Buyayao Island

Top 14 things to do in Oriental Mindoro

Published On: December 18, 2021, 12:13 PM
By Melo Villareal, Contributor
@Outoftowntravelblog

Now that the travel restrictions are being gradually lifted due to the decline of COVID-19 cases in the country, more and more tourist destinations are slowly opening their doors for fully vaccinated tourists.

One of those premier tourist destinations is no other than the province of Oriental Mindoro. From the iconic White Beach of Puerto Galera to the mesmerizing islands of Bulalacao and Buyayao, get ready to explore one of the most exciting and affordable destinations near the Metro!

As part of the Philippine Tourism Influencer's Program's first run, I was invited to participate and explore the breathtaking province of Oriental Mindoro. The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) worked hand in hand and remained committed to its slow but sure approach of reviving the tourism industry of the Philippines.

As we all know, billions of pesos were lost by the tourism industry due to the devastating effects of the ongoing pandemic. As part of their strategy in re-opening the industry, one of their approaches is to promote and market the compliance of tourism enterprises and establishments with the standard health and safety protocols set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) with hopes to regain the confidence of the people to travel once again.

This project aims to utilize and maximize digital promotions for tourist destinations while also showing what it's like to travel and explore in the new normal. Of course, the ultimate goal of this project is to jumpstart the revival of the local travel industry which has been fatally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. During our recent trip, we visited these destinations and I can guarantee that all of them are safe and ready to accept tourists. But remember, the pandemic is still not over. So be mindful of the health and safety protocols for everyone's safety.

Oriental Mindoro Travel Requirements

As part of the DOT and LGU's efforts to revive the tourism industry of Oriental Mindoro, fully vaccinated individuals are no longer required to undergo RT-PCR tests. Only unvaccinated tourists are required to submit a negative RT-PCR test to be able to enter the province. Nevertheless, free antigen tests are being offered by the LGU so it wouldn't be much of a problem.

For the complete set of travel requirements, see the following:

  • COVID Vaccination Card for Fully-Vaccinated Tourists
  • NEGATIVE RT-PCR Test for Unvaccinated Tourists
  • Confirmed hotel/resort booking
  • Approved S-PASS
  • Stay Safe App

How to Get to Oriental Mindoro
Travel time from Metro Manila to Oriental Mindoro usually takes about five to six hours. For the fastest route, it is recommended that you buy a Bus+Ferry Ticket.

With the complete set of travel requirements at hand, you can now directly travel to Calapan City and just present all your valid documents. Nevertheless, the best way to reach Oriental Mindoro is still traveling by bus or ferry.

Another jump-off point to reach Oriental Mindoro is Puerto Galera. Simply travel to Batangas Pier by bus or private car and then proceed to sea travel by Roro. Another way is by seaplane which is much faster.

Before you plan your trip, check our list of top 14 things to do in Oriental Mindoro!

Melo Villareal
@Outoftowntravelblog
Melo Villareal is a travel photojournalist and the travel blogger behind www.OutofTownBlog.com.

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