Camiguin is a pear-shaped volcanic island with
a total land area of 238 sq. kilometers. It lies 10 kilometers
off the coast of the Province of Misamis Oriental. Along with
the Provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental
and Misamis Oriental, Camiguin forms part of a geopolitical
grouping of provinces comprising Region X or Northern Mindanao.
In terms of land area, Camiguin is only around 2 percent of
Region X.
Camiguin is said to be "Born of Fire".
It has seven volcanoes unmatched anywhere else in Southeast
Asia. Volcanic eruptions and land movements have created this
spectacular island full of natural wonders and historical riches.As
an island of varied ecosystem, Camiguin's uniqueness lies in
its varied terrain, pristine natural environment and rustic
setting. As a matter of fact, the Province has been identified
by the Department of Tourism as one of the top 25 tourist destinations
in the Philippines, and No. 7 diving spot in the world.
Characteristics of Camiguin
Camiguin almost defies description. It is a
tiny island of lush forests, volcanic splendor, eternal hot
and cold natural springs, pristine patches of black and white
beaches, majestic waterfalls, exotic marine life, blue-ridge
mountains, serene surroundings, idyllic lifestyle; it has a
glorious past, and is inhabited with jovial people. The truth
is, Camiguin is best experienced than described as one gets
enchanted by her mystical charm. It really has amazing natural
resources and peaceful atmosphere that stir and baffle the minds
of everyone.
Camiguin is believed to be one of the Philippines's
most beautiful island - a virtual paradise - as the island allows
visitors to experience a sample of untouched beauty in its entirety.
Locked in the eternal embrace of the sea, Camiguin continues
its simple existence sheltered from and unfazed by the virulent
pressures of today's accelerated lifestyles.
Camiguin generally has good weather with seasonal
rain showers enhancing its fresh green environment. Fine weather
is guaranteed from April to June, while the coolest is from
November to January. To get to Camiguin, one has to travel one
and a half hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Balingoan, Misamis
Oriental, and take any of the hourly scheduled ferries across
the channels of Mindanao Sea, which dock in either ports of
Guinsiliban or Benoni.
There is a regular sea and air transportation
from Cebu to CAMIGUIN and vice versa. Once in Camiguin, one
can go around the 64-kilometer circumferential road in just
one hour and a half time through public or private transportation.
The people of Camiguin are friendly, fun-loving, and very hospitable.
Camiguingnons are also hardworking.
The main occupation of the people is fishing
and farming. Coconut is the major production as far as sources
of income is concerned. Other plantations are abaca, rice, mangoes,
lanzones and other fruit trees. Small cottage industries are
increasing in number to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Cebuano is the main language while a few speak Kinamiguin, an
ancient dialect. Nearly everyone speaks English fairly.
