The Stone that Shapes a Province
Natural Treasure
Romblon is the Marble Capital of the Philippines, supplying 80 percent of the country’s marble. The province’s high-quality marble rivals Italian varieties and comes in a wide range of colors. Key deposits are found in Northern Romblon, as well as on Alad and Cobrador Islands.
Craftsmanship and Culture
Local artisans shape marble into tiles, countertops, religious icons, and souvenirs like chess sets and decorative eggs. These crafts are passed down through generations, making the industry both a cultural and economic cornerstone.
Tourism Boost
Visitors are drawn to marble workshops and quarries. Hands-on carving experiences make the industry part of Romblon’s tourism appeal, blending heritage with economic development.
Challenges Ahead
The industry faces an aging workforce, outdated equipment, and competition from cheaper imports. Environmental issues like soil contamination from quarrying also require urgent attention.
Photo from Dreamstime
Future Plans
A 10-year development roadmap is being crafted to modernize the sector. This includes training new artisans, adopting sustainable quarrying practices, and improving product quality and branding.
Photo from Dreamstime
Enduring Legacy
Marble is more than a resource in Romblon. It is a livelihood, a tradition, and a source of pride. With the right support, this heritage industry can remain strong for generations.
