About Magellan's Cross
There is a sign below the Magellan's Cross. According to the sign, the original cross is encased in the tindalo wood cross displayed in the center of the chapel. According to some people, the original cross had been destroyed and the existing cross is the replica of the original one. On the ceiling of the kiosk, where the cross has been displayed, the tourists can see painting that depicts landing of Ferdinand Magellan in Cebu. The planting of the cross has also been displayed in the roof paintings.How to reach Magellan's Cross
Magellan's Cross is located in front of Cebu City Hall. The tourists can reach the spot by availing taxis. Public transport is also available to reach the area. Jeeps can also be availed to reach Magellan's Cross in Cebu.Magellan's Cross was planted by Ferdinand Magellan when he arrived at Cebu City on 21st April, 1521. The Magellan's Cross is kept in a small chapel, which is next to Basilica Minore del Santo Nino. It is believed by some people that the cross is the replica of the original one. Magellan's Cross is a popular tourist attraction of Cebu City.
The cross is now used by Cebu City Hall as a symbol and the image of Magellan's Cross can be seen in the seal of the city. There are more places of tourist interests in close vicinity of Magellan's Cross.
History of Magellan's Cross
Ferdinand Magellan was the first European who visited Philippines in the year 1521. When Magellan, along with his crew, arrived at Cebu, he was greeted by Rajah Humabon. During that time Rajah Humabon along with his wife and 800 natives was Christianized. Magellan planted a cross to signify this event.
CamSur: CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC)
After our trip to the Caramoan islands (day 1 and day 2), it was time for us to go to the CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC). From Guilajo Port in the Caramoan town, we rode a boat going to Sabang Port. It was raining at times too but good thing it wasn't that heavy. The boat ride was 2 hours long and then we rode a van going to SM Naga which is just beside the terminal.
We wanted to go to SM in Naga so that we could buy some stuff as well as eat lunch there. It was of perfect timing because we got there around 11am. After buying some groceries in the Supermarket, we went to eat at Mang Inasal for some unlimited rice! haha. It was great to see a mall in the place as it brought some modern feel into the trip. At least we didn't really get away from civilization. Harhar. It was nice cause the mall was spacious too. (Click to enlarge pictures)
when you see the sign, this is where you stop!
huts and cottages
CWC is just a 20-30 minute ride from the terminal (or airport) in Naga that's why it's really convenient.
stoke!
entrance
2 Years and counting - Philippines, the unpublished paradise
It's been more than 2 years since I got to this lovely paradise of a country - Philippines. And its about time I got started writing this piece. It's long crossed my mind that I should share my thoughts about this country with others......
Years ago, I just new that there was a country called Philippines. Frankly speaking, I didn't know where it was on the map. I just knew that it was somewhere in Asia! Well, look at where I am now... And I intend to let others who are as ignorant as me understand that there is one more beautiful location in South East Asia to add to their travel itineraries.
When I first got to the Philippines, I wondered how people could be so laid back, how non-productive the country was, how there were always 3 people hired to do the job of one person in all the malls, how people here could eat such bland or even sweet food, how people could afford to live with the high costs of basic necessities, how this country had so many beautiful beaches and most of the world didn't know about it, how people could smile all the time, how people were polite all the time, how people could spend so much all the time, how so few people could have so much of the wealth of the country, how people could use already 20 times in a 20 minute conversation, how people said "go" instead of "come", how the bank still minted 1 peso coins when you couldn't get anything for 1 peso, how government collaborated with the industry to create monopolies, how the country lived and grew because most of its citizens worked out of the country... the hows are endless.......
Today, when I look back, I still wonder.... The Philippines in its endless beauty will always keep you wondering! But a lot of the sarcasm and skepticism had disappeared. Today, I do feel that life ain't that bad if you just learn to let go a teeny weeny bit. We Indians have the habit of hyping up every little action that we perform in our lives and our minds think faster than the words that come out of our mouth. But we've been on that everlasting rat race with the billion+ folks that we have in India! When you let go a little, and sit back to watch all that's around you, you are truly able to savour the life that you're living. Filipinos have thought me that its never pays to live in the past and worry about the future and forget about the present. I have learned to balance my mind to look beyond the numerous sales and avenues to damage one's wallet and find middle ground. I have learnt to work with Filipinos and enjoy to do so... I have learned to tone down my voice, reduce the speed at which I talk and be more polite in all my actions. I have learnt to thank people more often, apologize more often, greet people more often and even smile more often!
I've got the opportunity to travel quite a bit over the past few months and that has also showed me that there's more to the Philippines that just Boracay and Palawan (I still haven't been to Palawan and am planning a trip there). I however have managed to travel to Davao, Iloilo, Guimaras, Camarines Sur, Legaspi, Clark, Antipolo, Tarlac and Carmona. That's a decent amount of travel and the interesting part of this travel is that most of these places were visited in just about a month! Isn't that amazing. I'm still at Camarines Sur though and have a trip planned to Mt. Mayon tomorrow.
