Sibuyan Island
A wild, forested island under a saw-toothed mountain, with rivers clean enough to drink.
Quick answer
- Where: the second-largest island of Romblon, in the Sibuyan Sea.
- Nickname: the Galapagos of Asia, for its many endemic plants and animals.
- The mountain: Mount Guiting-Guiting, 2,058 metres, named for its saw-toothed ridge.
- The river: Cantingas River, declared the cleanest inland water body in the country in 2007.
- Getting there: ferries from Batangas or Romblon town, or a flight to Tablas and boats onward.
Why it is a wonder
Sibuyan is one of the least spoiled islands in the Philippines. Dense forest still covers much of it, rising to the jagged ridge of Mount Guiting-Guiting, whose name means “saw-toothed”, at 2,058 metres. Because the island never joined the rest of the archipelago, it evolved many plants and animals found nowhere else, earning it the nickname the Galapagos of Asia.
Its rivers are famous too. The Cantingas River in San Fernando was declared the country’s cleanest inland water body, and islanders drink straight from many streams. Offshore, the small islet of Cresta de Gallo offers white sand and clear water.
Beat the crowds
There are no crowds. The challenge is getting here and planning around ferry times.
Getting there
Ferries run from Batangas and from Romblon town, landing at ports on Sibuyan. Another option is to fly to Tablas and continue by boat. Hire a tricycle or van on the island. See also our page on Romblon.
A perfect day
- Swim in the Cantingas River.
- Walk to a waterfall such as Dagubdub.
- Boat out to Cresta de Gallo in the afternoon.
- Watch Guiting-Guiting turn pink at sunset.
Through the seasons
- About February to May: driest and calmest for ferries and boats.
- June to December: typhoons and rough seas can cancel trips.
Respect the place
Climb only with permits and guides, never collect plants or animals, and respect the ancestral lands of the Sibuyan Mangyan Tagabukid.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Sibuyan called the Galapagos of Asia?
Because the island was never joined to the rest of the archipelago, and evolved many species found nowhere else.
Can I climb Mount Guiting-Guiting?
Yes, but it is one of the toughest climbs in the country. Go only with permits and experienced local guides.
Is there a beach?
Yes. Cresta de Gallo, a small islet off San Fernando, has white sand and clear water.
What threatens the island?
Mining has long been proposed on Sibuyan, and many residents have campaigned to protect the forests and rivers.
Malcapuya Island
A long white beach and clear water in the islands east of Coron.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
