A new cultural and tourism site aimed at promoting local artists and small businesses has opened in Puerto Princesa, positioning itself as part of Palawan’s tourism destinations.
The facility, described as an open gallery called “The Residence,” was launched as a platform for Palawan-based artists and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their work and products, while also serving as a venue for cultural activities.
Cielo Pulga, Culture, Arts, and Heritage program manager of the Palawan provincial government, said the initiative aims to provide a dedicated space for creatives and entrepreneurs in the province.
“So, ito na po yung bago po nating tourist attraction dito sa Puerto Princesa at sa buong Palawan… yung purpose ng establishment na ito is maging platform siya ng mga Palawenyo artists, and at the same time, for our micro, small, and medium enterprises na magkaroon din sila ng platform to showcase their products din,” Pulga said.
He added that the facility is designed to serve as a gathering space for local creatives.
Pulga pointed out that most of the artworks currently displayed were sourced from the Palawan Heritage Museum, including pieces acquired by the provincial government through past Baragatan art competitions.
Some works are also on loan from artists who volunteered to exhibit their pieces while retaining ownership.
“This wouldn’t be possible without the support of Governor Amy Roa Alvarez and the provincial government of Palawan. And syempre, in collaboration po with our new partners from the Palawan Tourism Council,” he stated.
Pulga added that the site is still in its pilot phase, with ongoing work on artist records, ownership documentation, and management guidelines, including admission policies. Entrance is currently free for the opening week.
The Residence stands on a site with historical value, as it used to be the Old Governor’s Residence located near the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Puerto Princesa.
The provincial government allocated ₱7.9 million in 2023 to restore the structure and convert it into a museum, with the aim of preserving its heritage while opening it to the public as a cultural space.
The project was designed to highlight Palawan’s history, including its early foundations and the role of Christianity in the province.
Restoration work began in June 2023 as part of efforts to strengthen cultural and tourism development.
The plan also included improvements to the surrounding grounds and the addition of visitor amenities such as a coffee shop. The site has historical ties to past provincial leadership and is seen as a symbol of shared heritage, now repurposed into a venue that supports culture, arts, and tourism.
Rix Rafols, president of the Palawan Tourism Council (PTC), said the project highlights local identity and will be integrated into tourism offerings in the province.
“Every Filipino, every Palaweño, everybody who goes here will feel at home. We are featuring heritage. We are featuring culture. Basically, we are featuring the Filipinos,” Rafols said.
He added that the site is intended to become a hub for culture and arts in Palawan, while also promoting local food and products sourced within the province.
“The residents will be at the center of culture and arts here in Palawan. We want to promote the culture, arts, and history of Palawan,” he said.
The soft launch of The Residence on April 19 forms part of a weeklong celebration marking the 81st Palawan Liberation in the city.
Activities began on April 19 and will run until April 26 across various venues in Puerto Princesa. Among the highlights is the “AMOS! Pop-Up Market” at the Old Governor’s Residence in Barangay Matiyaga, featuring food stalls and products from local businesses as part of Filipino Food Month.
Other events include an Isla Pelikula film showing on April 24, showcasing works by young filmmakers from Palawan, followed by the “AMOS! Acoustic Jam” featuring performances by local artists. A wreath-laying ceremony is set on April 22 at Mendoza Park Amphitheater, along with symposiums at Western Philippines University and a historical walk tour in the Heritage District from April 24 to 26.
All activities are open to the public and are led by the Palawan Tourism Council in partnership with the provincial government of Palawan and the city government of Puerto Princesa.