Davao - I really didn't get to spend too much time here. Was here for just two days and just managed to sample some of the delicious food and fruits from this place. For those who don't know, Davao city is in the Mindanao province which is usually prohibited for travel. There's a muslim extremist group here and kidnappings are very common. The irony here is that Davao which is in the eastern part of the Mindanao province and is one of the safest cities in Asia (not just the Philippines). The reason is that the mayor here holds a very strong grip on this city and keeps it well in control. Crime rate is abysmally low and I actually felt very safe in this place. It is considered to be the "fruit basket" of the Philippines and fruits are available in plenty and at very affordable rates. Mangosteen, Pommella (a version of orange), bananas, pineapple and what not! So many fruits... so many different types of fruit salads.... I do regret however that I didn't get the opportunity to go to any of the beaches here. I've heard that they are so beautiful and untouched. Will upload pictures in a separate post on Davao.
Iloilo - I got to spend about 3 days here and enjoyed this place very much. I really thought that there would be nothing much to do at Iloilo and boy... was I wrong. Iloilo is considered as one of the best places to live in the Philippines. This was the homestead of the mammoth Lopez family . The Lopez family would be among the top 3 richest families in the Philippines with interests in media, publishing, real estate, power, utilities, Telecommunication and what not! I had the great opportunity of being hosted by the Lopez family here in Iloilo. It was a wonderful experience having access to the colonial style houses owned by the family. Most of the houses I visited were over 75 years old. Will post some pictures soon. I even got to sleep in one of these old palatial houses for a day. Anyhow, after a few yummy meals in Iloilo, we set of for Guimaras which is an island province located of the coast of Iloilo. I had never heard of this place before I got to Iloilo. It was a shocker. So beautiful.... with roads winding in a hilly terrain. I felt like I was back in Ooty or Yercaud. So much greenery and so much fresh air. A welcome change from the pollution of Manila and Makati. We were hosted at an almost private resort here in Guimaras and I got the opportunity to spend the night in the quietest of places. There was absolutely no one there and our cottage was just 5 steps away from the beach there. Such clear and peaceful water... The calmness of this place almost spooked me out! He he... But it was wonderful... we gotta dive into crystal clear water and spend the evening hearing no one else but our voices, the sound of the ocean, some birds... and some lizards! Will post pictures along with a separate section on Iloilo
Camarines Sur - this is a province located at the Bicol region which is known for its spices. Supposed to the spiciest of provinces in the Philippines. We did get a taste of that today when we ordered Buffalo chicken wings and found it to be so spicy (Mind you, I'm indian and can handle loads of spice). Was a pleasant surprise though. I am currently in Cam sur and am filling in this update. Will be going to Mount Mayon tomorrow and will fill in more details of that. About CamSur, most of the activities happen in the city of Naga which is pretty much like a smaller town in India. However, there are a number of nice restaurants, there's even a huge SM mall here! Very exciting however, is the Camarines Sur Watersports Complex (CWC) which is a complex built for wake boarding. I tried it today and had loads of fun! Landed up falling into the water so many times though.... Was a wonderful experience since its the first time i've tried this sport in my life! Wish I had more time to practice and master this sport though... Looks like something I would love doing more often. Will post pictures in a separate section soon...
Anyhow, I have a lot of posting to do - especially on my recent travels. Guys and girls out there who are in the Philippines, do know that there's so much to do in this country beyond Boracay, Tagaytay, Palawan and Puerto Galera. So many beautiful beaches that aren't even covered in Lonely Planet - for example, Anawangin Cove details of which I had posted months ago on my blog.
And for those of you reading my blog from out of the Philippines, this country is a wonderful country to travel to in Asia. With its 7107 islands, I promise you it has enough to satisfy what any person is looking for - be it beaches, be it diving, be it hiking, be it biking, be it wake-boarding, be it water sports, be it exotic food, be it fine dining, be it clubbing, be it fancy resorts, be it cheap and good massages, be it whatever!
For the indians reading my blog, imagine a country filled with 1000s of Goa(s) except all of them being much
Will post more pictures soon... Until then, I do have to remember that these years in Philippines... the Philippine chapter of my life has thought me so much and also has made me love travelling even more. I have had the opportunity to meet and mingle with people who are so polite, courteous and welcoming.... Get a taste of Filipino hospitality in the Philippines and you will miss the country all your life.
The island comprises the barangays of Manoc-Manoc, Balabag, and Yapak (3 of the 17 barangays which make up the municipality of Malay), and is under the administrative control of the Philippine Tourism Authority in coordination with the Provincial Government of Aklan.
palawan
For the island in Singapore, see Pulau Palawan.
