Palawan Says No to Mining: A 50-Year Victory for Nature

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan – Well, well, well. It seems that against all odds (and probably against a few deep-pocketed interests), Palawan has finally passed a 50-year moratorium on mining applications. Yes, you read that right—half a century of not turning the province into a giant excavation site. For once, the environment actually wins. Shocking, isn’t it? The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) made it official on March 5, after four months of … Continue reading Palawan Says No to Mining: A 50-Year Victory for Nature

Nido Petroleum’s High Stakes Treasure Hunt: Palawan’s Oil and Gas Dreams

It’s not every day you hear about a treasure hunt happening right in our backyard, but Nido Petroleum Philippines is turning Palawan’s offshore waters into a modern-day El Dorado. With $17 million ready to flow like, well, oil, this Australian energy player’s local arm is gearing up for some serious digging — not for gold, but for oil and gas. A Quick Flashback to Palawan’s … Continue reading Nido Petroleum’s High Stakes Treasure Hunt: Palawan’s Oil and Gas Dreams

The West Philippine Sea’s Unwanted Souvenirs: Pag-asa Island Battles Waves of Trash

Pag-asa Island, a peaceful and scenic spot in the West Philippine Sea, is known for its crystal-clear waters, gentle breezes, and… plastic bottles with Chinese labels? Yes, you read that right—residents of this remote island have been dealing with an unexpected and less-than-welcome visitor: trash. And based on the packaging, it looks like China’s vessels may have been sending more than just sailors their way. … Continue reading The West Philippine Sea’s Unwanted Souvenirs: Pag-asa Island Battles Waves of Trash

To Close or Not to Close? El Nido Tourism’s Moment of Truth Approaches

In the tropical paradise of El Nido, Palawan, a storm is brewing—or rather, a sewage and water supply issue that could potentially disrupt its bustling tourism industry. The fate of this idyllic town hangs in the balance as a committee prepares to decide whether to shut down its tourism sector due to pressing environmental concerns. The Drama Unfolds According to Department of the Interior and … Continue reading To Close or Not to Close? El Nido Tourism’s Moment of Truth Approaches

Mimaropa’s Marine Marvels: Blue Park Awards and Tubbataha’s Hope Spot Honor

In a dazzling display of marine conservation excellence, three protected areas in the Mimaropa region have been crowned with the prestigious “Blue Park” Awards, celebrating their outstanding efforts in sustainable management and marine resource conservation. Adding to this wave of accolades, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park has been declared a Mission Blue Hope Spot, spotlighting the vital need for increased Marine Protected Area (MPA) support … Continue reading Mimaropa’s Marine Marvels: Blue Park Awards and Tubbataha’s Hope Spot Honor

Pag-asa Island: The Future Home of Nuclear Waste or Just the Best Way to Secure Sovereignty?

In a move that’s bound to raise eyebrows and perhaps even a few Geiger counters, Pangasinan Representative Mark Cojuangco has proposed a novel solution to both our energy and geopolitical problems: turning Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea into a nuclear waste dumping site. “Two Birds, One Island” Why waste time arguing over who owns Pag-asa when you can just fill it with nuclear … Continue reading Pag-asa Island: The Future Home of Nuclear Waste or Just the Best Way to Secure Sovereignty?

Puerto Princesa Underground River to Close for Maintenance and Ecological Preservation on July 1-3

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP), one of the Philippines’ most celebrated natural wonders, will be temporarily closed to the public from July 1 to 3, 2024. This decision, announced by the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), aims to ensure the ecological health of the park and maintain its outstanding universal value. Purpose of the Closure The three-day closure serves multiple critical purposes: … Continue reading Puerto Princesa Underground River to Close for Maintenance and Ecological Preservation on July 1-3

Coral Bleaching in Tubbataha Reefs National Park: An Alarming Reality

Tubbataha Reefs National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its vibrant coral ecosystems, is now grappling with a significant environmental threat. Angelique Songco, the park’s dedicated superintendent, recently shared a heartfelt entry in her “Mama Ranger Diaries” on May 28, 2024, highlighting the grim situation. The reefs, home to a spectacular diversity of marine life, are undergoing severe coral bleaching, a distressing phenomenon … Continue reading Coral Bleaching in Tubbataha Reefs National Park: An Alarming Reality

Movie Review: Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom – A Cinematic Dive into Nature Preservation finding relevance in Palawan

“Exploring the Real-Life Relevance of Atlantis in the Philippines’ Last Frontier” Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom currently being shown in Puerto Princesa City: SM Movieworld and Robinsons Mall Cinemas. In the realm of superheroes and cinematic marvels, Aquaman takes center stage in his upcoming adventure, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.” While the film promises an epic underwater spectacle, it also brings attention to real-world issues, … Continue reading Movie Review: Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom – A Cinematic Dive into Nature Preservation finding relevance in Palawan

Unearthing Palawan’s Hidden Environmental Crisis: A Call for Environmental Responsibility

The Environmental Legal Assistance Center, Inc. (ELAC) Exposes Illegal Reclamation Activities Threatening Palawan’s Nature and Communities Palawan, known as the “last frontier” of the Philippines, boasts unparalleled natural beauty. Its pristine landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity have long captivated the hearts of both locals and tourists. However, beneath the serene surface, a disturbing and covert environmental issue has come to light, thanks to the … Continue reading Unearthing Palawan’s Hidden Environmental Crisis: A Call for Environmental Responsibility