DELIKADO - The Battle to Protect Palawan

DELIKADO - The Fight of Forest Defenders on Palawan Island

Today, we invite you to discover DELIKADO, a documentary that takes us deep into Palawan Island, Philippines—one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. This ancient and breathtaking forest is not only rich in natural beauty and ecological abundance, but also hides a darker side—one marked by violence, shadowy power, and truths you might never expect.

The Fight to Protect Nature

This documentary tells the story of efforts to crack down on illegal logging, unlawful fishing, and environmentally destructive development—through the courageous actions of key figures, like Bobby Chan, a lawyer and executive director of PNNI (Palawan NGO Network Inc.). A special task force against illegal logging and fishing includes Tata Balladares, a member of the special task force, and Nieves Rosento, the mayor of El Nido. Together, they employ a strategy of “citizen’s arrest” to confront powerful figures who are willing to eliminate them in pursuit of business interests.

One of the Most Dangerous Countries in the World

Beyond environmental concerns, DELIKADO exposes the violence unfolding in the Philippines—particularly cases of murder and intimidation involving local politicians and investors. A three-year investigation by Global Witness revealed that the Philippines has become one of the most dangerous countries in the world for environmental defenders. This is because most of these cases are never prosecuted, reflecting a painful dilemma: choosing between “protecting nature” or “protecting one’s own life.”

Emotionally Powerful Storytelling

What makes DELIKADO so compelling is its ability to tell a story through the breathtaking beauty of Palawan—juxtaposed with haunting scenes of destruction. Real footage and actual events are presented with tension and bravery, especially in the heartbreaking moment when a member of the special task force loses his life in the line of duty. That scene moved many viewers to tears—not just because it’s a story of environmental protection, but because it’s a story of sacrifice to defend this planet.

DELIKADO is a powerful documentary that deeply influences the viewer’s perspective. It reveals the intense and dangerous conflict between “life and nature” versus “development and economic interests.” This documentary doesn’t just portray the sacrifice of environmental defenders—it also exposes the power structures and hidden forces behind the scenes, forcing us to confront just “how brutal the real world can be.”

▶ Watch the documentary DELIKADO the story of a community’s fight to protect Palawan Island in the Philippines, a place known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. While it’s a top destination for travelers across Asia, for a small group of environmental defenders, this paradise has become a battleground.

Watch now on www.VIPA.me or VIPA Application

About Author

Poramuth Weerasakthara

VIPA Crew: An aspiring reviewer who wants to share stories from the voice within.