TRAVELOGUE: Puerto Princesa, Palawan

It must have been everyone’s dream to take a trip to one of the country’s most visited tour destination, Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The pristine water, the breath-taking landscape, wide array of seafoods and the warmth of people lure its visitors and keep them coming back. That is why I have noted it on my bucket list and I feel so lucky when I get the chance to chase my dream.

The trip was intended for a press conference but the heck, me and the gang will not waste the chance to roam and discover Puerto Princesa whenever the time permits us. 

Day 1

With 8 hours of travel from Bicol to Manila, we arrived at Philtranco Pasay Terminal at 3 AM.  We were almost exhausted from the long trip plus  we need to fill our tummy with good food.  Just across the bus terminal was a fastfood chain where we rest for a little. A hot choco complimented our breakfast. Burp!

We were scheduled to fly through Air Asia at 7:15 AM and arrived at NAIA 4 at 4:00 AM. It looked like we have more than enough time to slack around the airport because our flight was moved to 8: 30 AM due to air congestion. Anyway, we paid around 10K each for the air fare because we didn’t book on time so we’ll try to be early birds next time. Ouch!

Puerto Princesa had a fair weather and we were so excited to set our foot on it.  It shows on our faces!

These beautiful on-the-job trainees of Balayong Pension House were the first to welcome us and gave us a free transfer from the airport to the pension house.

We got 2 rooms (1 for the boys, 1 for the girls) with single beds, aircon, hot and cold shower and a veranda with a nice view of the sea port. It was not as luxurious as a hotel room but the place feels like home and the staffs are very courteous. Since it was already past 1 in the afternoon,  we were all starving and started to look for place to eat.

The local tricyle of Palawan has a unique design and can accommodate up to 5 passengers. It is also known as the ‘Bahay Kubo Tricycle”.  The fare around the city is 8 pesos each. Not bad! Take note, traffic  builds up during rush hours and it can be annoying.

We did a little research of course on where and what to eat in Palawan. Noki Nocs is one of the highly recommended restos in the city.  I ordered grilled liempo with tuna ceviche, my first to try raw fish and it was delicous! The price? We only paid less than 130 Php and they serve unlimited rice.

Niko Nocs is famous for their must-try halo-halo. With the humid temperature outside, the coolness of this dessert satisfies our palate. For only 65Php, it was served with sweetened banana slice, beans, gulaman, and so many that I can’t recall their names anymore.  A slice of yummy leche flan is the treat on top!

After few hours of sleep, we decided to tour around the city at night.  Our first stop is Palawan City Baywalk Park where ships from Manila used to dock. The air here is very breezy. The Palawan peacock pheasants are endemic to the island of Palawan and are believed to be rapidly diminishing.

Located in the heart of the city, Chinatown comes alive at night. It is a local mall with stalls and stores. The lanterns brighten the street of Valencia, perfect for photo op.

Day 2

You might not get interested because it was an official business. We spent the day for the registration and getting ready for the big event. We transferred to Rodolfo Hotel, accomodation provided by the event organizer. They serve free breaskfast in the morning.

Day 3

A city tour was  prepared by the organizers of our event. Local tour guides were contacted but almost all the tricycle drivers we encountered offered us a city tour for only 500Php.  It is much cheaper if you opt to rent a tricycle than to contact a tour office which rates starting from P700 per pax.  The adventure officially started.


 1st Stop – Palawan Heritage Museum.

   

The remains of dog bones were used as a masterpiece displayed in the museum. A local Palawan artist made this magnificent work of art.

Palawan Mambabarang 

A replica of Jagul jar, where the remains of Tabon man was believed to be found.

2nd Stop - Binautan Creations

Here you can participate in a hands-on experience and demonstration in traditional weaving. The thread used is from local grass.  You can also buy souvenirs as low as 50 pesos.

3rd Stop - Plaza Cuarte

This is a former US military base where American soldiers are believed to be burned to death by the Japanese. A hole can still be seen and is actually a tunnel leading to Iwahig Penal colony.

4th stop - Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral

We stopped at Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral to say our prayer for a safe trip back home.

5th  Stop - Butterfly Garden and Tribal Village

6th Stop - Baker’s Hill


A place where you can buy freshly baked Hopia with several varieties. Situated on top of the hill, it is also has a beautiful landscape park for tourists. 

7th Stop - Swimming!!

Our first hop was on  Starfish Island. Well, obviously the island has the greatest population of starfish. These symmetrical five –armed star really love this island and we’re lucky to find not just one but 3!

Luli Island literally means lulubog, lilitaw. It sinks and rise because of tide; at high tide it disappears and at low tide, it reappears.  Brave souls can also take a plunge from a diving board just few meters from the shore.

Day 4 - Going Home


It’s so sad that we have to leave Palawan so soon but before we forget, we must buy pasalubong for our friends and families back home. LRC Souvenir shop sells all kinds of  pasalubong, from key chains, ref magnets, wine, home displays and so much more. But since I am a certified lakwatsera, I always know that cheap souvenirs can be found in their local markets.