Palaui Island is among CNN top 3 beaches in Phl

By Oliver T. Baccay

Wednesday 9th of May 2012

STA ANA, Cagayan, May 9 (PIA) -- Officials of this town are now strengthening security measures of Palaui Island after being declared as the top 3 among Best Beaches and Islands in the Philippines by CNN Go travel website of the Cable News Network (CNN) International.

In an interview with media, Mayor Darwin Tobias stated that ensuring peace and security in the area will bring in more tourists and will help preserve the natural beauty of the island.

Apart from Palaui Island, other beaches that made it to the list were El Nido, Palawan, and Boracay islands (first and second places, respectively); Panglao in Bohol; Batayan Island, Cebu; Caramoan, Camarines Sur; Samal, Davao; Siargao, Surigao del Norte; Great Sta Cruz Island, Zamboanga; and Pagudpud Bangui, Ilocos Norte.

In the CNNGo’s website, Palaui Island was described as an "isolated island which is a natural secret -- only the brave and persevering bother to visit. Glorious white sands surrounded by volcanic rocks on one side kiss blue-green waters on the other. Snorkeling and diving brings you face to face with coral gardens and a rich marine reserve."

“Palaui is all about raw beauty. But it takes some work to get there. Treks should be blessed with clear blue skies, patient companions and trusted local guides. Getting to the island's most prized stretch of beach requires battling thorny grass, muddy ground and a mangrove forest,” Candice Lopez-Quimpo cited in her article. (TCB/OTB-PIA 2)