🌴 Welcome to Rizal, Palawan
Nestled on the southwestern coast of Palawan, the charming municipality of Rizal (formerly known as Marcos) is one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets. Often overshadowed by El Nido and Coron, this unspoiled gem boasts breathtaking landscapes, rich indigenous culture, and thrilling eco-adventures that are waiting to be discovered by curious travelers and nature lovers.
🏞️ Natural Wonders and Tourist Spots
Rizal is famous for Tabon Caves, one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Dubbed the “Cradle of Philippine Civilization,” the caves hold ancient fossils and artifacts dating back over 22,000 years. Nearby, you’ll find Mount Mantalingajan, Palawan’s highest peak, offering a hardcore hiking challenge and mystical energy for spiritual trekkers.
Explore the enchanting Canipaan Beach, a white-sand paradise untouched by mass tourism, and the vibrant coral gardens off Culasian Reef. Kayak along tranquil rivers or venture into mangrove forests for an unforgettable eco-tour.
🎭 Culture and Indigenous Heritage
Rizal is home to the Palaw’an indigenous people, whose rich traditions and customs have been preserved through generations. You’ll witness their traditional weaving, healing practices, and rituals that honor nature and ancestral spirits. Their language, Palaw’an, is still widely spoken alongside Filipino and Cuyonon.
🍽️ Flavors of Rizal
Get ready for a taste of authentic tribal cuisine and seafood fresh from the Sulu Sea. Must-try dishes include tamilok (woodworm delicacy), lato (sea grapes), and grilled squid seasoned with native herbs. Locals also enjoy tuba (coconut wine) and rice-based treats during special gatherings.
🎉 Festivals and Local Vibes
Don’t miss the Palaw’an Day Festival every March, a vibrant celebration of indigenous culture, music, and dance. This event showcases tribal chants, bamboo instruments, and traditional wear, creating an immersive cultural experience you won’t forget.
🎶 Music and Rhythms
The soundscape of Rizal features indigenous percussion beats from agung, kulintang, and bangibang drums. These instruments accompany ritual dances and community storytelling, often performed during festivals or special occasions in the villages.
⭐ What Rizal is Known For
- Home of the Tabon Man, the earliest human remains found in the Philippines
- One of Palawan’s eco-cultural treasures
- A haven for archaeology, indigenous immersion, and off-grid travel
- Spectacular beaches, rivers, mountains, and caves
- Heartwarming hospitality and low-impact tourism
