By Analou De Vera The Department of Tourism (DOT) is inviting tourists to visit Oriental Mindoro to experience the province's rich culture and tradition. Department of Tourism (MANILA BULLETIN) "Oriental Mindoro offers pristine and amazing beaches away from the noise and chaos of the city that are perfect for a relaxing vacation," said the DOT. Tourists were invited to visit the islands of Suguicay, Aslom, and Target to see long sand bar beaches with crystal clear waters. Oriental Mindoro also takes pride in its heritage sites like Kuta Church, Simbahang Bato and Mangyan Heritage Center that are being "protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy," the DOT said. Tourists were also encouraged to visit the Gabunatero Organic Farm in the municipality of Bongabong. "This must-visit farm allows tourists to plant and harvest organic fruits and other products as well fishing," the tourism department said. Recently, the province celebrated its “Pandang-Gitab” or Festival of Lights that showcased the culture and old-tradition of the province. The Pandang-Gitab, an annual festival, is a lively street dance, adapting the basic steps and music of the original Pandanggo sa Ilaw. It was coined from the words “pandango” or dance and “gitab” or flicker of flights. Meanwhile, the DOT said that it was “developing rest areas along the stretch of the Strong Republic National Highway (SRNH) that connects the islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, which crosses through Oriental Mindoro.” The tourism department said that the initiative will “open new economic opportunities and create numerous jobs for the people.”