Mindoro, Large island in western Philippines
Mindoro is an island in the western Philippines where mountains cover most of the terrain and peaks rise nearly to the cloud line. Sandy beaches and small fishing villages line the coast while the interior remains densely forested.
Traders from China arrived centuries ago and exchanged ceramics for local products like honey and beeswax. Later, Spanish missionaries built churches in coastal settlements and attempted to convert the inhabitants.
The Mangyan speak several distinct languages and weave rattan baskets sold at markets in coastal towns. Their houses made of bamboo and palm leaves stand on stilts in mountain villages where they grow rice and sweet potatoes.
Ferries depart several times daily from Batangas and reach different ports on the island after about three hours. Those traveling inland should rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle as many mountain roads remain unpaved and steep.
The tamaraw, a small water buffalo, lives only here and hides during daytime in dense undergrowth on mountain slopes. Visitors rarely spot one, but rangers know places where tracks and trails appear in the morning.
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