Mindoro

Mindoro, who name comes from the Spanish phrase Mina de Oro (gold mine) is the seventh-largest island in the Philippines. Mindoro is also home to the Tamaraw or Mindoro dwarf buffalo (Bubalus mindorensis), which is prevalent to the island. Mindoro is separated from Palawan to the south and Luzon to the north by deepwater.

Mindoro is divided into two provinces, Occidental and Oriental Mindoro. The economy of Mindoro is largely based on agriculture. The principal language in Mindoro is Tagalog, although in some parts it has been greatly influenced by the native Visayan and Mangyan languages. Oriental Mindoro is subdivided into 14 municipalities and 1 component city. Calapan is the center of trade, industry and education in Mindoro Island, and is a major agricultural producer and a commercial and urban center.

Puerto Galera's beaches are the islands most known tourist attraction and are widely visited. Around Puerto Galera there are popular beaches and coral reefs. Puerto Galera is the hotspot of local diving and features several wrecks just offshore as well as amazing muck diving off Sabang Beach. In 1572 Puerto Galera was founded as the capital of Mindoro. In addition, coral reefs in Puerto Galera are a major attraction for divers from all over the world. The 5km stretch of world class dive sites are a protected area and marine sanctuary. More recently Puerto Galera was awarded by UNESCO and received high ranking in the list of most beautiful bays in the world.