CALAMIAN GROUP

islands lying between Mindoro and Palawan, west central Philippines. The group comprises Busuanga, Culion (q.v.), and Coron islands and about 95 lesser coral isles and islets, with a total area of 677 sq mi (1,753 sq km). The main islands are quite hilly and are densely settled, with relatively stable populations engaged in subsistence agriculture and fishing. The principal settlement is Coron, on southeastern Busuanga, opposite Coron Island, which is well known for its edible bird's nests. Pop. (1980) 35,477.