Jewels of Guimaras

Previous years, this small province in Western Visayas was once a center of controversy because a certain oil tanker sinked near the island of Guimaras that destroyed local marine habitat, it was like a nightmare for fishermen that depend on their daily catch. However, today Guimaras is bouncing back from its worst ever environmental dilemma. According to the tourist center, there are now more tourist coming after the accident because people got to know more about Guimaras, people became curious. This is exactly why I came to this island, out of curiosity.

Guimaras is widely known for its mangoes, thought to be the sweetest mango in the world. I have to find that out, so my adventure begins. I started my trip at the local fish port in Iloilo at Orlits St. From Ongbon Pension House, I rode a jeep and stopped near the University of Iloilo. The costs from Iloilo to Guimaras is very cheap, just about P13 one way. 

 Inside the pump boat vessel, it was so funny that the boat captain seems to be just relying on his instincts because the controls are below the passengers and the crew were just making signals when to stop or turn but thought it still seems to be safe though. The waves were so strong and thoughts told me this is perhaps why the oil tanker sinked at Guimaras. After 10 minutes ride, I have reached Guimaras roro port at Jordan Municipality and went directly to the tourist center which is located there too. 

Iloilo City on the background

 There are lots of drivers offering a trip to the town center and luckily I picked the right driver for that. He was very friendly and brought me to the scenic spots in the island. He was like a pro-tourist guide. Its true that Guimaras has lots of mango trees, its everywhere. It like there are more mangoes than people in the island.

Guimaras Provincial Capitol, San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras

  Jordan is the capital of Guimaras and its town center is at San Miguel. Its a very laid back town just like any other towns in the country. Good thing they have internet thanks to Smart bro and ATM Machines from Land Bank. The driver brought me to a backpacking lodge, its called Small Wings Inn. A night stay is P300, non aircon with bathroom.

Baguio? No, but in Guimaras

 My next trip was at the Tapestry Monastery, it was bit far from the town center. They also offer room accommodations there. If your looking for the best souvenir, this is the place for you.

Mangoes are far as you can see

 Guimaras scenic spot under a mango tree. Mango trees are shorter in the island but produce a very sweet taste.

 The driver told me that they also have a beach to be proud of, so without hesitations. We proceed to the beach. Along the road are mangoes, mangoes and more mangoes. I thought I could taste one but I just learned that mango is not in season. Too bad, but thats okay coz I have the reason to come back next year to taste their mango. In my hometown, Kidapawan we also have mangoes but are not produced in a large scale like this.

The beach never let me down. It was very beautiful.

Going back to Iloilo.

Guimaras people are very hospitable they are the true jewels of the island. You dont see begars in the streets. You can contact Richard for a personalized Guimaras tour at 09206360970 for visit his blog at http://www.tourguimaras.blogspot.com