Banton Island

Philippines , Philippines

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Banton Island is a small island municipality in the northern part of Romblon Province in the central Philippines, sitting in the Sibuyan Sea between the islands of Tablas and Marinduque.

It is the oldest colonial settlement in Romblon, originally established in 1622 and once known as Jones Island during the American period, with a name now believed to come from the local word for “rocky,” reflecting its rugged, hilly terrain.

The island mixes quiet coastal life with rich heritage, featuring a Spanish‑era church and fortress, pre‑colonial caves such as the Guyangan Cave System, and the famous Banton Burial Cloth, the oldest known textile in the Philippines and a key archaeological treasure.

Banton also offers relatively uncrowded beaches, simple island living, and good diving spots, making it a low‑key destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and off‑the‑beaten‑path nature experiences.