Culion: From "Land of No Return" to a Community of Hope
- Elizabeth Leynes-Le, MD
- Apr 16, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 9, 2024
Once known as the "Land of No Return" and the "Land of the Living Dead," Culion in Palawan has a deeply poignant history. In the early 1900s, the island was transformed into a leper colony by the American government, where people suffering from leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, were forcibly isolated. This island served as both a sanctuary and prison for thousands, where they lived in solitude, away from the rest of society. The stigma surrounding leprosy meant that many who were sent to Culion never saw their families again, creating a community bound by shared hardship and resilience.
Despite its painful past and the eventual medical advances that cured leprosy, Culion remains a place where development has lagged. Due to its century-long isolation and geographical location, the island is still difficult to access. Infrastructure and basic services have not kept pace with other parts of the Philippines, leaving many residents without essential resources. The indigenous people (Tagbanua, Cuyonon and Calamian), who inhabit the island's most remote areas, face significant challenges, living without access to adequate healthcare, education, and other basic necessities.
Our foundation, the WE Foundation, is committed to changing this narrative. We are working closely with Fr. John Nguyen and his Self Reliant Farm Program in their tireless efforts to support the underserved communities in Culion. Their work has laid a strong foundation for providing much-needed services to the island's residents. Together, we aim to build on these efforts by providing healthcare, education, and community development initiatives. While Culion's natural beauty is undeniable, our focus is on the people who call this island home and ensuring they have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive. By working together, we can help Culion transform from a place of historical isolation to a vibrant, supportive community.
The Natural Beauty of Culion Island
Culion's Dark Past as a Leper Colony and Current Economic Challenges
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