Akun Island is a paradise found in the province of Negros Occidental. It is a land of amazing sceneries and varied ecosystems that are perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, cliffs, and dense forests are just a few of the attractions that make this island so popular. Visitors can enjoy water sports, hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching while staying in comfortable and affordable accommodations.
Contents
History
Akun island is the second largest island in the province of Negros Occidental after Zamboanga del Norte. When Magellan first encountered it, it was part of the great Philippine archipelago and called Isla de Ladrones (Island of Thieves). The island was later renamed to its present name by Don Juan Ponce de León during his expedition to find a route across the Pacific Ocean.
The aboriginal inhabitants of Akun were hunter-gatherers who depended on hunting, fishing, and gathering plants for food. During Spanish colonization, they were forced into labor in government-established pueblos and worked in gold mining. Although most original inhabitants of Akun had died from diseases, some were left after Spanish settlement fled to the mountains near the island during a typhoon.
Biosphere Reserve
Akun Island earned its Biosphere Reservation status on December 20, 2005 spearheaded by then Negros Occidental Governor Cesar R. Tadeo as regional head at that time with local leaders including current chief executive Rodolfo Gatchalian (mayor of General Tinio), former governor Arturo “Boy” Abadilla Jr., Neg ros Occidental Representative Alfredo Benitez, Senator Adias Sabaril, Congressmen Fredenilo Lopez Jr. and Wencelito Veloso in its bid for INDB/UNESCO recognition.
Moreover a substantial portion of the island is included into Reforestation area (conducted by DENR-Negros Oriental) with organic planting program spearheaded by Dr. Erhel Miranda as provincial director at that time to further complement Akun’s declaration as Biosphere Reserve status under UNESCO while it was active local partner eco-tourism promotion efforts during Governor Jose Faustino Dy III administration then just re-elected in 2010.
Akun Island is traversed by the north south central east west Transpassable Road network of Negros Occidental aptly called TPS (Transport and Public Safety Bureau) under provincial government headed since 2007 by former senator Juan Wula who also vowed community project implementation to fully complement his regional counterpart then recently elected Aklan representative Caesar Pinell as he pledged at that time among other engagements including self, youth and rural development sector advocacy.
Climate
Akun island has a tropical wet and dry climate, characteristic of the central region of the Philippines. The temperature is generally high year round with average temperatures ranging from 25 degrees Celsius to 31 degrees Celsius during the day and 11 degrees Celsius to 18 degrés Celsius at night. Average rainfall is 2500 millimeters (100 inches) per year, concentrated in December through March.
The lower elevations are rainforest while the higher parts of Akun Island are covered by montane forests; both types support significant populations of tree species including mahogany, cedar, ebony, casaba palm and varieties of plantain. Pineapples, pawpaws and mamaligas are also found in these forests.
Culture
The people of Akun island are the descendants of the aboriginal Negrito group known as Aeta. They speak the Aetan language, a member of the Austronesian family which is spoken in Taiwan, Papua New Guinea and other islands in Southeast Asia. The majority of Akun islanders are farmers who grow rice, cassava, sweet potatoes and coconut palm products. There is also a small fishing community that catches sea bass, catfish and shrimp.
Politics
The people of the island are represented in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan by two members, elected at-large to eight-year terms. The Governor of Aklan, who is also the Vice President of the Philippines, has jurisdiction over Akun island and its population of about 9,000.
Government services
The island is served by two government-operated hospitals, one elementary school and one secondary school. Recreational facilities include a small park, a basketball court and beaches on the east coast of the island. There are no telephone or electrical services on the island.
Tourism
Akun island is moderately tourist-friendly, with a small number of guesthouses located on the west coast. The main attraction is the pristine coral reef, which can be viewed from the beach or snorkeled in.
Conclusion
Akun is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, this unassuming island offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway to read your book, listen to some music or simply soak up some sun, Akun has it all. With its relaxed vibe and abundance of activities to keep you busy, there is no reason why you shouldn’t visit Akun Island this summer.
FAQs
What Is The Weather Like On Akun Island?
The island has a tropical climate, with average temperatures of 27°C in the summer and 23°C in the winter. However, during typhoons or periods of high winds, it can get quite windy and hot on the island. For this reason, visitors are advised to pack plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses when visiting!
Is There Anything I Need To Bring With Me When I Visit Akun Island?
There is no need to bring any special gear or items with you when you visit Akun Island – all you need to bring is yourself and your sense of adventure, expecting the island’s beaches to be clean.
What Are Some Of The Best Places In Akun Island? Whats Great About It?
Alasan Beach which has brilliant white sand and powdery water, an abandoned island that visitors can explore day or night, caves with intricate rock formations on Alesan beach as well (which actually belong to a family), 3 local beaches located around Bakeng municipality where there’s great swimming 1) Oia 2) Suga Bato&Suga Lailaaon bays where there is great swimming 3)Alesan bay the island’s main beach, the biggest and best bays on Akun island.
How Do I Get To Akun Island?
There is no direct, public flight or ferry connection to the island. Visitors must arrange a tour through an authorized travel operator in order for them to be able to visit Akun Island.
How Much Does The Tour Cost?
The average price for a tour to Akun island is around Php7,000-8000 per person. However, depending on the type of tour and transportation arrangements made, this price may differ slightly.
Leave a Reply