Mansalay

Welcome to Mansalay, a hidden gem on the southeastern coast of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines! This vibrant municipality is where crystal-clear coastlines, indigenous heritage, and local flavors unite in an unforgettable mix of serenity and story. If you’re dreaming of a place where time slows down and culture is proudly preserved, Mansalay deserves a top spot on your bucket list.

Mansalay is dubbed the “Fossil Capital of the Philippines”, thanks to its rich geological discoveries, including prehistoric marine fossils embedded in limestone cliffs. Nestled between mountain ranges and the Verde Island Passage, Mansalay offers a rare blend of land and sea adventure.

• Wasay Wasay Beach – A laid-back shoreline perfect for sunbathing, local eats, and the occasional sea urchin hunt!
• San Roque Watchtower Ruins – A Spanish-era coastal defense site with dramatic ocean views.
• Mansalay Marine Protected Area – Great for snorkeling and observing rich marine biodiversity.
• Minolos Cave – A mysterious and unspoiled natural cave system waiting to be explored.
• Barangay Panaytayan Fossil Site – A paleontology hotspot that attracts researchers from around the world.

Mansalay is home to the Hanunuo Mangyan, one of the eight Mangyan tribes of Mindoro. This community continues to practice traditional weaving, script writing (Surat Mangyan), and storytelling—an authentic glimpse into ancient Filipino life. Visitors are welcome to learn, respect, and support the preservation of this deeply rooted culture.

The main languages spoken are Filipino, Hanunuo, and Mangyan dialects, though you’ll find English widely understood in town centers. Conversations here are often as warm as the tropical breeze.

Mansalay offers humble yet flavorful coastal and upland dishes like:

• Inihaw na Isda (grilled fish fresh from the sea)
• Ginataang Pako (fiddlehead ferns in coconut milk)
• Kamote-based kakanin (native sweet delicacies)
• Wasay-wasay shells, a rare coastal treat, are a must-try if in season.

• Subayan Festival (every February) – Celebrating the Mangyan way of life with traditional dance, bamboo instruments, cultural fashion, and tribal rituals.
• Piyesta ng San Roque – A religious fiesta marked by processions, music, and coastal merrymaking.

Mansalay’s music is a beautiful fusion of tribal chants, bamboo instruments like gitgit and kalutang, and folk songs passed down through generations. You might catch impromptu jam sessions during festivals or at cultural centers.

• Paleontological treasures and fossil sites
• Rich Mangyan heritage and living traditions
• Ecotourism and coastal biodiversity
• Cultural education and indigenous artistry