Palawan is indeed a remarkable destination for an exotic and rejuvenating journey. Located at the heart of the archipelago, it is surrounded by small islands, creating a truly unique natural wonder.
This island stretches for 425 kilometers in length, varying in width from 8 km to 40 km at different points. What sets Palawan apart is the presence of uninhabited islands that have remained in their pristine state.
With only 74 people per square kilometer, Palawan offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The primary source of livelihood for the locals here is catering to the increasing number of tourists who visit this enchanting place year after year.
Palawan has a rich history, dating back to its founding approximately 25,000-30,000 years ago when the first inhabitants arrived via a pre-existing isthmus with Borneo.
Until 1960, the island was mostly covered with rainforest, but over the course of 20-25 years, large areas of forest were cleared before the government intervened.
Prior to 1903, Palawan was known as Paragua, and its capital was Puerto Princesa, named after the Spanish Princess Eulalia.
The majority of Palawan's population speaks their own dialect, known for their religiosity and strong sense of community. The island is also home to Muslims from Sulu and about 20% of the population consists of national minorities, adding to the cultural diversity of the region.
