ROMBLON, Romblon — This province, a cluster of 20 exotic islands of limestone cliffs and atolls is a mini-archipelago that lies strategically in the center of the Philippines.
Otherwise known as the "marble country of the Philippines," geologists believe that the very foundation of some of the province’s rugged, beautiful and pristine islands is made up of marble stone, a highly-prized natural reserve," according to the Romblon Investment and Tourism Office.
But, local officials say that more than that, Romblon boasts of natural wonders still undiscovered by enthusiasts who love to see unspoiled places.
If one has the opportunity to visit the place, the person will notice that the province prides itself of the thickest forest reserves containing exotic flora and fauna, clear mountain springs and waterfalls, palm-fringed white-sand beaches, colorful tropical coral reefs, and other natural and colorful attractions.
In creating Romblon Investment and Tourism Office (RITO), Gov. Perpetuo B. Ylagan called on investors and tourists to help make a progressive and nature-friendly community.
Ylagan also point out that the island province is the country’s safest natural harbor conducive to business investments such as exploration of natural resources.
He said Romblon, one of the most peaceful provinces in the country, is rich in natural resources as its mountains hold minerals, waters teeming with tropical fishes, and its inhabitants are highly literate.
The islands of Romblon lie on the Sibuyan Sea, south of Marinduque Island, and north of Panay. To the east is Masbate Island, and to the west is Mindoro Island. Boracay, one of the world’s most beautiful island paradise, is only a 30-minute boat-ride from Romblon’s southwestern sea coast.
Within the Romblon archipelago are three big islands, namely: Tablas, the largest; Sibuyan, and Romblon, the marble island where the capital municipality is located. All the islands and islets boast of marine sanctuaries, dive sites, ancient burial caves, powdery white-sand beaches, secret coves, waterfalls, and cultural and heritage landmarks.
Another distinct feature of the province is its saltwater lake called "Tinagong Dagat" in Calatrava town. This inland saltwater lake located about 10 meters from the sea, is bounded by green forests, rock formations, promontories, karsts, limestone cliffs, and other cave-like structures.
Calatrava folks believe the "Tinagong Dagat" is an enchanted and mysterious lake because whenever the sea outside the lake is on high tide, the lakewater subsides. And when the seawater is on low tide, the lakewater of the hidden sea rises. But science students believe otherwise. According to them, it just simply defies the natural law of gravity.
The "Tinagong Dagat" also houses unique seashells and saltwater fishes, aside from lush coral reefs that could be found in its bottom. The 17 coastal towns have almost the same beautiful coastlines that up to now still undiscovered and are just waiting to be tapped by investors, said the governor, who comes from Odiongan, in Tablas Island.
Ancient burial caves located in Nagoso, Cobrador Island and the Guyangan Cave in Banton Island, are equally popular attractions. Centuries-old coffins made of logs and aboriginal artworks were discovered in the caves in 1936. These ancient burial caves contain the oldest depositories of "Ikat" or "Banton Burial Cloth" in Southeast Asia.
[ Tinagong Dagat Wiki | Guyangan Caves Wiki ]
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