Alimanguan, San Vicente, Palawan: A Comprehensive Guide
Nestled in the northern part of San Vicente, Palawan, Alimanguan, a barangay once known as “Aduas,” has transformed into a burgeoning tourist destination. Renamed for the abundance of crabs (“alimango”) in the area, it captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Alimanguan, concluding the 14-km stretch of the pristine Long Beach with the iconic Tandol Rock Formation, offers a blend of scenic attractions, local culture, and sustainable tourism development.
Location and Accessibility
Approximately 15 kilometers from Barangay Poblacion, the main hub where San Vicente Airport is located, Alimanguan is less than 2 hours from El Nido. Accessible via So. Canadgan or Itabiak Junction from Puerto Princesa, the barangay’s roads are well-paved, making transportation convenient whether by land or air. For those arriving by air via San Vicente Airport, options include Skyjet Airlines from Manila or Philippine Airlines from Clark, with local transport available to take guests directly to Alimanguan.
Governance and Management
The barangay is under the leadership of a Punong Barangay, supported by a council of Kagawads and the SK Chairman, Phil John T. Dordines. Alimanguan’s governance works in tandem with San Vicente’s local government and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) for tourism development and cultural preservation, including the Alimanguan Fisherman’s Village.
Natural Attractions and Activities
Alimanguan’s allure includes white-sand beaches, the Tandol Rock Formation, and natural waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and trekking. The barangay is part of Cluster 1 in the Integrated Tourism Master Plan, prioritizing tourism while preserving its cultural heritage. Visitors can engage in community activities, learning about local fishing practices and participating in festivals like the Baroto Festival from March 12-16.
Facilities and Services
The barangay boasts various public offices and establishments, including a health center, daycare, and tourist information center. With a range of resorts, guest houses, and eateries like the Turtle Beachfront Restaurant, it caters to tourists’ needs while encouraging eco-friendly practices, such as the use of eco cards for environmental conservation.
Economic and Commercial Activities
Alimanguan thrives on fishing, farming, and tourism, with businesses ranging from hardware stores to water refilling stations. The increase in tourism has led to the growth of accommodations, restaurants, and bars, enhancing the barangay’s economic landscape.
Transportation and Connectivity
Visitors can reach Alimanguan by bus, van, or e-trike from various points, including Puerto Princesa and El Nido. Once in Alimanguan, transportation options include motorbike rentals, tricycles, and van rentals for exploring the area. Despite its remote location, connectivity is adequate, with accommodations providing Wi-Fi and mobile networks covering most areas.
Education, Health, and Safety
The barangay is served by Alimanguan National High School and Elementary School, ensuring education for local children. Health services are available at the barangay health station, with more comprehensive care provided by the Rural Health Unit in Poblacion. Safety and security are managed by barangay officials, with support from the PNP Headquarters and Bureau of Fire Protection Office in Poblacion.
Cultural and Religious Aspects
Alimanguan is a melting pot of religious beliefs, including Roman Catholic, Iglesia ni Kristo, and Seventh Day Adventist, with churches like San Rafael Catholic Church hosting the San Rafael Town Fiesta on October 23-24. This vibrant community celebrates its culture and traditions, welcoming visitors to partake in its way of life.
Environmental Considerations and Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by using eco cards, avoiding single-use plastics, and adhering to clean-up policies. With the presence of untouched beaches, precautions against sand flies and the use of eco-friendly products like virgin coconut oil are advised.
Alimanguan, with its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and community-driven tourism, offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. From its scenic landscapes to its warm, welcoming community, it represents the best of Palawan’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism.
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Alimanguan is a vibrant barangay, or village, located within the municipality of San Vicente in the province of Palawan, Philippines. Its intriguing name, derived from the local term “alimango,” represents a specific type of crab found abundantly in the local mangrove forests (“katunggan” or “bakawan”). In the past, the community was known for its vast population of these crustaceans, which could even be seen crawling in the streets.
The foundation of Alimanguan can be attributed to four Tagbanua families: the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco clans. The Tagbanua people are among the oldest ethnic groups in the Philippines with a rich cultural heritage and history, adding to the unique character of Alimanguan.
Prior to receiving its current name, the barangay was known as “Aduas” and was part of the municipality of Taytay. It was only in 1931 that it was renamed Alimanguan, and further official recognition came after World War II in 1945 when it was declared an official barangay. The first leader, or Teniente del barrio, was Mison Gapilango, who was succeeded in turn by Marciano Gabin in 1946, and subsequently by Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
Significantly, in 1972, San Vicente became a separate municipality within the province of Palawan. During this municipal reorganization, Alimanguan was transferred from its parent municipality, Taytay, and incorporated into San Vicente, where it continues to contribute to the region’s unique cultural and ecological tapestry.