Higatangan offers anyone the comforts of an island resort, without the noise and the crowd, and the security and safety of a place known for being relatively peaceful with zero insurgency. 

The island is located at the coordinates 11°34’7.62″N and 124°15’50.85″E, about 9 nautical miles west of the main island province of Biliran. It is 45 minutes by motorized banca from the Port of Naval, the island’s nearest jump-off point and to where it belongs as a political jurisdiction. The island has an area of 342.5 hectares and is elongated in shape. It follows a north-south orientation, with two barangays namely, Mabini and Libertad, located at either ends. There are less than 2,000 residents living in the island, but it boasts its own church, an elementary and a high school, health center, and power supply from 6 PM to 12 MN.

The island’s prominent features include a sandbar stretching 200 meters from its south-eastern tip, which periodically shifts eastward or westward from its shore-base according the monsoon currents, rock formations and cliffs on its western side facing the open sea, and beaches on its leeward side. The islanders are very friendly. There are regular trips plying the Naval Port – Higatangan Island route. Boats leave Higatangan between 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM and arrive at Naval Port 45 minutes later. They leave back to Higatangan at around 11:00 AM to 12:00 NN, and would stay in the island until the next day. Regular fare is P50.00. Higatangan has 3 resorts, namely: Higatangan Island Beach Resort and Emponet Barton Beach Resort on the eastern side and Hagdan Beach Resort nestled among the the rock formations on the western side. The resorts have motorboats of their own at 25-30 passenger capacity, which can be chartered by arrangement with the resort operators. 

Higatangan Island Beach Resort

Higatangan Island Beach Resort in Brgy. Mabini boasts a large open area adjacent to the shore suitable for group activities and various room accommodations from family size to dormitory. Contact: Le Ann – 09309491046

Emponet Beach Resort

Emponet Beach Resort in Brgy. Libertad has room accommodations for staying guests and kiosks for day tourists, and guests have the option for European, Continental and Filipino dishes pre-arranged with the chef during booking. Mostly favored by foreign tourists who want a quiet and secluded place. Contact: Mrs. Imelda Pragas – 09394876311

Hagdan Beach Resort

Hagdan Beach Resort in Brgy. Libertad offers a unique ambiance as it is nestled amongst the rock formations.  Facing the open sea and away from the populated area of the island, seclusion and privacy is guaranteed. Contact: Mrs. Rizza Ningasca – 09176042273

Local Culture and Livelihood