Puerto Galera

A study in the 1980s discovered that Puerto Galera has one of the highest diversity of marine species in the world. This place is the center of the so called Golden Triangle; that of the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. These three countries are renowned for its coral and fish species. It is no wonder that the main tourist attraction for this coastal town is snorkeling and scuba diving. The beach may not have fine white sand as that of Palawan and Boracay but under the ocean of Puerto Galera, the locals there have a lot to boast. After all, Puerto Galera is the only bay in the country to be listed in the “Club of the Most Beautiful Bay in the World”.

Puerto Galera was designated by UNESCO in 1973 as a Man and Biosphere Reserve. Some of the fishermen switched their way of earning from fishing to being tour guides due to the influx of tourists in the area all year long. Since Puerto Galera is very accessible from Manila, it is a popular weekend hang out spot not only for foreigners but for locals as well.

Sabang Beach is frequented by foreigners while White Beach is popular among locals. Both beaches have active nightlife with a lot of restaurants, bars and accommodations to choose from. The best time to go here is during the summer months starting at the end of March until May. However, you better book in advance if you plan to go here during the dry season because the accommodations are sure to be packed.

Puerto Galera is a municipality of the province of Oriental Mindoro. It is found on the southwestern end of Isla Verde Passage. It is approximately 130 kilometers south of Manila. In order to get here from Manila, you need to rent a car or ride a bus going to Batangas Pier. From there, take a ferry that will take you straight to Puerto Galera and its stunning beach.

History

The Spaniards discovered Puerto Galeria in the 16th century. They found it to be a safe haven for the trade ships to rest in times of typhoons.  This town was the original capital of Mindoro ever since it was founded by early missionaries in 1574. The original location of Puerto Galera is in Lagundian but that area is susceptible to raids to they transferred it to the its present site.

Festivals

Windsurfing Competition – February 

Arts Month – February

Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival – February

Summer Music Festival/ Reggae Festival – Black Saturday

De Galera Festival – May 10 to 12

Fluvial Parade – May 13 

Sari-saring Huni, Sari-saring Kulay – May 13

Tourism Week – September

Kaaldawan Iraya – 3rd week of October

Makutitap at Dagitab Event – December 15

Tips

Puerto Galera is not all about beaches. If you have the chance to visit this place, make sure you also check out Tamaraw Falls, the Hidden Valley, Mangyan Village, Alag Riverbank, Muelle Bay, Reptile Zoo and the Talipanan Falls. Also, experience a relaxing massage by the beach from well trained local masseurs which you can hire anytime.