W E ’ L L TA K E YO U T H E R E Volume 2 Issue 2 | November 2023
p01 - p06 The Ultimate Romblon Foodtrip
p11 - p16 Feelin' Festive? Featuring Biniray Festival
Mt. Guiting-Guiting, Sibuyan Island, Romblon
p39 - p46 Romblon Checklist
www.chelsealogistics.ph
THE ULTIMATE ROMBLON FOOD TRIP Taste the rich culture of Romblon through these 7 must-try local dishes and delicacies!
SARSA
When the signature paste-like consistency is achieved, small portions An archipelagic province, Romblon has are wrapped in coconut (sometimes rich fishing grounds where locals get banana) leaves using special most of their ingredients. Kaya naman hindi na nakapagtataka na isa sa pinaka techniques, and then boiled for 30 sikat at dinarayong pagkain sa probinsya minutes. Karaniwang ibinibenta and ay ang Sarsa. Iniluluto ang local delicacy Sarsa sa mga carinderia at pelengke. Pair it with rice to enjoy! na ito gamit and tatlong pangunahing sangkap: ulang (river shrimps), murang GAYABON niyog, at sili. What makes this delicacy special is the unique way of preparation. If Bicolanos have Laing, the inhabitants Together with garlic, ginger, and whole of Romblon have Gayabon — their own peppercorn, the three main ingredients version of the famous dish. Kumpara are mixed together and pounded using a sa laing na sinasangkapan ng tuyong Lusong and Lomok (mortar and pestle). dahon ng gabi taro leaves, ang Gayabon ay gawa sa sariwang dahon ng gabi na 1 pinakuluan sa gata ng niyog hanggang sa lumambot o maging pasty. The fresh taro leaves give Gayabon its unique chunky, yet creamy soft texture. In addition to this, Gayabon is the best alternative if you’ve been wanting to eat Laing but don’t like spicy food. Just like Sarsa, Gayabon is best enjoyed with a piping hot plate of rice.
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Photo Source: Abigail Javellana|awesome.blog| 01 September 2016
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1 - Sarsa 2 - Gayabon
3 - Inaslum 4 - Taghilaw
Photo Source: Abigail Javellana|aw
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INASLUM Kung ang bet mo ay healthy food sa iyong Romblon trip, a bowl of Inaslum is highly recommended. This healthy vegetable soup dish is prepared with any fresh vegetables that are available in the backyard during your visit. Kabilang sa karaniwang sangkap ng dish na ito ay upo, papaya, okra, sitaw, and kangkong.
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It is also easy to prepare; just boil all vegetables with enough water and lightly season them (the dish is known for its bland taste). You can also add a small portion of meat if you want to add extra flavor to your soup. This healthy soup is usually served alongside any meat viands.
wesome.blog| 01 September 2016
TAGHILAW If Gayabon is Romblon’s version of Laing, Taghilaw can be compared to dinuguan — but minus the blood. If you’re an adventurous eater, you’ll definitely love this dish. Taghilaw is prepared with pork meat and innards, such as liver, kidneys, spleen, stomach, intestines even brains.
The ingredients are seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper and then sautéd with garlic and onions. Vinegar and pork stock are then poured to boil. Commonly enjoyed with rice or as pulutan, Taghilaw is very tasty, meaty, and sour in taste — you should give it a try!
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5 - Peanut Butter BALITSAW NA GAMUS If you love bagoong, you shall never leave Romblon without getting a taste of their Balitsaw na Gamus. Made from salted and fermented fish (or alamang) sauted with coconut milk, this is not your usual bagoong alamang. Sabi nga nila, Gamus pa lang, ulam na! Balitsaw na Gamus come in 3 variants: Hot and Spicy, Sweet and Regular. Balitsaw is sold in public markets and local stores in jars for P70 to P120. You can pair it with fruits or as added flavor to your dishes.
