Palawan (island)

For the island in Singapore, see Pulau Palawan.
Palawan

Map of Palawan Province with Palawan Island highlighted in white
Palawan

Location within the Philippines

Geography
Location South East Asia
Coordinates 9°29′59″N 118°30′0″E / 9.49972°N 118.50000°E / 9.49972; 118.50000Coordinates: 9°29′59″N 118°30′0″E / 9.49972°N 118.50000°E / 9.49972; 118.50000
Archipelago Philippine islands
Adjacent bodies of water
Area 12,189 km2 (4,706 sq mi)
Area rank 64th
Highest elevation 2,085 m (6,841 ft)
Highest point Mount Mantalingahan
Administration
Region MIMAROPA
Province Palawan
Municipalities
Capital and largest city Puerto Princesa (pop. 222,673)
Demographics
Population 430,000
Density 35.28 /km2 (91.37 /sq mi)

Palawan is the largest island of the province of Palawan in the Philippines. The northern coast of the island is along the South China Sea, while the southern coast forms part of the northern limit of the Sulu Sea.[1] This island is very undeveloped and traditional. Abundant wildlife, jungle mountains, and white sandy beaches attract many tourists.

Palawan, the only Philippine island cited, is rated by National Geographic Traveler magazine as the best island destination in East and Southeast Asia region in 2007, and the 13th best island in the world having "incredibly beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes. One of the most biodiverse (terrestrial and marine) islands in the Philippines. The island has had a Biosphere Reserve status since early 1990s, showing local interest for conservation and sustainable development".[2]

Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm, one of seven operating units of the Bureau of Corrections, is located on the island.

In April 2013, a fishing vessel loaded with illegally poached animals ran aground on a coral atoll off the coast of Palawan Island.[3]

In 2014, armed forces chief of staff General Emmanuel Bautista said that Oyster Bay may be developed into a naval base with United States Navy support.[4]

Bibliography

References

  1. C.Michael Hogan. 2011. Sulu Sea
  2. "Destinations Rated: Islands".
  3. "Poachers' boat hits coral reef". 3 News NZ. April 17, 2013.
  4. Mogato, Manuel (15 May 2014). "Philippines Offer US A Nearby Naval Base Amid Chinese Moves". www.businessinsider.com (Reuters). Retrieved 15 May 2014.

External links


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