MANILA – Global travel guide Frommer’s has included Palawan in its list of “Best Places to Go” in 2026, citing the island province’s natural beauty, community-led tourism efforts, and long-standing commitment to sustainability, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Monday.
Frommer’s annual list highlights destinations that offer authentic experiences while promoting environmental and cultural stewardship.
The recognition underscores Palawan’s continued reputation as one of the Philippines’ premier travel destinations.
Often hailed as the country’s “crown jewel,” Palawan is known for its limestone cliffs, clear lagoons, coral reefs, and remote islands.
Popular sites such as El Nido’s Big Lagoon and Hidden Beach, Coron’s World War II shipwrecks, and Balabac’s pink-sand shores continue to attract both local and international travelers.
Through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines’ Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Marketing Enhancement Program, coastal and rural communities have been receiving support to improve homestays, expand guided experiences, and adopt sustainable tourism practices.
In San Vicente, CBT initiatives have helped fisherfolk families convert homes into eco-lodges while maintaining mangrove ecosystems. In Brooke’s Point and Taytay, local guides have been trained to lead responsible snorkeling tours and heritage walks.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles said recognitions like Frommer’s highlight the people behind Palawan’s tourism strengths.
She added that the communities—who are the stewards protecting every reef, forest, and shoreline—are the real heroes in the area.
Palawan has consistently earned international acclaim, including Travel + Leisure’s “Asia’s Best Island” and TripAdvisor’s top beach rankings.
Tourism authorities said the awards reflect both the province’s natural assets and its ongoing efforts to preserve them.
Frommer’s acknowledgment serves as an invitation for travelers seeking sustainable and community-centered experiences as they plan future trips to the Philippines. (PNA)
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