"Incredibly beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes. One of the most biodiverse (terrestrial and marine) islands in the Philippines. The Calamianes Group of Islands in northern Palawan are particularly beautiful—extensive fringing reefs, sandy beaches, majestic vertical karst cliffs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and protected bays and inlets. Home to indigenous peoples who consider the land and sea their ancestral domains. To date, tourism development has been selective and purposive, thereby preserving islands' aesthetic appeal as well as social/cultural and environmental integrity."
"The island has had a Biosphere Reserve status since early 1990s, showing local interest for conservation and sustainable development. More work needed to protect karst forests and marine biodiversity, as well as to promote community-based tourism for social benefit."
"Town of Nido is undergoing significant growth of tourism enterprises. Some inappropriate coastal development is associated with this (e.g., foreshore development). Care will be required to maintain values appealing to visitors. Current environment unspoiled. Waters surrounding El Nido appear clean."
