.
There is a dive resort in Boac, Marinduque.
• Mountain Trekking
Mountain trekking and camping are pursuits to enjoy in Mt. Malindig around Buenavista and
Torrijos. Birdwatchers can catch sighting of local wildlife and raptors in flight.

Romblon –
Marble Country
Of The Philippines

History
• The early aborigines of Romblon were believed to be the Negritos from
Panay and the Mangyans from Mindoro. It was in 1582 when the Loarca
expeditionists came to the islands and named them collectively as
“Lomlon.” A secular clergy administered the province until 1635.
• In 1818 Romblon was annexed to the province of Capiz and made into a
political and military station. The Americans, who came to rule in 1901,
appointed a civil government to run the local affairs. About a century later,
in 1917, Romblon became an autonomous province. But it was only in 1947
when this was promulgated by Republic Act. 38.

Geography
• Located almost at the center of the Philippine archipelago,
the province of Romblon lies in the Sibuyan Sea. It is composed of three
islands: Romblon (main island),Tablas Island, and Sibuyan Island. It has a total
land area of 135,690 hectares. It is bounded on the north by
the province of Marinduque,on the south by Panay Island, on the east by
Masbate, and on the west by Mindoro. From Manila, it is about 187 nautical
miles or 169 air miles. Largely mountainous and rugged in terrain, the islands
of Romblon are volcanic in origin. The highest peak is 2,057 meters above sea
level.
Language / Dialect
• The people of Romblon speak a variety of Visayan dialects, notably a mixture of Cebuano,
Hiligaynon, Aklanon, and other minor tongues. Tagalog is widely understood, and English
stands as the medium of communication in business and trade.

Climate
• Heaviest rainfall- September to January
• Driest- March and April
• Coldest- February
• Warmest- May

Political subdivision
Romblon has 17 municipalities, which are further subdivided into 213 barangays.
Romblon
Banton
Concepcion
Corcuera
San Jose
Alcantara
Calatrava
Ferrol
Looc
Sta. Fe
San Agustin
San Andres
Odiongan
Sta. Maria
Cajidiocan
Magdiwang
San Fernando

d) St. Joseph Cathedral and Belfry (poblacion,
Romblon)
The Recollect fathers built the oldest Roman Catholic
church in the province out of limestone and brick in
the 15th century. The structure is embellished with
rich architectural detail.

e) Fort San Andres (poblacion, Romblon)
Guarding the hills of San Andres in Romblon town proper, this
coral brick structure once served as a lookout point for
marauding pirates during the Spanish era. Today, Fort San
Andres is being used as a weather station.

f) San Agustin Park (town proper, San Agustin, Tablas Island)
San Agustin is a sprawling hectare of greens by the bay. It offers an undisturbed
view of ships passing through Romblon Pass and, on clear days, a view of the
islands of Romblon and Sibuyan.

g) Santa Fe Trail (Santa Fe, Romblon)
The mountain-zigzag road leading to Santa
Fe where one can see the beautiful Tablas
Strait, Looc Bay, the neighboring island of
Panay, San Jose, and Boracay Islands.

h) Guyangan Caves
Believed to be the burial site of our
ancestors and has the oldest
depositories of 'Ikat' or 'Banton Burial
Cloth' in Southeast Asia . Centuries-old
coffins made of hollowed logs were
discovered in the caves. Guyangan
caves was discovered in 1936 and not
after the war. It is located in
the island of Banton, Romblon

i) Cobrador Island (Romblon, Romblon)
Cobrador is the largest among the islets dotting
the seas around Romblon. It is reputed to hold
deposits of rare black, gold, and green marble.
The best sweetsop and papaya are also grown
here. The other treasures of Cobrador Island are
its beaches – the most prominent being the wide
expanse of fine white sand for about one
kilometer on the eastern side of the islet

j) Bonbon Beach (Brgy. Lonos, Romblon)
Stretching for almost 50 meters, this
great expanse on the eastern shores
of Romblon Island boasts of fine white
sand and a gradually sloping ocean
floor. Right across the beach is a small
islet accessible by foot at low tide. The
islet has a secluded swimming area on a
short stretch of fine white sand.

• Biniray Festival (January)
Held in early January, the celebration begins with a fluvial parade at
sea and ends with merrymaking in the streets of the capital.

• Mountain Climbing
Mt. Guiting-Guiting is the highest peak in Romblon. It is considered to be among the more
formidable
mountains in the country. Rising a little more than 6,000 feet above sea level, its rugged
terrain presents a
challenge, which lures mountaineers to scale its peak. This mountain straddles the towns of
Magdiwang, San Fernando, and Cajidiocan in the island of Sibuyan. From the ports of San
Agustin or
Romblon, board the ferry bound for the town of Magdiwang, the jump-off point. Once in
Magdiwang,
inform the Mayor’s Office of your climb. The office provides assistance to climbers.
• Sightseeing
Make a circling tour covering the historic Fort San Andres, the beaches of Look and
Odungan, a
fisherman’s boat ride to Sta Fe, a swim at the pebbled beaches of Alcantara, and the capital
island where
a sweeping view of the province from the hilly terrains may be had. Include a trip to San
Agustin where

• Swimming
Swimming is fun at Romblon, particularly along the foamy beachwaters of Logbon with its powdery
white sands, and the beaches of Cobrador Island and Alad.
•Diving
Diving enthusiats will find the underwater of Calagunsao Beach in Alcantara as well as the ocean floor
of San Jose a storehouse of experience. Here, the big black boulders common only in Romblon
surround the coastline of the province, like mighty walls of a medieval port.