This is because the province is among the top producers of coconut in the Philippines. Isa nga sa pinakasikat na pagkain sa Romblon na ginagamitan ng gata ay ang Ginataang Langka. The dish is basically its name — unripe jackfruit cooked in coconut milk. To achieve that contrasting creamy yet savory flavor, dried fish and red chili peppers can be added to the dish. PEANUT BUTTER
Bukod sa niyog, kilala rin ang probinsya ng Romblon sa pagsasaka ng mani. GINATAANG LANGKA Kaya naman sa haba ng panahon, If you haven’t noticed already, karamihan nakilala na rin ang probinsya sa sa most famous local dishes in Romblon paggawa ng ilan sa pinakamasasarap ng peanut butter sa Pilipinas. Kung are prepared with coconut milk or gata. naghahanap kayo ng masarap na pasalubong para sa inyong pamilya at mga kaibigan, they’ll love some authentic peanut butter from Romblon. So, don’t forget to stop by a pasalubong shop near you and take home some jars of creamy and delicious peanut butter.
Have a taste for yourself
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Halina sa Romblon at makisaya sa makulay at masayang Biniray Festival! Biniray Festival is celebrated every second week of January in honor of Señor Santo Niño de Romblon. The festival features an array of fun and colorful activities that celebrate Rombloanon’s faith in their patron saint. It is considered the most prestigious festival in the province, so be sure to visit Romblon and join the locals in this week-long celebration. But before all else, let’s learn about the origin of the festival and the exciting and fun-filled festivities you shouldn’t miss. Photo Source: Sedrix Falcutila| Sedrix Falcutila on Facebook | 17 January 2022
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Photo Source: Sedrix Falcutila|Sedrix Falcutila on Facebook | 17 January 2022
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Brief History of the Biniray Festival The origin story of this festival is as miraculous as the celebration. Nag-ugat ang pagdiriwang ng Biniray Festival noong dumating ang mga Kastila sa Pilipinas, mahigit 400 taon na ang nakalipas. According to history, an Augustine Friar commissioned to create a replica of Cebu’s Sto. Niño that’s meant to be shipped to Madrid. On their way to Spain, the Spanish galleon carrying the Sto. Niño stopped over at Romblon. However, when the galleon was about to leave the island, a strong typhoon hit — almost as if it is being restricted from leaving. Many locals believed that the event was the will of God. The Sto. Niño was taken down from the vessel and then brought to the Romblon church where a holy mass was offered. However, when the Spanish tried to bring it back to the galleon, the statue was said to be unbudging. And so, the galleon left the image behind. Hundreds of years later, the Sto. Niño is still loved and cared for by the locals, and what better way to express their utmost love and gratitude than through a glorious festival.
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Photo Source: Timoteo Correa III|digital_poetry_media on Instagram | 12 January 2022
The Biniray Festival Experience
Isinasagawa ito bilang paggunita sa pagsisikap ng Spanish galleon na alisin Kagaya ng Sinulog Festival sa Cebu, makulay at puno ng samu’t-saring pakulo ang Sto. Niño sa probinsya. Pagdaong sa pampang, agad na sasalubungin ang mga Rombloanon tuwing sasapit ng mga deboto ang Sto. Niño para sa ang Biniray Festival. If you’re looking prusisyon kasama ang mga icon ng to immerse in the Rombloanon’s rich dalawa pang santo. culture and socialize with the hospitable locals, then most definitely, you’ll not be Kasunod nito, ipinaparada sa buong disappointed. bayan ang imahe ni Señor Santo Niño sakay ng makukulay na kawayang Isa sa highlights ng selebrasyon ay ang tinatawag ng flotilla of vessels na umiikot palanquin na pinalamutian ng mga bulaklak. There’s also a colorful street sa Bulalacao Bay ng pitong beses.
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dance parade where Rombloanons showcase their creativity by dressing up to portray the “Ati.” The dances are accompanied by traditional instruments such as gongs, drums, bamboo tubes, and sticks so it’s definitely a loud and fun experience!
ng local tourists sa probinsya. Tara na sa Romblon!
