Mindoro Occidental Province, Philippines

People of Occidental Mindoro

• As of the 2020 Census, Occidental Mindoro had a population of 525,354 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 487,414, reflecting steady growth driven by agricultural expansion and inter-island migration.
• The province is home to several indigenous groups, most notably the Mangyan communities, including the Alangan, Iraya, and Taubuid peoples. These groups maintain distinct languages, customs, and spiritual traditions rooted in forest stewardship and oral storytelling.
• The major dialect spoken is Tagalog, although Mangyan languages are still spoken in upland communities. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Occidental Mindoro

• Occidental Mindoro is located in the MIMAROPA Region (Region IV-B) on the western half of Mindoro Island. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 13.00°N latitude and 120.92°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 5,879.85 square kilometers, characterized by coastal plains, rugged mountains, and forested interiors. It shares Mount Iglit-Baco National Park with Oriental Mindoro, a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve and home to the endangered Tamaraw.
• The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October. Typhoons occasionally affect the region during the monsoon months.
• The capital of Occidental Mindoro is Mamburao, which serves as the seat of provincial governance.
• Most people reach the province via sea and air. The Port of Batangas serves as the main gateway, with ferries arriving at Abra de Ilog and San Jose. San Jose Airport offers domestic flights to Manila and other regional hubs. Buses and vans connect towns across the province.

Tourist Attractions of Occidental Mindoro

• Apo Reef Natural Park: The second-largest contiguous coral reef system in the world, ideal for diving, snorkeling, and marine research.
• Mount Iglit-Baco National Park: A protected area known for its biodiversity and as the habitat of the critically endangered Tamaraw.
• Inasakan Beach: A pristine white-sand beach in San Jose, popular for its serenity and crystal-clear waters.
• Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm: One of the largest correctional facilities in the country, with historical and ecological significance.
• Festivals:
  • Dugoy Festival: Celebrated in Sablayan to honor the Mangyan heritage and promote cultural unity.
  • Pandang-Gitab Festival: Held in Mamburao, showcasing local dances and crafts.
  • Biniray Festival: Celebrated in San Jose in honor of the Santo Niño, featuring fluvial parades and street dancing.

Economy of Occidental Mindoro

• In 2024, Occidental Mindoro posted a GDP of ₱55.67 billion, growing modestly from the previous year. The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, services, and fisheries.
• Key industries include:
  • Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing: Contributing 30.6% of the provincial economy, with rice, corn, mangoes, and fish as major products.
  • Services: Accounting for 43.7%, including education, healthcare, retail, and tourism-related activities.
  • Industry: Comprising 25.8%, with growth in electricity, water management, and food processing.
• Occidental Mindoro is known as the “Marine Wonderland of the Philippines,” due to its rich coral ecosystems and fisheries.

Educational Institutions of Occidental Mindoro

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC): The province’s premier public institution, with campuses in San Jose, Mamburao, Sablayan, Lubang, and Labangan. It offers programs in agriculture, education, engineering, IT, and marine sciences.
  • Divine Word College of San Jose: A private Catholic college offering undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and liberal arts.
  • Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sablayan Campus: Offers technical and vocational programs in IT, engineering, and business.

History of Occidental Mindoro

• Before 1950, Mindoro was a single province. The division into Oriental and Occidental Mindoro was formalized through Republic Act No. 505, signed on June 13, 1950. This law defined the municipalities that would comprise each province and granted administrative autonomy.
• President Elpidio Quirino issued Proclamation No. 186 to fix the effectivity date of the division as November 15, 1950. Mamburao was designated as the capital of Occidental Mindoro.
• Historically, the island was known as “Minolo,” a name found in 1703 petitions by indigenous people. Spanish missionaries and colonial administrators established settlements and missions throughout the island, including in Lubang and Sablayan.
• Today, Occidental Mindoro is a province of ecological richness and cultural diversity. It continues to balance development with conservation, especially in protecting the Tamaraw and its marine ecosystems.

Elected Officials of Occidental Mindoro

• As of the 2025 elections, Occidental Mindoro is led by:
  • Governor: Eduardo B. Gadiano
  • Vice Governor: Diana Apigo-Tayag
  • Representative (Lone District): Josephine Y. Ramirez-Sato
  • Provincial Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Occidental Mindoro Election Results.

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