Puerto Galera Historical and Dive Destination
Puerto Galera, the words literally mean “Port of the Galleons”. Is one of the oldest Spanish settlements in the Philippines. Founded in the late 16th century, becoming the first provincial capital on the Island of Mindoro. It is located on the northern peninsula of the island, approximately 160 km from Manila. As early as the 10th century, Chinese, Malay and Indonesian merchants were already doing business with local traders, and Puerto Galera is where the replenished their provisions. The natural protected harbor, provided a safe haven from the heavy squals and typhoons, of the region.
Mindoro Island is separated from Luzon by the Verde Island Passage. Waters are flushed by the current of the South China Sea, resulting in strong currents of up to 6 knots. This makes the area well known for its spectacular, exhilarating drift dives. The Verde Island Passage is very deep so clear water is very common to the dive sites of Puerto Galera, along with a fantastic variety of underwater flora and fauna.