The Biniray Festival of Romblon may not be as famous as other Sto. Nino Festivals of the Visayas Region, but it’s definitely one for the books. Kaya naman isa rin ito sa mga paboritong pagdiriwang
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Starlite Ferries Romblon Ticketing Outlets
Romblon, Romblon
Odiongan
San Agustin
Cajidiocan Sibuyan, Romblon Regional Highway 302 Stall #2, Poblacion, Cajodiocan, Romblon 0945 596 9632
San Fernando Sibuyan, Romblon MC Town Centre, Jose Perez Street, Poblacion 0950 465 1897
Magdiwang Sibuyan, Romblon Ambulong Port, Magdiwang, Romblon 0950 431 7368
Brgy. 1, Romblon, Romblon 0945 596 9632
Batinao, Odiongan, Romblon 0950 465 1897
Poblacion, San Agustin Romblon 0950 431 7368
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GET YOUR TICKETS NA
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SEND YOUR ANSWERS TO stratcomm@chelsealogistics.ph and get a chance to win free roundtrip ticket from your shipping line of choice
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"The best view comes after the hardest climb." Kudos to our Chelsea team members for conquering Mount Guiting Guiting, the highest mountain in the province of Romblon. Life is often compared to the mountains with its ups and downs, and challenges. But just like climbing the summit, three things should be present for you to succeed in life: PATIENCE, PERSEVERANCE, and PRAYER.
Ugaliing magbitbit ng camera at nang baka mag click kayo.
Parang dagat ang mga titig mo, nalulunod ako.
I want someone to look at me the way I look at a travel brochure.
Seasons are changing. After ng summer, isa lang ang hinihintay ko. Ang fall, ma-fall in love ka sa akin.
Asan na yung shades ko? Nasisilaw kasi ako sa kagandahan mo.
Para kang summit, ikaw ang inaasamasam kong makamit.
May travel kilig banat ka ba? Share mo na ‘yan sa Layag and we’ll give you a SHOUTOUT! Email your entries to stratcomm@chelsealogistics.ph
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www.chelseashipping.ph
Sabi nila “salt water cures all wounds”, pero ilang dagat na ang nilusong ko hindi pa rin naghilom ang mga sugat na iniwan mo.
Ingat sa cliff diving. Delikado ang mafall lalo na kung walang sasalo sayo.
Ang pag-ibig ay parang malinaw na tubig sa dagat, lumalabo pag madaming nakikisawsaw.
Minsan ang tao parang lugar...hindi na dapat balikan.
Pag-sisid. Minsan parang pagibig, kung kailan lumalalim saka lumalamig.
Travel ka ng travel, pero yung puso ko, hindi mo pa rin mapuntahan.
May travel hugot ka ba? Share mo na ‘yan sa Layag and we’ll give you a SHOUTOUT! Email your entries to stratcomm@chelsealogistics.ph
DAY 1
Breakfast | Dinner
• Departure from Town • Arrival at Hotel • Island hopping at Logbon Island • Swimming and site seeing at Alad Island • Snorkeling and cliff jumping at Cobrador Island • Transfer to Hotel
DAY 2
Breakfast | Lunch
• Swim and enjoy at Kipot River • Picture taking at Calabogo Point • Visit Marble Quarry Site & Working Site • Admire the Historical places • Swimming and site seeing at Tiamban Beach • Explore the San Pedro Beach • Departure from Hotel • Arrival at Port
INCLUSIONS
• Pick up from Romblon town • 2D/1N beach front accommodation • Air-conditioned • Outside toilet (Reggae vibes de Romblon) • Day 1 lunch and dinner • Day 2 breakfast and lunch • Boat for island hopping tour • DOT accredited tour guide • Environmental fee • Island entrance and cottage fee • Tricycle service • Medical Kita • Activities such as • Island hopping • Swimming • Cliff Jumping • Snorkeling
SPEND YOUR ROMBLON GETAWAY WITH US! 33
salesandmarketing@starliteferries.com
(043) 723 9965
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VESSEL FEATURE
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Exploration is wonderful, but coming back safely is even more wonderful.
