Cagayancillo

Welcome to Cagayancillo, Palawan, a remote island paradise floating like a secret in the middle of the Sulu Sea. This charming municipality is not just another coastal town; it’s a tropical treasure trove rich in marine biodiversity, history, and culture. If you’re looking for crystal-clear waters, untouched reefs, and peaceful island vibes, Cagayancillo should be on your travel radar.

Cagayancillo is a far-flung municipality of Palawan, made up of over 30 islets scattered across the Sulu Sea. It’s best known as a gateway to the world-renowned Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top diving destinations in the world. With no bustling cities or noisy crowds, the island offers pure serenity and raw beauty.

• Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: Although technically offshore, it’s administratively part of Cagayancillo. Dive into its vibrant coral gardens, sharks, turtles, and a rainbow of reef fish.
• Cagayancillo Fortress (Fuerza de Cagayancillo): A stunning 17th-century Spanish-era fort built by Augustinian friars to protect the islanders from pirates. Its coral stone walls still stand proud.
• Nagbatong Island: A white sand beach and snorkeling spot perfect for a tranquil island escape.
• Siksikan Island: Great for birdwatching and nature photography.

Despite its isolation, Cagayancillo holds tightly to its cultural roots. The locals, called Cagayanons, are warm and community-oriented. Life here moves slowly and beautifully, shaped by fishing, boat-building, and age-old seafaring traditions. Elders still pass down oral stories of pirate raids, shipwrecks, and colonial resilience.

The primary languages spoken are Cuyonon and Tagalog, with some locals understanding Visayan and English. Conversations are often infused with humor, wisdom, and island flair.

Seafood reigns supreme in Cagayancillo! Don’t miss:

• Freshly grilled pusit (squid)
• Kinilaw na isda (raw fish in vinegar and lime)
• Crab curry and lato (sea grapes)

Meals are often shared in boodle fight style, communal eating with hands on banana leaves.

• Feast of San Nicolas de Tolentino (September): The island’s patron saint is celebrated with boat parades, music, traditional games, and community feasts.
• Pista sa Dagat (Festival of the Sea): Honoring the sea’s bounty with dances, songs, and maritime rituals.

Traditional island beats using gongs, drums, and improvised instruments set the rhythm for local celebrations. Singing and dancing are part of every gathering, often under the stars with guitars and ukuleles playing coastal folk tunes.

• Closest municipality to Tubbataha Reef
• Spanish fortress ruins with coral stone walls
• Rich marine biodiversity and eco-tourism potential
• Secluded paradise with authentic island life
• Crystal waters perfect for diving, snorkeling, and soul-searching