San Jose

Welcome to San Jose, the heart and soul of Occidental Mindoro! This sun-drenched coastal municipality is more than just a pit stop, it’s a vibrant fusion of paradise beaches, rich Mangyan culture, irresistible local eats, and unforgettable festivals. Whether you’re in it for nature, adventure, or a deeper cultural dive, San Jose will charm its way into your travel bucket list.

San Jose is located on the southwest coast of Occidental Mindoro. It’s the province’s commercial hub and main gateway, easily reachable via direct flights from Manila. This laid-back town is hugged by the Sulu Sea on one side and wild natural landscapes on the other.

• Ambulong Island – White sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving.
• White Island – A magical sandbar that appears only during low tide — a must-see for every beach lover!
• Ilin Island – Home to rare wildlife like the Ilin Island Cloudrunner and pristine mangrove forests.
• Mt. Iglit-Baco National Park – A UNESCO-protected site and sanctuary of the endangered Tamaraw, perfect for eco-trekking and wildlife viewing.
• Grace Island Resort – A floating resort on the sea that offers glamping-style accommodations and kayaking around bamboo huts.

San Jose boasts a rich cultural tapestry, especially through its Mangyan heritage. Visitors can meet the Hanunuo and Buhid tribes, known for their ancient writing systems and handwoven textiles. You’ll often spot locals speaking in Tagalog and Mangyan dialects, with English widely understood

• Mindoro’s Sinalab – A grilled fish or meat dish, often paired with spicy vinegar.
• Pinaltok – Sticky rice balls with coconut milk, perfect for dessert lovers.
• Fresh seafood – From sinigang sa bayabas to grilled squid, the bounty of the sea is always on your plate.
• Banana Chips – A sweet crunchy treat that’s a San Jose pasalubong favorite.

• The Dugoy Festival – Held every April, it celebrates the indigenous Mangyan culture with street dancing, tribal rituals, and colorful parades.
• Tamaraw Festival – A tribute to the Tamaraw, showcasing the local pride in environmental conservation.

San Jose’s festivals pulse with ethnic drums, traditional bamboo instruments like the gitgit, and Mangyan chants. Modern pop and OPM also fill the air in town fiestas and beach gatherings.

• Being the economic center of Occidental Mindoro
• The Tamaraw and its conservation park
• White sand beaches and island hopping
• Mangyan cultural heritage
• A booming agriculture and fishing industry

From riding boats over emerald waves to tribal tattoos and stunning mountain backdrops, San Jose is a content creator’s dream.