
Palawan is world-famous for its breathtaking islands, Coron to El Nido dive spots, and rich marine biodiversity. But beyond its natural beauty, the indigenous Tagbanua people play a crucial role in preserving these ecosystems. As one of the oldest ethnic groups in the Philippines, the Tagbanua Palawan have maintained a deep spiritual and environmental connection with their ancestral lands and waters.
This article explores the Tagbanua Palawan, their relationship with tourism, their role in protecting marine biodiversity in the best diving Philippines destinations, and how they benefit from eco-tourism activities.
Table of Contents
Who Are the Tagbanua Palawan?
The Tagbanua are one of the oldest indigenous groups in the Philippines, inhabiting the Calamianes Islands, Coron, Busuanga, and parts of mainland Palawan. Their traditions revolve around sustainable resource management, fishing, and cultural practices passed down for generations.
Tagbanua’s Connection to Coron – El Nido
The Tagbanua hold ancestral domain rights over many famous tourist destinations, including:
✔ Kayangan Lake – A sacred and protected site under their stewardship.
✔ Barracuda Lake – A stunning dive site managed by the Tagbanua community.
✔ Twin Lagoon – One of the most visited spots in Coron, requiring an entrance fee that benefits the Tagbanua people.
These areas form part of their ancestral lands, allowing them to manage and benefit economically from tourism while preserving the environment.
Tagbanua Palawan and Sustainable Tourism
With the rise of tourism in Coron – El Nido, the Tagbanua have taken active steps to ensure that tourism benefits their community without harming the environment.
Do the Tagbanua Receive Royalties from Tourism?
Yes. The Tagbanua have legal rights over their ancestral lands, meaning they collect fees from tourists visiting Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and other sites. These funds support their livelihoods, education, and conservation programs.
How Are the Tagbanua Involved in Marine Conservation?
The Tagbanua recognize the importance of preserving marine biodiversity, especially in the best diving areas. Their conservation efforts include:
✔ Fishing restrictions to prevent overfishing in ancestral waters.
✔ Eco-tourism initiatives promoting responsible travel.
✔ Mangrove reforestation projects to protect marine ecosystems.
📍 Impact on Coron to El Nido: Sustainable tourism efforts by the Tagbanua help protect coral reefs, seagrass beds, and fish populations, ensuring that divers continue to experience thriving marine life.
Do the Tagbanua Benefit from Diving in Coron to El Nido?
Yes! Many diving locations in Coron-El Nido fall under the jurisdiction of the Tagbanua, who manage entrance fees, diving permits, and eco-tourism activities.
📍 Best Diving Philippines Sites Managed by the Tagbanua:
✔ Barracuda Lake – Known for its unique thermocline diving.
✔ Siete Pecados Marine Park – A vibrant coral reef sanctuary protected by the Tagbanua.
✔ Twin Lagoon – A stunning dive and snorkeling site managed by the community.
By diving in these areas, visitors directly support the Tagbanua’s conservation efforts and their sustainable way of life.
Challenges Facing the Tagbanua Palawan
Despite their successful conservation efforts, the Tagbanua face ongoing challenges, including:
❌ Mass tourism pressures leading to overuse of natural resources.
❌ Encroachment by developers on their ancestral lands.
❌ Climate change impacts, such as coral bleaching and rising sea levels.
To overcome these challenges, eco-conscious tourism, legal protection, and sustainable resource management are essential for the future of the Tagbanua and their marine environment.
FAQs About the Tagbanua Palawan
Who are the Tagbanua Palawan?
The Tagbanua are one of the oldest indigenous groups in the Philippines, managing ancestral lands and marine resources in Palawan.
What is the connection between the Tagbanua and Coron to El Nido?
They own and protect major tourist destinations like Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and Twin Lagoon, collecting fees that benefit their community.
Do the Tagbanua benefit from diving tourism?
Yes, they manage diving sites in Coron, ensuring sustainable tourism practices while earning income for local projects.
How are the Tagbanua involved in marine conservation?
They enforce fishing restrictions, mangrove restoration, and eco-tourism initiatives to preserve their marine ecosystems.
What can tourists do to support the Tagbanua?
✔ Visit Tagbanua-managed sites and pay entrance fees.
✔ Book eco-friendly tours that respect indigenous rights.
✔ Follow Leave No Trace principles when exploring.
Conclusion
The Tagbanua are more than just stewards of their ancestral lands—they are guardians of Palawan’s marine biodiversity. Through sustainable tourism, conservation projects and eco-tourism initiatives, they ensure that areas like Coron-Nido remain pristine for future generations.
By supporting Tagbanua-led tourism and conservation efforts, visitors play a crucial role in preserving the best diving locations while empowering the indigenous communities that protect them. 🌊🐠