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Unveiling San Vicente’s Best-Kept Secret: The Enchantment of Kemdeng, Palawan

Nestled between the bustling Barangay Poblacion and the serene Port Barton, Barangay Kemdeng emerges as a picturesque haven in San Vicente, Palawan. Known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and rich cultural heritage, Kemdeng is a testament to nature’s beauty and the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.

The Essence of Kemdeng

Derived from the Tagbanua word “paendeng,” meaning “puppy,” Kemdeng’s name reflects the community’s connection with its natural surroundings and its roots in Tagbanua, Agutaynen, Cuyunon, and other indigenous cultures. As one of San Vicente’s oldest barangays, Kemdeng boasts a landscape that supports a myriad of activities, from poultry and livestock farming in its vast tracts of land to eco-tourism ventures that celebrate its natural and cultural assets.

Geographic Charm and Accessibility

Strategically located 12 kilometers from Barangay Poblacion and 20 kilometers from Port Barton, Kemdeng is accessible by land or sea. The ongoing road construction from Poblacion promises enhanced connectivity, making this hidden gem more accessible to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re coming from the San Vicente Airport or embarking on a journey from Puerto Princesa or El Nido, the journey to Kemdeng is an adventure in itself.

Governance and Development

Under the leadership of the Punong Barangay and a dedicated council, Kemdeng is poised for sustainable growth. As part of Cluster I in the Tourism Master Plan, the barangay is under the watchful eye of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), ensuring that development respects the delicate balance between progress and preservation.

Public Services and Amenities

Kemdeng is equipped with essential public offices and establishments, including a barangay hall, elementary school, day care center, health center, and a unique Carabao Breeding Center. Despite its remote location, the barangay ensures the well-being of its residents and visitors through these vital services.

The Climate and Best Times to Visit

Visitors can enjoy Kemdeng’s sunny skies from January to April, with the dry season offering the best conditions for exploring its natural wonders. However, the beauty of Kemdeng can be appreciated year-round, with each season bringing its own unique charm.

Economic Life and Sustainability

Kemdeng’s economy thrives on fishing, farming, and emerging tourism activities. With plans for mixed-use commercial and special districts, as well as wildlife eco-parks, Kemdeng is on the brink of a tourism boom that promises to bring new opportunities while honoring its natural and cultural heritage.

Experiencing Kemdeng

Must-See Destinations

  • Kemdeng Beach: Pristine sands and clear waters await beach lovers.
  • Tandol Beach: Another serene beach offering tranquility.
  • Erica’s Farm: Get up close with local agriculture.
  • Kemdeng Waterfalls: A refreshing natural retreat.
  • Carabao Breeding Center: Learn about local livestock practices.

Must-Do Activities

  • Enjoy the sun and sea with swimming and sunbathing.
  • Trek to the waterfalls for an adventure.
  • Experience the vibrant local culture through the IP Festival from May 25-27.

Culinary Delights

  • Savor the freshest seafood, along with local specialties like cashew nuts, fresh coconut, tropical fruits, native chicken, and organic vegetables.

Important Reminders for Visitors

  • Eco Card: Contribute to environmental efforts by registering and paying the environmental fee.
  • Cash Preparedness: With limited ATM and card payment options, carrying cash is essential.
  • Stay Mindful: Respect local customs and the natural environment, ensuring a positive impact on Kemdeng’s community and ecosystem.

Where to Stay and How to Get There

While currently limited in accommodations, Kemdeng’s development plans include welcoming spaces for visitors to stay and immerse themselves in the local way of life. Whether you’re flying into San Vicente or traveling by land or sea, the journey to Kemdeng is an integral part of the experience, offering glimpses of Palawan’s untouched beauty.

Kemdeng stands as a beacon of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community resilience. As development progresses, Kemdeng invites travelers to discover its treasures, from untouched beaches to the warm hospitality of its people, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of Palawan.

 

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A Symbol of Cultural Evolution and Communal Harmony in San Vicente, Palawan

Kemdeng, a quaint barangay located in the municipality of San Vicente, Palawan, has a name steeped in rich cultural significance and an identity deeply rooted in tribal heritage. The Tagbanua tribe, one of the indigenous peoples of Palawan, originally called this area “Paedeng,” meaning “little dog or puppy.” This moniker represents the tribe’s tradition of hunting in the forests with dogs, who were often called by this term in their dialect.

The area’s earliest inhabitants were non-Christian tribes, or Tagbanuas, under the leadership of the late brothers Hipolito Villanueva and Domingo Villanueva, prior to the Second World War. Kemdeng was essentially a bastion of Tagbanua’s cultural practices and lifestyle.

However, the area has also seen linguistic evolution over time. The term “Paedeng” underwent a transformation as it was passed down through generations and exchanged among different communities. As the Agutaynens and Cuyunens mingled with the Tagbanuas, they adopted the term but morphed it into a form that was easier for them to pronounce, thus birthing the term “Kemdeng”. This transformed name has since been formally recognized and is now the official name of the barangay.

Despite the passing of time and the transformation of its name, Kemdeng maintains its traditional values at its core. This barangay, one of the oldest in the municipality, is populated by residents who are renowned for their cooperative, hospitable, and helpful nature. They continue to uphold traditional practices like “Bayanihan” or “Gulpi Mano”, which involve community members coming together to help each other during difficult times or in preparation for an event. These practices embody a spirit of collective resilience and unity, showcasing the essence of community living and embodying the cultural richness of the barangay.

Kemdeng is, therefore, not just a barangay in San Vicente, Palawan; it’s a symbol of cultural evolution and communal harmony that continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world. It represents the resilience of indigenous communities, the adaptability of language and the enduring strength of communal practices that have sustained the people of this region for generations.