An island away from Boracay, Romblon also boasts of white sand and uncrowded beaches — on top of sanctuaries, mountains, historical landmarks, centuries-old churches, and unique festivals.
In an interview with GMA News, Governor Eduardo Firmalo said about 140,000 tourists flocked to Romblon last year.
With three major islands — Romblon, Tablas, and Sibuyan — to its name, the country’s marble capital might just be this summer’s province to explore. We mean:
Beaches
Beaches come aplenty in Romblon. There's the Bonbon Beach on Romblon Island, Cresta de Gallo on Sibuyan, and Ferrol and Sta. Fe town's white sand beaches on Tablas Island.
At the south of Tablas Island is Aglicay Beach Resort, a place where guests can enjoy white sand beaches or hike to the top of a hill to see a cove.
The beach is in a hidden area, making it an ideal place for families, cliques as well as couples who want quiet R&R. The resort has P50 entrance fee to enjoy a day on the beach.
Go on a hike
Speaking of hikes, just a few minutes away from Looc town proper is the Kapihan Peak. Sitting at 988 ft. above sea level, Kapihan is a 30-minute uphill hike, popular among beginners.
Nature sanctuaries
Speaking of Looc, check out the Marine Refuge and Sanctuary, a protected area located in the middle of Looc bay.
The Sanctuary welcomes visitors for swimming, snorkeling, and fish feeding to at-least 100 kinds of marine species including octopus, reef fishes, and turtles.
In the middle of the floating kiosk is an opening for those who wish to interact with the marine species.
An entrance fee of P100 will be collected to visitors before they will ride a pumpboat going to the floating kiosk or balsa.
Experience Odiongan's Kanidugan Festival 2019
If you are looking for festivals to start your summer, Odiongan, the province business capital, is celebrating their 172nd Odiongan Foundation Anniversary on April 1-8.
One of the highlights of the said anniversary is the 15th year of Odiongan's Kanidugan Festival (derived from a word “Nidog” or Niyog in Filipino or Coconut in English), a celebration to honor Saint Vincent Ferrer, the patron saint of the town.
In an interview, municipal tourism officer Mary Jude Gabat said they are expecting about 3,000 to 5,000 tourists to visit the province on the whole duration of the festival.
Tourist may witness Biniray (fluvial parade), Pasagudar (dancing and pary all night), street dancing competition, and many more.
How to get to Romblon
Romblon is strategically situated at the center of the Philippine archipelago and the fastest way to get their is by flying Cebu Pacific's low cost airline, Cebgo from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Tablas Island, Romblon every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Alternatively, you may also board a 7-hour trip via RORO from Batangas Port going to Odiongan, Romblon everyday as boat departs at 10 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon.
PS. Don't forget to get yourself a marble souvenirs before you go home.
This story was first published on GMA News Online
