Romblon is a province located in Region 4B, also known as MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque,

Romblon, Palawan).

History: Romblon has a rich history dating back to pre-colonial times. It was inhabited by the indigenous
Negrito and Aeta tribes before being influenced by Malay settlers. The province was later colonized by
the Spanish in the 16th century, and they named it "El Distrito de Romblon." Over time, Romblon
became known for its marble industry, and it played a significant role in the country's history during the
Spanish, American, and Japanese occupations.

Culture: Romblon has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by its indigenous roots, Spanish
colonization, and neighboring provinces. The people of Romblon are known for their warm hospitality
and strong sense of community. The province celebrates various cultural festivals, including the Biniray
Festival in January, showcasing local traditions, dances, and music.

Religion: The majority of the population in Romblon practices Roman Catholicism, which was introduced
by the Spanish colonizers during the colonial period. However, there is also a presence of other Christian
denominations and a small number of Muslims and indigenous spiritual beliefs.

Food: Romblon's cuisine is a delightful fusion of Filipino and Spanish influences. Seafood is abundant in
the province, so dishes like adobo sa gata (chicken or pork in coconut milk), sinigang (sour soup), and
kinilaw (ceviche) are popular. Local delicacies such as badi (dried fish), binagol (sticky rice and taro cake),
and latik (coconut caramel) are also worth trying.

Language: The main language spoken in Romblon is Romblomanon or Ini, which is a Visayan language.
However, most locals also speak and understand Filipino (the national language) and English.

Tourist Attractions: Romblon is known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and marble industry. The
province offers various tourist attractions such as:

1. Marble Quarries and Processing: Visit the marble quarries in Romblon to witness the craftsmanship
involved in the local marble industry. You can also find marble products and souvenirs in the town of
Romblon.

2. Cobrador Island: This small island is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters,
and vibrant coral reefs. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

3. Aglicay Beach Resort: Located in Tablas Island, Aglicay Beach Resort offers a tranquil retreat with its
serene beach and picturesque surroundings.

4. Bonbon Beach: Situated in Romblon's Sibuyan Island, Bonbon Beach boasts a long stretch of fine
white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
5. Mount Guiting-Guiting: For adventure seekers, Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Sibuyan Island offers challenging
hiking trails and breathtaking views. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is part of the Mount Guiting-
Guiting Natural Park.

These are just a few highlights of what Romblon has to offer. The province is a hidden gem in the
Philippines, offering a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Oriental Mindoro is a province located in Region 4B, MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon,
Palawan). It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, mouth-watering cuisine, distinct language, and
beautiful tourist attractions.

History: Oriental Mindoro has a fascinating history rooted in its indigenous tribes, Spanish colonization,
and historical events. The Mangyan people, specifically the Iraya, Alangan, Tadyawan, and Tau-buid
tribes, have inhabited the region for centuries. Spanish exploration and colonization began in the 16th
century, leaving a lasting impact on the province's culture and heritage.

Culture: Oriental Mindoro is a melting pot of diverse cultural influences. The province celebrates various
festivals, such as the Pinyasan Festival, which showcases the abundance of pineapples in the area.
Mangyan Heritage Center in Calapan City provides insights into the indigenous peoples' way of life, arts,
and handicrafts.

Food: Oriental Mindoro offers a delectable array of dishes that highlight local ingredients and flavors.
Seafood features prominently in the cuisine, with dishes like sinaing na tulingan (slow-cooked tuna),
kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices), and ginataang alimango (crabs cooked in coconut
milk) being popular choices. Other must-try dishes include buko pie (coconut pie), bibingka (rice cake),
and lambanog (coconut wine).

Language: The people of Oriental Mindoro primarily speak the Mindoro Tagalog dialect, which is a
variant of the Tagalog language with some local variations. However, many locals also understand and
speak Filipino (the national language) and English.

Religion: The majority of the population in Oriental Mindoro practices Roman Catholicism, brought by
the Spanish colonizers. There are also several other Christian denominations present in the province.

