Baco

Nestled between the towering peaks of Mount Halcon and the blue horizon of the Verde Island Passage lies Baco, a tranquil municipality in Oriental Mindoro that blends wild beauty, rich traditions, and heartwarming hospitality. It’s the kind of place where carabaos share the road, waterfalls echo in the jungle, and every smile you meet feels like home.

Baco is one of Oriental Mindoro’s nature-kissed towns, often overshadowed by its busier neighbors like Calapan or Puerto Galera, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Untouched, unspoiled, and undeniably peaceful, Baco is perfect for eco-travelers, backpackers, and cultural explorers who want a quiet, authentic experience.

• Mount Halcon Base Trails – Adventurers flock here for the mountain’s legendary beauty and biodiversity.
• Kambal Bato Falls – Twin cascades hidden in lush forest, ideal for a nature dip and photo ops.
• Mangyan Ancestral Domain – A sacred cultural zone that offers a peek into the life of Mindoro’s indigenous people.
• Ilog River – Crystal-clear water perfect for river trekking, rafting, or a peaceful boat ride.

Baco is home to the Mangyan communities, particularly the Alangan tribe. Their weaving, beadwork, and oral storytelling traditions are living treasures. Life here moves slowly and meaningfully, with deep respect for the land and ancestral roots.

The primary languages spoken are Tagalog and Alangan, a Mangyan dialect. English is also understood by many locals, especially in schools and town offices.

Local cuisine is all about simplicity and flavor:

• Sinaing na Tulingan – Slow-cooked tuna in kamias and lard, a Mindoro signature.
• Pako Salad – Fresh fiddlehead ferns tossed with tomatoes, onions, and salted egg.
• Nilupak – A sweet, mashed cassava or banana dessert served during gatherings.
• Don’t forget the Mindoro rice wine (basi) shared during special occasions!

• Alangan Festival – A celebration of Mangyan culture featuring traditional dances, music, and crafts.
• Feast of St. Nicholas of Tolentino – The town’s patronal fiesta held every September, with colorful processions and food feasts.
• Expect street parades, drumbeats, and warm smiles everywhere!

Baco embraces native gongs, bamboo instruments, and choral chants in their cultural presentations. Traditional Mangyan lullabies and ballads echo through their mountain homes, passed down through generations.

• Gateway to Mount Halcon
• Rich Mangyan heritage
• Untouched waterfalls and rivers
• Tranquil, off-the-beaten-path adventures
• Eco-cultural immersion