Palawan, the Last Frontier

Tweet

Palawan is a paradise. It's called the Last Frontier due to its vast natural resources. A special law called the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan (SEP)aka RA 7611 was even passed on June 19, 1992 to ensure its sustainable development. Lately, however, mining companies have been operating in Southern Palawan particularly in Berong, Quezon; San Isidro, Narra; Brooke's Point and Rio Tuba, Bataraza. Though I agree that sustainable development does not necessarily mean purely environmental protection, I worry about Palawan's future. Those who have been to Palawan could see that is has a fragile ecosystem. I shudder to think of the day when Palawan's rich natural resources would become a thing of the past simply because the present generation have set aside its environmental protection for the sake of development. On the other hand, about 70% of the Palawenos are poor. Aside from the mining industry, we do not have large manufacturing corporations or multi national companies that could provide employment to our people. Most of our newly grads have nowhere to go except to apply at the Provincial Government or the City Government of Puerto Princesa. I hope that we could provide them with alternative employment opportunities or even self-employment. Today, Puerto Princesa City has become a highly urbanized city. Soon, Palawan would be divided into three provinces: Central Palawan, Northern Palawan and Southern Palawan in preparation for its regionalization. To all Palawenos, Cuyonon or anyone out there who love Palawan, I would like to hear from you.