| Palawan | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| — Province — | |||
| |||
| Nickname(s): Philippine's Last Frontier; The Land of the Promise | |||
 | |||
| Coordinates: 9°31′39″N 118°23′51″ECoordinates: 9°31′39″N 118°23′51″E | |||
| Country |  Philippines | ||
| Region | MIMAROPA (in transition[1][2]) | ||
| Founded | March 10, 1917 | ||
| Capital | Puerto Princesa City | ||
| Government | |||
| - Type | Province of the Philippines | ||
| - Governor | Abraham Kahlil Mitra (Liberal) | ||
| - Vice Governor | Clara Reyes (Lakas-Kampi-CMD) | ||
| Area | |||
| - Total | 14,649.7 km2 (5,656.3 sq mi) | ||
| Area rank | 1st out of 80 | ||
| Population (2007) | |||
| - Total | 682,152 | ||
| - Rank | 38th out of 80 | ||
| - Density | 46.6/km2 (120.6/sq mi) | ||
| - Density rank | 79th out of 80 | ||
| Demonym | Palaweño | ||
| Divisions | |||
| - Independent cities | 1 | ||
| - Component cities | 0 | ||
| - Municipalities | 23 | ||
| - Barangays | 367 including independent cities: 433 | ||
| - Districts | 1st and 2nd districts of Palawan (shared with Puerto Princesa City) | ||
| Time zone | PHT (UTC+8) | ||
| ZIP Code | |||
| Spoken languages | Tagalog, Cuyonon, Hiligaynon, Tausug, Batak, Tagbanwa, Palawano, Kagayen, Bikol, English | ||
Palawan is composed of the long and narrow Palawan Island, plus a number of other smaller islands surrounding the main island. The Calamianes Group of Islands, to the northwest consists of Busuanga Island, Culion Island, and Coron Island. Durangan Island almost touches the westernmost part of Palawan Island, while Balabac Island is located off the southern tip, separated from Borneo by the Balabac Strait. In addition, Palawan covers the Cuyo Islands in the Sulu Sea. The disputed Spratly Islands, located a few hundred kilometres to the west is considered part of Palawan by the Philippines, and is locally called the Kalayaan Group of Islands.
Palawan's almost 2,000 kilometres (1,200 mi) of irregular coastline are dotted with roughly 1,780 islands and islets, rocky coves, and sugar-white sandy beaches. It also harbors a vast stretch of virgin forests that carpet its chain of mountain ranges. The mountain heights average 3,500 feet (1,100 m) in altitude, with the highest peak rising to 6,843 feet (2,086 m)[4] at Mount Mantalingahan. The vast mountain areas are the source of valuable timber. The terrain is a mix of coastal plain, craggy foothills, valley deltas, and heavy forest interspersed with riverine arteries that serve as irrigation.[3]
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[edit] History
The history of Palawan may be traced back 22,000 years ago, as confirmed by the discovery of bone fragments of the Tabon Man in the municipality of Quezon. Although the origin of the cave dwellers is not yet established, anthropologists believe they came from Borneo. Known as the Cradle of Philippine Civilization, the Tabon Caves consist of a series of chambers where scholars and anthropologists discovered the remains of the Tabon Man along with his tools and a number of artifacts.[3][edit] Ancient times
Waves of migrants arrived in the Philippines by way of land bridges between Borneo and Palawan. From 220 up to 263 AD, during the period of the Three Kingdoms, "Little, dark people" living in Anwei province in South China were driven South by Han People. Some settled in Thailand, others went farther south to Indonesia, Sumatra, Borneo. They were known as Aetas and Negritos from whom Palawan's Batak tribe descended.[5] Other tribes known to inhabit the islands such as the Palawano and Tagbanwa, are also descendants of the early settlers, who came via ice-age land bridges. They had a form of indigenous political structure developed in the island, wherein the natives had their non-formal form of government, an alphabet, and a system of trading with sea-borne merchants.[6]In AD 982, ancient Chinese traders regularly visit the islands.[5] A Chinese author referred to these islands as Kla-ma-yan (Calamian), Palau-ye (Palawan), and Paki-nung (Busuanga). Pottery, china and other artifacts recovered from caves and waters of Palawan attest to trade relations that existed between Chinese and Malay merchants.[6]
[edit] Pre-colonial era
In the 12th century, Malay settlers, who came on boats, began to populate the island. Most of the settlements were ruled by Malay chieftains. These people grew rice, ginger, coconuts, sweet potatoes, sugarcane and bananas. They also raised pigs, goats and chickens. Most of their economic activities were fishing, farming, and hunting by the use of bamboo traps and blowguns. The local people had a dialect consisting of 18 syllables.[6] They were followed by the Indonesians of the Majapahit Empire in the 13th century, and they brought with them Buddhism and Hinduism.[7]Because of Palawan's proximity to Borneo, southern portions of the island was under the control of the Sultanate of Brunei for more than two centuries, and Islam was introduced. During the same period, trade relations flourished, and intermarriages among the natives and the Chinese, Japanese, Arab, Hindu. The inter-mixing of blood resulted to a distinct breed of Palaweños, both in physical stature and features.[6]
[edit] Spanish period
After Ferdinand Magellan's death, remnants of his fleet landed in Palawan where the bounty of the land saved them from starvation. Antonio Pigafetta, Magellan's chronicler named the place "Land of Promise."[5]
The northern Calamianes Islands were the first to come under Spanish authority, and were later declared a province separate from the Palawan mainland. In the early 17th century, Spanish friars sent out missions in Cuyo, Agutaya, Taytay and Cagayancillo but they met resistance from Moro communities. Before 18th century, Spain began to build churches enclosed by garrisons for protection against Moro raids in the town of Cuyo, Taytay, Linapacan and Balabac. In 1749, the Sultanate of Borneo ceded southern Palawan to Spain.[6]
In 1818, the entire island of Palawan, or Paragua as it was called, was organized as a single province named Calamianes, with its capital in Taytay. By 1858, the province was divided into two provinces, namely, Castilla, covering the northern section with Taytay as capital and Asturias in the southern mainland with Puerto Princesa as capital. It was later then divided into three districts, Calamianes, Paragua and Balabac, with Principe Alfonso town as its capital.
