islands lying between Mindoro and Palawan, west-central Philippines. The group comprises Busuanga, Culion (Culion Island), and Coron islands and about 95 lesser coral isles and islets. 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. Area 677 square miles (1,753 square km). Pop. (2000) 62,832.