- Lailah Gifty Akita
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“
M/V Stella Maris is a brand-new RoPax vessel built in Kegoya, Japan in 2018. It initially served Cebu-Surigao-Cebu route and was later transferred to Batangas-Sibuyan Culasi via Romblon and San Agustin.
Weighing 892 tons, M/V Stella Maris can carry a total of 436 passengers and is designed with enhanced safety and security measures for the well-being of passengers and protection of cargoes.
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MV STARLITE STELLA MARIS ACCOMMODATION
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Private Room
Cabin for 8
Cabin for 8
9 Total Beds • 3 pax per room • 1 double deck (lower bunks for 2) • Has own toilet and bath • Has TV per room • Air - conditioned
8 Total Beds • Mixed gender room • 8 pax in the room • 4 double deck • Air - conditioned • Common restroom
8 Total Beds • Mixed gender room • 4 pax in the room • 2 double deck • Air - conditioned • Common restroom
Tourist Bunk Beds
Economy Bunk Beds
Reclining Seats
114 Total Beds • Double deck • Big room type • 2 common toilet • Shower room • Air – conditioned • Has TV per area/room
232 Total Beds • Double deck • One big room • Has TV per area/room • Common restroom and bathroom
41 Total Seats • One big room • Has TV • Common toilet and bath
AMENITIES
VIEWING DECK
Dining Area / Starbites
Clinic
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MV STARLITE STELLA MARIS TRIP SCHEDULE Batangas - Roxas City Capiz Daily Trips | 4:00 PM
Roxas City Capiz - Batangas Daily Trips | 1:00 PM
Batangas - San Agustin, Romblon Tue, Thu, & Sun | 4:00 PM
San Agustin, Romblon - Batangas Mon, Wed, & Fri | 10:00 PM
Batangas - Sibuyan, Romblon Daily Trips | 4:00 PM
Sibuyan, Romblon - Batangas Daily Trips | 7:00 PM
San Agustin, Romblon - Roxas City Capiz Mon, Wed, & Fri | 2:00 AM
Roxas City Capiz - San Agustin Mon, Wed, & Fri | 1:00 PM
San Agustin, Romblon - Sibuyan, Romblon Mon, Wed, & Fri | 1:00 PM
Sibuyan, Romblon - San Agustin, Romblon Mon, Wed, & Fri | 7:00 PM
Batangas - Romblon, Romblon Mon, Wed, Fri, & Sat | 4:00 PM
Romblon, Romblon - Batangas Tue, Thu, Sat, & Sun | 10:00 PM
Romblon, Romblon - Sibuyan, Romblon Tue, Thu, Sat, & Sun | 2:00 AM
Sibuyan, Romblon - Romblon, Romblon Tue, Thu, Sat, & Sun | 7:00 PM
Sibuyan, Romblon - Roxas City, Capiz Daily Trips | 5:00 AM
Roxas City, Capiz - Sibuyan, Romblon Daily Trips | 1:00 PM
Romblon, Romblon - Roxas City, Capiz Tue, Thu, Sat, & Sun | 2:00 AM
Roxas City, Capiz - Romblon, Romblon Tue, Thu, Sat, & Sun | 1:00 PM
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Join the Layag Nation! Contact stratcomm@chelsealogistics.ph for partnership and collaboration
ROMBLON CHECKLIST Welcome to the Marble Capital of the Philippines — Romblon! Located 264 kilometers from the nation’s capital Manila, the best and most affordable way to reach the heart of Romblon is via ferry. But before traveling, it’s important you have a well-planned (yet versatile) itinerary. To make the most out of your Romblon adventure, we’ve put together a list of the most beautiful places to visit and must-try activities when in Romblon. Tara na’t maglayag sa Romblon!
