Tourist Attraction

Republic of the Philippines

Province of Oriental Mindoro

Municipality of Roxas

A.     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE MUNICIPALITY

                         One hundred and forty three kilometers south of Calapan City lies the promising town of Roxas. The name was taken from the late President Manuel A. Roxas in whose honor the  proposal for the barrio’s separation from its mother town, Mansalay was first acknowledge.

                        The present town was once a small settlement along the Tikling River where early settlers and immigrants from Panay and Batangas Provinces set ashore. Tikling was then a sitio  of Mansalay- a barrio of Bulalacao. The place was earlier called *palasan which means rattan palms which used to grow abundantly along the shores of the River* Palasan latter became Paclasan. This settlement became the site of the first government of Roxas.

                       Through the executive Order No. 181, President Elpedio Quirino, in a proclamation declared Paclasan as separate town from Mansalay. The name Paclasan was change to Roxas and Roxas was born as town. Andres Torrefiel, Sr. had been appointed as the first Mayor of the town.

                        Roxas has 20 barangays- 5 urban, 15 rural, in a total land area of 8,526 hectares. Its total population is 49,481 ( NSO2010 ). Now serving as growth center of trade and commerce in the southern part of Oriental Mindoro, has a Port of Roxas which connects the Strong Republic Nautical Highway route to Boracay and the Visayas Island, and the rest of Southern Philippines. It evidently plays a significant role in the tourism development of the entire province.

B.    THREE MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS :

1.    SAN RAFAEL CAVE

                        The SAN RAFAEL CAVE is the major destination of the municipality of Roxas. It offers a unique chance to explore the underground natural wonders. This cave is considered as unique, natural and non-renewable resources with important scientific, economic, educational, cultural, historical and aesthetic values.

                         This cave has the distinction of being the biggest within the province, one of the nature’s most interesting habitat for wide variety of endemic and endangered species. This is about 30 minutes drive from the Roxas Town proper. The place is over 1.40 km from Brgy. San Rafael National Highway.

                         Through San Rafael Cave Development Project, the visitor can experience the rock formation up close around the cave system. It provide exciting cave tour with great learning adventure. This is a best project to enrich the Imagination and soul. What makes it special is the rich interpretation and hospitality of trained local community guides. A guided tour is facilitated by San Rafael Cave Guides Association ( SARCAGA ) of Brgy. San Rafael, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro.

                         

2.    SAN RAFAEL DIKE & RIVER TRAIL

               The Brgy. San Rafael riverbank constructive barrier preventing floods and protecting the lowlands from the relentless onslaught of the river. It is located at the Brgy. San Rafael, Rooxas, Oriental Mindoro features a scenic green grassy riverbed and wild and cool waters with a spectacular view of mountains  along the beautiful snake-like Bongabong River. It is 3km from San Rafael Cave Tourist Information & Assistance Center of Brgy. San Rafael.

                       The San Rafael Dike & River Trail Is also undeveloped recreation area. It is good for camping, swimming, team building & trekking but visitors should come prepared there is no potable water or electricity. There is no charge to use the destination.

                       Another unique aspect of the dike offers a wide variety of a true river  experience. It is a living classroom and laboratory for environmental education and aims to be an venue for biodiversity conservation. Today, the San Rafael Dik & River Trail continues to be a popular destination for photography shoots, family outings and picnics, and educational field trips.

3.    ROXAS MANGROVE FOREST

                        The Roxas Mangrove Forest offers a unique chance to explore the wonders of a mangrove ecosystem. It is an environment project design to educate children and the general public on conserving mangroves and other wildlife. This sanctuary has the distinction of being the community protected area and the only-mangrove reserve within the municipality.

                        It is located about 10 minutes drive from the Roxas Town proper. The place stretches over 2.20 hectares and connects 10km mangrove forest along the riverbanks of  Dayap River, Suli River and Dayahagan River. It is a home to diversity of marine life. This is one of nature’s most interesting habitats for a wide variety of fishes, crustaceans, mollusks and shells. It is an ideal environment for exotic birds and insects.

                        Visitors can view the mangrove trees up close around the mangroves site. Other option, hire a boat from fishermen’s associations for mangrove river tour. It provides a pleasurable experience with great views of the mangroves. This is a great place to unwind and recharge, renew your spirit and fortify wellness. It inspires your imagination and enriches your soul.

                       What makes it special is the rich interpretation and hospitality of local community fisher folk guides. A proposed guided mangrove boat tour is facilitated by SAMAKADA ( Samahan ng mga Masisipag na Kababaihang Dalahicano ) and BUKLURAN NG LAKAS MANGINGISDA of Brgy. San Jose, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro.