Rent a Car
Renting a car in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, provides travelers with the freedom and flexibility to explore this stunning province at their own pace. However, before hitting the road, there are several requirements that must be met to ensure a smooth and legal rental experience.
Valid Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is the most crucial requirement for renting a car in Palawan. If you are a foreign national, you must hold a valid driver’s license issued by the proper authority in your home country and it must either be in English or have an official English translation from the local embassy of the issuing country. Foreigners can use their foreign driver’s license within 90 days of their arrival in the Philippines, but if they plan to use it beyond this period, they need to convert it to a local driver’s license issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
Security Deposit and Payment: Renting a car in Palawan also requires a security deposit, usually in the form of a credit card, and payment for the rental. This deposit serves as collateral in case of any damages or accidents during the rental period.
Valid Government-issued ID: In addition to a valid driver’s license and security deposit, renters must provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport, which will be left with the car rental company. The ID will be returned to the renter once the car is returned in good condition.
Age Requirements: The minimum age for car renters in the Philippines is 18 years old, but some car rental companies may have higher age requirements, particularly for foreign nationals, which is usually 21 years old. Before making a reservation, it is important to check the specific age requirement with the car rental company.
Renting a car in Palawan offers a convenient and flexible way to explore this beautiful province. To ensure a smooth and legal rental experience, it is important to bring a valid driver’s license, a security deposit and payment for the rental, a valid government-issued ID, and follow the age requirements set by the car rental company. By meeting these requirements, travelers can enjoy the freedom and beauty of Palawan at their own pace.
Alimanguan
Alimanguan is a charming barangay (the smallest administrative division in the Philippines, similar to a village) located in San Vicente, Palawan. The name Alimanguan is derived from “alimango”, a local term for a type of crab native to the area’s mangrove forests, known locally as “katunggan” or “bakawan”. The area was reportedly teeming with these crustaceans, with locals even sighting them scuttling across the streets.
The region’s initial inhabitants were four Tagbanua families – the Rodriguez, Martinez, Talibod, and Francisco clans. The Tagbanua are one of the oldest ethnic groups in the Philippines, maintaining a close and intimate relationship with the natural world.
The barangay was originally named “Aduas” and was part of the larger municipality of Taytay. However, it was renamed Alimanguan in 1931 and officially recognized as a separate barangay after World War II in 1945. The first Teniente del barrio (akin to a local village chief) was Mison Gapilango, who was succeeded by Marciano Gabin in 1946, and later by leaders like Guillermo Estrada, Josefina Collado, and Floresto Abrina.
A significant shift occurred in 1972 when San Vicente was recognized as a separate municipality within the province of Palawan. At this point, Barangay Alimanguan was transferred from the jurisdiction of its parent municipality, Taytay, to San Vicente. This reshuffling of administrative boundaries marked a new era for the small village, positioning it as part of a new and distinctive municipal entity in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful provinces.