The province of Batangas is abundant in natural wonders, most notably the mountains and the seas. If you visit the province, Verde Island is a destination that’s worth checking out. Off the southern coast, you can find this serene getaway just a stone’s throw away from Batangas City. The island’s dive spots, caves, resorts, and tranquil beaches are a paradise in the middle of the extensive Verde Island Passage, which is home to an impressive aquatic ecosystem.
What should you expect from Isla Verde, Batangas? Find out what makes this quietly spectacular area so extraordinary with these fun facts.
Where is Verde Island located?
It can be found in the Verde Island Passage, the stretch of sea that divides Batangas and Mindoro. It is just south of Barangays Ilijan and Pagkilatan in Batangas City and northeast of Puerto Galera. It can be conveniently accessed by boat from Tabangao Port.
10 Facts You Need to Know About the Secrets of Verde Island
1. Verde Island Passage is recognized globally as a center of marine biodiversity.
The entire strait was dubbed as the ‘center of the center of marine biodiversity’ by international marine experts, organizations, and conservation groups. It is recognized as such due to its ultra-rich marine life. An article from PCIJ states that it houses more than 1,700 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and other types of creatures.
2. It is said to be the center of the Coral Triangle.
The Coral Triangle is the name scientists gave to the vast area of sea they recognize to be the ‘global epicenter’ of marine biodiversity. This includes the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste. The passage and its thousands of marine species play a huge role within this geographic area.
3. It is home to many endangered species.
A certain number of endangered marine species inhabit the strait where Isla Verde, Batangas is located. A few of them are the hawksbill turtle, whale shark, giant clams, groupers, manta ray, and dugong. There are over 50 marine protected areas along the strait that preserve the beauty and existence of these species.
4. Verde Island, Batangas has 6 barangays.
Verde Island is located along this particular strait. It is an inhabited island spanning approximately 17.36 square kilometers. The province of Batangas has jurisdiction over it and its 6 barangays (including approximate population according to the 2020 census):
- San Agapito (approx. 1,186 residents)
- San Antonio (approx. 943 residents)
- Liponpon (approx. 664 residents)
- San Agustin Kanluran (approx. 699 residents)
- San Agustin Silangan (approx. 720 residents)
- San Andres (approx. 893 residents)
5. It’s located in a key waterway for sea travel in Batangas.
Verde Island Passage is a critical route for sea vessels traveling between the South Luzon and Mindoro seas. The Batangas International Port is one of the busiest major ports in the Philippines, where hundreds of vessels dock and depart each day. All kinds of watercrafts move through this area to reach Batangas, such as RoRo vessels, ocean freighters, fast crafts, barges, and more. This shows how significant the strait is to shipping routes in the maritime and transport industry.
6. Verde Island Passage spans 4 provinces in South Luzon.
This impressive marine corridor stretches 1.4 million hectares, blanketing the areas of Batangas, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, and Romblon. These four provinces are benefactors and witnesses to the rich marine biodiversity that it has to offer. The abundance of marine wildlife in its waters contributed to the fishing industry, the primary livelihood in the above provinces.
7. One of the country’s oldest lighthouses marks Verde Island Passage from the west.
The Cape Santiago Lighthouse in Calatagan, Batangas, once served as a guide to sea vessels entering the strait. Its operations began in December 1890 when it was built by the Spanish colonizers. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in recent years and is open for tours and visits.
8. It’s ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Scuba diving enthusiasts have long been visiting Verde Island, Batangas to witness the vibrant marine wildlife for themselves. There are many highlights and diving spots, such as a massive underwater cliff called the Wall, the dramatic Drop-Off that dips 70 meters down, and a Washing Machine site where you can feel strong currents that resemble its namesake.
9. Verde Island Batangas City is the perfect day trip spot.
Tourists coming from Metro Manila can enjoy Verde Island resorts, restaurants, and diving spots easily. Batangas is more or less just a 3-hour drive, and Isla Verde can be reached via boat once a day at Tabangao Aplaya port.
Verde Island is also situated right between Batangas City and Puerto Galera, which means travelers going to either location can conveniently make time for a day trip.
10. It is populated with mangrove forests.
The Verde Island Passage is not only home to fish, corals, and other creatures. Mangrove forests are also scattered throughout the coastlines of the provinces along the strait. The Coral Triangle Initiative mapped out the location of mangroves in Batangas, Oriental Mindoro, and Occidental Mindoro. Mangrove trees are critical habitats to different marine species. It also benefits local communities as it prevents soil erosion and aquatic pollution.
How to Travel to Batangas City and Verde Island
There are no large vessels going to Verde Island because it is a marine protected area. It is easy, however, to reach the island from Batangas City and Tabangao Port.
- From Calapan to Batangas City
- Book a SuperCat fast ferry trip from Calapan to Batangas using the Chelsea Travel site or app. Otherwise, you can visit the SuperCat office at Calapan Port. Trips are scheduled daily.
- Depart from Calapan and arrive at Batangas Port in approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- From Batangas Port to Tabangao Port
- Take a jeepney or tricycle to Bagong Palengke.
- At Bagong Palengke, look for a jeep going to Tabangao Port.
- At Tabangao Port, there will be different boats that will take you to designated barangays on the island. Depending on where you are, you will need to catch the appropriate boat. For example, MB Super Mario heads to resort areas and the main day tour spot. Ask the port operators which boat is available for your destination.
- Visitors who are staying at a resort are recommended to alight at the Sampalukan stop, while the main area for day trips is in Mahabang Buhangin, and the other stop is at Verde Island.
Important Note: Public boats at Tabangao Port leave as soon as they are full. Be sure to arrive as early as 8:00 AM. There is only one (1) trip going to and one (1) trip from Verde Island every day. Plan your trip accordingly.
Batangas is a prime destination for explorers and travelers who just want to chill. Verde Island’s beauty and fascinating background should be enough to convince you to visit this charming island.
ALSO READ: Everything You Need to Know About Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor
Zoom with SuperCat Fast Ferry to Batangas, Calapan, Cebu, Ormoc, and Tagbilaran. Experience a comfortable and fast travel to the next destination on your bucket list. View our schedules here and book your seats today.