Pangangan Island

This article is about Pangangan Island. For other uses, see Pangangan Island (disambiguation).

Pangangan Island

Pangangan Island Location within the Visayas, Philippines
Geography
Location	Calape, Bohol, Philippines
Coordinates	9°53′47″N 123°50′4″E
Area	6.83 km2 (2.64 sq mi)
Administration
Philippines
Region	Central Visayas
Province	Bohol
Municipality	Calape
Barangays	Kahayag Kinabag-an Lawis Lo-oc Lomboy Madangog Magtongtong Talisay
Demographics
Demonym	Bisaya
Population	4583 (2020)
Ethnic groups	Boholano Cebuano

Pangangan Island is an island located in the municipality of Calape, Bohol, Philippines. It is known for its significant causeway connecting it to the mainland of Calape and its expansive mangrove forest.

Etymology

The island was originally known as "Panggawan." The name is derived from "Panggaw," a type of traditional fish trap commonly used by early inhabitants and fishermen in the area. Over time, "Panggawan" evolved into its current name, Pangangan.

History

The history of Pangangan Island is deeply intertwined with the development of Calape and its unique geographical features.

Early Settlement and Livelihood

Historically, the island was divided into four large barangays: Lomboy, Kinabag-an, Talisay, and Madangog. It has since been subdivided into eight barangays: Lawis, Talisay, Kinabag-an, Magtongtong, Madangog, Looc, Lomboy, and Kahayag.

The primary source of livelihood for the island's residents has traditionally been fishing. The production of shell craft also developed as a long-standing cottage industry. Ancient wells, locally known as "Tabay Karaan," served as vital water sources for the entire island, particularly during dry seasons.

The Causeway

One of the most defining features in Pangangan Island's history is the construction of its causeway, which physically links it to the mainland of Calape. This remarkable infrastructure project was undertaken and completed by local residents after World War II, specifically around the 1950s, without formal engineering supervision. It is widely regarded as one of the longest causeways in the Philippines.

Initially, the causeway, built from coral and limestone, was susceptible to damage from strong waves and typhoons, often rendering it impassable.

Mangrove Reforestation and Protection

A pivotal moment in the causeway's history, and the island's ecological development, began in the late 1950s with significant mangrove planting initiatives. Led by local educators, including principal Felipe Josol Ytac Sr. and his successor Anastacio Toloy, students and the community actively participated in planting mangroves along the causeway. These sustained efforts led to the establishment of a thriving mangrove plantation, now covering approximately 54 hectares. This extensive mangrove forest has proven crucial in protecting the causeway from erosion and tidal forces, while also fostering a rich marine ecosystem.

In recognition of its ecological importance, Pangangan Island was officially declared a Mangrove Swamp Forest Reserve under Presidential Proclamation No. 2152 on December 29, 1981. This declaration underscores the historical commitment to environmental preservation on the island.

Geography and Environment

Pangangan Island is characterized by its coastal environment and its significant mangrove areas. The island's connection to the mainland via the causeway has shaped its accessibility and development.

Administration

Pangangan Island is politically administered as part of the Municipality of Calape, within the province of Bohol.