[edit] American rule
In 1902, after the Philippine-American War, the Americans established civil rule in northern Palawan, calling it the province of Paragua. In 1903, pursuant to Philippine Commission Act No. 1363, the province was reorganized to include the southern portions and renamed Palawan, and Puerto Princesa declared as its capital.[6]Many reforms and projects were later introduced in the province. Construction of school buildings, promotion of agriculture, and bringing people closer to the government were among the priority plans during this era.[6]
[edit] Japanese invasion
[edit] The Palawan Massacre
Main article: Palawan Massacre
The massacre is the basis for the recently published book Last Man Out: Glenn McDole, USMC, Survivor of the Palawan Massacre in World War II by Bob Wilbanks, and the opening scenes of the 2005 Miramax film, The Great Raid. A memorial has been erected on the site and McDole, in his eighties, was able to attend the dedication.
For further details, see the Axis History Forum: Massacre at Palawan.
[edit] Liberation
During the initial phase of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, just off the coast of Palawan, two United States Navy submarines, USS Dace (SS-247) and USS Darter (SS-227) attacked a Japanese cruiser task force led by Admiral Takeo Kurita, sinking his flagship (in which he survived) Atago, and her sister ship Maya. Darter later ran aground that afternoon and was scuttled by USS Nautilus (SS-168).The island was liberated from the Japanese Imperial Forces by a task force consisting of Filipino and American military personnel between February 28 and April 22, 1945.
[edit] Political divisions
Palawan consists of 367 barangays and 23 municipalities, and two congressional districts that divide the province into north and south portions. Thirteen municipalities are considered as mainland municipalities, and these are, Aborlan, Narra, Quezon, Sofronio Española, Brooke's Point, Rizal, and Bataraza (located south), Puerto Princesa (positioned in the center), and San Vicente, Roxas, Dumaran, El Nido, and Taytay (found in the north). The remaining municipalities are island municipalities, and they are: Busuanga, Coron, Linapacan and Culion (forming the Calamianes group of islands), Cuyo, Agutaya and Magsaysay (the Cuyo group of islands), Araceli, Cagayancillo, Balabac and Kalayaan (Spratly Islands), claimed by Vietnam. The capital Puerto Princesa is a highly-urbanized city that governs itself independently from the province, but it usually grouped with the province for statistical purposes.It has a total land area of 14,896 square kilometer (km2), which is distributed to its mainland municipalities, comprising 12,239 km², and the island municipalities, which altogether measure 2,657 km². On the average, each municipality has an area of 620 km². On the other hand, the island municipality of Cuyo (4,003 km²) ranks largest in terms of municipal waters. On the latter, the mainland municipality of Sofronio Española has the smallest marine area with only 485 km².
The largest municipalities are situated in the central and northern mainland, and they are: Puerto Princesa (2,106 km²), Taytay (1,390 km²), and Roxas (1,220 km²). On the contrary, the smallest local government units are the island municipalities of Cagayancillo (15.40 km²), Magsaysay (27.70 km²) and Cuyo (57.30 km²). All 24 local government units have 431 barangays as of June 2002.
[edit] Highly-urbanized city
[edit] Municipalities
[edit] Mainland Municipalities
|
[edit] Island Municipalities
PALAWAN[edit] Region
In 2001, the residents of Palawan voted in a plebiscite to reject inclusion into an expanded Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.[8]On 17 May 2002, Executive order No. 103 divided Region IV into Region IV-A (CALABARZON) and Region IV-B (MIMAROPA), placing the province of Palawan into MIMAROPA.[9]
On 23 May 2005, Executive Order No. 429 directed that Palawan be transferred from Region IV-B to Region VI.[1] However, Palaweños criticized the move, citing a lack of consultation, with most residents in Puerto Princesa City and all municipalities but one preferring to stay with Region IV-B. Consequently, Administrative Order No. 129 was issued on 19 August 2005 that the implementation of EO 429 be held in abeyance pending approval by the President of its implementation Plan.[2] The Philippine Commission on Elections reported the 2010 Philippine general election results for Palawan as a part of the Region IV-B results.[10] As of May 2010, the abeyance is still in effect and Palawan remains a part of MIMAROPA.
[edit] Demographics
[edit] People and culture
Further information: Tribes of Palawan
Based on the 2000 census, the population of the entire province is 737,000. The province is a melting pot of 87 different cultural groups and races who live together in peace and harmony. Basically, its culture bears a strong influence from China, India and the Middle East. Influx of migrants from other parts of the Philippines, particularly from Muslim Mindanao, accounts for the high population growth rate of 3.98% annually. The native-born Palaweños still predominate the populace. Eighteen percent is composed of cultural minority groups such as the Tagbanua, Palawano, Batak, and Molbog.[edit] Language
There are 52 languages and dialects in the province, with Tagalog being spoken by more than 50 percent of the people. Other languages are Cuyonon (26.27 percent), Palawano (4.0 percent), and Ilonggo (9.6 percent).[edit] Religion
File:Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish in the Apostoloc Vicariate of Puerto Princesa.jpg
The Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish, the seat of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa. The Church was formerly run by the Recoletos but was later turned-over to the Diocesan Clergy.
