The main attraction in Tangalan is the work that locals are doing on eco-tourism projects to make the Philippines greener. Activities in the area include trekking through the new reforestation projects just outside of town.
Tangalan is most spectacular during rainy season, if not a little dangerous. The sea at night-time gives the effect of glowing florescent colors as you pass through the water, a natural phenomenon called phosphorescence.
Fishing used to be the major source of income for the region and extreme measures were used. Practices such as dynamite and cyanide fishing were popular for their quick returns but years of this abuse has wrecked the coral reefs lying offshore.
The local Tangalan government has already taken the first steps toward stopping these practices by outlawing them and has started the Tangalan Marine Sanctuary. The Jawili waterfalls are a popular attraction, with seven separate basins to plunge into while exploring the area.
Tangalan is in the province of Aklan, which is located to the north of Panay Island, part of the Visayas Island Group. It covers almost a mile and a half squared of marine eco-system. The government has now placed artificial coral reefs in the water, alongside which new natural coral can grow too.
Getting There & Away
Flights from the capital, Manila, take about 1 hour, 30 minutes to get to Kalibo Airport, a mere 15 miles away, up to three times a day. Manila is where the nearest international airport can be found. Another way to travel from Manila is by boat, taking about 16 hours to reach the port town of Dumaguit on Panay Island, followed by a 30-minute bus ride to Tangalan.
Things to Do
Tangalan Attractions
- Jawili Falls
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A popular waterfall with seven different basins to cool off in.
Side trips from Tangalan
- Visayas Island Group
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A nearby archipelago of islands that have nice beaches, good swimming and beautiful scenery.