There is truth to the adage that says ‘when we are flat on our backs there is no way to look but up’ as El Nido is getting back on its feet after years of pandemic lockdowns. Tourism which is the main source of livelihood was at a standstill and more than 30,000 tourism workers lost their jobs in Palawan.

Pictures of El Nido at night contributed by Roy Aurello Pagliawan show tourist walking the streets, eating in the restaurants, haggling with vendors generally having the time of their lives.

Side street food kiosk are now alive to the delight of mostly European and North American tourist.

And of course, restaurants which serve local and International Cusine are now back. Hiring for hospitality workers have also recently seen a spike.

We cannot say the tourists are back with a vengeance though as the numbers have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

But for sure businesses have become optimistic once again and have now extended opening hours up to night time.

As well as side street stalls hoping to get a slice of the pie the tourist dollars bring.

Anything that is worth selling has a chance to be sold especially if they are souvenir items, bags, dress and accessories and even cellphone case holders are available.

Roy Aureolo Pagliawan who took the photos is a nature lover and a local of El Nido and believe El Nido’s original island vibe is back. Well, almost and we are hopeful this trend continue.

We share the optimism and may it spread through the whole island of Palawan so many people will experience the best of the Best Island in the World.

All photos credits to: Roy Aurello Pagliawan