[edit] Roman Catholicism
The predominant religion in Palawan is Roman Catholicism. However, although there are a lot of Roman Catholic parishes in Puerto Princesa City, the number of Catholic Faithfuls are still scarce for it to be considered as a full-fledged Diocese. Some of the Religious Orders that had a significant mission in the Islands is the Order of Augustinian Recollects.[edit] Protestantism and Other Groups
Several Baptist and other Protestant denominations have a strong presence on Palawan as do the Church of the Foursquare Gospel in the Philippines, and the Seventh-day Adventists. Charismatic groups such as Jesus is Lord (JIL) and the Life Church (formerly known at the Life Renewal Center) LifeChurch (LRCM).Numerous smaller groups are also found on Palawan such as Church of Christ, in front of Bona's. They meet every Sunday morning and Wednesday night.
Other Christian denominations including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the Mormons or LDS) are present on Palawan, the Members Church of God International, and the indigenous Iglesia ni Cristo (not to be confused with the Church of Christ or the United Christ of Christ Philippines (UCCP)), are also strong on Palawan as well as the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (Philippine Independent Church or Aglipayan Church)]] which is standing as one diocese (The Diocese of Palawan).
[edit] Non-Christian religions
Because of its proximity to Mindanao and even Malaysia, pockets of indigenous Muslims can be found in the southern municipalities with Muslims making up the majority of the population in some municipalities in the far south like Balabac and Bataraza. There are also Buddhists - mainly Vietnamese refugees who settled in Palawan, as well as some ethnic Chinese Buddhists. One notable Vietnamese Buddhist Temple in Palawan is Vihara Van Phat.Most of the ethnic minorities such as Batak and Tagbanwa are animists, but many have become Christians (usually Protestant) or have joined other sects.
[edit] Education
Enrollment in public elementary schools is steadily increasing. From 146,114 in 2003, the number of students in the public elementary schools went up to 147,013 in the year 2004 while enrollees in public secondary schools reached 55,887.[11]Literacy rate in Palawan is increasing by 2% annually because of expanding access to education. Among these programs are the establishment of schools in remote barangays, non-formal education, multi-grade mobile teaching and the drop-out intervention program.[11]
Public schools in the province consist of 623 elementary schools, 126 secondary schools and two universities. Private schools are as follows: 26 – elementary; 19 – secondary; 4 private colleges and 10 vocational schools. Some of the private institutions are the Holy Trinity University run by the Dominican Sisters of Saint Catherine of Siena, Fullbright College, Palawan Polytechnical College Inc., in Roxas, San Vicente and Puerto Princesa City, Systems Technology Institute (STI), AMA Computer Learning Center (ACLC) in Puerto Princesa City, San Francisco Javier College run by the Augustinian Recollect Sisters in Narra, Loyola College in Culion run by the Jesuits, St. Joseph Academy in Cuyo, St. Augustine Academy in Coron, Coron Technical School, Sacred Heart of Jesus High School in Brooke's Point;Northern Palawan Christian Institute ( Owned and manage by The Iglesia Filipina Independiente; Palawan Diocese) and the unique educational institution called the St. Ezekiel Moreno Dormitory located in barangay Macarascas, Puerto Princesa City founded by Bishop Broderick Pabillo, the present auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Manila.[11]
Among the public institutions are the Palawan State University, Western Philippines University with campuses in Aborlan and Puerto Princesa City, Coron College of Fisheries, Puerto Princesa School of Arts and Trade and the Palawan College of Arts and Trade in Cuyo, Palawan.
[edit] Environment
Unlike most of the Philippines, Palawan is biogeographically part of Sundaland, with a fauna and flora related to that found in Borneo.[12]Among the many endemic species are the Palawan Peacock-pheasant, Philippine Mouse-deer, Philippine Pangolin and Palawan Bearded Pig. In the forests and grasslands, the air resonates with the songs of more than 200 kinds of birds. Over 600 species of butterflies flutter around the mountains and fields of Palawan, attracted to some 1500 hosts plants found here. Endangered sea turtles nest on white sand beaches.[13] Dugong numbers have fallen seriously, although Palawan still has a larger population than any other part of the country.[14]
Total forest cover is about 56 percent of the total land area of the province while mangrove forest accounts for 3.35 percent based on the 1998 Landsat imagery. Grasslands dwindled from 19 percent in 1992 to 12.40 percent in 1998. This is an indication of improving soil condition as deteriorating soil is normally invaded by grass species. Brushlands increased to 25 percent of the total land area. Sprawled beneath the seas are nearly 11,000 square kilometers of coral reefs, representing more than 35% of the country’s coral reefs.[13]
Palawan, the only Philippine island cited, is rated by National Geographic Traveler magazine as the best island destination in East and Southeast Asia region in 2007, and the 13th best island in the world having "incredibly beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes. One of the most biodiverse (terrestrial and marine) islands in the Philippines... The island has had a Biosphere Reserve status since early 1990s, showing local interest for conservation and sustainable development".[15][16]
The province was also categorized as "doing well" in the 4th Destination Scorecard survey conducted by the National Geographic Center for Sustainable Destinations, and Conde Nast Traveler magazine voted its beaches, coves and islets as the tourist destination with the best beaches in Asia.[17] Renowned underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau has described the province as having one of the most beautiful seascapes in the world.[13] and Caril Ridley, founder of Palawan Environmental and Marine Studies Center (PEMS) says the Islands of northern Palawan are destined to become a future destination for Asia's growing economic and environmental conferencing.