Tourist Attractions: Oriental Mindoro offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. Some
noteworthy destinations are:
1. Puerto Galera: Known for its beautiful beaches, Puerto Galera is a renowned tourist spot offering
activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. It is a designated UNESCO Biosphere
Reserve.

2. Mount Halcon: For adventure and hiking enthusiasts, Mount Halcon is a challenging climb that offers
stunning views and the chance to explore Mindoro's lush rainforests.

3. Tamaraw Falls: Located in the municipality of Puerto Galera, Tamaraw Falls is a majestic waterfalls
cascade set amidst picturesque surroundings, offering a refreshing and scenic spot for relaxation.

4. Mangyan Village: Visit a Mangyan village to learn about the indigenous way of life, traditions, and
crafts. This cultural immersion experience provides insights into the rich heritage of the Mangyan
people.

5. Victoria Ancestral House: Located in Calapan City, the Victoria Ancestral House is a well-preserved
heritage structure showcasing Spanish colonial architecture and serving as a museum to exhibit local
history.

These are just a few of the many attractions Oriental Mindoro has to offer. Whether you're seeking
natural wonders, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, the province has something for everyone.

Occidental Mindoro is a province located in Region 4B, MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque,

Romblon, Palawan). It is known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, rich marine life, and diverse
cultural heritage.

History: Occidental Mindoro has a rich history that dates back to pre-Spanish times. The indigenous
Mangyan tribes, including the Iraya, Alangan, Tadyawan, and Tau-buid, have inhabited the region for
centuries. Spanish colonization began in the 16th century, followed by American influence and Japanese
occupation during World War II.

Culture: The province is home to a vibrant mix of cultures, with influences from the Mangyan tribes,
Spanish, and American periods. Festivals such as the Guling-guling Festival and Pandan Festival highlight
the local culture through colorful parades, traditional dances, and music. The indigenous Mangyan
communities contribute to the province's rich cultural heritage with their unique traditions, rituals, and
handicrafts.

Food: Occidental Mindoro offers a delightful selection of dishes that showcase the region's natural
resources. Seafood plays a significant role in the local cuisine, with dishes like grilled or steamed fish,
sinigang (sour soup), kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices), and adobong tahong (mussels
cooked in soy sauce and vinegar). Other local specialties include lambanog (coconut wine), tuba
(coconut sap), and kasoy (cashew nuts).

Language: The majority of the population in Occidental Mindoro speaks Tagalog, which is the national
language of the Philippines. However, a significant number of Mangyan community members still speak
their native Mangyan languages. English is also widely understood and spoken, especially in areas
frequented by tourists.

Religion: The people of Occidental Mindoro primarily practice Roman Catholicism, which was introduced
during the Spanish colonial period. There are also other Christian denominations present in the
province.

Tourist Attractions: Occidental Mindoro boasts a range of natural wonders and tourist destinations. Here
are some noteworthy attractions:

1. Apo Reef Natural Park: Apo Reef is one of the world's largest contiguous coral reef systems and a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities to explore the
vibrant marine life and pristine coral formations.

2. Mount Iglit-Baco National Park: This national park is home to the endemic tamaraw, a critically
endangered buffalo species found only in Mindoro. Visitors can go on treks to spot tamaraws and enjoy
the park's lush forests and waterfalls.

3. White Beach and Pandan Beach: These stunning beaches in San Jose are popular tourist destinations,
offering powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach
activities.

4. Mamburao Mangrove Forest: A boat trip through the Mamburao Mangrove Forest allows visitors to
appreciate the beauty and importance of mangrove ecosystems while enjoying scenic views and bird-
watching opportunities.

5. Pandurucan Falls: Located in Sablayan, Pandurucan Falls is a picturesque waterfall set amidst lush
greenery. It offers a refreshing and tranquil spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

These are just a few highlights of the many attractions that Occidental Mindoro has to offer. Whether
you're looking for beach relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or nature exploration, the province
has plenty to offer.