"Mirror Image" Photo Source: Sean Mchayes | reinmellence on Instagram | 14 June 2017
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"The long white sand beach on Logbon’s western coast" Photo Source: Leo and Nina Castillo | shoestringdiary.wordpress.com | 12 June 2017
Join Three-Island Tour The best thing about Romblon is that it has a plethora of marvelous islands that only a small handful of people know. Most of the islands in this archipelagic province used to be a secret to most visitors, until recently. Kagaya na lamang ng mga isla ng Alad, Logbon, at Cobrador. Matatagpuan sa hilagang bahagi ng probinsya, ang mga islang ito ay napaliligiran ng mga bundok at burol. Sa ibaba, mamamangha ka sa pino at puting buhanin, at mga shells at coral bits. If you want to experience the best island hopping escapade ever, book a three-island tour in Romblon! "Alad Island" Photo Source: Romblon Paradise | romblonparadise.com
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Enjoy Cliff Jumping at Cascarro Islet
Eplore the Blue Hole
If you’re into extreme ocean activities, enjoy cliff jumping at the scenic Cascarro Islet. This tiny paradise can bring big adventures to visitors. However, it can become extra challenging during the habagat season as waves can get too strong, making it hard for boats to get closer to the islet. But don’t worry because in most cases, cliff jumping is still allowed. It’s just that you may need to jump into the water and swim toward the islet.
The Blue Hole is a vertical tunnel (around 27 to 32 meters) located off the northeasternmost tip of Tablas Island. It’s one of the most famous diving sites in the province and is frequently visited by local and international divers for its unique, mesmerizing beauty. The Blue Hole’s entrance sits about 7 meters from the water's surface and is around 8 meters wide. This makes it a famous attraction even for people who are afraid to dive into the abyss.
Photo Source: Vyktor Regala Jr. | 2023
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Maja Flores IG: @majflores I dived a couple of times to see, and I was mesmerized by its darkness which reminds me of the portal of the monster lurking inside the Pacific ocean in the movie, Pacific Rims. In the picture, it may look small, but it is actually huge. Every time I dive, I was terrified. I tried to calm myself so that I would be able to hold my breath longer but I can’t help being scared and happy all at the same time. It was indeed a rewarding experience for me as an amateur diver. Photo Source: Maja Flores|majflores on Instagram | 16 May 2018
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Photo Source: Regina Rocha|reg_roch on Instagram | 11 May 2018
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Visit the Newly-Restored Fort San Andres
Reach the Summit of Mount GuitingGuiting
Prepare to be fascinated by the captivating beauty of this 17th-century Spanish Fortress. Fort San Andres, a National Cultural Treasure in the province of Romblon, is a spectacular lookout located in the coastal Romblon town. Constructed in 1645, Fort San Andres and Fort Santiago (now in ruins) played a significant role as part of the province’s colonial military defense system. Today, Fort San Andres stands as a reminder of the rich history of the province, as well as its brilliant architecture. Sunrise and sunset are breathtaking when in Fort San Andres so we recommend you go there early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Standing at around 2,058 meters above sea level in the heart of Sibuyan Island, Mount Guiting-Guiting is one of the most notable tourist spots in Luzon for Filipino and foreign hikers. The mountain is known for its rocky terrain and is classified by Filipino hikers as one of the toughest climbs in the country. On average, it takes about 4 days to reach the summit of this majestic mountain. “Guiting-Guiting” is the Romblomanon word for "jagged," referring to the irregular shape of the peaks on the mountain. Ready to conquer Mt. GuitingGuiting? Brace yourself!