[edit] Notable sites
[edit] Boayan Island
[edit] Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary
A game reserve and wildlife sanctuary of exotic African animals and endangered endemic animals of Palawan. The reserve was established on August 31, 1976 by virtue of the Presidential Decree No.1578, this was initiated in response to the appeal of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature to help save African wildlife when former President Ferdinand Marcos attended the 3rd World Conference in Kenya. By virtue of the Republic Act 7611 (SEP), administrative jurisdiction of DENR was given to the local government of Palawan, effective December 31, 1993. Management of the area is the responsibility of the Office of the Palawan Council of Sustainable Development (PCSD). It is located in Calauit Island in Busuanga.[edit] Coron Reefs, Coron Bay, Busuanga
Seven lakes surrounded by craggy limestone cliffs attract hundreds of nature lovers to Coron Reefs in Northern Palawan, near the town of Coron. Busuanga Island, whose main town is Coron, is the jump-off point for numerous dive operators. The principal dive sites are 12 World War II Japanese shipwrecks sunk on September 24, 1944 by US Navy action. They range in depth from the surface to 40 meters. This large variety offers exciting wreck exploration for enthusiasts, from novice divers and snorkelers and recreational divers to experienced TEC divers. The aquatic views from the sunken Japanese warships off Coron Island are listed in Forbes Traveler Magazine’s top 10 best scuba sites in the world.[17]Dive operators offer PADI dive courses ranging from Discover Scuba to Assistant Instructor, Technical and Enriched Air Diving, as well as other specialty courses. Dive operators offer day diving, snorkeling trips, and overnight dive safaris. Live-aboard and charter boats also offer diving in the area.
[edit] El Nido Marine Reserve Park
[edit] Malampaya Sound Land and Seascape Protected Area
Located in the Municipality of Taytay, this important ecological and economic zone is a watershed and fishing ground, and the habitat of Bottle-nosed and Irrawaddy dolphins.[19][edit] UNESCO World Heritage Sites
This park features a large limestone karst landscape with an underground river. One of the river's distinguishing features is that it emerges directly into the sea, and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences. The area also represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a full 'mountain-to-sea' ecosystem and has some of the most important forests in Asia.
- Tubbataha Reef Marine Park (1993)
[edit] Ursula Island
This game refuge and bird sanctuary is situated near the Municipality of Brooke's Point in southern Palawan. The islet is a migratory and wintering ground for shorebirds and seabirds.[19][edit] Climate
The province has two types of climate. The first, which occurs in the northern and southern extremities and the entire western coast, has two distinct seasons – six months dry and six months wet. The other, which prevails in the eastern coast, has a short dry season of one to three months and no pronounced rainy period during the rest of the year. The southern part of the province is virtually free from tropical depressions but northern Palawan experiences torrential rains during the months of July and August. Summer months serve as peak season for Palawan. Sea voyage is most favorable from March to early June when the seas are calm. The average maximum temperature is 31 degrees C with little variation all year.[3][edit] Geology
Specific rock types in the "continental" northeast, include clastic rocks (sandstones and mudstones). Good exposures of these rocks types can be found on the main road running along the southern coast east of Puerto Princesa all the way up to Malampaya Sound. These rocks probably formed the continental shelf, rise, slope or even deeper marine deposits on the southeast margin of China prior to the opening of the South China Sea. The Palawan Trench is a deep ocean element of the South China Sea.[20]
Further north, around the Malampaya Sound area and up to the El Nido area, one finds deep marine chert and limestone. Based on the structure of these sedimentary units, it is thought that they formed part of an accretionary prism on the southeast margin of China at a time when that part of China was an Andean-type plate margin (an ocean-continent subduction zone). The chert and limestone were scraped off of an oceanic plate and accreted to the margin of China (again, prior to the opening of the South China Sea). Some of the limestones are also thought to be of olistostromal origin (i.e., they formed in shallow water but were transported to deeper water by submarine slides).
Intruding these rocks in central Palawan (Cleopatra's Needle area) and northern Palawan (Mount Capoas or Kapoas area) are young granite bodies (true granite to granodiorite) of Miocene age (13-15 million years old based on zircon and monazite U-Pb dating). In the Taytay area of northern Palawan, a young basaltic cinder cone is another manifestation of young magmatic activity. The granitic magmatism and basaltic magmatism are both expressions of what has been identified as a widespread post-South China Sea spreading magmatism that has affected many areas around the South China Sea. Hydrothermal activity associated with mercury mineralization near Puerto Princesa is yet another sign of recent magmatic-hydrothermal activity. Surprisingly though, Palawan is relatively "quiet" in terms of seismic activity. Very few moderate-sized earthquakes are recorded in the area in contrast to the rest of the Philippines east of Palawan which are very seismically active.
