A tourist spot in Cagayan Valley

The Department of Tourism (DoT) is anticipating a more vibrant tourism industry this year with its continuing efforts to promote responsible travel to protect natural sites in the country.

Secretary Ace Durano shared that international visitors remain smitten by eco-adventure activities in the country, noting the two percent growth in tourist arrivals from Europe, especially France, the United Kingdom and Scandinavian countries last year.

“Despite the global tourism downturn seen in Southeast Asia last year, our destinations still enjoyed high in-bound travel, owing to our natural attractions and the sustained initiatives to develop and promote these ecotourism spots ,” said Durano.

This year, the Department is looking out to strengthen its commitment to supporting ecological consciousness and sustainable travel through its “Back to Nature” campaign.

Emerging ecotourism destinations, Durano shared, are continually being developed in close coordination with the communities and local government units to help conserve the country’s natural resources.

One of these ecotourism sites is the island of Bongao in Tawi-Tawi. It boasts of wonders like endemic species like bleeding heart pigeons, black woodpeckers, and the white Philippine and green cockatoos. Here, one can also find the country’s biggest and tallest Molave tree at the peak of Mount Bongao, the island’s majestic landmark, where endemic flora also sprawls.

The Tawi-Tawi Tourism Council, composed of its residents, has been at the forefront of preserving the area’s rich culture and attractions. They are also exploring the natural underground tunnels in Tubig Indangan on Simunul Island, and the Cabancan Cave of Sibutu.

The Tourism chief hailed these efforts to promote the country’s otherwise untapped natural sites, underscoring its economic advantage.

Locals of Pook ni Mariang Makiling, another ecotourism site at the heart of the famous Mt. Makiling in Los Baños, Laguna, have been preserving the park by planting seedlings, as well as encouraging assistance from both public and private sectors. The 5.9-hectare forest park is also home to various recreational amenities that invite travelers who want to camp or simply commune with nature.

In the north, Cagayan Valley joins the roster of developing ecotourism destinations, with its great beaches, including the country’s reputed most beautiful white sand beach in Fuga Island.

Undersecretary for Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque noted that ecotourism is a significant endeavor that could change the way tourists plan their trips and choice of destinations and activities in the future.