By: Pizaña, Ricca
In the luxury and beautiful Coron, Palawan, where the sea meets the forest, visitors get to see something extraordinary – the wandering bayawaks. These huge lizards roam freely around the island resorts, making tourists’ trips even more memorable.
In a recent TV show called “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho,” viewers saw bayawaks hanging out at island resorts, living peacefully alongside guests. Unlike in other places where wildlife is pushed aside for business, Coron proudly shows off its diverse ecosystem, with the big Palawan monitor lizards as a top attraction.
Dr. Glenn Rebong from the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (PWRCC) confirms that the province has lots of different wildlife, including bayawaks, living in its forests. These gentle giants with their sharp teeth and long tongues gracefully move around on land, in water, and even in trees.
Jules Jason Asis, who manages the Health Safety and Sustainability Office, makes sure that visitors know about the different animals they might see during their stay. At the resorts, guests often see bayawaks relaxing in the sun or exploring the area.
Even though bayawaks look imposing, resort staff don’t interfere with them. They don’t feed them or try to touch them. But if guests are scared, there are ways to gently move the lizards away.
Some bayawaks have become like friends to regular visitors, who’ve given them cute names like “Sonny,” “Kulit,” and “Putol.” Each lizard has its own personality, adding to the island’s charm.
Asis also says that medical help is available at the resorts if needed, but bayawaks are generally easygoing and can handle themselves well in their environment.
These lizards aren’t just found at resorts; they can also be seen in other parts of Palawan, sometimes even in people’s homes. While tourists enjoy them, bayawaks can cause problems for locals, as shown in a video by GMA Integrated News.
In Coron, meeting bayawaks isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing Palawan’s natural beauty. As these gentle giants thrive, they remind visitors of the importance of protecting the island’s delicate ecosystem. So, if you’re ever in Coron, keep an eye out for these amazing creatures – your encounter with the wandering bayawaks will be an adventure to remember.