Photo Source: Franzhector31 | commons.wikimedia.org | 11 June 2016
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Have Fun at Marble Quarry and Workshop Romblon is known for its rich marble industry. While most of the quarries are closed to the public, there are some that offer tours of the quarry site and workshops on how marble quarrying works. When you found one, be sure to visit as they offer a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity and unique experience you’ll be proud of for many years to come. You’ll also have the opportunity to see how talented and hardworking Rombloanons are by having a sneak peek at their production process. Just remember to never interfere with their work and you’ll be warmly welcomed by the hospitable locals.
Photo Source: Abigail Javellana | awesome.blog 02 September 2016
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Christian Skoda IG: @nomad4ever The reason why I wanted to visit Romblon in the first place; is this beautiful beach. I only saw it on pictures before, but it reminded me so much of Nosy Iranja in Madagascar; where also 2 islets are connected by a sand bank. Just scroll a few posts back for my pics & vids of Iranja. Are they not almost twins? Ahhh - there surely are some beautiful paradise islands in this world! There also seems to be a similar place in Venezuela- guess I have a new bucket list item now.
Photo Source: Christian Skoda|nomad4ever on Instagram | 16 April 2023
Swim at Bonbon Beach Lastly for this list is, of course, the touristfavorite Bonbon Beach. Your Romblon getaway will not be complete without visiting this world-famous beach located about 4 kilometers away from Romblon town. This strip of paradise is known for its 2 kilometers of white sandbar enveloped by crystal clear water during high tide. During low tide, however, you can walk across the sandbar to reach the thriving Bang-og Island nearby. Regardless of whether you’re traveling with family or special someone, Bonbon Beach is a breathtaking, romantic place that can melt all your worries away at first glance.
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PhP 29 PhP 249
PhP 219 PhP 249 PhP 89 PhP 149
PhP 599
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PhP 199 PhP 159
Cresta De Gallo Island
From Batangas 1. From Batangas Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Magdiwang, Sibuyan Island, Romblon (PhP 1,500) 2. Ride a van bound to San Fernando. 3. Ride a boat going to Cresta De Gallo Island From Romblon, Romblon 1. From Romblon Seaport, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port (PhP 350) 2. Ride a tricycle or a jeep going to San Fernando. 3. Rent a motorboat going to Cresta De Gallo. From Roxas, Capiz 1. From Culasi Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port (PhP 800) 2. Follow Steps 2 & 3 of 'from Romblon, Romblon' direction.
Dagubdob Falls
From Batangas 1. From Batangas Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Magdiwang, Sibuyan Island, Romblon (PhP 1,500) 2. Ride a van bound to San Fernando or rent a motorbike to go around town. 3. Rent a motorboat going to Dagubdob Falls. From Romblon, Romblon 1. From Romblon Seaport, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port (PhP 350) 2. Ride a jeepney from San Fernando town to Brgy. Guinabsan 3. From there, follow the signs to the falls. The trek takes about 30 minutes. From Roxas, Capiz 1. From Culasi Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port (PhP 800) 2. Follow Steps 2 & 3 of 'from Romblon, Romblon' direction. 49
Mt. Guiting-Guiting
From Batangas 1. From Batangas Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port, the entry to Magdiwang, Sibuyan Island Romblon (PhP 1,500) 2. After arriving to Magdiwang, proceed to registration at DENR Magdiwang 3. Ride a tricycle going to tour guide's house where you will start the briefing before climbing Mt. Guiting-Guiting From Romblon, Romblon 1. From Romblon Seaport, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port (PhP 350) 2. Follow Steps 2 & 3 of 'from Batangas' direction. From Roxas, Capiz 1. From Culasi Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Ambulong Port (PhP 800) 2. Follow Steps 2 & 3 of 'from Batangas' direction.
Cantigas River
1. From Batangas Port, take a Starlite Ferry ride going to Magdiwang, Sibuyan Island, Romblon (PhP 1,500) 2. Ride a van bound to San Fernando or rent a motorbike to go around town. 3. Rent a motorboat going to Cantingas River
PIER-TO-PIER PADALA