Naujan

Welcome to Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, the charming coastal gem where nature, culture, and tradition dance together like waves along its shores. Nestled on the northeastern side of Mindoro Island, Naujan is more than just a stopover, it’s a soulful journey into tranquil landscapes, heritage-rich barrios, and heartwarming local flavor.

Naujan is the largest municipality in Oriental Mindoro, known for its vast agricultural land, rich biodiversity, and the famous Naujan Lake, the fifth largest lake in the Philippines. It offers the perfect blend of land and water adventures for eco-tourists, history buffs, and curious foodies alike.

• Naujan Lake National Park – A protected eco-paradise for birdwatching, kayaking, and scenic boat tours.
• Punta Ilag Point – A peaceful coastal lookout perfect for sunsets and sea breeze picnics.
• Melgar Bay and Masaguisi Beach – Hidden beaches with white sand, clear waters, and very few tourists.
• Cueva Blanca – A mystical limestone cave surrounded by lush forest and folklore.

Life in Naujan reflects a harmonious mix of Mangyan heritage and lowland Filipino traditions. Locals are deeply rooted in agriculture, fishing, and crafts. The dominant language is Tagalog, with a sprinkle of Hanunuo-Mangyan dialects still spoken in upland barangays.

Community values like bayanihan (communal unity) and pakikisama (smooth interpersonal relationships) are evident during gatherings, fiestas, and daily routines.

Prepare your tastebuds for Naujan’s rural culinary goodness:

• Pako Salad – A fresh fern salad with tomatoes, onions, and salted eggs.
• Sinugno – Grilled tilapia cooked in coconut milk, a Mindoro favorite.
• Pinais na Alimango – Crab wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked in gata (coconut milk).
• Suman sa Lihiya – A sticky rice delicacy perfect with hot chocolate.

• Pabirik Festival (shared with nearby towns) – Celebrating Naujan’s agricultural bounty and the gold-panning legacy of Mindoro.
• Naujan Town Fiesta – Held every January 25 in honor of their patron, Saint Paul the Apostle, featuring colorful parades, dance competitions, and community feasts.

Naujan embraces the harana and kundiman folk songs during serenades and town celebrations. Local youth also blend modern acoustic and pop music in barangay events, making it a cool mix of tradition and trend.

• Naujan Lake and its ecological importance
• Rich rice and coconut farms
• Home to Mangyan culture and indigenous crafts
• Scenic beaches and hidden coves
• Warm hospitality and lowkey paradise vibes