When you hear about Romblon, what is the top thing that comes to your mind? My bet is you probably think of “marble,” as this is the product this province is mostly known for.

The truth is, Romblon offers so much more. One of these is what I consider to be one of the province’s hidden paradise, the Sibale Island.

Sibale is a 6th class island municipality located at the northern part of the province and approximately 20 kilometers off the coast from Mindoro.

According to the 2015 census, it has a population of only 4,037 people. ASI, one of the 3,000 dialects spoken in the country, is the dialect spoken in the island.  Locals here are also adept in Tagalog and English.

Sibale is subdivided into nine (9) barangays accessible using habal-habal or motor banca. These are the barangays of Bachawan, Calabasahan, Dalajican, Masudsud, Poblacion (the town proper), Sampong, San Pedro (Agbatang), San Vicente (Bidoos), and Masadya. Each of the barangays has its own cove and white sand beach with lush forests, clear and clean water, and breathtaking views.

How to go to Sibale Island.

Sibale Island is 6 hours away from Metro Manila. If you’re from Manila, take a bus going to Batangas City Port. Bus terminals of DLTB, Jac Liner, Ceres Bus Lines and Jam Liner are located in Cubao, Quezon City and in Buendia area in Pasay City. Bus fare costs ₱170.00 per head.

From Batangas Port, you have to endure first sea ride of the trip going to Calapan City in Mindoro. Roro vessels such as Montenegro Lines, Starlite Ferries and Fast Cat, and fast craft vessels like the Super Cat and Oceanjet are your choices. Fare ranges from at least ₱200.00 to ₱300.00.

Upon arrival at Calapan Port, look for UV Express terminal where you can take a van to Pinamalayan Port particularly in Ricodo.

At Pinamalayan Port, again you have to take another sea ride going to Sibale Island.

The boat ride to Sibale takes 2 to 2 & half hours to get there defending on the sea condition. During rainy season, the ride is bumpy because of the big and crazy waves so my friendly advice, visit the place from March to May to experience good weather and to enjoy your escapade.

Please be advised that the trip to and from the island is scheduled only once a day. It leaves at exactly 6 o’clock in the morning from the island and 11 o’clock in the morning to the island within the day.

What to expect in the island.

Unspoiled, exotic and bewitching. These are some remarkable characteristics of Sibale. There are mountains to conquer, seas to explore and white sand beaches to enjoy for those who seeks adventure, tranquility and diversion.

 

Unlike other famous tourist destinations all over the country where you can easily spot a number of restaurants, fast food chains, café, and bars, the establishments in Sibale are very limited. In fact, you can only find one carinderia located in the town proper and operates for a couple of hours. There are two videoke bars in the island if you want to relax and have fun after a tour. You can also enjoy some local foods served in those karaoke bars.

Visitors of this island can book a room at TDL Lodge and Mimi’s Accommodation with a very friendly and accommodating owners, which, in my opinion give you the best value for money recommended for budget traveler. You can also ask the locals for a free accommodation. Just don’t forget to share for the food.

Where to go and what to do in Sibale.

Mostly, tourist’s first destination in the island are the unspoiled white sand beaches near the town proper where you can pitch your tent, spend the night under the billion stars, take an unlimited dip in its clear and irresistible water, do snorkeling, experience the beautiful coral formations, try cliff diving and interact with those colorful coral reef fishes.

Do swim with caution though because of the numerous sea urchins and talaba. So I suggest to always wear your slipper every time you dip in the water.

As part of the experience aside from beach camping, don’t forget to visit some tourist spots around the island like the Bacawan Sanctuary in Sitio Suyor, the Grotto in Mt. Batareya, the Hamtik and Buyo view decks, the Lambirongan stone arch and the Bagulayag (known as the mini-Batanes).

Touring the island is easy and absolutely affordable. You can rent a habal-habal for 2 people or a motor banca which is good for 10 persons. Make sure to start your trip as early as possible to make the most out of your tour.

So, what are you waiting for! Plan your trip and experience the beautiful ‘Sea Valley’ of Romblon now. To visit, contact the author, Dennis Evora at 09065449321 for your local guide.