Tectonically, Palawan with the Calamian Islands, is considered to be a north-east extension of the Sunda Plate, in collision with the Philippine Mobile Belt at Mindoro.
[edit] Security
Spearheading the maintenance of the peace and order situation are the Armed Forces of the Philippines–Western Command in Canigaran and the Philippine National Police-Palawan Command with headquarters in Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa. Military units in the province under the Western Command are the Philippine Air Force 4th Naval District IV, Delta Company and 10th Marine Battalion Landing Team located in Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa.[edit] Economy
Palawan's economy is basically agricultural. The three major crops are palay, corn and coconut. Mineral resources include nickel, copper, manganese, and chromite. Logging is also a major industry. Palawan has one of the richest fishing grounds in the country. About 45% of Manila's supply of fish comes from here. Having natural gas reserves of approximately 30,000 trillion cubic feet, the province is the only oil-producing province in the country.[21][22] In addition, tourism is also a thriving sector.Pearl diving used to be a significant economic activity for Palawan until the advent of plastics. The world's largest pearl, the 240mm diameter Pearl of Lao Tzu, was found off Palawan in 1934.
The economic and agricultural business growth of province is at 20% per annum.[22] Coconut, sugar, rice, lumber, and livestock are produced here.[4]
[edit] Communication
Four telecommunication companies provide local and international direct distance dialing and fax services. Inter island communications is available through the government’s telegraph network and the Provincial Radio Communication System. In addition, there are 19 post offices, a number of cargo forwarders provide air parcel and freight services.[11]The province has access to two satellite-linked television stations. Cable television in the City of Puerto Princesa offers dozens of foreign channels while smaller firms provide cable services in selected towns. Individual cable facility (Dream Cable) is available locally. Seven radio stations are based in Puerto Princesa, four on the AM and three on the FM bands. Community-based radio stations operate in some of the municipalities in the north and south of the province. Additional stations are expected to set up local affiliates in the capital city of Puerto Princesa.[11]
Two mobile phone companies, Smart Communications and Globe Telecom, are operating in the province. Sun Cellular is expected to start operations in the province soon.[11]
There are three Internet Service Providers in the Province-Kawing Internet, Mozcom Puerto Princesa and Pal-Isla Globelines Broadband, PLDT My DSL and Smart Amazing Wireless Broadband are also available.[11]
[edit] AM Radio stations
- DYPR 765 kHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Palawan Broadcasting Corporation
- DWMR Radyo ng Bayan, owned by Philippine Broadcasting Service
- DZRH Puerto Princesa DYPH 693 kHz, owned by Manila Broadcasting Company
[edit] FM Radio stations
- DYUN 89.3 MHz in Aborlan, owned by State Polytechnic University of Palawan
- 91.1 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by ZOE Broadcasting Network
- 92.3 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Interactive Broadcasting Media
- 94.3 MHz Home Radio in Puerto Princesa, owned by Aliw Broadcasting Corporation
- 95.9 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Katigbak Enterprises
- 95.9 MHz in Taytay, owned by Palawan Broadcasting Corporation
- 96.7 MHz Radyo Natin, Narra owned by Mitransmission
- 97.5 MHz Campus Radio in Puerto Princesa, owned by Republic Broadcasting Systems (Radio GMA)
- DYEZ-FM 98.3 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Manila Broadcasting Company
- DWWA Radyo Cabayugan 98.5 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Palawan Council for Sustainable Development
- The Hit FM 99.1 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Rajah Broadcasting Network
- DYPR IFM 99.9 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Palawan Broadcasting Corporation and Radio Mindanao Network
- DWRZ Radyo Natin 100.5 MHz in Coron, owned by Manila Broadcasting Company
- DWGA Radyo Inogbong 101.1 MHz in Bataraza, owned by Palawan Council for Sustainable Development
- DWRO Radyo Natin 101.3 MHz in Roxas, owned by Manila Broadcasting Company
- Bay Radio 103.1 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Baycomms Broadcasting Corporation
- Radyo Natin 103.3 MHz in Taytay, owned by Manila Broadcasting Company
- DYMS 103.9 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by Romeo Servando (Rolin Broadcasting)
- DWMI Radyo Natin 104.5 MHz in Brooke's Point, owned by Manila Broadcasting Company
- 105.5 MHz in Puerto Princesa, owned by VTV[disambiguation needed]
[edit] TV stations
- DYFJ-TV Channel 29 in Puerto Princesa City owned by the Rajah Broadcasting Network
