Oriental Mindoro – Lakes, Mangroves and Cultural Heritage

Naujan Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Oriental Mindoro and forms the core area of Naujan Lake National Park. On March 27, 1956, the park was declared a national park through Proclamation No. 282; the lake is also a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. It is home to a wide variety of native and migratory fish and waterbirds. Here, a protected landscape meets a water habitat rich in species.

Naujan Lake and Protected Nature

The promenade and bicycle path at Naujan Lake offer activities such as walking, cycling and jogging. Those who enjoy exploring the area actively will find a range of ways to spend time by the lake. The Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Ecopark in Calapan City offers a different view of the coastal landscape. The site covers 42 hectares; a 350-meter-long boardwalk leads to a six-meter-high observation tower with panoramic views of the Silonay River and the adjacent sea.

A flora and fauna survey at Silonay Ecopark in 2014 revealed a diverse range of species. It recorded 15 mangrove species, 29 bird species—including seven endemic to the Philippines—as well as two bat species and five reptile and amphibian species. Harka Piloto Island lies about 1.5 kilometers offshore from Barangay Lazareto and away from the main island. A fish sanctuary in Calapan City is located on Harka Piloto Island and is actively protected by the community and local government.

Buloc-Buloc Cove is the 72-hectare BuCoMaPA marine protected area. A cave at the cove can be reached and entered by boat. The routes to the waterfalls described here differ: Aninuan Falls is four meters high and lies at the foot of Mt. Malasimbo in Aninuan, Puerto Galera. Access is via a 20- to 30-minute trek. Tamaraw Falls is located along the highway in Barangay Villaflor, Puerto Galera, and is considered the most accessible waterfall in Oriental Mindoro. It is a common stop for visitors on their way to other attractions in Puerto Galera.

Cultural Sites and Activities Around Calapan

Calapan Nature Park features centuries-old trees, recreational areas, picnic and camping sites, a mini zoo, and facilities for wall climbing. The park also serves as a starting point for the one-hour Bulusan Eco-Trail, which ends on the coast in Barangay Parang. The park facilities and a trail with a clearly defined coastal destination can thus be enjoyed as distinct nature experiences.

In Calapan City, the Oriental Mindoro Heritage Museum is housed in the Old Provincial Capitol in Barangay Ibaba East, where the abandoned Spanish fort of Cal-kuta is also located. The museum collection includes historical documents, cultural artifacts, evidence of the province’s rich biodiversity, and significant memorabilia from various parts of the province. In the town of Bansud, Bansud Museum serves as a repository for artifacts and historical relics. Both museums offer access to history and cultural heritage, but focus on different things: one presents a collection covering a range of provincial themes, while the other serves as a repository for artifacts and relics.

At Dao Water Lily Mini Park, visitors can enjoy a ride or spend time in a floating cottage. The park also displays handicrafts and souvenirs made from dried water lilies. Those interested in pottery can learn about the art and production process at M. Adriatico Pottery; confirm visiting arrangements before your trip.

Travel Information

Regular ferries and fast boats connect Batangas Pier with ports in Puerto Galera, including Muelle Pier, Sabang and White Beach. Check the schedules with the operators before departure. White Beach is in Barangay San Isidro, Puerto Galera; the beach is known for its fine white sand and clear blue water.

Discover more destinations: Puerto Galera, Romblon, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan.

View the broader travel overview: Mimaropa.