Puerto Galera seeks 'Heart of Asia' title

MANILA, Philippines - The municipal government of Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro has embarked on development programs in a bid to earn the title “Heart of Asia,’” a top local official said yesterday.

Mayor Hubert Christopher Dolor told reporters during a weekly news forum at Annabels restaurant in Quezon City that they have launched the “Heart of Asia 2020” program, which includes the development of the town’s infrastructure environment protection program.

“The local government of Puerto Galera is committed to protect and conserve the natural resources of this paradise.  It is worth mentioning it was listed as one of the most beautiful bays in the world by a Paris based organization,” he said.

Among the projects are the expansion of its sea port and airport, construction of a super bridge that will connect Mindoro to Batangas and the setting up of the Puerto Galera safety and security, health, environment and disaster management center, to cope with the growing influx of foreign and local tourists.

Dolor said they are also coordinating with national government agencies to promote the town as a major tourist destination in the country.

He said they will also promote the town as the country’s retirement village.

He said Puerto Galera is well known among tourists for its beaches and snorkeling and scuba diving spots. The area, which has some of the most diverse coral reef in Asia, was designated a Man and Biosphere Reserve of UNESCO in 1973.