- DYPR -TV Channel 7, in Puerto Princesa City, owned by Palawan Broadcasting Corporation (an affiliate of ABS-CBN)
- NBN Channel 4 in Puerto Princesa City, owned by National Broadcasting Network
- DYPQ-TV Q Channel 27 in Puerto Princesa City owned by GMA Network
- DYPQ-TV Sonshine TV 39 in Puerto Princesa City owned by ACQ-Kingdom Broadcasting Network
- DYPU-TV GMA Channel 12 in Puerto Princesa City
- DYAA-TV GMA Channel 6 in Brooke's Point, Palawan- a relay station of GMA Network
- DWRF-TV GMA Channel 8 in Coron, Palawan- a relay station of GMA Network
[edit] Cable Television Companies
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[edit] Print media
- Bandillo ng Palawan (Environment and Development Weekly): Philippine Press Institute's Hall of Fame Awardee for Best in Science and Environmental Reporting
- The Palawan Times by Luntian Publishing Inc., a weekly newspaper in Puerto Princesa
- Palawan Sun
- Palawan Mirror
[edit] Health facilities
There are nine provincial government hospitals, two national government hospitals, one military hospital and nine private hospitals in the province. The Ospital ng Palawan, managed and administered by the Department of Health (DOH), and the Palawan Adventist Hospital are located in Puerto Princesa. The Culion Sanitarium and General Hospital in Culion is also a DOH-run hospital.[11][edit] Hospitals in Palawan
[edit] Medicare Hospitals
- Aborlan Medicare Hospital
- Quezon Medicare Hospital
- Roxas Medicare Hospital
[edit] District Hospitals
- Brooke’s Point District Hospital
- Taytay District Hospital
- Cuyo District Hospital
- Coron District Hospital
[edit] Municipal Hospital
- Narra Municipal Hospital
- Dumaran Municipal Hospital
[edit] Rural Health Units with Lying-In
- Rizal Rural Health Unit
- Bataraza Rural Health Unit
- San Vicente Rural Health Unit
- Araceli Rural Health Unit
- Linapacan Rural Health Unit
- Busuanga Rural Health Unit
- Cagayancillo Rural Health Unit
[edit] Private Hospitals
- Palawan Adventist Medical Center - San Pedro, Puerto Princesa
- Sacred Heart Hospital - Narra
- Manipol Hospital – Brooke’s Point
- RTN Hospital – Rio-Tuba, Bataraza
- Palawan Baptist Hospital – Roxas
- Alfonso Birthing Home – Malvar St., Puerto Princesa
- Leoncio General Hospital – Brooke’s Point
- Sagrado Hospital – Brooke’s Point
- Cooperative Hospital/Medical Mission Group - Burgos St., Puerto Princesa
[edit] Public services
[edit] Electricity
The National Power Corporation has 14 electric facilities all over Palawan. It operates with a total of 51.363 megawatts of electricity. These electric facilities include:[11]- Agutaya Power Plant
- Araceli Power Plant
- Balabac Power Plant
- Cagayancillo Power Plant
- Culion Power Plant
- Cuyo Power Plant
- El Nido Power Plant
- Linapacan Power Plant
- Delta P (IPP)
- Puerto Princesa Power Plant
- Roxas Power Plant
- San Vicente Power Plant
- Taytay Power Plant
- NPC Modular Power Plant (Irawan)
[edit] Water facilities
Water facilities in Palawan are classified as Level I (deepwell, handpump), Level II (communal faucet), or Level III (house connection). Among all of these types, Level I has the most number of units, accounting to 17,438; this is followed by Level III, with 1,688 units; and Level II, with only 94 units.[11][edit] References
- ^ a b President of the Philippines (May 23, 2005). "Executive Order No. 429". Office of the Press Secretary.
- ^ a b President of the Philippines (August 19, 2005). "Administrative Order No. 129". Office of the Press Secretary.
- ^ a b c d WowPhilippines:Palawan - the Philippines' Last Frontier. Accessed August 27, 2008.
- ^ a b c MSN Encarta: Palawan. Accessed September 05, 2008.
- ^ a b c Puerto Princesa website: History of Palawan. Accessed August 28, 2008.
- ^ a b c d e f g Palawan Tourism Council: History of Palawan at the Wayback Machine (archived July 31, 2008).. Accessed August 27, 2008.
- ^ Camperspoint: History of Palawan. Accessed August 27, 2008.
- ^ "Philippines 'rejects' Muslim self-rule". BBC News. 15 August 2001. Retrieved 2008-08-15.
- ^ President of the Philippines (17 May 2002). "Executive Order No. 103". ncsb.gov.ph. Retrieved 2008-08-15.
- ^ Philippine 2010 Election Results: Region IV-B, Philippine Commission on Elections.
- ^ What is Sundaland?. Accessed 11th June 2010.
- ^ a b c The Official Website of the Province of Palawan: Environment. Accessed August 28, 2008.
- ^ Dugong Page: Philippines. Accessed 11 June 2010.
- ^ "Destinations Rated: Islands".
- ^ "4th Annual Places Rated: 111 Islands" (PDF).
- ^ a b Lagen, Miniloc resorts win world’s green vote
- ^ The world's greenest hotels, from Switzerland to Sri Lanka
- ^ a b Palawan Tourism Council: Palawan Environment. Accessed August 28, 2008.
- ^ C.Michael Hogan (2011) South China Sea Topic ed. P.Saundry. Ed.-in-chief C.J.Cleveland. Encyclopedia of Earth. National Council for Science and the Environment. Washington DC
- ^ Palawan Profile at Home.comcast.net. Accessed August 28, 2008.
- ^ a b Puerto Princesa website: Quick facts. Accessed August 28, 2008.
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