Mindoro, the seventh largest island in the Philippines, was founded 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 Muslim later built strongholds in the island from which they launched attacks against Manila. They were later vanquished by the forces of Simon de Anda. Occidental Mindoro, officially the Province of Occidental Mindoro, is a province in the Philippines located in the Mimaropa region. The province occupies the western half of the island of Mindoro. Its capital is Mamburao, but the largest municipality is San Jose. As of 2020, Occidental Mindoro has 525,354 inhabitants.

Where to Go?
Take a journey to the diving mecca of the Phiippines—the Apo Reef divided into north and south lagoon systems and considered one of the best in Asia. Explore the Apo Reef Marine Park at the island of Binangaan and Cajos del Bajo in Sablayan populated by various bird species guaranteed to satisfy birdwatchers and nature lovers. Apo Reef is a coral reef system in the Philippines situated in the western waters of Occidental Mindoro province in the Mindoro Strait. Encompassing 34 square kilometers, it is considered the world’s second-largest contiguous coral reef system and is the largest in the country.

What is Occidental Mindoro known for?

Occidental Mindoro offers more than its awe-inspiring views of paddy fields and mountain ranges. With unspoiled white beaches, underwater paradise, and other captivating sights, the province is a promising hub for sustainable tourism.