Palawan –
The Philippines‘
Last Frontier

History
• The history of Palawan may be traced back 22,000 years ago, as confirmed by the discovery of
bone fragments of the Tabon Man in the municipality of Quezon. Although the origin of the cave
dwellers is not yet established, anthropologists believe they came from Borneo. Known as the
""Cradle of Philippine Civilization,"" the Tabon Caves consist of a series of chambers where
scholars and anthropologists discovered the remains of the Tabon Man along with his tools and
a number of artifacts.
• There are several versions regarding the origin of the name ""Palawan."" Some contend that it
was derived from the Chinese word ""Pa-Lao-Yu"" meaning ""Land of Beautiful Harbors.""
Others believe that it came from the Indian word ""Palawans"" meaning ""Territory."" Still others
say that it was derived from a plant which the natives called "" Palwa."" But the popular belief is
that ""Palawan"" is a corrupted form of the Spanish word ""Paragua"" because the main island's
shape resembles a closed umbrella.

• Palawan is a champion of nature preservation. A unique institute called the
Irawan Crocodile Farming Institute is located in National Road, Barangay
Irawan, Puerto Princesa City. Also known as the hospital for sick and disabled
crocodiles, the institute aims to preserve and conduct further research
studies on endangered crocodile species. It also institutionalizes the use of
the raw materials derived from crocodile skin for common purposes. The
place, moreover, also maintains a mini-zoo, featuring some of Palawan's
endemic animals.
• Many Manila-based fishing operations have built fortunes from the flourishing
fish trade, supplying Manila and other points of Luzon with produce from the
sea. Moreover, Palawan engages in the nation's most intensive environmental
management program. The provincial government has mobilized its citizenry
to actively participate in various environmental conservation and protection
programs, such as the ""Bantay Gubat"" for forest protection, and the
""Bantay Dagat"" for the marine life preservation

Geography
Palawan is approximately 586 kilometers southwest of Manila, between Mindoro Island on the north,
Borneo on the south, China Sea on the west, and Sulu Sea on the east. Its total land area of 1,489,655
hectares spreads across the peripheral islands of Busuanga, Culion, Linacapan, Cuyo, Dumaran,
Cagayanes, and Balabac. Its main island measures 425 kilometers long, and 40 kilometers wide. Puerto
Princesa, the capital city, is the chief seaport and the center of trade and commerce.
Language/Dialect
There are 52 dialects in the province, with Tagalog being spoken by 28 percent of the people. Other
major dialects are Cuyunin (26.27 percent), Pinalwan (11.08 percent), and Ilongo (9.6 percent).

Political History
• A form of indigenous political structure developed in the island preceding the coming of the Spaniards,
wherein the natives had their non-formal form of government, an alphabet, and a system of trading with
sea-borne merchants.
• When the Spaniards came, the northern portion of the province was assigned as the Calamianes Group
while its southern portion remained part of the Sultanate of Sulu in the 16th century. The Spaniards built
a stronghold in Taytay, as evidenced by a fortress called Fort Santa Isabel, which in 1818 was
designated as capital of Calamianes province.
• However, it was the Americans who established the province of Paragua in 1902, with Cuyo as the
capital. Eventually, in 1905, the name was changed to Palawan and the capital moved to Puerto Princesa
by virtue of Republic Act 1363.
Climate
• Torrential rains- July and August
• Sevoyage- March to early June when the seas are calm
• Average Temp. – 31 degrees C

The province is subdivided into one city, Puerto Princesa, and 23 municipalities
Aborlan
Agutaya
Araceli
Balabac
Bataraza
Brooke’s
Point
Busuanga
Cagayancillo
Coron
Cuyo
Culion
Dumaran
El Nido
Española
Kalayaan
Linapacan
Magsaysay
Narra
Quezon
Rizal
Roxas,
San Vicente
Taytay

Plaza Cuartel.
Former site of a Japanese garrison, it is a few yards from the
Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral. 143 American soldiers
were burned inside a tunnel during the World War II. It serves
as a Memorial Park in honor of local heroes, and American
soldiers.

Port Miller & Lighthouse Tower.
A historical landmark in Brooke's Point, Port Miller is a cemented
water tank constructed as a source of potable water for the natives
and the settlers of the municipality. The
original Lighthouse Tower constructed by Sir James Brooke is
still visible but much of the area is
now occupied by a new lighthouse tower.

Palawan State College Museum.
This museum features archeological artifacts and prehistoric diggings, which
include fossils and crude tools of ancient man.
It is located in the city proper of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan

Immaculate Conception Church.
In 1872, a Spanish expedition
proclaimed the Immaculate
Conception of Mary as the
patroness of Puerto Princesa. On
that same year, the first mass was
celebrated in the same place
where the present cathedral now
stands. It was almost a century
later in 1961 under the late
Bishop Gregorio Espiga that the
cathedral was built. Its angular
structure, different from most
churches, provides visitors an
interesting glimpse of
unconventional religious edifice.
It is located in Barangay
Liwanag, Rizal
Avenue, Puerto Princesa City

Calauit Game Preserve & Wildlife Sanctuary.
It is a unique game reserve and wildlife sanctuary of
exotic African animals and endangered endemic
animals of Palawan.

Palawan Butterfly Garden.
It is the home of different species of butterflies endemic to the province,
also found in Southeast Asia. It is located in Sta.
Monica, Puerto Princesa City while the Palawan Lepidoptera Farm can be
found in Brgy. Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City.

Coron Reefs.
Seven enchanting lakes surrounded by craggy limestone cliffs attract
hundreds of nature lovers to this island in northern Palawan, near the
town of Coron.

Region IV-B Mimaropa Geography

Region IV-B Mimaropa Geography

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Region IV-B Mimaropa Geography