Isla Verde (the popular name for Verde Island) is in the Philippines almost in the centre of the Verde Island Passage between Batangas on Luzon and Puerto Galera on Mindoro. It is only about an hour and a half by coach from Manila to Batangas. From there a short ride to Tabangao to take a banca across the strait.
The island is famous for the diversity of its marine life and people come from around the world to dive the surronding reefs. The Isla Verde Tropical Friendly Resort is right at the boundary of the declared Marine Park, providing easy snorkelling access to the shallower corals and fish.
The island is famous for the diversity of its marine life and people come from around the world to dive the surronding reefs. The Isla Verde Tropical Friendly Resort is right at the boundary of the declared Marine Park, providing easy snorkelling access to the shallower corals and fish.
The local people are mostly farmers and fishermen and although only a small island there are interesting places to see and things to do. Mahabang Buhangin, a pleasant walk across from the resort, is a stretch of white sand beach about a kilometre long which is popular for swimming and snorkelling. At Cueca Sitio there is a cave that leads to the other side of the island. and a lighthouse from which there are great views.
The two highest points on Isla, both about 360 metres high, are Mt Liponpon and Mt Dagit Dagit. Most statistics show My Liponpon as the highest peak on the island, but local residents claim that honor goes to Mt Dagit Dagit. A walk up to the summit of either will reward any visitor with great views of the islands and across the Verde Island Passage to Luzon and Mindoro.
Because it is only a morning's travel away from Manila Isla Verde is a great place for Filipinos to get away from the busy city life for a relaxing few days or a weekend. It is also a great way for international visitors to take a break from the bright lights and noise of the normal tourist destinations to see a little of the Filipino regional lifestyle. To become acquainted with the simple lifestyle, staying in traditional native accommodation, the 'kubo'.
A Kubo is the style of house that was once common all over the Philippines. It is a simple structure with the framing made from bamboo and the walls of a woven matting. The roof is thatched with palm leavs. Palm trees and bamboo are fast growing and plentiful all over the Philippines and this style of housing is renewable and eco-friendly.
Visit Isla Verde Tropical Friendly Resort
