Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Mounts Iglit-Baco National Park covers a mountainous expanse in Occidental Mindoro, encompassing two of the island's most prominent peaks, Mount Iglit and Mount Baco. Established in 1970, the park serves as a vital sanctuary for the tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis), an endangered species found only on Mindoro and classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting pressures. The park protects diverse ecosystems that range from lowland dipterocarp forests to montane mossy forests, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna. Its steep slopes, deep valleys, and rivers create a challenging terrain but offer excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and ecological study. Cultural ties to indigenous Mangyan communities enrich the region, providing insight into traditional lifestyles and sustainable stewardship of the forest. Visitors to Mounts Iglit-Baco often come to experience its remote wilderness, rare wildlife sightings, and the rugged beauty of Mindoro's interior. While the park is off the standard tourist trail, it draws dedicated hikers and naturalists who appreciate its pristine environment and the chance to contribute to conservation efforts. Access to the park requires coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local authorities, given its protected status and the need for sustainable visitation to preserve sensitive habitats.
