GUIMARAS, the Mango Capital of the Philippines

AFTER the ASSEAN JCI conference in ILOILO, delegates went on a day tour to GUIMARAS - an island located in the Western Visayas region. Among the smallest provinces, its capital is JORDAN. The rugged coastline of GUIMARAS is framed by lush greenery staring out towards the sea that is riddled with alluring islets. It is well known for growing one of the sweetest mangoes in the world, thus earning the nickname “Mango capital of the Philippines”. From JORDAN, we rode our vans to ALOBIJOD COVE, a beach with fine white sand surrounded by the inviting crystal-clear blue waters. It was an excellent jump-off point for our GUIMARAS islandhopping tour.

We checked out this one-of-a-kind marine reserve, the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC). The Marine Station is composed of four islets and clusters of floating fish cages interconnected by foot bridges. They do fingerling productions of various fishes from giant grouper, milkfish, sea bass, pawikan, giant clams, and even sea horses! Surprisingly, the tour was interesting and educational. The National Mango Research and Development Center (NMRDC) has a total land area of 8.87-ha and the mangoes they produce are both for research and production. It wasn’t the ‘Mango season’ so I wasn’t expecting an eventful visit to the farm. However, I enjoyed the sight of the mango trees spread across the large plot of land. Aside from fresh fruits, GUIMARAS also processes, sells, and exports mango products such as piyayas, barquillos, tarts, and more. Would you believe that there’s even a mango ketchup?

The TRAPPIST MONASTERY souvenir shop is run by the Benedictine monks. On sale are souvenir items like bags, shirts, religious items, and sweet delights that come in mango variety such as jams, jellies, candies, etc... a must-visit for your “pasalubong” needs. The island is not only known for its sweet mangoes but also for the GUIMARAS WINDMILLS. The wind farm was not really intended to be a tourist destination, but visitors are now flocking to the place to admire its gigantic turbines. You can catch a good view of the sea, enjoy the breeze, or simply have some photos taken.

If you are seeking utmost tranquility, then beautiful GUIMARAS Island is the right place for you. Its rural setting, wonderful attractions, and simplicity of life altogether call out to everyone who wants to experience a little peace, quiet, and childlike wonder.