1st ATM in El Nido, Palawan

1st ATM (Geldautomat) in El Nido Palawan, Philippines

   In the latest version of Lonely Planet, there is still no ATM in El Nido, Palawan. However, as of June 2011, the town now has its very 1st automated teller machine.  Unfortunately, it can only accept First Consolidated Bank (FCB) issued ATMs. It cannot accept Bancnet, Megalink, BPI Express teller, Visa or Mastercard yet. The nearest ATM that can accept other local and international bank transactions is in the town of Roxas, about 100km south of El Nido.  Another option is in Puerto Princesa, which is about 267 km further south and about 5 hours drive.  

  Credit cards are accepted in some resorts and diving shops. If you are really low on cash, cash from credit card from Art Cafe is possible with 8% surcharge. Most currencies, including Singapore dollars, can be converted to Philippine Peso in money changers but with poor rates compared to money changers in Manila or Puerto Princesa.

  It is only a matter of months until El Nido will have its own full ATM bank access as tourist discover the jewel of this Bacuit Archipelago. 

First Consolidated Bank with ATM (Limestone Cliff of El Nido at the background)